A step forward

[Sally Spectra]

:: Sally lifted an eye brow as she watched Delilah in the mirror, smirking a bit as she spoke in a hushed tone for only Delilah to hear.::

Honey, I've been around long enough to know how to read between the lines.

And I know when someone is being nice enough to tell me "none of your business", without actually saying it.

It's alright. You don't have to say a word.

:: snatching the gold dress away from Delilah and quickly handing her another one with an equally high hemline but a more flattering color , along with a jacket to go with it::

But when it comes to FASHION? THAT is ALWAYS my business.

Now THIS is a winner, my dear.

:: she reaches forward, gently pulling Delilah's hair back into a faux ponytail for a moment::

Smile for me, darling. I dont like my designs drapped on corpses. They're for the LIVING!

:: she waves an assistant over::

You see this girl here? She's a personal friend of mine. Now I want you to take care of her tonight, you understand?

Give her her a COMPLETE wardrobe, accessories and shoes as well, with MY compliments.

Assistant: Yes, Ms. Spectra.

And take her measurements, make sure everything fits!

Assistant:Yes, Ms. Spectra.

Don't you worry, Delilah. Fashion can't solve all your problems, but It can make you feel like a million bucks even when you think you're only 2 bucks!

You pick out whatever you need or what, you hear me? You just make sure you wear my designs with PRIDE and a SMILE!

::clapping her hands::

Now, who do we have working in the back?

:: Sally demands to know as she and Delilah stand there waiting for the assistants to begin helping Delilah put together a new wardrobe::

 

[Isis]

The Parthenon- Dominique's penthouse

:: Dominique sat in the step-down den of her penthouse, going over the song selection she had for this evening. It would soon be time for her to start getting ready, for now, she enjoyed the quiet and solitude. The idea of spending an evening with "The Six" in this capacity still felt a bit AWKWARD to her. But Cameron and Nicolas had managed to talk her into it, THIS TIME. though she gave them BOTH stern warnings not to make a habit of these kinds of requests::

So he knocked at Dominique Devereaux's door with 8 of her favorite flowers in an arrangement. 8 represented Isis' station as a healer as it symbolizes the twin cobras of the caduceus.

As the avatar opened the door, he presented the flowers with a huge smile.

Flowers almost as beautiful as you Auntie D.

NICOLAS!

:: Her eyes widened for a brief moment. She expected that she'd have a bit more TIME to HERSELF...::

:: The flowers were lovely and FRESH too.::

They're lovely.

Thank you.

:: She said with a softer tone as she welcomed him in and closed the door behind her.::

I take it your flight with Cameron was a smooth one...

:: eyeing Nicolas as she could see he was rather tipsy, she continued, in a rather steely tone...::

And plentiful apparently.

By now their relationship had progressed quite a bit. She would yell at times, but Nic knew also how to make her smile. He hugged her and kissed her cheek as he was let in.

I wanted to thank you for doing this for us. Hearing you sing makes me happy. Maybe one day I- never mind. I just wanted to say thanks SO much. How have you been Dominique?

Nicolas almost spilled a personal wish, but he was hesitant to ask and changed the subject. He leaned back and smiled, trying to forget he had almost done that.

Well...I don't suppose there'll be any HARM in it.

Blaze is a nice enough girl.

:: she receives Nicolas hug and kiss.::

I'm well enough. I encountered your team mate, Haleigh a little while ago, along with Ava. I had an interesting conversation with Haleigh and as usual, a cordial encounter with Ava.


:: She invites Nicolas to sit down as she pours herself some tea::

I'd offer you some coffee...but some how, I don't think you're quite finished with your indulgence for the evening.

:: seating herself::

Nicolas, you were about to say something before..."Maybe one day you'll" WHAT?

:: She asked with curiosity::

 

[Rampage]

I'm well enough. I encountered your team mate, Haleigh a little while ago, along with Ava. I had an interesting conversation with Haleigh and as usual, a cordial encounter with Ava.


:: She invites Nicolas to sit down as she pours herself some tea::

I'd offer you some coffee...but some how, I don't think you're quite finished with your indulgence for the evening.

:: seating herself::

Nicolas, you were about to say something before..."Maybe one day you'll" WHAT?

:: She asked with curiosity::

Nicolas paused a bit before speaking his mind.

It is good to talk to you, especially when you tell me about my mother. It has always stuck with me when you talk about her voice, and when I hear you, it makes me happy, like I can hear HER as well.

Nicolas cleared his throat.

Well...I have always been able to imitate voices perfectly, but lately I have tried my hand at.....um.....singing.

There, he said it. But not so loud.

I would never disrespect your profession or the hard work you put in. EVER. You are the best. But I was working on it...hard, like anything else I try. And I was hoping that one day we could just...SING a little bit. Together. Just you and me.

He looked at her and then he just did it. He wanted her to hear. And if it was not good enough, then at least he tried. He tried a favorite of his. When he finished, he opened his eyes, wondering what the response would be.

 

[Ruby]

The Parthenon - VIP Clubhouse

"Well, thank you! I'm sure you can see why I prefer The Parthenon to Los Angeles. I'm like a kid in a candy store here...Speaking of candy..."

Oh no…

:: Cass knew what was coming and so she wasn’t surprised when Cameron grabbed her hand and ‘forced’ her to stand up. She chuckled. ::

"Damn, Johnson! You are just looking for trouble in that dress tonight! Bravo!"

:: She shrugged and sat back down when he did. ::

“I must confess I, myself, didn’t pick this out. The assistant manager of After Dark, Bryan Ross – you saw him tonight when he dropped me off at the airport – he was the one to choose this outfit for me. Ordinarily, I would NEVER choose something like this. But…it works.”

:: Cameron began speaking about the Clubhouse. ::

"This is one of my favorite places in The Parthenon, it's one of the few places I can go in the city without being hounded in some kind of way. There IS something to be said for exclusivity. Anybody who can afford a membership to this place PAYS for privacy.."

“I can see that. It IS pretty quiet and relatively calm here. Whenever I need privacy back in L.A., I take Black Beauty out for a ride to Santa Monica and sit on the beach in some secluded area and just watch the sunset. It’s MAGICAL…”

:: Cass’ expression took on a dreamy look. She loved how she was just minutes from the beach – on a good day! – and she especially LOVED watching the sunset from the beach. She smiled dreamily for a moment before snapping back to reality and taking another sip of her martini before taking a small bite of bruschetta. Cameron started talking about Club Envy. ::

"I sure hope you enjoy Club Envy tonight. It's one of the most popular clubs in the city and filled a big void for citizens after we unfortunately let Foxfire's club slip out of our hands...I've never been to After Dark, but I've heard really great things about it from the others, must be a fun place to manage...."

:: Cass watched Cameron as he talked about Envy filling voids after Foxfire’s club slipped from their grasp or whatever went wrong there as well as After Dark. She found it hard to compare him with the reserved Cameron King she had encountered on many occcasions previously. She didn’t know what to make of him. It was interesting. She sat back and got comfortable herself. She grinned. ::

“It’s pretty interesting you mentioned that [it must be fun managing it]. In all my years, you’ll be surprised to know, of living on this planet, all I’ve done was work in bars and/or nightclubs.”

:: She took another sip. ::

“I find that those experiences are the best kind to be able to ‘read’ people.”

:: She chuckled at the irony of a psionic reading people. ::

“Not that I use my powers…no. I absolutely love mixing drinks and pouring beers and wines for people. What you notice, after awhile, is that bartenders become invisible. You start to get a feel for those who are looking for a cheap lay, those who are cheating on their significant others, those who are only ‘lonely hearts’ out for a mate. It’s amazing, the kinds of people you meet when owning or managing a bar or nightclub. Even if you’re just behind the bar getting people their drinks and food. You run into some colorful characters.”

:: She smiled. ::

“Oh, you would love AD. It can be quite mysterious, even though much of the same people show up night after night. That’s what I love as well; the MYSTERY of nightclubs. But After Dark…it’s ULTRA exclusive. ONLY the richest and most privileged people are allowed to enjoy the benefits of AD. We have some pretty powerful people show up night after night. Ella wouldn’t have it any other way. Ella Price is the owner. But I’m a people person myself. That’s why you’ll see me behind the bar most nights, mixing drinks and pouring beers. I love the interaction.”

:: She chuckled. ::

“Bet you didn’t think that ‘shy, quiet, Cassandra Johnson’ would be a people person. But I am.”

:: She lifted her martini in the air. ::

“Surprise…”

"I'm also glad you are getting to see a little bit more of this place outside of The Danger Room...you realize that being a part of this group means you now have exclusive access to The Parthenon that very few people get! And from the looks of that dress, I can see you are more than ready to enjoy THAT!"

:: She smirked as Cameron still seemed bent on selling The Parthenon to her. She thought it was cute. But then, SHE was just selling CAMERON After Dark to him so she understood completely. She adored her club, with ALL of its characters who frequent it as well as the staff. ::

“Yes…I think I much rather prefer THIS room to the DANGER one!”

:: Her blue eyes sparkled. Now Cameron was mentioning that she was ready to enjoy the perks of The Parthenon with the dress she had on. Cass chuckled. ::

“Well, it’s a new look I’m trying out for the night. I haven’t decided yet whether I will continue this look or not. Don’t get used to this. Although,”

:: Her eyes sparkled with MISCHIEF. ::

*mischieviously*: “I MIGHT allow ALYCIA to wear this with you some night!”

:: She laughed quite a bit, her expression gleeful as she smiled at Cameron. She was surprised to find that she was enjoying herself. It felt really good to just shoot the shit with someone. She and Ella did that all the time back when she was still around. It dawned on Cass just then that she hadn’t heard from her friend in awhile. She made a mental note to send her a text later on. All too soon, it seemed like, Cameron turned the spotlight on her. ::

"Tell me, Cassandra. How are you doing? We don't have to get very deep, I know you've kind of been trying to navigate through our group..it's not easy for sure...I mean, there was a time when I wasn't even allowed in the same BUILDING as Morgan and Alison...You seem a little more relaxed and jovial today...which is a good thing..."

[thinking for a moment]

"I've got an idea...why don't we play a game? I'm your guide to The Six tonight, Cassandra! What are some things you've always wanted to know about us, but felt too shy or uncomfortable asking? Let's turn the heat up a little shall we?"

:: Cass bristled slightly. It wasn’t anything major, but in less than an hour he had called her CASSANDRA three times, one via text message. Cameron wouldn’t know this of course, but HE, her ex, ALWAYS called her by her full name. He called her neither “Cass”, nor “Cassie”. It was always “Cassandra”. He had told her once he adored her name and couldn’t shorten such a beautiful name. ::

*bitterly*: Maybe he was lying about THAT too!!

:: She cleared her throat. ::

“Um, this is nothing major, but could you call me either Cass or even Johnson, if you must?” *apologetically*: “Too many bad memories when somebody calls me “Cassandra”. Sorry."

:: She gave him an apologetic smile but she didn’t elaborate. She took another sip. ::

"As to how I'M doing? I think I'm doing okay. You, Nicolas, and Blaze, as well as Alycia, all have been so kind and friendly to me. So THAT makes it a lot easier. Thank you for that. Karen, Mike, and Sharon have been good to me too, though I will confess I may have driven Sharon away by isolating myself, so I don't know what SHE thinks right now. I miss her though. I don't know your sister all that well so I don't even know what she thinks of me. Ava seems to think I'm a vampire and I KNOW she thinks I'm lower than the lowest of lows. But hey, she doesn't know me and I don't even know her. So I'm not too sure how I'm supposed to connect with HER. Delilah...well, I'm pretty sure she hates me right now? I tried to reach out to her but...it was too soon, I suppose. Morgan. I know we get into it now and then, so the fact I'm connecting more into the team now gives me pause when I think of her coming back, but I suppose I'll cross that bridge when I come to it."

:: She looked into Cameron's eyes and her voice took on a serious tone. ::

"But I DO know to 'show up' when it counts. I might not have been the best teammate in the world in the past but I do have her - as well as everybody else's - back in battles and such."

:: Alycia had told her that NOBODY in the Six talked about their past and so, for the time being at least, she’d keep her past under wraps. The fact that she was told nobody talked about their past was the most surprising when Cameron invited her to an “AMA” regarding the team. She looked quite surprised! ::

*surprised*: “Huh?! Uh, okay? Let me think…oh! Morgan.”

:: She took a sip. She had been spending time with Morgan’s sister, and she was actually pretty worried about Blaze when she had found out Blaze had wanted to leave. Her tone of voice showed how much she cared for the fire elemental. ::

“Why did Morgan leave? I mean, she should’ve BEEN here for Blaze, shouldn’t she? Helping her through the whole Firefox thing? I mean, sure she got into it with Delilah but friends DO fight. Man, you should’ve heard Ella and I when were in the planning stages of After Dark…and she is a VAMPIRE! Now THOSE were some intense fights!"

 

[Isis]

The Parthenon- Dominique's penthouse

It is good to talk to you, especially when you tell me about my mother. It has always stuck with me when you talk about her voice, and when I hear you, it makes me happy, like I can hear HER as well.

:: Dominique leaned back in her seat. Things like this, she didnt let her self think about, but he always had a way of bringing them front and center. She despised him for it initially, post-Set, but now...it was...comforting? Allowing herself to recall memories and images of her sister, his mother.::

Your mother had a soft voice, with a bell-like purity to it. She did sing and when she sang, her voice rose in strength and certainty. It gave her joy to chase away worry and sorrow with a song.

She sang while she was pregnant with you. She would sing TO you. She believed that her voice and her sincere songs of hope and comfort would counteract whatever foul dreams Set would bring to you.

Perhaps she was right after all...


:: She took a long drink of her tea::

Nicolas cleared his throat.

Well...I have always been able to imitate voices perfectly, but lately I have tried my hand at.....um.....singing.

There, he said it. But not so loud.

I would never disrespect your profession or the hard work you put in. EVER. You are the best. But I was working on it...hard, like anything else I try. And I was hoping that one day we could just...SING a little bit. Together. Just you and me.

He looked at her and then he just did it. He wanted her to hear. And if it was not good enough, then at least he tried. He tried a favorite of his. When he finished, he opened his eyes, wondering what the response would be.

:: Dominique's eyebrows lifted with intrigue as Nicolas suddenly, impulsively launched into song!::

:: She listened as he sang earnestly and even displayed a bit of something close to falsetto. It was more than cute it was....endearing. Was she going completely soft?::

:: After he finished, Dominique slowly nodded her head in affirmation::

Very nice, Nicolas.

:: Her facial expression softened a bit as she nodded more definitely::

I'm sure that wasn't easy for you...sharing that as you did. But I can tell it came from a sincere place and...I think your mother was right all along.

Her singing to you...it has made it's mark.

With a little training and refinement, perhaps you'll join me on stage one night here, for a show.

:: She smile at him.::

Now...

:: quickly standing ::

Off you go.

I need time to myself before I take the stage for for Blaze tonight.

Cameron sent me a list of songs she wanted me to choose from.

:: She looked rather unamused::

Frankly, I was...appalled.

But I've found something that I felt was worth my time and consideration, so I'll see you later.

:: She walks Nicolas to her double doors::

Have a good evening. Try not to make a spectacle of yourself?

 

[Prophet]

Parthenon - VIP Clubhouse

Cassandra: “I must confess I, myself, didn’t pick this out. The assistant manager of After Dark, Bryan Ross – you saw him tonight when he dropped me off at the airport – he was the one to choose this outfit for me. Ordinarily, I would NEVER choose something like this. But…it works.”

Cameron laughed as he finished his martini and another was promptly delivered to his table.

"I have a feeling even the BLIND saw Bryan...still, look what happens when you step out of your comfort zone! You have to admit it feels good to be a little...bad..." [winking]

"Or so I've been told! Cheers!"

:: Cass watched Cameron as he talked about Envy filling voids after Foxfire’s club slipped from their grasp or whatever went wrong there as well as After Dark. She found it hard to compare him with the reserved Cameron King she had encountered on many occcasions previously. She didn’t know what to make of him. It was interesting. She sat back and got comfortable herself. She grinned. ::

“It’s pretty interesting you mentioned that [it must be fun managing it]. In all my years, you’ll be surprised to know, of living on this planet, all I’ve done was work in bars and/or nightclubs.”

:: She took another sip. ::

“I find that those experiences are the best kind to be able to ‘read’ people.”

:: She chuckled at the irony of a psionic reading people. ::

“Not that I use my powers…no. I absolutely love mixing drinks and pouring beers and wines for people. What you notice, after awhile, is that bartenders become invisible. You start to get a feel for those who are looking for a cheap lay, those who are cheating on their significant others, those who are only ‘lonely hearts’ out for a mate. It’s amazing, the kinds of people you meet when owning or managing a bar or nightclub. Even if you’re just behind the bar getting people their drinks and food. You run into some colorful characters.”

:: She smiled. ::

“Oh, you would love AD. It can be quite mysterious, even though much of the same people show up night after night. That’s what I love as well; the MYSTERY of nightclubs. But After Dark…it’s ULTRA exclusive. ONLY the richest and most privileged people are allowed to enjoy the benefits of AD. We have some pretty powerful people show up night after night. Ella wouldn’t have it any other way. Ella Price is the owner. But I’m a people person myself. That’s why you’ll see me behind the bar most nights, mixing drinks and pouring beers. I love the interaction.”

:: She chuckled. ::

“Bet you didn’t think that ‘shy, quiet, Cassandra Johnson’ would be a people person. But I am.”

:: She lifted her martini in the air. ::

“Surprise…”

Cameron cocked an eyebrow for a moment and leaned forward. He shook his head and flashed his teeth for a moment, amused at her.

"Oh honey, it's sweet that you like working in that kind of field, but what is it? 80 something years now and all you've done is serve beer and cocktails to drunk people? Either you must REALLY love it or you are terrified of the world! There is SO much you could do...what with the money i'm sure you've accumulated and your connections...You've never thought about doing something...BIGGER?"

[taking a drink]

"You know...I just find that really interesting...when I was a child I was homeless for quite some time..and I had gotten into a lot of trouble...I used to sit around with my friend Vivica, who you'll meet tonight and dream about being rich and powerful and ruling the WORLD! I LOVE what I do..I love the high stakes, the hustle, securing those seven figure deals...I thrive on it. I don't know what I would do with myself if I were to now go off somewhere...and I don't know...work at a Best Buy? Hah!"

He laughed as he took a moment to eat another piece of the Bruschetta.

"But After Dark sounds like a pretty hopping place. Next time I'm in Los Angeles i'll be sure to stop by!"

Upon hearing her last comment.

"I don't think you are necessarily shy or quiet...I just think one minute you are incredibly social and the next you completely withdraw...Hey, I get it...we've all been through a LOT of shit..and it's taken us a long ass time to get through it...but it looks like you are starting to see that you can lean on us if need be, and that's a good thing...I like the playful Cassandr--"

:: She cleared her throat. ::

“Um, this is nothing major, but could you call me either Cass or even Johnson, if you must?” *apologetically*: “Too many bad memories when somebody calls me “Cassandra”. Sorry."

:: She gave him an apologetic smile but she didn’t elaborate. She took another sip. ::

"As to how I'M doing? I think I'm doing okay. You, Nicolas, and Blaze, as well as Alycia, all have been so kind and friendly to me. So THAT makes it a lot easier. Thank you for that. Karen, Mike, and Sharon have been good to me too, though I will confess I may have driven Sharon away by isolating myself, so I don't know what SHE thinks right now. I miss her though. I don't know your sister all that well so I don't even know what she thinks of me. Ava seems to think I'm a vampire and I KNOW she thinks I'm lower than the lowest of lows. But hey, she doesn't know me and I don't even know her. So I'm not too sure how I'm supposed to connect with HER. Delilah...well, I'm pretty sure she hates me right now? I tried to reach out to her but...it was too soon, I suppose. Morgan. I know we get into it now and then, so the fact I'm connecting more into the team now gives me pause when I think of her coming back, but I suppose I'll cross that bridge when I come to it."

:: She looked into Cameron's eyes and her voice took on a serious tone. ::

"But I DO know to 'show up' when it counts. I might not have been the best teammate in the world in the past but I do have her - as well as everybody else's - back in battles and such."

He stopped for a moment and looked her up and down before speaking.

"Fair enough...how about...[thinking] I call you CJ? Yeah...I like it! CJ it is!"

Cameron listened as Cass spoke about her experiences with the team. For somebody with so much life experience he found that she was pretty sensitive about personal relationships. He assumed that she probably didn't put herself out there all that much and judging from what he had gleamed from her past, when she DID...it ended badly. He waved his hand in the air dismissively and shrugged.

"Oh stop...you read too much into things, girl. Things just aren't at their finest and...don't take this the wrong way...but people have a lot more on their minds right now than trying to get to know the new girl. Sharon is an incredibly forgiving woman...for her to have gone through what she went through and be here today? By our side...well, let's just say, anything you might have said to her is most likely forgotten. She is busying on Aerie taking some time for herself after dealing with the birth of Delilah's daughter..Alison, sees a lot of potential in you...but AGAIN, you've come to us at a troubling time...Alison is just in a bad way right now...and AVA? Well I can tell you right now that for most of the time I've known her, I've absolutely HATED her. We used to exchange bitchy comments left and right...but...seeing what she has done for this team...the things she has sacrificed to show her allegiance? I can't have anything but respect for her...and in FACT...part of this celebration at The Parthenon tonight is for her...to announce an exciting new Chapter in her life. She will come around for sure...It's like I told you before about Ava...She hates you until she doesn't...so just be patient."

He took a drink from his martini and when the server came back he ordered a plate of Deep Fried Green Beans...they may not have been the healthiest thing in the world but they were absolutely delicious.

"My advice with Delilah? Just stop. Don't reach out to her. She has TOO MANY voices talking at her. I know you come from a genuine place, but with how she is right now? You don't know her that well and anything you say is going to sound insincere..She needs to be LEFT ALONE right now, though with our group's confrontational nature...I don't see that happening anytime soon...so yes..my advice would be just to keep your space and let her come to you because she will when she is feeling like herself again...."

The server brought Cassandra over her next martini even though she wasn't finished with the first one and Cameron continued.

"You are doing the best you can...and to be honest? Nobody is thinking you are a bad teammate. We like you...we just wish you had the confidence in yourself that we see. You care TOO much what The Six thinks of you and that is what has been kind of holding you back..You are starting to create some good friendships, and it is time to just nurture those...the rest will come around...trust me...if anybody knows how much the relationships in The Six can change...it's ME..."

Cameron inquired if there was anything she wanted to know The Six.

:: Alycia had told her that NOBODY in the Six talked about their past and so, for the time being at least, she’d keep her past under wraps. The fact that she was told nobody talked about their past was the most surprising when Cameron invited her to an “AMA” regarding the team. She looked quite surprised! ::

*surprised*: “Huh?! Uh, okay? Let me think…oh! Morgan.”

:: She took a sip. She had been spending time with Morgan’s sister, and she was actually pretty worried about Blaze when she had found out Blaze had wanted to leave. Her tone of voice showed how much she cared for the fire elemental. ::

“Why did Morgan leave? I mean, she should’ve BEEN here for Blaze, shouldn’t she? Helping her through the whole Firefox thing? I mean, sure she got into it with Delilah but friends DO fight. Man, you should’ve heard Ella and I when were in the planning stages of After Dark…and she is a VAMPIRE! Now THOSE were some intense fights!"

Cameron mindlessly played with the olives in his martini glass, before taking one of them off the stick and popping it into his mouth, listening to Cass speak.

"That's really your question? I mean you were THERE...you saw that kind of fallout. Delilah and Morgan grew up together. They were best friends, and when my sister Alison came around, the three of them basically were inseparable. I am exhausted by the details of The Blue Moon, but I will say this...The Morgan you see today is NOT the Morgan that once was...a LONG time ago, when Morgan was a far less stable woman..she suffered a break...All that power that she has? Well it's INCREDIBLY dark, and she has to fight constantly to stay above the fray...but when extenuating circumstances happen...with myself at the HELM of driving her to insanity...she LOST it...and she nearly destroyed the EARTH in the process...."

He was lost in thought...his mind taken back to those terrifying moments.

"Morgan NEEDS to maintain control...and the sheer PAIN of what happened between the three of them was too much..She knew that if she didn't get away and give herself time to heal and breathe that the consequences could have been DEADLY...Morgan may not always be the most friendly woman...but that's because she carries a burden that many of us don't have to...and she carries it pretty damn well...And that wasn't "just a fight"...that was "THE FIGHT" for the three of them. It was EVERYTHING that has happened between the three of them over the last year....and to be honest...NOBODY knew that Blaze was feeling the way that she was feeling...we all assumed that she was assimilating just fine..."

The waiter arrived with their second appetizer.

"But BECAUSE Morgan has us....she CAN leave and take the time she needs, and because we know each other so intimately we as a team can bridge the gap whenever needed. Morgan needs to be with Morgan and even Blaze understands that...."

Snapping one of the green beans in half he dipped it in a delicious lemon aioli sauce and looked up at Cass.

"Now come on...I know you've got some more burning questions than THAT! Come on, CJ...I'm an open book! What gossip or horror stories have you heard that you'd like to confirm...it's rare that we have moments like this...so take advantage!"

He laughed as he ate the green bean and took a drink of his martini.

 

[Rampage]

Very nice, Nicolas.

:: Her facial expression softened a bit as she nodded more definitely::

I'm sure that wasn't easy for you...sharing that as you did. But I can tell it came from a sincere place and...I think your mother was right all along.

Her singing to you...it has made it's mark.

With a little training and refinement, perhaps you'll join me on stage one night here, for a show.

GET. THE. FUCK. OUT. OF. HERE.

Nicolas' mouth actually stood agape for a moment. He knew that Dominique took this seriously and that she was not simply being kind. He broke into a wide smile as he gave her a quick hug as she ushered him out.

:: She smile at him.::

Now...

:: quickly standing ::

Off you go.

I need time to myself before I take the stage for for Blaze tonight.

Cameron sent me a list of songs she wanted me to choose from.

:: She looked rather unamused::

Frankly, I was...appalled.

But I've found something that I felt was worth my time and consideration, so I'll see you later.

O-Oh yeah! Of course...I appreciate you interrupting your preparations for me. I will keep working at it.

:: She walks Nicolas to her double doors::

Have a good evening. Try not to make a spectacle of yourself?

His smile became almost wicked in its impishness.

Who me Auntie? I am just a kid...no spectacles here...cross my heart.

He kissed her forehead quickly before she could slam the door in his face, smiling in spite of herself.

He practically skipped down the hall before he decided to make his way to his own suite to relax a moment. As he entered and noted the immaculate condition of the place, he thought of something he needed to do. Pulling out his phone, he sent a text to Haleigh.

Hey. I need to talk. Whenever you have time.

He mixed a screwdriver and sat on the balcony, gazing lazily at the stars. He was still smiling.

 

[Recall]

From La Bella Mafia to The Starlight Lounge

Vivica's meeting had went well. She had caught the attention of a prominent art collector in the city with a small but perfectly executed presentation of upcoming shows she had at Belle Epoque and she had even peaked his interest in her OWN upcoming show. All in all, the night had been a success for herself and her gallery. Glancing up at the large clock in the elevator, she still had some time before she was to meet up with Cameron and the Others at Club Envy. Plenty of time for a glass of champagne and a moment of quite at The Starlight Lounge.

The elevator dinged and she found herself in the very busy main lobby of the hotel. As she walked among the crowd she couldn't help but smile as she passed a picture in the Lobby from the Gala Event at The Parthenon's Re-Opening Two Years ago. Decked out in beautiful gowns and suits stood Cameron, Morgan, Alison and Vivica. That night was a terrible one for The Six and it was the first appearance of people like Sharon Kelly, Alycia Barnett and Helena Quartermaine.

<<FLASH!>>

<< Alycia laughed a bit..shaking her head as she smiled at Erika>>

Alycia: uh uhhhh. sorry Doctor, but the deaths of Christopher King and Blaze Fielding were accidents. unfortunate casaulties and its all completely documented and verfied. I can send your office a copy ..for a small fee of course <<winking at erika>>

I wouldnt try retorting, Doctor, the law is MY forte' and you're hopelessly out gunned here by myself and senator Kelly. You see..ther are alot of powerful people here tonight, and if Cameron over there isnt carefull...no matter how "well run" his business is..it can and WILL be ruined, not to mention his reputation. and dont bother trying to "expose the happenings of inferno"...the investigation by the local, state and federal authorities has been closed and ruled out as more mayhem caused by MysTech.

Tell your brother to watch his back...because "powers" arent needed to take him OR his walking computer down.

<< alycia winked at Erika as she clicked her tongue against her teeth.>>


Sharon Kelly: your superiors and i are rather close. it would be a shame if you came under sudden review...and found your OWN dubious dealings and involvements with the Inferno exposed...given that YOUR mother was an operative as Mystech as well. You see...we have the power to conceal/expose any part of this we want...and if you dont back down now...YOU will lose your standing in the government...not to mention your status as a citizen.


<<Morgan leaned in close>>

Morgan: dont fuck with me bitch. neither you NOR your brother has a prayer in this town if i say so. <<wink>>


<< the women immediately leave Erika where she stands...moving on to bigger and better hobknobbing. Erika had better taken cue. there were some big guns here tonight..bigger than her...and more powerful than she and cameron both politically and socially....and if Cameron wasnt carefull..he WOULD lose his company, and his life>>

Vivica remembered watching from a distance as Erika was brutally verbally assaulted by Morgan, Alycia and Sharon. At that time, Vivica had grown pretty close to Erika, not knowing what was to become of her. This was JUST after the Inferno and tension within the group seemed at an ALL time high. Cameron was kicked out of Illustra...Alexis was about to become Blackout and this was the START of Erika heading down the path that she took and ultimately died because of. This was ALSO the first of MANY jabs that Alycia would take at her expense. Ever since the reading of Cameron's will when he was presumed dead, Vivica had a rather LARGE bone to pick with Alycia...and to hear through the grapevine that now Cameron and Alycia were somewhat "interested" in each other? Well...Vivica tried her best to focus on her NEW life and forget all the PAIN that members of The Six and their allies seemed to walk willingly into.So many things that this picture didn't show. To onlookers it was simply a historical and important moment in the history of The Parthenon.

She took a deep breath and recalculated herself as she sauntered down the Great Hall and entered The Starlight Lounge with a nod to the Host and the Bouncer. One of the great things about The Parthenon was that many of it's employees had been there since it's opening and Vivica had a hand in hiring most of them. They treated her with a sense of respect even though she was no longer an employee under the umbrella of Cameron King. Taking a moment to meander through the dimly lit and romantic looking lounge, allowing everybody to get a clear view of what they might be missing from their CURRENT dates, Vivica was nearly stopped in her tracks at the sight of a fair haired young man sitting at the bar, drink in hand. A smile crinkled up in her face as she took a seat next to the man.

"A glass of Dom please..."

The bartender placed a black napkin on the table as she looked over the young man.

"Well, I never thought I'd see the day where Simon Pratt sits ALONE at a bar..I guess things with Ava Cassadine aren't as hot and heavy as the trash rags would like us to believe?"

[leaning in]

"If it's any consolation, it should be no skin off your nose..Ava is a bitch and I have the bullet wounds to prove it....."

The bartender delivered her glass of champagne and she gave him a warm smile.

"I have to say..it's good to see you...you appear to be doing well, like always. Tell me, how is Cameron as a boss the second time around?"

 

[Longshot]

Parthenon - Starlight Lounge

After taking some time to enjoy the solitude of his sky rise penthouse overlooking Central Park, Simon was feeling and looking good. He had listened to music, enjoyed a few glasses of wine and just spent some time relaxing and preparing himself to hang out with his first ever group of mutants. He wasn't necessarily prepared and he was a little nervous, but the fact that Simon never had any inkling that Cameron King or Ava Cassadine for that matter had extraordinary abilities made him feel safe. He was still becoming comfortable with the word mutant with regards to himself.

As the sun went down on the island of Manhattan, Simon jumped into the back of a Town Car and made his way to The Parthenon Hotel, exiting his vehicle and experiencing a FLURRY of bright lights and questions. The Social Scene was in overdrive tonight with the media in a frenzy over the fact that some big hitting socialites, himself, Ava and Cameron included were going to be spending the evening at The Parthenon. As soon as he stepped out he was overwhelmed with the voices.

Man #1: Simon! Are you going to see Ava?! Congratulations on your engagement!

Man #2: Is this a shotgun wedding?! How far along is Ava? What does your father think of you being engaged to a Cassadine?!

Man #3: Simon Pratt! Is Ava planning on leaving Cassadine Enterprises for The Zenith Group? Has Cameron stolen her away?

Simon rolled his eyes on the inside, but on the outside he stopped and posed, waving to the people outside of the doors to the hotel. Flashing his used car salesman smile he decided that he had already played with the paparazzi enough for the week. Ava probably wanted to kill him and he was going to make any headway with her, he couldn't very well feed into the media much longer. He turned to the cameras just before stepping in.

"Good Evening, Boys! I'll see ya'll later!"

Stepping inside, Simon happened to run into a group of social acquaintances of his family's in Bar Six, The Parthenon's Modern Version of an Old English Pub and he found himself locked in conversation for a lot longer than he expected. The news of his surprise "engagement" had spread like wildfire and EVERYONE seemed to want to give their congratulations. He was beginning to rethink this whole thing. If word was going around that he was engaged it could most definitely cramp his game if Ava ended up completely rejecting him.

After spending at least an hour and a half taking thanks from random people on his engagement he decided a change of venue was in order as he walked down the Great Hall and made his way to The Starlight Lounge. He loved the lounge. It was Old Hollywood glamour and it was where Dominique Devereaux was known to come in for impromptu performances of standards and classic jazz arrangements. Taking a spot at the bar he smiled to the bartender who seemed to already know who he was.

"Two fingers of Scotch, bartender's choice..."

Bartender: Sure thing, Mr. Pratt. Congratulations by the way, this one is on the house!

Simon rolled his eyes and smiled.

"Thanks but no thanks, Smitty..but keep 'em coming and try and run interference for me will ya? I'd rather not talk to and endless amount of strangers about a sensationalized engagement? A guy has his limits..."

The bartender nodded and for awhile Simon sat there and shot the breeze with the bartender, able to completely enjoy himself without having to worry about people coming up to him...at least that is until Vivica Lennox sat down right next to him.

Vivica: "Well, I never thought I'd see the day where Simon Pratt sits ALONE at a bar..I guess things with Ava Cassadine aren't as hot and heavy as the trash rags would like us to believe?"

Simon smiled. He hadn't seen Vivica in nearly two years. Although she was his boss at King Enterprises, the two always had somewhat of an affinity with each other. They spoke the same language so to speak and seeing her looking so absolutely breathtaking and happy gave him a sense of relief.

Vivica: "If it's any consolation, it should be no skin off your nose..Ava is a bitch and I have the bullet wounds to prove it....."

He laughed loudly.

"Nice to see you've still got that totally innappropriate sense of humor! Vivica Lennox! So good to see you! And you know how the papers sensationalize things...but yes Ava definitely does have a set of teeth on her...lucky for me, i'm not opposed to being bitten...."

Vivica: "I have to say..it's good to see you...you appear to be doing well, like always. Tell me, how is Cameron as a boss the second time around?"

Simon softened for a moment.

"It's really good to see you too, Vivica! It's been what? Two years? Too long! I heard you went away to Europe for awhile..It's obviously done you well...and if I wasn't hell bent on a taming the beast that is Ava, why I'd be formulating all KINDS of plans to get you out of that dress and into my bed...you still like classical music right?"

He winked at the woman.

"As far as Cameron King? Well he's really outdone himself with The Zenith Group...in fact, that's actually why i'm here...i've apparently done a good enough job to be somewhat invited into his Inner Circle. I'm meeting him and his friends at Envy in a little while...but yeah, he's really doing well. Even MORE successful than King Enterprises...."

Simon furrowed his brow for a moment. He wasn't sure how comfortable Vivica would be with discussing what happened with King Enterprises after Cameron's leave of absence from the Professional World. It was an obviously rough time for her and she was dragged through the mud in the press, apparently so much so that she had to leave the country. He tried to smooth things over.

"You know...you did the best you could...with the business. I never really got the chance to tell you that. It was really brave to stand in front of the world and announce that you just couldn't do it anymore..I don't know if I would have had the balls to do something like that..."

 

[Ruby]

The Parthenon - VIP Clubhouse

“You have to admit it feels good to be a little...bad..." [winking] "Or so I've been told! Cheers!"

“Oh, NOW is way too late to be pretending you don’t know what it means to be bad! I may be new, but your reputation precedes you! If you hadn’t ACCOSTED me in front of Morgan’s apartment and then YANKED me in there, I probably would’ve believed you, but as it stands…”

:: She snickered. ::

“But you’re right.”

:: Her eyes shined and her expression was one of happiness. ::

“It DOES feel good to be a bit bad. I’m certainly planning on having a GREAT time down at Envy…”

:: She giggled a bit, knowing she had something up her sleeve. NOBODY knew how much Cass liked to get down. She DID like to sing and dance, and DRINK, but being the manager of a popular club, she felt she had to stay in control which was why, with the amount of drinks she has, you’d never see her drunk. The cocktails and beers she has at AD? All of them are alcoholic. ::

*delighted*: “…whether you guys are with me or not! It will be SO good to just let go since I’m not in my own club for once! I might just find me a guy…”

:: Clearly, Cass was WAY excited about the night as she didn’t mean to let it slip she was on the prowl! ::

*reserved*: “Oh. You weren’t supposed to hear THAT…”

:: She began talking about the club scenes and bars she had worked at and why she loved it. ::

"Oh honey, it's sweet that you like working in that kind of field, but what is it? 80 something years now and all you've done is serve beer and cocktails to drunk people? Either you must REALLY love it or you are terrified of the world! There is SO much you could do...what with the money i'm sure you've accumulated and your connections...You've never thought about doing something...BIGGER?"

[taking a drink]

"You know...I just find that really interesting...when I was a child I was homeless for quite some time..and I had gotten into a lot of trouble...I used to sit around with my friend Vivica, who you'll meet tonight and dream about being rich and powerful and ruling the WORLD! I LOVE what I do..I love the high stakes, the hustle, securing those seven figure deals...I thrive on it. I don't know what I would do with myself if I were to now go off somewhere...and I don't know...work at a Best Buy? Hah!"

“Well…how else am I going to interact with THAT many interesting people? STARBUCKS? Psssh! I can’t see myself serving coffee to cranky, over-worked, over-stressed people WHINING about how there is a HUGE lineup while they are missing their ‘all-important meeting’! True story. I was in there once, and this lady was going on and on about how she was missing this meeting because she was waiting in line. It was ridiculous. However, if YOU have some better ideas I’d love to hear them.”

:: She chuckled. It was obvious she figured he didn’t have a clue. ::

"But After Dark sounds like a pretty hopping place. Next time I'm in Los Angeles i'll be sure to stop by!"

“It’s ALWAYS a fun night!”

"I don't think you are necessarily shy or quiet...I just think one minute you are incredibly social and the next you completely withdraw...Hey, I get it...we've all been through a LOT of shit..and it's taken us a long ass time to get through it...but it looks like you are starting to see that you can lean on us if need be, and that's a good thing...I like the playful Cassandr--"

He stopped for a moment and looked her up and down before speaking.

"Fair enough...how about...[thinking] I call you CJ? Yeah...I like it! CJ it is!"

:: CJ. Cass thought about it and let it roll around in her mind. She cocked her head to the side as she mused over the new nickname. CJ. Yes. She could definitely live with that. She smiled. ::

“CJ. I like it. I like it a lot!”

"Oh stop...you read too much into things, girl. Things just aren't at their finest and...don't take this the wrong way...but people have a lot more on their minds right now than trying to get to know the new girl. Sharon is an incredibly forgiving woman...for her to have gone through what she went through and be here today? By our side...well, let's just say, anything you might have said to her is most likely forgotten. She is busying on Aerie taking some time for herself after dealing with the birth of Delilah's daughter..Alison, sees a lot of potential in you...but AGAIN, you've come to us at a troubling time...Alison is just in a bad way right now...and AVA? Well I can tell you right now that for most of the time I've known her, I've absolutely HATED her. We used to exchange bitchy comments left and right...but...seeing what she has done for this team...the things she has sacrificed to show her allegiance? I can't have anything but respect for her...and in FACT...part of this celebration at The Parthenon tonight is for her...to announce an exciting new Chapter in her life. She will come around for sure...It's like I told you before about Ava...She hates you until she doesn't...so just be patient."

He took a drink from his martini and when the server came back he ordered a plate of Deep Fried Green Beans...they may not have been the healthiest thing in the world but they were absolutely delicious.

"My advice with Delilah? Just stop. Don't reach out to her. She has TOO MANY voices talking at her. I know you come from a genuine place, but with how she is right now? You don't know her that well and anything you say is going to sound insincere..She needs to be LEFT ALONE right now, though with our group's confrontational nature...I don't see that happening anytime soon...so yes..my advice would be just to keep your space and let her come to you because she will when she is feeling like herself again...."

:: Cass shrugged. ::

“Oh, I’m not suggesting they drop EVERYTHING to befriend me. That would just freak me out, not to mention make me suspicious. If you knew the amount of time people have drilled it into my head to connect myself into the team and get to know my fellow teammates, you’d understand why I’m so concerned about them. Every damn week Karen or Sharon or BOTH, it seems like, they drill into me the IMPORTANCE of connecting with my fellow teamies…”

:: She broke off as soon as she realized she was on her way to a soap box. ::

“Sorry. I just get riled up about that…”

:: The server came and brought Cass a new martini. She stared at the one in her hand and then at the fresh one on the table. Shrugging, she continued to sip on the martini in her hand. After all, she wasn’t about to GULP down her drink in a posh place such as this. ::

"You are doing the best you can...and to be honest? Nobody is thinking you are a bad teammate. We like you...we just wish you had the confidence in yourself that we see. You care TOO much what The Six thinks of you and that is what has been kind of holding you back..You are starting to create some good friendships, and it is time to just nurture those...the rest will come around...trust me...if anybody knows how much the relationships in The Six can change...it's ME..."

“Well, you guys all have known each other for YEARS. I’m just the ‘new kid on the block’. It’s a LITTLE intimidating…”

:: She nodded at Cameron. It truly WAS intimidating AND daunting for her to come into a close-knit of people - RELATIVELY close-knit - whereas NOBODY really knew HER. She felt like an outsider, wanting to join in, but didn’t know HOW to join in. ::

:: Cameron told her about Morgan. ::

*quietly*: “Oh, I didn’t know she had a dark side to her. That makes a lot more sense then. Good for her.”

"Now come on...I know you've got some more burning questions than THAT! Come on, CJ...I'm an open book! What gossip or horror stories have you heard that you'd like to confirm...it's rare that we have moments like this...so take advantage!"

:: Cass shrugged. ::

"What can I say? Friendships are important to me."

:: She was trying to play it off, but the fact that Morgan had a dark side to her suddenly made things interesting. Also, friendships WERE important to Cass. She was grateful for Ella's friendship as well as Bryan's. Cass reached for a bean and chewed on it while thinking about Morgan. ::

Cameron had said Morgan has a dark side. THAT is interesting. I WANT to know what that means, but I also don't want to overstep boundaries. Hmmm

"Okay, I'll bite. What did you mean when you said Morgan had to leave or things could've ended up deadly?"

:: She reached for another bean, this time dipping it in the sauce. It was delicious. She looked at Cameron with a soft expression. ::

*gently*: "If you don't want me to know about that, or if it's none of my business, I can ask another question. Like...the tale of two Blazes. I don't understand about THAT at all."

:: She was giving Cameron an out, if the Morgan thing was considered off-limits. ::

 

[Recall]

Parthenon - Starlight Lounge

Vivica took a long sip from her flute of champagne as she sat the glass down and listened to Simon. It was very nice to see a familiar face. For as gawdy and outrageous as Simon acted most of the time, he was actually a VERY good employee with an incredible sense of timing, which in the stock game, was EVERYTHING. She enjoyed the time she spent working with him. As he continued to speak, she began to lightly trace the top of the glass with her finger gently.

Simon: "It's really good to see you Vivica! It's been what? Two Years? Too long! I heard you went away to Europe for awhile...It's obviously done you well...and if I wasn't hell bent on taming the beast that is Ava, why I'd be formulating all KINDS of plans to get you out of that dress and into my bed...you still like classical music right?

Her eyes widened as she reached over and shoved Simon, giving him a smile.

"Please honey! I'm Cassadine Intolerant...I can't taste anything Ava Cassadine has tasted without getting sick to my stomach...and I hate to break it to you, pretty boy...but you're just not my type. You ARE about as SOFT as I like them...tell me, Pratt. Do you moisturize?"

Simon: "As far as Cameron King? Well he's really outdone himself with The Zenith Group...in fact, that's actually why i'm here...i've apparently done a good enough job to be somewhat invited into his Inner Circle. I'm meeting him and his friends at Envy in a little while...but yeah, he's really doing well. Even MORE successful than King Enterprises...."

Vivica's eyes lit up. That meant that they were going to the same place! It would be nice for her to have SOMEBODY there that was a little more impartial and who she could talk to in case her interactions with the others didn't go well, which was likely as many in The Six seemed to regard her as lightly as a telephone pole. She was feeling very happy until she realized that this meant that Ava Cassadine would most likely be there. Vivica groaned.

"Well, the good news is that I too am going to the event at Envy, which means we are stuck with each other for the night and will have a chance to catch up a little more formallly...The bad news, is that means that I will unfortunately have to endure Ava for the evening..."

[to herself]

"I'll be FINE as long as that bitchy attorney turned AMAZON doesn't show up..."

"But I guess i'll be fine...I once had a root canal without anesthetic..I'm assuming that tonight will feel about the same as that..."

Vivica laughed as she took another sip of champagne. She tried to completely ignore Simon mentioning King Enterprises, and she thought she had successfully diverted him until he took her had and continued.

Simon: "You know...you did the best you could...with the business. I never really got the chance to tell you that. It was really brave to stand in front of the world and announce that you just couldn't do it anymore..I don't know if I would have had the balls to do something like that..."

Letting out a large sigh, Vivica pulled her hand away from his, not mad as much as she just didn't REALLY want to discuss that time in her life..but Simon was having a very RARE moment of sweetness and she felt obligated to say SOMETHING.

"Simon...that's really sweet of you to say, but honestly..it's something I'm still trying to move on from. That kind of attention and pressure? I mean, most of the public didn't really KNOW what was going on with Cameron, and that's a secret that if you ever TRULY get into his Inner Circle that I can tell you...but let's just say...Shit hit the FAN and I up a creek without a paddle...I was given a business I didn't really want, and without Cameron at the helm, clients felt uncomfortable....Nobody had really seen ME in the forefront of the company outside of the people WORKING for us...and there was just no confidence..."

Vivica's eyes seemed to be lost completely in thought but focused on her champagne flute.

"It was a terrible situation, but I made the decision that was right for me, and I haven't really looked back since...So thank you for your words, but how about we set the rule right now that I won't discuss your tabloid exploits further if you won't discuss mine?"

A few moments later, the bartender refilled her glass and gave her a nod of respect, again as most of the people who worked at The Parthenon had been hired by HER, and from THEM she had received an outpouring of support when she went public with the closing of King Enterprises.

"Now...this group of people we are hanging with tonight...Cameron wouldn't just let anybody into that room...which leads me to believe that pretty boy Simon Pratt is in fact..a MUTANT...or a GOD or some kind of something, am I right?"

It was risky to say but Vivica felt confident that Simon was in fact part of the mutant family. Cameron wouldn't extend an invitation for somebody to hang out with The Six unless they were a close ally or...well like one of them.

 

[Longshot]

Parthenon - Starlight Lounge

It felt really good to be sitting and talking with Vivica. It was somewhat serendipitous as he had just passed by the old King Enterprises building on his walk home earlier in the day. He was reminded when he was a hungry floor broker and had found a real respect and love for the game of business. Vivica had always been the woman behind the man when it came to Cameron, and while Cameron had been a fair and direct boss, it was usually Vivica on the ground levels, working with and talking to any and every employee, from the big wigs to the janitors. People were drawn to her feisty nature and Simon had only good things to say about the woman.

He couldn't help but be amused by the things that Vivica was saying about Ava. He knew that Ava had somewhat of a reputation but Vivica seemed to hold some kind of personal grudge with her, and Simon was a little scared to ask if Vivica was speaking LITERALLY in regards to a bullet wound. He pictured the two women in a huge firefight like something out of the movies, just riddling each other with bullets...in fact, the thought of something like THAT kind of turned him on.

Vivica spoke about King Enterprises and the fallout that came after Cameron King had left the company. He could tell it was still a sore subject as she took her hand away from his.

"Simon...that's really sweet of you to say, but honestly..it's something I'm still trying to move on from. That kind of attention and pressure? I mean, most of the public didn't really KNOW what was going on with Cameron, and that's a secret that if you ever TRULY get into his Inner Circle that I can tell you...but let's just say...Shit hit the FAN and I up a creek without a paddle...I was given a business I didn't really want, and without Cameron at the helm, clients felt uncomfortable....Nobody had really seen ME in the forefront of the company outside of the people WORKING for us...and there was just no confidence..."

Vivica's eyes seemed to be lost completely in thought but focused on her champagne flute.

"It was a terrible situation, but I made the decision that was right for me, and I haven't really looked back since...So thank you for your words, but how about we set the rule right now that I won't discuss your tabloid exploits further if you won't discuss mine?"

Simon surveyed her for a moment, taking everything in. He remembered how nasty the press had gotten with her, so to see her somewhat comfortable and moved on from the situation made him feel good. He took a short sip of his scotch.

"Well...I am glad that everything has seemed to work out for you. Actually, I've been hearing my mother talk about your gallery recently, which is good news for you. My mother changes the paintings at our estate in Connecticut more often than she refreshes her drink...which is a LOT. And deal...only positive things from here on out...AFTER you tell me what exactly went down between Ava and yourself..."

Taking another drink of his Scotch he nearly spit it out at Vivica's next statement.

Vivica: "Now...this group of people we are hanging with tonight...Cameron wouldn't just let anybody into that room...which leads me to believe that pretty boy Simon Pratt is in fact...a MUTANT...or a GOD or some kind of something, am I right?"

He set the drink down on the bar counter loudly and let out an exasperated sigh.

"Jesus Christ...is EVERYBODY in this town a mutant? I thought mutants were supposed to be a downtrodden group of underdogs who's rights my mother has often worked to fight against! Now it seems like they are all rich and priveleged powerhouses with more power and influence than any Hamptons Socialite...."

The bartender came by and refreshed his glass.

"To answer your question...YES...I am a mutant...and I don't know how long it's gonna take me to get comfortable with saying that outloud...Cameron kind of outed me and forced me under his wing. Said he'd train me if I didn't use my abilities to further his business...."

Simon looked around for a moment and grabbed a knife from behind the bar.

"I don't really understand how any of it works...suffice to say that the LUCK I have experienced my entire life...well...it really isn't luck at all. My own personal research has concluded that I can affect probability fields, both subconsciously and consciously...which would explain why in my entire childhood i've never had so much as a scrape or a bruise... and probably had a hand in why I am an Olympic level Fencer and Archer..Yeah, that one was a hit to the ego..."

He looked at Vivica as he took yet another sip of Scotch to his lips.

"I'm assuming this means that you too are part of the Special Club?"

 

[Persephone]

Haleigh: "She will have a Gentleman Jack double on the rocks. God, can't take her ANYWHERE."

The bartender laughed and Ava rolled her eyes playfully.

"Well excuse me, Miss Prim and Fancy. Apparently you've forgotten the days of drinking Wild Turkey from the bottle when we were kids."

Drinking cheap whiskey when Ava was barely 12 and Haleigh 14 was probably one of the last full and fun memories the two sister had together before Stavros insisted that Ava go with him back to Greece. It was the end of the beginning really. Their relationship suffered because of Stavros and his fear that Haleigh would corrupt and taint Ava's "Cassadine bloodline". Laughing a bit at the memory, it was pretty hilarious to think two pre teens thought they were big bad asses for stealing a bottle of whiskey and getting drunk one summer night.

The bartender placed the Gentleman Jack on the rocks down on the napkin in front of Ava, and she nodded graciously to him. Picking up the tumbler, she took a large gulp.

Haleigh: "Oh you know, we're all still alive. I talked to Mike, Karen AND Sharon, also. The more people I talk to, the harder it is to define the right and the wrong if it all. I just wish I had been here......"

"You can't keep beating yourself up over not being here. I was here and I couldn't do a damn thing to stop what was happening. What matters is you being here now. And frankly, I think that's helping Delilah more than anything. She probably feels like she has someone on her side...."

Downing the gentleman jack, she pushed the empty tumbler towards the bartender and he instinctively refilled it. It was sad to think that Delilah believed there were sides in all this. That certain members of the six didn't care what happened to her or her baby. Ava knew Delilah felt like she had chosen Alison's side over hers. And honestly, Ava didn't do much to prove it otherwise. She stayed with Alison because Alison needed her, and she knew Cameron and Sharon were taking care of Delilah. And frankly...Alison's breakdown was all Ava could really handle at that moment--and she could hardly handle THAT. She was barely keeping herself together....it was just all too much at one time.

Realizing she had been lost in thought, Ava looked at her newly poured drink and picked it up, slamming that one back too.

"You're right, this is smoother."

The bartender refilled Ava's drink once more, and this time she held off from drinking it. Instead she took the two small red straws and began to stir the melting ice in her drink, watching it intensely.

"I wish things were like they were before it all happened."

The "it" Ava was referring to was very vague...though she knew Haleigh would assume she was talking about what happened to Delilah.

"Before people got so hurt that the thought of feeling happy again seemed feasible and attainable. That closing your eyes didn't terrify you because you see everything wrong that has happened."

Glancing over at Haleigh.

"I just don't like the thought of Delilah going through that.."

Picking up her drink, Ava finally took another sip--her neck extending back allowing the liquid to flow down her throat smoother. Their discussion had taken a more somber turn unintentionally.

"Wow...sorry for the dark cloud. [laughing] Anyway! Tonight is supposed to be fun....We can talk shop tomorrow. Where's Zach? Will he be here tonight?"

 

[Titan]

Sally's Boutique, The Parthenon

Andrew was in the back room of the boutique, helping to get a dress ready for transport to some posh celebrity’s co-op. He wasn’t a moron, like most people who ended up in a job like his, so he could be trusted to get things done right. And being a driver for Sally Spectra Couture was not as dull as it would seem. Plus, it kept him here and put money in his pocket.

Now, who do we have working in the back?

He heard a booming voice bellowing through the front of the shop, and he smiled. You really couldn't help it with her. Taking no heed of the line between “the front” and “the back” of the shop, he bounded out into the main area.

“Sally my love!”

He took her hand mock tenderly in his, while his North of Ireland accent took on a melodramatic flare. He looked deeply into her eyes as he held her hand to his heart.

“Have you come to take me away from all of this? Darling, think of the children.”

He let go of her hand, grinning broadly. His attention turned to a tall blonde standing next to Sally, and looking slightly stunned. Time to turn on the charm.

“Well hello gorgeous!”

He leaned casually against a table behind the blonde, allowing himself to move closer in to her, still smiling. He looked her up and down. Jesus, she was almost as tall as he was.

“I know you might be feeling a little self-conscious around me, but we don’t need to play these games. If you wanted my mobile number, all you had to do was ask.”

 

[Sally Spectra]

The Parthenon- Spectra boutique

He heard a booming voice bellowing through the front of the shop, and he smiled. You really couldn't help it with her. Taking no heed of the line between “the front” and “the back” of the shop, he bounded out into the main area.

“Sally my love!”

He took her hand mock tenderly in his, while his North of Ireland accent took on a melodramatic flare. He looked deeply into her eyes as he held her hand to his heart.

“Have you come to take me away from all of this? Darling, think of the children.”

:: Sally lifted her eye brows and smirked at the young boy as he greeted her in a saucy way and took her hand into his::

TUH!

:: She vocalized in a playfull, knowing tone::

My dear boy, I really SHOULD take you over my knee and spank you!

:: playfully slapping his hand as he let go her's::

:: She looks over to to Delilah, pretending to "whisper" in front of Andrew::

But isn't he just too cute and adorable?

:: laughing softly::

He keeps all my orders and special delivers going smoothly and in record time! I get calls from buyers AND private clients raving about him all the time!

He let go of her hand, grinning broadly. His attention turned to a tall blonde standing next to Sally, and looking slightly stunned. Time to turn on the charm.

“Well hello gorgeous!”

He leaned casually against a table behind the blonde, allowing himself to move closer in to her, still smiling. He looked her up and down. Jesus, she was almost as tall as he was.

“I know you might be feeling a little self-conscious around me, but we don’t need to play these games. If you wanted my mobile number, all you had to do was ask.”

:: Sally couldn't help but laugh at Andrew's forward, but charming advance to Delilah. No doubt this was just the sort of thing she needed! How nice that it could happen in Sally's shop! ::

:: Still...::

Now, NOW, Andrew!

:: Sally lightly chides, pokes him in his side with her finger now, causing him to stand up straight::

No fraternizing with my guests while on duty!

:: While she was standing closer to him, she took a moment to size him up, seeing if his uniform actually FIT and did his figure justice. He could almost FEEL her eyeing his rear end to see if the pants were just right::

:: Satisfied, She looks back at Delilah::

I hired him personally, when he miraculously rescued me! Some bumbling signholders outside of the Parthenon lost control of one of their cables and the sign began to fall and nearly dropped on ME! Can you imagine??

:: She puts her hand to her forehead in a rather dramatic moment::

But there he was! Talk about hand/eye coordination!

I asked him what I could do to repay him and I told him who I was. He told me he was new in town and needed a job, so...here we are now!

:: Looking around the shop, sighing as she nodded with approval::

Well....I'm satisfied with what I've seen here this evening, boys and girls!

You ALL have my stamp of approval!

:: everyone couldnt help but clap, cheer and whistle as Sally nodded, smiled and clapped herself::

Now, take care of my guest here!

:: Wrapping her arm around Delilah and giving her a sideway squeeze/hug::

And YOU, my dear, remember what i said! Put yourself together a faboulous, COMPLETE, new wardrobe and SMILE! Maybe this naughty boy over here can help you with that!

:: Nudging Andrew a bit as she laughed softly::

I'm outta here, my darlings! A body massage awaits and then I'm off to Club Envy!

Andrew, be sure and have the dress, shoes and jewelry I selected for myself sent up to my room, toot suite! And make sure whatever Delilah can't carry herself is securely delivered to her room as well.


Till next time my darlings!

:: everyone claps and cheers once more as Sally waves goodbye like the Queen of Fashion that she is, blowing a kiss and then disappearing from the shop::

 

[MorningStar]

Sally's Boutique, The Parthenon

Sally replaced the dress she had selected with a black J Mendel with cutouts on the bodice. Delilah held it up to check the length on herself – her long legs made the dress shorter than intended by the designer, but that was okay by her. No more matronly gowns for her.

Sally was busy barking orders at her assistants as only Sally could do.

Give her her a COMPLETE wardrobe, accessories and shoes as well, with MY compliments.

Delilah quickly put a hand on the older woman’s arm.

“Oh no, Sally, thank you, but that’s too generous.”

Of course Sally insisted, and what she wants, she gets. More assistants were called as Delilah found herself the center of a whirlwind of activity.

A tall young assistant with reddish brown hair and the scruff of a day old five o’clock shadow made a dramatic entrance. Delilah couldn’t believe that Sally put up with that kind of behavior from an employee. Taking a second look, and watching how Sally’s behavior changed around the scamp, Delilah knew EXACTLY why Sally put up with it. He was so cocky it was a bit overwhelming, and she didn’t quite know what to say.

But isn't he just too cute and adorable?

Delilah was nonplussed. She deadpanned sarcastically.

“Yeah. Adorable.”

After fawning over Sally for a bit, he directed his attention to her.

“Well hello gorgeous! I know you might be feeling a little self-conscious around me, but we don’t need to play these games. If you wanted my mobile number, all you had to do was ask.”

Delilah rolled her eyes.

“Pass.”

Sally made a show of checking the fit on the boy’s uniform, which was really just a glorified excuse to check out his ass. Which, truth be told, wasn’t half bad…if you sewed his mouth shut, that is.

Delilah’s attention returned to Sally as she was talking about a close call she had had. Her eyes darted to Sally’s face with concern.

“Oh my god, Sally, are you alright?!”

THIS had saved her? It seemed highly unlikely. But in this city… Delilah pondered what that could mean for a moment, but then it was time for Sally to take her leave. Again she promised Delilah a new wardrobe.

Andrew, be sure and have the dress, shoes and jewelry I selected for myself sent up to my room, toot suite! And make sure whatever Delilah can't carry herself is securely delivered to her room as well.

Delilah looked at the muscular but lanky boy in front of her. Her nose turned up slightly.

“I think I can manage, thanks.”

 

[Titan]

Sally's Boutique, The Parthenon

Sally was a treat, as usual.

My dear boy, I really SHOULD take you over my knee and spank you!

“Promise?”

Andrew winked over at the blonde while Sally gushed over him a bit.

But isn't he just too cute and adorable?

“Yeah. Adorable.”

She so wanted him. Andrew gave her a carefully practiced smile.

He keeps all my orders and special delivers going smoothly and in record time! I get calls from buyers AND private clients raving about him all the time!

“And my driving skills are pretty good too.”

Sally began "adjusting" his uniform. He could tell the blonde was watching. He glanced at her out of the side of his eye.

"It's okay, I don't mind if you look at my arse."

Andrew, be sure and have the dress, shoes and jewelry I selected for myself sent up to my room, toot suite! And make sure whatever Delilah can't carry herself is securely delivered to her room as well.

Turning all business with his employer, he nodded.

“I’ll run your things upstairs right now.”

“I think I can manage, thanks.”

He held up a hand.

“No need to tax yourself, that’s what we’re here for.”

Picking up the parcels containing Sally’s things for the evening, he looked around at all the people fetching this and that for Delilah’s new outfits.

He laughed and indicated to them.

“Must be nice, all the new clothes and things. It’s just like that film…what’s it called…Pretty Woman. With the hooker.”

Pause.

“Are you a hooker?”

Delilah: “No I am not a hooker!!”

Andrew shrugged.

“I don’t care if you are. Everyone’s got to make a living somehow.”

He started to leave, carrying the hanging bag with the dress in one hand and boxes tied with string in the other, then turned back.

“I’ll be back down later to help you with those parcels.”

He gave her one last million euro smile, before heading out to make his delivery.

 

[Black Widow]

the Parthenon -- Ambrosia

Ava threw her drinks back like she was drinking the working-man's whiskey, but Haleigh just sipped hers. She had a head start, after all, and a 15 year aged single malt was a scotch to be appreciated for its taste.

Ava: Well excuse me, Miss Prim and Fancy. Apparently you've forgotten the days of drinking Wild Turkey from the bottle when we were kids.

"No, I definitely haven't forgotten. My first real hangover, and I'll never forget. It's fine to drink that swill when you're underage and stealing it from your tacky stepfather, but as a grown woman with more money than I can spend in this or any lifetime...... I can afford to enjoy something more refined. I'd happier if they had at least the 21 year Gran Reserva, but I'm sure they keep the hundred and fifty dollar bottles upstairs in the VIP lounge. I'm only down here because I was meeting Logan Hawthorne. You remember him; he's my LT for Africa specific missions. I needed to give him the samples to deliver Dr. Banner, to start working on a solution to this mess."

Ava: You can't keep beating yourself up over not being here. I was here and I couldn't do a damn thing to stop what was happening. What matters is you being here now. And frankly, I think that's helping Delilah more than anything. She probably feels like she has someone on her side....

"That's kind of you to say."

She replied, as Ava drained her third round. Haleigh told the bartender he'd save himself by just leaving the bottle, and he seemed relieved. Now, Ava was a grown woman in charge of her own self, and if she wanted to get shit faced, that was her right, but it didn't mean Haleigh wasn't a little concerned. She tried to keep it light, though. Nobody likes a lecture.

Ava: You're right, this is smoother.

"Yeah, and it's got a decent flavor, which you might appreciate if you stopped SHOOTING it..... but if you want a REALLY good bourbon, I'd recommend Black Maple Hill.... and 21 is my magic number when it comes to whiskey.... because their 21 year bourbon is exquisite. But again, I don't see it here. Too expensive for the hoi polloi."

Ava: I wish things were like they were before it all happened. Before people got so hurt that the thought of feeling happy again seemed feasible and attainable. That closing your eyes didn't terrify you because you see everything wrong that has happened. I just don't like the thought of Delilah going through that..

"I don't either."

Shit....this whole Delilah thing really just fucked EVERYONE up, didn't it? She thought, sipping the rest of her drink, and holding up her cocktail glass when the bartender looked over to check on them. He nodded, and brought her another round, plus a fresh glass of ice for her sister.

Ava: Wow...sorry for the dark cloud. [laughing] Anyway! Tonight is supposed to be fun....We can talk shop tomorrow. Where's Zach? Will he be here tonight?

"I imagine he's back at Melrose, though sometimes if his work runs late, he stays here in the city instead of commuting back. I'll text him, maybe he'll show."

Zach, there's a party brewing at the Parthenon. I'll be hanging out here if you want to join the festivities.

Zach: I'd love to, but I'm still here at the U.N. there's an emergency meeting about the abrupt rise in hate crimes against Supers. It's getting bad in New York especially. You're a public figure now, be on the lookout for haters.

AWESOME.

She replied, sarcasm clearly translating. Another text scrolled across her display, not from Zach, but Nicolas....he said he missed her. Aww. Then another text: he needed to talk. It's sounded important, but he didn't mention an emergency.

I missed you too, Nic. I look forward to seeing you again. I'll be attending this party Cameron and you are throwing.... we can catch up then.... if that sounds good.

 

[MorningStar]

Sally's Boutique, The Parthenon

Delilah picked out a good number of solid pieces, edgier than she was used to but that was the whole point. Sally had known exactly what she was looking for and directed her accordingly. The staff had wrapped everything up, and now that it was all around her she was second guessing her boasting of not needing any assistance.

Andrew: “Never fear, I have arrived to help you!”

Delilah sighed and closed her eyes for a moment in annoyance before turning around.

Andrew was striking a “Captain Morgan” pose with a bellman’s cart, grinning like the damn Cheshire cat.

Andrew: “Hello, my future wife.”

“Ugh.”

She thought about it for a minute, and then realized she was going to have to do it. There was no way she was going to get all these things upstairs without help. She waved her hands gesturing at the bags around her.

“Allright, then, get on with it. But don’t expect me to tip you.”

She waited while he loaded all the things onto the cart, and then led the way to the elevator. Once inside, she had about five seconds of blessed silence before he started talking again.

 

[Persephone]

Haleigh: "Yeah, and it's got a decent flavor, which you might appreciate if you stopped SHOOTING it....."

[deadpan] "It's been a long day."

A long year. However Ava did slow down. She allowed the after taste of the drink to linger in her mouth as she continued to play with the tiny straws in the tumbler.

Haleigh: "..but if you want a REALLY good bourbon, I'd recommend Black Maple Hill.... and 21 is my magic number when it comes to whiskey.... because their 21 year bourbon is exquisite. But again, I don't see it here. Too expensive for the hoi polloi."

"Hmm...I'll have to try it. I'm sure Cameron has every alcoholic beverage ready for us once the festivities start."

Whiskey wasn't really Ava's forte. She was more of a chardonnay or Roscato type of girl--usually choosing vodka as her liquor of choice. However as of lately, she acquired a taste for the stronger stuff. Maybe she was taking a page out of her sisters book.

Haleigh: "I imagine he's back at Melrose, though sometimes if his work runs late, he stays here in the city instead of commuting back. I'll text him, maybe he'll show."

"Well tell him I miss him and I want to see him SOMETIME this century."

She stated with a smile. Zach wasn't just one of Haleigh's flings turned boyfriend turned....whatever they were now. She knew him way back when he helped her with some troubles revolving around her citizenship when her father was blowing up the international weapons trade world and the US government was getting concerned. She always liked Zach, and frankly, he was good for Haleigh.

Taking a small sip of her drink, Ava sat back in her chair and crossed her legs.

"We should probably head up to the club soon. I'm sure everyone has started to arrive."