[Scene] A Gavin Luncheon
[[Note - takes place Monday afternoon]]
Kristoph: *Kristoph arrives first to the Italian restaurant that he and Klavier promised to meet for lunch. If nothing else, he is glad that Klavier's food tastes have improved over the year, and the choice is a relief. The hostess seats him at a table for two near the back - the Gavin brothers together have the potential to draw a lot of attention if they're recognized - and he glances over the menu only briefly before deciding what he wants. Even though it's a little early to be drinking he orders himself a glass of white whine.*
Klavier: *Klavier has dressed well for his lunch, not only because he always keeps his appearance up in public, but it's even more important to him to look well for his elder brother. Competition might not be the best word for it, but it's close. As he enters and spots Kristoph, he smiles and casually removes his sunglasses. Despite having come over on his favorite motorcycle, his hair shows no sign of it. No, no competition at all."
Klavier: Kristoph! Early as always. *He takes a seat, easily crossing his legs beneath the table.* I should have known better than to think you would suffer from any jet lag.
Kristoph: *Kristoph smiles when his brother joins him, but as usual there's something a little stiff about it.* Of course not. The time difference is not that bad, and I've done this trip several times now. *He glances over his brother briefly.* You look well.
Klavier: I am well. *He turns away briefly to speak to a rather flushed looking waitress, ordering a strawberry lemonade.* It has been quite a day already. I hope you have not been too busy, having been away for so long.
Kristoph: Not too busy. Thankfully I had young Mr. Justice looking after the office while I was gone, though I do have two cases to work on already. Nothing dreadful. *He smirks faintly.* Nothing that involves your office, anyway.
Klavier: And we're always grateful for that. *He chuckles a little, resting an arm easily on the table.* I have heard you mention your young apprentice a few times, but I haven't had the chance to make his acquaintance as of yet. Are you trying to hide him?
Kristoph: *His answer comes a little too quickly.* Of course not. But he is a very busy young man. In fact, he's going to be taking the bar exam soon. You'll be seeing him in court eventually. *He spreads his napkin over his lap.* That will be something to look forward to.
Klavier: *His eyebrow perks faintly, and he reaches up to pluck at his bangs idly.* Is that so? How exciting that must be for you both. *He smiles hopefully* That won't be enough to dissuade me, of course. I will have to insist on meeting this protégé of yours sometime soon I think he must be seeing more of my own brother than I am!
Kristoph: Well, he does work in my office. And considering your schedule, it's a miracle that we find time to see each other at all. *A note of disapproval sneaks into his voice with that.* Sometimes I feel like I hear your voice more on the radio than I do in person.
Klavier: *The words soften his expression faintly.* Perhaps I should come by your office some time, then. Cause a riot, consorting with the enemy, hm? *His accent isn't nearly so pronounced now as it usually is, though it does take some effort to quiet it.* Anyone that has caught your attention is certainly worth my notice.
Kristoph: The last thing my office or my assistant need is a riot. *The waitress returns then with the drinks, allowing them to order. Kristoph orders a pesto ravioli, and waits patiently for Klavier to give his. He sips his wine as if in deep need of it.*
Klavier: *Klavier is in the mood for lasagna, and he smiles eagerly as he orders. The poor waitress doesn't seem to know how to handle the two of them at once. She leaves, and Klavier turns his attention back to his brother.* You do realize the more you hide him, the more curious I become, *he points out, smirking.* He must really be something special, then.
Kristoph: *Kristoph sighs and at last relents.* If I can find an opportunity to introduce you, I will. But I don't want you stopping in the office unannounced - if you happened to come in while a client was present you know that would not look good for me.
Klavier: And visa versa. *Finally satisfied, Klavier leans back in his chair, not realizing he was leaning forward until he'd done so. He sips from his own drink, smiling at the flavor.* Of course I would give you prior notice. Have you no faith in your own brother's discretion?
Kristoph: I do. In doses. *Kristoph's eyes fall to the familiar hair spiral over Klavier's shoulder. He adjusts his glasses.* But like I said, I am playing catch-up this week, so it will have to wait for at least a little while.
Klavier: I suppose I can agree to that. *The darting of the other's eyes catches his attention briefly, and Klavier gives his bangs a little rearranging.* But now that you have said you would, I will not forget it easily. If you have not called me to make arrangements in a few weeks, I'll be forced to take things into my own hands.
Kristoph: No no, that won't be necessary. I'll call. *Kristoph forces a smile.* Though I hope you don't mind if I warn the poor boy in advance. You do make a rather strong first impression.
Klavier: *He waves a careless hand, chuckling.* Warn away. Of course, I hope he's at least heard of me before. I'll be heartbroken if you haven't even spoken my name within your office walls. Or would that be sacrilege.
Kristoph: It's a place of business. We don't have many conversations about our family connections or personal lives. *Kristoph fingers the stem of his wine glass idly.* But don't worry, there's scarcely a man or woman in the city that has not heard of you, and I'm sure Mr. Justice is no exception.
Klavier: Justice? Ah! That was his name, wasn't it? *Klavier laughs, extremely charmed by the thought of a defense attorney named Justice.* That is downright adorable. No wonder you took him under your wing. *His lips curl in a mischievous smile.* I think you must like him.
Kristoph: *Kristoph makes a face at the description of "adorable."* I don't make a habit of hiring people I do not like.
Klavier: *He is pleased he was able to get such a reaction from his normally statuesque brother* My curiosity is growing, now, *he teases, smirking.* Perhaps you should find a way to change the subject?
Kristoph: *Kristoph rolls his eyes, but Klavier's suggestion is his only viable course of action.* You ought to know, I was asked a lot of questions about you while I was out east.
Klavier: Oh? *Klavier perks, feeling pleased that he knows his brother well enough to anticipate at least that much. A server passes by to drop off some breadsticks for them, and he helps himself to one gladly.* And what sort of questions were you asked? I certainly hope you didn't embarrass me.
Kristoph: *Kristoph scoffs.* Embarrass you? They' think you're quite the spectacle out there, thanks to your...extra career. *For a long time Kristoph refused to even refer to Klavier's music as such, but it's been several years now since he has accepted the truth.* There was much speculation on whether or not you could stand up to New York's finest.
Klavier: *He laughs.* More than likely, and on both fronts. I hear our CDs are selling quite well on the east coast. *His smile widens.* And what did you say to these doubtful attorneys? I don't think I can hope that you defended your little brother's talents.
Kristoph: I only told them the truth. *For a moment Kristoph's smile is almost venomous.* You've defeated several prominent attorneys here at home, including at least one legend. But not me. *He takes another long sip of his wine.*
Klavier: *He laughs again, though perhaps with a little less enthusiasm. As he said, he hadn't expected his brother to stand up for him in any way, though it would have been a nice first surprise if he had. He sits back, watching his brother with slightly narrowed eyes.* No, I haven't had that honor yet, have I. I wonder, though, if you haven't had a bit of a hand in that as well.
Kristoph: *Kristoph lowers his glass, and though his smile is still present, some of the humor is gone.* I don't know what you mean.
Klavier: *Klavier shakes his head, chuckling a bit to himself.* There you go again. I am nearly positive, now. You are much too tricky for me, brother. I hope you are not too frightened to face me. Certainly you can't think I would have a chance of harming your impressive record?
Kristoph: You don't really believe I have any control over the docket, do you? *He folds his hands in his lap.* I take the clients that come to me--what reason would I have to avoid you?
Klavier: I wouldn't have the slightest idea. *Though he doesn't mention it, he takes note how his question was avoided. That's not unusual, either.* Your motives are altogether a mystery to me. Perhaps someday I'll be able to figure them out.
Kristoph: Motives? *Kristoph chuckles and shakes his head.* Again, I'm afraid I don't know what you mean. I would almost say you're being paranoid. Did something happen while I was away?
Klavier: *He shakes his head, expression relaxing into something a bit more peaceful--it was never worth it, arguing with his brother.* Of course not. Men of the law and men in the music industry are always a touch paranoid. I suppose I must just have a double share for being involved in both. *His lip twists faintly.* Are you saying you don't feel a little paranoid now and then?
Kristoph: Perhaps. But you and I are family--we shouldn't hide things from each other. *Kristoph's smile deepens.* The next time I'm called for a murder defense, I will gladly let you know in time for you to be put on the case, if that's what it will take to convince you.
Klavier: *Klavier waves a hand.* If you are going through no trouble to avoid me, I see no need to go to the other extreme. If it is not meant to be, then it is not meant to be. I will simply remain patient for my chance to finally prove myself before you. *Should that chance ever arise. Despite Kristoph's assurances, a part of Klavier is still suspicious. Like all things, it's not an unusual feeling for when they are together.*
Kristoph: Very well. We will leave it to fate. *Kristoph glances away, and is relieved to see a waiter emerging from the kitchen with what looks like their food. Trying to reassure and smile at Klavier feels too much like a chore for him to want to keep it up much longer.* Though you needn't worry so much about proving yourself to me.
Klavier: And why shouldn't I? *he replies immediately. He pauses as their food arrives to smile at the waiter, the smell of their meal causing his mouth to water.* Who better to try and impress than my own brother? I think it to be a very worthy goal myself--anyone else would be too easy.
Kristoph: Ah, then I am the challenge? Does that mean I ought not give in too easily? *He takes a bite of his lunch and is even more pleased than before about the choice of restaurant.*
Klavier: *Klavier is already working through his own first bite, eyes narrowing happily at the flavors. He enjoyed this place--it never disappointed him.* If you were to give in, I would demand to know who you were and what you had done with my real brother, *he assures, chuckling.* You are not the sort of man to back down easily.
Kristoph: You know me very well. *Kristoph hums to himself as he cuts one of the ravioli in two.* And I know you are not any different. We just may be deadlocked for all eternity.
Klavier: *Klavier thinks that won't be the case, but he isn't about to bring it up aloud.* How is yours? *he asks instead.* This place never fails to impress me.
Kristoph: Hm? Oh, yes, it's delicious. *Kristoph relaxes with the change of subject, and it's only then that he realizes how tense his shoulders were until then.* Speaking of Italian, you haven't seen Vongole lately, have you? I think she may finally be getting over her biting habits.
Klavier: Has she? *Klavier is pleased to hear it--Vongole was one of the few things he'd been able to do for his brother that seemed to bring him some honest enjoyment.* Perhaps I should come by sometime--I haven't seen her for a while. Next time you go off on business you should let her stay with me instead of spending money on a kennel.
Kristoph: You're not afraid of her gnawing through all the furniture in your new condo? She no longer tries to bite the mail man, but sofa legs and guitars are fair game to her. *The humor in his face is, for once, entirely genuine.*
Klavier: *Klavier notices, and he is glad to keep up the line of his conversation* Haven't you tried to tempt her with other chewable items? Perhaps get a few chew toys? Bones? There are some now that are supposed to help with freshen breath.
Kristoph: Oh yes, the house is covered with them. I have to keep a ready supply. But your place... *He chuckles to himself.* Your place would have so many new and exciting things for her, I'm not sure even a toy would be a good enough distraction.
Klavier: *Laughing as well, Klavier shakes his head.* I see you're going to be as protective of her as you are your new assistant. In that case, I'll have to insist on a visit to your place to see her. You are so stingy.
Kristoph: I have only your best interests at heart, I promise. But yes, come by some time and take her for a walk. I would appreciate a little time at home to clean up without her growling at the vacuum.
Klavier: *Klavier nods between bites.* I'll do that. Perhaps later this week. Your office is usually closed on Fridays still, ja? I'll see if I can't slip away from work for a visit.
Kristoph: All right. I'm sure she'll be glad to see you. *Kristoph makes a quick mental note of everything he was planning or could possibly plan to do Friday, and can't come up with any immediately excuse that would prevent Klavier from coming.* Just be sure to call ahead.
Klavier: Don't I always? *He chuckles, shaking his head.* It's been years since I've embarrassed you last, isn't it?
Kristoph: *Again, Kristoph's brain flashes over several instances in the past few months, let alone years, but he manages not to bring any of them up this time.* Yes, of course. I'll stop badgering you about that.
Klavier: *Klavier knows better, but peace between brothers usually consisted of smiling and letting things pass. He concentrates on enjoying his meal.* There's no need. One can not learn without having his mistakes corrected. *Perhaps, someday, he would be able to do enough to really earn his brother's appreciation.*
Kristoph: *Kristoph and Klavier finish their meals, and as soon as the bill hits the table Kristoph reaches for it: he makes a habit of paying for their meals together, though it's more to prove a point than any actual generosity. As the two of them leave the restaurant together he tugs the collar of his coat tightly to his neck.* Thank you for the invitation, Klavier. The meal was delicious.
Klavier: *He nods.* I'm glad you were able to make the time to come down, *he replies with honest feeling.* We can't let it get to be so long between visits. Even when we are busy, brothers should be able to share a meal now and then.
Kristoph: Yes, you're right. We should do it again soon. *Even he isn't entirely sure how much he means that, but at least this was one of their less uncomfortable meetings. He offers his hand to his brother.* I'll be in touch.
Klavier: *Though he always finds it strange, he still takes his brother's hand for a shake.* Don't forget, *he said brightly, keeping his tone light.* I'll call if I get a free moment on Friday to come see Vongole.
Kristoph: I'll look forward to it. *Kristoph gives Klavier's hand a squeeze before letting go.* Until then. *At last he turns to head back to his car. As always there's still an uncomfortable, cold feeling in his stomach following their meeting, even after all these years. He tries to shake it off as he slips behind the wheel and drives away.*
Kristoph: *Kristoph arrives first to the Italian restaurant that he and Klavier promised to meet for lunch. If nothing else, he is glad that Klavier's food tastes have improved over the year, and the choice is a relief. The hostess seats him at a table for two near the back - the Gavin brothers together have the potential to draw a lot of attention if they're recognized - and he glances over the menu only briefly before deciding what he wants. Even though it's a little early to be drinking he orders himself a glass of white whine.*
Klavier: *Klavier has dressed well for his lunch, not only because he always keeps his appearance up in public, but it's even more important to him to look well for his elder brother. Competition might not be the best word for it, but it's close. As he enters and spots Kristoph, he smiles and casually removes his sunglasses. Despite having come over on his favorite motorcycle, his hair shows no sign of it. No, no competition at all."
Klavier: Kristoph! Early as always. *He takes a seat, easily crossing his legs beneath the table.* I should have known better than to think you would suffer from any jet lag.
Kristoph: *Kristoph smiles when his brother joins him, but as usual there's something a little stiff about it.* Of course not. The time difference is not that bad, and I've done this trip several times now. *He glances over his brother briefly.* You look well.
Klavier: I am well. *He turns away briefly to speak to a rather flushed looking waitress, ordering a strawberry lemonade.* It has been quite a day already. I hope you have not been too busy, having been away for so long.
Kristoph: Not too busy. Thankfully I had young Mr. Justice looking after the office while I was gone, though I do have two cases to work on already. Nothing dreadful. *He smirks faintly.* Nothing that involves your office, anyway.
Klavier: And we're always grateful for that. *He chuckles a little, resting an arm easily on the table.* I have heard you mention your young apprentice a few times, but I haven't had the chance to make his acquaintance as of yet. Are you trying to hide him?
Kristoph: *His answer comes a little too quickly.* Of course not. But he is a very busy young man. In fact, he's going to be taking the bar exam soon. You'll be seeing him in court eventually. *He spreads his napkin over his lap.* That will be something to look forward to.
Klavier: *His eyebrow perks faintly, and he reaches up to pluck at his bangs idly.* Is that so? How exciting that must be for you both. *He smiles hopefully* That won't be enough to dissuade me, of course. I will have to insist on meeting this protégé of yours sometime soon I think he must be seeing more of my own brother than I am!
Kristoph: Well, he does work in my office. And considering your schedule, it's a miracle that we find time to see each other at all. *A note of disapproval sneaks into his voice with that.* Sometimes I feel like I hear your voice more on the radio than I do in person.
Klavier: *The words soften his expression faintly.* Perhaps I should come by your office some time, then. Cause a riot, consorting with the enemy, hm? *His accent isn't nearly so pronounced now as it usually is, though it does take some effort to quiet it.* Anyone that has caught your attention is certainly worth my notice.
Kristoph: The last thing my office or my assistant need is a riot. *The waitress returns then with the drinks, allowing them to order. Kristoph orders a pesto ravioli, and waits patiently for Klavier to give his. He sips his wine as if in deep need of it.*
Klavier: *Klavier is in the mood for lasagna, and he smiles eagerly as he orders. The poor waitress doesn't seem to know how to handle the two of them at once. She leaves, and Klavier turns his attention back to his brother.* You do realize the more you hide him, the more curious I become, *he points out, smirking.* He must really be something special, then.
Kristoph: *Kristoph sighs and at last relents.* If I can find an opportunity to introduce you, I will. But I don't want you stopping in the office unannounced - if you happened to come in while a client was present you know that would not look good for me.
Klavier: And visa versa. *Finally satisfied, Klavier leans back in his chair, not realizing he was leaning forward until he'd done so. He sips from his own drink, smiling at the flavor.* Of course I would give you prior notice. Have you no faith in your own brother's discretion?
Kristoph: I do. In doses. *Kristoph's eyes fall to the familiar hair spiral over Klavier's shoulder. He adjusts his glasses.* But like I said, I am playing catch-up this week, so it will have to wait for at least a little while.
Klavier: I suppose I can agree to that. *The darting of the other's eyes catches his attention briefly, and Klavier gives his bangs a little rearranging.* But now that you have said you would, I will not forget it easily. If you have not called me to make arrangements in a few weeks, I'll be forced to take things into my own hands.
Kristoph: No no, that won't be necessary. I'll call. *Kristoph forces a smile.* Though I hope you don't mind if I warn the poor boy in advance. You do make a rather strong first impression.
Klavier: *He waves a careless hand, chuckling.* Warn away. Of course, I hope he's at least heard of me before. I'll be heartbroken if you haven't even spoken my name within your office walls. Or would that be sacrilege.
Kristoph: It's a place of business. We don't have many conversations about our family connections or personal lives. *Kristoph fingers the stem of his wine glass idly.* But don't worry, there's scarcely a man or woman in the city that has not heard of you, and I'm sure Mr. Justice is no exception.
Klavier: Justice? Ah! That was his name, wasn't it? *Klavier laughs, extremely charmed by the thought of a defense attorney named Justice.* That is downright adorable. No wonder you took him under your wing. *His lips curl in a mischievous smile.* I think you must like him.
Kristoph: *Kristoph makes a face at the description of "adorable."* I don't make a habit of hiring people I do not like.
Klavier: *He is pleased he was able to get such a reaction from his normally statuesque brother* My curiosity is growing, now, *he teases, smirking.* Perhaps you should find a way to change the subject?
Kristoph: *Kristoph rolls his eyes, but Klavier's suggestion is his only viable course of action.* You ought to know, I was asked a lot of questions about you while I was out east.
Klavier: Oh? *Klavier perks, feeling pleased that he knows his brother well enough to anticipate at least that much. A server passes by to drop off some breadsticks for them, and he helps himself to one gladly.* And what sort of questions were you asked? I certainly hope you didn't embarrass me.
Kristoph: *Kristoph scoffs.* Embarrass you? They' think you're quite the spectacle out there, thanks to your...extra career. *For a long time Kristoph refused to even refer to Klavier's music as such, but it's been several years now since he has accepted the truth.* There was much speculation on whether or not you could stand up to New York's finest.
Klavier: *He laughs.* More than likely, and on both fronts. I hear our CDs are selling quite well on the east coast. *His smile widens.* And what did you say to these doubtful attorneys? I don't think I can hope that you defended your little brother's talents.
Kristoph: I only told them the truth. *For a moment Kristoph's smile is almost venomous.* You've defeated several prominent attorneys here at home, including at least one legend. But not me. *He takes another long sip of his wine.*
Klavier: *He laughs again, though perhaps with a little less enthusiasm. As he said, he hadn't expected his brother to stand up for him in any way, though it would have been a nice first surprise if he had. He sits back, watching his brother with slightly narrowed eyes.* No, I haven't had that honor yet, have I. I wonder, though, if you haven't had a bit of a hand in that as well.
Kristoph: *Kristoph lowers his glass, and though his smile is still present, some of the humor is gone.* I don't know what you mean.
Klavier: *Klavier shakes his head, chuckling a bit to himself.* There you go again. I am nearly positive, now. You are much too tricky for me, brother. I hope you are not too frightened to face me. Certainly you can't think I would have a chance of harming your impressive record?
Kristoph: You don't really believe I have any control over the docket, do you? *He folds his hands in his lap.* I take the clients that come to me--what reason would I have to avoid you?
Klavier: I wouldn't have the slightest idea. *Though he doesn't mention it, he takes note how his question was avoided. That's not unusual, either.* Your motives are altogether a mystery to me. Perhaps someday I'll be able to figure them out.
Kristoph: Motives? *Kristoph chuckles and shakes his head.* Again, I'm afraid I don't know what you mean. I would almost say you're being paranoid. Did something happen while I was away?
Klavier: *He shakes his head, expression relaxing into something a bit more peaceful--it was never worth it, arguing with his brother.* Of course not. Men of the law and men in the music industry are always a touch paranoid. I suppose I must just have a double share for being involved in both. *His lip twists faintly.* Are you saying you don't feel a little paranoid now and then?
Kristoph: Perhaps. But you and I are family--we shouldn't hide things from each other. *Kristoph's smile deepens.* The next time I'm called for a murder defense, I will gladly let you know in time for you to be put on the case, if that's what it will take to convince you.
Klavier: *Klavier waves a hand.* If you are going through no trouble to avoid me, I see no need to go to the other extreme. If it is not meant to be, then it is not meant to be. I will simply remain patient for my chance to finally prove myself before you. *Should that chance ever arise. Despite Kristoph's assurances, a part of Klavier is still suspicious. Like all things, it's not an unusual feeling for when they are together.*
Kristoph: Very well. We will leave it to fate. *Kristoph glances away, and is relieved to see a waiter emerging from the kitchen with what looks like their food. Trying to reassure and smile at Klavier feels too much like a chore for him to want to keep it up much longer.* Though you needn't worry so much about proving yourself to me.
Klavier: And why shouldn't I? *he replies immediately. He pauses as their food arrives to smile at the waiter, the smell of their meal causing his mouth to water.* Who better to try and impress than my own brother? I think it to be a very worthy goal myself--anyone else would be too easy.
Kristoph: Ah, then I am the challenge? Does that mean I ought not give in too easily? *He takes a bite of his lunch and is even more pleased than before about the choice of restaurant.*
Klavier: *Klavier is already working through his own first bite, eyes narrowing happily at the flavors. He enjoyed this place--it never disappointed him.* If you were to give in, I would demand to know who you were and what you had done with my real brother, *he assures, chuckling.* You are not the sort of man to back down easily.
Kristoph: You know me very well. *Kristoph hums to himself as he cuts one of the ravioli in two.* And I know you are not any different. We just may be deadlocked for all eternity.
Klavier: *Klavier thinks that won't be the case, but he isn't about to bring it up aloud.* How is yours? *he asks instead.* This place never fails to impress me.
Kristoph: Hm? Oh, yes, it's delicious. *Kristoph relaxes with the change of subject, and it's only then that he realizes how tense his shoulders were until then.* Speaking of Italian, you haven't seen Vongole lately, have you? I think she may finally be getting over her biting habits.
Klavier: Has she? *Klavier is pleased to hear it--Vongole was one of the few things he'd been able to do for his brother that seemed to bring him some honest enjoyment.* Perhaps I should come by sometime--I haven't seen her for a while. Next time you go off on business you should let her stay with me instead of spending money on a kennel.
Kristoph: You're not afraid of her gnawing through all the furniture in your new condo? She no longer tries to bite the mail man, but sofa legs and guitars are fair game to her. *The humor in his face is, for once, entirely genuine.*
Klavier: *Klavier notices, and he is glad to keep up the line of his conversation* Haven't you tried to tempt her with other chewable items? Perhaps get a few chew toys? Bones? There are some now that are supposed to help with freshen breath.
Kristoph: Oh yes, the house is covered with them. I have to keep a ready supply. But your place... *He chuckles to himself.* Your place would have so many new and exciting things for her, I'm not sure even a toy would be a good enough distraction.
Klavier: *Laughing as well, Klavier shakes his head.* I see you're going to be as protective of her as you are your new assistant. In that case, I'll have to insist on a visit to your place to see her. You are so stingy.
Kristoph: I have only your best interests at heart, I promise. But yes, come by some time and take her for a walk. I would appreciate a little time at home to clean up without her growling at the vacuum.
Klavier: *Klavier nods between bites.* I'll do that. Perhaps later this week. Your office is usually closed on Fridays still, ja? I'll see if I can't slip away from work for a visit.
Kristoph: All right. I'm sure she'll be glad to see you. *Kristoph makes a quick mental note of everything he was planning or could possibly plan to do Friday, and can't come up with any immediately excuse that would prevent Klavier from coming.* Just be sure to call ahead.
Klavier: Don't I always? *He chuckles, shaking his head.* It's been years since I've embarrassed you last, isn't it?
Kristoph: *Again, Kristoph's brain flashes over several instances in the past few months, let alone years, but he manages not to bring any of them up this time.* Yes, of course. I'll stop badgering you about that.
Klavier: *Klavier knows better, but peace between brothers usually consisted of smiling and letting things pass. He concentrates on enjoying his meal.* There's no need. One can not learn without having his mistakes corrected. *Perhaps, someday, he would be able to do enough to really earn his brother's appreciation.*
Kristoph: *Kristoph and Klavier finish their meals, and as soon as the bill hits the table Kristoph reaches for it: he makes a habit of paying for their meals together, though it's more to prove a point than any actual generosity. As the two of them leave the restaurant together he tugs the collar of his coat tightly to his neck.* Thank you for the invitation, Klavier. The meal was delicious.
Klavier: *He nods.* I'm glad you were able to make the time to come down, *he replies with honest feeling.* We can't let it get to be so long between visits. Even when we are busy, brothers should be able to share a meal now and then.
Kristoph: Yes, you're right. We should do it again soon. *Even he isn't entirely sure how much he means that, but at least this was one of their less uncomfortable meetings. He offers his hand to his brother.* I'll be in touch.
Klavier: *Though he always finds it strange, he still takes his brother's hand for a shake.* Don't forget, *he said brightly, keeping his tone light.* I'll call if I get a free moment on Friday to come see Vongole.
Kristoph: I'll look forward to it. *Kristoph gives Klavier's hand a squeeze before letting go.* Until then. *At last he turns to head back to his car. As always there's still an uncomfortable, cold feeling in his stomach following their meeting, even after all these years. He tries to shake it off as he slips behind the wheel and drives away.*