Who: Zen Akai & Elsa Jameson What: phone call When: Wednesday, September 30th
-ring ring-
"Yes?"
"Elsa? Zenichiro Akai..." -a pause as if he has just stopped himself from lapsing into Japanese out of habit, or perhaps nerves- "I just thought I would call and say hello. You know. Try something new."
"Rather than just showing up? That's sweet, angel. Oh, the orchid was lovely. I wasn't sure how to thank you for such a nice gift."
"That was an emergency, and besides, you invited me--but your welcome. I wasn't sure what to get you. I wasn't sure what sorts of things your patrons might be in the habit of gifted you, and well...I'm glad you enjoyed it, anyway."
"Orchids. Never. Actually my one of favorite flowers. Second only to lilies."
"I had a feeling orchids were a good choice." -a slight laugh in his voice- "I was thinking of you, and they just sort of stood out to me."
"Angel, you do realize orchids can mean many things?"
"I..." -there is a slight groan in his voice- "am certain there is all kinds of symbolism in flowers and floral arrangements, but that's beside the point."
"Is it? The orchid can represent luxury, rare beauty, love. Angel, it is just a flower, but I like it."
"Well, you are. Beautiful. And you seem like someone who enjoys a bit of luxury now and then. So I guess it was a good choice."
"Yes. It was a very good choice. I suppose I owe you something of a thank you."
"I thought you just did thank me. Really, it was just a birthday gift; I don't expect anything in return. I'm just happy it arrived safely and that you like it. I just hadn't spoken with you since the epidemic, and I thought...it couldn't hurt to call. I take it you're doing well?"
"I'm doing well. I have a new employee, which ought to be interesting. She's deliciously devilish."
"Hm. Congratulations." -he sounds a little dubious- "I hope things work out for the best."
"I'm sure I'll get what I want. I usually do."
"And what is it that you want, Elsa?" -more muffled laughter- "Or are my virgin ears too young to hear it?"
"To be happy, of course."
"Of course." -a pause- "Do you think this devilish new employee and the money she brings in will make you happy, then?" -awkward laughter- "I suppose if I can be happy drawing cartoons at my age..."
"It might, but I won't know until it happens, angel. Perhaps I need something more."
"Is this the part where I offer you more, and then you try to bargain for my soul again?"
"No. Your soul will be mine."
"Well, that doesn't sound ominous at all. What do you want with it, anyway?"
"Put it in a jar on my shelf and say 'my, what a pretty soul you are.'"
"Oh, but wouldn't it be so much better with a body to go with it?"
"Well, yes, the body would be useful."
"For example, a disembodied soul couldn't very well cook dinner for you."
"Are you offering to cook me dinner?"
"I know your taste differs from Fred's, but you do eat, don't you?"
"I do."
"Can I take that as a yes? To dinner?"
"Yes. You may."
"Excellent. I was...hoping you'd say so." -laughs- "Although, it occurs to me, if you want my body and soul, I ought to make you buy me dinner. Wouldn't want you to think I'm easy, now, would I? Lucky lady."
"If I pay for dinner, you owe me your body and soul?"
"If I buy groceries, and cook, do you owe me yours?"
"No, but I'm sure we can decide what I would owe you."
"Fair enough. Just let me know when it's a good time."
"Some time this weekend, perhaps Monday."
"Perfect. I'll be in touch, then. Is there anything you're craving, in particular, or should I just surprise you?"