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It really hadn't been enough.

But it had to be, and they both knew it. They were all meant to be on their best-behavior, or at least, were supposed to be. While business in Clan Giovanni could happen a variety of ways, this wasn't some post-dinner carnal feast. In fact, dinner hadn't even been served, and their focus should be the arrival of Augustus himself.

For a moment he let his eyes drink in the others features, hand still pressed against his chest. That thumb against his cheek had him turn his head, to let his lips brush against it. The thought of just giving in was great. He liked the idea of Rain not lasting the night, of needing him so badly they had to sneak off like a pair of randy neonates.

But no, he of all people had to at least set a good example. Gods knew Dante and Davide weren't going to, and Vinny--well, if you wanted something done right he'd learned long ago to do it himself. Just because Vinny had landed an Antediluvian didn't change his personal feelings of his younger sibling. Leaning in once more, as if he hadn't just kissed those lips, and was resuming conversation, he gave a small growl. "There's plenty you don't know about me, bello." His grip on him tightened for a moment, but with a small breath, and one last nibble on the others ear, he pulled away.

His brows were knit, his frown of dissatisfaction as deep as ever--but what could he do? This was how the game was played. "Perhaps we can discuss more, at length, later." If he had his way, they'd be in talks all day, once the party was over.

Yayoi

Edon's smile remained, though his eyes were still alight with mischief as he sipped his wine and leaned against the cushions, his hand lifted Gigi's free one, settling it behind the back of the chaise so he could gently play with the tips of her fingers out of sight. It would simply appear as if they were resting their arms along the back of the piece of furniture and nothing more. He was also reminded of their youth, of slipping away to the grounds or the graveyard, of vanishing into one of the many rooms. Eventually a family member or even a parent would begin to hunt for them but they could usually stay hidden for quite some time. The memories sent a thrill shivering up his spine, he'd missed those times dearly. He'd missed her even more. Now that her husband was out of the picture they would have plenty of time to pick up where they left off.

"I feel the future of the Machiavelli and the Della Passaglia could have a very long and fruitful partnership. There is gain to be had on both sides as both houses have much to offer one another." His claws gently pressed into the pads of her fingertips as his eyes caught her own and the expression on his face grew more charming, if that were possible, as he smiled at Gigi. When the mourning period for her late husband was over he would have no issue with others knowing his intentions toward the head of Della Passaglia, his reason for hesitating came from a desire not to paint either of their houses in a poor or suspicious light. Little tittering rumors about him escorting her from the front steps to dinner was one thing, full blown admittance that they had every intention of pursuing one another so suddenly after her husband had his... unfortunate accident was another. It wouldn't look good.

As much as he genuinely didn't care so long as he got to be with Gigi he also did have his family to think about, and she had hers. He felt that strange energy again, stronger now, followed by a sudden weight in his lap. Four delicate paws made indents on his trousers and the soft sound of purring could be heard before whatever it was leapt away. Edon chuckled, his gaze lifting to lock with the rich brown of the gorgeous creature before him. "It seems it's time for our Disciple to make his much anticipated adress." Edon sighed softly, a little disappointed that they wouldn't get to linger considering they had just sat down. He stood in one fluid motion and reached for her hand. "Shall we?"

____________________

It wasn't lost on Armando how close the Hidalgo had chosen to sit, he felt a cold sweat break out across his body, fearful that his cousin or Angel would walk into the darkness at any moment. But he didn't move. Instead he tried to relax a bit, as much as he could anyway given the high level of stress he was already under. The Elders were preoccupied, he had to remember that, and for all he knew Marcello wouldn't even really care. He'd just dismiss Armando's existence. The Ancilla hadn't given him any ideas or hints or even inclinations about his little interlude with Angel's brother. How was he going to know?

He smirked a little and took the flask from the male, raising it in a small salute before he pressed it against his lips and tilted it back. He hadn't expected absinthe. Armando coughed abruptly, leaning forward a bit as the burn coursed down his throat. He felt like he'd had the wind knocked out of him a little. But soon there was a warmth to it, he liked that. Leaning back again he took another drink, his smirk turning into a smile before he handed it back. "Good stuff. I imagine it probably is a lot better with sugar. Got a little bite to it." He could have made a flirty joke but he was on the fence about how flirty to be at the moment, he hated that he felt so on edge. It would have been nice to really relax and just enjoy the Hidalgo's company. Maybe more.

He puffed his bangs out of his eyes, those same eyes widening a little as he heard the next words out of Santino's mouth. 'I've missed you.' His stomach did a weird flip, he felt that heat rising in his cheeks. The idea of being missed sat so strangely with him. Had anyone ever said that to him before? He couldn't recall. He didn't think so. At least not unless said in a context that had been meant to make him uncomfortable anyway. Never in a genuine way.

The vampire inhaled sharply, his lips parting just a little as he tried to think of what to say. He had to admit that it had been nice having Santino in his room, he'd felt a kind of solace he'd never experienced in his own room. Like nothing bad would happen. That he could just exist without the threat of his family looming over his head every minute of every night. But he knew that was just a mirage. That safety didn't exist in his house. The best he could hope for was that his family happened to be distracted, toying with some other mouse. "Things have been more or less the same. A little less fun once you crawled out my window again, but such is life." He smirked, resting an elbow on the back of the chaise, propping his head up against his fist. His free hand came up, brushing a few long strands of Santino's hair back from his shoulder, turquoise eyes watching him calmly. "I missed you too. Did you end up finding Angel after you left?"

Their future together certainly had a lot for them to discuss. Figuring out the intricacies of their relationship and how that would effect their households. Gigi was smart, this was certain, smarter than most men who thought they were clever. She had been smart to put Claudio into Torpor, he would have run the family into the ground. The fool was no businessman, he had no gift for it. If that wasn’t clear from all the bad decisions he had made over the years which Gigi was still untangling They would undo the trials of their past and face any future ones that came. For there most certainly would be more for them to navigate. Life wasn’t as easy as one, two, three. The Della Passaglia knew this all too well.

She stood close to Edon as they joined the rest in the main foyer. Everyone packed into that space left little room for anyone to move too freely. Brown eyes lifted to the Disciple on the balcony. Finally he had shown himself and they could get things going. Gigi had had a fear they were going to be stuck in limbo for quite sometime. Prisoners of Augustus’ whims. The figure that stood beside him caught Gigi off guard. That was the source of that power. How splendid that the God of Vampires would grace them with his presence. However, normally he had a companion with him, a particular Romani that she assumed the God fancied and favored. She had learned bits and pieces about their new God, it they were going to follow him she wanted to know what she could about him. But like most deities he was private and niggling out anything was like pulling teeth. He was a welcome change from Cain though. This domain usurper. This Lord of the Night. She dipped her head as Edon had, though perhaps not quite as low.

She listened to their Disciple as they spoke. Raising her own glass as he did. Though she was indeed surprised that the usual dinner would not be observed this year. For as long as Gigi had walked this world that had never changed. Perhaps he had grown bored. The Elder was kind of grateful for that. The dinner was boring and often uncomfortable and there were certain individuals that she would much rather avoid then have to sit near or even look at. “Not surprising that he would get bored after how many centuries now?” It almost felt like sacrilege to skip the dinner but it was a welcome one none the less.

The grip on his arm tightened just a little as she leaned her head towards him, the whispered words bringing a smile to her red lips as she shot him a rather amused look but there was something more behind it. Desire? Yes. Perhaps even a little bit of a predatory sparkle in those brown eyes. Getting Edon alone was high on her list of priorities tonight. Wherever the Machiavelli went she would follow and hope that no one would disturb them. “Of course, bello. Whatever your heart desires.” Wether they danced the night away on the dance floor or took a stroll around the grounds, as much time as she could get with Edon was time well spent.

———

“Sí, she likes to grab you by the pelotas and shove her tongue down your throat.” Santino gave an amused chuckle. Patting the flask concealed within his vest. He had a taste for the unusual this was for certain. Absinthe was not many people’s drink of choice. Probably because it could cause you to hallucinate if you drank enough of it. It had nothing on ayahuasca though. But that wasn’t a drug to take lightly.

The Rosselini’s reaction to his comment widened his smile. Pale gold eyes glimmering with amusement though he did feel quite bad for him. Armando tried to hide so much from his family that the billboard was certainly a grave concern for him. “Ah well I suppose lucky for you I cannot afford such a place so unfortunately for me I will not be stopping in to take up all your time.” Places like LUX were for fancy business men who had lots of cash to throw around. Santino, obviously, was not a fancy businessman. He stuck out like a sore thumb among the other Giovanni as did his brothers. But that was fine. Suits were confining and business meetings were not his thing.

A feeling of warmth built up in his chest. He was “special”. Well that was certainly an interesting development. “I’m special am I?” He leaned in towards Armando, his eyes seemed to glow in the dim light of the room. The feeling of his fingers trailing down his arm left goosebumps in their wake. What was it about this man that drew the Hidalgo in? From the first time he’d seen him he felt this need to be around him. Of course, what they had done in the privacy of Armando’s room had left a lasting impression upon Santino’s mind. His window would always be unlocked for him, a warm sentiment. “How fortuitous for me. And you of course.” Although if Armando came away with Santino he wouldn’t have to climb through windows to get what he wanted.

If he ran into his brother it couldn’t be helped. But knowing Marcello was here and that Angel was surely pining for him meant they were probably up to something devious by now. There was no way they had not bumped into one another by this point. And if they were distracted enough the two of them could enjoy the night together in whatever capacity came about. A smirk curled his lips as his eyes half lidded in pleasure of the thought of being able to enjoy Armando’s company tonight. Whatever that entailed. “Fingers crossed, yes?” Perhaps they could sneak off somewhere more private. There had to be someplace on the grounds that others weren’t occupying. But they had to get through all the boring stuff first.

The kiss below his ear surprised the Hidalgo. Those lips upon his skin sending a shiver up his spine and he had to use all of his willpower not to grab him and kiss him properly. Armando stirred a fire in his belly that only the other could quench. He lost himself momentarily in the memory of slipping his tongue between those lips. When Armando suggested they might as well make an appearance Santino knew he was right. Angel had to suspect by now that he was here. And Marcello may be keeping a watchful eye it for Armando although if they were lucky he would be more focused on his brother than the Ancilla. “Alright then.” Before they got up he leaned in more. Placing a small kiss as the corner of Armando’s mouth before he finally stood and made his way out into the crowd. If he stood a bit close to Armando it could be blamed on how little room there was to actually stand with everyone crammed in to hear their Disciples words.

Santino’s eyes widened as Augustus introduced their special guest. It was certainly something to talk about that was for sure. Pulling the flask out of his pocket he lifted it before taking a generous swig and replacing ot back into its pocket. The Hidalgo had no taste for champagne and the bar would require him to squeeze through the amassed crowd. Neither option seemed great so he would toast with his own spirits. After all was said and done he gave the crowd a quick scan. He thought maybe he had caught sight of his brother working his way through the crowd but the vision was lost as quickly as he’d spotted it. Turning to Armando he smiled. “No dinner, how odd but also good news. Less awkwardness and tension.” He tilted his head as he gazed up at the tall Rosselini, a glint of mischief in those pale eyes. “At least that means more time for just us then.” The lack of the dinner was the perfect opportunity to get Armando alone. Or, if not completely alone tucked away in some dark corner where they might not be disturbed.



The crowd around them began to stir and soon all eyes were on the pale figure of the Disciple who stood on the balcony. He sure did cut an impressive figure. Romeo had to admire that. His voice was smooth as silk and yet it commanded your attention. Those illuminating gold eyes were hard to break away from. He placed a hand over Eloisa’s that was on his arm and moved them a bit closer through the crowd so that they could better hear what Augustus had to say. The night so far had been rather quite uneventful. But that didn’t matter with the beauty that was on his arm.

Stormy gray eyes turned to the tall fogure standing beside Augustus. Well, that was certainly impressive. The God of Vampires was grading their clan with his presence and Romeo knew tha was quite an honor and a rather big deal. He nodded his head to the God before his attention turned back to their Disciple.

A look of surprise flickered across his handsome features as he announced there would be no dinner. “We’ll, that is interesting. I wonder why he’s chosen to skip it this year.” For as long as Romeo had been attending these celebrations the dinner had always been a constant and predictable thing of this event. It was tradition. But they were all subject to Augustus’ whims. At least that would give him more time to spend with Eloisa. Still, now he felt a little out of sorts. Vampires sometimes found change very hard to handle. While their lives could be chaotic some stability and structure made them feel grounded. Was this going to be a permanent thing?

He raised his glass as the Disciple did. The entire room joining in on the toast. Once they had all been given permission to carry on he leaned in to whisper in her ear. “How about we go for a walk, bella. Get some fresh air and maybe find a quiet place to sit.” Romeo was tired of this cramped space and dealing with business. At the moment all his attention was on the gorgeous woman on his arm. Others must have been severely jealous of him to have such fine company. He certainly felt most fortunate she was here with him.

Things were beginning to pick up. The crowd around them was already packed in and it seemed there were still more piling in from who knows where. It was fine for Regulus though, it was almost like being at a club. A fancy…..stuffed shirt club where no one was dancing or generally seemed to be enjoying themselves for the most part. So many looked like they didn’t want to be there from his observation. Wasn’t this supposed to be a celebration? Of what he was still unsure.

As Vespara moved them closer t the front he could feel the energy shift and soon his own gaze was drawn to the figure up on the balcony. He certainly cut a striking figure for one. His voice seems to fill the room but also slithered through your core, drawing you in and Regulus had to look away for a moment. Turning cyan eyes to Vespara as he listened to the words that came from the Dosciple. Everyone around them seemed enthralled, entranced by the pale figure overhead. His gaze turned back to the balcony as he regarded the tall, red head that has joined him. If Augustus was an imposing figure the God was even more so. This presences brought a pressure to the room that was a bit overwhelming and uncomfortable. Still it was an interesting surprise none the less

There was a toast and then that was it..

Regulus’ attention turned back to Vespara as she finally spoke. Listening closely as the milling of voices began once again. At least one good thing came of this dinner being canceled. The night was left to them and they could do just about whatever they wished. Spending more time with Vespara was certainly something he looked forward to. If their exchange in the drawing room was anything to hint to what was to come, along with all the tension of having to hold back and behave, they would both have their hands rather full.

Shooting her a smile he gave a nod of his head. “It is rather crowded in here. This is your home so we can go wherever you wish.” He would let her lead. Regulus knew nothing about what was here on the grounds so t just seemed logical to let her lead them somewhere.

—-

He was still in a bit of shock that the dinner had been canceled. After all this time never had this happened before. While shocked Romeo was also grateful. The dinner was always quite boring and uneventful. Perhaps Augustus had grown bored of it and needed a bit of a change after his long torpor. Oh well.

Romeo smiled at Eloisa. She had done well so far as his company for the evening. Of course. He had played his part well too. No one questioned why the lovely Puttanesca was on his arm and while some might gossip it was unavoidable. He would never do anything to disgrace their family or upset his uncle. Though he still suspected he was displeased with the Ancilla’s companion of choice. Romeo was aware of her father’s reputation but Eloisa was not like that man. No, she was a light that shone bright amongst the dark reputation of her family’s head. He had watched as the Puttanesca head had wandered past, he had completely ignored his daughter which the Machiavelli couldn’t decent if that was a good or bad thing.

With his free hand he reached over and brushed a thumb along her cheek. “I hardly think anyone will kiss me too terribly. Business can wait for a time, it will be here when I get back and am available.” He had thought about taking Eloisa out onto the dance floor for a while but that could always come later. He wanted her to have a good time while they were together.

Moving through the crowd with Eloisa pulled in close so that he did not loose her along the throng of bodies he soon lead them to a door that opened to the outside. As soon as they stepped outside the cool night air his his skin, a welcome and refreshing change from the stifling air inside the mansion. The moon and stars were out making it quite he charming little setting for a stroll. There were already a few others outside so Romeo led her towards the rows of blossoming weeping willows. The branches dipped low and their flowers filled the air with a sweet scent. A perfect place for a little privacy as well as they stepped beneath the low hanging branches.

“So tell me, Bella. How are you enjoying the party?” With themselves obstructed from view he could be a little more open. Taking the hand from his arm abd bringing it to his lips so that he might kiss her knuckles lightly. “Hopefully you haven’t been too bored on my arm. Listening to those crust old businessmen talk shop.” He flashed her a charming smile. His eyes seemed to glow in the dim light of the moon.

—-

Rain had spent a bit of time roaming about the room. Casually listening in on conversations here and there. Getting an idea of the pulse that was flowing through the various groups and pairs that had lingered. Though he kept a careful eye out for the Puttanesca head. Surely he would be up to less than savory things. Though who was he to judge in that sense? No, he was nothing like Riccardo Puttanesca. The man would offer you his hand while simultaneously stabbing you in the back. He had no honor. Vampiric garbage.

He had kept a close eye on on Ricco. Catching all his little glances, subtle smiles and carefully raised eyebrows. It amused the Koenig how animated he seemed to be. But he also knew that it was all only for him. Everyone else got the usual scowl and knit eyebrows. Those expressions were still charming on the Milliner’s features.

As it seemed things were starting to get moving Rain had found himself a spot at the back of the room. Pressing his back against the closest open wall space. Gold eyes sweeping across the room, making note of who was perhaps standing a little too close to whom. There were some interesting pairings that was most certain. When Augustus finally appeared his gaze lifted to the balcony. The power the Disciple wielded was immense. But his attention was more drawn to the figure beside him. It wasn’t had to tell that this person was no regular vampire. And Augustus confirmed his suspicions not long after the thought. Why the God of Vampires was here he was unsure. Perhaps he just wished to know more about their clan. He knew little of this new God but him being here made him seem more personable than the last.

He was surprised that the dinner had been dismissed. Rainier only attended these gatherings when he was able but each time the dinner had been a constant. Even if I t was full and uninteresting. He imagined that most who were in attendance tonight were breathing a sigh of relief. As soon as it had started it had ended. The Disciple leaving them all to their own devices for the rest and of the nightS

Soon his gaze fell upon his amore who approached with a small smile on his lips. The urge to reach out and touch him was great but the Koenig refrained. He was not the time. Not here. Staying apart when they were mere inches from each other after the time Rain had been kept away was close to full on torture. He had dreaded leaving the last night they were together. His hopes of returning swiftly dashed as soon as he had checked his messages. But the thought of coming home to Ricco kept him going.

His expression of disinterest did not change. However the look in his eyes screamed of a desire for the Elder. “It’s…been enlightening. I see you’ve kept busy.” Of course he had. Ricco had his finger on the pulse of business so it was no surprise that his time had been spent talking deals and exchanging information. Rain had managed to avoid most conversation l. It was rare for the Koenig’s to show up to gatherings and some saw him as perhaps an oddity to be oogled at. If they even knew who he was. They could quite possibly just be trying to chat him up. He was a rather handsome man. Even with the scars on his face, some people found scars generally appealing.

Tilting his head slightly to the side he seemed to consider Ricco’s words. It was rather cramped in there and Rain would like nothing more than a bit of air. The amount of bodies in the room, even though undead, still created a stifling heat that the lamps and candles only exacerbated. “A stroll sounds acceptable. Lead on, signore Milliner.” It was most certainly too early to cut and run, no matter how much he wanted to drag Ricco home and do things to him he had fantasized about while they were apart. “After you.” He inclined his head, pushing away from the wall so that he could follow wherever Ricco decided to lead.

Vespara was eager to find some place quiet. Their time in the drawing room hadn't been enough for Vespara, but she also knew she was expected to be nothing but a good Giovanni and keep herself somewhat available. That said, she didn't expect anyone to give a flying fig whether she was there or not -- her duties, her business, at least at present, came from Nonna, and as she'd only just begun the art of Necromancy, she doubted very much she'd be needed. Her bedroom was absolutely off-limits, or rather it was until the night was closer to its end. The ballroom was an option, but dancing could happen later, and there would be too many eyes upon them.

So it was, she took his hand, giving it a little squeeze and lead him towards the indoor gardens. They were surprisingly expansive, while there was a main path one could travel, there were smaller paths with benches, and little private nooks. Vespara knew the gardens very well, having grown up with them. She knew more than a few particularly private spots within the greenery; areas that only the most curious might tread, if they dared.

So it was, she lead Regulus around the great koi pond, further to the back of the immense indoor garden. She stole a look around, before pulling Regulus carefully through some of the the thicker foliage. The plants gave way to a smaller lesser used trail, and not far behind, they came to the faarthest corner of the room. Plants and flowers still grew wild, with flowering vines and moss upon the wall, but what made it extra special was that the wall had been carved out into a small corner nook It was clear that years ago it might have been part of the trail, but the plants had thrived, or possibly been replaced, which cut it off from he main trail and hid it well from view. The nook itself was furnished with a few pillows and cushions, making it a cozy get away for any who knew it was there. There was a bubbling little brook that fed into the main pond and would allow them more than a little privacy.

"I hide myself away here when I need a break from my room, the parlor, or the drawing rooms." Any guests enjoying the garden wouldn't see them, and unless they spoke with great volume, their voices would be generally drowned out by the bubbling water.

Hand in hand, she drew him over to the little wall nook before taking a seat, encouraging him down next to her. The cushions were plenty plush, and it made for a cozy little hideaway. "How's this, carino? Comfortable?" She asked with a smile. The little nook could be treated like a soft -- they could either sit next to one another, or turn and put up their feet, and treat it more like a little sofa. "Doubt anyone will look for us back here."

((Lil' hideaway made with Kinu's blessing, of course. x3 ))

---
Eloisa was only too happy to follow the Machiavelli outside. She wouldn't miss the crush of the crowd, or the stifling presence of power. Between the great god Grendel as an honored guest, and their illustrious Disciple, Eloisa felt very, very small indeed. She didn't mind -- every vampire had their place, and she served her family as well as she could. She'd managed to stay alive this long, she had every hope to keep her head in future--but those with power could use it as they so fit, and it was far safer to be a good distance from those who could crush her like an ant. Between the powerful family members, and trying so hard to keep herself in check while Romeo handled his business, getting to spend a little time away from prying eyes was exactly what she needed.

The willow tree he selected was perfect. Just a bit romantic, and it allowed them to be cut off from the rest of the world--at least a little bit. Hopefully nobody would come seeking either of them out. She couldn't imagine anyone would need to find her, but Romeoe was a far deal more important. Thankfully, as he had assured her, the business would be there when he returned. Her cheek still burned from where he had run his thumb along it, and she dipped her head coyly as he kissed her knuckles. Maybe the fine ladies he was accustomed to courting were used to such things, but Eloisa certainly was not. She always dreamed about it, always wished some fine knight might come down and sweep her off her and now that she had it, she hardly knew what to do with it. He really was too kind -- such sensibility, such manners, such polite behavior was incredibly different than what she was accustomed. Such a refreshing change-- she'd almost thought the rumors of chivalry or romance was nothing but a fantasy. Romeo had been proving that theory wrong from the start, much to her delight.

"It's been one of the more pleasant parties. Usually I'm a wall-flower meant to be seen but not heard--and you can imagine how difficult that might be! Or I'd get stuck entertaining some brainless thug trying to make a match or impress my father." Was it any surprise the sort of men usually interested in the Puttanesca? It wasn't as if they were considered the creme de la creme of Clan Giovanni -- though Eloisa was only too happy to personally dislodge any tongues who dared to speak ill of her sisters or brother in her presence. They were all gems, and just let anyone dare argue

Thankfully, Romeo didn't seem to mind her lineage, and her introduction to his Uncle had been a resounding success. Edon Machiavelli had been nothing but a tempered gentleman-- she understood where Romeo got such class, certainly. "I wasn't bored," she assured with a small laugh. "While much of it went over my head, I did get to rate the latest fashions with each new encounter, or ponder their intentions, based on their auras. Besides which--I had the most coveted arm in the room, bello. You were too kind to let me linger by your side while you worked."

"And what about you? Are you enjoying yourself? Or shall I try to lift your spirit, so burdened by work and entertaining, as you put it, crusty old businessmen." Her blue eyes twinkled with mire, and in a bold move, she reached up to twine her arms loosely about his neck. He was ever so dreamy... her long nails gently caressed the back of his neck and head, as if she had any right.

But it was just the two of them, and Eloisa had never been known to be shy. If he needed his spirits lifted, she had a few ideas how.

---
Ricco would have been shocked--shocked--if Rainier wasn't admired or oggled this evening Not only was he a bit of a mystery man, but he was terribly attractive--at least as far as Ricco believed, scars and all. The Milliner had certainly missed Rain while he was out on business, and had almost taken the Koenig's disappearance personally, as if the Head of the Koenig family was specifically keeping him busy as leverage.

Perhaps the family Head had been.

Whether or not it had worked, only the two of them knew, but the deal was done, signed in ink, and so long as Rainier wished to move in with him, wished to marry him, there was nothing stopping the Koenig from leaving his clan to join the Milliners. While he would always have a tie to the small family, and could from time to time, be requested for an odd job here or there, he would no longer be under the thumb of the Koenig head. Rain would have a new lease on his unlife, and could more easily carve a path of his own making.

Ricco gave a small nod. "Business has been fruitful, and I've more to tend to later this evening. But for now, there's a break in my schedule for the feast--or what usually would be the feast." He gave a little tsk of his tongue, as if the Disciple had personally disrupted his entire schedule by changing things up. Perhaps he had -- Ricco did often like to keep to a strict timetable, at least when it came to business. Time was money, after all. However, this opening did mean he'd get the opportunity to reacquaint himself with Rainier. No one knew their secrets, no one knew they were to be married... It was possible there would be notes of gossip and speculation after the party, but that was fine by Ricco.

It wouldn't stay a secret forever, after all.

Ricco was pleased when Rain agreed to step outside. They were just on their way to the doors when dinner was served. He took note of the well-groomed fare, as well as the blood fountain -- a fine addition. Perhaps they'd share a bite after their evening stroll.

The night time air felt refreshing after the crush of the family. He said nothing as they walked, guiding him farther from the mansion, picking his way over the grounds in search of a little seclusion. They certainly weren't the only couples or groups moving over the mansion grounds, but then again, the Giovanni Estate was large. There was room for them all to carve a little slice of quiet outdoors if they needed it. To his luck, a small gazebo was currently empty, fitted comfortably with a bench inside, and a view which overlooked a nearby pond and fountain. He lead him to the bench, letting him take a seat, before settling beside him. Close, but not close enough that anyone passing would think twice. With their backs to the main road, no one could tell if their legs or hands touched, and many would simply assume they were catching up, or, given Ricco's penchant for shop talk, discussing business.

"Ah, meine mond,is it safe to hope you've returned or a time? Or shall I lose you once more to work after tonight?" Though his expression was serious, his words were quiet and full of feeling. He had missed him while he was away, and he was expecting Rain's work to take him away once more.

Yayoi

It was nice to have Regulus alone for awhile. Though dinner had been served, she figured they could always grab a bite when they made their way back to the party. Knowing how this affair went, it would be going on for some time well into the night -- it had only just begun, after all, but Augustus had allowed them to socialize and entertain as they saw fit.

Vespara at least had the advantage of knowing every nook, cranny, and hideaway in the mansion. There were plenty of places they could escape to if they needed, but at least here, she was technically still at the party. The gardens were available for guests to enjoy -- that she happened to know a few private spots that most others didn't was simply an advantage that worked to her favor. They wouldn't be bothered, and, as Regulus said -- so long as they were quiet, nobody would know or care what they got up to.

As he lifted her chin, Vespara arched a brow in challenge, before letting her lips curl into a smile. The tips of her fangs gleamed amid the low-lights of the garden. Reaching up, she let her hands run up his chest, giving a happy little sight. She remembered what he felt like beneath all those layers. "Let's find out," she purred, gripping onto the lapels of his suit, and pulling him down towards her. She captured his lips in a kiss, holding tight to the fabric of his jacket. Vespara let her tongue trace over his lips, encouraging them top art, so she might lure out his tongue, and deepen their embrace. She had no intention of being coy tonight, and had wanted his lips and body pressed against her own since the first.

Now that they were here, it was time for a proper greeting. She wanted him to know how she had missed him since they had last parted, and how pleased she was that he was there. Maybe things had gotten off to a rocky start with her fathers; maybe she'd been a little horrified by Vincenzo's line of questioning -- but right now, it was just the two of them, far from prying eyes.

He said he could be quiet...Maybe she'd put that to the test.

---
Eloisa was only too happy to lean into Romeo as he ran his hands down her sides, and held onto her hips. She hoped he liked what he felt--because leaning up into him, just so, certainly made her night. Getting to gaze up those stormy grey eyes, getting to have a few moments of his time all to herself. Certainly, they had been together since the start of the party, but this was the first time there wasn't a crush of people just around the corner, or taking up Romeo's time and attention. The cover of night, and the weeping willow, made for a perfect setting -- and Eloisa Puttanesca was going to take full advantage of it.
.
"There were some surprising choices. For the Clan oozing money, a few looked like their suits had seen better nights, or were repeats from the years prior. However, there was one gentleman at the party who was devilishly handsome, cultured, and exceedingly sexy..." She purred up at him, pressing herself all the closer against him. "I could hardly keep my eyes off him," she mused with a wink, running the tips of her claws down the back of his neck.

"I'm glad you've enjoyed yourself, bello, and it hasn't been a complete burden," she spoke, a small shiver running up her spine as he kissed her palm and her wrist. Oh, her stomach was a flutter, but she didn't mind-- his close proximity was something to be savored, and she had every intention of doing so. She wouldn't rush this moment... even if it couldn't last for long. "In that case, I'm more than happy to help, Signore." And oh, she definitely had a few ideas. Things that, hopefully, he might enjoy--especially as they were hidden beneath the gentle fronds of the willow.

Gods, how did she get so lucky? Everything he said was like a poem, and yet, he always sounded so genuine. She had dressed fine with him in mind, wanting, and hoping, to please his senses, and to at least, be a pleasant memory for when they inevitably had to part ways. She hadn't known she'd get to spend so much time upon his arm, and oh, she was already a glutton for more. "Ah, bello Machiavelli-- you're going to put me to blush with such pretty words," she smiled, brightly, obviously chuffed by the compliments. When he placed her hand back upon his neck, she gave him another caress, before letting her hands run over his shoulders. "But I suppose fair is fair. If you're going to put a little color on my cheeks, perhaps I can do the same for you..." Since they'd met, she had been so good, so lady-like ... but even Eloisa had her limits. He'd given her every sign of his interest, and she was going to dive in... whether he was ready, or not.

Tracing a hand down his shoulder, she tangled her fingers around his tie, before pulling him down to her level. One arm was still wrapped around his neck, while the other held his tie firm. Without warning, she stood upon her heeled tiptoes and pressed her lips against his, giving him a very friendly, very inviting, kiss.

---

Ricco was only too happy to feel the touch of Rain's hand against his. With their fingers laced together, he took advantage of what he could touch, caressing between Rain's fingers, grateful for any contact. He did let his leg press against Rain's own -- no one who passed would be able to tell, and the closeness felt nice.

It really had been too long since they'd last been together. The Koenig Head had not made it easy but Ricco had prevailed. Keeping Rainier away, intentionally or not, might not have played as well into their favor as they may have hoped -- for the longer he went without being able to gaze upon the red-head, or savor his kisses, the more sour his mood became. He would have been much more generous had his mood had been improved--but the Koenig Head and Ricco had finally come to a satisfactory agreement Ricco would keep tabs on the Milliner's he agreed to send over to the Koenig's, to ensure they weren't simply fed to the wolves. A few were young enough to be molded as needed, and a few others would at least help them in terms of business and finances, as well as use their political sway to stir up a little need for their trade. There were other arrangements as well, and a few promised investments but the deal was done. While Rain could still take jobs for the Koenig's, it would be his choice and decision alone to do so, if requested--ultimately, he was his own man, and could make his own choices in terms of his work.

Ricco felt a bit of relief when Rain assured he'd likely have a bit of time now that he'd returned. He knew that emergencies or pressing needs could crop up any time -- it was the nature of the Giovanni and their respective work--but if all went well, they'd both have a little free time on their hands. "Excellent," he turned his head to gaze upon him, reaching that hand up to press a kiss against his knuckles. They were quite alone at present -- most of the party goers had either found their own private corners, or were now happily enjoying the offered food closer to the house. "I'm been quite eager for your return, and look forward to picking up where he ended," he agreed, allowing a small, feral smile to cross his lips.

Oh yes, he remembered exactly how they'd left things...

"Like you, unless something urgent or pressing comes up, my next few nights are open and, with any luck, all yours." It would be the starts of their life together without the Koenig head hanging over it. Ricco could hardly believe that soon he'd get to see him night after night, day after day... He'd never shared his unlife with anyone outside of immediate family, and even then, he let them take over the mansion and kept his personal life a bit more private. It would be a change, but if there was anyone he wanted to share his world with, it was the Koenig sitting next to him.

"I do have something for you. I can give it to you here, or once we're back home." Besides his work with the Koenig Head, Ricco's next order of business while Rain had been away was to find something special. A little token of his love, of his affection, of his desire to keep him permanently in his life. Of course, they were already engaged, but this would at least make it a little more official -- and would please his old-fashioned sensibilities.

Yayoi

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