[SCENE] Adrian and Franziska have a belated birthday luncheon.
((Takes place on Saturday the 16th))
(Franziska): *Franziska arrives at the new cafe at which she agreed to meet Adrian-- it's a small, cozy place a short walk away from the Prosecutors' Office. She's holding a bag in her left hand as she glances around, wondering if Adrian is already there.*
(Adrian): *Adrian is, in fact, already there and has been sitting in the corner reading a book--she's wearing a longer and slightly nicery skirt than from her dinner with klavier--and when she catches familiar gray-blue hair out of the corner of her eye, she looks up with a smile* Franziska!
(Franziska): *She catches Adrian's eye and walks quickly over to her.* Adrian. *She seats herself across from her with a smile, placing the bag under her chair.* I hope you haven't been kept waiting long.
(Adrian): Oh, not at all! I haven't been here five minutes...! *Adrian slips the book into her handbag* How's your day been?
(Franziska): Quite well, I believe. I've come across some... interesting information in a case I've been working on. However... *She folds her hands on the table.* ...that isn't important. *She smiles genuinely.* Happy birthday, Adrian.
(Adrian): *there's a slight tinge of pink on her cheeks as she returns the look, reaching up to adjust her glasses* Well... thank you! I'm so glad you found the time to have a quick bite to eat!
(Franziska): It's not a problem. I'm only sorry that I couldn't speak to you on your birthday... but I heard you had dinner with Klavier Gavin?
(Adrian): Oh, ah, yes. I did. We went out to an Italian restaurant quite close to my apartment--we should go sometime! *remembering the night, Adrian frowns* I... don't think I'll be eager to ride a motorcycle again, at any rate.
(Franziska): A motorcycle...? *She thinks for a moment before recalling the purple bike she's seen in the parking lot.* Was that... Mr. Gavin's suggestion?
(Adrian): Yes. It was. *Adrian hesitates, shaking her head and folding her hands on the table* I--I suppose it wasn't too bad, but... well, motorcycles and skirts aren't a very good combination *she looks at Franziska a bit sheepishly*
(Franziska): I can imagine. *She shakes her head.* He has no forethought, honestly.
(Adrian): That's... well, no, he doesn't. He--he's a talented musician, though! I mean, for his type of music, I suppose. But... well, I'll be better prepared myself next time!
(Franziska): *She frowns; if it was up to her, certainly, there wouldn't be a next time... but that's Adrian's decision, after all.* Oh... congratulations once again on your record deal, by the way. It's... quite an accomplishment.
(Adrian): Well...! I mean, it wasn't *my* accomplishment after all, it was all the band who won! Mr. Gavin, and... Mr. Crescend, and the rest...!
(Franziska): Yes, of course, but... given the organizational skills of the members, I sincerely doubt they would have gotten very far without your help.
(Adrian): Well... maybe. *Adrian allows a small quarter-smile to creep onto her face* But I wasn't the one up there playing the music! *Adrian looks slightly to the side* Have--have you talked to Mr. Crescend since then?
(Franziska): *She hesitates; it's silly, but for some reason she's reluctant to mention that she went on a semi-date with Daryan on Adrian's birthday.* Yes, actually, I met him... a few days ago. It was... rather interesting.
(Adrian): *Adrian looks at her, tilting her head to the side* Ah...? Interesting in what way?
(Franziska): Well, I... *Franziska shakes her head.* It seems a bit foolish now. I... met him at a shooting gallery.
(Adrian): *she blinks* Really? A shooting gallery? You mean, er... guns?
(Franziska): Yes, actually. *She glances away for a moment.* It's... apparently an interest of his-- from someone so obsessed with becoming a member of the police force, it's understandable.
(Adrian): *Adrian refrains from speaking the immediate thought that comes to mind--that it's also a rather violent interest--instead looking over to the approaching waiter* Ah, the service here seems pretty quick!
(Franziska): *She ignores Adrian's change of subject-- she was just noticing the waiter, after all-- and glances over the menu, ordering a small pasta dish.*
(Adrian): *Having already perused the menu, Adrian orders a seafood pasta, handing her menu to the waiter with a smile*
(Franziska): *Once the waiter leaves with their orders, Franziska folds her menu and faces Adrian again.* So... did anything else of note happen on your birthday? I noticed you planned to visit the bookstore with the younger Fey girl.
(Adrian): Oh! Yes, Pearl came to down and we spent a while in the bookstore... that was more a present to her than to me, but... *Adrian sips the water on the table, smiling genuinely* ...well, I can't say I didn't have a wonderful time. She's such a darling little girl... have you ever spent much time with her, Franziska?
(Franziska): I'm glad. *At Adrian's question, she glances down.* I haven't, actually... I'm afraid she's not very fond of me.
(Adrian): *The blonde manager blinks in genuine surprise* R-really? That's... that's so strange! I'm sure if--if she spent some more time with you, she'd, well, she'd feel differently...!
(Franziska): *Franziska smiles to herself at Adrian's reaction, sipping from her own water cup.* I'm not all too sure that she would. I did prosecute her cousin, after all; perhaps it's natural to feel some bitterness for that.
(Adrian): ...ah. *Adrian winces a bit, with a nod* I... well, I suppose that's true. But she's really an incredibly sweet little girl, I'm sure she'd be willing to forgive if she gave you a chance. If she already hasn't, I mean--which, um, she might have. I don't know, myself.
(Franziska): *She nods, looking to the side.* Perhaps. However, I'm not sure that I'd have much of a chance to speak with her about it-- outside of her journal, of course, and I wouldn't be sure how to approach her there, anyways.
(Adrian): ...I could introduce you, if you like. *she gives a little shrug, a bashful look on her face* I mean, Pearl and I get along well, I'm sure--well, she'd give you a chance! I'm sure of it. *Adrian smiles* But... well, I suppose that'll come in time, won't it?
(Franziska): ...I suppose it will. *She has another sip of the water with a smalll smile.* I'm glad were able to befriend her, Adrian.
(Adrian): Oh, me too! She's... well, she's so smart, and... I've really loved getting to talk to her about some of my favorite books from when I was a girl. *there's a pause, and she looks at Franziska curiously* Did you ever read when you were young? Er, I--I mean other than law textbooks and the like....
(Franziska):*Franziska blinks, thinking.* Not as much as most children, I suppose. The only stories, really, that I had much access to were the ones that Miles Edgeworth told me.
(Adrian): *Adrian rests her chin on her hands* Oh? What sort of stories did he tell?
(Franziska):*She doesn't quite look at Adrian as she remembers.* Just typical fairy tales, mostly-- they were new to me, of course, though I found them more than a bit silly at the time. *Her smile is tiny, but almost fond.* ...There was a time when he was the closest thing to a normal childhood I had.
(Adrian): *Adrian is silent--there's something unfamiliar about the smile on Franziska's face, but whatever it is, it's almost... heartwarming--and this is a side of the prosecutor she's never really seen before, so she's loathe to speak lest it ruin the moment* I... I suppose that'd make sense.
(Franziska): ...I apologize. *She shakes her head, still smiling faintly.* I suppose I'm getting a bit distracted. Oh... *She glances up as the waiter hurries back to their table, carrying each of their dishes.*
(Adrian): No! *Adrian shakes her head, her denial surprisingly emphatic--even to her* Er, I... I mean, well... I liked hearing you talk about yourself! *She looks away, sheepish* It's... it's not something I get to hear often, you know?
(Franziska): *Franziska blinks at the emotion in Adrian's voice as their waiter places their dishes in front of them and leaves.* No... I suppose it isn't. ...I'll remember that, then.
(Adrian): *Her face is red from her outburst, it's hard for her to even believe she said that* Ah, you don't have to if--if you don't want to! *She looks at the food that's been placed in front of her, it's been barely ten minutes* ...if nothing else, the service is extremely quick here!
(Franziska): *She shakes her head-- reassuringly, she hopes.* No, it's... I just hadn't considered it before. *The pasta looks quite good; she takes a small bite.* ...It is, yes. I see why this place was so well-reviewed.
(Adrian): *Adrian quietly takes a few bites of her own meal--it's delicious--before speaking again after a period of silence. Her voice is hesitant, almost cautious--but hopeful in a way* Did... you have a favorite story when you were younger?
(Franziska): Hm. *She pauses, having a few more bites of the pasta as she considers-- the question comes as a bit of a surprise.* I rather liked The Little Mermaid, for reasons I can't recall now; though Miles, of course, was rather surprised when he realized how different his version of the story was from the original.
(Adrian): Oh? ...was he familiar with the Disney version, then? *Adrian takes a sip of her drink, tilting her head to the side in genuine curiosity*
(Franziska): I assume he was... or at least, with a retold version of it.
(Adrian): *she nods, a nostalgic look coming onto her face* It came out a few years before I was born, but I grew up loving that movie all the same. ...all of those Disney movies, actually. *Adrian turns a faint shade of pink* I-I know, it's... well, it's not very mature of me, but I think I still DO love those movies.
(Franziska): *She sips the water quietly as Adrian speaks.* Perhaps it's not a 'mature' interest, Adrian, but it's certainly understandable.
(Adrian): Really? You think so?
(Franziska): *Franziska glances away, nodding.* Childhood memories are those most closely linked to emotion; it's natural that those movies-- and stories-- would still appeal to you.
(Adrian): *she hesitates, wondering if she's touched a nerve, and then gives a soft smile before nodding again* I suppose you're right, Franziska... you usually are.
(Franziska): *Her expression softens as she looks back to Adrian.* ...Thank you.
(Franziska): *There's a pause before she clears her throat and speaks again, noticeably less confident.* Adrian, did you... attend your high school prom?
(Adrian): *Adrian blinks, rather surprised by this abrupt and incredibly unexpected change of subject, but then nods after a moment's confusion* Yes, but... well, I went when I was a senior, but not any of the other years...
(Adrian): ...why?
(Franziska): *She seems embarassed, almost bitter-- though it's not directed at Adrian.* Mr. Crescend asked me to accompany him, as he's graduating this year, but... *She sighs.* I'm completely unfamiliar with any of it, to be honest.
(Adrian): *The manager briefly looked stunned--almost as much at the thought of Daryan Crescend attending prom as the thought that Franziska would accompany him* A...ah! Er, well! What did... what were you wondering? Of--of course I'll help you if you need anything...! I mean, where I can help, at least.
(Adrian): *Adrian nods emphatically, and though there's a strange twisting in her stomach at the idea, she's being wholly honest*
(Franziska): *She blinks briefly at Adrian's shock before looking down at her hands, thinking.* ...I suppose I'd need a dress, to begin with, correct?
(Adrian): Well... yes, you would. I mean, traditionally, anyway. *Adrian tilts her head to the side, puzzled* You don't own any nice dresses, Franziska...? I-I mean, you've always seemed so elegantly dressed, so I guess I just assumed...
(Franziska): *She shakes her head.* No, I've never really had cause to buy a gown or anything of the sort; the majority of what I have is what I wear for work.
(Adrian): Ah. Well, ah. We could--I could help you shop for one, I suppose! If you'd like me to, but I'm sure you're--you're quite capable of doing it on your own!
(Franziska): ...I would appreciate it, Adrian; but don't feel the need to take time out of your schedule for me. I'm sure you're quite busy at the moment, with the record deal.
(Adrian): Not at all! Er, well, no, I actually am fairly busy, but--not all the time, I'm sure I could spare some if you needed the help...!
(Franziska): Thank you, then; I'll let you know if I need any assistance. *She eats a bit of her remaining pasta before continuing.* If you have any other advice, it would be greatly appreciated.
(Adrian): *Adrian pushes away her dinner plate, three-quarters empty and gives a shaky smile to Franziska, her stomach still filled with butterflies* Er... well, you're already very--very elegant, so you... *Adrian laughs a little bit despite herself* ...really, I think you'll be much more adult than everyone else there, the more I think about it!
(Franziska): *She blinks in brief surprise... then smiles a bit.* Thank you for the... vote of confidence, then. *Noticing Adrian push her plate aside, she reaches under her seat again and retrieves the bag, removing a decent-size box, wrapped with extraordinary neatness in blue wrapping paper; there's a small tag on the outside that reads simply "To Adrian."*
(Franziska): Since we're both finished... this is for you. Happy birthday.
(Adrian): *For a moment, Adrian's breath catches in her throat--it's been years since anyone has genuinely cared enough to celebrate her birthday like this, and now there's been not only Pearl and Klavier, but Franziska as well--for one brief instant her eyes blur with the hint of tears, but she manages to blink them back, her face lighting up in a warm, delighted smile*
(Adrian): ...Franziska, I'm... thank you so much. *Adrian reaches out to rest a hand on Franziska's... and then she looks down at the present* Do--do you want me to open it here?
(Franziska): *She's startled by Adrian's reaction... but she finds it a bit heartwarming as well.* ...If you want to, feel free; or if you'd rather wait until you're home. And... *She smiles; though it's perhaps not quite as delighted as the other woman's, it's warm nonetheless.* ...you're very welcome. It's not much, to be honest.
(Adrian): *after perhaps a heartbeat too long, Adrian takes her hand off of Franziska's and carefully unwraps the gift*
(Franziska): *Inside the box-- a plain white giftbox-- sits a brown leather whip, neatly coiled and lacking the signs of wear that can be seen in Franziska's. As Adrian opens it, Franziska quickly looks down, feeling almost ridiculous.* Though I hope you don't have much need to use it, I... thought it was a bit silly to teach you how to use it without owning one.
(Adrian): *Adrian's eyes widen noticably--of all the things she was expecting, it... certainly wasn't this. On some level, she can't help but feel almost proud--the whip is such a symbol of the young prosecutor that it's almost like... well, Adrian isn't sure what exactly it's almost like except that she feels incredibly touched*
(Adrian): N-no! No...! Not at... it's... *Adrian beams up at Franziska, all but glowing* I know I'm not... very good with it yet, but...
(Adrian): ...but thank you, Franziska. Really.
(Franziska): *She looks from Adrian's bright smile to the opened box, feeling a bit proud and a bit... like a part of something, almost, in a way that she's rarely felt before.* ...You're welcome. I'm glad you like it.
(Adrian): I love it, Franziska... *It's almost hard to deal with--for years, there'd been nobody who'd have ever... and now not just Franziska, but Pearl and Klavier as well. For a moment, Adrian's vision blurs, and she blinks back the slight moisture in her eyes, the smile never having left her lips* It's been a while since our last lesson though, hasn't it?
(Franziska): It has indeed. If you'd like to start them again... by all means let me know whenever you have the time. I'd be happy to help.
(Adrian): *She nods, putting the cover carefully back on the box* Of course! I think we should! Sometime soon. *Adrian looks to the side as the waiter approaches them, seeing that they're done*
(Franziska): Ah... *Franziska takes out her wallet, beginning to count out the appropriate amount to pay for the lunches.*
(Adrian): Oh! *Adrian holds out a hand to stop the prosecutor, shaking her head* Franziska, I'm the one who just helped land a record deal.... let me pay.
(Franziska): *She pauses.* ...No, I'll take care of it. It's your birthday, after all.
(Adrian): *after a moment's hesitation looking back and forth between Franziska and the check, Adrian finally nods, a gentle smile on her face* All right, Franziska. If... if you're sure.
(Franziska): *She hesitates briefly before placing the money into the folder and reaching down to gather her things.* Well then. Are you ready to go?
(Adrian): *Adrian gathers her bag, adjusts her glasses, and stands up* I am! And--well, you are too, obviously.
(Franziska): All right. *She stands, smiling.* This was... quite enjoyable, Adrian. Happy birthday; I hope you enjoy the rest of your day. *She nods once and turns to leave.*
(Adrian): *The blonde manager pauses as Franziska turns to leave, bites her lip... and finally speaks* Franziska, wait...!
(Franziska): *She pauses and looks back to Adrian, slightly perplexed.* ...Yes?
(Adrian): *There's another pause before Adrian finally summons her courage and steps forward, wrapping her arms around the young prodigy in a warm hug and resting her head on Franziska's shoulder* ...thanks for doing this with me, Franziska. It means a lot.
(Franziska): *She's shocked, initially, at the contact-- first Daryan and now this-- but she can't recall the last time she was hugged like this... it certainly wasn't so openly and most likely wasn't as caring as this right now. After a moment, she returns the hug somewhat awkwardly with her free hand.* You're welcome, Adrian. It was a pleasure. *And she means it.*
(Adrian): *Adrian holds the contact perhaps a heartbeat or two longer than she should have--and for a brief moment she suddenly flashes back to something Angel was saying, but she shakes it off, finally breaking the hug* You should call me so we can, er, *the smile on her face flickers for the briefest of instants* ...go shopping for your gown!
(Franziska): ...Yes, of course. I'll be sure to keep in touch about that. *She looks down for an awkward second.* I... suppose we should both be going, then.
(Adrian): I, ah, suppose so. *Adrian shifts on her feet, hesitant to break the conversation and leave* ...have a nice day, Franziska.
(Franziska): And you. *She turns with a faint smile and walks towards the exit, glancing over her shoulder at Adrian for a few seconds too long before pushing the door open and walking slowly to her car.*
(Franziska): *Franziska arrives at the new cafe at which she agreed to meet Adrian-- it's a small, cozy place a short walk away from the Prosecutors' Office. She's holding a bag in her left hand as she glances around, wondering if Adrian is already there.*
(Adrian): *Adrian is, in fact, already there and has been sitting in the corner reading a book--she's wearing a longer and slightly nicery skirt than from her dinner with klavier--and when she catches familiar gray-blue hair out of the corner of her eye, she looks up with a smile* Franziska!
(Franziska): *She catches Adrian's eye and walks quickly over to her.* Adrian. *She seats herself across from her with a smile, placing the bag under her chair.* I hope you haven't been kept waiting long.
(Adrian): Oh, not at all! I haven't been here five minutes...! *Adrian slips the book into her handbag* How's your day been?
(Franziska): Quite well, I believe. I've come across some... interesting information in a case I've been working on. However... *She folds her hands on the table.* ...that isn't important. *She smiles genuinely.* Happy birthday, Adrian.
(Adrian): *there's a slight tinge of pink on her cheeks as she returns the look, reaching up to adjust her glasses* Well... thank you! I'm so glad you found the time to have a quick bite to eat!
(Franziska): It's not a problem. I'm only sorry that I couldn't speak to you on your birthday... but I heard you had dinner with Klavier Gavin?
(Adrian): Oh, ah, yes. I did. We went out to an Italian restaurant quite close to my apartment--we should go sometime! *remembering the night, Adrian frowns* I... don't think I'll be eager to ride a motorcycle again, at any rate.
(Franziska): A motorcycle...? *She thinks for a moment before recalling the purple bike she's seen in the parking lot.* Was that... Mr. Gavin's suggestion?
(Adrian): Yes. It was. *Adrian hesitates, shaking her head and folding her hands on the table* I--I suppose it wasn't too bad, but... well, motorcycles and skirts aren't a very good combination *she looks at Franziska a bit sheepishly*
(Franziska): I can imagine. *She shakes her head.* He has no forethought, honestly.
(Adrian): That's... well, no, he doesn't. He--he's a talented musician, though! I mean, for his type of music, I suppose. But... well, I'll be better prepared myself next time!
(Franziska): *She frowns; if it was up to her, certainly, there wouldn't be a next time... but that's Adrian's decision, after all.* Oh... congratulations once again on your record deal, by the way. It's... quite an accomplishment.
(Adrian): Well...! I mean, it wasn't *my* accomplishment after all, it was all the band who won! Mr. Gavin, and... Mr. Crescend, and the rest...!
(Franziska): Yes, of course, but... given the organizational skills of the members, I sincerely doubt they would have gotten very far without your help.
(Adrian): Well... maybe. *Adrian allows a small quarter-smile to creep onto her face* But I wasn't the one up there playing the music! *Adrian looks slightly to the side* Have--have you talked to Mr. Crescend since then?
(Franziska): *She hesitates; it's silly, but for some reason she's reluctant to mention that she went on a semi-date with Daryan on Adrian's birthday.* Yes, actually, I met him... a few days ago. It was... rather interesting.
(Adrian): *Adrian looks at her, tilting her head to the side* Ah...? Interesting in what way?
(Franziska): Well, I... *Franziska shakes her head.* It seems a bit foolish now. I... met him at a shooting gallery.
(Adrian): *she blinks* Really? A shooting gallery? You mean, er... guns?
(Franziska): Yes, actually. *She glances away for a moment.* It's... apparently an interest of his-- from someone so obsessed with becoming a member of the police force, it's understandable.
(Adrian): *Adrian refrains from speaking the immediate thought that comes to mind--that it's also a rather violent interest--instead looking over to the approaching waiter* Ah, the service here seems pretty quick!
(Franziska): *She ignores Adrian's change of subject-- she was just noticing the waiter, after all-- and glances over the menu, ordering a small pasta dish.*
(Adrian): *Having already perused the menu, Adrian orders a seafood pasta, handing her menu to the waiter with a smile*
(Franziska): *Once the waiter leaves with their orders, Franziska folds her menu and faces Adrian again.* So... did anything else of note happen on your birthday? I noticed you planned to visit the bookstore with the younger Fey girl.
(Adrian): Oh! Yes, Pearl came to down and we spent a while in the bookstore... that was more a present to her than to me, but... *Adrian sips the water on the table, smiling genuinely* ...well, I can't say I didn't have a wonderful time. She's such a darling little girl... have you ever spent much time with her, Franziska?
(Franziska): I'm glad. *At Adrian's question, she glances down.* I haven't, actually... I'm afraid she's not very fond of me.
(Adrian): *The blonde manager blinks in genuine surprise* R-really? That's... that's so strange! I'm sure if--if she spent some more time with you, she'd, well, she'd feel differently...!
(Franziska): *Franziska smiles to herself at Adrian's reaction, sipping from her own water cup.* I'm not all too sure that she would. I did prosecute her cousin, after all; perhaps it's natural to feel some bitterness for that.
(Adrian): ...ah. *Adrian winces a bit, with a nod* I... well, I suppose that's true. But she's really an incredibly sweet little girl, I'm sure she'd be willing to forgive if she gave you a chance. If she already hasn't, I mean--which, um, she might have. I don't know, myself.
(Franziska): *She nods, looking to the side.* Perhaps. However, I'm not sure that I'd have much of a chance to speak with her about it-- outside of her journal, of course, and I wouldn't be sure how to approach her there, anyways.
(Adrian): ...I could introduce you, if you like. *she gives a little shrug, a bashful look on her face* I mean, Pearl and I get along well, I'm sure--well, she'd give you a chance! I'm sure of it. *Adrian smiles* But... well, I suppose that'll come in time, won't it?
(Franziska): ...I suppose it will. *She has another sip of the water with a smalll smile.* I'm glad were able to befriend her, Adrian.
(Adrian): Oh, me too! She's... well, she's so smart, and... I've really loved getting to talk to her about some of my favorite books from when I was a girl. *there's a pause, and she looks at Franziska curiously* Did you ever read when you were young? Er, I--I mean other than law textbooks and the like....
(Franziska):*Franziska blinks, thinking.* Not as much as most children, I suppose. The only stories, really, that I had much access to were the ones that Miles Edgeworth told me.
(Adrian): *Adrian rests her chin on her hands* Oh? What sort of stories did he tell?
(Franziska):*She doesn't quite look at Adrian as she remembers.* Just typical fairy tales, mostly-- they were new to me, of course, though I found them more than a bit silly at the time. *Her smile is tiny, but almost fond.* ...There was a time when he was the closest thing to a normal childhood I had.
(Adrian): *Adrian is silent--there's something unfamiliar about the smile on Franziska's face, but whatever it is, it's almost... heartwarming--and this is a side of the prosecutor she's never really seen before, so she's loathe to speak lest it ruin the moment* I... I suppose that'd make sense.
(Franziska): ...I apologize. *She shakes her head, still smiling faintly.* I suppose I'm getting a bit distracted. Oh... *She glances up as the waiter hurries back to their table, carrying each of their dishes.*
(Adrian): No! *Adrian shakes her head, her denial surprisingly emphatic--even to her* Er, I... I mean, well... I liked hearing you talk about yourself! *She looks away, sheepish* It's... it's not something I get to hear often, you know?
(Franziska): *Franziska blinks at the emotion in Adrian's voice as their waiter places their dishes in front of them and leaves.* No... I suppose it isn't. ...I'll remember that, then.
(Adrian): *Her face is red from her outburst, it's hard for her to even believe she said that* Ah, you don't have to if--if you don't want to! *She looks at the food that's been placed in front of her, it's been barely ten minutes* ...if nothing else, the service is extremely quick here!
(Franziska): *She shakes her head-- reassuringly, she hopes.* No, it's... I just hadn't considered it before. *The pasta looks quite good; she takes a small bite.* ...It is, yes. I see why this place was so well-reviewed.
(Adrian): *Adrian quietly takes a few bites of her own meal--it's delicious--before speaking again after a period of silence. Her voice is hesitant, almost cautious--but hopeful in a way* Did... you have a favorite story when you were younger?
(Franziska): Hm. *She pauses, having a few more bites of the pasta as she considers-- the question comes as a bit of a surprise.* I rather liked The Little Mermaid, for reasons I can't recall now; though Miles, of course, was rather surprised when he realized how different his version of the story was from the original.
(Adrian): Oh? ...was he familiar with the Disney version, then? *Adrian takes a sip of her drink, tilting her head to the side in genuine curiosity*
(Franziska): I assume he was... or at least, with a retold version of it.
(Adrian): *she nods, a nostalgic look coming onto her face* It came out a few years before I was born, but I grew up loving that movie all the same. ...all of those Disney movies, actually. *Adrian turns a faint shade of pink* I-I know, it's... well, it's not very mature of me, but I think I still DO love those movies.
(Franziska): *She sips the water quietly as Adrian speaks.* Perhaps it's not a 'mature' interest, Adrian, but it's certainly understandable.
(Adrian): Really? You think so?
(Franziska): *Franziska glances away, nodding.* Childhood memories are those most closely linked to emotion; it's natural that those movies-- and stories-- would still appeal to you.
(Adrian): *she hesitates, wondering if she's touched a nerve, and then gives a soft smile before nodding again* I suppose you're right, Franziska... you usually are.
(Franziska): *Her expression softens as she looks back to Adrian.* ...Thank you.
(Franziska): *There's a pause before she clears her throat and speaks again, noticeably less confident.* Adrian, did you... attend your high school prom?
(Adrian): *Adrian blinks, rather surprised by this abrupt and incredibly unexpected change of subject, but then nods after a moment's confusion* Yes, but... well, I went when I was a senior, but not any of the other years...
(Adrian): ...why?
(Franziska): *She seems embarassed, almost bitter-- though it's not directed at Adrian.* Mr. Crescend asked me to accompany him, as he's graduating this year, but... *She sighs.* I'm completely unfamiliar with any of it, to be honest.
(Adrian): *The manager briefly looked stunned--almost as much at the thought of Daryan Crescend attending prom as the thought that Franziska would accompany him* A...ah! Er, well! What did... what were you wondering? Of--of course I'll help you if you need anything...! I mean, where I can help, at least.
(Adrian): *Adrian nods emphatically, and though there's a strange twisting in her stomach at the idea, she's being wholly honest*
(Franziska): *She blinks briefly at Adrian's shock before looking down at her hands, thinking.* ...I suppose I'd need a dress, to begin with, correct?
(Adrian): Well... yes, you would. I mean, traditionally, anyway. *Adrian tilts her head to the side, puzzled* You don't own any nice dresses, Franziska...? I-I mean, you've always seemed so elegantly dressed, so I guess I just assumed...
(Franziska): *She shakes her head.* No, I've never really had cause to buy a gown or anything of the sort; the majority of what I have is what I wear for work.
(Adrian): Ah. Well, ah. We could--I could help you shop for one, I suppose! If you'd like me to, but I'm sure you're--you're quite capable of doing it on your own!
(Franziska): ...I would appreciate it, Adrian; but don't feel the need to take time out of your schedule for me. I'm sure you're quite busy at the moment, with the record deal.
(Adrian): Not at all! Er, well, no, I actually am fairly busy, but--not all the time, I'm sure I could spare some if you needed the help...!
(Franziska): Thank you, then; I'll let you know if I need any assistance. *She eats a bit of her remaining pasta before continuing.* If you have any other advice, it would be greatly appreciated.
(Adrian): *Adrian pushes away her dinner plate, three-quarters empty and gives a shaky smile to Franziska, her stomach still filled with butterflies* Er... well, you're already very--very elegant, so you... *Adrian laughs a little bit despite herself* ...really, I think you'll be much more adult than everyone else there, the more I think about it!
(Franziska): *She blinks in brief surprise... then smiles a bit.* Thank you for the... vote of confidence, then. *Noticing Adrian push her plate aside, she reaches under her seat again and retrieves the bag, removing a decent-size box, wrapped with extraordinary neatness in blue wrapping paper; there's a small tag on the outside that reads simply "To Adrian."*
(Franziska): Since we're both finished... this is for you. Happy birthday.
(Adrian): *For a moment, Adrian's breath catches in her throat--it's been years since anyone has genuinely cared enough to celebrate her birthday like this, and now there's been not only Pearl and Klavier, but Franziska as well--for one brief instant her eyes blur with the hint of tears, but she manages to blink them back, her face lighting up in a warm, delighted smile*
(Adrian): ...Franziska, I'm... thank you so much. *Adrian reaches out to rest a hand on Franziska's... and then she looks down at the present* Do--do you want me to open it here?
(Franziska): *She's startled by Adrian's reaction... but she finds it a bit heartwarming as well.* ...If you want to, feel free; or if you'd rather wait until you're home. And... *She smiles; though it's perhaps not quite as delighted as the other woman's, it's warm nonetheless.* ...you're very welcome. It's not much, to be honest.
(Adrian): *after perhaps a heartbeat too long, Adrian takes her hand off of Franziska's and carefully unwraps the gift*
(Franziska): *Inside the box-- a plain white giftbox-- sits a brown leather whip, neatly coiled and lacking the signs of wear that can be seen in Franziska's. As Adrian opens it, Franziska quickly looks down, feeling almost ridiculous.* Though I hope you don't have much need to use it, I... thought it was a bit silly to teach you how to use it without owning one.
(Adrian): *Adrian's eyes widen noticably--of all the things she was expecting, it... certainly wasn't this. On some level, she can't help but feel almost proud--the whip is such a symbol of the young prosecutor that it's almost like... well, Adrian isn't sure what exactly it's almost like except that she feels incredibly touched*
(Adrian): N-no! No...! Not at... it's... *Adrian beams up at Franziska, all but glowing* I know I'm not... very good with it yet, but...
(Adrian): ...but thank you, Franziska. Really.
(Franziska): *She looks from Adrian's bright smile to the opened box, feeling a bit proud and a bit... like a part of something, almost, in a way that she's rarely felt before.* ...You're welcome. I'm glad you like it.
(Adrian): I love it, Franziska... *It's almost hard to deal with--for years, there'd been nobody who'd have ever... and now not just Franziska, but Pearl and Klavier as well. For a moment, Adrian's vision blurs, and she blinks back the slight moisture in her eyes, the smile never having left her lips* It's been a while since our last lesson though, hasn't it?
(Franziska): It has indeed. If you'd like to start them again... by all means let me know whenever you have the time. I'd be happy to help.
(Adrian): *She nods, putting the cover carefully back on the box* Of course! I think we should! Sometime soon. *Adrian looks to the side as the waiter approaches them, seeing that they're done*
(Franziska): Ah... *Franziska takes out her wallet, beginning to count out the appropriate amount to pay for the lunches.*
(Adrian): Oh! *Adrian holds out a hand to stop the prosecutor, shaking her head* Franziska, I'm the one who just helped land a record deal.... let me pay.
(Franziska): *She pauses.* ...No, I'll take care of it. It's your birthday, after all.
(Adrian): *after a moment's hesitation looking back and forth between Franziska and the check, Adrian finally nods, a gentle smile on her face* All right, Franziska. If... if you're sure.
(Franziska): *She hesitates briefly before placing the money into the folder and reaching down to gather her things.* Well then. Are you ready to go?
(Adrian): *Adrian gathers her bag, adjusts her glasses, and stands up* I am! And--well, you are too, obviously.
(Franziska): All right. *She stands, smiling.* This was... quite enjoyable, Adrian. Happy birthday; I hope you enjoy the rest of your day. *She nods once and turns to leave.*
(Adrian): *The blonde manager pauses as Franziska turns to leave, bites her lip... and finally speaks* Franziska, wait...!
(Franziska): *She pauses and looks back to Adrian, slightly perplexed.* ...Yes?
(Adrian): *There's another pause before Adrian finally summons her courage and steps forward, wrapping her arms around the young prodigy in a warm hug and resting her head on Franziska's shoulder* ...thanks for doing this with me, Franziska. It means a lot.
(Franziska): *She's shocked, initially, at the contact-- first Daryan and now this-- but she can't recall the last time she was hugged like this... it certainly wasn't so openly and most likely wasn't as caring as this right now. After a moment, she returns the hug somewhat awkwardly with her free hand.* You're welcome, Adrian. It was a pleasure. *And she means it.*
(Adrian): *Adrian holds the contact perhaps a heartbeat or two longer than she should have--and for a brief moment she suddenly flashes back to something Angel was saying, but she shakes it off, finally breaking the hug* You should call me so we can, er, *the smile on her face flickers for the briefest of instants* ...go shopping for your gown!
(Franziska): ...Yes, of course. I'll be sure to keep in touch about that. *She looks down for an awkward second.* I... suppose we should both be going, then.
(Adrian): I, ah, suppose so. *Adrian shifts on her feet, hesitant to break the conversation and leave* ...have a nice day, Franziska.
(Franziska): And you. *She turns with a faint smile and walks towards the exit, glancing over her shoulder at Adrian for a few seconds too long before pushing the door open and walking slowly to her car.*