[ORP] The Invitation. (Clan Giovanni April 4th Dinner)

[Seussi]

As short as their meeting at the bar would end up being, it still appeared to be drawing quite a few glances from around the room. While usually, Riccardo wouldn’t care about such scrutiny of his person, he was aware of the fact that he likely appeared very vulnerable at that moment. Possibly only the oldest family members would know of his past and his long-ago connection with Rafaele. They were the ones who might not question that the two of them were conversing now, though he was sure they likely still did not approve.

Well. ******** them all. Their opinions were the ones that meant the least to him.

But the younger ones were also watching. There was always somebody searching for a weakness. A way to climb the ladder. Something to hold over him or against him. He’d probably spent too long chatting already. The smiling and chuckling definitely didn’t fit the image he’d built of himself over the ages. Even hidden behind drags of his cigarette or sips of his drink, there was no mistaking the friendliness of his gaze whenever he glanced at the Machiavelli beside him.

And perhaps there was a hint more to it than just friendliness. There was a comforting familiarity of falling back into a conversation as easily as if they had never stopped talking. The ease of it was almost startling, in fact, though there had never been anyone else with whom he had felt so close in all of his unlife. Even his own wife had fallen shy of meeting that mark. If he’d ever bothered to stop and examine his feelings back then, he might have realized what it meant. But those days were long behind him. They had both gone on their separate ways down separate paths, and Riccardo Puttanesca was certain that Rafaele had never considered him anything more than what they were.

A final smirk was offered as he finished off his glass, turning to set the glass down with a light clink against the polished surface of the bar. Motioning for another, one to take for the road. “Same as ever, then.” A small pang of jealousy that was easily shrugged away followed the thought. Rafaele had always been the charming one, which had always drawn more people to him. Riccardo had never been one to attract the same amount of attention. Too closed off, perhaps.

“A second compliment? You do flatter me so.” He reached up to run fingers through his hair, stubbing his cigarette out in a nearby crystal ashtray before reaching for his new glass of whiskey, the words murmured while his back was turned toward the room at large, his gaze wandering the shelves of booze lined up along the back wall of the bar while Rafaele spoke, his words bringing with them a flood of nostalgia that twisted slightly in his gut. A clawed finger tapped the edge of his glass as he was momentarily lost in thought. The ORG. His time with them. A flood of memories that he had to shove back lest they overwhelm him completely. His eyes closed briefly, and when they opened again, he had straightened, his new drink lifted.

“I try not to dwell on what ifs when I can help it. And I thank you for the offer, but I think we both know that going back would be a pipe dream, now.” No, Riccardo had traded that life for another that still suited him, with a ruthlessness that served him well in his new role. “But a few drinks? A chance to reminisce? That I can do.”

He turned again and gave the man a nod of his head, one last smile hidden behind his glass as he took a sip, icy gaze meeting Rafael’s, noting the warmth there and finding it pleasing. The prospect of the future meeting lifted his spirits, almost enough to make him forget about some of the problems he was currently dealing with.

“Well, I should leave you with whatever it is you are doing here. Perhaps you can even tell me about it later this week. Buona serata, amico.”
With that, Riccardo turned to move away, back to his darkened corner of the room where he could continue to keep watch, the smile not fading from his lips for several moments afterwards.

He had missed the other man too.

Yayoi

 

[Yayoi]

All anyone could rightly know is that the two were conversing. Over what had been for their ears only. It could have been business for all anyone knew. The Machiavelli were charming and anyone who had spent time with either brother would understand how disarming they could be. They could squeeze blood from a stone with just a few words. Rafaele was no exception to this. Even being the younger son, Rafaele learned how to charm with the best of them. No Machiavelli was to be anything less than perfection. Perhaps he let his gaze linger for just a little too long as they conversed. But it was hard to ignore the craving of familiarity.

But Rafaele never gave away more than he intended.

If Edon had seen him by now he was sure that his dear older brother would have something to say. Rafaele would clap his brother on the arm, converse and go on his way. There would be catching up to do later of course. He would need to make sure Edon was well aware of what he was up to. “I must be feeling generous for some reason.” Eyes lidded half way as he held up his drink to study how the light played in the rich brown liquid.

He gave a slight shrug of his broad shoulders. “Well, if you ever find yourself out of that position the offer still stands. It always will.” He knew that that would likely never happen, there worlds were still miles apart even though they stood right next to one another. Only inches away. He would always be welcome at ORG, welcome at his table “Perfetto. Then I will expect to see you soon. Che tu possa passare una bella notte.” Duty called for them both, he lifted his glass to his friend as he turned to leave. That stormy gaze following him all the way back across the room.

Once he could draw his attention away it swept back out across the crowd. Searching for the red headed Koenig quickly. But he quickly spotted Edon with the lovely Georgina Dela Passaglia on his arm. He gave a short, breathy laugh. Rafaele had heared about her late husband. And I’d he had any opinion about it or y would be good riddance. Claudio was inept at best. Once he caught his older brother’s gaze he inclined his head slightly, lifting his drink to him but it seemed his brother had other plans that involved the dance floor. Very well.

Rafaele turned his attention back to the crowd. Eyeing Amadeo, waiting like a predator ready to about pounce on it’s prey that it had been stalking.

Seussi

Kinu

 

[[Estelle]]

s**t

Acheron took a slight stumble back as the other male bumped into him. It wasn't like him to be caught off guard like this. He was suddenly very glad that he had not picked up a glass of something to drink for fear he would have spilt it on himself, or even worse, this other vampire. And as he took in the heavily pierced male, he realized he had no idea who he was or what part of the family he belonged to. Disrespecting him could have been disastrous. His eyes flickered over to where he had seen the blonde beauty, but the crowd shifted quickly and she was now blocked from his site. Ah, well, that was that. It wasn't often he actually got what he wanted, but that had seemed to be his lot in life.

Still, he was doing better than his newly found brother. With a strange realization, he thought Paris would love an event like this. Probably likely that his other brother had raised him to indulge in societal gatherings and niceties. Acheron had spent his formative years "playing" with Amadeo's wraith. That probably had something to do with his lack of desire to adhere to all the social expectations of events like this.

"No harm, no foul. Not even any spilled blood." He forced his usually pursed lips into a semblance of a socially acceptable smile. Arisa and Amadeo had advised him to be on his best behavior tonight. Something about not being surly and actually talking to other people tonight. But he grimaced internally. The words sounded so stupid coming from his mouth. "I'm fine." That was more like him. Quick and to the point. But the smile that slipped out was genuine as Konstantin made a point about the bustling house. Maybe he was feeling just as out of place as Acheron was.

"The manor is usually busy, but this is..." The vampire gestured around vaguely at the chaos about them. "This is something else. I don't even know some of these families, if I'm being honest. At least not personally." He ran his fingers through the length of his ponytail, a nervous habit Arisa hadn't been able to get him to grow out of. Thankfully these days he had learned to mask it as vain preening rather than the anxious fidgeting it once was.

"What about you? Lot of familiar faces?"

Kinu

 

[Uta]

"It's a date-- and an official one at that," Eloisa quipped, very pleased with herself for actually landing one! The last time they'd spent time together poor Eloisa had practically strong-armed the man into seeing her again -- and she hadn't actually expected him to show. Though he had pulled out all the stops, she couldn't say it was an actual date, especially given her forward request. And even tonight, though she had been hopeful to see him, they had only just recently admitted a mutual interest in one another. So to finally have something to look forward to, knowing exactly where she stood with him, was a very good feeling, indeed.

The smile she wore was bright, and there was nothing in the world that could bring her down in this moment. The stars had aligned and somehow, she was on the arm of the most handsome man in the Clan, she was certain of it. Perhaps she should have said a prayer of thanks to Grendel while he was so near--she hadn't even thought of it! Well, whatever reason -- luck, fate, the gods -- Eloisa could only hope things continued coming up daisies.

A few nights in the country... Oh, she could hardly wait to get home and go through her things. Focusing on anything else the rest of the week would be torture, but Eloisa would do her verry best to ensure nothing went awry so she could go. However she had to bribe Franny into letting her take a few nights off, she'd do.

If Eloisa had known Romeo was worried that she'd get bored, she would have laughed, and covered him in reassuring kisses. Eloisa wasn't here to be entertained, of course; she was here to get to know him, and his stories were only a small part of his makeup. What the rest of him entailed, well, that's why they were here. If anyone were to get bored, the Puttanesca was certain it would be such a learned man as Romeo. What did she have to compete with such an unlife full of adventure? A salon? Some gossip and light-hearted conversation? She was a catch, she knew -- but a man like Romeo could have any woman or man he wished. So even her kissable lips and ample tracks of land weren't guaranteed to tempt a man for long.

But that was neither here nor there.

She didn't need to worry about tomorrow. Everything she wanted was right here.

Her bright blue eyes watched as he lifted her wrist. His expression had her all but melting--he really was terribly handsome, and he set her stomach fluttering every time she gazed at him. And that purr in his voice would have sent her undead heart racing, if it could. Leaning forward, she nuzzled his ear with the tip of her nose, before planting a few soft kisses upon its ridges and valleys. "Romeo," she purred his name in return ever so softly against his ear. Her lips pressed against his earlobe, before she sucked softly upon it, giving a breathy little sight upon its release.

She had no words. Not right now. No, right now, she was happy to give him a little break from all that business


---

Ricco gave a scoff at Rain, his brows knitting slightly. "How preposterous," he argued with a low huff, giving a small click of his tongue. "I assure you, Meine Mond, that the mere notion I'd run out of such adulation, or tire out my tongue for any other amusements on the docket, is nothing but hogwash." He wasn't actually upset or angry, but his expression did turn more severe, in his typical serious fashion. If anything, Rain would be absolutely drowning in compliments and poetry as well as other intimate tidings later this night, if only to prove a point.

However, the message was received, and Ricco would relent from further discussion. Perhaps it would be better to be more reserved, at least until they were alone and away from prying eyes. It was enough of a statement having the Koenig on his wrist, wearing his ring; no need to underscore his feelings so publicly--though he was doing his best to keep his words low.

Thankfully, there were other things to focus on-- like their next meal. The offerings were lush, and gorgeous, and tempting but he was pleased to find one Rainier enjoyed. Some dark haired beauty, who would soon find himself at the teeth of their Beasts. His own was already pacing, prowling, ready to snap and slurp up that beautiful vitae. Of course, he was a gentleman, or could be... and he was more than happy to let Rain drink his fill.

When the Koenig caught his eye, teeth bared, Ricco watched intensely. Seeing those fangs disappear into that neck, smelling the perfume of vitae nearby, and watching Rain drink so closely was surprisingly erotic. It couldn't be helped though-- this entire night was full of repressed needs. Families who hated one another were also near individuals they loved or craved. On top of the power surge of Augustus' awakening, how could the night not be crawling with tension? Ricco was no exception.

His dual-colored eyes watched with interest. He cared not about what else was happening in the garden. His fingers flexed greedily, his Beast eager to indulge. Not yet... Not yet. He'd wait. Besides, watching Rain eat was a bit of a show in its own right, and he didn't want to miss a thing.

Yayoi

Meanwhile, elsewhere around the Mansion...

 

[Yayoi]

He wanted to just whisk her away now. Carry her off and give her no time to gather anything for the trip. They would figure out things when they had got there. But that was him getting ahead of himself. They had things that needed to fall into place first. Make plans so that others wouldn’t become looking for them or need them for whatever reason happened to pop up. No, Romeo wanted no interruptions.

The Machiavelli could just imagine strolling around the estate, showing her all the little secret places where you could only get to if yo knew were there. Otherwise people typically just walked right past. It was a beautiful property with a large sprawling mansion, stables, a large garden, ponds filled with fish and beautiful water plants. They could visit the little town nearby. It was small and very lovely. The mortals and vampires that lived there were pleasant enough. It could be rustic but there was elegance to it as well. A real small town charm.

A hand found it’s way to the small of her back. His name in her lips made him smile. A warm and delighted smile as he brushed aside dark bangs that threatened to fall over his eyes. “So then Bella, tell me. What is your most deepest, desire?” They could sit here all night if they wanted, just enjoying one another’s company but he would much rather talk. Finding out more about her was high on his list of things to do tonight. Hopefully he would be able to green a little bit more information that he might use to his advantage in the future. He wanted to know her desires, her dreams, her hopes, what she enjoyed more than just nails and hair, what made her tick really. If they were going to be spending more time together it was only natural that he learn as much about her as he could. Even if he didn’t learn everything tonight.


———

The look on Ricco’s face brought out another chuckle from the Koenig. A hand coming up to cup his face tenderly. “Then we shall find out later, Mein Sonne.” His hand left his face but not before he ran a thumb along his cheek bone. Ricco could profess and shower him in as much affection as he might want. But later. Things like that could land them in a bit of trouble if the desire to be so prolific was not curbed.

As that vitae flowed into his mouth a look of pure pleasure came to the Koenig’s pale gestures. His eyes glowed with a hunger he hadn’t noticed until now. Until he had sunk his fangs into the lovely curve of the mortal’s neck. He was delicious and Rainier drank deep. His tongue encouraging the blood to flow as he could feel that renewed surge of energy fill his body. It was refreshing, invigorating. There must have been something extra special in this blood or else he had been feeding on sub par prey. Which honestly was probably the case. Normally he just grabbed someone off the street. Unprepared. Unaltered. Just straight blood with nothing added

While he fed he watched Ricco as he gazed at him with dual toned eyes. He was gorgeous and Rain couldn’t help the flood of prickles that rose bumps along his skin. He could feel the mortal’s heart beat as it pulsed against his tongue and he imagined perhaps, if his heart did beat, that it might be Ricco’s that fluttered beneath that muscle. Racing and pumping blood through his body. It was a delicious thought.

After drinking his fill he puked back. Slipping his fangs from that neck and licking the marks carefully so that they would heal quickly. Tilting his head just slightly, that shock of red hair shifting to cast a shadow over his eyes. “Your turn, geliebte. There should be more than enough left to sate any hunger you might have worked up.” He lifted an eyebrow with an amused smile on those blood stained lips. His tongue swiping along them to gather up any lingering blood that remained.

Uta

 

[Kinu]

The Disciple seemed to turn almost to stone as he listened, his body unmoving, his focus intently upon the two vampires bathed in the soft silver glow of the moon. He could feel the tension from the dark haired one, his eyes flicking briefly to watch as he pulled the blonde closer to his side in a protective manner, a faint twitch lifting the corner of Augustus's lips as his eyes returned to the intense blue of Nico's own. His mind raced through encounters trying to place him, to pull the moment from a sea of memories vast and deep. And there it was. A small child with intense blue eyes being shown the Giovanni Estate by his father. Dragged along on business as was not uncommon among the clan. "Nicolò Puttanesca." His tone drifted calmly across the cool night air as recognition blossomed in his eyes.

It wasn't a surprise he hadn't realized it was him initially, they'd met so long ago and so very briefly. He'd also been quite young then, though that was most certainly no longer the case. Time raced rapidly towards oblivion and it often made his head spin with how quickly it could move. So much gone, so much changed, in the blink of an eye. "It has been some time, has it not? Though perhaps you don't remember. It was so long ago now." The voice of the unknown male caught his attention, his vibrant gaze slowly breaking from the blue of Nico's to drift to the honey brown of Matteo's instead. The intensity of his attention, like threads of silk cocooning the object of his focus, made it feel as if the rest of the world simply fell to silence and the importance of the person with whom he conversed were paramount in that moment.

Augustus furrowed his brows, the expression a mix between contemplative and taken aback. A bold little thing, this one. He enjoyed the spark of energy that radiated from him. It reminded him of the flickering heat of a brightly burning candle. Laughter filled the quiet night in response though the sound was not unkind. The ancient vampire was genuinely humored. Such a bold observation and spoken with such little hesitation, how refreshing. He smiled down at Matteo and gave a resigned sigh, turning to look back at the party over a shoulder. "Indeed we could use a little more... oomph at these functions couldn't we? We're celebrating the lifeblood of the clan and yet every year it feels like we're dragging ourselves to our own grave with how stiff and formal things have become. Amadeo does love his pomp and circumstance. Though from the general vibe it seems everyone would much rather just be assigned a coat closet in which to fornicate. I can't necessarily blame them. It would certainly be a more lively social activity than dinner."

At Matteo's next question those slender brows furrowed again. How was he enjoying the evening? That golden gaze drifted away for a second, as if searching the grounds beyond the balcony for the answer to a far more perplexing inquiry. For some reason it caught him off guard. Generally that wasn't a question he received and he hadn't honestly considered his own enjoyment when he took a moment and really thought about it. He'd been too busy resuming the role as head of the house to pause and dwell much on fun in any capacity. His time spent in the inner chambers had been... pleasant, in a manner of speaking, but it served a purpose and fed an insatiable need more than anything else. And even now when he'd needed some air and to get away from the throng for just a moment, he couldn't say he was particularly enjoying his night so much as he was enduring it. He looked back at Matteo and offered a measured smile that was meant to be polite. "It has been fine so far. Thank you."

It was then that he realized how comfortable he was in the presence of these two males, a sense of ease having overtaken him quickly enough to surprise even the Disciple himself. He couldn't say he felt relaxed in the presence of others, not for a very long time anyway, so this encounter was certainly something for the Disciple to chew on later. "But how rude of me. I'm afraid, while I have met Nico before tonight, we haven't been properly introduced ourselves. Augustus Giovanni." He gracefully extended a hand in greeting, moving closer as he took another step towards the pair, claws glinting like bits of polished obsidian in the silver dusty light.

It was a simple gesture, but one holding purpose beyond just following expected social formalities. As the hand came up those golden eyes slid to Nico, watching his reaction to the movement. While it wasn't overtly obvious that the Ancilla's emotions were rapidly shifting beneath that calm exterior he could easily sense the inner turmoil and it intrigued him. He wanted to draw it out and examine it. To see what writhed beneath the surface. That hesitancy, the caution, it only fed the desire to dig deeper. And dig he would.

Seussi

Yayoi

 

[Uta]

The country was indeed a bit of a mystery to Eloisa, who had only left the comfort of the city to help bury a body, dispose of a weapon, or on some other mission from on high. Even then, that was a rarity, as there were plenty of places in the city one could do such a thing. So it was, this trip to the country would be a very new experience for her.

Ah, to be so singled out was such an honor. What could it be like? To be so far from her sisters, her father, the lights of the city replaced by the lights of the stars. But oh, to be alone with him, without prying questions or jealous looks. To get to kiss him more freely than she had been able to tonight, at such a formal gathering. To really get to know him, without distraction...or at least, with only one another as a distraction. Ah, she couldn't wait. And to be asked after such a short amount of time... Surely, that had to be a good sign. What luck! Poor Franny would certainly get to hear about it tomorrow.

Romeo's question surprised Eloisa, and she lifted a brow, before he lips curled into a smile. "My deepest desire? Let me think..." She settled against him, tracing her fingers over over his chest, tapping her long nails against him lightly as she took time to answer. And it did take time. Such a serious question .... and not one she'd ever been asked before.

Hell, it wasn't even one she'd thought of herself.

What might the answer be? There were certainly things she wanted out of unlife, many dreams and fantasies. "Are you sure you want to know, bello?" She asked with a laugh, though it was more self-conscious than anything. It also bought her a little more time to think, though she couldn't help but feel silly. Did she dare admit it? Or did she jus pick something arbitrary? "There are a lot of things I dream about," she finally started, playing with the collar of his shirt, if only so she didn't have to look him in the eye. She didn't want to see any passing, or perceived, judgment over such a question. "But I guess it would be making some lasting mark on the world. Being seen as someone ... important, or... maybe just being needed, I suppose." She crinkled her nose, realizing that it probably sounded petty or silly.

But she had good reason to feel those things. Certainly, she and her sisters were often reminded how much of a disappointment they were. And being one of nine, smack dab in the middle, it was a fight to stand out or even be heard. Nobody really cared what she had to say -- she was just one of the Puttanesca sisters. She had a business, certainly, but even that wasn't much taken seriously as it was just a front for whatever dirty business the family needed to hide. Which was fine... whatever helped the Puttanescas, would certainly help the Clan.

The idea of having some sort of legacy to leave behind if she ever met Final Death, something to set her apart from just being one of the sisters was something she'd wanted since she was small. But maybe that wasn't what he wanted to know. Maybe he wanted something less serious.... Maybe she was just being silly. Maybe she'd read too much into it.

"Though I wouldn't pass on a handsome, charming, boyfriend, mind. Until I met you I'd thought all the good ones were taken," she laugh again, trying to change the subject back to something less uncomfortably honest. It probably sounded silly to him. He was a man who had family, power, connections. Even his name wouldn't be forgotten. He was a real somebody, in a way Eloisa would never be. "What about you, Bello? What's one of your big dreams, hmm? Because I'm absolutely certain it wasn't pining for a single, sexy, hairdresser"

———

There was something delightful in watching another vampire feed--or perhaps it was simply because he was watching Rainier. Though the Elder was in no rush, the perfume of blood that stained the air had whet his appetite, and seeing Rainier with his fangs buried deep in he neck of the other made his Beast pace. Soon. Very soon.

His pupils dilated some as he focused on the scene. He'd hunted the night prior, wanting to be in good form for the party ... but to be around such delicious offerings, he couldn't help but feel more than peckish. While there was little thrill in the act, he wouldn't insult the host. Everything looked exquisite and top shelf... even if he didn't get to prowl.

When Rainier finished his drink, he smiled, his long fangs flashing from beneath his lips. "So long as you're satisfied." If Rain had wished to empty the pretty boy he wouldn't have begrudged him. It wasn't as if they were without options, after all Slipping an arm around the moral, he pushed his neck to the side, opposite from where Rain had drank. He kept his gaze on Rain though, licking his lips, before he opened his mouth wide and bit down hard.

There was no struggle, no fight, not garbled scream. In fact, the mortal was so compliant and still it was almost eerie and disconcerting. But the wellspring of blood which coated his tongue and lips was indeed rich, hot, and blissful to drink. He swallowed mouthful after mouthful, giving a small growl out of habit -- as if he needed to threaten away any others from his prey. The Beast in him did not like to share, and Rainer aside, there were plenty of threats surrounding them.

The body within his arms began to swoon, which was understandable, given the amount of blood being taken. He held firm, not wanting to stop--but would it be right to leave a body? No, perhaps he'd better cut himself off. There were other bodies to drink from, if need be... Pulling back his fangs, he licked the neck of the other, before letting the slumped body slide down to flop upon one of the benches. "What did you think, Mein Mond? Rich, without being too sweet. I detected a few notes of citrus." Like any wine, vitae certainly tasted differently from mortal to mortal. But whatever these had been fed, or whatever Augustus had done to them, made for a divine treat.

Perhaps he'd need go for seconds.

Yayoi

 

[Seussi]

All Nico had wanted was to get through this evening unscathed. Well, that and to not attempt patricide in front of a mansion full of guests on the most celebrated evening of the year, with Augustus himself in attendance. So far, it seemed like things weren't going too poorly. He and Matteo had managed to not be dragged apart by their families, and when a murderous urge had hit, his blonde companion had made the most helpful suggestion of stepping out of the house and finding a place where they could just be alone. The moments shared in what had almost been privacy had been pleasant, and a precursor to what promised to be an even more fun time later, when they would finally be able to wrest themselves away from this engagement.

Now he had to wonder if perhaps the odds had always been stacked against him. Forced to endure countless hours of socializing and listening to vampires and mortals alike talk business. Keeping a watchful eye over his sisters as they trickled into the estate, knowing full well that at least two of them were as likely to get into some kind of trouble as anything. An encounter with his dearly despised Father. What he assumed would be another dry upcoming dinner and some boring ball to follow.

Or, instead of that, the Disciple himself just turns up unexpectedly, catching him in the act of avoiding the event, catching them both in the act of skipping out and missing Augustus's grand appearance.

Not that he looked overly put out by it. The ancient vampire's face, just as ethereally beautiful as Nico remembered it, looked more bemused than anything. Still, the Puttanesca never trusted what he saw on the surface. The Disciple of Giovanni had quite a grim reputation, one that Nico had heard about from multiple sources. How much of it was true, fabricated, or exaggerated meant very little to him at that moment. There was always a grain of truth to modern stories, and history alone painted a very bloody portrayal of the ancient.

So, of course, he was guarded at that moment. Unlike Matteo, who always seemed much more at ease in all situations. Warmth personified. He could practically feel the younger vampire's charm oozing from him and could tell he had just turned on the brightest smile without looking. It was just who he was. Easy to be around, and to want to be around more. Nico followed the blonde's lead and offered a smile of his own, though it was much smaller, his icy gaze settling on Augustus and never leaving him as he finished his approach and stood before them.

To say that he was surprised that Augustus remembered him would be an understatement. How long had it been? Gods, Nico had still just been a fledgling, old enough to recognize the Disciple as one of the most beautiful men he'd ever seen, but young enough to still adhere to every whim of his own father. Centuries. For some reason, the recognition warmed him, a small flutter in the pit of his stomach, his smile lifting just a hint more and he gave a nod of his head.

"Yes, and I do remember as well. You are not easily forgotten." His voice was smooth, cordial, and he might have said more if not for Matteo using the small pause to speak himself.

It was at that moment that Nico broke his gaze away from Augustus, his attention snapping back to the blonde on his arm. Did he...had he really just..,

Nico blinked, keeping a tight rein on his knee-jerk reaction to look at Matteo like he was insane. It was difficult, but he somehow managed, though the tension between his shoulders grew, and did not ease, not even when the Disciple's response was, surprisingly again, to laugh.

Nico slowly, and for his credit, calmly, took in a deep inhale and exhaled slowly, then slid his attention back to Augustus, while trying to appreciate the way Matteo reassuringly stroked the back of his hand.

"Yes." He smiled, again, this time hoping it didn't look as strained as he felt. "I too hope you are enjoying your evening."

Well, so far, somehow, things didn't seem to be going too badly. Maybe he still had a chance to get through the night unscathed, as he'd intended.

Kinuxxx

yayoxxxi

 

[Yayoi]

It wasn’t hard for Matteo to turn on the charm. Even as a young boy he had been able to charm those around him. So it was only natural that he used that strength in a job that fostered such talents. He had always been a skilled conversationalist. Talk just enough to keep the conversations moving a long and not let them stagnate too long. He did it so well in fact that it was hard to turn off when he really got going. Other times, such as when there were those wanting to talk business jargon at him, where his skills faultered. He wasn’t his father and he had little to no interest in being his father. The man was charming and business savvy but while very much alike the older Della Passaglia preferred the family business to socializing. Which was probably why he wasn’t here at all.

If only Matteo could have been so lucky.

The golden haired vampire snapped his fingers. “Right! More oomph. I would say a little life added to the party would keep them out of those coat closets but I would prefer not to lie.” He laughed lightly, bringing a hand up to casually cover his mouth. It was true. So many seemed rather thirsty inside. Heck, the Disciple had practically walked up on the pair of them in each other’s arms. But Matteo preferred a bed to a pile of coats. No matter if they were soft velour or not. Ok, maybe he might prefer the coat closet if they were all velour. But that was besides the point.

Those gold eyes were entrancing though he had to give the Disciple credit there. He was tall and ethereal with a grace that spoke volumes about the man even when reserved and measure. Reading people was easy enough if one just knew where to look. But even so, he seemed to the blond to have not considered his own enjoyment at the affair. And that puzzled him momentarily as mild confusion filled those shining brown eyes. The claws of his pointer fingers tapping together in idle thought. “It’s a party for you as well, not just the families. You should be having a great time too.”

His gaze fell to that hand before lifting back up to Augustus’s face. Nico seemed to give no indication that perhaps it was an unwise idea. So he slipped his slender hand into the older male’s hand. Grasping it warmly as he gave it a small shake. “Matteo Della Passaglia. Charmed and a pleasure to finally meet you.” He looked sheepish but only for a second before a bright smile found its way back onto his lips. “You would probably know my grandmother or my father better.” Augustus had still been in Torpor when he was born so it would be no surprise that he was more familiar with Gigi or Amerigo. Thankfully the latter wasn’t here. He would have probably played twenty questions with Matteo if he was here and found out the Disciple had spoke to him. Of course, anyone in the family probably would if they found out. What was he like. What did he say. Ect. Ect. He probably would still get the interrogation later. Surely this little interaction would not go unnoticed and relayed back to those who might care what was said.

The tension he could feel from Nico seemed to be easing just a little. Though it did make Matteo curious where and when the two had met before. Surely before his time as even Nico was older than him and in that moment he felt…..what was that? Left out of the conversation? Matteo wasn’t sure that was the right feeling but he didn’t let it bother him. He didn’t have that prior experience with either of them like they both had with one another, no matter how brief it might have been. Nico and him had just recently gotten together so their relationship was still rather new. And he knew little but stories about Augustus. What had they both been like so long ago?

Seussi

Kinu