Nate was feeling slightly guilty about sending Niki on her way, but he knew that was the best thing for her and she knew it too. When he turned around to look at Pavla, he smiled softly and leaned back against the door, “Can I just look at you like that for a moment, luv?”, he asked, “It looks like some wild godling of passion has found my bed and waits for me…”, he rubbed his lightly stubbled chin, “I think I’ll commission a painting of you for my quarters and have you painted as Eros or Pan…”, he walked over and poured himself a glass of water, offering Pavla one.

Drinking the glass of water down in one long swig, he left the glass on the counter and walked over to caress the small Romanian’s pale face. My poor, sweet boy. Something has really frightened him. Something or someone…there ARE some questionable characters aboard and some might not be so friendly to a boy like Pavla.

Sitting on the edge of the bed, Nate ran his fingers through Pavla’s thick black hair and caressed his smooth cheeks, “You know what? You are absolutely right, my love. I have been way too lax with security around here. I am the captain after all and should keep myself safe for my crew’s sake. Before we leave Las Vegas, I will call my friend, the Immortal, and have his security people secure these quarters”, he leaned his forehead against Pavla’s, “His is the best. Oh, and maybe I’ll ask him to paint you…he’s quite an accomplished artist as well”.

Leaning forward, Nate braced each of his long arms on either side of the diminutive shadow mutant and kissed his nose, “Now that we’ve discussed fine art and home security…”, he kissed his chin, “…is there anything at all…”, he kissed his lips and looked into his eyes, “…that you’d like to do?”.