Aine and Meison Reminisce (#Christmas16 Day 12)

Aine Declain with Meison Declain.

#Christmas16 Day 12
*Setting the box of breakable ornaments down on the coffee table, pointing to the empty space beside the tree* Just place the totes right there. Thank you both for helping. *Opening each tote, I pull out the lights and the angel and the tree skirt. Taking out the special box I had wrapped in the middle of the tote. Lifting the top off, I carefully unwrap each ornament. Smiling as I gently run my fingers over each one. These were some of my most treasured memories. All ornaments that my mother had made when I was a child* Oh momma. *Sighs* Christmas just isn't the same without you.

Meison Declain *I silently stood in the doorway and watched Aine as she touched each ornament. I could almost read her thoughts. I missed Elizabeth more than I could ever express as well. I took a step further in the room.* Would you like some company?

Aine Declain *Looking up, a smile brightening my face* Hello father. When did you get back? *Hands him a strand of lights* And I would love your help. *Starts to wrap the lights around the large tree* Do you remember when I used to get tangled in the lights?

Meison Declain Just this evening, darling girl. Of course I remember. I'm the one who had to untangle you and the lights. Prelit trees were invented because of you. *I took a strand and wound it through the branches of the tree.* You know this is my least favorite part?

Aine Declain *Laughs at the memory of trying to stand still while being untangled from the strands.* I know. Momma was the one who always did the lights. She would spend hours fixing them just right and wouldn't let us do the ornaments until she was sure they were all perfect. *Walks around behind him, unraveling the lights as we wind round and round the tree*

Meison Declain *I finish with the strand she handed me and quickly went to the dry bar in the corner and fix a drink.* Yes, I don't have the patience for it so the one strand is my contribution. What are your plans for the holidays?

Aine Declain *Shakes my head and bends down to plug the lights in. Starting with momma's ornaments, I place each one from the green limbs* Umm...nothing much. Some charity events with Dia. *A knock on the door saves me from having to explain further. Walking over to answer it, biting my lip as Dia's computer geek stands before me* "Miss Aine, I have the information on the charities that you requested. Just the ones that Mrs. Dupree aided in the past." *Smiling, I thank him, slip the paper into my pocket and hurry back to work on the tree*

Meison Declain *Watching her get the door, I decide to not get involved with her charity search, yet.* Do not forget he is Breed. I do not trust him.

Aine Declain *Shakes my head and laughs* Oh father, you worry too much. Dia is like an over grown pussy cat. He's almost as gentle as Minion and Moo. *Smiles and tries to concentrate on the tree and not the uneasy feeling in my gut at what was soon to come* Will you put Momma's angel on top for me, please?

Meison Declain *Taking the angel out of the box that Aine has meticulously kept her safe in, I close my eyes, the memories of Elizabeth too strong to deny. They flash through my mind in a moment of weakness of my defenses down. My pain is masked, and turns to the more familiar anger. I will avenge her before I leave this life. I place the angel atop the tree then step back. Kissing Aine quickly on the top of the head, I make my excuses and head out to escape my memories.* Love you, daughter mine.

Aine Declain Love you too daddy. *Watches as he hurries from the room. Waiting until he was gone before sinking to my knees at the foot of the tree. My head in my hands as I start to cry. Knowing the pain that he tries so hard to hide from me. Wishing that he would move on from it all, but knowing that the loss of your mate was the worst thing anyone could ever go through.*

(Whirlwind} The Kiss

Dia Rivera with Aine Declain in Washington, District of Columbia.

May 11  

aking black fluid down his face.* Didn't you follow him? *The male nodded.*~Yes sire we did, but he just vanished.~ *Slamming his fist on the oak desk* Dude, people don't just disappear in to thin air. Get your sorry ass out of here find him, NOW. *The male backed away bowing then quickly fled the room. Pulling out his cell he punched in Aine's number. She answered after only one ring.* Ms. Declain to my office, I have a few questions for you.

Save

Washington, District of Columbia

City · United States

Connie Di Bratto and Margaret Stagg have been here

Aine Declain *Smiling as I say good bye to the little old lady in front of me, I pick up my cell that had started ringing* Hello Dia. *Raising a brow at his clipped order. Looking at the phone as he abruptly disconnects the call. Sliding my phone into my pocket, I turn to Sam* I have to go to Mr. Rivera's office. I've got my phone if you need me. *Leaving the shop, I take the elevator up to his floor and make my way to his office. Knocking as I open the door and walk in* Hello darling. How are you today?

Dia Rivera *Turning at the sound of her voice, he motions for her to take a seat.* I'm not in the mood for pleasantries, Aine.* Taking his place behind the desk he calmly looks over at the female.* Word is your father is back in town. Have you heard from him?

Aine Declain *Raises a brow at him* You know as well as I do that if he wants to speak to me that he'll come to me. But that isn't something that I'm gonna hold my breath and wait on. *Stands up, annoyed that I was the last to know that my father was home* If that's all you called me here for, I'm sorry that you wasted your time.

Dia Rivera *He watched as she sashayed across the room to the window that overlooked the atrium, her hips gracefully swaying. Her voice was that of a siren, luring him to the jagged rocks. And in what seemed like slow motions he found himself beside her. Reaching out he lifted a lock of her silky hair.* Aine, I know that it has been difficult, what with your father coming and going without so much as a goodbye. And I didn't mean for the news of his arrival to upset you.

Aine Declain *Staring out the window, trying to keep my pulse in check. The sound of his voice in my ear and the feel of his hand in my hair, startles a gasp and slight jump from me. Without turning to face him, I give my clipped answer* I am far from upset. I have grown used to my father's flitting ways. I am well aware that I am not his keeper, nor would he like me to be. *Stepping out of his reach, I turn to face him* He is not mine, either.

Dia Rivera *Stuffing his hands in pockets he scolded himself for being distracted. He wondered why Meison was back and even more curious as to why he hadn't contacted his daughter. Perhaps she knew nothing but he wasn't going to take a chance that she might. He would use all his charms if necessary to get the information he needed. Sighing* I never meant to imply that you are his keeper. After all you are both adult. I only was trying to bring you the good news that your father is back. I know how much you have missed him. Please forgive me.

Aine Declain *Dropping my eyes to the floor, I shake my head* I didn't mean to snap. He frustrates me with his random coming and going. *Walking back across the room, sitting down in a chair* I did miss him, he's the only family I have. But I haven't been in contact with him.

Dia Rivera *There seem to be a hint of truth in her voice, but he was unsure if she would tell him even if she knew. He would be patience, reel her I slowly. Taking her hand he pulls her up to him, speaking softly he leans down towards her face.* Family can be over rated at times, but I know he is important to you and I my dear will find him and bring him in. *Brushes his lips against hers*

Aine Declain *My eyes shoot to his as he pulls me from my seat and into his chest. His eyes changed, but not to the red I had expected, but to a soft glowing amber. His softly spoken words confuse me, clouding my mind with uncertainty. The feel of his lips on mine making me freeze before melting slightly under the gentle glide. Pulling back, breaking the kiss.* Dia...

Dia Rivera *Caught by surprise, he barely hid his amazement at her strength when she pushed him away. Growling he cupped her face and kisses her possessively. For a brief moment she seem to mold into him, and he felt intoxicated. Sliding his hand he reach around her waist to pull her closer but was halted by a painful bite to his lower lip as she shoved him away.* Wha the HELL!!.??

Aine Declain *Searching his face and eyes, the confusion and anger written all over mine* You wouldn't come near me when I asked you to, but now that you're ready I'm just supposed to accept it? That's not how the real world works, Dia. It's not how I work. I'm not just gonna...*My rant is cut short as he grabs my waist, jerk ing me back against him. His mouth pressing hard against mine. I struggle for a minute before my mind melts and I surrender to his kiss. Sweeping my tongue across his lips, the slightly copper taste of a drop of his blood from my bite flares my taste buds, igniting a passion within me. Wrapping my arms around him, pulling him closer as the kiss deepens*

Dia Rivera *His mind was a swirl in confusion as their kiss deepened his gums aching as they emerged. He was quickly loosing control of the situation to this female. He needed to get control before he gave into the primal need that she was releasing in him. With all the strength that was in him he broke away.* Go! *She looked at him, confused. Stepping away he opened the door.* You are right this is not how the real world works. But in my world... there is no place for one such as you.

Aine Declain *My eyes go wide at his hateful comment. Turning, I rush from his office, heading for the elevator. Slamming my hand against the number for my floor, I bite my lip hard, willing myself not to cry. As the elevator doors open, I walk quickly to my apartment, locking myself inside. Leaning back against the closed door, I release the hold on my emotions. Tears streaming down my cheeks as I slide down to the floor. Drawing my knees to my chest, wrapping my arms around them. My head falls onto my arms and I cry. My sobs filled with hurt and confusion filling the quiet of my apartment.*

Dia Rivera He felt a twinge of guilt as she rushed out the room. Closing the door he touches his lip that still throbbed painfully. She bit him! Not that he blamed her. He knew hew was sending out mixed signals. What was it about that female that drew her to him? Pulling out his phone he dials, Satora and leaves a message that he will be gone for a few days to "Hunt". Grabbing the keys to his cycle his heading out into the night. He needed as much space between him and Aine as he could get*

{Answers} Another One Bites the Dust

Dia Riverato 

March 14 · 

*Shrugging into his suit jacket a card falls out of his pocket. Picking it up he fillips it over. It was Meison's business card. Without a second thought he stated to place it on his dresser when the he took a second look at the embossed card. Funny he had never noticed but Meison's business logo resembled his mother's necklace. Shaking his head he ran his thumb over it. It was probably pure coincidence. But then again... Dialing Aine's number he waits for her to answer.*

— with Aine Declain.

Aine Declain Thank you. I hope you enjoy the piece. Come again. *Hearing my phone ringing, I wave to the customer I had just rung up and pick up my cell to see who's calling. Smirking at the name, I push the button to answer* Why hello Mr. Rivera. To what do I owe the pleasure?

Dia Rivera *His phone sandwiched between his head and shoulder he straightens his tie.* I thought I'd come by the store have you look at something. Do you have the time?

Aine Declain *Not expecting the words that had just come out of his mouth, I look around the shop.* I have a few customers, but I should be able to look at what you have. When should I expect you?

Dia Rivera I'll be right up. *Taking the engraved box from the safe he makes his way though the evening crowd to Tear Drops from the Moon. The female was behind the counter helping a patron. Looking up she acknowledged his presence. Nodding his head he strolls towards the back corner. Taking a seat at the table he watches her with interest.*

Aine Declain *My fingers lightly trace around the rim of the elegant bowl setting on my sales counter as I see him walk in. Nodding my head before turning my attention back to my customer filling out her shipping info on a card* Don't worry about a thing, Mrs. Stapleton. I'll pack it myself and get it out on the morning delivery truck. Have a nice night. *Picking up the amethyst dish, I take it into my office and place the address card inside it. Closing the door behind me, I make my way over to where Dia is seated.* Good evening, Dia.

Dia Rivera *Straightening his posture he opened the engraved wooden box revealing his mother's necklace on a bed of sea blue velvet* Can you tell me the origin of this? *Slides it toward the female.*

Aine Declain *Watches as he opens the ornate box and slides it towards me. My breath catches at the sight of the necklace nestled in the velvet. Pulling it closer as I sit in the chair opposite him* Wh...where did you get this? It's...*swallows the lump forming in my throat* exquisite. *Reaches in to pick it up but stops* May I? *At his nod, I very gently pick up the necklace. The metal warm in my hands, nothing like I had expected. Lightly running my fingertips over every detail. My palm starting to warm as I touch it.* I've never seen anything like it before, Dia. *Looking up into his eyes, hoping he has answers that he just isn't sharing.*

Dia Rivera *Sitting back in his chair he watched with interest as she took the piece gently in her hand* It belonged to my mother. It's very old. I think it has been in her family for generations. Can you tell me anything about it?

Aine Declain I...*Stops before I can say anymore. It looked so like my father's mark, but I had never seen it anywhere but on our palms.* No, I dont. I'm sorry. *Places the necklace back into the box with the utmost care* I'd be happy to research it for you, though.

Dia Rivera *Snapping the box shut* You mean leave it with you?

Aine Declain OH! *Pulls my hand back as he almost snaps my fingers in the lid.* Well it would be preferable, but it isn't a necessity. *Rubs my thumb over the symbol on my palm.* You said that it was your mother's. What do you know about her? Where was she from? It'll help with my research if I know where to start.

Dia Rivera *Rubs his jaw in thought. Looking at her intently, She made no mention about the similarity between the necklace and the business logo. He wondered what she was hiding.. He wasn't sure how much he could trust her, but he needed to know the answers and to his knowledge the two people that could tell him were dead* I was 10 when she passed. So there is little that I know about her. She said she was from a small town on the Baltic.

Aine Declain *Swallows hard as I nod my head. It couldn't be. Atlantean's couldn't conceive from a Breed. Trying to think of what I could ask without sounding like I knew too much.* Were your parents bonded?

Dia Rivera Yes! Of course! With my kind once the exchange of blood happens it is until death do they part. *Growls under his breath* Love is not necessary

Aine Declain I wasn't...I didn't...I'm sorry. I don't know a lot about breed mating. *The harshness of his growled comment had me retreating. Not in fear of him, but of my heart. Standing, I turn my back, placing my hands over my stomach trying to slow my heartbeat. Looking up at my mother's picture for comfort* There's no need to leave the necklace. I'll do some research and get back to you when I know more.

Dia Rivera *Scooting back his chair he pockets the box.* I'll check back with you later this week. Thank you for your time.*Exits the store quickly*

Aine Declain *Watches him leave over my shoulder. My insides in knots not knowing what to do. Looking back at my mother's picture, I pull out my phone and send him a text ~I'm so glad that you've taken the doting boyfriend thing to heart. Have a wonderful night, dear~ Shaking my head as I pocket my phone and walk into my office to wrap the large dish and get it ready to be picked up in the morning*

{Valentine's Day 2016} Valentine's Back Fire

Aine Declain

February 25 

*Tapping his card against my chin as I sit and think back in my chair and think. It had been a few days and I still wasn't sure what to do about the mysterious card left on Valentine's Day. Picking up my phone, I call upstairs to Sphere, a private and exclusive resturant here at The Dome.* Yes, Id like to make a reservation for tonight at 9 o'clock. Rivera. Yes, THAT Rivera. Thank you. *Dropping the card onto my desk, I pull out some cardstock I have and in my best handwriting, write out an short invitation and then fold it in half and tie it with a ribbon. Walking to the front door of Teardrops, I open it and look around, immediately spotting one of my guardians.* Take this to Mr. Rivera. I want to personally put it into his hands and then wait for a reply. Am I understood? *At his nod, I turn and go back into my office to do paperwork.*

Dia Rivera *Standing at the bar reviewing and order, he is approached by one of Declain's guards. Taking the card from him he dismisses him. The male shook his head and stated he needed a response. Growling he opened the envelope, an invitation to dinner. Pressing the card into the male's hands.* Looks like the female if offering me her vein for dinner, Tell her I'll be there.

Aine Declain *Looking up as the door to Teardrops opens and in walks the guard I sent to Dia.* "He said he would be there, but..." But what? "He mentioned that you were offering to be his dinner." *Busts out laughing, shaking my head* Of course he did. *Turning to walk into my ofdice, I pull out my phone and call the boutique a few doors down* Yes. I need a dress for tonight. Jaw dropping. And red. Blood red.

Dia Rivera *Finishing up in the bar he made his way up to the Sphere. The maître d quickly moved towards him. "Ms Declain will join you in your private dinning room." Growling, Figures. Dismissing the male he enters the room. Typical, the female was late for her own date. Walking to the large window he paces. He didn't have all night. Looking at his watch he growled. I wait for no one. In a few short stride he was at the door. As his hand reached for the knob it suddenly burst open.*

Aine Declain *Smoothing my hands down the length of my torso, turning this way and that, looking at myself in the mirror* It's perfect. *Rushing out of the boutique, I take the elevator up to Sphere. Stepping into the restaurant, I am met before I can reach the hostess' stand* "Good evening Ms. Declain. Mr. Rivera has already arrived and is waiting." Shit! *Rushing past him, I hurry to make my way to the private dining room. Pulling the door open, gasping as I almost run straight into his chest* Dia! I mean, Mr. Rivera, please excuse my tardiness. Picking out my dress took a little longer than planned. *Stepping into the room, the door shutting behind me, I turn in a slow circle* I hope you approve of my choice.

Dia Rivera *Arching a brow his fangs pop from his gums. Damn he didn't realize how hungry he was. Clearing his throat. * Ahh, you look delic...beautiful. You really didn't need to go all out to serve me dinner

Aine Declain *Smirking at his comment, walking past him to take my seat at the table.* I'm so glad that you agreed to join me tonight. I arranged for you to have a special drink served. Now...may I ask about the card you left under my door?

Dia Rivera *Taking a seat across from the female he cocks his head to the side and shrugs* It was Valentines, your father is not around and you have no male in your life, so I thought What the hell. Make her feel special for a day.

Aine Declain *Raises a brow* Make her feel special? If that's all you were trying to do, your wording would have been much different. So now...would you like to stop lying to me and tell me the truth??

Dia Rivera *Draws his brows* The truth? Okay. I grew tired of my last donor. And I was looking for another willing donor that has no fantasy of being turned into a vampire. I wanted a safe female, one that is NOT a Breedmate. And you my sweet fit my needs.

Aine Declain *Narrows my eyes at him as I sit back and listen. My mind going a hundred miles an hour. Taking slow, deep breaths trying to keep my heart rate under control.* I'm not entirely sure how to respond to that, Mr. Rivera.

Dia Rivera *Grins showing the tips of his fangs* I know for a human it is overwhelming. But I'm told it is pleasurable for you and contrary to what you think. I can be generous and attentive and discreet.

Aine Declain *Thinks about his offer for a few more minutes, never once taking my eyes from his* I can assure you, that it is as pleasureful or painful as the biter wants it to be. I might be persuaded to consider your offer, but there would be very strict rules that would have to be agreed to and followed.

Dia Rivera *Stares at her intently* I'm listening.

Aine Declain There would be no one else. For any reason. It would seem as a committed relationship to anyone but the two of us. You would be expected to act like a doting, in love boyfriend.

Dia Rivera *He leans back in his chair their eyes locked. It wasn't unusual in the time since first dawn for Breed and Humans to be seen as a couple. Their relationship went no where considering the short life span of the Terrans. But that aside. Why would she need him to act the doting boyfriend?* I know nothing of being a doting boyfriend. You ask much of me.

Aine Declain I ask much??? *Laughs* You could drain me dry before I even know what's happening. I don't think my requests are too outrageous. *Leans forward, placing my elbows on the table, resting my chin on my hands* Besides, should I not get something out of this as well?

Dia Rivera *Burst out laughing* Female, let me counter offer. You seem to be more in want of a protector/boyfriend than I of a donor. If it is a boyfriend you need than the least I can do for my business partnered is offer myself to his daughter.

Aine Declain *Growls at his insinuation* I have no problems finding men to either date or satisfy my needs. I don't, however, have time to explain and reassure them repeatedly that I have to be monitored at the wishes of my father. At least if I am with you, I wouldn't need your goons following my every step.

Dia Rivera *Wicked grin* Then we have an agreement. I'll be boyfriend protector with no strings attached. Problem solved for you.

Aine Declain And you get fed and no drama. *Stands and holds out my hand* Just remember that part about no other girls. I am my father's daughter, after all. I can be viscous if crossed.

Dia Rivera *Pulls her to his chest and presses his lips to her soft skin. His fangs poised over the beat of her vein. Damn he was hungry. Tightening his hold he feels her tense and gasp. Releasing her he steps away* You're not ready for this Princess. As I said no strings attached. You will get your boyfriend and I'll feed from whom I please until YOU come to me begging me to take what I need from you. *With Breed speed he departs*

Aine Declain *Going willingly and relaxed into his arms, I knew that I trusted him not to hurt me. The press of his sharp fangs against my neck causes me to tense. My mind flashing back to when I was taken as a child. The sudden loss of heat from him as he steps back, has me looking up at him confused. Frowning at his words and his very quick retreat, I let out a huff. Signaling for the waiter, I ask for my dinner to be packed up to go. Walking over to look out the window as I wait. My eyes scanning the night before me. My heart pounding hard in my chest* Time to fight these demons. Once and for all. *Taking the bag from the waiter when he returns, I head for my apartment to relax, eat in peace and figure out my next move.*