Dark, Sweet, and Strong (Nicky, Deacon)

[Lovely]

Name: Deacon Mallory Alias Deac, Mal, or Mallory when dressed up Played by: Tripp Likeness used: Cillian Murphy

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Name: Nicolette Campbell Alias: Nicky Played by: Lovely Likeness used: Nikki Cox

[Lovely]

June 30 2008
9:00 p.m.
Grand Hotel - Grand Ballroom - Resher Private Party

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"Two teas, three martinis, a seven straight up and four jaegers... how's it going out there?" His question was found more in his glance to check her wellbeing as he readied her tray with quick and skilled wrists, balancing the load for her take back out to the crowd.

"It's great.. like being in a pit of vipers." She smiled for the guy behind the bar, rolling her shoulders before she reached to take the full tray from him. "I think I may owe you dinner sometime.. they love the drinks.. and you havent messed up on a single one." She was genuine in the appreciation of his skill behind the bar, a messed up drink in this crowd could turn ugly fast.

"Give them enough they won't even know what the hell they even ordered. It's not hard," he smiled, trying to talk across the counter over the dull roar. Truth was, he knew many of the people here though many probably didn't realize it without the haze and thump of the regular place he worked. "You don't owe me a thing. Just keep coming back. It's the only thing keeping me sane right now."

"Sure play it off.. I couldn't remember how to mix so many drinks, this well." She double checked the tray and gave him a slight grin. "Don't worry I'll be back, you're like the only one here not trying to cop a feel when I get in arms length of you. They're rowdy tonight." She balanced her tray and gave him a wink. "Wish me luck." She started to head back into the fray to deliver the drinks, gather the tips, try to avoid slaps and pinches, and get another set of orders.

"Good luck," he offered along with a shrug as if he thought it might really help. The only thing keeping him from taking similar advantage was the hawkeye of Resher's men making sure the sweet treats were kept for the customers and not the staff. He watched the redhead run off, but kept his attention distracted with cleaning off the bar and filling other orders he didn't care as much about.

There was another bar tender tonight to keep up with the volume of the large party, but Nicky had kept going back to the blue -eyed 'boy'. There was something about him, she could almost swear she knew him from somewhere. When she came back about ten minutes latter, her tray was ready to be filled again, but she was limping a little and though she smiled until she got out of the crowd, as she got closer the shimmer of tears showed in her eyes. She was in a bit of pain, which she hid well as she recited the list of drinks she needed for this round. Some very happy guy had given her an overzealous pinch and she could feel the tenderness -knowing already that there was bruising.

The limp didn't escape detection any more than the specifics of the orders escaped his masterful mixing. "Which one?" He nodded to the crowd, looking for the one that had damaged her. "Let me give him something special," he grinned, fully intending to make the asshole's night a little less entertaining. The crooked smile was nearly chilling. "What's his order and what else do you have? Maybe you should take a break and make him wait for it."

She gave him a funny look for a moment when he first spoke up, then realized that he realized she wasn't 'ok'. "Oh.. umm maybe a little ice if you have a cloth or baggie back there?" She moved to come around the bar, shielding herself from view of the crowd, but not him as she shifted her skirt up along the back of her thigh to show the mark and press the ice to it.

He glanced around the room for their mutual safety and tossed a scoop of crushed ice in a clean bar towel, twisting it up neatly in a bundle. "Try this and keep it low," he said, certainly admiring the view as he pressed the bundle to the mark, waiting for her to hold it in place herself. "Flag one of the other girls over to take your order out and take a powder. If the boys see you limping, you can bet they'll make the rest of your night worse," he reminded her. Any sign of weakness or damaged goods was like a wounded lamb in a pack of lions.

"thanks." Her smile was soft, sweet and grateful for his concern and watching out for her. "I'll be fine.. just get my tray ready.. and keep this handy for when I come back." She wasn't going to let this set her back or give any of them that kind of satisfaction. He was right about them making her night worse.. her fingers slid over his to hold the ice in place and she nodded for him to go ahead and start mixing the drinks, she watched to make sure no one could really see what she was doing, making it appear that she was just resting a moment between orders. Her eyes trained on a guy standing next to one of the small decorative trees, her eyes narrowed a little -he was the one who had pinched her so hard. He was sort of using the tree to hold himself up, Nicky looked away before he turned her expression too sour.

He chuckled quietly as her fingers strayed. "Don't get me in trouble, now," he muttered, the accent showing itself thickly in the short warning. As she looked up, his gaze caught hers and followed, bright blue under the grayed lenses darkening as he too focused on the plantlife with the misfortune of playing crutch to the octopus that had groped her. He rarely forgot a face. He looked away to tend to her order, mixing up a little extra in the man's drink, adding a splash of something to make the evening more interesting. It certainly wouldn't kill him, but he'd need more than an ice pack to feel well again. "Your ready in about two shakes," he said, doing just that, mixing the martinis to pour and finish her tray.

She rolled out her shoulders again, keeping the ice pressed to her bruise and giving this bar tender another sweet smile. "Try to stay out of trouble while I'm gone." She gave him a wink with the tease as she set the ice down, straightened her skirt and scooted around the bar to get her tray.

"Ah, make sure he gets that one while it's cold. Don't want to keep him waiting," he said, returning the wink. He was staying out of trouble for the most part. When the party was over, he had plans to make up for it, however.

"Can I spill it on him?" She grumbled with a slight pout, but she wouldn't risk the trouble that would cause. "First stop.." She sighed and picked up her tray, heading out to deliver the drink to the jerk by the tree. This time when he tried to make a grab for her, she was able to shift out of the way enough that he caught her with a light slap on her rear. He was laughing still and took a sip of his drink calling after her with an idea he had about her and later. She heard it but pretended not to as she went off to drop off the other drinks. She didn't care what kind of tips he gave her -that guy was a jerk!


10:30pm

"Booo," she said, rather than 'move' or anything rude while she reached around the young bartender to fill up her tray.

"I'm not afraid of you.. or your stunning green dress," he commented with a nod, slipping one way so she could slip the other, approving of the outfit on his cohort. He'd meant to say so earlier, but they'd been quite busy until just now.

"No?" She smiled.

That made him pause. "Well.., I don't find you frightening, no."

"Even alone in the dark -where I might get you in all kinds of trouble?"

"I do a lot of my best work in the dark... alone... no matter how that may sound."

"Ohhh I could twist that to mean so many things," she giggled softly.

He seemed to shy away, pulling a chunk of lime up with his tongs to emphasize as he 'twisted' it into a soda. "Twist anything you want, I don't mind."

"You're soo bad.. I thought you didn't want me getting you in trouble?" She leaned a little closer to him, smiling a bit.

He glanced around the room, adding another twist to the drinks that called for them. "You're not. We're talking and working. Trouble... is what happens when the talking stops," he said, raising an eyebrow and twisting his own words himself.

"Well you better keep talking, handsome.. cause I bet you can be even more trouble than me." She teased him, shifting a few glasses on her tray to make room for the ones he was mixing now.

That alone made him stop talking and he looked up at her, curious if she'd meant that. He was much more trouble than she could possibly realize. "I wouldn't say that," he defended, still stuck on her calling him 'handsome'. He was quick in his work, taking the empty glasses and flipping them to the washing racks without hardly missing a beat. "I'd keep talking, but your order's ready."

She meant it when she called him handsome -maybe he wasn't in the traditional stereotypical way, but there was something about him that gave her butterflies in her tummy. "Momentary reprieve.." She shrugged, lifting her tray from the bar. "Don't think you're off the hook." She puckered a kiss in his direction that no one would see with her back to the crowd. She spun gracefully on her heels and headed back into the fray of party goers, feeling almost giddy that she had dared to be so flirty with the bartender.

Wiping down the bar as she left, he had to gather his thoughts. Too many were gathering in the dark corners in his mind and surrounding an image of her being well within his reach. He leaned on the counter, appearing to take a brief break, but it was more than simply a deep breath. She couldn't possibly know, could she? His lowered head lifted only so far to peek up and into the crowd, seeking her out, reaching out for her though she was outside his grasp as she always was. He'd had a moment where he was sure she recognized him. It would ruin everything if she did.

She was dipping and spinning through the swarm of people, delivering the drinks he made with a smile and just enough flirt to get the good tips but not lead the men into thinking she wanted anything from them. As if she could feel his gaze on her she paused, looking around her with a searching in her eyes, slowly turning herself in his direction, though she couldn't tell for sure if it was him watching her.

He nodded ever so slightly, the smile billowing briefly and fading as he returned to his tasks and addressed one of the other girls who hurled her tray of empties up on the bar with less than grace. She was apparently groped up and was throwing a fit about it. He appeared to be talking to her to calm her down.

Nicky moved on through her area of tables and those who stood, gathering the empty glasses, smiling.. being polite and friendly. She knew the drill, she'd become one they asked for regularly at their gatherings now and she made good money on nights like this. Carl was always good about giving her the night off, he was an awesome boss to have in general anyway. she noticed the girl having a fit and how the handsome bartender tried to talk her down. Nicky wasn't the only one who noticed the fit though and she moved to intercept and distract the Resher boy who was on his way to straighten the other girl out in an entirely different manner. She glanced at the tender, motioning as briefly as she could in hopes of calling his attention to the impending situation as she slipped up to the goon dazzling him with a smile and a hand on his arm, claiming she needed some assistance with bringing out a few more cases of bottled liquor.

He caught the motion and the clever intervention, but it would only buy the girl minutes instead of seconds. Whatever it was that he said to her in the next moment had the girl in tears and breathing hard, rapidly trying to put her next order together and doing a shoddy job of it. He said nothing else, but continued watching her intently, placing the drinks in perfect balance on her tray and waiting for her to scuttle off. His jaw was set and his stare burned holes through her and into the crowd behind her as he watched her move off.

As she moved off with the goon Nicky glanced back at the bar, her expression clearly showing her dismay and the regret of taking this course to help the other girl. She bit her lip as her arm was gripped and the guy beside her picked up his pace, nearly tripping her in his eagerness to get her alone and out of the party. He'd left her tray on the table next to where she'd scooted up to her -taking her ploy of needing a case or two as her way of inviting him to have his.

He scouted the room to see where Nicky had gone, taking a long sweep and his gaze sharpening as he swept back again quickly, looking around with darting glances to land on the discarded tray. He clapped the ice box shut from view and tossed a pre-made sign on the counter 'ice run, back in 5', peeling out from the counter himself and heading off where he'd seen her direct Thug 1. His sleeves were already unbuttoned from several hand washings, but now they were rolled up for comfort as he walked quickly toward the wine cellar. Did it matter that he knew her name and she didn't seem to know his? "Nicky? Where's that wine? I have people waiting up here," he called out, watching and listening once he was out of the roar of the crowd.

What he'd hear in reply was her saying a clear 'no' to whatever the thug was attempting out of view and the sound of a struggle. Down the stairs and behind one of the rows, the thug was doing his best to try to pin the redhead down over a few cases on the floor. She heard her name and tried to call out but recieved a slap and shove just as she did so. She grunted as her back hit the wooden case and her leg swung up, connecting with the thug's side. It was enough to throw him off a little, so he wasn't right over her and she tried to make a break for it. He wasn't stunned enough to be totally out of her way and his fingers tangled into her hair, yanking her back as his other hand wrapped around her throat, cutting her off in a strangled cry as he pressed her back down.

He was quick to follow the sound and his senses were already riled and on fire for a number of reasons. Given a wall of weaponry to use, the nearest bottle was in his hand as he launched himself at the pair, cracking the bottle over the man's skull without a second thought to which of Resher's puppies this was. "Get off and you live," he warned harshly, hardly joking. "Nicky, get up and pull yourself together." He tried to pull the man from her, not convinced he'd laid him out well enough to get her free of him yet.

She was too stunned to realize he was calling her by her name -nickname at that, she was busy gasping for breath and pulling the thug's fingers from her throat. The blow had loosened his grip, but he had not fully let her go. He appeared stunned enough that she could start to scoot from under him -seeking the bartender for protection, her eyes wide with realization that the goon might have strangled her to death if he hadn't come down.

He launched after the goon again, not at all satisfied. "Your choice. I told you to let her go," he seethed darkly, taking the remnant of the broken bottle and ramming the guy's head again.

She held back what might have been a scream as the bartender jumped on top of the man, she turned and followed the lunge. Trying to pull him off -if he killed or seriously hurt the thug, he'd be in alot worse trouble than most people could imagine.

"What, you don't think that's good enough...?!" He paused with her hand on his arm, flustered and red-cheeked with fury on her behalf. "He deserves it, Nic. They all do," he muttered, tossing the bottle down as she seemed to insist.

"He does." She agreed quietly, her hand reaching to cup his cheek and turn his face towards hers. "But you don't deserve what they'll do to you.. " She was shaking a little as she tried to stand there and be strong, she just wanted to crumple.

"What makes you sure I don't? Deception is an art... remember that," he said, feeling her tremble as he pulled her hand into his. His was as steady as it was mixing drinks, unfazed, calm. "Only they live it and I play," he said with a strange smile and a tilt of pride and defiance in his stance. "I told you to take a powder... now you probably should. You're expected out there and so am I. I've got the wine. Mind that," he said, pointing out the tear in her blouse.

"You didn't join in or help him.. or ignore it.. you hit him in the head with a bottle.. that's all I need to know right now." She spoke softly, carefully pulling her hand from his and reaching to tug at her shirt, she had another in the car that she could change into -luckily. Her eyes shone with a volume of gratitude that she could not speak at the moment.

He let go and looked at his own hands and sleeves, and at the man on the floor who would want answers. He pulled one of the cases out and set it on it's end near the man to find if and when he got up. "Too bad he's clumsy and fell down the stairs," he smirked, noting the splash of wine from his swing had coated the step and the area where the man fell.

Nicky couldn't help the soft chuckle and she nodded to his words and idea. "Too bad.. maybe he shouldn't have had that last drink.." She watched the bar tender for a moment before reaching to touch his arm. "You alright? You didn't hurt your arm or anything breaking his skull?"

"Fine, no, nothing's hurt at all," he grinned, the color of anger already faded. He picked up the other case to carry up. "Not sure why you made me stop. He wouldn't have."

"I just didn't want to have to buy you a new shirt." She gave a faint smile and turned to head up the stairs, moving slower than her usual springing gait. "Thank you." She turned over her shoulder to tell him, the words paled with how much she owed him, but at least she'd said them.

With that the scene was forgotten it seemed. He looked over the man after she'd left and sunk his boot deeply into the man's side and another into his groin. If he got up, it wasn't going to be merely his head to heal, but reminders of why not to leave things to amateurs. He was disgusted with the heap on the floor and the spit of contempt he left on the man's face on the floor was the final gesture of it. His sleeves were rolled down to cover the spatter of wine and blood until he could wash it off. The intact case of wine was taken up and the heap left in the dark alone.

Nicky went off to clean and fix herself up, doing both as quickly as possible with her shaking hands and frazzled nerves. A dab of cool water to the back of her neck and a clean shirt helped her to feel refreshed -a little. She held the cloth to her neck for a few minutes, hoping to ease the slight marks that were there. Once she felt presentable enough, she came back towards the bar, looking around for her tray and to see if anyone had noted her absence.

He'd seen the tray and had already brought it back to the bar after pulling the case up while she was gone. Apparently the ruckus was surrounding the other girl who he'd warned sternly for her outbursts as she was being targetted as a mouse in the lion den at the moment. He smirked to himself though on a level he pitied her.

She realized her tray was at the bar and she slipped up next to the tender with a shy smile, not wanting to thank him again -he seemed like he'd be annoyed if she kept saying, the type where once was enough if it was sincere. "Looks like it didn't do much good, sticking my butt out there for her." She sighed a little sadly, watching the girl get the go-round from the group.

"Not your fault she didn't listen. I tried to tell her, but..," he said with an off-hand shrug as he fixed Nic's tray with the other girl's extras. "They're fresh and these are hers. The napkin there has where they go, clockwise starting there," he pointed to the first 'landing'. "She's done. Looks like you're a lucky girl, getting off from a masher and getting a few extra tips." He grinned warmly though he was concerned the load may be a bit much if she was still shaking.

"Yeah.. my lucky day." She gave a faint grin and took a moment to breathe. "Could I trouble you to have a soda for me when I come back? Been at this for hours without eating or drinking and with the.. you know I just don't want my nerves to get the best of me because I'm tired." She lifted up her tray with surprisingly steady hands, she had a strong will and wasn't going to let this make her fall to pieces.

"My pleasure," he nodded, still grinning as she hefted the large tray without faltering. "Twist of lime, right?" She'd earned her bit of his secret if she could figure out why he knew that.

She was stepping away but paused and turned her head to give him an odd look. How did he know that? She didn't have time to question it at the moment, but her eyes cast over him and she nodded. "Thanks.." Then she was off to the fray again, moving between the tables, delivering the other girl's drinks as well as her own and trying to ignore the way they were going at the other girl.

The drink was waiting for her with something extra she might find strange. Like the other small and subtle things he'd seen, he'd noticed the marks on her neck right off. A cover stick and tiny mirror were set next to the glass for her to touch up the darkening prints and aid their story of the clumsy goon simply falling.

When she came back it was clear to her that she was going to need something to help with the bruises and soreness of her back from being slammed and scraped over the crates. She noticed the mirror and cover stick.. where would a male bar tender get those without causing a stir? There didn't seem to be any stir about her and she held the items for a moment, odd thoughts stirring in her head. She wished for a moment her drink was stronger than soda but knew that was never a wise idea amoung this group. Nic sipped at the beverage and carefully applied the cover to the marks as best she could with the lighting and the small mirror. The compact that the mirror was held in seemed familiar to her too and she flipped it in her hands, looking it over more carefully.

[Lovely]

"It's not going to catch fire. You might catch hell, though, if you don't get back out there in a hurry," he said, slipping up behind her, closely as he reached for a clean bar towel, tossing the soggy one in the bin that stunk of beer. The way he moved at times and the way he didn't in others was much like an alley cat, crouched and wary, wirey and quick, unsettlingly so to some - nearly a feminine grace. "Didn't startle you, did I?"

"Startled.. no." She felt a small smile tug her lips as she titled her head to try and see him as he stood behind her. He'd made her tingle being that close and a part of her wanted to kiss him.. maybe it was the 'knight in shining armour' act he'd done with the goon. "Did I mention... thank you?" It felt good to have him close, yet gave her an odd chill -he was a little scary, which made him even more attractive to Nic.

"In a way," he nodded. "No need to, though. I'm sure any of those boys would have done the same, but only because they wanted to be next. Lucky for you... I don't like having an audience," he said. What he meant might be found in the cool stare, fixed yet soft, kind yet cruelly sharp.

His gaze alone could give her chills, at the moment she wasn't sure if they were good or bad. She chewed her lower lip, keeping her eyes on his face as she tried to make sense of the thoughts flowing through her head. "I'm not entirely reassured by that." She admitted with a slight smile. She wondered now what he might do if no one was around.. Was he just trying to toy with her a little or did he mean it in a more sinister way?

His hand found the compact without a blink and took it back. "No one will ever be the wiser," he quipped with a slight jerk of his head and a grin. It faded and he raised an eyebrow. "Now get back to work before we both get in trouble." The smile had left only briefly and came back. "You look fine."

One the one hand he was totally comforting, she felt like he was an old friend whom she could trust to look out for her, but on the other hand he scared her -like she needed to be very careful. Yet at the same time she was totally attracted to him! What was wrong with her? She actually liked that he was comfy, scary.. She shifted a little and tapped his chest with her finger. "You're supposed to tell the girl she looks beautiful.. or amazing.. not fine." She teased, wondering if he'd move to let her by or make her slide around him in the small space.

"I'll tell a lady the truth," he said, sounding offended, though it was hard to tell. He watched her move around him, staying still though his gaze clutched her every shift and curve. The smile curled a little more. "And I meant what I said... fine."

"Fine." She leaned with a soft laugh and warm whisper to tease the word over his ear before she headed back to the end of the bar. She pulled gently at the fabric of her dress, making sure it was smooth, in place, and she was revealing just enough yet not to much. Part of the gig was looking pretty, and did her best to be pleasing without being trampy like a couple of the girls did.

'Nic... you're welcome," he added as she slipped away. The smile stayed and his gaze followed her as he flung the clean towel in place on his shoulder and reached to collect the empty glasses on the bar.

His smile was returned and she mouthed another 'thank you' before slipping away into the crowd with her tray. Maybe it was him, his words or that he'd made her feel charged, whatever it was she seemed to have a burst of energy for this trip around the room. She was more natural, graceful and comfortable in her movements around the crowd even though they had grown more rowdy.

[Lovely]

************

The crowd had filtered down to a few stragglers, the regulars who waited to the end of the night to talk business once the fun and tongue-wagging had ended. These conversations were the least interesting to observe and overhear- he'd heard his share just about any night of the week. Thankfully the scenery was different this time. He'd come out to wipe the tables down and gather the last of the empty glasses, making a calculated sweep like he was swabbing a crime scene. In a way... he grinned a silent chuckle to himself and clinked the glasses in the racks for the hourly help to wheel away and started to close off the taps.

It wasn't technically her job to clean up after these gigs but she usually helped out with what she could. Gathering a discarded tray and glass here and there, making sure everything was accounted for. With a soft sigh she set the last of the trays on the stack to be put away and dropped her used rag to the small bucket to the side of the bar. She'd been given her pay for the night and had her tips as well, but tucked the cash away into her purse after pulling her keys to the top to keep them handy. With the money in her purse now, she slung the small accesory over her shoulder as she grabbed the stack of trays to put them in the utility room.

"They pay someone else to do that. You should go home. It's late. You called your ride, right? Not a good block to be stranded, waiting," he nodded back at the few that remained lurking in the corners.

She hadn't heard him or realized he was close to her until he spoke, which made her jump a little. She chuckled softly, brushing the nerves off as she smiled at him. "You always so stealthy? I.. am my ride home.."

"Stealthy? What do you mean?" He chuckled and reached a hand out to keep the cart of trays from tipping as she jumped. His smile was gentle this time, different as he stood 'accused' and away from the safety of his brass and wooden barriers. The upper buttons of his shirt were loose and he was relaxed with cash in his own pocket, burning ideas in his mind already. "I should see you to your car. Can't be too careful out there. You do read the papers, don't you?"

Her cheeks warmed as she thought of the girls she worked with who had been the victims of such terrible attacks. That of course was the first thing that came to her mind when he mentioned reading the papers -though he could have meant the area wasn't safe in general. "It's always something awful when i do." She said quietly, looking to him with a small nod. "Thank you. I'd feel better if you did." She nodded to the door ahead of her, which led to a storage room where these things were kept. "Let me just put these away.. I know I don't have to.. but I've already started to.. it will only take a minute."

"Sure. Take your time," he said quietly, taking a step back and swinging his hand out for her to proceed. "Very responsible of you. Unnecessary, but that's okay." He took another look around the room, watching the stragglers file out finally.

She felt a little like he was scolding her for simply being nice, but she didn't let it bother her. This was part of who she was -even when she'd had a rough day herself. The door to the storage room swung inward and she went back around to push the cart inside. The cart slid in easily and she took a step back to feel along the wall for the light switch.

He followed behind her, not wanting her to get locked in. He heard her hand sweeping over the wall and saw her a little in the shadow and sighed. She was wasting time. "Let me get that for you," he said, hardly stealthy this time from holding the door and sweeping his own hand in for the switch, quite familiar with this room as he was with the wine cellar. The light flicked on, bathing the room in a sickly yellow glow.

She turned as the light came on and she gave him a thankful smile, now that she could see. "You seemed to find your way around pretty well.. Thanks." She motioned to the lightswitch and turned to get the trays on the shelf and push the cart further in to the dorr would close and the others could be brought in. She started for the door, wiping her hands on the little half apron she wore.

"Helps to know the nooks and crannies of places like this. Locks have minds of their own," he shrugged, but the warning was serious enough. As if proving his point, he let the door he held close behind him with the two of them in the room, unseen.

"I guess it does.." She stopped as the door closed and just stared at him as he stood between her and the door. Then a soft nervous laugh floated out as her eyes cast over him. "Haha, very funny.."

"Try it yourself," he offered, stepping aside to lean by the switch. He folded his arms and waited. "Or don't you trust me to believe me? Ah.., before you answer, your actions will tell me enough. Maybe it's locked, maybe it's not, but the second you reach for the door, the night's over, isn't it?"

She started to take a step towards the door and then paused again at his last statement. "What do you mean by that.. the night's over?" She turned her gaze on him again and regarded him with an expression that was curious and didn't know whether to be mad or not. "Why would you want to lock us in here?"

[Lovely]

"A dozen reasons at least. I'm sure one or two is the same as what you're thinking. You have questions you want answered, but you haven't asked them. Do you want to?"

"If you wanted to talk.. you could have asked me to go for coffee.." Her voice faded off and she folded her arms around herself, letting out a soft sigh. "You seem to think.. to know a lot about me.. you have me at a disadvantage.. what do you think I want to ask?" She took a step back from him and the door, glancing and then shifting over to sit on a box. Nic looked up at him now, he had his 'wish', if you wanted to call it that -her full attention was on him.

"My name, why I know yours, why the sky is blue..?" He chuckled and slid down along the wall, squatting, leaning, watching. "I could take you to coffee, but I don't think we could really talk. I could take you to my place, or I go to yours, and where would that lead? If you don't trust me first, neither option is really a good choice, is it?"

She chuckled and shook her head a little, looking down at her hands as her fingers gently curled around each other. "You're right, and right, I don't care about the sky at the moment, but if you have the answer.." Her tongue ran over her lips and her gaze settled on him where he leaned. "So trapping me in a closet was your plan to gain my trust?" She made quotations around the word trapping and let a slight smile show briefly.

"Are you trapped? You could have reached for the door and I would have moved, but would you have had a chance to stop and think about it while you had a chance? And it's due to refraction of light on the atmosphere, oxygen, water, that's why the sky and water are the same color at night and day, but that's not what you wanted to know. Deacon Mallory. There - a first and last to play around in your mind a while. What's your next question?"

"Why you didn't just ask me to talk.. this seems kind of tricky. What if I had tried the door?" She honestly wondered now if it was locked or if he would have asked her to stay if it wasn't.

He shrugged and rested his elbows on his knees, casually knotting his fingers out in front of himself. "You go to your car and you go home like a good little girl and stay out of trouble. Maybe have a cup of coffee but maybe I don't like talking with too many people around. Ah, more information for you and you hadn't asked. That's your advantage, Nicky. You make me forget myself sometimes."

"I make.." She blushed a little, that was quite a compliment -wasn't it? "Is it a bad thing that I do?" She tugged at her lip, playing with it a little as she continued to watch him. "Are you saying that you're trouble?"

His own lip jutted out in the contemplation of such a thought. He glanced away, giving her relief from his stare for only a brief moment. "That's up to you and your perception. Let's see, I save you from a masher, cover up a crime to help you keep your job so you can go home with your lunch money and your chastity intact... you tell me - am I trouble?"

"If that's all I'm basing it on, I'd say definitley no.. not trouble. i'd lean more in the direction of knight in .. bartender armour.." She lowered her eyes to her hands again, licking at her lip as she thought for a moment. "That's not all you are though.. You're not just tonight.. you can't be, if I'm ever going to see you again."

"I told you, I'd tell a lady the truth. I am trouble, but not like you'd think," he said, pulling himself down fully to the floor and holding a knee up to his chest. His hands gestured slightly though still knotted. "It's not all I am and it's not just tonight. You just haven't thought about it hard enough. I can, with nearly 100 percent certainty, tell you that you will see me again."

His words gave her a new challenge in trying to solve the mystery of who he was and why he 'felt' the way he did to her. "You would tell me the truth.. whatever I ask you?"

"If I give you an answer, it will be truthful, how about that?" He turned a little, looking at her sideways, bird-like in a way. "You honestly don't know. All night and it's been driving you insane, that's what it is, isn't it?"

"What's driving me crazy is the combination of feeling like I should know and not knowing why, that you seem to know me.. and how.. very attracted I am to you.. Would you care to help me with any of that?"

He smiled and his eyes seemed to shine brightly despite the ugly yellow around them. "I told you my name. We've worked in the same places for some time, before tonight. As for the rest, well I won't help you with that in here. What kind of gentleman would I be to take advantage of that information in a closet?"

"I don't know anyone named Deacon.. or at least didn't until tonight.. I work at the Palace.. the only men who work there are the bouncers.. and I know the bouncers.. So the only way you could work there is if you were.. " She froze and her eyes widened a little as she looked over at him again. "You can't be.. "

He reached into his pocket, pulling out the compact. "Illusion is an art," he reminded her coolly, tossing the powder to her. "Catch. You might want to touch that up a little."

[Lovely]

She didn't really catch the compact, it more just landed in her lap as she stared at him, disbelieving and shocked. "I.." She dragged her eyes away from him, trying to take a few even breaths. "Why?" She didn't understand why he would pretend to be someone else.

"Just part of who I am, Nicky," he shook his head and folded his arms across himself. "Unless you think someone should be someone they're not? You understand now why it's not something I can easily talk about with just anyone around. You can't tell Carl, whatever you do. It's not like I can be arrested for wearing heels in public, but I can still get fired."

She didn't answer him right away, she needed a minute to compose herself and get over the shock. Her eyes moved around the room and then finally came back to him, sweeping over him before settling on his face. "I'm sorry.. that wasn't quite the explanation I was expecting.. I don't think you should be someone you're not." I understand why you can't talk about it.. with just anyone. I won't tell Carl.. I don't think he'd fire you for it, but I respect your wish to not have this be public knowledge.."

"Thank you," he nodded, though he knew without her saying so that she wouldn't say a word. "Still think the same thing you did a minute ago? Be honest - if you meant it in the first place, it should still be true."

"About being confused.. totally." She smiled and arched her eyebrow at him. "Oh hh.. you meant about the attraction.. absolutely."

"Thank you again. You know what you know is true. No one else there does know and certainly not Resher's boys or even the bouncers. Thank god they only ever pinch my ass," he chuckled, shaking his head in amused disgust. "That's why I know almost all of the ones here tonight."

"Well it is a very nice a**.. I can see the appeal." She was relaxing again and the gentle easy smile was starting to return. "Is there anything else you want to reveal while you have me in here?"

He laughed, not sure how to take the compliment beyond a shimmer of red that faded quickly. "Yes, but no. Not here," he shook his head slower to her question, gears turning, clicking and brightening that cold mischief in his eyes again. "I think you might need that coffee first."

Her own eyes brightened as he laughed, she found the sound a comfort. "I guess we should go get some coffee then." She started to slide herself off the box but remembered the compact as her movement shifted it in her lap. She lifted it up and frowned as she looked at her neck, her fingers dabbed and worked to re-cover the marks. "I.. have coffee at my place.. if you don't mind?"

He reached up and pulled himself up by the door knob, cracking the door open to show she hadn't been locked in at all and that it was simply her curiosity that held her captive with him. "If you feel I've earned it with my honesty enough to have your trust now, then - lead on. I missed the last bus anyhow."

She bit her tongue at scolding him for missing his bus and simply gave him a soft smile as she slowly rose off the box. She closed the compact and held it out to him. "How do you like your coffee?"

"Dark, sweet and strong," he said, hardly thinking about it and maybe not talking about drinks at all. He took the compact back, brushing her fingers this time, pulling her closer with it.

"I think I might have something you'll like." She murmured as she let him pull her closer to him. Her eyes lifted to look into his cool blue gaze.

He nodded and leaned gently back against the door until it clicked closed again. "I think the lady tells the truth herself." The disc was pulled to slip away into his pocket leaving her hand by his side.

It felt totally natural for her hand to follow his and drift up to rest against his hip as she took a step closer. "I have one more question before we go out."

"Only one?" He whispered, letting his hand drift forward to rest on her side.

She nodded and shifted closer, lifting her other hand to rest against his chest, lightly. "Just one before we go.. many later." Her eyes sparkled a little as explored the sensations being close to him brought. Her lips curved up in a sweet but daring smile. "When are you going to kiss me?"

"When you least expect it," he grinned, pulling the door open behind him again. "Not... in a closet."

Her lips turned in a pout, though her eyes still sparkled and smiled at him. "A missed opprotunity, is just that.." She slid around him to go out the door, letting her hand trail over and around him as she did so.

"Not missed, just desired that much more later," he muttered enough to hear. He moved from her path as he'd said he would. "Unless you've changed your mind about coffee and giving me a ride home."

"I haven't changed my mind." She assured him, holding her hand out for him as she waited in the hall. "Do you need anything else before we leave?"

He looked down at his work clothes and his hands and shook his head. Without even looking, he found the switch to shut off the light and follow her. "I have everything I need, for tonight at least."

"Good, I'm so ready to get out of here.. " She pointed towards the back exit further down the hall. "My car is in the service area, back there." She reached to find her keys again, glad she didn't have to dig for them.

Was she sure she was ready to deal with him directly, alone, one-on-one? She'd seemed as scared as she was thrilled and that was thrilling enough for him to keep going. "Yes, I know which one's yours. Sorry if that bothers you," he shrugged a little, taking long easy strides beside her. "Closing time, you know - only so many cars and so many girls."

"It's hard to know if I should I be flattered or creeped out.. can I ask.. " She reached over to touch his arm. ".. I'm not a dancer like the other girls.. I mean.. why me?"

"Be flattered, and be proud. You don't sell your skin to make a buck. You have everything you need to be a dancer if you wanted to, though," he said. It seemed simple enough.

"Thank you." Her fingers brushed his arm a little, as if to say it with her touch as well. Her hand fell away and she turned for the door again, eager to get away from 'work' and spend some time getting to know this intriguing man a little more.

Either their handiwork in the cellar had yet to be discovered or Resher's cleaning crew had already dealt with the mess. Mal didn't expect to have any troubles on their way out either way. "No need if it's true. Just keep living up to it. You're better than they are."

[Lovely]

"That's sweet of you to say." She didn't think she was any better than the other girls, she was just different. It was still nice to have someone think that way about her. She smiled as the cool night air hit her when she stepped out the door. "I feel better already." She murmured, she loved the night.

'Sweet' hadn't been his intention in speaking his mind, but as usual, he forgot himself and his usually biting opinion of the skin-girls with Nicky nearby. "Feeling better than being in the stuffy, sweaty confines with all that testosterone and stale gunpowder? I can't imagine why. I'd offer a walk, but these mean streets...," he didn't feel he needed to say anything more, looking at the sky and the alley, turning back to her with a invigorated expression and smile as if he'd been holding his breath for hours.

"My neighborhood is better.. if you mean it.. we could take a walk a little later.. have to get there first." She started to motion towards her car and stopped herself, another soft chuckle floating out. "I forgot.. you know which one is mine.."

"That's a strange perception. There's really nothing wrong with this neighborhood or any others, but it's a little too close to the regulars for me to have nice things to say," he admitted, looking around the block again. No one was in sight, the way he preferred, but that was the uncertainty. Resher's patrols spiraled around the PD's around here and neither were his kind of people. He walked to the car he'd seen her slip into at the end of the night more than a dozen times as if he drove it himself. "It suits you," he said as if it mattered.

"Thanks.. it gets me where I need to go.. usually." She unlocked her side and hit the button for the automatic locks so he could get in as well. As she slipped down into her seat, she scrambled to grab the pair of backless sneakers which were resting on the passenger side. "Sorry for the mess.." Her car wasn't really messy just a few things that had been left in there instead of carried inside when she got home. She curled down to pull off the high heels she'd been wearing all night and tossed them in the backseat, slipping into the sneakers instead.

"Definitely better and it's not a mess. Just because I keep a spotless bar, don't get the wrong idea. It's... well, it's a habit when it's business." He seemed less concerned with the debris than watching her dress down.

There was a tee shirt and a pair of shorts on the back seat that she'd usually change into while she drove and out of habit she grabbed them as she started the car to let it warm up. She leaned forward to reach back to unzip her dress and caught herself, looking over at him with a sheepish smile. "Hi.. it's good that you're not a neat freak. I'm not a slob or anything but my place is lived in."

"Living is what people do in their own homes, Nic. It's okay," he said, nodding, motioning that she continue. He turned to watch out the window for what privacy she could have, though he could see a vaporous reflection in the glass.

She wasn't sure if she should even though he motioned for her to go ahead, after a moment of considering she continued to change. The dress didn't allow for a bra beneath it, and though he'd turned away she still blushed as she changed, being topless with him that close. Once she was covered again and the shorts slipped up her legs, she tossed her dress in the back and tapped his arm to let him know it was okay to look again. "Now.. that's better!"

His eyes had been closed most of the time. He turned back around, opening them slowly to take her in. The blaze of piercing blue couldn't be helped. "It is, much. Nic, I'm sorry, I shouldn't have told you. It makes things different. It wasn't supposed to, but it does, doesn't it?"

"What are you talking about... because.. no.. it doesn't matter to me.. I mean other than I'm glad you trusted me to tell me.. It doesn't change anything for me.. I.. does it for you? Are you sorry you told me?"

"I might be," he said, his lids low, still partly closed, pensive. It closed him off to her that much more but spoke volumes of how much he did trust her and cared. He glanced up, curious. "But seeing me as you usually do, as you will, it's different. You're attracted to this, but not Mallory, see?"

"That's not entirely true.. I mean Yes.. I'm very very attracted to you.. like this.. but the whole a** comment in the closet.." She blushed a little. "I can't really say that I'm not.. but can't say that I am.. I never thought about things that way.. I've never been in this kind of situation before.."

"What about the a** comment?" He put her on the spot, wanting to know what she meant - had she wanted a piece of him too? "Start thinking that way, because we work together and it's who I am, Nic."

"I.. I checked her.. you out.. Yes, I looked at your a** at work.. okay.. I envied your eyes and nice high cheek bones.. and those d**n lips.. K, happy now?" She smiled but blushed and shifted in her seat. "We work with gorgeous naked girls and I thought you were pretty.. I was a little jealous even.."

"Don't be. I'll never make it as a stripper, either sex. I put on women's clothes. I'm not prone to taking them off... not in public."

"I wasn't.. I don't want to be a stripper. I just thought you were.. there was something.. exotic about you.. I wished I had that. A lot of guys grab your a**.. " She teased him a little, reaching across the space between the seats and brushing his cheek.

"Yes, they do. It takes an admirable amount of control not to take the gloves off. I don't know how you put up with it, or why you would. It's degrading and demeaning. Insulting," he added softly, dropping the rant with her touch on his face. "I'm not sure which understand less, men, women... or why you affect me the way you do."

"It's good money.. it's honest work.. there's not a lot of that in this town that one can live on." She shrugged, still brushing a finger over his cheek. "Why do you affect me like you do?"

"Honest work? That's laughable. What you do is honest work, but what they see isn't a working girl - you or the ones on stage. They see meat. Raw, steaming carcasses for carrion eaters, Nic. What's worse is what it does to the dancers. Two-edged blade... they end up feeding themselves right into the waiting teeth of the crowd to be eaten alive and they get off on it as much as the men do. If I didn't need the money myself, I'd board the place up and condemn it, maybe burn it to the ground to get the stench out of the air."

"That's a little harsh, don't you think?" She was quiet for a moment, but kept her contact with him. "Are you this intense about everything?"

"Most things, yes." He nodded a little and reached to her hand before she pulled away, kissing her knuckle. "I'm sorry if that scares you. I'm not intense with coffee and casual conversation, or I'll try not to be."

"It does scare me.. but it also excites me.. if that makes sense.. I like that you're so.. passionate about things. That's not a bad thing.. Just don't take it personally if I get a little frightened.. I've never known someone who's intense.. like you."

"Fear reminds you you're alive," he murmured, but the grin took the edge off the intensity. "Actually I'm flattered that you listen. Thank you."

"I listen pretty good over coffee too.. " She winked at him and sighed. "You might have to make me start driving.. I could just sit here and talk for hours.. or stare into your eyes.. I never noticed them being so... do you wear contacts to work?"

"I have to. The lights make me insane if I don't. It's unfortunate they're noticable when I don't, too. My vision is perfect though. It's illusion, like the rest. This is what's real, take it or don't."

"You have beautiful eyes.. I'll keep the lights low at my place.." She puckered him a kiss and turned to get the car in gear and get them going. "I guess this means I'm taking you.. if you're alright with it?"

"I wouldn't have stayed if it wasn't. Who was keeping who from doing anything they didn't want to? Ah, that is a trick question. Just drive," he chuckled.

"I'm driving!" She laughed, swinging the car around the turn and getting onto the main road. She was a good driver but had a bit of a lead foot, if she didn't pay attention to it. "What sort of music do you like when you're not working?" She motioned to the radio, if he wanted to turn it on. "Or I could talk your ear off.. or you could tell me endless details about yourself.. answer my questions before I ask them?" She flashed him a pretty smile and then turned to watch the road as the car cruised along.

"Same as my coffee, dark and strong, but not necessarily sweet. You choose, it's your car."

"You're a guest in my car.. you choose." She countered with a smile, circling her finger at him. "There's not a lot of time.."

"Then don't waste it on music. You had other questions I'm sure you want answers to," he offered, pulling her hand from the air into his. Though masculine his fingers were thin and his hands small.

"There will be plenty of time for questions when we arrive at our destination... besides you're supposed to be filling in the details and answering my questions before I ask them..." Her thumb rubbed softly over his hand as hers curled around.

[Lovely]

Continues from Sorely Mistaken

July 01 2008
12:30 a.m.
Nicky's apartment

***********

Nic unlocked the deadbolt on her apartment door, she'd led Deacon up to the second floor of a reasonably clean and kept up building. It was by no means a 'posh' place but decent and what she felt was fairly safe. The door swung in, to reveal a comfortable girl's place. The colors scheme for the livingroom they stepped into was a faded blue. There was a small table by the door with a bowl, where she dropped her keys and waited for him to follow her in, so she could rebolt the door. "Home sweet home.." She smiled, her house, being lived in as she'd warned. An almost empty glass of water on the end table by the couch, an outfit she'd worn before going to work, tossed over the back of a chair.

He stayed at the door a moment, taking everything of importance in, where the windows were, where they led, where she kept her keys and how she kept house. A quick glance back down the stairs, a look at the other doors on her floor and below, quiet. Nice and quiet. He grinned and entered, closing the door behind himself as she went about her routine. "Sweet and sensible," he said, complimenting her tastes as he looked for photos and kitsch that might explain more what she was like.

There weren't a lot of pictures and things, a few lovingly placed 'favorite' photos in frames. One of her and her siblings all dressed up, on another shelf -one of them 'natural', a couple pictures of her and 'her girls' Mariah and Wesley who worked at the club. She'd been friends with the two of them outside of work for some time. There was also one of her, Wes, Mari, and Carl from a company party they'd had. There were no pictures of her and her ex or any other guys she'd dated or been friends with, that was something he might notice as he looked around. A box of Frosted Flakes left out on the kitchen counter, the bowl rinsed and left in the sink. Her few knick knacks were different fantasy figures, mostly pewter or carved from stone. There was a very nice (and expensive) carved chess set displayed on it's marble board on a small side table. One shelf of books held volumes on mythology and the like, a stack of cds sat out with a variety from classical to pop.

"Make yourself comfortable.." She motioned to the couch or chair, gathering up her discarded clothes and walking them back to the 'laundry room' which was the size of a walk in closet -just big enough for the washer/dryer and a hamper. "Thanks.. most of it's used.. I've done my best to get decent things."

"Used? Doesn't that make you feel strange knowing that you have someone else's life woven in yours?" It was an honest question. Who knew what happened to things that people discarded? "Don't you ever wonder, I mean? Why they don't have it anymore? I've sold my share, don't get me wrong, but don't you think about what crazy strange experiences some of these things may have seen in their time?" He took time to admire the chess set and the creatures that seemed to be pulled from the pages of the myth books on the shelves. What sort of fantasy was she living in her mind, he wondered.

She laughed as she closed the doors to the laundry area and nodded her head. "I do think about it.. I've come up with some interesting ideas. I think it's part of what makes the things more appealing.. they have life.. I mean sure.. someday when I can afford it -I'd love to have new things.. but you know the saying -beggars can't be choosers."

"Or they can be thieves," he said offhand, taking a seat in a chair to wait. He looked at the photo of the crew, familiar faces to him though his wasn't to them. He glanced back down the hallway. Mariah, Wesley... silly, foolish girls who didn't watch out for themselves as they should have. He hadn't seen either of them at the club in months. "I didn't realize you knew the other girls so well," he mentioned.

She smiled coming over to sit on the couch, on the end closest to him. "Just a couple of them.. Mari and Wes.. I went to school with them.. I don't have many friends at the club or outside of it.."

"That's a shame. It really is. That and what happened to them. Have you heard from them? I only know the rumors and what was in the papers. It was them that he got, wasn't it?"

"Why is it a shame? It's better to have just a few true friends, than lots of fake ones." Something in the way she said it, sounded like she knew from experience. "What happened to them was horrible.. I mean of all the girls.. they were probably the nicest.. I know they're my friends, so that's not an unbiased opinion. Wes has two boys, you know? She almost lost them to her ex because of what happened.. I think it would have hurt her worse for that to happen, than being attacked like she was.."

No, he didn't know. What would a responsible mother be doing throwing herself to the wolves for tips with two small lives at stake? He shook his head. "I didn't know her that well," he said, then chuckled. "I might know about as much as I know about you, but that's only from observations from my world of glass and ice."

"She didn't socialize a lot with people from the club.. she was nice at work and then went home to take care of her boys.. thank goodness they weren't home when... can you imagine.. I even looked into a security system after that, but I couldn't afford it. I got a deadbolt added from my landlord and that was hard enough!" She looked over at him and shook her head. "I'm sorry.. I didn't mean to go on such a down note. You seem to know enough about me.. more than most would on a first date."

He nodded. "It's very tragic," he agreed with the rest and stood back up with his hands in his pockets, looking around the details again. He'd gotten a chill he couldn't and wouldn't explain other than the hand that scratched at his neck a moment. "I know what I know, Nic. I like to know what I'm dealing with." He turned back to face her. "Not like that sounded, but it's true. I don't deal well with people who think they're above others. You're not like that. Ergo, I learned a little more once I saw what I liked. Stealthy, I guess you'd say, but it wasn't meant to be."

She shook her head and smiled, feeling a little like she'd made him uncomfortable. "I'm sorry if I put you on the spot.. I wouldn't say stealthy. I mean.. how could you have been open about liking me.. considering you're a different you at work. I'm kind of flattered that you liked me enough to pay attention to the details. I mean I've had boyfriends who couldn't tell me what I liked for a drink."

"That's why 'boy' always comes before 'friend', hm? You don't deserve boys," he said, then laughed. "And then there's me, hm? I meant, you need a gentleman, not a selfish prick."

[Lovely]

"That's why Nicky hasn't had any boyfriends for a while.." She smiled up at him and motioned to the space beside her on the couch. "When you're ready to have a seat again.."

"What's the real reason? You flirt like a pro and you're not pushing me away. What really happened? I'm not complaining, just curious." His expression knotted and curled around his inquiry, trying to see deeper into her, perhaps looking for a glimmer of something specific. "You said 'many'.. but there's not one now?"

"There hasn't been one for.. wow I kind of feel a little pathetic saying it but.. for almost three years." She turned inward for a moment, thinking of what explaination she could give for why. Honesty, he deserved that -he'd been honest with her. "The last one was a very bad choice on my part.. my only excuse is I was young and didn't really know very much about being an adult. Since then.. I've had a hard time trusting people.. He hurt me... a lot."

"Does 'he' have a name?" Something in Deacon's even and low timbre crackled with a strange electricity. He sounded angry on her behalf the moment she mentioned she'd been hurt.

Her eyes lowered and she took a deep breath, shaking her head slightly. "He used to.. but after.. he just doesn't exist in my life anymore."

"Good thing for him," he said then brought the smile back out to warm up the air again. "I'm not sure what I would do to him if I thought he was a masher." Actually he knew exactly and so did she now.

"A masher?" She looked up to him with a curious expression, his smile easing the clouded sadness from her face.

"Someone who tries to take something he shouldn't have," he clarified, taking the seat beside her that she'd offered. "Then again, some things just shouldn't be offered freely to the undeserving, either. I wonder if he ever got up?" He was speaking of the man in the cellar now.

"Oh.. yeah, a masher.. he was a masher.." She was lost in thought for a moment and then turned to him, now next to her as he mentioned the other 'he'. It took a few seconds for her to realize who and what he meant, she bit her lip and turned her gaze to the coffee table. "Would you think me terrible if I said I said I hope he hasn't.."

"Horrible," he said flattly then chuckled. "No, not at all. He got only what he deserved. You however, you should put some ice on that. He had a good hold on you."

"That he did.." She reached up to touch her neck lightly. "I should probably wipe all the make up off and get a good look at the damage." She seemed reluctant to get up but after a moment, slowly rose and started towards the bathroom.

"That's not the damage that concerns me. Bruises heal, but the rest... he shouldn't have toyed with this one," he said, shaking his head. Did he mean himself or her now? Maybe he wasn't entirely sure. "How often do you get the opportunity to work Resher's parties? You might want to avoid being asked again for a little while."

She paused and turned back to him with a slight but sad smile. "The Resher's pretty much run most of this town.. it's like a set up.. you can't survive without.. I need the money, Deacon.. I have bills to pay."

"I'm not saying you don't, but maybe you should listen to what I'm not saying. Resher doesn't like getting hurt either and if he thinks his boys got messed up because of you, or me, let's just say your bills will be the least of your worries," he said, letting her go off to tend the bruises.

"I am listening.." She murmured quietly, going into the bathroom, the sound of running water was heard for the next few minutes. Nic emerged with a towel blotting the water from her neck, when moved the angry welts and bruises showed more darkly against her skin. "I'm sort of between a rock and a hard place here. If i turn them down for a gig -they'll question it, if I accept.. they may question things anyway.. if I don't take the extra jobs.. well I could afford to lose a few pounds I guess.. the poor girl's diet.." She gave a weak laugh and sat down beside him again.

"True enough I suppose, but you shouldn't have to lose anything you're used to having. You just have to be a little more creative. It was only a suggestion about Resher. I know as well as you do, if he says jump, don't even ask how high, just jump."

"Yeah, you gotta love the things you can be sure of in life." She laughed dryly and tipped her head to his shoulder. "You're just as right in what you said too.. hey, didn't i promise you coffee? You're letting me be a bad hostess."

"You promised, so did I," he said, tipping her chin up on a finger tip. "You're not bad at anything, Nicky. Let no one tell you differently." The promise was for a time she didn't expect it and it was freely offered now, a kiss held a half a breath out of reach.

"There's lots of things I'm bad at.." She whispered with a smile and closed the distance to bring her lips to his. It may have been a long time since she'd kissed someone but she knew she'd felt such a charge at the first touch. She kissed him without pretense, without shyness, or restraint, though she let him lead her.

The electricity of his anger and the intensity of the rest wasn't part of any illusion when he met her touch. There was no chaste shyness nor any apology in his search for answers from her. His hand moved from tipping her up to holding her there gently as he explored.

Though he 'held' her there for the kiss, she was not trying to move away, indeed she leaned toward him -seeking more. The intensity felt like what she'd seen in him before only this time directed in a kiss.. and oh what a kiss, her toes were curling and her heart beating faster.

[Lovely]

Beneath his thumb he could feel her pulse race. Some things, such pleasures, could not be disguised. His hand stayed at the nape of her neck, firm and cool though he pulled back to look in her eyes. Close and unflinching, he spoke in a creaking whisper, "No. You're not bad. You excel and you deserve so very much."

What had she ever done to deserve such admiration as he seemed to have for her? Her lips parted in a soft breath and she stared into his eyes, she didn't have words to go with the thoughts that danced in her head at this moment. She was filled with wonder about the intense and mysterious man who had so suddenly made himself known in her life.

"Have you ever done anything you regret, Nicky?" It was more honest a question than he'd wanted to ask, but felt the words running for freedom on their own. His fingers tangled gently in her hair while he reached to brush her cheek with his other hand.

Her eyes fluttered in response to the light touch of his hand on her cheek, they opened to meet his again and her head nodded slightly. "I have.." She whispered her answer as he was so close and something in the way he looked at her made her nearly breathless.

His fingers uncurled to hold the other side of her face and draw her into another kiss. She'd done something... something she felt she couldn't take back ever, a sense of regret - it was a connection with her he could never explain beyond the feeling that she understood him and his motives though many of those were yet unrevealed.

She didn't know what it was that compelled him to hold her the way he did, what had he done that made him ask and seek such comfort like this? Her lips pulled softly on his and her fingers slid fimly over his back, she didn't know the details but felt a bond forming between them with the kiss and comfort shared.

"Judge not lest ye be judged," he muttered out as he forced himself to step back, letting go suddenly, sharply. "I'm sorry. I shouldn't have assumed..."

The shock was clear in her eyes and expression as he pulled back and let go of her so suddenly. "What?" Her voice held the breathlessness of the kiss she'd just been enjoying. "Why?.. I.. assumed what?" She was lost, wondering if she'd done something wrong.. or maybe he was just playing some sort of game with her?

"I don't know what you feel you've done," he grinned briefly, glancing up then turning to pace slowly as he explained. "I've done a thing or two I regret.. not many, just once or twice," he clarified as he circled around her. "You don't know what I've done, either... do you?"

Her laugh was quiet, barely there -nervous as she watched him pace and circle. "N-no.. I don't. I wasn't expecting you to tell me.. I mean if you want to talk about it.. but you don't have to.."

"Ah. See there's the thing. Trust and truth, sometimes one begets the other, sometimes not. I will say that I considerably doubt your deeds are anywhere near as punishable as my own. I will therefore keep my demons on a very short leash, but if you want to let yours go, feel free." He tossed himself back casually to sit on the sofa, pulling an ankle up over one knee and stretching an arm out to either side, in every way open to her except for those demons.

She chuckled and shook her head. "Ah.. I can tell you mine but you're not telling me yours? I think I'll just keep my skeletons in the closet for now."

"That might become a very crowded and cozy closet," he smiled. The smile was as dazzling as the gaze was chillling. "When the time is right, but now is not that time," he advised again.

"Fair enough.. but you're the one who brought it up.. " Her eyes moved slowly over him, curious as to what his motives were. She shivered without realizing it, lost in the mix of cool and dazzle in his eyes and smile.

"Depends on what you're talking about bringing up, so to speak. I can't be the only one who's tripped over himself trying to get to you," he said, sounding awed and honored to be given her time.

She had a feeling she was outmatched in certain ways and decided instead of trying to keep up she'd merely go with what she could. "I don't know what you mean.. if others have, I haven't seen it.. I didn't think you were tripping over yourself to get to me.. should I be flattered or worried that I'm being too difficult?"

Deacon chuckled, rocking his head slowly. "No, neither. I don't give flattery easily, but I mean every ounce I do give, likewise with insults and scathing criticism - not that you have a thing to worry about from me. Difficult.. is hardly the word I have in mind for you," he said, uncurling and leaning forward on his knees, watching her like a cat. "I mean, I don't know why your private dance card isn't permanently filled and your phone ringing tirelessly to the point of making you insane. You're not a thing like the other girls. I can't be the only one who knows or sees that."

[Lovely]

"I don't give out my phone number very often.. almost never really.. and my private dance card.. well that's even harder to get on.." She curled her arms around her middle and shook her head a little. "You may be the only who sees it.. or maybe just the only one brave enough to take a chance on getting closer."

"Bravery? If looking out from behind brown contact lenses and the wrong shade of blush constitutes being brave, I must be a f*cking white knight," he teased, shaking his head again. "I'm not brave, Nicky. I'm honest."

"Sometimes being honest.. is being brave. So many people in this world never say how they feel about things, never take the chance to get to know someone -even when they really want to and the chance is there. You could have kept hiding.. you could have walked away instead of pulling that guy off me.. you didn't have to tell me about the other side of who you are.. but you did. That was brave. You had no idea how I'd react to that, but you took the chance to tell me." Her lips curled into a soft smile as she came closer and sat on the couch, turned to face him.

"Why do you think I followed you into the closet? If it didn't go so well...," he started but edged off, seeming oddly distant a moment before turning the bright smile up again.

Her eyes narrowed and she shook her head. "What does that mean.. if it didn't go so well?"

"Does it matter? It went fine. Don't waste time or energy on 'what if's' and 'could haves'. Although I suspect you have quite a vivid imagination," he teased.

It sort of did matter, if he left it to her imagination. Still she smiled and shrugged, wondering but not saying what was on her mind in that regard. "It kind of matters, but mostly I'm curious.. I thought you'd come in so you'd have a chance to tell me semi privately.."

"Only one chance? So it's now or never? Ooo, the woman plays straight and hard. I might like that," he mused, rolling ideas around in his mind. "So you really are curious? You know what they say about curiosity..."

"Yes.. but I'm not a cat." She winked back at him, her lips curving in a slightly teasing, challenging expression.

"But what if the cat was only a witness to something else? Think about that while you get the coffee... remember?" He relaxed back into the sofa and watched her expressions.

Her eyes narrowed again, she wondered what he meant by that comment. "Coffee.. yes.." She gave a brief smile and rose from the couch to head into the kitchen. Nicky tried not to think about what he'd said while she moved quietly around the kitchen, getting the coffee brewing and the mugs out for them.

He didn't leave her alone in the kitchen too long. Deacon appeared quietly at the doorway, watching her as she reached for the mugs, being his apparently stealthy self though it wasn't intentional. "No, you're not a cat at all," he blurted.

He startled her and she almost dropped the mugs, catching them and turning over her shoulder to see him there. She laughed a little and shook her head.

"See? No hissing and raised hackles. I rest my case," he chuckled. "Let me guess - stealthy? I don't try to be. Maybe it's just natural... like my so-called bravery. Would you like some help?"

"I was going to say 'sneaky'.. but the effect was the same, you startled the heck out of me." Nicky smiled and held out the mugs to him. "Help is welcomed.. do you like milk or sugar or anything with your coffee? You said dark and sweet didn't you?"

"The darker the better," he smirked. "Sweet is optional, but tolerated for its merits. I don't mean the coffee." He took his choice of the mugs and set it down. "I already told you, you deserve so very much. I should give you what you ask for. How long have I worked with you - or do you even remember when I started?"

"So you just tolerate me?" This was one of those moments when he switched gears so fast that she wasn't sure what he was talking about. "What.. I.. I don't remember the date you started.. but I clearly remember the first time we met.. why?"

"When you first met Mallory... someone different, sort of, than me," he corrected gently. "And I more than tolerate you," he added, stepping closer. "Tolerance is laid to the wayside with 'difficult' as far as terms I have for you. Rather, words like intrigue... crave..." The words fell away to far-from-subtle glances and a gesture of his hand reaching to hold her close again.

"But she is you.. a part of you.." She protested a little -hadn't he said that himself? She didn't pull away as he reached for her, though the glances he gave sent tingles through her. Her lips parted in a soft gasp as she came easily to him, realizing he'd pulled her close again. The word crave seemed to echo in her ears and she watched him almost feeling the words he spoke. "Crave?" She whispered, her hands had come to rest flat against his chest.

[Lovely]

"Crave... an irrational desire, usually for something ... very, very bad to one's health and livelihood. Ergo, something that could make one misstep or tumble headlong and unravel... just about everything he's ever done," he explained, taking her mug from her hand to set near his.

Her eyes searched his face and then flickered up to meet his. "Is that what you consider.. think of me? Am I very very bad for you? Will I cause you to unravel?"

He nodded slowly, moving his hand along hers and upward over her arm. "Mmhmm, very," he said, the penetrating cold of his expression chilling his words but not the kiss he dared to attempt.

His gaze alone caused a small involuntary shiver, but the kiss.. her knees felt wobbley. Her eyes shuttered closed at the first brush of his lips and her hands shifted a few inches to rest at his waist, curling gently into his sides.

"Very bad," he murmured, contradicting everything he'd told her and grinning a little as he pulled away and moved her hands off of him slowly. "I conceded already and you expected that. I'll try to be a little more sneaky next time. Cream is fine. I'll be right back," he said. His tone was less chilled now.

He was.. he baffled her, she didn't, couldn't expect anything. Every time she thought she knew or figured out, he surprised her or changed course and she didn't know what he'd do next. It wasn't entirely unpleasant, just kept her on her toes with the shifts and the chills he gave her in between. She just nodded at his words, wondering where he was going as she turned to the counter to fix their coffee and get her legs to stop feeling so much like jello.

He'd seen the layout of her apartment from the casual perspective, but now it was time to observe more closely as she kept herself busy for the moment. The simple task of excusing himself for the washroom wasn't suspicious, but if she'd watched him, she might think differently. Running water made sense if only to obscure sounds, but not his own. He moved the shower closure carefully, feeling along the top and the sides, looking for something. He checked window ledges and her cabinets, any place a small, non-descript item might be kept. With Resher's employees, one couldn't be too sure.

Convinced after a few minutes that no other 'ears' could hear, he ran water over his fingertips and refreshed the gel in his hair. There was now one fairly safe place here they could talk, however unconventional it seemed. He came back to the kitchen, less anxious and seemingly refreshed now. He knocked on the frame of the entryway so he wouldn't startle her quite so easily this time. "Thank you. Seashells.. nice decor," he pointed out.

Nicky chuckled and nodded her head. "Yeah.. it kind of came with the place.. I bought the shower rug.." She shrugged and looked over her shoulder with a smile. "Glad you like it though.. as odd as it seems for your taste in bathroom decor to matter." She motioned to the mugs she'd filled. "I hope it's alright, I was light on the sugar since you said you only like a little sweet.."

"It's fine. Thank you." He took the mug and reached for her hand. "There's something important I need to share with you. Come here." Mal took a step back toward the washroom again, hoping she'd follow him.

He glanced at the bottom of the mug, just to be sure, then began scolding himself for the excess caution, his eyes rolling at his own behavior. He set it down on the sink and waved her in with him. "Close the door or not, I don't think it will matter. I just feel I can speak openly in here. Resher owns everything, even the paint. It's so hard to be sure. I want to be sure.. for you."

Nicky followed him, smiling softly but nervously as she held onto his hand. When he led her into the washroom and explained more she arched an eyebrow at him, but pulled the door closed behind them and reached for his hand again. "Hey.. it's okay, I understand.. not totally but the need to feel safe and have someplace that is actually private to talk." She encouraged him quietly to continue sharing with her, whatever he felt he needed or wanted to.

[Lovely]

"You'll understand shortly," he sighed, not entirely sure letting her into his world was wise, especially with the items she did have in reach and knew exactly where to find, as did he now if his intuition failed him. "There's something I want to share with you that no one else knows, not even my mother, though that might be tough anyway.. she's been dead since I was a teenager. I digress.. um.. well, have a seat. Not ideal, but you may be thankful in a moment."

"oh-kay.." She gave him a sort of nervous shy yet reassuring smile as she hoisted herself up a couple inches to sit on the sink, letting him sit elsewhere if he wanted to. She gently put her hand on his arm in another gesture of reassurance that whatever he had to tell her -it was alright to say it.

Thinking better of leaving the hot coffee in reach, and the heavy bludgeons each mug resembled, he moved them out of reach. "So they don't spill," he grinned, though that wasn't really the reason. "Nicky, I'm not sure how better to say this, than to tell you straight up... I know who's been hurting the girls from the club."

Her eyes widened with surprise and her hand came up in a frantic sort of clasping. "You do? Have you spoken to the police? Oh my god.. did they come after you? Were you hurt.." The questions and concern started to fly from her as she reached out toward him to bring him closer and as if she might check herself to ensure he didn't have a scratch on him.

"No. I wasn't hurt at all... and I don't have anything I want the police to know," he chuckled, nervous that she misunderstood already where he was heading with the information. "Sort of like -not- telling Carl about me, there's some things I don't think the public is quite ready for. Nicky, there's a reason for that, and for why I know who it is."

"It's.. someone.. you know?" She asked a bit hesitantly, looking to his eyes with a soft pout, though she didn't let go of the gentle hold she had on his arms.

What more did he need to say? Should he even say it at all? He stared back, intense and direct, wondering if she could guess, or whether she'd want to. He reached up to her hands and pulled them down into his own. "Yes. Someone we both know better than anyone else does."

Him? No, it couldn't be.. what did she know about him really? How could she say it was or wasn't him? If he was claiming he was.. she didn't want to believe it, but was left with little choice. "Why are you telling me this?" She asked softly, she couldn't help the tiny tremor of fear that ran through her. Was he telling her because he planned for her to be next? Why else would he tell her such a thing?

"Because it's one of two things very important to me. That... and this," he said, trying to reach her for a kiss while her hands could be held.

She shied just a little at first, looking into his eyes for an answer that explained anything. What he said to her, really told her nothing of why he would tell her something like this. Wasn't he worried that she'd turn him in? "Why.. is this important?"

"To let you know that you're safe. I wouldn't ever let anyone hurt you. I'd kill them first. Well, some might just say that, but me...?" He could feel her reluctance and let go, taking a step back, turning slightly away, but not too far. What did he expect? "It's important to me that someone knows. I don't know why, okay?" He turned back to give her the same intense and relentless stare.

"Oh.. I was.. nevermind. I misunderstood what you meant when you said it was important." Her hands rested on the top of the small lip of counter that ran around the sink. She met his gaze, though hers was not as sharp as his. "You hurt people I care about.. you say you wouldn't ever let anyone hurt me.. but what about you?"

"I'd never lay a finger on you. You're not like them, you don't... I wouldn't, alright?" Deacon pleaded, his voice straining somewhere between the timid and soft Mallory and his own clear tones that seemed to falter with fear he hadn't shown her before.

She studied him, chewing her lip and after a moment slowly nodded her head a little. "Alright." She said softly, she had never dealt with anything like this and she didn't know what to say or do. Her hand lifted and brushed lightly down his arm.

"Yes, I realize they were your friends, but what kind of friends... Nevermind, I don't expect you to understand. You see them differently than I do." The chill went clear through him as her hand brushed over him.

She pulled her hand back as he shivered, thinking her touch wasn't welcomed like that and she let in rest in her lap. Nicky went back to chewing her lip as she looked down at her bare knees. "So.. what now?"

It was his turn to lift a hand to her cheek. "I try to reassure you that you don't need to be afraid of me. I tell you the reason it's important that you know is because I fully believe I've fallen in love with you. Then I try to show you, if you'll let me."

Her gaze lifted and her eyes shone with tears as she tried to smile at him, turning her face instead to kiss his palm where it held her cheek. "No one has ever loved me back before." She told him quietly.

"Loved you back?" His head tilted as he tried to read beneath her tears what she meant. "Back, means something was put forward as well, ergo, I think you're saying that... you feel... ?"

She turned her head to look at him straight on again and reached up to cup his cheek with her hand. "Stop thinking." She whispered with a little bit of a smile. "Start knowing.. feeling it."

"Careful what you say, I'm still dangerous even if I won't hurt you," he warned, smiling himself and helping to 'feel' it better by trying again to kiss her.

Nicky leaned up to meet his kiss this time, still a little scared and warring with herself. This man had hurt people she cared about, how could she live with that? What she felt when his lips brushed against hers was probably the only answer she would get.

Her kiss was different despite what she'd confided. He frightened her but she didn't seem detered by that fear. She sought him as he toyed and dodged gently, then met her kiss in return, an odd smile beneath the touch. "I think that's not all I'm knowing and feeling," he muttered, amazed at the freedom that was soaring through him now that his secrets were shared.

He'd held back before, but not now, not once she'd said that he wasn't alone in the feelings. If he doubted her, he didn't now, not the way the kiss quivered with fear but she didn't run from it, or run from him. He reached around her, leaning on the counter to reach her better, raising up a little and pushing her back a little.

The way he kissed her now was even more of a surprise, he wasn't holding back anymore it seemed and this kiss was more intense -like the man himself. Her legs came up around his waist a little as he started to push her back as he leaned, she reached behind her some to keep from falling back and crashing into the mirror. The fear didn't immediately disperse but she returned the kiss, one hand lifting to his cheek again once she got herself balanced again.

"Does that mean we're done talking?" He whispered, not daring to move with the way she held onto him. Looking up in her eyes he hoped he didn't still see fear. "Or would you like to move this conversation someplace... less safe?"

Her thumb brushed over his cheek bone and she let a soft chuckle float out as she looked into his eyes. "Thought this was just a break from talking?" Nicky glanced down at their current positions and how he leaned over her. "I'm not sure here is even safe..." Her gaze came back to meet his again, she still had plenty of fear and uncertainty but she wasn't running or trying to club him over the head. "Where did you have in mind to.. move to?"

"It's not safe if we keep... the ground is a little far down for you right now," he grinned. There were a few places they could move to right here, but he truthfully didn't want her to let go. He also didn't want to assume that she'd be comfortable with him in any fashion at the moment. He put his hand back to her ankle and nudged her gently to pry loose of him. "Wherever you want me to be, if it's even standing on opposite sides of the kitchen with the knife drawer under your hand. I understand."

"No.. you don't understand at all!" Her expression shifted to hurt and angry and she put her hands on his shoulders to push him away from her. "Did I freak out on you, scream and try to bash your head in or run for the door? No. You tell me this.. you tell me you hurt my friends, tried to kill them and.. do I claw your eyes out and say all kinds of horrible things? No. What do I do? I calmly listen, ask a few questions.. admit I have feelings for you and kiss you.. and you insult me by suggesting that I'd need to arm myself and keep you on the other side of the kitchen!"

"Nicky I... shhh... You're right, you're right, now shhhh," his hands went up to grab her gently. "I meant, wherever is comfortable for you to be around me. I don't want to go anywhere but right here. I'm sorry," he sighed, not sure what else to say or do now that he'd ruined it.

She closed her eyes, her shoulders sagging somewhat as she shifted a bit on the counter she was still sitting on. "Anywhere.. I was comfortable.. I.." She shook her head, lifting her hands to cover her face for a moment and then letting them fall away. She looked up at him again and flipped her hands to reach up and rest under his arms where he held her.

[Lovely]

October 24th, 2008
11:30 p.m.
The Palace

Mallory had done an exceptional job with hair and makeup tonight. A little help from a dear friend and a slight change in style brought out a certain unique softness to the eyes and a delicate pout to fuller lips that had attracted a few more leers and a few more gropes than usual. Most went ignored and were politely giggled away as drinks were mixed and sent outward to the tables. 'Her' own attention was focused on business, here and private business that awaited the end of the shift and a shift into something much more comfortable and satisfying. Fingers itching for that excitement and mind reeling from idea to idea, there was one person and one person only here 'she' hoped would help scratch. Mal watched her float from table to table, graceful, patient and prudent and offering only what those cur and swine deserved - cordial disinterest and a professional cold shoulder that insisted she would be none of theirs... ever.

Nicky was clearing some empty tables and holding a tray in one hand, putting the glasses on it with her other. It was getting later and she was getting a little tired though it didn't show other than a subtle shift in her eyes and the set of her shoulders. It was only a couple more hours and she'd be done.. home to a warm comfortable bed and if she was lucky some companionship from a certain person who was nearly always on her mind now.

Bia the Red as she was called was not the nicest person to say the least, but tonight she was in 'rare' form even for her. She had some drinks out back with a customer and feeling a little too good, they'd made plans to meet for.. mmm well it would be a good night. She was stumbling as she walked in her heels and nearly fell on Nicky, knocking the tray out of the other girl's hand and spilling the remnants of the drinks on the two of them as well as knocking several glasses to the floor and breaking them. Did she say excuse me or apologise to Nicky as the other girl righted herself and asked if Bia was alright? Nooo Bia snarled at Nicky, smacked her in the face before she knew it was coming and started pushing at her, calling her all sorts of names and telling her she was a moron!

The slap shocked Nicky and threw her off balance, she had to catch herself on a chair as Bia started pushing her before she could start to defend herself. "What is wrong with you?" Her cheek was red and few scratches were bleeding a little where Bia's nails had raked across her skin.

Indigo had been by the bar waiting for Bia to find out if she needed a ride home or if she was going off on her own for the night. She watched in disgust as Bia went after Nicky. "Mallory, a glass of ice water please." She called to the bartender and pointed to the scene as she shifted off her stool and went to break things up. Much to Bia's shock and anger Indigo defended Nicky and dragged her roommate away from the other girl. She went so far as to start pushing Bia backwards toward the bar and threatening to lay her out if she didn't leave Nicky alone. Indigo turned to Nicky and asked if she was alright, but needed to get Bia under control before she came flying back at the girl, so she couldn't help Nicky clean up right now.

Bianca was Mal's least favorite of the working girls, pandering to a crowd that believed the b*tchier a girl was, the sexier, but in 'her' estimation in this case, nothing was further from the truth. Bia the Red? The scowl and scoffing leer was bitter and sour. Bia the DEAD if Mal had any say with the way Nicky was being treated. A large glass was filled with water and extra ice, about to be handed off when Indigo went after Bia to break up the fight. Mallory brought the glass around.

The blood on Nicky's cheek wasn't visible from behind the bar, but up close it was quite vivid as was the anger that Mallory tried to keep under control, doing better than Bianca was managing. The frigid liquid mysteriously slopped out of the glass Mal carried, 'accidentally' splattering Bianca. "Sorry. I must have tripped," was the slight apology with little sincerity in the falsely soft voice. 'She' turned to help Nicky to her feet and pull her out of Bianca's reach. Bianca was not likely to be so lucky to stay out of Mal's reach, however. She'd best watch her step.

[Lovely]

Bia was drunk and pissed and lashing out at everyone involved, trying to get around Indigo to go after Nicky again. She kicked out with one of the long legs and those clunky heels, catching Nicky in the side and throwing her off balance a bit which cause her to stumble into Mal as she came to help get Nicky out of the way. "You stupid little b*tch!" She came with claws but Mal pulled Nicky out of reach and Indigo grabbed Bia around the waist. She hissed and spit, literally, at Nicky and Mal calling them quite a few nasty names.

"What the hell is wrong with you?" Indigo was about to punch the raging girl in the face to calm her down, but instead picked up the glass Mal had brought over and threw the rest of the cold water in Bianca's face. That at least shut her up as she stared at Indigo in shock. Indigo turned quickly and gave an apologetic smile to the two girls. "Don't be sorry.. just make sure she's alright." She spoke to Mal and then hooked a thumb over her shoulder. "I'll get her out of here." With that she turned, making note to check on them both later and centered her attention on Bia who was starting to recover from the shock of the cold water and ready to fight.

Nicky leaned a little into Mal as she was pulled away, partially doubled over and holding her side where Bia had kicked her. Her ribs would probably be broken if Mal hadn't been pulling her away when Bia lashed out like that. She was holding back tears and not saying anything, biting her lip because despite how much it hurt she wasn't going to give Bia the satisfaction of knowing she'd really hurt her.

By this time what was simply a knocked try had become a scuffle and now both Carl and Caleb were heading over. Carl didn't look happy at all. Bia was a dancer and brought in more money than Nicky did, even if the waitress was lovely and got a fine amount of attention herself, but it was obvious Nicky was not the trouble maker here. Carl gave Bia a look and nodded to Indigo before he addressed Bianca. "You're docked a full night's pay and tips for the damages and disruption." She'd also be losing one of her headliner slots per week, but he'd discuss that with her later. He nodded to Caleb who would help Indigo get her out of the club and turned to Nicky and mal who was helping her. "I'll clean this up, go ahead out back and take care of her." He addressed Mal, letting her know it was alright to leave her station at the bar and help Nicky. Wesley could cover for her and he'd manage with the mess and get Nicky's tables covered.

Mallory turned sharply as the kick knocked Nicky closer and 'she' helped hold her up and move around the raging catwoman. The room swirled in red with muffled sounds as the blood pulsed and daggers stared out at Bianca. The names spat directly at Mal rolled off, but not those she hurled at Nicky. They stuck and each drove deeper into Mal's level of anger, sharpening it further. Mal's focus wasn't so intense to block out Indigo's suggestion however. 'She' nodded instead of saying what was about to come out. It would have sounded far deeper and harsher than the outfit allowed for. Instead 'she' also heard Carl's warning and started to help Nicky toward the back room. Hopefully Carl had seen enough and Nicky wouldn't be docked for fighting as well when she had merely been a bystander. 'Her' voice was held down to a near whisper as they moved past Carl and Caleb helped with the rest of the situation. "Thank you."

Once they got off the floor and out of sight, Nicky nearly sagged against Mallory. The tears she'd been holding back started to flow and she tried to hide her face, shaking her head a little. Her knees felt wobbly and weak, her side was throbbing mingled with sharp pain where the heel of Bia's shoe had scraped the skin, her cheek stung. "I need.. I just need to sit down for a minute." She could feel herself shaking a little too, the fight had come out of nowhere and she was shaken up.

"Let me take a look." Mallory wasn't concerned with hiding or modesty at the moment, seeing Nicky in pain. It was a strange thing to realize that level of sympathy, all things considered. Taking a clean bar towel from a nearby supply shelf, Mal came back to help clean up the cut. "And please. Let me take care of Bianca. She'll never hurt you like this again - that's a promise."

Nicky sank into the softer cushion of the small couch and closed her eyes for a moment while Mallory got the towel. She lifted up her shirt to show her side which was cut open as well as bruising from Bianca's shoe. Nicky just stared at Mal for a moment, realizing 'she' was serious about taking care of Bia and what she meant by it. "I.. Mal.. I couldn't ask you to.. " Her eyes met Mal's and she tilted her head slightly to the side, staring into the intense gaze. Nicky couldn't help herself and she ignored the pain for a moment, leaning forward to kiss 'her' softly on the lips.

"You didn't ask." The smile was chilling but brief, returning the kiss a bit roughly, eager to taste her anger and share some as well. "Mallory had nothing to do with it. Just some guy in a dark alley, a bit of bad luck and really bad timing." Mal attended the marks that bled but were drying fast, dabbing them clean with a gentleness so juxtaposed to what boiled beneath the calm expression.

[Lovely]

March 19, 2009
6:01pm

The headline story of the evening news reported the incident with it's cold indifference like any other story. There had been stories like this in the past but tonight's news told of another beloved member of the community lost.
"The victim, one Carl Severn, was found in the early morning hours by a jogger passing through the parking lot of Playland Palace. The official police statement reported that mister Severn was shot execution style and it appeared that he was not robbed. They have made an arrest but the identity of the suspect was not released, pending further investigation...." The newscaster gave the report in the same tone as the story which followed about a civic improvement project.

-----------------------------
Nicky's apartment

Mal wasn't close to being ready and had yet to bother to shave for their shift though they'd be leaving in minutes. Though he hid it well, he was pained in a way possibly only Nicky could read, possibly disgusted and obviously concerned. He pushed the door open while Nicky was getting ready, leaning there, arms folded and staring at nothing. "You've heard the news?"

[Lovely]

March 19, 2009
6:01pm

The headline story of the evening news reported the incident with it's cold indifference like any other story. There had been stories like this in the past but tonight's news told of another beloved member of the community lost.
"The victim, one Carl Severn, was found in the early morning hours by a jogger passing through the parking lot of Playland Palace. The official police statement reported that mister Severn was shot execution style and it appeared that he was not robbed. They have made an arrest but the identity of the suspect was not released, pending further investigation...." The newscaster gave the report in the same tone as the story which followed about a civic improvement project.

____________________________________________________________


March 22, 2009
2pm
The Palace


Gabe came strolling into the club, grabbing Mal's ass "hey sweet heart, get me beer, would you?" kisses 'her' cheek, he's not as nice, quiet, or mild mannered as Carl was.

jumps a little, tries not to go swinging... deepbreathdeepbreath..smile... "Sure... lemon?"

"f*ck lemons, take it like a man.. what's your name darling?"

*raises an eyebrow and smiles brighter* "..Mallory."

"Mallory? heh... I like that.. I think i might like you.. bring my beer over to that table." *points to where he'll be sitting.* "bring the redhead with the amazing rack with you and drinks for yourselves.. I have to interview my staff.. you're first." *winks.. gives a little more of a squeeze and walks off*

At least he kept his hands to Mal's ass. Mal took another deep breath and fixed the drinks, watching sharply as the man stalked off. A peek in the back for that particular redhead had her whispering out just as sharply. "Nikki.. out front!!" Every attempt was made to remain soft and gentle, feminine as possible and endearing but she was afraid if the man took another handful, he'd get a fist.

Gabe wandered off to the table he'd indicated and plopped himself down in the chair with a stack of employee files. His fingers ran over his lips as he looked around the dimly lit club with a slight scowl, he definitely had work to do. Crossing his ankle over his knee he pulled his pen into his hand to toy with while he waited, keeping his eyes out for the cute girl to come over to his table with the redhead like he'd asked. Gabe had always had himself a weak spot for skinny dark haired girls... He smiled a little though not looking sweet the way Carl would.

Nicky turned as she was whisper called in a sharp tone, she gave Mallory a look and wondered what was wrong. "I'm coming. hun..." She smiled and started toward the other girl as if just approaching a girlfriend. "What's wrong?" She asked once she was close enough to lean in a little to ask privately.

"He wants to see us. I just wanted to say it's been a pleasure working with you." Mal cast a glance from Nicky to the man at the table, being sure to keep the smiles visible. "He wants to talk to me first, but wants you there."

"What? Wait... Mal.. what do you mean by it's been a pleasure working with me? You're not going to quit are you?" Nicky looked worried that Mal would and that would leave her 'alone' here with the new boss, the other girls, and the groping customers.

"I'm not a quitter," she was reminded with a darker smile, the shimmer of defiance in the tone. "I just might not be allowed to stay if he gets a better hold next time. I can only be so careful and not get fired one way or another."

"Think positive.. if he fires you, you can sue him for discrimination." Nicky folded her arms and glared over Mal's shoulder, already not liking the man for the thought that he -might- do something like fire her.

"In Resher's town? I'd have to just leave." The revelation was a quiet sigh as the drinks were picked up, another splash added to her own. "What would you like to drink? He doens't want to drink alone while he works it seems."

Nicky ran her hand over Mal's arm, the one which was out of the man's line of sight and she gave her a soft smile. "You know what I like." She spoke softly, glancing at the man again then back at Mal, wanting to lean in for a kiss to make them both feel good but she held back. "If you go, I'm going too." Nicky decided out loud in a quiet but firm voice.

Mallory smiled and turned to fix the third glass, giving Nicky the one for Gabe. "Go on over. I'm right behind you. Bring him this, please?"

"Alright.." Nicky took the glass and gave Mal one more warm smile before she headed over to Gabe's table to sit down with him. She handed him his glass and waited for him to give her the ok before folding gracefully into the chair.

Gabe smiled and openly looked the girl over as she came up, giving her a nod to go ahead and sit down, he glanced over toward Mal and then settled his attention on Nicky. "So.. you're a waitress.. why not a dancer? They make more and you've got a gorgeous body."

Mal wasn't that far behind, bringing a glass for Nicky it appeared she was going to want based on what was overheard. A cold blue glance was given to the man at the suggestion, but it faded as Mal sat down with them.

"Waitresses get paid well here too.. better than some other places. I don't want to dance, I'm not comfortable with that." Nicky replied, she'd had a somewhat similar conversation with Carl when she'd been hired and asked for the waitress position.

Gabe sighed and frowned a little, looking Nicky over again and then down to the file he had in front of him. He glanced over at Mal, checking her out a little as he wrote something down in the file. "Well then, I guess no dancing for you.. though looking at what Carl has been paying you.. cheap ass bastard.. You girls are underpaid.. why would you put up with that?" He glanced from Nicky to Mal again and then pulled his beer up to take a sip.

"Good tips," Mal said honestly. "Keep the customers happy, they keep us happy." A raise would be better than getting fired, but that hope was kept calm for now. There was more that could be said, but it was better left unsaid until they both knew a little more about Gabe.

"Yeah the tips are good.. and Carl was always good to all of us.. the working envoirment here was usually really positive and comfortable." Nicky agreed and added a little, giving a small smile to Gabe.

"Mmm yeah.. well I'm not Carl. I'm not a sappy crappy, soft bleeding heart pansy ass. I'm a man in a club full of gorgeous scantily clad women, I'm probably going to have a semi permanent hard on. Oh yeah and if you haven't picked up on it, I'm not shy and I tend to say whatever I feel like. If you can deal with that, you're getting a raise, I'm not Carl and I'm gonna pay you what you're worth if you can put up with my shit."

Mal couldn't help but laugh. The outburst was unexpected even for her. "If that's all it takes... would you like another beer?" The smile wasn't forced this time. Good lord, Nicky was going to have a time with both of them, wasn't she?

"That's really all it takes.. I'm fairly easy to get along with if you're not a delicate wilting flower and neither of you girls looks like you are." Gabe smiled, glancing between the two and showing that he appreciated both for their differences and let himself entertain a momentary fantasy about them together. "..and I'd love another beer, thank you." He winked at Mallory again and fixed his gaze on Nicky, waiting for her answer.

Nicky was surprised yet not by Mallory's outburst of laughter, ohhh boy was she in for it with these two around her. She sighed, trying not to focus on Mal too much and biting her lip as she felt Gabe's gaze on her. "Well.. I guess that means I'm getting a raise. If I can deal with the customers in here, I can deal with you being yourself."

"She can deal, I can deal. I'll get you that beer.... and thank you," Mal said as shyly girlish and gracious as could be managed and started to get up to get that beer.

Gabe watched Mal for a moment longer as she walked away and then nodded to Nicky. "Let the fire eating girl know she's up next.. after I have a couple more minutes with miss Mallory.. you're all set dear. Thank you." He watched Nicky as he mentioned having a word with Mal but smiled at her as he dismissed her for now.

Nicky was uncertain for a moment but then slowly got up. "Thank you, I'll send Indigo over..." She got up, taking her drink with her and darting a look in Mal's direction before scooting out back.

Behind the bar, Mal stood staring at the counter a moment before pulling another glass in hand, checking for spots first and starting to fill it for the new boss. There had to be more to it than yes-sir no-sir, although with most of Resher's world, that's all there really was... and no-sir was the same as quitting.

Gabe waited for Mal to return with his beer, glancing over to the bar and the girl several times while he waited, he didn't exactly hide it but didn't oogle her either. He was simply admiring the woman and waiting, there was plenty to admire in the club but he had that weakness for girls like Mal.

Mallory returned, taking the seat Nicky had left, closer to Gabe and set the beer down beside the one he'd only started. "You said you wanted to talk to me first but you didn't? Is there a problem?"

"Problem? No, no.. relax hun.. Nicky just sat down first so I started talking with her." He waved his hand and pulled a paper from the file in his lap. "I think there may be a typo on your information though. Your social came up for some guy.. and we don't have a second number to reach you at, at least not one that Carl put in your file, So I just wanted to get that corrected.. since you were here for the raise part of the discussion." He smiled warmly and handed Mallory a new form to fill in as well as the old one with the 'typo' on it. "You and that Nicky girl seem close, good friends?"

Mal stared at the page, "She knows me very well," was muttered out before it could be stopped. Now anything Gabe wanted to know he'd needle out of Nicky. "Mm... no, no it's right. No changes, that's me." The paper was pushed back without the change and Mal waited, watching Gabe carefully, calmly.

Gabe took the paper back and tucked it into the file again, his eyebrow arched slightly but he didn't say anything for a moment. "I still think you're hot.. are you and Nicky a couple? Is her number an alternate one you can be reached at if I need you to come in for an extra shift or to cover?"

Mal smiled. He was trying, wasn't he? "She knows how to get a hold of me... and often does. We do spend a great deal of time together, but it's not like that."

"Not like what? She's not your girlfriend? Just a friend.. however you two class your relationship is between the two of you. friend, girlfriend, f*ck buddy, knitting circle.. whatever.."

The nod was slow, found out or not. Mal owed it to Nicky to let the man know she wasn't up for grabs more than the occassional handful in passing from the customers that irked enough as it was. "Girlfriend," the admission came, likely at a price. "But of course we keep it business here and don't let it interfere."

Gabe chuckled softly at the reluctance to admit they were a couple. "I'm not asking for home videos.. What you do at home or outside this club is mostly your own business. I'm asking because for one I needed a second number to reach you and two because of that bit you just said about not letting it interfere here. Since you both work here and deal with the same customers I'm less worried about it. I'm sure you've probably seen an angry or jealous boyfriend or girlfriend come in and cause a scene before. It's just no good for business, besides if I'm grabbing both your asses equally neither of you can really get jealous.." He teased on the last bit with another wink as he copied Nicky's number from her file onto Mal's as a secondary contact.

"I suppose not," Mal agreed softly, though it wasn't entirely true. Hopefully Gabe wouldn't feel any need to push further than gropes to test that theory. She pulled the glass up to take a shaking sip.

He almost chuckled again but bit his lip again, watching Mallory more carefully. "Do I make you nervous.. or have I made you feel uncomfortable?" He asked softly, his eyes oddly warm and compassionate. "I meant what I said.. what you and Nicky do outside this place and how you chose to live your life is your own business as long as it doesnt interfere with mine."

Mallory nodded. "A little nervous, yes." The glass was set down as the question rolled out carefully. "How could it interefere with your business?" A gentle curl had dislodged, hanging in stark contrast to the pale blue that turned back to watch Gabe.

"A little nervous is good, it makes me feel all bad ass.." He half grinned and let out a sigh as he shook his head slowly. "I don't really see how it does or would interfere, which is pretty much what I'm saying. I don't care about the not typo, or the girlfriend.. Your file has nothing but positive reviews of your work and your popularity with the customers. I like that."