[ The invitation to a social event is a pleasant surprise, especially coming from Miller. And of course K responds out of courtesy to confirm his interest. ]
Thanks for the invitation. I've never been to anything like this before.
Must be multiversally popular with cops. I'd heard about my former co-workers doing something like this but I wasn't welcome. They considered me department hardware.
I'm looking forward to it. Should I bring anything else? Are you expecting people to get drunk? Since I can't, I could help you clean up if needed.
I appreciate that. [ Not just the standing invitation, but all of it; it still surprises him when people don't agree with the attitudes that humans of his home universe hold toward androids. ]
And I'd be happy to help. I noticed the address isn't a residential area. New office?
[ An educated guess based on the mention of a desk. ]
We don't really get a choice in the latter though, do we?
Based on my own informal investigations most want to pretend nothing happened. Dead end after dead end. Best of luck with your contacts, I hope you can turn something up.
If you ever want to compare notes one of these days, let me know. On those cases or any others that may arise. Always helps to have more eyes on these things. Especially when people like to pretend that nothing is happening.
[ Well. He knows what poker is, at least, even if the rest is kind of confusing (what is "BYOB", exactly? And why is this person sending invitations over these devices instead of by mail?) ]
[ But, considering the prevalence of "team building exercises" he's been faced with so far, he feels the need to clarify; ]
[ Miller doesn't think he's met this Levi person, but invitations like this do have a tendency to get around. He's welcome all the same. The more the merrier. ]
If whoever shows up decides to play for dosh and you win more than you lose, then yeah. It's kind of like a prize. Not really the point though. Point's just participation in the game.
[ They've met, though they may not have exchanged names, so he probably got the invitation elsewhere. ]
[ Levi doesn't think participation is particularly fun without swindling his way into getting out of it with extra cash, but he supposes he can take a look. ]
I see. What is byob?
Levi
[ He really doesn't know, in case is grandpa style of signing his texts was not enough of an indication. ]
(( OOC: yeah, they've definitely met and I must have spaced out when writing the tag. They didn't exchange names, but Levi would definitely have received a direct invite. Oops! ))
BYOB means "Bring your own bottle." Beer. Booze. Beverage. Basically, if you want to drink, you're welcome to, but I'm not paying for it.
[ Around midday, there's a knock on Miller's door —
It's a delivery from the local Styxmart: about a dozen bags of groceries, which the delivery person only mildly grumbles about having had to lug up to the apartment (apparently tipping well only lowers the amount of complaining, not eliminates it). The groceries are mostly staples and essentials, but there's also a couple different varieties of coffee and a bottle of gin among the assortment.
There's an envelope pinned to one of the reusable bags, his name written in elegant script on the front. Inside is a folded note that reads:
A little something to make sure your cupboards don't go bare.
I didn't catch what kind of coffee was brewing in the simulation so I hope at least one of these is suitable to your tastes.
It's not signed, but it's probably clear who it's from... ]
[ The delivery surprises him — surely, he could have continued getting by just fine the way he'd been living — but he's honestly very touched. He'd had other things on his mind at the time so hadn't been thinking about it, but the state of his cupboards apparently made some kind of impression on his benefactor. For her to demonstrate this much concern over his wellbeing... It was flattering. It was unexpected, but it was nice.
He chuckles to himself with a shake of his head because he's going to end up in favor debt to this woman forever at this rate. ]
Delivery received. Thank you for thinking of me.
I think your taste in coffee's actually better than mine. One of those you picked out might be a new favorite.
[ Mara smiles when the message comes in, glad both that it arrived as intended and that he didn't react poorly to it; she knows not everyone appreciated the same kinds of assistance or could otherwise be particular about it. ]
You're quite welcome.
Oh really? I'm a little amused to hear that, I don't tend to drink coffee often. Perhaps the next time I stop by I'll have a cup.
[ The way Miller grew up, the one thing you never turn down when someone offers it is food. As an adult, that extended to include booze and coffee as well, and Mara's gift had been all of those things. He supposes it could have been a matter of pride, a grown man not able to provide for himself or some such, but knowing his own circumstances, Miller had never been that particular type of proud.
Plus now she's given him an idea of something to do for her in return. ]
Bit of that kind of work on my dance card. But no. Figured that since I've been using my skills as a detective to look into the strange occurrences that happen around the city here, may as well make it legit. Got a license for it and everything.
[ He attaches a digital copy of his business card with the office address printed on it. ]
Impressive. With how things are in this city, I imagine there will be plenty to keep you busy. [ Both because of how regular 'strange occurrences' are and how useless the Requiem PD seems to consistently be. ]
Definitely don't have to worry about gettin bored, but I wouldn't go so far as to call it impressive. Not yet anyway. It'll be impressive once I can find any satisfying answer to even a single question this place poses.
In the meantime, I have a contract to patrol at some party, and I'm looking for someone's missing pet.
[ Miller's usual self-deprecating language did take a slight turn, even if he'd done it on accident. "once I can find anything"... not "if". The whispers in the back of his mind won't accept anything other than the task completed — the case solved — and that suits Miller just fine. Even though he sees the frustrating road ahead. ]
I fear you're right. And since I can't wait around idly for them, that's why I'm gonna go looking. Even if it's fruitless at first.
Knowing my luck, especially the way it's been here so far, I'm sure it'll eventually lead to a lot of trouble. Hopefully it'll be something I can get back out of.
My door's always open. Whenever's convenient for you.
Ms. Braun is eager to believe we had something to do with it. But I can tell you with absolute assurance: the Symphony never laid a hand on Mr. Braun, and are not responsible for his disappearance.
I do not expect that the dear lady will believe that, or that she'll stay her hand for long. Temperance is not her strong suit. If this boils over, it'll be bad for the entire city, not just our interests.
I would personally like to see Mr. Braun returned to his sister's side as quickly as possible.
Definitely wouldn't want the lady to overreact. Taking you at your word about that you're just as eager to solve this. Otherwise you wouldn't have come to me.
Do we have any intelligence on Mr. Braun or any knowledge of his recent movements?
Mr. Braun was last seen by one of our agents on the morning of August 15th, in the area of West Hedge. I wonder if you can pick out anything strange about that information.
He was under his own power and, it seems, had every intention of heading back to his sister at that time. It is our belief that something happened to him after that.
But I wonder what happened to him in the three days before he was spotted. Whatever it was that made him miss his performance. Might hold clues to what happened to him after.
I'll start in the obvious places, West Hedge and Kayfabe Arena, and move out from there.
Be cautious at the arena. Play nice, but don't let on you're working for me. It will go... poorly if you do.
I suspect foul play. The question is if someone is trying to start trouble between us and the Syndicate or if they have something else in mind. Regardless, I am certain he's alive.
I'll play nice. No sense in ruffling feathers if I don't have to. makes my job harder. If anyone suspects me, I won't give them anything to confirm it.
There's a cheerful thought.
You want me to get back in touch with what I find, or just get it done?
[ There's a minute of hesitation before he responds. He has some doubts, but she's not wrong. Security is important, especially with all his recent troubles. And besides, if he lived in the same building, he could help keep an eye on Mara's security as well. Certainly better than he could from across town. ]
Yeah, spacious isn't really the selling point you think it is, but the beds here are nicer. No doubt about that.
Good to know the beds in the penthouse are to your liking even if the style isn't.
It's entirely your choice, of course. I simply thought you might appreciate having a space that was fully your own while still being near.
[ She would prefer to keep him near, to see him safe, but she wouldn't force the matter. That he didn't immediately and firmly discard the idea is something, at least. ]
Didn't say I didn't like the style. Just meant that it's yours, and you have better taste than I do.
And yes, I'm a big fan of the beds in the penthouse.
[ The practical part of Miller's brain wonders how he'd be able to afford any place in this building, but the rest of him wants to accept her suggestion without any more discussion. ]
Well, I would prefer to stay near. Just in case, you know?
Just in case, yes. One can never be too careful in this realm. Particularly with winter coming up. The longer periods of darkness seem to embolden the creatures at times.
[ The slight focus shift is easy to lean into, though it's a genuine point to consider. She recalls the more harrowing parts of the prior winter here.
[ He pretty quickly agreed to her idea of moving, but in truth, he's not completely convinced. Because while he has grown more comfortable with large rooms and luxury while living in Mara's penthouse, that was while it was occupied with (at least) two people and a cat. Even the suites on the lower levels of the building seem like too much space for just Miller. Too much for just one person — a fact that gives him pause.... Well, the whole point is that he won't be going far. And he does need to give Mara her own space back. ]
It's that easy, huh? Just have to find a vacancy in a good location that's willing to let a guy like me move in.
It's that easy. Let me know which of the vacancies you would like and I'll take care of the rest.
I do wish you wouldn't be so disparaging of yourself, though. A 'guy like you' has been living here for months, this is extending the places you can occupy and roam.
[ Well, that answers one question. Two, really. Now's the time Miller has to check his pride and see if he can allow Mara to do him yet another big favor. He brings up the mental register of what he owes her already. She's not immune to him keeping a tally just because they're.... well... just because.
There's a bit of a pause before his response. ]
Guess I'm going apartment hunting.
[ another short pause ]
People tend to be more tolerant when a situation is temporary, but it looks like no one's getting rid of me so easily.
[ Mara's quiet and patient during the delay, but that doesn't mean her mind isn't turning over a few things too. Some related to Miller, some not. While they've spent a lot of time together — particularly in recent months — there is still plenty she doesn't know about him. It's always possible she may have overstepped or brushed against a button she's unaware of. Not that she's one to walk anything back. ]
I would hope my actions have shown I'm not merely tolerating you.
And you need not rush. I don't want you to feel forced into making a decision.
Don't worry. Your actions have been very clear about that.
[ But he wishes this part of the conversation was in person for a little physical reassurance between them. Miller's not needy, but he's become a bit greedy when it comes to her affection, cherishing every precious bit of it. ]
Nah, I don't feel forced. It probably is past time for me to get out of your space and back to my own.
This isn't me kicking you out. If that were the case I would be very clear about it, I promise.
I know people tend to feel more comfortable when they have a place that is distinctly theirs. I want you to be comfortable, to have that security, and not worry that something is temporary.
I trust that. Didn't take it as you kicking me out.
We were waiting for the heat to die down before I went back to my apartment. If I move into this building while no one's looking, that cuts short that wait with a little more safety and a little less ambiguity. And I won't be going far from you. It's a good plan.
[ brief pause ]
But I'll miss waking up just down the hall from you.
[ Since he said something first, it's easier for her to admit: ]
It has been nice, not being alone as often in this space. Back in my world there are generally always others around, for one reason or another. I suppose I became accustomed to it.
While I have spent a great deal of time in solitude during different periods of my life, it isn't always my preference. Being alone in this realm has been... a different beast.
[ It's her turn for a pause. Considering her words. Considering the twist of emotions. A year or two was a long time to many however it's a blink against her timescale, even if these strange realms stand out starkly compared to home. She's felt many things in this place, caused by those she had brought near to her, and some moments remained easier than others for her not to brush aside. It was easier before her venture back home, before newly gained knowledge in the present stirred up the past and poked at her heart.
Sometimes, just sometimes, she wonders how different it would have been if she hadn't loved Sjur. Not an ideal outcome, she always reasons. The same fire that provides warmth and light can turn destructive in an instant.
Her fingers hover over the letters before Mara finally sends a message back. ]
With all due respect, I get the final say if I let you interrupt me or not, and I answered and continued the conversation because I wanted to. Making time for you is better than anything else I'm doing right now.
Just let me know what you need. I'll pick them up on my way back.
[ He really needed to stop making her feel things. Though at least this day there's only the cat to witness her occasional moments of fluster. And the little smile pulling at her lips as she envisions Miller saying such in person. ]
I'm not sure if I have all that's necessary for those cookies of yours. We do still have butter and eggs at least.
[ Truth be told baking hadn't exactly been on her mind until she brought it up but it felt a safe topic shift — and an excuse to be near each other. ]
[ It sounds like an excuse to him, rather than just asking him to come back to the penthouse, but he'll take it. He chuckles to himself as he responds. ]
Yeah, I can pick up the rest.
We can talk about everything else when I get back.
Everything with the move, I mean.
[ Because God forbid they talk about their feelings. They know, and that's enough for now. ]
Edited ((edited for snark)) 2024-10-27 16:32 (UTC)
[ Everything else. Two words that can be downright ominous in some situations. It does spark a bit of a sensation but she brushes it off, all the easier with his follow up message. ]
Thank you, I appreciate it.
Do be safe while you're out. I want you to return to me in one piece.
[ His current errands are fairly innocuous, but he can't stand the thought of her mourning him again. Maybe a little patching up every now and then would be fine, but not today. ]
No matter how much time they spend together in Mara's bedroom, he'll always clear out to give her the space and time to get ready (for the day, for an outing, for an event, etc.) in peace unless explicitly asked to stay. He wouldn't want to get in her way, and Miller's fine with keeping the mysteries of how a woman prepares herself to remain mostly that — a mystery. Nothing to be shy or ashamed about, but people do need their privacy, and who is Miller to deny anyone that.
(Although, he'd have to admit that he finds watching the clothing go on nearly as entertaining as watching it come off. The slide of expensive fabric against her glowing skin. Exquisite.)
However, today Miller has an agenda. He knocks on the doorframe to Mara's bedroom to get her attention before speaking. "Don't let me interrupt what you're doing, but you got a second?" He waits for an affirmative before entering, finding Mara seated at her vanity, watching him approach without turning her head through the reflection of the mirror.
When he reaches her, he places his hands lightly on her shoulders, resting for a moment before moving his thumbs in a gentle massage, working out some of the stress he knows she carries from the weight of worlds on her shoulders. He leans forward to place a kiss on the top of her head, nuzzling affectionately a little with the tip of his nose.
"Radiant as always, setara mi."
He stays that way for a handful of seconds, just admiring her reflection for a while before proceeding on with the reason he came in here. He sees himself there, too, in the mirror... not unattractive, but nowhere near as classy and elegant as the queen seated before him. She's way out of his league, and he knows it, but they fit well together — physically, intellectually, morally, even emotionally as it turns out. Somewhere along the way he'd fallen hard for this woman, flaring up his protective instincts and making him hardly want to leave her side. It isn't enough to rid him of the ghosts that haunt him, but it keeps them at bay, and for that (and so many other things) he is grateful.
Her glowing gaze meets his, looking like she's reading his mind and knows what he's thinking. Mara's told him a few times that she's not able to do that, that she can project her thoughts through their shared connection but not receive his in that way, but there are times when she looks at him like that that he still wonders. Her gaze is always so knowing. Deep and eternal. It's captivating. And it makes him wonder if her enemies cower under her glare. Miller knows for sure that he wouldn't want to be on the receiving end of her anger — a thought that makes him smile. His beautiful and dangerous Queen.
While he's still standing behind her, Miller reaches forward so his hands are in front of her. He could hug her from behind in this position, but that's not (yet) his intention. "I have something for you." Reaching into his shirt cuff with the opposite hand, he draws out something shiny that catches the vanity's lights — a fine, intricate gold chain holding a pendant. He holds the chain between his two hands to display it for her.
"Amethyst," he explains. "It made me think of you." Of her, and of her city. He tries not to clear his throat self-consciously. "And the design I'm sure you recognize. An old Earth compass with a star at its center. Because you are magnetic north." While it's true pretty literally, he means it figuratively as well. "You are my star."
"I was lost here without you, my Queen." His face is serious as he watches her reaction. "Now, with you, I don't lose my way."
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
itreachesout) wrote2025-01-05 08:01 pm
Val-O-Gram
[This beautiful drawing comes along with a white carnation and a chocolate bar.]
POKER NIGHT inbox replies
bcc: [hidden]
Subject: Here’s the deal
You are invited to POKER NIGHT on [this day] at [this address in the East District], third floor.
BYOB. Game starts at 9pm (21:00).
text | un: K
Thanks for the invitation. I've never been to anything like this before.
BYOB?
no subject
BYOB is "Bring your own bottle." Beer. Booze. Beverage. Basically, if you want to drink, I'm not paying for it myself.
no subject
I'm looking forward to it. Should I bring anything else? Are you expecting people to get drunk? Since I can't, I could help you clean up if needed.
no subject
No need to bring anything unless there's something you want.
Not sure who all will show up or what to expect, but I could probably use your help moving my desk back into place at the end of the night.
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And I'd be happy to help. I noticed the address isn't a residential area. New office?
[ An educated guess based on the mention of a desk. ]
no subject
[ More like an offer he couldn't refuse, but that's another story, and he has his reasons. ]
This is kind of like breaking it in, so to speak. First time really using the space.
oops k is not that unobservant lol
[ He's teasing. He's also curious. ]
So you're back to doing what you know best. Guessing you may be looking into the kidnappings and more recent water supply issues?
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Already started looking into those things, but I'm hoping this can help me make some new contacts before the leads go dry completely.
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Based on my own informal investigations most want to pretend nothing happened. Dead end after dead end. Best of luck with your contacts, I hope you can turn something up.
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If you ever want to compare notes one of these days, let me know. On those cases or any others that may arise. Always helps to have more eyes on these things. Especially when people like to pretend that nothing is happening.
un: joda
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I met him briefly during that speed dating fiasco. It would be good to have you both here.
un: Levi
[ But, considering the prevalence of "team building exercises" he's been faced with so far, he feels the need to clarify; ]
Is there a prize?
Levi
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If whoever shows up decides to play for dosh and you win more than you lose, then yeah. It's kind of like a prize. Not really the point though. Point's just participation in the game.
no subject
[ Levi doesn't think participation is particularly fun without swindling his way into getting out of it with extra cash, but he supposes he can take a look. ]
I see. What is byob?
Levi
[ He really doesn't know, in case is grandpa style of signing his texts was not enough of an indication. ]
no subject
BYOB means "Bring your own bottle." Beer. Booze. Beverage. Basically, if you want to drink, you're welcome to, but I'm not paying for it.
Think you'll be joining us?
no subject
I don't really drink.
Maybe. Sounds like it's worth a look at least.
Levi
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You're welcome to stay as long or as little as you like. Couple of hands, couple of hours. Whatever.
no subject
Levi
[ There's... nothing following after that. Apparently he considers the topic finished. ]
special delivery!
It's a delivery from the local Styxmart: about a dozen bags of groceries, which the delivery person only mildly grumbles about having had to lug up to the apartment (apparently tipping well only lowers the amount of complaining, not eliminates it). The groceries are mostly staples and essentials, but there's also a couple different varieties of coffee and a bottle of gin among the assortment.
There's an envelope pinned to one of the reusable bags, his name written in elegant script on the front. Inside is a folded note that reads:
It's not signed, but it's probably clear who it's from... ]
text | un: tekinem
He chuckles to himself with a shake of his head because he's going to end up in favor debt to this woman forever at this rate. ]
Delivery received. Thank you for thinking of me.
I think your taste in coffee's actually better than mine. One of those you picked out might be a new favorite.
no subject
You're quite welcome.
Oh really? I'm a little amused to hear that, I don't tend to drink coffee often. Perhaps the next time I stop by I'll have a cup.
no subject
Plus now she's given him an idea of something to do for her in return. ]
To my home or office, you're welcome any time.
no subject
What manner of office? Doing security work?
no subject
[ He attaches a digital copy of his business card with the office address printed on it. ]
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In the meantime, I have a contract to patrol at some party, and I'm looking for someone's missing pet.
The coffee helps.
no subject
[ And sadly Mara's normal influence on Reality seems to not be in effect here or be extremely diminished, much to her annoyance. ]
It sounds as if another coffee order might be needed in the near future.
no subject
I fear you're right. And since I can't wait around idly for them, that's why I'm gonna go looking. Even if it's fruitless at first.
Keeping the coffee stocked is a good plan.
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I'll have to make that visit sooner than later then, so I can be certain of your new favorite to order.
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My door's always open. Whenever's convenient for you.
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I will be sure to use the door and not a portal, I promise. [ She'll try to relegate that for emergencies. ]
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But I have to admit, the portal is pretty cool.
[ Emergency use only is also fine. ]
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Well then, maybe I'll still use it on occasion.
I look forward to trying your new favorite coffee.
no subject
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The Symphony has need of a man of your talents, and we will be paying handsomely.
The matter is urgent. I need an answer as soon as possible.
- M
no subject
Since you're hiring me, my talents are at your service.
What can you tell me about the case?
no subject
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I take it you want someone looking into the disappearance of Ricky Braun.
no subject
I do not expect that the dear lady will believe that, or that she'll stay her hand for long. Temperance is not her strong suit. If this boils over, it'll be bad for the entire city, not just our interests.
I would personally like to see Mr. Braun returned to his sister's side as quickly as possible.
no subject
Do we have any intelligence on Mr. Braun or any knowledge of his recent movements?
no subject
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And three days after he didn't make his scheduled appearance.
Did your agent say if he was on his own or if he was under his own power?
no subject
He was under his own power and, it seems, had every intention of heading back to his sister at that time. It is our belief that something happened to him after that.
no subject
I'll start in the obvious places, West Hedge and Kayfabe Arena, and move out from there.
Anything else we know for sure? Or suspect?
no subject
I suspect foul play. The question is if someone is trying to start trouble between us and the Syndicate or if they have something else in mind. Regardless, I am certain he's alive.
Alive as any of us are, I ought to say.
no subject
There's a cheerful thought.
You want me to get back in touch with what I find, or just get it done?
no subject
It needn't become widely known that we're in contact, however.
no subject
I'll keep you updated.
text | un: rega
since Life has had me slow as molasses I'm just going to toss this at you now before I space it off yet again.]I'm not sure if you noticed but there seem to be a few vacancies in my building.
no subject
I did a walk-through of the building one of the days you were out. Call it a kind of security audit. Good to know who's home and what's empty.
no subject
Since you've taken notice of them, I wonder if you've given any thought to occupying one of those vacancies.
no subject
Sure, I've been staying here, but to stay here? This place ain't really my style. Too upscale for the likes of me.
no subject
They're certainly more spacious - and more secure - than that basic apartment you were in before. You should give it some thought.
no subject
Yeah, spacious isn't really the selling point you think it is, but the beds here are nicer. No doubt about that.
For you, I'll think about it.
no subject
It's entirely your choice, of course. I simply thought you might appreciate having a space that was fully your own while still being near.
[ She would prefer to keep him near, to see him safe, but she wouldn't force the matter. That he didn't immediately and firmly discard the idea is something, at least. ]
no subject
And yes, I'm a big fan of the beds in the penthouse.
[ The practical part of Miller's brain wonders how he'd be able to afford any place in this building, but the rest of him wants to accept her suggestion without any more discussion. ]
Well, I would prefer to stay near. Just in case, you know?
no subject
[ The slight focus shift is easy to lean into, though it's a genuine point to consider. She recalls the more harrowing parts of the prior winter here.
It's tempting to leave it at that, but... ]
I would prefer it as well.
no subject
Careful. Someone overhears you say that and they might start to think you're a little sweet on me.
[ She can probably see his smirk even through the text. ]
Guess if we both prefer staying close, the matter's pretty much decided.
no subject
I guess it is. I'm glad I didn't have to employ my negotiation skills to convince you.
no subject
[ Not like he's not having fun now. But he does wish he'd seen her reaction. ]
no subject
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[ He pretty quickly agreed to her idea of moving, but in truth, he's not completely convinced. Because while he has grown more comfortable with large rooms and luxury while living in Mara's penthouse, that was while it was occupied with (at least) two people and a cat. Even the suites on the lower levels of the building seem like too much space for just Miller. Too much for just one person — a fact that gives him pause.... Well, the whole point is that he won't be going far. And he does need to give Mara her own space back. ]
It's that easy, huh? Just have to find a vacancy in a good location that's willing to let a guy like me move in.
no subject
I do wish you wouldn't be so disparaging of yourself, though. A 'guy like you' has been living here for months, this is extending the places you can occupy and roam.
no subject
There's a bit of a pause before his response. ]
Guess I'm going apartment hunting.
[ another short pause ]
People tend to be more tolerant when a situation is temporary, but it looks like no one's getting rid of me so easily.
I'll try.
no subject
I would hope my actions have shown I'm not merely tolerating you.
And you need not rush. I don't want you to feel forced into making a decision.
no subject
[ But he wishes this part of the conversation was in person for a little physical reassurance between them. Miller's not needy, but he's become a bit greedy when it comes to her affection, cherishing every precious bit of it. ]
Nah, I don't feel forced. It probably is past time for me to get out of your space and back to my own.
no subject
I know people tend to feel more comfortable when they have a place that is distinctly theirs. I want you to be comfortable, to have that security, and not worry that something is temporary.
no subject
We were waiting for the heat to die down before I went back to my apartment. If I move into this building while no one's looking, that cuts short that wait with a little more safety and a little less ambiguity. And I won't be going far from you. It's a good plan.
[ brief pause ]
But I'll miss waking up just down the hall from you.
no subject
It has been nice, not being alone as often in this space. Back in my world there are generally always others around, for one reason or another. I suppose I became accustomed to it.
While I have spent a great deal of time in solitude during different periods of my life, it isn't always my preference. Being alone in this realm has been... a different beast.
I'm glad you haven't minded staying here with me.
no subject
[ and without a doubt, she saved his life by taking him in. Twice. ]
You willing to make me a promise?
Come down to visit me or call me up to your penthouse if you don't want to be alone. Any time. I mean it.
no subject
Careful, with an offer like that you might find me waking you up or interrupting something.
no subject
Wake me up anytime.
I
[ He sends the message too soon on accident but it serves to mirror the stutter step of his thoughts ]
I don't want you to feel alone here. Not while I can help it.
no subject
Sometimes, just sometimes, she wonders how different it would have been if she hadn't loved Sjur. Not an ideal outcome, she always reasons. The same fire that provides warmth and light can turn destructive in an instant.
Her fingers hover over the letters before Mara finally sends a message back. ]
Where are you now?
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If you happen by a grocery on your way back would you mind picking up a couple things? I believe we still have baking to try.
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Just let me know what you need. I'll pick them up on my way back.
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I'm not sure if I have all that's necessary for those cookies of yours. We do still have butter and eggs at least.
[ Truth be told baking hadn't exactly been on her mind until she brought it up but it felt a safe topic shift — and an excuse to be near each other. ]
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Yeah, I can pick up the rest.
We can talk about everything else when I get back.
Everything with the move, I mean.
[ Because God forbid they talk about their feelings. They know, and that's enough for now. ]
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Thank you, I appreciate it.
Do be safe while you're out. I want you to return to me in one piece.
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[ His current errands are fairly innocuous, but he can't stand the thought of her mourning him again. Maybe a little patching up every now and then would be fine, but not today. ]
Soon.
action | Closed to Mara [bomblogic]
(Although, he'd have to admit that he finds watching the clothing go on nearly as entertaining as watching it come off. The slide of expensive fabric against her glowing skin. Exquisite.)
However, today Miller has an agenda. He knocks on the doorframe to Mara's bedroom to get her attention before speaking. "Don't let me interrupt what you're doing, but you got a second?" He waits for an affirmative before entering, finding Mara seated at her vanity, watching him approach without turning her head through the reflection of the mirror.
When he reaches her, he places his hands lightly on her shoulders, resting for a moment before moving his thumbs in a gentle massage, working out some of the stress he knows she carries from the weight of worlds on her shoulders. He leans forward to place a kiss on the top of her head, nuzzling affectionately a little with the tip of his nose.
"Radiant as always, setara mi."
He stays that way for a handful of seconds, just admiring her reflection for a while before proceeding on with the reason he came in here. He sees himself there, too, in the mirror... not unattractive, but nowhere near as classy and elegant as the queen seated before him. She's way out of his league, and he knows it, but they fit well together — physically, intellectually, morally, even emotionally as it turns out. Somewhere along the way he'd fallen hard for this woman, flaring up his protective instincts and making him hardly want to leave her side. It isn't enough to rid him of the ghosts that haunt him, but it keeps them at bay, and for that (and so many other things) he is grateful.
Her glowing gaze meets his, looking like she's reading his mind and knows what he's thinking. Mara's told him a few times that she's not able to do that, that she can project her thoughts through their shared connection but not receive his in that way, but there are times when she looks at him like that that he still wonders. Her gaze is always so knowing. Deep and eternal. It's captivating. And it makes him wonder if her enemies cower under her glare. Miller knows for sure that he wouldn't want to be on the receiving end of her anger — a thought that makes him smile. His beautiful and dangerous Queen.
While he's still standing behind her, Miller reaches forward so his hands are in front of her. He could hug her from behind in this position, but that's not (yet) his intention. "I have something for you." Reaching into his shirt cuff with the opposite hand, he draws out something shiny that catches the vanity's lights — a fine, intricate gold chain holding a pendant. He holds the chain between his two hands to display it for her.
"Amethyst," he explains. "It made me think of you." Of her, and of her city. He tries not to clear his throat self-consciously. "And the design I'm sure you recognize. An old Earth compass with a star at its center. Because you are magnetic north." While it's true pretty literally, he means it figuratively as well. "You are my star."
"I was lost here without you, my Queen." His face is serious as he watches her reaction. "Now, with you, I don't lose my way."