Sylvie looked up from her desk at the sound of the door opening and watched the slim blonde gentleman glance around, and then smiling, head straight for her. That was the only word she could think to describe him.. gentleman. It wasn't in the way he dressed, although he did dress nicely.. but just something in the way he held himself... she realized she'd been staring when he cleared his throat and smiled. "Excuse me, I'm here to see Lady Chaos. If you could tell her Faal is here?Thank you, dear." Sylvie started at the name, remembering a note form Chaos about him stopping by. "Oh! Of course Mr. Faal.... I'll go get her.. Make yourself at home." She slipped out and ran down the hall trying to rmember which door was Chaos's.

Faal pulled a book from his pocket and began strolling aimlessly about the office reading as he waited.
He found himself at a wall, and turned around, heading back the way he came, flipping the page, completely engrossed in one of his favorite novels. He'd read it hundreds of times and really didn't need the book at all anymore.. he could go over the entire story in his mind without reading a single word... but he would miss the feel of the pages and the smell of the paper and ink...
He seemed to sense something in front of him and looked up just in time to get a face full of red hair as someone walked right into him.

Lex wandered down a hall, turning the next page of his book, not quiet sure which one it was, this tempory building threw him off, but he figured if any one needed him, they'd find him before he found them. He paused, actually considering that thought, the next page of the book proved to be to distracting for him to continue poundering rather or not if some one who needed him, would find him before he found them, and was only vaguely aware he was about to turn a corner.

It was a rather unexpected barrier and Lex's eyes snapped up from the page as he ran into something he had the feeling hadn't been there before. He was just quick enough to realize it was a person as attempting to step back, caused him to lose his balance and begin tumbling back ward in stead. "Shit!" He managed to squeak in surprise.

Faal recovered from his surprise quickly and reached out to catch the person before they fell. He heard a thud as his book hit the floor.. no.. he heard two thuds. " All you alright? i am so soryy, I'm afraid I wasn't paying attention to where I was walking... a very bad habit of mine, i'm afraid. Are you alright? You're not hurt are you?" He helped the red head straighten up, believing at first he'd knocked over some poor young girl who worked here. Vibrant green eyes suddenly caught his and he felt his breath catch.

Lex felt his cheeks flush and was still trying to decide rather it was a good thing he'd be caught before hitting the floor or not because it was quiet embarrassing. "Oh..oh no, I was the one who's nose was stuck in the book, per usual. They're always telling me it's going to get me killed one way or another..." Lex began blushing more for that usualless comment. "I'm not hurt, thank you..."

Faal chuckled, then realized that the atrractive red head was actually a young man. They both bent down to retrieve their books. "It seems we both have the rather dangerous habit of readwalking." Faal laughed as he stood back up. "Might I ask if you've got your nose buried for buisness or pleasure?"

Lex smiled slightly and held up an extremly battered and old copy of his favorite book. "First book I ever bought...and I know it word by word." He answered in his soft spoken voice. "So pleasure, of course."

Faal smiled and held up an equally battered book. "While not my first book.. or even my first copy of this one, it is still one of my favorites. As you can see, I tend to read my books to death."

"Oh well, books are a passon for me...I'll read just about anything that catches my eye..." He looked down at his battered copy of The Club Dumas. "And this one's almost impossible to find in a book store any way." He said, with an gesture. He'd always been shy in these kind of cases.

Faal regarded the book thoughtfully, "Yes, it is indeed. It's been quite a while since I saw a copy for sale. Do you have another copy? That one looks like it will fall to pieces any page turn now." He paused and chuckled, giving his head an amused shake. "Forgive me.. here I am pestering you with endless questions and I haven't even introduced myself. My name is Faal. I'm an old friend of the Lady."

Lex looked back at the book. "Oh...no...keep meaning to look for a copy. Oh!" He blushed even more, then said, "Its nice to meet you, I'm Lexi-Lex...I work for Chaos...Well, just started anyway." He offered a shy smile.

"A pleasure, Lex." Faal said. "I'm sorry, but those tattoos... they are exquisite! Beautifully done and they show off your eyes wonderfully! Did you have them done around here?"
"Faal! "
Faal turned to see Chaos coming towards him. "Clarice! "He turned back to Lex only to find the young man gone. He noticed a nearby door slowly closing. He gave a sigh and turned back to Chaos. "Little one... you look wonderful !"
She hugged him and stood back. "So do you. I see you grew your hair back, again? I always liked it long like this."
He chuckled . "Clarice, luv... there was a young man here a moment ago.." She smiled. " Cute red head? Lex.. i thought i caught a glimpse of him. You'll have to excuse him, he's really shy. His vanishing is nothing personal."

Faal sighed in relief."Ah,, I thought I'd frightened him off."

********

Lex came in, the next morning, shaking the snow from his hair, and trying to make sure the book wasn't going to fall completely apart as he slid it slowly into an over size pocket of his coat for now. He'd find some tape later. He came glanced about the tempory lobby to see if anyone else was in yet. There were valentine decorations, and Lex groaned, having forgotten.
A familair dark head popped up from behind the desk. "Morning Red. " Lex smiled grimly and gave a half hearted wave. "Morning Shauna. Any one else here yet?" Shauna shrugged. "No clue.. just got here. Just watching the desk while Sylvie grabs some more decorations.Aren't they sappy? Holiday decorations are just getting so... sad." she said, plopping down in the chair.

"Valentine's is so comercialized any way." Lex replied with a gesture. He flicked a finger at a near by tinsel heart and scowled. "The whole things' rather depressing if you think about it." He added,

" Oh definately. The decorations are all cheap and disposable.. . hey .. wasn't Valentine's day started because of some guy in jail? Always sucked at history...." Shauna said, idly picking paper petals off of a garland strung behind the desk. "You can always tell the one's who're alone and miserable on Valentine's... they complain the loudest. " Sylvie said as she came around the corner. "Shauna if I see one petal on that floor, I'll send you out on foot to the store to buy another garland."

Lex grinned slightly and took off his coat, holding it. "Is there a need for so many, Slyvie?" He asked, eyeing the more decarations she'd come in with. Lots of pinks. Lex wrinkled his nose slightly, and actually wondered if Tizzy and Sylvie got their decortations at the same place, cause the last he'd heard the Raven was all ready for St. Valentines day. "And he was a maryter Shauna, a christain priest thrown in jail by a catholic bishop in Rome. While there, he married a jail mate and the woman he loved, because he praised love above all things..."

Shauna quickly scooped up the paper scraps and stuffed them in a pocket before Sylvie saw them. She snorted at Lex. "So it was some guy in jail.. I was right."

Sylvie gave a disgusted sigh and tossed a handfull of shiny heart garlands at Shauna. "Make yourself useful.. hang these up in those windows over there." She turned to Lex. " Coat racks over there, hun, remember?" she said, nodding towrds the rack where shauna's coat and boots stood alone. "As for the decorations... This place needs something to make it feel like home. At least for now."

Lex moved over to the coat rack, hanging up his coat and pulled his hair back into a pony tail with the black ribbon from his coat pocket. "It's kinda hard to feel at home around here, when ya know we're just renting it." He said, turning back to Sylvie as Shauna went to hang up the garland. "So any one know anything 'bout the guy who was here yesterday, to see K?"

Sylvie left the box on the edge of the desk andreached underneath, pulling out Lex's shoes. "Here ya go hun. Why don't you get out of those wet boots. Do you mean Faal? Charming man. He's an old friend of K's. That's all I know." As Lex traded his boots for his shoes, the door swung open again and a young man peeked his head around the door. "Excuse me.. I'm looking for Chaos Incorporated?"

Sylvie pointed to the writing that could be seen through the glass door. "That's what the sign says, hun. What can we do for you?" He cleared his throat as he stepped into the room and crossed to the desk. "Sorry... it's my first day...." he said, handing a clipboard to Sylvie. "I have a package.. if you could sign please?" Sylvie accepted the clipboard, raising an eyebrow at him.
"Sorry... the electronic one is on the fritz... its the old fashioned method today.. buisest day of the year too...." Sylvie quickly signed and handed the board back.
"Oh! here." he said, setting a bright metallic red gift bag on the top of the desk. White tissue paper puffed out of the top, along with a single long stem rose. "You ladies have a nice Valentine's day." he said and quickly left.

Lex watched the young man leave, then glance at the red gift bag. "Well, some one got lucky today." He observed. He dropped his boots by the door and turned back, watching Shauna move toward the desk. "I was just curious," He said to Sylvie, "I didn't know for sure, I just ran into him yesterday in the hall, and I do mean ran into...litterally." He blushed slightly. He started toward the hall, in search of coffee.

Sylvie knocked Shauna's hand away form the bag, and checked for a card. "What?!" Shauna exclaimed." I bet it's for me, anyways... it's Ted appologizing for cancelling our date the other night....if it's something really good, I might forgive him..."
Lex snorted. "It's proabaly for Chaos from Auron."
Sylvie found the slim white envelope tucked in beside the rose and read the name. "Lex? hun... it's for you."
Lex tripped, regained his balance and turned to look at the Sylvie and the bag. "Me?!" He asked wide eyed. "Are you sure?" He looked at the bag, blinking.
Sylvie handed him the card, and the envelop read Lex. Lex opened the card and read the note, more the once, while Sylvie and Shauna were obviously waiting to know. Feeling his ears starting to warm, Lex peaked into the bag and reached in, before pulling out a hard bound leather collectors edition of The Club Dumas, the inside cover even signed by the author and when Lex checked he saw it was the first edition copy. Very slowly he sat the book down on the desk next to the bag and knew he was starting to blush. but he looked at the gift curiously.

"Well? Who's it from?" Sylvie asked at the same time thatc Shauna asked what it was. Suddenly Sylvie smacked her forehead. "Lord I'm such a dip! I should've had that screened first!! With the stuff that's been going on lately...! It could be dangerous to you!!"

Lex bit his lip. "Oh, I think this might be something you wont have to worry about it...It's from Faal..."He said softly, still looking at the book, but knew he was starting to blush more. "And it's an invitation." He said even quieter, almost daring Shauna to say something.

Sylvie broke into a smile. "Really... what sort of invitation?" she asked, peeking at the book. "Oh my.. that looks expensive.."
Shauna snorted and turned back to the window decortaions. "A book... what's romantic about a book? Chocolates, roses, .. jewelry..."
Lex and Sylvie tuned out Shauna's rambling as she entangled herself in strings of foil hearts.

"A dinner invitation...tonight..." Lex told Sylvie. He touched the book with his finger tips. "It is expensive, there were only four hundred copies..." Lex picked up the rose, smelling of it, before adding softly. "And it's appearently from his own collection..."

Sylvie smiled, looking at Lex. "So shall I R.S.V.P. for you or will you take care of that yourself?"
She started to pick up a pen then stopped. "Oh! you should definately speak with K ! She's known Faal for forever.. she's the perfect one to help you decide on what to wear..."

"Wear where?" Chaos said, coming around the corner with a tray of steaming mugs. "Morning everyone. I figured I'd grab us all a coffee before the guys get up and drink it all." She set the try down on the desk where everyone could grab a cup. "Sylvie... the place looks ...very.... umm.... cheerful." she leaned on the desk and eyed the gift bag. "Now... wear to what?"
Sylvie gave Chaos a sly smile. "Faal's invited Lex out to dinner tonight...."

"Really Sylvie, I don't even know..."Lex said, laying the rose on the book. "It was just an accident encounter, and besides, I've never really..."

"Been on a date?" Shauna put in, trying to be helpful.

"Something like that..." Lex muttered, now blushing even more. "Besides, I barely even know him!"

"Duh! That's what a date is for... to get to know him..." Shauna said and stumbled over the strand of decorations. "Grr... stupid things...."

Sylvie smirked into her mug as she watched Shauna tangle herself even more.
"Lex. "Chaos said, handing him a mug. "You love books.. Faal loves books. You're single. Faal's single. He's not asking you to marry him or anything, and he's not going to push you into anything you're not ready for. I know Faal... He's a perfect gentleman... with a somewhat mischievious side, a crap load of money, and too much time on his hands for his own good. He was just intrigued by you. He said he'd forgotten the last time he'd met someone who loved books as much as he did, and he definately got that feeling from you. He IS Fae though..."

"Yeah, I kinda got the impression of the fae bit." Lex said absently, still looking at the book. He was trying to decide if he should, or shouldn't. Things had been going rather fast as of late. "I don't know...I don't think..."
There was chatter and laughing from the door, some he knew well, and he glanced that way to see Rue enter carrying a box, Xander not far behind her. She completely ignored Lex and smiled at the others. "Listen Sylvie, Tiz just got done decorating the Raven, and had some left of decorations. She asked me to drop them off, as I was coming this way anyway." Rue said, Xander standing a little to close behind her.

"NOOOOO!" Shauna yelled, struggling out of her valentines bonds. "No more stupid hearts and crap!!" Sylvie ignored Shauna and smiled at Rue. "Thank you, Rue. Thank Tizzy for me, will you?"

"Yes, Rue...THANK Tizzy for us. " Chaos said, mockingly.

Rue laughed as she glanced around at the amount of red and pink already in evidence, and the box containing more on the desk.

Her eyes fell on the book and she raised an eye brow, seeing the title and glanced at Lex for the first time. Lex met her gaze, but looked away.

"So who got the first valentine of the day?" Xander asked, looking over Rue's shoulders. She yelped and smacked him hard in the shoulder, he'd obviously pinched her somewhere, he grinned cheekily back at her. Rue turned back. "Yes, who did get it?" She asked, her voice soft and oddly calm.
Chaos moved around the desk to Lex's side. "Lex did. Come on Lex.. we'd better get to work on that assignment. Thanks again, Rue. Xander." she said, smiling, taking Lex's coffe mug so he could scoop the book back into the bag.

Lex put the book and the card back in the bag and tucked the rose in the corner of it. He caught Rue's quirked eyebrow,
"Wow...cupcake got a valentine..." Xander said in mock awe.

Rue turned her gaze on him, sliding a hand up to grab his collar. "Do be quiet, Xander dear." She said simply. Xander grinned sheepishly. Lex followed after Chaos, aware Rue was watching.

Chaos walked down to her office and opened the door, waiting for Lex to enter first. "I'm sorry about things with Rue.. I don't know what's gotten into her lately, but she has not been acting like herself. So... Faal asked you out, huh?" She smiled. "Look Lex. My advice is go. What have you got to lose? You've been through hell and back.. literally. If the thought of a possible romantic situation makes you uncomfortable, tell him that, and i'm sure the invitaion will still just as valid as a friends dinner... Faal has always been a bit of a romanitic to everyone who strikes his fancy."

"It's not exactly that..." Lex replied, clutching the gift bag. "Well, maybe its part of it. Well you know how Rue was over Jack..." He was rambling again, he knew it. He took a deep breath, then sighed. "Do you really think I should?" He asked softly, not looking at Chaos.

Chaos smiled. "I've already told you what I think it's up to you. Three questions for you - What did you think of him when you met him? Do you have anything better to do tonight? And how about the two of us leave early today and check out your wardrobe?"

Lex blushed, and shrugged. "He was...very nice...handsome..." He was fingering the rose in the bag. "And I don't have anything to do. and as for my wardrobe...oh god I don't wanna even think about it..." He groaned, running a hand over his face. "And the collar didn't daunt him?" He asked softly.

Chaos laughed. "Lex... Did it 'daunt' any of the rest of us? He no doubt noticed it.. he notices everything. He didn't mention anything about it. I lied.. got another question... your wardrobe... is there anything in there that you LIKE? I mean ... alot of the stuff you wear, you seem... uncomfortable in. "

Lex smiled slightly. "Dress wise or casual wise? I did have a pair of pinstipe slacks, but the cat got ahold of them.." He grimaced. "Bloody cat... Other then that..." he shrugged.

Chaos shook her head. " Ah Lex... Well, got any plans for lunch? We can go shopping."

"You're joking right...My day around here usually consists of wondering around until some one NEEDS me...which isn't often..." He gave her a look. "Guess I'm still the new kid..."

"That and it's not like we've been busy since the... explosion. And in case you haven't noticed, Shauna's in pretty much the same position. Things'll pick up. You handle yourself really well in a fight, but you tend to rely too much on your powers. If you want to take a more active roll in that end, I'll set up training for you. Hang on a sec." She hit the intercom button on the phone but nothing happened. "Crap.. that's right.... stupid temporary crap.." she mumbled and opened the door. "Sylvie?! " she hollered down the hall. "What's the day look like so far?"

There was a moment's silence then sylvie hollered back. "Two appoinments in the early afternoon.. one just checking up on a case, and one about starting a case. That's it." Chaos snorted. "Thanks!" She turned to Lex. "Screw lunch.. come on Lex...Let's shop."

Lex left the gift with Sylvie and asked her softly, because Xander was still milling around the lobby, to rsvp. As he and Chaos headed for the door, they heard Eire whinning loundly. "Wherere they goinin'?!"

" Emergency mission. Don't worry, Lex and I have it covered. We should be back around lunch." Chaos said as Lex quickly pulled his boots back on. She'd grabbed her coat on her way out of her office and was shrugging into it as she spoke. "Nate's in charge if anything comes up, as usual. try to stay out of trouble. "

Lex grabbed his coat, pulling it on and raised the hood against the coming chill and waved bye to Eire, following Chaos, just as Rue came out from a back room with Aiyla. He didn't really want to have to explain it to Eire right now and knew Sylvie wouldn't go gossiping...Shauna on the other hand. He winced slightly.

They made they way quickly around to the parking lot and climbed into one of the suvs. "Man... if this weather keeps up, there are going to be a lot of walking popsicles in dresses and skirts out tonight. " Chaos said, pulling out onto the street. "Any stores in particular you want to hit?"

Lex looked from the flower and candy delivers being made all over the street, to look at Chaos. "You don't really think I've done this before, do you? I wouldn't even know what the wear to begin with..." He looked slightly anxious as if he'd suddenly realized what he'd agreed to do.

"Lex, forget about the date. Let's just focus on buying you some clothes that you feel comfortable in, as well as look good in." she said, patting his knee. She made a turn, heading towards the main clothing strip. "So? What sort of clothes do you want to try first?"

Lex glanced at her form the corner of his eye. "Think you can handle a Goth store?"

Chaos smirked. "Lex.... you haven't looked in my closet, have you...." She glanced at him out of the corner of her eyem then laughed. "The Roseless Thorn or Bats in your Belfy...They're both one street up a believe... Bats is a bit more Punk-goth while Thorn's is more traditional Goth...I get most of my stuff through Bats.. thats where I got my coat.. damn i miss that coat.."

"It's easier to get away with the collar with the punk goth look. which is why I do it." Lex said with a shrug. "Still mad at Estehl for that?" He asked with a slight grin.

Chaos sighed. "Nah.. would've happened sooner or later. I'd made a new record.. went hmm.. twenty years? Or was it closer to twenty five.. any ways, went way longer then I thought possible without touching another Fae.. was only a matter of time. And this way, Estehl feels like he owes me.. nice having royalty feel like they owe you ." she chuckled. " You don't have to dress to the collar you know... you can cover it if it bothers you, but nowadays you make it work with just about anything with the right accessories."

"Yeah, but Estehl does bug the shit out of me...always knowing something and not saying..." Lex shook his head. "Still, it does make people wonder...and the less real attention I get over it, the better."

Chaos pulled over to the curb, claiming one of the few free parking spaces. "You have to stop hiding sometime, Lex." she said.

"It's hard to stop when you've spent your whole life hiding in one way or another..." Lex replied, not looking at Chaos.

Chaos turned in her seat to face him. "Lex. You didn't ask for my thoughts on the matter, but tough.. I'm telling them any how. I feel like you've lived your entire life looking how other people want you too or how you think they want you too. Or expect you too. Look at me , Lex. Do I dress how you'd expect me too?"

"I didn't say that...no.." He muttered, not exactly looking at her.

"I used too. Back when I was your age and I was still .. 'human'. I always wore dresses... stylish but not too stylish... blend in with the crowd as much as I can, don't stand out too much. Bit hard when you've hair white as snow. I was quiet and shy, resevered. Very soft spoken. Don't give me that look. "she laughed. "I was. Ask Auron how I was back then, he'll tell you the same.Then when Things started to happen, I kind of started to... play with my idenity a bit. I didn't feel like Bonnie LeHey anymore.. don't you dare breath a word about that name, hear me? I'd been going by Clarice since I got with Auron anyhow, and once my demon side started to come out, well... I started to look at myself differently. Faal played a big part in that for me. He was the first Fae I touched. Maybe he'll be the same influence on you.. helping you explore who you are."

Lex looked out the window, at the shop, quiet. He was rather hoping Chaos was right, because with the way things had been going lately, he had no idea of self identiy, Which bothered him. Maybe it was because there wasn't anyone telling him what to do or go. The freedom was rather odd and overwhelming. It wasn't just that, but things with Rowen and Rue as well. It was all quiet mind numbing if Lex thought about it to long, which he didn't want to. He grimaced.

"I wont say anything about the name." He said softly, finally.

She watched him for a second. "See? Told you so. Back when we first met? I told you I understood about parents and baby names... Bonnie Clarice LeHey... for years everyone who knew me thought my name was Clarice and my mom was just calling me ' beautiful Clarice ' " she chuckled. "She thought it was 'cute'. Come on Lex." she said, opening her door and stepping out into the cold.

"Yes, well at least you didn't get a boys name! The name Saffron is one thing, Lexine?! Lord, there's got a be another reason behind it other then pure meanness." He said getting out of the suv

Chaos laughed as she came around to the side walk. "Lex.. they never do it out of meanness. Temporary insanity due to posttramatic stress over child birth.. that's what I've come to blame. The dumbest names in the world sound like a wonderful idea at the time... especaily when they're hyped up on pain killers ." she laughed, holding open the door. "Lady K! Cool.. what can I get for you today?"

Chaos smiled over at the young man at the counter. "Hey Tig! Nothing for me, actually. My friend, Lex here, needs some new stuff."

Lex looked around the shop, looking at all the racks. There was quiet a collection and he was leaning toward one rack with long sleeved shirts, before glancing at Tig, waving sheepishly.

Chaos followed Lex, watching what drew his attention. She saw he always went for the long sleeves.. usually the womens styles, but she figured that was a combination of habit and fit. She started to flip through another rack, eyeing the cuts and designs. She pulled out a couple shirts she thought might look nice on him, and turned back to see how he was doing.Chaos set the shirts on a rack near him. "These seem to be along the lines your looking at there. Nothing to drastic.. simple lines, simple cuts. I'm gonna go chat with Tig and see what new goodies he's got in to tempt me with.. holler if you need me." She said with a wink and wandered over to the counter.

Lex suddenly remembered WHY he didn't like shopping. Especially with other people. It was bad enough when Rowen would drag him out. Lex fingured the sleeve of a long black sleeved shirt, frowning.

"How's he doin?" Tig asked, leaning across the counter. Chaos smiled, reaching out to flick the two inch long jointed snake that hung from his ear. this one was black and silver with red eyes, and thin streaks of red running down the sides of its mouth as if it was blood. "That one's new.That makes... five different snakes you have for that ear? He'll be fine.. he's just nervous..." Tig grinned. "Six.. got another one at the same time I got this one.. it's three snakes tangled together."

Lex shifted through the rack, chose a few shirts, including a black mock turtle neck, examined the shirts Chaos had chose and found himself wondering toward the jeans and slacks, eyeing a pair of pinstripped slacks. He'd dare Aloysius to touch them. After snatching those, he wondered about looking at other things, especially the jewerly. There were some things he liked, but was really to shy to even consider getting them, like the celtic slave bracelet.

Yeah, that would bring comments.

Tig wandered down to where Lex was eyeing the jewelry. "Anything you'd like to see? If you like something but want it with a diffrent colour stone, or something, I know that lady who makes most of these and we take custom orders."

Lex glanced at him, but shook his head. "They're all really nice, but I just don't know right now." He said, his head titled to the side slightly

Chaos moved over to see what he looking at and spotted something that caught her eye. "Oh! Tig.. hun.. that one. Let me see it please." Tig glanced over and grinned when he saw the one she indictated. He unlocked the back and let it fold down as he reached in and lifted the necklace off it's display and brought it out. She accepted it from him and held it up to look at it then turned to Lex. "What do you think? " she asked holding it for him to see. It was silver wire all woven and linked into a spiders web that hung about two inches, and at the center was a dime sized blood red jewel, set as the body of a gold spider.

Lex looked at the necklace and had to smirk. "If you don't have archinaphobia, it's nice." He said, still smirking.

She rolled her eyes. "I kind of like it. Think it would freak Auron out if I wore it tonight?"

Lex eyed her. "Why, what's tonight?" He asked coyly, looking at the body jewerly. He spotted a flame charm for a belly button ring and a skull and a crossbone and was debating on which.

She handed the necklace back to Tig, with a shake of her head. "Man you're a hard one to get a reaction out of. Just dinner. He asked.... several times, I finally gave in and said yes. Maybe if i went in full goth mode he'd freak...think I'd stand out to much at la Petite Rose ?

Lex sniggered, still looking at the body jewelry. "I don't think....he minds goth so much...puts up with Saffron doesn't he and look what he wears...looked like Dracula the other day...complete with fangs..." Lex snorted, shaking his head. "But yeah, you might stand out...I think they've got a certian dress code there..."

"Damn."she said, trying not to smile. "But you know, it's one thing to have your kids go Goth... it's another when it's... whatever the hell I am." The smile vanished as she tried to shove the confusion of her current life aside. "Oh well. I had something I was thinking of wearing anyhow. It's you we're here for. How are you doing?"

Lex glanced at her and said quiet seriously. "I don't think it really matters...with him..." He looked back at the case. "I think I've got a pretty fair idea." He looked at Tig, before pointing to a crystal cherry charm. "I like that one....You wouldn't happen to have any ankle bracelets...in silver?"

"Tig... did Sheila finish that one she was working on yesterday when I was in here?" Tig raised an eyebrow. "Yeah.. it's in the back." She smiled. "Show him that one.. I think he'll like it." Lex was giving her a curious look, almost like he was wishing he hadn't come with her. "Relax, you don't have to try it on or buy or anything. You won't hurt my feelings or anything. I just saw you eyeing the jewelry.. and some of the clothing, with cherries.. Sheila does the cherries."

Lex shrugged, but smirked slightly, saying. "It's a good luck thing with goths." It was a poor excuse, but oh well. He didn't really care at the moment. He raised a hand to push his hair out of his face and the bracelet slid down his wrist into the sleeve of his jacket. He eyed it a moment before nervously straightening his collar and dropping his hand.

Tig returned with a black tray with two ankle braceletts, each with cherry charms, as well as a couple ear studs, braceletts, one pair of dangling earrings and two more body charms. "Here's all her latest stuff. Since you're a friend of K's."

Lex eyed the tray, blushing slightly. "Don't tempt me..." He replied. His fingers lightly touched a few of the peices. He liked one of the ankle braceletts and both the body charms. "I like these..." He said softly, touching each.

"He'll take 'em.. my treat." Lex turned to her and she held up a hand. "Ah! I invited you out and you're very gracioulsy putting up with me."

Lex shrugged, blushing more. "Alright. I wont object. Thank you..." he picked up the clothes he'd sat down on the far end of the counter.

Chaos paid for the jewelry, giving in to temptation and buying herself a black velet choker. "Can never have too many. "she said with a grin as Tig packaged everything up. She slipped the choker into her pocket and handed the jewelry bag to Lex. "Anything else you want to check out here, or shall we move on to the next stop?"

Lex paid for the couple of shirts and the pants he'd picked, slid the jewelry bag into the bigger one and shook his head. "No, I guess we can move on." He gave Tig a smile. "Thank you."

Tig smiled. "Come back any time, Lex! Sheila's always making more stuff to tempt you with. Bye K .See ya later"
" Bye Tig, thanks." Chaos said as they headed back out into the snow. "Where too next, Lex?"

"Ah...well as long as we're out...I gotta pick up a coat from Candy's...have you met Candy?" He asked, unsure if Aiyla had introduced Chaos to Candy yet.

"Candy Cane? I've been to her shop.. it's been awhile though. You know her?" She asked, as they climbed into the truck and buckled in.

"Yeah, she did my hair, but I ordered a new coat through her and since its in and I haven't picked it up. I take it you know her..." Lex asked.

"Not well. She was a client at one point. Had some trouble with... let me see...some type of gremlin or imp I believe...I've been to her shop a couple times. She has a gift with clothing.. and hair although i've never had her behind the scissors with me.."

"She's an old friend of Aiyla's, knew her sister well appearently. Aiyla likes to drag me in there when there's nothing better to do... I'm sure you've noticed the spikes are gone." He gestured to his hair as they headed toward Candy's shop.

Chaos laughed. "Yes I did. It looks good on you, by the way. I'm sure someone told me at sone point about you two going there. It's been a .. hectic time. I think Candy's done some work for us as well... just can't think of it at the moment. sure it'll come to me though." Chaos turned a corner and headed past a row of coffee shops and cafes. "never understood why someone would open the same type business right next to each other like that..."
"Business politics." Lex answered looking at one, then blinked, he was pretty sure he'd just seen Saffron and Alandra in one making out. "Oh well...I guess they managed to get away for awhile..." He muttered with a grin.

"Hmm? Chaos asked, then saw him shrug and point out the window. "just thought I saw someone..." She smiled slowly then made the turn onto Candy's street. Luck was with them again as they found a spot almost in front of the store.

Candy was just finishing up with a costume where when they came in. Decked out in a fux fur trimed skirt suit and silletto heels, Candy came around the counter with a smile as they entered. "Lexi, hun! Wonderful t' see you, without Aiyla draggin' ya along that is." Candy hugged him with a wink, then looked at Chaos. "Ah well, guess this is a good day after all, if the Lady herself decides to stop by."

" Good to see you, again Candy. How's business doing?" she asked as she moved towards the clothing.

"After that interesting little undercover assignment your boys had..." Candy winked at Lex. "Rather well...someone must've appearently spread the word as to who outfitted them. Must've been Jasmine."

Chaos snapped her fingers. "I knew you'd done some work for us recently! The Black Cat murder case. That was beautiful work. Don't tell him, but I love Eire in the goth look."

Candy's eyes sparkled. "Yes, well he wasn't exactly complainin' when I was turning his hair pink...So what can I do for ya darlin'...Oh yes...the coat. Came in this morning." Candy headed toward the back room with swaying grace on the tall heels.
Lex couldn't help but say it after Candy had disappeared. "Drag queens are so fun..."

Chaos laughed softly as she began looking through the clothes. "Candy is something else. I don't know why I don't come here more often... too busy I guess." She paused and started to pull out a shirt, then put it back and continued to flip through. She heard the click of Candy'es high heels returning just as it caught her eye. She pulled the dress out and looked it over.
"Lex? You mind waiting a minute? I have to try this on."

"Just over there, girl."Candy handed Lex the white box and pointed to where the changing rooms where, around a wraught iron screen. "Sure, go a head." Lex said as he sat the box on the counter, preparing to open it.

Chaos grinned and started for the change room, then paused by the shoes and after a quick once over grabbed a pair and vanished into the cubi.

"So then, darlin' what's your plans for tonight?" Candy asked as Lex opened the box.
"I...er...have a date..." Lex said softly, moving the tissue paper.

"Really, with a who?" Candy asked grinning.

"A friend of Chaos...I bumped into him yesterday, litterally..." Lex said, blushing slightly.

"A him! Ooo...what are you going to wear?" Candy got rather excited.

"I picked up a pair of pinstrip slacks, ut I don't know about the shirt...but definitely this coat..." Lex grinned, pulling out the black velvet riding jacket, with red satin lining. It was perfect fit when he tried it on.

"With that jacket...I think I might have a shirt...hold on." Candy sashayed over to the rack and began flipping through the tops, while Lex checked his reflection in the mirror. It was a girls coat, but it looked good on him and he really loved it.

They heard mummering comeing form the change room, and Candy called out. "How's it goin in there, hun?"

"It fits.. I love it!!"

"Come on out and show us!"

There was no answer and Lex looked towards the change room. "She's not coming out..."

Candy leaned back, her fingers marking her place amoung the shirts . "Come on! Get out here and show us!"

They heard a sigh." Alright. alright. No sarcasm"

She stepped out to show off her treasure. A two piece deep red velvet gown. The top started just below her ribs and had a scoop neck, the bottom rode beneath her belly button and was ankle length with a slit all the way up one thigh. "So?" She asked, turning in a circle." What do you guys think"

Lex looked over her over and grinned slightly. "Yeah, maybe you should wear that tonight..." He said.

Candy was smiling. "I think that dress was meant for ya, darlin. I really do. I knew there was a reason I ordered it. And seeing as how it fits so well...You're gonna have to take it now..." She glanced back at the tops and found the one she was looking for, and pulled out a rich red silk top, with cut out shoulders, but other wise long sleeves. She handed it to Lex. "Goes with the coat. And besides, it's valentines, wear red, makes an impression. And red doesn't look bad on you, even with your hair..."

Chaos came over to see the shirt and coat. She got him to pull the coat one and held up the shirt. "Wow. Definately."she said with a smile. "Faal will be putty in your hands."

"The shirt is yours on the condition you come back here and tell me what happens on your date, Lexine..." Candy said seriously. Lex blushed, but agreed. "And the dress..." Candy regarded Chaos in it again and grinned. "Damn, I guess it's just gonna have to be a gift, because I don't think it's gonna look that good on anyone else, sweetheart..."

"What about you, Candy, you got any plans for tonight?" Lex asked.

Candy grinned and winked. "Now do ya think Jeremy could get away with not taking me out tonight?"

Chaos grinned. and turned to look at her reflection in the mirror. She pulled her hair out of the ponytail she had it in and shook it out. "What do you think.. down.. up.. half and half... wonder if I should cut it? Haven't cut it in.. almost a year now..."

"What kind of impression are you going for?" Candy asked, suddenly business. "This is my area after all." She winked. Lex was looking at the shoes.

Chaos bit her lip. "I don't know. Long confusing story that's hard to explain. Used to be married to him a lifetime ago back when I was a diffrent person. Guess I kind of want to... knock him for a loop and make it clear that I'm am not that person anymore... make any sense?"

"I take you were demure?" Candy asked, eyes sparkling, and heading for a side cabinet that was closed. Lex pretended not to be paying attention.

Chaos let her head fall to one side and gave her one of those 'duh' looks. "It was the late fifties and early sixties. I was a good little scottish lass..."

"An' tonight, you should be a knock out...a real temptress..."Candy looked back, looking her up and down. "We can put your hair up...a couple jeweled combs, pins, that kind of thing...I'd wear jewels with that dress tonight..."

Lex sat down in a near by chair, just watching. Candy took out a locked box and unlocked it, picking through glittering hair ornaments. "I've got a ruby comb here some where..."

Chaos placed her fingers to her throat and thought for a moment. "You know.. I think I've got the perfect necklace.. I've had it since I was young and have never worn it... " She turned and looked at Candy. "I've got reservations for seven tonight. Can I make an appointment to come back and get my hair done then? If not, I'll have to finish out the day with it all fancy.."She turned back to the mirror. "My normal change over between college student casual, and Dominatrix hasn't seemed to faze him.. he still acts like I'm.. the old me. Maybe this will open his eyes..."

Candy found the comb she was lookng for and set it in a desk drawer for later as she checked her book. When Chaos said that, she glanced at Lex in time to see him roll his eyes. Smirking, Candy said softly. "Maybe...you shouldn't think of it quiet that way...I'm free at six thirty so that works out beautifully." Lex was waiting patiently with the shirt and coat. "Oh and Lexi, darlin, sorry t' hear about you and Rue..." Candy added giving him a smypathetic look.

Chaos glanced at the clock and sighed. "Damn ... then I guess we're done , huh? Back to the office... "she sighed and headed back in to change.

Candy bagged the coat, shirt and the shoes Lex had grabbed and Lex waited by the door. "And if you see Aiyla any time soon, which I doubt, tell her her boots are in." Candy told Lex.

"I will." Lex promised, waiting for Chaos. He was starting to get that nervous flutter in his stomach again and realized he didn't even know when and where to meet Faal.

Chaos emerged and handed the dress and shoes to Candy. "How much?"

"I said it was a gift. "Candy said, giving her the eye.

Chaos sighed and tilted her head to one side. "Too expensive a gift. Half off."

"70%." Candy said firmly. "Brings ya to..." She did the math on her fingers to show she didn't really want to be doing it. "Sixty."

Chaos rummaged through her pocket for her wallet and paid, trying to hide her smile. "Thank you.. i'm not very gracious at accepting gifts. One of my faults." She added with a wink. "I love someone who's open to compromise." She started for the door then sighed. "Maybe we could hide out here, eh Lex? Spend the day trying on clothes, fucking with our hair and shit... god listen to me.. i'm turning all girly.. Shit.. where'd did this crap come from. "She snorted and waved at Candy. "See you at six thirty."

"It's the holiday." Lex answered following, waving to Candy, who waved them out. He got into the suv quietly, with his bag.

"Must be. I hate girly. You just lucked out. You are the only person anywhere, with the sole exception of Faal, who has seen me in 'girly' mode. I don't normally go shopping and go all ga ga over clothes and stuff.. well. not dresses and crap anyhow. Did I actually make an appointment to get my hair done??"

Lex turned to face her, doing his best not to grin. "You did, at six thirty...Must BE the holiday..." He said sarcastically, with a grin.

She laughed. "Lex. I had a really good time with you today." she smiled at him and reached over to pat his knee. "It's been ages since I last let go like this. Faal was the only one who could get me to act like this, all... feminine.

You'll like Faal, really."

"I didn't even ask when and where." Lex muttered, covering his eyes, but there was a shadow of a grin.

"Don't worry. No doubt Sylvie will tackle you with that info the second you step in the office... if she can find a way through the Valentine hall of horrors..."

"So I'm not the only one who thinks it's a little over done?" Lex asked as they headed back toward the office. He rolled down the window a crack and lit a cigarette, leaning toward the cold draft, which felt good on his flushed cheeks.

"Hell no. Sylvie is crazy about holiday's and decortaing. she always goes over board. It's just the way she is. I once actually tried to take some down when she wasn't there. I'm mean , I didn't take alot, and there was so much there should've been no way she should've even notice some were missing....My ears rang for a week. It's easier and safer to let her have her way...."

"I'll remember that." Lex said with a nod, flipping the ashes off. After a moment of quiet, he sighed. "This is absurd..." He muttered.

"Avoiding Sylvie's wrath or the holiday itself?"

"Just this day...I didn't really expect today to be going THIS way...if anything I had planned to hide...I have no desire to see all the couples all over each other today..." Lex muttered. "And I'm sorry, Xander and Rue...I swear she's just doing it to get back at me or something..."

Chaos sighed as she turned back onto their street. "Do you think I expected to be going out with my ex...former? husband? Does he count as an ex when there was no divorce?" she shook her head. "Anyhow, you'll be too distracted by Faal to noticed anyone else. Trust me.. it's just the way things go when you're with him. As for Rue and Xander... he is goodlooking I guess, in that bad boy kinda way. If you can get past his attitude... And Rue has ben acting weird since.. well, you know. I wish I could say I know her well enough to say she'd never do that... but " she shrugged.

"She's been acting almost like a different person, so I just don't know what she'd do anymore. All I can say. is try not to let it get to you. Enjoy your life and what it throws at you, Lex. Don't spend anymore time looking at the stuff that's gone wrong"

"If Jack is dead, he's rolling over in his grave..." Lex muttered, watching as they approached the tempory building. "Thanks...for the shopping and all." He said with a slight smile.

Chaos smiled back. "No problem, Lex. For you.. anytime. Just.. the stuff I talked about with you.. you know.. personal stuff? I won't blab if you won't, ok?" She pulled around back and into their parking spot.

"Well, yeah." Lex replied flatly. "Its not like I go around telling everyone what I talk about with people..." He gave her a look as he got out.

"Yeah well.. it's not like I go around talking to people. " She smirked at him as she grabbed her dress and shoe boxes. "This whole buddy buddy thing? Kinda new to me. Hell, this whole 'date' thing is kinda new to me.."

"Kinda new to you?" Lex asked dryly. "I've never been on one." He said as he grabbed his bags, closing the door.

"Well, you're young and you've haven't exactly lived the kind of life that lends itself to 'dating'... for me, it's been....shit...fourty years or so.. give or take." She turned the corner of the building and opened the outer door. She held the door open for Lex.

Lex slipped past in the main lobby to see it was done up even more. "I guess the decorations from Tizzy helped." He said dryly, looking around.

Chaos groaned. "They have to have run out by now..." She said quietly. "We'd better get these things out of site before we're spotted." She said, quickly setting her stuff down to pull off her boots and coat, which she left on the rack by the door.

Lex changed out of his boots and hung up his coat, grabbing his bag, glancing around for Sylvie. "Well...I see some one had a nice morning." Aiyla was standing near by looking amused.

Chaos shot her a smirk, knowing she'd noticed the familiar bags. "Well if someone hadn't slept IN, maybe she could've come with us.." She said. "I'm going to my office. Lex, you're welcome to stash your stuff there too, if you'd like. "

Aiyla chuckled. "Some one elses fault for causing me to sleep in." She said with a wink.

Lex chuckled. "I will, and then I think I'd better find Sylvie..."

"Oh yes...Shauna said something about some one getting a valentines this morning..." Aiyla turned her eyes on Lex. Lex blushed.

Chaos hefted her purchases and held out a hand to Lex. "Just toss 'em up here, Lex. No use in you going out of your way. I'll take that stuff, you track down Sylvie."

Lex only had the two bags, and he added them to Chaos' pile, before answering Aiyla. "Yeah yeah...it's not exactly a BAD thing..."

"Never said it was..." Aiyla said, before heading off in a direction. Lex sighed and went in look for Sylvie.

Chaos headed straight for her office, changing to demon form as she walked so that she could open the door with her tail. She closed the door behind her and set the pile of goodies on a nearby chair. She glanced at the clock again. Noon. " Damn .. we could've wasted a bit more time and gone out for lunch..." She muttered then shrugged and headed back out, shifting back to human as she did.

Lex found Sylvie in the small break room with Eire and Nate. He hesitated in the hall, then entered the break room, wondering over to the coffee machine. "Oh, so you're back..." Eire remarked, seeing Lex.

Nate glanced over. "So I 'eard you and Chaos went off on some emergency? How'd that go?"

Lex poured a cup of coffee and looked at them. "It went fine, why?" Eire was eyeing him.

Sylvie looked over at the boys, as she waited for her lunch to finish heating up. She rattled around in the drawer looking for a fork as she listened in.

Lex took a sip then said as calmly as he could to Sylvie. "Did you um...rsvp?" He asked softly, ignoring Nate and Eire.

Sylvie looked up, started. "Oh! Yes, hun , I did. I'm sorry. Let's see...I beleive he said he'd be by around six... shortly after I think. He said if you had a problem with that to give him a call and he can make other arrangements. Would you like me to call him back after lunch?"

"No, no six is alright..." Lex said taking another sip, Eire was looking at them with a very puzzled look. And Lex couldn't help but laugh at his expression. "Business, Eire..."
--------

Chaos stepped out of the shower and wiped a spot on her mirror clean. She started at her reflection for a minute before giving a sigh, "Can't believe I'm doing this..." she said softly and began combing out her hair. Once it was done, she twisted it back up in a towel again to stop it from dripping. The bedroom clock said quarter to six. She had just about half an hour before she had to head to Candies... She turned to the dresser and started to route through looking for a certain jewelry case...
The chiming of the doorbell echoed throught the apartment, and Chaos jerked up at the sound and cursed softly. " If that's him I'll kill him.... "

Just before she reached the door she asked herself just what it was with people knocking on her door when she was wearing towels? A peek through the peephole showed Lex waiting, head bowed slightly. Chaos frowned and opened the door. "Lex? Hey..What's up?"

Lex winced. "Sorry, running late...please tell me you still have my stuff...Aiyla had me run an errand for her..." He said blushing slightly at the sight of her in a towel.

Chaos looked startled for a second. "Didn't I leave it at the office? " She sudenly smacked her forehead. "Crap no.. I brought it here.. I'm sorry."She opened the door wide to let him in then ran for the bed room to grab his bags. She came out with a worried expresion. "Lex it's getting late.. why don't you change here? I'm done in the bathroom for now, or you can use Devin's room. He's at Charli's for the night."

"Yeah, I blame Aiyla for running late...thank you. I'll use Devin's room." Lex took his bags and went that way. Closing the door, he pulled off his sweater and arm warmers and found the shirt, slacks and coat from the bag. He changed the charm on his belly button ring and quickly changed. Peaking into the bath room, he checked his eye liner, cleaning his face and applying more fresh, before brushing through his hair.

The shirt left the collar in plain sight and he tugged at a moment before shrugging. With out the coat the chakrum tattoo on his right shoulder was visable. but his arms were other wise covered. He didn't think anyone in the building had ever seen his arms bare. or his back...with all the scars.

Chaos called the office, knowing Sylvie was staying late tonight. "Hey sylvie. Lex is running a bit. If he's not there by the time Faal arrives, just ask him to wait, okay? He'll be there." She laughed "Yes, I'm getting ready. No I will not be late. Yes, I will try to have a good time. I don;t know about that one , syl... Fine! I promise I won't hurt any one tonigt. no broken bones or bruises...Yes. Syl? Can I go finish getting ready now? Thank you. you too. Night."

She shook her head in amusement as she hung up the phone and went to tap on the door. "Lex? I told Sylvie you're running behind. She'll keep Faal occupied if he shows up before you."

Lex finished getting dressed, checked his reflection. He looked a tad bit more feminine then usual but he liked the outfit. Pulling on the coat, he shoved everything else in a bag and left the room, turning off the light. "I think I might make it on time...might..."

Chaos stood back. "Very nice... I have the sudden urge to grab a camera.. you'd better get away while you can. "she said, laughing. "You look great Lex. "

"Thanks." He said with a blush, heading for the door. He paused and looked back at Chaos. "Try to have fun tonight..." He said seriously. "I mean, you know...don't dwell so much on what used to be, cause I don't think he's the same guy he was then..."

Chaos smiled softly. "Yeah.. I guess I know that. Really, Lex.. I don't know what's wrong with me. Maybe tonight is what I need to get my head on straight. Auron always had a way of knowing what I needed before I did.." She smiled at him. "Have fun. Don't think too much, okay? Just relax, be yourself... whatever. "

"Later." Lex said with a smile and wave. and he headed for the office, kind of giddy. He reached the office, checked his watch, by it, he was four minutes past six. With a wince, he headed in side, running a hand through his hair, to get the snow out of it and dusted off the black velvet sleeves.

Sylvie looked up as Lex came in and smiled. "Wow, don't you look fabulous. Relax, he's not here yet." She came around the desk, her coat and boots already on, purse in hand. "Would you mind locking up on your way out, Lex? I'm heading back. All of us sinlge ladies are having a romance a thon movie fest.. Sienna and Devin have promised to make all the kisses noises and gagging followups we can stand.Have a good night. " she said.

"Sure thing. Have fun." He smiled at Sylvie, before glancing around. He wandered over to the desk, realized he'd actually LEFT the book under the desk in the bag, and took it out, opening it to the first page, while waiting.

"Are you off to a romanitic night as well, Sylvia?" Faal asked as Sylvie came out of the building.

"Oh! Hello Faal. Yes As a matter of fact I am. In a way ." she chuckled. "Girl's movie night. I believe we're starting it off with 'Gone with The Wind."

He chuckled in return. "Enjoy you evening then."

"You too.. Lex is inside."

He headed up the steps and into the entry way, then tapped lightly at office door before opening it. "Hello?" spotting LEx reading at the counter, he smiled. "Not interupting, am i?"

Lex looked up with a slightly wide eyed expression of surprise, but smiled. "No, you didn't give me much of a chance to actually start reading, only got past the first line." He replied, closing the book. "Thank you very much..." He sat the book on the table with it's bag, while standing.

Faal smiled and gave a little bow. "My pleasure. It was obvioulsy a much loved book of yours, and you were desperately in need of another copy.. and this was just gathering dust. I'm happy to give it to someone who shall appreciate it fully. Shall w go?"

"Oh yes..." Lex tucked a lock of hair behind ear, still quiet shy and nervous. He slid the book back in the bag, he didn't really want to leave it, grabbed his keys so he'd remember to lock up and tryed not to look at Faal because he was going to blush other wise.

"I hope you're not terribly hungry just yet. I had hoped we might go to the library first. They're hosting a selected reading and discussion on their newest rare book aquisition. If that's alright with you, that is.. we can certainly go somewhere else if you'd perferr."

Lex looked up at the word rare books, eyes wide. "Oh! No..." He blushed more. "I really love rare books...it was a library of rare books that taught me to read..." He was starting to feel a little more comfortable around Faal, slowly.

"Wonderful! I have a bit of a collection myself, but I don't actually have the one they'd sharing with us tonight. I've read it, but I unfortunately didn't add it to my shelf at the time... Do you follow the library's newletter about their aquisitions and whatnot? "

Faal led them down to a long sleek black ferrari. He stopped at the passenger side and opened the door. "Yes I know... I couldn't help it. Gosh or not, it was too beautiful to pass up.

Lex had to smile. "Thank you." He slipped in to the passenger's seat, looking around. The ferrari was a bit amusing, but it was still a nice car. He managed to sat the gift bag on the floor next to his feet and glance about. He was still trying to form an opinion of Faal.

Faal closed the door and trotted around to his own side, and slid behind the wheel. He gunned the engine and cast a wicked grin at Lex. "I love speed.. it's so exhilerating.. you're not afraid of speed are you?"

Lex looked over at him, that wicked grin was contageous. "I drive a 65 ford shelby mustang, with a super charger 3 exhaust. She can do 0 to 160 in 4.8 seconds of a quarter of a mile." He said softly, almost a purr. And that was fast. "And fully restorted."

Faal raised an eyebrow. "Very nice." He turned back to the wheel, "Yes.. I do believe we'll get along quite well. " With that, he whipped out of the parking spot and raced down the street. Not even bothering to slow down, he merely shifted and skidded into the turns. They reached the library in record time, breathless with the excitement of the ride. Faal lept out of the and beat the doorman to Lex's door. "Next time, I would love it if you drove." He said, holding out his arm to Lex.

Lex was forced to laugh, excepting Faal's arm. "No body lets me drive, I don't know, I've only crashed once...My first time driving though..." He glanced at the other people at the library, which were all quiet snobbish. There were one or two women staring shocked their way.

Faal laughed as he escorted Lex past the people lingering in the lobby and headed for the stairs. "Well, I would love for you to drive for me. It seems a shame that you should obviously love such a fantasic vehicle and not drive it!" He paused at the foot of the stairs and glanced at the time. "We have a few minutes before they start.. shall we go take a peek at their collection?"

"Oh yes...I've heard they acquired some new ones recently. I haven't had a chance to take a peek." Lex said, glancing around, he noted there were subtle valentine decorations even in the library.

Faal smiled and led the way up the stairs and along the balcony to the large double doors. Inside they wandered along the glassed in shelves, all securely locked and air conditioned.

Hundreds of rare and valuable books, spines gilded and pressed, different color sheens, and gildings. Other cases had illuminated manuscripts open, showing the colors of the ink and hand done pages. Lex looked quiet at home, and took out his reading glasses. He read and spoke latin fluently.

They slowly wandered along, occasionally sharing a quiet comment about this book or that. "Excuse me. The reading will be starting shortly. We're asking all our guests to join us now. " Faal smiled and nodded at the gentleman in the door. "I guess our perusale shall have to wait for another time. Shall we?"

Lex accompainied Faal, almost forlornly. "I could spend hours in there...much brighter then the library I grew up in..." He frowned slightly, looking about. He was going to put his foot in it, if he wasn't careful.

"You grew up in a library? No wonder you love books so. It must have been a fascinating childhood. I'd love to hear about it. If you'd care to tell me, that is." Faal found the room and slipped out of his coat, handing it to a man waiting at the door. He then helped Lex out of his. Free of the heavy outer layer, they maneuvered their way to a couple of chairs.

Lexine winced, but took off his coat, aware a lady near by saw the tattoo on his shoulder. He gave her a slight smile, but other wise, said rather softly to Faal as they moved to the chairs. "Actually it was completely opposite of fascinating, so you definitely wouldn't want to hear about it."

Faal smile softly, holding a chair while Lex sat down, then took the seat next to him." Actually, Lex, I find everything about you fascinating. I've lived a very long life and seen and done many things too tiresome to mention. Some wonderful, some horrible. I've been many things in my life... adventurer, lover, magician, bard, slave... the list goes one and on. I assure you. You may surprize me, Lex, but never shock me."

Lex heard the word slave and looked at him in surprise. He wasn't exactly sure what to say and after a moment spoke in the same soft tone. "Perhaps the library isn't the best place to tell you my...drama of a life story..." He said, starting to look away.

Faal gave his arm a soft pat. "Perhaps your right. Maybe over dinner.. or after. or perhaps another night entirely. But I'd love to hear it. I beleive we'd better be quiet now. I take it from the numerous glares we're getting their ready to start."

Lex fell silent, and tried to listen to the reading, but he was really caught up in his thoughts about what Faal had said. He was starting to wonder just what kind of fae he was dealing with. He shifted in chair, his legs crossed, and hands resting in his lap.

Faal faded in and out of the reading, his attention kept coming back to Lex, who appeared to be a bit restless. Finally the reading ended and they opened a discussion. Faal leaned close to Lex and spoke softly. "Are you alright? You seemed a bit distracted. If you had wanted to leave, we could have. Shall we go now?"

"I think that might be a good idea...the discussions get a bit one sided anyway." Lex answered, not exactly looking at Faal. He was a bit antsy for a cigarette, but he'd been trying to cut back, and hadn't even brought any. "You wouldn't mind would you...I'm a touch clausterphobic..."

"Not at all. " Faal said and stood, and followed closely as they made their way through the chairs. Faal helped Lex into his jacket, then the heavier coat before pulling his own on. "Shall we?" he said with a smile, offering his arm again.

Lex hesitated, but after a moment, took Faal's arm after Faal helped him into his coat. He didn't like the silence, so asked, as they leff the room. "What brings you to visit Chaos?" He asked softly.

Faal sighed. "I don't know exactly. I wander here and there, sometime's with a reason, mostly on a whim. With Clarice... well.. it's odd. I just had this need to see her. I'd been having the oddest dreams about her for the past while and a strong feeling that she was.. well. that she needed a friend. So here I am. Sounds insane, I suppose."

"No...not considering how things have been going lately." Lex said as they left the library. "It's been very...hectic the last couple months...since Christmas actually."

Faal. considered for a monet. "That's .. yes... the end of December Is when they started. We spoke yesterday afternoon for a while and then we went to dinner and spoke some more. She told me about Auron.. which is something that has been troubling her for as long as I've known her. As well, she mentioned her association with my crown prince, and its concequences. " He chuckled as they waited for the valet to arrive with the car. " As well she spoke of some other things, but I always had the impression there was more. Ah well. She'll tell me if she wants to, I suppose."

"It was a huge, complicated thing and I don't think it's resolved. Honnor Knight got away, so did LiVed...and Rowen...We lost a friend, Jack, I barely made it out...and some things got revealed. It all hit at once really. Then the building..." Lex trailed off before he started rambling.

"Yes. Well, to tell the truth I was against the whole remodling thing anyways. I thought she should've gone new from the start." he glanced at Lex. "Did you know I'm one of the investors? Yes...a silent partner, I suppose you could say. I wanted to build from the ground up, but I see the need for something a bit quicker... I've found a few possible locations that I'll check out while I'm here...I'm sorry to hear about your friend.. and of course all that you went through. But I understand you've been reunited with your family? That's wonderful."

Lex smiled slightly. "My father, Auron...and my brother Saffron...it's all part of the complicated thing...I just didn't know about them for all these 23 years of my life." The car was being brought around.

" How horrible to not know your family. I've very glad you have them now."He reached out and opened the door for Lex. "I'm sorry if I'm prying."

"Oh no, that's okay. I don't really talk about with any one else, might as well tell some one." He said with an absent smile, before getting into the car. And he was honest about that. He might as well just put all the cards on the table at the being, rather then keep secrets.

Faal carefully shut the door and trotted around to his door, giving the valet his tip as he passed. Sliding back behind the wheel, that same mischevious grin appeared. "Where would you like to eat?"

"I haven't got the faintest idea of a where's a good place, so you're just as well picking a place." Lex replied, settling into the seat. He was really craving a cigarette now. "So how long do you plan on staying around?"

" Oh I don't know. Few days, few weeks.. few years . "He laughed. " It 's all the same to me. I just go with what happens. I'm not a compelte fool.. I did make reservations... at a couple places.. I wasn't sure what kinda of food you liked, and I kept forgetting to ask..."

"I like just about anything....How do you manage to just...wander...oh well, I guess it's a fae thing..." Lex blushed.

Faal laughed as he sped along. "No no.. quite alright. Don't be shy about asking me things. I suppose it could be a fae thing. Truthfully.. I don't know. I've always been that way.. as long as I can remember, anyhow. I just get restless and feel the need to be elsewhere. Sometimes' it happens right away.. some times it doesn't. Maybe someday, it won't happen at all. You said it didn't matter where we went, right? Well. then I guess we'll just go to the first one of my resevations that we drive past!"

"That works." Lex answered simply, thinking. "I'm just inquesitive...I guess that's always been my nature...but I lived a rather...sheltered life..." He glanced out the window. "I spent my first twenty years as a slave for Abandon, the Gate Keeper..." His voice was calmly, but looked slightly paler, and he resisted the urge to the touch the collar.

Faal was quiet for a moment as he drove. When he spoke it was in a quiet, almost humble voice. "I've heard of what life under him can be like. With everything I've been through.. I'm not it can compare to your pain. I'm sorry. I was a slave at one point. my 'king' was displeased with me and gave me to one of our people's enemies. I was traded for some trival thing I'm sure. but even so, I suppose five years as a slave to a goblin king is nothing to you."

Lex was looking out the window at the scenery, now that's he'd unlocked that box, everything was coming out, and he spoke in almost a whisper. "I was born into slavery, I don't know know how my mother ended up there., she died giving birth to me...by the time I was 13, I ended up...that kind of slave for Abandon, until I escaped..."He trailed off a moment, then said in regards to what Faal had said. "Still, even a goblin king isn't easy...but I guess at least it wasn't the box like Teliveer did to Estehl.."

" No.. not the box. I suppose his majestty was merciful to me in that respect. No doubt he planned it as a lesson. And it was.. just not the one he no doubt intended." Faal spotted a famialiar name and pulled up to the curb. "That wil be his undoing.. his natuaral ability at making enemies..."

"The question is...whos going to be the one to bring him down...because considering I've become friends with Estehl's son...Sands is giving in more to fight for his father..." Lex replied

Faal suddenly chuckled, breaking his sudden morose mood. "Here I go dragging you into a discussion on fearie politics. Oh I am so sorry. " He smiled at Lex, and indicated the restaurant beside them. "Shall we eat here? Or would you rather drive some more...?"

"You know actually, the driving's kind of nice...it sorta calms me down." He smiled shyly. "I spent two years around fae politics before the White court was destoryed. I'm used to it and I do have a few friends in volved in Estehl's rebellion. Doyle for one...and Puk..."

Faal pulled back out onto the road and resumed driving, but actually slowed down to a 'normal' speed. "Let me know when you get hungry." He said. "Those name's sound rather familiar. I know several Doyle's , so i'm not sure whether I know the one youre speaking of, but I only know one Puk.. he's a phouka, right? "Faal chuckled..." interesting fellow, that one.

"Doyle Elenvander, or at least that's the name he's going by now...when Jack died, his will appearently left his club, The Raven to Doyle, rather then Rue, which set her off...but Doyle and I met a few months ago, and had to work together to get out of problem...he's said Teliveer banished him from the fae realm about 40 years ago." Lex said. and smiled slightly about Puk. "Yes, he's a pooka. It took a while to get used to him, he was working for LiVed at the time we all met Puk, but then swore an oath to Estehl...He really knows how to push buttons, Puk...only much more subtler then Xander."

Faal nodded. "Yes, I know Doyle then as well. That's not the name I knew him under of course, but it is a name he's been known to use from time to time. Since my time with the goblins, I haven't spent much time in my home land. Fae are.. a rather fickle lot, especially in the courts... all intrigue and subterfuge.. but I guess that's the way of those things in any realm. I perferr humans.. they think they just as devious and yet to those of us who can see, they are so... not." He chuckled again softly. "Have you ever been to my homeland, Lex?"

Something at the back of Lex's mind tugged at him when Faal asked that. For a moment, he might have looked lost. "No, unfortunetly." Lex answered softly. "I haven't been a lot of places actually."

Faal nodded. "Ah yes.. that's the way of the human world. so much to do and see.. and yet they never seem to do or see very much of it.You will though, I have a very strong feeling that you will go and do and see just about everything you want to, Lex. Who knows... perhaps I'll be present for some of your explorations. "

Lex smiled softly, almost absently. "I'm not sure fire elementals lead such interesting lives...and things have been moving fast enough as it is...its been kinda hard to figure things out lately..."

"Ah but Lex... just because 'now' isn't right for it, doesn't mean you won't. you have an advantage over most humans... you'll have 'time'."

Lex glanced over at him. "You're puzzling character, Faal..." He said softly. "But not in a bad way."

Faal burst out laughing."Puzzling character.." he said when he was able to speak again. "And you my boy, are extremely polite and well mannered. I've been called many things...'puzzling character.." he chuckled again"

Lex blushed deeply and muttered. "I don't know you well enough to be blunt...and I'm not polite and well mannered, I'm submissive..."

Faal smiled softly. "For now, maybe... but that'll change when you're ready." Lex looked at him and he smirked. "You are above all else a fire elemental. Which if nothing else , are much to tempermental and obstinate to remain 'submissive' for too long. You'll see.. when you're ready.."

Lex smirked slightly, shaking his head. "There you go, being puzzling again." He said softly, with humor. They passed by the Raven and Lex caught sight of Rue. He slid down in the seat, rolling his eyes. She was on a diesaster course, the way she'd been lately.

Faal caught the movement and tried to hide a smirk. "A fire element hiding... another first. Most fire elements I know rush in and think later. You actually think first. Interesting. I take it that would be the infamous "Rue' I've over heard of?"

"The imfamous Ruewina...half vampire...my history with her goes back to my history with Rowen..." Lex sighed. "She doesn't know what she wants...and she's the type likely to be a closet case stalker...To be quiet honest, I'd be happy to see her with some one, if it makes her happy...it wasn't that kind of love..."

"It rarely is, I've found. Shame though.. you sound like you deeply regret things with her. You hear that classic line about still being friends, and you know that either they never should've broke up, or they never felt that strongly.. or they're fools dreaming, because friendship can't be built on the ruins of a relationship. Rebuilt perhaps,with a lot of hard work.. but not built..."

"Things between her and I shouldn't have turned the way they did,,,we were better off as friends...not something else...I called it off before the worst could happen, so now she acts like I don't exisit..." Lex muttered

Faal reached over and patted his knee comfortingly. "Sounds like she's a woman who wanted it to be more between you.. and thought it would be. Now she's bitter because you've told her you don't want that as well. She feels played, whether she was or not." Faal shook his head. " You know that whole line, about ' a woman scorned'... and a half vamp.. My dear boy.. you do live dangerously.."

Lex chuckled "No, I was just naivee, when I met her...I was naive with everyone...Its hard to trust a lot of people, from my point of view..."

"Trust, friendship, love. respect.. they're things that usually must be earned in some way. Although sometimes things just seem to fall in place. A word of advice, Lex, if I may... even when you meet someone and it's an instant thing.. always try to wait for that mutual respect and trust before commiting to the relationship further.The heart should never be rushed. That's when it falls."

"With age, wisdome?" Lex asked softly.

"Age has nothing to do with it... except to afford more opportunities for experience to teach.."

Lex was quiet for a long moment, before asking softly. "May I ask...why did you...invite me out?"

Faal was quiet for a moment as he collected his thoughts. When he spoke, he did so in that same quiet, sincere voice. "The other day I felt one of those instant connections I just mentioned. I thought perhaps to try to work on building from that. You, even more now that I've had a chance to speak with you , strike me as someone I would very much enjoy to have as a friend..... if nothing more."

Lex looked at him for a moment, before saying softly. "I'm not even sure who I am...so I don't know how you think you'd enjoy it..."He turned back to the window, suddenly very misrable and no idea why, except he was quiet certian he'd now ended up with a crush on Faal.

Faal noticed the sad look come over Lex and sighed. "Well, it seems all of my talk has put a damper on the evening. Perhaps we should move on to dinner.. unless.." he paused, sounding rather sad. "Unless you'd rather I just take you home. I'm sorry I've made you sad, Lex. I'm not sure what I said to have had this effect on you. Every time I say how much I'd like to know more about you , you get sad."

"Oh, no! It's not anything you've said." Lex said earnestly. "I'm just rather..." He sighed. "I've never really been asked out before...and...and to be quiet honest, my crushs never usually work out, so I tend to avoid getting any, or TRY to anyway..." He trailed off, falling silent.

"You are a fire element. You rush in. Plus, like you've said, you've led a rather sheltered life when it comes to romance and a rather nasty life when it comes to... other aspects of that... " Faal frowned slightly as he thought of how to explain what he was thinking. " Lex... stop thinking so hard about what it coud be or might become. Stop thinking about what might go wrong if it did... Stop thinking of why it wouldn't work out... Fire elements rush... which isn't good. But you're holding back to hard as well, isn't good either. Is it so hard to just... let things happen and work on building a friendship before anything else?"

"That's what got me into trouble in the first place..." Lex answered. He sighed then said after a moment. "We probably should have dinner...other wise all of those reservations you made would be for nothing..."

Faal waved his hand. "Not to worry about the reservations. Those are merely a formality. I know a few restaurants where if we arrived they'd find a table for us. I'm not unknown, you know." He tapped his fingers against the sterring wheel in thought as he turned onto a different street, heading back towards the restaurants. " So you feel that you'd had the bad relationships you've had BECAUSE you focused on friendship first? Do you believe it would be better to focus on a romantic relationship from the beginning AS a romantic one?"

"I've seen it go so wrong both ways Faal, romantic first with Rue, friendship first... with Rowen...And that's the one that hurt the most, so I don't know WHAT to think about that subject any more...he toyed so much with me in that area...and now he blames ME for everything..." Getting emotional in cars was not something Lex liked to do and he knew where this was leading and it was to late to stop it, which only put him in a darker mood because the last thing he wanted to do was shed the tears that were threatening.

Faal pulled over to the side of the street, ignoring a horn that blared at his sudden move. He turned to face Lex. " Never be ashamed of your feelings, Lex. Love is never what we think it should be, and it always hurts in some manner." He looked at Lex and saw the sparkle of tears in his eyes. "Did you shed your tears for your lost friendship, or for your lost love? If you have them to shed, Lex, let them go. I won't think any less of you for it, If anything, I'l think more. "

"The friendship was lost the first time he kissed me..." Lex whispered miserably, the tears already slipping. "But it never was to him, what it was to me...and I'd be alright now, if he'd actually died two years ago...but he didn't...and now he'd rather ME be dead...and he appearently liked that idea enough to have a death curse put on me, as if he doesn't already know that it hurts enough because of the fact that sooner or later, that's what it's going to come down to!" Lex cried, and covered his face with his hands, leaning his head back against the seat.

Faal watched him for a moment debating on what to do. "Oh.. to hell with it." He muttered and reached out to Lex, offering a shoulder to cry on. "come on.. you know you need it.. I don't mind, truley."

Lex gave in, crying on Faal's shoulder. He didn't talk about Rowen like this to any one. No body knew that part of the story, cept Aiyla who knew, but he didn't talk about it to her and it was really part of the problem. Lex knew what it was going to come down to between him and Rowen and how do you kill some one you loved? That thought only made him cry more.

Faal rubbed Lex's back and let him cry. He knew that it was something that had been building up for a long time.As shy and reseverdd as Lex was, he obviously didn't open up enough to even those close to him. Faal was deeply touched that Lex had ben able to confide in him.

"He changed...after Auron disappeared the first time...he was Rowen's mentor you see..." Lex managed to say through the tears. "He...told me...he loved me...but then he'd go completely cold...and when I ended up back under Abandon's control and he and Rue came...to rescue me...Abandon would have killed me if Rowen hadn't taken the blow..." Lex hiccupped on the tears but couldn't stop. "Around the others at the Raven, Rue and Tizzy...no one suspected anything between Rowen and I because that's how he wanted it...it was always what he wanted..."

Faal continued rubbing Lex's back, leaning over the gear shift and trying to make Lex as comfortable as he could in the awkward space the car provided. " Lex... why is it always why Rowen wanted and what Rue wanted? Maybe you should just by what YOU want.."

"Because I don't KNOW what I want..." He cried. "My whole life, I've submitted to other people, some one else has always been holding a leash...I'm so lost any more...I'm surprised I've even stayed around Chaos Inc. I almost wish the curse would just do it's job...it's wicked of me, I know..."

Faal grabbed a hold of Lex's shoulder's and gently pushed him away so he could look him in the eyes. "Stop punishing yourself. Stop putting yourself so low. The people who should have spent their time caring for you, spent it , pardon my language, screwing you over. You grew up to find yourself in a messed up life. But those people are out of it now, and it's YOUR life. LIVE it, Lex. Don't let all that turmoil you fought your way though win and destroy this wonderful spirit I se in you... and Chaos and her people see in you. We don't see you they way you see yourself.. because we're looking at YOU.. you're loking at the reflection you've been taught to see."
Lex sniffled, wiping his cheeks off and managed to say. "I'm trying, really I am...its just not easy...especially alone...I know...I know, I'm not...but it feels like it to often. I can't even talk to Saffron, and he's supposed to be my brother.."

"Supposed to be? How long have you known him? Have you spent any time togrther, just the two of you? Have you with your father? Relationship don't just spring into being with all the feelings intact, Lex.. they need time and work. "

"Saffron has a dark side too...I've seen it where the others probably haven't. We argued the other day...And I'm working on things with my father...when he's not working on things with Chaos..." Lex answered, wiping under his eyes, knowing the eyeliner had run.

" They they still need time. 23 years worth of love and trust and bonding. It'll come. Are you feeling a bit better? Not so tense and sad?"
Lex managed a glimmer of a smile, while pressing the heel of his hands against his eyes. He dropped his hands, looking at Faal. "I'm sorry, I don't usually lose it like that..." He said shyly,

"Which is exactly why you needed to. "Faal said with a smile. "Here." he said and popped the glove compartmentt, removing a small travel pack of tissues." It's all I have with me."

"Better then nothing." Lex answered, taking one. He flipped down the viser for the mirror and did his best to removed the ruined eyeliner from the car. "Thank you." He said softly, "For the shoulder to cry on....but you might as well know, if you haven't figured it out...I seem to have gotten a bit of a crush...on you..." Lex's cheeks were already flushed, so if he blushed it didn't matter, but he didn't exactly look at Faal.

Faal smiled, blushing slightly ."Well.. good, I guess. Because my brave words about mere friendship aside, I rather have a crush on you too." He looked out the window and checked his mirrors and pulled back out onto the road. "And you should probably know.. I'm not given to 'crushes'."

Lex actually laughed softly. "No, you don't strike me as the type to have them..." He replied. "Well...you learned more about me in a few hours then the others have in the few months..."

"And I am deeply touched by that honnor." Faal said, spotting another restaurant he new well. "I know I haven't told you much, but what I have, I normally don't tell at all. Clarice is probably my dearest friend.. and even she doesn't know about the goblins."

Lex hesitated, then asked softly. "How did it happen....You don't...have to tell me, I just had to voice the question." He added.

"How did I become a slave? I told you.. Teliveer was 'unhappy' with me. I was still fairly young, and rather niave about life at court and our 'beloved' king. I was thrilled at a chance to to serve his majesty and so accepted a place in the royal guard. Can you picture it.. me a guard? " Fall laughed softly. "I was such a fool, I know that now, but at the time, that was the place to be. At any rate, one day I was asked to fill in for one of the king's normal guards. I was thrilled. I was to stand outside a room and not enter no matter what, unless the king himself called for me. Simple enough..."

"I'd almost made it through the night when our queen's hand maiden came demanding to speak to his majesty on behalf of her majesty." Faal paused again to chuckle. "Seems his majesty was 'in session' without her majesty, if you take my meaning. Anyhow, she was making such a commotion, I asked her to wait, and entered the room." His majesty was furious that I'd interupted, and although I swore to never speak of it, he threatened to tear out my eyes and remove my tongue... I don't know what changed his mind. The next morning, I awoke to find myself with a band of iron around my throat, laying at the foot of the goblin throne. " Faal pulled down the neck of his shirt to show a faint scar. "It was Estehl, of course who saved me. "

Lex wasn't sure why, but he reached over, his fingers lightly touching the scar. He didn't say anything, but his eyes were thoughtful and compassionate. He seemed lost in thought a moment, then said softly. "Estehl as a habit of doing that, doesn't he..."

Faal reached up and took Lex's hand in his. "Yes. Estehl makes life long friends as easily as Teliveer makes enemies." He glanced at Lex and smiled, then pulled over to the curb. "Well.. are we ready to eat?"

"I think so, yes..." Lex answered, he glanced at his reflection in the mirror again, just to make sure it would pass. He smiled softly at Faal, but said quiet cheerfully. "I suppose we best because as fun as a ferrari is...it gets a bit cramped after a while."

Faal frowned thoughtfully. "Yes.. I begin to remember why I don't drive it with passengers very often.." He opened his door and came around for Lex, helping him out over the slush filled gutter.

"Yes, well, Mustangs are much more fun for that kind of driving..." Lex answered slyly, getting out.

Faal chuckled. "Well then, I suppose we shall have to take your Mustang next time." He held the door open for Lex.

Lex looked about the restaurant as they entered. "Well I did have plans to take it to the drag strip in a few days...you're more then welcome to come along...a friend, Shane, wants to put it up against his Charger...his Charger doesn't stand a chance..."

"You street race?! Now THAT is fire element. I would love to come. Do I get to ride with you while you race? Or shall I wait on the side lines and cheer you on?" Faal couldn't help grinning as the Maitre'd appearred and smiled at him, and turned, leading to a table in the back beside a fire place.

"Racing is sorta my... secret hobby. But I can't resiste And Shane's been a help, in restoring the mustang after it was completely totalled, so I promised him a race when it was done..." Lex smiled as the Maitre'd led them to the table. "I don't think I've ever had any one ask to ride along in the race, but your welcome to..." He added quiet coyly. "It might be good luck."

" You've never met a speed freak like myself. I love going fast. The faster the better." He let the maitre 'd pull out Lex's chair, and walked around to his own, waiting for Lex to sit first. "My secret hobby..." He leaned forward and whispered. "Is rollercoasters."

Lex was forced to giggle, smiling. "I'm absolutely terrified of rollercoasters...you pratically have to drag me...I think it's the heights..."

Faal waved a hand in a dismissive gesture as he sat down and accepted the menu. "I don't are about the height.. I just love the feeling of going that fast.. the weight of it pressing against you. Although the higher you go up... the faster you go down."

"Well, yes, it's called gravity." Lex replied simply from behind his menu.

Faal chuckled. "There's some of that wit I was expecting." he smiled. " Would you care for anything to drink will we consider what to order?"

"I tend to be a smart ass the more I get to know a person." Lex replied with a smile. "Could always get a bottle of wine..."

Faal signalled the waiter. "Any preferrence? I'm not much of a conniseur, I normally just order the house."

Lex ran his finger over the wine list, looking at it. There was some expensive bottles. "No, I think the house wine is just as good..."

Faal looked up as the waiter appeared at his elbow. "A bottle of your house wine please." The waiter nodded and left. Faal turned back to Lex. "I can vouch for their chicken, beef and most of their seafood dishes.. but steer clear of their pork. " Faal shook his head. "They just can not do pork here." He suddenly realized he was still wearing his coat, and shrugged it off.

"I don't eat pork anyway..." Lex said, still looking at the menu. "In fact I really don't eat out that much..." He'd taken off the outer jacket but left the riding jacket on. For some obscure reason, he seemed to remember the day before and when Faal had complimented about the tattoos under his eyes. "I seem to remember you mentioned something about the tattoos under my eyes. I had them done by hand when I was sixteen..."

Faal glanced up. "By hand? My.. that was an incredibly gifted person to have done it then.. there's not a mark out of place. That took a very steady hand."

"Evie was gifted that way...she had a lot of beautiful ones she'd done herself...She was talented in other things...one of the only people in Abandon's domain that was ever kind to me..." Lex said softly. "She was Xander's sister."

"Xander?" Faal looked thoughtful. "I'm not sure I met a Xander. I do believe I've heard him mentioned however. " He finished with a smirk, letting Lex know he'd heard some of 'those' stories.

Lex rolled his eyes. "His favorite name for me is cupcake...I've known him forever...but I've only been able to put up with him in the last couple months...he's not half the bastard he used to be..."

Fall raised an eyebrow. "Cupcake? hmmm." he returned to looking over the menu. "I start to see why Clarice spoke of him in 'that' tone. "

"Yes, he pushes buttons." Lex said, sitting his menu down finally. He liked being close to the fire place and wasn't above playing with the flames. "But we've found at least two people who can set him straight. Chaos and Aiyla Meeks..." Lex smirked slightly. "She keeps a leash in her purse just for him..."

Fall chuckled again." If this Aiyla Meeks is anything like my Clarice, I look forward to meeting her. I think I'll try their chicken cordon blue tonight... with a salad, i think... what about you?"

"Aiyla and Chaos are so similar, it's almost scary...you almost wanna say they're related. You'll like her." Lex drew his eyes away from the fire place, letting the flames be. "Oh, I think I'll have the london broil."

"Hmmm that's almost a scarey thought.. "Faal said then glanced up. "The girls, not the London broil. " The waiter reappeared with an ice bucket and bottle of wine. He went about the ritual of uncorking and pouring a sample which Faal waved off, then filling the two glasses and returning the bottle to the bucket. "Are you ready to order?" Faal smiled and handed his menu back. "Yes. I shall have the chicken cordon blue with a ceasar salad, no parmasean and easy on the croutons thank you. And my friend would like the London Broil.. anything else, Lex?"

"No, thank you." Lex answered softly with a polite smile. The waiter took the order and the menus and departed with a nod. "So, besides fast cars, books and roller coasters, what else do you like to do?" Lex asked, taking a sip of wine.

Faal leaned back in his chair, glass in hand. " Hmm. I dabble in many things, or have dabbled at some point. I have an insatiable need to 'do and discover'. Unfortunately, I am also victim to the Fae short atention span and so became easily bored with most of it. I do not dance. Well not much and not well, anyhow. I'm not very good around children or animals.. well... small children and large animals, at any rate. And I can't stand the colour pink. Not sure why...Or yellow" he gave a shudder.

"Well, I don't know any small children other then Sienna, Devin and Lily Rose, the only animal I have is Aloysius, and he's a cat...and I hate the color pink.." Lex smiled. "Shame about the dancing though...I'm actually not have bad at it...waltz and tango anyway, and that was Tizzy's idea..."

"Ah well, THOSE danced I can do. Along with the other 'classical' stuff. it's this new stuff..."

"Yes well, in regards to that, who wants to make themselves look like fools?" He rested his wrists on the table, his fingers playing with the steam of the glass.

"Well, some of them don't look like fools. Some people make it look very... enticing. I'm just not one of them." He smiled and raised his glass towards Lex. "I just realized, we didn't offer a toast. To new beginnings?"

Lex considered, then raised his glass, with a warm smile. "To new beginnings." He replied with a slight nod.

Faal leaned back in his chair watching Lex for a moment,before finally shaking his head sadly. "Alright, I am sorry, Lex, I have tried desperately to curb my curiosity. Feel free to tell me to mind my own business or just ignore the question if you wish, but I find i must at least ask it before it eats a hole through my brain.... the scars on your arms. They obviously upset you, and yet you wore a short sleeve shirt... did you want me to see them, expecting some reaction out of me, or was it mere oversight...?"

The wine glass toppled over the corner of the table, and the jacket came back on with a tug as he looked up wide eyed, the emotion in them between embarassement and a touch of fear. He'd been focusing on what Faal had been saying when he'd taken off his coat, he'd completely forgotton that the shirt was short sleeved, or that he wasn't wearing the familiar arm warmers. "I f-forgot....it...was a short sleeved shirt..." Lex muttered in almost a whisper.

Faal started out of his chair and was at Lex's side before he'd even finished pulling it back on. "Oh no! Please don't . I'm sorry. I didn't mean to upset you or offend you. Just at the library... you seemed bothered by people looking... they're fine. Don't be ashamed of them .They're a part of you."

Lex closed his eyes a moment, and stopped trying to tug on the jacket, his hand was trembling. "It's just hard to see them and not...think about....how I got them....and the ones on my back..." he managed to say after a moment.

Faal looked at him for a moment, thinking. then placed his hand on Lex's arm. "I can cast a glamour over them so no one can see them.. not even yourself. It'll only last while you're with me though. I can cast one and link it with a charm.. I've done it before... "

Lex nodded his head slightly, saying softly. "That would be very kind of you...thank you..."

Faal got a sudden mischievious grin on his face and he leaned in, kissing Lex lightly on the forhead. "Done." he said.

Lex blinked in surprise, looking at him, and muttered another thank you. He let go of his jacket, tugging it back off again and looked at his arms. It was an odd sight, not seeing the many scars that had been there for so long. Then he remember he'd knocked the wine glass over and glanced down, to see it's broken shards near by. "Oops..." he blushed with a wince.

Faal glanced down at the broken glass as he stood up. "Don't worry about it. " He said and signalled the waiter, who seemed to appear out of nowhere. A moment later he was back cleaning up the spilled wine and broken glass and setting a new glass on the table. Faal leaned across and poured the wine as the waiter left. "So, little flame... what else would you like to know.. or tell?"

"You shouldn't ask that. I could come up with a thousands questions, but we'd be here all night...and to tell...well...there isn't much more to tell..." Lex answered, watching him.

Faal chuckled into his wine glass. "I don't believe we have time for a thousand questions before our food arrives.. perhaps one or two... The rest would have to wait. But I have all night if you wish to use it. I can't think of any place I'd rather be."

Lex blushed but asked, picking up his glass. "Where's your favorite place, I mean where do you like to go just to get away from every thing...and one..?"

" My favorite place to go to get away... I have a small cottage in Scotland. I've only taken one person there, and that was Clarice for a brief time before we rented a place in Scotland near her mother. I go there to get away from the world. It's close to my home, and similar enough that at times I can almost forget where I am. " he set his glass down and smiled at Lex. "No need to ask that of you.. I already know where you're favorite place to go is. "

"The cottage sounds lovely." Lex replied with a smile. "As for me...oh, there's not just the library...There's another place, near by, actually, that I like to escape to...especially at night...there's something...magical about it at night...and...well since I've friends with the owners daughter...I've got a key to get inside..."

"A secret getaway. Sounds intriging indeed. Let me see if I can guess..."Faal tapped his chin as he narrowed his eyes, watching Lex. "The Museum, I'm betting. You're too much the scholar for it to be the botanical gardens..."

Lex smiled, almost coyly, but shook his head. "No...I don't think they'd feel safe letting me in the museum...guess again..."

Faal sipped his wine and considered his other choices.. something close by... "Not the observatory.. that's always open at night... " he set his glass down with a chuckle and shake of his head. "I can't think of anything that isn't already open at night. I give up."

"It's never open at night." Lex replied. "But there's a side enterance she gave me a key to, and if I stay in the African area and around the aquariam and the herpatorium they have no problem with me visiting the zoo...after hours...And the aquarium, having it's rainforest room...I can kinda think better wondering around there..."

Faal looked pleasantly surprised. "I'd never have thought of that. I suppose it would be nice when no one's there. I never really consideredit since I've always found it rather.. overwhelming with all the children running around.." He noticed the waiter coming towards them with their order. "Ah.. looks like our food is here."

"It's much nicer at night...Maybe one of these nights, I can show you." Lex said softly, glancing at the waiter.

Faal forced himself to drive at a normal speed on the way to take Lex home. He didn't want the night to end any quicker then it had too. He'd been tempted to suggest going on somewhere else after dinner, but they'd talked for so long.. he could tell Lex was tired and too polite to say anything. With a sad sigh he found the building and pulled up to a parking place as close to the door as he could get. In a flash he was out and had Lex's door open for him.

"Thank you." Lex said softly, getting out with the book. The rose, which was slightly wilted was tucked into the front cover. Lex touched the petals lightly with a touch of a forlorn expression. "I really should have put it water this morning..." He muttered. He glanced at the apartment building. "My apartment's on the third floor..."

"Don't fret. It's only a flower. I'll get your another. Shall I walk you up?" He asked, escorting Lex to the door and holding his book as he fumbled with the key to the lobby.

Lex pushed open the gated door and looked at Faal. "You can if you'd like." He answered softly. He was starting to feel slightly giddy again, and wondered if that had to do with all the wine or something else.

Faal smiled. "I'd like very much. "He said and held out his arm for Lex, the book and its bag tucked in the other arm. Do you have an elevator or do we have to climb stairs?"

"We do have an elevator." Lex replied, and pointed at the art deco, 20s style elevator across the gold and black lobby. "It's a tad slow, but...I think they were fixing the stairs anyway..."

"I don't mind a slow elevator. I'm not fond of stairs."he said with a chuckle and pressed the button. The elevator must have been waiting, because it opened immediatley. They entered the cab and Faal hit the button for the third floor. "Lex, I know we had a few ... spots, tonight, but I really had a wonderful time."

Lex smiled softly as the elevator began to rise. "I did too. I wouldn't have talked about what I did, if I hadn't...felt so comfortable around you." He answered.

Faal smiled. "What's the word Clarice liked to say.. she thought it annoyed me... ah Ditto." He chuckled and sighed again as the elevator came to a stop. He turned a sad eyed look to Lex, " It's not slow enough. "He said as the doors opened.

Lex gave the elevator a look, saying dryly. "I almost feel I should complain. My apartment is at the end of the hall." He nodded down the short hall. There was really only one door on the third floor hall. "At least my cat will be glad to see me..."

Faal found himself walking as slowly as he could without being obvious about it, and had to laugh at himself. Lex gave him an odd look. "Sorry.. I just caught myself doing something incredible juvenile.. and realized I haven't felt like acting that way in.... in a very VERY long time ."

"Nobody said acting juvenile once in a while was a bad thing." Lex said with a smirk, glancing at his door, they were only a few steps from it. He'd never disliked coming home before like now...He was almost tempted to invite Faal in, but he loath to think of what the old ladies down stairs would say once the gossip of a door man spred the word about the security videos...

Faal chuckled. "Not bad... just rather embarrassing. And yet at the same time, rather refreshing to. As a matter of fact. "he said as they reached the door." I find myself rather enjoying the feeling. Would you mind if i indulge in these juvenile acts that keep tempting me?"

Lex looked up, from putting the key in the lock. If he listened hard enough, he thought he could almost make out a faint tail switching on the other side. But he smiled at Faal and said with a gesture as he let of the key a moment. "Be my guest. Temptation after all is hard to avoid."

Faal found himself suddenly nervous, but shoved it aside. He reached out and gently turned Lex to face him, looking down into those brilliant green eye's he'd seen the other day. "Okay, but you said I could. "He said with a chuckle. "Lex, you are the most incredible, vibrant... refreshing person I have met in a very long time. Thank you for everything." Before he could change his mind... of Lex could change his, he pulled him closer and kissed him.

Lex's eyes widened with surprise, but then closed and despite the couple of voices in the back of his head telling him to stop, he allowed Faal to kiss him, one hand resting on Faal's shoulder. It had been a long time since he'd let any one get so close, but there was a certian something about Faal and he really didn't want the kiss to end.

Reluctantly, Faal pulled away, feeling slightly lightheaded. He found himself fighting the urge the shout and laugh like a fool. He ducked his head, suddenly embarrased. He could feel his face burning, and wondered just how this young man could have such a drastic effect on him. " I'd love to see you again, Lex. You have my number... please call. And I shall remember the race. " He turned to head back to the elevator.

Lex stared at him a moment, but before Faal could walk to far away, he reached out and grabbed him, pulling him back around and kissed him again, his other hand opening his door. Letting him go, he smiled warmly, but there was a mischievious look in his eyes. "I'd love to see you again as well..." He said softly, almost breathlessly, "So I will be calling." He pushed his door open behind him. A black and white cat sat at the door

Faal stood, unable to say anything... or even think particularly clearly, as Lex smiled and gave a little wave goodbye before closing the door. He suddenly had an image of himself standing there slack jawed, glassy-eyed and possible drooling and almost choked on his laugh. He turned slowly and walked to the elevator, knowing there was stupid grin plastered on his face, but not caring.

As the doors closed, he found himself with the sneaking suspicion that he had fallen head over heels in love.....