3C or not 3C? (Marc, Ariane)

[Lovely]

Name: Marcus Brynn Aliases: Marc played by: Tripp likeness used: Dougray Scott

_________

Name: Ariane Lefaire Aliases: Ariane, Ari played by: Lovely likeness used: Carmen Electra

[Lovely]

June 30, 2008
3:30 pm
Grande Hotel

The door opened and the man stepped partway in, pausing as he found the girl on the bed in front of him. The dumbfounded expression was nearly enough on its own as he looked her over in her scant shiny blue outfit. "You're... not going out in that..?"

"Who's gonna stop me?"

He put out his cig and came closer, huffing the array of smoke into the air away from her. "Well... I was hoping you'd stay in in that, for a while at least."

"Why would I do something like that?" She arched an eyebrow, ready to call security.

"Because I'm here, you're here, I'm bored and you're wearing that... and I'm suddenly not bored, but getting all sorts of ideas to keep busy."

She chuckled. "Who are you and why are you here?"

He laughed and looked at the door. "This is 3C? Perhaps I should ask you. Yyy-ou're not Amy?" He paused again, wondering why she was as confused as he was feeling.

"I mean you're cute and all but my boyfriend might get a little mad if he finds you here, and no.. I'm not Amy."

"I may have to be mad before your boyfriend... pity. There's been a mistake at the desk, then. You're in my room... or I'm in yours," he said, holding the key that matched the door. "Unless I've only got the name wrong ... and there is no boyfriend?"

"I.. I have a boyfriend.. and he's supposed to be meeting me here.. so, mistake or not.. you should go." She licked her lips and glanced towards the door, not saying anything about how her name was somewhat close to Amy.

"Funnily enough, I'm supposed to be meeting my girl here... in 3C," he said, watching her reaction and checking the door again. He wasn't upset but he was certainly curious. "I would think a halfway decently attached boyfriend wouldn't dare keep you waiting and let any stranger walk into his room. You do know there's been a slasher out there?"

"Your girl?" She laughed a little and snuck a glance at him -being his girl might not be so bad -at least in that he was attractive. "..but you don't know her name?" She bit her lip and suddenly her eyes widened a little. "Oh.. my.. I am not a... " She took a step towards him and lifted her hand to slap him for even mistaking her for -that-!

"Escort only, for Daddy Resher's big 'ball'," he exclaimed as his head jerked under the slap. "Not a hook or hustle. Look," he said, pulling the paper with the handwritten scribble that could easily have been mistaken as 'Amy', but might have read 'Ari'. "It wasn't my first choice, believe me. My name is Mark."

"Oh.." She blushed and bit her lip, giving him semi apologetic smile. "I'm sorry.. I.. oh geez.. does your face hurt?Sooo.. what was your first choice?"

"It's fine," Marcus said quietly, rubbing his pride more than anything else, but checking to make certain she hadn't clawed him in the process. There was no blood and really no pain at all now. "I'm sorry. My first choice would have been my fiancee but that's a little impossible now."

"Oh." She repeated the word again and looked him over. "Can I ask why.. it's impossible, now?" She glanced at the door again, though there wasn't really a boyfriend coming to meet her. She almost felt guilty about lying and slapping him.. almost.

"She returned the ring and disappeared. Missing Persons gave up after the second week on a cold trail," he advised, trying to put a smile on to hide his devastation. "Can't let a little setback like that disappoint our host, though, can we? And the rules are quite clear that it's couples and no stags. Puts a guy in a bind, doesn't it? So, mind if I ask if you're not Amy, why you're in my room and I'm telling you my life story?"

She couldn't help how her eyes widened a little as his telling of a disappearing fiancee and all. "Because I have a friendly face?... and it's my room.. umm I'm Ari.. " She offered him her hand properly and gave him another small smile.

"Ari... of course. I'm awful with names, but.. I never forget a face, especially one with a solid right hook," he noted, taking her hand after a slight jump that she might slap him again. His own hand was warm and gentle, not clawing or raw like some of the men he worked with. The more he spoke, the more his words took a slight Scottish bend. "Mark... Marcus, actually. I believe we have a mutual friend with our best interests in mind, even if the arrangement was a little awkward. Usually I take a girl to dinner first and get to know her... before... well, ending up in a hotel room."

"I don't end up in hotel rooms with men.. even if I do let them buy me dinner." Her hand stayed in his for a little longer than she'd meant it to. "Ari.. short for Ariane.. Lefaire." Her brother, Allen, owned Chez Alasce, but in his current attire she didn't think he'd frequent that ritzy place.

He grinned. "Been there many times, though not today. It's a nice place for the right occasion," he admitted, looking a little distant again as memories surfaced. "Look, I suppose this isn't going to get any less awkward, but I was told to meet you apparently and our keys seem to match. If not dinner and not a stay here with a strange man, would you like to come to a party with me? There. You're officially invited. And I need to change... was in a bit of a rush."

She laughed softly, looking away a moment as she tried to figure out who exactly had gone through all the trouble of setting this up. "I guess that explains the dress.." She motioned towards the hanger hooked on the back of the door. "... and I guess I accept.. since someone obviously thinks this is a good idea for us.."

"Or a workup for a thank-you of epic proportions if we survive it without making each other miserable. You're sure? You still have a chance to escape," he offered, though he wasn't getting out of it himself.

"Well.. I kinda of don't have any other plans.. and I sort of owe you.. for lying and slapping your face." She shrugged slightly, trying to look as innocent as she could.

"And what exactly did y'lie about, mum?" He winked and let the brogue roll out thickly on purpose. "Seems to me you were waiting on a man to protect you from strangers and that appears to be my lot this eve, hm? I'd say go and make yourself pretty, but you're already that... but the dress is a necessity, I'm afraid and dulls in comparison to... well, this," he indicated the preferable attire she was already in.

"You may be right on the waiting.. but I still lied -telling you I had a boyfriend when I really don't. But if you're willing to protect me for tonight, I'd gladly accept the offer." She laughed softly, turning to go fetch the dress that had been left for her. "With that much charm.. why in the world would you need an escort? You could easily pick up twenty different girls on your way to the party." She smiled, meaning the compliment in full, her eyes had already lit up to shine in a gorgeous icey blue at his appreciation of her.

"Which is exactly what I didn't want to do. I trust my friends' intuition better than a random guest who has no idea what to expect beyond the door. Have you eaten anything? Dinner is still an option," he mentioned, captured and stunned by the remarkable blue of her eyes and staring after her as she turned to get ready.

[Lovely]

"I was going to order room service.. but.. if you'd like to go somewhere for dinner.." She spoke over her shoulder as she stepped into the bathroom. She'd showered less than an hour before he'd come in so she only needed to slip into the dress and fix up her hair and make up. She left the door open a little so she could still talk to him if he was interested. Turing her back to the line of mirrors she started to slip out out of the outfit she'd been wearing -wondering for half a second if he was sneaking a peek through the door and mirrors. Not like she'd been wearing much when he'd come in the room.

He wasn't watching to watch, but did notice the movement in a reflection and decided to be more of a gentleman that he'd been bursting in and assuming everything was well explained. "Room service is perfect. Apparently they didn't bring my jacket so I need to go find that. I'll be back shortly. Lock this and make sure it's me before you open it to anyone."

"Okay.." she let the word come out slowly, she hadn't exactly let him in -he'd had the key and walked right into the room! "umm.. can you make sure it's locked on your way out? I'm a little naked in here."

"Consider it done," he added, though he was considering staying a moment to see for himself. He opted not to and let himself out, looking carefully down the hallway and listening. One mysterious disappearance was enough to set his nerves on their highest and most dangerous edge. Confident that the door was secure, he pocketed the key and pulled out another cigarette. Once he'd pulled a soothing drag from it he set off to find the concierge and his own outfit that had gone missing. It was a short run and he was back quickly enough, knocking to be sure she wasn't caught off guard.

The woman he returned to was not the scantilly clad nymph he'd left behind but transformed into a lady of grace and elegance. The dress flattered her sexy shape without being sleazy, the look completed with stockings and heels -a slit up the side to reveal her gorgeous leg when she moved. "Who is it?" Her voice called from where she leaned at the vanity, glossing her lips to a kissable shine.

"Your chivalrous servant, mum," he chuckled. "It's Mark. They'd lost a shoe and found it just as I got there. All here...," he said, turning the key and opening the door to her radiance. "And ready. Nice."

"Where're my flowers? What kind of date is this?" She teased him with a soft giggle as she tucked the gloss into her little purse, turning in a circle for him to see the whole outfit. There was a small wrap to cover her arms in the gown but wouldn't do much to keep her warm if the night grew chilly.

"A forgetful and awkward one.. .still. They were supposed to deliver those too, but... I'll make up for that," he smiled, enjoying her show though his heart was still not completely into partaking in the evening ahead. He held up the hanger and bagged, polished black-on-black. "You're priveleged. Not many get to see me in a tie."

"Well I guess I'm going to have one heck of a time getting you to loosen up.. already this many strikes against me.. I was kidding about the flowers. It's been so long since I got flowers, it probably would have sent me running from the hotel." She stepped closer to him, offering a bit of a shy smile. "I bet you look dashing in a tie."

"If you're running, I'll call around the getaway car. I'm not going to this alone... well, I can't, but that's beside the point. I have to go and... please don't run. You should have flowers. You should scold that boyfriend of yours for not thinking of them for you."

"Well if I ever see him again I'll try to remember to do that after I give him a black eye." She said it quickly and softly, turning away as quickly before any emotions could flood over and ruin her mood, besides she didn't want him to see the hurt that still lingered in her eyes.

"A-...," he almost called her Amy again. "Ari, I was joking, meaning me. So there was one, but.. not tonight?"

[Lovely]

"There was.. there's not now. He's not around tonight and he hasn't been for weeks.." She took a deep breath and rolled what tension she could out of her shoulders. "I'm sorry.. I didn't mean to get so touchy over it."

"Weeks? Interesting, but I don't believe in coincidence... do you?" He moved quietly when he needed to, but the rustle of the Celo on his hanger let her know he was directly behind her if the hand to her shoulder in a part hug-part massage attempt didn't. "Order a bottle of wine with dinner. We could both use it."

"I don't believe in a lot of things anymore.." She chuckled sadly, leaning into his hand as it massaged her shoulder. "Any preference on the wine?" Her eyes shuttered as she took a moment of comfort in his touch.

"Lady's choice," he whispered at her ear, perhaps closer than he meant to be but she'd leaned into him she was too inviting. "Maybe we'll both find some shred to hold onto and believe in tonight. I'll be ready in a few minutes."

His voice and breath over her ear sent a ripple of chills over her skin and almost made her laugh with the sensation, but she bit her lip to keep it in. Ari swallowed the unexpected pleasure and nodded her head. "I enjoy a nice merlot now and then."

"Merlot it is. Order whatever you fancy. We're in no hurry to arrive now that the worst is over," he said, nearly kissing her neck out of old habits and stopping short. Strange that she was as comfortable there beside him as the girl he'd known four years.

She felt his breath closer and swallowed, half relieved and half disappointed he had stopped short. Ari smiled though, slowly shifting herself and more temptaion away from him for the moment. "What would you like?" She asked as she turned to face him, still only a step away from him but not leaning against him.

"Not sure they have what I really want on their menu, but I'll be fine," he smiled. He wasn't that interested in food and hadn't been for days. "Like I said, anything you fancy. I'll cope. Nothing too heavy - there's dancing. You do dance, don't you?"

She laughed, lifting her hand to cover her mouth as the fit of giggles over took her for a moment. "Do I dance? Oh.. you could say that.. though I don't think I can do that at a fancy party.."

He stepped away, entirely not sure what she meant by that. "If you want to explain that, go right ahead. I'll hear you," he said, raising the hanger again and moving away to the washroom to change.

She recovered from her giggles and then followed him to the washroom, leaning her back against the wall by the door. He likely hear her sigh as she played with her fingers. "I suppose it's better that you know now.. rather than thinking I'm something.. and finding out later. If you feel like calling this all off -I'll understand." Ari took a deep breath and laid it out for him. "I'm an exotic dancer. You know in other words a stripper.. I work at the Palace."

[Lovely]

"So you're saying I'm allowed to see you again after tonight? I'm not surprised... well, I am, but not surprised that's how we came to meet. The people we both know, then." He was quick to change and was working on his tie without the mirror as he opened the door to talk more directly. It was a tremendous difference from his street gear to eveningwear that gave him lines and height. He was actually quite tall she'd notice standing up straight beside her. "It's only fair to let you know I work in town only part of the time. Daddy's work is never done, at home or abroad. It would be nice to come back to a friendly face actually. I go for the drinks," he confided, hoping she didn't think less of him for knowing the place or going there.

"You're saying... you'd want to see me again?" She chanced a look at him, realizing now how she had to look up at him. "oh.. wow.. you.. more than dashing.. d**n... I know I must be dreaming.."

"Your flattery is appreciated but not necessary. Thank you," he chuckled, trying not to puff up with the praise. "I'm saying, I hadn't intended to make friends for a single night. Of course I'd like to see you again in much less tense circumstances, though with your kind of work, I"m not sure which one of us would be tense in what way. You're not dreaming, but maybe I am. I tell you what. Neutral ground and a special occasion. Would you like to go to the Chez with me and visit your brother?"

"It.. I meant it.. you look incredible." She smiled a little and pushed off the wall, brushing her hands down her dress to make sure it fell the way it should. "I don't know about the visiting my brother part -he'll probably pull my hair.." She chuckled, her eyes sparkling as she relaxed a little. "..but I'd be honored to go to Chez with you."

"I don't think he'll give either one of us any trouble," he reassured, reaching for her hand to kiss the back of it. "The honor... the pleasure is mine. They have better wine to choose and a much more comfortable atmosphere for us both," he mentioned, looking around the well-to-do decor though it was still the hotel room it was.

"Of course.." She nearly blushed as he kissed her hand, feeling a bit like a lady in one of those tales, who got to be all sweet while the handsome suitor swept them off their feet. too bad that only happened in stories and movies.

He chuckled, watching her nearly swoon. "Well then it's settled. If we get completely snockered, at least we have a safe place to come back to," he sighed. He wasn't planning on staying sober, but he wasn't planning on trying anything, either. Whether he could convince her... whether he wanted to convince her... was another story.

"I can only dance normally when I'm very drunk.." She chanced another tease, feeling less nervous now that he knew and she didn't have to worry about him finding out how she made her living. Ari reached to gather her wrap and purse, slipping her hand around his arm -feeling like a real lady being escorted on his arm.

"We'll have two bottles of wine, then," he teased. "Let's see if this shred we've found goes on after dinner. I'm hopeful, actually." He was, and feeling better than he had in those weeks they both mentioned.

Ari laughed again, sliding the silken wrap around her back and over her arms, then stepping back to his side to walk out with him. Her smile shone softly at him as her hand curled near his elbow again. "Thank you."

"Oh, don't thank me yet. Have you ever been to Resher's works? I'll keep the getaway car warm," he said, leading her to the hall and shutting the door soundly behind them.

"You really work for Resher?" She asked softly, looking up at him a little more closely, she'd met a few of the boys -and he didn't come off as just some mindless thug who was looking to use that name to try and get something. Ari smiled at him again, admiring how he carried himself.

He nodded, watching around the hall again. "Yes, but I'm not from around here. Not quite the home grown variety bully he tends to keep close to his side," he said, daring to say such things out loud.

"I like that in a man." She whispered with a smile that told him she meant it. "Are you going to tell me more.. or keep me guessing about where you're from that's not around here?"

"I'll tell you probably anything you want, but not here. Once we're in the car...," he said quietly, keeping watch for cameras and shadows at doorways. "I may keep you guessing, but not about who I am."

She couldn't hide the smile that curled her lips up at his reply, she felt excited for the first time in a long while and she found that she was eager to know more about him. She curled closer to his side as they headed into the lobby of the hotel and towards the doors. She was starting to believe she was going to have a better night than she'd imagined it could be.

[Lovely]

November 17, 2008
5:30pm
Chez

Two of his bodyguards approached the hostess station at Chez Alasce to be sure Mister Resher's preferred table was available and if it was occupied that it would be cleared immediately. They were polite of course, decked in their italian suits with their guns beneath their jackets and the hands folded. They were reminicent of secret service agents but no strangers to the five star restaurant. The place had only been as successful as it was because Daddy like it, if he didn't.. well no one talked about what happened to places Daddy didn't like.

The Resher in question strolled up behind the first two gaurds with another two at his sides. His eldest son was with him this evening and the two chatted, smiled and glanced around the Chez with mild curiosity, as they waited for their table to be ready.

Fortunately the table in question was available, so Lia wasn't forced to move anyone. She took a moment to make sure everything was in order and spotlessly clean before returning to escort Resher and his eldest son to the table in question, trying to quell her nerves. It was just another customer, just another dinner order, just...hell, just a man who could ruin her entire future at a blink if the mood struck him.

Her expression showed none of her nervousness, and her hands were rock steady as she presented them with menus. "Can I get you gentlemen anything to drink?"

Mike Jr made no effort to hide that he was admiring the view as they walked behind the waitress, the guards flanked them and one sat at the table as the others spread out a bit to, discreetly keep an eye on things. The flashes of cold steel would be seen as the Resher father and son took their seats at the table.

Mike jr took his menu but he wasn't interested in what he could order off of it as she asked if she could get them anything to drink. Sure he wouldn't mind a long drink of her, but they were here on business.. "We'll have our usual drinks." He answered for himself and his father, opening the menu and glancing at it quickly. "The jumbo appetizer platter.. the one that has a bit of everything on it."

Daddy grinned at the girl and motioned her to lean closer after Mike ordered as he didn't intend to speak loudly for her to hear him. His gold and diamond watched gleamed briefly in the light with the motion of his hand.

"Sure thing." Lia scribbled a couple of things in shorthand on her little notepad, glad that she actually remembered their drinks and that Eddie was on bar tonight. He'd know just how they liked them. Glancing up, she caught the grin and the hand motion and kept her smile in place and leaned closer obediently, though of course she was apprehensive.

"We're expecting company." He informed the girl in his low deep voice, that in itself made him sound dangerous. "When Miss Ariane Lefaire arrives, show her directly to our table." Daddy smiled a little cold in his expression as he leaned back and picked up his menu. "..and make sure the boys get something to drink.. they can order their meals, but will rotate at sitting down to eat, so bring their plates out in a staggered order."

"Of course, Mr. Resher." Fighting a sudden and absurd urge to curstey, Lia hurried back to the kitchen to order their appetizer before heading for the bar to get the drinks. She made a stop on the way to tell the current hostess about Ariane Lefaire...and it was only as she reached the bar that her eyes widened, realization dawning. Ariane Lefaire...that was Allen's sister! What was she doing having dinner with the Reshers?

It was none of her business. She reminded herself of that as she took the drinks back to the table. "That appetizer will be right out. Are you ready to order or did you need more time?" She asked, reminding herself to ask the bodyguards what they wanted.

Mike closed his menu and smiled a bit as he held it out to the pretty girl. "The alfredo with grilled chicken, salad with ranch dressing and bread sticks." His hand reached to pull his drink up and he took a sip.

Daddy pondered a moment and then closed his menu as well. "The steak, smothered with the peppers and onions, cooked medium rare. Salad with ranch dressing as well... and bring back another round of drinks on your way by.." He nodded to her, picking up his drink, it was no secret that they usually indulged quite a bit in the bar when they came in.

"Coming right up." Lia said easily, beginning to relax just a little. She might just get out of this night with her job intact. Scribbling their orders down in her usual thorough shorthand, she turned to the bodyguards and quietly asked them what they wanted, remembering the part about bringing the dinners and drinks one at a time.

The only problem was a nagging worry about what Allen's sister might be involved in. Well, that and wondering what happened if Mr. Resher had one too many drinks...

[Lovely]

Daddy enjoyed his drink, making small talk with Mike as he watched the door, waiting for the beautiful young woman to come in. He was sort of dying to see her in the dress he'd sent over with his request for dinner.

Ariane didn't keep him waiting long, she arrived, looking a little nervous and decked out in a nice dress that she could never afford, complete with earings and necklace, shoes, a purse, and a wrap. She wasn't sure why Resher had asked to meet her or why he'd chosen her brother's restaurant though she knew he liked the Chez. She couldn't afford to eat here, but she was still biased to thinking it was the best place in the entire state, just because her brother owned it. Even in the nice dress she felt like a raggamuffin, she didn't have the nice things like her brother did, the house and pool and everything that made his life seem so far away from hers.. She sighed softly she felt like the distance between her and Allen was growing more and more and it really wasn't anything he'd done... she made her own mess and her own deal and she had to live with it..

Smoothing her hand down her dress she approached the hostess station and offered a smile to those within sight. Letting them know she was here and she was expected to meet mister Resher's party. She saw the guards and the two Reshers at the table and she tried not to feel nervous, though it wasn't working very well.

Allen had been on his way back from doing a bank drop when he got Eddie's call and rshed back as fast as he could.

Adjusting his tie and patting his hair in place where it had become mussed from the windows being down Allen walked into the dining room and came face to face with his sister.

She looked extremely nervous and by the way she was dressed, she was an expected guest of the Reshers. "Ari, you look lovely tonight. New dress?" He said as he offered her his arm in escort as well as comforting support. "Shall we?"

For a brief moment Ari had that 'deer in the head lights' look on her face, she washed it away with a smile as she took her brother's arm. "It's not mine.. or at least I don't think it is, I didn't buy it.. it could just be a loan.. it came with the request to meet mister Resher. I just told them.. I'm expected.." She fussed with the wrap as she spoke and pointed back at the hostess station. She took a deep breath and closed her eyes. "Don't really have a choice.. okay.. 1, 2, 3.. here we go.."

God he hated to see that look on her face "Its very becoming on you....and you would if you'd just let me help you...." he patted her hand as he led her forward.

"Good evening Mr. Resher, Mike, always a pleasure to have you grace my establishment. I trust all is in order?" He waited politely for them to acknowledge him and to allow him to sit his sister something that really burned under his collar but his face only showed polite congeniality.

"If I just let you help me.. what is that supposed to mean?" Of course she wouldn't get an answer as they came up to the table and she turned to flash a nice smile to Daddy Resher and Mike jr. "Good evening." She politely said 'hello' to the Reshers and squeezed Allen's arm a little before she let go to step closer to the table. "Thank you." She said softly to him and smiled as the Reshers stood up so she could be seated.

Mike and his father both stood and Daddy leaned to give Ari a slight kiss on the cheek in greeting. He turned his attention to Allen and and gave a slight nod, not revealing anything about the purpose of his request for Ari to join them. "Things are going well for you here, Lefaire." He motioned around to the dining room. "I always enjoy coming in, you do know how to treat your guests."

Meanwhile Mike was making no effort to hide his wandering gaze as it moved slowly over Ari in the dress she'd been sent. He wouldn't mind at all adding her to his list of girlfriends.. though Lustre might throw a snit, she liked to be the apple of his eye and the center of his world, she usually was.. d**n Ari was fine and he admired her as much in this dress as he did her act at the Palace. He was glad the crazy who was going around stabbing girls in town hadn't gotten to her, though the main target appeared to be girls who worked at the palace.

[Lovely]

What was that supposed to mean?...The fact that through all his internet dealings with classic car parts dealers he had a fairly good idea how much his car had cost her and it ate at him.

She would not even disscuss it with him about paying her back, even in part for it. So what if it was a gift, it was too expensive of one, too expensive in the price she'd had to pay to get it for him.

He wasn't stupid..right now before his eyes was one of the sacrifices/bargains she'd made to get the money and it burned him to see it happening.

Allen cringed as 'Daddy Resher put is lips on Ari's cheek in greeting and he wanted to gouge out Mike's eyes for the leering look-over; she was sister, for god's sake, not a piece of meat, and he was powerless to do more than stand there and let it happen.

Instead he politely accepted 'Daddy's compliment "Thank you,sir..high praise indeed. This is Lia, your waitress during your stay here, anything you need please let her know, and as always the first round of drinks is 'on the house'."

Allen waved Lia closer so he could put his intials on their drink order tab so she'd know not to charge them for those drinks. He took close note of the level of their drinks and nodded to Lia to to follow him.

"You're doing good so far, just keep an eye on the level of their drinks and when you see them get to halfway, signal Eddie so he can get the next round ready. Also you are to remain exclusiviely their waitress until they leave. The rest of us will pick up your slack...oh and watch the bread basket, Resher Sr. likes to have a full basket, don't let it get down to one or two rolls. If you have any questions or problems you signal for either me or Eddie. OK?"

Lia nodded, trying to take a breath and calm her nerves. "Okay. Sure...I'll be fine, Allen." She managed a smile. "He might be a bit demanding but I hear he's an awesome tipper." She joked, heading to the bar to pick up the next round of drinks and bring them back to the table, along with the drink orders she'd gotten from the bodyguards.

"Are you ready to order or did you need more time?" She asked, glancing at Ari. That dress, the way the younger Resher was looking at her...the girl was in trouble, and Lia only hoped she knew it.

Ari cast a look at her brother as he took his leave, wishing he wasn't leaving her alone with the Reshers but she knew he really didn't have a choice and interfering would only get him in trouble. Ari was nervous because it wasn't like Daddy to ask her to meet him like this and to send over such a dress. Sure now and then he asked her to work one of his parties, being a hostess ie: pretty face to impress his associates and he's send her whatever outfit he wanted her to wear for the night. This was different, it felt different and it was a visible dinner with him and Mike in her brother's place...

Ari smiled up at the waitress and reached to take a menu from her to look over as she glanced to Resher wondering if he planned to dictate what she was going to eat and drink.

"Have anything you like Ariane... " He caught her look and gave her a smile, he was in a fairly good mood tonight and that was to her benefit, because if he'd been in a bad mood... "would you like a drink to start?"

"I'll have a glass of white wine and look over the menu a moment, thank you." She was polite to the girl, not just because it was her brother's place but because Ari was generally nice to everyone.

"Of course." Lia smiled back, shifting her gaze to the men. "I'll just get your orders started and be right back with that drink." Keeping up with a table's needs wasn't too difficult...at least not when you only had the one table. She flagged down one of the waiters as she passed and motioned for him to go fill the water glasses at the table.

"The lady wants a white wine." She announced as she reached the bar, smiling at Eddie. "Better make it something nice, I think." Resher didn't exactly seem like the skimping type.

She zipped over to the kitchen to place the orders...and make sure they knew just who it was for...before coming back to the bar to pick up the wine.

[Lovely]

Mike and Daddy Resher both scowled at the waiter who was sent over to fill their water glasses, Ari watched, feeling bad for the guy and wondering why he'd been sent over rather than their waitress coming back. It made her wonder what was going on with Allen and what the Reshers might have been doing before she got here, but hadn't Allen gotten back when she was coming in and didn't he tell them the girl.. she wondered what the girl might have said to Allen.. Ari tried to tell herself she was just being paranoid and nervous because Resher wanted to see her and had yet to tell her why. She smiled at the waiter. "Thank you." She reached to take a sip of her water while she waited for the waitress to come back to take her order.

Resher waited for the waiter to depart before he smiled at Ari again. "So my dear, how have you been? Carl tells me your doing wonderful at the Palace." Mike smiled a bit darkly, running one finger over her shoulder near the strap of her dress. "I have to say, I do agree with Carl.. you are... mmm so good."

Allen had his back to the Resher table as he leaned on the bar sipping the gingerale Eddied had handed to him so he could cool off before he exploded. He turned at Eddies nod and saw the waiter filling the water glasses at the table holding his breathe praying there would not be an incident, releasing it through pursed lips when all Resher Sr. did was scowl.

He intercepted Lia as she came form the kitchen "Lia, you and only you are to attend to that table, no other waiters or waitresses not even a busboy...understood. Eddie and I are the only others allowed into their space, besides the waitress, namely you, that I have introduced them too."

He hated to have to scold her as this was her first time serving them but it was for all their protection including the other diners.
He took a couple of the plates she had balanced on her arms and led the way back to the tables to make sure there were no ruffled feathers and perhaps the arrival of the food would get MIkes d**n paws off his sister.

"What do you..." Lia blinked, then paled slightly. "Oh! I didn't even think...how stupid of me..." She shook her head. "Sorry. Sorry, won't happen again..." She had to take another deep breath there to steady herself. "I ah...I should go take her order." She said, glancing back at the table again.

"Here you go gentlemen, Mr. Resher, Mike...." Allen set the plates of appetizers down in front of them then straightened up Bon Appetit..."

Allen sketched a slight bow trying real hard not to look and see if the food had momentarily distracted Mike.

The smell of the large appetizer platter and the sight of Allen walking up with all the plates it was sprread on, got a smile from Resher Sr and Mike, though the younger man didn't take his finger from it's perch on Ari's arm. "Great! I love the appetizers here, I really could just eat them all night." Mike looked over Ari again and then up to Allen. "So, you ever seen your sister's act at the Palace, she is awesome.. does being that flexible run in the family?"

Ariane blushed a deep red as Mike asked her brother if he'd ever seen her strip! Working for Carl wasn't bad, he treated them all wonderful but jerks like Mike.. "I can't believe you just.. that's so rude." She turned to glare at Mike behind her hot cheeks and then turned to look up at Allen. "I'm so sorry." She said softly.

His father was not the nicest of men but he also wasn't a punk twenty five year old who felt like being an ass tonight. "Michael Resher junior, you apologize to both Ariane and her brother. Your mother taught you better manners than that, may she rest in peace." He crossed himself and waited for Mike to apologize.

Mike wasn't happy but through a clenched jaw he told both Ariane and Allen. "Sorry for being rude.. didn't mean nothing by it. If she was my sister I'd go.. if just to keep an eye on her." He turned and his hand left Ari's arm as he was properly put in his place for the moment.

[Lovely]

It was a good thing Allen was still coming up from his small bow or Mike would have been struck dead from the anger that flashed in his eyes. Of course it was gone by the time his head came up but he had to fold his hands behind his back gripping them tightly so as not to leap across the table and strangle the little punk.

He briefly locked gazes with his sister trying to convey to her it wasn't her fault and not to apologize for this scumbag.

He stiffly nod his head in acceptance of Mike's insincere apology thankful at least he'd finally removed his hand.

"If Miss Lefair is ready, Lia will take her order." he stepped back to let Lia move forward noting theirs drinks were getting low and signalled Eddie.

he moved off to go and get them needing the excuse to get away from them,real quick....

Liar. That was all Lia could think as Mike spoke. He wasn't sorry, not in the slightest, and he had certainly meant something by it. He was trying to get a rise out of Allen, get some excuse to make him mad, and that made Lia nervous. She manged not to say anything, of course, though it surely showed in her eyes, if only for a moment before the polite veneer of a smile was back in place.

"Have you decided what you want?" She asked Ari with a polite smile, trying to ignore the sudden tension in the air.

Ari held her breath as Mike and Resher spoke, she looked up at Allen, still apologising with her eyes. She felt like it was her fault that Mike was being such an ass and so rude to him. Allen moved away and Ari let out the breath she'd been holding, slowly and quietly, looking up at Lia. "Yes, thank you. I'll have the ceasar salad with grilled chicken, dinner portion with the dressing on the side please."

Resher seemed satisfied with Mike's apology even if it wasn't sincere, as long as he did what he was told. "Could you bring out some more bread sticks.. please." He added on the manners as if Ari's politeness was rubbing off a little.

Mike said nothing, reaching for some of the food on the appetizer plate to keep himself busy, though he watched the waitress out of the corner of his eye.

"That's my favorite." Lia said honestly, not bothering to write down Ari's order since it matched her own exactly. It was easy enough to smile for Ari, and only a bit harder to keep that smile in place when she nodded at the older Mr. Resher. "I'll be right out with those bread sticks."

She turned to go, wishing she didn't feel like the younger man was watching her, though he hadn't been so blunt as to openly stare.

Eddie knew this was a huge strain on Allen's normal calmness, heck he didn't like this situattion any less. Growing up together and practicaly being fixtures in each others homes Ari was like a sister to him.

He had the drinks ready by the time Allen reached the bar "I have this round,you take a break and tend bar,besides it gives me a chance to say 'Hi' to Ari."

He waited until Allen was situated behind the bar before picking up his tray and strolling over to the Resher table nodding greetings to the other diners;he could have been strolling through the park his demeanor was so casual and unhurried.

"Ah...good evening "Daddy', so nice to see you, you're looking exceedingly well, hope all is fine with you?" Eddie set the fresh drink down and removed the old one. "Junior.." He held the fresh drink out so Mike would have to take it rather then setting it down like he had for his father and turned his attention to the other occupant at the table, "Ari...a pleasure indeed...long time no see....how are you these days...very becoming dress...Shari would love to see it, You really should drop by the house sometime, Edison and Shari ask about you all the time."

He hadn't brought a refill for Ari since she'd just arrived and barely had time to even take but a few sips.

Daddy took his drink up without much fuss and took a long sip of it. "Thank you Eddie, the drinks are perfect as usual. Can you make sure the waitress waits till Ari's dinner is ready before she brings out ours?"

Mike nearly growled at Eddie for calling him Junior, it was one thing if his father did but he hated being called that. Eddie was not on the recieving end of Mike's anger as the body guard at their table took that honor by snickering and teasing Mike -calling him junior again in a snide way. "Thank you Eddie." Mike said as he set down his drink and glared at the guy across the table from him. "Where did we find you?" The guy replied with a grin -New York. Mike nodded. "Good, why don't you go back there before I grind your bones to dust... " He pointed to where one of the other guards had taken their place. "Why don't you go stand over there for now."

Ari smiled at Eddie sort of meekly as the other conversation went on next to her. "Hi.. " She sort of wanted to hide under the table but that wasn't really an option. "Sure.. I'll stop by sometime, when I have some time I work as much as I can at the club.."

Mike cut in now that he'd dealt with the guard, his attention caught by Ari's words. "So you ever go see her there? I mean is anyone keeping an eye on her? You boys do know there is some psycho out their that has nasty habit of hacking girls up and he seems to really like the girls at the Palace." He took a long sip off his drink and looked up at Eddie again, running his finger over Ari's arm. "You know if you need some help, someone to keep an eye on her.. I'd be more than happy to .. help with keeping an eye on her."

[Lovely]

"I keep an eye on her every chance I get." Mark gently hissed the lightly accented words through a billow of smoke at Mike's shoulder as he came around from a nearby table. He had been entertaining another associate he'd just dismissed for the evening and was putting his calling cards in his pocket as he moved past and stood near Ariane, waiting for Daddy's acknowledgment. "And how is Lustre?" The catty query was fully intended to diplomatically change the subject and Mike's current indulgence and interest in the finely dressed woman at the table who didn't escape his own looking over, though Marcus' smile was truly appreciative and less than predatory. His attention swung neatly around to the next benefactor of his address as he nodded politely to Daddy himself. "Sir. It's a pleasure to join you this evening. May I?" He hoped to sit beside Ariane, but that was for Mike Sr. to decide for him.

Eddie had grown up around the Reshers and knew that as long as he toadied up to 'Daddy' keeping his puffed up ego puffed up then anything he did to goad Mike into making an a** of himself would put Mike in the hot spot and maybe even get him sent to the limo to finish his dinner there. "Thank you, 'Daddy' and I will make sure your dinner arrives when Ari's does, only the best for our best customer."

He handed out the drinks to the bodyguards next. "You know, Junior, asking me if I've ever watched Ari's performance ranks right up there with have I ever watched my sister take a shower and since Allen is my life-long friend and practically brother...." he let his sentence dangle there in Mike's face as he picked up some of the other emptied glasses letting a few drops of cold condensation from one drip on Mike's hand just as another gentleman strolled up to the table. He made room so the man could stand next to Ari leaving Mike very little access room.

He pointed at Ari's glass of wine "A nice champagne spritzer might go better with your meal, I'd be happy to replace it for you? Perhaps you would like one as well, 'Daddy' besides your usual; this seems like a special occasion. And you,sir might I get something for you?" he addressed the newcomer taking in his appearance and demeanor towards Ari. At least this guy seemed to have better manners and felt the same as he did about Mike.

Mike's eyes went cold as Eddie 'mouthed off' and his jaw tightened. "The name is Mike, I suggest you remember it." He said to Eddie just before a puff of smoke billowed into his face. Now he actually smiled a little and looked up at Mark. "Do you now? It's good to know someone gives a d**n about such a fine girl.. this one over here is too busy pretending she's his sister to care if someone hacks her into little pieces. There's been like what four or five girls from the Palace attacked in the last six months. sh*t if Jules or Keegan worked there, sister or not I'd f*cking have a front row seat. But that's just me and I like to keep a hold on the women in my life." His eyes flickered to Eddie and he grinned coldly.

Daddy just watched quietly, wondering why Eddie thought he could push things with Mike like that? Maybe he had a death wish.. Mike made his own comments and Daddy just shook his head and sipped his drink. He lifted his gaze to Mark and smiled. "Of course, I was hoping you'd join us."

Mike stood up to move so Mark could take his seat and sit down next to Ari once his father gave the okay. "Lustre is good, thank you. Probably sharpening her claws as we speak. I think I might have found a ring she'll just die over.. though I don't know, she's been a bit more moody lately. She might hate it and try to gouge my eyes out." He chuckled and moved around the table, sitting down next to his father he glared coldly at Eddie.

If it wasn't for Mark walking up when he did, Ari might just have ducked under the table after all. The way Mike and Eddie were tossing it back and forth, she was sure someone was going to end up getting hurt and she really didn't want it to be Eddie or his family. She looked up at Mark almost begging him to rescue her from whatever this was, but of course she smiled through it all. She turned her head at Eddie's question about her drink and she nodded. "Sure.. that's fine. Thank you."

[Lovely]

"Congratulations to you and my due condolences to her," he sniped more gently, adding a wink and reaching out his hand to his associate, truly wishing him the best despite the commentary. He reached his other hand to politely snub out his cigarette as he joined their company and slid down beside Ariane. "Ahh.. Eddie... she'll have what she wants," Mark corrected before Eddie stole off too far. "If she'd wanted a recommendation, she'd have asked for it. Why not ask her instead, hm? She is a person. Her voice works just as fine as the rest of her." He defended her but didn't want to go overboard. He turned to kiss her cheek and rest a hand near hers, apologetic for letting the younger man get to him as he whispered to her. "Sorry. Did you want more wine or would you like something with a little more kick?"

Eddie just stood there grinning coldly back at Mike; People tended to forget that he'd just come back from a very cold dark place, his grin getting bigger when Mike had to move to let the newcomer sit next to Ari and even more so when the stranger staked his claim putting Junior in his place.

"Of , course sir, " Eddie said with a slight dip of his head at Mark "being an old family friend I was merely making a suggestion based on past knowledge of Ariane's tastes, and she knows she can take said suggestion or leave it. " Letting Mark digest that little bit of information as he took his leave now that Ari was in a safer situation and to let Lia know to hold the meals until Ari's was ready and that she needed to go take the newcomer's order as well.

Hey she hasn't said yes, cause I haven't asked her yet so don't start celebrating yet!" Mike rolled his eyes a little watching Mark lean in to kiss Ari's cheek and his eyebrow lifted slightly, he hadn't known Mark had his eye on her.. He didn't feel bad about acting the way he did, but he'd know better now that she was spoken for.

Daddy eyed the girl and the man across from him with a knowing gaze and a slightly dark smile. He sipped his drink and watched the exchanges between them all and the bartender as he walked away. "Mike, did you go to school with him?" He asked curiously, though he was glad Mike didn't get up and hit the guy.

Mike shook his head. "I think he was done before I started high school." He shrugged and reached to take another sip off his drink. He was forgetting about Eddie for the moment as he dug into the appetizers.

Ari shifted her hand to cover and try to tangle with Mark's hand, she smiled a little as he kissed her cheek. "I'm glad to see you." She murmured to him, wishing it was just him she was having dinner with. What she really wanted was to know why she was here and to not cause any more trouble for her brother.

"Not half as glad as I am," he murmured back, thankful for the closer view of her stunning attire and the warmth of her hand on his. He turned his fingers to grasp hers and help settle her discomfort as he looked around the table. Resher senior was in rare form of congeniality and smiles, almost warm and inviting despite the interplay with the bartender, which made him curious as well. "Glad to accommodate, sir. Might I ask, why you were hoping I'd be here?"

"Hmm right to it then?" Daddy chuckled and downed the rest of his drink, looking across the table with a slight smile. "Well frankly because I have decided I'd like to.. extend your stay with us.. find an apartment or a house you can get comfortable in.. indefinitely. You're making AnniTown your home for.. well long enough to get quite comfortable if you wish to."

Why, he wondered. Had he done something wrong that Daddy felt he needed watching from the boys at home? He stared a moment then blinked away to reach and take a sip from an untouched water glass. The curiousity was thick and probably smelled nearly like fear which he was certain the man could smell and taste unlike anyone he'd ever met. Marcus worked his expression into a polite smile. It wasn't what he wished or not - it was Daddy's decision to extend his stay, so he was staying. "Yes sir. Thank you for the extension," he nodded. It would give him more time state-side to spend near Ariane - a plus. "So, what's the assignment?" He asked as casually as he could while he put the glass down and pulled another cigarette from from the pack in his pocket.

Daddy chuckled and glanced to Ariane to see her face brighten a little as he mentioned Mark's stay being extended. "To keep me from being surrounded by idiots." He replied to Mark as his gaze swung back to the man. "I seem to feel a great need to let one of my employees go." His eyes shifted to the guard who had insulted Mike and then back. "I need your talents here." He stated simply as he reached to take some food off the appetizer platter and motioned to Mark and Ari to help themselves.

Lia had no sooner taken Ari's order to the kitchen than she turned to see another guest joining the table. Wonderful...this wouldn't be difficult to coordinate at all. With a small sigh, she headed across the floor again, noting that Eddie had already brought the table their drinks.

She approached the table again, giving them enough time to spot her and break off a conversation she probably didn't want to hear before coming closer and offering Mark a smile. "Did you want to order dinner as well?" She asked, glancing the way Eddie had gone. "Or a drink, if Eddie's not already getting you one?"

[Lovely]

Ariane smiles at Lia, she seemed very nice and it made her sad that she hadn't been able to spend more time here with Allen, she used to know everyone that worked her. That was before she did something stupid.. but worth it in many ways. "If you don't mind, could you let Eddie know I'll take that other drink he suggested when our meals come?"

Daddy took the approach of the waitress again as an opprotunity to motion her closer for a word before Mark could give his order. He waited for her to step to his side of the table or lean in so he could speak to her.

"Sure thing." Lia made a quick note on the pad she carried, glancing up as Mr. Resher's motion caught her attention. Stepping around to his side of the table, she leaned a bit closer...just enough to be polite and friendly without being flirty. "Sir?"

Daddy gave Lia a small smile and motioned to the table in general. "Bring all of our meals together. That man there.." He pointed to Mark. "He gets anything he wants on me. You can go ahead and bring out the guards meals when they are ready, staggered like I said before.. but see that one, the one that was sitting here earlier?" He gestured a little and gave a bit of a dark smile. "He only gets ice water and his meal comes last." Of course it would be his last meal.. "Also I need another drink.. Thank you Lia.. I'm going to remember you."

"Thank you, sir." Lia jotted down his orders, her smile staying in place in spite of the chill that ran up her spine at his words. Somehow she didn't think she wanted to be remembered by a man like Daddy Resher.

Stepping back again, she aimed her smile at Mark. "So...anything you want?" She hoped it was something on the menu, though, because otherwise...well, Daddy got what Daddy wanted, and she didn't ever want to be the one to tell him they couldn't do something.

"Thank you Lia, I'll make it easy. New York strip, rare, Caesar salad, no onions, the fattest, most stuffed-with-everything potato you can find in the kitchen, and two bottles of your 2005 Shiraz. Oh, and I'll order two molten lavas now for dessert, but those will be to go, okay? Okay," Mark smiled, but it was a chillingly menacing smile meant to ensure that his order wouldn't be screwed around with by Eddie or anyone else.

Lia nodded, scribbling as he wrote so she didn't miss any of the details. "Sure." She nodded, meeting his eyes just long enough to show that she wasn't up to anything. Even if she had been mad for some reason, Allen didn't stand for that kind of thing in his restaurant. "I'll be back out as soon as your meals are ready." With a smile that she hoped didn't reveal quite how releived she was, she headed back towards the kitchen.

Ariane arched an eyebrow at Marc's order but smiled as the waitress moved away to go put in the order. "Goodness where are you going to put all that dessert?" She teased lightly, feeling less nervous the longer he was sitting next to her. Mister Resher was still as dangerous and scary as ever but somehow Marc just eased her tension naturally by being nearby. She appriecated it more than she could tell him, well at least here in front of the Reshers. If she was lucky maybe she'd get to show and tell him later in private.

Lia was back shortly, bringing Mr. Resher the drink he'd asked for as well as Mark's wine before disappearing into the kitchen again. The cooks had basically dropped everything else to prepare the food for that one table, so it wasn't long before she was back, bringing their orders and thanking her lucky stars nothing had gotten mixed up or messed up. This entire night was turning into one big test on her nerves...one she wasn't sure yet if she would pass or not.

"I might share," he teased, appearing to consider keeping the gooey chocolotely decadence to himself, though he'd fully intended it for the two of them later on that evening. His attention floated briefly back to business before starting in on the wine, of course offering his boss a glass first. "If you'll let me know my budget, sir, I'll make arrangements starting tonight. Your idiot infestation will be taken care of in due order." The newly lit cigarette was doused and his glance tossed briefly toward the direction of the guard to be disposed of. Once things were handled, the festivities could go on.

[Lovely]

"I appreciate you taking care of that problem for me.. You don't have a budget persay.. " Resher grinned and waved as if to the food on the table but he was painting a picture for Marc. "I want you to be comfortable and I intend your stay to be near permanent if things work out. Annitown will be your new base of operations. Whatever you need to do that, you'll have it." His eyes flickered to Ariane and lingered there a moment. "Anything you want or need.. " He shifted his gaze back to Marc, and took the offered glass of wine. "When I'm happy.. everyone is happy.. and since you'll be helping to make me very happy.." He grinned and arched his brow a little as he took a sip of the wine.

"Permanent? Thank you, sir." He repeated it as if the word had little meaning to him and hoped it would make more sense the second time he heard it. Marc nodded and poured another glass of the wine. His attention was now toward the beautiful woman beside him, offering to pour a glass for her as well, but what he wanted to ask instead... it appeared they had some things to discuss while enjoying their dessert later.

"Might share?" She whispered quietly to his comment about the dessert, looking at him as if she intended to make him share with wicked and playful methods. The tease faded as Marc and Daddy started talking and Ari knew her place to stay out of it and resumed 'sitting pretty' and waiting to find out why she'd been asked to come here tonight.

Lia came back with the food and Ari turned her attention to that for a couple of moments, smiling at the waitress as she set down their plates. Ariane took a bite of her dish as Daddy and Marc chatted a little, though she felt the look Daddy gave her more than saw it. Her pasta was a bit chewey and she tried to hide the grimace behind her napkin as she chewed and swallowed. She reached for the glass of wine Marc offered with a grateful smile. "Thank you." She caught the way he looked at her now and her smile shifted to sweet and almost shy as she wondered what was on his mind.

Marc nodded and turned to twist the offer as he repeated the words to Daddy, handing the man his sip-full of deep bloody red. "Share, that is, having a two-bedroom. A downtown loft, if I may sir, for an upper view of town. I like to keep an eye on the streets. Good sound quality would be preferred. A place I can speak freely where the walls are thick enough to entertain and work without worrying the neighbors. That should be all I require. Is the wine to your liking?" He'd poured only enough for the man to provide his approval, waiting to fill it properly if he agreed, hopefully on all counts.

"I have the Seaside Condos, but not sure what is downtown that would suit you. Seaside is modified and equiped for special needs since mostly my people live in them. But I don't house anyone downtown so you'll have to look around and see if you can find something to suit your needs." Resher commented with an indifferent tone, he wasn't choosing Marc's home for him, unless he had planned to live in Seaside, then of course giving him an apartment there would be different. "Talk to Garrett, he's got some places, maybe he has what you're looking for." His tone was friendlier when he spoke this time, the thought coming to him and then being shared. "The wine is fine." He added, a little disappointed that all Marc wanted was the bare essentials and some small hovel in his view of things.

Now he was curious. "Unless there's another urgent matter needing my attention at the condos," he prompted with a tilt of his eyebrow, wondering if others in Daddy's ranks were deserving of a little reminder about loyalty. Marc filled Daddy's glass as he mused further and provided all the explanation he might need. "Otherwise I'd rather not draw attention, if you understand, sir. A simple businessman, leading a simple life, that's all I am." Marc's own tone was sarcastic in a subtle enough way to say that his life was anything but simple, but from the outside looking in, that's all anyone would ever see or assume about him as he went about his daily routines, paper under his arm, case and coffee cup in hand. What the case and cup truly held was anyone's guess most days, but on the train usually no one bothered. Out here in a more rural area, transportation came to mind as a different problem. Buses had people who loved to ask questions and he couldn't afford the casual conversation. "Although perhaps a car..." He'd let Daddy muse on that himself and decide what would work best.

Resher chuckled softly. "No, there is nothing there to worry about. It's just the nicest place in the city to rent from and I own it of course. Comfy, big, sound proofed.. but if you want something small and down town, I'm not really the one to ask. Like I said talk to Garrett he probably has or can find what you're looking for." He took a quick bite of his food and thought over the car, waving with his fork when he spoke again. "Go down to Lando Myer's dealership, pick whatever will suit you. I'll let him know I'm sending you over and he'll take care of you."

"All the more reason," Marc said, resting back in his chair, swirling his wine like a brandy. "Especially if I have to come pay a visit to check on the boys once in a while, it's actually better for me not to be right next door. Strange logic, but coming from where I've been, I've learned neighbors talk and look out for each other. Best not to be among them and have someone tip off when I'm doing an.. inspection.. shall we say? I'll follow up with Garrett and check out Myers' place in the morning. Late... morning," he clarified, making sure Ari wasn't too stiffened with boredom yet.

[Lovely]

"Makes sense.." Resher seemed pleased enough with Marc's answers and his head nodded as he busied himself with another bite of his food. After taking a sip of wine he eased back in his chair a little and took a moment to look over the woman sitting across from him.

Ariane was quietly eating her food as the men talked, trying to be as unnoticed as she could and also trying to stay out of their business as much as she could. She really wasn't sure what she was supposed to do, it seemed very odd for Resher to be discussing things with Marc in front of her like this... maybe there were things she didn't know about yet that made the situation what it was. As if she was one of them, as if it were alright for her to be sitting their as they discussed things, it was strange. She glanced at Marc and gave him a small smile, she wasn't bored at all, just very nervous. As she turned to take another bite of her food she found Resher's gaze fixed on her. Now that really made her nervous.

"Late morning... that's fine.. just fine." Resher seemed to hum with the words, smiling a bit. "Speaking of cars.. Ariane.. somebody told you me that you're driving around in an unsafe vehicle. That you have a wreck of a car.. that shouldn't be on the road..."

"I..." Ari stammered a little, sort of frozen and feeling his gaze on her and confused as to why he'd bring up her car. What did it matter, why would he even care about her piece of crap car?

[Lovely]

November 25, 2008
10pm
The Grande Hotel

Ariane had done an earlier show tonight so she could get out earlier and enjoy a little of the night with Mark, who was now in town until further notice. She had no complaints about him being around more, she was actually thrilled because it meant they could really be a couple and she loved spending time with him. If they were really a couple.. then she might even finally have some good news to share with her brother.. not that he was telling her anything lately. She figured he was busy with Chez and she was busy working usually late hours.. but now she had someone to make her not care about work.. which she'd left behind when she threw a long coat over her costume and left with Mark, not even changing before scooting out.

They got to the hotel and ordered food while Ari got herself more comfortable. The coat off, her high heels and then a quick run into the bathroom while Mark got settled as well. She heard just bits of Mark speaking about having toys?

"And I know how to use them, too"

She came out still in her costume as her clothes were in the bag she'd left on the dresser. "What?!" She giggled and turned around to smile at him, not bothering to cover up with her robe.

Marc was threatening the air with one of the rolled napkins on the room service tray when he turned and she'd note he was actually on a phone call. "Nevermind, I'll call you back, Ran," he said, quickly ending the call and shutting off the phone. The napkin in his hand wouldn't cover up any part of her if he wanted it to and it was tossed and forgotten. "Nothing... absolutely nothing," he smiled.

"Oh?" She crawled onto the end of the bed and knelt facing him, she had yet to finish changing and was covered only by her partial costume from tonight's show. "You didn't have to get off because of me."

"I beg to differ. Oh.. you meant the call? Yes, I did. Randy... he'll talk for hours. Arms specialist," he muttered, paying attention to a pair of arms likely more deadly than Randy's supply. His gaze smoothed over the silky caramel up to her shoulders and teasing expression. "Are we staying in?"

"Did you want to take me out?" She asked with a daring smile, 'sitting pretty' for him as if her sole purpose was to tempt and tease him endlessly. Her gaze drifted slowly to meet his and her eyebrow arched. "I took off my heels already, I may need to put them back on.."

"No. No need for the heels. We can stay in," he agreed, feeling the heat rising to his collar with the lift of his own eyebrows, watching her shift and pose. "Quite an evening already, really."

"Really?" She asked innocently, licking her lips as she stayed where she was, continuing to tease him with her poses and acting as if she wasn't. "Mmmm does this mean you are enjoying everything so far?" She brushed at the fluff edging on her top and thought about getting closer to him, but didn't move yet.

"I'm enjoying knowing you can relax as you like, Ariane. You're able to do ... whatever... you want here." As if she needed to be given permission? She was doing quite well but only one of them was relaxed at the moment, distractingly so.

"And you? Can you relax as you'd like?" She asked him with a soft pout, coming toward him like a cat on all fours -slowly slinking closer to the head of the bed where he'd been propped on his call. "I like being here.. because it's where you are." She whispered as she reached him, kissing his lips with a feather brush of her own.

"Who says I like being relaxed? I do like that you like being near me - though I can't quite fathom," he smirked, watching her still as he took a seat beside her to slide his own high polished shoes off. "It was a remarkable show, though I'm glad it's only you, and me, and..." He laid back in a languishing stretch, enjoying the altered view of her as well. "Mm... and much more of that."

"You prefer tense? If that's what you like, then I won't try to loosen you up, I'll try to make you all... stiff." She chuckled at how that sounded though she'd not intentionally started out to make it so.. Ariane stretched over him, holding herself up on al fours still and kissing him again. "More of this?" She asked softly, brushing her lips teasingly over his. "I'm glad you liked my show.. but it's pretend, it's work.. I do it because I get paid well." Her lips hovered over his. "..this.. is not work, this is my pleasure, this is real.. I like it better when it's you and me.. "

He agreed as met her kiss and laid back to enjoy being 'chased', "No, this isn't pretend.. and not entirely your pleasure, thank you. I don't want to think about it being anyone else but me, either. That makes me more tense. Nevermind that... back to more of... mm."

She stayed in the kiss for a few minutes and then nibbled her way out of it. "Do you.. really feel, I mean about me and other guys or my dancing for them.. " Now she bit her own lip and tried to meet his eyes. "I don't have to dance at the Palace. I've been doing it because it was better money and I needed the money.. but now that my debt is paid off.. I used to be a waitress.. I could, you know.. be one again."