Of -course- Rue and zeroed in on that like a heat seeking missal. And Christian wasn't helping at all. Eiryk gave up without any kind of fight at all, he just laughed.
[Thora... you have permission to chew on Alex's pants. But just tonight and only if he isn't carrying anything.]
OK it was a little low to sic the innocent little kit on his friend but well, any revenge was sweet. Thora yipped happily and started sniffing around Alex's legs but she didn't chew, she just sniffed apparently not to certain of Eiryk's 'permission'.
He cheerfully rolled his eyes at Alex.
"If you get a good price out of Rue and promise to split it with me... you can tell him with my blessing but only after we get these boxes moved."
If he knew Rowan at all that was a bitter bribe than mead or coffee.
Huh, that was a damned fine question. It was a bit of a bit of an intimidating question too as Alex was placing all his trust in him and he just didn't have an answer. But Eiryk wasn't terribly worried, getting Alex to agree was the big problem. The rest was just details.
"Christian probably knows better than I do. I've never done this before." Not that he was implying Christian had, Eiryk simply figured that given his position he'd know the answer or at least who to ask. "I'd imagine we need to have a little chat with MARI and probably with Alfarinn... of course I haven't met him yet either so that's two birds with one stone."
Totally relaxed and happy now he settled into some good natured banter and mused allowed.
"Should I bring tribute or a bribe to said meeting? Does he like mead, coffee? Do we know these things?"
Last Minute Details (Invite Only)
Alex looked at the array of boxes that littered the floor of his store and the staircase leading up to his apartment. True to his word, he'd started packing as soon as he and Eiryk had gotten home from their mini vacation. Eiryk had recruited Rowan and Christian to help them actually move his things to Liefde, where they would stay at Eiryk's place until they found a larger one. Alex found himself both nervous and excited. He'd never thought he would be moving in with someone like this, but it felt very right. He wanted to stay with Eiryk and he never should have left.
He was grateful for their friends, too. Rowan had a car to help move boxes in. Alex's furniture would be staying at his apartment, of course, so it was really just boxes of belongings and clothes and such. There wasn't a ton to move; maybe three or four trips would do it with four pairs of hands helping out. He wasn't always the most social person but he enjoyed Rowan's company and Cris was a friend now as well... it was good to know people.
A year ago Alex never would have imagined he would know one vampire, much less two. Or be dating one of them... guess you could never guess where life would take you.
He smiled at Eiryk and surveyed the boxes that were overflowing from the stairs into the propped-open shop door. "I think this is everything I need," he said. Then he shook his head, crossed the space to Eiryk, and wrapped his arms around him. "I lied, this is everything I need."
He leaned down and kissed Eiryk softly on his lips to accentuate his point.
Eiryk
13 years ago
Rowan Murphy
13 years ago
[That would be my guess too, and I am absolutely dying to know how it went down. Leave it to Eiryk to have made a novel out of it.] Rowan's sending was pleasantly amused; if Eiryk or Alex had seemed horribly upset about it he would never have pressed like this, but he recognized a tale to be told when he heard one.
He accepted the light punch on the shoulder with a laugh, tightening his arm around Cris's waist and ducking his head for a quick kiss to the side of his lover's neck. Alexander attempted to play him against Eiryk, a strategic move Rowan had to give him credit for. For a guy who came off as sweet and thoughtful and kind, Alex did have a bit of a mercenary streak. Rowan imagined it must be a necessity for a business owner.
"Either of those would work," he said to Cris, "but I'm guessing I will get neither."
Eiryk's offer was just as good though. Rowan grinned. "How about we help you move these boxes, and you can tell us over beers afterward? My treat."
The only trouble with moving boxes was that he had to let go of Cris. He did so reluctantly, dropping his hand to his partner's hip, caressing his ass briefly as he moved away, discreet enough that Eiryk and Alex couldn't see that part of it. A kiss was one thing... he'd wait until they were back home before completely ravaging Cris.
Picking up the first box he found, Rowan looked at Alex. "Any particular order for these? I can start loading the cars if you want."
Eiryk was right, Cris was better equipped to to explain any details of his entrance into the Clan to Alex. Rowan could certainly haul some boxes in the meantime.
He accepted the light punch on the shoulder with a laugh, tightening his arm around Cris's waist and ducking his head for a quick kiss to the side of his lover's neck. Alexander attempted to play him against Eiryk, a strategic move Rowan had to give him credit for. For a guy who came off as sweet and thoughtful and kind, Alex did have a bit of a mercenary streak. Rowan imagined it must be a necessity for a business owner.
"Either of those would work," he said to Cris, "but I'm guessing I will get neither."
Eiryk's offer was just as good though. Rowan grinned. "How about we help you move these boxes, and you can tell us over beers afterward? My treat."
The only trouble with moving boxes was that he had to let go of Cris. He did so reluctantly, dropping his hand to his partner's hip, caressing his ass briefly as he moved away, discreet enough that Eiryk and Alex couldn't see that part of it. A kiss was one thing... he'd wait until they were back home before completely ravaging Cris.
Picking up the first box he found, Rowan looked at Alex. "Any particular order for these? I can start loading the cars if you want."
Eiryk was right, Cris was better equipped to to explain any details of his entrance into the Clan to Alex. Rowan could certainly haul some boxes in the meantime.
Christian Bern
13 years ago
Alex began a quick little barter but Eiryk didn't take the bait. Ah well, there was still going to be a story out of it later.
Rowan headed toward a box but not before discreetly groping his ass, Cris closed his eyes briefly and prayed for restraint. [Keep it up and its going to be a long ride to Liefde.] He turned and shot his companion a meaningful look before returning his attention to Alex.
"Well, since you are not a familiar then a member of Security would normally interview you to find out how you came to know about our kind, to hear your views on working and living with vampires and to find out whether you are trustworthy. Then you would be put in our records and someone will check back with you every so often to make sure things are still going smoothly for you within the clan." Cris smiled. "I think we can forgo the interview. I'm pretty sure I know how you came to know about us. I think we can trust you." He narrowed his eyes suspiciously for a moment. "Yes, I think so. I will let Records know I've spoken with you or we can go down together and see them."
Christian went over and picked up a box before turning back to look at Alex. "And if you are wondering why they would listen to me." He smiled and shrugged. "I'm Chief of Security."
Pausing at the entrance, he grinned at Eiryk. "Mead, definitely mead. And I'm sure he would love to meet both of you."
Rowan headed toward a box but not before discreetly groping his ass, Cris closed his eyes briefly and prayed for restraint. [Keep it up and its going to be a long ride to Liefde.] He turned and shot his companion a meaningful look before returning his attention to Alex.
"Well, since you are not a familiar then a member of Security would normally interview you to find out how you came to know about our kind, to hear your views on working and living with vampires and to find out whether you are trustworthy. Then you would be put in our records and someone will check back with you every so often to make sure things are still going smoothly for you within the clan." Cris smiled. "I think we can forgo the interview. I'm pretty sure I know how you came to know about us. I think we can trust you." He narrowed his eyes suspiciously for a moment. "Yes, I think so. I will let Records know I've spoken with you or we can go down together and see them."
Christian went over and picked up a box before turning back to look at Alex. "And if you are wondering why they would listen to me." He smiled and shrugged. "I'm Chief of Security."
Pausing at the entrance, he grinned at Eiryk. "Mead, definitely mead. And I'm sure he would love to meet both of you."
Alex Aristos
13 years ago
Alex watched the way Christian and Rowan interacted with each other. How long had they been seeing each other? They seemed incredibly intimate. Did he and Eiryk look like that? Those soft touches, the exchange of glances. Alex was curious. They certainly seemed... attuned to each other. He didn't know how else to describe it.
He grinned and looked at Eiryk at Rowan's suggestion. Beers and storytime sounded like fun to him but really, it was Eiryk's story so the decision was up to him.
Rowan began to pick up boxes, and Alex shook his head at the taller man. "No particular order," he said. "I don't even think there's anything particularly fragile."
Most of what he was moving to Eiryk's was clothing, toiletries, some books and DVDs his boyfriend didn't have. Nothing horribly important, but things he wanted to have with him. He didn't actually own anything very valuable. Years and years of frugal living and existence in the less savory areas of DC had left their mark on his possessions.
Alex listened to Cris, whose explanation was simplified by the fact that apparently his friend would vouch for him where he needed it. He'd already determined, from the attitudes of Rowan and Eiryk in deference to Christian's knowledge, that Cris held some sort of position of importance. When Cris told him what that position was Alex nodded and smiled.
Cris was usually quiet, restrained, and had an air of solemnity about him. Granted, the couple times Alex had met him they'd been drinking so maybe Alex's perception of him was skewed, but he could see Cris filling his role. He seemed the quietly competent type.
"All the more reason for me not to lay my problems on your doorstep," Alex said with a little shrug and another soft smile. "But thanks for speaking for me, I appreciate that."
Christian was becoming Alex's friend. Alex wasn't about to take advantage of that friendship for anything. Friends had been few and far between in his life. He wouldn't repay that friendship poorly. If he had troubles he would handle them.
Alex grabbed two of his boxes and waited for Eiryk to load up, as well. Looking at the three vampires around him he raised his eyebrows. "Okay... so, uh, who is Alfarinn?"
He grinned and looked at Eiryk at Rowan's suggestion. Beers and storytime sounded like fun to him but really, it was Eiryk's story so the decision was up to him.
Rowan began to pick up boxes, and Alex shook his head at the taller man. "No particular order," he said. "I don't even think there's anything particularly fragile."
Most of what he was moving to Eiryk's was clothing, toiletries, some books and DVDs his boyfriend didn't have. Nothing horribly important, but things he wanted to have with him. He didn't actually own anything very valuable. Years and years of frugal living and existence in the less savory areas of DC had left their mark on his possessions.
Alex listened to Cris, whose explanation was simplified by the fact that apparently his friend would vouch for him where he needed it. He'd already determined, from the attitudes of Rowan and Eiryk in deference to Christian's knowledge, that Cris held some sort of position of importance. When Cris told him what that position was Alex nodded and smiled.
Cris was usually quiet, restrained, and had an air of solemnity about him. Granted, the couple times Alex had met him they'd been drinking so maybe Alex's perception of him was skewed, but he could see Cris filling his role. He seemed the quietly competent type.
"All the more reason for me not to lay my problems on your doorstep," Alex said with a little shrug and another soft smile. "But thanks for speaking for me, I appreciate that."
Christian was becoming Alex's friend. Alex wasn't about to take advantage of that friendship for anything. Friends had been few and far between in his life. He wouldn't repay that friendship poorly. If he had troubles he would handle them.
Alex grabbed two of his boxes and waited for Eiryk to load up, as well. Looking at the three vampires around him he raised his eyebrows. "Okay... so, uh, who is Alfarinn?"
Eiryk
13 years ago
"Look! Dating me and helping to get Christian drunk have saved you red tape. Who knew we were so useful."
Eiryk beamed as he got to his feet. Well, he was technically on his feet for a second, he then tripped over them, stumbled a bit, careened into a display tried to keep it up right with some success and then fell flat on his face. It was better than average, even for Eiryk and he just lay there for a second trying to get his bearings again. Once he'd established which was was 'up' again he bounced to his feet, careful of Thora who was, as always, fascinated by his prone form.
"Oh good, mead. I'll dig out some of the good stuff then."
He said as if nothing had happened, while doing his best not to notice that Alex hadn't packed anything breakable. Of course, there were days that Eiryk didn't trust himself in his own studio so he wasn't exactly hurt. Just -very- mildly irritated with himself. It would pass soon enough, it always did. Thirty seconds or less.
He'd also figure out how to make an appointment with Alfarinn later. He'd been in Nachton a while now without meeting the man, a few more days wouldn't hurt anything.
Since Alex's arms were full Eiryk happily kissed his boyfriend on the cheek before finding a box or two that looked sturdy and picking them up himself.
"Well since my explanation of strong hold was over the top... I shall see if I can tone it down a bit." Eiryk chirped. "He's the Elder... basically he's in charge of the clan. And as he hasn't thrown any one of my acquaintance out on their ass I'd be inclined to say he's a decent sort. But that is me jumping to conclusions."
As they were positive prejudgments though Eiryk didn't see the harm. And he thought he'd gotten to know Christian well enough to know that if the security chief had issues with the elder he wouldn't still be working for Alfarinn. So Eiryk wasn't terribly worried about this. It was a formality, a nicety. Besides, any one who liked mead was worth getting to know.
Eiryk beamed as he got to his feet. Well, he was technically on his feet for a second, he then tripped over them, stumbled a bit, careened into a display tried to keep it up right with some success and then fell flat on his face. It was better than average, even for Eiryk and he just lay there for a second trying to get his bearings again. Once he'd established which was was 'up' again he bounced to his feet, careful of Thora who was, as always, fascinated by his prone form.
"Oh good, mead. I'll dig out some of the good stuff then."
He said as if nothing had happened, while doing his best not to notice that Alex hadn't packed anything breakable. Of course, there were days that Eiryk didn't trust himself in his own studio so he wasn't exactly hurt. Just -very- mildly irritated with himself. It would pass soon enough, it always did. Thirty seconds or less.
He'd also figure out how to make an appointment with Alfarinn later. He'd been in Nachton a while now without meeting the man, a few more days wouldn't hurt anything.
Since Alex's arms were full Eiryk happily kissed his boyfriend on the cheek before finding a box or two that looked sturdy and picking them up himself.
"Well since my explanation of strong hold was over the top... I shall see if I can tone it down a bit." Eiryk chirped. "He's the Elder... basically he's in charge of the clan. And as he hasn't thrown any one of my acquaintance out on their ass I'd be inclined to say he's a decent sort. But that is me jumping to conclusions."
As they were positive prejudgments though Eiryk didn't see the harm. And he thought he'd gotten to know Christian well enough to know that if the security chief had issues with the elder he wouldn't still be working for Alfarinn. So Eiryk wasn't terribly worried about this. It was a formality, a nicety. Besides, any one who liked mead was worth getting to know.
Rowan Murphy
13 years ago
Rowan raised his eyebrows at Cris.. that was supposed to be a threat? [You promise?] he sent back. [The longer the ride the more time you have to try to... distract me... some more.]
He flipped Cris a leer in return as he gathered up his boxes and waited for the rest of the gang, since apparently the explanation required was fairly short. He blinked at Alex's quiet insistence that he could take care of his own problems rather than bring them to Cris. Well... a noble sentiment but hopefully Alexander wouldn't be faced with many, if any, trials or tribulations as a result of his officially joining Evenhet. He couldn't see it happening, really. Alex was quiet and inoffensive and seemed mostly to want to blend in with whoever was nearby. Even drunk he was quiet and calm.
Eiryk explained who Alfarinn was and Rowan clarified just to keep the confusion at a minimum. "There are Clan Elders in every country. But those Clan Elders have a leader too and he lives here in Nachton protected by the head of all Security for the Clan."
At that, Rowan leaned down, boxes and all, to kiss Cris gently on the lips. "That means his job is to protect you, too, Alex," Rowan said softly. "Don't make it too hard on him, okay? I like him."
His eyes twinkled mischievously as he said it, but Rowan thought it was worth noting. For all that he and Cris were a new pair Rowan knew that Cris would go out on a limb to help a Clanmate and a friend regardless of whether or not it was his job to do so. Alex's stubborn stance was admirable but unnecessary. Clanmates helped each other. That was what they did.
He flipped Cris a leer in return as he gathered up his boxes and waited for the rest of the gang, since apparently the explanation required was fairly short. He blinked at Alex's quiet insistence that he could take care of his own problems rather than bring them to Cris. Well... a noble sentiment but hopefully Alexander wouldn't be faced with many, if any, trials or tribulations as a result of his officially joining Evenhet. He couldn't see it happening, really. Alex was quiet and inoffensive and seemed mostly to want to blend in with whoever was nearby. Even drunk he was quiet and calm.
Eiryk explained who Alfarinn was and Rowan clarified just to keep the confusion at a minimum. "There are Clan Elders in every country. But those Clan Elders have a leader too and he lives here in Nachton protected by the head of all Security for the Clan."
At that, Rowan leaned down, boxes and all, to kiss Cris gently on the lips. "That means his job is to protect you, too, Alex," Rowan said softly. "Don't make it too hard on him, okay? I like him."
His eyes twinkled mischievously as he said it, but Rowan thought it was worth noting. For all that he and Cris were a new pair Rowan knew that Cris would go out on a limb to help a Clanmate and a friend regardless of whether or not it was his job to do so. Alex's stubborn stance was admirable but unnecessary. Clanmates helped each other. That was what they did.
Christian Bern
13 years ago
Christian smiled at Alex and shrugged. "Its no trouble. That's what we're there for." He shook his head at Eiryk who announced they were both useful and then promptly stumbled over his feet and landed face first on the floor.
The topic turned to mead again when Eiryk righted himself once more. Cris held onto his box and waited to hear the explanation of who Alfarinn was, wondering what kind of impression his friend had made with clan mates that had yet to meet him. He chuckled at the quick sum up and what constituted being a descent sort. Raising his eyebrows at Eiryk, Cris added. "He's a giant Norseman who likes the occasional brawl, good mead, good conversation and getting drunk." He turned toward Alex and added, "He is also one of the most caring people I've ever met and my best friend, apart from my Creator." [ I should introduce you to Grisha at some point; though he probably already knows we are a couple.] Cris laughed inwardly [I'm not sure how he does it but he has the best information network I've ever seen while never appearing to leave his precious bookstore. If I didn't know him better I'd say there were two of him.]
He smiled up at Rowan who further explained that Alfarinn was the leader of the Elders of the clan. His partner then requested Alex not be difficult which was an amusing mental image. Cris accepted the kiss with a smile and said. "Somehow I think one of you other two are more likely to be trouble...but then again as they always say." He turned around and eyed Alex suspiciously. "You should always watch out for the quiet ones."
Christian balanced his box on his hip, poked two fingers towards his own eyes and then pointed them at the quiet yoga instructor while mouthing "keeping my eyes on you" before laughing and taking his box to the car.
The topic turned to mead again when Eiryk righted himself once more. Cris held onto his box and waited to hear the explanation of who Alfarinn was, wondering what kind of impression his friend had made with clan mates that had yet to meet him. He chuckled at the quick sum up and what constituted being a descent sort. Raising his eyebrows at Eiryk, Cris added. "He's a giant Norseman who likes the occasional brawl, good mead, good conversation and getting drunk." He turned toward Alex and added, "He is also one of the most caring people I've ever met and my best friend, apart from my Creator." [ I should introduce you to Grisha at some point; though he probably already knows we are a couple.] Cris laughed inwardly [I'm not sure how he does it but he has the best information network I've ever seen while never appearing to leave his precious bookstore. If I didn't know him better I'd say there were two of him.]
He smiled up at Rowan who further explained that Alfarinn was the leader of the Elders of the clan. His partner then requested Alex not be difficult which was an amusing mental image. Cris accepted the kiss with a smile and said. "Somehow I think one of you other two are more likely to be trouble...but then again as they always say." He turned around and eyed Alex suspiciously. "You should always watch out for the quiet ones."
Christian balanced his box on his hip, poked two fingers towards his own eyes and then pointed them at the quiet yoga instructor while mouthing "keeping my eyes on you" before laughing and taking his box to the car.
Alex Aristos
13 years ago
Alex winced and sighed at Eiryk when he toppled over, bringing a display with him. He'd fix it before they closed up for the night so Marie didn't get stuck with it in the morning. Eiryk was back up on his feet before Alex could put down his boxes to help his boyfriend up.
Rowan's explanation went a little more in depth than Eiryk's did and Alex looked back and forth from Eriyk to Rowan for a moment, and then to Cris. "I see," he said, weighing that information.
He glared playfully at Eiryk for a second, raising his eyebrows. Eiryk had never told him this. He'd let Alex believe Eiryk was unique, or close to it. Until Rowan had shown up. And then slowly it had come out. From "I'm a vampire" to "oh my friend here is a vampire" progressing on to "oh and my clan of vampires are here" and now, this was the leading clan of a bunch of little clans... was Eiryk pregnant with his baby too?
Cris's support of this Alfarinn, coupled with Rowan's gentle warning or request, whichever it was, only made Alex flush red. Obviously he shouldn't worry about Alfarinn... if Cris was willing to speak for him, and this Elder was his best friend, then hopefully it would go smoothly. And as for making Cris's life difficult Alexander felt bad about his own stubborn pride but Cris himself glossed over it, immediately putting the spotlight back onto Eiryk and Rowan, who were undoubtedly better equipped to handle it than Alex.
When Cris turned and went out to the car, shooting Alex his "watching you" glance Alex just flushed again and ducked his head, walking next to Eiryk out to fill up the two cars for their trip to Liefde.
It took four trips back and forth to get all of his belongings there. There weren't many boxes, but neither Eiryk's car nor Rowan's small Prius were meant for carrying large quantities of rectangular boxes. Eventually they managed though, and they found themselves back in Alexander's store with no boxes and a display of Alex's nefarious, ne'er do well carabiners to clean up. It was always the 'biners. He should just stop stocking them.
"So... the hour of beer is fast approaching," he said. "Any suggestions on where?"
Rowan's explanation went a little more in depth than Eiryk's did and Alex looked back and forth from Eriyk to Rowan for a moment, and then to Cris. "I see," he said, weighing that information.
He glared playfully at Eiryk for a second, raising his eyebrows. Eiryk had never told him this. He'd let Alex believe Eiryk was unique, or close to it. Until Rowan had shown up. And then slowly it had come out. From "I'm a vampire" to "oh my friend here is a vampire" progressing on to "oh and my clan of vampires are here" and now, this was the leading clan of a bunch of little clans... was Eiryk pregnant with his baby too?
Cris's support of this Alfarinn, coupled with Rowan's gentle warning or request, whichever it was, only made Alex flush red. Obviously he shouldn't worry about Alfarinn... if Cris was willing to speak for him, and this Elder was his best friend, then hopefully it would go smoothly. And as for making Cris's life difficult Alexander felt bad about his own stubborn pride but Cris himself glossed over it, immediately putting the spotlight back onto Eiryk and Rowan, who were undoubtedly better equipped to handle it than Alex.
When Cris turned and went out to the car, shooting Alex his "watching you" glance Alex just flushed again and ducked his head, walking next to Eiryk out to fill up the two cars for their trip to Liefde.
It took four trips back and forth to get all of his belongings there. There weren't many boxes, but neither Eiryk's car nor Rowan's small Prius were meant for carrying large quantities of rectangular boxes. Eventually they managed though, and they found themselves back in Alexander's store with no boxes and a display of Alex's nefarious, ne'er do well carabiners to clean up. It was always the 'biners. He should just stop stocking them.
"So... the hour of beer is fast approaching," he said. "Any suggestions on where?"
Eiryk
13 years ago
Eiryk rolled his eyes lightly at Rue. Alex was not gonna cause trouble, hell even if he did he had a good solid support system that started with him. Eiryk was bound and determined to take care of Alex.
Of course, he was also dead set on knowing about this whole thing with Rowan and Chris. He just had to know everything and how serious it was. They were serious enough to tease him about it, but new enough that it was apparently hard to keep their hands off each other.
Christian's description of Alfarinn perked Eiryk right up, if it was possible for him to perk any further.
"Yeah? This could be promising I haven't had a decent brawl since... ummm... 1902 I think it was. Might have been something in the seventies... I'm going to have to check my journals."
So far he actually sounded like a lot of other vikings and Norsemen Eiryk knew. He approved and would look forward to said meeting and hope to be proven right.
His eyes grew wide at Christian's side long hint at an accusation.
"I am a perfect little angel! Ask any one, they never even knew I was here."
He'd quite happily flown under the radar for a long time, then well... Alex happened. Why that made a difference Eiryk didn't understand, nor did he care. He had his boyfriend, he was in love and he was quite happy.
They did their schlepping, unpacking would come later. He'd stash some of his own stuff to make sure Alex had plenty of room. Thora had been left behind at the Towers, she'd spent enough time there that it was home for her as well and was perfectly comfortable.
On their return to the store Eiryk looked sheepishly at the carabiners. He really shouldn't be allowed any where near them. With out a word he started to try and help clean them up.
"Well... there is the George and Dragon, just an old pub can get a bit smokey or Powhatan Brewery, they are pretty new but the reviews have been good. Never been myself though."
One of his other designers quite liked the microbrewery and sang praises of the beer and of the food. But either would suit Eiryk, or somewhere new all together if Christian or Rowan had a preference.
Of course, he was also dead set on knowing about this whole thing with Rowan and Chris. He just had to know everything and how serious it was. They were serious enough to tease him about it, but new enough that it was apparently hard to keep their hands off each other.
Christian's description of Alfarinn perked Eiryk right up, if it was possible for him to perk any further.
"Yeah? This could be promising I haven't had a decent brawl since... ummm... 1902 I think it was. Might have been something in the seventies... I'm going to have to check my journals."
So far he actually sounded like a lot of other vikings and Norsemen Eiryk knew. He approved and would look forward to said meeting and hope to be proven right.
His eyes grew wide at Christian's side long hint at an accusation.
"I am a perfect little angel! Ask any one, they never even knew I was here."
He'd quite happily flown under the radar for a long time, then well... Alex happened. Why that made a difference Eiryk didn't understand, nor did he care. He had his boyfriend, he was in love and he was quite happy.
They did their schlepping, unpacking would come later. He'd stash some of his own stuff to make sure Alex had plenty of room. Thora had been left behind at the Towers, she'd spent enough time there that it was home for her as well and was perfectly comfortable.
On their return to the store Eiryk looked sheepishly at the carabiners. He really shouldn't be allowed any where near them. With out a word he started to try and help clean them up.
"Well... there is the George and Dragon, just an old pub can get a bit smokey or Powhatan Brewery, they are pretty new but the reviews have been good. Never been myself though."
One of his other designers quite liked the microbrewery and sang praises of the beer and of the food. But either would suit Eiryk, or somewhere new all together if Christian or Rowan had a preference.
Rowan Murphy
13 years ago
Rowan loved the sound of Christian's laugh. He smiled at the shorter man, nodding his head at the confirmation of what he'd wondered. [I had thought he might be your Creator,] he sent back, [I'd really like to meet him.] He mused at the idea of Cris being stumped by anyone. [I'm surprised you haven't figured it out,] he replied honestly. [You seem to have a pretty thorough information network yourself. Only, I'm glad there's just the one of you. That way I can hog you all to myself once in a while.]
The rides back and forth to Liefde weren't nearly as long as they should be. Rowan didn't mind though. He and Cris were quickly learning that driving each other mad with desire could be every bit as much fun as fulfilling those desires. By the time they stood in Alexander's store without any boxes to pack he was ready to head back to Cris's home... their home. He wouldn't duck out on Alex and Eiryk though, after all the idea to go out for a drink or five had been his.
"I've never been to either," Rowan said. He looked at Cris. "Do you have a preference?" Slipping his arms around Cris's waist now that they were free of boxes he tugged his partner close. "I don't mind trying the new joint but whatever you all want is fine by me. Someplace with some decent food." He looked at Alex. "You must be hungry by now."
The rides back and forth to Liefde weren't nearly as long as they should be. Rowan didn't mind though. He and Cris were quickly learning that driving each other mad with desire could be every bit as much fun as fulfilling those desires. By the time they stood in Alexander's store without any boxes to pack he was ready to head back to Cris's home... their home. He wouldn't duck out on Alex and Eiryk though, after all the idea to go out for a drink or five had been his.
"I've never been to either," Rowan said. He looked at Cris. "Do you have a preference?" Slipping his arms around Cris's waist now that they were free of boxes he tugged his partner close. "I don't mind trying the new joint but whatever you all want is fine by me. Someplace with some decent food." He looked at Alex. "You must be hungry by now."
Christian Bern
13 years ago
[He is. He maintains that so far I have not proven to be an error in judgment. I believe that is Grisha for he is proud of me.] The question of how his Creator's network of information worked was a complicated one. [I have my suspicions but with Grisha I do not pry. Giving him his space makes him happy.] Cris chuckled inwardly [He is more complicated than I am.] Rowan's reasoning was interesting if somewhat odd. [I would have thought you would have preferred two that way you could have one to yourself all the time. They would likely argue about who gets that honor and would probably have to share you...quite often.]
He did his best to tease Rowan almost mercilessly on the ride to and from Liefde each and every trip. Of course touching his lover without having the freedom to finish what he started was plenty of self inflicted torment as well. Cris had been tempted, once or twice, to lean down and take Rowan into his mouth and give his partner some relief at the very least. However he would rather his lover have the freedom to relax and fully enjoy it without worrying about wrecking his car. Later, Cris silently promised, he was going to make sure they were both thoroughly satisfied.
Standing in the store, they all decided where to go. Cris leaned back into Rowan when his partner wrapped his arms around his waist.
"Smokey is terrible for eating food so I think that issue should make our decision for us." Cris looked at the others. "We can consider it exploration that way if the place is unworthy of a return visit then at least we can call ourselves pioneers." Cris's expression became stoic and he added dryly. "Not that it would help bad beer go down better but perhaps one would at least feel more noble for having suffered for a cause."
He did his best to tease Rowan almost mercilessly on the ride to and from Liefde each and every trip. Of course touching his lover without having the freedom to finish what he started was plenty of self inflicted torment as well. Cris had been tempted, once or twice, to lean down and take Rowan into his mouth and give his partner some relief at the very least. However he would rather his lover have the freedom to relax and fully enjoy it without worrying about wrecking his car. Later, Cris silently promised, he was going to make sure they were both thoroughly satisfied.
Standing in the store, they all decided where to go. Cris leaned back into Rowan when his partner wrapped his arms around his waist.
"Smokey is terrible for eating food so I think that issue should make our decision for us." Cris looked at the others. "We can consider it exploration that way if the place is unworthy of a return visit then at least we can call ourselves pioneers." Cris's expression became stoic and he added dryly. "Not that it would help bad beer go down better but perhaps one would at least feel more noble for having suffered for a cause."
Alex Aristos
13 years ago
Alex and Eiryk picked up the carabiners before Rowan or Cris could jump in; Eiryk hadn't really knocked that many over. Eiryk tossed out a couple suggestions for someplace to go and Rowan asked if he was hungry. Alex considered that and then nodded.
"Yeah, I could eat," he said, thinking that would be better than attempting to drink with three vampires.
Straightening, he looked around the store. "I don't think there's anything left to do here."
He'd closed it up hours ago and it was all ready for Marie to open it the next morning. Everything was cleaned and straightened up, all the paperwork had been done for the night. Alex shrugged at his friends. "Let's go."
He nodded at Cris, who sensibly suggested they avoid the smokiness of the bar in favor of the brewery. Alex didn't have a huge preference but since no one else seemed to mind, he would admit that he'd prefer to avoid second hand smoke.
"Brewery it is," he agreed. "Hopefully without being labeled noble sufferers."
He smiled; the semi-hard work was done and now all that was left was to enjoy a few hours with their friends, exchanging stories. He knew that Eiryk didn't really mind telling the story of his 'coming out' as they put it and he would admit to more than a little curiosity about Rowan and Cris, who were tucked together so comfortably that Alex had to remind himself that Rowan had only been in Nachton for a few months... so their relationship had to be pretty new. Right?
"Lead the way," Alex said, turning to Eiryk and slipping his arm around the shorter man's shoulders. He gestured toward the door, waiting for everyone to be out before closing it and locking it tightly. As he passed the staircase leading up to the apartment he paused and looked up, wondering if he would miss being independent and having his own place but the feeling wasn't there. All he felt was excitement and happiness to be moving in permanently with Eiryk. That was how it should be.
"Yeah, I could eat," he said, thinking that would be better than attempting to drink with three vampires.
Straightening, he looked around the store. "I don't think there's anything left to do here."
He'd closed it up hours ago and it was all ready for Marie to open it the next morning. Everything was cleaned and straightened up, all the paperwork had been done for the night. Alex shrugged at his friends. "Let's go."
He nodded at Cris, who sensibly suggested they avoid the smokiness of the bar in favor of the brewery. Alex didn't have a huge preference but since no one else seemed to mind, he would admit that he'd prefer to avoid second hand smoke.
"Brewery it is," he agreed. "Hopefully without being labeled noble sufferers."
He smiled; the semi-hard work was done and now all that was left was to enjoy a few hours with their friends, exchanging stories. He knew that Eiryk didn't really mind telling the story of his 'coming out' as they put it and he would admit to more than a little curiosity about Rowan and Cris, who were tucked together so comfortably that Alex had to remind himself that Rowan had only been in Nachton for a few months... so their relationship had to be pretty new. Right?
"Lead the way," Alex said, turning to Eiryk and slipping his arm around the shorter man's shoulders. He gestured toward the door, waiting for everyone to be out before closing it and locking it tightly. As he passed the staircase leading up to the apartment he paused and looked up, wondering if he would miss being independent and having his own place but the feeling wasn't there. All he felt was excitement and happiness to be moving in permanently with Eiryk. That was how it should be.
Eiryk
13 years ago
Huh, now that he thought about it, the only time he hit up the G&D was with Pak and that was because she could smoke. He groaned cheerfully at Alex's joke about noble suffering and quickly checked his phone getting directions to the brewery. It looked to be on the edge of the strip bordering a light industrial area. Which made sense if they were doing a large amount of brewing. Maybe they did tours. He'd love to see how they did things.
The feel of Alex's arm around him was comfortable and familiar and he caught Alex looking upstairs, he wasn't staring wistfully nor did he look like he was pining, in fact they didn't even really stop long to look. Good, this was right. Alex had come to it in his own time and they could be happy about it.
"Excellent. We're off."
With little effort and a little friendly chatter they all got to the brewery, were given a booth meant for eight (it was a slow night and the place wasn't exactly jumping) and both food menus and beer menus. Eiryk settled into the booth next to Alex, happily resting on hand discreetly on his boyfriend's knee.
While keeping his eyes on the beer menu, and there was a lot that sounded good, he turned on his old friend.
"I vote you two start story time. How long and how long were you planing on messing with my head."
He didn't care about the teasing and the hiding. It was all in good fun after all. He was, however, desperate to know if Rue was really settled or at least settling down. Because what he'd seen so far sure didn't look like just a fling. It looked like something more than that.
The feel of Alex's arm around him was comfortable and familiar and he caught Alex looking upstairs, he wasn't staring wistfully nor did he look like he was pining, in fact they didn't even really stop long to look. Good, this was right. Alex had come to it in his own time and they could be happy about it.
"Excellent. We're off."
With little effort and a little friendly chatter they all got to the brewery, were given a booth meant for eight (it was a slow night and the place wasn't exactly jumping) and both food menus and beer menus. Eiryk settled into the booth next to Alex, happily resting on hand discreetly on his boyfriend's knee.
While keeping his eyes on the beer menu, and there was a lot that sounded good, he turned on his old friend.
"I vote you two start story time. How long and how long were you planing on messing with my head."
He didn't care about the teasing and the hiding. It was all in good fun after all. He was, however, desperate to know if Rue was really settled or at least settling down. Because what he'd seen so far sure didn't look like just a fling. It looked like something more than that.
Rowan Murphy
13 years ago
[One of you,] Rowan reiterated. [You're unique, a ghra, no copies. As tempting as it would be to have one of you to myself always, I'm happy to know I get the one you all to myself sometimes. You have no idea how special it makes me feel, that you chose me.]
It was just a turn of phrase. Cris knew, he hoped, exactly how Rowan felt about it thanks to some glamour and a lot of physical demonstration. He could keep showing Cris, though, for hundreds of years, he hoped.
They soon found themselves at the Powhatan Brewery with menus, tucked into a large booth. Rowan slid to the inside of it, letting Cris have the outer side. Once they were settled he leaned over and rested his head on Cris's shoulder while he held up both menus for them to peruse.
When Eiryk spoke, Rowan lowered them and looked at his friend with raised brows.
"I thought the deal was, I treat, you dish. Voting doesn't enter into it."
He thought it amusing that Eiryk immediately jumped to the conclusion that everything Rowan and Cris had done had been to mess specifically with Eiryk. Never mind that it had; Rowan had also done his best to be discreet right at the outset to avoid circulating any unwanted rumors. Cris had set him straight there, and while he knew it was all right with his partner, he still kept his subterfuge up and firmly in place when out in public around the towers. It was more for Cris than for him.
"Since you seem to need something though," Rowan said with an air of gravity, "let me just say, I didn't recognize Cris when I saw him outside Barney's when I first got to Nachton. It wasn't until later that I realized he was the same guy I met 400 years ago in Germany. I've never been arrested by a blond in a grass skirt, a coconut bra, and a pink lei before so you'd have thought I wouldn't forget that face. But apparently a black suit and an earpiece make a big difference."
Leaving the menu face up on the table Rowan wrapped one arm around Cris's waist, sighing softly into Cris's neck as he continued to lean against him happily. Let Eiryk chew on that one for a while.
He gestured with his hand in an expectant manner. "That's all you get for now, I was being generous. Your turn. How, exactly, did this whole 'revealing the vampire and getting slugged' discussion pan out?"
Their waitress showed up about then and took their orders. Rowan, noting that they offered an eisbock, ordered that. Sadly it would be his only drink since he only had a few more hours before he had to return to work. He was still in his scrubs from his previous shift; after this he would return to Liefde with Cris, snatch a few hours of sleep, and head back to the clinic.
It was just a turn of phrase. Cris knew, he hoped, exactly how Rowan felt about it thanks to some glamour and a lot of physical demonstration. He could keep showing Cris, though, for hundreds of years, he hoped.
They soon found themselves at the Powhatan Brewery with menus, tucked into a large booth. Rowan slid to the inside of it, letting Cris have the outer side. Once they were settled he leaned over and rested his head on Cris's shoulder while he held up both menus for them to peruse.
When Eiryk spoke, Rowan lowered them and looked at his friend with raised brows.
"I thought the deal was, I treat, you dish. Voting doesn't enter into it."
He thought it amusing that Eiryk immediately jumped to the conclusion that everything Rowan and Cris had done had been to mess specifically with Eiryk. Never mind that it had; Rowan had also done his best to be discreet right at the outset to avoid circulating any unwanted rumors. Cris had set him straight there, and while he knew it was all right with his partner, he still kept his subterfuge up and firmly in place when out in public around the towers. It was more for Cris than for him.
"Since you seem to need something though," Rowan said with an air of gravity, "let me just say, I didn't recognize Cris when I saw him outside Barney's when I first got to Nachton. It wasn't until later that I realized he was the same guy I met 400 years ago in Germany. I've never been arrested by a blond in a grass skirt, a coconut bra, and a pink lei before so you'd have thought I wouldn't forget that face. But apparently a black suit and an earpiece make a big difference."
Leaving the menu face up on the table Rowan wrapped one arm around Cris's waist, sighing softly into Cris's neck as he continued to lean against him happily. Let Eiryk chew on that one for a while.
He gestured with his hand in an expectant manner. "That's all you get for now, I was being generous. Your turn. How, exactly, did this whole 'revealing the vampire and getting slugged' discussion pan out?"
Their waitress showed up about then and took their orders. Rowan, noting that they offered an eisbock, ordered that. Sadly it would be his only drink since he only had a few more hours before he had to return to work. He was still in his scrubs from his previous shift; after this he would return to Liefde with Cris, snatch a few hours of sleep, and head back to the clinic.
Christian Bern
13 years ago
Rowan took the inside of the booth without him having to request it. Christian smiled at his lover briefly before sliding in next to him. He would prefer to be able to get out quickly if there was trouble; a part of him couldn't help but consider such things even while out with friends.
His partner snuggled up next to him, laying his head on his shoulder. Cris slipped his arm around Rowan's waist and looked over the menus that his companion held up for the both of them. Having quickly found something that interested him on the list, he then busied himself with sliding his hand underneath the loose fitting navy blue scrubs. Cris drew light patterns along the side of Rowan's chest and mused inwardly [Hmmm, I think I like these uniforms of yours.]
He listened to his lover's outlandish tale of their first meeting some four hundred years ago. Cris kept his expression neutral by concentrating mostly on his partner's skin, taking in the details of the story going on in the background.
Rowan signaled the end of fabrication by snuggling closer. Smiling softly at his partner, Cris hugged him tighter in return. He looked at the two others and said in neutral tone. "He nearly blew my cover as a vacationing tourist but it had to be done." Sighing he said. "Rowan had been hitting on a local drug dealer's daughter and her father had just walked in. I made up some charge, flashed a badge and hauled him off before the man could notice the cozy little scene in the back booth." [Don't ask where I was keeping the badge but if you're a good boy maybe I will find that costume and show you.]
He looked at the other two and waited for the story that had been agreed upon. [Think we'll get a straight answer?]
His partner snuggled up next to him, laying his head on his shoulder. Cris slipped his arm around Rowan's waist and looked over the menus that his companion held up for the both of them. Having quickly found something that interested him on the list, he then busied himself with sliding his hand underneath the loose fitting navy blue scrubs. Cris drew light patterns along the side of Rowan's chest and mused inwardly [Hmmm, I think I like these uniforms of yours.]
He listened to his lover's outlandish tale of their first meeting some four hundred years ago. Cris kept his expression neutral by concentrating mostly on his partner's skin, taking in the details of the story going on in the background.
Rowan signaled the end of fabrication by snuggling closer. Smiling softly at his partner, Cris hugged him tighter in return. He looked at the two others and said in neutral tone. "He nearly blew my cover as a vacationing tourist but it had to be done." Sighing he said. "Rowan had been hitting on a local drug dealer's daughter and her father had just walked in. I made up some charge, flashed a badge and hauled him off before the man could notice the cozy little scene in the back booth." [Don't ask where I was keeping the badge but if you're a good boy maybe I will find that costume and show you.]
He looked at the other two and waited for the story that had been agreed upon. [Think we'll get a straight answer?]
Alex Aristos
13 years ago
Alexander settled into the booth with Eiryk, slipping his hand beneath the table and grasping Eiryk's hand in his. He was never a big fan of being too demonstrative in public. Sometimes he wished he were; looking at the way Rowan immediately snuggled close to Cris made him wonder if Eiryk wouldn't like him to do the same. He'd never mentioned though. Alex thought Eiryk was all right with him the way he was.
The story Rowan told was an obvious tall tale. At least, Alex thought it must be. He glanced back and forth between Eiryk and Rowan in slight confusion. Was this normal for them? And then Cris supported it... and Alex had a pretty strong hunch they were both jerking Eiryk's chain. His, too. He smiled faintly; he might have done the same if he were that bold.
Alex glanced at the drink list as Rowan ordered an eisbock without any food and Cris, a reuben with a Powhatan Blonde. Alex added a Powhatan Pale Ale to their order and then, with a glance at the food menu, a grilled chicken sandwich with sweet potato fries.
He passed the menu to Eiryk, shrugging at his boyfriend. They had promised this story, after all.
"I think he might not have told me at all, except this was sort of my fault," Alex said. "We went out drinking one night. I don't usually drink that heavily except, well," Alex felt his face grow red as he told them what he hadn't even told Eiryk that night. "It was my birthday. I usually... anyhow, we slept pretty hard, at my apartment. I woke up and opened the window over the bed."
He glanced at Eiryk, shaking his head. "All he'd told me was he didn't go out during the day... not that it would burn like that. I've never seen him move so fast."
Alex shrugged his shoulders. "I didn't know what to do. I took care of him, left him at my place, and went downstairs to the store. I had a lot of time to think about it that day while I worked. When I got back upstairs I had pretty much decided it didn't matter who or what he was. I was a little annoyed that he'd bitten me without my knowing though."
Alex turned to Eiryk and mimed an uppercut to his jaw. "So..." He connected softly, making a 'boom' noise. "I figured we could call it even."
That was most of it from Alex's point of view. Eiryk could fill in if he wanted.
The story Rowan told was an obvious tall tale. At least, Alex thought it must be. He glanced back and forth between Eiryk and Rowan in slight confusion. Was this normal for them? And then Cris supported it... and Alex had a pretty strong hunch they were both jerking Eiryk's chain. His, too. He smiled faintly; he might have done the same if he were that bold.
Alex glanced at the drink list as Rowan ordered an eisbock without any food and Cris, a reuben with a Powhatan Blonde. Alex added a Powhatan Pale Ale to their order and then, with a glance at the food menu, a grilled chicken sandwich with sweet potato fries.
He passed the menu to Eiryk, shrugging at his boyfriend. They had promised this story, after all.
"I think he might not have told me at all, except this was sort of my fault," Alex said. "We went out drinking one night. I don't usually drink that heavily except, well," Alex felt his face grow red as he told them what he hadn't even told Eiryk that night. "It was my birthday. I usually... anyhow, we slept pretty hard, at my apartment. I woke up and opened the window over the bed."
He glanced at Eiryk, shaking his head. "All he'd told me was he didn't go out during the day... not that it would burn like that. I've never seen him move so fast."
Alex shrugged his shoulders. "I didn't know what to do. I took care of him, left him at my place, and went downstairs to the store. I had a lot of time to think about it that day while I worked. When I got back upstairs I had pretty much decided it didn't matter who or what he was. I was a little annoyed that he'd bitten me without my knowing though."
Alex turned to Eiryk and mimed an uppercut to his jaw. "So..." He connected softly, making a 'boom' noise. "I figured we could call it even."
That was most of it from Alex's point of view. Eiryk could fill in if he wanted.
Eiryk
13 years ago
"The democratic process doesn't stop applying just because there is beer involved."
Eiryk declared watching Rue and Christian settle in next to each other. It looked like a terribly familiar gesture. So he listened intently to his friend's accounting of how he and Christian met. Eiryk could completely believe that Rowan had been arrested in Germany a few hundred years ago but it was a stretch to believe that Christian was a grass skirt coconut bra kind of guy.
A story, well he had asked for story time hadn't he. Eiryk just sighed, shook his head and ordered. After some debate he settled on a hefeweizen and some spinach artichoke dip and edamame for the table. He'd nibble at it and was fairly certain the other men would too.
"So... we'll talk later then."
He said to Rowan before shaking his head at Christian, who apparently had no issues encouraging this kind of story telling.
"Pink? Really? I'm not sure that is your color. It would depend on the shade though... Did you get the bad guys then?"
Eiryk winced a little when Alex doubted he'd ever have told him. He would have. He was working up to it. It was just, not as easy as he would have hoped and he was having trouble not being -extremely- subtle.
Birthday?! Eiryk's head snapped around to look at his boyfriend. Alex had had a birthday and hadn't told him? He was hurt, just a little. He couldn't say anything, not really, considering how much he'd kept from Alex but still! How old did that make Alex now? And he had to find a present!
"I was having some trouble working up to coming out." He admitted sheepishly. "But waking up with the sun on you will wake any one up, even me. Once he got me settled down, I tried to fill him in on things and then he had to go to work. It was a damned long day I thought sure he was going to leave me. And was going to consider myself lucky if he didn't throw me to the curb in the middle of the afternoon."
Although, truthfully that would have probably hurt less than staying upstairs waiting and wondering. Eiryk left out the bit about him drinking himself stupid and the details of his own personal little hell. It was something he would never forget and the memory of that torment would keep Eiryk from hiding anything from Alex again. He might be vague on details, but he'd never keep anything from him.
"You've got a damned good right. Knocked me on my ass. But it did seem fair at the time, damned generous in retrospect."
He squeezed Alex's hand still very grateful that Alex had accepted him and that it hadn't ended the relationship.
Eiryk declared watching Rue and Christian settle in next to each other. It looked like a terribly familiar gesture. So he listened intently to his friend's accounting of how he and Christian met. Eiryk could completely believe that Rowan had been arrested in Germany a few hundred years ago but it was a stretch to believe that Christian was a grass skirt coconut bra kind of guy.
A story, well he had asked for story time hadn't he. Eiryk just sighed, shook his head and ordered. After some debate he settled on a hefeweizen and some spinach artichoke dip and edamame for the table. He'd nibble at it and was fairly certain the other men would too.
"So... we'll talk later then."
He said to Rowan before shaking his head at Christian, who apparently had no issues encouraging this kind of story telling.
"Pink? Really? I'm not sure that is your color. It would depend on the shade though... Did you get the bad guys then?"
Eiryk winced a little when Alex doubted he'd ever have told him. He would have. He was working up to it. It was just, not as easy as he would have hoped and he was having trouble not being -extremely- subtle.
Birthday?! Eiryk's head snapped around to look at his boyfriend. Alex had had a birthday and hadn't told him? He was hurt, just a little. He couldn't say anything, not really, considering how much he'd kept from Alex but still! How old did that make Alex now? And he had to find a present!
"I was having some trouble working up to coming out." He admitted sheepishly. "But waking up with the sun on you will wake any one up, even me. Once he got me settled down, I tried to fill him in on things and then he had to go to work. It was a damned long day I thought sure he was going to leave me. And was going to consider myself lucky if he didn't throw me to the curb in the middle of the afternoon."
Although, truthfully that would have probably hurt less than staying upstairs waiting and wondering. Eiryk left out the bit about him drinking himself stupid and the details of his own personal little hell. It was something he would never forget and the memory of that torment would keep Eiryk from hiding anything from Alex again. He might be vague on details, but he'd never keep anything from him.
"You've got a damned good right. Knocked me on my ass. But it did seem fair at the time, damned generous in retrospect."
He squeezed Alex's hand still very grateful that Alex had accepted him and that it hadn't ended the relationship.
Rowan Murphy
13 years ago
Rowan shivered a little when Cris's hand slid into his scrubs and up his torso. [Oh God, Cris, that's not fair... they're just scrubs...] There was sufficient angst in his tone to convey to his partner that there could be a real problem if he wasn't careful. Rowan didn't need to glance down; he could feel himself growing hard at Cris's light teasing touches. Thank goodness he was on the inside of the booth. His scrubs didn't hide a whole lot. He turned toward Cris, shifting his hips so he could hide himself against his lover's leg.
He chuckled at Cris's addition to the story and pressed a soft kiss to Cris's neck. "It was a rough day in prison," he said dramatically, "but memorable. If I'd known Cris was in Nachton, I'd have found an excuse to stop by sooner. He sure has a way with zip ties and a billy club."
That was sort of true. He was truly sorry he hadn't been around for Cris earlier. Knowing he loved him, knowing Cris loved him in return, well... better late than never. He tightened his arm around Cris's waist. [What if I'm very, very bad?]
At Cris's question Rowan responded, [Yes, if Alex tells it... maybe, if it's Eiryk.]
Eiryk didn't seem to buy their story but Rowan hadn't expected him to. They'd been friends far too long for him to get a story that fantastic past the Viking.
It was Alex who began the tale of how he'd found out about Eiryk's identity, with Eiryk filling in a bit after. Rowan found he didn't really want to tease, not that much. He liked Alex a lot and thought he was very good for Eiryk. And vice versa.
"I don't know, that isn't as much fun as I thought it'd be," Rowan said. "I do like the punching. It's more sweet than anything else." He said it as if sweet was a bad thing but his smile, which warmed his eyes, clearly indicated he like what he heard.
"I'm glad we're done burning Eiryk though," he said. "I kinda like him being around." He grinned at one of his oldest friends. "I bet you've never woken up faster."
He chuckled at Cris's addition to the story and pressed a soft kiss to Cris's neck. "It was a rough day in prison," he said dramatically, "but memorable. If I'd known Cris was in Nachton, I'd have found an excuse to stop by sooner. He sure has a way with zip ties and a billy club."
That was sort of true. He was truly sorry he hadn't been around for Cris earlier. Knowing he loved him, knowing Cris loved him in return, well... better late than never. He tightened his arm around Cris's waist. [What if I'm very, very bad?]
At Cris's question Rowan responded, [Yes, if Alex tells it... maybe, if it's Eiryk.]
Eiryk didn't seem to buy their story but Rowan hadn't expected him to. They'd been friends far too long for him to get a story that fantastic past the Viking.
It was Alex who began the tale of how he'd found out about Eiryk's identity, with Eiryk filling in a bit after. Rowan found he didn't really want to tease, not that much. He liked Alex a lot and thought he was very good for Eiryk. And vice versa.
"I don't know, that isn't as much fun as I thought it'd be," Rowan said. "I do like the punching. It's more sweet than anything else." He said it as if sweet was a bad thing but his smile, which warmed his eyes, clearly indicated he like what he heard.
"I'm glad we're done burning Eiryk though," he said. "I kinda like him being around." He grinned at one of his oldest friends. "I bet you've never woken up faster."
Christian Bern
13 years ago
[Yes, but you are in them.] Cris replied to Rowan's pained dismissal of there being anything special about his attire. He felt his lover twist toward him and he stopped his hand, squeezing his partner close with it instead. They were out with friends; he could have some mercy.
"No, I didn't catch the bad guys. I was too busy with the redhead. I am sure my compatriots in the clown and gorilla suits managed to do so in my absence."
Christian slid his glance toward Rowan at the small kiss and mention of zip ties and billy clubs and gave him a knowing little smirk. They had, as of yet, done no such thing but it had come up in teasing conversation more than once.
[If you are very very bad then I am sure I can find something appropriate for that too.]
They considered whether they would get the true story out of their friends about this incident that resulting in Alex knowing about vampires and Eiryk getting punched.
In the end the story was told simply and sounded to be perfectly honest with auras reflecting the proper emotions that you would expect to see when someone was remembering such things.
Hearing how it happened, Cris nodded to Alex. "You took it quite well, all things considered. Its a good thing you didn't stake him. That hurts...so I'm told."
He looked over at Rowan and smiled. "My windows just made someone late for work." They could perhaps share a little without forfeiting the right to more stories later.
"No, I didn't catch the bad guys. I was too busy with the redhead. I am sure my compatriots in the clown and gorilla suits managed to do so in my absence."
Christian slid his glance toward Rowan at the small kiss and mention of zip ties and billy clubs and gave him a knowing little smirk. They had, as of yet, done no such thing but it had come up in teasing conversation more than once.
[If you are very very bad then I am sure I can find something appropriate for that too.]
They considered whether they would get the true story out of their friends about this incident that resulting in Alex knowing about vampires and Eiryk getting punched.
In the end the story was told simply and sounded to be perfectly honest with auras reflecting the proper emotions that you would expect to see when someone was remembering such things.
Hearing how it happened, Cris nodded to Alex. "You took it quite well, all things considered. Its a good thing you didn't stake him. That hurts...so I'm told."
He looked over at Rowan and smiled. "My windows just made someone late for work." They could perhaps share a little without forfeiting the right to more stories later.
Alex Aristos
13 years ago
Alex let go of Eiryk's hand and rested it on his boyfriend's leg instead, patting it gently. He knew Eiryk was surprised that that night had been his birthday. Alex just didn't really like birthdays. His in particular. Well, okay, only his.
"I'm sorry I didn't tell you," he said softly, addressing Eiryk's shocked look. "It was nice to have you with me though."
He laughed, a little embarrassed, when Eiryk mentioned he had a good right. "I have an even better left," he warned jokingly. He really hadn't pulled that punch at all.
Rowan, surprisingly, did not tease as Alexander had thought he would. He and Eiryk clearly had a very easy relationship, joking, bantering, and definitely heckling each other. So Rowan's lack of doing so was interesting until Alexander looked at the way he and Cris were nestled together, intimate even in this casual setting. Alex smiled. It was easy to understand someone else's sentimental feelings when you were in the midst of your own. You wanted the whole world to love each other, so Rowan must be content with knowing Eiryk was happy. Alex was glad for that, and a little relieved that Rowan and Cris were a pair. Eiryk had been very up front with him, and neither he nor Roan had made any attempt to hide the fact that they had spent many nights together, sharing a bed... among other things. Alex might have felt insecure about that if it weren't for the fact that they were clearly not interested in doing so now.
He nodded at Rowan. "Hopefully, yes, we're done burning Eiryk." Then he turned to Cris and winced. "You know, that didn't even occur to me. I was just concerned with the fact that he was in pain. The first thing that came into my mind when he told me what he was, was 'Huh, that explains why he keeps breaking daytime dates.'"
He grinned at the blond across the table from him and shrugged sheepishly. Alex wasn't the violent sort. The stake thing hadn't been an option. Eiryk had, at least, informed him that it probably wouldn't have killed him.
"It was an interesting birthday present though," he admitted. "A hell of a surprise to wake up to."
Turning to Eiryk he said, "So... when is your birthday?" Then he regarded Cris and Rowan. "And yours? Do you guys even count?"
Then, not wanting to forget to ask Cris about what he'd just said he added, "and how did your windows make someone late?" He didn't recall Cris's windows. They were cool looking. Murals, he thought. But aside from that he just remembered being more than a little drunk, giggling at the Mario Kart race track as he fell off it repeatedly.
"I'm sorry I didn't tell you," he said softly, addressing Eiryk's shocked look. "It was nice to have you with me though."
He laughed, a little embarrassed, when Eiryk mentioned he had a good right. "I have an even better left," he warned jokingly. He really hadn't pulled that punch at all.
Rowan, surprisingly, did not tease as Alexander had thought he would. He and Eiryk clearly had a very easy relationship, joking, bantering, and definitely heckling each other. So Rowan's lack of doing so was interesting until Alexander looked at the way he and Cris were nestled together, intimate even in this casual setting. Alex smiled. It was easy to understand someone else's sentimental feelings when you were in the midst of your own. You wanted the whole world to love each other, so Rowan must be content with knowing Eiryk was happy. Alex was glad for that, and a little relieved that Rowan and Cris were a pair. Eiryk had been very up front with him, and neither he nor Roan had made any attempt to hide the fact that they had spent many nights together, sharing a bed... among other things. Alex might have felt insecure about that if it weren't for the fact that they were clearly not interested in doing so now.
He nodded at Rowan. "Hopefully, yes, we're done burning Eiryk." Then he turned to Cris and winced. "You know, that didn't even occur to me. I was just concerned with the fact that he was in pain. The first thing that came into my mind when he told me what he was, was 'Huh, that explains why he keeps breaking daytime dates.'"
He grinned at the blond across the table from him and shrugged sheepishly. Alex wasn't the violent sort. The stake thing hadn't been an option. Eiryk had, at least, informed him that it probably wouldn't have killed him.
"It was an interesting birthday present though," he admitted. "A hell of a surprise to wake up to."
Turning to Eiryk he said, "So... when is your birthday?" Then he regarded Cris and Rowan. "And yours? Do you guys even count?"
Then, not wanting to forget to ask Cris about what he'd just said he added, "and how did your windows make someone late?" He didn't recall Cris's windows. They were cool looking. Murals, he thought. But aside from that he just remembered being more than a little drunk, giggling at the Mario Kart race track as he fell off it repeatedly.