Welcome to Gaia! ::

While Regulus was used to large parties they weren’t quite as fancy as the one he was at now. A crowd didn’t bother him. Though he had felt like he had been watched most of the time they had been in the main foyer. Probably from curious on lookers wondering just who the hell ye was. He had payed them no mind however, he was here as Vespara’s guest and for the most part his attention had solely been on her.

He was glad though that they were free now to have a little private time just to themselves. And this little nook in the garden was quite perfect for that. It was off the beaten path so he highly doubted anyone would find them. At least for a while. The Clanless male wasn’t really important to anyone here except for maybe Vespara so no one would come looking for him. Although they might for his lovely companion after a time. Hopefully it wasn’t for a long time.

The curl of her lips begged for him to kiss her. He had wanted to since the moment he’d first seen her that evening. Memories of the last time they were together coming back to him in full force. The way her lips tasted, the press of her body against his, the weight of her head as she leaned it against his chest. Her scent. It had stirred him the entire night so far but he had had to behave himself for the most part. Now that they were alone he didn’t really have to.

As she tugged on his jacket he leaned down, capturing her lips. Parting his own as he pressed his tongue against hers, letting it slip into her mouth as his hand traveled from her chin along the side of her face, letting his fingers slide into her silken hair as they kissed. His other hand traveling up her arm then down her side to come to rest on her hip, giving it a light squeeze. Regulus had missed her. When she had left he found himself thinking about her, reliving their time at the club and at his apartment. Cespara had quickly gotten under his skin and lingered there and he was glad he was able to see her again so soon.

Pulling back from the kids slightly, he let his lips linger just barely out of reach of her own. “I missed you, you know.” His thumb brushed against her temple as he kissed the corner of her mouth, laying a trail of kisses along her jaw. The hand in her hip sliding down to push the hem of her skirt up just a little so that he could stroke his fingers along her soft thigh. “But I am glad you invited me here tonight so that I got to see you again. Even with all the awkwardness of meeting your fathers.” He wasn’t worried about them in all honesty. Vinny had asked a slightly embarrassing question but it was a valid one in the end. What exactly was his intentions with Vespara? Well, so far she had already experienced those intentions but it went beyond the physical. His intention was to treat her like she deserved to be treated, please her and make her happy. If he could do all that then he’d have achieved his goal.

—-

Of course Romeo enjoyed what he felt. How could anyone not? Eloisa had curves that went on for miles and he was certain there were a few covetous looks thrown her way. Envious looks thrown his. But vice versa could also be said. The Machiavelli was certainly a handsome man. All the Machiavelli were good looking, cultured, charming. It was what set them apart from the other families. The noble blood that ran through their lineage was cultivated and nurtured for a reason. But that wasn’t the only thing that set them apart. They had a ruthless side that put them in high standing with the Disciple himself. And that, in itself, was a great honor for his family. No other family could boast such an accomplishment.

He enjoyed the feel of her claws on the back of his neck, the way she pressed her body against his. Romeo’s hands slid to the small of her back pulling her in closer as one hand slid up her back, over her shoulder blades to rest at the back of her neck. Amusement shining in those stormy eyes. “Oh really? I dare say bella are you looking to make me jealous? Gazing at another man while on my arm?” His tone was teasing as his smile grew. He knew she was talking about him.

She looked lovely tonight and if he could be honest she looked lovely every time he had seen her. The male could appreciate the effort she had put into her look. Obviously she had dressed to impress, but she could have worn a sack and he would still find her alluring. “Oh is that s—“ Her fingers had wrapped around his tie, pulling him down she had quickly captured his lips before he had been able to finish his sentence. It was a pleasant surprise and he enjoyed the press of her lips against his own. Her lips begged to be kissed and he was only happy to answer the call.

Hands slid up and down her back, one coming to rest against the back of her neck again as he bent forward pushing her backwards just a bit as he braced her body with a hand on the small of her back. He had been serious when he had told her that he wanted to spend more time with her. If their families took issue with that well, he could be rather convincing. Edon he suspected would be easy to convince. Eloisa’s father however was the type of man Romeo avoided and he could only discern that he would be a hard man to convince of his intentions. While he might not care much about Eloisa it was often a different story when someone else took interest in something of yours. Especially if that someone was from a family that didn’t think highly of the other. “Signora Puttanesca, I think you’ve put quite the spell on me.” He had broken away from the kiss only for a moment, letting the hand at the back of her neck come forward so that he might run the back of his fingers along her cheek.

—-

It had certainly been hard to keep his hands off Ricco most of the evening. And the kiss they had shared earlier had only stoked the fire of desire that burned deep in his belly. Ricco had not been far from his sight or mind as he tended to business and Rain meandered through the room. His lips still tingling from that kiss, he had wanted more but knew well enough that in that moment was not the time. And it would be a bit of time before it was appropriate to leave. So he would have to settle for what he could get.

But the Milliner certainly did not make it easy. The touch of his fingers between Rain’s and the press of his leg up against his own. No, he would behave. Once they were able to eat home he could have Ricco all to himself. And hopefully for quite a few nights because Rain had no plans of leaving his love alone until the sun began to rise and they needed to sleep.

It amused him however that the Koenig head would think keeping Rain away for longer was helping his situation or even punishing Rain. It only made him pine more for him and most certainly put Ricco in a sour mood. He smiled as Ricco bussed his hand eyes lidding half way on pleasure. They had both been eager for his return. It had been hard leaving that penthouse, leaving Ricco. But work had to be done and as soon as Rain had hit the street he dove straight into it. The Milliner waiting back home always in the back of his mind.

That feral smile the other gave him sent a thrill up his spine. “Then let’s hope nothing comes up.” He leaned in to whisper in his ear. “Because I want you all to myself for as long as I can have you.” He was bold and let his teeth graze the Elder’s ear lobe before he sat back, gold eyes almost seemed to glow in the dim light as desire shone brightly in them. Like Ricco, Rain had never shared his life with anyone in this way. There had never seemed to be any time or real interest in it before now. Now he wanted nothing more than to intertwine their lives. Create a whole life together.

When he mentioned he had something for him Rainier’s interest was perked. He knew Ricco had been getting him something but he had told him to make it a surprise and now he was curious to see what he had come up with. “If you would like to give it to me now i would not object.”

“Of course. How could I not?” It was true. He had missed her quite a bit. Laying in his bed without her there made the room seem so empty. His bed so….empty. Somehow she had become such a bright spot in his world that when she wasn’t there, there was an obvious void that nothing else could fill. It was an odd feeling that had never struck him before and he wanted more of her in his life.

He would find the time. Even with his busy schedule he would make it work if he had to. If he wasn’t interested Regulus probably wouldn’t have been so eager as to see her again. The Clanless probably wouldn’t of shown up tonight. But he realized that this night was important to her and what was important to Vespara was important to him. Even if he had no connection to her clan or what this event was all about. When she spoke of missing him too he smiled warmly. Glad to hear that she had felt the same. Regulus shook his head. “I wouldn’t stand you up for anything in the world. You invited me to this night which is important to you, I wouldn’t want to disappoint.”

She didn’t need to apologize. It was only natural for parents to want to know what one’s intentions with their daughter was. And while a bit awkward Regulus had pretty much swept it under the rug and moved past it. He let himself be pulled on top of her. Leaning in to kiss along her neck once more. So help her forget about the whole exchange. He didn’t want her to feel like she had to apologize too much. “It’s fine. Don’t worry too much about it. Let’s just enjoy this evening while we have some time together.” As she captured his lips again his hand ran along her side. Feeling every curve and dip of her body as they kissed.

Regulus savored the feeling of her fingers in his hair. Reminding himself not to make any noise. So far they had done well to be quiet but that could certainly change in an instant. Who would be the first to crack? He smiled down at her, brushing a thumb over her cheek as his cyan gaze softened. Even here in the dim light of this hidden nook she was gorgeous.

—-

It was true that Romeo was perhaps a bit old fashioned when it came to courting a lady. But times changed and one had to change with them. The ladies of this time were quick with their kisses and more forward than what they had been just a few decades earlier. But he enjoyed Eloisa’s forwardness. She knew what she wanted and just went for it and he had to admire her ambition. Because when all was said and done Romeo wanted her too. All of her. Her kisses, her laughter, even the times when she was the loudest person in the room.

He chuckled, giving those red lips a quick and soft kiss. “I don’t think I could walk away even if I wanted to.” It was true. He was enraptured by her, drawn to her like a moth to a flame. Eloisa’s spell had been cast and he was an utter fool for her. But he also knew these sorts of things had delicate intricacies that needed to be navigated well. Luckily, Romeo was an expert navigator.

Romeo wasn’t too worried about her father. At least not right now. The Puttanesca head was the furthest thing from his mind. Eloisa currently occupied all his thoughts. He tightened his hold on her, not wanting her to be able to escape from his grasp. There was certainly an attraction there, Romeo felt a strong pull towards her. But he also had to be careful too. The Ancilla had had his heart broken before when he didn’t look before he lept. Perhaps it was a bad habit of his. He got attached too quickly, poured his feelings so deeply into the relationship that he was blind sided when it ended. He could only hope that Eloisa would enjoy the attention and doting that was to come. Romeo wanted to make sure that she felt special, because to him she was. She might of had a gaggle of sisters and felt like just another face in the crowd of them but to him she was one of a kind.

—-

Rainier couldn’t help but be a little bit naughty. They were certainly obscured enough from any prying eyes and there didn’t seem to be another soul out here. Most were probably enjoying Augustus’ compensation for canceling the dinner or off in their own private little worlds. It was hard to wait when Ricco was right there, so close. Maybe they could get away with it. Maybe, just maybe. It was a thrilling thought tho. Trying not to get caught, it actually sounded like a fun little game to play and the thought of it amused Rain greatly. Could Ricco stay wuiet as to not draw attention?

It was tempting. Oh so tempting.

Home. It was still such an unfamiliar concept to him. Rain had never set down roots anywhere and now he had a home with Ricco. Their own place where they could spend their nights and days wrapped up in one another. Ignoring the outside world. He smiled at Ricco’s reply. His own gaze returning the love that Ricco’s gave him. Gods he loved this man. How had he gone so long denying himself this?

As Ricco produced the box and opened it Rain was surprised. He had thought the Milliner would simply get a singular ring but this was certainly a surprise. His gazed at it, taking in every little detail, Ricco had certainly put a lot of thought into this Rain was certain. But of course he did. The man always put a lot of thought into everything he did. And Rain could appreciate that. “It’s very lovely.” It was true that he didn’t need expensive things and Ricco probably spent quite a bit on this, he only ever wanted the best.

His gaze lifted up to catch Ricco’s as he asked him that question again. Rainier’s answer had not changed at all. He leaned in, dangerously close with a smile that curled the corners of his lips. Eyes half lidded in pleasure. “Yes.” Leaning forward more he captured Ricco’s lips with his own. Right now he didn’t give a ******** if anyone saw them. He just wanted to feel those lips pressed against his own.

Vespara was certainly not his first relationship. He had had flings but n the past and some that were more serious. He knew himself better than anyone and he knew exactly what he felt. What he felt for her. But even so he wouldn’t push it. Their relationship was quite new and while the physical side of it had rocketed full speed a head on their second date he didn’t want to scare her off with talks of feelings and where things were going. They both had plenty of time for that.

There was a lot more for them to explore as things progressed. Whatever intentions that would arise from it all they would figure it out together. He had no plans or interest of going anywhere. “You should be spoiled and if it’s me doing it all the better.” He kissed her chin, her nose before trailing more kisses along her neck. “You assume I want to go anywhere.” Regulus chuckled as he raised an eyebrow. The male really didn’t want to, he was content to stay right there with her in that little nook for as long as the night allowed. Of course, eventually they would have to leave this place and make an appearance once more he was sure.

But for now they could just enjoy it without being disturbed.

It amused him how she seemed to continue to catch herself before she made a noise. And he wondered just how far he could push her to see if she would break. Nothing too sordid of course, they were in her family’s home and while he had no clue about the Giovanni he didn’t want to disrespect their home if he could. Of course, he would let her lead for the most part. His hand slid down her side, trailing to the hem of her skirt once more and running the pads of his fingers again the soft skin of her leg beneath the fabric. If they were back at his apartment they would be doing a lot more than just petting through their clothes.

He leaned his head against her chest, letting his ear press against her as he kissed her stomach through her dress. “Very comfortable.” Though she was smaller than him and he pretty much almost completly covered her as he lay there she did make for a rather comfortable pillow to lay on. His free hand taking one of her own and lacing his fingers with hers. Bringing the hand up to his lips and placing a kiss on her knuckles. Kissing each finger individually before pulling it to his chest. Letting out a soft, contented sigh.

—

After Romeo’s last relationship he had thrown himself into his books and work. It had left a nasty taste in his mouth one that he hoped to cleanse from his pallete. Of course there had been interest from others but he had simply turned them away. That was several decades ago and the thought of another relationship or even the want for another one hadn’t crossed his mind.

At least….no until he had come across Eloisa.

That night they had spent on the hillside looking at the stars and sharing that basket of wine and treats had made him miss that sort of thing. Courting and spoiling the object of his affection. After that night he had decided he wanted to take another chance. Give her a chance. He wanted to sho her the good life and how interested in he he really was. Maybe he was a fool for jumping head it’s into another relationship. Maybe he would get his heart broken all over again, but oh if she would just give him the chance to show her what he truly thought of her he could promise she would be swept up off her feet.

There was something that had been burning a hole in his coat pocket all night. He had been eating with himself weither or not to give it to her. But now seemed like as good a time as any. Romeo wanted to repay her for the lovely bookmarks she had given him.

Taking her hand he lead her further behind the tree, leaning his back against it before he settled on the grass. Pulling her down into his lap gently as he wrapped an arm about her, drawing her in close. “This comfortable enough for you, Signora?” He glanced down at her with a warm gaze of affection. “There’s something I want to give you as thanks for those lovely bookmarks you gifted me the other night. And also….as a sign of my affection of course.” Reaching into his coat’s inner pocket he pulled out a thin, long box. Handing it to her so that she might open it. When she did she would find a gold bracelet within. A round, ornate pendant at it’s center with an M etched into it in a rather fancy type face. Framed by twisting vines and flowers also etched into it’s surface. “I hope you like it.”

—-

Rain had caught the anxious look in Ricco’s eyes, the furrowed brow. The anticipation of his reaction and delayed response no doubt. But that soon melted away as he kissed him. Feeling that familiar tongue sweep over his lips and then forcing his mouth open. Rain opened his mouth wider, deepening the kiss as he let his tongue swirl and coil around Ricco’s. Pressing his tongue ring into the soft flesh of that tongue he so loved. The feel of his arm wrapping about his waist was a welcome one. It was what he had wanted, what he had craved since the first moment he had spotted his love walk through the mansion door.

Pulling back for only a moment he nibbles on his lips. “I love it. I love you, Riccardo Milliner. My sun, my heart, my everything.” Gold eyes glanced down at the box that he still held holdin out his hand. “Put it on me, mi amore?” Rain tilted his head slightly, biting his bottom lip as those eyes flashed in the dim light excitedly. It would be something he would have to get used to wearing, normally he kept what he had on his hands at a minimum but he suspected this wouldn’t hinder him at all or get ruined easily.

Once Ricco had put it on his hand Rain let that hand slip behind the Elder’s neck, fingers twining in his dark hair as he pulled him in for another kiss. All attempts at being good had flown out the window. Let people see, let them talk. He didn’t care. All he wanted, all he had wanted was Ricco. This party was somewhat getting in the way of that. Maybe if he had been able to get home earlier it might have been easier. Or maybe they would have just slipped it all together to stay in bed. It was too late for that now but oh when they could leave the race home would begin and he doubted they would get very far into the building before clothes started to be torn off.

The ambiance of the night air, the subtle sound of crickets chirping. The seclusion of the gazebo was rather romantic. For now the rest of the world didn’t matter. It was just them and only them. If someone happened to pass by perhaps it would be dark enough to shroud them in mystery. But oh the thought of getting caught worked it’s way back into his mind and sent a flame rushing through his core. Ricco’s lips and tongue helped fan that flame and he had lost all sensibility in that moment. Rainier just wanted to rate that familiar taste of the Milliner’s mouth, drink in his lips and bask in his presence. Knowing full well that Ricco felt the same burning passion for him as Rain felt for Ricco. There was no denying it. They had done that already for many years prior and the Koenig was over that.

Laying there with his head stressed against her chest was relaxing. Regulus hadn’t noticed how tense he had been until now. But just being here cuddled up with Vespara made all that tension melt away. It was nice being this close to her and he could only hope that there would be more of this in their future. His fingers moved to caress more of her leg as she shifted. A clear and obvious sign that rang loud and clear.

He chuckled his eyes opened half way. “Well I don’t mind the trek as long as I get to see you at the end of it. And since you know where I live now you can drop by whenever you want.” It was a big thing he was offering her, allowing her to pop by whenever she had the need to see him. Hopefully when she did he would be home at the time. Regulus would hate for her to travel that distance just to be disappointed that he wasn’t there. “I’ll give you my number so you can call ahead and make sure I am home.”

Cespara may have been part of a clan but that had never bothered Regulus. She wouldn’t be the first Clanned vampire he dated. But she was certainly the most interesting and if he was being honest the most beautiful. “I’d like to spend more time with you too, Vespara.” The time they had spent together so far made him crave more. He wanted to keep her for nights on end.

He placed a few more kisses against her stomach. The memory of that skin beneath her dress clear in his mind. He would certainly have to take her back to his place at a later time. Or perhaps they could even find a more private place later. Either way he certainly wasn’t done spending time with her.

—-

Romeo chuckled at her surprise. Good. That was exactly the reaction he had been hoping for and she seemed receptive of the gift. He lifted the bracelet from the box and placed it upon her left wrist with care. “I wouldn’t of offered it if I did not wish for you to have it.” And he did wish it so. It looked enchanting upon her wrist. Her lips pressed softly against his own stirred something deep within him. Romeo meant it when he claimed it was a sign of his affection, he really did like Eloisa and he wanted her to know. Spoiling her was just one of the ways he knew how to do that. Plus he could afford to do it really was no trouble at all.

“I meant it when I said I wanted to spend more time with you, Eloisa. But if I am going to fast for you do let me know. I wouldn’t want you to feel obligated to humor me.” Lifting her hand he brought those fingers to his lips, kissing each one individually before he laced his fingers with her own and brought their hands close to his chest. Their surroundings really did have a romantic feel to them. The Giovanni estate grounds seemed to be quite set up for such things. Go to any corner of the property and you could find something there as a backdrop.

He could only hope that maybe she had felt the same. Since that day they had first met on the bench she had barely left his thoughts. Those blue eyes haunted his every thought, his dreams. It felt like an instant connection. Kismet as some would call it. It was something he had not felt before and he wanted to explore it.

Meeting here has most certainly changed his life for the better. She was so sweet, so enchanting, she really didn’t see that in her self and he wanted to show her just how amazing he thought she was. She was her own business woman and while it might be a front she was still more accomplished than most. And he admired that about her. She wasn’t afraid to go for what she wanted or speak her mind. And for that he was grateful. Most women he had met couldn’t even figure out what it was they wanted or his how they really felt in order to seem more agreeable. Romeo didn’t want to be placated, he wanted her to speak her mind. To be part of the conversation. It was one of the reasons he had let her speak when addressed while he had been dealing with business. Eloisa was smart and she could offer a different perspective.

—-

Now that the jewelry was in place it would never leave Raib’s hand. Not for anything. Not unless someone physically pried it off of him. It was a symbol of their love and commitment to one another and he would wear it proudly. A reminder of just how far they had come together. Only weeks ago they had gone through one of the biggest fights they had had in their time together but thankfully date had other plans and brought them back together to work it out. When Ricco had asked him to marry him it was an easy answer to make and even now he had not changed his mind. How could he when he loved Ricco so much? He wanted to spend the rest of his unlife with him.

Rain straddled Ricco’s lap, wrapping his arms about his neck as he pressed his lips hard against his. Wanting to bruise them to show just how much he had missed him. The words Ricco replied with made him smile. Of course Rainier felt the same. The Milliner had been the one bright spot in his life, even with their little fights here and there Rain always came back to him. He just couldn’t let him go. Would never let him go again. The confession brought a tightness to his chest, a tingle in his spine. “Geliebte.” He whispered softly. “You are the one bright spot in my life. And I am yours always.” Rain kissed him again, softer this time. The fingers in his hair pulling his head back as he placed kiss after kiss along his jaw. So much for his perfectly slicked back hair. He liked it better mussed anyhow and Ricco could easily fix it before they decided to go back inside.

He was so very tired of hiding. Eventually their engagement would make the rounds he was sure. If there was one thing Giovanni liked to do it was gossip. It was just unavoidable. It had merely been kept a secret until Ricco could work out a deal with the Koenig head. Of course, displaying it for all to see inside the mansion where there were many eyes just didn’t seem appropriate at the time. But now? Now Rain didn’t care. They were engaged. It was officially official in his mind now that he had the jewelry that Ricco so lovingly created for him and he would cherish it always.

“I can’t wait to get you home so I can show you just how much I missed you.” A devilish smirk curled the corner of his lips as he gazed into Ricco’s eyes. Oh yes, he would show him exactly just how much he had missed him that was for sure. The other male had not strayed far from his thoughts. It had been a slow and painful torture being kept away for so long. Sure it was only a handful of extra days but it had been hard to part ways in the first place. They had drawn that night out for as long as they could. But now they would have much more time to spend with one another and Rain looked forward to when they would be able to leave the party.

Regulus understood why it was a bit more complicated for him to come there. It was just easier for her to come to him in the long run. Which was fine. He wasn’t disappointed by it. It would be more comfortable for him anyhow.

He closed his eyes as her fingers trailed through his hair. His hand gripping her thigh lightly as his other arm snaked around her hips. Laying ther with her was nice and he hoped they could do this more often in the future. The kiss to the top of his head brought a soft smile to his lips. It certainly was a shame they weren’t at his apartment but such as it was. He gave a little nod. “It is. But after the party is over feel free to pop over whenever you like. I meant it when I said you could come over whenever. There’s a spare key under the mat if you get there and I’m not home.”

Regulus leaned his head into her hand, enjoying her soft strokes against his skin. His hand slipped a little further up running his claws over the top of her thigh in small circular movements. He could feel a stirring in his lower belly and it was making him feel a little more bold. They were hidden well enough, could he be blamed for maybe wanting more than just a little cuddle here in the nook? No, he most certainly could not be. But he would stop or back off if she wasn’t comfortable with that.

It was hard being thi close though and not being able to do what he liked. Her scent was intoxicating and it brought back memories of what it felt like to have her in his bed. To press his body against a her’s as he drew out those little moans of pleasure from her with his hands and his tongue. Part of him wanted to give her a repeat performances but no. No, he would be good no matter how hard she made it.

—-

Romeo was glad to hear. That was the last thing he wanted her to do. But she seemed receptive of everything so far and so he hoped that things would continue to progress in a positive fashion. Of course, like with any relationship there would likely be hurdles for them to jump over but they could at least look forward to what was to come in the near future. Who knew, maybe Eloisa would turn out to be the one he had been waiting for for so long. It just took a bit of time for her to arrive in his life.

He smiled as she admired the bracelet. Happy that she enjoyed it and hoped that every time she looked at it it would remind her of him. He had already put her bookmarks to good use. And every time he held them his thoughts wandered to her. She had struck him so fondly that it had surprised even him.

More than happy to return to kissing her. Those soft lips pressing against his own. His hand coming up to cup the side of her face, running his thumb along her cheek as they shared that kiss there beneath the willow. His mouth opened, letting his tongue dance with her’a as their kiss deepened. Just happy to have her there with him, glad that she had decided to come to the party tonight and that he could spend as much time with her as was possible. Though he was sure once they went back inside he would be inundated with business proposals and updates once more. It was a never ending cycle really. But he would much rather get something to eat before he resumed all of that.

“So tell me Signora Puttanesca, have you ever been to the country side?” He raised an eyebrow curiously.

—-

It was very dangerous with Rain being in Ricco’s lap like that. All restraint that the Koenig had had for the party was slowly seeping away the more they missed and touched one another. The feel of Ricco’s hands against his skin was divine. It was what he had wanted and to be honest was one of the reasons he hadn’t worn a shirt beneath his jacket. He wanted to be able to remove his clothes quickly once they got home but at the moment it was providing him a bit of pleasure with the other male’s hands upon him.

He picked up on what Ricco meant when he spoke of “personal matters”. A feral smile parting his lips as his claws played with the curl of hair at the nape of his neck. There was a lot to look forward to this night and the nights that were to come. And Rain would savor every bit of him. “I’m glad to hear. Maybe I can help you with those personal matters.” Leaning in he sucked up a bit of skin just below Ricco’s shirt collar leaving a small bruise that would soon heal and disappear.

But how could he resist the man who’s lap he straddled? Who would be his husband soon enough? Could anyone really blame him for wanting to be close to him. To drink in his lips and feel those strong hands on his skin. No, it would be hard for anyone to resist. Luckily Ricco was all his once they left. He knew it was poor form to leave the party too early but other parts of him tried to reason that they had stayed quite long enough. No, he’d be good. Or at least as good as he could be given their present situation.

The darkness that they sat in has emboldened Rain to push just a little further. Besides he could see the path over Ricco’s shoulder. So if anyone decided to come their way he would see the person before they even saw them. Ricco’s confession of missing him brought a warmth to his chest. “I missed you too, Amore mio. So very much. You were not far from my thoughts the entire time we were apart. I craved to return to you as quick as I could. Unfortunately I suspect someone else has other plans.” He wouldn’t open accuse the Koenig head of keeping him busy for longer than what was probably required of him. In fact it all had felt like a wild goose chase. Information had been incorrect or lacking to where he had had to piece things together. An unusual thing to happen but it had happened.

Melting into that kiss he sighed happily. Arms tightening around his neck as he pressed his body against the other’s. He was just happy to be done. With the job, with being at the Koenig head’s beck and call. No longer did he had to be an obedient dog that the family could use as they pleased. That was an exciting thought in and of itself. Though he did wonder ust who they might try to replace him with.

Perhaps he did embody those old stories of Prince Charming although he would never claim they were based upon him. Certainly he had lived a long life, though not as long as some, but he had met many people in his lifetime. Surely there were an author or two. He did enjoy books after all. But if she were expecting deer, rabbits and birds to come out of the woods to greet him well that was purely fantasy. He had had Echo since he was a colt and the black stallion was not his first. While Faesteeds did indeed live long lives it was but a blip in comparison to them as vampires.

As she made her confession and wrinkled her nose he gazed upon her warmly. Her response not one that surprised him at all. Eloisa was a city girl and he was well aware that she had not strayed as far as Romeo had. But that was part of his life. Not only business and a need for adventure but there were other reasons as to why he traveled so much. But while he was in town for however long he would like to show her a pleasant time.

“My family owns an estate out in the country side. If you could find time to spare in your busy schedule I would like to take you there to see it. It is a rather lovely place.” When not at the main Machiavelli estate Romeo had spent much of his younger years there. Studying, reading, learning the family business and all its intricacies. It was a nice place to take a retreat to now, while no one really lived there now it was still fully staffed year round in case any of them ever got the idea to visit. But it also helped the locals in the surrounding area by keeping them employed. They weren’t above giving back to the mortals that cared for their residences.

He ran his fingers over the curve of her shoulder. Enjoying the feel of her nestled in his arms while she sat in his lap. Perhaps it was a bit of a compromising position him there with her in this way but who was really paying attention? As far as he knew no one was watching or even paying attention to them. And they would have to be in a rather close proximity to see them behind that tree or to even hear what they were saying.

It had been many years since Rafaele had last stepped foot in the Giovanni family mansion. He had important work you see. Preventing Cappadocian uprisings and keeping tabs on the ones still hiding under rocks was serious business. Ever since the day this auspicious event celebrated he had been working. Tirelessly keeping a thumb on the pulse of what he could ferret out about any survivors of their parent clan.

Rafaele Machiavelli had little time for parties or pleasantries. But this one had a little more interest for him. How long had it been since the last time he had seen Augustus? Or even Edon for that matter? His dear older brother had returned to their family home. Romeo and Marius had as well. His sons busy in their own rights, making him proud of course. Rafaele expected nothing less than perfection from his children.

A vision of impeccable style and charm, Rafaele was very fashionably late which was par for the course for him, he made his way through the front door. Dark gray eyes the color of clouds threatening thunder and lightning swept across the room. Taking in everything and everyone, searching for any sign of his brother or sons. He had heard of Claudio’s death so rightly assumed that his brother was, of course, in the company of Georgina Della Passaglia. A growl at his side caught his attention though there was nothing visible for anyone to see. “I see.” A whine. “Hush, it can’t be helped.” There were others here that he knew, Riccardo Puttanesca was probably skulking about somewhere, it had been sometime since the last time he had seen him. A very long time. Though he was surprised that Riccardo Milliner was nowhere to be seen, surely he would have been here hard at work. He wondered what had his attention. The Rossellini head and Hidalgo head were shuffling about, playing their little games like always. He wondered if they had kissed and made up yet; last ye had heard they were on the outs but that was over a century ago. The Puttanesca daughters were scattered about here and there. Nothing escaped his gaze. But when you had your finger on the pulse of information coming and going it was easy to know more about people than they knew about themselves.

There were mortals milling about. Rather attractive ones and he could only assume they were some kind of offering for the party goers. But he was in the mood for something stronger than vitae so he made his way through the crowd to the bar which seemed to be rather abandoned at the moment. That was fine, less having to fight for something to drink. Rafaele ordered a bourbon, top shelf of course, but then the main family rarely ever skimped on anything. It didn’t take long for his drink to arrive and he took a generous sip. It was warm as it slid down his throat.

Now, if anyone wanted to approach him he would be nothing but the picture perfect Machiavelli that he was.

Eloisa was pleased when Romeo agreed to something mid-week. Of course, she would never have expected him to reschedule anything on her behalf -- but the weekends were always busy for both legitimate and illegal reasons. Gods forbid something happen when she wasn't there to keep Franny in check, or worse, the store was closed up when her father came to call. No, it was better for her to keep her time away to a minimum, for while her position in the family was not particularly important, it was for that reason alone she had better be there when Riccardo Puttanesca or his lackies came knocking. She had one job to do...

However, she felt reasonably sure Francesca would be happy to cover for her for a night or two, and there was always Addie to help make sure she didn't spill the beans. She loved her sister, but poor Franny wasn't the most clever of them and sometimes spoke out of turn. It wasn't good to let her watch the shop for too long alone.

"Little heel?" Eloisa gave a small laugh. "A challenge. I dare say a shopping trip may be in order beforehand," She mused with a smile. As if Eloisa was the sort of woman to go around in something so basic as a flat. The smallest heel in her closet was at minimum three inches. However, she would oblige -- it would be a good excuse to pick up something more suited for the country. Or at least, Eloisa's version of what might be suitable for the country. "But I'll certainly be sure to bring a fine pair of stilettos or two, just for you." Perhaps she'd find a new pair just for the trip, just in case she had a reason to sport them for her fine beau.

....maybe she'd get a chance to show her new shoes off. Better yet, maybe she'd get a chance to show them off, wearing nothing but them. A bit forward, perhaps, but Eloisa was no shy damsel. Poor Romeo would need keep her in check lest she tempt him into sin.

"Mmm, well I look forward then to a possible dance, and perhaps a little after party once we're all truly set free." This party was beautiful, but who could really be themselves with so many eyes looking for signs of weakness or gossip? This night could make or break one's position in the family, so it was always best to be cautious. "I dare say, I do enjoy getting to talk more personal business with you. Just the two of us, and not a vampire to be found." Romeo had chosen his getaway well, with the fragrant blossoms of the willow perfuming the air, and the long branches helping to keep any gossip away. Not that they could really be seen behind the trunk of that tree.

She knew they'd have to go back sooner than later, but she wasn't ready to suggest it. Not yet. He didn't seem to be in a rush, and Eloisa was certain no one at the affair even noticed her disappearance. The story of her unlife.

One of Eloisa's hands softly caressed Romeo's back as she rested with her head upon his shoulder. Her long, nailed fingers ran up the front of his jacket, unable to resist tracing over the fabric, and getting a loose idea of exactly what might be hidden beneath all that fabric. Good girls might go to heaven, but she was already damned.

Yayoi