coldgreyangel (coldgreyangel) wrote in bearandbarnacle, @ 2009-09-18 11:31:00 |
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Entry tags: | fire, luciuspost, topic |
Lucius Malfoy: Topic: Fire
The bell tinkles as Lucius enters the bookstore. Behind the counter, an elderly gentleman looks up over his spectacles, lowering the newspaper he is reading. The article about the fire on Churchfield Place is visible on the front.
“Ah, good morning Mr. Malfoy! To what do I owe the honor?” he frowns. “I know I’m not behind in my payments.”
Lucius smiles amicably. “Good morning, Mr. Harper. No, not at all, I merely wished to pay a visit and peruse your newest books” he begins glancing over titles on the new arrivals display, “…you and your wife are both well, I hope?”
Mr. Harper nods and smiles. “Yes, yes, quite well, thank you. Any particular book or subject? I don’t think the new fiction is quite your taste…but there is a fascinating new local history book…”
Lucius shakes his head, approaching the counter. “Simply browsing.” He glances at the paper, seeing the article about the fire, and frowns. Mr. Harper follows his gaze. “Oh, yes, did you hear about this? Poor Stearns.”
Lucius nods. “Yes, I believe he is counting it a total loss? Vicious thing, fire. Such a lamentable tragedy. Are you acquainted with Mr. Stearns?”
The bookseller shrugs. “Passing acquaintance. He asked for advice on antique book acquisitions, occasionally. He was in here last week, talking about his campaign…wonder if this setback will derail him?”
Idly, Lucius picks up a book on the counter and turns it over, reading the synopsis. “Ah, yes…district council front runner. I hope he is able to continue.”
Mr. Harper nods, “Yes, he seemed quite determined.” He pauses a moment to consider the man in front of him. “You know, Mr. Malfoy, you are becoming quite the business presence here. And, if I may say, you have many leadership qualities. Have you ever considered running?”
Lucius arches an eyebrow, returning the book to the counter. “Me?” His eyes roll upward slightly, as if he is considering. “Hmm, I can’t say I’ve seriously considered the possibility. It’s an interesting thought, though.” He smiles at the bookseller. “I don’t know that I’m who people want representing their concerns…”
The bookseller smiles, looking pleased at himself for planting the idea. “Oh, I don’t see why not! You should look into it! You’ve already become so involved in the community here…it’s not as if you aren’t becoming known.”
Lucius continues smiling, trying to look humble. “Well, I certainly appreciate the confidence.” He picks up a business magazine from the rack next to the counter, and hands a few bills across to Mr. Harper. “Just this for now…” As the bookseller turns away to get the change from the till, a satisfied smirk passes briefly over Lucius’ face.