knuxieh

Not Your Average Butler... [EasilyAmused x Knuxieh]

Hearing the door open from the kitchen, Freya looked up and was greeted with the beautiful breakfast options that James had prepared for them. "This looks amazing, James." She smiled, picking up some of the spinach from the vegetarian option. Once she finished, she excused herself, and found James in the kitchen, and gently tapped his shoulder. Aware that they weren't exactly alone, she gave a small smile. "James, would you mind accompanying me for scheduling meeting with the heirs from last evening?" Her time spent at home during the break couldn't be all pleasure. She still had a whole world waiting for her once she was out of school. Leading him towards the study, she closed the door behind her and sat down at the table. While she did plan to talk about the heirs and get James involved in what was happening, there was still the matter of...their personal affairs.

"So, I'm still unaware of the schedules of the heirs, I know I will want to meet with at least the Porcelain Doll Company to start talking about the limited edition sets, and paying a visit to Wonderland Amusement. You know...for strictly business." Freya smiled. "Also," She glanced over towards him. "There's still the matter of Adrian and Daddy. Have you informed Adrian?" She wasn't sure if he actually had, with the party going on last night and him spending the evening with her, if he would have even had time yet.

Not Your Average Butler... [EasilyAmused x Knuxieh]

James was relentless as always with his teasing towards her with that know-it-all smile of his. She felt like he was taking his time removing his butler jacket and gloves as he simply shrugged off the incredibly dangerous thing he just did. It wasn't like James to simply toss his attire aside with little to no care about where it was going, and she opened her mouth to protest, before she found her eyes watching him as he removed his shirt as well. Feeling her cheeks grow hot, her eyes widened. W-Was he...serious? As he leaned down and gazed into her eyes, she felt her heart race. Nodding slowly, she couldn't stop her mind from running through all different scenarios, some more embarrassing than she would care to admit.

Freya shivered lightly as his breath danced on her ear. Looking up at him, she could almost pinch herself. A shy smile graced her lips and she gently took James' free hand. "I can't think of anything better." She whispered, leaning up to meet his lips and laced their fingers. She would definitely go through parties every evening if it meant that she got to spend the evening enjoying the company of her boyfriend. James had been standing all evening, so Freya pulled back and gently led him over to the bed. Once he removed his shoes she pulled him onto the plush sheets. Tugging the warm blanket up, she had him lie on his side and moved her arm to gently cup his cheek, claiming his lips again. It sent flutters through her entire body. She was going to take full advantage that she had James to herself for the evening. Full advantage to catch up on missed kisses and sweet words of affection towards the young man who had been so wonderful towards her in all aspects.

After some time, she yawned and settled in, letting her delicate fingers weave through Jame's soft dark blue strands. "In case...you're gone before I wake..." The sleepy young woman let her leg gently link with one of James' as she nuzzled into his bare chest, more than content with the radiating warmth of his skin. "..You're the best boyfriend." She breathed out, letting herself be lulled to sleep.

In the morning, James was already gone as to be expected. She gently laid her hand on the empty space beside her and gave a soft sigh. She had mixed emotions about him not being next to her in the morning. He did had a job to do, and that had to take priority over her own personal feelings for the time being. Taking a few moments to pull a nearby pillow to her chest and relish in James' scent for a moment longer, she decided she did have to actually get ready for the day. Washing away yesterday, she emerged from the bathroom and looked through her closet. Settling on something comfortable and cute, Freya sat in front of her mirror, gently brushing out her hair and pulled it into a simple braid that she tied a cream ribbon on the end, and headed downstairs. Yawning, she still was trying to fully wake up. Whatever was cooking smelled amazing. It didn't take the young woman long to arrive at the dining table where her father sat, greeting her with a warm smile. Happy to see her father's face, she gave him a small hug and couldn't help feeling a bit guilty about simply taking a seat nearby as she had still not told her father about how the nature of her relationship with James had changed.

"So, Freya. I trust you had a good time with the party last night?"

"Oh, yes. I wouldn't nearly have been as calm without everyone's help. I'm looking quite forward to getting to work with the future heirs and keeping these relationships as strong as I can." She smiled softly. A bit of small talk went between them, and her father brought up that she would need to start keeping records and having a sharp eye for her future business partners.

"If you have questions about anything, I'm more than happy to answer them. However, in the event that I cannot Adrian should be more than able to give you advice as well. James should also have some expertise there. We are all here to help you grow into the successful young woman you're going to be. Seeking help is almost as important as collecting knowledge." Hearing the sound of footsteps approaching, the two decided to end their conversation. After all, breakfast was still a time for everyone to come to their senses and heavy talk like that wouldn't end up sitting correctly with either of them later.

Not Your Average Butler... [EasilyAmused x Knuxieh]

Thankfully the rest of the evening had gone well. Not that Freya thought the staff wouldn't shine brilliantly in their duties, but as Annie had already said, she wouldn't quite be herself if she didn't worry even just a little. Meeting with the other heirs went rather smoothly, and even the very small conversation she had with Alex was over before she knew it. Finally the evening winded down, and it was time to say their farewells. Each gentleman taking Freya's hand and laying a kiss upon the back of it, and she giving a small kiss to their cheek respectively. Watching the last car disappear behind the large gates, she finally breathed a small sigh of relief. That...was much more painless than she expected. Turning to the staff, she gave them a brilliant smile. "Thank you, everyone. This evening went smoother than I could have hoped thanks to everyone's hard work and dedication. Please, take the rest of the evening to enjoy yourselves and get a good night's rest." Watching everyone start to take things away, Freya tried to help at least take in some of the food trays, but was quickly scolded by Annie who found her out, and escorted her upstairs and away from the event floor. "Annie, please. I can't even help put away the food trays?" She softly whined as the door shut behind them and she felt Annie's small fingers swiftly unclasping the dress and after changing into her pajamas, she took the warm cup from Annie and gently stuck her tongue out towards her, promising to stay put and to not go help clean up.

Getting her makeup washed off she sat down on the bed, with a small reading light on as she drank her hot chocolate and hummed softly. Her eyes were reading a small romance novel. James said he would have a reward for her for making it through the evening. She had gotten a few chapters under her belt when she had finished the cup and looked up, seeing how late into the evening it was. James was still busy? Had he forgotten...? The thought made her frown a little. Perhaps she should retire for the evening? What was he going to do, show up like some prince in a fairy-tale in the nick of time?

At that moment, she heard two gentle taps on her door, but the the one that led to the rest of the house. No, no. This was coming from outside. Looking a little surprised, she made her way over towards it, pulling back the curtains to peek out, surprised to catch James smiling towards her. What was he doing on the balcony?! Opening the door, she reached a hand out, dropping her voice to a whisper. "What are you doing out there!? How did you--?" She looked over, catching a small glimpse of the vines on the nearby wall from the moonlight outside. "Are you crazy? What if you fell?" Freya's brows creased. Why didn't he just come through the door like normal? Not that...she minded him showing up...exactly like some prince in a fairy tale. The thought brought a little color to her cheeks, and she cleared her throat. "A-Anyway...You...mentioned I get a reward for making it through the evening. Sooo? What is it?" Her eyes sparkled with curiosity. James could be rather secretive, and she was eager for him to spill the beans on what her prize was.

Not Your Average Butler... [EasilyAmused x Knuxieh]

"Oh, good!" Freya smiled happy to hear that all was going well so far and that they would keep Alex at bay. Feeling the cool metal on her warm skin, she looked into the mirror and her eyes settled onto the necklace, a soft gasp left her lips. Hearing that it was something that belonged to James' mother, she gently touched the gem. "Oh, James...It's beautiful." As he wrapped his arms about her shoulders, she felt her cheeks flush. "It will help, I appreciate that. You didn't have to do that..." She smiled, and felt his hand on her cheek, her brown eyes meeting his blue ones. The air was left empty for only a moment before he leaned in to place his lips onto her own. Smiling into it, she placed a small hand onto his cheek, more than welcoming of the affection. A small moan of pleasure hummed through her as he pulled her in further.

It was over far too soon for Freya, and she pushed some hair behind her ear, looking up at him with flushed cheeks. At his request, her interest was piqued and she smiled, giving a nod. "Sounds like a hot chocolate kind of reward~" She chimed, and happily took James' arm. "And the sooner I can relax." Freya laughed, as they exited the room and headed down the stairs. Coming to the door, they stopped as someone made an announcement for her arrival. On cue, the door pulled open, revealing the pair and guests clapped, welcoming her into the party. Thanking James for escorting her down, she moved through the crowd, making sure to talk to just about everyone.

Seeing the potential heirs, it was no wonder her father would have wanted her to be set up with one of them. They all had their own charms, certainly. None of them quite possessed the spark that James had, but she wasn't blind to their advances. Approaching Anderson, she smiled towards the brunette with pulled back hair and kind soft eyes. "Greetings, Lady Freya." He gave a slight bow towards her. "I take it that you still wish to do business with our Porcelain Doll Company?"

"Of course, Sir Anderson. I think to commemorate the new generation taking hold, perhaps we could get together and design a unique collection? I'm sure your consumers would quite enjoy the special run. It isn't too often that heirs come to take hold of their parents companies." This seemed to gain a positive reaction from the young man, however their time was cut pretty short as a redhead freckled gentleman dressed in a semi-suit with coattails approached, beaming.

"Now, now Miss Freya! You can't ignore the rest of us! No use talking to Sir Doal for too long. Life is supposed to be fun, and nowhere is the most fun had than at Wonderland! I take that you agree, yes?"

"Ah, Sir--"

"Please, Miss Freya! Call me Norrick. We're much too young to start formalities, now! Besides, if this is to be a wonderful partnership, I would rather it be on casual light terms versus the very stuffy nature of most businesses. Of course, continued partnership will allow you unlimited access to our park locations and we always appreciate new insight on ride designs, and how to maximize guest experience!" He beamed.

"R-Right! Norrick. That sounds absolutely wonderful. I'd be more than happy to continue to be partnered if you'll have me." Norrick had spotted a maid coming out with another food tray and gasped.

"Such rude manners. If you'll excuse me, Miss Freya. I believe those deviled eggs are calling me!" He grinned, skipping off. Gripping at the small gem, she fiddled it between her fingers. So far so good, she was just..anxious to see Alex here. Finding Annie, she made her way over, and picked up a finger sandwich, sighing softly.

"So far so good...Any status on Alex? I don't see him anywhere." He eyes scanned the area, catching sight of James, and offering a small smile towards him, not wanting to draw too much attention his way.

Not Your Average Butler... [EasilyAmused x Knuxieh]

Freya seemed to relax just a little when she heard James was working his magic in the kitchen. There would be no doubt that she would be more than happy to eat anything that James had prepared. Sticking her tongue out toward Annie as she teased her, she smiled. As the girls chatted, Annie managed to work her nerves down and she waved towards her so she could attend her other duties. Glad that they had been brought up to speed on everything. Once the door closed, she was left with her thoughts for only a few moments before a light knock came on her door. Discarding the lollipop, she stood and after giving herself another look over, she took a deep breath, and moved toward the door, pulling it open, her face brightening to see James standing there.

"James! I'm so glad to see you. Annie said everyone is up to speed on the situation, so that helps me relax a bit." She pointed to the box in his hands. "Is that for me?" She asked, eyes twinkling with curiosity. What could possibly be inside? "You can come in," Freya moved aside and closed the door, sitting back down in the chair she was just sitting in. "Everything is going smoothly outside of guest arrival, yes? I know I don't have to ask, since you, Annie, Adrian and Jasmine always perform well above anything we could ever hope for, but...still." She gave a small laugh.

Not Your Average Butler... [EasilyAmused x Knuxieh]

Freya watched James' face as he answered her. He wasn't lying, and he looked as worried as she did. Opening her mouth to protest when he had taken her cup from her hands, she blinked once she was on his lap. Her cheeks flushed as he held her, and laid her head against his shoulder. Why did they have to be at the manor? If she could request him to stay and hold her all evening she would have. When he teased her, she simply giggled. "I don't know, I might have to play the part really well, James. Remember it's all about keeping the other partners happy. So, I might have to entertain a few ideas." She leaned up and kissed his cheek. "But that's all they are, James - ideas." Thinking a moment about informing Annie and Adrian, she nodded. "Please. I'm sure you'll know how to word it to them." The event was tomorrow, and she really needed to relax.

Moving to grab his hand, she gently removed his glove and kissed the palm of his hand. Looking up towards him she smiled. "I know I can't ask you to stay with me for the evening, but...at least until I fall asleep?" She requested, snuggling up a little closer to him. James always made her feel relaxed, whether he was just nearby or actively close. Closing her eyes, she sighed in content. James always smelled so nice. The signature combo to put Freya to sleep was kicking in and she gave a yawn, fast asleep against James in no time.

When morning arrived, the cooks were setting up meals to be ready by the time guests arrived. Freya opened the door when a knock came on it, happy to see Annie standing there, ready with her dress. "Ack, I'm so nervous! I hope I do alright..." She got changed, hearing the zip and having Annie secure it to make sure it wasn't going anywhere. Sitting down in front of the mirror, she glanced to her friend, and then to her hair. "Make-up? Should we even do any? What about my hair? Should we leave it down or...up? Halfway? Ah, Annie help!" Freya was already having her nerves eat her her, messing about on the details. Grabbing a mystery sucker, she put it in her mouth, glad for the clear nature of it so it wouldn't stain her tongue. James must've swapped her usual batch out. Good thinking. "Oh, did James fill you and Adrian in on the situation regarding one of the guests?"

Knuxieh's Official Interest Check~ [Casual - Mid Casual] [CLOSED]

-bump- ^[]^

Knuxieh's Official Interest Check~ [Casual - Mid Casual] [CLOSED]

*Bump!*

\o/ Let's tell some tales~

Not Your Average Butler... [EasilyAmused x Knuxieh]

"The garden? I'll have to give it a look!" Freya smiled. Sitting back as Annie began sorting through dresses suited for the events and others not-so-suited for such an occasion, she listened as her friend began to write off the different names of who would be there. She nodded, noting their names. Giggling as Annie called dibs, she smiled. "That's fine. I think I've got my eye on another attendee anyway." She joked, and felt herself tense hearing the last name she had read off to her. Alex...Durnham? Oh, that was going to be...a bit problematic. It didn't take them long to settle on a cute cocktail dress and heels with matching accessories for her event tomorrow. "Thank you Annie, I can't wait to see you at the party." The girls departed and Freya wasted no time to returning to her room for the evening. Undressing, she showered and put on a comfy pair of pajamas.

She let herself get lost in thought about Alex and how he would end up behaving at the party. Hearing someone knock on her door, she looked up, and wiped at her eyes. Moving to open the door, she looked surprised to see James standing there, with hot chocolate of all things! Holding back the urge to embrace him as soon as she saw him, she invited him in and looked at the clock. Taking the hot chocolate, she took a sip. "Thank you, James. I...have some news about the attendees." Pausing to take another drink of the warm chocolate, she began to pace.

"James...Alex is going to be at the party." Her brows furrowed and she took another sip. "He's going to be there, James!" She whispered. "What are we going to do? I-I mean..I know what I have to do. But you saw him! He's going to totally be....Alex." That was the nicest she could describe him. "I'm going to have to be nice to him tomorrow..." Freya paused her pacing to run a hand through her long brown hair.

"I wasn't expecting this. I should've known. I should've been paying attention during Daddy's lectures on the heirs a little more. Did you know, James? That Alex was an heir to one of the companies my father deals with?"

Not Your Average Butler... [EasilyAmused x Knuxieh]

Although she did enjoy seeing James relaxed and in more casual wear, he sure did wear his tux well. Deciding not to comment on James' red face she simply giggled. They only had to make it through the week. That seemed easy enough, at least when spoken aloud anyway. Glad to hear that she wouldn't be facing her father alone to break the news she relaxed a little. Even if she was teasing about him facing Adrian alone, he seemed to really take what she said seriously. Before she could let him know she would be with him to break the news to Adrian as well, he was already poking fun at her in regards to the party. Giggling as he kissed the back of her hand she shrugged. "Oh, I dunno James. I will try to hold back, just for you." She teased right back.

It seemed that would be their last joke and giggle for the time being, at least as friends. As soon as they pulled up to the large metal gates and they opened, James' hand was already off of hers and locked onto the steering wheel. She could've sworn she saw him visibly stiffen. Seeing everyone, she waved to them as they drove down. Oh it had felt like forever since she had seen her home. The door opened and she saw the gloved hand of James extended towards her, and she took it, thanking him as she turned to see Annie standing at the door, waving. "Annie!" Freya ran up towards her friend and embraced her tightly. "I learned how to make pizza dough!" Freya grinned. "Before you ask, it was pretty awesome. Oh right, don't think I didn't notice. You've been to work on the outside of the manor for the party, haven't you? The new paint color on the windows looks really nice!"

Thinking a moment, Freya walked upstairs to a room full of dresses and looked to Annie. "Hmm, I wonder if we should go dress shopping or just use of the ones over here...Perhaps I could use your master seamstress skills to pull two dresses together?" She teased with a giggle. That would be asking way too much of Annie. Perhaps another time. "Oh, Annie. Are you going to be dressed up too? Any word on any of the guests my dad has picked out for the party? I know I'll have to mingle and all that...but...you're usually really good at getting intel." Freya swallowed hard. Even if none of these young heirs were going to be for her as far as relationship partners went, she still would have to make good impressions on their heirs if they were going to continue to do business with her family.

No pressure.

----

"Everyone has RSVP'd Adrian?" The master of the house was speaking to Adrian, clearing up some last minute detailing. "Tomorrow afternoon then. I know I don't have to tell you...but make sure everyone is up to speed. Oh, yes. I've decided to have the staff wear white with black ties this time instead of the usual black with white ties. I feel like this party is important and we should treat it with elegance." Hearing the door open, his eyes landed on James who had knocked before entering. "Well, well. James has returned! Full of new knowledge no doubt?" He chuckled heartily, giving James quite the pat on the back. "Now James." He smiled down towards the young man.

"I trust you've taken good care of my Freya while away at school? Not tonight, but sometime after the party I would love to try some of your new dishes you've learned. Adrian here can get you up to speed on everything. I must go make a few last minute phone calls. I'll see you both bright and early. Good Evening." Mister Von Ryker gave the two a small nod before excusing himself to his quarters for the night. Tomorrow had to go as smoothly as possible. Before they opened the gates he would need to give a small pep talk to the team about how important it was that everything ran as well as it could. While he knew Adrian to be incredibly capable of leading the staff, it would ease his own nerves to talk to his staff personally. Not to mention Freya and how she carried herself tomorrow would be defining in her standing when she took over. Being the ball of nerves she was, it might be asking a bit of her to maintain a calm and collected demeanor around such influential people.