Josh's hand was hastily removed. Gris looked up from the board and turned toward his boyfriend. Josh was a lovely shade of pink. He glanced at Evan who's attention was now turned to Kiyoshi and then back to Josh.
Gris placed his piece and then sat back. He slid his own hand over onto Josh's knee and gave it a little comforting squeeze. It was okay; they weren't doing anything illegal or even inappropriate.
He removed his hand after a small parting pat. If Josh wanted it back then he could come and retrieve it; otherwise Gris didn't want to make his partner uncomfortable.
Everyone had their pieces placed and the turn was back to Evan who acquired some resources and built a piece of road. Watching his two friends and how happy they seemed together, Gris wondered if they shouldn't opt for a movie after this so that everyone could cuddle with their significant other on the sofa.
Josh talked about his country mentioning its size almost immediately since that is the first thing that most people mention when talking about Lichtenstein. He smiled and added his own comment when Josh was done. "After living here I have learned that size is very relative. Everyone in England thinks their country is plenty big enough. Our concept of size and travel tend to be based on it but here..." Gris spread his hands. "There are states bigger than my whole country. I think you can manage to have a diversity of culture in a small area. Look at London or New York city. One side of it is very different from the other, even the speech patterns are different." He would imagine that Lichtenstein's mountains had helped keep it isolated enough to develop its own traditions without much interference until the advent of planes, trains and automobiles.
Smiling at Josh, he asked. "So, aside form you, do we know of any famous Lichtensteiners?"
Friends and Neighbors (invite only)
Josh looked around his apartment with satisfaction. He had offered to host Gris's friends at his place tonight, partly because Gris's apartment wasn't entirely put together yet but also because he wanted to be hospitable to his boyfriend's friends. He had spent time when Gris wasn't around polishing it until everything was shiny, organized, and perfectly in its place. Of course, it was brand new so it wasn't exactly messy but he'd done his best anyhow.
He had a selection of drinks although he wouldn't presume to mix any of them with two bartenders coming to visit. There was a variety of food as well, things Gris had told him Kiyoshi and Evan liked. Kiyoshi in particular seemed like a particularly picky eater but although Josh couldn't exactly explain why to Gris, he was pretty used to that. His own Alpha, for example, ate nothing but raw food. Several of his sisters, too. Josh didn't bat an eyelash and just made arrangements for a local Japanese restaurant to deliver shortly a platter of freshly-made sushi as well as a few things Gris (and the rest of them) would like.
He had arranged everything he could think of beforehand so as not to spend his time with Gris cleaning or organizing or any of those things. He was looking forward to meeting Gris's friend and had told him so several times. Now, with Gris right there, Josh felt a little thrill of happiness, to be doing this again after a few years. He had forgotten how enjoyable it felt to have someone around to host parties, even small ones, with.
He slipped his hand into Gris's and tugged his partner close. In the past few weeks they had spent a great deal of time together and Josh couldn't be happier about that. The more he learned about Gris the more he liked him, and he didn't think it would be difficult for 'like' to become much more. He held those thoughts close though; he didn't want to push Gris too far too fast although Gris hadn't shown any regret for their current situation.
Still holding onto Gris's hand Josh leaned in and kissed him softly. "I'm glad your friends will be coming over," he said. "I hope they enjoy themselves here."
They were due to arrive very soon so Josh would just have to behave himself. He was so comfortable with Gris, it was easy to forget himself and relax. Even now, meeting new people, he had opted for jeans instead of a suit. He couldn't quite get too casual though, so he did have on a pale blue button down shirt with a darker blue pinstripe on it. Beneath that was a navy tee that hugged his muscular frame like a second skin.
He looked around his apartment quickly, glancing at the clock on the wall. "We didn't forget anything did we?"
Greer Grayson
12 years ago
Kiyoshi Salinas
12 years ago
Kiyoshi was pleased to hear a little bit about Josh's country. Although he had traveled a good deal in Europe he had never been to Liechtenstein. He'd been through it once or twice, he thought, or maybe over it, but he didn't really remember much about it.
He didn't ask any questions on top of those Evan and Gris had already brought up. That was partly because he didn't want to have to answer the same. Josh seemed very polite, and in Kiyo's experience polite meant small-talk about your family, your home, and all the things Kiyo refused to discuss with almost anyone. Perhaps by staying under the radar he could avoid that kind of attention.
He did take the opportunity to eat some more fish at what was, for him, an incredibly restrained pace. He was all too aware that he would run out of it long before he was full, which was no one's fault. Kiyo knew he ate like a pig. He had found two or three very reputable butcher shops in Nachton as well as more than a few good sushi restaurants, and he frequented all of them. In fact, he thought a little dreamily, he had two venison steaks thawing in the fridge back at home. Those were left over from his hunt with Evan so they were the real thing, wild, not farm-raised. There was a difference. His mouth watered just thinking about it. Looking down at his plate with dismay he realized he'd eaten almost everything on it.
So much for restraint.
He distracted himself with the resource cards he had gathered in the couple of dice rolls they'd had. Consulting his building costs card he tried to figure out what he could build and where he should put it, so that he would be ready.
In the meantime he found himself nodding along with Gris. Kiyo had experienced lots of diversity in his travels, and he wondered what Josh would have to say on it, in relation to his tiny country. Kiyo, living first in Brazil and then in the US, couldn't even imagine what it would be like if, say, Nachton, were an entire state all by itself.
He didn't ask any questions on top of those Evan and Gris had already brought up. That was partly because he didn't want to have to answer the same. Josh seemed very polite, and in Kiyo's experience polite meant small-talk about your family, your home, and all the things Kiyo refused to discuss with almost anyone. Perhaps by staying under the radar he could avoid that kind of attention.
He did take the opportunity to eat some more fish at what was, for him, an incredibly restrained pace. He was all too aware that he would run out of it long before he was full, which was no one's fault. Kiyo knew he ate like a pig. He had found two or three very reputable butcher shops in Nachton as well as more than a few good sushi restaurants, and he frequented all of them. In fact, he thought a little dreamily, he had two venison steaks thawing in the fridge back at home. Those were left over from his hunt with Evan so they were the real thing, wild, not farm-raised. There was a difference. His mouth watered just thinking about it. Looking down at his plate with dismay he realized he'd eaten almost everything on it.
So much for restraint.
He distracted himself with the resource cards he had gathered in the couple of dice rolls they'd had. Consulting his building costs card he tried to figure out what he could build and where he should put it, so that he would be ready.
In the meantime he found himself nodding along with Gris. Kiyo had experienced lots of diversity in his travels, and he wondered what Josh would have to say on it, in relation to his tiny country. Kiyo, living first in Brazil and then in the US, couldn't even imagine what it would be like if, say, Nachton, were an entire state all by itself.
Evan Talkingwater
12 years ago
Evan listened to Josh explain some lesser known facts about his country. "Warmer? I wouldn't have guessed." He wouldn't have thought that but he considered the map of Europe and he supposed that made geological sense. It was likely still not up to Kiyoshi's standards of warmth but Evan thought that if they ever visited the small country that he could be extra vigilant in keeping his partner warm.
Gris mentioned that size was relative as far as countries went. He spoke of England, which Evan had visited, and how his countrymen tended to think of their land as plenty big despite it being rather small when the United States was used as a comparison. He could say that it obviously hadn't been big enough but that was hardly Gris's fault. He couldn't really comment on nomadic life in America before the colonists and how the boundaries of the land had been a more fluid thing then, changing with the people and the animals, either without explaining far more to Josh than he generally revealed on a first meeting. "The world seems bigger and smaller now that traveling has become so much easier and the internet has made friends of people who are nearly the entire world away from each other." Evan glanced down at Kiyo and then the other two men at the table. "It is inspiring really. Hopefully more people will realize that we are more alike than we are different." At the table they had four people from four different countries and two different continents. Evan was amused to realize that they were paired in that way. Perhaps later they would play something with teams and it could be the Americas against Europe. So much for worldwide unity.
Kiyoshi was listening but he was also keeping very quiet. That wasn't entirely unusual but because his boyfriend wasn't saying much which meant he was eating more. Not that Kiyo wouldn't have eaten more had he been more talkative, but it would have taken longer.
When the turn came back around to him, he looked at his cards. Then, leaning over to more closely consider the board, Evan casually slid his plate in Kiyo's direction. At the same time, he called attention to himself and the game.
"So, O' Magnanimous Overlord, what would you like for some of that wheat you are stockpiling?"
Gris mentioned that size was relative as far as countries went. He spoke of England, which Evan had visited, and how his countrymen tended to think of their land as plenty big despite it being rather small when the United States was used as a comparison. He could say that it obviously hadn't been big enough but that was hardly Gris's fault. He couldn't really comment on nomadic life in America before the colonists and how the boundaries of the land had been a more fluid thing then, changing with the people and the animals, either without explaining far more to Josh than he generally revealed on a first meeting. "The world seems bigger and smaller now that traveling has become so much easier and the internet has made friends of people who are nearly the entire world away from each other." Evan glanced down at Kiyo and then the other two men at the table. "It is inspiring really. Hopefully more people will realize that we are more alike than we are different." At the table they had four people from four different countries and two different continents. Evan was amused to realize that they were paired in that way. Perhaps later they would play something with teams and it could be the Americas against Europe. So much for worldwide unity.
Kiyoshi was listening but he was also keeping very quiet. That wasn't entirely unusual but because his boyfriend wasn't saying much which meant he was eating more. Not that Kiyo wouldn't have eaten more had he been more talkative, but it would have taken longer.
When the turn came back around to him, he looked at his cards. Then, leaning over to more closely consider the board, Evan casually slid his plate in Kiyo's direction. At the same time, he called attention to himself and the game.
"So, O' Magnanimous Overlord, what would you like for some of that wheat you are stockpiling?"
Joshua Wesson
12 years ago
Josh smiled softly at Gris, the expression coming more easily when directed toward his partner. He nodded at the observation his gorgeous blond made. "We do have our own identity, and I think it's sort of a mix and match of the various countries around us, but as far as internal - well, not really. It's much like having your own country for your family. I think in our case, we are so small that the amount of variation isn't much more than your cousins and aunts and uncles. So, there is some but it's not huge."
He couldn't really explain that Liechtenstein was made up of a large Pack of Kadzait werewolves and their Illamar friends and family, now could he. In fifteen miles of country though, there wasn't much room to not know your neighbor.
"Sometimes it feels like we really do all live together. We only have a couple of schools and one hospital. No military, just a police force. That is the one my father was a member of."
He said the last largely for Gris, who of course knew his father was killed in the line of duty. He turned to Evan afterward, who had commented on the similarities of people as a whole. This, too, Josh could agree with.
"In my travels, yes, I have learned that no matter what country I'm in and what customs they observe life is much the same. Work, family, hobbies... everyone is just trying to get by. How they do it differs, but really we're very much the same. More people should realize this."
Going back to Gris's question Josh lifted his shoulder and shook his head. "There probably isn't anyone you'd recognize. A skier or two, but I wouldn't say they were famous. Our Prince, Hans-Adam, has an extensive art collection that you might be interested in if that were your sort of thing. No one truly famous, though. Including yours truly although I do appreciate the sentiment."
He looked at his resource cards while Evan tried to make a deal with Gris. Taking another bite of noodles and vegetables he put his chopsticks back down and slid his hand back to Gris's leg, since the gesture seemed to have been deemed acceptable. Just a light touch, that was all. He gently stroked his fingers along the muscle of Gris's thigh, giving a soft squeeze before returning to his dinner. Looking up at Evan Josh added, "If Gris is not interested I would trade some wheat for a sheep."
He couldn't really explain that Liechtenstein was made up of a large Pack of Kadzait werewolves and their Illamar friends and family, now could he. In fifteen miles of country though, there wasn't much room to not know your neighbor.
"Sometimes it feels like we really do all live together. We only have a couple of schools and one hospital. No military, just a police force. That is the one my father was a member of."
He said the last largely for Gris, who of course knew his father was killed in the line of duty. He turned to Evan afterward, who had commented on the similarities of people as a whole. This, too, Josh could agree with.
"In my travels, yes, I have learned that no matter what country I'm in and what customs they observe life is much the same. Work, family, hobbies... everyone is just trying to get by. How they do it differs, but really we're very much the same. More people should realize this."
Going back to Gris's question Josh lifted his shoulder and shook his head. "There probably isn't anyone you'd recognize. A skier or two, but I wouldn't say they were famous. Our Prince, Hans-Adam, has an extensive art collection that you might be interested in if that were your sort of thing. No one truly famous, though. Including yours truly although I do appreciate the sentiment."
He looked at his resource cards while Evan tried to make a deal with Gris. Taking another bite of noodles and vegetables he put his chopsticks back down and slid his hand back to Gris's leg, since the gesture seemed to have been deemed acceptable. Just a light touch, that was all. He gently stroked his fingers along the muscle of Gris's thigh, giving a soft squeeze before returning to his dinner. Looking up at Evan Josh added, "If Gris is not interested I would trade some wheat for a sheep."
Greer Grayson
12 years ago
Gris listened to Josh's mention of his home with interest. It must be nice to have a firm attachment to a place. He wondered if he would ever feel that way about anywhere on earth. Would Nachton be home for more than a few years? Would he grow to consider himself 'from Nachton' and not from England? He doubted he would rid himself of his accent, though it had faded considerably with all his time in the states, so people would always assume he was originally from somewhere 'other' but perhaps Nachton would be the place he would call home.
He watched Kiyoshi dig into his food and couldn't help but smile about it. His own plate consisted mostly of the things Kiyo wouldn't touch. Gris ate it with much more restraint but he did understand his friend's metabolism. His own was fairly quick and like many of his kin, he stayed very lean despite what all that he could pack away. Perhaps the carbs were more filling; it was a shame Kiyoshi couldn't eat them. Of course his friend probably thought otherwise.
There was no one really famous from Lichtenstein. Gris smiled and shrugged. "I think you are very noteworthy, if not entirely well known.â€
Evan mentioned people being much the same everywhere and Josh agreed. He too could say that he had noticed much the same in his time living many different places. There was also very interesting cultural quirks that were unique to each region and he found those very fascinating.
Nodding about the police department, Gris reached over and squeezed Josh's leg in sympathy. It was difficult losing a parent, especially if that parent was actually close. "I am grateful you chose a less dangerous way to serve your country and your people.†He smiled. "Law enforcement is a noble profession and I am very grateful for the people who protect us...but I don't think I am cut out to be a military wife...or whatever the civilian equivilant is.†Gris smiled and looked at everyone in the room before flipping his long hair over one shoulder. "I need my beauty rest and couldn't handle staying up late at night worrying.†The last of his statement was humorous but he meant what he had said. He would have a difficult time sitting and waiting while the person most important to him was out risking their life. It had already happened once and he never wanted it to happen again. Gris would much rather be right there taking the risk with his loved one, or better yet, there to be no risk at all.
With narrowed eyes, he looked from his cards to Evan and then back again. Yes, he had plenty of wheat but should he give some of it up? Probably, at least right now. Josh said he would give some of his wheat for one of Evan's sheep. "Trying to jump in on my trade agreements are you?!†Gris feigned shocked dismay and then looked at Evan's land. "I will give you wheat for brick.†Looking at Josh he said. "Get back to me on the sheep and perhaps we can come to some mutually beneficial arrangement.†He waggled his eyebrows at his boyfriend before turning back to the game board.
He watched Kiyoshi dig into his food and couldn't help but smile about it. His own plate consisted mostly of the things Kiyo wouldn't touch. Gris ate it with much more restraint but he did understand his friend's metabolism. His own was fairly quick and like many of his kin, he stayed very lean despite what all that he could pack away. Perhaps the carbs were more filling; it was a shame Kiyoshi couldn't eat them. Of course his friend probably thought otherwise.
There was no one really famous from Lichtenstein. Gris smiled and shrugged. "I think you are very noteworthy, if not entirely well known.â€
Evan mentioned people being much the same everywhere and Josh agreed. He too could say that he had noticed much the same in his time living many different places. There was also very interesting cultural quirks that were unique to each region and he found those very fascinating.
Nodding about the police department, Gris reached over and squeezed Josh's leg in sympathy. It was difficult losing a parent, especially if that parent was actually close. "I am grateful you chose a less dangerous way to serve your country and your people.†He smiled. "Law enforcement is a noble profession and I am very grateful for the people who protect us...but I don't think I am cut out to be a military wife...or whatever the civilian equivilant is.†Gris smiled and looked at everyone in the room before flipping his long hair over one shoulder. "I need my beauty rest and couldn't handle staying up late at night worrying.†The last of his statement was humorous but he meant what he had said. He would have a difficult time sitting and waiting while the person most important to him was out risking their life. It had already happened once and he never wanted it to happen again. Gris would much rather be right there taking the risk with his loved one, or better yet, there to be no risk at all.
With narrowed eyes, he looked from his cards to Evan and then back again. Yes, he had plenty of wheat but should he give some of it up? Probably, at least right now. Josh said he would give some of his wheat for one of Evan's sheep. "Trying to jump in on my trade agreements are you?!†Gris feigned shocked dismay and then looked at Evan's land. "I will give you wheat for brick.†Looking at Josh he said. "Get back to me on the sheep and perhaps we can come to some mutually beneficial arrangement.†He waggled his eyebrows at his boyfriend before turning back to the game board.
Kiyoshi Salinas
12 years ago
Kiyoshi smiled up at Evan when he mentioned friendship between people who normally wouldn't be. He could definitely relate to that feeling. Evan was the best friend he'd ever had. He couldn't help but love him and he was so grateful, so lucky, that that love was returned.
Of course, getting to Kiyo's heart by way of his stomach worked too. When Evan slid his plate closer Kiyo perked up noticeably. His smile grew and he leaned in toward Evan briefly, giving him as discreet a little hug as he could manage. Then he set to work on the bits of raw fish on Evan's plate as well, mindful not to inhale them all at once this time.
His sharp hazel eyes went to Josh when he mentioned Liechtenstein's police force, and his father in the past tense. Between that and Gris's reaction Kiyoshi thought perhaps Josh's father had not retired. That had to be difficult, but he didn't pick up any sort of overwhelming sadness from Josh. Not that he'd have noticed, he didn't think. Josh's face was very difficult to read.
Kiyo didn't comment, though. He couldn't pry if he didn't want to be pried into in return. Instead he smiled and laughed softly at Gris. "You don't need any beauty sleep," he accused gently. Frankly, he thought if anyone at the table needed such a thing it was he. Gris was, of course, dazzlingly handsome in Kiyo's opinion, movie-star handsome.
Evan, however, had a beauty about him that was almost breathtaking to Kiyo. In the way he moved, the way he smiled. He was exotic and timeless and endlessly fascinating.
Even Josh had a lot of appeal, Kiyo had to admit. Gris had certainly done well for himself there. Yes, Kiyo was definitely the one at the table most in need of beautification. He didn't care to work on it, though, as Evan had never expressed a desire for him to change anything about himself, physically.
As various trades were proposed Kiyoshi kept his cards close, hidden in his hand. He was naturally secretive and he wasn't willing to trade anything to anyone. Hopefully they wouldn't look to him. He wanted to keep the cards he had and was susceptible to guilt trips. Very much so.
Of course, getting to Kiyo's heart by way of his stomach worked too. When Evan slid his plate closer Kiyo perked up noticeably. His smile grew and he leaned in toward Evan briefly, giving him as discreet a little hug as he could manage. Then he set to work on the bits of raw fish on Evan's plate as well, mindful not to inhale them all at once this time.
His sharp hazel eyes went to Josh when he mentioned Liechtenstein's police force, and his father in the past tense. Between that and Gris's reaction Kiyoshi thought perhaps Josh's father had not retired. That had to be difficult, but he didn't pick up any sort of overwhelming sadness from Josh. Not that he'd have noticed, he didn't think. Josh's face was very difficult to read.
Kiyo didn't comment, though. He couldn't pry if he didn't want to be pried into in return. Instead he smiled and laughed softly at Gris. "You don't need any beauty sleep," he accused gently. Frankly, he thought if anyone at the table needed such a thing it was he. Gris was, of course, dazzlingly handsome in Kiyo's opinion, movie-star handsome.
Evan, however, had a beauty about him that was almost breathtaking to Kiyo. In the way he moved, the way he smiled. He was exotic and timeless and endlessly fascinating.
Even Josh had a lot of appeal, Kiyo had to admit. Gris had certainly done well for himself there. Yes, Kiyo was definitely the one at the table most in need of beautification. He didn't care to work on it, though, as Evan had never expressed a desire for him to change anything about himself, physically.
As various trades were proposed Kiyoshi kept his cards close, hidden in his hand. He was naturally secretive and he wasn't willing to trade anything to anyone. Hopefully they wouldn't look to him. He wanted to keep the cards he had and was susceptible to guilt trips. Very much so.
Evan Talkingwater
12 years ago
Evan hugged Kiyo back enjoying the little gesture of thanks. He leaned over the plate and snagged up some noodles; stuffing them into his mouth, he gave his boyfriend a little smile.
The conversation continued about Josh's home and conversation was made about the police force and his father. Gris expressed his relief that Josh had not taken up the family business and said that it would help him sleep better at night. He laughed when Kiyo said that Gris needed no beauty sleep. "He doesn't seem to. I always wondered when Dev slept." Evan eyed Gris suspiciously. "He has had a job or school, or both, since I've known him and then he would come home and play. I was beginning to wonder if he wasn't human." He gave the blond werewolf across from him a wide grin. Obviously he had ruled out vampire a long time ago. Gris mentioned day time activities on a regular basis and many of those were out in the sunshine besides even vampires needed to sleep. Evan knew from occasionally seeing a very tired Kiyo that werewolves needed sleep also. Though he had tested his partner's stamina once or twice.
He had two offers for wheat, one in exchange for brick and the other in exchange for a sheep. Evan handed Josh a sheep and shrugged at Gris. "Sorry, better deal."
Reaching under the table, he lightly poked Kiyoshi who was being almost more quiet than usual. Then he wormed a hand up under the multiple shirts Kiyo was wearing until he reached his lover's back. Evan traced a little soothing pattern along the lower half of Kiyo's spine.
Turning his attention back to the game, he asked another question. "So what is everyone's plans for the holidays?"
The conversation continued about Josh's home and conversation was made about the police force and his father. Gris expressed his relief that Josh had not taken up the family business and said that it would help him sleep better at night. He laughed when Kiyo said that Gris needed no beauty sleep. "He doesn't seem to. I always wondered when Dev slept." Evan eyed Gris suspiciously. "He has had a job or school, or both, since I've known him and then he would come home and play. I was beginning to wonder if he wasn't human." He gave the blond werewolf across from him a wide grin. Obviously he had ruled out vampire a long time ago. Gris mentioned day time activities on a regular basis and many of those were out in the sunshine besides even vampires needed to sleep. Evan knew from occasionally seeing a very tired Kiyo that werewolves needed sleep also. Though he had tested his partner's stamina once or twice.
He had two offers for wheat, one in exchange for brick and the other in exchange for a sheep. Evan handed Josh a sheep and shrugged at Gris. "Sorry, better deal."
Reaching under the table, he lightly poked Kiyoshi who was being almost more quiet than usual. Then he wormed a hand up under the multiple shirts Kiyo was wearing until he reached his lover's back. Evan traced a little soothing pattern along the lower half of Kiyo's spine.
Turning his attention back to the game, he asked another question. "So what is everyone's plans for the holidays?"
Joshua Wesson
12 years ago
Gris's concern was touching, considering how short a time they had known each other. Josh was warmed by the thought that his partner clearly cared. Not that he found Gris to be uncaring, not in the least. He just - well, he liked it. He watched Gris toss his hair back, itching to reach out and smooth the golden curls, to pull Gris close and kiss any worry away. Instead he just shook his head and looked at both Evan and Kiyoshi, who agreed Gris did not need any beauty sleep.
"That makes three of us," he said, adding his opinion. "You hardly need it. Any more gorgeous and none of us will be fit to be seen with you."
Well perhaps that wasn't entirely true. Evan and Kiyoshi were both quite attractive. Evan could easily grace any Hollywood red carpet, if Gris could. And Kiyoshi had a quiet sort of exotic appeal. Josh didn't think he himself was unattractive, but he definitely showed his age a bit more and didn't have the same 'something' that both Gris and Evan seemed to have, the sort of thing that he suspected would make cameras flash wherever they went.
He made his trade with Evan and, as the turn came around to him, played a road and built a village with his newly-acquired sheep. Raising his dark brows at Gris he said, "I would still trade you for a sheep, if you like."
He had a good variation of cards in his hand and didn't particularly need either sheep, but diplomacy was his thing. It might benefit him to make trades now in the hopes that later, when he actually did need a resource, his 'contacts' would view such trades more favorably.
When Evan asked what plans they had for the holidays Josh looked up and then glanced at Gris. They hadn't discussed holiday plans. They were just dating; Josh didn't expect any particular commitment from Gris although he did very much want to spend as much time together as they could. He himself would spend at least part of his evening at the Den, for this year the full moon fell on the 27th through the 29th. Christmas would be for celebrating on two legs this year.
"We hadn't really talked about it yet," he said to Evan, shrugging his shoulder. "I have a work thing to go to, but that's about it."
Josh turned to Gris, placing his game cards aside for the moment and taking his partner's hand. Raising it to his lips, a subtle shine of mischief in his eyes, he said with exaggerated formality, "It would give me the greatest pleasure, Mr. Grayson, if you might consent to share a few hours of your holiday with me. More, if you don't have anything else planned yet."
He softly kissed the back of Gris's hand and watched his partner with raised eyebrows. He didn't want to interrupt any plans Gris had but sharing a Christmas together would be lovely.
"That makes three of us," he said, adding his opinion. "You hardly need it. Any more gorgeous and none of us will be fit to be seen with you."
Well perhaps that wasn't entirely true. Evan and Kiyoshi were both quite attractive. Evan could easily grace any Hollywood red carpet, if Gris could. And Kiyoshi had a quiet sort of exotic appeal. Josh didn't think he himself was unattractive, but he definitely showed his age a bit more and didn't have the same 'something' that both Gris and Evan seemed to have, the sort of thing that he suspected would make cameras flash wherever they went.
He made his trade with Evan and, as the turn came around to him, played a road and built a village with his newly-acquired sheep. Raising his dark brows at Gris he said, "I would still trade you for a sheep, if you like."
He had a good variation of cards in his hand and didn't particularly need either sheep, but diplomacy was his thing. It might benefit him to make trades now in the hopes that later, when he actually did need a resource, his 'contacts' would view such trades more favorably.
When Evan asked what plans they had for the holidays Josh looked up and then glanced at Gris. They hadn't discussed holiday plans. They were just dating; Josh didn't expect any particular commitment from Gris although he did very much want to spend as much time together as they could. He himself would spend at least part of his evening at the Den, for this year the full moon fell on the 27th through the 29th. Christmas would be for celebrating on two legs this year.
"We hadn't really talked about it yet," he said to Evan, shrugging his shoulder. "I have a work thing to go to, but that's about it."
Josh turned to Gris, placing his game cards aside for the moment and taking his partner's hand. Raising it to his lips, a subtle shine of mischief in his eyes, he said with exaggerated formality, "It would give me the greatest pleasure, Mr. Grayson, if you might consent to share a few hours of your holiday with me. More, if you don't have anything else planned yet."
He softly kissed the back of Gris's hand and watched his partner with raised eyebrows. He didn't want to interrupt any plans Gris had but sharing a Christmas together would be lovely.
Greer Grayson
12 years ago
Gris snorted softly and looked at his friends like they were all crazy. Turning to Josh, he smiled "Well then I will have to make sure not to get too much sleep. I am sure we can manage to find some reason to keep that from happening that does not involve dangerous situations."
He considered Josh's offer of another trade for another of his sheep. Gris smiled and nodded. "You have a deal." He narrowed his eyes at Evan and silently dared him to offer a trade to Josh instead. His friend just raised both hands and shook his head. Satisfied that there would soon be brick in his future, Gris leaned back in his chair.
Evan asked about everyone's holiday plans and he shrugged slightly. He had not asked Josh what he was doing. Gris had gone to England not too long ago for his sister's wedding so he doubted he needed to arrive there for Christmas. He had decided that he was going to claim difficulties with a very important case if the inquiry was ever made but he doubt that it ever would be. His father would simply send him money or something expensive. His mother would send him a card with some impersonal well wishes. At least his sister tended to give more thought to her gifts.
His attention returned to the room when Josh answered for the both of them. Gris smiled, an expression which only became larger when his boyfriend took his hand and formally asked him to spend Christmas with him. "I am touched and honored, Joshua. I would be delighted to spend the holiday with you." Gris leaned in and kissed Josh lightly on the cheek.
Turning to the others, he smiled. "And you guys as well. Perhaps we could all get together..." He had been about to say New Years Eve but then he realized that his friends would be very busy at work for that particular night. He had seen a flyer in the common room at The Rails advertising the big party event that would be going on at Terminus for the eve of 2013. Like every bar, nightclub and pub, New Years Eve was a big deal for the place. "a day or so after Christmas? Or Maybe just after the new year?"
He had thought a New Years Eve party would be fun but Kiyo and Evan would be two of the first people on his list to invite. It wouldn't be the same without them. Perhaps he and Josh could go to Terminus to celebrate the New Years or they could find some more intimate way to celebrate.
"That is assuming we all manage to live past the end of the Mayan Calendar." Gris favored everyone with a wide eyed expression and then paused to take a few bites of his food. Best eat well and love hard before the end of the world. He really needed to get busy on both of those.
He considered Josh's offer of another trade for another of his sheep. Gris smiled and nodded. "You have a deal." He narrowed his eyes at Evan and silently dared him to offer a trade to Josh instead. His friend just raised both hands and shook his head. Satisfied that there would soon be brick in his future, Gris leaned back in his chair.
Evan asked about everyone's holiday plans and he shrugged slightly. He had not asked Josh what he was doing. Gris had gone to England not too long ago for his sister's wedding so he doubted he needed to arrive there for Christmas. He had decided that he was going to claim difficulties with a very important case if the inquiry was ever made but he doubt that it ever would be. His father would simply send him money or something expensive. His mother would send him a card with some impersonal well wishes. At least his sister tended to give more thought to her gifts.
His attention returned to the room when Josh answered for the both of them. Gris smiled, an expression which only became larger when his boyfriend took his hand and formally asked him to spend Christmas with him. "I am touched and honored, Joshua. I would be delighted to spend the holiday with you." Gris leaned in and kissed Josh lightly on the cheek.
Turning to the others, he smiled. "And you guys as well. Perhaps we could all get together..." He had been about to say New Years Eve but then he realized that his friends would be very busy at work for that particular night. He had seen a flyer in the common room at The Rails advertising the big party event that would be going on at Terminus for the eve of 2013. Like every bar, nightclub and pub, New Years Eve was a big deal for the place. "a day or so after Christmas? Or Maybe just after the new year?"
He had thought a New Years Eve party would be fun but Kiyo and Evan would be two of the first people on his list to invite. It wouldn't be the same without them. Perhaps he and Josh could go to Terminus to celebrate the New Years or they could find some more intimate way to celebrate.
"That is assuming we all manage to live past the end of the Mayan Calendar." Gris favored everyone with a wide eyed expression and then paused to take a few bites of his food. Best eat well and love hard before the end of the world. He really needed to get busy on both of those.
Kiyoshi Salinas
12 years ago
Kiyo just shook his head in slight disbelief that Gris could fail to be aware of just how handsome he was. He kept quiet, though, because there was just no good way to explain that as handsome as Gris was, he would take Evan's dark looks any day of the week.
Indeed, all thoughts of Gris flew from his head as he felt Evan's hand slipping beneath his remaining shirts. He leaned into it, shivering happily as Evan's fingers moved along his skin. He loved being touched by Evan. His partner had never failed to be gentle, understanding of his many flaws, and kind to a fault.
Trades were made, cards were exchanged, and villages were built. When his turn came around Kiyo simply kept his cards close and collected his resources. He hadn't built a single thing yet. He knew he had to watch out for the robber, as Evan had explained, but he didn't yet have enough cards to be worried and as there were four of them playing they were building in between turns. Kiyo thought he had a decent grasp of the mechanics so far.
He did sneak another piece of sashimi or two from Evan's plate when Josh charmingly asked Gris to spend Christmas with him. He nodded to Gris and finally spoke up at the idea of spending some time together during the holidays. "The 26th maybe," he said. "It's close enough to Christmas to still feel like Christmas."
Any later and they'd hit the full moon unless they waited until the 30th and that just felt too late. If that was what his friends wanted though it would be fine with him. He just enjoyed knowing exactly where he'd be spending his holiday.
Okay, well, he'd be at work.
But after that he would be with Evan and then after that, he would be with Gris and Tavi and Guillaume and now, he supposed, Josh as well. He smiled, however, when Gris pointed out that they might all be dead by then.
"Inside tip," he said, smiling softly at Gris, "the Mayans just got bored counting. We figured 2012 was far enough."
Kiyo didn't often joke about his heritage since his family was not his favorite topic but on this subject he made exceptions. He was of Mayan and Portuguese ancestry on his mother's side; in fact, he had seen her family tree when he was younger and it appeared his Mayan ancestors had migrated from the Yucatan into Brazil some time ago. That was all he knew about it really, though.
Indeed, all thoughts of Gris flew from his head as he felt Evan's hand slipping beneath his remaining shirts. He leaned into it, shivering happily as Evan's fingers moved along his skin. He loved being touched by Evan. His partner had never failed to be gentle, understanding of his many flaws, and kind to a fault.
Trades were made, cards were exchanged, and villages were built. When his turn came around Kiyo simply kept his cards close and collected his resources. He hadn't built a single thing yet. He knew he had to watch out for the robber, as Evan had explained, but he didn't yet have enough cards to be worried and as there were four of them playing they were building in between turns. Kiyo thought he had a decent grasp of the mechanics so far.
He did sneak another piece of sashimi or two from Evan's plate when Josh charmingly asked Gris to spend Christmas with him. He nodded to Gris and finally spoke up at the idea of spending some time together during the holidays. "The 26th maybe," he said. "It's close enough to Christmas to still feel like Christmas."
Any later and they'd hit the full moon unless they waited until the 30th and that just felt too late. If that was what his friends wanted though it would be fine with him. He just enjoyed knowing exactly where he'd be spending his holiday.
Okay, well, he'd be at work.
But after that he would be with Evan and then after that, he would be with Gris and Tavi and Guillaume and now, he supposed, Josh as well. He smiled, however, when Gris pointed out that they might all be dead by then.
"Inside tip," he said, smiling softly at Gris, "the Mayans just got bored counting. We figured 2012 was far enough."
Kiyo didn't often joke about his heritage since his family was not his favorite topic but on this subject he made exceptions. He was of Mayan and Portuguese ancestry on his mother's side; in fact, he had seen her family tree when he was younger and it appeared his Mayan ancestors had migrated from the Yucatan into Brazil some time ago. That was all he knew about it really, though.
Evan Talkingwater
12 years ago
Evan was almost as distracted by touching Kiyo as Gris had been earlier. He made an effort to pay attention and resist the urge to pull his boyfriend closer when he felt Kiyo shiver beneath his touch. Of course that would lead to more distraction and the potential need to cut their visit short.
He made a non-verbal promise not to horn in on Gris's future sheep trade. It was even a promise he was likely to keep. Now if Josh wanted to trade for some other resource; he might consider it. However, he thought he was safe in letting the one deal go.
The question of Christmas brought up the fact that Josh had not asked Gris about his own plans. He and Kiyoshi hadn't really discussed it either but he was a vampire and Kiyo was far away from home. There seemed to be a good chance that they would spend Christmas together. Perhaps Kiyoshi would need to visit his pack at some point but the clan Christmas party was earlier rather than on the 25th. When the Elder of the Rose was a Celtic legend the celebrations tended to be more around the date of Yule instead of the Christian holiday. Plenty of the new had crept in but they still had a large fire that burned through out the night. These days it just happened to be in the fireplace.
He couldn't take Kiyoshi to his clan party any more than Kiyo could take him to the pack's celebration. Evan supposed he could be stuffed in a pocket but that wasn't very much fun.
His plans for the holiday was to invite friends to come and join them in the evening for a party. The bar would be closed but he had told the staff that they were all welcome to stop by. He had also asked Tavi and had planned on asking Gris but that had been before the man went and found a boyfriend to spend quality time with. Evan wanted Kiyoshi to be surrounded by friends for the holiday; he wanted it to be special and to feel like a home and a family. He also wanted to give their co-workers that had no place to go a place to go on Christmas. Of course later in the evening he had thought that he would spend some very private time celebrating with just the two of them.
"The 26th sounds perfect actually." Evan smiled and quickly agreed with Kiyoshi. "Many people will still be away or celebrating with family. A lot of people will be traveling, some will be hung over... but it is really not a big day for the nightclub business." It also was not a night of the full moon. He knew the dates well now thanks to Kiyoshi and he figured that Gris had mentioned after the New Year because he was aware of them also. He imagined most werewolves kept track of it very carefully.
"If you guys have some time in your holiday rounds then, please, stop by on Christmas and we will make you a drink. Perhaps even some of the special eggnog. " Evan smiled. "Any time is fine. We are expecting people to drift in and out."
Gris commented on the Mayan calendar and Kiyo spoke up about it, giving a very practical reason for why it ended in 2012. He smiled and hugged his partner before his own bit of insight. "It is alright. I don't think they have the calculations correct anyway. I am pretty sure the end of the calendar has already passed. Besides we've all survived the end of the world multiple times now. We're pro's at it."
Evan scooped up some noodles and then elaborated. "We had the y2k scare. Meteors that were going to smash into the earth. Some of us were around when they were sure the Soviet Union was going to blow up America... and don't forget." He looked at everyone and gave them all his most serious face. "The zombies." Taking another bite of noodles, he smiled. "So I am sure we'll survive the Mayan end of the world as well. Next year it will be something new."
He made a non-verbal promise not to horn in on Gris's future sheep trade. It was even a promise he was likely to keep. Now if Josh wanted to trade for some other resource; he might consider it. However, he thought he was safe in letting the one deal go.
The question of Christmas brought up the fact that Josh had not asked Gris about his own plans. He and Kiyoshi hadn't really discussed it either but he was a vampire and Kiyo was far away from home. There seemed to be a good chance that they would spend Christmas together. Perhaps Kiyoshi would need to visit his pack at some point but the clan Christmas party was earlier rather than on the 25th. When the Elder of the Rose was a Celtic legend the celebrations tended to be more around the date of Yule instead of the Christian holiday. Plenty of the new had crept in but they still had a large fire that burned through out the night. These days it just happened to be in the fireplace.
He couldn't take Kiyoshi to his clan party any more than Kiyo could take him to the pack's celebration. Evan supposed he could be stuffed in a pocket but that wasn't very much fun.
His plans for the holiday was to invite friends to come and join them in the evening for a party. The bar would be closed but he had told the staff that they were all welcome to stop by. He had also asked Tavi and had planned on asking Gris but that had been before the man went and found a boyfriend to spend quality time with. Evan wanted Kiyoshi to be surrounded by friends for the holiday; he wanted it to be special and to feel like a home and a family. He also wanted to give their co-workers that had no place to go a place to go on Christmas. Of course later in the evening he had thought that he would spend some very private time celebrating with just the two of them.
"The 26th sounds perfect actually." Evan smiled and quickly agreed with Kiyoshi. "Many people will still be away or celebrating with family. A lot of people will be traveling, some will be hung over... but it is really not a big day for the nightclub business." It also was not a night of the full moon. He knew the dates well now thanks to Kiyoshi and he figured that Gris had mentioned after the New Year because he was aware of them also. He imagined most werewolves kept track of it very carefully.
"If you guys have some time in your holiday rounds then, please, stop by on Christmas and we will make you a drink. Perhaps even some of the special eggnog. " Evan smiled. "Any time is fine. We are expecting people to drift in and out."
Gris commented on the Mayan calendar and Kiyo spoke up about it, giving a very practical reason for why it ended in 2012. He smiled and hugged his partner before his own bit of insight. "It is alright. I don't think they have the calculations correct anyway. I am pretty sure the end of the calendar has already passed. Besides we've all survived the end of the world multiple times now. We're pro's at it."
Evan scooped up some noodles and then elaborated. "We had the y2k scare. Meteors that were going to smash into the earth. Some of us were around when they were sure the Soviet Union was going to blow up America... and don't forget." He looked at everyone and gave them all his most serious face. "The zombies." Taking another bite of noodles, he smiled. "So I am sure we'll survive the Mayan end of the world as well. Next year it will be something new."
Joshua Wesson
12 years ago
Josh found it difficult to be satisfied with a chaste little kiss on the cheek from Gris, but with company over that would have to be plenty. Later, though... later he would show Gris properly just how much it meant to him to have someone to spend his first Christmas in Nachton with. Of course he would get to spend part of it with Mel, and with the Kadzait, but Gris was quickly becoming very special to him and it meant a lot.
He released Gris's hand with a soft smile and a nod. "We can spend it any way, or anywhere, you like," he said, "just as long as I'm with you that will make me very happy."
When Evan and Kiyoshi posed the 26th for a possible get together Josh nodded at them both. That was a perfect day; right after Christmas, and just before the full moon. He would have hated to have to throw a wrench in the plans by begging off to go babysit. It was a delightful coincidence that they expected the bar to be quiet.
"Thank you," Josh said, pleased by Evan's invitation for Christmas Eve itself. "We'll definitely stop by."
He glanced at Gris for confirmation but didn't expect his partner to disagree; these were his friends, after all, and he had nothing but good things to say about them. He obviously loved them. Josh felt grateful to be included in their invitation, and happy that they were so easy to get along with. He would have made an effort for any of Gris's friends but it was made more pleasant by the fact that they really did seem like good folks.
The conversation turned to the end of the world and Josh gave a soft cough of laughter at Kiyoshi's 'secret.' Evan followed it with his own speculation and Josh nodded. "Somehow I think we'll be just fine. It's another excuse to party, though. I've already seen a bunch of flyers around the city for various end of the world parties."
Turning back to Kiyo and taking another bite of his food Josh said, "You have Mayan ancestry then? That's fascinating. I've never met anyone who could trace their roots that far back."
He was curious about Kiyo's nationality; after all, he looked a little Asian and his name wasn't South American. He didn't ask further though. He remembered Gris's words about Kiyo having a rough life early on. Josh was burning with questions but he kept silent. Instead he stood after his turn of collecting resources and asked, "Does anyone else want something from the kitchen? Another beer, Kiyoshi? Anything else for you, Evan?"
Laying his hand softly on Gris's shoulder and rubbing gently he leaned down and returned Gris's previous kiss on the cheek. "How about you? Anything?"
He released Gris's hand with a soft smile and a nod. "We can spend it any way, or anywhere, you like," he said, "just as long as I'm with you that will make me very happy."
When Evan and Kiyoshi posed the 26th for a possible get together Josh nodded at them both. That was a perfect day; right after Christmas, and just before the full moon. He would have hated to have to throw a wrench in the plans by begging off to go babysit. It was a delightful coincidence that they expected the bar to be quiet.
"Thank you," Josh said, pleased by Evan's invitation for Christmas Eve itself. "We'll definitely stop by."
He glanced at Gris for confirmation but didn't expect his partner to disagree; these were his friends, after all, and he had nothing but good things to say about them. He obviously loved them. Josh felt grateful to be included in their invitation, and happy that they were so easy to get along with. He would have made an effort for any of Gris's friends but it was made more pleasant by the fact that they really did seem like good folks.
The conversation turned to the end of the world and Josh gave a soft cough of laughter at Kiyoshi's 'secret.' Evan followed it with his own speculation and Josh nodded. "Somehow I think we'll be just fine. It's another excuse to party, though. I've already seen a bunch of flyers around the city for various end of the world parties."
Turning back to Kiyo and taking another bite of his food Josh said, "You have Mayan ancestry then? That's fascinating. I've never met anyone who could trace their roots that far back."
He was curious about Kiyo's nationality; after all, he looked a little Asian and his name wasn't South American. He didn't ask further though. He remembered Gris's words about Kiyo having a rough life early on. Josh was burning with questions but he kept silent. Instead he stood after his turn of collecting resources and asked, "Does anyone else want something from the kitchen? Another beer, Kiyoshi? Anything else for you, Evan?"
Laying his hand softly on Gris's shoulder and rubbing gently he leaned down and returned Gris's previous kiss on the cheek. "How about you? Anything?"
Greer Grayson
12 years ago
Gris nodded at Joshua and figured that they would discuss their plans for Christmas more later. For now he was content that he was going to have plans and that they included being with Josh. Evan invited them over for Christmas day and Josh agreed that they would stop by. Gris smiled and added his agreement to that plan, figuring he could bring presents to them both and maybe one for their grumpy French roommate. He had not seen Guillaume of late but they had gotten along better the last time he had encountered the man, agreeing to a cease fire since they both seemed to have Therese's best interests in mind.
They also agreed on the 26th for a smaller get together. That worked out perfectly for the two werewolves at the table. He cast a glance at Kiyoshi and smiled, happy to see evidence that Evan was taking his boyfriend's needs into consideration.
The talk moved on to the end of the world and Kiyo shot down the Mayan calendar crisis, with Evan agreeing with further theory of his own. Gris frowned at both of them. "You are making light of the great apocalypse! You'll see! There will be all manner of chaos and destruction!†He waved a finger. in the air to dramatically illustrate his each of his points. "There will be dropped calls! Flat tires! Long queues! Cooler weather and people will be required to toil for long hours for criminal salaries! It is the end of the world!†Gris smiled. "Or at least the end of the year.â€
Turning to Josh, he agreed. "It is a good reason to party but then...does there ever really need to be a reason?†Perhaps for his more reserved partner, for himself 'because I felt like it' was a valid enough reason to have one.
Josh asked about Kiyo's ancestory and Gris hoped his friend was okay with the inquiry. He took a few more bites of his food, concentrating on his plate to keep his friend from feeling on the spot with everyone looking at him.
When his boyfriend got up and asked if anyone wanted anything, Gris looked up at him. He smiled at the kiss on the cheek and favored Josh with his best, big sad eyed look. "Please Sir, a beer for me, Sir.†He did his best English street urchin impression. It wasn't as good as anything Evan could come up with but he could do British with convincing accuracy and a few American accents with passing ability. Southern American was not within his ability, nor was anything from the city of New York. He sounded either like a fake redneck or a cheesy gangster movie, depending.
They also agreed on the 26th for a smaller get together. That worked out perfectly for the two werewolves at the table. He cast a glance at Kiyoshi and smiled, happy to see evidence that Evan was taking his boyfriend's needs into consideration.
The talk moved on to the end of the world and Kiyo shot down the Mayan calendar crisis, with Evan agreeing with further theory of his own. Gris frowned at both of them. "You are making light of the great apocalypse! You'll see! There will be all manner of chaos and destruction!†He waved a finger. in the air to dramatically illustrate his each of his points. "There will be dropped calls! Flat tires! Long queues! Cooler weather and people will be required to toil for long hours for criminal salaries! It is the end of the world!†Gris smiled. "Or at least the end of the year.â€
Turning to Josh, he agreed. "It is a good reason to party but then...does there ever really need to be a reason?†Perhaps for his more reserved partner, for himself 'because I felt like it' was a valid enough reason to have one.
Josh asked about Kiyo's ancestory and Gris hoped his friend was okay with the inquiry. He took a few more bites of his food, concentrating on his plate to keep his friend from feeling on the spot with everyone looking at him.
When his boyfriend got up and asked if anyone wanted anything, Gris looked up at him. He smiled at the kiss on the cheek and favored Josh with his best, big sad eyed look. "Please Sir, a beer for me, Sir.†He did his best English street urchin impression. It wasn't as good as anything Evan could come up with but he could do British with convincing accuracy and a few American accents with passing ability. Southern American was not within his ability, nor was anything from the city of New York. He sounded either like a fake redneck or a cheesy gangster movie, depending.
Kiyoshi Salinas
12 years ago
Kiyoshi waited until his turn came around and then played several roads and a village at once. He had nearly cleaned his plate but there was still more sashimi over on the counter which no one had eaten. He wondered if it had been long enough for him to assume it was up for grabs.
Gris became very emphatic about the end of the world and Kiyo chuckled at his friend. "Remind me to come see you in court sometime," he said. "Do I have to pay admission?"
He could only imagine Gris was the most capable of lawyers. After all, he was very well off and worked for himself. Crappy lawyers didn't live in awesome apartments. All evidence aside, Gris was just too wickedly intelligent not to do well at his chosen profession, whatever that was. Still, he thought Gris would be very good at performing in court.
Josh asked him about his ancestry and Kiyo nodded. "I'm caboclo, that's Portuguese and Mayan in my case, and Japanese," he said. That was all he said, too, stuffing a sushi roll in his mouth and chewing it without trying to grimace at the taste of tough seaweed and rice. Any excuse not to have to discuss his heritage more would be fine. He'd brought it up though, after all, so he couldn't begrudge Josh his question.
Josh didn't inquire further though, to Kiyo's relief. He did get up and offer to retrieve more drinks.
"Please," Kiyo said, using the last of his first beer to wash down the rice and seaweed.
He had a wolf's metabolism; several beers would not impair him. But a few might make him warm and extra cuddly with Evan later and he thought they might both enjoy that; Kiyo knew he certainly would.
Gris became very emphatic about the end of the world and Kiyo chuckled at his friend. "Remind me to come see you in court sometime," he said. "Do I have to pay admission?"
He could only imagine Gris was the most capable of lawyers. After all, he was very well off and worked for himself. Crappy lawyers didn't live in awesome apartments. All evidence aside, Gris was just too wickedly intelligent not to do well at his chosen profession, whatever that was. Still, he thought Gris would be very good at performing in court.
Josh asked him about his ancestry and Kiyo nodded. "I'm caboclo, that's Portuguese and Mayan in my case, and Japanese," he said. That was all he said, too, stuffing a sushi roll in his mouth and chewing it without trying to grimace at the taste of tough seaweed and rice. Any excuse not to have to discuss his heritage more would be fine. He'd brought it up though, after all, so he couldn't begrudge Josh his question.
Josh didn't inquire further though, to Kiyo's relief. He did get up and offer to retrieve more drinks.
"Please," Kiyo said, using the last of his first beer to wash down the rice and seaweed.
He had a wolf's metabolism; several beers would not impair him. But a few might make him warm and extra cuddly with Evan later and he thought they might both enjoy that; Kiyo knew he certainly would.
Evan Talkingwater
12 years ago
Evan thought Josh and Gris were cute, very sweet together. He wondered if allowed to express themselves more openly all the time if he and Kiyo would look much the same. Perhaps, it was hard to tell looking at their relationship from the inside.
He picked up his resource cards and collected them in his hand. "There was this one time...†An old Indian voice began speaking to him. He was used to such things, sometimes he tuned it out and sometimes he listened. His pyschometry always came to him as stories told to him in the voice of their best story teller from his tribe. Over the years he had heard the storyteller speak many languages as the the things he picked up imparted their stories to him with their own words. Most of the time these days the objects spoke English. It was interesting if somewhat confusing to pick up something 'made in Taiwan'. The card continued to speak "there was much laughter. There was a tug of war over me but I do not believe it was serious. But then a drink was knocked over. You can still see a hint of the stain in my upper right hand corner.†Evan looked down at the card and fingered the stain with a smile.
Not much spoke very loudly in Josh's place. He suspected that much of the furnishings were new. Factory made things didn't have very interesting stories so he hardly listened. He hadn't gone around touching the more personal items in the place. That would be rude but he wondered what the things in the apartment would say to him again after a few months of Josh and Gris living here.
The Mayan calendar and the ends of the world was spoken of. Evan laughed at Gris's assurance that dramatic events would take place. He chuckled even more when Kiyo joked about seeing their friend in court and asked if he needed to pay admission. "I think we should both go. Can we cheer, wave pompoms and maybe bring signs? Does your law firm have special colours? We can paint our faces and come as your biggest fans.†Of course two native looking individuals wearing face paint might look like trouble. Or the world's tiniest powwow. He could just imagine how quickly they would be tossed out of court for cheering every time Gris said something astute.
He looked over at Kiyo when Josh asked him about his ancestary, waiting to see if his boyfriend needed a way out of the question. Kiyoshi answered very well and then quickly shoved sushi into his mouth, rice seaweed and all. Evan bit back a chuckle, noting that Kiyo quickly went for the last of the beer.
"I will try one of these beers that you both seem to find so tasty.â€
He picked up his resource cards and collected them in his hand. "There was this one time...†An old Indian voice began speaking to him. He was used to such things, sometimes he tuned it out and sometimes he listened. His pyschometry always came to him as stories told to him in the voice of their best story teller from his tribe. Over the years he had heard the storyteller speak many languages as the the things he picked up imparted their stories to him with their own words. Most of the time these days the objects spoke English. It was interesting if somewhat confusing to pick up something 'made in Taiwan'. The card continued to speak "there was much laughter. There was a tug of war over me but I do not believe it was serious. But then a drink was knocked over. You can still see a hint of the stain in my upper right hand corner.†Evan looked down at the card and fingered the stain with a smile.
Not much spoke very loudly in Josh's place. He suspected that much of the furnishings were new. Factory made things didn't have very interesting stories so he hardly listened. He hadn't gone around touching the more personal items in the place. That would be rude but he wondered what the things in the apartment would say to him again after a few months of Josh and Gris living here.
The Mayan calendar and the ends of the world was spoken of. Evan laughed at Gris's assurance that dramatic events would take place. He chuckled even more when Kiyo joked about seeing their friend in court and asked if he needed to pay admission. "I think we should both go. Can we cheer, wave pompoms and maybe bring signs? Does your law firm have special colours? We can paint our faces and come as your biggest fans.†Of course two native looking individuals wearing face paint might look like trouble. Or the world's tiniest powwow. He could just imagine how quickly they would be tossed out of court for cheering every time Gris said something astute.
He looked over at Kiyo when Josh asked him about his ancestary, waiting to see if his boyfriend needed a way out of the question. Kiyoshi answered very well and then quickly shoved sushi into his mouth, rice seaweed and all. Evan bit back a chuckle, noting that Kiyo quickly went for the last of the beer.
"I will try one of these beers that you both seem to find so tasty.â€
Joshua Wesson
12 years ago
Josh couldn't help a soft, almost inaudible, chuckle at Gris's end-of-world list. When his partner made his drink request Josh smiled at him and nodded. He did the same for Evan. "A round, coming up," he said.
He suspected that if Gris were to have any kind of a cheering section at any of his trials, he would have to lead it. Or, at the very least, be present. He had already offered his 'help' whenever Gris required it, and
After a fun game of Cataan which Josh (an incredibly surprised Josh) won, the four of them moved into the living room. Turning the large flat screen TV on, Josh surfed around until he found a few movie channels. One of them was showing the Grinch, which he had never seen. Nor, apparently, had Kiyoshi. It was a night of firsts for both of them apparently. Josh turned on the movie and supplied everyone with a coaster for their various beer glasses, then claimed a corner of his sofa and sat there, holding his hand out to Gris in invitation.
Normally Josh might have hesitated to get very snuggly in polite company but he only had a sofa and a recliner. If everyone was to sit comfortably with their respective partners, being close was non-optional. In this case he wasn't going to complain. It had been several hours since he had had his arms full of Gris and while he could deal with as many were necessary he missed his boyfriend.
So he sipped his drink slowly, watching the animated film with amusement, sliding his arms around his partner and arranging himself as best he could, for as much contact as he could get. He tipped his head close to Gris and murmured, "Are you cold? I can get a blanket if you want."
Or he could be the blanket. Either way Josh found himself very content where he was. He was enjoying Evan and Kiyoshi's company, the feeling of being in his own apartment. The only way it could get better would be to have Mel here too, but perhaps next time he could invite her. He didn't think Gris would mind and Gris's friends also seemed very easygoing.
He suspected that if Gris were to have any kind of a cheering section at any of his trials, he would have to lead it. Or, at the very least, be present. He had already offered his 'help' whenever Gris required it, and
After a fun game of Cataan which Josh (an incredibly surprised Josh) won, the four of them moved into the living room. Turning the large flat screen TV on, Josh surfed around until he found a few movie channels. One of them was showing the Grinch, which he had never seen. Nor, apparently, had Kiyoshi. It was a night of firsts for both of them apparently. Josh turned on the movie and supplied everyone with a coaster for their various beer glasses, then claimed a corner of his sofa and sat there, holding his hand out to Gris in invitation.
Normally Josh might have hesitated to get very snuggly in polite company but he only had a sofa and a recliner. If everyone was to sit comfortably with their respective partners, being close was non-optional. In this case he wasn't going to complain. It had been several hours since he had had his arms full of Gris and while he could deal with as many were necessary he missed his boyfriend.
So he sipped his drink slowly, watching the animated film with amusement, sliding his arms around his partner and arranging himself as best he could, for as much contact as he could get. He tipped his head close to Gris and murmured, "Are you cold? I can get a blanket if you want."
Or he could be the blanket. Either way Josh found himself very content where he was. He was enjoying Evan and Kiyoshi's company, the feeling of being in his own apartment. The only way it could get better would be to have Mel here too, but perhaps next time he could invite her. He didn't think Gris would mind and Gris's friends also seemed very easygoing.
Greer Grayson
12 years ago
Gris laughed at the idea that he would have his own cheering section in court. He looked at Kiyo and shook his head. "You don't have to pay admission but you might have to pay a fine if you follow through with the signs and the pompoms." He could just imagine how quickly a judge would declare his friends in contempt of court. It would probably take less than 5 minutes.
Josh got them more beers and they all then got back down to the serious business of trying to take over the world. His boyfriend was the first to successfully achieve that goal. Gris thought that was perfect. The game was easy to understand but deceptively complex in actual play. Winning was in part luck and skill and Josh was likely to become a formidable player. He was a diplomat for a living and reading people and keeping track of who had what was important, as well as knowing when to jump on something and when to wait.
A movie was decided upon and Josh found the Grinch. He had seen it, more or less. It would be more likely to say that it had been on at some party that he attended and that it received his attention in small snatches.
It wasn't likely to receive much more attention tonight. Gris settled himself comfortably against Josh, scooting as close as he could get and snuggling up tight. When Josh's arms wrapped around him, Gris sighed softly in contentment.
Shaking his head, no, he declined a blanket. "I am plenty warm at the moment." Gris leaned his head back onto Josh's shoulder, tilting it against his partner's neck so that he could lay there comfortably and still see the television. He should at least make an attempt to appear as though he was paying attention.
Josh got them more beers and they all then got back down to the serious business of trying to take over the world. His boyfriend was the first to successfully achieve that goal. Gris thought that was perfect. The game was easy to understand but deceptively complex in actual play. Winning was in part luck and skill and Josh was likely to become a formidable player. He was a diplomat for a living and reading people and keeping track of who had what was important, as well as knowing when to jump on something and when to wait.
A movie was decided upon and Josh found the Grinch. He had seen it, more or less. It would be more likely to say that it had been on at some party that he attended and that it received his attention in small snatches.
It wasn't likely to receive much more attention tonight. Gris settled himself comfortably against Josh, scooting as close as he could get and snuggling up tight. When Josh's arms wrapped around him, Gris sighed softly in contentment.
Shaking his head, no, he declined a blanket. "I am plenty warm at the moment." Gris leaned his head back onto Josh's shoulder, tilting it against his partner's neck so that he could lay there comfortably and still see the television. He should at least make an attempt to appear as though he was paying attention.
Kiyoshi Salinas
12 years ago
Kiyoshi actually enjoyed the Cataan game. It wasn't terribly horribly competitive; not the sort of competition that left you feeling miserable and beat up after. And Evan and Gris, and even Josh in his subtle fashion, made all the competition very friendly. There was much joking, and some more beer. Kiyo hadn't expected to win but he did make a respectable number of points so he felt good about his first game.
When they adjourned to the living room he waited for everyone else to settle down. Josh claimed one corner of the big sofa and Gris snuggled right up, which actually made Kiyo feel good. He loved Gris, and seeing him so happy with his new boyfriend made him happy, too.
When Evan took the recliner Kiyo didn't hesitate to join him. The recliner was a good size and neither of them was very wide themselves. Setting his glass down on the end table on a coaster he slid onto the chair next to Evan's warmth. Curling up he tucked his feet beneath him and then wrapped his arms around Evan's waist and leaned against him, sighing happily into the arm that wrapped around his shoulders.
He was surprised that Josh, seemingly the most serious person in the room, chose an animated Christmas movie from the large list of channels. Kiyo had never seen the Grinch but he knew what it was and he'd always felt like maybe he was missing out on a Christmas classic. He had watched Christmas movies with his adoptive parents but he didn't have any particularly fond memories of doing so. Just that Luis would take every opportunity to make the experience miserable for him.
"I've always wanted to see this," he admitted when Josh turned the channel to it. Here in the extreme comfort of Josh's living room, with friendly company, a good brew, and a belly mostly full of fish, he was very happy to settle in for an hour and a half or however long the movie was.
Maybe afterward he could ask Josh to play a song. He really did want to hear that fantastic piano. In the meantime he rested his head against Evan's chest, rubbing his cheek against the soft fabric of his shirt and kissing it softly. He paid attention to the movie since he did want to see it, but he still let his hand slip beneath Evan's shirt to idly caress his side, mimicking the motions Evan had made against his back before.
When they adjourned to the living room he waited for everyone else to settle down. Josh claimed one corner of the big sofa and Gris snuggled right up, which actually made Kiyo feel good. He loved Gris, and seeing him so happy with his new boyfriend made him happy, too.
When Evan took the recliner Kiyo didn't hesitate to join him. The recliner was a good size and neither of them was very wide themselves. Setting his glass down on the end table on a coaster he slid onto the chair next to Evan's warmth. Curling up he tucked his feet beneath him and then wrapped his arms around Evan's waist and leaned against him, sighing happily into the arm that wrapped around his shoulders.
He was surprised that Josh, seemingly the most serious person in the room, chose an animated Christmas movie from the large list of channels. Kiyo had never seen the Grinch but he knew what it was and he'd always felt like maybe he was missing out on a Christmas classic. He had watched Christmas movies with his adoptive parents but he didn't have any particularly fond memories of doing so. Just that Luis would take every opportunity to make the experience miserable for him.
"I've always wanted to see this," he admitted when Josh turned the channel to it. Here in the extreme comfort of Josh's living room, with friendly company, a good brew, and a belly mostly full of fish, he was very happy to settle in for an hour and a half or however long the movie was.
Maybe afterward he could ask Josh to play a song. He really did want to hear that fantastic piano. In the meantime he rested his head against Evan's chest, rubbing his cheek against the soft fabric of his shirt and kissing it softly. He paid attention to the movie since he did want to see it, but he still let his hand slip beneath Evan's shirt to idly caress his side, mimicking the motions Evan had made against his back before.
Evan Talkingwater
12 years ago
And Lichtenstein took over the world. Evan smiled and thought he couldn't begrudge Josh's country a little more land, especially when it was made of chip board. Gris's boyfriend had gotten the hang of the game very quickly and the concept of trading and cooperating sometimes and refusing others seemed to easy for him to grasp also. He wondered if Kiyo wanted to keep all his cards. Giving up things wasn't his partner's favorite thing to do; at least everyone had been friends, and one new friend, but Kiyoshi was very loving to his friends. His Little Wolf had done really well and didn't seem upset with the more competitive aspects of the game. Of course the company was largely responsible for that; Evan had definitely been a part of some very competitive games of Cataan.
After the end of the game it was decided that a movie would be good. Josh found The Grinch and that was agreed upon. He had seen it but he was certainly willing to watch it again, especially with Kiyo. When Josh and Gris took one end of the sofa he considered the other but he thought they might want to stretch out eventually. The recliner was big enough for Kiyoshi and himself if they snuggled together. He intended to snuggle.
Taking off his hoodie, Evan settled himself into the chair and held one arm out for Kiyo. When his boyfriend climbed in next to him and snuggled close, he placed the zippered hoodie over him like a blanket and then wrapped his arm around him.
He hummed softly at Kiyo's playing fingers and leaned down to place a kiss on his partner's forehead. "Love you." He whispered softly and then settled back to watch the movie that Kiyo said he had wanted to see.
After the end of the game it was decided that a movie would be good. Josh found The Grinch and that was agreed upon. He had seen it but he was certainly willing to watch it again, especially with Kiyo. When Josh and Gris took one end of the sofa he considered the other but he thought they might want to stretch out eventually. The recliner was big enough for Kiyoshi and himself if they snuggled together. He intended to snuggle.
Taking off his hoodie, Evan settled himself into the chair and held one arm out for Kiyo. When his boyfriend climbed in next to him and snuggled close, he placed the zippered hoodie over him like a blanket and then wrapped his arm around him.
He hummed softly at Kiyo's playing fingers and leaned down to place a kiss on his partner's forehead. "Love you." He whispered softly and then settled back to watch the movie that Kiyo said he had wanted to see.
Joshua Wesson
12 years ago
When Evan and Kiyo claimed the recliner Josh had to smile a little. Gris wasn't exaggerating when he'd said Kiyoshi was very shy. The smaller man quickly made himself comfortable tucked up against his boyfriend and Evan tenderly tucked him in under his sweater. It was nice to see, and while Josh didn't suffer much doubt about his sexuality it was nice to hang out with people who understood and didn't either stare or obviously ignore them.
Within a few minutes of the movie's beginning he had stretched one leg out along the sofa and pulled Gris a little closer to lean against his chest. He tightened his arms around his partner and held him close. Josh didn't usually relax in company, but they were all having a good time and Kiyoshi and Evan were very... inspiring.
As it turned out Josh completely forgot about Kiyo's request for a song, so he didn't end up playing. After the movie they found a show or two to turn on while they played another game of Cataan. By then it was quite late, and about time for him to turn in. He washed their dishes, and Evan and Kiyoshi stayed to pitch in and clean up with Gris as well. It was kind of them.
Josh meant every word when he and Gris saw them off and said they'd do it again soon. Once the door was closed, however, he turned to embrace his partner only to find Gris already moving toward him, of a like mind. Josh gave a pleased little growl as he picked Gris up, kissing him deeply and making for the stairs.
It was quite some time later when Josh was finally able to tell Gris he really had enjoyed himself... but not as much as he was about to... again...
It was a good night.
((ooc: all out))
Within a few minutes of the movie's beginning he had stretched one leg out along the sofa and pulled Gris a little closer to lean against his chest. He tightened his arms around his partner and held him close. Josh didn't usually relax in company, but they were all having a good time and Kiyoshi and Evan were very... inspiring.
As it turned out Josh completely forgot about Kiyo's request for a song, so he didn't end up playing. After the movie they found a show or two to turn on while they played another game of Cataan. By then it was quite late, and about time for him to turn in. He washed their dishes, and Evan and Kiyoshi stayed to pitch in and clean up with Gris as well. It was kind of them.
Josh meant every word when he and Gris saw them off and said they'd do it again soon. Once the door was closed, however, he turned to embrace his partner only to find Gris already moving toward him, of a like mind. Josh gave a pleased little growl as he picked Gris up, kissing him deeply and making for the stairs.
It was quite some time later when Josh was finally able to tell Gris he really had enjoyed himself... but not as much as he was about to... again...
It was a good night.
((ooc: all out))