Come the Saturday of the engagement party Juliette was in high spirits. The photos they’d taken at dinner to make her announcement went exactly how she planned. The board of CEOs were quite interested in this new relationship (both personal and business), and were even more thrilled to be invited out to an exclusive location for a party.
Much to her chagrin this invitation also included her father and mother. Arnould Byron and Natalie Byron would get to schmooze their way around wealthy company as Juliette grit her teeth.
Thank god she refused to show up with them. Juliette had her own car and driver, and like any socialite, she made sure to show up to her own event fashionably late. Once the car pulled up the drive and an attendant open up the door, she elegantly rose out of the vehicle in a wine sequined dress. Though she’d told Jordan that the event itself didn’t need to be extravagant, she knew the importance of making a stunning appearance.
After all, if he was playing the game right, in attendance would be many of his own guests as well. Juliette intended to make sure Jordan appeared to be a very, very lucky man.
The venue had been properly manicured for the entire event. Favouring the idea of formal wear to certainly sooth any savage teeth that would have looked down at the idea that such an surprising event would be anything casual. Intending to properly flaunt the wealth that was abundant under fingertips whilst simultaneously being aware of items within the home that may disappear by avarice stricken hands. Perhaps that was one of the reasons most of the decorative embellishments were situated outside. Upon the strategically placed hard plated coverings that made the lapping waters of an luxury item, simply disappear. Arranging the deck that became a solid foundation for the party to group upon, without worry that they may suddenly dunk themselves into the pool water’s below.
While the home itself was considerably large, it was designed purposefully to not invite an abundance of guests to congregate in its space. At least not the size of this gathering. Perhaps twenty at most could make use of the kitchen area to linger, but with himself and Juliette having invited selected important souls, to partake in this affair, he had to assure that the night was favourable. Thankfully even if a mist of rain decide to fall, the birdcage over the hidden pool area would keep most safely dry.
Elisa –his housekeeper- had been diligent in locking down that of his study area. Alongside bedrooms in the upper floor, leaving the only accessible areas to be the sitting area before his home office, that of the living room, kitchen and of course the bathrooms. Even if someone ought to mingle down stairs to the uninspiring laundry room, the bookshelf that lead into the darker secrets of what he was, wouldn’t be readily accessible.
It allowed him to at least breathe a sense of temporary relief. Eyes glazing over a few heads that were eagerly mingling amongst themselves. High profile guests on his list properly interacting with those of Juliette’s. Seeming to be merely pleased at the moment that they were ones selected to share this special evening.
“Here.” A squared glass was held out for himself as vision itself simply stole towards the corner. Taking in the view of the man before glimpsing down to the unusually coloured amber drink. Needing not to question its reasoning for being somewhat tinged with a blooming vermillion hue.
Fingers plucked that of glass, sampling its contents swiftly with an appraising approval. This seemingly being an invite for the broad shouldered male to sway his own attention outwards. They shared nothing more than unspoken words before the fellow sauntered off. Moving with poise of a cat –betraying his size before slipping into the thickened crowd. Naturally he wasn’t about to take too many risks with so many human’s here. Handpicking two other’s that would behave as security amongst the function. Noticeable due to their attire favouring a far less formal avenue but towards that of someone who might make a healthy living by throwing people out of clubs.
Reginald being the one that had recently departed his side after offering a differently spiked drink, was busy making his rounds once more. The other was currently absent, no doubt assuring there were no wandering souls within the home, a similarly robust male by the name of Calvin. The two yearning to do well to keep the king’s favour this evening.
Amongst the mingling groups were those dressed as flashy penguins. White shirts and black vests, carrying around trays of catered desires. Assuring in his previous picking that they would be suitably bolshie to entertain the idea that he was a man that seen no reason not to properly spoil or spend money in the favour of Juliette. Truthfully, he wanted some of the people here to think of him as nothing more than a imbecilic fop. One who simply threw away money on the idea that he was looking to impress. Almost desperate but not quite.
A delicate balancing act that would take.
Now, they were simply waiting for the belle of the ball to make her début. A part of him proving to be amused at her need to be fashionably late. Although, he hardly expected her to arrive dressed to the nines, almost as though the pair of them were planned to be properly sporting looks to compliment the other.
Nor was he about to proclaim too loudly his awe that she might wear something so bold.
All eyes were on Juliette when she entered the party, and why not? She was a vision in red, with the countenance of a queen and the sort of soft mysterious smile that sent a wave of whispers through the guests the moment they saw her. In truth, her heart was trying to beat it’s way through her chest and her stomach was in knots. Her parents lived for parties like these, where you rubbed elbows with the wealthy and powerful. Chatted about dull subjects related to their off hour activities and vacations, or worse whatever juicy devastating gossip was to be had about their fellow socialites. Juliette was far more comfortable in intimate settings – alone somewhere she could just exist without being bombarded with the nonsense of others.
“Can I get you anything Ms. Byron?” asked a waiter.
“A glass of wine, please, thank you.” she responded, just in time for her mother to drift out of the crowd in a cloud of perfume so strong, one could likely smell her across the state. Juliette had no interest in listening to her mother compliment the home of Jordan Harrow and insist on introductions, however, and was quickly to take the arm of one of her CEOs wives.
“Mrs. Wainwright, I don’t believe I have ever seen a gown so beautiful! Have you met my mother, Natalie Byron? She could tell you the best shops in Paris…”
“Juliette, darling, I-” her mother tried to cut in, but Juliette deftly paired the two women together and like clockwork they were busy chattering away about the latest of French fashions before either knew what happened.
Juliette faded back into the crowd, keeping eye out for any more sharks attempting to waylay her attention. Oddly enough, despite being the guest of honor, the only one she genuinely wanted to talk to was Jordan.
Eons later and he still hated parties.
The overstuff ego’s alongside the stuffed corsets filled. The false modesty pouring from lip faster than any beverage could from its bottle. The entire thing was a orchestrated act that had the rich and famous rubbing elbows with those they barely considered their equals! It was a lark in a half. While he could certainly play his part without a stitch out of place, internally, he’d sooner be the one that crashes the event. Promptly ejecting people from the dance floor while a slew of articulated curses fell from tongue.
However, such an event was necessary. And he needed only to remind himself, that this should be a once in a lifetime affair. Needing not to repeat any time soon.
Play his part.
The dedicated host waiting for Cinderella to arrive so the human crowd could part like the red sea. Trying his damnest to look intrigued by the newest story being spun by a man’s lips while trying his best not to obtusely gaze in a sense of curious intrigue to how his much younger wife’s bosom weren’t falling out from the far too small sweetheart neckline. Waging internal wonder should she sneeze, would everyone here see the secret twins for an impromptu flashing. Laying lip to glass so the sweetened concoction could filter across tongue, bringing a sense of relief that no other mortal may ever feel. Humming once, articulating a well timed view towards the proximity of bodies before attention became properly interrupted with the final arrival.
While it certainly was not as dramatic as formerly described, the ripple across the crowd of family, friends and VIP’s could not be missed. “Pardon me,” Jordan cleared his throat, timing hand across the other man’s arm to depart the hen fest of bare conversation.
Needing no reason to sit back and allow the dove turned cardinal to locate him in the throng of bodies. Seemingly using the path of a waiter to plough the direction forward till drink was dashed back for finality, plopped onto the silver platter –startling the hired hand to find that a new emptied arrival had found place upon tray- he could feel curious eyes naturally following.
But of course! The evening was arranged for that of Juliette Bryon whom was set to marry the very one who opened his home to entertain these people. If this were a fairytale, the sappy uplifting music might be swelling right about now.
Music was timed at a low comfortable volume so no one had to screak at another, his gaze slipped sideways. As feet navigated to eventually come to match stride –if not seek room to properly perch alongside the feminine guest of honour. At first every intention of his bravado was to comment upon her timed late arrival, however, he was properly halted by his own tongue. Widening the view to dash its length up and down the very view of minx.
A clear of throat less his jaw unhinge in a unceremonious gawp, Jordan did unfurl a hand. To slide it across the woman’s upper back. Knowing his part to play was to be properly enamoured with the girl, though this was no act to properly appreciate the detailed arrangement of a fallen starlet. “I feel to compliment you by simply saying you look lovely would be an insult to you, peristeri.” Grasp did not venture, staying appropriate. “I feel as though I ought to be jealous that you are preening for another’s eyes.”
The way she stiffened at the touch of her upper back so subtly that only Jorden himself would’ve noticed suggested that had she not been in a room full of people she might’ve grabbed his arm and flipped him to the floor. Though the way she immediately relaxed and erupted into a broad smile the second she realized it was Jordan, might’ve been worth it.
Juliette didn’t have to play pretend at being pleased to see him, she easily turned towards him and smoothed out the lapels of his rather fine jacket with blatant appreciation.
“Is that your Shakespearian way of saying you wish we were alone?” she asked with a soft laugh. Good! Though she wanted to turn the heads of every person in the room, it was also quite nice to know her fiancé was also pleased with the effort. Juliette even took the opportunity to do a slow turn just so Jordan could admire every hand-sewn sequined and stone, and each perfectly tailored stich.
It was a subtle movement beneath the skin but hard to miss when one’s hand was directly upon it. Needing not to over think the process of what transpired, nor did he make an obvious move to fetch palm back. Less it seem like he was burnt from the sudden interaction rather than gathering some vague understanding that the madam herself might have had some self defense training. Ready to unleash on the roguish nabber that may have made a poor choice in attempting to rough house her. There were too many eyes around to lend her a questioning simper. Too many around that might question as well how swift he moved his hand if he had.
The damn means of being a viewed spectacle proving to tie off any reasonable responses.
Thankfully – and he truly did mean that- she relaxed. Positioning a dazzling gleam of a beam towards him, dulling the instinctive question to why she was so ready to spring into action. Thought’s able to offer vague ideas. Needing not to go any further than that.
In turn, she held no qualms about smoothing palms upon the front of jacket. Assuring the lines were laid patiently in place as he spoke. Seemingly pleased seconds next that he might be so bold to say things in a poetic fashion. Adjusting the rings of blue to follow the path of her grasp, Jordan playfully rolled said orbs. Harmless and bemused they were. “It may as well be,” once more he took effort to stroll the pair of mirrors down her form. Even if this was purely business, not even he was about to disregard the work of art that was a fair lady’s form. Especially when it was gussied up to be purposefully eye-catching. After all, one would wisely appreciate any form of art when it was presented before them. Less they be true swine, unknowing the value of said pearls before them.
The slow theatrical turn was audibly appreciated. Admiring the way light played against the deep maroon sequined tones, adding flare without being outright gaudy. “I will require time to properly think of a fitting way to compliment you properly, Juliette.” Jordan offered, shortly offering her that of arm so she might link towards it.
In turn when the limb was taken at her own leisure, it would give him the chance to tilt towards her. Careful not to pluck a hair from the arrangement of coffee coloured locks, turning towards the shell of ear to express an obvious intention of privacy. Sparing the glint of attention that would truly favour the slender column of any naked neck. “So far, nothing has been too wild within the hens and cocks that litter this floor. Everyone has been waiting for your astute arrival.” Jordan lingered close enough that one might believe him to be admiring the subtle scent of fragrant perfume the dame may have selected. “Though I am surprised, I suspected your parent’s to be ready to parade you up the moment you arrived.”
He pulled back slightly, mainly due to the arrival of a decorated servant approaching. “Your wine, ma’am.” With this he corrected that of stature to stand at the full height, glimpsing at the youth carrying the offering. “Sir?” Leaving the air open.
“Glenmorangie Signet.” Was the simple response. Watching the lad’s head bobble to agreement before departing when applicable. Stealing a side look to the doe beside him once more, “I believe it would be your turn to entertain the waiting gaggle.”
Jordan seemed to have a lot of eloquent words to describe Juliette rendering him speechless, to which turned her smile to a wickedly pleased Cheshire grin. All the pomp and flair of the party was worth it for that little moment. She accepted his arm with easy grace and comfortably listened to the soft statement toned for her ears only. He might have caught the very faint scent of jasmine and vanilla when he leaned close, but it was so subtle it was most likely the product she used in her hair rather than any perfume.
The wine she accepted gratefully and with the glass was able to hide her heavy sigh and commentary after taking a sip.
“Oh, must I?” she mumbled, really only loud enough for him to hear. “What do you think the polite amount of minutes to socialize with guests might be, before making a dashing escape? Fifteen? Twenty? We might lock ourselves in a closet somewhere and let them think we’ve absconded to do something filthy.”
Of course Juliette knew that wasn’t the wisest thing to do, no matter how much she wanted the evening over with as quickly as possible. At the very least, she needed to greet as many people as possible to be seen by her own people as well as Jordan’s. She took another heavy swallow of her wine to help make sure her nerves were stilled and her resolve was granite.
“Honestly, if we could avoid my parents that would be best for us both.” she admitted. Then with that whimsical smile she added, “Is there someone you would like to avoid this evening? Between us both I think we could weave annoyances into circles. They’ll be so caught up with each other, they’ll pay us no mind.”
One could appreciate a fair lady when they didn’t drown themselves within the potent stench of the newest fashion scent! Doubly so in his case. Though it didn’t seem as though Juliette was sporting the fanning fragrance from that of skin but perhaps the trends of luscious locks instead.
If she wasn’t careful, he might find her to be quite the appetizing entree.
With a dutiful back u p and arrangement of the pretty lass upon arm –looking the part of besotted affianced even after the servant child scuttled off to fill a new order- lips were prone to tilt into a pleasing arch. Chuckling lightly at first, threatening to scoff in a cruel sort of amusement next when she questioned the length of time one had socially spend appropriately amongst the gaggle of nattering fowl. Yet she was daring to even suggest offering a jesting idea of them being particularly handsy to disappear into that of a closet. To encourage salacious rumours when in reality, it was more likely they would just be conversing. “Put a pin in that one.” Jordan suggested with a roguish grin, “If things truly are that dull, we can always play with the weak thoughts of the easily encouraged.” He wasn’t against being impish, but thought best to keep their antics to a minimal. An emergency plan if they required one.
Straying eyes amongst the bounty of colourful variations of heads and attire, he admittedly was scouting out a few people to be aware of. Particularly two being her parents since he knew much about them due to extensive digging. The other he was watching was two of his own employees, board members. One being of no threat and the other prone to being a nosy busy body.
Within swift succession at her breaking the temporary hush between them, Jordan lifted a brow. Surprised that she might wish to keep away from her parents. Truly instilling that the young miss might not truly care for the pair even seemingly a little. Just she had a smile that was dangerous and enchanting all at the same time, aimed towards him. Questioning on whom he would like to avoid.
Lips quirked and eyes narrowed. Looking for the bald dome that catch the low light well to follow, “I don’t know if corralling those that have our disfavour would be our best interest. Putting them together might be close to enabling them to build a pipe bomb. Things they could share of similar distaste and prove to be bigger thorns in our rumps later.” Jordan tipped his chin then properly, angling it to hopefully showcase just whom he wished to ignore. “Migrating along the south side, a squat bald man.” He left Juliette to follow, “Wearing the tweed jacket that is dated for the late eighties.” Adding a descriptor so she might find him. “That is my CFO, Mitchel Harris. A sodding pain in the ass that is good at his job, bad at being human.”
The atramentous man sighed some, “He has a strict distaste for the younger generation and consistently attempts to thwart advancement in behaviours that are best described as juvenile.” Jordan’s gaze thinned almost dangerously, “He is only here because to not invite him would be more of a pain than it’s worth. Avoid him if you can, and if he corners you, just be sure to use large words with a dominating attitude to keep him in place.”
He gave her a gentle beckon in suggestion to follow his lead. Politely uttering a mumbled greeting to some person he didn’t recognize, then seemed to catch the look of the large built fellow that had been two of the hire’s for this evening. “There,” The man indicated to her, “The fellow there is Reginald. If you have any troubles what so ever, he is one to call upon.” He continued with a look towards her, “If anything you do not like or you feel the need to have someone tossed, he is the one to ask. There is one other dressed the same by the name of Calvin that will also adhere to your requests.” Then he smirked devilishly, “I thought you might enjoy having some additional security should someone decidedly irritate you. Besides myself. They won’t toss myself out of my own home.” Chuckling at his own humour, he seemed to be navigating them to the north end of the soirée.
“Once everyone has gotten a few glasses of drink into themselves, naturally there will be need of a speech. I thought you might enjoy taking the lead on such and entertaining every flowery whim you wish.” A glance to the sky following the sliver of moon, “About twenty minutes I would say you have.”
Juliette was an astute listener, quietly absorbing everything he had to offer in pointing out his guests. The balding Mitchel Harris was an important fact to file away for later. Someone who couldn’t be bothered to keep up with how the world evolved was of no use to her, nor to Jordan either so it seemed. Putting him in his place if it came down to it would be simple enough.
The visual introduction of Reginald and Calvin and the intend of their attendance being just for her… that brought a wide, delighted smile to her face along with a sudden eruption of laughter. Whether he genuinely believed she might be so vexed as to throw someone from the party, or if it were a lingering concern about her potential safety didn’t much matter. Juliette found the gesture rather thoughtful either way.
She was still in that wave of soft laughter when he offered her the job of speech. Juliette gave him a surprised, though amused look.
“Oh, that’s a bit of a risk, isn’t it? Allowing me to say any sort of nonsense about you that I wish. With only twenty minutes to think it over as well!” Juliette took a sip of her wine to bury another round of laughter, then she squeezed his arm and leaned in close.
“What shall I tell them? Besides that I love you dearly and evenings without you are now dreadfully dull. Should a weave a romantic tale of when we first met? Something that sparks the imaginations of all our guests?”
If he seriously was worried over what these people thought, he would have never allowed this event to happen. Actually, he never would have suggested it! The fact of the matter was, no one here was really worth his consideration let alone worry. They were no more than a large group of fish in a barrel. Some having slightly more importance than another but at the end of the day, what mattered was assuring that Juliette and himself got what they wanted. No one here truly had the power to override what they were putting together, even if they might believe otherwise.
So as he listened to the various degrees of giggling amusement that made properly diminished the viper like appearance from the lady love, Jordan lent her an earnest smirk. Cerulean blues contently glinting in reply to play along with her jesting. “Call me curious to what sort of nonsense you might pull up, and within twenty minutes no less.” He doubted she was going to go on a tangent calling out his flaws before the selected grouping. It wouldn’t do either them any favours if anyone here suspected Juliette was unhappy about her soon to be marriage. While it was an arranged one, most people here didn’t know that. And he doubted those who did, were about to go waggling their tongues. “I’m always slightly intrigued to see what people think of me when they have no time to prepare.”
As she leaned in close, he dipped his head to offer her that suggestion of secret. Once more playing his dutiful part of gent who could not keep his attention off of her.
Fairly, that wasn’t exactly false. He did find her particularly enthralling, especially when her mood wasn’t rife with hissing and gnarling.
Each step successfully divided more people away from them. Seeing no reason to interrupt the appearing happy couple, before he could no longer resist his own chuckles at her questions. Flashing a look around before he answered too swiftly. “Well now, how believable would it be for you to weave such an intricate tale and have it believed?” he asked with a low prodding attention. “Let’s not go crazy about arranging some out of this world story that neither of our guests may believe.” Suggesting that she be careful about how far she told a tale. They had people here that did know them and while the engagement might be surprising, if they went too far down the rope of stories, it would only call out the truth that this was less about affection and more about business.
So he thought a moment. Looked about next, before he seemed to come to a whole other idea. “Come.” Jordan side stepped suddenly –whilst trying not to tug her too aggressively either- “I wouldn’t wish to sell you up the river, so let’s assure that the story you put together has some grains of truth.” Chin tipped to suggest a momentary slip away inside the home, so she might actually get a proper view of the manor and perhaps, to allow them a short moment to breathe.
Perhaps a few weeks ago Juliette might’ve been insulted that he doubted her ability to come up with interesting, yet believable tale about their first meeting. After their last dinner, however, she’d come to realize most of his dry wit was wrapped up in the old world way he tended to speak. The rest, Juliette suspected, was the result of a man so used to everyone around him falling short, that he never bothered to have high expectations.
It was a fault she shared with him.
Now though, he’d piqued her interest with his earnest smirking and softly muttered suggestion. Juliette didn’t care a wit about this ridiculous party – she was far more entertained with this game she and Jordan were playing at their guests’ expense.
“Ah, an adventure, then?” she responded with a laugh, easily keeping up with his stride and paying no mind to the curious patrons watching their escape. “Jordan, do we even have the time?”
Had he known her thoughts, he might have easily agreed with her. Expressing that he was not swift to believe in others. Then again, most of his cynicism came from the vast amount of years pressed under his belt. Having lived his fair share of lives with various professions and various people. Notably having it a rarity that people often lived up to his sort of rising imperious expectation.
No one ever really spoke about being immortal and its downfalls besides watching people you cared about, die. One eventually lost their humanity, turning almost into a warden of nihilism. One day perhaps, he might truly embrace the full meaning of it and consider all existence absolutely worthless. That day… would be a dangerous day for humanity in all its forms.
For now there was no need to ever be aware of her thoughts. Instead pressing upon the idea that she shouldn’t spin a yarn for their guests that might not be so easily digested! If he had one thing to say, it was the fact that both of them most likely pressed upon their various guests of a certain personality. His own often proving to be a somewhat polite –depending on the circumstances- shark that didn’t overtly care about hurting someone’s feelings. He did what he wanted. Selfish and adroit. And odd combination.
Still, this young lady followed his whims. Sounding jubilant as the idea of an adventure tickled her lips. Ignoring the raising curiosity spent from guests observing just enough. Asking the obvious question of timing in which he simply offered her back a impish glint. Needing not to reply to the asking verbally. Just hastening their step to eventually be brought out of the party to the double wide doors that led into the branch of hallway. Where at its nearest end to the left of them would be the washroom. To follow it further would take them properly into the home itself! Something he continued to lead towards.
A deep relieving sigh was given, slowing pace in turn. Eyes venturing along the pathway that deviated in certain spots to living room, to sitting area and of course the front door. The wide steps of a staircase lead upwards into the living spaces of rooms in which he suspected Elisa was already tucked away into her own. Needing no reason to be intermingled with the event since her night was taken off to spend it as she wished. Playing guard only when she might hear someone arriving up the steps to points they should not be! As the staircase deviated into a second reach, departing itself downstairs – a place avoided for now-, Jordan glimpsed upon her.
Somewhere in the distance however, the telltale sound of jingling could be heard. Attached to small pats of feet, he was not overly surprised when they stood long enough that the audible calls of a house felid announced itself. “It may not be much of an adventure, but a moment or two away from the prying eyes is certainly never something I would turn down.” Jordan turned his direction to the approaching silver and black creature. Slightly tipping chin to indicate at the beast hastening steps so it might attempt to raise its nub of a tail, quickly bunting head and shoulders to ankles of each. “Far better company within the home than outside of it.” The man suggested, freeing his grasp from her so he might dip to care little about the expenditure of fine hair to press upon lapel. Taking beast from floor to raise to cradled grasp.
Apparently appreciated by the very creature as it announced with deep low purring rumbles. “If you are to construct a tale for our guests, perhaps knowing some about your arranged fiancé may be in good order. And best way of discovery is that of one’s home. If not pets.” Round content eyes considered her and him, squinting as touch was scratched upon brow, “Theix, is his name.” Jordan gave before looking around, “You may chose the lead to discover more if you wish to aid you fabricating a tale or two, Juliette.”
All at once Juliette’s entire demeanor changed on seeing the furry feline, from that elegant mysterious air she always carefully constructed, to the fawning delight of someone completely besotted. Encouraged that the cat deemed her worthy of rubbing against her leg, and too seemed to accept her offer of letting it sniff her hand before a few pleasant strokes, Juliette quite boldly gave Jordan her nearly finished glass of wine to gently steal Theix away.
And steal might’ve exactly been the appropriate word, for Juliette might not give him back. Damn, she knew this would be a problem! She knew she’d fall in love with the cat the second she saw it. She’d never had the opportunity to have pets growing up, and then as an adult she hadn’t felt to have one when she was never at home. But she loved animals so, so much…
Sanity came back quick enough, at least, and she regained most of her composure. At least enough to shoot Jordan a smile, and do a small turn in the hallway to choose her destination. Of course, Theix was coming along for the ride.
“Well, Theix, what do you think is the most important room for a fiancé to tour?” she asked the cat in her arms, not seeming to care in the slightest about fur or claws getting stuck in her fine sequined gown. “The kitchen, I assume a cat would say. But Theix, I do not cook. However, I do read and I think we might spend many nights lounging in chairs and reading all of Jordan’s books.”
With that cue given, she did finally glance up to grin widely at Jordan looking for the signal to the right direction.
Within seconds, his arms were emptied. Replaced by the glass that held her wine. Impressed slightly that Juliette could make such a switch so swiftly that perhaps in another life she may have been a infamous cat burglar! Not that there was a pun intended on that thought.
With vision promptly taking in the view of the woman letting down any potential guard she may have had to love and adore the silver manx, lips of his own began to creep upwards. A gentle sort of admiration resting on features prone to scathing bemusement as the young lady cared not a bit for whether or not Theix may cover her dress with the fine hairs. Simply adoring the animal and animal evidently unbothered by the fact that it was housed within unfamiliar arms. Merely purring at the idea that he was being given attention at all.
Shortly there was a smile and an attempt to replace her composure. Taking the lead to escort them along the short distance of hallway to announce in question to the feline of where would be the most important room of the house. Not that Theix seemed particular inclined to offer a real answer, Jordan didn’t muffle the light chuckle at her suggestion. Only for his eyes to gaze in a thinning gesture towards her.
Somehow not surprised that she didn’t know how to cook. For a lady that lived in hotel rooms, this seemed like a fitting idea that Juliette was someone who would have other’s prepare her meals rather than her own hands.
But then she spoke. A special sort of word that would have swivelled his own ears if they could move. Instead putting gaze upon her as she exposed the mentioning of reading, “You might have discovered a particular weakness of mine.” He mentioned loud enough with a smirk, taking her dutiful cue as its hint. Indicating for her to follow him towards the left of the junction, towards the main entry of the home. Past the stairs and forgoing a sudden dip towards the left again into the living space but rather to the right. Leading them through the wide open double doors that introduced the sitting space that was designed to have home guests to wait in decent comfort. Evidently he still did work from within this abode and in turn any who came for business reasons were treated barely any differently than he might if they were at Rosendrey.
The only difference tonight was the doors that separated the study from the sitting space were currently sealed tight. Requiring a punch code of numerical values to be set into place, whirling its mechanical unlock to sound before he compressed the handle to step in with the door. Beckoning the lady to follow with her newly acquired purring guest.
Into a room that was admittedly detailed in the idea that he was a man who liked the Edwardian influence. With the walls of a deep red complimented by the warm dark oak wainscoting panels, the entire right side of the room was dressed with bookshelves. Four to be exact. Each the same as the other, butted against another to almost seem like they were crafted as one solid piece. When in truth, it was not the case.
Three shelves within each were completely filled with books of all sorts. A stone fireplace accented the opposite wall, decorated with trinkets that were favouring collection values as the large floor to ceiling windows behind the vintage desk were drawn mostly closed to keep some light from the room. Seemingly taking that as a cue to turn on the lights to a ambient dim, Jordan gestured inwards. “Not entirely a lot of my collection but some of it.” He hinted at the bookshelves, suggesting when he had been speaking of the written word; the gross downplay of how much he had was evident.
Some vampires collected oddities, he collected books. And various other things that might be best kept in museums now, but that was none of their business. “Some books are in other languages but you are welcome to see what might tickle your fancy, Juliette. At least before we must return.”
“If I hadn’t already gauged you were a reader from your collection on display at Rosendrey, being able to hold a conversation about one of Alexander Dumas’ lesser known works would’ve tipped me off,” she confessed with a small laugh. “Had you no library to show off, I would’ve been sorely disappointed in you.”
With Theix being a welcomed burden in her arms, Juliette didn’t run her fingers down the line of books and pluck out novels as she was so tempted to do. There were going to be a few additional benefits to this entire strange agreement that she had never counted on. The company of a treasured feline aside, Juliette would certainly take advantage of an entire personal library for her reading pleasure.
Well. At those rare moments she wasn’t working. Cleaning up her father’s mess and getting her company to the place she wanted it to be was going to monopolize so much of her time. What a shame to let these books go unread, though!
“You know one of my favorites, but I don’t believe you ever told me yours, Jordan.” she finally questioned, turning away from one of the shelves.
As she moved into the room, admittedly even he took a polarizing moment to merely admire what was presented.
Whilst they were clearly in this for business reasons –known and unknown- he was not so blind that he couldn’t appreciate the work the lady had put into her appearance. For lack of better words, she was a remarkably beautiful woman. Perhaps in another life, they might not have been arranged as they were. Pressed together and made to be unlikely comrades balancing on the scales of staying above water. Mayhaps in another life, well—
Allowing the door to close itself once let go, he gaze a cursory look about the place. Finding her shortly and the question that rolled upon her tongue whilst her grasp was filled with easily one of the very few things he actually gave a shit about.
Closing distance only then so he might outstretch hand to scratch tips to the feline’s brow. “Pillars of the Earth. Completed by that of Ken Follett.” He didn’t really have to think about it either. “Watching and reading the growth of characters and places throughout a book with such definition, is hard to look away from.” His vision rose to find hers, a odd sort of lingering presence rested upon visage. “An old soul such as myself has a certain affinity for historical items.” Smirking a little with the way he expressed truthfully the old soul part knowing well enough that it would seem sarcastic here.
“Ken Follett is a contemporary author,” she responded with a tilt of head and a bit of bemusement. “I’ve not read it myself, but it is a story of…” Juliette trailed off, a thoughtful expression falling across her features as she squinted at nothing in particular, seemingly searching the recesses of her brain for what she did remember of the book.
Once she had it, she smiled, almost as if she’d just learned some new mysterious unknown.
“It’s about a man with a dream to build something great and long lasting. We will read that one first, won’t we Theix?” she asked the cat, taking his slow blink and quiet purrs as an agreement. “It may be quite relevant to our interests.”
There was something delightfully cozy about a study full of books and a fuzzy companion, but much to Juliette’s regret, it couldn’t last. As much as she would’ve preferred to stay there curled up in one of the leather chairs, she very well couldn’t avoid a party that was in her honor. At least not until they made a valiant effort in convincing the minds of their cohorts.
Juliette sighed, bending down to gently place Theix back on his furry paws and giving him one final good stroke. Once straightened, she rest her hands on her hips and regarded Jordan with another thoughtful examination.
“Well! I am convinced you’d woo a woman with adorable pets and good books on a first date. One that most certainly would work. How then, might you end the evening, Jordan? Having successfully charmed your lady?”
Lightly shoulders lifted and fell. Simply agreeing in a lazy sort of way that she was correct about the author being contemporary. Needing no reason to expand any further than that whilst Juliette confirmed she had never picked the book up herself. Although he suspected she heard of it well enough since at once point, it had been notably talked about from a rather famous talk show host years ago. Pulling people to its pages a little more eagerly than if they were merely browsing by the colour of a book’s spines.
In turn whilst she thought, limbs rose. Crossing loosely over his chest as in reply frame gently tipped to balance the ball of shoulder upon the wooden moulding of the bookcases. Merely offering her his undivided attention. Smirking gingerly when she suggested close enough to the idea of the book though it was far broader than just the mason wishing to build himself a cathedral. In turn this very moment allowed him to just appreciate the calm air here. The soft rumbles of a cat that had no quarrel to whomever was holding or petting him, so long as they were.
Before he was promptly settled back to the ground. The blues of eyes looking upwards even as departed fingers moved away as if the very idea of no longer being denoted with all the attention was not truly happening. Urging tiny feet to turn and spin himself between legs of each, chirruping quietly to gain visions of either.
Whilst he generally might have weakened enough to fall to Theix’s whims, he was halted by the fact Juliette was telling him he’d woo a woman with an adorable pet and good books. Sure that most women would like the first but not all would enjoy the second of her theory.
However, as she questioned how one might end the evening? Well… the cornflower rings settled on her. “I am sure you’ve heard enough of my ways to venture a guess.” He wasn’t about to just suggesting that he was entirely innocent. Or what some stories written upon articles might have spoken about his more cardinal ways.
Still, he offered her a contemplative look. Eventually looking away. Pushing shoulder off the bookshelf, “Contrary to how you phrased it Juliette, I have not actually ever had another woman come to my home. So you are possibly the first who knows my fascination of books and that I have a softness for felines.” Theix seemed like he knew when to cue in, meowing upwards at them each before seemingly becoming aware that Jordan was making a move that they ought to return to the party. Gathering back to study door, though he tossed her a bit of a look over his shoulder. “If I successfully charm a lady, you can bet I am less of a gentleman when the mood strikes.” The words were laden with two points. One leaving the idea that he was certainly the sort of bed and leave type, but he generally worked on sugaring a feminine form up so he might easily dine later.
After all, who really liked fast food!
“We should return Juliette, before someone does assume we have disappeared to ruffle another’s clothing.”
“As they very well should,” she laughed. “You do have such a lascivious reputation, Jordan. If the Rogue of the West Coast can’t ruffle the Ice Queen Heiress he’s supposed to marry, is he even a rogue at all?”
With that statement slipping out, it gave her a moment of pause. Juliette tapped her chin with her carefully manicured nails, with an air of thoughtful consideration. After a beat, she reached up to pull a few pins from her hair and run her fingers through her hair so it didn’t look quite so perfectly styled. Then with all of the giddy glee of some silly teenager, she tugged the sleeve of his jacket to make him stand still long enough for her to give that same subtle attention to his tie. To pull it just a little loose – but not too much. The illusion that he had to hastily straighten it back out again.
“Almost perfect…” Once she’d taken her wine glass back, the crimson mark of her lipstick on the rim gave her the last perfect idea. Entirely too pleased with herself, she wiped a bit of the color from her bottom lip with her thumb only to press that smear gently to his neck. Anyone with keen spying eyes and a taste for gossip would be sure to notice.
“There, Mister Harrow. You’ve been thoroughly ravished.”
There was no denying the swift rise of animated brow upon her comment. Surely having not expected her to address herself at least in such a way. Taking a studious moment to truly contemplate her theorized question. Was this an invite or was she simply seeing just how far his gentlemanly behaviours could be stretched. Both, perhaps? Though she didn’t seem to taken aback from the commentary, if anything there seemed to be an air of mischief? One he couldn’t accurately say was fact.
With cat making its rounds between feet as if wondering why on earth he was delaying departing this room, the woman’s heels drew focus. Hand motions second to witness the way they slipped into the chestnut tresses to tug a few of the pins from within. Encouraging that look of bafflement though perhaps it hinted towards something a little more deviously intrigued.
At least till she rose up close enough that her grasp set upon sleeve. Encouraging him to stay put so she could help herself to tug on the manicured state of tie. Drawing attention down then as if to watch what sort of show was being arranged.
Certainly proving more and more that the idea of her Ice Queen exterior may have been an elaborate ruse! “Almost perfect, hm?” Repeated the man as her devious little show had come to a climax. Setting the smear of lipstick to graze across neck.
Though he had no mirror within the house to obviously check, for equally less obvious reasons; Jordan shook his head at her. Pulling the door ajar so Theix could escort the line out yet he considered her coyly. A plethora of thoughts settling into darkened pools. Debating an action or three before ultimately smirking. “If you say so. Next time…” he motioned for her to exit, “Allow me the chance to ravish for effect.”
Immediately she erupted into musical laughter, taking the lead behind Theix to exist his private office back into the cozy study. Once her laughter had simmered down to an amused smile, she took the moment to have another drink of her wine and then pause to half turn and peer from over her shoulder with a curious examining gaze.
To say he looked good when ever so slightly disheveled would be an understatement, and though she wasn’t sure if his statement was merely a request to set the next scene himself or a casual flirt, Juliette found that she didn’t mind. In fact, it was a bit of a relief to find that the more she got to know Jordan Harrow, the more she was discovering him to be good company. If she were going to marry the man and even live in his home for a undetermined amount of years, it was good luck that he was actually a joy to be around. Of course, she would have to be very careful not to let anything crossover into complicated territory, but there was no harm in having a little fun here and there.
“Alright then. Next time you do all of the ravishing,” she finally replied with another laugh, reaching out with her free hand to grasp his so she could tug him along back to the party like the expected doting fiancé. “I think we should have a dance, though, before I must give my assigned speech!”
It was almost too easy to get her to agree. Of course, she might have assumed he was simply toying with the mood that wrapped around them. Going along with the idea that they were merely enjoying the gentle jests and plays that certainly had no deeper inference than airless words. Punctuated by the laugh vented from chest, fingers slinking along to coil and tug him along. To play the part she had originally seemed very unwilling to abide too.
To him, even as he came to her beckon seemingly to enjoy the lure, there was a deeper satisfaction upon the agreement.
One couldn’t say he didn’t ask permission then when the time arrived. That she willingly signed her own agreement to give him the chance to ravish. After all, what sort of gentleman would he be if he merely dined upon her without seeking her acquiesce. Never mind the minute details that she had no idea what she was agreeing too. Simply schematics.
“A dance you say,” Darting gaze from neck to crown, Jordan tipped that of chin to lend her a jesting grin. “As the dear lady wishes, she shall receive. I might think you aren’t stalling for time, Juliette that rather you might actually start to enjoy my company.” With her grasp upon his limb, it took a slight bit of shaking to loosen it. Waiting its timing to be upon their re-entry upon the party. Where eyes could find them and he in turn could gather limb from her doting fiancé appearance. To rather lead its dominant portion to depart the flute of drink from fingers. Perhaps a bit rude just pushing it into another’s fingers. Who? Not a clue, just that they were gifted a suddenly half drunk drink. How lucky they were.
Counting the sort of steps that timed with the current slightly upbeat song, Jordan considered her once more. Debating the behaviours of what would come next. Slipping palm to grasp upon lady’s hip. Pressing fingers to invite her beckon close, interposing upon personal space. Bringing chest towards chest, offering his right less dominant hand to her as the action of lead. “Let’s how your frigid ice does not hamper your feet, little dove.” Daringly bending features close to brush cheek towards cheek, passing the use of words to lower so only a single ear might catch them. “Show me what you can do with such a body like that, Juliette. I’m dying to know.”
Giving her the chance to select the speed of the first dance rather than orchestrate it himself.
The person who received her unfinished wine likely looked as stunned as she did in that brief moment before she laughed all over again. How grand it was that this whole affair involved so little actual play acting. Though, spectators were surely going to be curious about sort of person could actually make Juliette Byron smile. Juliette herself had certainly interacted with enough flirts and rich playboys, to – in normal circumstances – not be the slightest bit swayed.
She supposed there was something to be said for bonding over a mutual secret. It helped too that she knew behind closed doors the man was wrapped around the paws of a tiny feline, no matter how much his words made it sound like he was giving her very clandestine offers.
“Don’t threaten me with a good time, Jordan,” she nearly whispered back. Juliette fell into step along with him and the music with an easy sort of grace, though not without a few faltering steps. She’d hinted before she wasn’t a skilled dancer, but she was quick to follow a lead and had enough sense of rhythm to figure it out. Easier more still when she wasn’t focused on trying to be perfect, and was rather more distracted with her partner’s breath falling gently over her skin.
“If you’re not careful, I might start to think you enjoy my company. What a scandal that would be!”
The corners tugged upwards inviting the rest of his mouth to follow suit, arranging itself into a pleasing yet toothy grin. Chuckling at the mere idea that them actually enjoying another’s company could be a scandal! “Colour me surprised that I do enjoy your company,” Thus far, which certainly hadn’t been the thought when they had met originally. Or even after the time within his lair of an office. Suspecting this woman was to settle in and try to make his life a living hell –ha!
As she selected the pace that she felt the most comfortable with, due care was taken to meet it in equal fervour. By no means was this to suddenly turn into some hoaxy high school musical or some other opaque teen reference that split the dance floor that all eyes would boggle upon them. To miraculously develop clever feet and sashaying hips as though the very action wasn’t so spontaneous but rather scripted to be mesmerizing.
Although perhaps he couldn’t say that weren’t eyes watching them considering they were the very purpose of this evening. Catching attention of familiars, friends and those of notable importance to certainly –and highly disbelieving- that either party were and could in fact be genuine about this arrangement.
Pressed close, moving subtly in slow sways. Feet playing the art of attempting to dance upon themselves whilst with the other. Assuring the young miss kept her hands situated upon shoulder… to hand. Hoping she did not mind him leading them more towards the art of the tango. Feeling as though an old statement from an old movie was well suited here. That mistakes couldn’t be made in a tango, they only end up tangled up with another and continue to dance.
Waiting moments to assure she did not tighten upon the sharp, staccato of movements.
Keeping the woman close. As though they were walking with finesse as the underlying music gave subtle inflictions to the slow relents to unfurl her once then pull her back in once more. Allowing venturous gaze to flicker upon her once, twice… three times as the invitation to dip her came about.
A quick step to pivot around a delayed party goer to evade any potential knock together, where her fingers were settled into his own did he lend a slight squeeze. Releasing other hand as to escort the trimmed in glittered sequins out from body. To dangle her upon feathered tips but rather than lead the glimmering gala in mortal flesh back in, instead he took the distance. Crossing arm to wrap around opposite. Inviting the young lady’s back to align into chest. Giving him ample chance to be close and personal once more. Offering her a roguish grin as the act of pacing themselves forward a few steps. Using the means of lifting arm once more to twirl her underneath. Unravelling the mystical woman from its grip to slow and leave her to return to him at her pace. “Good enough?”
Juliette had to give Jordan credit. He’d suggested the first time they danced that he knew quite a bit about formal dancing and that had been no lie. He could have dragged her across the floor and snapped her this way and that before she could catch her breath – but he didn’t. Juliette herself was certainly unsure of her own steps at first, a little stiff on the turns and dips but Jordan seemed to be very careful about keeping the pace just right and the gentle guiding with his hands that it didn’t take her long to just relax and have fun with it.
For a moment the entire room full of people had just disappeared. She’d forgotten how much she loved to dance! Juliette likely hadn’t bothered since college, though she’d certainly attended enough boring social functions to have the chance.
“I am impressed,” she said in a breathless laugh, that matched the sparkle in her eyes and the soft flush in her cheeks. “We could spend all night dancing.” She’d returned to face him, toe to toe, close enough that it would’ve been far too intimate for anyone that wasn’t engaged. Unfortunately that sparkle dimmed just a bit when she caught eye of her parents whispering to each other across the way.
She was getting far too wrapped up into this fantasy. For it was just a fantasy. They weren’t really smitten in love without a care in the world. Juliette needed to be more mindful of what she was trying to accomplish.
With a sigh she reached up to smooth the lapels on his jacket, despite them not needing it at all.
“I suppose I should get on with this speech while I still have my wits about me,” she grumbled.
“Another time, you’ll have plenty of chances to be further impressed, peristéri.” Following the lead of such a easy grin, it almost seemed that the idea that she was a frigid queen of the snowy north may have been a constructed and elaborate ruse. Created to keep any from trespassing less they somehow discover that the young woman he may have described as a viper, was truly that of a mouse. Playing pretend in hopes to evade anyone’s prying eyes.
Another life, he may have found Juliette to be fitting that of her name. A youthful testament to something playful. Something new and enchanting. Where he might too have not been sitting on a dark reality that had no place in this mortal world.
Yet something notably shifted. Not enough for him to openly call question to it, but perhaps he was reading the way her eyes had glanced about. To what? That was unclear.
Whatever spark had been temporarily there, subsided. Moved to brush hands upon the polish of lapels. A silent resignation to another thing unknown. Though it would not be in his infinite wisdom to call upon a simply hunch, especially with no obvious evidence. Knowing how dangerous the line of being human and playing human could be. He couldn’t guess in a casual suggestion that he felt something had strayed away from her seconds prior jovial nature. Not unless he wanted to start finding question to just how he seemed able to know so much. Humans had limitations after all. And that was a balancing act to remember that regardless of all his years of being mundanely bored enough to try other things to near perfection, being able to read someone after a few meetings was not it!
So he left it alone. Brushing aside the thought in his head like dust. Relenting grasp upon hip to merely favour one on hand. “As you wish, Juliette.” Not without using this chance to assure that their audience was sold upon their theatrical story. Raising clasped fingers to merely find the press of lips upon dainty knuckles.
Releasing and turning with invitation to have her come along. To cut through the crowd once more so they might approach that of the front, for her to play her next part.
How the man could get away with the old fashioned charm without it being banal and cliché, to kiss her hand as if he were some renaissance prince, Juliette couldn’t understand. Somehow it came as naturally to him as a spur of the moment tango, and it was curious how the gesture managed to bring the smile and crinkle of her nose back to her face.
In the short time it took for them to cross the room, Juliette gestured towards a nearby server and claimed herself a flute of champagne. One could not properly give a toast without a little champagne, though her real intention was to have a quick swallow to wet her dry throat. She was more than willing to rise to the challenge of an impromptu speech, but there was a certain weight to it. An importance to get it right, or everything she was working so hard for would crumble to dust.
Sometimes she wondered why she expended so much energy on a dying old company, when she could just as easily go out and make something brand new. But when she Jordan took up position at the head of the room, and she caught the contemptuous look on her father’s face, almost smug even as if he were expecting this entire thing to erupt in flames, Juliette remembered.
She didn’t even deem him worthy of a suspicious glare, though she carefully placed that picture of a smug smile in the back of her mind to mull over later. The man still thought he could extort money out of this arrangement, and she wouldn’t put it past him to try something sly. Quickly, she made a scan of the room to see where Jordan’s handy security detail were milling about. Just in case.
For now, though… a speech. Jordan deserved a speech.
“OUR ESTEEMED GUESTS…” she announced, with a surprising amount of volume for a small woman, without having to scream or screech. Once she was certain she had the full attention of the room, it was quite like she’d draped on that mask of hers. The one where her smile was beautiful but practiced, and her expressions were cool and ever so slightly superior.
“I’m sure this was quite the surprise to many of you… Jordan is not exactly known for settling down with a single woman, and who would ever expect Juliette Byron to find the time to give anyone the time of day? And honestly, I don’t think either of us thought much of each other the first time we met…” she paused for the effect, even casting a quick glance over her shoulder to Jordan, who was lucky enough to catch that mischievous look in her eyes before she continued.
“When you meet someone that shares your ridiculous amount of knowledge on color theory, knows those same old classic vampire stories, and appreciates the ocean as much as you do… you find it’s worth a second look. Mind you, I think he just likes the way I look in a low cut dress, and I might just be more in love with Theix, but we’ll have until forever to figure the rest out.”
“So then, cheers to all of you and cheers to my love, who- well. Makes my world a little more interesting.”
With that she raised her glass and there it was again. That beaming pleased with herself smile, almost daring him to one up her and do a better job.
As their placement came to be accepted before the hand selected crowd of their choosing; he’d politely stand aside of the little spitfire of a woman, to look amongst the gathered heads. A variety that he knew and a considerable selection of those he didn’t. Deeming them to be little more than passing images within his mind’s eye whilst the young lady took her chance to stand before them. The jewel of the evening, the one that was meant to be the starlet in this little arrangement that had certainly baffled those of either side.
As she began starting off with the forementioned thought that this had been truly quite the surprise of many here, a daring side look was lent to the girl. As she pointed out swiftly his lack of previous desire to settle down with a singular woman; it would seem that she favoured to colour it as a surprise that it to be Juliette Byron the one who managed to catch his eye. Softening the composure around mouth and eyes to play more of a coy part that he too was still trying to fathom how she managed to capture him –behaving the smitten fiancé- before he seen how she tossed him a look. Playing with her words deviously well that even if he wanted to keep it suppressed, the smirk spread onto features with the airy scoff.
The speech wasn’t necessary to be drug on, just a show of showmanship to the guests here. That they were of course, fit for another. To flavour the idea that they knew each other in small ways that were intended to be endearing, though he effectively rolled his eyes for view as she expressed that he might have just liked the way she looked in a low cut dress. Favouring that she was already in love with the silver house felid within. Churning bemusing chuckles in her favour before glasses were raised and toast seemed to be done in her favour. Well received.
Though he tilted slightly to her devious little expression. As if nonverbally inviting him to come and do a better job. Earning herself a colourful tilt of his head one moment then an offering of hand for her to take the next. Debating whether or not he needed to follow her up to try and attach his own commentary on for show. Peering towards the crowd one moment then simpered another.
Stepping the small portion forward that seemed almost like he had a vendetta out for each and every flute of champagne she head. Laying palm to settle itself upon the lady’s hip and other to steal that stem. Giving her a teasing bemused look. To keep her tethered at the hip to his own, never too far. “She doesn’t make it easy to follow up on.” Jordan announced casually giving her drink a tip towards the crowd. “Nor do I think I need too,” Acquiesced the atramentous administrator, rather he considered her slyly from the corner of his eye. “Merely may I attached the amendment of vocalizing our appreciation for each and every one of you for coming. For coming to join us on this special evening.” He tipped the glass once more before offering it back to her, giving a slight signal that the music may start once more.
Escorting her to depart this gawking point, though his attention deviated almost too quickly from the side.
“Sir,” The deep baritone pulled focus, releasing Juliette’s being from his own to address the cool of blues upon the thickly muscled being that was Reginald. Where the man gave a formal tip of his head towards the lady but inferred that attention was necessary elsewhere. “Another has come to…” he looked almost hesitant about this, debating on whether or not he wanted to say anything at all.
It was enough that Jordan simply sighed. “Mingle as you need, Juliette.” His tone dipped into a professional manner. “I will return soon enough.” A hand beckoned outwards to instruct Reginald soundly.
Almost in reply was the other man appearing apologetic. Like this should have never occurred at all, “Whom?” he asked after a few steps away.
“Lady Hart, sir. I stated she was not to appear here this evening but you know how—” he trailed off seemingly needing not to speak the obviousness. Or it was due to the unpleasant glare resting on his face that forced the other to hush his mouth.
It was never going to be just as simple as a small hosting of mortals, was it. Always had to have one or another of his subordinates sticking their noses in where they were not wanted.
Juliette watched with curiosity as Jordan stepped away with one of his security goons, and from the sounds of it due to an uninvited guest. For a split second a little twinge of fear upturned her stomach at the concern that it might be David, sneaking his way inside to stir up some trouble. But unless Jordan was sending out private detectives to stalk and investigate every single area of her life, he didn’t even know the man existed. The man was growing increasingly concerning, but at least Juliette was still confident she could handle him on her own.
Speaking of handling, she realized with a sigh that she should at least make a show of interacting with her parents. Despite trying to push her father out of the business, Juliette was not foolish enough to burn all bridges and connections until she had her own well secured.
After downing her flute of champagne and passing the empty glass off to a server, Juliette wove her way through the crowd only to pause here and there for a short casual greeting with a guest. For those she knew, it was a simple enough exchange of How-Are-yous and Congratulations, and for those she didn’t, she made sure to provide how to contact her should they wish to get to know her better. By the time she’d gotten to her parents, she was well exercised and warmed up in politesse enough to get through whatever vapid conversation they’d trap her in.
“Darling, there you are!” exclaimed her mother, Natalie Byron. In her youth the woman must’ve been a knock-out beauty, and it was still there somewhere buried underneath the layers of creams, perfumes, makeup and jewels. Juliette at least respected that her mother sought out all the pleasures of the world without refrain, but it would’ve been nice if the woman cared about something other than the latest trends and social gossip.
Her father, Arnould Byron, certainly looked a cherubic figure in his fine suit and rosy smile. It really was so frustrating that he seemed the picture of innocence and good nature, when he was truthfully such a manipulative bastard. A true con artist, if he’d actually had enough sense to pull anything off.
Juliette supposed she was lucky that her parents were mostly harmless, if still completely frustrating.
“That was quite a stirring speech,” her father stated, a smug sort of look on his face. “Things are working out quite well after all, are they? An apology or a bit of gratitude might in order…”
“Don’t think for a second I won’t have you escorted out by the seat of your trousers, father.”
Natalie Byron gave her husband a swat to the shoulder as well. “Indeed, Arnould! Try not to make a fuss here on our Juliette special’s day. Have you seen the grounds of this beautiful house? I can’t wait for you to introduce us to your fiancé, oh but sweetie, I wish you wouldn’t have worn red. It’s such a provocative color for a bride to be!”
Juliette bit back a sigh, her gaze going upwards towards the ceiling before wistful glancing over the crowd for a new means of escape as mother continued on with her own ideas of what the wedding should be.
There was barely a breath by the time his grasp hooked upon her upper arm. Sinking grip to the point of threatening to bruise while curtly instructing the madam to follow his heavy quickened feet from corridor to study with a brusque haste. Leaving Reginald to offer a flickering eye left and right as though to assure there weren’t any lingering eyes presented within the homestead. Only to be accompanied by the cat that seemed equally confused to the sudden departure of master and lady but promptly got over it. Rolling onto back as if to entice the large security guard to risk the daggers of death.
The door on the other hand was slapped shut. Moved by elements rather than hands, so he might jerk her position towards a chair. Sending rings of vermillion to sear into the immortal ivory flesh of the not so young lady. Instantly her fingers brushed upon lap, trying to smooth out unseen wrinkles from the flouncy skirt. Evading his glare as best she could knowing fully well that her intention to see what was happening, had truly failed. If the woman expected him to be grateful that she decided this evening to drop on by.
Not that she was ever truly welcome here but that was the cost of having subordinates. They tended to forget their existence was more of an annoyance than of aid.
Under the brown fringe did she slowly bring up the similar rouge coloured eyes. Slightly paler than his own, looking more and more like the teenager girl that had been caught sneaking out of her house rather than the ageless vampiress that had made a poor choice on coming to see that of the current ruling lord. Fingers cinching to lay flat upon thighs. The pair of them engaged in a soundless battle of patience. To see whom would make the first break in verbal calamity.
She shuffled. He waited.
Eventually, the rounded drops of blood began to thin. Dramatically turning from strangely reminiscent of human to entirely bestial. A sense of defiance rising at every cinch of pupil till, “I don’t see—” She began with her upper ring of posh accent, warranting a sneer and cut of hand through the air. Sealing off her chance to suggest the idiocy on her part was welcomed at all.
“Let’s not even begin to play the game of simple stupidity or innocence on your part, Emery. Rather let’s cut the fat off this conversation and ask point blank, just what in the greater damn do you think are doing arriving to my abode when it is busy hosting mortals?” His own gaze searched over her time and time again, perhaps hoping in some way that Emery had simply appeared because she was in fact childish. Rather than pushing her luck merely because she had a tendency too.
Kitten heel feet crossed. Her nose rose and turned in a petulant suggestion. “Considering you have been neglecting that of us lower beasts, I came to see just what was so important that our ruling leader could push his domain aside so swiftly.” Her tone touched the snotty impression of attitude but didn’t dip too far. Yet.
“I am sure that is exactly what you were doing.” Sarcasm laced every word. “You knew well in advance alongside that of Augustus that what I am in the midst of is far more important than either of you or any other conglomerate of intellectual constipation within this mass of foolish prats and sods that I am currently in the midst of entertaining prospects of the future.” He stated with the sneering undertone. “So can the attitude with me that you were coming to check for the safety of your side of the coven, Emery. You were no more than a nosy brat peering through the window whilst selecting her next entree as merely an idea to piss me off any further than you already have.”
The woman tilted her head slightly. “I’d suggest that you invest yourself in a hobby rather than sniffing about my business like some dog.” Knowing this woman wasn’t above trying her hand at leverage. Had she come into the party without being caught, there was no telling what she could have done. Leaving him to feel particularly edgy about the every thought. Enough that he knew there ought to be some sort of punishment put out for her exactly at this moment, but it was a risk too much for either of them. So it warranted a hissing sigh at her.
“My advice to you now Emery, is to leave. Discretely without anyone ever seeing you or your—” A general gesture was made to the optics she currently possessed. “I’ll come to deal with you later once I am certain that the mortals here are all accounted for.”
Emery sighed in turn at this. Like she had been caught but wasn’t overly bothered about it either. Just that she struck a streak of sly tilt of lips. Leaning forward to bridge knuckles chin, “Let’s hope you don’t keep me waiting too lord, Jordan. After all, we are all dying to meet the new queen.” A brow lifted at her though he didn’t seem ready to fuss after her for her attempt to bait him into something. Rather he made a swift turn, tugging doors open even the distance only to find Reginald still positioned where he had been left.
“Take her out beyond the line of property.” The larger man nodded quickly, “Feel free to scruff her by the neck and toss her like luggage.”
“Jordan!” Emery seemed to dislike that very idea as he dipped around the securities existence. Blinking furiously for himself to dampen the turn of visual hues back to their natural presence.
As if he needed more excitement when there was a house full of humans. The last thing he needed was Emery or another showing up to try and liven things up.
“-the gown of course should be the bell skirt in lace, with long sateen sleeves and those beautiful pearl buttons all up the back. Can you imagine what a vision you’d be in crisp white? Though if you did a modernization of Queen Victoria’s iconic dress wouldn’t that just be the statement of the century!”
In that moment Juliette was far from listening. Instead, wondering how simple it would be to remove the cover from over the swimming pool and then walk right into it. To sink down to the chlorine filled death trap and let herself drown. The entire glass of wine she’d finished while her mother continued to plot out her wedding was certainly help make the idea of dramatic suicide more appealing.
Juliette supposed it would be rude to die when Jordan went through so much trouble. A shame there wasn’t a nearby cliff, she might opt for having her parents tossed over the edge instead.
“What exactly is so amusing about white roses, Juliette?” asked her mother pertly, having caught the girl mid-smile of her own wicked daydreams.
“It’s wonderful that you’re so enthusiastic about the wedding, Mother, but Jordan and I will be planning it together. He certainly has opinions of his own on flower arrangements…”
Her father scoffed, seeming to come out of his own uninterested daze to comment on this interesting tidbit of information.
“Is that what you’ve been up to, girl? Dragging the man around town over flowers and cakes?” he interjected with surprise. “From the complaints of Willowby, I thought for certain you were out at the pier calling up the entire board of directors and threatening their lives!”
Juliette gave a shrug of her shoulders and a mysterious smile. “I’m more than capable of planning a wedding and a hostile takeover. Would you like to tell Mother what you have been up to lately?”
She had a nice twinge of satisfaction when his face turned beat red and he nearly choked on his glass of port. As far as Natalie Byron was concerned, she had no idea just how much of their finances had been drained by her husband – or honestly even by her own reckless purchases! The elder woman simply sighed and waved her hand at the two of them, dismissing their feud as yet another Father-Daughter disagreement.
“Never mind all that boring business, where is the man of the house? I MUST meet him and see if he is just as handsome up close. He is ever so much better looking than that last weasel always hanging about. What was his name, Daniel? David? No matter, he always puffed up your father’s ego until the man was unbearable to be around. Mister Harrow’s reputation seems to be positively scandalous. Though. my breakfast club and I always love a good story of roguish playboys meeting their matches! Especially the wealthy ones!”
Composing himself less a stray nerve was still exposed to the masses to pluck and tweak, there was a cautionary slip of gaze across the blacken yoke covered shoulder. As if expecting Emery to be hanging from the rafters like some new aged bat. Lurking upon him with a demented grin that would need to be torn from her snide little lips! Well aware that her arrival here was simply a stint for attention. Attention that she may come to regret later.
No.
That she would regret later.
The damnable underlings, about as useful as tits on a bull.
Breath in.
Breath out.
Shaking lose shoulders as fingers turned the handle back into the party hosted under the impression of a delighted festivity, his gaze swiftly swept across the countless heads. Surveying once, considering next and flatly accepting in the last whilst the door was pressed shut by the heel of foot. Barely seemingly to register any need to pause to natter at the organized grouping of featherless chickens as attention swivelled upon location of the darling of the hour. Noting that it seemed her being had drifted towards the pair of beings that had originally been mentioned to be avoided. Wondering if she had been captured in such a cage or if she had willingly wandered over to appear the doting daughter of the gambler and the spender.
Deciding he had better swiftly sweep up his attitude less it slip out in snide replies at the wrong source. Cursing internally that Emery had successful knitted herself into his psyche. A little tumour in his head that had happily gotten the unknown satisfaction that she had unnerved him.
Deploying a polite nod with a muffled greeting at someone random –who was that guy?- it was almost too well of timing that his appearance aligned with the mother of the fiancée to question his location. Although maybe too well timed that his approach might have heard the suggestion of roguish playboys, though he would pretend that he had heard nothing of the sort. Merely sliding up slowly to brandish a palm across the couture dame’s back upon her shoulders. “My apologies for stepping out.” He wouldn’t clarify as to why. Merely smiling instead. Scanning upon Juliette as if to figure out what had she done to stand here with her parents. Eventually altering gaze to house upon the two vultures.
Offering his best tidy smile, “Mr. Byron,” Jordan tipped his head towards him firstly before isolating the feminine half of the equation, “Mrs. Byron, it is a pleasure to properly put faces to names.” He lied in the idea of pleasantry.
Though she had tensed again at his touch on her shoulder, it wasn’t nearly as much as the first time and even quicker to be gone at the sight of him. Her relieved smile was so candidly genuine, that her usual mask of cool sophistication had been completely forgotten. The faint flushing glow to her cheeks and the way she all too easily laughed at a private thought no one else could hear suggested her last glass of wine had tipped her pleasantly into being just a little bit tipsy.
“You are missing everything, Jordan. My mother has decided she’s going to plan the entire wedding for us. I hope you enjoy tights and powdered wigs.”
“Juliette, please,” scoffed her mother. “I am so sorry, she can be such a wretched child! Worse yet, she’s deemed to hide you from us until last minute, but I am ever so glad to finally have a chance to meet you! Your home is beautiful, is it a family property?” she questioned curiously.
At least she didn’t ask how much money he hand, Juliette thought. At least she’d gotten past being embarrassed by her parents ages ago. All she honestly needed to be concerned about was her father trying something slick.
“You know, my boy,” spoke the devil himself, “as my future son-in-law, perhaps we should go have a brief private conversation. A father needs to know a man is on the up and up, after all.”
If he could describe his own face in that moment, even he’d do a poor job of it. Staring at Juliette as she expressed that the woman that had been deemed the member of motherhood had begun to take charge on arranging the wedding; it was the idea of tights and powdered wigs that earned the odd state of blinking. Hoping to whatever embodiment of religious belief if there was one that she was seriously joking! It had to be a joke. “Well, I suppose I’d have to keep a fair diet for such a requirement.” Jordan chuckled lightly as his gaze moved to rest upon the elder female. As she scoffed in her hopes to calm her devious child’s ideas while suggesting in turn that she could be a wretched child.
Oh thank god, it was a joke.
There was nothing sexy or appealing about tights OR powdered wigs. Not even for Halloween.
“Hardly wretched, Mrs. Bryon. Merely puckish at the best moments perhaps but hardly wretched.” Jordan sought to correct even if it wasn’t necessary. Finding his gaze slightly moving sideways to the suggestion of homestead. Where she asked if it was family property in which he was shaking his head for. “Not at all. A purchase a few years ago at the start of my CEO stature at the business.” His ancestry home was long, long gone now. Not even sure it had a place in the pages of history as there was a dedication to have the family name wiped from most history. As best as an immortal creature could do.
Though he passed attention onto Juliette one moment. As if trying to gauge something from her before the sound of the man broke open. Calling him my boy. If he only knew how much he was his senior.
Still, it would be rude and far too soon to start showing his fangs off. Instead feigning interest in what Arnould had to say before tipping his head curiously. As if he were confused at the invite. “Well I would think that you may wish to do such things before your daughter and your wife. To assure their opinion of me is within the same vein as your own, sir.” Jordan wasn’t likely to let this vulture try to whisk him away. “I’d like to have an open and honest relationship with Juliette. Which means, if you have anything to ask sir, you’d have to do it with both ladies present. After all,” he laid every inch on thick, “We are to be equal partners in every aspect of our lives. I wouldn’t think of leaving Juliette even out on such a discussion.” Jordan smiled slowly, “Nor would I think that the mother of such a woman should be disregarded either. So please, if you have something you wish to discuss Mr. Byron, we are all ears.”
She could kiss Jordan. The sudden intrusive thought was bordering on embarrassing, but she found it impossible not to stand there smirking with glee at the dumbfounded look on her father’s face. With all Jordan knew about the man, he still so masterfully wove an innocent tale of mutual respect with his newly affianced. Regardless of whether or not it was true (and Juliette did very much hope their partnership would be), this moment might’ve been worth all of the trouble she’d been through.
“Well… yes. Yes I suppose so,” her father stumbled over the words, now grasping at what should be said in the here and now in front of his wife. “It seems it takes a shark to tame another shark,” he grunted.
“Oh my, Arnould, must you, honestly!” interrupted his wife. “I apologize for Arnould and Juliette’s nonsense, darling. You’d think everything was a fight to the death between these too, I swear!”
Juliette casually shrugged her shoulders. “Not to the death, mother. I was thinking a dungeon with rats and mold would be more appropriate.”
The elder women rolled her eyes, exasperated with the entire conversation. Still, she carried on, zeroing in on Jordan with a look that was so reminiscent of one of Juliette’s mischievous gleams that it was almost uncanny.
“Though on the topic of the wedding, darling, of course wigs would be completely nightmarish, but oh! Wouldn’t it just be a delight to have a theme of Georgian aristocracy and elaborate fashions. Something theatrical and grand! A young man such as yourself would make such a handsome king.”
“As much as the thought of parading Jordan around in costume amuses me, mother, I think my fiancé and I owe the rest of our guests a little more attention,” Juliette interjected before it got too far.
All talk and no action. He shouldn’t be surprised that his commentary that he would prefer to have the relationship with Juliette as open and honest as possible, would have pushed the elder man into his own corner. Having puffed up like he was some grand peacock just under the ruse was a very poorly disguised chicken trying its best to look regal and majestic as the other peafowl. It was nearly humorous how swift the man appeared that he would not bend his ear before that of his wife and child. Suddenly culled in a sense to no longer eager to speak since it seemed that the audience would be more than just him. Raising suspicion that the man must have had ulterior motives that had been temporarily quashed.
Good.
Chuckling instead at the analogy of being a shark taming the other, it seemed Natalie would instead swing in with a hope to tame her two potentially feisty family members. Daring not to hide the smirk at the way Juliette impressed verbally that she would not fight to the death, but she would at least have a miserable dungeon handpicked for the elder less than gentleman. Well at least he’d have a roof over his head, he ought to consider himself lucky in that case. Lord knows from what he vaguely knew about the sod, he deserved to be punted into the gutter rather than imprisoned somewhere that he might at least stay dry.
But this was not needed to comment upon. Rather finding the older woman giving him a look that only spoke of where it came from when Juliette had a similar arrangement appear. Darting a glimpse to the said affiances as if he needed to declare that he had seen such a expression on her before.
By whatever God there was, this woman was going to kill him. A smirk once amused turned almost imperious at the idea of having a wedding so over the top whilst implying that he would make a handsome king. He already had that title and he didn’t need it to be any more theatrical than it already was.
Mouth had parted to say something but the interjection of Juliette was a well timed placement. Sealing lips once more to roll eyes at the statement of parading him around in costume!
“Yes, we ought to mingle a little more. Assure no one has any hurt feelings due to being ignored.” Tensing grasp across her shoulders then, sweeping the placement off as to turn away as if beckoning Juliette to take her lead in which way she wanted to go first, Jordan glimpsed at them each once more. “Mr and Mrs. Bryon. Please enjoy your time.” An arm came up to offer to her as the roguish gentleman, “Peristéri, shall we?” Intending by every moment more to look like the doting lover that would not shy or pull away from her direction, he waited barely seconds once they could depart to lean in closer to her ear. “Georgian aristocracy, your mother doesn’t hide her desire for wealthy things, now does she? Do I need to check my house later for items that may have been swiped, Juliette?”
Juliette laughed, likely louder than she should seeing as it drew several curious glances their way. Fortunately, all they would see was an infatuated woman wrapped around the arm of her fiancé, whispering conspiratorial things they could only imagine. A shame really that their topic of conversation wasn’t something salacious, but instead just wicked musings at her parents expense.
“From Madam Natalie, not at all. I suspect she’d wear her pearls in the gutter before she ever stooped so low. However, now that you’ve denied my father a chance to squeeze you for cash, you might give him a frisk before he leaves.”
Though she hadn’t ever actually seen her father swipe something, Juliette had strong suspicions he wouldn’t be above it. He’d stolen enough money from the family business for it to be an issue, she wouldn’t put it past him to yank something off a shelf or table to discreetly sell off to pay smaller debts.
Juliette lead the way to a nice little spot, where the music wasn’t so loud and there were far less people to eavesdrop or attempt to squeeze into their conversation. As far as she was concerned, they’d done their hostly duties and made the proper appearances. If it were a business event, Juliette might’ve spent more time socializing with individuals, but as a persona one… It certainly made more sense for her attention to be monopolized.
“Was your surprise visitor much of a problem?” she asked curiously, reaching up with a finger to gently tap a spot on his jaw. “You clench when you’re seething. We don’t need to host any more social events if they are going to be a problem for you, Jordan.”
He wouldn’t say it out loud but to hear her laugh as broad and loud as she did, was actually pleasant. A good sound that made him unintentionally smirk. A playful glitter to his eye that may have thought of ways to see if he could produce it again later. Although his question if he ought to be worried that something disappeared after everyone departed seemed to have turned her favour. Making it clear that her mother was not the sort to do as such but as for Arnould, well that was left to his discretion.
Where lips curled into a devious sort of grin. “Oh no, do you think I upset him?” Asked entirely rhetorically, “Poor dear, he’ll just have to beg for it like a good boy and maybe I’ll humour him. Depends what my mood is like.” Eyes stole away a moment to peer upon their gathered gaggled of chickens. Finding that they didn’t seem too involved with wanting to follow them to earn a chance to speak with either. A fine reward for at this point, he was ready to start chasing people off his lawn like the true angry old man he really was.
For now it came to a position where one could hear another without cupping a hand to ear. As he came to drop a limb upon the railing they came to loom by. Once more offering a chance to look out amongst the collection of heads till she spoke. Jerking his attention by sight first then head to follow. The question innocent even as she so forwardly tapped upon his face to point out he had a habit of clenching his jaw when particularly perturbed. “That’s going to be difficult when we have a wedding to arrange.” Jordan mused softly considering it was the largest social event they’d have looming towards them.
Shortly shaking his head then, “The surprise visitor was… unpleasant.” Hand selecting the word though it was a dull comparison to the truth, “An associate that had no business of being here. For she was not invited and would never be invited. More of a thorn in the ass that does too good of work to viably fire.” He lied with a modest control, “I left her departure to Reginald. However, I didn’t hear any cattish yowling coming from the front entry so I assume he was a gentleman and let her walk out of the house. Rather than being roughed by her scruff.”
Pinching brows together for a bare breath, they lessened. “We may just need to spend more time in the daylight being sociable. You’d think the people that wander with me are vampires, by how they avoid such direct light.” Okay so that was a poorly expressed joke that he found far too amusing for his own good. Poor taste it truly was.
There he went again being amused at some personal private joke she’d yet to be privy to. At least whatever (or whomever) vexing him today was nothing of too much consequence, or he’d stop be quietly chuckling at his own thoughts. Juliette found she quite enjoyed those moments he’d let a devious little grin loose, and found impossible not to smile broadly right back.
“Does that mean a moonlight wedding is off the table? Lest we be invaded by creatures of the night?” she laughed again, stepping a little closer to enforce the illusion of loving conversation, and convincing herself it wasn’t because she wanted an excuse to do so. Juliette was tempted to reach out and loosen up his tie a little more, maybe unbutton his vest. But there was absolutely no reason to do so other than her own curiosity at seeing him just a little bit more disheveled.
“I do mean it, though. Most of the things in my wedding planner were just meant to be difficult and see how far I could push you. I’ve got no need to do that now, we could drop everything but the wedding itself.”
She heaved a deep sigh then, casting her gaze upwards.
“Though, even that I am tempted to downsize to a runaway elopement. Everyone expects a grand white dress and a spectacle. It’d be a nightmare to walk down an isle dressed as a giant marshmallow in a tiara.”
Chuckling deeply at how she so easily continued the lark without knowing how he was actually being rather truthful, the glint and play of blue rings rested upon her. “While that does sound like it would be a very entertaining event, I don’t think we want to bring that sort of commotion to ourselves or any others. They are quiet bloodthirsty. How would we write our thank you notes after, ‘I’m sorry you were bitten, thanks for coming?’” Wrinkling his nose some with the purse of smirk threatening to grow bolder.
If only she knew that he wasn’t entirely joking. There weren’t too many within his court that could withstand the sunlight as he might. It took immense training to eventually adapt once more to the burning glow. Having only half a handful who were old enough, experienced enough that could stand in the lens of bright golden rays. Though he still required to wear some sort of sunglasses or take breaks periodically to avoid the stinging sizzle even! It was not perfect but he could at least handle it long enough not to alarm anyone that he was suddenly igniting into flame!
However, as his thoughts went in one direction, he stole another physically. Leaning slight more towards her as she in turn did the same. “Oh really?” Revealing that her intention of her planner had been to see how far and what she could get away with. No doubt seeing if he had a breaking point or not. He did, everyone did! But, what was her attempts to be in hopes to bring him to that desired location. Now that was a wonder.
Once more the humming sound of a chuckle pulled from him as she spoke about merely taking to eloping instead. But how the people here at least were now in for the show. Expecting the darling princess in her white gown, to look the part of excited dame on the purchase of her first wedding. “If I have to be a king, then it’s only fair that you ought to be a marshmallow in some sparkling jewellery.” Sparing a hand only then that he might reach out. Taking a daring move, pressing the index of finger to gingerly rest just at the lady’s collar bone. Lightly touching as a whisper slow, “And what then changed your mind not to torment me with your plans, Juliette? What have I done to earn such favour? I may wish to do it again if that is the case.”
“I couldn’t continue to be rude to Theix’s cat father. His opinion of me is very important,” she teased with a mysterious smile.
The voice of reason that usually sat in the back of her mind urging her to be wary of dangers must’ve been drowning somewhere in too much wine and champagne. The feather light touch to her collar bone had her heart skipping a beat or two, and Juliette had to rest hand on the nearby railing to force herself not to lean in any closer.
“The cat’s opinion.” she clarified, smiling all the wider. “Maybe yours as well. I hope you’re not going to think less of me when I refuse to wear an all white gown and frivolous trains of lace.”
As much as she tried to have some semblance of self control, impulse won out in the end. At least she focused it on something completely ‘innocent’ – lifting her hand to gently wipe away the subtle smear of lipstick from his neck now that it served it’s purpose.
“Ah, and I might like the way you smirk when you’re plotting mayhem,” she breezily laughed. “It’s a wonderful quality for a future husband, Jordan.”
The exhale was unintentional but happened no less, the sort of bemused sound that came at the playful exasperation that she was only deterring her ideas merely because of his cat. “I see how it is.” Lids narrowed to half, considering that quirk of lip as she continued to declare that it was the furry little villain in his house that had managed to sway her detour. That Theix’s opinion was the one that mattered most, slowly turning lips to cue wider upon pearls. Suggesting vaguely like it was an afterthought that his may have contended. Somewhere.
Low at the list of course.
“Well as long as you don’t wear black. I think that might stir some commentary that you are going to a funeral instead.” Tapping lightly at the notch where clavicles fell upon neckline, he didn’t stray his gaze this time from favouring the inspection of such a location. Turned away when she rose to clear away the lipstick she had originally smudged upon him.
Yet leave it to her to say something that seemed genuine though he hardly doubted it was really that good of quality. “If I wasn’t careful, I dare say you might be starting to actually enjoy my quirks.” Brows furrowed for effect, “Of course, all for Theix’s sake correct?” Tipping crown to face her, another tap to her collar before retracting to replace limb upon the perch of railing. “Who knew all it would take was one singular furry critter to sway you. I’m not sure if I ought to be jealous or intrigued.”
Though that posed the thought. Arching his attention to veer upon the manor itself. Contemplating its very existence, “I suppose that means this will in fact be your new home. Less you really like hotel rooms.”
Juliette very much loved this side to Jordan, the playful quips and little comments that were dangerously close to flirting. He wasn’t off the mark at all. Somewhere along the way, she did come to very much enjoy his company, and though it was definitely the wine that gave her the extra boldness to place her hand over his on the railing and step a tiny bit closer into his space, it was getting easier and easier to ignore those warning bells in her head chiming off that she shouldn’t be letting herself get so attached.
“What is there to be jealous of from dear Theix? As a fiancé, I would think if you wanted soft strokes and a kiss or two, you would only have to ask,” she muttered with wicked amusement.
She did follow his gaze towards the beautiful manor house and considered his question with more than just a passing thought. They hadn’t discussed living arrangements before and now was as good as a time than any.
“Now that I know this isn’t some ancestral home, I am much more comfortable with the idea of moving in. I admit, it was worrying at first to think of moving into someone else’s space. But if I could make parts of this place my own, it could be quite comfortable here with you. And Theix, of course.”
Sly eyes found her as her grasp slipped the short seemingly chasm of a space between to rest upon his own. A surprising turn of events though he couldn’t possibly think too hard upon the action less he believe that it was a setup of some sort. Merely allowing attention to remain focused on the conversation with the party in their honour still seemingly going strong. The influence of drink and music making work on those who might eventually give into their addled ambitions. Where in turn the devious woman appeared to be nearly softer by every moment.
Pegging one question, was this how she wanted to truly be or was the prickly tough skin that she generally presented, the truth.
“I’ll keep that in mind.” Jordan mused at the idea that all he had to do was ask. Suppose permission was key to any relationship. Real or fake. Though his thoughts puckered for the barest breath. Considering the home as it was while letting the freedom of tongue speak the inner comment.
Resting lens upon corner of eye to her once more. Where she spoke that she was glad to know it was not an ancestral home. Not entirely sure why that had any give or take but decided that was a question to ask at another time. Instead craning focus back so it might be undivided upon her once more. “When we wed, this place will be yours as much as my own. It’d be foolish to have you come live here only for things to stay as they were. Having the bachelor home while married, seems foolish. And, I’d like for you to be comfortable. Perhaps enough to put roots down.” While his intention was of course to gain leverage in her company for other means, he also knew that she would have to be a woman of some stature. Where her mark could reach in the home and in turn leave a impression that was beyond just human eyes but to make her own cut upon a world that would attempt to usurp what power she wouldn’t know about.
A king needed a queen after. Be it arranged or not, it was still the fact!
“If you notice, the home is orderly but there is only a few places within the short tour offered that have any personality. So long as the study stays and my collection of books then I shouldn’t fuss to whatever you wish to do. There’s not much of a basement anyways so you might as well enjoy making the place presentable for yourself as well.” He lied on that, but the other wing of the house that was in the basement was locked behind the false storage rack. Needing no reason to tell her that.
“Really,” she exclaimed with surprise and a good amount of skepticism. Though, by now maybe she shouldn’t have been so shocked. Not only had Jordan met all of her unreasonable demands on his time and attention, he had so far gone way beyond what was necessary to make her schemes work. Even this ridiculous engagement party was all his doing and much more than she ever wanted. If she wasn’t always so painfully suspicious of everyone and their intentions, she might start to believe he actually wanted to make a sincere life with her.
What a frightening thing to think about. To actually put down roots, as he suggested. To think about a life beyond ousting her father and rebuilding a business empire. What would she even do with herself?
Well, it seemed he’d just offered her at least one very interesting thing.
“Okay…” she started slowly, still unsure of the entire thing, but once she warmed up to the idea, so did the rest of her countenance. That same enthusiasm she had for her favorite reading list had returned, now in the form of dreaming up all the amazing things she could do with an entire manor house and the time to plan something lovely.
“Alright, yes! Jordan! I would love to have my own office and library. I’ve at least a thousand books in storage, I’m sure…” Realizing she nearly let herself get carried away with the entire thing, Juliette tried to reign in a least a little, taking a deep breath and trying to paint on her usual more conservative smile.
It wasn’t working at all.
“Of course, you might have to spend some time with me going over styles and swatches and all manor of furniture. You can’t just tell me whatever I wish, Jordan, I will run away with that and take over this entire house. I’d very much like our home to reflect the both of us. Equal partners in every aspect, as you so beautifully told father,” she ended with another breezy laugh.
The shock that pushed the singular word from her lips proved highly entertaining. Lips curling into a pleasing arch to simper at her surprise of the very idea that he had no problem letting her come in and nestle in. While this had been no more than an arrangement for them each to get something they wanted, it would be easier to trust another if there was a proper give and take. In this matter, where she might feel at home enough in the place that the idea of living within a hotel would no longer be a persistent thought.
He might be an immortal monster but even he didn’t like the idea of a young woman of any age or race living in a hotel! What kind of life was that.
While she climbed back into the seat of replying, it didn’t take too long before the wheels seemed to begin turning. The presentation of a joy being offered with seemingly no strings attached. She might have to deal with a few nosy beasts every so often but he was sure to keep a vice grip on those sniffing dogs.
Within moment she came from surprise to acceptance, it felt like. The idea of having her own office and a library to boot being the winner in this. Seemingly being the encouragement he needed once more to be bold enough to press his luck. Turning fingers up to push back a stray lock of chestnut to be tugged into place behind ear, he hummed fittingly at her commentary. “As I said, as long as I have my study, I am truly giving you the option to decorate the entire place. I am sure Elisa would happily help you, lord knows the elder woman would like to make the place less starchy.” Eyes glinted softly, “But I will offer you my insight. Doubly so if you try to plaster any part of the house in bright baby pink,” Nose wrinkled tugging a puckish grin to attached, “Then we will have words, madam.”
Not that the features dimmed, if anything the scheming little quirk seemed broader. “I meant it, your father may not have liked it that he was told no, he couldn’t try to twist my ear into some sort of blackmail, I do believe in equality. I might be a cut-throat in business, but I don’t intend to leave you out on the important matters.” Jordan glanced away a moment, searching the ground to see if Arnould’s head might pop up like a rogue ostrich having being referenced momentarily in their topics, “This may have been merely an old agreement being filled, Juliette, I do intent to keep to my word. Marriage is… something I do believe should be honoured regardless if it is love or not.” He tilted back to her, “It is why my prenuptials are only two things. I’m going to trust you and welcome you to make this place a home. Hopefully we might be proper partners one day.” He wouldn’t say properly married spouses or even those who might come to love another. But he would believe that she would make a fitting balance to who he was.
Screw it! What need did she have to appear icy and reserved and poised, when it was her own engagement party and he himself seemed perfectly fine with casual touch and displays of affection. He was basically standing there telling her she didn’t need to stress about things, and honestly Juliette was so tired of staying on guard and waiting to be stabbed in the back!
A breathless laugh escaped, maybe divulging she had indeed been worried, but with it she let all of those concerns go. At least for the time being. Juliette slipped her arm around his waist and rose up on the tips of her toes (blast him for being so tall, she wore heels and still and to reach!) to press a lingering kiss to his cheek.
“Careful Jordan, you’re almost sounding romantically domestic,” she murmured softly, almost with a giggle. “I promise no nauseating pinks. …If you promise to teach me to swim. It would be nice to get to go sailing without being strapped head to toe with a dozen life jackets.”
Well now, he clearly must have said something right or close enough to be considered mostly correct, for her to lean so close. To slip the limbs around so she might leverage herself up as best her posture might allow to reach up the station of his own form. To lay press upon cheek! It was hard not to think that whatever had been uttered could have been taken as anything less than favourable.
Dulling any potential mischief to replace with softened appreciation as she murmured. “It doesn’t sound like you are complaining if I were sounding near to that.” He doubted she would have responded as such if any part of it had sounded absolutely horrendous!
Still she was full of surprises this evening. The offer of no eye piercing pinks to be draped on any form of wall within the house, so long as he taught her to swim. Where she could appreciate the salty wind without having to look like a water bound orange pylon. “How could I say no to such an idea. Though I would take a bit of pleasure seeing you so wrapped up in such safety devices. If you are earnest about the idea, I have no qualms with teaching you to swim.” Considering he did favour the activity even after these countless years. While the deck right now as covered to assure no one fell into it and could walk upon it as though it were a fancy ice rink with its heavy boards of construction, he did favour the space they currently resided in. Maybe not always swimming but he did spend plenty time out here.
Who heard of a swimming vampire!
“I have never been one for the domestic life myself, but it does sound appealing to finish work for the day and then come home to an actual home with a doting husband and furry feline. Certainly more than a sparse hotel room with poor security,” she laughed. “You make it sound tempting enough to stay tonight and never go back.”
At this point Juliette could’ve moved back to a more respectable distance, but she’d found herself quite comfortable in their intimidate little bubble, standing there on the deck under the stairs with the soft lights and party feeling as if it were miles away. This entire strange deal they’d made had turned her future into something unexpected, and now she had to wonder what sort of man was Jordan Harrow to take such a strange route himself.
“You have me curious, Jordan,” she murmured first, the thoughts probably being plain on her face. “Of course I have reason to feel a marriage could be useful for me, but why would you? It would’ve been nothing to negotiate a new contract without such a silly caveat. And I am fairly certainly you could marry anyone in the world if you wanted. Why go through the trouble?”
Anything was better than sitting in a hotel acting like it was decent enough to survive in. The idea was probably his own internal feelings rather than her own, but the idea was still sitting on his head like a lead weight. Unsure of how it was ever truly desireable to throw that sort of coin away regardless if it was affordable or not, instead of purchasing your own place. But then again, he still had a mindset that was archaic when it came to owning land. So rather than flock on her statement like a dog to a bloody bone, he smiled. Arching brows up only a moment after as she was neatly so close and suggesting the idea that what had been uttered was nearly tempting enough to stay from this point. “Such a scandalous idea,” he offered leaving mouth to give its best devilish grin, “Don’t get my hopes up too soon, Juliette.” Jesting softly at her as he took the time to lay gaze over her.
The mood certainly less jaded as it had been their previous few times of interaction. Not a bad thing either.
Though of course she may have had a few questions that were needing to be asked. Finding features sorting in a open expression that seemed usually so constricted. “Oh?” Filling in the idea of reply to her starting statement, which seemed to come down to why would he seek this out.
Air pulled into his chest and out. Knowing the answer was not for her to have considering how outlandish it really was. But of course he had to offer her something feasible. Directing a contemplative eye outwards amongst the crowd like they would provide him with a steadfast reply. “You are right, it would be just as easy to book a meeting. Arrange a negotiation and of course put forth a contract. However, if you look upon it that way from my side of things—” He frowned a little then to be so forward, “Your company is by default not the sort of grouping that a financial place would go after. Reasonably, it’s doing not as well and that in turn puts major risks on my end. Having the marriage erodes that since it would then look like a husband and wife looking to repair more than just reaching out for a contract. As stated, I have need for your company in the measures of trade and such. Things I can’t reasonably get as swiftly if I were to go about the contract aspect.” Vision fell over her and rose like the slow ebbs of a tide. “And perhaps, I was curious to know what this ancient promise your family made so many eons ago to my own, was about. To be blunt, I was curious to know what sort of young lady the Bryon family would have after so many males since the original agreement. I’ve been proven so far that she’s very tenacious, leaving me some interest that I may wish to have a reliable partner for what I have in store. Someone I can trust. Does that sound too miraculous?”
It all sounded like a perfectly reasonable, well thought out decision. A marriage certainly made things easier in terms of ownership and access, even with prenuptials in play. The optics and reputation as well offered quite a few benefits to a man that needed to put on a new image.
Still, Juliette found herself feeling as if there were more to it than just business and his silly excuse of being curious about antique contracts. Maybe it was just that air of secrecy Jordan always seemed to have. The man just looked as if he had a thousand secrets that he quite happily enjoyed keeping.
“I suppose your family found ten generations of Byron men completely unworthy of even attempting an amendment to the contract.” For the moment, though, Juliette found herself focusing on the parts that immediately had her erupting into joyful laughter.
“What do you have in store for me, Jordan?” she asked with a tilt of her head and that mischievous wrinkling of her nose. “You make it sound intriguingly salacious. Very unbusinesslike.”
With a slow reasonable smile pulling on features as she expressed a statement that generally would have been well fitted, all he could do was simply find humour in it. “It would seem that way, that we never had a cross of potential homosexual pairing due to the abundance of males on either side.” Not the truth of course since he had no abundance of males and he had usurped this coven of vampires eons ago from the original bastard on his throne. So things had changed but his own preference had not. But those were tiny little details that didn’t matter even remotely!
Especially when she was willing to give out such a joyous sound of laughter suggesting that she was losing her quarrel with the original arrangement.
Turning it next into a slight suggestion of scandalous scheming! Pulling a deep chuckle out of him this time, adjusting the rings of blue to gleam upon her as the world beyond them appeared to be no better noticed by each passing second. “We will have to wait to discover what is in store, Juliette. Nothing devious, I assure you. At least nothing in the business aspect but I cannot promise in the idea of personal, that it doesn’t have the potential for that.” Jordan glimpsed knowingly down from features to throat and smiled. Leaving it as such before vision promptly adjusted out like he had just recalled they were hosting an event.
Peering a long moment till it seemed whatever thought had come and go. “Well now, how do we feel about the remaining guests? Leave them be or hose them off the deck?”
“Hmm, planning to seduce your wife then, Mr. Harrow?” she responded with another laugh, not really expecting a response on the matter. This cozy little scene was dangerously close to comfortable flirting, which was her own fault for sure. It’d be as simple as taking a step back to shut it down, but now that she’d decided she was on board this crazy train and intent to ride it out, Juliette was determined not to let her own anxiety ruin what was turning out to be a lovely evening.
She followed his gaze towards the crowd of people that had long since forgotten about their hosts and were busy merrymaking and enjoying the fruits of Jordan’s labor. Her parents were nowhere to be seen – no doubt inside making new connections of their own – and it seemed their party had successful done what it was meant to do. Juliette was free to return back to her hotel room at her leisure.
Who was she kidding, her interest in an impromptu sleepover had already been piqued.
“I am done with all of this, but let them have their fun,” she said with a dismissive wave of her hand towards the crowd. “I’d like to see my room, and perhaps summon up your minxie friend Myra to collect my belongings from the hotel. I quite liked her and it’d be far less strange with her going through my things than one of your brooding security.”
Involuntarily lips curled into a wrinkled smirk. Unable to suppress the rising curl of a bemused simper while she questioned at the idea whether or not he had plans to seduce her. Claiming wife without the to be in front of it. “Oh, you’ll know when I begin that.” Deciding confidence in the matter was well placed, sure that he could and would seek to attempt his fate down such a potentially narrow road. Whether she wanted him to succeed or not would be her choice but in the end, one could only wait to see how the cards unfolded.
Yet his gaze had roamed outwards to consider the bodies of plenty arranged upon the covered decking of pool area. Wondering if he ought to express his ornery side in proclaiming they all had overstayed their welcome or if he ought to ignore them a while more. Favourably he might be impishly considering the idea of shooing the guests out with a gusto! To watch them scramble with surprise that such things could be done in such an unruly behaviour but knew mentally how poorly of a choice it would be! Leaving a sour taste on tongues that would only waggle in strong disfavour later. Not a good idea on his part, even if it entertained a sadistic amusement inside. Sure that had to be attached to the more monstrous side that became more prevalent each year of life.
Juliette on the other hand declare that she too was finished with this. But excused swiftly not to ruin the joy of the guests. “I suppose—” Sighed the unknown hunter of the night, merely scrolling the globes of blue towards the far more intriguing guest. At least she had been till she was devious enough to mention that she wanted to request Myra to collect her belongings from the hotel.
Lids positioned into a half perch expressing slight practiced and theatrical un-amusement by her asking. “While not wrong, I have a feeling you merely enjoyed her puckish attitude.” Guessing truly but he was rarely incorrect with such thoughts. Myra was one of the few that tended to get away with grating on him with a finessing ease.
Pushing from the railing to offer the hook of arm for the dame of the evening to latch upon, “It’s a good thing I find you enthralling, Juliette.” Jordan smirked at her waiting till she was comfortable that he could lead them back towards the inner sanctum of far quieter home. Sure that it would be easy enough to introduce the woman to the upper floor in which he highly guessed that her emphasis on my room was that of his own. A section of the home that was only seen by truly himself and Elisa for when she cleaned. Otherwise, it was a place of very little activity.
Once they had successfully escaped the party goers and said party, their path was easy. Down the hall, to the left as if they were to return back to the study but to instead pause at the stairs. Inviting her firstly to scale the wooden steps so he might in turn fumble about in pocket to seek that of phone. Following behind till the landing and made a point of elbow, “First door upon the left.” He gave allowance for her to enter the chambers that were favouring the dark hues with the slight separation of wall keeping bed hiding behind and a few more shelves of books at first glance upon entry.
Needing to dial or rather type out a message to Myra that her assistance was required. Sure that he was liable to get an earful since she hadn’t agreed to aid him this evening. But, what were his human councillors for besides a bit of messenger fetching?
Jordan certainly had the right ideas concerning Juliette’s feelings on Myra, though perhaps with less emphasis on deliberately irking him and more a genuine enjoyment of the girl’s energy. The only response to that statement, however, was her telling smile and amused crinkle of her nose.
While he was busy messaging the woman in question, Juliette let herself into the first door on the left, completely unsurprised to find herself entering through a small foyer of more bookshelves before opening up into a full on suite instead of a simple bedroom. Jordan’s tastes did seem to lean towards the large and grandeur.
The actual surprise came when she recognized the subtle style of the suite wasn’t a guest wing, but rather Jordan’s personal rooms, causing her to cross one arm over her waist and raise her hand up to tap her chin with curious pondering on what Jordan was implying. Juliette did ask about her room – did this mean he intended to give her the master suite? Or did her dear fiancé fully intend for them to share every aspect of their lives as partners?
Why did that thought send a shiver of fear down her spine and catch her breath all at the same time? Juliette was no stranger to relationships, personal or business. If things went haywire, she could just shut it all down.
Maybe it was that little voice in the back of her mind whispering that she was starting to like him.
Frustrated with her own runaway thoughts, Juliette threw her hands in the air as if she could physically throw them aside. Now that she had the opportunity to get to know Jordan on a more intimate level, she wasn’t going to waste it with insecurities and nonsense.
Without prying too much or rifling through his things, she perused the room curiously. Taking a brief look into his closets and peering into the master bathroom. What a cozy little space having all of these bookshelves and a private sitting area with a fireplace too! It certainly made her room at the hotel look sterile and drab.
Finally she came back around to cross under the open threshold to the bed, where the frame and bedside tables faced grand windows well covered with heavy blackout curtains. Juliette wandered over to push a textured panel aside to find a lovely view of the property. She bet when all the curtains were drawn open there would be a gorgeous view of the sunset in the evenings.
One could learn a lot from the idea of seemingly like he hadn’t been listening. Perhaps a part of him hadn’t been or he was trying to gauge whether or not she wished to get an insight view of the world that was considered private. Bidding her welcome into the arrangement of muted suite that could have been a ploy or him truly not heeding her former commentary at all. Sure that he could have show her one of the other rooms but seemed to follow the idea of just baring the fruit of this space.
Drumming fingers in a finality to the non-verbal communication that settled Myra in what he could only suppose was sarcasm at its finest. As long as she went about the means of acquiring the request of Juliette, leaving her to find a way to convince the hotel staff that she was there as an employee to pick up items from the heiress rather than trying some underhand tactic of picking electronic locks.
In turn, he forced a subtle black block under the edging of door. To keep it from falling closed to seal them into the darkness of the room; while fingers glazed upon wall. Finding the smooth surface with its dingle sticking out to flip the switch to bath light upon the expansive spacing. Locating her no sooner with a few strides to lay him in stance behind the chaise, merely turning head to see her considering the view behind the heavy curtains. “She’ll be by soon enough.” Jordan addressed as he seemed to throw his view about the space himself. Considering it with mock interest, for feet once more to decidedly move forward.
To cross boundary of space where rather than peering through the cover of falling drapes, fingers plucked on the horizontal handle. Tugging it free of its clutched closed state so the way to the private balcony could be entered. Gesturing for her to do so at her leisure, “Suitable?” he asked, “I hope you don’t mind me being presumptuous that you’d prefer the idea of the master suite being shared. Though this night, it may just be yours as I still have other matters of work to pluck upon within my study.”
Juliette rewarded him with a puckish smile, breezing through the threshold to step out on to the small balcony. This might’ve been the best discovery yet of his master suite. She could so easily imagine herself sitting out here on the small settee with a hot cup of evening tea and book selected from his shelves.
She rest her hands on the railing to lean over and peer down at the property grounds. He had said he hadn’t yet done much in the way of personal touches to the home, and that carried through to the yard as well. Everything was still quite sterile and manicured, the sort of yard you’d expect for a wealthy owner that didn’t care much for outdoor spaces. This wasn’t something true of Jordan, though, Juliette was certain.
Another thing on her to-do list. Would she be the gardening type? It could be fun to find out!
“I think I very much like how blunt and to the point you can be.” she finally stated with a laugh. “It’s kind of refreshing. I’ve shared a bed before, I’m not coy about it.” Juliette turned around, leaning back against the railing and now smiling brighter still.
“We could’ve had an entire song and dance about who slept where, and play all sorts of sly games but that takes so much time and energy. And I can do it – play the games, I mean – but I like to imagine what I could accomplish if I wasn’t wasting all of my time trying to battle everyone over every little thing. I could build an empire.”
That felt a bit like an oversharing confession, leaving Juliette to pause for a moment and dig her teeth into her bottom lip. This was good, though, wasn’t it? To actually be this comfortable? If she could just let herself be, in any case and stop second guessing and overthinking it all!
“…well, I hope you have a proper pair of pajamas for this sleepover, Jordan.” she muttered breezily.
With the departure and the little impish grin that passed along with her to the lofted outside world, he too came to follow. Welcoming once more the night air without the cloying sense of additional bodies to follow his view out amongst the land that was easily less of his concern. Leaving it to hands that were paid to garden rather than mucking about in the element like some dirty covered hog. Certainly not investing in earthy touches in his behaviours, eyes followed her for a long muted moment. Merely appreciating that he had spoken and left her to reply at her own leisure.
Watching till it seemed that her thoughts had come full circle to her own consideration, urging his brows to lift when she stated so far she was enjoying his up front and to the point mannerisms. Turning lips upon corners into a pleasing arch. Inviting him soundlessly then to step up to place a hand upon the rail keeping them from tumbling over. Able to hear the distance sound of party goers, till he was returning sights to rest on her and her alone. Doing his best not to appear even falsely shocked that she would admit to sharing beds with another. Failing ultimately when the sound of a lightened chuckle exited him, “We are adults in the modern age. It’s not unusual to share the bed, not like it was.” Knowing how frowned it upon it was throughout the ages. Deciding even for himself, he was over the prudish attitude!
Still it seemed that the orchestration of her thoughts were to be voice. Narrowing lids playfully while she expressed the idea of the song and dance that came about trying to seem morally innocent about such actions, her tone lightly shifted. Expressing her own desire to perhaps forgo such a lengthy bout of steps that he couldn’t resist the lean closer. “If that’s the case, then don’t let me stop you. I’d like to see what sort of empire you could build if you weren’t busy dancing your pretty little toes to the mindless song and dance.” Jordan arched a brow seconds later leaving her to take that however she wanted.
Turning momentarily to look back towards the abode, lips shedding from winsome to coy. “Isn’t that why we have Myra bring you items?” Mouth continued, “I have not shared this bed with another. While we’ve already made it clear that we both know I am not so innocent in the ways of laying with another, my home has been private.” Eyes glinted slightly then, “I suppose I would have to get some proper things for you, or, you could just move them in at your leisure. I dare say Juliette, you are doing well to entice me to be both well behaved and immorally sinful.”
That old world way of speaking he had slipped out again, causing her to immediately tilt her head back and laugh, almost missing that he’d not only encouraged her ambitions of an empire, but boldly admitted to being enticed in a way that sounded like he was surprised to be so conflicted.
The evening was warm and Juliette had all sorts of filthy ideas that she could no longer brush away as having too many glasses of wine. Her last drink had been quite a bit ago, leaving the only thing left to blame for her sudden impulses was her own flushing pleasure at him leaning in close and opening the door to all sorts of possibilities.
Juliette reached a hand up to smooth out the lapel of his jacket, a perfectly respectable excuse to touch him, though the tilt of her smile and tone of her voice was far less so.
“Now you have me curious,” she stated softly. “What would a well behaved Jordan Harrow be doing right now compared to an immorally sinful one?”
Was this now becoming a dangerous game? Potentially.
Did he feel like he ought to back up to rethink the actions that had begun to lead to this point? Absolutely not!
Rather he found himself leaning all that much closer. Welcoming the press of palm to smooth across the lapel as though it had suddenly become perfectly unmanageable! Needing the course of a hand to keep it from becoming a truly unruly piece of fabric. Turning lips to follow the way her own begun to pull into a muted suggestion. Laying vision to study the barest movements of visage of the young woman offering tone that was certainly less blameless as her look seemed to be.
“Hmm,” he puckered with a length of sound, “A well behaved one wouldn’t have encouraged the idea of staying the night.” Invoking palm to raise up to lay its press upon cheek, keeping it light. Almost phantom to merely play with the sensation of heat upon the apple of features. “Sensibilities after all. A perfect gentleman through the entire night. Never daring even a—” Gaze faltered on cue to consider the full of cupids bow, “Stray glimpse anywhere but your face.” Lingering for effect, touch settled. Brushing thumb over cheekbone. “I’d treat you like a fragile little artefact. Better to be seen, never to be touched.”
Tugging lower lip in a moment to scrap over dulled point, they pulled apart with devious intention. “Now, the immorally sinful one… well now, peristéri, all depends on you. All it takes is a singular word to either send me out from the room or… to invite me in.”
By all accounts Juliette had always been a lady. Though she was no stranger to having a lover here and there, she always leaned a little closer to the line of properly demure rather than a flirtatious vixen. Yet, with the door opened for her to just say the word and have whatever she liked… that seemed too intriguing to pass up. Maybe it was how his ‘sinful offers’, as straight forward as they tended to be, were never crass the way some of her former paramours talked to her. Juliette wasn’t one to buy into romantic sentiments, but when Jordan was charming, he was irresistibly charming.
“Ah, I see.” she replied, her voice soft and breathy. “It is lucky then that I am not so fragile?” Almost certain he could hear how hard her heart was pounding, Juliette a gentle shrug of her shoulders before both her hands found the edge of his tie and gently tugged him down closer to her level.
“I do recall a conversation from earlier,” she continued, all pretenses dropped but still feeling a bit shy about the whole thing. Which was ridiculous, as she was a grown woman and why should she be embarrassed about flirting with her own fiancé? “A promise that you would get to do the ravishing at the next opportunity?”
And if that statement was not obvious enough to express an open invitation, she did release his tie long enough to softly tap her own mouth with the tip of her finger, holding her breath all the while.
“Lucky indeed.” Crept the smile along with the lowering timbre. Laying the optics of cerulean to scour the landscape of her own demure and devious features. Growing to obvious surprise as fingertips took to using the tie as a lead to tug him down. Obliging willingly as arm branched across the railing to slither in a cupping motion. Attempting to ignore the way blood itself felt like it might suddenly shiver under his own flesh.
Caring not to still the length of observation from making its follows upon the curve of cheek to lip. Slow to alter the position of brows with the statement being reminded that she had in fact put a figurative placeholder on the idea of letting him be the one to ravish at the next available time.
Slow was the lift of lip. Rising their control over the pearls beneath, leaving tongue to idly play along the water line of the moving mouth. Airily sighing out with the grin taking precedent to shirk any thought of him being gentlemanly but lingering with the idea of prowling predator, intrigued by the suggestion of doe like woman. Laying finger to the full of petal as tie was given freedom once more. Falling to air to dangle at his requested bend.
Was this too easy? One could question that over and over though he wasn’t about to look a gifted horse in the mouth!
Merely leaving instruction of hands alike on either branch to act to their own accordance. Dominant falling with obvious path to lay off angelic features to find the line of feminine curves held by sequin gown. Riding the line to rest in patience upon the swell of hip, “You did promise that,” Jordan hummed as he brought his being to invade her own space. Inviting by the bid of palm upon hip to follow suit, leaving the bend of neck to favour the fan of heated breath to lay from the right of her cheek. Brushing upon another with flirtatious intent to part the crack of salted lip to grin upon the shell of ear. Easing the low huff of another breezy chuckle. “The question now is,” Jordan glimpsed past the styled chocolate tresses upon the open land behind her. Broadening lips to lay their feathered touch upon helix to lobe, lingering purposefully to allow breath to warmly trace lightly, “How much can you really handle?”
Lips turned to pepper slowly away from ear, fluttering against the line of jaw. Practically hearing the delighted thrum of blood pulsating. Tightening grasp to twine from hip to the small of back. Dipping only slightly to lay an open mouth kiss to the curve of throat, a thrilling drive to merely give in already at its shrieking demand! Denied, “Is this… really what you want, Juliette?” Jordan asked softly giving himself a little leeway to nip lightly at the cream of flesh.
A sharp intake of breath did not help her skipping heartbeat, nor did the man’s slow, tormentuous teasing. How much could she handle indeed if he were going to take his time to move as slow as molasses, putting his mouth everywhere but hers, and then dare to ask her again if she were sure. As if she truly was something as precious and breakable as delicate porcelain.
Or rather, maybe he was afraid she would suddenly push him away, do a complete turn around back to hissing and calling him a contemptuous devil? To rile him up only to turn around and squash him underneath her designer heels!
Juliette could be cold, but she wasn’t cruel. The most frightening part of all was that it wasn’t some wicked game or scheme. Impetuous whim, maybe, acting on budding feelings she wasn’t quite ready to even think about yet.
Was this what she really wanted, he asked. As she slipped her hands and arms under his jacket to circle around his waist, while he teased his teeth over her exposed skin, Juliette found herself laughing softly as a response. Of course it wasn’t what she expected to come out of her evening, but somehow it was both comfortable and exciting all at once.
“Unless you are planning to lock me up in a basement afterwards, I think I can handle the immorally sinful Jordan Harrow,” she murmured. Speaking of immorally sinful, regardless of where their evening would end, Juliette was certain she wanted it to involve the man in a few less layers of clothing at the bare minimum. Without making a show of it, her nimble fingers undid a few of his vest buttons.
Lips curled into a grin at her reply. He might be truly that of a monster she may have never seen or would think existed, but even he had no desire to put anyone in a basement. Finding that was more of a humanoid monstrosity than a fabled legend in flesh. “What fun would you be there?” He queried with a rapscallion twist, coaxing mouth to find the path of least resistance perhaps upwards once more. Even if the desire and ache upon jaw seemed to be battling him internally to simply act. To snatch like a desperately starved animal upon jumping pulse!
“I’d be—” favouring the slow ascension upon the length of neck to jaw once more, deep upon throat did the husky guffaw exit as she found slender tips to pluck at the vest. Suggesting in silence that she was finding the burden of such attire to be in the way. “Bored if you were cooped up like some animal in such an unfitting place.” Reaching between them to find this wily fingers with the idle grasp of his once upon railing, daringly having lead features back to face her own. Bold enough to flirt with the full of mouth by passing whispers of intimacy but not quite leaning to take tease into personal.
Straying rather lower lip to brush over the bow of her own cupid’s bow, having found visual favour with it earlier. “I don’t suggest we make a show out here on the balcony then.” Guiding fingers as if they needed a tour up to unhook the plucks of buttons from top down. Leaving her to certainly take it as she wanted.
But dared a flick of gaze sideways in suggestion. “No basement but… how about a bedroom to be locked up for a bit?”
If Juliette hadn’t been certain before, that was an invitation to debauchery if she’d ever heard one.
“Not one to scandalize guests and neighbors with a show?” she asked with amusement. Granted, neither did Juliette want some hapless nobody wandering around the gardens to take a glance up to find her stripping a man on the balcony. Affianced or not! But concerns over social etiquette were presently the farthest things from her mind.
Pretending that his question required a great deal of thought, Juliette tilted her head and chewed on her bottom lip, taking all the time in the world to carefully unbutton each and every button on his vest. Once through with that task, her smile went deviously wide, and with a gentle press of her hands against his chest she guided him backwards towards the balcony door, never straying farther than a few inches away from his body in the process.
“It is quite a lovely room to be locked away in for a little while. I suppose you already have a few ideas for entertainment? I might have a few myself…”
“Surprisingly, no.” Swift was the reply at the very idea of scandalizing their guests and his nearest neighbours with an impromptu peep show! He was bold but he had no secret desire of exhibitionist with whomever out there might favour voyeurism. Plus, he did doubt that she would find it thrilling to lose potential articles over the balcony whilst they seemed to both encourage the idea of finding what laid beneath those protective layers. So he merely continued on his plod of reply and mouth alike. Listening idly to the sounds of buttons being exited by the assistance of fingers.
Till the task was finished and palms laid their expanse upon him. Giving silent issuing instructions for him to step in careful tow.
Gaining a treat of a view by the dame turning slyly vixen in a manner of moments. Tagging along with a gliding effort as she seemed to take his previous question into depth.
Where balcony split by glass and walls allowed entry into the room, favouring the hues of blue to flutter in every obvious trail from features down. “I’ve got plenty, but what sort of host would I be if I merely did what I wanted.” Taking hands to find the outline of hips once more, shortening the distance she had kept to become obsolete. Tugging but not forcing like bumping stones, using this idea of vague friction to bow properly to collect the presence of petals across his own. Certainly less of a practiced kiss that had been formed for pictures the night of the dock, flirting upon the flush of rounded lower half to barely pull back. Leaving them to flush upon each as he made an exaggerated shrug to lessen the yokes of coat so it might eventually fall to the ground once he took grasp from her.
“I hope you don’t mind… that I bite a little.” Jordan smirked against her, “Tell me what you want, Juliette. You are the guest after all.”
“Only a little?” she breathed in respond, that was all too brief and still leaving her lips tingling from the sensation. Juliette didn’t stop guiding him backwards until he was a safe shoving distance away from the bed. Of course, she didn’t take the opportunity just yet. Instead, using the shrugging of his shoulders as permission to slip her hands upwards under his jacket and down his arms to steal it away.
Designer coat, tossed off to the side to be forgotten. Hopefully he wouldn’t mind.
“You give me the impression of someone who bites a lot more than that,” she laughed. Even ignoring the wild stories about his reputation, Jordan Harrow didn’t give off the sort of vibes of a man that liked to be sweet and cuddly.
As for what she wanted, that didn’t require a verbal reply at all. Just an unabashed, delighted smile as she captured the edge of his tie again to pull him to her height. To return his kiss with something that was so far from icy, that it could put the sun to shame. Giving hint with a nibble of teeth to bottom lip that she too would be no stranger to teeth. All the while throwing her arms up and around his neck, further erasing any last distance between them.
Colour him a few shades of surprised that Juliette wasn’t just a flirting minx that would take it to a certain point before bailing with a pleasant smile and a chuckle at having managed that! Yet she kept close, finding the presence of her breath seeming to be fleeting even as she toyed verbally with his little suggestion of only nibbling slightly. Even if that was a complete lie, it was done for show. As a warning without saying to her face that he was a fiend for it and sought the value of nutrition from the very act! Sure she wouldn’t enjoy the idea of learning that there was in this world, beings that needed it for sustenance.
Merely she continued. Taking hands to aid with the disposal of coat. Shirking it off to be part of the floor at this time, while he delighted the sound of her laugh calling him out. Skirting hands to raise in chase to find the loosing stay of dress’ closure upon back. Toying with it rather than outright snatching it like some greedy child, “Okay… I bite… a lot.” Jordan admitted till she crashed into him once more with the influence of tie beckoning him to her level.
Greeted by heat that would have properly gobsmacked him if he weren’t busy appreciating it to the trace of teeth grazing lip. A bidding of invitation perhaps, or was that the way arms rose to encompass neck.
Did it matter? Not one single lick.
Snapping the button that would keep the zipper from falling on her back apart; he slightly sidestepped. Glimpsing the location of made bedding with less of a hidden agenda to bend the lithe creature to rest upon its bidding. Skirting in insistence to chase her upwards to find the full of its expanse rather than dangling precariously on edge, turning scouting fingers to beckon the closure to fall. Working on keeping the play of mouths upon another. Only till even he demanded a breath and had to seek freedom from such a snare.
Mindlessly getting the zipper to half so hands could delve upwards. Sinking to cradle and seek out any pins upon hair to remove it from any perfect design, “I’ll… try not to leave you with any visible marks.” Jordan humoured, “But… there is never a promise. I might be bloody hungry for you.”
What an absolute burning statement for him to make. It practically sounded like he was wolf her down like a wild animal, and it caught her off guard just enough that she could feel the flushing heat in her cheeks. How embarrassing to be so done in by a man’s murmured words. As if she’d never heard a compliment in her life!
At least he seemed to be as enchanted with her as she seemed to be with him – though he had quite the advantage. Blast him and his style. A three piece suit was a joy to look at, but getting him out of it was a nuisance when she wanted nothing more to get her hands on bare skin. Meanwhile, now that he’d loosened her zipper, her precariously clinging dress was already slipping to reveal the red lace underneath.
While he fussed his fingers through her hair, causing pins to fall loose and curls to escape, she gently swat his hands out of the way as she stole his vest away and sent that too somewhere tossed elsewhere out of sight.
“You’re not getting cold feet now?” she question with a soft smile, he fingers moving to impatiently start on unbuttoning his crisp white shirt. Notably, aside from loosening his tie free of his collar, she left it be. “If you’re afraid, Jordan, I could let you go…”
Rolling to aid with the discarding of vest to the void, best to be forgotten about. Another article lost to be reclaimed at a later date, as his attention gravitated to free those organized curls into a wonderful disarray. Being lightly shooed so she might begin the next bout of working nimble tips in a decision to remove the next piece.
Allowing him to scoff the heat of breath upon skin, “Foolish sentiments.” Murmured between the intention of lining the stroke of neck to collar with intermitted lips and kitten licks. Merely parting when the damn tie itself was proving to be more of a damnable irritant than anything helpful. Shirking the thing with a tug and swivel to ruffle in chase the blackened locks from their styled gel. “You can try Juliette,” snapping up to line mouth over her own, muttering upon it, “But I won’t go so easily now.”
Prompting hand to assist towards hips, using its spacing to return to the previous intention of delivering the being from its wicked confines, one had to wonder if she might be annoyed if he sought to simply tear it. Finding that it was probably a good idea in the heat of the moment and poorly executed once the highs were soothed. So he would favour the glide of removing closure down to its end point, loosening the fabric from clinging where hands preferred to be.
Departing it with veteran assistance to temporarily scuffle it’s form to bare below the red lace once hinting. Vocalizing a delighted hum at the reveal as he would seek to aid her in once more if necessary to remove the button down, gravitating palms to smooth from rib to waist. Feeling the form like clay. Returning every intention to feast upon the swell of soon to be kissed bruised lips, knowing he would have to bring some sort of euphoria to avoid her catching the sharp cut of teeth before he could suppress the gland behaviours to elicit bliss from the toxin within.
Patience still had to be applied here.
A small laugh escaped again his mouth and her tugging loose of his tucked in shirt was momentarily abandoned to run her hands through his hair, both smoothing it and making it more disheveled at the same time. She would sorely miss not getting to resume guiding him around by his tie, but pulling on his hair came a close second.
Juliette used his body as leverage to pull herself up and wriggle, allowing him to steal away her sequined dress past her hips, where instead of an expected matching pair of red panties they were simple black silk. Suggesting their bedroom tussle was indeed something spur of the moment, else she might have selected undergarments that were meant for being seen.
Then she was quite quick to release the rest of his shirt buttons before she got frustrated enough to just pop them clean off his shirt. The man wouldn’t appreciate needing his clothes mended anymore than she would!
“Shoes, Jordan,” she ordered with breathless instruction, breaking away long enough to push his shoulders back – and push his shirt back while she was at it! “Off with the shoes.”
Not that he was observant on the style of attire layered underneath the gown of glitter, far too occupied with having to remind himself not to just part jaw and bite like some leech in a shallow bed of water. To rather enjoy the rise and fall of this situation for the punctuation of heat. Revealing in the dispersal of gear all the more and how she seemed to find the grip on his shirt to promptly loosen its shut state.
Almost breaking into a laugh at the way she ordered him with the need to dismiss the shoes. Scraping away the remains of cloth as the telltale clunk of such footware fell upon the floor.
Rising up only temporarily to vacate the other half of the equation to shoes, off as well. Not long and certainly not about to pause when it could be assisted with the departure of gown and other bits necessary to find placement with the rest of gear. Favouring a puckish gaze to flounce greedily upon the bare flesh and arrangement of mismatched intimates. Shaking loose the dress shirt, to act as the surrender to the moment. Fluttering down and devouring mouth happily laid a deviant claim upon bared clavicle. Drooping to flush the cut of chest across her own, leaving hands to reacquaint themselves with canvas and undergarment by looped thumbs.
Giving silent asking to mesh frames in a far less innocent motion though with lower half still properly dress in trousers, it wasn’t meant to be a fiendish display of wham, bam thank you ma’am.
“Shall I be surprised,” Jordan murmured upon shoulder, lightly nipping so far with a breathless exhale, “To find that you aren’t as chilly as you behave to be?” Gripping palm to tense fingerprints to the swell of thigh.
Juliette herself was no stranger to getting her hands on every inch of bare skin she could touch. Not at all surprised to find lean muscle moving beneath her fingertips. She did briefly pause for a moment, brushing her thumb over a long scar on his left arm, tapping gently before moving on to busy her hands with the task of unbuckling his belt and tugging it loose. Curious questions about scars could always come later when she wasn’t so distracted.
“I think I may just be chilly to men who don’t like being told what to do,” she replied breezily, teasing the back of her fingers into the waistband of his pants and pulling gently before making good work of undoing the button.
“Of course, if you prefer icy, I could make a play at hard to get?” she teased with that mischievous smile of hers, making a motion as if she were going roll right out from under him.
The tapping was slightly curious. Not enough to depart him from his newly assigned and desired task, but enough to put a pin in his thoughts to what she was thinking. Needing no assistance to be aware to what she was plucking upon since he knew what laid beneath her tracing touch. Seeming to sweep away as inconsequential to favour with take new choice upon the garment of remaining fabric.
Seemingly to use her motions to coyly express that her cold reservation may have come into play from men that took a nose towards the air when they disliked the idea of being told what to do. Lowly easing out a husky exhale that could have been paired with a laugh, if he wasn’t busy working his own grasp to lay its touching claim upon bared thighs and hip.
Only that she would of course decide to play next. Suddenly gripping tighter upon the plush of flesh, “Don’t you dare.” Lowly he nearly gnarled the words, grazing teeth sharply upon the slip of shoulder as if to make the point. Dropping hips slightly further to boldly insist that the idea of escape was purely out of the question.
“I’m… bored of the hard to get.” Jordan mused softly finally making his return to the column of neck, “And—I think you are too.”
Immediately Juliette laughed at his snarled reply, only to gasp and laugh even louder when he sharply nipped at her skin. How nice it was to have a perfectly silly and frank conversation in the middle of something that was generally so rushed and frenzied and serious.
“Hmn,” the soft sound of agreement still had a hint of giggling, but she resumed her undressing of her affianced by hooking her finger into his pants at the zipper and pulling down. Seeming to be a picture of innocence despite her knuckle grazing against underwear and what lie beneath.
“This is certainly more fun than slapping hands and making eyes from across the room,” she affirmed, twisting her hips enough to move her leg and run her foot up along his calf. Her hands found their place along his sides, fingers curling again, this time dragging her nails teasingly across his skin.
Juliette turned her head to murmur into his ear.
“Your pants, Jordan. Unless you intend to wear them the whole time?”
He’d take the mere sound of her softened hum as the agreement that he suspected it to be. While the cat and mouse game could be fun, it had its place. And in this, he was prompt to shirk it away. This was not a area that such stupidity of back and forth was required. Especially as it seemed she wasn’t likely to appreciate him replying in kind if she had. To draw back and act like nothing was any wiser. Though he had a far harder time making such things convincing when things due south were prone to their own declarations.
Tensing slightly with the graze of touch, pulling a low shake of breath next as she suggested this had more enjoyment than the games of batting lashes.
Laying lips to gingerly tempt the jumping pulse on neck, goosebumps flushed upon bared skin. Warmed by the heat of breath, “Maybe.” He dared a sideways glance to her though it proved useless as dominant hand abandoned its solicited task of mesmerizing body. Hooking back to go against the thought of keeping them the entire time, turning instead of focusing strictly on shedding further layers but ensnaring puckered petals once more. Bidding the invitation of personalizing the salacious rendezvous, as the sound of article joined the plenty of others. Though the appendage that helped remove such things found something new to toy with.
Insisting on an arch of her torso to put them searching tips for the hooks that kept the red lace together. Not about to make a fumble of things, but to promptly excuse its participation from the dance that only required two. No more than that.
Departing hungry mouth to suck dry breaths into desperate lungs, “If you are going to put your nails to use, then you better use them properly.” Evidently not a stranger to carrying red angry lines carried from bouts of passion and sometimes annoyance. “I don’t say this lightly,” Jordan shooed the intimate bra aside when possible taking hips once more to drag down to encourage their straddling state over his own, offering a view this time where he could perch over her and glean the view from an aerial look out, “You’re welcome to mark me, I plan on doing the same.” Lips curled giving a wolfish grin, “With such a perfect little canvas, it’s due for some love marks.” While he wasn’t about to say he was perfectly human at all times, there was still the primal drive that lured him into such positions. Shown easily but the attention that made itself abundantly apparent. Pleased with the view as it were.
Juliette had no shame or coyness at all to being lain chest-bare and perused as if she were a meal on the table. But what did have her eyebrows raising and giving a slight scoff of surprise was his emphatic insistence that she put her nails to good use, with promises to make his stamp on her as well.
It couldn’t have been a lie, either. Juliette looped her hands behind his neck, using that leverage to properly pull herself up and onto his lap, circling her legs tight around his waist. She could certainly feel that truth of word ever harder between her thighs.
Tossing her own hair back out of the way over her shoulders, she wound her hands into his own ebony black strands. Perfectly happy to comply with his wishes of roughness to pull tight to tilt his head back, exposing his neck to her eager mouth, where she licked from adam’s apple to the lobe of ear and nipped sharply with her teeth.
“If you want me to claim you, then you better give me good reason,” was her whispered reply to ear.
Such an action couldn’t be suppressed. The shudder, the rippling of gooseflesh to cross every inch of skin while the woman proved her devious action’s weren’t simply in voice, but in action as well. Having come to perch upon him as though he were merely the makings of a throne. Promptly reaching to support rump less she have a spastic moment to topple off like some breathless fish, lurid was the rhapsodious sound pulled from lungs to throat. Needing an additional minute to think after his brain temporarily sputtered with the nip and tongue alike dancing across in a mimicry of his own.
To simply telling him that he had to give her a good reason as to why he ought to be pressed by nails.
“Do you want a reason?” Breathlessly he asked, “Or do you just want to take what is laying before you without complaint? I thought you wanted to construct an empire,” Fingers pressed their prints tightly, widening knees to compliment the balancing act. “Then you are going to need a king to do it, so quit looking for a reason and damn well take it already.” Jordan turned from sweet to a devious sneer, turning to only then brandish teeth hard against the alcove of throat. Avoiding anywhere too sensitive or weak, but assure that the bite was less than nice. “I’m right before you without any strings attached, so maybe stop looking for them and let yourself just fucking have it. Before you waste a chance and before I get tired of playing.”
He bit her so hard she yelped, and had it been any other situation an outward perspective might’ve thought by the way she buried her face at the crook of his neck and her shoulders shook that he’d made her cry. His words indeed were scathing, but in between the snarling and sneering he’d basically offered himself to her, no holds barred the same way he seemed to offer up his whole world to her. A King for her Empire.
Leave it to the man to say Fuck me, already, I’m yours! in the most sexually frustrated way possible!
Gods be damned, this was the last position she ever expected to be catching feelings. He had her stomach turned upside down in knots.
The sound she made against his skin was something between resignation and gentle giggling, but when she rose up again to peer at his cornflower blue eyes with her own warm brown ones, there was absolutely no regret in her features.
“As you wish,” she murmured, grasping his head firmly to come crashing down onto his mouth with her own, kissing him with a renewed sense of fervor and pressing her full body up against him with almost enough force to send them both tumbling backwards.
Temporarily there might have been a thought that his aggressive reply and literal snap may have been too much. Warranting a thought that she was indeed a lot more fragile than one could have argued previously. Although the motions made with the paired breath suggesting giggle, he was prompt to shoo away any guilt that could have arisen. Simply waiting for her to pull her being from the hold of his neck to lay the coffee dark eyes upon him.
Quietly taking in the view till it was apparent that whatever he had uttered in his haste had finally landed. Merely being replied with a genie like remark and a snag of hands coming up to demand his fall in reply. Presented with a hardened welcome of lips and body alike, nearly toppling them each!
Finally.
Counterbalancing their potential weeble wobble off the bed, one acted to go in the other direction. Wrapping arm about slender shoulders to lay them forward. Well, him forward. Her, backwards. Till the cushion of bedding could mould in a self care wrap and gladly bid the invitation of space between to fill with his own. Pairing bodies to fill any empty slots from the other, eagerly fetching open mouth kisses upon another as touch was prompt to encourage the departure of those last bits of garments that kept anything sanctimoniously holy. Wriggling with distracting lips never straying from her own, if anything to merely lay softer presses to the corner of either side of full mouth. Squirming the bit of intimate covering fabric from each form so he might assure his avarice struck self could tug at hips to introduce heated nethers to another.
Perhaps a good thing he wasn’t so damn barbaric to just up and shove violently in like some damnable savage, but giving a moment and a breath to assure another might be properly aware of the other’s bits and bobs about to knock into another.
Straying mouth only then to pepper kisses from lip to chin, allowing guttural noise to flush past mouth.
Where and when their last scraps of clothing disappeared, Juliette didn’t even notice, though she had no difficulty at all in movement of flexible shifting to help them in their vanishing. All of her focus seemed to be on the delicious juxtaposition of hard body and soft kisses, giving an almost plaintiff sigh and a roll of her hips to greet him when he bore down on top of her.
Even with nothing but a pair of simple earrings and her engagement ring on, there was no cooling relief to her feverish skin. Even the shiver that ran down her spine was more like a jolt of electricity than a chill. She had no more words to give him, just the twist of her hands through his hair and sweep of her tongue into his mouth.
Then whether from impish impatience or naturally bossiness, she reached her hand down between them, gliding knuckles across his stomach to grasp delicate fingers around his hard member, hesitating only a moment with a soft stroke of her thumb (perhaps deliberate by hint of her grinning against his mouth) before guiding him inside her where she was more than wet and ready.
There was little need beyond the final coaxing and silent affirmation that there was no need to pause them from the embolden spur of the moment encounter. Perhaps a piece of his thoughts would have conflicted at the idea that she might be bold enough to simply instruct her acceptance by hand alone, but admittedly any such thoughts were swiftly tossed out the nearest window. Toying only once with the vague idea of making this a challenge of sorts but similar to the previous thought, out it went too!
It was going to have to be an orchestrated event.
Taking nonverbal invite to couple themselves together, cementing the intruder upon the warmth of someone new whilst simultaneously assuring the delight was nearly purred within the hold of throat. Delving upon heated sex’s, and abandoning a moment that of the wicked lips from each. Needing to listen for the point of enjoyment that would welcome a mortal mind to shoo away any intrusive or absurdly painful alerts when he would seek to scrape waiting and aching tips upon porcelain skin. Didn’t mean he was about to ignore the enjoyment of the prurient connection. Giving thrill upon spine to run electrical flame from top to bottom. Setting the pace from shortened entry to eager rhythm.
After all, if she wasn’t at least a little lost to the euphoria, he would risk himself begin caught. As much as his desire was to bite down with no consideration to the puncture of fangs tearing holes, there was strategy to be placed. Merely needing right now to set the sharpened canines to scrape for blood or manage little nips to break skin for pitiful leakage. Something was better than nothing.
So his method of madness was to work on locating those points where she would be quick to abandon any lingering reservations.
Putting one grasp to clutch at hip once more, assuring the ease of motion to ebb and flow. Other rising to gravitate to mould itself over breast, setting it to be moved through an strong massage toying with it to see what sort of reaction it might garner.
For the briefest of moments Juliette thought she might’ve caught him by surprise. Was the infamous Jordan Harrow so used to chasing his women that he was baffled by one that knew what she wanted and how to take it? Whatever was there vanished in the instant he pushed further in and took to steady movement. That gentle building up of something deep down in her stomach, making her writhe against the mattress and curl her toes into the bedsheets.
There was something in the way he looked at her too, blue eyes fircely sparkling and a twist to his mouth suggesting he was definitely going to make good on that threat to bite her again. With the way his hands moved over her body, massaging into tender breast, she sank her own teeth into bottom lip, quite seriously tempted to do a bit of biting herself.
Not being one to just lie there like a cold fish letting herself be fucked like some mousey halfwit, Juliette herself was more than eager to give equal participation. Allowing her hands to roam over chest and neck, down his sides and up his back. He’d ask for nails and she was more than happy to provide, raking them sharply down his back as far as she could reach until spreading her palms over supple ass cheeks and digging in. Perhaps not hard enough to puncture skin, but he’d have red marks for days.
Had she asked, he’d wouldn’t lie. However, he wouldn’t tell her the complete truth either. There was facts to the short thought that might be privy to her alone that his prowling had been contained to the doe eye dames with fluttering lashes and gentle spirits. Why? Because they were easier to convince to follow his lead while not asking so many questions. Willing to let things go swifter and allow him the ease of getting want he wanted from it. A crude thought process but an effective one. So it would only be fair to be slightly surprised at the daring escapades that Juliette continued were able to catch him off guard.
In turn, making him have to quickly rethink his own tactics. A challenge considering their compromising placement wasn’t exactly the best place to have expressive and strong thought beyond their primordial wants.
Especially when it came to the reply of his former statement came to sink rounded tips upon back, muscle and delving lower. Pulling a carnal keen to abandon every thought of keeping mouth’s alike properly succoured to the other. Heeding the wanting ache that burned like water in his lower stomach, bending to hook arm under that of an elbow. Widening the stance to beckon the intruder further within. Dashing aside the idea of merely moving in the motions of lust for bucking up inside. Using the momentum to bend and snatch upon the trapezoid. Tightening the clamp to feel the light dappling of fair flesh with every intention of seeking blood.
Finding his mind practically writhed in time with body at the prospect of it. Needing to will his gaze to avoid hers for a time, as he wasn’t sure how he might come to explain the rings of blue shifting into something a little more sanguine.
That certainly gave her the response she was aching for, a delighted loud gasp escaping when he broke away, followed by an equally delighted smile. Even if he hadn’t turned away, she wouldn’t have had noticed the subtle shifting of cool blue to warm red. Her own eyes had squeezed shut, soaking in that throbbing rush that was zipping it’s way all the way down to her toes.
With his head turned it left him vulnerable to a new exploration of her mouth, kissing exposed shoulder only to follow with a sharp nip of teeth and a wet lathing of her tongue. She licked and nibbled her way all the way up his shoulder until she found a sensitive spot under his ear, where she kissed and sucked hard enough he was going to have another sort of mark. This one not so easy to hide from his corporate partners when he returned to work.
Juliette wasn’t going to last – she wasn’t going to make it! But damned if she wanted to tip over without dragging him down with her. Leveraging her feet on the bed, she moved her hips in an upward grind almost crooning a soft moan in his ear when the motion had her muscles twitching and tightening. Her hands swiftly coming up to cradle his head, one curling tight into his hair while the other gripped hard enough to back of his neck her nails were digging into skin again.
If she was baiting him by equal distraction, it was damn well working. Knowing all it would take was a slightly strong penetration of fang to ease the warm of welcomed toxin into her that might loosen any suggestion further of unease but the way she moved and the way she sought to layer his own flesh with tongue and teeth, he was slightly at a loss.
Forced to abandon the very idea of grabbing a hold to privately glean more than a few budding drops. Terse tips of bone grappling upon the loping hips as she drew the airy groan when she sought to decorate his flesh by dark spots! Muttering a low hissed curse as tongue chased a fleeting taste of sweetened sanguine to practically revolt in swift rising passion.
Unsure if she was the deviant or if he was!
Keening in a delighted ferver as hips worse and grinded in demand. Placing seeking hands upon him –needing to now swiftly abandon the vain morsels of drip as not to let the reveal of similarly coloured lamps be view. Cinching lids shut, thoughts merely coming to the point of ah fuck it! Sliding belly to belly to seek after the rising clench that was evidently a clear reveal of the desired effect sought after. The melody between them rising with the punctuated lengths of guttural thrills as her nails purchased once more. “Shit.” Hissed the word feeling the velvet grip upon urging the end to a sudden arrangement. Knowing it was damn well doomed to make this a lengthy excursion when the heat bubbled in lower belly demanded freedom. Not about to be ignored, certainly not with the way she was making sure he couldn’t focus on anything but the united fall.
As much as he wanted to be distracted with the original intent, it was gone. Long past as the volume of arousal declared the soon brusque pause signalling a welcomed relief, at least to one side of him.
So… he was going to have his work cut out with her; wasn’t he. While the sampling of blood was enough to entice him to try again, new tactics with this one were going to have to be employed.
Not so demure simpering lady as he usually sought after.
But—he did like a challenge as breath pulled at the end of salted release.
Juliette was too far gone to properly appreciate his pained, hissed curse with the laughter it truly deserved. Too caught up in her own agonizing bliss, to care that he’d scraped her skin with his teeth hard enough to make her bleed, or that likewise she’d dug her nails into the back of his neck and shoulders to do similar damage. No thoughts left in her head beyond this, and yes and now – unabashed about the vocal sounds she was making.
…at least up until that moment her whole body shudder and seized! Causing her to slap his shoulder and groan out a “Jesus Christ, Jordan!” as if she were angry about him being able to make her come at all! Juliette was certainly far from mad – at least in the sense of fury – instead, riding that delicious crazy rush until all the convulsive twitching melted into loose limp limbs and her desperately trying to catch her breath.
More than spent, still she curled her arms around him, surprisingly affectionate for one who had been deemed an icy witch and had spent the evening being a sexual deviant.
As arms gravitated to retract claws for favour of softened closure to keep close, offering the subtle hints of affection after the hasty rise and fall, perhaps he could be surprised at the gentle appearance of the woman known for being hard, cold and cutting to the point. Although his ego might be lightly prided to earn a few melodious cries with an name attached, the means of uncoupling was done purposefully. Keeping lids once more open as the safety of blue was in place thankfully again.
Allowing him to depart this gentle embrace for favour of shuffling and allowing the afterglow to feed a softer acceptance to now. Straying frame to lay and pull the slender station of her own to his chest. Spooning for the effective expression, laying lips in gentle placating manners upon shoulder as palm slipped to graze lightly over the curve of stomach to navel. Perhaps leeching a few drips while he could discreetly do so.
If there was something to say to himself, she had proven miraculously not to be as conscripted to her perceived role as he originally thought. But of course, that would be both good and bad.
Favouring a puckish press against the shell of ear, smirking into it. Feeling burning throbbing of previous nail racks over back with a pleasant sting, “Seems someone was pent up.”
Leave it to the man to take what was a perfectly delightful moment and say something rude. Regardless of the fact of whether or not it was true, he sure didn’t have to say it out loud! Juliette had half a mind to give him a sharp elbow to the stomach as punishment, but she was far too comfortable in her relaxed haze and his gentle attention to risk riling him back up to being prickly.
“I suppose I am what they call High Maintenance,” she murmured instead. Nestling quite comfortably in their little bubble with no intentions of moving any time soon – or at all! One could say she claimed her territory! Smiling broadly at her own amusing thoughts, Juliette linked her fingers with his and inspected his hand where a wedding ring would soon be.
“What did you say before – A King for my empire? I rather like the look of you naked and on your knees, Jordan. Though I wonder if you realize how much work it’ll be? To keep a Queen?”
Brows arched playfully, “High maintenance?” Repeating the statement with the influx of question. Debating it while she seemed to be rather content in the slide of positions. Where fingers slipped and linked –where he could guess this hadn’t at all been arranged in their contract of nuptials to arrive- before smirking a little boarder. “I don’t know if that is the correct way of catagorizing yourself. You seem to be in good condition regardless. So no, I wouldn’t call you high maintenance. Merely a woman who shows she knows what she wants.” Though he didn’t say it, the idea of calling her such a name almost seemed barbaric.
He knew the types and they were often the ones that didn’t like to do the work themselves. So he stood by his overview. Intermittently brandishing mouth to follow that high they were coming down from.
Before snorting rather abruptly to break out into a fit of laughter. Muting it barely by laying his features against her bare shoulder. Needing a second more to regroup from that and a shake of head to echo it. “I won’t be getting on my knees, Juliette. If you wanted a bitch, you came to the wrong man. I expect equality. A queen needs to be able to grow and to thrive but she doesn’t need to stomp on her counterpart to do it. What worth is that? It’ll only set me to becoming a rebel and to seek your destruction. Which I doubt either of us want. But, I have the talent and the skill to assure you’ll be content. Not so much like a kitten but perhaps more like a lioness, with less expectation that you serve the lion himself.”
Eyes danced across her, “If you wanted me to be submissive, would you have been pleased? I feel like you could have had any dumb dolt for such a aim.”
“Jordan!” she exclaimed in completely exasperation, complete with a dramatic sigh. Juliette twisted and rolled to face him, still remaining comfortably in the circle of his arms, but rising a hand to gently tap the tip of his nose.
“That is the first thing you jump to? That I intend to crush you under my feet as my submissive little minion? And not that maybe I want you naked at my feet for something wonderfully filthy.”
Juliette let that sink in for a moment while she stole the opportunity to appreciate the cut of his features by means of drawing the pads of her fingers along his cheek and jaw. There was that hint of scruff he always seemed to have, (and she did find appealing), but it was always the way he’d smirk that she found so interesting. Sometimes she’d swore those canines of his were a little too pointed, giving him such a wolfish look.
“I did agree to equal in all things, I won’t turn back on that now. A king for a queen, a queen for a king. And that very well does include giving you whatever you ask of me,” she suggested, with that hint of a mischievous smile again.
It burst quick. Turning from a sly smirk to a bloomed out grin of pure delight at her decision to declare his name in a claim of vexation. Rolling over so she wouldn’t be having her back towards him a moment further to dole the taps of a finger onto the button of nose like it was meant to put him on verbal pause. Searching down the frames of blue across the vision that promptly sought to correct his first assumption for something potentially better.
“One has to assure that my natural leaps to conclusions are just that. Leaps.” He voiced taking complete ownage that he had assumed the worst, rather that throwing any more deviant thoughts into sinful recipes of something wonderfully filthy as she stated. “I’m not prideful enough to not admit my wrongness in this situation.”
Touch gravitated to move and feel upon visage. Mentally wondering what she could be thinking while lids were swift to begin their narrowing portion. To listen to the woman point out that her intention was as she had agreed.
Equality.
Sure that she didn’t know the extent of what she was agreeing too, but maybe in the future once he was certain things weren’t likely to turn into a poorly rated B horror movie, that she could know more. Maybe.
Reaching to take upon her fingers, curling them over his own to lay a archaic gesture of placing their station upon backs of fingers, glinting views kept attached to her. “Whatever I ask of you? And what if the asking is out of this world, would you still willing?” Probing the conversation for little granules of intrigue, “For the answer in reply would be hands down, without a doubt.” What could be more out of this concept of reality that what he did already. What he was already, who he was already.
“Out of this world?” she repeated, a bit mystified by the phrasing. With all her dealings and interactions with the wealthy, most of their habits tended to deal towards the extravagant or the criminal. Especially considering she rarely had an iota of trust to give anyone the time of day beyond an arm’s length. He’d already promised he hadn’t intended to use her business for human trafficking, which honestly was the only thing she could think of that she flat out wouldn’t stand for.
“Hmm,” she hummed thoughtfully, “…I suppose if you ask me to murder someone for you, I might need a very good and deserving reason. But yes? You give me my business, a home, and offer me so much more. Why shouldn’t I also take the sun out of the sky for you if you asked me to? If you want a Queen I’ll be one. It is the least I can do.”
This was a dangerous way of thinking, and perhaps her judgement was clouded by an enjoyable evening and pleasant hands. She’d been there before with someone making honeyed promises only to turn around and almost quite literally stab her in the back. But she had good instincts, didn’t she? …at least most of the time! If Jordan made good on all of his promises, they could do something quite extraordinary together.
Masking that twinge of doubt as best she could, Juliette tucked herself under his chin and rest her eyes closed.
“I don’t give it lightly, Jordan.” she murmured. “Make sure I don’t regret it.”
Had she merely replied in a hasty snap of either agreement or disagreement, he might have raised a few questions. However, it seemed that she was mulling over his question with a deep consideration, instead of simply barking out the first thought that arrived. Leaving him plenty of time to shirk, shimmy and shift them till there was a presence and semblance of at least sheets to blot away the nudity. Doubting anyone was going to be bold enough to entire the chambers anyways –but he could always be surprised. Leaving her plenty of time to come to the decision which drew features to earnest amusement.
To hear that she was willing to meet such a peculiar question, lifting his chin up so she might contently rest within its alcove. “Lucky for you then, that I don’t have such dastardly asking’s to make.” He could handle his own bloody murders if it arose, which he wouldn’t say didn’t. Just for her, they didn’t.
Though he found it rather tongue in cheek to hear her suggest taking out the sun for him. If she only knew.
“You won’t. That I can promise.” While he was by far a shark in small fish waters most days, he was loyal to those that deserved it. So far, she had proven to have a solid backbone and a tenacity that pulled the dusty thoughts of intrigue to peer in curious light. Who the hell would have known that the stupid arrangement made by the old king would have had any importance now. Perhaps he ought to cast a tip of hat to the late vampire… naw—
Allowing a lull in the moment to approach, it wasn’t intended to last. Notably when he moved grasp to push back some errant hairs from either of their heads. “As much as I would welcome being tied up in your legs for hours more, I still have other things requiring attention. And I’d prefer to keep Myra from barging in like some henish mother if possible.” Lips pecked against her temple, before skirting to the edge of bed to make a swat at the ground. Locating the attire best suited for his lower half, rather than hers. “Rest peristéri. Get accustom to your new, non-hotel surroundings.” He darted a look over his shoulder to her –catching the sight of red racing his back from corner- “I’ll return soon enough. If you need the washroom, it is just beyond this wall. It is lacking feminine items but a soak is always accessible.” Leaving her verbally with the hints of do as you please for your comfort, as pants found and made their reappearance on body.
Juliette had no intentions whatsoever of leaving the cozy comfort of the bed now that she was happily sprawled out under the cover of sheets and free to let sleep finally take her.
…at least until the mention of Myra. She sat up quickly, sheet clutched to her chest with a soft frown. There was likely still at least the very endings of a party downstairs that she’d forgotten all about thanks to Jordan’s cavalier charms. Of course she doubted any of them would dare wander aimlessly around the man’s manor home, she wouldn’t put it past someone to attempt something insidious or daring if they were paid enough by a nefarious sort. At least until they were gone, she wouldn’t feel safe enough to sleep.
“A hot bath does sound quite nice,” she agreed, sliding to the edge of the bed herself but making no rush of it. Content to watch him fetch his clothing from the floor, curious to see just how far and in what directions everything had been tossed in the heat of the moment.
“You can send Myra in with my things when she does arrive, I have more than enough of the essentials in my luggage for now. But before you leave, Jordan-“
She paused, giving the most cheeky of grins and tapping her lips with her finger as a silent instruction for a kiss. Now that the door was open, why not take advantage of everything a fiancé was meant to offer?
It was easy enough to murmur or hum an agreement to the idea of sending Myra along when she finally entered the abode. Hopefully soon enough that most of the other vultures that hung about would have left. Although if he was pleading the case be true, he wasn’t likely to get his desires up. Rather spending a moment scouring the floor to discern what articles that had been shed in their hunger was hers or his. Scooting a foot around to chase parts from another to eventually locate at least the button shirt that made it through the ordeal without a button lost due to tugging.
Glimpsing towards the young woman after she had already concurred that a bath would be up her alley, before tugging the shirt back over broad frame. Smoothing collar with an attempt to make it look vaguely crisp as features bore upon her at the suggestion of before you leave. Witnessing the tip tap that made it clear the want, pulling a easy chuckle.
Stepping the short distance back to pluck the invitation up and lay claim to the asking with no need of complaint. Happy to oblige, pulling back seconds after to consider her quietly. Before eyes darted over to the standing wardrobe, “It may not be your own attire but if necessary, you may rummage for something that will offer you a semblance of covering. Unless you wish to crawl back into your dress.” He gestured to it on the floor, lifeless and without body.
Though he continued, “If you require me, I will merely be in my study.” Declaring that his location wasn’t going to be far, “I may leave the door open a crack, Theix will most likely want to enter sooner than later.” The comment was off handed. Sure that the feline might already be sitting at the closed door with a contempt of a small furry god. So long as he wasn’t spiteful enough to go leave a dropping somewhere in someone’s shoe, then it would be fine.
He stole one peck across her cheek before finalizing the last button. Beginning to cuff the sleeves of either arm having no need to pick up dropped coat as he wasn’t intending to look like a professional. Idly feeling at the hickey that had been left behind an ear. Sure any idea of professional had flown out the window with her personal imprint on him.
Soon enough he departed the chamber to leave her to whatever devices she sought, peering at the silvered creature as it looked up as if the very reality of being kept out of a room was a great insult. Staring a moment before leaving the door a crack enough that Theix happily slunk himself inside. Announcing his existence with tiny mrows and mews.
His own ears functional and picking up the dulled music that seemed less bombastic as prior. Surely it was time enough to bid farewell to party goers, less he truly did sick his strong arm security upon them. Though he stole a chance to look at phone as feet made their trot down the stairs where nothing so far seemed to be out of place. And it would appear that Myra had messaged to declare her presence would soon be within the manor.
What timing.
“Hello little love,” Juliette greeted Theix, having already risen from bed with the bed sheet pulled around her and dragging along the floor as if she were the queen… well, she was now the queen of this very manor!
With Jordan gone and sense returning to her sex-drunk addled brain, she wrestled with falling backwards into her doubts and suspicions. Somehow things working out well seemed to be such a frightening impossible thing for her to grasp. Juliette certainly didn’t want it to be a disaster, so why did she keep waiting for the other shoe to drop when she could just be in the moment?
“Hmn, there’s no sense in asking you for advice is there, you’re already in love with him,” she mused to the cat, then smiling wide at the completely nonchalant curling of his tail and little murr of response.
Not planning to wander around the manor in a bath towel should Myra fail to show, Juliette did accept the invitation to dig through Jordan’s wardrobe, perhaps more a devilish delight than she should have. At least she didn’t do too much snooping, only stealing away a simple black shirt to claim for herself.
Beckoning Theix to follow with a gentle wiggle of her fingers, she led the way to the washroom to draw herself a bath. Her mind did wander to wonder what sort of business Jordan was up to this late in the evening, but she suspected as soon as she had her own home office she herself was going to spend far too many late nights working.
They did have an empire to build after all. And Juliette kept her promises.
It truthfully hadn’t been that long. Even as palm came to brace upon the door so it might open into the familiar abode, she had nearly expected Jordan to be standing at the bottom of the stairs. Looking like the scornful father ready to scold child for arriving home after their curfew. With tongue and finger waggling at a united pace, imagine her surprise when the abode was comfortably quiet. Compared to the music that was seemingly being wrapped up from a look along the walkway towards the birdcage, she had to mutely amuse herself to how that all must have gone with the lord of the dark. Having to entertain those he most likely wouldn’t even bother to feed from, speculating that his congenial facade would have been vacant as of now.
There were times it truly was amusing to know that while he was forever in his late twenties, the man was ornery as any old codger might be! Which of course, made it even more enjoyable for her to prod and prick at him whenever the mood arose. Testing her luck just enough before he twisted to bite literally upon her.
It was his own fault. Surely having seen her grow up, he’d know what style of rapscallion she’d be. And yet, she was still inaugurated into her father’s late position of advisor.
Pushing the door closed with the heel of her foot, one didn’t have to linger too long to decide which way the man of the hour was. Simply turning immediately left to venture through sitting space. Drifting through the double wide doors like a drum banging ghost to observe the pause of scraping pen upon ledger or book –she didn’t particularly care- and eyes of ocean pools to watch her. Practically seeing the shift of round moving to oval and sharpening further as he gave her a meaningful squint. Before stabbing his pen as the directional tool at the luggage she had procured. “You can just take it upstairs to Juliette within my chambers.”
“Do I look like your maid?” She replied swiftly giving the handle a stern shake as to make her point. “Messenger then bellhop, now a maid. I don’t believe that is what I signed up for, Jordy.” His nose wrinkled and she didn’t remotely pause the curl of a grin on lips. “I see you are in a good mood.”
So far his gaze hadn’t turned to red. Suggesting he wasn’t nearly as snappy as it might have seemed. “Just go, would you.”
Though apparent he wasn’t up for banter either. What a shame. So in the mature way as an adult woman she could, she offered him her rebuttal. In the form of a tongue peeking out to express her boredom with his commentary. Countering the eye roll he offered and bend of head back to scratch whatever else on the table. “Oh,” He spoke urging her to stop mid turn, “Do keep a civil tongue in your head Myra.”
“Yeah yeah.” Waving it off in the same manner she would have to someone telling her the type of weather they were having, the departing of room was swift. The stairs taken by two as she paused a moment to see whether or not her ears picked up the subtle shuffling of hands that would denote Elisa was within the homestead. So far, it appeared to be not the case. Which was probably planned on Jordan’s part.
Still, she whisked to the door of bedroom that was the brooding mass of atramentous coloured being. Rapping knuckles twice across the panel of space before entering with a call, “Oi’ room service. Or rather luggage delivery, Juliette!” Eyes darted at the furry invader leaping off the chaise to prance his merry little way over. Beckoning her to tip and press fingertips upon softened head, “Hey you little rascal.”
Juliette had not lingered too long in the bath, as tempting as it had been to lounge in a spacious tub and have a casual conversation about soaps and scents with a companionable feline. She did rather like the smell of soaps and shampoos of Jordan’s own selection, but she would far more prefer having her own once she was properly settled in.
By the time Myra peeped herself in to the suite, Juliette was already out gently drying her dark hair with a towel. Free of makeup, her features seemed a little softer, but somehow even in exiting the washroom in nothing but one of Jordan’s dark shirts, she had an elegant countenance.
Immediately she brightened on seeing Myra, offering a wide smile and not seeming embarrassed in the slightest about being found in such a state in Jordan’s own room.
“I hope it wasn’t too much of an inconvenience for you. I might’ve asked someone from the hotel to send them over, but they seem to have a problem with letting in uninvited guests and I couldn’t be sure who would show up here. You are the only one of Jordan’s people I actually have some acquaintance with that I might trust-“
She paused suddenly, her soft smile turning to something much more teasing.
“He’d said I could have you – and I am sure he was teasing! But I do appreciate someone savvy, if you’d ever like to consider a switch of employer. I promise it won’t be for nonsense like fetching luggage. Thank you, though, for making the trip on such short notice.”
Setting the items down so she might have two hands to scoop the spry little rodent hunter from the floor, the entry of the woman that had miraculous pulled Jordan’s attention entered. Earning a muted studious look that seemed to understand just how the notorious bloodsucker would have been enthralled by her. There was an air of something imperious about Juliette without actually being snide, pompous or outwardly cruel. At least from a feeler standpoint. Perhaps able to compliment the king’s behaviours that put some domination on the idea of humanity. She wasn’t sure, but she knew he had the desire to use this woman’s company for the movement of things that were for the betterment of the two halves of the eternal court.
Knowing that she wouldn’t know that the man was both supernatural and seeking ways that could easily reach out and acquire items that would look in succeeding to take hold of the other coven’s of vampires across the great big pond. A take over that Jordan was intending but to do so, he needed viable resources to tempt them and eventually to break their teeth in on his own skin. To commit a link that assured his rule remained.
Scratching the triangle of an ear while the woman brightened, she in turn offered a pleasant crooked smirk. Blowing a few strands of purple from her face, “It wasn’t that bad. I just told them I was a friend and gave them the look that implies you require some items that should not and would not be discussed. Ain’t my first time getting into someone’s hotel room and most likely won’t be the last.” Chuckling to end her reply, eyes of hazel considered the woman. Coaxing her cheek to Theix’s while the woman declared that she had been verbally sold or nearly so to Juliette.
Bursting a snorting sound that didn’t seem remotely surprised. “Of course he did. I am merely waiting the day that he hog ties me and tries to sell me on the side of the road. After so many years growing up together, you’d think Jordy would be used to it. Alas—” She smirked leaving it unspoken that it would never change. Merely pointing her foot towards the luggage, “It’s cool. I didn’t mind, but I’ll be sure to lament about it to the big guy.”
Her eyes deviated around the room in a knowing manner then back to Juliette. “You must be doing something impressive to get him to be willing to throw a party, let alone to invite you to stay! Either you are a miracle maker or you’ve really got him wrapped around your finger so quickly.” The cat mewed once attempting to lick abrasive tongue in search of lotion from cheek. “Colour me amazed.”
Juliette was glad to know her first impressions of Myra were not off the mark – someone who didn’t seem to put too much stock in pomp and circumstance – but also that she had an affinity for the small feline as well. Anyone who adored animals enough to coddle and cradle at least had to have some ounce of goodness to them. Curious as well that she seemed to have known Jordan for quite a long time, which meant Jordan must’ve had a great deal of respect for her to have her in his life for that long, regardless of his complaints about her behavior.
Of course Myra’s assumptions of Juliette wrapping Jordan around her finger immediately made her laugh. She wasn’t sure how much Myra knew about the nature of their engagement and how it began, but supposed if she were already moving into Jordan’s room this fast… Maybe it was indeed amazing.
Setting the damp towel aside on a nearby laundry hamper, Juliette moved to claim her luggage and bring it over to the small sofa in the sitting area. She plopped them on the cushions and opened them up, carefully sifting through the items as she spoke. It was no suspicion about Myra at all, but more… a concern that maybe David had rifled around through her things having taken or left something behind. Juliette really couldn’t be sure what he was up to these days.
“I am not sure myself what miracles I might be working, but I can say Jordan himself has won me over,” she admitted truthfully. “I thought at first he might be an unbearable ass. Instead he threw me off kilter and encouraged my ambitions and it is hard not to be dazzled by it.”
Pausing in her inspection, she gave a curious tilt of her head and peered over at Myra.
“I suppose for you to have been with him for so long that means you do respect him. He likes things done quite specifically his way, but he has been good to work for? I won’t discover a few unmarked graves somewhere out in the garden?”
As the woman took her belongings to settle upon the singular piece of furniture arranged before the fireplace, she in turn migrated to the back of it. Resting her butt against the upper crest of the backpiece where she could stroke and keep the little furry creature contently hostage. Evidently not about to be abandoning when he was the star of the moment. Lending ear next to hear the idea that even Juliette was not sure how she managed to persuade Jordan into being less of a sodding boil ridden ass and more into a gentleman that might actually behave like his immortal age might be believed. “He has that effect on people. Do well by him, he does well in return.” Seeming to nod at the idea that Jordan had actually gone about to suggest that Juliette not follow but keep in time with her own desires.
It would have an effect to anyone. To be allowed to live your own life without being squashed beneath the idea of what the other half of the equation wanted. But of course, Juliette didn’t know the full story either. Which was not her place to explain.
As the woman rummaged in her belongings, she in turn lifted a dark eyebrow towards her. Pulling the profile to become the full of face so she would mention the idea of knowing him so long, leading to respect. Even if she seemed to know that Jordan preferred things to be done his way. Earning a knowing smirk then.
“I don’t work for him, Juliette.” She declared, “At least not in Rosendrey. My father was an old friend of the family’s, so Jordan and I grew up together.” Having rehearsed this practiced speech so often that no one would know it was a lie. Even she at times had moments to think it wasn’t! “He just doesn’t trust a lot of people. Our history together has warranted that I become his confidante and vice versa. More like siblings than co-workers. Hence,” She grinned wickedly, “Why I get to harass him and he hasn’t thrown me over the highest peak! I’m the only thing he really has to family.” Brows lifted then playfully at her, “But you won’t find any graves outside, he’s not that discrete. His temper is lethal certainly but there’s no polish when that happens. If he was a murderer, everyone would know because he’d be using them as a makeshift roller brush to paint the walls.”
She squinted gently, “Sufficient to say, Jordy is suave and debonair but still a meathead when his emotions flare. So yes, I respect him. He’s kept a watch over me and when I can for him, I will. Hence why I don’t mind getting you your stuff. Having him actually interested in someone besides his previous little dinner morsels, is a breath of fresh air. Those bobble heads aren’t nearly as fun to talk too. There’s only so much you can do with a blank look and a dumb smile.”
“I did get the impression that I am not Jordan’s usual company,” she agreed with another laugh. If Jordan’s previous liaisons were all pretty feathered brained nonsense types, it was really no wonder that he’d at first been so threatened by Juliette’s push back – and then so bewildered by her forwardness. He’d thought he was getting a pampered powder puff – a materialistic rich girl that would easily bend to a moody tyrant’s will.
Juliette wondered what he thought of her now. Had his opinion about her changed the same way hers did about him?
Her luggage seemed to be clear of tampering, thankfully. No missing lingerie or valuable jewelry. Her ridiculous wedding planner was set aside on the coffee table along with the Agatha Christie she’d been reading. As far as she could tell everything was as it should be. The rest of her belongings she’d have to fetch out of storage once she’d decided exactly where they would go.
“It is nice to meet you then, as a member of Jordan’s family. I admit, I have a brooding temper myself and I was a bit concerned that it would be a problem for us. Though, I am starting to think we just have quite similar fears and that we may finally be on the same page now?”
Pushing herself away from her things, she rose straight again and dusted off her hands as if she were dusting away an old life. Then she rest her hands on her hips, offering another broad smile.
“I look forward to getting to know you better. It’d be nice to form some genuine relationships, beyond just people I must work with or my own blasted wreck of a family.”
It was a good thing she appeared to be observant, otherwise there might have been the sense that Jordan was using Juliette’s naivety for his own gain. In a sense, he was. But thankfully she wasn’t another dumb airhead that could barely multiple two times two without taking their socks off to count! To hear that she figured she was outside the box of familiarity in the company factor of the man, it warranted a larger smile to place upon playful lips.
Soon to turn to let the cat slip from arms to the lounger. Where tail flickered slowly in long waves as head pulled to look at either of them at his own desire.
Slow was she to look towards the other as well, smiling slowly further as she expressed that it was a pleasure to meet her as a member of the family, before pointing out that her temper was close to par with the other half’s. Doubtful in a sense but Myra merely took it all in stride. Just that the question at the end seemed almost personal, “You just might, so maybe you two were meant to balance out the fears of the other.” She offered, not entire sure if that were to be the case but found it was suitable regardless.
It was a wonder that only they could solve. Before she was chuckling lightly, “Well you are welcome to ask questions and we can get on the same side of the fence. At least marrying into Jordan’s, you don’t have anyone to deal with save himself. Me and maybe Felix when he appears periodically.”