A very bad girl

[Lovely]

.

[Lovely]

July 22, 2007
11:45pm
Montgomery Inn - Lounge

Keller wiped the bar down casually, sliding out from behind to pile another drunken carcass out the back door beyond the kitchen for whomever to find. He half thought about draining the sot a little for the soup, but he didn't care for the raw taste of the sewage the man had been pouring in his veins for the last few hours. Returning to wipe his hands of the mess, he looked around the room, smelling something purely, divinely decadent and rich like a wine he could savor for days. He paused at the bar, scanning silently.. newcomers were all they ever had anymore... so few stayed to really enjoy his and the hosts' hospitality. Except one... the redhead that had checked in earlier in the week. His eyes smiled, though his lip barely twitched. Keller was a fan of his repeat customers... perhaps she'd allow him to offer her a little more from his menu to sample. Her... he inhaled the sigh as if annoyed, though it was her scent he took in... far from displeased as he watched her from the doorway.

She'd been summoned by multiple beings to this place.. it seemed her talents were in demand in the area. She didn't mind of course, the place hummed, practically throbbed with energy and the vibe from the 'other side' as humans so fondly put it. Amatuers all of them, their pewney spells and half-a**ed rites -it pissed her off to be wasted on them, but it's what kept her in business between the big ones. The ones who knew and did and called her for her true talents and skill.. who knew the power they messed with. Granted there were many with powers greater than her own, she wasn't egotistical -simply confident in herself. She'd been sipping a drink for awhile, watching the mortals and those that mingled among them in the bar. She was growing slightly bored with them, close to heading off to find something more entertaining -like maiming- to pass the time. It was then that she felt the eyes on her, it wasn't often that she noticed -as most were not worthy of her acknowledgement. This was different and slowly her head turned to the door, her eyes casting over the man.. the bartender? No.. he was more than that in this 'house'. She didn't quite smile and motioned to her glass, he'd either take it as an invitation to join her or a demand for her glass to be replenished.

Her eyes... he couldn't help the grin that tugged gently as he felt her turn and watched her. If the rest of her was a stormy and enticing as the dark sapphires that trained on him... appreciatively if he wasn't mistaken... he had a few special treats in mind to entice her in return. He nodded to the gesture and stepped away only long enough to grab a full bottle of her choice... save him a trip back if the conversation turned lively. His movement was nearly silent, graceful despite the muscular build and his overall height. Beside her table in an effortless motion, he reached to pour. "How else may we serve you tonight, mad'moiselle?" The slight Dutch of his accent turned the words akilter, almost undetectable, yet sweetly exotic.

Her eyes stayed with his graceful movement and lifted to his face as he came to the table and his height towered over her as she sat. His words brought forth a myriad of images to her mind as she envisioned what his muscular form could do. She chuckled softly and her brow arched. "That remains to be seen.. thank you for the refill.. you are most indulgent." Her voice was a soft silky sound that flowed from parted lips that were naturally a rich color which most women coveted and could never 'paint' on.

"You have no idea," he smiled, nearly bashfully, but perhaps as part of his welcome... not to overwhelm the woman. His smile hid as much as it revealed, though not his entire nature... not yet. She smelled magnificently of wooded glens and an intricately woven peppering of spices and sweetness that no mere mortal could manage. She was a divine creature... if 'divinity' were to thank for the fire in her eyes or the fullness of her inviting pout. He motioned to the empty chair beside her. The scattering of patrons who remained were lost in ambient stares and the humming of their own numbed senses. Keller didn't play around with watering down his offerings... any of them. He would likely steal away with one or two later, for himself, and of course one to rest by the fire in Annia's room for her late-night enjoyment, however she wished. Glancing about the room, he made note of the heartiest and most likely, but none compared to the woman whose attention he returned to immediately. "May I? I find the alert much more interesting to engage in conversation."

"Ah but I have imagination and that brings marvelous ideas to life.." A finger played over her slight smile, pausing and meeting the tip of her tongue as she watched him for a moment, her eyes sparkling like gems in the low lighting. "Please.. I was about to invite you." She lifted her glass slightly, offering to share her drink with him as well. Her hair was like silken fire this evening, pulled slightly away from her face and left flowing over her shoulders like licking flames against her skin.

"You already had," he said, his own eyes flaring gently with ideas about how inviting she was. "You've been staying a while... alone? Your husband is not traveling with you?"

It was true and the slight nod of her head was his answer. His question brought forth another laugh the sound warm, rich, laced with spice. "No.. my husband is not travelling with me." Her eyes danced with some teasing in them. "Because he doesn't exist..but if I had one and he wasn't with me.. that would be his mistake."

"It would be a most punishable mistake, letting you out of his sight," he grinned, reaching for a clean water glass across the table and pouring himself a small amount from the bottle. "But where some err, others profit. Welcome to the Montgomery, Madame Traveler." He rose his glass to gently salute her. "Though I do hope, as you seem to be staying a while, that you will share your name at the very least."

She lifted her glass in return and drank to his 'toast', waiting a moment to answer him. "I might be enticed to share many things.. a name is just something you're called.. what would you like to call me?"

"Room service in the morning?" He only partly teased, offering the smile and no apology for being forthright. "I could hardly put that on your calling card, however."

"I don't leave calling cards." She countered, her blue eyes tracing over the line of his shoulder and arm. "Is the room service good here?"

"I'd have it on the best authority.. it is. I'm quite close to the cook," he said softly, watching her eyes dance. He took a sip, letting the liquid slide and numb as it would. She had quite good taste in her drinks - solid, strong, unforgiving. "So I haven't offended. Very glad to hear that... so now the conversation begins to get even more interesting."

"I hear the cook is delicious here.. I have yet to sample his menu.. perhaps you could convince him to give me a taste of his best?" Her head tipped slightly and her eyes followed as he took his drink, then trailed back over his torso. She remained relaxed yet poised in her chair.

Cook? Not cooking? That was intentional, he smiled. "Perhaps if you tell me what you like, I'll see to it that he gives you something special to whet your appetite?"

She leaned forward on the table and her fingers ran lightly over his forearm. "Oh.. but telling is no fun.. it's much more exciting to discover.. don't you think?"

One thing was certain was that she wasn't turned... far too warm, he noted as her fingers did their work, chilling him further. "I believe Madame Traveler's ideas of fun... and those of the cook... may be quite similar. Say he agrees to invite you for a special tasting... when might you be free?"

Her tongue tasted her lips lightly, making them shine a bit as she brought her finger to trace his lips. "That depends.. if you're really the cook.. then now.. if not.. later.."

"Hmm.. a few piles of rubbish to attend to first or call in another barkeep to sait these beasts while I attend to something far more...," everything... absorbing, enticing, intriguing... his words stopped as her finger lined his lip. He puckered against it, feeling a peculiar tingle that he hoped not to blame upon the drink.

She smiled just a little and let her eyes wander from him for a moment. "Or you could save them for snacks later... they look sleepy.. don't they?" She knew just the spell to lull the last straglers off to dreams, while she lured their babysitter off.

[Lovely]

He sighed and smiled, looking around the room as those who remained tipped into their tables or leaned more heavily into caresses and kisses of those they held in whiskey-coated whispers in their booths. "Snacks? Then you're more aware than you let on... saves me some trouble explaining a few things, but not about you. Who... or what are you? It matters truly little, but a good chef does like to know his secret ingredients."

"Like fish in a barrell.. too easy.." She murmured softly, turning her attention back to the specimen before her. "Didn't you listen..?" She teased softly. "Better to discover.. than be told.." She winked and tapped his nose lightly. "I do however think a name has been earned... Jade.. Jaedyn.. and it's a pleasure to make your aquaintance."

"Never was good in school," he shook his head, mildly defiant until she tapped his nose. He chuckled and grasped her hand, gently caressing her smooth and warm skin under roughhewn fingers. "The pleasure is mine," he whispered, kissing her knuckle.

"I do hope it will be.." She whispered, tugging his fingers gently. "Shall we?" She nodded to the space of floor as the music changed in the background.

"You have a way," he nodded, acknowledging the change in sound and the general mood of the air around them. He stood as she beckoned and led her to the center of the room. He had no way to know yet if the sleep affected the whole of the inn or just those nearby. He cared little that they would be 'discovered', offering a hand to her hip close to his own.

"It is my way.." She whispered, stepping closer to him, her breath tickling over his cheek. Her hip seemed to shift to fit perfectly into his grasp, she was taller than she appeared when sitting, nearly matching his height now as she stood in his arms.

He made little secret of the pleasure her scent or her beauty brought to him, taking in the sweetened spiced essence of her hair and skin as she stood before him. He held his fingers snugly to her hip, finding he needed to crane very little to whisper back and nuzzle against her warming and chill-inducing breath. "And your way earns you a name as well as anything else that pleases you. It's Keller... at your service," he sighed quietly, sharing part of his own way with her with a soft kiss to her neck.

His kiss was a gentle taste of his ways and her eyes fluttered, she found him very pleasing. "Keller.." She murmured, nuzzling back and giving his neck a light lick.

She sounded out his name in a whisper and he awaited his instruction. If she waited too long, he'd attend matters himself and discover what he would in his own way. Shifting delightedly under the trail of her tongue, he pulled her closely as he danced her slowly around the room, nearly off of her feet in his strong yet gentle embrace.

[Lovely]

She would not tell him anything.. yet.. wanted and anticipated him discovering on his own. His gentle touch in the brief moments he'd held her spoke on it's own. His strength was evident in his embrace and her hands smoothed down over his muscular arms. Her breath cooled over the wet line from her lick and she swayed gently with him in their dance.

"I wouldn't do that," he warned yet encouraged, his other hand resting to mirror the first, gripping gently, kneading, intending, wishing, perhaps promising. The sway of the music was as intentional as her slip about the cook and her way with him as the notes worked through him beat by beat, a rhythm he could scarcely ignore. One being in all the inn he worried would enter, but even the thought of her at the moment didn't sway the music away from his movements that slowly intensified his intention to serve her up raw, richly and generously drenched. "You might find yourself stirring a pot you're not ready for," he smiled against her neck, nibbling as his fingers shifted down over her hips.

Her tongue became less tickling tease and more caressing, her fingers curling gently to hold him closer still. "What if I want it.. stirred up..?" Her teeth grazed his ear and her slim form pressed against his, encouraging him even further. The music shifted and followed intesifying the mood slowly with them, becoming more deeply sensual.

"Then mind the door, mad'moiselle...," he nodded to the widely visible foyer and front desk area up a few steps from the recessed dining area and bar. If she could put the patrons to sleep, she could likely make them invisible in some fashion to anyone but each other, not that he cared. He moved her slowly to the bar, intending to lift her up onto it.

She grinned and helped him by wrapping around his shoulders and shifting her weight up as he brought her towards the bar. "What door?" She murmured quietly, the door being meaningless to her, but none the less the wall shifted and the door was gone.. for now. Jade nibbled and kissed, finding him very desirable.

The bar was kept clean and dry, nearly slick in its polished sheen from his attention while tending that shifted now to tend her upon it instead. The fabric that covered her did her quite a disservice in doing so as he noted the tight and smooth legs that brushed along his as he lifted her effortlessly before him, placing her at a most pleasantly tempting height. "Most definitely you share the cook's idea of fun Miss Jaedyn. You're welcome to stir anything you like," he smiled, reaching to kiss her fully.

His kiss was taken and returned, a soft and passionate mouth playing over his. "mmmhmmm... I do believe I'd like to sample some more of the cook.." She kissed him again, her legs wrapping around to pull him closer and keep him there for the moment.

"Perhaps... a little appetizer, hm?" He nodded in agreement, offering first himself for any taste she wished of him, though her scent enticed him to want to drink her.

[Lovely]

August 11, 2007
Lounge/Bar
Saturday night

Blue had been working in the bar for about a week now, but tonight would mark her first Saturday night shift. If this bar was anything like the places she'd worked in the past, and so far it had been for the most part, then this would be the craziest night of the week. So far, though, things had yet to pick up much. She took the opportunity of a few free minutes to get things organized behind the bar, making sure none of the bottles were empty and that a dozen tiny things were taken care of that she probably wouldn't have time for later and meanwhile keeping an eye out for any customers.

She was usually thought to be stunning whether her hair was red, blonde. or somewhere in between. Tonight it leaned more towards the blonde and she wore a black dress, the business she had tonight required her to appear in the way those who summoned her expected or could relate best to. She could nearly chuckle with how some modern mortals dabbled in the things that terrified them.

Her pressence flowed seductively into the room and she looked for Keller first, though she didn't see him and her eyes darkened with a slight displeasure. Sliding up to the bar she regarded the woman with a curious expression. "You're new here.." She smiled slightly. "When my associates come looking, I'll be at that table. Send them over, They will ask for Jade." She pointed to the table she prefered.

Blue supressed a sigh at the woman's first comment. Did everyone know she was new? Still, it was true even if it was getting a bit old to hear. Of course once it got old enough, she wouldn't be new anymore, would she? "Of course." She answered with a polite smile of her own. "Can I get you anything while you're waiting?"

"Do you know where Keller is this evening?" The girl was human and Jaedyn had little use for them unless they summoned her and offered her something worth giving her attention. But this world was full of them and so she had to tolerate them and now and again she was even charitable to them. "A bottle of your finest vodka, chilled. One glass, no ice. I'll be at my table." She started to turn and then looked back with a gentle smile. "Thank you, my dear." She seemed to glide gracefully to the chosen table and took her chair with the same fluid motions.

Blue's only answer was a simple nod as she went about filling the lady's request. The phrase 'your finest' often had very different meanings. Some people meant they wanted nicer, but of course not too expensive. Some just wanted to impress people...but this woman, Blue had no doubt she honestly wanted the finest they had. Grabbing a chilled bottle of just that, along with a sparkling clean glass, she headed to the table, placing both before the woman. "I'm pretty sure Keller's in the stock room. Would you like me to get him for you?" Yet another of the secrets she didn't seem to know about this place was what was so special about Keller. Then again, maybe she didn't want to know.

"If you would let him know I'm here.. he can decide from there if he wishes to engage me." She smiled bit and her eyes passed over the glass and the bottle, they were acceptable. "Thank you miss...?"

"Oh, I'm sorry...it's Blue. I'll um, I'll let Keller know you're here. Is there anything else?" Yes, this woman was definitely one of those 'special' customers Mr. Montgomery had talked about, but she seemed okay enough. She was definitely polite, which went a long way as far as Blue was concerned.

"No. I require nothing else from you at this time." Jaedyn replied, trailing her fingers over the chilled glass bottle.

Blue's eyes were drawn to that casual movement and she actually found herself swallowing a bit nervously. Definitely avery attractive woman. Absurdly, she felt the momentary urge to bow before leaving the table. Instead she simply nodded and turned to head back to the bar, and then the back room to see if Keller was around.

"Message received, Blue. Thank you for taking care of our guest." Keller stopped at the doorway with a faint smile for the girl, keeping her from having to search too far. His attention turned from their able new bartender to the favored guest. "Have a second bottle ready, please." He was tall and appeared kind to most, though he was rarely out to see the guests in person. He kept to himself in the kitchen often, but a certain scent and the hint of a whisper called him out to the front.

"Sure thing." Blue replied without so much as a raised eyebrow. "Is there a room I should be charging this to, or maybe a tab?" She asked, grabbing another bottle from beneath the counter and dusting it off before setting it to chill.

"My treat," he grinned, the warm golden glow of his gaze caressing the girl's expression. Keller had his wealth of charm, often shadowed by a wealth of ego that put some women off but attracted others even more as well as some men. His intention wasn't to use either on Blue, having to work side by side with her. He simply wanted things warm and comfortable between them. "Better take your break now or you might not have another tonight. Can't work you to death, can we?" The phrasing was teasing and shiveringly 'odd' in the way he smirked, never fully showing his smile.

"I don't lie down that easily." Blue pointed out, her expression remaining neutral. The phrase had multiple meanings, of course, referring to her either being worked to death, or...well, doing any other kind of laying. "But sure, I'm gonna step outside for some fresh air." She glanced over at the table where Jade sat one last time before heading towards the back entrance. Yes, fresh air would be nice...the weird was getting a bit thick.

"Take your time. It doesn't mean the same thing here as other places," he quipped quietly. She could take all the time she wanted and he doubted anyone would notice if Jaedyn had her way with things. "Thank you for your help. I'm glad you're here," he added. He hadn't taken a moment really to welcome the girl warmly yet, but would soon.

[Lovely]

Keller moved away from the door, summoned by something only he seemed drawn to, sidling up beside the red-haired woman's table before standing sharply still and straight, awaiting her instruction though he still teased quietly. "Is there something particular madame wishes to tease her pallette tonight?"

Jaedyn felt him coming closer long before others would, even without his ease and stealth, which came naturally to his kind. "Good evening." She murmured quietly, taking a sip from her glass and then staring quietly into the clear liquid. "I have business tonight.. it's irritating and it interupts my time to amuse myself.. " She grinned as if amused by thoughts she left unspoken. "I was hoping the chef might be persuaded into making me something to exhilrate my senses after my business is completed.." She licked her lips, running her tongue slowly along them as if some sweet taste had been left behind on them. "Do you think you could put in a good word for me?"

"I'll do my best to see that you're not left wanting, m'meselle," he agreed with a slight nod, the grin arcing slowly and pleasantly. "I'll see to it myself that you're... amused... as you wish. If your appointments are tedious and tiresome, perhaps I can help in some other way?" He truly didn't want to see her bothered by any weight of disturbance on her mind.

She pondered a moment and then shrugged slightly. "You could kill them before they get to the bar.. I'm not at fault for anything you do of your own free will and I'm not obliged to do anything for them if they miss the meeting." She took another sip from her glass and then held it up to offer him a taste.

"Then perhaps we should consider the meeting canceled... since something else seems to have come up?" He agreed with another nod and looked around the room for whomever she might have intended to meet.

"They haven't arrived yet, two men.. fancy themselves more than mortal, dabbling in powers they haven't the mind or resolution to commit to. They draw near, but have not entered." She spoke in a whisper for him only to hear, her hand drifted to the side, stroking one delicate looking finger over his cool hand.

He'd declined her drink but didn't ignore her touch. He turned his attention back to her, curious what type of meeting she'd planned and what type of men they were. "Unworthy of a task or only that task?" Keller's grin shifted in his curiosity. "A strong arm is not something to waste indiscriminately, but if the arm is as weak as the resolve to follow a simple direction, consider them... disposed."

"They are not meant for the magics they dabble in.. I'm not the judge of whether they might find some other use.. I know what I know and do not claim to be privvy to the things beyond my area of expertise." She scowled slightly and set her glass back to the table, some annoyance showing, not at Keller but at those coming to meet her. "They came across a means to summon me and request me to do their bidding.. they found the easy way, it took no skill to have someone summon me for them.."

He laughed softly. "So they deserve to find out exactly what it means to have a pet bite the master's hand? Consider it done... that is annoying... and a trifle. Give me a moment, then I'm, as they say, all yours," he nodded again, excusing himself if she'd allow him to. He'd need a little longer away and didn't want Blue to feel abandoned.

Her fingers tangled warmly with his for a moment to protest his leaving, but allowing him to go, if he favored her with a kiss. She was certain he'd know what she wanted, the way her smile curled, eyes invited and head tilted to 'offer' to him.

The warm tangle and tug also could not and would not be ignored. Keller obliged her request freely, deliciously, let the onlooker beware of the desire bestowed in return. "Soon," he hissed, promising her many of his 'treats' when he returned. He slipped away to the back as quickly as he'd appeared.

[Lovely]

"Blue?!" He wasn't sure where she'd tarried off to for her break, but hoped she hadn't given up on the place yet. He could probably smell her if he took a moment to care, but the devine fragrance Jaedyn left with him wasn't one he wanted to let go of at the moment.

"Yeah?" Blue peeked around the corner, not having gone far. "Has it been that long already?" She'd checked her watch when she came out, and she was fairly certain it had only been about eight minutes so far.

"No it hasn't, you're fine. I'll be stepping out for a short while, though, and wanted to be sure you'll be alright by yourself, possibly a few hours," Keller offered, sincerely wanting to be sure she could handle things on her own. They would like get stranger before morning.

"Sure." Blue shrugged, coming back around the corner. "So...stepping out for a while?" She grinned and raised an eyebrow, her expression gently teasing. "This have anything to do with the blonde knockout with the vodka?"

"Everything to do with her, specifically being certain she's not bothered by her adoring fans... besides myself," he winked. "She's a friend, Blue. I like to see her happy. I want to be sure you're happy too manning this world on your own. I'd hand you the sceptre and sash hon, but you'll have to make do with the tap and bar cloth, sorry. If you need anything, I'm sure you can yell, right?"

"I assure you, I'm a fantastic yeller." Blue chuckled at his odd phrasing. The sceptre and sash? "Anyway don't worry about it. Go, do whatever it is you need to do...I'll keep the bar from burning down in the mean time."

"I'm sure Jorden will be just as appreciative to know that," he smiled more fully than he had. The jagged raw edge of an unfiled tooth may have caught her attention if the hint of golden fire in his eyes didn't. "Hopefully the only fires will be... well, let your imagination do whatever it wants with that. I'll be back as soon as I can to help, okay?"

"Mhmm, not a problem." She headed towards the lounge's back door. "Don't have too much fun..."

Jaedyn waited, bored by the other occupants of the room, none there tonight held any interest fo her, not with the promise of Keller's undivided attenton. She laughed softly to herself at how he'd managed to spark her... normally she'd kill a man for entertaining thoughts or desires of and for her. As a whole she disliked the males of most species. There were a few she found entertaining or respected enough to consider friends, equals but none that were more than that... until this cool vamp had entered her life.

Keller laughed quietly as the girl returned to her break. Things would go smoothly for her, he was certain. He slipped behind the bar to pull the second bottle of her preferred drink and brought it with him as he returned to the table. "I've been told not to have too much fun," he appeared to pout though he winked and offered the other bottle to Jaedyn and a cordial smile for the petite blonde. "Sara, pleasant evening?" He scoured over her scents, tilting in curiosity and uncertain whether to believe her if she said she was fine.

Sara was working late tonight, the night was moving along and during a quiet moment she decided to ake her break, coming to find Keller to see if he'd saved her any dinner. Sometimes he'd make something special for her, so she wouldn't have to eat cold left overs. Usually a nice salad and sandwhich, which was more than fine with her -even that from him was better than anywhere else. Sara came through the bar first, thinking he might be in there helping and if not she could always pick up her drink in here first. She knew she could go in the kitchen but never felt right about it, it was like it was Keller's 'area' and besides she liked seeing him and being able to have a few pleasant words.

The peppy blonde smiled to Miss Garrett as she came into the lounge, spotting the beautiful woman at her table sipping Vodka. Sara then looked around, not seeing Blue or Keller just yet.

He set the bottle down for Jade and whispered quickly. "I believe this is for you. Tell me more about your associates and I'll have this brought to my room, or yours, or leave it here at the table, if you like." He remembered well how the rest of the world was made to melt away while she allowed him to play.

[Lovely]

Blue returned from her break early, boredom having set in after only a few minutes. She smiled as she spotted a familiar face upon re-entering the bar. "Hey Sara...nice to see you again. Can I get you anything?"

"I.. yes, thank you.." She bit her lip as she approached him and the table where miss Garrett sat. "I'm sorry to bother you.. I just got my break.." She chewed her lip and glanced between the two then started to shy away, backing a few steps and feeling like quite the idiot. She looked over as Blue called out to her and just shook her head, her cheeks rising pink in a flustered blush. She could have run from the room but tried not to as she went towards the door.

"Hey...Sara wait a second..." Blue slipped out from behind the bar and hurried after the girl. "You just got here. Leaving so soon?" She stepped in front of Sara, offering a tentative smile. "Stay for a little while?"

"I.. I was.. just gonna..." She hooked her thumb over her shoulder towards Keller and sighed. ".. just was going to see about getting some dinner. But he's busy.. I don't want to bother him.. I can wait." She shrugged and slipped her hands into her pockets.

"Oh..." Blue glanced over her shoulder at Keller, her estimation of him rising a notch when she realized he seemed to be one of Sara's few friends. "I think he's going to be busy for a while. Look...just sit down at the bar for a sec and I'll check the kitchen for you, okay?"

"No!.. no.. it's okay.. please don't." She shook her head, sending her blonde curls bouncing. "I.. sometimes he makes me something special.. it's no big deal. I just like to leave the kitchen to him.. it's like his area." She glanced back at Keller and then to Blue again. "Kinda like the desk is mine.. you know?"

Blue nodded. "Kind of like the bar will be mine...once I can kick him back into the kitchen." She joked, glancing over at Keller. "But really, I think he might have left something there for you. It would be easy for me to just go check..."

"I already feel like enough of an idiot.. I think I'll just go back to the desk before I just have to die." She gave a very small brief smile and started around to the door again, feeling like everyone must be staring and Keller must think she was the biggest jerk on the planet for acting like this. It was a moment of panic and fear and though not as bad now, she was mostly embarrased.

Blue sighed, not wanting to let it go but also realizing that Sara was totally embarassed, for whatever reason. "Okay hon, just...come see me later if you get the time, okay?" The request was made softly, because obviously Sara was conscious of others listening.

"Sure.." She nodded as she passed and hurried out the door to get back to the desk where she could curl up in her chair and wait to see if any late night travellers would show up.

She watched Sara go, reluctantly, but there wasn't anything she could do at the moment. Shaking her head, she turned and went back to the bar. It wouldn't do her any good to try to help Sara if she couldn't keep her own job...

[Lovely]

Sept 27, 2008
3:30 a.m.


His usual customers were filing away to their rooms now, ready to miss the early rays of the day's beginnings. Tables cleared and bottles reclaimed, Keller was nearly done removing the remains of his special dishes, taking the usual refuse to the dumpsters for standard collection and a second load now to a pit meant for scavengers and select clientele who did not wish to dine within the confines of the inn, though there were only a few who had earned that privilege by personal arrangement. He didn't care to give scraps if there were any left from the plates of his patrons that had been considered unpalatable, but special requests amused him. A pair of dark birds watched from a deadened branch as he deposited the pieces where he had been instructed and waited for him to return into the building. Keller gestured slightly to the meager offerings of eyes and entrails, giving a tiny whistle that their table was ready, then turned to return in through the main entrance to address any late arrivals who might still need a plate before morning's light.

Delaney arrived by cab to the Montgomery Inn, a place she hadn't been to since she was a little girl, she had not even come back for her grandparents' funerals. She did feel bad about that but there was something about this place that had frightened her. The current owners were distant relatives she'd met once and really they were why she stayed away in the past two years. If it hadn't been for the fire, she wouldn't be here now.. she had nowhere else to go and if she wanted her inheritance money she had to come see them. She could stand a few hours here.. maybe a day of playing nice and then she'd have her cash and be gone. Del had no luggage since everything she owned had been destroyed, and simply made her way into the lobby. It was still very early in the morning and she didn't see anyone around the front desk, perhaps they had a specific check in time. "Hello...?" She called out, trying to be quiet and yet trying to get some attention as she wandered further into the Inn. "Come out.. come out.. wherever you are.."

"Boo," he said, followed by a chuckle as he came in the door behind her. "Careful what you ask for around here," he warned casually. To most, such a thing was said in jest, but here there seemed to be a bit of deep-seeded concern that flashed in his eyes as he came closer. He stopped a moment as he saw her face. "I'm sorry, I thought... you were someone else," he said, confusion etched on his face. He chuckled again, chalking it up to all things strange. "I mean I didn't know it was you. Can't figure why. Thought you went up already a few hours ago," he said, leaning to kiss her cheek before heading back toward the kitchen.

Delaney smiled at the handsome man who greeted her and was delighted at the time she arrived but then he spoke as if he knew her.. then he leaned to kiss her. "Woah.. umm hello there.. Who do you think I am? I'd be happy to be her for a little while." She blushed and tried to laugh it off, trying to remember the last time anyone made her feel so flustered with such an innocent show of affection.

He chuckled again. "Oh no you don't. Fool me once... consider me fooled. Have you had a drink tonight? Maybe you should, hm? I seem to remember you were happy until...," he looked wistfully to some distant memory and some place up the stairs beyond the lobby, gesturing that direction as if someone waited for her other than himself. He tried not to be jealous. "Ah, or have you decided to have a difference of opinion, as well you should, hm?" His voice resonated nicely in the lobby and the accent was hard to miss though he spoke clearly, and quite sharply it seemed at the moment about this other person she should know as well.

Delaney was confused as to how he could be so convinced that she was someone else but she was also quite intrigued, he was handsome and seemed to really want to spend time with whoever he thought she was. "I was happy until..?" She pointed in the direction he had and licked at her lips, it was still early.. the old folks wouldn't likely be up for awhile.. if she made some waves then they would be even more eager to give her the money and see her gone. Two birds.. as they say. "Maybe you're right.. I should have a change of heart? .. and that drink.. with you.. if you're not too busy?"

[Lovely]

"Really?" He was amused and shocked as much as he was delighted at the acceptance of the offer. He nodded back toward the kitchen and his private little office after seeing no one else awaiting service at the moment. Undoubtedly Sara or the others would find him if a straggler came in. "A change of heart is hard to come by. I should jump at such a chance," he teased, reaching his hand out for hers.

"Really.. I'd be a fool to pass up this opprotunity.. I'd never forgive myself if I walked away now." She played it up just a little though she was sincere in her words, even if she meant them in a different way than he thought. He reached for her hand and she smiled again, he was totally hott and she wouldn't mind his company at all. His hand was cool but maybe he'd been in the cooler or outside awhile?

Her hand was far warmer than he'd expected and he smiled. "Or perhaps you've already had a little too much to drink and you want to share? I'm honored," he said, running his thumb over her fingers. Why was she doing this? Was she only teasing him? She kept herself closed to him, but ever since Galen had returned, he'd found there were many nights he could not sense Annia if she did not want him to be upset. He tugged slightly to see how playful she was truly feeling or if she only teased him, intending to leave him wanting. "And I'm impatient," he said, trying to steal her into his embrace.

She might regret making him a game and using him as a means to get what she'd come for but as she'd said before, she'd be a fool not to take this opprotunity. Could he get any sexier? Del licked at her lips again hoping that he wouldn't totally hate her when he found out she wasn't who he thought she was.. if he found out. She grinned at that, this could be their little secret, right? He did make the comment himself that she may have had too much to drink, which she hadn't but he seemed willing to take advantage if she had. "Mmm maybe I did.. or maybe I just miss you.. just want you.." She murmured, letting him pull her closer. "Maybe I'm the impatient one?" She challenged, glancing around briefly and whispering. "Why don't you find out?"

"I think I will. Come see me in my office, please," he mock-scolded and tried to swat her butt gently before leading her away to the dark hall where he spent most of his time. He completely intended to find out, almost carrying her back there in his haste.

"Ohh I feel so naughty!" She giggled, getting swept up in his embrace and excitement, she felt the sting on her butt and it only encouraged her more. Naughty indeed! He looked strong and felt it too at least where she'd touched him so far, she took a chance that he wouldn't mind her spinning herself in front of him and then hopping up for a ride to his office. Her slender legs wrapping around his waist. "Been such a bad.. bad... girl leaving you alone.." She promised not to leave him waiting any longer.

She hoisted herself up around him and he spun her like she weighed no more than air. "Better still be a bad, bad girl when I get you alone," he cooed, happier still that she didn't seem to have any intention of ducking out on him this time. He would need to thank Galen later for his stubborness and whatever he'd said to turn her out of the room. After a couple centuries there was bound to be a few differences between them from time to time and he'd be more than happy to keep her company. Keller carried her into the kitchen hall and turned to take her into the office, quickly shutting the door behind him and planting her firmly against the nearest smooth wall to engage in a kiss and the delight of feeling her wrapped around him so nicely.

Well she had her answer about whether he could get any sexier.. the answer was yes! Delaney was starting to be so distracted by him that she almost forgot why she was there in the first place and that she wasn't the girl he really wanted in his arms. Whoever that stupid chick was, she was lucky to have a man like this want her so much and a complete idiot for turning away from him. The kiss had her feeling light headed and she reached for more, loving the way he felt against her as he held her against the wall. "I'll be bad every night if you promise to keep kissing me like this." Her warmer hands cupped his face and she kissed him like she was starving for him.

[Lovely]

The warmth of her hands distracted him again as she made her promises. She was his sire and everything about her kept him warm. He chuckled with delight and shifted against her, making a few more of his own promises as he tried to reach her and tease her in her thoughts as well. ~You being bad is so very, very good~ He thought, though something seemed strange and she seemed so far away to the thread of his thoughts. He pulled himself away from the kiss to move her down from her spot of wall to a softer more comfortable seat upon the desk.

Delaney was so happy she'd worn a short skirt that allowed him to explore more easily and his cool fingers against her skin made her shiver. Of course she couldn't hear the thoughts he tried to share with her since she wasn't who he thought she was. He moved her to the desk and her hands moved to tug at his shirt, wanting to expose his broad shoulders.

Annia had retired to her room with Galen as Keller had thought and was wrapped up in kisses and caresses of her own. Keller's thought sifted into her mind, disturbing her for a moment and she was confused. ~Mmm sweetheart I'm having a private moment here.. and I don't think you want to share it.~

Keller did want to share it and more, however, and looked at her with a bit of confusion again that disspated into a dark laugh as her tug on his shirt seemed to contradict the comment. "Mmm ... a private moment is best shared with two, of course," he said, making sense of what he could from the brief reply. He shrugged out of the undone buttons and leaned toward her for another kiss.

Delaney held back the kiss for a moment, looking at him with a confused expression, his comment didn't make much sense without the accompanying thoughts to go with it. "Were.. you expecting company.. or just warning that someone might wander through?" Perhaps he had some sort of date with another girl since he was dumped by the one he thought she was.

Annia didn't hear any reply in her mind and sighed softly, feeling sad for a moment that she had to shut him out but didn't want to make him suffer through listening to her rapture with Galen. ~Goodnight Keller.. ~ She whispered back to him and then turned her adoring kisses back to the man in her arms.

"I'd given up expecting anything from you but wonderful surprises. You never disappoint me," he smiled. "But no, no company. No one ever wanders through here... not and lives to tell. You know this," he laughed, seeming to joke about such things.

"Really? I mean.. of course.. that's me.. full of surprises." She was really awed by what he said about this woman he thought she was and it made her falter in her conviction to go through with the rash act and ruse. "But really? Even after I dumped you for the guy upstairs.. you feel that way?" He should hate the woman, or be angry.. not so tender and loving when she cast him off then came back.

He scoffed a little. "Are you testing me? You know I feel that way, not that you ever dumped me. Not when you visit me like this. Galen is Galen and not my concern as long as he remains truly who he was then. I get the story. I do understand. What is wrong that you are here tonight, though?"

Now she was on the spot and she didn't know anything about this Galen guy and just the sound of his name made her mouth turn a funny way. "Ahh.. well.. to be honest.. my inheritence.." She felt really bad, this guy was too nice, so understanding and.. "Whoever she is.. she doesn't deserve you." She whispered half under her breath. "I should go.. I'm sorry." Delaney tugged at her skirt and started to scoot off the desk.

[Lovely]

His hand was quick to stop her before she moved far. He scrutinized her and her scent, leaning toward her again, sure of what he knew but something was not quite right and his hand that tried to stop her confirmed it, feeling the pulse beneath that made him lurch back slightly. In the next blink he was beside the door, blocking her exit and ensuring it was locked. "Who are you?"

Del was left staring as he moved so quickly and effectively trapped her in the room with him, she wasn't aware that he'd locked the door but wouldn't be surprised by that, he was blocking the only exit. She felt a small surge of fear ripple through her but took a deep breath and stood facing him, her chin tilted slightly. "I told you.. I wasn't who you thought I was."

He nodded now. "Another story I now understand as well. You are not Annia, but yet you are nearly every bit her. Am I bewitched, or are you, for me to see her standing where you are?"

"I promise.. I'm not bewitched.. I'm a spoiled brat and very flattered that you compliment me in such a way." She smiled a little, still nervous but he was so easy to be with, it was hard to keep her guard up. "Annia? I have a great aunt by that name but.. she's much older.."

"Great aunt?" He scrutinized her again and slowly the smile returned. Her scent had not once revealed displeasure or deceit in her reaction to him and here she was so very much like the woman he so adored, yet still human - very human. He likewise could not disguise the desire he held for the woman that so often kept him away, back here in his kitchen and office, pouring his passionate energy into his work instead. Before him was a niece to this woman who had brought him into this life, led him willingly into his darkness, though he had become secondary in hers. "She is beautiful and you are her mirror. A lady does not, however, discuss her age," he teased, leaning casually now against the door. "It was a mistake quite happily made and would happily be made again," he offered.

She was surprised that he claimed it was indeed her great aunt he spoke of and that the woman was beautiful, she had to be all old and wrinkly, didn't she? It was still very sweet of him to say so about the other woman or perhaps Del had a cousin she had never met? "Ohh it's tempting.. but I'd rather not be mistaken for someone who would turn such a handsome man away or use him only when it suited her.. Pardon my saying so boldly but she's cruel to do that to you when you obviously care for her very much. If you ever want to kiss me again.. I wouldn't object, as long as you know it's me you're kissing and not her."

"No. She is not cruel," he said, defending the woman who had claimed the last beat of his heart. "She was unexpectedly reunited with her first love. I do not begrudge such luck or such love if it is to see her happy. She is my best friend, you could say." He was quiet a brief moment, then chuckled, looking up to the woman before him who had admitted already more than she knew. "If you would not object, then I would owe you the same favor. I'm Keller, and again I have to ask who you are, hm?"

"She's not cruel because she loves someone else.. but because she doesn't let you go, so that you can as well. I can understand it must be difficult to be in such a situation but she chooses him and leaves you alone and lonely enough that you'd happily mistake someone else for her so you can feel the pleasure of her company. That's what is cruel. It's clear you care so much for her that you won't admit she's anything of the sort." Del smiled and shook her head lightly, her eyes rolling over him with a gentle appreciation and admiration. "She's a very lucky woman to have the love of such an understanding and devoted man.. I'd be jealous if I weren't trying to think up ways to steal you away from her." She chuckled and her eyebrow arched up a little with the remark that was only partly teasing. "I'm Delaney.. or just Del.. and it's been a pleasure meeting you."

[Lovely]

"Something given freely is not stolen," he replied, holding his hand out for her to come closer. "You are leaving so soon after arriving? Surely you would like a room for the night. You are here for your reasons, but when that is done, where will you go?"

"That easy, hmmm? I just say 'I want you' and you'll give me you?" She was intrigued, there was something about him that she couldn't put her finger on but she felt drawn to him. "I had planned on leaving right away.. but now that I've met you, I don't think it will be that easy or simple. I hadn't thought about where to go after.. I guess a room would be a good idea. How about your room?" She stepped toward him and took his hand, her gaze studying his face - his mouth, his eyes, his charming smile.

"Excellent choice, mademoiselle. A charming suite with an inviting view," he agreed. "I think we should go start the fire, hm?"

She pulled herself closer to him, guiding his arm around her and smiling gently, though her eyes showed the playful spark still in them. "I believe you have already started one.. better go tend to it before it cools off too much." Her fingers lifted to brush along his jaw and tilt his face to meet her warm inviting kiss.