Marcus Ainsworth

With: @Almalthia@Majoras End@PrinceAlexusAnyone else at the Art Show

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Marcus felt a little embarrassed as Ryan laughed at him, but he snickered softly himself, seeing the humour in it too. He couldn’t help but smile as Ryan patted him on the back. Somehow, Ryan’s words both lessened and heightened his nerves at the same time. It was finally a sign that Reya was actually interested in him, but kind of put the pressure on, worrying that he might somehow screw that up. The worries of an overthinker... Trying to get out of his own thoughts, Marcus turned his gaze to Victoria as she left to go to mingle with others, calling him and Reya good eggs. “Well, what an eggcellent compliment.” He joked, turning to Reya with a cheesy grin. Marcus started to chuckle as the Rei started to laugh hysterically, watching her as she wrapped her arm around Ryan’s neck, threatening him with being thrown in the bin. “God can’t help you now, Ryan.” Marcus quipped with a smirk, laughing as he watched the two of them. He knew there were probably the more “proper, polite” people looking at them weirdly, but he didn’t care so much. And he admired that Reya didn't seem to mind too much either. That was one of the things he liked about her. He felt like he could be his own weird self around her.

As the siblings roughhoused, Marcus’ eyes started to wander over the art on showcase. It was good stuff. The artist was obviously very talented. Apparently with the V.I.P tickets that Reya bought, they would get to meet her, which intrigued Marcus. He enjoyed talking to other creative types, enjoying getting to know what fuels them, and what gets their creative juices flowing, and what motivates them. Although, he figured he wouldn’t be able to have that deep a conversation with her, he hoped he’d get to at least ask a question or two.

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Siobhan blew out a breath and shook her head. That family. What is it about them that just rubs me the wrong way? And who the hell brings a mutt to an Art Show. Lexi is gonna throw a fit. Not my panda.

Siobhan looked down and picked up her phone unlocking it and read Joel’s text message.

It’s a shame, I just finished this letter to her granddad, I don’t know what happened to the rest of the family tree after him

“Glad he isn’t here to have to deal with this.” She mumbles out loud as she fires off a text back.

This just in the rest of the family fell out of the tree and hit every branch labeled “Stupid” at the least twice.I just got accused of the drama of Marlin lying and Victoria being pregnant. I don’t know how I managed that but I gave them a piece of my mind. And apparently they have a bitch who is lose not a service dog either. Classless. I’m calling it a night as soon as I can. Might convince Paige and her boyfriend, Milo, to cut out early too. You get to pick where we go. Cause with how I look we are capitalizing on it.

Siobhan looks up and instead of really disturbing Milo and Paige she called out into their last known direction.. “Paige. Milo. I’m having Lexi get the dinner ready so you two have about a half hour. Watch it there’s a damned dog running wild and it’s not a service dog. I need a scotch...I’ll order all of us one.”

Siobhan went back into the conservatory and ordered three scotches; two of those to be delivered to her dinner companions once they were seated.Hers she was going to drink on. Catching Lexi’s eye she nodded then jerked her head at Maria who had that damned dog following her. Lexi’s eyes narrowed on the dog. She looked at Siobhan and with a determined look she nodded and headed off Maria. Siobhan watched Lexi tell Maria that she needed to put the dog up no arguments.

“I’m sorry but your dog needs to be put up Maria. I have no idea what possessed you to bring it to an Art Show but I assure you that had this been discussed at the lunchen that we had you would have been told to keep the animal put up. No arguments put the dog up. And don’t try to tell me that the dog lives here I already checked out the fact that neither of the girls has an animal microchipped under their name. I will blackball your name in this town if you defy me on this. I don’t care who you think you are you don’t play on my level. This is a serious breach of etiquette and you will fix it now and stop drawing attention to yourselves. Really you and your daughters need a PR manager. I’ve set aside a minor press conference in the left front conference room. You have half an hour till you’re late for dinner.” Alexandra walked off shaking her head. Some people just don’t know how to behave.

Siobhan watched as Lexi got people's attention and informed them that there would be the extra showing in the ballroom as the dinner settings were laid out. Lexi came and collected her and they went into the ballroom. The extra paintings were landscapes that she had done when she had first arrived in Sol City that summer. The Ocean revealed first. Then came a picture of a waterfall in the mountains that she had discovered during a hike earlier that year as well. The last was a five piece that was very nice and titled Sunrise Shoreline. She watched people admire the paintings and stood back as the room moved with Lexi’s flair for the dramatic. Sipping her scotch she wandered around answering questions as people asked them.

Finally they moved everything back to the conservatory and gardens as the dinner was served. She noticed that Maria wasn’t immediately present but saw her minutes later as well as a few members of the press. She caught Rita’s eye and when Rita nodded Siobhan raised her glass in salute. Lexi came and sat down with Siobhan. “I don’t know why you invited her here. She’ll have it splashed across the tabloids tomorrow.”

Siobhan rose an eyebrow at Lexi. “I’ve dealt with Marlin and Victoria before and I like having an ace in the hole. Rita adores me and my family. She knows that Joel hasn’t dated anyone for a good long while before me. Hell she even wrote that he wasn’t dating when she threw Marlin’s and my name together in her column. She’ll do more damage with their dirty laundry tonight than ever. She mentioned that Marlin was all over Joel at the gala and that isn’t a way someone who is gay behaves. She knows she’s openly gay. She flirts with all the men in her column because people expect her to. It’s an act. If Marlin says that her flirting and draping herself across Joel back then was her pretending then she makes Joel an enemy. If she owns up to the fact that she wasn’t that interested she makes an enemy of Joel. If she admits that she gave up because she had competition then she looks weak. Weakness is like blood in the water with sharks everywhere. Rita’s known my parents for years and they know the real her. Lexi I’m tired of the whole fucking family of hypocrites and sluts. They should know that if you’re gonna play in society then expect everything to be dissected and regurgitated at a moment’s notice. Robert Jordan called it the Game of Houses and George R R Martin calls it Game of Thrones. You can’t be Stark stupid about this. Now sit and eat.”

Siobhan eats and chats with the people who have come in as they stop at her table and congratulate her and comment on how exciting the unveiling for the full collection will be. Lexi keeps things moving and there is an ebb and flow of people for the hour that it takes for dinner to progress. The press that were late to the dinner ask Siobhan about Joel and Siobhan smiles and glowingly gives a report of how his racing career has taken off and Rebellion has sponsored him. A very brilliant move and mentions that he isn’t here because he is so dedicated to his sport that he needed time to make sure the car was ready for Jamaica. There are some hints about him previously dating Marlin to which Siobhan smiled and they were told that was a fabrication. One went as far as to say he had overheard the lady herself say so to her girlfriend before she kissed her. Siobhan smiled at him and restated that it was a fabrication and to consider the source. They soon got the message. Joel and his career are fine to talk about but stay away from conjecture about his dating Marlin.

Lexi announces that the collection in full will be unveiled in thirty minutes in the ballroom and bidding will begin. Siobhan sips the last of the scotch in her glass and for the moment doesn’t have anyone talking her ear off and she enjoys the feeling of not being required to comment on something or make a statement. The novelty soon wears off and she is looking for a conversation to participate in if just to keep herself occupied and her mind off her nerves.

Xia welcomed the kind words from both Maria and kept in mind the small concern that Vika had towards her looking out for Marlin. Something she was already on top of. Her mother was quite nice and she was still getting a little used to Vika before keeping a lose eye on Marlin's expressions while they looked around at the crowd. The Caribbean gal watched how Marlin conversed with Sioban seemingly playing along with the pleasantries. When Sio left and Xia made her assumptions known to Marlin, maybe she was getting ahead of herself. That's what she wanted to think. Maybe she shouldn't be so quick to judge. A piece of her couldn't help it after all the years of having the switch schools and live in different countries. She's dealt with shit where she was the odd girl out and ones pretending to be cool with her but were nothing more than two-faced cunts. She didn't want to think like that tonight. She's never been to an event like this before and the last thing she wanted to do was be that loud angry black bitch that's out of place that makes the newspapers because she's overly sensitive and puts up a defense so easily. She's had it happen in more than one occasion.

Noticing a few people shes seen before. The drunk girl at the metal club was there along with a few people that she's seen at Swan songs. Then there was Ethan. A smirk formed when the paparazzi went crazy with him especially when he gave Vika a kiss that of course would get recognition. It was interesting an quite sweet of him to do that but she felt he probably just did it for the cameras. If she was a man herself, she would've done the same thing even though she probably is still strong enough to lift Marlin to do it anyway. She already got a few stares simply just being a woman kissing another woman on the lips. Charming as always, hearing him address her and Marlin and commenting about how well they looked, Xia thanked him and spoke of how well he looked. He is indeed handsome, she had to admit.

When she saw the other male, Marcus, Xia couldn't help but think about their collab in their singing. But what was stuck in Xia's mind at the moment was the suggestion that Marlin made of going back to Caribbean. Maybe a small group or just them, Xia was a little taken back from that. She basically asked if that was really okay? Was she really alright going there? Yeah her family was a bit...chaotic. It was fine...her family already had issues itself, what family didn't have issues? That was not something that would discourage her or anything. There were a few kisses to each other's cheeks and support and if Marlin wanted to leave, Xia was down with it. If Marlin wanted to come and stay at her place, she was perfectly okay. Xia watched Maria leave while watching others and speaking when spoken to.

When Ethan spoke up about the trip, Xia raised an eyebrow when asking if they were going to cheer on Joel in Jamaica. That was the furthest thing on Xia's mind. she was more than likely going to see family friends and such. She has an uncle there. But...going there for something like a race to cheer Joel and knowing Sioban may be there and with how Marlin seems to be towards them, why would she try to get away from drama just to follow it into Xia's neck of the woods. If she's going home, it's to relax and enjoy herself and to throw all her problems away, not hop right back into a pissy mattress. Nah...I'm just gonna show my girl around the island. Maybe even travel to a few more islands. I want us to have a good vacation. Throw all the drama away and simply soak the sun, swim a little and enjoy all the authentic food you can think of. She added with Marlin and Ethan.

After Ethan left, Xia looked over to some of the conversations that were going on. Looked like there was a situation between Maria and Sioban. Then she saw Milo who, from a distance looked agitated, leaving with Paige. Xia soon turned to Marlin. A few eyes still looking over to them before speaking. What do you wanna do after this? She felt the tension in the air. Yrs...Marlin told Xia about some of the issues they had but usually there was always two sides to a story. Not that she had doubts on what Marlin would saw to her but maybe Xia didn't know the full story except for the version that Marlin told her. It was just from how Sio was looking when speaking to Maria that made Xia wonder. Marlin in the end is still her girlfriend and she had her back but if there was an issue where it seemed her girl may be in the wrong, she'd talk to her herself but not in a bold confrontational way but in a way to still show care and her concern in the matter. Yeah...you can't please everyone and sometimes you'll be at odds with others but regardless, Xia was going to stand her ground on her support for her girl.

Babe...if there's a problem between you and someone, have you ever tried talking it out or confront the situation? She asked just curious on where her mind was at with that. She already probably knew the answer but she wanted to hear Marlin out first.

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Ethan was caught up in the chatter and after a while was pulled to the side by Drew. As Drew told him he needed to call Nikki Ethan apologized to Victoria, Marinalia, Xia, Marcus, Reya and Ryan. Maria had not come back yet and he had no idea where she was. Their table was placed farther away from Siobhan’s table. You could hear laughter, musical and enchanting in its tone, that rose above the crowd but that was it.

Ethan moved through the rooms to the top of the stairs. This was a good a place as any he pulled out his phone and dialed the number. It rang once and was answered. “You requested I call?” Ethan was silent for a moment. “Yes. Can I ask a favor? Yes that can be arranged. No Shannon hasn’t been here, or at least who you described as Shannon, which is odd this is her kind of thing. No, no Sammy either. Yes I’ll keep looking. Will you look into my parents will again? Yes specifically about the painting. Thank you. Sure I can hold.”

He leans against the wall knowing he’s going to be there a while but also knowing that it will be worth it later. Hopefully it was only a few minutes. He thought about how Victoria didn’t tell him she had an ex till earlier today. About how Milo looked at her the couple of times he’d seen him staring at Victoria. He trusted Victoria enough that she wasn’t going to do something stupid. Dumping him for Milo would be stupid. Especially if she was pregnant. His son or daughter would not be raised around such a flighty female and not amount of lawyers would stop him from having his rights with his child. But it wasn’t going to be like that. Victoria would make the right decision.

Ethan was snapped out of his thoughts and back to the present as the person on the other end of the phone went over that section in his parents will. “Thank you. No. I just met the artist and was wondering about it. Thank you no need, thank you. Bye.” As he hung up the phone he looked to see how long he’d been gone. Twenty-five minutes. Well that was longer than expected. He headed back in and sat down. Victoria was gone but he figured that she had gone to the restroom or since he hadn’t been there then she got herself a drink.

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Milo stood for a moment longer until one the servers appeared with drinks in hand, he insisted they were from Sio. Milo and Piage took the drinks and he looked into the glass, a nice scotch, normally he would have already been two down, however it hadn't been since the attack that Milo had had anything to drink, he knew what could happen, he knew what people would think, and he was not eager to fall into that, he doesn't want to lean on it to cope, escape from it, it wasn't the kind of man that he was choosing to be anymore. He sipped lightly and slowly at the scotch, taking his time as they moved into the dining area. Milo tried his best to ignore the pompous rich folk and not dwell on his own thoughts, however time and time again he would look over to Vika, hoping for a moment where he wouldn't have to deal with Jethro Dull and the others.

It wasn't too horribly long before one Ethans tagalongs came up to him and it seemed he excused himself, Milo took this as his opportunity, or whatever he wanted this to be. "I'll be right back, I figure now's as good a time as any to deal with this." He whispered to Paige as he tapped the cane lightly twice on the stone floor. He began to walk through the crowd and ignored most the people a few of which tried to comment on the cane, or his outfit, or him, but soon he approached Vika and her group, "Sorry to interrupt, but I was hoping for a quick word if at all possible." Milo kept his voice level, even though looking at her was actually infuriating him.

He was able to get her away for the moment, the two of them had not spent a single moment actually dealing with any of the mistakes they had made. Milo leaned against the wall a bit before holding the cane out to her, "I saw you were looking a little unsteady, I would have given this to you sooner, though it seemed your new beau had it covered." Milo could almost be seen visibly biting his tongue, so many things wanting to be said, yet this was not the time nor place, "Honestly, I wasn't sure if you remembered the cane or not, I kept working on it, even after you ghosted me, thought you might come back, apologize, maybe try again." Milo could feel the annoyance in his chest. He smirked and let out a chuckle, "I shouldn't be so upset, you ran from me cause I had a woman in my place of business, and into the bed of a man that has loose women in his tour bus every night, and I got picked up by an old friend who won't let me down." Milo just shook his head, "I hope this shows you that you did mean something to me."

@Pilatus@PrinceAlexus

Vika/Milo . The showdown at the Romus Coral

Victoria was a alittle lost by the pace of everything that was happening around her, just so much to process. Maybe tonight was a mistake but it really was not though. Maybe if her whole situation was a alittle more private and alittle more control... But that was that and she had to deal with it. Victoria was definitely a alittle shakey watching Maria and Siobhan exchange words and Fluffy had escaped upstairs, someone must have left the door open or so. She was asleep by the living room fire before.

Then someone approached... A awkward someone and followed Milo with a small nod to a quiet corner with a glance to where Maria or her sister was, she really did not know how Milo would react to all this stuff so was being cautious about the situation. His expression made her a alittle nervous, but also defensive and had a small thought to guard her stomach region, was he gonna hurt her. The potential child out of spite? Old Milo never would. But when you put someone under such extreme stress, add being listed in some strange things... She was not sure what kind of person he was by the end of it all. "hey. Long time lots of awkward.

Yes, Im still a alittle frail, honestly a lot scary given my situation etc... Thanks... I thought you... Well would of cut your losses. " Victoria took it and admired the detail before twisting and pulling a fraction revealing the hidden aspect. That definitely was not gonna be welcome in airports... In fact is probbly was illegal in the UK... Luckily it was not in US. Locking it back and resting her weight onto it slightly less worried about getting a close up view of the restored marble flooring. "I did remember. Its beuterful in a slightly sad way. I just.. Given how it all ended that night. You hurt me, you drove me off. You kicked me into the cold. Maybe I reacted badly to it all. But I've been..."pushed off" a few times for a "normal" woman. It seemed... Seemed it was all over again. I never hid I was vulnerable."

Victoria was rather honest, even nice guys had hurt her, and contrabuted rather more to her heavily compartmentalised mind set, hospital, and losing her mum. It seemed cold but she could box stuff off, much to maybe her own detriment, or seeming cold and uncaring. His comments and reaction did rile up her emotions abit... He did relise he just have her a sword he made right? One she knew from his work would be sharp and weapons qaulity. "Mistake or no.. Life is what it is... If Im... You did mean somthing. That's why it hurt and I cried half that night. That's why I talked to you now and warning you.

I might be safer if but one mercy... rumour seems to be... Intresting. I do still... Look Milo. These events are not random. I know your smart. I work in security, defence now.. We see patterns and predict threats. Just be careful. Things are coming to a... Unknown end but never good. Somthing big. No one does this for no reason. Dangerous people who will kill to get what they want. Just.... Be careful. Much as everything I Don, t want to read about your funeral or being hurt.

Just... Tell Paige.. I know what she does. Multiple targets, decoys.. Chatter and rumour seems to lean to a large hostile opposition, and we'll equiped and trained combatants." Victoria was rather mixed, she had... Well they had ended but did care ernough to not want to see him dead or hurt, somthong very bad was coming and all signs pointed to alot closer than it was far away. Her emotions where hard to hide and a tone that told she really was serious in her warning, and genuinely was somthing that had her concerns.

Before anyone could interrupt Maria tapped her gentley on shoulder and looked between the two Suprised, but also concern. She knew what was between them ernough to know it was risky. Sorry to interrupt Milo, but it can, t wait forever... Vika, we need to talk a alittle. You Don,t have to do this alone, and we need to make a statement regarding tonight. Before they make it up themselves. Maria cast a glance to Milo, he seemed... They seemed... Eh. She sensed that this was not over. Not quite yet. They still have issues outstanding but tonight would not be the time they ended.

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Vika/Maria . Media mayhem and more

Maria before that had a rather intense Alexandria, who seemed to be taking her dog as some great barbaric beast of a hell hound, or cerberus. Yes she would have been upstairs but with the noise and requiring medication so she had to stay with Maria. Somwone must have left a door open when a musician or so was setting up on balcony. She had agreed, well had to agree to putting her up but blimey. Etteiquete be damned at times, dogs and events where not always the ultra tight rule back home. She even took Fluffy to a nice restaurant, long she behaved the host had been most welcoming anf even provided water and a alittle food for her. Mantianingbher calm, even at the fact she dig so deeply. She did even go to checking whom Fluff was registered to... And how much deeper. Her fiance? Victoria,s mother and more? "Alexandria. I brought her here because she is on regular medication, and required calculated dosages, a thing I am fully qualified and certified to perform, unlike many dogs sitters.

She was resting upstairs sleeping earlier, the door was closed to stairs. Unless someone had left one open I suspect. Il take her upstairs of course, besides too many people for her down here." the background digging, well that was strange. She researched if they owned the dog.. Why was that even relevant whom Fluffy was registered too or other things. She was planning a event not the GCHQ or MI5. "been digging I see. My Fiance as well perhaps? My job or so... However right now I have my family which is a far deeper concern. I shall be attending in 5 minutes once I have got the facts Victoria would like to be released at this time. "

Turning on her heal she took Victoria upstairs, and put Fluffy in the old drawing room for now with a few toys and some water. Taking with Victoria, she confirmed her story, and there little suprise for the press comfrence. Victoria had been very unwilling but decided there was no other way to break the problem so waited to the side nervously once they reached the side room and let Maria take over the first section dealing with Marinalia and Joel. "... As for Marinalia, I will be handling this. Please leave her and her partner there privacy. As for the current rumors it seems we have a classic situation, one person sees things differently to the other, and had a different idea what the relationship was, things failed as many do and what one saw as a friend, the other a boyfriend. And well. Misunderstanding has escalated quite badly... Sorry folks. No love triangles today. Joel and Siobhan I wish good luck, and with his recent signing. Well long distence relationships can be harder but I know they can work of they are comitted to each other to do so, such as my Finance and myself.

... No they met recently, but both have my approval and wish them well as a couple. And no. I just want to see my daughter happy, with a supportive partner. Next please.

I am not going to speculate mrs Black. Though I can say Marinalia seems far happier, and that Joel. I belive things have turned out better in the long run. As I said. I wish them good luck, and they seem well matched.

Now. As for Victoria, she has decided to meet you all tonight and put a few rumours to bed. However please respect this Is not a easy time for thr fnaily. Victoria, will take over. " Victoria was slightly nervous, leaning one hand on the stick with Maria keeping a arm round her shoulders, the natural Russian accent bleeding in more heavily making her sound very much like her twin citizenship. Deciding it might slightly distract she let the Russian come through without fighting it. "Hello and добро пожаловать or in English, welcome.

OK... OK. One at a time please I cannot answer you all at once. Lady, in the purple dress, with excellent fashion sense.... Thankyou, Yes, that is correct. There is a fair chance and no, this is entirely unplanned or intended. And yes I will stand by whatever happens. No, I'm not going to be doing this often so please make the most of it.

... Sorry, I'm not at liberty to talk about my job. Safe to say, I am capable of looking after myself. Yes he is my date for tonight, sorry ladies I got there first.... Things are pretty new, its alot to take in but yes I aim to try my best to makw this work out whatever future brings.

... As I said. We have yet to discuss alot of things, and I would hope you please give my family and us a alittle space at a tricky time. No.. Mrs Black, Im glad she is happy regardless which gender she calls her partner. Joel was cute, but that's beside the point. As Maria said. They can do as they like. I'm not going to speculate when they met. Even though I have a clear idea.

Last questions... I'm hungry, and it seems good will be served soon.. The cane, oh... Just a gift, and us trying to get some closure. I'm not comfortable saying much more on the matter. Oh. Mr Jamerson,.. Cheeky. Buts let say I predict after that storm... 9 months the hospital be busy... And no, I'm not after being famous. I never even wanted to do this bar the fact the situation forced me so. Thankyou and goodnight. наслаждайтесь вечерними дамами и джентльменами"_{enjoy the evening ladies and Gentlemen.}

A rather shakey afterwards Victoria walked back the party, yielding to there endless demands for a photo. Least she looked good in a nice dress, and luckily of luck. The cane was in a rather fitting blue finish. The hand made snowflake guards... Sighing, maybe she made a mistake or no but she had to follow through now. There was no turning back regardless. And she would follow the path.

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Marlin/Xia . The Siobhan question

Marinalia watched Victoria and Maria Vanish off to do there thing. She really did not want to deal with the press tonight so let Maria act on her behalf. She knew she might get clipped by the bus. Seen as a over thinking woman who put too much stock into things. But it beat being seen as a liar or some kind of player of hearts. Much as what Siobhan might want to be presented. She really hoped she did not lose Xia thanks to all the ugly stuff going on and so.

When Xia helped wall of thr idea she suggested to go see jeol.. Thankyou! She would rather spend her time in a beech.. Perhaps in the shade as she really would not do so well in the intense sun all the time. Though a small wiggle of nerves... Bikini... She could always hide her scar at times with a lose skirt or so. Brought out her nerves, Xia did not mind but she still was concous of it. "yep. After all this snow and cold... A sunny beech, cocktail in a large fruit and some swimming in crystal clear waters sounds tempting." honestly, it really did... And of they checked the regs, she might be OK to rent a Helicopter... Probbly not but maybe. The view from the air was always amazing plus it let's you get to places no one else could without a multi hour trek... Pure undisturbed freedom.

What to do was a tricky question... She wnated to run but really did not want to be seen running from her own home and hiding upstairs while Siobhan and Co walked about like they owned it. It was difficult and she was not sure how to answer. "its your night as well as mine. If you want to chat to the artist or so it's fine by me. Il just wait by thr bar or so.

We... Kinda. Well Itt began harmless ernough. But then devolved... Victoria was abit of bitch about it at the Gala. But blood was thicker than water and backed her none the less. Maria has backed us up regardless and joined in. We might not always be in right but we always do stand together. OK we kinda caused problems but not all of them.

Victoria has her own issues with them. Right now we have one very sensetive issue of her maybe being pregant. Talking it out... It was tense ernough before. It would take alot to make us see eye to eye.

Hope this does not end things. You been about the best thing that's happened since I arrived in this snake pit they call a city. But if you want to ask her... Just... Well. Let me talk it out with you after." rather overly honest to Xia, yeah the situation was a right mess. She at least knew most of the truth. She knew she had flirted heavily with a few guys before. But maybe she was trying to compensate for.. Well live up to what expected. She did fall rather naturally into Xia s arms. "Please do stay tonight. Or go to yours.. OK... I kinda missed someone to cuddle il be honest... A very pretty woman in a very tempting red dress. "

Laughing and going a alittle pink. It kinda was fun having someone close, and comforting. She really did not do that normally but Xia... Well had broken down her whole walls alot quicker than many and built up a fairly strong trust level. She might be a while off everything but slowly was getting used to a alittle more with Xia as time went on.

Letting Xia decide if she wnated to chat with Siobhan, she merely joked along with a few others present, and glanced over noting Victoria and Maria being away for a while at the press comfrence. To say the sisters and drama where freinds... They where soul mates. She'd go over if Xia asked her, but that would probbly mean marlin holding back... Alot. She still more than a alittle defensive about some of the comments she hered, a few refrencing her choice of date that earned a glance like a polar storm in deepest winter. That was her choice... Not there's.

Wandeting round the exhibition, her work was pretty good and she did like some of her subjects more than others. The winter scene was by far her favourite and wandered abit back to that one explaining how it reminded of her home. She did quietly add she had Maria bid for it. Marinalia had not really kept a secret from Xia she had more means than she let on all the time. She was with Xia because she wnated to be, and did not really care if she was rich or not.

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Vika/Ethan . The dream team

Victoria and Maria returned after the press comfrence and a quick check to find Fluffy was now safely in the old drawing room. It was not ideal but it seemed she could escape the living room and the third floor... That seemed too far away.

Walking down, she had the stick thouch on stairs merely had a arm lopped into Maria's for some stability unto the ground floor. She hated, well liked. Well both it was mixed. Milo had managed to get it perfect height and grip. The man was too good at what he did! Maria was with her. They had a quick chat after the press briefing, trying to reduce a few of her fears.

As the meal was starting she made it back to Ethan, well if he doubted her. He might less when he read the articles coming up. She had broken her rule and publicly exposed self to the press as being with him and also dealt with the pregnancy issue for now. She could always send a statement either way after they had worked out what they did if she was if that. There where too many questions to give anyone any real answers. Though the revealing winter storm did keep the gossips and Mrs Black whose unhealthy gossip desires slightly sated. She never hered of her but meant to be some society reporter or so. Not that she really read those things. She might have to just to see her interpretation and whom to use as a tool for the announcements.

Reaching Ethan she returned with a mock tail and had to politely refuse some champagne offered by a wait or sadly. She really liked that brand too... The table was getting busy and everyone seemed to be enjoying the meal. A safe distence from Siobhan at least. Giving him a quick kiss and sitting down next to him, she did not really care who saw at this point. Vs the rumours she was expecting it was nothing. Leaning the stick by the side. Yeah that's awkward... Her entire night was. "Hey Prince Charming. Hope your chat with artist went well.

Sorry, I had to help Maria. The press. I had to admit a few things and break my no media rule. They know... Us... And I had to admit the obvious. Might as well try and influence the direction they go in and stem the most lurid theories.

If you gonna ask... Just check the morning papers if you want hard evidence. Im not getting back with him. Honestly... He scared me some how seeing him earlier so... He was so... He was not the man I knew. Somthing bubbling underneath. I have no words for it. Like he I Don t know... But different. It was just strange." Victoria was forced into another bout of honesty, but she had handled the media without his help. Maria yes. But she decided to let it stand that she could least deal with some of the problems that arose thanks to the unsueal nature of there relationship.

Being polite she greeted everyone else. She hoped that would be ernough to sort it out tonight as doubted her nerves could take another battering by media twice in a few hours. If only she could have a drink. She really, really wanted one. Talking back and fort abit with his badmates, they all seemed to be fairly cheerful, if abit more lively than others. Victoria on the whole was still nervous and resting a alittle into Ethans shoulder. She knew what he said about handling it but rarely did you find out your maybe Pregnant, hold a press conference and have to deal with super awkward ex meetings in a single night. What else could happen... Seriously.. "I thought it was men meant to be drawn by a sirens call... " Joking a alittle, she chinked her glass, though she was growing a fraction peaved by people asking if she was drinking etc.

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Marlin/Xia . Cocktail chuckles

Marinalia found there table with Xia, the meal was not bad.. If it was she had a freezer, microwave or a phone to order pizza. Sometimes owning the house had a park or two. Victoria looked somewhat stressed. Between Ethan and Maria it was not likely she would be able to smell alcohol too close for the next year or so. Though despite her worries, she really would do fine, it would take time but Victoria was well capable of the challenge. A alittle overwhelmed right now but she had taken alot in a single night.

Holding her hand under the table. There wwas quite a few people about she recognised and waved over to a few. Reya and Marcus was plain cute. Her bother was a laugh and there where a few others she recognised. A small joke with Maria with brought round a fresh round of cocktails for them. The mock tail for Victoria of course with a diffrent coloured umbrella to the alcoholic ones. "Thanks mum, Xia yours is the one that's half rum. Cheers my caribian cutey!" Under the influence of a few cocktails, Marinalia ended up a alittle more silly but flirty and resting her long split side leg against the several miles of leg Xia had. She knew that Siobhan probbly would not like it. Maybe Milo or so but really who where they to say about who could date who. Milo was now with his old friend, and from sounds exs best friend? And Siobhan was with Joel. Was she really that vindictive to ruin someone's unrelated relationship over it?

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@RoccanIronclad@Almalthia@King Tai@Zaxter996@Majoras End

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Paige Kennedy

Paige ordered lightly from the prepared menu options and very daintily finished her plate, though she could have ate more she knew edicate dictated that she not stuff her face in the public view. She played by the rules and chit-chatted with the passersby, never giving away much about what she did for a living or even bringing it up. Noticing Milo’s expression when the scotch came around, she was also being careful about her alcohol intake. The events of earlier in the week seemed to have put off his taste for drinking and the near instant escalation of gossip-fueled drama at his arrival hadn’t done much to help that situation. Siobhan warned before that as her boyfriend described, the hosting English family was “completely insane”, she hadn’t really appreciated the sentiment until this particular evening: the news was swirling that Victoria was pregnant, Marlin and Xia decided to make a display and then someone turned a dog loose amidst the showing. You literally can’t make this shit up… She had mumbled in Milo’s ear earlier shaking her head.

As it turned out, it was likely for the best, she conceded, that Milo had decided to show up. With him around, she was keeping her mouth shut in situations where she normally wouldn’t have and she mused on the strange way they had come to play off one another: If he was subdued, so was she, if her anger was boiling, so was his and vice-versa. He was different in that way than he’d been with Ana, and, as a quiet voice in her head constantly reminded her, potentially very dangerous for both of them. She leaned back slightly considering the thought brushing her hair back slightly and allowing her green eyes to scan around the conservatory at the paying VIP guests. With the unveiling of several pieces, the beauty of the collection helped to quell some of the mouthy gossip being tossed around though she could tell Siobhan was still thoroughly aggravated at how she and Lexi were forced to try and salvage the evening right out of the gate. She gave Sio a playful nudge with her foot and once gaining the redhead’s attention gave her a very mocking look of snooty self-importance curling her lip and raising one eyebrow absurdly high while trying not to laugh.

Paige looked on cooly, resting one elbow back on her chair as Milo whispered in her ear and tapped the cane on the floor. She nodded narrowing her glance slightly towards the table across the room where the hosting party was seated and offering no expression. The tone with which he spoke sounded as if he was headed to take out the garbage and it was evident he was still not happy. The way the older Englishwoman, Maria, had completely ignored him earlier, as if he didn’t exist, really grated on her nerves, but she played nice and bit her tongue. Ironically, it seemed she was the only person biting their tongue across the whole event. One part based in her loyalty to Sio and not wanting to cause another distraction from her artwork and the second came from simply being raised in the South and knowing how to purport herself as a lady in public.

Watching Milo’s expression and then Vika’s defensive posture made her shake her head plainly towards Sio. “That bitch forgot all about that cane.” She said only loud enough for Sio to hear, but not changing her expression or posture in the least as Maria trundled up to interject. “Look, there she is again, can’t help herself, right after she completely ignored him right to his face.” Paige’s tone was more grim watching Maria’s body language as if she were protecting poor, innocent, Victoria from the big bad Milo. “We’re just dirt to these people,” She said, watching as Maria led Vika away. “I’m sorry I caused this to happen, I’ll make it up to you.”

@Almalthia@RoccanIronclad@PrinceAlexus

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Milo stood dumbfounded, what in the living hell just happened? Victoria literally just blamed him for everything, said he kicked her out into the cold, he had done no such thing, nothing remotely close, he had treated her like a princess, he merely had an issue with police that he didn't want her listening to but never forced her away. When Maria came and swooped in to pull Victoria away he almost didn't care, this family was insane, manipulative assholes. He watched as they left and then just shook his head to clear it before snagging a glass of scotch from a waiter, not caring who he was taking it to and walked back to Paige.

Milo sat down and finished the drink, before looking over to Paige, his mind unable to even process what happened well. He looked like he was going to say something for a moment before just shaking his head, reaching over and pulling Paige's chin toward him before kissing her, right in front of everyone, no holding back. When he pulled away, he could only smile, "I'm so glad you found me." he said before going back to the dinner. There was no way that Victoria was ever going to change, he had walked up to her upset that she had left him for he other guy, but now after seeing how she could be so delusional, he was just glad that it wasn't his kid inside her, and for the first time in a while he didn't feel angry about it, he, in one conversation, was able to see every reason why he was the one that came out on top, no amount of money could make someone happier than he will be with Paige.

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Ana sat in the living room of her apartment, she was trying to finish a book that she had borrowed from the library recently when he phone rang. She looked at the name and saw the name of her fencing instructor, it was a little late for her to be calling however that would only mean that there was big news.

"Hey Nat, what's going on?" she answered as she put the phone to her ear.

"They have finally revealed the location for the qualifiers, get your bags, talk with your employer, you have a trip to Sol city to plan." the heavy french accent on the other side of the line rang through excitedly.

Ana thanked her instructor and hung up and furiously tried to dial Paige, however the line just rang, so she hung up and tried again, no answer. When the recording allowed, she went ahead and left a message on the phone. "Paige, you are never going to believe this, I'm coming to Sol! The national qualifier is going to be held their this year, so my instructor and the club I am in are going to send me there, you have to show me around when I get there, I will make sure to let you know as soon as I do when I will be coming but it will have to be soon. Oh! Also, if you don't mind, can you ask Milo if he would be willing to make a new competition saber... I would ask myself... you understand. Call me tomorrow and we can talk more." and just as she finished the recording ends.

Ana set the phone down and thought for a moment, she could call Milo, she knew his phone wasn't off or on silent, but even still, they had only spoke a few times since Paige's attack, she wasn't really sure how to proceed with it all, she and Milo were done, and Paige seemed to have something good going, but she knew Milo may have some lingering feelings and as much as she didn't think he would do anything, it was still weird, maybe she wasn't as over him as she thought.

@Pilatus @PrinceAlexus

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Siobhan laughed at Paige's antics and as Milo sat down she was still snickering. Then he said something that she didn't catch and kissed Paige. KISSED Paige. Siobhan would have wolf whistled but she was sure that neither of her friends would have appreciated it. Damn. Well now I like this side of Milo. Wonder what brought that on? Not that she didn't deserve it she looks fantastic. Still have about fifteen minutes till I have to disappear and then five minutes later the big reveal. Then the bidding first and second round. Then I can grab Joel's painting and we can leave. Ginny's parents said they have this and they'll wrap it up. Already cut them a check and after schmoozing I'm out. That puts me out in about an hour and a half. Siobhan looked down at her watch and noted that it would be about ten thirty if things went right. She grabbed her phone out of her purse and texted Joel.

Should be out of here about 10:30 and trust me I can't wait to see you.

Siobhan grinned and sent the text. By this time next week I'll either be cheering on my favorite driver or laying on a beach in a much warmer climate. Just think of all those pictures I'll be able to take. Now that is exciting. Maybe even work up the courage to buy and wear a bikini. Wonder what Joel would think about that? She smiled a secret smile and is lost in thought for a moment.

Siobhan sees a blue haired girl, a blonde man that has to be her brother and a brunette man all headed over to her in the company of the lead singer from The Sirens. She could spare some time to talk to them but they'd need to get up here quickly if they wanted an audience.

Siobhan turned to Paige and Milo. “I'm out once the bids are in. Should be about 10:30. Have a hot date. Yes eventually y'all will meet him. Oh and incoming.” She points at the group headed to their way.

Ryan's expression turned to one of dread when everyone was okay with Reya throwing him into the trash. "...Is this how witches feel before they burn?" He said to himself. "Dude, don't worry. As long as you don't pick a fight, you won't have to walk home. Besides, your suit's dry clean only, and I'm not paying for it." Rei reassured him. "Okay, when did throwing me away like trash turn into ditching me?!" The blonde twin glanced back at his sister agitated, before having his atention caught by Victoria's friend, Dira, flirting with him. He appeared dumbfounded for a moment, then a smug smirk appeared on his face. "She digs me."

"Et tu, brute?" Reya pretended to feel backstabbed, and lightly punched her brother in the arm. "Hey, can't a guy get a date at a fancy party?" Ryan shrugged. "There's enough couples here as it is, bro. We don't need more drama-bombs." Rei explained. "You're one to talk, ya hypocrite..." Rai mumbled. "If anything happens, wanna ditch this place and head to the arcade or something? Or anywhere else?" He asked Marcus and Reya, yet the latter was too busy watching the other stuff that was happening. Then she looked over to Siobhan. She must be the artist. Man, I feel bad for her... Reya thought. This was supposed to be her night, yet now it's was going to be taken from her if things didn't die down.

"I gotta check on her. Come on." Reya said, grabbing her brother by the collar of his shirt, and dragging him with her over to the red-haired girl. He wasn't amused. "U-Um, hiya. You must be the artist lady t-that planned this, yes?"

Victoria sat and watched Milo seem to approach Paige with a fierce look and after a short while a rather intense kiss, a rather defenitely not hiding anything kiss. They seemed well matched, hopefully they heeded her warning about the coming troubles. If they did not, well the Mayor's office had ignored the companies official warning about trouble. "private contractors" where not always so welcome or trusted. There experts where very well trained, they knew trouble was coming and where bracing the the cyber gates, and physical guards. Defense contractors rarely had many friends to begin with. Ones with a darker reputation had far fewer.

Victoria really had had way too much to be quite... Well it had been alot. She really was not thinking quite straight and gave a cool glance round. Yeah, this was not her most freindly room. Yeah, maybe time to rest... Plus her very well masked annpyence about pregnancy rumours, she would not give anyone any real joy or pleasure to see disunity. Victoria was a alittle peaved how ot was announced but she had to adapt and take things as thry came. Some lessons she had not picked up... That one she had. Always present a united front. Turning to Ethan she gave him a quick but passionate kiss, before giving her apologies. No one could really argue with the potentially pregnant, stressed lady calling it a early night. "Sorry Ethan, Im gonna go rest. I've had... It's been alot to take in, and alot to think about Sunday, later in the week... Hopsital, British and Russian consulates, work... forgive me for making a mistake with our relationship earlier...

I'm on the left by the way, 3rd floor if your staying. I wanna make things work... Somehow. Night Rocks tar! Or is prince charming? " Smiling, she got up and bid Maria, Marlin and Xia goodnight. A extra kiss of cheek for Ethan thanks to a few little egging on from his band mates.

Getting up, she was still a alittle unsteady and aranged with Dira to set her up apointment just incase. She was half British, half Russain, Ethan was American. She really needed to talk to someone how all that stacked up. She had duel nationally thanks to her mother and fathers ancestry. A title, that might get creative... If it solely followed the UK line anyway.

Heading up, she big a wave to various folks including the twins and others milling about she knew. Vanishing upstairs, she checked on the sleeping Fluffy in the old drawing room before heading to her suite, swapping her dress into a far more comfortable nightwear and curling up in a bed... Well large... But when you where 4'9 it was like a Palace of comfort...

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Dira bid her freind goodnight with a hug, and a promise to meet for coffee and keep in touch. She had missed Victoria. A suprising person to say the least. Of not created abit of trouble... It seemed she had retained that talent. Her sister too from aperences...she did seem rather happy with the woman... Oh she really was throwing a few people some questions to say the least. Her.. Girlfriend was rather attractive woman, and they seems comfortable at least.

Looking over, she saw her goal... She artist but things where... Strange... There was a very large tension. It was like the cold War was back on fashion. Gliding over, long brunette hair elegantly tied back and a little black dress admitly clearly single, but ernough not be totally blatant. A click of heals on the marble, and a heavy accent as she had spent most of her life at home in Moscow. Working for the consulate was good though, her English was pretty close to perfect just thicker accented and a few people took a alittle translation. Some of thr phrases still took a alittle getting used to. She definitely was attractive, and the foreign accent she found made people take attention.

Aproaching the artists table, she spotted the sterner looking woman with her rather... Passionate boyfriend, a stressed red head and her agent. Finally.. The woman who least was business. Then she could enjoy the evening. "Excuse me miss Murphy, Alexandria yes? Sorry to interrupt however business is business. I have a bid to place on behalf of the chief of Consulate. Please contact me should it be successful. Ask for Dira Zukov, Russian Consular assistant to ze Navel Attaches office. My card is with the bid.

Enjoy your evening miss Murphy. Zis home is quite beautiful venue. " a alittle of her accent bending her words. Heading over she found a certain pair of twins... One was especially cute... Blonde... Smiling, she walk over with a alittle more swing to hips and a mischievous smirk.. If you gonna have to work the evening do, you might as well have fun doing it."Hello. Vou want to let your sister talk with the artist vhile you get us ladies a drink yes? Good.

Vie Don t bite.... Not in a bad way anyway. " teasing, Dira was a flirt at times, she would sort out business for her boss but did not mean she could not have fun. Plus fetching a drink for her twin and others was good manners. It beat being dragged over, and smoothed the cracks. There was ernough drama tonight. Vika did not deserve her maybe pregnant, maybe not so publicly advertised. That earned Ethan a clear glance from the Russain woman, she was Victoria, s friend and friends stuck together.

Looping a arm round Ryan's in a you Don, t have much choice but your not arguing anyway manner. Victoria always called her a flirt... It was true... Victoria always was the more reserved one of the pair but still, definitely had her moments, and was not shy about showing her feelings when she wnated to.

@Majoras End@Almalthia@RoccanIronclad@King Tai@Pilatus

Paige Kennedy

Getting a laugh out of Sio gave Paige a sly grin diverting her attention away from Milo for the moment as he continued his confrontation with Victoria. When she glanced back she saw him returning and shaking his head, grabbing a drink as he made his way back to their table. His expression had changed from some reluctance to an annoyed acceptance at whatever the two of them discussed. Considering how he’d been throughout most of the week, she was surprised to see him quickly finish off the small glass, but as she started to say something he turned her chin and kissed her intensely, like he’d never done before in public. Her eyes widened in surprise first at his closeness and then the action itself. Instinctively, she closed her eyes and put her hand on his cheek and for just the moment, let herself exhale and let the world around them fade into the background.

As he pulled away she opened her eyes and looked at him, lips still slightly open feeling her breath return and for once she didn’t have any snappy retort for him. When he spoke it took a few more milliseconds for the words to register from the shock and the passion in his kiss. “Oh… umm.” She put her hand on her cheek, feeling the flush of red over her face and sensing Sio’s eyes on her. “Well... then you’re welcome.” She said finally with her quiet southern accent. Her eyes slowly moved over to Siobhan knowing her redheaded best friend was fully enjoying what she was seeing and then back to Milo. The moment felt like the one at his shop weeks ago when she had done the same to him: unrestrained and right like they had both been waiting for it, but didn’t know it.

Paige looked on seeing Sio being approached by several people at once and was really feeling the sentiment about being ready to go. At the same time, she heard the sound of her phone vibrating in her purse that was hung over the chair in its customary position. Probably some work call… She lamented with a slight eye-roll and was also disappointed that the night was coming to an end. Work would be waiting as soon as they stepped out the door and their brief soiree would be over. She took Milo’s hand and gave it an affirmative squeeze feeling the strength and hardness in his grip from thousands of hours of labor. “I missed you.” She said whispering to him, not sure if he would understand or even if it mattered that he didn’t.

@Almalthia@RoccanIronclad

Marcus Ainsworth

With: @Almalthia@Majoras End@PrinceAlexusAnyone else at the Art Show

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Marcus was pulled out of his own pondering thoughts by the conversation between the twins. They had been talking about drama, or ditching each other, or something, before Ryan asked them a question. “What? Oh, the Arcade?” He glanced over at Reya to gauge her reaction, before answering. He honestly still wondering if this were actually a date, and if she had any plans. But it didn’t look like he’d actually get an opportunity to ask. “Umm, sure. If Reya wants to. I’m down for anything.” He answered with a soft smile. It seemed Rei had also gotten herself distracted by the goings on around the Manor.

All of a sudden, Rei speaks up, and starts to drag Ryan by the collar over to the artists table. “Oh, uh, sure, I’ll join you.” Marcus spoke up, following them, before being unable to stifle a chuckle as Ryan gets intercepted by a rather attractive woman with a strong Russian accent. Marcus smirks at him, giving him a pat on the back before following Reya. “Have fun Rai. I’ll stick with your sister.” As Marcus caught up with Rei, standing at the artist’s table, he looks around before his eyes settle on the redhead that was apparently the artist Siobhan. Oh wow… He thought to himself. She was definitely beautiful. If he wasn’t already on a maybe sort-of date, he would definitely find himself not at all speaking to her and admiring from a distance like a coward. But he found himself standing there with his maybe sort-of date, talking to this woman. “You’ve done, uh… A, uh, a good job, putting this together.” He mumbled with an awkward smile.

Noticing Ethan excusing himself and then soon Vika and Maria stepping away to go do something, it was just mostly Marlin and Xia having their one of one. It was good that Marlin was down for this little Caribbean vacation and she felt she would not regret it. Nothing better than to take time away from stress and just let loose and enjoy yourself without the anchors of anxiety and the people that brings it with them. Xia knew that all too well dealing with her issues in the past but she didn't let the dictate her life from there. She had to grab the bull by the horns and confront that shit. Since then, she never felt sorry about anything nor feared facing challenges and this is one of her new challenges that she's embracing in the form of Marlin.

See that's the spirit...I just don't want you crispin' up that vanilla epidermis of yours. She chuckled. Honestly Xia was getting used to this open lovey dovey stuff. It is a little silly and slightly weird at first in her mind but she enjoyed it especially with another female. In fact this is the first time she's been all lovey dovey with a girl and in public at that.

When Marlin explained a little more about the situation between her family and Sio and Co, Xia got that this was mostly more with Vika having issues with them but Xia understood that even if she was in the wrong, Marlin was not going to let her family get hurt and jumped on and she admired that. Now...Xia may have walked into this crossfire and maybe she herself didn't have any problems with Sio, Milo, Joel, or Paige but she was going to have Marlin's back. Whatever their problem is, it's their problem but as mentioned before, she's there when Marlin needs her.

Xia nodded and smirked. Listen Darlin, I still feel the same about you that I have always felt and nothing will change that but also...if you need to squash this shit then....we squash it. Whether it be us ending it peacefully or we tell them to stay on their side of the road. But it's your choice on how you want to handle things. But...hey...if you want to leave it alone and just don't talk to each other, I'll support you. I'm just used to ending shit that started. I have a few ongoing feuds but it's whatever we stay the fuck out of each other's way. She told her. But don't worry alright. I personally don't hate any of the ones you've mentioned that you have a feud with and what's awkward is that Paige is someone I think I sorta clicked with in that group. Won't change what I think about her which is not bad but...since you mentioned that I can talk to that group...I might just do that. Xia said with no fear or doubt.

She looked over to Paige's table and looked back at Marlin. I think we will come up with a final decision after this. I know in the end...we will snuggle together like a chocolate and vanilla swirl ice cream cone. But anywho....be right back baby. Xia said giving her kiss on the cheek and walked over to Siobhan and Co with no fear or doubt in her mind. She figured that since she's probably a nobody to others and that she was probably talked about throughout the night, what harm would this do of her coming to them for a moment. She was still sort of new to the city and well she still didn't know many people besides her clients and her girlfriend's family. Xia made a mental note that the beef is not with her but sometimes it can extend to those who are associated with the party that's blamed but Xia frankly can wipe a monkey's ass with their issue.

Coming up to the table with her pocketbook in hand, Xia spoke up to the ones in front of her. Ladies....Gentleman....good to see you again Paige. I have not forgotten about us possibly getting together sometime. Which...is why I'm over here right now. She looked to Siobhan and tried to be as polite as possible. I don't mean to interrupt your fellowship but Siobhan, I wanted to personally reach out to you because I'm still fairly new to this city and I really don't know that many people. I wanted to ask if you'd like to maybe someday if you're free.. sit down and have lunch or something? You don't have to answer now but...here.. She pulled out her business card and handed it to her which is her massage therapy card. She looked around Seeing your beautiful work...I'd like to extend to you a free session with my profession if you ever needed a massage. But also...if you ever wanna just chit-chat a bit...I'm down with that too. my first time being in such a place like this and I figured...fuck it...broaden out and get to know new people. Xia gave a slight smirk.

So!! Anywho...hope you all enjoy your evening. It was nice meeting you again Miss Siobhan and call me anytime. Paige...until we meet again for rum and oxtails and Mr. Milo....again...enjoy your evening. She said smiling and turning as they'd all would view her very exposed legs and nearly exposed ass while she walked back to Marlin to join her once more. What they or anyone else thought of her, she didn't care. Sh just wanted to break a little ice here and there and showed that she was not just there to be an ornament on Marlin's arm. She wanted to get more familiar with this city and the high class along with locally famous individuals just for the pure reason of wanting to get to know the people behind the works, drama, and bullshit.

She would soon join her Love once more with drinks as Marlin found a table for them. She soon took the drink Marlin gave her and smirked. Well babe...I simply went over there to extend myself...the talking can come later but if Sio want's nothing to do with me....fuck it... She shrugged. Yeah...Xia usually spoke her mind and had no real filter for her mouth but when she approached people and wanted to extend herself to them, there was nothing fake about that. She was not the type to act like something she wasn't and she was a real as she can get. Xia lifted her glass. Cheers my little English muffin. She said before starting to drink up. She held on Marlin's hand and eventually her hand rested on her girlfriend's thigh. Xia then whispered some naughty things into marlin's ear about what she'd do to her in bed and chuckled blaming it on the drinks. She also waved at Vika when she was leaving and occasionally whispered more kinky stuff to marlin. Oh don't act all innocent as if you didn't want me to try that with you... She winked. Oh and uh...whenever you're ready to leave...let me know. If we go to my place tonight, Carlo won't be there. He texted me earlier that he'll be at some girl's place tonight. So we will be clear and alone there.

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Siobhan watched as a group came up and asked a few questions about her being the one to put this together. Siobhan smiled as the blue haired girl was dragging a blonde man. He had to be her brother. They were adorable. Siobhan smiled as the blue haired girl talked then about to answer her a burnette man also chimed in. She smiled at them and leaned forward. “Well I’m not the one that put this together. I just did the paintings. You guys have yet to see all the other paintings. Lexi put all this together at the last minute practically. Glad you’re all enjoying the show.”

Siobhan introduced Paige and Milo to the group and they chatted for a minute as Xia walked up. Siobhan put on a very neutral demeanor. It was just Xia by herself. She asked me out to lunch? And she’s a massage therapist? Siobhan smiled at Xia knowing that they’d get along just fine and nodded and waived as she walked off with a genuine smile.

Lexi came and got Siobhan later and as she was leaving she gave Paige a hug touching Milo on the arm in a sister-like gesture. About five minutes after that guests were told that the full unveiling would begin. The collection seemed to follow a pattern starting with the bridges. The St. Alexus Bridge then Matthews Bridge. There was Light Lane, The Coffee Pot, Downtown, Theatre. A quaint picture of Riverside, a Church, the University, the Library. The next set were more recent she had a painting of City Hall, a sunny day at the Park and Another Park. Ironically she also had a picture of this Manor. Her views were spectacular like the Sunset View. Rain took on a romantic quality as well as Trains. Finally a night time CIty View rounded out the collection. Siobhan watched as people wandered around the paintings. Most noticed that the painting of Apex Designs was the only one with people in it and was not for sale.

As the bidding was taking place and people were mingling Siobhan caught Lexi’s eye and nodded as she went over to Paige and Milo. She found them easily enough and said her goodbyes. She texted Joel one word DONE. Then she wrapped up his painting and informed the valet that he’d be coming for her in a few minutes.

Marinalia was a alittle Suprised how ewaily she was starting to handle things, well alot... She expected to ne a nurotic of confused mess but hey. It all was working? What was up with that? That was a question she really needed less cocktails to answer. The whole sunburn... Oh that was just nna be a trip to chemist for some factor 50 or higher... Did they sell higher? She would find out. The only other little worry was well... Carabian. Bikini... No real choice Thete. Skirt shopping it was... There where a few fun ways she s could be comfortable, pretty and a alittle desirable too. Oh and hats, sandals, some lighter tops and so... Shopping trip was definitely planned in a day off. Northern living had greatly depleted her hot weather options. "Nothing a alittle shopping day cannot fix, and some SPF 50 I may need help with my caribian cutie. Kinda silly, but beech riding... I can teach you, just you me and the ocean. A girl can dream." joking slightly with a mirthfyl expression , for some reason she had a natural ease trusting Xia, recently barred and locked gates opened up again, and least there was a alittle light at the tunnels end. A few cocktails where definitely influencing her thinking.

Marlin explained, yeah they tended to follow each other into trouble, but that was normal for sisters? Eh, they gave up on normal, life just had thrown too much at time to seem normal. Thr only regret she had was that Xia was effected. It was her fight not Xia's. If she wanted to be friends. That was fine, well if they let her anyway. Depended how militant they where feeling tonight it seemed.

Marinalia was a alittle confused what to do... She might want to calm it or so but in the same night that Victoria had turned out maybe pregnant, argued with Mill. She had a fake... Or real momment with Siobhan and Maria had exchanged words.... Tonight was insane. At least Xia was sticking by her, god knows what kinda wreck she would be of she got dumped on the same night that would be extreme even by there families rediculous drama standards. "your free to do as you like, Paige was... Intresting and I think she... Well put someone away who hurt me. Told you my life was never boring.

Il see, I still have to deal with her abit, she is basically using my house. So some things might be unavoidable. Things like the tear down and so." Marinalia really just did not quite know the right course of action, she knew Xia was supporting her, but she also felt bad her choices where impacting her girlfriends. She was free to go and do what she wnated, she did not have to be bound to fall under the Olympus banner of the feud.

Letting go of her hand, she had forgotten when she was holding it or so, just another mystery for her and so, though after that snowy winter weekend... Well her idea of awkward with Xia was rather much changed very quickly. Add the... Unsure if true mentions from Ethan. Plus Siobhan and all... Hiding was a total fail. Might as well have fun and enjoy life! Vanilla, cliche as it was white Choclate... She loved white Choclate ice cream! "See you soon. White Choclate ice cream more like! cliche as it sounds, I love it. Good luck, what fate decides my curvaceous cutey" smiling, she did not mind others seeing them Happy, it was strange but it worked and well fuck... Ifnit worked it worked! Touching her cheek a alittle where she had been Kissed, it was somthing that should be the same surely, but it was and not. Oh wow, her internal voices where going like a bunch of crazy people tonight.

Anyway, how could Siobhan see her as a threat to Joel, she would have to bloody paranoid to think that now. The evidence she was well... It was obvious. Plus she was clearly taken and happy with someone. Why would she risk this for a guy who dating someone else... Marinalia would have to be stupid as they thought she was. One thing she was not...misguided at times. But never stupid. She was being trained to fly the new civilian C130 for fucks sake. Try that. Probably not even turn on thr radio... Yet alone start up the engines. Thr little comments she was not sure where that began. It was fun though, even of they had drawn the odd glance. As before. Well they where happy, not tying to bother anyone too much actively, people where strange... So very strange.

...

OK that was strange. Xia was doing fine over there, well not Xia had a away with people Marlin lacked abit but still... Calm... There was not huge upswell of drama, dramatics and fury. Could tonight stop with the suprises?

Siobhan, Xia, sio, Vika, Milo... Everyone was linked somehow though, and she could see how this had become such a web of a mess. The bridge between milo and Victoria was raised to its foundations though. Not that was a bad thing she thought slightly darkly. If she was pregnant then she had to stick with Ethan, even if they fell out of love, a child was forever not for Christmas. Oh. How batting for thr other team, getting a girlfreind, she could not end up pregnant acidiantly whatever she did.

Keeping a protective eye on Xia, she could not help but worry for her, she was definitely doing OK but even then she was tied to Marinalia. Feud ot no feud, and cold as some thought she was. She did care deeply for her family, and Xia was in the care category... If this kept up, she really wondered how it was possible she was falling to care for her so quickly. It was a alittle scary bit also amazing.

The art... Art was amazing, she had wandered a while but kept being drawn to a winter scene that reminded her of home. A few others like the city hall or views where intresting but none got her imagination like the snowy scene. Hopefully her bid via Maria was not "lost". She would enjoy thr painting even if the artist was not on freindly terms.

...

Marinalia saw Xia aproach and her waiting cocktails, hers with rum and more fruit than should be possible and Marlins a lemony one, she liked Lemonchello, somehow the bar staff where very creative and seemed to like a challenge. That red dress really really suited her, it was definitely cheeky, almost literally again lol. Marinalia was not exactly entirely coservetive split to the upper thigh, backless and so, Xia's least showed off one thing, her rather enviable legs...to great effect.

Smiling at her girlfriends return from the group, somehow she had been rather tense about it all... Marinalia was not looking to see a Xia hurt and dragged into the trouble. Much as they had only recently met, they rather had connected none the less."Blunt... But rather Acurate. That's her choice, her loss if not work out how swesome you are.

Cheers hon! Fruity, colourful and fun like you" laughing, yes she really had a silly side, though somthing about the endless up beat Caribian woman seemed to make it present. She really needed to quit with the internal soul monologues. Her brain was really doing strange things tonight. Though she was feeling a tad... Well protective of what she had and who with, keeping a careful eye on Xia while she was over there.

A warm hand found hers, Marlin could get used to that. She had not had someone close like this for a while. It was nice. Till she felt a alittle blush as a hand found her thigh under the table where the dress split, and felt a gentle motion. A few other whispers had her trying to hide her reactions and failing if it was not for her makeup she would be blushing worse... Xia really was... Full flavoured like her choice in cocktails. With a cheeky smile out of sight, she did not bother moving Xia's hand, it felt pleasant. "i could lie... But you present a good case.

Tell your cousin there's a decent bottle of rum if he returns after 10.30 to 11.00 and does not call me white girl. Let me grab a bag and coat and some shoes not torturing me and I'm yours! " OK Marinalia was not normally this decisive but well, Xia had... Changed somthing. Downing thr last of her drunk she gave her a kiss, a few quiet flirty words of her own and got up, heading upstairs to pack a bag, grab her boots and a coat.

Before leaving she bid Ethan and others goodnight. Part smiling watching the two at the music night, well. Definitely together and Vokas friend had somewhat charming her brother. Fairly polite, she was kinda rather distracted by her girlfriend and her ways. Shaking her head at the teasing and comments. They where just jealous she thought and vanished off with a click of heels and a alittle bounce to her step though careful not to let her dress expose herself. It already had tape in the odd place to keep exactly where it should be.

...

Returning quickly, she had swapped her heals for a pair of shiny dark leather taller boots as she grabbed first she could find, her warm and lined flight jacket, a small bag over one shoulder and her hand bag. It was not most stylish but it was a way to have somthing less obvious to go home with. Heals, a gown and so... Yeah... Nope. She had a change, plus her feet where cursing her birth. Mixed up as was it still looked cute. A quick word to Maria and a hug which even Xia got from her mum for being first person in years to crack her shell in months who decided to "forget" exactly what she up to and merely told her to meet her and Victoria in the afternoon. "oh, Don, t worry, we will work out a plan and help Victoria, me, Marla and Rachel all have been there. You just have fun, Xia, well... You Don,t need my permission, but you can have my approval. " leaving them a alittle later to talk to someone regarding closing the event, she was next closest to owner, Victoria was resting and Marlin was off to... Well she would not ask questions she did not want answers for.

The art evening had been.... Intense to say the least, making her way for a quick word, she had other places to be she would much rather enjoy in many ways. She was nervous about well, this was a new thing but was a good thing right. She really hoped Xia would stick around, she definitely was coming to rely on Xia.

Reaching Sios table, a alittle nervous, but as Xia had said, she had her back regardless. She was not going alone this time. The leather jacket and boots where a alittle strange with the dress but she was headed out. It was obvious why... The cute blue haired girl and Marcus... Adorable couple. She really hoped they made it. Siobhan, Piage made her nervous, even Milo he was... A outlier. The other two she had a good handle on, but Milo was a wild card. "Intresting would be a word to describe tonight... Siobhan, Alexandria... Maria will be in charge of the house regards to locking up etc. I'm headed out with Xia, and Victoria is likely sleeping by now.

Much as you hate me, your work was excellent. Take down begins as planned, 11.00 am Sunday if your still on schedule. Have a wonderful evening. Now i have a waiting Uber and a very pretty date to attend to. " keeping her tone pretty calm, cooler but not icey. She stuck strictly to the point. She glanced over at Paige and Milo struggling to hide a few nerves. They where wild cards. Giving the others a friendly wave and bidding the group goodnight including the twins, Marcus and Vika, s somewhat flirty Russian friend. Dira was rather pretty and her internal voice teasing her on how she could not of missed things.

Leaving with a friendly wave, she found Xia's hand, and trusted Maria to handle things. Her mum was rather experienced in planning and orgonisation. Everything was safely in hand. She could use the guest room on third floor tonight. She reallt had ernough drinks to not drive in any sane country plus Victoria would have someone on hand for advice if she needed it. They already had a long afternoon to catch up on things and work out what to do and how best to help Vika.

Leaving for a waiting Uber, she cuddled close to Xia and could not resit her hand wandering to her thigh as they traveled over ignorinf a few glances from the driver who she left a decent tip, so very glad her cousin was busy. Well she needed a alittle help and took things a alittle slower to start with, but soon it certainly would a night she was not gonna forget, or fail to look back on with a smile and a abit of a blush. Xia was patient but Marlin was a quick learner, much to Xia's benefit.

*that's all folks... Much fun later*

...

Curled up utterly peacefully asleep next to her girlfriend a extremely content, and happy Marinalia had forgotten the nights drama and merely felt safe next to the Caribian Cutey who somehow had fallen into her life, bed and was worming her way slowly but surely to her heart. After a rather intense night in more than one way, Marinalia would definitely not be waking up early. She reallt did not want to have to leave this bed and her girlfriends comforting prescense in a rush. Her cousin definitely could delay... Plus the girl he was seeing.. Well some things definitely where not best being first to finish! If he played his cards right he would not be in such a bad mood as last time she met the man.

@Almalthia@King Tai@Zaxter996@Pilatus@Majoras End@RoccanIronclad

*that's all folks. A classic Prince short post lol*

Joel Nicolosi

The big knobby tires of Joel’s Jeep squeaked over the stone of the manor driveway amidst what was becoming a steady, cold rain. It had crossed his mind to drive through a giant mud hole and then track it all over their pristine driveway, but he had thought better of it considering the letter he just composed to Maxmillion and he could see the event staff that were stuck outside handling the valet service were thoroughly freezing their asses off underneath the awning setup to protect the more distinguished guests from the weather. They would likely be the ones tasked with cleaning up the mess. He switched off the stereo leaving only the steady thrum of the Wrangler’s ample heat running as he pulled up.

The staff seemed completely unphased by his arrival and he figured Sio had let them know to look for a red Jeep to pick her up. He would’ve preferred to have arrived in the GT-R, but that didn’t get driven in the rain. Luckily however, there was still something almost as undignified about the Jeep. He shot a quick glance through the front doors as a few guests stepped out, but not spotting anyone familiar or even much of a look at anything. One of the staff came around to speak with him and he cranked down the window tasting the coldness of the night.

“Good evening Mr. Nicolosi, Miss Murphy will be out shortly,” The young attendant glanced around before speaking again, more quietly: “Nice Jeep.”

“Oh, well thanks.” Joel replied slightly surprised. He looked back towards the door hoping to find Sio approaching, not wanting to stay any longer than required. He could feel eyes on him as soon as he pulled in the driveway. He glanced down at his phone wedged in the cupholder and could easily read the text that beeped in. “Can I just sit right here and wait?”

“Not a problem, sir.” The man replied. “Do want to warn you that Miss Murphy is bringing a piece with her, we’ll just need some space to load it.”

Well shit… Joel thought to himself. Now I’ll have to get out. Which he acknowledged he was going to have to do anyway to help Sio get in gracefully wearing a dress. He glanced down at the small fold-out stool he had brought along that could be opened with a flick of the wrist and drummed his fingers over the steering wheel for a moment considering how quickly he could load one of her paintings in the back and be gone as soon as possible. “Alright, I got it.” He said pushing the door open and hopping down. Wearing his regular shorts the cold air immediately bit against his skin “Just put that stool in front of the passenger door.” He said walking around the back and swinging the spare tire holder open. The back of the Jeep was a collection of various decals acquired over the years: A couple surfing companies, a Winter Soldier roundel, an SR-71 diamond, a few others and the latest, a black Rebellion “R”. He popped the soft top window away from its channel and opened the tailgate hoping she would be out quickly.

@Almalthia@PrinceAlexus

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Siobhan to Lexi and told her she was taking off. “I’m leaving people are starting to get touchy feely and you know that is my cue to leave.” Lexi grimaced and nodded at Siobhan’s whisper that only Lexi could hear. Siobhan made her way out the door fairly easily. She was only stopped once and that was by Rita who congratulated her on the success of the party and imparted some information that would hit the papers tomorrow. “Yes, well, thanks for the warning. Are you still going to Mother’s brunch?” Siobhan knew Rita was. She never missed it. But it was a way to avoid the topic of boyfriends since Rita was still in reporter mode. Siobhan hugged her and finally got out the door to see that Joel had pulled up with the Jeep.

Siobhan grinned as he looked over at her as he had just gotten things moved around for his painting. She had purposefully held the painting in front of the dress not giving him a good view till she handed the painting off to him to load it in. She had hoped that the dress would elicit a very male response. Possibly… it was a shot in the dark but it is his favorite color from what I remember him telling me. And it’s a lot colder than I anticipated and he is wearing shorts. Well I can’t say much I’m wearing a dress...with thigh high stockings which gives a bit more warmth but not much.

Siobhan did a slow turn to give him full view of the dress keeping her eyes on him. “Well is this okay for whatever you have in mind tonight?”

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Ethan watched the group walk up to the table but hung back as Victoria had left. Unsure where that left him he stayed with Marinalia because she was not going. He'd had a private conversation with Siobhan so he could skip the mass thank you and give a more personal touch.

Seeing her art on full display he bid on the moonlit church. Then over bid the others by a few thousand dollars. He could afford it and the painting reminded him of Victoria. He'd carry it up to her later. He watched as Siobhan mingled and rarely ever left Paige and Milo. The artist was careful and a bit protective of them.

Ethan of course won the bid on the church painting and he took it up to Victoria. She was exhausted but he knew how he’d wake her up. Sneaking into her room he placed the painting on a chair that he barely saw. Shedding his clothes he slipped under the covers. He woke her up in a most interesting way. He managed to persuade her that the thrill of being caught was worth a little love on the balcony. He only just managed to keep her quiet after she got a little loud sooner than expected.

All in all it was a very good night...

Joel Nicolosi

Joel was pulling the tab up to let the rear seat down when he had a sense that he was being watched and glanced back over his shoulder from underneath the clear plastic rear window seeing Siobhan standing with the wrapped painting in front of her body. He locked eyes with her for a moment and smirked. Her hair looked great in the style she’d chosen and when she handed him the canvas, the rest of her ensemble went right along with it. Sweet Jesus. He thought to himself as his eyebrows noticeably raised a bit taking in her ample figure. When she posed her question, a quick movie quote that he knew she would instantly remember flashed through his mind: “Yea, it should be a dress or nothing, fortunately i have no dress onboard.” He said before easing the canvas carefully on top of the rear seat and closing up the back of Jeep.

It looked like they were going to make an unnoticed escape. No Marlin, no Victoria and none of her crazy family had noticed him, yet and if they had, no one had followed Sio out with any snooty remarks. He’d had a long enough day of practicing on the mountain with the rally team that his fuse for drama was about a fraction less than a centimeter. He was tired and glad to see Sio. Whatever happened after picking her up was just bonus and he grinned a little at the thought as he watched her backside when she stepped up into the passenger seat. The valet swiped up the stool as soon as he closed the door behind her and passed it off to Joel as if they had practiced it earlier that night. He dropped it into the rack behind the spare tire and jumped up into the driver’s seat pulling the door firmly closed behind him. Anyone that got in the way was getting run over.

“Smooth, huh?” He said letting the clutch out and giving the gas a couple taps before they were on their. “We seem to have a talent for making swift escapes.”