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Post by Deleted on Mar 20, 2014 5:29:54 GMT -5
He was flustered at her offense. Had he said something wrong? He blinked several times as he watched her body tense, release, and become flustered at his words. "My sister uses her phone quite frequently to send me photos. Quality ones, at that. What is how one does a photo 'right,' if each person may perceive the objected of focus differently in their subjective view of 'good' or 'bad'?"
Running his hand along the back of his neck he was thoroughly confused. Shrugging that off he nodded. "Scruffy Marc, as you put it, is not professional as I would prefer." Following her as she marched off quite determined he followed, his hand clasped in hers firmly.
"Deadline?" He was not used to the term, nor what it meant. He had seasons in his life. Growth, Harvest, refinement. Enjoyment. Nothing to rush to as a deadline. Perhaps he would learn something new from this venture today.
Once their destination was met, Marc followed her command. Sitting and waiting was no chore after walking the brisk pace to the salon. It was interesting as he was used to a barber.
Watching the interaction between the two women was telling. Vicki certainly was connected in this city. And as this Karyn and her interacted, he noticed the warmth between the two women. But he did not quite like how Vicki had described him. Bushman was something entirely different than what he was. And mere minutes ago he had been a 'show pony.' Her descriptions certainly were colorful. He should seek out her bylines in the paper.
Once he was called over he walked to the station and sat, once again as laughter enveloped the area. He let the laughter die down before he answered. "Shorter. Layered. And this...gone or trimmed. My barber back home uses a straight edge." He shrugged as he was slightly out of his element in the feminine facility.
"I would prefer no. Not while my hair is being cut. I would prefer not to jerk my feet and get an eye poked out, Ma'am."
He glanced to Vicki seeking out the appropriate answer. Is this what women indulged in? Bawdy talk and multi-tasking?
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Post by Deleted on Mar 21, 2014 23:26:22 GMT -5
Vicki hadn’t meant to be mean to Marc when she initially talked to Karyn. Vicki had only been melodramatic with the hairdresser so she would take pity on Marc in his time of need. Vicki didn’t think Marc looked like a bushman either, but it was the best word picture she could come up with to describe Marc's plight on the spur of the moment. Plus, it got a laugh, especially from Vicki.
Vicki couldn’t get over how adorable Marc looked, dressed in a cape and seated in the middle of a room full of elderly women. For a moment, she imagined the group being his harem, and she pictured Marc as a sultan. The comment he made to Karyn and the helpless look he shot Vicki afterward made Vicki laugh out loud. He was definitely uncomfortable.
“We’ll have to pass on the pedicure today, Karyn,” she called to her friend, coming to Marc’s rescue. “We’re in a hurry. Maybe next time, dear.”
Karyn flashed Marc a toothy grin. “There will be a next time, won’t there be, handsome?” she asked, using a straight-edged razor to cut his tresses. She thought Marc was adorable-looking, too. Leaning into him, she whispered in his ear to put him at ease. “Relax, okay? Vicki knows what she's doing. She brought you to the right stylist. Trust me. I’m going to take great care of you. You’re going to look fantastic for your picture, guaranteed.” The she added with a cackle, "By the way, nice sweater."
Karyn kept asking Marc questions as she worked, making sure he was totally satisfied with her labor. Once she finished her task, she held a small mirror behind him and had him look at himself from all angles in the larger mirror before him.
Karyn beamed with pride. “So, what do you think, Mr. Marc?”
Meanwhile, Vicki heard the question and stood to take a peek. When she laid her eyes on the “new” Marc, she swooned and fell in love with him all over again.
"We'll be finished in about ten more minutes," Karyn told Vicki. "I need to give your man a shave." Then she whispered in Marc's ear again. "Do you want me to do just your face, or would you like for me to give you a bikini wax?"
She wiggled her eyebrows.
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Post by Deleted on Mar 22, 2014 1:29:30 GMT -5
Sitting there he was rather quiet and poised. Unsure if he'd ever been unsure before. And even when Vicki laughed at him, he shook his head. Was this really that comical? He needed a shave, a haircut, and badly. And considering none of the women had beards, he was mildly skeptical they knew what they were doing in that arena.
"If I don't die, of course there will be." He'd never had his hair razored before. Trimmed, cut, buzzed entirely off, or to a neat high and tight. Not razored. But her whispering got a nod in return and a gracious thanks.
As she queried him, he would respond turn to her. It was a solid back and forth peppered with laughter here and there. Considering how involved this had been he was glad Vicki had said no to the pedicure for him.
"It is fantastic. Thank you." As Vicki stood to get a peek he raised his brows to see if she liked it as well. Sitting back into the chair as directed he had to smirk slightly at her words. This broad was not going to get the best of him. "Thank you Karyn, but I maintain that myself. Quite well, as a matter of fact." He husked back to her as he raised one brow.
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Post by Deleted on Mar 23, 2014 20:19:35 GMT -5
Karyn was glad Marc was going to be a returning customer in the future, and she cackled at his comment about bikini waxing. His humor impressed her, but what impressed her more was the look in Vicki Vale’s eyes when she saw her staring at Marc. Her facial expression said it all. The woman had fallen hard for this man.
That’s when Karyn looked back at Marc -- I mean really looked at him. She saw the signs in him, too, but was he even aware of it? She could tell from the exchanges he and Vicki were giving each other that there was a physical attraction, but Karyn somehow knew there was a spiritual connection as well. She had no justification for her belief. She just . . . knew.
Yes, everyone in the salon thought Marc being there was humorous, but they were laughing with him, not at him. They thought he was absolutely adorable sitting in Karyn’s chair, all quiet and poised. And the looks he was giving Vicki every few moments were priceless! It was obvious what he was communicating, and that’s what was so funny! Marc didn’t get it, but everybody else in the shop did, and they couldn’t stop smiling and watching him to see what he’d do next. Talk about being the center of attention!
Karyn could sense Marc’s apprehension at her giving him a shave. “Don’t worry, handsome,” she said so everyone could hear her. “I’m going to use the same razor I used to cut your hair on your face. By the way, I’m Karyn Myers, not Lorena Bobbitt.”
The room broke out with laughter again. There was so much hooping and hollering that the music playing through the sound system couldn’t be heard over the roaring guffaws. One lady was laughing so hard that she almost fell out of her chair.
“Where the hell did you find this one?” Karen called to Vicki. “He’s definitely a keeper, I’ll tell you that!”
Even Vicki was having a good time, at Marc’s expense. She was glad he was being a good sport about everything.
Karyn started Marc’s shave by kicking back the chair so he was horizontal with the ground. Then she lathered his face and went to town, like an artist attacking a canvas with a paintbrush. The strokes were smooth and precise. It was probably one of the closest shaves she’d ever given in her career. Yes, she was doing her best for her friend, Vicki Vale.
When she finished, Karyn kept Marc in that position and covered his face with a warm, wet towel. “That’ll open up your pours,” she told him. “Stay right there. I’ll be back in a minute.”
With that, Karyn went and consulted with Vicki at the reception desk.
“I really appreciate this,” Vicki whispered, making sure Marc couldn’t hear her. “How much do I owe you for all that?”
“Nothing,” Karyn answered. “In fact, I should pay Marc. He has been such a delight the entire time!” She grabbed a twenty dollar bill from the roll of tip money in her apron. "I’ll offer him this. Let's see if he takes it or not.”
Her eyes sparkled with a clever thought.
“Do you know if he’s wearing a g-string? If not, do you want me to find out?”
Karyn and Vicki shared a devious cackle and giggle.
Walking back over to Marc, Karyn sat him upright again and unveiled his face. Then she used a dry towel to wipe his face. After that, she grabbed her brush and hairdryer and styled his hair again. When she finished, she allowed him to inspect himself in the mirror.
“So, what do you think, handsome? How did I do? You clean up pretty good, if you ask me!”
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Post by Deleted on Mar 24, 2014 6:50:38 GMT -5
"Marc Dahlmaine." He offered in turn. "Nice to meet you, Karyn." He ignored the joke, instead focusing on what she was about to do next. He may not understand the humor the way it was supposed to be appreciated, but the laughter of women around him was enjoyable.
With his eyes closed and the towel over his face he let her do as he trusted. She delivered a good shave he could count on that. And he'd have to visit again. A shave was an intimate thing and he was highly impressed with a woman being able to dole out such a skill.
While she directed him to lay down he did as order, the towel warm on his face.
As she went about drying and styling his hair he nodded to the final product his fingers going through his muchly improved 'do.
"Much improved, Karyn. I owe you one. And Vicki, too." He added as his eyes flicked to the blonde as he ran his fingers over his smooth jaw. "But I'm not too bad filthy you know." He shot back with a glint in his eye to the stylist.
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Post by Deleted on Mar 28, 2014 14:03:46 GMT -5
The amusing note in Marc’s voice made Karyn smile, and in that moment she realized she had made a new friend that day. “Oh, I bet you’re VERY BAD when you’re FILTHY!” she quipped, correcting him on the spot. "Or at least I HOPE YOU ARE!" She couldn’t resist. Marc knew how to bait her well. “Maybe you’ll let me find out sometime, eh, handsome?” she added with a cackle, opening Marc’s hand and slipping the twenty-dollar bill into it. Then she whispered in his ear, “I want you to take this, okay? You have been such a delight today. Please don’t rob this old woman of a blessing by refusing it.”
Closing his fingers around the money, Karyn gave his hand a pat. Meeting and experiencing Marc had touched her so dearly that it almost made her cry to say good-bye. It went unsaid, but she looked forward to having Marc as a regular customer in the future. After removing the cape, she helped him to his feet and gave him a warm hug.
Meanwhile, Vicki watched Marc and Karyn interacting. She knew everything was going to be okay between the two of them. She also knew Marc was going to be okay in Gotham City. He was already meeting quality people who were making him feel welcomed, and Vicki was damn proud of it.
When Marc walked toward the reception desk, Vicki waggled her finger and motioned for Marc to approach her. Her stern expression gentled as she pressed her forehead to his. Then she touched her lips to his in a soft, reverent kiss filled with unending promise before pulling back a bit, her eyes now glimmering with affection, all for him.
“I love you,” she whispered, caressing both sides of his smooth face with her gentle touch. “Thank you for doing that for Karyn. It meant a lot to her. You’re so beautiful -- on the outside and the inside.”
Vicki didn’t care who was watching them. It was a special, tender moment she wanted to share with Marc, right then and there. She thought about suggesting they skip the picture-taking altogether and head straight for the bistro -- or for more sensual pursuits -- but she decided against it. She wanted that picture now more than ever.
Placing her hand in Marc’s, Vicki said good-bye to everyone before they departed.
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Post by Deleted on Mar 28, 2014 15:39:53 GMT -5
Marc waved his finger at Karyn. "I'm actually quite good when I'm filthy." He volleyed back, winking. With a low rumble of affirmation in his throat he answered her second statement as well non-verbally. As Karyn slipped the money to him he nodded and listened to words.
"I wouldn't care to steal such a joy from you. Thank you for the shave and haircut." He quickly and carefully folded the bill, shifting slightly to remove his wallet and place the gifted money inside, looking for a card, as well as what to pay for her services. "And what do I owe you for your fantastic services, Karyn?" He would notice she would shake her head, and refuse to let him pay. He would stand and brush her cheek with a kiss as the hairdresser would then turn a vivid shade of pink.
Walking back to Vicki he made sure the receptionist had his card. And sent a quick text as well, before turning to Vicki as he was pulled into her embrace. He hadn't been so ready for her words of adoration so soon.
"You are welcome." He stated awkwardly as he then kissed her in return. "You are the one that brought me here. I cannot claim such reverence, Vicki."
As he offered his hand to her as they left he made sure to turn and give the salon a wave before they exited. En route to their next destination which would be hopefully food.
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Post by Deleted on Mar 28, 2014 17:03:20 GMT -5
Hand in hand, Vicki walked with Marc to the restaurant she had told him about. She was delighted that Marc’s experience with Karyn had been such a positive one, but she noticed he wasn’t talking much as they walked. He seemed to be reflecting on something -- their afternoon together? Pierre? Karyn? His move to Gotham? Sia?
Respecting Marc’s privacy, Vicki didn’t waste any time trying to figure it out. Instead, she entwined their fingers and squeezed gently to signal to Marc that she was aware of the quiet. She knew he was winding down. She assumed he was tired and famished. It had been a busy afternoon, but they had used their time wisely to accomplish a lot. Gazing at her wristwatch, Vicki noted the time. It was a little after three o’clock.
When the couple reached the bistro, the manager welcomed them with a cordial hug (yes, both of them) and walked them directly to a table in the back corner of the restaurant so they could have some privacy. The lunch crowd was gone, and so Vicki and Marc were the only customers in the restaurant.
“I’ve always loved this little place,” Vicki said to Marc as she followed the manager with Marc in tow. “I hope you like it, too.”
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Post by Deleted on Mar 29, 2014 3:57:15 GMT -5
Marc was hungry. While they walked Vicki squeezed his hand, to which he pressed a kiss to her temple and let go of her hand to pull her in closer. He was also contemplating what she had said. Love. What was the word really? It wasn't much without action; he knew that for a fact. And in American he had noted that people trended toward 'loving' many things he would attribute a fondness for, or 'liking.' Either way, he debated as they walked.
He hoped wherever they would be dining would be good, open, and soon. Shopping was not his forte. It was draining go through so many things.
As they entered the same area, Marc snapped from his reverie abruptly. He realized then that this was the same place he had dined with Ms. Prince. A stern look crossed his face as they were shown yet again to another private table.
"I like my company better this time. I am glad you like it, Vicki." He would make sure she was seated as he pulled out her chair for her. He would then sit across from her.
"What do you recommend here?" He'd rather not look at the menu.
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Post by Deleted on Mar 29, 2014 12:38:33 GMT -5
Noticing Marc’s stern expression, Vicki blinked, confused. She gathered from what he said about liking his company better “this time” that he had eaten at the bistro in the past. She arched an eyebrow, just to make sure he understood that she’d caught that. Clucking her tongue, she read the menu and tried to make a selection for them both.
“So,” she asked after a minute or two, her blue eyes twinkling with mischief. “Who is she? Who did you have the bad experience with here?”
Yes, Vicki went there. Whether Marc would answer truthfully or not was his decision.
“If you want, we can go and eat somewhere else,” she offered. “I’m sorry if this place triggered a bad memory for you. I’d like to think we’d try and make a new one to replace it.”
Vicki’s smile told Marc she was being sincere. Her concern was for Marc. She wanted him to be happy when they were together. This was the first time all day that Marc looked so brooding -- like he was stewing over something. She’d never thought she’d see him like this. Was it something she had done? She had to know.
“You’re not upset with me, are you?” she questioned, her insecurity kicking into high gear. “I didn’t mean to embarrass you at the salon. If I did, I’m sorry. I do love you. I did mean that.”
She called on every ounce of self-control to keep her composure. She hoped Marc didn’t limit himself to women who didn’t care what other people thought about them and who wouldn’t be surprised if he moved on. She hoped Marc was the stick-around type.
In that moment, Vicki couldn’t help but ponder how drastically Marc’s life must have changed since his divorce. Did his relationships with women ever last more than a month or two? Did he steer clear of women who had their sights set on something more than simply friendship? She wondered if he avoided commitment. Was he resisting the temptation of falling in love with her? If so, he was denying himself a lot of love -- and a lot of joy that came with it. And Vicki knew from personal experience that sacrificing love and happiness would be a sad choice.
The wrong choice.
“Maybe our time together shouldn’t be all about having fun,” Vicki told him, closing the menu and giving him her undivided attention. “There are times when we should be serious with one another, too. How ‘bout now? Care to talk about what's on your mind? I’m all ears, if you want to.”
Vicki waited in silence, letting Marc consider his options. In the meantime, she opened her menu again and decided on Baked Lasagna with mozzarella cheese, a marinara meat sauce, and garlic bread.
“Do you want wine with your meal?” she inquired, interrupting the silence. “If so, I'll let you pick that out, but please don’t order anything too expensive. Extravagance isn’t my thing, but I’ll share in your indulgence.”
She grinned deviously.
“Especially if you’re paying.”
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Post by Deleted on Mar 29, 2014 20:03:20 GMT -5
"She," He starts, closing his eyes and shaking his head, "Was a woman I met at a Freedom Rally. I had tried to offer my coat to the keynote speaker, and I was shown my err. She brought me here, we ate. She tried to impress me but there had been a few minor instances that had not added up for what she was saying. Later on she divulged to me she was the keynote speaker but liked to downplay her looks due to being recognized." Taking in a deep breath he looked to her.
"The meal was fine, the wine fine but my offering to pay for the meal and so forth was rebuffed. And in a manner I'm not used to. It was not the most pleasant of meals I've been to. And I didn't care much for her identity reveal. My resources don't suit her endeavors and passions I hate to say. We did part on good terms but I'd rather not entreat her venue in life further." And it was truth. He did not see eye-to-eye on some of these superheroes and heroines, mask or not. It was a silly thought to him and he put more faith in the police force for their steadfast work than in those that had money, time to waste, and costumes to obscure their true faces.
Vicki was concerned for something. He could see it in her face. He was not always chipper she'd have to learn. If she could get past that they would be fine. Reaching to grasp her hand across the table he squeezed it and marveled at the difference. Her nails were dainty, her hands smooth. His own were rough, tanned. He worked with his hands and his body even if his attire spoke otherwise. He was a different man in the city than he was on his family's estate.
Putting both his hands over and under hers he nodded. "That would be nice to make a new memory. And no, I'm not upset with you. Karyn was fantastic. I am used to all men taking care of this." He let go of her hand and motioned to his hair and face.
He tensed slightly at her mention of love. Was he that worthy of love so soon? After a meeting of mere hours? "I can appreciate you saying that. But I believe I cannot return the gesture as so soon, Vicki. I have only just met you, and I like the company. I like -you.-" He continued as to make sure he wasn't headed down a negative road.
But it was hard for him to be so demonstrative so quickly. That was not who he was. He was a man of action, of little word. He could feel her trembling and brought her palm to his lips as he kissed there gently to quell her fears. "When starting a new journey with someone, it should never be expected to always be fun and games. Anyone who enters into that mindset is in for a rough time, and great let-down."
Sighing again his eyes raise to hers. "I am not an easy man to be with, Vicki. I work odd hours, and travel extensively. I need a woman solid in what she does, and is able to handle times apart and trust me. In all things."
He lets go of her hand and shakes his head. If he was remembering correctly he had lasagna last time. "I'm fine with wine. A red, perhaps. A Merlot or Pinot Noir I'm thinking. And if they have manicotti I will be getting that." He looked at her queerly as she mentioned paying. Isn't that what the man usually did? Especially in a new relationship?
"I will be paying." He stated, looking toward the waiter walking toward their table.
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Post by Deleted on Mar 30, 2014 22:05:18 GMT -5
As Marc told Vicki about his past experience at the restaurant, she twitched her nose like a rabbit. It was a nervous habit of hers. Mentally, she was patting herself on the back because she had been correct -- the person Marc had come here with just had to be a woman, right?!? Her fake smile caused her eyes to squint, and she wondered if Marc had any male friends. She found his tale interesting, but she really didn’t like him talking about another woman. In a way, she was glad he hadn’t enjoyed himself with the stranger.
Then she thought to herself, That’s what I am to him, right? A stranger? She hated putting herself in that category. Then she noticed how jealous she was, concerning Marc. What was up with that?
When he took a deep breath and stared into her eyes, Vicki wondered why Marc was having such difficulty with the memory. Then he revealed how he had offered to pay and had been refused. Ah. His confession of male pride and a bruised ego had finally surfaced and made its way to the forefront. It all made perfect sense to her now.
“Identity reveal?” Vicki asked. It sounded so peculiar to her. “Who was she? Mother Teresa, Mata Hari, or Wonder Woman?” she asked flippantly.
Vicki laughed at her joke.
“It’s good that you two parted as friends,” she added. “It tells me a lot about your character.”
Vicki smiled when Marc held her hand. She breathed a sigh of relief at the revelation that she wasn’t the reason he was in such a somber and nostalgic mood. As he released her hand and pulled away, Vicki watched him draw attention to his hair and face.
“I’m glad you’re pleased with Karyn’s work,” she responded. “Karyn’s good with men and women. I would never steer you wrong, Marc.”
She added emphatically, “Never.”
Vicki noticed Marc tense when she mentioned her love for him. He looked confused, like he wasn’t comfortable hearing those words from her. She felt like she owed him an explanation. Her eyes widened when he said he couldn’t reciprocate in like manner. He was trying to keep things positive, and she appreciated the effort.
Although he took her hand and kissed it, his comment about love being more than fun and games still pissed Vicki off. Marc wasn’t telling her anything she hadn’t already learned on her own. If anyone knew about rough times, it was Vicki. She thought Marc was underestimating her and wasn’t giving her enough credit. As far as the type of woman he needed in his life, she thought she fit the bill perfectly.
And she did trust him. Especially with her love.
Marc left Vicki stewing in her own thoughts as he changed the topic of conversation to food and wine. All she did was nod when he said he would be paying for their meal.
After the waiter came and Marc had ordered for them, Vicki sat upright in her chair. Yes, she trusted Marc. She was trusting that he’d understand what she was about to say to him, too. She prayed for the right words to come out of her mouth.
“I’m glad that you like me, Marc,” she quipped with a sarcastic smile. “Hey, it’s better than nothing! You make me feel like I rate up there with pets or a good book.” She blew air and got serious. “Look, I know your life is still a mystery to me, as much as mine likely is to you, but it’s that mystery that has inspired me to jump completely out of my comfort zone. I’m normally a cautious and infinitely serious person – ask anybody. I thought I was making a huge mistake opening my heart to you, a handsome and mysterious stranger, but by doing that, I think . . . ”
Her voice trailed off as she stopped herself. Now she was the one having difficulty. Should she finish her thought? She decided to go there.
“I think I’ve found someone who could be the love of my life.”
She blinked her eyes and debated with herself in her mind whether or not she had just embarrassed herself with her brute honesty.
“I’ve taken a risk with you,” she continued. “I know I’ve gone against conventional wisdom, but as a result, I’ve exchanged loneliness for delirious happiness. I don’t expect you to understand, Marc, but for me, that’s the truth. It is what it is, and I can’t deny my feelings for you.
“Of all people, I know that perception isn’t reality. I know there’s more to you than what I’ve seen today, but I like what I’ve seen, and I want to see more. That may be a good thing or a bad thing -- I don't know -- but I still want to.
“I don’t think either one of us expected to walk into each other’s lives today, but it happened. I don’t know about you, but I’m glad it did. And now that you’re in my life, I want you to stay there.”
In that moment, she thought about, Bruce, Harvey, Ethan, and Lex. Same feelings. Same crossroads. Same path? No way. It was time to take a different direction.
“I’ve met men in the past who I really liked, but I’ve never been this direct with one in my life. I’m tired of failure. I’m tired of riding that rollercoaster of emotions. I’m tired of disappointment. I know that’s all part of the game, but I’m tired of playing games. I want something real, Marc. I think I could have that with you.”
She sighed, knowing she was being the heavy.
“I’m sorry,” was all she could offer, but she really wasn’t. Then she took a deep breath. “The way I love you is more than a feeling or an emotion, Marc. I actually want to make a commitment to you – as a friend. I haven’t felt that way about a man in a long time.
“I bet you never expected to be talking about this today!" she giggled nervously.
“What does love mean to me? Love is complicated. There are up sides and down sides to it. We probably only focus on the good sides because we don’t want to think about the bad sides. I don’t know about you, but I don’t want to think about the nights I cry myself to sleep. I don’t want to think about the heartbreaks and tears.”
Suddenly, a tear appeared in Vicki’s eye and trickled down her cheek.
“For me, love means making a child laugh, respecting the innocence in their eyes, and fighting on their behalf, to keep them safe from bullies, from hunger, from sickness . . . doing what you can. It means being polite and courteous and going out of your way to do good deeds for people -- holding the door, helping someone carry their groceries, shopping for someone that’s homebound. It means giving of yourself, whenever and wherever it’s needed. And it’s been my experience that if you give the love, it’s returned, in most cases, one-hundred fold. It means giving your smiles away freely and generously, . . . and you do that so well, Marc.
“For me, love is treating others the way we want to be treated, with kindness and respect. I think the most powerful thing about love is when it’s given unconditionally. It’s not expecting anything in return. In fact, it sneaks around the back of the 'almighty ego' and delivers its mighty gift.”
She laughed.
“So, yes, Marc, I love you, and I want you to love me, too. I don’t care how long it takes for you to reach that conclusion. I just want to know that you do.”
She stared into his eyes.
"Do you think that's possible? Do you think we can be friends . . . or more?"
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Post by Deleted on Mar 31, 2014 11:04:21 GMT -5
Vicki was nervous. He could tell that from her forced facial antics. And her range of emotions showing clearly on her face as well. "It is not my place to reveal her secret, Vicki. Please trust me in that. She shared with me something private, and I am not at liberty to divulge such a thing." As she mentioned his character he nodded slightly in kind. If she interpret that as a nod to his character, he would take it as such.
He nodded again, listening to her fully as she mentioned Karyn. So far Vicki had not steered him wrong with either Pierre, nor Karyn, even if both situation had been new to him. This was her city, and to her, these places were friendly, warm, and respectable.
So when she continued to share her feelings and views, he continued to listen with rapt attention before he took a moment or two to order, and then respond to her words. They were potent. And he could value her feelings. They were truth, to her. To him they may not be the same views, but he did respect that.
"Vicki, we have not known eachother a long time. I enjoy your company. I value your opinions. But considering my own adventures in love, I do not fall as quickly it seems. For me to value you as even a friend is something. I take very few into that realm of respect in my life. I have several male friends back in France I hold in my utmost confidence. I have many acquaintances. My work provides me with the ability to encourage connection between others. To facilitate openness. It is what I do for a profession. And yes, our lives are a mystery still to one another. But I am willing to chance another time after this to spend time together to get to know one another."
As she continued, he would rub along his newly exposed chin with his thumb and forefinger. "And I am glad you are trying something new. To venture from one's comfort zone is a risk. Not one that I am not going to not acknowledge for what it is; a step in making yourself more solidly confidant in what you do." He paused, watching her intensely as she mentioned he could be the love of her life. Could he? He was quietly contemplative in that. From what he had gathered thus far from her, she was a giving, bright individual seeking out someone to complete and compliment her life. He could be that missing piece. But still, he tried to be realistic. He had jumped without looking before in his life, and would rather not have something with so little thought invested on his part, end in such heartache.
"I appreciate your risk, Vicki. And yes, you have gone against conventions. But as it is said, sometimes the heart knows what the mind does not. I am not one to set aside intuition, or one's gut feeling. Sometimes we are right despite all logic screaming otherwise."
"I am quite flattered by your feelings. And while this dinner, and day isn't a be all end all, I do hope we would, and could have more times to explore such avenues. It may be a bit brash on my part, but perhaps we could schedule another time to meet. A more proper 'date'."
He nodded, and cracked his rather intense visage with a grin as she mentioned their meeting in the park. "Perhaps it was synchronicity in my sweater being ruined in the park." He set aside his menu and watched her cycle through several emotions. Nervousness, irritation, baring herself through honesty. There was sadness, and even a tear before her laughter bubbled up. She could run the gamut of human emotion in mere moments, and he hoped this was not a bad thing. He had his share of overtly emotional women, and it had either ended with things thrown, or just bad in general.
"I am glad you have chosen to buck convention with myself, and to put yourself out there. I, too, once had something real. It is better than the counterfeit." He noted her in-genuine apology, and was curious as to how she could attribute such a love to him so quickly. Unless she was speaking more of a true unconditional love. Or that of a friendship love. But as for something otherwise, he was still skeptical. They has still just met mere hours ago.
"And with how you speak, no, I had not expected this. But for as much as you state you love me, and then counter that with wanting to make a commitment as a friend, you have me confused. For you speak of wanting to be with someone, to make a serious choice, but then mention friendship? That is confusing to me. Unless I am not quite grasping your meaning, in the French to English translation?" He rubbed at the back of his head slightly.
"Love is complicated, and there are numerous forms of it. To me, love is not only a word, or a feeling, but an action. Love is more than children, or straight up respect or goodness. Love is so much more than that. It is giving, but it is also graciously accepting, as well." As they bantered, he felt as if communications were finally aligning. He was not a man of many words, but the ones he did use were poignant.
"To me, love is an action. To not only care for one's own being, but to care for those around us. I don't care to wax philosophical about friendly, unconditional, and the more romantic loves, but for me it is less in words, and more in actions. I show those I care about certain courtesies. Sometimes these same courtesies are extended in my work day. But my parents have ingrained within me the golden rule as well. It's just that certain touches for those few individuals we care to pursue a romantic course of action with. I have sent friends flowers, indulged in fine dining with them. But on the other hand, I also extend both those behaviors to someone I may be wanting to court for a place to sell my family's wine. No two men are the same. For me, beyond all those behaviors, it's finding the time to spend with them. Time for me is priceless, considering I have very little of it to myself. But I can see us as friends. And concretely heading down that route as to more, which I considering a dating route. But I would like to make sure we are on the same page, before we even take another step further in speaking on this, if that is fine with you as well."
He sat up when the waiter came by with their water, and wine, their order of garlic bread brought to them. Marc knew from his prior experience the liquor was top notch, so he waved away the usual posturing that came with ordering a bottle of wine. He would pop the cork himself, let it breath, and try it before filling her glass, and his own, then setting the bottle to his right.
"Shall we toast to a new, possible contract of love, Ms. Vale?" He offered, his own glass raised to her.
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Last Edit: Mar 31, 2014 22:28:42 GMT -5 by Deleted
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Post by Deleted on Mar 31, 2014 22:10:16 GMT -5
Vicki nodded when Marc refused to tell her anything more about the mystery woman’s secret. He asked for her to trust him, and she did, and let it go. She hadn’t expected him to tell her anything anyway. That was the kind of man she knew Marc was. He was a true gentleman, and everyone knew that a true gentleman never kisses and tells.
She knew Marc didn’t share her views about love, and she was all right with that. They were from two different worlds that she wanted to merge. From what he was sharing with her though, he didn’t want to do that at this time. Respecting his wishes, Vicki accepted that fact. She wasn’t going to force anything between them.
Vicki listened to Marc as he told her that he enjoyed her company and valued her opinions. What the heck did that mean? Was she some kind of consultant or tour guide to him? Okay, so he didn’t fall quickly into love -- no biggie. In her mind, he was standing at the door, ready to jump out of the plane, and got cold feet. That’s how she dealt with it. Did she like it? No. But she wasn’t about to push him out of the plane either. That wasn’t her style.
He didn’t value her as a friend? What was she then? He was kissing all over her all afternoon like she was more than a friend. Why was he putting up a wall now? Why was he distancing himself? Why was he making himself emotionally unavailable to her? Did he see her as some easy conquest -- a floozy looking to spend some time with any man that came her way?
Her brows knitted into a frown as she listened to him talk about his male friendships in France. He revealed he had many acquaintances, which she could relate to. She wondered if that’s how he regarded her -- a friendly acquaintance. The thought sent a shiver up and down her spine. Then he talked about his work and his openness to spend time with her to get to know her better. It sounded like he was making a business deal.
Marc got quiet when she told him she thought he could be the love of her life. She watched his jaw twitch and his cheeks hollow out as he sucked in a breath of frustration. When he didn’t reply, she smiled.
Button pushed.
Vicki could tell Marc was rationalizing why that couldn’t be so. Not at this time. Something told her he was thinking about his past relationship with Sia and that he didn’t want to put himself through that joy and heartache again.
Vicki was glad Marc was flattered to be the object of her affection. It actually shocked her when the conversation turned and he asked her out on a date. His smile, caused by the recollection of them meeting that day, surprised her as well. She felt uncomfortable as he studied her emotional display, and her insecurity kicked in. She hoped he didn’t see her as being bipolar or unstable in any way. She usually tried to downplay drama in her life, but sometimes her emotions overwhelmed here, especially concerning things she was very passionate about.
When Marc expressed his confusion of her wanting to commit to him as a friend, she laughed out loud. “Friendship is the foundation of any intimate relationship,” she told him. “Friends first. Lovers later. Hopefully. You don’t believe in love at first sight, do you? I didn’t either, until today.”
Vicki listened as Marc defined what love was to him. He took it beyond what Vicki had. She was glad she could give him a starting point to build from. He was trying to educate her -- teach her -- but he didn’t come across as being arrogant or condescending. She found his insight refreshing and inspirational.
Vicki was glad Marc could see them being friends. It surprised her that he wanted to explore a dating relationship. She was flattered that he wanted to make time for her in his busy schedule. It gave her a glimmer of hope for a future together with him.
“Um, sure,” Vicki answered, a little dumfounded when he asked her if they were on the same page. Actually, she was a few chapters ahead of him, but she was willing to back up and join him. She sat upright when the waiter brought them the bread and wine.
As she clinked wine glasses, the smile on Vicki’s face told Marc that she was up for the challenge of a “new, possible contract of love.” She wasn’t backing down. She wasn’t running away either. She had staked her claim, and she wasn’t going anywhere.
Putting her glass down, Vicki steepled her fingers in front of her and leaned forward on her elbows.
“Why are you making it sound like a business deal?” she whispered.
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Post by Deleted on Apr 1, 2014 22:58:47 GMT -5
"I agree, Vicki. It always is. But the conviction you show toward a friendship, or even a possible one is quite intense. Not that that is a bad thing. But it's infrequent I've noticed in this side of the ocean. Many do not make it a formality to engage in a friendship. It evolves organically. Much like our afternoon has under our respective directives. Both yours, and my own." More her own, but he wanted to show that they were both in this together. As partners." He reached across the table to grasp her hand again if she would allow it. He had not meant to cause distance between them. He had only been sharing his viewpoints, and beliefs. Baring his soul, as some have titled it before.
"Friends always first. And then lovers. I always saw it as a progression. Friends. And then dating. And then more exclusive dating. This goes on toward engagement, then marriage. That was how I was raised by my own parents. And no. I believe that there can be a connection between two people. Lust perhaps. Or some other chemical reaction. The turn of a head. A smile. But love? No. I believe love is created between the interactions of people. Give and take." He nodded as she continued. "But I do not fault you for believing in such a thing. That is what makes the world interesting; different views and clashing ideas. Humans as a whole would be vastly bland and boring if we all thought and said the same things."
His free hand went to his own wine. Swirling it before he took a sip his eyes never left her own. It was only after more talking did she remove her hand from his. He went to the bread and offered it to her first before taking one for himself, and cutting it with knife and fork. A bite was poised and placed into his mouth as she asked her question. Setting down fork and knife he held up a finger to allow her to give him a moment before he spoke. Wiping his mouth before he spoke, he nodded to her.
"Forgive me, Vicki. My work bleeds into most aspects of my life. I did not mean it to come off as formal and undeserving of the emotion it is warranted. I do believe a friendship is important in life. Especially if it preludes a dating atmosphere. For those engagements I treat them with the utmost importance and trend back toward what I am familiar with. So perhaps try to not think of it as a business deal, but a contract. Deals have no consequences. Contracts, when failed to yield what promised, have consequences. Just as friendships do." Those big blue eyes of his watched her as she responding hoping that he had made himself more clear and that things were still ok between them.
He paused, glancing down for a second. "I am not one that opens easily. Please see me for what I am." He stated quietly as his eyes returned back to her's.
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