"Like I said," West said expansively, leaning back in his chair, "You can have as many as you want." If his girl wanted pancakes, then she could have pancakes, it was simple.

And in exchange? For now he just squeezed her hand. Hi. This was nice, just sitting all close. And she looked so pretty. And he liked the skirt.

Hi pretty Girlfriend.

He smiled at her.

West was saying but that, but she really couldn't. After this, anyway, Taryn was going to buy her food as well, right? So she could try to be full with six or so. That was good. Six. Six was good.

Alice squeezed his hand back and gave him a smile in return. And then wiggled around on the heart-shaped cushion a bit.

Tea shops were still weird. Dates, too.

Min couldn’t help but chuckle she was getting the impression he enjoyed growing the hair as much as she liked the way it looked. “That sounds perfect.” She blushed a bit at his words, she figured it wouldn’t be true being that many of the people there were dancers, which made her even more nervous at their trained eyes.


Something in his expression at her saying his full name made her chuckle. Good to know she could get that reaction if he really did do something that pushed her buttons, even though she didn’t think he ever could. No it seemed in their relationship most of the time it was her screwing up when they fought. “Well it’s very sweet of you.” Gosh she missed this boy, the mirror some days really wasn’t enough, but she would take that more than nothing at all. [b ] “As long as this is it, no more.”[/b] She eyed him trying to seem serious, but she was too happy for anything serious. “Aww Ethan I love them there really great. “ She took his hand again squeezing it, “I love you, thank you.” He was truly amazing and she felt lucky that he was hers. When she saw him looking around she smiled more, “Well I’ll never say no to cake, but you really don’t have to do all of this.”


She smiled at him not saying anything for a few moments. Just sat feeling happy and not wanting the day to end knowing they would be going to two different places. Pushing that thought out of the way she nodded, “Of course I know you are. I have put you through so much.” She really had the last few terms, but hopefully this would be the end of it now that she was doing so well. She listened to him talk about his dad, that sounded like a great idea. Of course he would want a greenhouse at his own house. “I would love to come visit you while you are working and see what you are working on. Have you been working on anything special like the lily at school?” He always did so well at the plant thing. She shrugged as he talked about the stupid turnstiles, “Yeah it’s been a pain for studying, but do what I have to. I need to be in the library so” she shrugged again.


Min was always amazed on how much better in his eyes she seemed to be at quidditch. “I hope so, just not getting hurt as bad as last term sounds good to me.” She really didn’t want to do that again. Like old times, he was talking like he had been gone years, but she chuckled, because she understood. “It will be nice to have you back on school grounds. Better be careful though I might make you stay.” She joked and laughed a bit knowing if she could keep him there until the end of term she really would.


“Maybe on break we could do it or wait until spring when it’s warmer.” because freezing didn’t seem fun to her even with a heating charm. “I do think it would be fun though, I’ll not know one plant from the other, but you know I enjoy seeing you with your plants.” it was fun to see him so excited over plants. “You were probably just distracted knowing you were going to be near those plants is all. Focus is key the majority of the time.” Not being able to stop smiling at him, no she didn’t want him sick, but she liked that he enjoyed her taking care of him.


Looking down at the table she couldn’t help but break the eye contact feeling kind of dumb for even bringing it up, she had just been so fearful that she was holding him from enjoying Uni. [b] “Well I’m glad you are going out and making friends. I’d hate to be the reason you weren’t. Lifting her blue eyes she bite her lip before speaking, “Me too. I just feel like time is going so slow this term. I’m trying to enjoy my last year, but I just want to move on and be where you are.” She didn’t know what her issue was this term, but she felt just stuck in the middle of two places. When talk turned to her own future career she nodded and listened, “That sounds great, thank you for looking for me.” She thought for a few moments, “Once this fundraiser is over and things settle back down after Christmas I’ll have to add the Uni application to my growing list of things to do.” She really was starting to get a full plate when it came to school.


Not being able to help feeling a warm and fuzzy inside from him wanting to do this with her. He had never competed before, just dance lessons, so to get up in front of people, her old competition group and do this with her made Min feel so special. “Have I thanked you for doing this with me, because I appreciate it so much.” Eyes fallen on the fork she was playing with Minerva sighed a bit, “Just a getting ready routine, she’d do my hair, add some makeup…” a smile crossed her lips at this, “I always felt princess like when she did that, since I was too young for make up at the time. Once at the competition she would stay in the back with me until the last possible minute knowing I was nervous and right before I went on she would hand me a flower which would end up in my hair for the performance.” She smiled at the memory. “You know I always wondered where she got the flower, because the entire time she didn’t have it. It was like she was.. “ Min’s eyes snapped up and her mind raced, “Ethan do you think… “ was she using her wand during this time and Min just hadn’t seen it. She tried to force the memories to be clearer. Distracted now at her own thoughts she smiled at him, “No.. no you don’t have to do it with me. You are doing enough being there.” A sigh left her again with the dress talk, yet another thing that she always had her mom for. “No the few days before break will be fine.”

Ethan continued lightly scratching the soft yet bristly hairs along his jawline as he watched her with her presents, then dropped his hand from his short beard to take her hand in his. "It's not really any big deal," he said with a gentle shrug. He just wanted to get to celebrate her day with her and this was the only way he could. A couple days early when he could see her. But he was glad she liked her presents and hopefully the sentiment, his smile growing as she said she did. Grinning a bit, he shrugged again as she said it better be it. Of course he would let the actual day go by without something as well, but he didn't want to get into more trouble with her right now. "I love you too, sweetness," he said in return. "You deserve to feel special on your birthday.. that's all I really wanted." And he would still feel bad he wouldn't actually see her on that day, but he'd do his best. Oh and she agreed to cake.. good. Especially since he was in the mood for some as well. And he waved the shopkeeper/server person over.

He let his green eyes look into those blue eyes for a minute, just taking her in, wanting the short time they had together to last as long as possible. His smile faltered a little, hearing her next words. Of course she knew that he would be her biggest support, but what she said next.. He shook his head. "No.. you haven't. None of that was your fault. And it's all in the past now anyway." Ethan gave her a small smile to show her that he had moved past all of the issues that had come up in their relationship. Most of it was things she could not control anyway. And then had been over it before. No need to bring it up again.

He smiled bigger as she seemed interested in the greenhouse and his work. "That would be great.. I have a few things I want to work on next summer once it's finished." he shook his head as she asked about experimental work. "No, actually I haven't.. The coursework keeps me pretty busy. I haven't had any time to work on anything else." Normally he would think that was disappointing since experimental Herbology was one of his favorites, but he really enjoyed the classes he was taking so it made up for that. He might have to work on something over summer though. He frowned, however, when she mentioned the turnstiles again. She was right.. she would have to use the library. And as much as she enjoyed it, she could easily go broke. "Do you have enough? I can give you some if you need to cover the fee.. don't be afraid to ask, ok? I know it can add up.." And he'd hate for her to have to spend it all just so she had a place to study. That was ridiculous.

Ethan nodded somewhat solemnly in agreement. He didn't want her hurt at all playing Quidditch if he could help it. "Yeah.. it will be nice," he slowly smiled, thinking of seeing her and some of the friends he had that were still there. Then chuckled at her words. "Sometimes I think I wouldn't mind that.. though maybe I'd like it the other way around, make you come to Uni with me." And he knew it would only be a matter of months until she was, but it seemed like forever away at times.

"Spring or summer would probably be best," he said in regards to trying the gillyweed again. "I think warmer weather would be better and we can still work on the heating charm." Might be even easier while it was warm so they wouldn't be in danger of catching a chill. "And yeah.." he grinned. "I'd love to show you some things about those plants.. It really is something cool that you can't quite get outside that environment." Studying them in a greenhouse even didn't compare. Nodding, he added, "Yeah, I think you're right.. I was in a hurry and wasn't as focused as I should be.." And he knew better than anyone how focused he needed to be to get those spells right.

His hand still holding hers, Ethan lightly played with her fingers as she looked down. Giving her a smile, he said, "Don't worry.. I'm having a good time there, or at least as much as I can. Of course I wish you were there with me because that would make it even better.. and I have to stay busy enough with classes anyway." But even if he was staying in more than he might, why would she feel the cause of that? "It won't be too much longer until we are both in the same place again.." Though it felt like it was taking forever. And he felt like she would really enjoy the program they had for her there too.. it seemed like it would all work out.

Smiling, he gave her a little shrug. "It's no problem.. I know this is something that is really meaningful for you so I wanted to be a part of it, I just hope I can do it some justice." He was a little nervous about that, having never competed before, but he trusted that the routine she created would suit their skill levels. From what he had practiced, it seemed to for him. He listened to the story then a smile crossed his face as she trailed off. "Maybe she didn't completely give that up at all.." He watched her for a moment, then said, "You know, since this is a fresh start for you and dancing, maybe we could start a new routine. Well, not completely new.. but maybe I could do something to help you get ready, though I don't know if I could do your hair and makeup." He chuckled a little at the thought. "But you know I can do flowers.."

She couldn’t help but beam at Ethan. The gifts, his words, just being there with him made her feel special. He always had a way of making her feel good. Watching him call the server over she leaned over a bit, “Chocolate, right?” Of course it would be he knew it was her favorite. Looking down at her wrist she moved it around as she looked at the bracelet it was so pretty. “E you really spoil me, you know that don’t you?” She gave him another appreciative smile.

Tilting her head a bit she knew any and all of their issues they ever had in their relationship was something to do with her. She either was just being dumb or something involving past issues that had come up during their relationship. It really wasn’t fair to him, but she was grateful that he stuck by and worked through them with her. A smile moving back on her face and she squeezed his hand as he offered her money for those stupid turnstiles, but of course she shook her head, “E.. I’m a big girl, I’ll be fine. I study in my room and the study tables mostly, so I should be fine. If I’m not I promise I’ll ask, alright?” She probably wouldn’t ask, because she didn’t want him to worry, but the offer was just appreciated and meant so much to her. Memories of the day in the butterfly garden coming back in her mind. “I love you.. “ She looked into his green eyes.

“I guess we both just need some patience, I’ll be there next fall with you, it just seems like forever away some days doesn’t it?” She sighed, it really did seem like time was standing still. She loved school, friends, quidditch, but there was a huge part of her missing and he was sitting right in front of her. “As long as you are having fun. I don’t want to be the reason you miss out on things, but I can’t help but like that I do take some of your time. You know I kind of miss your face when I don’t get to talk to you in the mirror.” She bit her lip knowing that might sound stupid, but it’s how she felt. Thinking about his gillyweed class she shook her head, “Alright, this summer we will plan on doing it. That sounds like fun.” Then they wouldn’t have to worry about the cold.

Just thinking about the dance made her stomach flip with nerves. Her mother’s voice rang in her ears a bit. Which wasn’t a bad thing she had almost forgotten what it sounded like. “E you will do amazing. You are a great dancer, competition is not that much different than just regular dancing, it just has many more people watching and wanting to take points for every little thing, but this isn’t even competition it’s just a charity event, so just people watching.” People she hadn’t seen since she was nine or ten, people that knew she was one of the best in her age group at the time and would be waiting for her to either be just as good or maybe fail. Eeep that just pushed her nerves even more. Thinking about her mom she wanted to remember more, but something was blocking it, “I don’t see dad being upset if she didn’t, I don’t feel like it was him that kept her from it, it was her choice, so maybe she did use magic a little here and there.” This excited and frustrated Min at the same time. She hated that she didn’t know any part of her mother’s witch side. Her smile grew again as she looked at him, he was just amazing. She really felt like she was dreaming being with him most days. “Fresh start and new routine, that sounds great Ethan.” Sad, because she wanted her old routine, but that could never be, but great that he wanted to be such a part in this. “I think the flower part would be great to keep and who better to keep that tradition going, but my plant boy.” She chuckled and looked at the time, “Oh hun. If we are going to do any practicing we probably should go before I have to be back for duties at the school.” How she didn’t want the day to end, but they did really need to get some practice in before it did.

Nigel was as usual over-thinking things. He arrived earlier then planned for his date with Blue. Which made him a bit more nervous then he should be. He did tell her eventually that they would be meeting at Puddifoots. He was sure he did. Because....it did get a little awkward after the quidditch match. As awkward as it could be with both them injured and all.But he was okay with all that as it gave him a chance to sit down at their table.

Nigel did wish there some some type of book or manual that he could read. Which would tell him how to make the perfect first date. It would be a much needed help and would be awesome, but of course no such thing existed.

He did bring a tiny gift for Blue. Origami was pretty awesome. Though Nigel was not the greatest at it. Now all that was left to do was wait for Blue.

Blue looked at her watch for the fifth time (after checking her reflection in the window Merlin knew how many times) before entering the little café. She was... three minutes late. Because her magazine said to be relaxed and chill about this whole thing and not to get too worked up. So she figured the best thing was to not show up too early or exactly on time. And she didn't want to be actually late either. So three minutes after the time they'd arranged seemed fair enough. Ugh. It was all very complicated unfortunately.

The Ravenclaw looked around the little shop, trying to spot Nigel. Could they not have, like, stopped by earlier and decided on a table so she didn't have to awkwardly just hover half-in or half-out of the door. Thankfully, it didn't take her too long and she grinned when she saw him before making her way over. Now to think of a cute sentence to open with.

“Hi. Is this seat taken?”

Okay that was just...no. She sat down, trying to smile to cover that ridiculous line though it probably came across as more of a grimace than anything. “Sorry that was funny in my head. But yeah. Hi.” And this time she gave him a proper grin. Um...what now?

Well, she was a little bit late. But Nigel just chalked it up to being a little fashionably late. Claws don't usually forget things. Which actually helped him relax a little bit more, look over the menu, fidget in his seat for no reason, and wait.

No big deal. It was only for a couple minutes till he saw her coming toward him. Now here is where Nigel started over-thinking what to say. Should he say hi or should he stand up and wait for her to sit down before he does. Questions and more Questions.

And all this over thinking just lead to him saying nothing at all.Yeah.

But once she sat down all he could think was Wow. Nigel smiled. "No, it sounded alright." Nigel for sure would not have said anything better "You look amazing and here" Nigel said handing her the origami flower.

Okay well, he didn't think it was totally lame so she didn't feel completely inadequate. She was just... new to this whole thing. And she felt awkward asking around for advice. The next sentence she said came out in a bit of a rush. “That's good because I didn't really know what to say because what if it came out superbly un-funny and just bleugh and I'm going to stop talking now.” Breathe. That was pretty vital.

At his compliment, Blue beamed. “Amazing? That's quite the compliment.” And one she really appreciated since she had tried on five different outfits at least, debating which was the nicest. So clearly she picked the right one. “You look great too.” Nod nod.

Alfdkgjlktjg. Origami. She picked up the little paper star, smiling shyly. “Wow Nigel. This is really cool. I didn't know you had a knack for this kinda thing. I – thank you.” BEAM. Nice move on his part. “That was really sweet of you.”

Nigel had to agree with everything she just said. This conversation could have been much more awkward. It would have been much more easier to talk to her at the quidditch pitch with them both practicing. But that would just be casual. Nigel listened to her talk and had his mouth open ready to say just breathe. But she realized that and stopped rambling. But it did not bother Nigel at all.

He would be rambling also.

"Amazing and Bluetiful " Nigel said nodding. See now here he was with the horrible puns. Where these puns came from Nigel would never know. "Thank You ". He had also been debating on what to wear for this date. Not the easiest thing to figure out.

The Prefect was terribly nervous on whether she would like the origami piece or not. But when he saw her face he knew it was the right decision. "I don't just starfish and levitate on the common room couch" Though usually he does just that. But still was much worse at origami then Blue. "How is your arm?" . He remembered the awkward walk to the hospital wing. But had to leave since nothing was really wrong with his head.

Yeah she was a little nervous, in case that wasn't obvious. Plus not being able to sit still for very long didn't help either. First her hands were on her lap, twisting underneath the table but now she reached for an abandoned menu on a nearby table. “Have you had a thought about what you might like to get?” Food would be her safety net today in case there was any awkward silence.

And Quidditch too, obviously. Because that was a language both of them spoke.

“Amazing and Bluetiful. Sounds like an ad for shampoo.” Just for the added effect she tossed her hair. Better to tease and joke than get all blushy and embarrassed. She'd have to tell Cassia he approved of her work. “You're welcome.”

She laughed a little at his comment. “Really? I had no idea you had so many layers, Nigel.” She waved a hand airily when he asked about his arm. “It's fine now. It was all fixed up in no time o'course. How's your head?” Blue grinned, considering nothing had actually happened to him. “Still fine?”

Oh right, food, of course. The other reason why they were here. He was getting a little hungry. "Yeah i was thinking an ice cream sundae looked good or just a croissant. You see anything you want?" He would be paying of course. It sounded like the gentlemanly thing to do.

"You are right it does and of course you would have to toss the hair. It is a shampoo ad." And there was the laugh. "Well Beaters are complicated people after all." You had to have tiny screw loss to hit bludgers at people. Knowing they can get injured and all that.

Oh good her arm was feeling fine now. "That's good. Oh i don't think there was ever anything wrong with my head. I just don't remember who won or lost the match. But that is probably because i was face down on the ground." Nigel explained shrugging.

See quidditch was easy to talk about.

Okay. SO. Paulie had written to her. To Tori. And rather than asking her to meet him and waiting for a response that may or may not have come, he had told her that he would be at Puddifoot's today. Right now. Waiting for her. So, technically, Paulie Cameron Foster didn't even KNOW whether Tori would be showing up this afternoon. He only hoped she would.

Incidentally, Madame Puddifoot's had been chosen specifically. Everyone knew Puddifoot's was the prime place for couples. And YES, they weren't a couple anymore, but it sort of made it feel - just a little bit - like they were. Or that other people might think they were.

Paulie sat at the small table, his fingers tapping lightly on his leg. Was she going to showwwwww?

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cedric

Okay. SO. Paulie had written to her. To Tori. And rather than asking her to meet him and waiting for a response that may or may not have come, he had told her that he would be at Puddifoot's today. Right now. Waiting for her. So, technically, Paulie Cameron Foster didn't even KNOW whether Tori would be showing up this afternoon. He only hoped she would.

Incidentally, Madame Puddifoot's had been chosen specifically. Everyone knew Puddifoot's was the prime place for couples. And YES, they weren't a couple anymore, but it sort of made it feel - just a little bit - like they were. Or that other people might think they were.

Paulie sat at the small table, his fingers tapping lightly on his leg. Was she going to showwwwww?

She had been torn on whether to meet Paulie or not. On the one hand, this meeting was supposed to be in the very place where he'd broken up with her. On the other hand, she kind of wanted to see him.

For closure purposes, understand. Not for any *selfish* reasons.

So she'd hem'd and haw'd and debated actually showing up, then finally she had no reason NOT to go. She happened to have this really cute new printed dress lying around, after all, and her hair just coincidentally looked really good today, and plus she had heard there might be a good scoop out there in Hogsmeade, so.... here she was. Standing outside Puddifoot's. At the appointed time. Now all she had to do was actually go in.

Tori sighed and braced herself for what was to come. Bravely, she wrenched open the door to the shop, ignored the tinkly little bell announcing her arrival, and marched straight back to the table where she knew he would be.

The redhead seated herself opposite her ex-boyfriend Paulie Foster without a word, looking down at the table for a few long moments before she drew her eyes up to his face.

Well. That face was still the same, at least.

"Hi."

He had heard the jingle of the bells on the door before he saw her. Those bells had actually gotten REALLY annoying whenever people would walk in and then it wouldn't be her, and then he'd just throw them an annoyed look like THEY had done something wrong. But this time it was her. Without realizing it, he stood up.

Paulie felt those weird feelings in his stomach when he first saw her. He wasn't really one to get nervous, but he had come to realize that Tori was the one person who seemed to have the ability to make him nervous. Not all the time. But sometimes. Ignoring the stares that the other guys in here were giving her, he just let his eyes take her all in while she walked on over. Eyes sticking like glue.

And then she sat, and he suddenly realized that he was standing, and so he quickly took a seat again. She hadn't said anything yet.... okay. And she wasn't looking at him yet.... okay. But, eventually, seeming to be in no hurry, her eyes trailed up and met his. He had expected some biting remark from her to begin with, but all he received was 'hi.'

...Hi. Hi? He didn't know what to do with 'hi.' Not initially, that is. He was thrown off for a moment, but recovered. "Hi," he greeted back. Okay, sort of recovered. That was a little lame. "Thanks for meetin' me, ya know. I.. ya look real pretty." It was a challenge not to look at her, actually. Just like how it had been when he bumped into her and Aspen that time. It was partly because he never really knew the next time he'd see her, and so he had to take advantage of looking at her now because he wouldn't get to again for a while. Maybe a while. He didn't know. But it was much nicer seeing her in person than in a photograph.

With some effort, he tore his eyes away and they landed upon the menu he was pushing her way. "Ya hungry? Or thirsty?"

“The sundae does sound good.” She set the menu back on the unoccupied table and glanced around to see if anyone had anything that looked really appetizing. “I think I'll get that too.” Following Cassia's advice of course. “And maybe a coffee or something.” Which she only drank to seem more mature, after dumping at least six spoons of sugar in.

“Well, you never see a shampoo ad without the trademark hair toss.” Blue grinned at him. “Yes, o'course. We're pretty messed up. Or... quirky. Whichever you prefer.” Because some people were touchy about that kind of thing. Which was why she added a, “but in a good way of course,” pretty quickly. Because she didn't want a case of her nerves giving her foot-in-mouth syndrome. Particularly not today, please.

“Yeah. It really wasn't that bad once West bandaged me up. Only took a couple of hours till it was all healed up.” Thank Merlin for magical remedies. Her eyes widened a little. “Jeez Nigel. You should've said you had amnesia. Are you okay now? Quick! How old are you?” Like, that sounded kinda serious. He really ought to have mentioned that.

A coffee, now that was interesting. Wonder how many sugars she was going to need for that? Nigel would have to overload it on sugar just to get it to taste good. Coffee was the mature thing to drink.

Nigel did not watch that much television. But from the rare shampoo commercial he saw. There was always a women doing a hair flip."Oh, of course, the signature hair flip." You always need that plus awesome hair. Which was in no shortage at Hogwarts. She was right about the being messed up and being quirky. Probably both. People don't like getting hit with a bludger. Which is understandable. It does hurt. "Quite Messed up, in a good way." Nigel agreed.

Nigel wanted to laugh when she asked him how old he was because he did not think he had amnesia. But healing injuries magical was still awesome.But it was sound kind of serious so he did not laugh. "Magical Healing is awesome. I don't know about amnesia. And are you testing my long term memory now?" Nigel said grinning. "I know exactly why and where i am" This would be a horrible time to have amnesia with all the tests coming up. Fun.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cedric

He had heard the jingle of the bells on the door before he saw her. Those bells had actually gotten REALLY annoying whenever people would walk in and then it wouldn't be her, and then he'd just throw them an annoyed look like THEY had done something wrong. But this time it was her. Without realizing it, he stood up.

Paulie felt those weird feelings in his stomach when he first saw her. He wasn't really one to get nervous, but he had come to realize that Tori was the one person who seemed to have the ability to make him nervous. Not all the time. But sometimes. Ignoring the stares that the other guys in here were giving her, he just let his eyes take her all in while she walked on over. Eyes sticking like glue.

And then she sat, and he suddenly realized that he was standing, and so he quickly took a seat again. She hadn't said anything yet.... okay. And she wasn't looking at him yet.... okay. But, eventually, seeming to be in no hurry, her eyes trailed up and met his. He had expected some biting remark from her to begin with, but all he received was 'hi.'

...Hi. Hi? He didn't know what to do with 'hi.' Not initially, that is. He was thrown off for a moment, but recovered. "Hi," he greeted back. Okay, sort of recovered. That was a little lame. "Thanks for meetin' me, ya know. I.. ya look real pretty." It was a challenge not to look at her, actually. Just like how it had been when he bumped into her and Aspen that time. It was partly because he never really knew the next time he'd see her, and so he had to take advantage of looking at her now because he wouldn't get to again for a while. Maybe a while. He didn't know. But it was much nicer seeing her in person than in a photograph.

With some effort, he tore his eyes away and they landed upon the menu he was pushing her way. "Ya hungry? Or thirsty?"

Why was Paulie standing up? Tori subtly shook her head at him, and kept shaking it when he complimented her. Of course she looked pretty. She had on a new dress AND was having a good hair day. Ignore that weird pus-filled pimple she'd had to cover with makeup and well, it was almost a perfect day.

Except the day was being spent with Paulie, at the moment, so.... there was no way this could be perfect. She kept her expression neutral as he spoke and then she shook her head again.

"No thanks." Not hungry, not thirsty. The last time they had met here, she'd been all set to order something and then he had broken up with her. So. She wouldn't be ordering anything today. She was maybe a little superstitious.

As an awkward silence started to fall, Tori attempted to head it off with a blunt question. "So. Why did you want to meet me here today?"

Paulie wasn't sure which part of him or his actions she was shaking her head at, but either way, it sucked and he didn't know what to do. So.. he didn't do anything. His eyes still on her and his bum back in his seat now, he paused the menu-sliding in her direction when she told him that she didn't want anything. Nothing? Like... not even a water?

And then Tori cut to the chase. Well, okay. He picked up on the fact that she did not plan on staying long. That was pretty evident. But he didn't beat around the bush with his answer. Maybe he should have. Maybe that would make her stay longer. "I wanted us to be on better terms," he answered honestly, ready for a scoff and also ready to ignore it. Because you had to start somewhere. So maybe they could get on better terms. And then maybe she might be his friend again. And that was as far as he'd let himself think right now.

He unzipped his jacket and shrugged it off because he was hot now. That was because he was still sort of nervous, probably. He moved forward in his seat a little more and waited.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cedric

Paulie wasn't sure which part of him or his actions she was shaking her head at, but either way, it sucked and he didn't know what to do. So.. he didn't do anything. His eyes still on her and his bum back in his seat now, he paused the menu-sliding in her direction when she told him that she didn't want anything. Nothing? Like... not even a water?

And then Tori cut to the chase. Well, okay. He picked up on the fact that she did not plan on staying long. That was pretty evident. But he didn't beat around the bush with his answer. Maybe he should have. Maybe that would make her stay longer. "I wanted us to be on better terms," he answered honestly, ready for a scoff and also ready to ignore it. Because you had to start somewhere. So maybe they could get on better terms. And then maybe she might be his friend again. And that was as far as he'd let himself think right now.

He unzipped his jacket and shrugged it off because he was hot now. That was because he was still sort of nervous, probably. He moved forward in his seat a little more and waited.

Good Paulie. Cool your jets. Tori almost cracked a smile at how responsive he was to her head shaking... or to her behavior in general... but she was well-practiced at making a stern face by now. So she quietly waited for his answer.

"Better terms," she repeated softly. Hmm, well... that made sense. She took her time thinking over what that would require, though. Better terms sounded like what she needed with Paulie, even if she didn't want to admit it. Tori didn't like having bad karma with anyone except for that Sierra Greingoth.

After a long pause, she nodded in the affirmative. "Okay, I can do better terms." Paaaausepausepause. "How?" She wasn't good at this making up stuff. Obviously.

Better terms, that's right. And Paulie watched her while she thought this through in her head for a moment or two. He was being very observant today, yes. And after a little while, the girl across from him nodded. Nodded AND said that she could do better terms. So..... that was a yes.

A YES.

Without any attempt to stop it, his lips separated in a smile. Progress. The start was starting! Slowly. Don't get ahead of yourself, Paulie. Calm yo jets. Another question soon followed, though. The 'how' of the better terms. "Well.." His forefinger tapped on the menu once and his eyebrows raised a bit. "We can start by gettin' drinks?" His smile may have twitched into a little more of a grin there.

For real, though. "I think we could hang out a bit more," he suggested. And he really wanted this, but tried to keep his tone even instead of eager. "I'm gonna be back in England after I finish out this schoolyear." That would help, too, right?

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cedric

Better terms, that's right. And Paulie watched her while she thought this through in her head for a moment or two. He was being very observant today, yes. And after a little while, the girl across from him nodded. Nodded AND said that she could do better terms. So..... that was a yes.

A YES.

Without any attempt to stop it, his lips separated in a smile. Progress. The start was starting! Slowly. Don't get ahead of yourself, Paulie. Calm yo jets. Another question soon followed, though. The 'how' of the better terms. "Well.." His forefinger tapped on the menu once and his eyebrows raised a bit. "We can start by gettin' drinks?" His smile may have twitched into a little more of a grin there.

For real, though. "I think we could hang out a bit more," he suggested. And he really wanted this, but tried to keep his tone even instead of eager. "I'm gonna be back in England after I finish out this schoolyear." That would help, too, right?

Look at him, smiling already. Tori almost smiled just because he was, and quickly turned her head away so he couldn't see the hint of amusement on her lips.

They could start by getting drinks. Oh, Paulie, typical Paulie. "All right," she agreed slowly, her mouth twitching some more as she fought to control her smile. MUST NOT SMILE, DAMMIT. She didn't want him to see that she was actually enjoying herself here. Why? Well, that she wasn't quite sure of yet.

"I'll take a water," she told him instead. "Or, maybe..." Would this be pushing it? She leaned onto the table a little bit. "Do they have lemonade?" Tori was most definitely looking at Paulie and not at the menu when she asked that.

But of course he wanted to hang out with her more. Hmmmmm. She slid back into her seat at that suggestion, along with the mention of coming back to England. "California get too dull for you, did it?" She crossed her arms.

Paulie's grin was etched in place when she agreed to a drink. So she had to at least stay until she was finished with her drink, right? Maybe she didn't mind his company....... She wasn't throwing daggers. And she said yes to a drink. And to better terms. And now Paulie was literally controlling himself because he was so happy that this girl accepted a DRINK. Didn't take much for him.

"Sure," he nodded when she told him water. Even if it was just water, that was fine. Water was a drink. No problem. His eyes remained on the redhead as she started to change her mind, though. When she leaned forward he caught a whiff of her perfume. And then.. Do they have lemonade? With their eyes meeting, he didn't so much as blink. Just a smile graced his lips. Not a grin or a smirk, but an even, honest smile. "Well, they've gotta have it. Ya can't deny a princess her lemonade." And if they really didn't have it, Paulie would go on and MAKE them squeeze some lemons into fresh lemonade. Or he'd do it himself. No lie, he would.

Tori sliding back into her seat seemed to mark the end of that little moment, but Paulie was still thinking about it. Until her next question put his mind on a different track. He shook his head. "I love California." The weather and the ocean and the weirdos. All of it. Or, most of it. "During summer break I report back to base here." Which he wasn't opposed to, either. "What about you? What are ya up to these days?"

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cedric

Paulie's grin was etched in place when she agreed to a drink. So she had to at least stay until she was finished with her drink, right? Maybe she didn't mind his company....... She wasn't throwing daggers. And she said yes to a drink. And to better terms. And now Paulie was literally controlling himself because he was so happy that this girl accepted a DRINK. Didn't take much for him.

"Sure," he nodded when she told him water. Even if it was just water, that was fine. Water was a drink. No problem. His eyes remained on the redhead as she started to change her mind, though. When she leaned forward he caught a whiff of her perfume. And then.. Do they have lemonade? With their eyes meeting, he didn't so much as blink. Just a smile graced his lips. Not a grin or a smirk, but an even, honest smile. "Well, they've gotta have it. Ya can't deny a princess her lemonade." And if they really didn't have it, Paulie would go on and MAKE them squeeze some lemons into fresh lemonade. Or he'd do it himself. No lie, he would.

Tori sliding back into her seat seemed to mark the end of that little moment, but Paulie was still thinking about it. Until her next question put his mind on a different track. He shook his head. "I love California." The weather and the ocean and the weirdos. All of it. Or, most of it. "During summer break I report back to base here." Which he wasn't opposed to, either. "What about you? What are ya up to these days?"

He was still smiling. Gosh. That smile kind of made Tori feel... weird.... and warm... and almost... happy? All on the inside, though. She was keeping it in. For now.

"That's right, you can't," she replied softly. He'd remembered her nickname! Awwwww. "If they do have lemonade," the redhead straightened up in her seat primly, "then I'll take one of those, please and thanks." She wouldn't even complain if it wasn't pink. See? Progress.

Well... that HAD been progress. Seeing him talk about California like that made her want to slump down in her seat again, as she couldn't stop a frown from forming on her face. "So you're only in England for the summers." Hmm. "I've just been... working. In Diagon Alley." She was pretty much the same as the last time he'd seen her. That was all she was going to tell HIM, anyway. She had more questions for him. More talk about PAULIE, less about her, mmkay?

"How are you liking those California girls?" she asked quickly, raising an eyebrow but attempting to keep her tone neutral.

Well, she wasn't smiling, but if Paulie wasn't mistaken, she was on the BRINK of smiling. And that was almost as good. So, when their server did come over, Paulie ordered a lemonade - yes, they did have lemonade - for Tori and a hot chocolate with extra whipped cream for himself. He remembered that Puddifoot's had very good whipped cream. Didn't skimp on it either.

Now instead of that smile actually appearing on her face..... a frown formed instead. Paulie saw. That wasn't unnoticed. But he did like California, and he couldn't really help that. "Well.. definitely for the summer," he began. "I haven't decided where I'll be in the fall." And he was going to have to choose soon. Like, REAL soon. But that was for another day. Not right now. "Oh yeah? Nothin' else..?" No........... boyfriends/boy toys/love interests, for example?

Then there was a quick question that fell from her lips, about California girls. Fine, fresh, fierce? They got it on lock? "They're pretty. And some of 'em are real cool." Truth. California was full of attractive people. Also crazies. "..None of 'em hold a candle to you, though." And he moved his hand juuust a little bit so that his knuckles brushed against hers. All the while his eyes were still on her, the words hanging in the air for a moment.