Nox Alekos (in_his_shadow) wrote in tiberiusswann, @ 2011-04-19 19:57:00 |
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Entry tags: | ana, nox |
Friday: November/14/08
Who: Nox and Ana
When: Friday night
Where: NYC
What: she’s helping him find the right tux for the wedding
The drive to New York was, well, interesting. Ana may have missed her life’s calling as a professional race car driver. Nox wondered if maybe he should be thanking a higher (or lower) being for his life upon arrival, because the trip was ever so slightly terrifying. “I get that you’re a vampire, and as a result are prone to feelings of invincibility, but you drive like you’re prepared to die again,” he quipped with an awkward chuckle as they walked into the first shop on Ana’s list.
It was warm, which was a big relief, because the weather was really starting to turn. Being late at night, the temperature was even lower, and being a Hell-born demon, Nox didn’t much care for cold. He took a moment to let the shivers shake off his body, then he shrugged off his coat and offered politely to help Ana with hers.
---
At Nox’s comment, Ana simply had to laugh. Ever since she could drive, she had been addicted to speed and the adrenaline rush it brought to her system. She never let anything slow her down, so she wasn’t about to change her driving habits now, especially in such an amazing vehicle like Lola. “I’m certainly not prepared to die again. I might drive on the fast side, but I like to think I’m pretty careful otherwise,” she replied with a slight smile.
Once they were in the shop, Ana gave him a quick thank you as he helped her with her coat. Not too long after, a short woman who was impeccably dressed emerged from the back room. “So good to see you again, Ana, dear!” she exclaimed as she walked toward the vampire and demon.
“Good to see you again, too, Barbara,” Ana replied as she greeted her with the customary kiss on each cheek. “And thank you again for letting us come in at this hour. It’s very appreciated.”
“Not at all, dear. Anything for one of my favorite customers.” Barbara smiled at Ana once more before looking over expectantly at Nox.
“Barbara, this is my colleague, Nox Alekos.”
Barbara extended her hand to him. “Very nice to meet you, Mr. Alekos. I certainly hope we can find you a tux tonight.”
---
“Oh, so running stop lights is... a hobby?” he asked sarcastically. As Nox got to know Ana better, he was becoming more comfortable with making dry jokes in her presence. Most people thought Nox lacked a sense of humor, but he didn’t. It was simply well hidden and only came out to play once he was fully comfortable with someone.
Nox draped both coats over his left arm. He’d not been invited to place them anywhere yet, and he was a stickler for etiquette. That much was obvious when he took Barbara’s hand and gave it a polite, yet firm shake. “Pleasure to meet you as well, and please call me Nox. You’re going to be dressing me for my wedding, so I think the formality of last names can be forgotten.” He offered up a charming smile and released her hand. Her clothing, hair and makeup were all exceptional. The woman had taste.
---
Ana liked that Nox was becoming more comfortable with her because now she got to see his sense of humor and she liked it. Laughing slightly, she just gave him a shrug. “I suppose just an occasional hobby of mine. Really, I only dabble in it here and there.”
“Of course, Nox,” Barbara replied as she let go of his hand and made a motion for the coats. “I can take those to hang up for you.” Once they were handed over, she walked behind one of the counters and hung them up with care.
Ana began to follow slowly, glancing over at Nox for him to follow as well. “So,” Barbara continued as she came back to join Ana and Nox. “What kind of tuxedo are we looking for? Do you have any designs in mind?”
---
Ana’s joke in return made Nox smile. He didn’t seen Ana the way many other people did. She was kind, intelligent, elegant, and extremely professional. He respected her.
And if she trusted Barbara, Nox did as well. He handed the woman their coats and followed along when Ana indicated he should. Barbara was a no nonsense kind of woman apparently. She got right to work. “I don’t know how much Ana has told you about me. I’m a conservative man, but I do enjoy high fashion. I prefer Tom Ford and Dolce and Gabbana designs. I’m not entirely traditional with my sense of style, but I do like clean lines and clothing that moves well.”
---
“She didn’t tell me much, but you’re in luck because I have quite a few designs here including Dolce and Gabbana.” Barbara stepped back for a second, visually taking a rough estimate of Nox’s measurements as she continued to speak. “How formal or informal do you want your tuxedo to be? Full dress tails? Tailcoat? No tails at all?”
As Barbara asked all this, Ana walked over to the counter and helped herself to the bottle of champagne like she always did when she shopped here. Pouring two glasses, she picked them up and offered one to Nox. “Full dress tails seems a bit much, if you ask me,” she chimed in before taking a sip of champagne.
---
Nox stood up straight as he was assessed. He hadn’t changed out of his dark grey suit after work, partially because he felt seeing him in it might help Barbara get a feel for his style and what looked good on him.
“No tails. Single-breasted, high vest, traditional bow tie.” Yes, Nox knew what he liked, and he was well-versed in fashion terminology. Some men frowned upon it, but he looked at fashion as an art form, and being an art lover, he appreciated clothing.
He took the glass of champagne and nodded with a soft, appreciative, “Thank you,” to Ana and Barbara alike, and added, “And I agree.” Nox took a sip. It was a fine vintage. He decided he liked Barbara, and he was very glad he and Ana had become friends.
---
As Nox described exactly what he wanted both Ana and Barbara looked at him with slightly stunned expressions. However, they both recovered quickly. Barbara continued to assess Nox with a slight nod while Ana smirked slightly as she looked at him. “The man knows exactly what he wants. I like it.”
After a few seconds, Barbara looked back at Nox. “I think I may have just the tuxedo for you. What color vest and tie are we looking for?”
---
Nox let loose a short, light chuckle at Ana’s comment. “When have you known me to not be precise?” Nox was an exacting man. Some people called him anal, and maybe it was true to a degree. He liked what he liked, and he went about getting it. There was nothing wrong with that in his opinion.
“I’ll stick with black. Red is one one of our colors, but I’ve never been a fan of colored vests and ties. They’re... tacky,” he said as tactfully as he could. He didn’t want to insult others for liking colored vests and ties, but it didn’t sit right with Nox. A tuxedo was meant to be black and white, sometimes grey, but primary colors had no place in men’s formal wear.
---
“Never, I suppose,” she replied as she took another sip. Ana admired that he knew exactly what he liked and went after it. In her eyes, that was an extremely necessary quality.
And, once again, she and Nox agreed on another aspect of the tuxedo. “I agree,” she chimed in again. “Colored vests and ties are better reserved for high school proms. There’s really no place for them in a man’s wardrobe, much less on his wedding day.” Whereas Nox wasn’t trying to offend anyone, Ana merely spoke her mind. She was like this with Barbara whenever she shopped here, so she doubted the woman would suddenly take offense.
“Black it is, then,” Barbara confirmed. “I’ll be back with a few pieces shortly.” And with that, she disappeared into the back room for a bit.
Looking over at Nox, Ana regarded him with amusement. “So are you just using me for my connections? Because that didn’t seem like you really need me here to help..”
---
It was nice to have Ana see eye to eye with him. Nox was used to more combative women, or at least ones who challenged him. He’d spent years defending himself under his sister’s scrutiny. Belle wasn’t at all like that, but she did keep him on his toes, and while they had a great deal in common, there were still big differences between them. He liked to think it kept them both entertained. Still, it was refreshing to mesh well with a woman who seemed to share his viewpoints.
Barbara exited the room to fetch some items for him to inspect, and Ana took the opportunity to question Nox’s motives. An eyebrow arched, a grin tugging at the corners of his lips. “I don’t know if I’d use the term using...” he started before his smile grew. “The company is nice too. I couldn’t bring Belle, and you have an excellent sense of style. It’s always good to have a second opinion from a trusted friend.”
---
If Ana had known that Nox didn’t think she was combative or challenging, she would’ve laughed hard and loud. Adam would probably say that she was the most challenging woman on the face of this planet, but then again, it felt more normal to her to be arguing with him over something rather than being all calm and soft. But in this case, Ana supposed it was different. She and Nox had similar viewpoints on fashion which was something she had never shared with a straight man.
Ana smirked at his initial answer. Who would’ve suspected that Nox was capable of this kind of humor? “Well, my sense of style is amazing, after all. And I’m glad you seem to trust me as well. Barbara’s very good at picking out designs based on her client’s details.”
Just then, Barbara came out of the back room with a rack of five tuxedo jackets and four vests. “Alright then,” she began as she set down the box of bow ties on the counter. “I was able to size you up fairly well without measuring before, but I’m sure alterations will need to be made to the jacket and vest you select. Those I can do as well, but we’ll get to the measuring later after you decide on one.” Selecting the jacket in the front and a black satin vest, she held them up for Nox and Ana to see. “This is a Dolce and Gabbana design. Single-breasted, of course. Two button with a shadow stripe lapel. The vest is a full dress. Not sure if you wanted one that fancy, but it goes very well with two of these jackets.”
---
“Of course I trust you,” he said as though it was the most obvious thing ever. “I wouldn’t have volunteered for your class if I didn’t.” And they’d become friends since then. He respected Ana and valued her opinion. Nox knew she wouldn’t steer him wrong in picking out a tuxedo. She was serious about style. Her heels made that perfectly clear.
Barbara returned and immediately selected a jacket for Nox to try on. He unbuttoned his suit jacket, a beautiful grey pinstripe, and then removed his tie. “It’s a beautiful design,” he commented, taking the jacket first to examine. “I don’t suppose you have a shirt I could wear as well? This one isn’t quite suited for a vest.” He needed the full effect.
---
Ana still wasn’t entirely sure she was deserving of his trust, or anyone else’s, but she supposed she would take it. She thought Nox was at least wise to trust her when it came to fashion, because she certainly had style and he was right to look at her Badgley Mischka pumps for confirmation on that point.
Letting Nox take the tuxedo jacket, Barbara took his jacket once it was removed and hung it carefully on a satin hanger that was exclusively for that purpose. Barbara could tell the man had very good taste from looking at the jacket and the rest of his suit. “Of course, I do.” Going behind the counter, she went through another rack with garment bags, and zipped one open to remove a crisp white shirt. Pulling it out of the bag, she walked back over to Nox and handed it over. “It’s a wing collar as well so you could certainly try the bow tie on to make it all come together.”
---
Nox gave a grateful nod as Barbara hung his work jacket and went to fetch a shirt for him. He was already in the process of taking off his own crisp, perfectly white shirt when she returned. Nox took care with the shirt she gave him, not wanting to mar the fine material. Slipping it on, he admired the high quality. “You have wonderful clothing, Barbara. I see now why Ana insisted we come here.”
After buttoning up the shirt and slipping on the first vest she’d suggested, he worked to fasten the bow tie. It seemed Nox was even more versed in men’s ware than he left on, because he tied it perfectly without the aid of a mirror. The jacket soon followed, and it was only then that Nox turned to find the three panel mirror for self-inspection. “I like the brush of the fabric,” he commented on the coat, allowing his fingers to smooth over one lapel. “The tie as well. I’m not completely sold on the vest. Thoughts?” he asked as he turned around to look at the ladies.
---
At Nox’s comment, Ana looked quite pleased with herself while Barbara gave both Nox and Ana a polite smile. “Ana, dear, you honestly flatter me. I’m really glad you decided to come to us first.” Turning back to Nox, she straightened out the back collars of the shirt and jacket. “And I’m hoping we can find you exactly what you want as well. I feel it should be easy enough since our collection is extensive.”
Finishing her champagne, Ana moved to pour herself another while Nox finished getting dressed. Once he turned around, she regarded the details of each piece. “Hm. Cut of the jacket is wonderful, of course.” Stepping forward, she brushed her hand down one of the sleeves. “Great fabric. But yeah...” she began, making a slight face. “I’m not too sure about this vest. Almost makes you look like a waiter at a fancy upscale restaurant.” Walking over to the rack with the jackets and vests, Ana picked out a different one and handed it to him. “This one should look better.”
---
“I have no doubt you’ll find something I like,” he assured Barbara with a smile. She was a delightful woman, and he admired her for what was obviously a successful business. He could see why Ana liked her and suggested they visit this shop first.
Nox let Ana assess his appearance and pass judgment. He had a feeling she’d agree with him. The vest wasn’t quite right on his body. No doubt it would look good on another man, but not Nox. He pulled off the jacket and vest he was wearing, trading Ana when she returned with a different vest, and putting it on instead. “Better,” he commented immediately. It slid on with more ease and was clearly better suited for his body type. As he buttoned it and added the jacket, Nox was quite pleased. Obviously, it would need tailoring, but the overall look was exactly what he’d pictured in his mind.
“No man makes up his mind without first consulting a woman. So... what do you two think?” he asked, turning around for them to inspect him.
---
As Nox put on the other vest, Barbara took the previous one and hung it back up. Ana stepped back and regarded Nox as he suited up again. She could tell he was pleased and, in return, that made her pleased as well.
Both women surveyed Nox in his suit though it was Barbara that stepped forward this time. “Vest needs to be taken in a bit as well as the jacket, but otherwise, I think it’s a great fit. The jacket falls very nicely on your frame.”
Ana nodded in agreement. “It really does. And that vest does look so much better than the other one. What do you think, Barbara? Would you say ‘I do’ if he was waiting at the altar for you dressed like that?”
Barbara smiled. “In a heartbeat. Though, not if he was wearing those pants with that jacket and vest,” she replied with a soft laugh.
“I guess pants are next,” Ana replied with a small chuckle as she went to sit down on a plush seat near the mirror. “Really, that should be easier than the jacket and vest.”
---
Nox was relieved to hear that the ladies approved of the jacket and vest. And he smiled shyly, looking down for a moment when they discussed saying ‘I do.’ “It won’t be at an altar.. but thank you.” He appreciated the compliment.
“You’ll most certainly have to alter the pants. Despite not being a tall man, I have oddly long legs.” They were muscular as well. Nox wasn’t one of those men who focused entirely on his upper body when working out. His legs were well developed.
As Barbara went to grab the pants that paired with the jacket, he unfastened his pants. It was only then that he wondered if he should change them in privacy. “My apologies, ladies. My normal tailor is a man. I’m not used to female company when getting a new suit.” He looked at them questioningly. He wasn’t a shy man. Conservative, yes, but not shy. He just didn’t want to offend either of them.
---
“Altering the pants won’t be a problem at all,” Barbara replied. “Certainly much easier than the jacket and vest since it’s a simple hem.” Turning to go to the back room, she quickly returned with the matching Dolce and Gabbana pants for the ensemble.
Barbara was accustomed to her clients, whether male or female, to either partially or completely disrobe in her presence whether it was for changing or altering purposes. Sensing that Nox was probably wondering about that, she quickly answered. “Oh, I have no problem with it at all, dear. If Ana doesn’t mind, you can go right ahead and change here.”
Great. The decision was left to her? Ana certainly wasn’t shy either. She didn’t care if he took off his pants in front of her, but then again, he was a colleague. There was an odd sort of boundary there, wasn’t there? But how could she really say ‘Actually, go change in the back’? After mentally arguing with herself for a nanosecond, Ana merely shrugged. “I don’t have a problem with it if neither of you do. It’s just underwear.”
---
“Good. The last thing I want to do is make either of you uncomfortable when you’re trying so hard to help me.” He finished unfastening his pants and slipped out of them after toeing off his shoes. Perhaps Nox should have warned the women that he was wearing boxer briefs, black Calvin’s to be exact. Oh well.
He took the pants from Barbara and slipped them on. The waist was a tad big, and the length did need to be let down slightly, but the fit was good otherwise. He tucked in the shirt and made sure the vest and jacket were smoothed down. “Well?”
---
Barbara was accustomed to this, but a warning would’ve been good for Ana. She foolishly took the opportunity to take another sip of champagne and began to choke slightly as Nox slipped out of his pants. Well, he definitely worked out, that was for sure.
Quickly recovering by clearing her throat, Ana set her glass down as she took in the full ensemble. “Looks good to me. Obviously needs altering, but that’s a given.”
“Shall we go ahead and start with measuring the pants for alterations?” Barbara asked as she pulled out her measuring tape.
---
Nox glanced back at Ana, an expression of concerned on his face as she seemed to choke on her champagne. “Careful with that stuff. It’ll go straight to your head.” Bubbles sometimes caused that problem. He was completely unaware that he was behind her sudden inability to drink.
With Barbara and Ana’s approval of the suit, Nox gave a nod. “Sure. I trust your judgment, so make it look good for my bride.”
---
“It’s going to look amazing. Just you wait and see,” Barbara responded as she inspected the waistband first. “Looks like we’ll be taking half an inch here.” Marking the amount off with a series of pins at the back, she came around to look at the front. “The hems definitely have to be let out. I’m going to have to measure your inseam to see how long they need to be.” Unraveling her measuring tape, she handed one end to Nox. “If you could please hold that up here while I measure to the bottom.”
While Barbara was measuring, Ana was surprised that they had found Nox a tux so quickly. Definitely made her job that much easier. “Guess it’s a good thing I brought you here first, right? Got everything done in one visit.”
---
Nox took the tape and held it at his groin. He owned dozens of suits, so this was nothing new to him, just a different tailor, or seamstress, he was sure what the proper term was in this situation. Barbara seemed to know what she was doing.
Ana definitely knew what she was doing. She’d had wonderful instincts when insisting they come here, and Nox had been wise to trust her. “A very good thing. Thank you, Ana. I knew I could trust you to help me with this. I don’t suppose you’ve heard anything about Belle’s dress that you could tell me?” He knew he was supposed to be surprised, but the suspense was getting to him. He was ready to see her in that dress already!
---
“Not a problem at all,” Ana replied while Barbara continued taking Nox’s measurements, stopping every once in a while to jot something down on her notepad.
“Unfortunately, I haven’t heard anything about her dress. I don’t really have many opportunities to speak with her.” Not that Ana really tried to speak with Belle even though she seemed like a decent person. “I doubt you’re supposed to know anything at all about the dress. Isn’t that how the superstition goes?”
---
Nox nodded. “So I’ve heard. She’s keeping it a secret, but I’m eager to see her in it. Nervous, of course, but eager too. It’s so soon.” Nox went through a period of cold feet for a while, worrying over their races and the fact that Belle would never age, but that was mostly a forgotten fear now. She loved him, and she’d spend a lifetime with him. “She’ll look beautiful. Probably more beautiful than ever before.”
---
“It’s next month, isn’t it?” Ana asked, trying to recall what the invitation had said. And then Nox had to go and start gushing over his fiancee and it made Ana’s stomach turn a bit. Her face remained neutral throughout though she inwardly had to roll her eyes at his proclamation. “I’m sure she will,” she replied before picking up her glass and finishing it off.
---
“December fifth,” he interjected as Ana tried to remember the date of the wedding. The date was etched into his brain. He’d never forget it. Ana didn’t seem to appreciate his excitement though. Sure, she had a good poker face, but Nox had made a living detecting deception. “My apologies. I’m sure I sound like a sap.” His sister had harsher words to describe him, but he stuck with sap.
“Barbara, do you often deal with wedding dresses? Or do you avoid them?” She was talented, but wedding dresses weren’t for everyone.
---
The average woman tended to get excited about weddings, whether it was her own or someone else’s, but Ana was not the average woman. She just didn’t see the appeal of weddings and tried to distance herself from them as much as possible though that obviously wasn’t working since she arrived at TJS. Though she’d had the mind of a five year old at the time, she had been to her twin’s wedding, and with her own mind, she had gone to Will’s wedding and now she was going to Nox’s and Belle’s as well as helping him with tux selection. Seriously, what had happened to her? “It’s fine,” she replied, waving him off. “The sappiness is to be expected, I suppose.”
Once she was done with the measuring tape, she rolled it up and stood. “I do not deal with wedding dresses, but one of our other associates does. I rather not deal with wedding dresses if I don’t absolutely have to because there’s so much more detail and precision that needs to go into them. The alterations can also be more of a hassle if not done correctly.”
---
Nox appreciated Ana’s tolerance. He could tell she was not a romantic. But she was doing a fantastic job of coping with the love surrounding her family and friends. Charlie and Ava seemed to be mending their relationship, Ana had agreed to attend Nox’s wedding, and she seemed to be having success in her own pairing with Adam. Love caught up with everyone eventually.
“Belle has gone in for several fittings. She hasn’t changed in sized at all, but they keep making changes.” Belle would never change in size. Her body would remain exactly how it was right now for eternity. “I’ll need to be vigilant about my own diet... lest I put all your hard work to waste, Barbara.”
---
Ana was definitely not a romantic and the fact that she somewhat tolerated that in others was strange to her. She never expected love to catch up with her, but it had. However, that didn’t make it any less strange or scary.
Though Ana never dealt with wedding dresses, she imagined that there would need to be multiple fittings for it, whereas a tux was concerned, it was pretty much one and done.
Barbara gave a good natured chuckle at Nox’s comment. “I doubt you need to be too vigilant about it. Just keep up whatever you’re doing and you’ll be fine. And if for some reason you need more alterations you can always come back.”
---
“I’ll admit, my schedule has been more hectic of late, and I haven’t been in the gym as much. I was considering growing a beard and a belly,” he said with a pat to his stomach, laughing a little. Belle insisted his appearance was only part of the reason she was with him, so she hopefully wouldn’t mind when it began to change with time. “If it weren’t for coaching football and basketball, I might have gotten a start on one of them already.”
---
Barbara gave a good natured chuckle, but Ana raised an eyebrow at Nox though she did grin slightly. “I’m not too sure you’d look good with a beard. And it doesn’t seem like you could ever develop a belly.”
Ana continued to sit and watch while Barbara went to work on the vest and jacket. “This part is a little trickier than the pants,” Barbara began as she pulled the measuring tape around Nox’s waist. “We’ll get it to fit right though. Don’t you worry.”
---
Nox moved accordingly as Barbara moved around him, measuring tape in hand. He raised his arms when necessary, turned around, stood straighter. He was at her mercy. “You really don’t think I could pull off a beard?” he asked Ana as Barbara continued to work. Nox didn’t want to distract her. She seemed to be concentrating a great deal. “I’ve never grown one. I thought I should give it a try for the winter.”
---
Ana scrutinized his face for a bit, trying to envision Nox with a beard. “I don’t know. I can’t really picture it too well.” Shifting on the armchair, she pulled her phone out and began scrolling through it. “Why grow a beard for winter if you’ve never grown one before? Is that what Belle wants?”
---
Nox would have shrugged if not for the fact that Barbara was measuring his shoulders. “She hasn’t said either way. It’s just something I’ve been thinking about doing.” He observed Ana playing with her phone, giving her the sort of look he gave students in his classes who split their attention between him and similar devices. “Are we boring you, Ana?” he said, though his voice had a teasing tone. “Judging by how fast Barbara works, you won’t have to put up with me much longer.”
---
At his question, Ana just smirked as she kept scrolling through her phone. “There’s only so much sitting still I can take.”
“I wouldn’t be too offended if I were you, Nox,” Barbara chimed in as she helped him out of his jacket to work on his vest. “She’s on her phone about eighty percent of the time she’s getting clothes altered here.” Smiling and chuckling, she looked over at Ana.
“What can I say? I’m a woman who’s in demand,” Ana replied with a small laugh of her own.
---
“It’s a good thing you aren’t my student. I’d take your phone away immediately.” Nox’s students knew they were NOT permitted to use cell phones, iPods, or video games in his class. If they had something better to do, he’d prefer they simply leave. It was better than wasting his time.
He turned his attention back to Barbara. “The wedding isn’t until the fifth, so I’m not in a major hurry, but when do you think I can pick up the tailored suit?” Ideally, he could come and get it before the weekend was through, and given the professionalism Barbara displayed, he didn’t think that was far fetched.
---
“It’s a very good thing,” Ana replied with amusement. If anyone tried to part her from her iPhone, they’d have hell to pay. That phone was her lifeline. She depended on it for so many things.
Jotting down a few more notes on her notepad, Barbara soon rolled her measuring tape up. “I can have it done for you for tomorrow evening. The alterations are the simplest ones I have going on this weekend and seeing how you’re Ana’s colleague, I consider it a special rush order,” Barbara said with a smile.
“You really are the best, Barbara,” Ana replied, looking up from her phone for a minute.
---
Nox’s eyebrows raised, impressed. “You’re a saint, Barbara,” he said with a winning smile. “I’m so grateful, to you and Ana both. I don’t suppose you’re interested in attending the wedding? It will be quite an event. It’s at the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston. I’d be honored if you’d come. Ana will be there.”
---
Ana grinned when Nox said that he was also grateful to her, but that smile faltered as he invited Barbara to the wedding. Ana’s expression soon became serious as she shot him a warning glance from behind Barbara. Did he not remember what she had said about Barbara not knowing she was a vampire?
Barbara was taken aback as well, but for a different reason. “Oh, my. I’m really very flattered by the invitation, Nox. I wish I could go, but that is quite a trek during my busiest season here.”
---
Nox caught the look from Ana, and he even understood its meaning, but he brushed it off. There would be all sorts of attendants at the wedding who had nothing at all to do with the supernatural world. Guests were expected to behave as they would any other time they were away from the school: like humans.
“I understand. A woman of your immense talent is sure to be in high demand. Perhaps I’ll bring Belle here sometime after the wedding to pick out some new dresses. Or maybe I’ll just send her here with Ana.” That was meant to be a joke. Ana didn’t seem to have any female friends.
---
“That would be lovely.” Barbara moved behind the counter to enter Nox’s alterations into her appointment book.
Once Barbara replied that she wouldn’t be able to go, Ana looked back to her phone, trying not to laugh as Nox said he’d send Belle with her. There was a reason Ana didn’t really have any female friends. She didn’t really want them and she was perfectly fine keeping it that way. Few women understood her and even less men understood her, but she seemed to get along much better with them.
“Alright, you can go ahead and change out of those and they’ll be all ready to go for tomorrow evening,” Barbara stated as she began to pull the appropriate hangers off the rack and a new garment bag to house the suit.
---
Nox nodded at Barbara’s instructions and began to strip out of the suit, tie and shirt, hanging each item along the way, handing them to Barbara. He searched around then for the clothing he’d worn into the shop. He felt comfortable in a suit, but it would be nice to change into pajamas and settle down for the evening. He’d brought his laptop and a book, so he was all set. For all he knew, Ana would be going out this evening. He knew she frequented dens, so that might be on her agenda. Then again, if she needed an easier, closer meal, he wouldn’t mind offering his own blood.
“Thank you so much for your help, Barbara,” he told her as he approached the counter again to finish up their business together. There were some papers to sign, and Nox insisted on paying half up front, as was required according to the paperwork, even though Barbara assured him it wasn’t necessary in this case.
---
Ana had no idea what she was going to do tonight. She was tempted to go to a den, but the last time she had done that, things hadn’t turned out too well. It wasn’t something she was going to rule out though. She just had to weigh her options. Another option would be to invite one of her pets over, but really, that wasn’t a good idea for a number of reasons. She didn’t want to do that with Nox in the penthouse and there was a chance that it would turn into something more. Dammit, when did she grow a conscience?
“I was glad to be of assistance,” Barbara replied as she got all his paperwork together and took his payment. “I’ll make sure to contact you once your suit is done tomorrow.”
“Thank you again, Barbara,” Ana echoed as she stood and slung her purse over her shoulder, moving to grab her and Nox’s coats from the rack. Handing him his coat, she pulled her own on and headed out the door. “Bet you didn’t think it was going to be that easy..”
---
Nox bid farewell to Barbara and took his coat from Ana, opening the door for her to exit ahead of him. When they were outside, he offered his arm as any gentleman should. “I knew I was in good hands. I didn’t think I would like the first suit, but I knew your contact would be talented.”
He waved to the valet and the man went to fetch Ana’s car immediately. “Did you know Barbara before you were turned?”
---
“Barbara is honestly the best. She’s gotten me a number of dresses for events and she dresses some of the most prominent men in Manhattan as well.” Ana hooked her arm through his as they waited for the valet to get Lola. At Nox’s question, her expression changed though she nodded slightly. “I did. Actually, I met her a few months beforehand.”
Ana really should’ve noticed the sudden change within her, the pulling at her inner core, but she first dismissed at as merely a feeling she got from talking about being turned. It wasn’t until a smooth baritone spoke from behind them that the hairs on her neck stood up.
“Why didn’t you tell me you were in the city, Ana?”
The English accent was unmistakable, but Ana still had to turn around to confirm the man’s identity. Her eyes went slightly wide and she suddenly felt like she couldn’t speak though she did manage to croak out, “Saul.”
Saul’s lips merely curled into a slight smirk as his childe turned to face him. The man next to her was ignored for the moment. “It’s been quite a while, love. If I didn’t know any better, I would think you were avoiding me.”
Ana gave a bit of a nervous chuckle. “No, not at all. I would never avoid you. I’ve just been so busy with school.”
Saul’s expression just remained neutral. “Of course you are.” He paused for a moment, glancing over at Nox before looking back at Ana. “And this is...?”
“Oh, um... he’s... my professor.” Saul still had no idea that the twins were no longer students and they had every intention of keeping him in the dark. Hopefully Nox would just go with whatever she said.
---
Nox was about to relay a follow up question about Barbara, when he heard someone address Ana. Immediately, Nox could tell it was another vampire. He had developed a sense for them over time, and Nox was sure Saul could tell he was in the presence of a demon. Older vampires could smell differences between a variety of races.
The change was ever so slight, but Nox could feel it. Ana’s hold on his arm tightened for a fraction of a second. She was nervous about meeting this vampire. It had to be her sire. Nox was good at reading situations, and he knew it was best to follow Ana’s lead in this one.
“Nox Alekos. Pleasure to meet you.” Nox would only extend his hand if one was placed before him in greeting. He also avoided offering up any further conversation until he knew what direction this meeting was headed. The fact that Ana had said ‘professor’ in reference to Nox made it all too clear she hadn’t been completely forthcoming with her maker. He kept his expression and posture completely neutral, waiting for subtle instructions from Ana.
---
Ana’s usually cool and calm exterior faded away whenever she was around Saul. No one could ever make her lose her composure like he did and it was unnerving. The only thing she could hope for now was that he bought her lies when it came to Nox and the school.
Saul extended his hand to the demon, giving it a good, firm shake once it was offered. “The pleasure is mine, Mister Alekos. My name is Saul. I’m not sure if Ana or Ava have told you about me. I’m their sire.”
Ana’s grip tightened again for a second on Nox’s arm. “I.. well, no.. I mean. Yes, I’ve told him about you.” Wow, very smooth.
“Good to hear,” Saul replied, giving a relaxed smile. “So what brings the two of you to the city this evening?”
“I was just helping him shop for a tuxedo..” was all Ana could really offer for the moment.
---
Ana’s reaction to seeing her sire wasn’t unusual. Many vampires experienced this. It was a bit like how people acted differently around their parents, when those parents were strict and expected a great deal of their children. It made you stand a bit straighter, choose your words more carefully, and do all you could to not start a fight... especially in front of company. Nox would help in whatever way he could.
The handshake they shared was solid, and that gave Nox hope that Saul wasn’t looking to stir up trouble. If he had been, he might have exhibited some of his superior power. Instead, it was a polite, firm hold that exuded confidence. “Feel free to call me Nox, Saul. Only my students call me Mister Alekos.” He hoped Ana was listening and would do as instructed. It would help reinforce her assertion that Nox was her professor.
Nox smiled in a good-natured way as Ana affirmed that she’d mentioned her sire to him. She had, though maybe not in the way she wanted Saul to believe, and Nox couldn’t recall ever learning the older vampire’s name.
“Ana introduced me to a talented woman named Barbara,” he said with a complementary air that was directed at Barbara and Ana both, and Nox patted Ana’s hand on his arm to express more of the same. “I’m getting married in a few weeks. I asked for Ana’s help with the tuxedo because of her connections to the fashion industry.” It was all true, which Nox preferred over lying, though he was capable of great deceit if necessary. It had been on a regular basis in his former career. He didn’t like lying, but he was good at it.
---
Though Ana behaved fairly well around Nox, she behaved a hundred times better around Saul. She never wanted to do any wrong in his eyes and craved his approval in nearly everything. Even so, she had gone off and done things that she thought he wouldn’t approve of. Saul had sent the twins to TJS to learn, not to get into serious relationships and become teachers. Ana had no idea how Saul would react to any of these facts, but she wanted to put off their discovery as long as possible.
Saul wasn’t looking to make a show of his superiority over the demon. At least, not at the moment. He didn’t see any reason for it. Everything seemed pleasant enough at the moment. “Nox. Of course,” he gave a nod in the affirmative. “Married? I believe congratulations are in order. And I would have to say that you have chosen the right woman to assist you with your wardrobe for your special day,” Saul replied as he reached out to tuck a loose strand of hair behind Ana’s ear.
Ana smiled almost sheepishly as he did that. He was the only man that had such an intense pull over her. “I was just glad to help Mister Alekos in any way I could.”
“I’m sure you are, love.” Pausing for a moment, he regarded the valet as he pulled up with Ana’s car before turning back to Nox and Ana. “Where are the two of you headed now?”
“Um... my penthouse.” Ana flinched inwardly, wondering if he would be displeased to hear that. “I invited him to stay in our guest room so he wouldn’t have to worry about a hotel for a night.”
It wasn’t the fact that Nox was staying with her that shocked Saul, but instead, the fact that they were retiring so early. “You’re going back to the penthouse now? But the night is young. Wouldn’t you like to show Nox around the dens here? I’m sure they are better than the ones near your school.”
Ana tensed up again, unsure of what to say. “Um... well...” If her heart were still beating, it would probably be racing. What should she do?
---
Nox was relieved things were going well on his end. Saul didn’t seem suspicious or upset in any way. It did upset Nox a bit to see how Ana’s personality had been turned inside out in her maker’s presence, even though it was to be expected. He had many vampire friends, but it didn’t sit well with him to see the power a sire had over their childe, especially not in this case. Nox respected Ana and cared for her. To see her change so drastically was unnerving. It was nearly enough to distract him from the congratulations offered by Saul. “Thank you. I’m very excited, and I want to look my best.. even though no one will be looking at me, well, no one but Belle. The bride is the only one who ever pays attention to the groom.” He’d noticed that at a lot of weddings.
When the subject of the penthouse came up, Nox had to work extra hard to keep his expression and posture relaxed. He didn’t know what Saul would think of that. Ana recovered well, but then Saul mentioned going to a den. He hated dens, but he didn’t want Saul to know that. “If you’d like to go, I don’t mind tagging along. It’s been awhile since I’ve visited a den.” He felt the best thing he could do right now was seem agreeable. If they ended up at a den, he’d manage. He used to go to them regularly back in Seattle, because some of his best contacts frequented the establishments. “Are you hungry?” he asked Ana as innocently as possible.
---
Ana didn’t like that she was affected so easily by Saul. She was very rarely like her usual self around him. That only really came out when it was just she and him alone, but even then she was still more on the submissive side.
“Sadly, I believe that is true. Many people say it is usually the bride’s day,’ Saul agreed with a slight nod. Reaching into the breast pocket of his jacket, he produced a handsome silver lighter and a silver cigarette case. Saul proceeded to take a cigarette out to light it before replacing the case and lighter in his pocket. Taking a drag, he noticed that his childe seemed a little more unnerved around him than usual. “You should really take him, Ana. It’s the least you could do for him.”
Cringing on the inside, Ana tried to remain as calm as possible on the outside. “I... um... I’m not all that hungry right now. And I wouldn’t want to drag Mister Alekos out since I know he’s tired from the trip and such.”
Saul had to raise an eyebrow at that. “I’ve never known you to turn down a trip to a den before.”
Shit, Ana thought, everything’s going downhill. How the hell was she supposed to get out of this one?
---
Nox put his hand over Ana’s once more, squeezing it lightly as she stumbled over her words. He turned his head to look at her, hoping she could read his eyes. “I’m not all that tired. I’d be happy to escort you to a den.” She was making a mistake in not acting like herself around Saul. He’d start to suspect something if she rejected his suggestion. He’d wonder why she wasn’t interested in feeding on strange men or even attempting to corrupt Nox. While Nox knew Ana to be a considerate woman, professional too, he assumed Saul saw her the way others did. And that Ana wouldn’t hesitate to tempt her professor into behaving badly.
---
Ana looked from her sire over to Nox, sensing that he was trying to help her out even if this wasn’t the outcome she wanted. It was obvious that Saul was starting to get a bit suspicious, but Ana was being stubborn. What she needed to do was exactly what Nox was thinking... she needed to act like herself and go to the damn den. Clearing her throat slightly, she mustered up the energy to act as ‘normal’ as possible. “Really?” she replied, her eyebrows raising slightly. “Well, in that case, you’re in for a treat.” Smirking slightly, she turned back to Saul, hoping he bought it.
Saul looked pleased as he tapped the ash off the end of his cigarette. “Now that’s more like it. Where are you taking him? I can drive there myself and meet up with you.”
Shit, shit, shit. Ana hadn’t expected Saul to tag along, but really, who was she kidding? It was bound to happen. “Um... Lexington and 58th,” she spouted off quickly. At least that den was big enough that they could possibly get separated or Saul could get distracted with some doll.
“Alright. I will see you both there shortly.” And with that, he walked away in the direction he came from to his own car.
Once he was out of sight, Ana deflated significantly and let go of Nox’s arm to rake her fingers through her hair. “Dammit..”
---
Nox kept his cool and went along with everything that was being said until Saul was on his way, and Nox and Ana were in her car once more. “It’ll be fine, Ana,” he reassured her, putting his hand on her shoulder. “You may not realize it, but I’m an excellent liar. We’ll tell him what he wants to hear, show him what he wants to see, and then we’ll head back to the penthouse.. okay? I’m sure Saul expects you to have less than honorable intentions. Feed on me a bit at the den, then tell him you want privacy. Or I can. I’m about to get married. I wouldn’t want anyone to see me behaving inappropriately in public. He’ll buy it. Trust me.” And it would allow Ana to maintain a certain image. It would also help if any rumors got back to Saul about Ana’s new boyfriend. He’d dismiss them, thinking she was just sleeping her way through the staff members.
---
Ana’s brows were furrowed as she shifted the Camaro out of neutral to peel out onto the street. “I know what he expects of me, but...” she sighed, shaking her head. “I just don’t want to. I don’t want to go to the den, I don’t want to feed on you or even have him expect me to do those things.”
Turning at the next signal, Ana sighed again as she shifted up a gear. “I’m sorry you had to get involved in this.”
---
Nox sighed then quickly buckled his seat belt. Ana was a scary driver under normal circumstances, but she was even more so when upset. “I understand, but the alternative is honesty. Do you want to tell him what’s really going on? I’m willing to stand by your side if you do. I may not be a vampire, but I’m not powerless.”
She didn’t need to apologize. None of this was her fault. Her sire was controlling and had certain expectations she didn’t want to live up to. Nox felt bad for Ana, and he wanted to help. “Just tell me what we’re doing. I’m prepared for either.”
---
“No,” she replied quickly, shaking her head. “No, I don’t want him knowing what’s going on. He can’t know. I don’t know how he’d react and I... I can’t risk that.” A million scenarios of how it could go wrong flew through her mind and it made her shiver. It didn’t matter that Nox could be strong enough to stand by her side. This was her sire they were talking about. She couldn’t stand up to him and she could never really refuse him anything.
Her expression was set now, her brows furrowing with the seriousness of the situation and her eyes taking on their steely gaze. “Just what you said. We go in, I’ll feed, you’ll ask for privacy, and then we’ll leave. He needs to see me being normal.”
---
Nox nodded. “Okay. Just get us to the den in one piece,” he joked, trying to ease the tension. Ana had fed on Nox several times. And he’d been to dens many, many times. He’d also lied about relationships for work more times than he could count. For him, this was a mission. The objective was to deceive Saul and give Ana more time to sort out her problems, because it seemed like she had a lot. He’d help as best he could.
When they pulled up to what he assumed to be the den (it was hard to tell from the outside, as most were), Nox climbed out of the car and walked around to open Ana’s door. He offered his hand along with a reassuring smile. “Let’s put on a show.”
---
Nothing could get Ana to relax right now, so Nox’s attempt at a joke was pretty much ignored as she kept driving to their destination. It wasn’t that she wasn’t used to lying or even feeding on Nox, it was just that she was essentially being forced to do this against her will. That was what she hated the most. Hopefully, they’d pull this off so she wouldn’t have to worry about Saul becoming suspicious and taking a more direct interest in her life at school.
Her face remained serious even as Nox smiled at her when he helped her out of her car. Handing the car over to yet another valet, she walked to the entrance with Nox. Once inside, Ana’s eyes scanned the interior of the den she frequented quite often while she still lived in New York full-time. The inside was much nicer than your average den since the neighborhood was a bit more upscale than the others. To her surprise, Saul was already sitting in his usual alcove with a doll on each side. Mustering up yet another smirk, she sauntered over with Nox in tow.
“I’m surprised I beat you here, love, what with the way you drive,” Saul quipped with a crooked grin.
Ana laughed slightly as she slid into the booth, making room for Nox to sit next to her. “I didn’t want to completely scare my professor before the real fun began.”
---
Nox followed and actually made an effort to look uncomfortable. He wasn’t bothered by the scenes surrounding him, but he was meant to look like a man contemplating cheating on his fiancee, so a little nervousness would be expected. Saul would grow suspicious if Nox seemed too at ease in this situation.
Taking a seat beside Ana, he forced himself to hesitate and his hand to shake slightly, as he draped an arm over Ana’s shoulders. “This is a much nicer den than the ones I experienced in Seattle. They looked like... coffee houses. Appropriate, I suppose, but lacking class.” He glanced over at Ana, even allowed his eyes to dart down to her cleavage momentarily. A man interested in her would do such a thing, though it made him feel a moment of actual guilt.
---
If Ana hadn’t known that Nox was putting up an act, she would’ve suspected that he was really nervous about this. It was a bit uncanny how good of an actor he was. She was at least thankful for that fact. Saul couldn’t suspect a thing.
It felt odd to have Nox’s arm draped across her shoulder and even odder to have him look at her chest, but she supposed it was essential in order to pull this off. She forced herself to relax as she settled her hand on his knee though she looked at Saul as he spoke. Her sire still demanded her attention even if she was ‘with’ Nox.
“Of course it’s nicer. The good citizens of Manhattan spare no expense when it comes to their luxuries or entertainment.” Saul winked at Ana before turning to one of the dolls, running his hand down her neck and into her cleavage.
“Of course,” Ana replied with a slight grin, though she shifted a bit uncomfortably. She knew she had to be acting like she wanted Nox right now, but she couldn’t seem to get herself to do it.
---
Nox would need to call Belle as soon as they were done here, because he had some explaining to do! But for now, he played his part.. masterfully. He smiled when Ana placed her hand upon his leg, though made sure to chuckle lightly, nervously, and look around as though worried he’d be spotted.
“Good thing I don’t know many of the good citizens of Manhattan. That’s why I asked for Ana’s help. For the suit.” He pretended to be stumbling through his words, trying to justify this getaway with his beautiful, young student.
“Do, uh.. do they serve drinks other than blood here?” he asked, trying to spot a waitress. He should be throwing back alcohol. Attempting to gain some liquid courage and loosen up.
---
Ana didn’t know if it was necessary for her to tell Adam about any of this. He didn’t really know anything about her sire and she kind of wanted to keep it that way for as long as possible. Maybe the less he knew, the less likely he was to get hurt by any of it, including Saul.
Keeping up her part, Ana merely smirked as Nox stumbled through his words. The hand that was on his leg came up to casually stroke his chin for a brief moment before going back to his leg.
Saul seemed momentarily distracted by one of his dolls, but he pried himself away just in time to see his childe work her magic with her professor. “Of course they do,” he said in response to Nox’s question. Saul beckoned over a waitress. “What’s your poison, Nox?”
---
Nox smiled, another awkward chuckle coming from his lips, as Ana touched his chin. He was trying to portray the image of a man who was holding back, trying to behave when he was desperate to do something wrong. That sort of desperation would have to express itself eventually. As much as it really did humiliate him to do so, Nox shifted in his seat as though his pants had suddenly become tight. He even cleared his throat. How embarrassing.
“Whisky. Single malt. Keep ‘em coming,” he said softly to the waitress, as though he didn’t want others to hear, but knowing full well they could. Great, now he was going to have to keep up the act while drinking. Ana needed to step up her game. She wasn’t doing much to help him with this performance.
---
Nox was doing an uncannily good job at keeping up this whole act, but Ana was still struggling with it. She knew she had to do better or possibly suffer a barrage of questioning from Saul, if not worse. Ana also knew that Nox wouldn’t take any of what she did now seriously, but she needed to remind herself of that. After all, he’d said that he wanted to help her with this.
Making up her mind, she crossed her legs, the top one facing toward him as she shifted a bit to face him now. Grinning slightly, the hand that was on her leg now began to stroke his chest. “Why don’t you loosen up your tie a bit? It seems so constricting, don’t you think?” she added as her fingers moved up to loosen the knot.
Shortly after, the waitress arrived with Nox’s whisky as well as a brandy for Saul. Saul nodded his appreciation to the waitress before picking up his glass and holding it up towards Nox in a toast. “To all the pleasures that the city has to offer..”
---
Nox cleared his throat once more, although it wasn’t a total act this time. He was slightly uncomfortable playing this part, even though he and Ana both knew it was all for show and no actual feelings were involved. Still, he was going to be married in a few short weeks, and here he had another woman stroking his chest and sitting dangerously close to him. He prayed that they’d be able to leave soon, having satisfied Saul with a minimal performance, because he didn’t think he could take this much further without actually crossing the line.
Letting Ana loosen his tie, he stretched his chin up for a moment, feeling himself tense rather than loosen up. “Are you trying to get me to take off my clothes for the second time this evening?” he asked, laughing awkwardly. He’d been much more comfortable with stripping earlier, and he’d gotten all the way down to his underwear then. Now it was just a tie, but he felt almost naked.
The drinks arrived, and Nox was happy for that. He needed one. Raising his glass to Saul, and giving a nod in agreement, he jokingly replied, “Amen to that,” before downing it in one gulp. He was a miserable demon specimen, and it would be bad for Saul to recognize that. So Nox set his cup down and used that hand to stroke over the top of Ana’s thigh, hoping she’d forgive him for it later.
---
Nox wasn’t the only one that was uncomfortable in all of this. Ana was severely uncomfortable, not only because she was in a relationship that was worth acknowledging, but also because this was a colleague that she respected greatly. She never behaved like this in front of Nox, so that fact that she was actually doing these things to him was awkward as hell. Ana sincerely hoped that they didn’t have to cross any lines either, because this was already bad enough.
Smirking at him, she played it coy this time. “What ever do you mean? You can’t possibly suspect that of me, can you?” Ana laughed softly, letting her hand toy around with the tie for a bit now that it was loose. Funnily enough, Ana had also been a lot more comfortable when he had stripped down to his underwear in the shop. This was something different that neither of them really wanted to be involved in.
Once the drinks arrived, she looked back at Saul as he gave his toast and she gave him a smile. Saul winked at Ana and opted to merely take a swig of his brandy before settling it back down on the table. The doll at his right already had her hand down his pants so his attention was much better spent on her. Draping his arm across her shoulder, he simply whispered in her ear and she automatically bared her neck to him. Saul immediately pulled her closer and plunged his fangs into her neck.
Ana shivered as she watched her sire sink his teeth into the doll, feeling jealous that it wasn’t her own neck that he was biting into. After a moment, she snapped out of it and discreetly took her phone out to type up a message to Nox on the Notes app. Once she was done, she lay the phone in his lap and resumed playing with the lapel on his jacket.
Tell him you want to go somewhere private with me. NOW.
---
Watching Saul feed on the doll didn’t bother Nox. Far from it. He could tell that the vampire was distracted and no longer interested in Ana and Nox. It gave Nox the opportunity to breathe easy for a moment. So he felt a little jolt when something landed in his lap, because it was completely unexpected. He glanced at Ana then down to the phone. An application was open, and there was a message typed on it.
Turning the screen off, Nox slipped the phone back to her, his hand staying on her thigh for a moment as he spoke up. “I think all the driving.. and trying on suits.. it’s finally catching up with me. I hope you don’t mind if we head back to the penthouse.” He tried to add a touch of suggestiveness to his voice to make Saul believe he wasn’t tired at all, but at the same time attempted to sound like he was faking fatigue the way a man would do if he was trying to sneak out.
---
Taking her phone back, Ana quickly slipped it back into her purse before Saul could look up at them. She knew he wouldn’t to pleased that he was being interrupted nor that she and Nox would be leaving, but this was the best time to attempt to leave.
Removing himself from the doll’s neck, Saul looked up at Nox and Ana while gently dabbing at the corners of his mouth with a napkin. He regarded them quietly for a moment, his eyes moving from the hand on Nox’s chest to the hand on Ana’s thigh before coming to rest on their faces. “Of course..” he replied slowly. “I wish you would stay longer, Nox, but I can’t really force you to do that now, can I?” Leaning back into the booth, Saul kept studying both of their expressions. Something seemed off.
Though she wasn’t looking at Saul right now, she could feel his eyes on her and the fact that he seemed to be getting a bit suspicious. Her body tensed slightly, panic starting to grip at her insides. He had to be convinced that they were going off to be alone together. Pulling herself closer to Nox, she leaned in towards his neck to take in his scent as she normally did with the dolls she fed from at dens. Feeding from him was where she drew the line. She would not allow it to get past that.
---
Nox regarded Saul briefly, but didn’t completely pull his attention away from Ana. He had to seem as though he was captivated by her presence. He squeezed her thigh as Saul looked at it. “I wouldn’t want to exhaust myself with a night out so close to my wedding date,” he said carefully, hoping Saul would get the carefully crafted message. Nox was a man who liked to keep some things private, and that included his sex life. That was actually true, but in this case, Nox wanted Saul to think he simply didn’t want to be seen in public cheating on his fiancee.
When Ana’s lips came so close to his neck, he took a deep breath as though preparing to be bitten, his eyelids fluttered, and his head tilted ever so slightly. He whispered words that she and Saul could both hear. “Just a taste. Don’t ruin your appetite.”
---
God, Ana felt so bad for everything she was doing. When had she developed such a fucking conscience? She felt bad for doing this to Adam even though there were no feelings behind it, felt bad for doing it to Nox and making him feel so uncomfortable and she also felt bad for doing this to Belle. It was scary how she’d changed like this.
“Hm,” Saul replied with a slight nod. “We wouldn’t want that happening now, would we?” Smirking slightly, he raised his glass in a toast to Nox once more before taking a swig. Placing his glass back on the table, Saul watched as his childe moved towards the demon’s neck and even heard the demon’s whispered words to her. The doll to his left was trying to get his attention, but he paid her no mind. He wanted to watch Ana. He missed seeing his childe like this.
As soon as Nox whispered to her, Ana’s eyes flickered up towards him. She really had to do this now or Saul would really begin to get suspicious. Reaching up with her free hand, she coaxed Nox’s head back into her palm so his neck would be bared to her. Inhaling one last time, she leaned down and sank her fangs into his neck, drinking the blood as it came forth.
---
Nox tried to ignore Saul, because that’s what a man in Nox’s position would do. He’d be one-hundred percent focused on the gorgeous woman who was nearly sitting in his lap. In fact, he was somewhat encouraging it, what with the way his hand had slipped around the side of her thigh, pulling her closer to him as he felt her teeth sink into his flesh. He’d experienced this several times, with Ana, but he had to act as though this was new and exciting, not familiar and clinical. Nox gasped and allowed a shiver to run through his body, his fingers tightening on her thigh, nearly digging into it. Then he suddenly released her leg to allow his fingers to come up and stroke through her hair, pulling it slightly. He really really hoped they were putting on a convincing show, because he didn’t want to have to take this any further.