Reunited (Ruphhausin and Jez)

[Jez]

She had spent half an hour staring at the clothing that lined her closet as she tried to decide what to wear. Nothing in there had suited her mood. She thought of wearing something plain and black, but she knew that her friends would consider it a bit morbid for such an occasion. She knew that there would be so many questions about what she had been up to since she had moved away, and why she had returned. She knew they would feign interest in whatever she said, just hoping to get some little tidbit to later whisper about behind her back. That's how it was with most of the women in that circle.


Finally, she had settled on the red one that hugged her curves like a second skin, paired with a lace thong and her favorite Louboutin heels. She knew that there would be no children at the party so there was no need to worry about what would be appropriate. Besides, what was the fun in going if she didn't get a few husbands in trouble. When she arrived she had made the round, making polite conversation with people and pretending to have fun. A few of her old friends' wives shot dirty glances at her as she threw her arms around the men giving them hugs that lingered too long for the women's comfort. She listened as they told her about the little angels that they left with the sitter and how amazing the kids really were. It was quickly becoming tedious so she decided to make a quick retreat. She found her way to the large french doors that lead outside to the yard and slipped quietly through them.


As she stood there looking over the glittering blanket of snow that covered the rest of the ground outside the patio she tried to remember why she had accepted the invitation in the first place. It was no secret that Kat hated the holidays. All of the hypocrisy and forced merriment had turned her against it in her teenage years. Normally, she would have made an excuse to get out of it, but Penelope had blindsided her outside of Whole Foods. Before Kat could even think of a reply, she had told her the time and date and scurried off with phone in hand. She was still kicking herself for not backing out.


It had begun to snow again as Katarina Whitmore stepped out further onto the large stone patio with her clutch and drink in hand. She drew in a deep breath and watched how it frosted as she exhaled. The cold had never bothered her. She had actually missed it after she had moved away. Now, she was back, for a month at least while she took some time off before starting her new dream job. She sat the drink down on the short wall that lined the outer perimeter of the patio and opened her clutch. She pulled out a small vintage silver cigarette case and matching lighter. She opened it, taking out one of the imported clove kreteks and lit it. She placed the case and lighter back in her clutch and closed it, laying it next to the glass she was about to pick back up.


She took another hit off her kretek, and slowly exhaled the smoke. The world outside was so quiet and still and peaceful. The party's sounds were reduced to a little more than a murmur that she could easily block out. She drew the glass to her mouth, taking a small gulp of the scotch it held. For a moment, she could hear the laughter and music grow louder before it was quieted again. Someone else had decided to join her.

 

[Ruphhausin]

"Hello, Kat."

David Anton Massicott had no intention of any kind of formality with the object of his desire, though he refrained from anything more intimate. Katarina Marie Whitmore was still, as she had been some time ago, a magnificently beautiful young woman. He sipped his own single malt bourbon slowly, his notoriously high tolerance for alcohol having the source of amazement at the party as he was still nursing the same glass. He mastered holding it to his lips, taking a taste but never really drinking, to make it look like he drank more than he did. The tolerance being high was true, but he never liked getting drunk nor trying. He especially intended not to after Penelope, in her standard chatterbox way, had informed him that Katarina was going to be there that night.

Dressed in a custom tailored tux complete with a seasonal but tasteful cummerbund, he moved closer to her. He had spent the time between when she left and now becoming a man of means himself. It wasn't until his grandfather died that he accepted his place in his family's business, but in that time he made his own money. His intense green eyes and dark brown hair just added to his having the perfect physique that many women enjoyed, the right point between lithe and muscular. He moved to where she could see him, the smell of her cigarette not bothering him.. but reminding him of other times.

"Miss me?"

He was stern as he spoke, not being big on the holidays either.. but then, she was partly the reason that was true. He only accepted his invitation because she was going to be there, and because it would give him the opportunity to get things going that should have been before.

 

[Jez]

That voice. The second that he uttered the first syllable her heart stopped. A smile quickly curled upon her crimson lips. "Hello, David." When her gaze fell upon him, she was shocked. She had expected to see the same shy boy that he was when she had left. Surprisingly, all of that had changed. He was a man now with an air of confidence he had not possessed all those years ago. "I could ask you the same." She answered cheekily.

She took another drag as she turned to face him fully, Turning her face slightly away from him as she exhaled. Even in her heels, he was still taller than she was. When she met his gaze a shiver ran down her spine. She could not explain it but there was something more than just a simple shift in confidence at play here. It intrigued Kat enough that she had forgotten all about the dreadful party inside for the moment. Several of the guests had certainly not forgotten about her, especially after seeing David slip out the same set of doors. It was clear that a couple of women were interested in more than just gossip. They stared daggers at her for capturing the attention of the most impressive single man at the party. Penelope and the others tried to look inconspicuous as they watched the interaction between them.

"I'm surprised to see you here." She lifted the glass to her lips and finished the remaining contents of it before setting it back down. Her hand moved, gently brushing her deep auburn fringe aside. "I thought you weren't a fan of these parties." Part of her wondered why he really had come. She had not seen him when she had arrived earlier so she naturally assumed that she was the reason. Now all she wanted was to hear him say it. Her eyes sparkled with a devilish little glint. All he had to do was look at her to know what it was she was waiting for. That was one thing about her that had not changed.

 

[Ruphhausin]

"I am not a fan of these kinds of parties, not in the least. There are only two reasons I am here. The first, to watch and listen to all of the sad women who think their little games can win a real man like me over. Second, to see you."

David wasn't about to beat around any bush, as he had come too far from that shy younger man in the last few years. He saw clearly that Kat was surprised at a lot of things, his demeanor for one. He wasn't an egotist, but he damn well knew he looked good in his tux. But then, that was what both making your own mark and embracing a more active and intense lifestyle could do for someone. He smiled very warmly, seeing clearly that she was very much off her game in ways. That pleased him, as she wasn't at all dealing with the same guy she left some time ago. She was as breathtaking as ever, but this wasn't the game she was used to where he was concerned.

"I heard from Penelope that you were back in town, and you know how she is...."

He smiled, as he knew she understood very well what he was saying.. and implying. Penelope had never heard the word no from most people, even when she had to guilt others into things at times. However, he also was implying that he was very glad to see her again, which was true. But the way he said it, the way he had yet to move closer as he said it, totally shattered any idea she may have had this was the old David she was talking to. He sipped his bourbon, something that would most certainly hammer home the fact that she was looking at a much different man, one who went after what he wanted, and made certain to get what he wanted. Of course, he also was reasonable.. to a point, and made that clear as well.

"So whom did you expect to see here tonight, or did you just humor Penelope by showing up and kill in that dress?"

 

[Jez]

Kat could not help but smile even if it wasn't fully genuine. He had given her the answer she had wanted, but not as she had expected. He certainly wasn't the David she remembered and that only intrigued her more. She had not bothered to press the few people she had talked to for details about anyone else she had been so well acquainted with before she left, so she had no idea what had brought about these changes. All she knew was that he was different.


“Yeah, I do.” She chuckled and nodded slightly toward the window where they stood, still watching the exchange.. “It seems she will never change.”

Penelope had always been a gossip, and the tale of this little encounter would be told and retold several times before the weekend was through. Kat didn't mind. In fact, she was used to it. Around there everyone talked even if they did not get the facts completely straight. At that moment, it seemed those same women who glared at her because their husbands couldn't take their eyes off her now glared at her for a much different reason. Jealousy.

“I would have said yes if she had told me you would be here” she paused. That statement alone would have had him blushing in the old days. “, but she simply caught me off guard instead. I just picked this because it was a festive color.” She chuckled knowing damn well that wasn't the only reason. It was her own little private revenge on Penelope for making her come to the little soiree. She knew that the next day she would get texts and calls complaining about the outfit she had chosen to wear and her lack of decency for wearing it.

She took a final drag of her cigarette, her gaze dropping for a moment as she dropped it on the ground and crushed it beneath her shoe. She looked back into his eyes, the sly seductive look she gave him would have made any other man melt but he seemed unphased, making her confidence falter slightly. She knew that she would have to up her game if she wanted to get him in the palm of her hand just like he used to be.

 

[Ruphhausin]

David's smile was quite genuine at what Kat said, because he could see the falter in her manner and eyes. For most men, they wouldn't pick up on it, especially the old David wouldn't have. This David did, and he could see that she was most certainly noticing his new manner.. among other things. He liked that she was off balance, seeing it as a delicious change from the way she usually was. He sipped his bourbon, nodding as she spoke about Penelope. She didn't actually mean any real harm.. that was what Denise and her "swarm" were all about. They still had their looks (for the most part), but Kat hat a lot more. She got out of the place, and most likely did more than they ever did. Which was why they were jealous of her just for talking to David. Soon enough, Kat would learn about some of the more... tame... things he had been up to. When she said what she did about if she had know he was going to be at the party, his eyes sparkled as he replied calmly.

"Well, that pleases me to hear, as I always knew you liked me more than most of the other guys."

It wasn't the statement of a shy young teen, but of a much more assured man of the world. It was something David had been watching so many others realize and be awe-struck by. Quite a few of Kat's peers who had laughed and made light of him (many downright insulting him) now were jealous of her even talking to him. That most likely had as much of an effect as anything he did or said.. or didn't do or didn't say. He stepped closer to her, smiling as he wanted the women whom he knew were watching and either drooling or losing their minds it wasn't one of them he was moving closer to. He smoothed a lock of her hair back, a just that side of innocent gesture as he looked into her eyes.

"Let's hope you stick around and get to know as much as you need to."

He didn't draw away, making it very clear that she would be getting to know an entirely new David. That was, if she really was wanting to get to know him again. He was betting she did, and he very slowly backed away from her just a bit. He smiled in a way that she never would have seen the old David do, and he drank the last of his bourbon before he started to back away.

"Yes.. it is good and festive to see people... even when they are not who they used to be. Kind of thrilling.. to learn who they are now."

 

[Jez]

The little remark hit its mark, causing her cheeks to redden ever so slightly. It was something that she never realized he knew, and if he didn't it was a damn good guess. The simple phrasing of it drew her attention the most. “That pleases me” would stick in her mind as she watched him move closer. For some reason it made her heart race. His eyes remained locked on hers, making it harder for her to hide even the most insignificant change in her expression. A shiver ran involuntarily through her.





Kat could not have explained where it came from but the urge to nuzzle against his hand was strong. She did her best to push the thought from her head without revealing any emotion. She gave a slight nod. When he stepped back a wave of relief rushed over her, though she played it off as a reaction to the cold breeze that had kicked up. Her throat felt incredibly dry. She turned away from him for a second, her clutch in hand as she turned back toward him. That few seconds was all it took to get her game face back on.





“Well I will be here for a couple of weeks at least.” She said with a grin as she regained her confidence. Her hand moved with the swift precision of a snake as it struck it's prey, landing on his shoulder as she looked up into his eyes.



“I'm sure we can find some time to get to know each other all over again. Why don't we head back inside.” She turned and reached for her empty glass. “ I could use another drink.”





She started to walk past him, watching the women scatter as she moved closer to the doors. Kat did not allow herself to think that he wouldn't follow after her like a love sick puppy. If she had, it might have broke her down right then and there.

 

[Ruphhausin]

"Well, I was planning to call it an early night in just a few.. however, as you are the most refreshing and stimulating female here tonight, another drink wouldn't hurt either of us.. I suppose."

David was toying with Kat a bit, making it very clear that the "love sick puppy" he was in his teens before she left was gone. He did move to take hold of the door and open it, smiling and nodding to her as he gestured with his hand still holding the tumbler his bourbon was in. As he nudged her in having moved his hand behind her and placing it and the glass against the small of her back, he was in position. He was in control even if she didn't accept it, but it didn't go unnoticed by a few of the women and more than a few of the men. The men were not saying anything, their jealousy of David keeping them quiet. However, many who also had followed Kat along like he had were silently enjoying it.

David wasn't being cruel, rather he was asserting a new being that he had become in the span of time that Katarina Whitmore had been gone from his life. He wasn't Davy M. as she had referred to him at one time anymore, as David Anton Massicott was the man he was. When they reached the bar, he ordered for her, making certain to get her the right kind of scotch that she drank. That was something they had in common now. She was drinking single malt scotch, and he was enjoying Kentucky Straight Bourbon, also high quality single malt. He didn't let her speak, taking that away from her without any change in tone or any need to deepen his voice. He didn't have to push an idea he was more assertive, because it just was the reality for her now.

He handed her back her glass, now full again, and clinked his to hers. He nodded, making it clear she needed to take a sip to fortify herself. It was subtle, but it was there. He could see that she was at least surprised and not prepared for the new him, and his silent toast was to that truth. He sipped his bourbon, taking in that so many who were not too blind by jealousy were picking up that the David they now were seeing took up a great deal more of the space in the room just by his presence now.

 

[Jez]

There was something about his demeanor evoked strange feelings inside of her. It was as if she suddenly needed to capture his attention and affection instead of assuming that she had them as she always had with him, or any man for that matter. After a moment of assessing them, she usually knew just how to play them. It was her talent. Her core. Now she was off balance.





“Thank you.” She replied. The words were tinged with the slightest hint of sarcasm. While the comment may have held some sincerity, she felt the sting of the barb. The feel of his hand, still grasping the glass, against her back as he led her inside made her even more aware of all of the eyes upon them. She tried to realign herself, to bring back the swagger that she always had, but it wasn't working where he was concerned.


She flashed that confident smile at those whose gaze she caught as they walked past Penelope and her gaggle of friends. When they reached the bar, she set the empty glass down. Her eyes met that of the bartender and as she parted her lips to speak, David spoke up. Her gaze shifted back to David's face. He barely seemed to notice that she was watching him intently. As she studied him, she could not help but wonder exactly what he was playing at.


Her fingers gently brushed his as she took her glass back. It was a move that would have shaken him before but she saw no signs of that boy anymore. She clinked glasses, and raised the glass to her lips. As she took a sip of it, her eyes remained locked on him. That feeling began to creep back in. It was as if he had cast a spell on her. Kat tried to play it off as nothing more than the alcohol making her feel this sensation but it wasn't. He had truly changed and she wasn't sure how to handle it.


“So tell me, what have you been up to all of these years.” Her head cocked slightly to the side as she smiled. Her fingertip traced slowly around the rim of her glass as she awaited his answer. She had chosen the words carefully, making it more a demand than a simple question. There had to be a way of getting control back and if there was, she was going to use it.

 

[Ruphhausin]

David was very aware Katarina was even more off balance than before, and it amused him. He had no intention of being cruel, but knowing that he had Katarina Whitmore so totally off her game that she was now the one on a "fishing expedition" as far as he was concerned was delightful. He had a quarter smile at the corner of his mouth, his head tilted as he repeated her demand but in a way to make it clear he was treating it like a question.

"What have I been up to all of these years?"

The way he pronounced each word, each syllable even, was like he was moving them around in his mouth and tasting them. Pausing, he sipped his bourbon before even seeming to answer, as if he was enjoying a bite of a delicious meal and needed to wash what he had chewed down. In satisfaction again of the taste of the excellent bourbon, he looked her right in the eyes. As he spoke, he decided to press how badly she wanted to know with his tone and body language as he leaned in a little closer. His tone was direct and almost conspiratorial, his free hand brushing ever so slightly against hers as he gave what he intended to give.

"The answer to that is going to take much more than a polite conversation at a party neither of us really want to be at for much longer, Katarina."

He pronounced her name in such a way as if he was telling it to her for the first time, making it a word both of meaning but at the same time not the same weight or position as when he was younger. He already knew he was the one making things move and flow, and though he didn't make it obvious he knew, he was giving her just enough to see how willing she was to get the "advantage" back, or at least try. He also wondered if she would realize that he had yet to look down at her lovely chest, which he had already stolen glances so discreet she would never have picked up on them. He knew damn well she wasn't wearing a bra, and that pleased him no end but he hid it totally.

 

[Jez]

Kat was an expert at hiding her frustration from those around her, yet tonight a tiny hint of it showed when he answered the question. She knew he was only toying with her for all those years she had done the same. It was all part of the game. Instead, she gave a slight nod as if she was indifferent to it all. Still, the way he said her name, Katarina, that left an indelible mark. "If you will excuse me for a moment." A slight polite smile appeared on her lips as she looked over in the direction of where the bathroom was. Before he could say a word, she started to walk toward it.

It was a calculated move and not without risks. If he left while she was gone, she would simply write him off as a waste of her time. If he stayed, he would see that her composure was regained. Penelope tried to stop her as she walked passed, but Kat just told her "In a moment." making it seem like she really needed to use the facilities. Once inside, she quickly locked the door and laid her clutch down on the bathroom vanity next to the crystal handsoap dispenser. She placed her palms against the cool smooth surface and slowly drew in a deep breath before exhaling it. All the while she stared at her reflection in the mirror.

"Get it together," she told herself. She was not going to let a man like him get the best of her. But he wasn't a man like him anymore. He was nothing like she remembered. As much as she hated the way that he threw her off-kilter, she wanted to see more. There was an assertiveness to his behavior that drew her in. It wasn't the cocky bullshit that most guys her age exhibited. It was something more mature and refined. After a couple of seconds of putting together the faintest hint of a plan, she touched up her lipstick and unlocked the door. She wasn't sure what to expect when she opened it, but she could not wait to find out.

 

[Ruphhausin]

While Kat was in the bathroom, several of Kat's "peers" from high school decided to try and descend on him. It only mildly irritated but mostly amused him, especially with their blatantly transparent attempts to flirt and come on to him. While the former were being coy and playful, the later were no longer as good at it as they thought they were. A couple were outright pathetic, especially as their husbands and significant others were rolling their eyes. Mostly, he was being reserved and gentle, but when the true former "queen bee" (in her own mind) made her play, he shut her down upfront and in style. If Kat didn't see any of it, Penelope would be there to attempt to give Kat the juicy details of what she saw even though she didn't hear what he said to each of them rather just say he obviously wasn't interested in any of them.

Some of the men gave him subtle nods and gestures of respect, which David just nodded at. He didn't intend to be cruel with Kat, rather he was pushing the right buttons. When she learned how his last few years had been going, and what really happened to that love sick kid who was now the man that had her wrapped around one finger without doing much at all.. yet, it would shock her. Unlike most of the women at the part, with few exceptions that didn't interest him either, Katarina Whitmore was clearly the only woman that interested David Anton Massicott and ever will.

He did, after each one, subtly look to see were Kat was, but no one really noticed that because he was so casual about it. Mostly, though, he sipped his bourbon and slowly move closer to the end of the bar. Yes, it was near where the restrooms were, but it was also near the door to leave as well. When she did finally leave the restroom, she would notice him waiting for her, drink in with both of their drinks. He stole a glance at the clock behind the bar, making it seem as if he were double checking his watch in a certain way. Subtle, but not at all dismissive of her.. unless she meant to think so.

"Ah.. you are back, Kat."

 

[Jez]

Before she could even get clear of the doorway, Penelope was there ready to give the full report of what she saw. It seemed the recent activities trumped her desire to find out every little gory detail of what transpired between her and David outside. As Kat listened, she kept her best poker face on. She did not know if he was watching but if he was, she would not give him the satisfaction of knowing how much she relished his reaction to the others. It made her quite happy to hear that he showed no interest in them. Even if he had caught her off guard and her game was off, he still seemed quite intent on spending the time with her.

Before any questions could be asked, she politely excused herself and headed back toward David. She passed the last girl who walked away from him in a huff, only to be stared at is she had just murdered the woman's child. It wasn't Kat's fault that she had tried and failed to capture his attention so she refused to feel the least bit bad about how destroyed the woman's confidence looked. It only made Kat more determined than ever to get herself back in control.

She watched him glance at the clock. She smiled to herself. Not only had he waited, but it also seemed he may have been a bit anxious for her return. At least that was what she told herself as she strolled toward him. " I see you waited for me." She smiled that same smile that always seemed to leave him a bit flustered as she reached for her glass. She wrapped her fingers around in and lifted it as if she planned to take a drink, but didn't yet. "I wasn't sure you would be here after that statement about neither of us wanting to be here much longer." She said, before taking a sip. Her head cocked slightly as she watched his face for a few seconds. Her gaze then shifted toward the door and slowly back to him.

 

[Ruphhausin]

If Kat expected to see any kind of trace of the old David, she was really going to be surprised. It wasn't that he was confirming what she was attempting to say or even what she said, it was in how he wistfully grinned, giving that light shrug he did, before he answered her. His tone, look, posture, and even how he held his glass was a waterfall of confidence and ease, and it was something even other men would take note of. He softly sighed, almost a laugh but not really at her, as he gave her a bit of what was hinted at before when he spoke about what she remembered.

"Neither of us wants to be here at this party much longer, that is still true, Katarina. I simply refuse to leave you as you came, unaccompanied."

It wasn't any attempt to imply or say anything in the manner of I am doing you a favor by waiting, as that was not his pursuit. That would be petty and cruel and she in no way deserved that, nor was he ever going to do that. She hadn't fucked him, humiliated him, and ruined his life, rather he had already taken that slice of poetic justice for himself. Katarina was much different, but he made it clear she was at "arm's length" for a reason without saying it. There wasn't a defensiveness in his manner, rather he was clearly "on the offensive" in the sense that he was in control. Looking at the clock, his wistful smile was charm and cool, but not in an "ice king" mood. It was, in fact, very similar to many of the looks that she herself had given him and other males over the years.. one that was like a banner or a marque sign in Times Square in New York City. It was saying "come and get me.... if you want to try", a blend of gentle rebuff and baiting that was much more tantalizing because he had what she wanted even if she didn't know all of what that was. As he sipped his bourbon, he said, with not a trace of sarcasm, gloating, or glee, his next statement that he clearly could see in her eyes.

"Besides.. I sense you came here looking for something you didn't find elsewhere."

 

[Jez]

The words came as a bit of a surprise to Kat. It was obvious that he could leave with his choice of any of the women in attendance so why did he keep playing this game with her. Maybe it was designed to make her drop her guard so that he could exact revenge for all those times she tormented him. That idea was dismissed rather quickly though. He had never been the cruel type. He was clearly toying with her. It was not something that she was used to, nor did she particularly like it. Either way she was in too deep to simply slink away. "Is that a fact?" She chuckled almost dismissively.

The next statement disarmed her a bit. Why had she come to the party that night? She hated this sort of gathering. Even if Penelope had insisted, she still could have made an excuse or simply not showed up. It was not like her social life would have been completely destroyed by not attending this party. It was a question that she could not answer and that would eat at her as she stood there with that same smile plastered on her face. She was in defense mode again and quickly began to lock down her expressions as best she could.

"A simple diversion. That's all" She said finishing the liquid in her glass and setting it back down. "And where will you be accompanying me to?" Her eyebrow raised as she studied his face. Even if he had no intention of doing anything unseemly, she wasn't going to simply give in to it or giving him the upper hand. The game of cat and mouse was far from over. Admittedly, she was quite curious to hear his answer. Despite all of her mixed feelings, she found his confidence a turn on.

 

[Ruphhausin]

"Simple diversions, as with simple pleasures and pursuits, often lead to complex attachments and entanglements, my dear Katarina."

He was sensing that very pleasing energy from Katarina, the one that told him that she was turned on but also guarded for the moment as well. His tone was still as confident as he had been from the first moment he had spoken to her, not at all phased or off balance. It wouldn't do for that to happen, nor for her to just immediately turn into a fawning puddle. He didn't want that either. He read a lot of things in her face and eyes, especially how she was mixed on what to think and feel in many ways. That just came with the territory where she was concerned, as he had long ago deduced she wasn't certain about everything she wanted and needed. She needed a strong hand to help her, and he was letting her just see the surface of the new man he was.

"First off, though, I think it is a matter of mutual accompaniment, Katarina. Clarification always is a necessity in many things, such as your question earlier about what I have been up to since we last saw each other.. or was it the last time we saw each other. I know it was the last time you saw me."

He was being only a touch cryptic in what he was saying, as he was very aware of what she had been up to the last few years. It was her, Katarina, who didn't know about what he, David, had been doing and experiencing. He was, however, leaving a door open for her to ask and pursue more, not at all playing any games really. If there was a game, he was using hers to move her where she would allow him to pull her closer. It wasn't that he didn't want her, rather it was going to be much more on even ground.. at first. He then shifted his attention on things momentarily, touching on something she knew well now from that time they were apart.

"I think it is a matter of perception, don't you think? A simple diversion can open up opportunities for so much exploration.. and then what seems to be an easy solution causes complex problems and convoluted situations.. The last couple of years especially, I have learned that the simple is much more sophisticated than people believe. If you like, I can give you a ride back where you are staying.. unless this party is simple enough for you?"

Not a trace of fawning or the puppy dog of old, it was rather a simple invitation to something she perhaps already wanted as it were.

 

[Jez]

Kat had been accused of overthinking things many times in her life. It was just the kind of person that she was. She analyzed things that most people would not give a second thought to, even more so now that she had a string of failed relationships under her belt. There was something about the way he said that it was the last time she saw him that set her mind whirring. It was such an odd thing to say to someone. She knew that deep down he wasn't some crazy stalker or anything but the comment had her wondering his true motives for uttering the words.

She was growing tired of the fake laughter and sideways glances that seemed to surround them. If it had not been for running into him, she would have already found a reason to slip out of there. She had put in enough of an appearance for one night and was ready to head back to the house she had rented for the next month and a half. While normally she would have found a comfortable hotel to take up residence in, giving up a certain level of privacy went along with it. Instead, she had found a place that was going on the market and instead made a very generous offer to use the home for the time being. She had learned that money always seemed to motivate people into giving in to requests.

"I think it would be the perfect time to take our leave. That will give our hostess time to share any gossip about us with the other guests." The comment was not meant to be cruel because this was what life was like there. Everyone talked. Whether or not the information they spread was true was always a guessing game. Once they were in a more secluded setting she intended to get to the bottom of the comment that was still stuck in her brain.

 

[Ruphhausin]

"Yes, I think you are quite correct. Besides.. we both only were giving Penelope time to have enough to share."

He included in that as, though they did have issues with her, neither of the two of them had malice toward Penelope. Were it not for her, really, some people would never get even a smidgen of factual information about anything. Penelope, in fact, let others assume things, and if they guessed right it was good for them and if wrong it was the egg on their faces. He took her arm, not asking, and led her to the door. He didn't have to look around, as he knew damn fucking well that three quarters of the room were watching them head for the door. They had graced the rest of them with their presence, and while some appreciated it, others were envious. That wasn't David's problem nor Katarina's, as it wasn't his fault he and she were leaving together.

Pausing to get anything she may have left at the coat room, he waited for her if that was the case. If not, then they would be going straight to the door where he would claim his car.

"Yes, sir. Be right back, Mr. Massicott."

Standing there, waiting, he was very much enjoying the weather, the time of year a bit perfect for seeing her again. He kept hold of her arm, not clinging rather the way his arm was around hers, his hand on her wrist, was saying something entirely different. It was to reassure her, letting her know that, yes, he really was there and standing with her.

"Where should I take you? Where you are renting, or somewhere else for now?"

He knew that him knowing that she wasn't staying at a hotel that was her usual style would be interesting for her to hear, as he didn't pester her for detail one yet.

 

[Jez]

One thing that Kat was quickly noticing about David was the lack of narcissism that most men in his position displayed. When he took her arm, it wasn't domineering like most men tried to be. There was something more organic and natural to his actions. The way that he took her arm showed her that. It was hard to put her finger on exactly what it was about that simple action. All she knew for certain was that she liked it. She gathered her coat from the coatroom, not bothering to slip it on after being inside that stuffy room. She simply slung it over her free arm as they headed out the door.

As the two stood waiting for his car, she looked at him. It wasn't just a cursory glance. She really studied him. Everything about him was precise from the fit of his clothing to the cut of his hair. No detail was overlooked. He suddenly seemed so much more mature and together than she had thought possible. She also took notice of the way the man spoke to him. So much about him had changed. He was hardly the man she grew up with. Her mind then circled around to the question she had. It was not the right moment to pursue it, but before the night was over she would have her answer.

Kat was so lost in her thoughts that she almost missed his question. "Do you have somewhere else in mind?" She asked, pondering where he would take her given the opportunity. She knew practically anywhere would give them a chance for a more intimate conversation than around all the prying eyes at the party. A part of her feared that if she did say to take her home that would be the end of it. She wasn't ready to part company just yet. She stared up at him, her eyes searching his as if to seek direction from him.

 

[Ruphhausin]

The fact that she asked that question made him see that she was very much responding, and that the coy banter of the night was right on target. He looked into her eyes, seeing that she really wanted him to take her somewhere other than where she was staying. It was especially true as she had not made any inquiry as to how he knew she went against style to rent the house. He didn't even have to "seize" her arm like narcissistic men who were in reality overcompensating, his simple movement to take her arm and wrist to help her go where she already wanted to be was enough. He was confident and calm, smiling as he gave her his answer which she would very much love.

"In fact, my dear Katarnia, I do have somewhere in mind for us to go.. where we can be quite assured of no one intruding on our conversation."

His car was soon brought to them, an Aston Martin DBS Superleggera Volante with right hand drive and swan doors, and he opened the left side door for her to get in. The valet was on that side in a moment, nodding as David slipped him a generous tip. Very soon, he was behind the wheel on the right side, and driving away from the party. He couldn't help notice they were watched the entire time, and it pleased him as much as Kat wanting him to take her else where.. with him.

 

[Jez]

His assurance made Kat tingle with anticipation. She had hardly noticed that the valet had gone but she certainly noticed when he returned. She had expected David to drive a typical high-end luxury vehicle, but the car the valet returned with was not that. Its sleek lines and impeccable styling made it more of a work of art. She was impressed and it showed. She smiled at David as he opened the door and softly said "Thank you" before getting in. The difference in David was becoming clearer with every piece of the puzzle that he was providing.

While many things had changed, there were still traces of that same David she once knew. His manners were one of them. Despite all that he had clearly accomplished in the time she was away, he still seemed to have that down to earth quality that kept him from simply being an arrogant showoff. No, he was a different creature now, more sophisticated and astute. She knew there had to be much more to him that she had not seen, and Kat found herself wanting to find out all of it. It was more than just some latent physical attraction. She felt something more pulling her now but she could not figure out what it was. Perhaps soon she would learn the answer.

When he got into the car Kat turned slightly in her seat to face him, grinned and asked: " So where are you taking me, David?" The question was more than just the obvious asking about a location even if she had not intended it that way. It felt like the beginning of some strange journey. Maybe she had watched too many bad made for television movies in her lifetime but the night seemed to hold some sort of magic now that they had left the party.

 

[Ruphhausin]

As he drove the both of them away from, what he really and truly believed, was a very boring party, David stole a tilted look over to his right at Kat. She was never anything less than what he always knew her to be: a magnificently beautiful and multi-dimensional woman. What broke his heart for a time, like her leaving, was that she allowed herself to be "placed in a box" that didn't really fit her, and he always saw it. He had always seen there was much more to her than the hot slightly older teen and later college girl who "played the game better than anyone". It was all a way of defending herself, in ways, and he knew it better than anyone.

"While there are a number of meanings and answers to that question, my dear Katarina, right now I am taking you somewhere far more festive and fun than a party that has less life in it than in any of the Madam Tussauds. You need stimulation, excitement.. and a firm hand to show you how it is done."

He was both vague and direct at the same time with that statement, but he didn't leave her hanging like he had been the earlier part of the night. Rather, he shifted gears as smoothly as he did on his dual transmission. It did both auto and manual, and at eight speeds/gears he was already moving fast through the almost nonexistent traffic.

"We both could used real holiday fun.. just like the old days."

He was giving her a clue as to where they were headed, as he was mature and worldly with sill the exuberance of youth still in him to enough of a degree. He was heading in a familiar direction, somewhere that some people would be quite surprised to see them together.. and him in the lead like he obviously was now.

 

[Jez]

Kat did not realize how tense that the party had had her until the house was well in the rearview mirror. Even with the changes in David, she still felt very comfortable around him. Perhaps even more comfortable than she had been in the past if that was possible. He no longer mooned over her like some lovesick kid. Things were on a more level playing field, or at least that was what she had thought. How level is any playing field really? Someone always has the upper hand even if only in their own mind.


His answer to her question, while vague, did not seem to bother her. Instead, it set her mind ablaze with thoughts of where he could possibly mean. She did not really catch the firm hand comment, or at least on a conscious level. Her mind instead sifted through old memories of growing up in that town and what they used to consider fun. She simply gave a bit of a chuckle as she watched him whip through the streets with such agile driving.


Her gaze once again turned to him. The change had been quite remarkable and it left her wondering just what he had been through. It was then that the question fought its way back to the forefront of her brain. It distracted her from thinking about just where they might be heading. Finally, she had to ask. “So David” she paused, biting her lower lip much as she used to “what did you mean when you said at least the last time I saw you?” Since they were alone, he should have no trouble answering such a simple, straightforward question.

 

[Ruphhausin]

"Ah.. well, the world is a smaller place than you think, Kat. I have had little birdies who have told me things.. and I did spot you a couple of times when I was where you were at times. I was tempted to say something when I saw you at the airport in Seattle.. but you hadn't dumped that sycophant jerk yet."

David was being honest, and slowly being less vague. She deserved it, and he was rewarding her for her own open honesty. He was very much in love with her, and he was going to make her his. She was always the one he wanted, and he knew she wanted him as well. The reality was she was running to a degree, and he sensed in her confusion, fear, and denial as a motivating factor in how she "played games". There was no real malice in her, rather she like being pursued. Now, however, the tables were turned, but he was going to give her more than a dangling hook.

"I love how you wore red tonight. That dress absolutely was made for you... as most likely the silk underwear that you have under it as well."

He smiled, knowing she would be curious how he knew it was silk instead of the high thread cotton she used to wear. But then, he knew many things about her that would surprise her. He gunned the engine, taking the curves the way that he knew she liked, heading to a very familiar place for both of them. Tony's wasn't a dive, nor was it an overly swanky club. Rather, it was a place that anyone could go that mattered, and tonight she was going to see how much she mattered and how much he was going to matter to her for along time to come.

"I am glad you came though.. the old town isn't the same without you.. that is part of why I left myself."

 

[Jez]

It hadn't surprised her when he mentioned how small the world truly was now. When their parents were their age anonymity was easy. It wasn't so simple to find out what long lost friends, first loves, or bitter enemies were up to. Now a few simple keystrokes and you could catch up on anyone's life. Add to that the ability to travel on a whim and it was easy to run into anyone. Instantly she knew the jerk he was referring to. Richard, the English writer that she had wasted several months on. It was a thought she could not ruminate on for long. He was guiding her along with the same ease as he navigated the streets.

The compliment made her smile but the mention of silk caused her eyebrow to raise. "How did you guess?" She asked coyly. It was true. The thong she wore was, in fact, black silk trimmed in white lace at the top. He seemed to know much more about her than something he could easily find in an Instagram photo or Facebook post. While she did question it, she didn't see it as something to be troubled by. Perhaps it was a mixture of that warm feeling inside her from the scotch and the growing interest that she had in him that kept her from seeing what would have been a red flag to anyone else.

She felt her cheeks redden slightly. It wasn't like her to blush at a simple statement like that but something about the way that he said it that struck her. She was falling under his spell even if she could not figure out why. The pull to find out more was growing stronger as they neared their destination, a place that she would remember well. She studied his face and body language, trying to find some subtle clue that she may have missed as to why she found him so fascinating. Instead, she found herself noticing how meticulous his look was, every single detail well thought out and planned. Even the car he drove seemed to be a premeditated choice to draw her in and it was working.