Welcome to Gaia! ::

There is was... out in the open.. at least.. mostly. What she'd been getting at to an extent. She was quiet as he explained, watching him. She'd suspected as much, though it didnt' make hearing it any easier. "I didn't say that I would run away.. It's just going to be a little difficult to come to terms with feeling like a home wrecker among siblings..."

She peered into his eyes. It was the most blunt on the subject she'd been so far. It was how she'd felt after Ana's last outburst. "I care for you.. And though my predicament is... All be it tedious.. I'm a stubborn woman or have you forgotten." She'd made it a jest. "I'll admit.. I was wondering if I was prepared to give you up if need be.." She frowned some. "I just don't see that as an option.."

He flashed her a bright grin. "I really truly mean it." He leaned down, placing a kiss on her cheek. "Are you kidding me?" He chuckled lightly. "I'm enjoying having you all to myself for the moment.. And.. if it wasn't raining so hard I'd suggest taking a walk.. clearing your head a bit and just escaping for a bit.."

He gave her hand a soft squeeze. "I know it isn't going to change how you feel... But I was the one that chose for this to happen." He had only wanted to finally make the step with his life that he had been avoiding for so long because of Ana. He knew it wasn't going to be easy but he had hoped that she was better adjusted. Sadly it seemed his worst fears with his sister were still an issue. "You aren't the one wrecking things, I am. It's been my choice.. and I knew what I was doing.. I'm sorry I dragged you into it." He knew he was being selfish by finally wanting a family of his own.. But it had been almost three hundred years.. shouldn't he have that choice? "Whatever happens between us... rather it's something that is a reassurance or detriment.. I won't let Anastasia run. It might be hard to get her to accept this, but I won't abandon her... But I'm not abandoning you, either."

She felt her cheeks warm as she absent mindedly started playing with a dread, twirling the hair in her fingers. It was a nervous gesture that she had never been able to give up from childhood. His words had caused her stomach to flutter, and she couldn't help but admit to herself that maybe she could really find herself falling for him if things went right. "Then let's go." She said, grey eyes peering up at him. "A little rain can't hurt, can it?"

She squeezed his hand in return. "I never thought you would abandon us.. What ever happens.." She took a breath and gave him the full weight of her eyes. "You're mine.. and I intend on keeping you.. As she is apart of you.. So too has she become mine.." There wasn't any turning back now. She'd staked her claim and for ill or good she wouldn't back down.

"Are you sure?" He seemed surprised. Generally he'd have thought she'd have wanted to stay dry. "Alright then.. just stay close so my wing can run the water away." Lifting his wing high over her, he held her close before stepping out into the rain. "I'll follow your pace since I have longer legs."

"Some times, the best things in life are things that don't come easily.." She returned his kiss, lingering only a small moment befor pulling away. "If everything came so easily, how could we appreciate them once we had them?" She lingered in his embrace, melting herself against his form as best as she could giving they were still sitting in dining chairs. The road ahead now, it would be rough, even dangerous and down right risky. Closing her eyes against the thought of it, she breathed deeply filling her lungs with the scent of him and imprinting it to memory. She was content in the moment. With the dark road ahead of them for both sides.. she was content to just enjoy the moment. "I won't abandon you.. either of you.. no matter what.." She paused as she spoke, moving her head to stare at him once more. "Even if she raises the brink of hell to stop me.. I won't give up on your sister.." She knew.. finally she'd put the scent of death that surrounded the girl together. The skull, likely a litch, the raven.. it was some how there all written.. but finally she'd managed to put the two together. The word screamed to her, necromancer... still it didn't matter.. it wasn't any worse than her mother's blood was it?

He smirked lightly and shook his head some. "I suppose I don't.. not often, no." Chuckling, he allowed her to drag him out into the rain, folding his wings back behind himself so that they resembled a feathery cloak of black, pink and blue. Pulling her hand upwards, he brushed the gentlest of kisses against her knuckled before spinning her in a dance like movement and steadying her with his free hand should she stumble in the mud. His eyes were upon her face though likely now would have been a good time to have had his jacket with him. Since he'd left it in the house, he couldn't fetch it for her for modesty's sake without leaving her side, something he didn't want to do.

She pondered his words a moment. He was right... it wouldn't be easy on her and she was certain trying to talk to her together wouldn't do anything but make things worse. Still.. There was the wild card. Avery.. Her eyes flicked to where he'd been sitting. "Give her some time.. If you talk to her now.. You could do more damage than good..." She looked back at him giving him a reassuring look. "She's hurting.. But yours and mine are the last faces she should be seeing right now.. Let Avery talk to her.. I know.. he's encroaching just as I am.. but...." She took a small breath. "She may be just what she needs right now.. Some one who's not fully involved and has no other stake in what's going on... Besides.. he does seem quite keen on her.." She held up a hand to keep hm from protesting just in case. "The point is.. He seems to be a gentle touch and encouragement for her.. Perhaps a ray of light in her darkness.. We wouldn't want to snuff it out."

She frowned once more as looked at him flatly.. "I never wanted to say anything.. but.. your sister.. she smells like death.. The talking skull.. it just... makes more sense now.. I'm sorry I hadn't seen it before now.. but.. I do.. It changes nothing.. but.. At least I think I know a little more than I did before.." She went still in his arms. "She's.... deals in the dead to put it delicately.. doesn't she..." She looked down. "If I'm wrong just let me know.. Like I said.. Either way.. It changes nothing..."

He chuckled merrily, tucking his arms around her, he gently lifted her up and hugged her to him, spinning in the rain with her. "I can't actually remember the last time I played in the rain like this..." Carefully he set her back on her feet. "Soo.. Were too would you like to walk?" He was looking out at the different options that lay open to them.

His brows furrowed but despite his better judgement he remained quiet until she finished speaking. He knew Anastasia needed someone right now and he knew in the back of his head that it couldn't be him but it hadn't changed him wanting to comfort her and tell her everything would be alright. "And if it doesn't work between them... then what? " He gritted his teeth. Where was that stupid raccoon when he needed him? Furthermore, would the boy even understand the delicate situation there was.. He couldn't even help but wonder if Anastasia was doing this only to rebel. Would she hurt him? There was way too much going through his head and he didn't like the outcome of any of it. There was a part of him that desperately wanted to go save her no matter what might happen.. However, the other part of him knew she was right, as much as he didn't want to admit it.

His head tilted to one side, lips pulled into a deep frown. "Just... what are you insinuating..." When she finally came out with it, his body went more ridged. He abruptly stood from his chair, eyes shutting. "No. I don't want to talk about it." It was almost as if he was shutting himself off completely the moment it was mentioned, as if it dug up some painful memory he didn't want to relive. "Please, just leave it at that."

Her smile widened and she kept her eyes on him as he lifted her. She touched her nose to his, smiling and giving a soft little laugh. "Perhaps you should more.. You can't expect to live a long healthy life if you don't have some fun once in a while." It was ironic, since she really didn't do that much for herself, either. However, she chose not to mention that part. Tilting her head, she glanced around. "Umm... I'm not sure. We could just pick a direction and walk? I really don't know the town very well.."

"If it doesn't work between them then we'll cross that bridge if/when we come to it.. You can't coddle her.. She's a big girl.. she just needs to learn that some times.. s**t happens.. If you make a tremendous thing over every little scrape bump and bruise you're not helping the person grow.. you're stunting them." She shook her head. Her voice had never raised above a whisper as she spoke and her tone had been even. "She'll hurt.. if it fails.. but she'll learn eventually that.. pain of loosing some one.. relationships... it's not the end of the world.." She looked him square in the eyes. "I don't see him hurting her... He's smitten... you can see it in the way he looks at her.."

She let him move,dropping her arms at her sides. "Lucian..." She sighed softly and stood, moving to the sink. She began rinsing off the dishes and stacking them in the dishwasher to clean. "Alright.. I won't mention it again.." She kept her back to him as she scrubbed one of the pans that had some stuff stuck to it. She could see it was a touchy subject. But it had been something she was trying to work out about Ana from the moment they'd first met. She didn't look down her nose at her.. After all.. She was a member of the royal demonic family line.. How much worse could you get in most worlds? The answer was.. you couldn't. Sure.. some were down right... horrible.. but once you got to know most of them.. they all seemed.. normal.. like every day average people...

"Perhaps I should... Though.. It's no fun dancing in the rain alone.." He gave her a quick wink before looking down a path and nodding. "Right then...Lets go this way.. And on our walk I'll point out anything you'd like to know more of.." He spun her to stand beside him once more, wrapping an arm around her shoulders along with a wing to be sure she stayed warmer. "Sound like a plan?"

He had to steel himself. There was a part of him that wanted to yell, to tell her she was wrong. He put a hand on the wall, keeping his eyes shut as he tried to calm himself down. "She... she knows nothing but rejection.. I just... I want her to know that someone cares about her..." It was all he could manage to say without throwing himself into rage. "To let her know that she isn't alone..." It was easy to see that it was a hard conversation for him as well. He didn't like thinking that his sister's fate would be in someone else's hands, especially a male that he knew very little about.

Drawing in a ragged breath, he turned to face her again. His face wore a grim expression, but was otherwise unreadable. He hadn't told her for her own sake, but for his own. He couldn't deal with what his sister was. He didn't like it.. He didn't even like thinking about it. To him that was a forbidden subject. "She is... what she is.." He stated vaguely. "If you'd like to know more... maybe you should talk to her... I don't want anything to do with it." After that response, he reached toward her and brushed some hair from her face, laying a kiss on her head so she knew he wasn't mad at her.

Anastasia smirked but nodded, keeping her steps even with his. "Sure, just lead the way." She kept herself close to him, not wanting to venture too far. As the rain came down she brushed some of the hair away sticking to her face before glancing down and realizing what had happened to her dress. She immediately flushed. "I umm... should... probably change first..." She coughed a little, completely embarrassed.

She flinched only slightly around the eyes as he spoke. "Would it set your mind at ease if I offered to talk to her? I won't try to aggravate her.. just... let her know she's still cared about.." Setting the scrubber in it's rest to drain, she sighed softly. "I don't want to stir the pot with you two.. not on that subject.." She'd remembered his reaction when she'd mentioned what her mother was. His reluctance to call a spade a spade was why she'd eventually given into him giving her mother's kind a different name though similar as it was. "Lucian.." She turned around, leaning against the sink. "It'll be fine...We'll get this figured out and.. in time.. It'll be ok.."

He'd started to lead her off till she paused and his attention was brought more clearly to the issue at hand. Directing his eyes immediately away, he flushed deeply and coughed. "That would probably be a good idea.. Perhaps something a little less... translucent when wet?" His gaze was still diverted to the clouds as he spoke, in attempt to give her some feeling of modesty. "Would you like for me to lead you back to the house or wait for your return?"

"If she tries anything I'll be prepared.. I'm not exactly defenseless.." She smiled. "I am after all born of faedragon and de..." She paused some. "Daemon alike.. Besides.. I don't intend on walkign in screaming.. most times having a level head is the best start." She finally pushed herself away from the sink. "How about we get that futon from down in the basement and bring it up?" She was changing the subject. For her.. the conversation was over.. the topic had been discussed.. and she'd made her peace with it. There was really nothing more to say about it. She'd wanted nothing more than to wrap herself up in the warmth of him moments ago.. but after everything that had happened.. she was trying not to loose track of what would be the best way to go about things now.

"What can I say?" He smirked right back. "Some people have no couth." He chuckled lightly though his eyes fast a look to her face. That look, her hair wet, framing her face as she bit her lip.. it stole his breath for a moment's time. "Ana.. It's not that I wouldn't like to.. Trust me.. It's the point that.. I do not wish to be like most men.. who chase only for what lusts could be stricken.. I think too highly of you to steal glances from your beauty when it's been so unfortunately exposed..." Reaching up, he pushed some of the wet hair from her face, curling his wing around her in a hug that sheltered her form from sight. "For modesty's sake.. and my own.. I will be a gentleman to keep your virtues unsullied."

"It's not that I think you're defenseless..." He just knew how relentless Anastasia could be... and if she could use things to her advantage she would. His sister wasn't exactly the model for a fair fight. Level head or not... she had a way of making things hostile. "Just be careful.." He said, sighing deeply but nodded, shifting his weight toward her. "Well, lead the way then." He motioned. He was still wondering how things had gotten so complicated. Today was just suppose to be calm, a nice day.. or even evening... And all it seemed like was that the storm was getting worse.

Her head shook slightly, a slight snort coming from her. Not even her brother would be that polite in this situation. Perhaps that was why it amused her so and why she had poked to see what could happen. It wasn't even like she was ready for that stage of a relationship yet, but she couldn't help it. Sadly, he seemed unchanged. She could tell that there was a little mouse toiling on its wheel in the back of his head, but it seemed the wall that was constructed was still holding up. Alas.. and it could have been good fun too. "If that is what you wish.." She gave a soft pout, one that she hadn't even realized she did, before turning to look at the house. When he touched her face she involuntarily shivered, curling herself against his body. She knew she could push him more, and there was definitely a part of her that wanted to.. to see just how far it could go.. But there was a tick in her head that told her not to just yet. Maybe it was the part of her that was still holding on to Lucian.. and just maybe that was why she wanted to do it. "You aren't like most men.." She finally said aloud. "And perhaps... that's why I found it so tempting.." She nibbled her lower lip again, instinctively this time.

"I'll be careful, I promise.." She grinned at him, hugging him to her, she looked at the door in the kitchen that lead to the basement. "Alright, this way it is the way then." Reluctantly, she let him go before turning and leading the way to the door. Opening it, she felt around till she caught the switch and turned the light on. Decending the stairs, she flipped one more switch and turned on another light. "Now I think I stored it some where over in this corner...." She pointed in the corner she was thinking of before looking back to see if he had made it down the stairs safely.

He felt her shiver and frowned slightly. "Are you ok?" He curled his wings around her, wrapping the warmth around her. "I suppose I'm not.. and yet.. I very much am... It's taking every restraint I have right now Ana.. As much a gentleman I strive to be.. I'm still a man.. and having you beside me... thus.... in such a state.. Lets just say my thoughts are best locked for the moment lest I do something I might regret later.. or potentially loose my life for.. not that it wouldn't be worth it..." He gave her the full weight of his eyes, showing within them just what effect she was having upon him before turning back to the house. "I don't think your brother would approve much of you walking in sopping wet.. I.. I know a little shop near by.. It's a small boutique.. but.. I could buy you some dry clothes there if you like.. You can have your pick of the store.."

Returning the hug, he placed a light kiss on her head and gave her a small squeeze before letting her release it. He smiled, "Good.. I'll hold you to that." He followed behind without much of an effort. The last couple of steps he scaled in one leap, landing with an elegant sway next to her. He put a hand on one hip, shifting his gaze around until he caught sight of the pile she was talking about. He snapped his fingers and let his servants get to work rummaging through it. It wasn't long until they found it and began to lift it. "Anything else you need from down here?" He offered.

Giving a swift nod, she didn't remove her head from his chest until she heard him speak. Her lips curled into a smile. "Okay... so maybe there is something very intriguing about hearing that..." She couldn't refrain from biting her lip again, though she tried to look away so that it didn't seem so... less than innocent. Even the random thought about him possibly fighting Lucian over her modesty.. Okay, so she was a female, she could have thoughts too. "There are a lot of things Lucian doesn't approve of... But I'm a grown woman." Her eyes shifted upward and when she caught the glint in his eyes she flushed brightly. She felt her stomach flutter, but she was trying hard to not act on her desires at this very moment, despite how badly she wanted to. "Umm.. sure, that would be wonderful." She smiled again, pulling some hair behind her ears. Though she wasn't all that sure what she would do while he was gone, but it was better than the alternative of bothering Lucian or Delphi for clothes..

She blinked. "I forgot you had them.." She actually managed to look a little sheepish. Giving a quick look around, she pursed her lips together as she thought. "No.. I think we should be fine unless the electricity goes out.. so.. Just in case I'll bring up the box of candles..." She walked over tot he other side of the basement, grabbing a box marked 'Emergency candles' and returned to the foot of the stairs. "This should be all we'll need.." She grinned wide. "They can set it on the floor up in one of the bedrooms on the second floor if you like.. I'm sure you'd rather sleep down in the living room so you can make sure Avery doesn't go creeping down stairs in the middle of the night." She teased s she started up the stairs, box tucked under her arm.

He flushed once more as she replied. "Yes.. grown woman or no.. I can't say I blame him for being protective of you.." He watched her flush, smiling all the more. He'd caused this reaction in her and in some way it pleased him to know he had such an effect on her. "Alright then, Stay close and I'll keep my wings around us so you won't have to walk around so... indesposed.. This way you'll be able to choose what we buy." Moving an arm around her waist, he held her closelythough loose enough to be comfortable. Giving her another smile, he gave a small nod before starting in the direction he knew the boutique to be at a slow pace so she wouldn't be drug through the mud any.

"Actually... I was rather hoping I could stay with you tonight." He gave a grin while he wrapped one arm around her, pulling her close enough so that he could leave a soft kiss on her neck. "I could always set up the servants to keep watch." He gave a chuckle at his own jest, though he held her for a little longer. "So... what would you like to do while we have the house to ourselves...?" He tilted his head down so he could look her in the eyes.

She felt like her cheeks had flushed for what seemed the hundreth time that day. She wanted to comment on what he had said, but she wasn't sure how. Still, she couldn't help but feel it was a cute little statement all the same. She lifted her hand to touch his cheek, looking back into his eyes. When he said he was taking her, she wasn't quite sure how that was going to work, but she decided to let him figure it out. "Umm.. alright." She did as he said, letting him lead the way. She wasn't sure it was going to end very well, she would still have to eventually show herself if she was going to get changed, along with the fact that she wasn't sure they'd like someone with bare muddy feet in their store. But regardless, maybe he had more of a plan than she did. She supposed she could also use a little magic to clean her feet if needed. "Are you sure.. usually my tastes all run to white.." She stated, blushing again. "So I might need your help anyway.."

She flushed brightly as he spoke. "Well..." Damnit.. had he been reading some of her mind? She chewed on her bottom lip softly as he stared into her eyes. "Well.. I.. I really didn't have a plan beyond setting up the beds for the night.. Aside from making them up that is.." She flushed even more finally diverting her gaze. "Lucian.. trust me when I say this.. I'd been wondering about possibly letting you stay in my room with me.. but.. I don't trust myself.. and what's worse.. your sister wouldn't trust use to do nothing but sleep... I also get the feeling she wouldn't hear any of it in the first place." Still she didn't make to move from his hold on her. There were probably a thousand things that she could think of to do with the house to themselves.. none of which would likely end well at the moment. "I think.. I'd like to finish my wine.. unless the bottle's empty... I didn't really get to drink much.. and now that it's been uncorked.. it'll start to loose it's bouquet... After that.. we can sit and snuggle a bit.."

"Don't worry.. the owner's my gran... she'll be fine with some muddy foot prints." He chuckled lightly. "And if they don't like it.. then I'll talk to the staff and make them see reason." He chuckled even more. He pondered her next words a moment. "Well then, I'll guess we'll just have to find something that's a slightly thicker or more durable material so it won't show through when it's wet.."

"Let the servants make the beds... that's what they're for.." He nearly purred in her ear, strengthening his grip on her. He began a row of kisses down her neck, letting each one linger until he heard the rest of her statements. He almost flinched and pulled back, letting a breath escape him. As much as she was right, he hadn't wanted to hear it right then. "Right." He straightened himself and gave her a short kiss before releasing his hold on her. "Let's find that wine then and enjoy the rest of the night, even if it can't lead to anything else." He smiled softly at her and led her back into the room where they had left the bottle.

"Your grandmother.." She chewed the inside of her cheek. "Is she.. going to be there?" She truly honestly didn't want to meet the woman while she was like this. Especially being that just a moment ago they were talking about things that definitely wasn't for family ears. Well, that thought definitely killed the mood. She let out a sigh, but nodded, staying close to him but not too close, should the woman see them.

Her breath caught in her throat as his voice purred into her ears. Her pulse thrummed rapidly against her neck as he kissed her. She was melting, mentally slipping her hold of rationality.. That was until he stopped. She frowned almost a little disappointed that he'd stopped. She allowed him to lead her back into the living room, the bottle still on the coffee table with the two glasses they'd been using previously. She was chewing on her lip again, the heat in her cheeks burning red against her paleness. She was disappointed.. she'd said it to be rational.. yet she was disappointed all the same..

He gave a nod. "Mmhmm... My gran.. She's my mom's mom..." He stated with a small chuckle. He had to think about it on whether or not She might be there. "It's possible.. She does some times take a hand in the boutique... But.. My guess is that she'll likely be at home with my Nan..."

Lucian smiled at her, a little proud of himself that he broke her will so easily. He drifted a finger down her neck, giving a smug grin before grabbing the bottle and glasses. He moved to the couch, offering her to join as he poured the glasses and held one out to her. He wasn't sure how to approach things at this point, if things went further it could definitely end in a situation that was compromising for both of them. It wasn't that he hadn't wanted that.. Gods knew he wanted that, but he didn't need to exasperate things further for Anastasia. He lifted the glass to his lips to take a drink. "Please... don't get the wrong idea..." He began, his eyes distant. "I really do want to do more with you... But with Anastasia being this sensitive currently... I know I shouldn't. You were right to say that we should wait." He turned to look at her. A light smile crossed his face, though it was easy to see it was being forced. Still, he pulled her closer, wanting her to rest against him as he placed his arm around her waist. "Can we... wait.. At least until she's more accepting of the situation..." He wasn't sure he wanted to obey the rules he was putting forth right now himself, but he knew that it would kill Anastasia... and he couldn't do that to her.

"I see.." She was trying to do a calculation in her head. Mom.. was that... the one with the Regonrian weapons? She thought so, but she didn't want to voice the confusion in case she was wrong. She tilted her head upward to him. "I... I guess I worry about what she might think about this situation..." She stated, chewing the inside of her cheek nervously. She had never met anyone's grandparents.. or even relatives before, so the possibility that it might happen that very night after all the fiasco... She wasn't sure she was up to it. It made her stomach twist and she suddenly felt ill. It'd be alright.. it had to be..

She took the offered glass and sat beside him, tucking her feet up so that she could rest and cuddle beside him. "It's ok Lucian.. I understand completely.." She offered him an understanding smile as she took a sip from her own glass. "As long as it takes Lucian.. The last thing I would want.. Is to destroy the relationship you have with your sister.. We'll wait till she's at least a little more okay with us being... us." She owed the woman that much after all. It would be difficult, but she would play nice and keep her mind about her so as not to let things get too out of hand.

Leaning her head to rest against him, she let out a content sigh. "As long as it means I still get to cuddle." She teased lightly. "After all.. you make it rather difficult not to want to cuddle." She chuckled lightly and took another sip, careful not to take too big a drink all at once. She was giving her word that there wold be no hanky panky going on. The least she could do is see to it she didn't fall back on that word in a drunken stooper.

He pauced lightly. "What She might think of the ordeal?" His own mind ran through a series of possible out comes. Laughing out right, he shook his head some. "She'd likely ask if I had decided to drown my date in the rain and offer you something warm to wear all while scolding me..." He shook his head slightly as he walked, nearing the street he'd been looking for. "She's not usually one to jump to horrible conclusions.. The worst she might do is ask how long we've been seeing one another... " He gave a small shrug.

Looking up from her, he stopped and frowned slightly. " It looks closed..." Really he had thought they'd have more time. Still, there ahead of them, the small boutique looked like it's lights had been turned off and everything locked up for the night. "I'm sorry Ana.. I drug you all the way out here.. And I didn't even get you something warm to wear..."

"If she's ever okay with it.." He frowned, sipping the wine. There was always that possibility... Not that he really wanted to think about it. He was beginning to want more with Delphi, something a lot more serious.. He knew it was crazy since they had only met a week or so ago, but he was tired of waiting.. tired of being on tip toes to scoot around his sister's obsession. He wanted a family.. He wanted someone that he could spend the rest of his life with.. Delphi was the first girl who hadn't run because of Anastasia, and as stupid as it sounded.. that meant to him that she was a keeper.

His head lowered to get a better look at her. With one hand he brushed some hair through his fingers. "Of course.. It has to be difficult to even keep your hands off of me. I'm too wonderful and sexy. So I know I'm asking way too much of you.. Anyone in your place would surely want to gravitate to my beautiful body." He couldn't help but grin, still running his fingers through her hair.

When he paused, it took her a moment to compensate and she fell back against him after running into his wings. She let out a little surprised sound before blushing. "Date.." Right.. they were dating now? Things had been happening so fast that she wasn't sure the exact terms for what they were, but she supposed it was an apt description. Still, the thought made her stomach flutter and she tried very hard to not let it show. "So.. not as strict as your parents at least..?" Her head tilted upward in question. She hoped not, she wasn't sure how she was going to handle meeting his grandmother much less them. It would have to happen eventually.. right? The thought surprised her at how nervous she instantly became.

Reaching up, she tapped the tip of his nose with a finder. "Don't be so pessimistic..." She had been thinking the same however. Still she had to believe that there was hope. She wanted to hold onto the thought that maybe.. just maybe this would be it.. Stupid as it was, she could see this working.. Lasting like her parents.. The thought alone brought a flush to her cheeks once more. A week of knowing one another.. well.. her parents had had less time.. still that had been a different situation all it's own.

She chuckled lightly leaning forward to rest her glass on a coaster. "Oh sure.. agony.." She taunted right back. "then.. it has to be much worse for you.." She cast him a side ways glance from under that fan of dark lashes. She was deliberately using her beauty to make the point.

"Oh.. forgive me.. she'd just assume we were out on a date.." He flushed lightly. Looking down, he smiled. "My grandmothers are both fairly relaxed, especially when it comes to my siblings and I." He flashed her a reassuring smile. "Gran's got a rather big heart... She adopted an orphan before My Nan and her even started dating them selves... It was My aunt Emily that essentially brought the two friends closer together and before they knew it.. My mom and her sister were brought about." He pulled his wings around her more tightly giving her a small hug. With the shop closed, he was at a bit of a loss as to what they should do now.

His nose wrinkled when it was poked. Despite her words, he could still see the worry in her eyes. "It's silly right...? All our hopes.. hanging on the whim of a single person.. " He snorted, shifting his head in a slight tilt of disapproval. "Sister or not... sometimes I wish I could shake some sense into her.." He moved, feeling slightly uncomfortable even at his own words. He dropped his hand from her hair to rest back at her waist. Here it was again, unable to move on with his life because of her. He didn't resent her for it, and he knew why she was being so difficult.. but that didn't stop him from being aggravated at her lack of ability to change.

"Worse for me?" He feigned ignorance. He chuckled, lifting her chin with a finger. "My dear.. you are so very beautiful.." He leaned down and pressed his lips to hers. "But I'm still the best gift this world has ever seen. Though, since my eyes have fallen upon you... I guess that means you have to be the best too." Grinning, he pulled back, his eyes still on hers. "Mmm... definitely."

Anastasia's eyes tilted to the side, they flickered upright again as they settled on him. "Well... are we..? Sort of.. anyway?" Her words stumbled as the nervousness welled up in the pit of her stomach again. "She... sounds like a wonderful lady.." And there it was again, a pang of unknowing, uncertainty.. Something that she couldn't understand. She let out a sigh, trying to wipe away any thought of longing or feeling alone. She didn't want him to notice because she didn't want to put a sad note to what was going on.

When they came to the shop and she noticed the "CLOSED" sign, she mused. Well, that at least meant that she hadn't had to meet her tonight, right? "Well.. it is getting late.." She wiped some of the falling rain from her eyes. "Perhaps we should return to the house.." She hadn't exactly wanted to, but she was also getting tired the later it had become.

She gave a small nod, resting back against him. "In a way..." She let her words drop. Were they so very silly to be resting so much on his sister? She was busily chewing her lip in thought as he spoke again. "Yes.. worse for you..." She smirked lightly. She chuckled at his remark. Wrapping her arms around him, she squeezed lightly. "I suppose I can be content with being considered equal." She smiled leaning up enough to place a soft kiss on his cheek.

He gave it some thought. Technically they weren't.. not yet.. were they? Though the way they'd been carrying on earlier at the house.. you'd have thought that maybe they were. Clearing his throat, He looked down at her with sincerity in his eyes. "I'd like that actually... If you'd consider maybe becoming my girlfriend.." He loosened his wings only slightly. "I'm serious Ana.. I'd like to date you.. though you don't have to answer right away.. I'm sure you'd rather like to think it over some before answering."

He nodded at the unspoken words. As much as it did aggravate him.. his sister would always be apart of his life. He told Delphi that from the beginning, and he had meant it, even if she was a pain in his a**. Truth be told, he had no intention of even living without Anastasia in the same house.. and that was yet another issue he wasn't sure how Delphi would take. He wasn't even sure how Anastasia would take living in the same house with another woman. He sighed, rubbing the bridge of his nose in thought. As much as he didn't want it to, it did all hinge on his sister at this moment. He wasn't likely to break things off with Delphi because of her, but he didn't feel he could move forward until then either. It really all came down to giving her time and talking things out with her. "I'm sorry Delphi.. I'm sorry everything is such a mess.." To the chide, he smirked, moving his head closer to her. He wrapped his arms around her in a hug, holding her close. "You really are so amazing... You know that?"

Her grey eyes shifted toward him, a slight snort coming from her. It was still easy to see she was apprehensive and unsure how to go about it. Finally she straightened, drifting closer to him. "If I recall correctly... I had said before that I would give you a chance, as long as you realized it might not be easy for me.. I'm..." She pressed one hand to her arm. "It doesn't mean that I'm going to take everything that's happening with my brother easy.. And I don't want.. you to be... angry with me..." She cast her gaze toward the ground, watching the droplets patter against it. "But... I... If that's okay.. if you.. still want to be with me, regardless of how stupid I am.." She was babbling, afraid of rejection regardless that he had already said before he was okay with her being so broken. She did like him, and there was no doubt in her mind that right now she needed him... but there was more to it. Even in this state where she had been wavering from complete depression to happiness... he was there for her... and she didn't want him to leave. "I have no doubt in my mind Avery... If you're willing to work through my short comings.. I'd be happy to be your girlfriend.."

She shook her head slightly. "You don't have to appologize.. I knew what I was getting into.. didn't I?" She smiled that tender smile to him, hugging him once more as he held her close. "I wouldn't say amazing.. spectacular.. perhaps.. but amazing seems to make it sound like I walk with a trail of new growth behind me.." She chuckled lightly . She was teasing again, fighting the sour notes to the conversation with humor. "But.. I'm glad you think I'm amazing..." She cuddled her cheek against him as she closed her eyes. The sky crackled above the house causing her to lift one lid. "It's sounding angry out there again..."

He grinned broadly. "I know.. I wouldn't expect this to be easy on you.. not after what you've said.." He leaned down placing a soft kiss on her head. "I still want to be with you Ana.. nothing has changed my mind in this." He lifted her up once more, holding her in a hugging embrace as he brushed his lips against hers for a brief stolen kiss. Setting her down once more, he grinned again. "Though.. you're right.. we should be heading back.. Wouldn't do for you or I to get sick out here." He thought about it for a moment. "Though.. if you're nursing me back to health I guess being sick wouldn't be so terrible..." He chuckled cheekily as he turned around, leading her back the way they'd came.

She chuckled lightly. "Well.. no... I don't know it then..." She flushed a little embarrassed. "To be honest.. I didn't really think you much my type.." She chewed on her lip slightly. "It wasn't till we'd gotten better acquainted that my eyes were better opened." She really had thought him too shallow to have been worth her time in the beginning. "You also forget the strangeness of my family..." She shook her head. Tilting her head up, she watched him with his ramble, giggling at the words. "Oh my.. such praises indeed.." Still, she didn't make to move away from him. She wiggled only so much as to allow herself to move her head from his shoulder to rest on his chest slightly.

He smiled broadly. "Mine hmm? I think I could get use to hearing that." He chuckled lightly. He followed her gaze to the way they'd come. "It'll be okay.. I'll be right beside you.. no matter what..." He thought maybe she might be trying to stall. Oh, I don't know... As long as I don't have to put up with my mother's nagging on taking better care of myself it could be worth all the horrid things in the world to be cared for by you in illness." He started to lead her back towards the house they'd been at previously.

"Really?!" He feigned as if an arrow struck him in the chest, laying his hands over his heart in mock horror. "That hurt.. that hurt really bad Delphi.." He dramatically sniffed as if he were crying. "You know... I think I might die.." He made a groaning sound and collapsed on the couch, eyes shut. Opening one eye, he chuckled. "Well, it is all deserved, you know. You are all those things, and more." He then shut his eyes again, pretending he was still dead.

Despite her reluctance to go back, she ended up following him since he was her cover. Her dress was literally clinging to her form now although she had been shielded from most of the rain. She gave a light delicate smile at his words, trying to hide her face. Chuckling, she added, "Oh, not your mother's nagging but you're fine with mine?" Her wet locks were doing very little to hide the redness of her cheeks.

"Well really I'm not above being wrong you know. But really what did you expect with the show of shallowness you'd displayed in the shop?" Shaking her head she prodded him in the rib, moving so that she was standing on her knees over him. She flushed when he opened one eye only to 'play dead' once more. "Oh.. I'm not so sure.. Some times I don't feel so deserving.." She made a mock pout, prodding him once more as she leaned over him.

Shrugging, he cast her a Cheshire grin. "What can I say? A new person.. new voice.. likely new form of nagging." He teased lightly. Still, he braced himself for any sort of physical retort she might have. "What can I say? Most men fantasize over a beautiful woman nursing them back to health.." He flashed her yet another grin and hugged her to him with one arm.

With one eye opening again, he rapidly moved up to steal a kiss. He chuckled for a moment, poking her back in the ribs until he paused at her words. "Shallowness?" He frowned, eyes shifting open. His eyes narrowed slightly and he shook his head. "That's who I am..." He sat up, pulling some of the hair from his face to look at her better. "And that isn't really going to change.." He let out a sigh, eyes moving away. If she didn't like that part of him, he wasn't sure if she could stand being around him all the time.

"I think you just like making me blush.." She mumbled under her breath, blinking some water out of her eyes. She was staring forward again, hoping he hadn't caught how her face had become an instant and constant shade of red. She leaned against him with the hug, likely because she also couldn't walk at that point. She smirked and leaned her head back so she could get a look enough to poke him. "I also think you just want to butter me up.."

She chuckled. "It was a joke you know.. You're not nearly as shallow as you tent to let people think.." She frowned sitting back from him. "You know.. I wouldn't change you... Anyone who cares for their family as you do.. It's hardly shallow in my opinion. A flirt.. maybe.. but shallow.. no." Heaving a soft sigh, she sat back against the back of the couch, looking to the curtains as though she could peer through them to the storm raging outside.

"Perhaps.. You do turn a lovely shade of red when I do it." He teased lightly. "Better you up? My dear woman, you have me confused with a cannibal.." He joked once more. "I only wish you to know that you are a desirable woman.. contrary to any beliefs you might have about yourself." He stopped looking her full in the face. "We met only this morning.. and yet.. I adore you." He stole a kiss from her before beginning to walk once more, pulling his wings tighter around them both.

He turned to look at her and let out a breath. "My apologies then..." After saying that, he shifted his whole body and wrapped his arms around her, pulling her close to him. "I'm sorry, today has just been a day full of high emotions.. Can you forgive me?" He snuggled against her, just wanting to be close. A headache was beginning to form in the back of his head. He did his best to try to numb it out, but the thrumming was causing a small irritation.

She smirked, still keeping her face hidden from view. By this time she was aware that it was almost fiery in appearance. "You're just as bad as Lucian when it comes to flirting.." She drew in a breath of the misty air, nearly purring against him. She wanted to argue about her being desirable, but she bit her lip, deciding to keep quiet about it. She felt her stomach flutter again and she glanced at the ground, nearly tripping the two of them up. The house was coming into view, and she was having a hard time wanting to end their little trip so soon. She turned to look at him, pausing for a long moment as their eyes met. She then leaned forward and kissed him.

She melted against him. "It's ok Lucian.. Our emotions all have been running on highs and lows today." She nuzzled her cheek against him. "I'm sorry if my joke made you feel... awkward.. It wasn't my intention.." Stifling a small yawn she lifted her head, turning it to see his face. "You were forgiven the moment you pulled me back into your arms." She confessed resting her head against him once more.

"I didn't think I was being very horrible.... oh I see what you did there.." He chuckled brightly. He steadied her to keep from falling himself as she stumbled. When she paused, he turned his head to look at her, returning the hiss she'd given. wrapping his arms around her, he lifted her, kissing her thoroughly, lingering in that moment. After a while, he drew breath, breaking contact with her. "We don't have to go in yet if you don't want.."

He gave her a small smile. When she yawned he gave one himself. He hoped Anastasia would get home soon. He was having a hard time staying awake at this point, and he didn't want to stay up all night waiting on her. "It's fine.. I shouldn't have got so upset." He shut his eyes as he rested his chin on her shoulder.

Letting out a light laugh, she nudged him. "Are you saying that Lucian is horrible?" It was easy to see the amusement in her eyes. When he lifted her and gave the deeper kiss, she felt her breath leave her as her chest lurched into her throat. Her eyes shut automatically and she let the kiss last as long as he would let it. Once she was on the ground, she purred, keeping herself against him. "We should though.. it's getting late.. and if there is any part of Lucian that isn't thinking with certain parts of his anatomy... He'll be waiting up."

Yawning once more, she smiled sleepily. "Don't give it a second thought.. It's late.. much has been done.. And on a high strung nerves.. " Closing her eyes, she nestled into his arms even further. The songs of the stones deep in the ground were softly lulling her to sleep. Giving another small yawn, her breathing evened, relaxing that last little bit that had been helping her stay awake. Her will to continue staying awake was gradually lost and soon she was breathing deeply. He hand curled up, tucking it's self around a lock of his hair. It was almost like she was afraid he might disappear in some cruel trick of fate or another.

"No.. I thought you were saying I was a horrible flirt.." He smiled broadly. Looking to the house once more, he gave a reluctant nod. "Then we shouldn't keep him up should we? I'd hate to have your brother's wrath down on me for keeping you out to an unreasonable hour.. though I fear I'll have it any ways with your wet garments..."

He held her in his arms, smiling softly at her. He lifted a hand and drew it over her head in a petting motion. It wasn't long until he yet out another yawn. "Then.. just let yourself relax... I'm sure they'll be back soon.." He let his own eyes shut, feeling at peace with her in his arms.

Anastasia looked at him with a knowing smile. "Oh no.. I would never say you or Lucian was a horrible flirt.." She chuckled softly and gave him a quick peck on the lips. Tilting her eyes toward the house she sighed but nodded. "I guess not..." At the comment about the wet garments she giggled again but nodded, completely understanding what he meant.

She let out a breath and approached the house. She shot him a look as she opened the door and went inside. She was a bit surprised to not be met by Lucian waiting at the door for them. Frowning, she went inside further. Maybe they were doing things.. She moved deeper inside and stopped when she saw them on the couch cuddled together and both asleep. "Shhh.." She pressed her finger to her lips and pointed at them. "Maybe we're off the hook."

She stirred only slightly as she slept. At the sound of her whispering, she grumbled, moving about only slightly, curling around Lucian all the more. "Ya Mei... Talk to Kimi in the hall.." She nuzzled her cheek against him sighing. All the while it hadn't pulled her from her slumber. It had been an instinctual response to tell her sister to talk to their cousin out in the hall. Often Kiminari had spent the night with them when they were younger and well.. she could be a bit of a chatter box.

He snickered quietly, creeping carefully as they were "lectured" about their entry. "W shouldn't disturb them.." He'd lowered his face to be even with her ear as he spoke. He looked around at the made up couches and stifled a yawn of his own. "I'll let you sleep down here.. I'm sure She's accommodated me else where.." Carefully, he unfolded his wings from around her, heading to the stairs to see if perhaps he was right.

Lucian hardly seemed to move. He was out cold. He wasn't making a sound, just keeping his eyes shut while he had a tight grip around Delphi's waist. Right... because she wanted to be down here Lucian and Delphi cuddling all night. She knew there was a part of her brother that would have reveled in a three-way "cuddle" session, but she wasn't about to be apart of that. Instead, she moved toward Delphi's room and scanned some of the night gowns again. She didn't like the idea of borrowing one without permission, but she hadn't wanted to risk the possibility of waking Lucian either with her in her current state. Eventually finding something, she laid it out and began the water to the shower. She desperately needed one after today.

After finishing up, she slipped the gown on and placed her dirty dress in a bag so that she wouldn't forget it later. She then began moving up the stairs, after she hadn't found him anywhere, to see if Avery had made himself comfortable.

He'd found the futon easily enough. It had been a better guess than just waking the two up on the couch. He'd just began to strip down for bed, his shirt pulling over his head when he heard her approach. finishing pulling the shirt off, he folded it up setting it at the head of the futon, turning around. His fore arms were covered in tribal ink much like the marking over his eye. "Are you all set for the night?" He smiled softly as he turned around. "Or were you sneaking up here to have your own cuddle session?" He half teased. Part of him was half hoping she was doing exactly just that though.

She leaned against the door frame, her head tilting to one side as she watched him. She smiled, nibbling on her lower lip. "You look good without your shirt.." She moved closer toward him and wrapped her arms around his neck while looking up at him. "Oh... sneaking.. definitely sneaking.." She grinned. "Perhaps.. if you wanted me to I could even sleep up here.. I very much doubt Lucian will wake up any time soon.. And I always get up before he does." She knew she probably shouldn't take that risk, but she couldn't help it.. She definitely didn't want to stay down there for the night with the two of them.

Reaching up, he loosened his hair from the pony tail he kept it in allowing it to cascade around him and over her arms. "Oh.. you are a little minx.." He chuckled some. "Well who am I to deny you a cuddle session, You're welcome to stay even for the night if you like.. Far be it from me to boot you out of a warm bed." Carefully, he drew her down onto the futon matrice. He enveloped her in his arms, laying a gentle kiss on the tip of her nose.