Soberity and Sleeping Arrangements (RP Log)
Dagny: *Dagny stopped on the store on the way home, she got all the things she needed to start the meal. It was hard for her to find the andouille but managed to get to the butcher shop right before it closed. She wanted to make him a traditional New Orleans meal, so it was Jambalaya with sausage and shrimp, with pecan pie for dessert. As everything cooked, she hummed softly and tided up the place, setting the table before changing out of her work clothes and into a floral print dress.*
Everton: *He arrived at her building and buzzed. He was still dressed for work, having barely made it on time. He found that he wanted to get angry at the person who delayed him, which made no sense, given his declaration that he was not interested in Dagny in a romantic sense. Yet, here he was, getting ready to have dinner with her.*
Dagny: *Hearing the buzzer, she turned down the heat under the Jambalaya and then walked to the box near the door. Pushing the buzzer, she lent and spoke into the speaker.* C'mon, up, da door is open.
Everton: Thanks. *He pulled the door open and started up the stairs. When he reached the second floor, he opened the door and let himself in. Following his nose, he went to the kitchen and leaned against the counter, watching her.*
Dagny: *She rummaged around in the kitchen for a bit more, before turning to him and smiling. It was a little shaky, she had been abstaining from drinking ever since their conversation. Dipping the spoon in the mix, she blew on it softly before walking over to him and offering it to him, her hand under the spoon.*
Everton: *He leaned forward and took the offered taste. He licked his lips, then smiled and nodded.* That's good. *Then the spice hit him and he smiled more.* Very good.
Dagny: *She beamed happily at him and then finished off the rest of what was on the spoon. Turning back to the stove, she hummed to herself before wiping her hands off and going to the fridge.* Yah lookin' nice ta day, John. Get ya a beer?
Everton: Beer? Oh, yes, please. *He ran his hand over his tie and chuckled.* I just got off work.
Dagny: How was work? *She got a beer and opened the bottle before walking over and handing it to him.*
Everton: *He took the beer, his fingers brushing against her hand.* Long. Like every day.
Dagny: *Her smile faltered when she felt his fingers, her heart started to race, and slowly pulled back. Her cheeks were pink as she turned back to the stove.* Well it's all over now, can ya get da plates?
Everton: Of course. *He set his beer down and moved into the kitchen. He found the plates easily enough, but not before brushing against her a couple times.* Where am I taking these?
Dagny: *She kept forgetting what she was suppose to do, or what came next, he was so close, and she was trying to be good. If he wanted her, wanted to kiss her, he would have to make the first move.* Leave 'em here, gotta put da food on 'em. Go sit, ah'll take it out ta ya.
Everton: *Chuckling softly, he took his beer with him out into the dining room. Once he sat down, he took another sip and closed his eyes.*
Dagny: *She puts rice on the plates and then Jambalaya on top, making sure he gets the one with the more sausage and shrimp. Picking up both plates she walked out to the table and sets one down in front of him and the other in front of her place as she sits.* Ah hope ya like it.
Everton: *Smiling across at her, he raises his beer in toast, then took another drink. The next thing he did was take a bite and groan happily. The taste had been a tease, the food was amazing.* Wow, Dagny, this is good.
Dagny: *She nodded and took a sip of her own beer, smiling she rubbed her thumb over the neck of the bottle as she watched him. At his compliment, her face lit up and she took a bite of her own, not to bad.* It's mah ma's recipe.
Everton: It's really good, Ms Taggart. Really good. *He gave her another grin, then dug in like a man who had not eaten in days. He had only skipped lunch, but he ran so hot that it was more than enough to make him feel like he was starving.*
Dagny: *She watched him with a rather tender smile, as if she was his care taker, trying to make sure he ate enough and took care of himself. Shaking her head, she sipped her beer before working on her own food.* Save room fa dessert, yea?
Everton: *He looked up and grinned at her.* Dessert?
Dagny: Course! ah made pie, pecan, dat okay? didn't know what ya'd like. *She brushed bangs out of her eyes as she smiled at him.*
Everton: Yes. Yes, that's perfect. *He grinned up at her and raised his beer to her again.* You're a good woman.
Dagny: *Her cheeks turned pink and she shook her head.* Ah ain't, just tryin' ta do da right t'ing. Yah should have some ta take care of ya.
Everton: *He found himself shaking his head.* No, Dagny. That would be a sentence to a life of boredom for whoever took it on.
Dagny: Why da ya say dat? *Raising her head, she watched him, pushing around her food with her fork.* Mah ma was married ta my pa fer twenty-five years, didn'do nothin' excitin' 'cept fish. She was mighty happy.
Everton: I'm never home, Dagny. My stuff sits in my house in Boston. I go see it every few weeks.
Dagny: Den dat wouldn't be boredom, dat would be loneliness. *She pointed out softly before taking a few more bites.*
Everton: Oh, it would be boredom, too. I'm married to my work. Even when I'm home, I'm working.
Dagny: Well, mabe one day ya'll find a woman who's okay with dat. *Pointing to his plate, she smiled.* Would ya like more?
Everton: *He looked down and discovered he had eaten it all. He gave her a sheepish grin and nodded.* Please.
Dagny: *Standing up easily, she took his plate, turning she walked into the kitchen. Putting another helping on the plate, she walked back to the table and sat it down in front of him.* Ya welcome, John.
Everton: *He looked up at her, the scene looking ridiculously like something out of an old movie. He held her gaze for just a moment, then turned his attention to the food in front of him.* Thanks.
Dagny: What's wrong, ya t'ink ah should be in an apron tellin' da Beave ta come in for dinner? *She gave him a rather amused smile before sitting down and tucking a leg under her.*
Everton: No! No, not at all. I... *He scowled slightly, then smirked.* Movies, not TV. I never was much some for television.
Dagny: Dunno many movie moms. *Picking up her fork, she starts eating slowly once more.* Ain't notta t'in', ah always wanted ta be a mom. Ya know makin' lunches and dinner. Ah always wanted ta be like my ma, she was da best person ah ever knew.
Everton: *He let a silence stretch between them, completely unsure what to say. He had no basis of reference past old movies that the nuns let them watch on Friday nights when the parishioners played bingo downstairs. He was, however, careful to keep the memory buried, just like he'd been taught. The less people knew about him, the better, that's what they told him.*
Dagny: *The silence was normal, that she could deal with, but there was a deeper silence that caught her off guard. There was always some sort of noise except when he threw up barriers, and for some reason she felt hurt because of it. Frowning she put her hand over his, an attempt to reassure, to comfort even though she didn't know why. Standing up, she picked up her plate and her bottle of beer, walking back to the kitchen she started to do the dishes.*
Everton: *He narrowed his eyes slightly, then looked after her.* Dagny, wait. Come back.
Dagny: *Frowning, she walked back to the table, wiping her hands on a towel as she stood by him.* Whut is it John?
Everton: *He reached for her hand and squeezed it.* Thank you, really.
Dagny: *Smiling she rubbed the back of his hand with her thumb.* Ya welcome, ya always welcome here.
Everton: *He nodded slightly and bowed his head.* No one's ever said that to me before.
Dagny: *Frowning, she knelt down next to him and looked up at him. Her fingers reached up to touch his cheek sighing very lightly.* Dat's ashame, da ya wanna talk about it?
Everton: *He gave her a weak shrug, then shook his head.* No, not really. Can't change the past.
Dagny: Naw, ya can't, but sometimes it nice ta talk. *Her fingers lightly run through the hair at his temples.*
Everton: *He leaned into her touch and smiled faintly.* Talking about it is all done. I talked myself out ages ago.
Dagny: Obviously not, other wise ya would be able ta talk 'bout it now. *Standing up, she continued to stroke his hair as she stepped close to his chair. Very gently she urged him to lean against her.*
Everton: *He exhaled very slowly, then wrapped his arms around her and pressed his face against her stomach. He didn't cry, he didn't display any emotion externally. In his mind, there was only a slight hiccup of unbridled emotion, then the static was back.*
Dagny: *Her fingers continued to move though his hair, murmuring nonsense under her breath as she held him. Sighing softly, she rubbed the back of his head.* It's okay, homme. *She tried not to pry into his thoughts, just provide comfort for him.*
Everton: *After a few moments, sounding very much like a little kid, he looked up at her and grinned.* Pie?
Dagny: *Beaming down at him she cupped his cheek and nodded. Moving back away from him she walked to the kitchen in order to get the pie.* Whipped cream or ice cream?
Everton: Ice cream.
Dagny: *Humming she cut out a slice of the warm pie, putting it on a plate before putting a scope of ice cream on the side. When she set down the plate in front of him she went back to her chair.*
Everton: *He watched her sit down across from him and sighed softly before digging into the pie. He groaned at the taste of that, too.* This is amazing, too. Your mother's recipe?
Dagny: Yea, ah get all of it from her. *Smiling she fiddled with her spoon, looking down at the table in front of them. She is more then pleased that he likes her cooking.*
Everton: *He glanced up at her after he'd finished half the pie and most of the ice cream. He tried to be mindful of where he was, but it did little to stop him from eating like a horse. She seemed not to mind. His mouth was full when he spoke.* What else did you get from her, honey?
Dagny: *She couldn't help but laughing when he spoke with his mouth full, it reminded her too much of her father and brother.* Ah, Johnny ya don't talk wit ya mouthful, boy. *Winking, she put her chin on the palm of her hand.* Learned how ta sew from her, and how ta take care of boo-boos. Lots of stuff.
Everton: *He swallowed, then raised an eyebrow.* Johnny? I haven't been called that in thirty years.
Dagny: Ah didn't know dat, ya not want me ta call ya dat? *Her eyebrows raised and she canted her head to the side.*
Everton: I didn't say that. Just commenting that it's been a long time.
Dagny: Ya jus' didn't look ta happy 'bout it, dats all. *Shrugging she got up and went back into the kitchen to get some ice cream. Coming back, she sat down and took a bite.*
Everton: It was more shock then anything, honey.
Dagny: Ah am shockin'. *Chuckling, she went back to playing with her ice cream.*
Everton: *Finishing off his plate, he carried all his dishes to the kitchen and got himself a fresh beer. When he came back it was his turn to stand next to her chair. He lightly touched her hair and smiled down at her.* I'm not mad at you, Dagny.
Dagny: *Her eyes close and she very slightly lent into his touch, tilting her head up she looked and him before bowing her head.* Am sorry ah said somet'ing, but ah was so happy. Ya made me very happy last night.
Everton: Even though I passed out like a classless wretch?
Dagny: Yah was sweet, layin' dare, it was nice ta take care of ya. *Her cheeks turned pink and she poked at her ice cream, her breathing a bit fast.*
Everton: *He let his fingers touch her cheek, staying a little longer then was polite, then moved back to his chair. He sat down and looked across at her, watching her as he sipped at his beer.* I promise not to pass out on your couch again tonight.
Dagny: *Whimpering very softly she rubbed her cheek up against his fingers until he pulled away. Taking a deep breath she looked up at him and smiled gently.* It wouldn't be ah bad t'ing.
Everton: You like me passing out on your couch?
Dagny: Ain't ah suppose ta? *Rubbing her forehead she felt her stomach flip over, she felt like she was always just saying the wrong things. She was a freak, in more ways then one.*
Everton: *He looked at her for another moment, then stood up. Waiting until she was looking at him, he headed for the couch and made a show of flopping down, making himself comfortable.*
Dagny: *Licking her lips she watched him, and then smiled brightly when he laid down on the couch. Picking up the rest of the things on the table she put them in the sink and tided up the kitchen. When she returned, she went to the couch and sat down next to him.* Is dis okay, me sittin' next ta ya?
Everton: *He toed his shoes off and settled himself, with his head resting on her thigh. He looked up at her and smiled.* Mind if I smoke?
Dagny: *She looked up at the open windows and then down at him, shaking her head.* Naw, go on. *Leaning back against the couch she started to play with his hair once more.*
Everton: *He got a cigarette out and lit, careful to blow the smoke away from her and not let the cigarette just hang in his mouth.* Thanks. I hate presuming. Everyone is so tobacco conscious these days.
Dagny: Ah don't mind. *Putting her hand on her fist she continued to touch him lightly. It was so novel, having someone in her apartment, having a man's head in her lap. She wondered if she was doing this right, if she smelled or something, and if he would notice.*
Everton: Stop worrying.
Dagny: W-w-what? what ah ya talkin' 'bout?
Everton: *He looked up at her and smiled as he took another puff.* Stop worrying. I'm not going to turn into the big, bad wolf and eat you. In fact, there is a good chance that I will fall asleep right here. *He took another long draw on his cigarette, then closed his eyes, still smiling.*
Dagny: Ah ain't 'fraid of ya, John. 'Fraid dat ah'll make a fool outta myself. *She murmured, watching him for a long moment. Finally, she looked away and shrugged just a little bit.* Can ah ask somet'in' for ya go fallin' asleep on meh?
Everton: Of course you can. *He broke the smoke back to his lips, the movement practiced, his eyes still closed.*
Dagny: Can ah kiss ya? Ah wanna kiss ya sober, so ah can remember it right. *Her stomach twisted and her fingers clutched at the couch.*
Everton: *He opened his eyes and looked up at her. He nodded, then sat up a little and mostly drained the beer to clear away the cigarette, dumping the butt into the bottle. Then he laid his head back down.* Yes.
Dagny: *Watching him she pressed her lips together and shifted under him, leaning down to make an attempt to kiss him. Of course it didn't work out very well, she couldn't lean down that far. Sitting back up, she took a deep breath, maybe this was a bad idea. Last night had been so easy, she couldn't even remember half of it.*
Everton: *He laid against her thigh for another minute before he sat up. He shifted on the couch until he was next to her, his hand on her cheek. He leaned close and kissed her softly, his lips moving slowly against hers.*
Dagny: *Her eyes closed and she turned her face toward him, her lips light and weak against his. A hand rested on top of his as she whimpered very softly and breathlessly. Her head was swimming from the tender kiss.*
Everton: *He pulled back slowly and smiled at her before settling back to lay down. A smile played at his lips as he closed his eyes.*
Dagny: *Keeping her eyes closed she touched her lips and took a deep breath. Resting her head back against the couch she smiled gently.* Dun wanna kiss no other man.
Everton: *He shifted a little closer to her and sighed softly, pretending not to have heard her. It was just easier if he hadn't heard her, not with him taking her in tomorrow.* Do you want me to go?
Dagny: *Opening her eyes, she frowned at him and turned quickly, her hands reaching out for him.* Why ya gonna go? Did ah did somet'in' wrong? Ah promise ah won't no more.
Everton: *He took her hand and held it against his chest. He shook his head and shifted a little more, getting comfortable on her thigh.* No, honey. You didn't do anything wrong. Not at all. I'll stay right here.
Dagny: *Settling back down she gave him a weak smile before going back against the couch. Her thumb played over his knuckles as she closed her eyes and enjoyed his heat against her thigh.* Ahkay den.
Everton: *He took a few slow, deep breath, settling fully. Despite the fact that this would be the second night he fell asleep on her couch - fully clothed - he was the calmest he'd been in a long time.* Now, Dagny, don't you spend all night being my pillow.
Dagny: Ah like bein' ya pillow, John. *She murmured, cracking an eye to look down at him with a shy smile. He looked so relaxed here in her lap, and it rubbed off on her.* Ya can lay out in da bed iffen ya like, ah can stay here.
Everton: I'm not going to take your bed, honey. I'm fine right here. *He smiled faintly.* Unless you are going to insist.
Dagny: Am, gonna. Ya shouldn't be cramped out here. *Reaching down with her free hand she caressed his cheek.* Ah'll hang up ya jacket and shirt so it won't get wrinkled.
Everton: *He gave a put upon sigh and sat up. Then he stood. Shaking his head in amusement, he stripped his jacket off. Underneath was his shoulder holster and his badge, both of which he pulled off. Tie came next, then his shirt, leaving him in a white a-shirt. He had some visible scratches and the bandage around his ribs was a bright white under his shirt. His left shoulder had a single bullet entry scar with no matching exit scar.* Now what?
Dagny: *Standing up, she couldn't help but watch him with wide eyes, he was handsome, no that wasn't the right, sexy was the right word for him. Sexy and dangerous, her eyes roamed over his chest she lightly touched his scar on his shoulder before taking his clothes from him. Without saying a word she walked into her bed room, she hung up his clothes and turned down the covers. Her room was over stuffed and warm, with bright, happy colors, a thick homemade quilt at the foot of her bed. She took a blanket and a ratty elephant from the bed and put them behind her back, her cheeks pink once more.* You can lay down.
Everton: *He looked at the bed, then looked at her.* And where are you going to sleep?
Dagny: Ah'll sleep on da couch. If dat would make ya feel comfortable. *She shrugged, not sure if he wanted her to sleep in the same bed as him.*
Everton: *He sat down on the edge of the bed and rubbed his face.* Lay with me. You shouldn't sleep on the couch, not in your own place. I promise that I will be a perfect gentleman.
Dagny: Ah know ya will. *She said softly, walking to him she sat down on the bed next to him, putting the stuffed animal and blanket on the bed.* Yah ah good man, John, ah trust ya. *Kissing his cheek, she stood up and went to the bathroom to change into her pajamas and put her hair up in a handkerchief.*
Everton: *While she was getting ready, he emptied his pockets onto the nightstand, then laid down. He left the side she clearly slept on empty and pulled the covers up to his belly. He settled on his back and closed his eyes, starting to drift off before she was even done.*
Dagny: *Finished, she turned off the lights and checked the doors and windows before walking to the bed room. She shut the door just a bit, letting the dim light from the night light in the living room into the bedroom. Walking to the bed, she sank down next to him and pulled the covers up over her shoulder as she snuggled close to him.*
Everton: *Mostly asleep, he wrapped an arm around her shoulders and hugged her to his side.*
Dagny: *Smiling happily she draped an arm over his chest before attempting to fall asleep. It was hard, but with him next to her, there to distract her, she eventually fell into a deep sleep.*
Everton: *He arrived at her building and buzzed. He was still dressed for work, having barely made it on time. He found that he wanted to get angry at the person who delayed him, which made no sense, given his declaration that he was not interested in Dagny in a romantic sense. Yet, here he was, getting ready to have dinner with her.*
Dagny: *Hearing the buzzer, she turned down the heat under the Jambalaya and then walked to the box near the door. Pushing the buzzer, she lent and spoke into the speaker.* C'mon, up, da door is open.
Everton: Thanks. *He pulled the door open and started up the stairs. When he reached the second floor, he opened the door and let himself in. Following his nose, he went to the kitchen and leaned against the counter, watching her.*
Dagny: *She rummaged around in the kitchen for a bit more, before turning to him and smiling. It was a little shaky, she had been abstaining from drinking ever since their conversation. Dipping the spoon in the mix, she blew on it softly before walking over to him and offering it to him, her hand under the spoon.*
Everton: *He leaned forward and took the offered taste. He licked his lips, then smiled and nodded.* That's good. *Then the spice hit him and he smiled more.* Very good.
Dagny: *She beamed happily at him and then finished off the rest of what was on the spoon. Turning back to the stove, she hummed to herself before wiping her hands off and going to the fridge.* Yah lookin' nice ta day, John. Get ya a beer?
Everton: Beer? Oh, yes, please. *He ran his hand over his tie and chuckled.* I just got off work.
Dagny: How was work? *She got a beer and opened the bottle before walking over and handing it to him.*
Everton: *He took the beer, his fingers brushing against her hand.* Long. Like every day.
Dagny: *Her smile faltered when she felt his fingers, her heart started to race, and slowly pulled back. Her cheeks were pink as she turned back to the stove.* Well it's all over now, can ya get da plates?
Everton: Of course. *He set his beer down and moved into the kitchen. He found the plates easily enough, but not before brushing against her a couple times.* Where am I taking these?
Dagny: *She kept forgetting what she was suppose to do, or what came next, he was so close, and she was trying to be good. If he wanted her, wanted to kiss her, he would have to make the first move.* Leave 'em here, gotta put da food on 'em. Go sit, ah'll take it out ta ya.
Everton: *Chuckling softly, he took his beer with him out into the dining room. Once he sat down, he took another sip and closed his eyes.*
Dagny: *She puts rice on the plates and then Jambalaya on top, making sure he gets the one with the more sausage and shrimp. Picking up both plates she walked out to the table and sets one down in front of him and the other in front of her place as she sits.* Ah hope ya like it.
Everton: *Smiling across at her, he raises his beer in toast, then took another drink. The next thing he did was take a bite and groan happily. The taste had been a tease, the food was amazing.* Wow, Dagny, this is good.
Dagny: *She nodded and took a sip of her own beer, smiling she rubbed her thumb over the neck of the bottle as she watched him. At his compliment, her face lit up and she took a bite of her own, not to bad.* It's mah ma's recipe.
Everton: It's really good, Ms Taggart. Really good. *He gave her another grin, then dug in like a man who had not eaten in days. He had only skipped lunch, but he ran so hot that it was more than enough to make him feel like he was starving.*
Dagny: *She watched him with a rather tender smile, as if she was his care taker, trying to make sure he ate enough and took care of himself. Shaking her head, she sipped her beer before working on her own food.* Save room fa dessert, yea?
Everton: *He looked up and grinned at her.* Dessert?
Dagny: Course! ah made pie, pecan, dat okay? didn't know what ya'd like. *She brushed bangs out of her eyes as she smiled at him.*
Everton: Yes. Yes, that's perfect. *He grinned up at her and raised his beer to her again.* You're a good woman.
Dagny: *Her cheeks turned pink and she shook her head.* Ah ain't, just tryin' ta do da right t'ing. Yah should have some ta take care of ya.
Everton: *He found himself shaking his head.* No, Dagny. That would be a sentence to a life of boredom for whoever took it on.
Dagny: Why da ya say dat? *Raising her head, she watched him, pushing around her food with her fork.* Mah ma was married ta my pa fer twenty-five years, didn'do nothin' excitin' 'cept fish. She was mighty happy.
Everton: I'm never home, Dagny. My stuff sits in my house in Boston. I go see it every few weeks.
Dagny: Den dat wouldn't be boredom, dat would be loneliness. *She pointed out softly before taking a few more bites.*
Everton: Oh, it would be boredom, too. I'm married to my work. Even when I'm home, I'm working.
Dagny: Well, mabe one day ya'll find a woman who's okay with dat. *Pointing to his plate, she smiled.* Would ya like more?
Everton: *He looked down and discovered he had eaten it all. He gave her a sheepish grin and nodded.* Please.
Dagny: *Standing up easily, she took his plate, turning she walked into the kitchen. Putting another helping on the plate, she walked back to the table and sat it down in front of him.* Ya welcome, John.
Everton: *He looked up at her, the scene looking ridiculously like something out of an old movie. He held her gaze for just a moment, then turned his attention to the food in front of him.* Thanks.
Dagny: What's wrong, ya t'ink ah should be in an apron tellin' da Beave ta come in for dinner? *She gave him a rather amused smile before sitting down and tucking a leg under her.*
Everton: No! No, not at all. I... *He scowled slightly, then smirked.* Movies, not TV. I never was much some for television.
Dagny: Dunno many movie moms. *Picking up her fork, she starts eating slowly once more.* Ain't notta t'in', ah always wanted ta be a mom. Ya know makin' lunches and dinner. Ah always wanted ta be like my ma, she was da best person ah ever knew.
Everton: *He let a silence stretch between them, completely unsure what to say. He had no basis of reference past old movies that the nuns let them watch on Friday nights when the parishioners played bingo downstairs. He was, however, careful to keep the memory buried, just like he'd been taught. The less people knew about him, the better, that's what they told him.*
Dagny: *The silence was normal, that she could deal with, but there was a deeper silence that caught her off guard. There was always some sort of noise except when he threw up barriers, and for some reason she felt hurt because of it. Frowning she put her hand over his, an attempt to reassure, to comfort even though she didn't know why. Standing up, she picked up her plate and her bottle of beer, walking back to the kitchen she started to do the dishes.*
Everton: *He narrowed his eyes slightly, then looked after her.* Dagny, wait. Come back.
Dagny: *Frowning, she walked back to the table, wiping her hands on a towel as she stood by him.* Whut is it John?
Everton: *He reached for her hand and squeezed it.* Thank you, really.
Dagny: *Smiling she rubbed the back of his hand with her thumb.* Ya welcome, ya always welcome here.
Everton: *He nodded slightly and bowed his head.* No one's ever said that to me before.
Dagny: *Frowning, she knelt down next to him and looked up at him. Her fingers reached up to touch his cheek sighing very lightly.* Dat's ashame, da ya wanna talk about it?
Everton: *He gave her a weak shrug, then shook his head.* No, not really. Can't change the past.
Dagny: Naw, ya can't, but sometimes it nice ta talk. *Her fingers lightly run through the hair at his temples.*
Everton: *He leaned into her touch and smiled faintly.* Talking about it is all done. I talked myself out ages ago.
Dagny: Obviously not, other wise ya would be able ta talk 'bout it now. *Standing up, she continued to stroke his hair as she stepped close to his chair. Very gently she urged him to lean against her.*
Everton: *He exhaled very slowly, then wrapped his arms around her and pressed his face against her stomach. He didn't cry, he didn't display any emotion externally. In his mind, there was only a slight hiccup of unbridled emotion, then the static was back.*
Dagny: *Her fingers continued to move though his hair, murmuring nonsense under her breath as she held him. Sighing softly, she rubbed the back of his head.* It's okay, homme. *She tried not to pry into his thoughts, just provide comfort for him.*
Everton: *After a few moments, sounding very much like a little kid, he looked up at her and grinned.* Pie?
Dagny: *Beaming down at him she cupped his cheek and nodded. Moving back away from him she walked to the kitchen in order to get the pie.* Whipped cream or ice cream?
Everton: Ice cream.
Dagny: *Humming she cut out a slice of the warm pie, putting it on a plate before putting a scope of ice cream on the side. When she set down the plate in front of him she went back to her chair.*
Everton: *He watched her sit down across from him and sighed softly before digging into the pie. He groaned at the taste of that, too.* This is amazing, too. Your mother's recipe?
Dagny: Yea, ah get all of it from her. *Smiling she fiddled with her spoon, looking down at the table in front of them. She is more then pleased that he likes her cooking.*
Everton: *He glanced up at her after he'd finished half the pie and most of the ice cream. He tried to be mindful of where he was, but it did little to stop him from eating like a horse. She seemed not to mind. His mouth was full when he spoke.* What else did you get from her, honey?
Dagny: *She couldn't help but laughing when he spoke with his mouth full, it reminded her too much of her father and brother.* Ah, Johnny ya don't talk wit ya mouthful, boy. *Winking, she put her chin on the palm of her hand.* Learned how ta sew from her, and how ta take care of boo-boos. Lots of stuff.
Everton: *He swallowed, then raised an eyebrow.* Johnny? I haven't been called that in thirty years.
Dagny: Ah didn't know dat, ya not want me ta call ya dat? *Her eyebrows raised and she canted her head to the side.*
Everton: I didn't say that. Just commenting that it's been a long time.
Dagny: Ya jus' didn't look ta happy 'bout it, dats all. *Shrugging she got up and went back into the kitchen to get some ice cream. Coming back, she sat down and took a bite.*
Everton: It was more shock then anything, honey.
Dagny: Ah am shockin'. *Chuckling, she went back to playing with her ice cream.*
Everton: *Finishing off his plate, he carried all his dishes to the kitchen and got himself a fresh beer. When he came back it was his turn to stand next to her chair. He lightly touched her hair and smiled down at her.* I'm not mad at you, Dagny.
Dagny: *Her eyes close and she very slightly lent into his touch, tilting her head up she looked and him before bowing her head.* Am sorry ah said somet'ing, but ah was so happy. Ya made me very happy last night.
Everton: Even though I passed out like a classless wretch?
Dagny: Yah was sweet, layin' dare, it was nice ta take care of ya. *Her cheeks turned pink and she poked at her ice cream, her breathing a bit fast.*
Everton: *He let his fingers touch her cheek, staying a little longer then was polite, then moved back to his chair. He sat down and looked across at her, watching her as he sipped at his beer.* I promise not to pass out on your couch again tonight.
Dagny: *Whimpering very softly she rubbed her cheek up against his fingers until he pulled away. Taking a deep breath she looked up at him and smiled gently.* It wouldn't be ah bad t'ing.
Everton: You like me passing out on your couch?
Dagny: Ain't ah suppose ta? *Rubbing her forehead she felt her stomach flip over, she felt like she was always just saying the wrong things. She was a freak, in more ways then one.*
Everton: *He looked at her for another moment, then stood up. Waiting until she was looking at him, he headed for the couch and made a show of flopping down, making himself comfortable.*
Dagny: *Licking her lips she watched him, and then smiled brightly when he laid down on the couch. Picking up the rest of the things on the table she put them in the sink and tided up the kitchen. When she returned, she went to the couch and sat down next to him.* Is dis okay, me sittin' next ta ya?
Everton: *He toed his shoes off and settled himself, with his head resting on her thigh. He looked up at her and smiled.* Mind if I smoke?
Dagny: *She looked up at the open windows and then down at him, shaking her head.* Naw, go on. *Leaning back against the couch she started to play with his hair once more.*
Everton: *He got a cigarette out and lit, careful to blow the smoke away from her and not let the cigarette just hang in his mouth.* Thanks. I hate presuming. Everyone is so tobacco conscious these days.
Dagny: Ah don't mind. *Putting her hand on her fist she continued to touch him lightly. It was so novel, having someone in her apartment, having a man's head in her lap. She wondered if she was doing this right, if she smelled or something, and if he would notice.*
Everton: Stop worrying.
Dagny: W-w-what? what ah ya talkin' 'bout?
Everton: *He looked up at her and smiled as he took another puff.* Stop worrying. I'm not going to turn into the big, bad wolf and eat you. In fact, there is a good chance that I will fall asleep right here. *He took another long draw on his cigarette, then closed his eyes, still smiling.*
Dagny: Ah ain't 'fraid of ya, John. 'Fraid dat ah'll make a fool outta myself. *She murmured, watching him for a long moment. Finally, she looked away and shrugged just a little bit.* Can ah ask somet'in' for ya go fallin' asleep on meh?
Everton: Of course you can. *He broke the smoke back to his lips, the movement practiced, his eyes still closed.*
Dagny: Can ah kiss ya? Ah wanna kiss ya sober, so ah can remember it right. *Her stomach twisted and her fingers clutched at the couch.*
Everton: *He opened his eyes and looked up at her. He nodded, then sat up a little and mostly drained the beer to clear away the cigarette, dumping the butt into the bottle. Then he laid his head back down.* Yes.
Dagny: *Watching him she pressed her lips together and shifted under him, leaning down to make an attempt to kiss him. Of course it didn't work out very well, she couldn't lean down that far. Sitting back up, she took a deep breath, maybe this was a bad idea. Last night had been so easy, she couldn't even remember half of it.*
Everton: *He laid against her thigh for another minute before he sat up. He shifted on the couch until he was next to her, his hand on her cheek. He leaned close and kissed her softly, his lips moving slowly against hers.*
Dagny: *Her eyes closed and she turned her face toward him, her lips light and weak against his. A hand rested on top of his as she whimpered very softly and breathlessly. Her head was swimming from the tender kiss.*
Everton: *He pulled back slowly and smiled at her before settling back to lay down. A smile played at his lips as he closed his eyes.*
Dagny: *Keeping her eyes closed she touched her lips and took a deep breath. Resting her head back against the couch she smiled gently.* Dun wanna kiss no other man.
Everton: *He shifted a little closer to her and sighed softly, pretending not to have heard her. It was just easier if he hadn't heard her, not with him taking her in tomorrow.* Do you want me to go?
Dagny: *Opening her eyes, she frowned at him and turned quickly, her hands reaching out for him.* Why ya gonna go? Did ah did somet'in' wrong? Ah promise ah won't no more.
Everton: *He took her hand and held it against his chest. He shook his head and shifted a little more, getting comfortable on her thigh.* No, honey. You didn't do anything wrong. Not at all. I'll stay right here.
Dagny: *Settling back down she gave him a weak smile before going back against the couch. Her thumb played over his knuckles as she closed her eyes and enjoyed his heat against her thigh.* Ahkay den.
Everton: *He took a few slow, deep breath, settling fully. Despite the fact that this would be the second night he fell asleep on her couch - fully clothed - he was the calmest he'd been in a long time.* Now, Dagny, don't you spend all night being my pillow.
Dagny: Ah like bein' ya pillow, John. *She murmured, cracking an eye to look down at him with a shy smile. He looked so relaxed here in her lap, and it rubbed off on her.* Ya can lay out in da bed iffen ya like, ah can stay here.
Everton: I'm not going to take your bed, honey. I'm fine right here. *He smiled faintly.* Unless you are going to insist.
Dagny: Am, gonna. Ya shouldn't be cramped out here. *Reaching down with her free hand she caressed his cheek.* Ah'll hang up ya jacket and shirt so it won't get wrinkled.
Everton: *He gave a put upon sigh and sat up. Then he stood. Shaking his head in amusement, he stripped his jacket off. Underneath was his shoulder holster and his badge, both of which he pulled off. Tie came next, then his shirt, leaving him in a white a-shirt. He had some visible scratches and the bandage around his ribs was a bright white under his shirt. His left shoulder had a single bullet entry scar with no matching exit scar.* Now what?
Dagny: *Standing up, she couldn't help but watch him with wide eyes, he was handsome, no that wasn't the right, sexy was the right word for him. Sexy and dangerous, her eyes roamed over his chest she lightly touched his scar on his shoulder before taking his clothes from him. Without saying a word she walked into her bed room, she hung up his clothes and turned down the covers. Her room was over stuffed and warm, with bright, happy colors, a thick homemade quilt at the foot of her bed. She took a blanket and a ratty elephant from the bed and put them behind her back, her cheeks pink once more.* You can lay down.
Everton: *He looked at the bed, then looked at her.* And where are you going to sleep?
Dagny: Ah'll sleep on da couch. If dat would make ya feel comfortable. *She shrugged, not sure if he wanted her to sleep in the same bed as him.*
Everton: *He sat down on the edge of the bed and rubbed his face.* Lay with me. You shouldn't sleep on the couch, not in your own place. I promise that I will be a perfect gentleman.
Dagny: Ah know ya will. *She said softly, walking to him she sat down on the bed next to him, putting the stuffed animal and blanket on the bed.* Yah ah good man, John, ah trust ya. *Kissing his cheek, she stood up and went to the bathroom to change into her pajamas and put her hair up in a handkerchief.*
Everton: *While she was getting ready, he emptied his pockets onto the nightstand, then laid down. He left the side she clearly slept on empty and pulled the covers up to his belly. He settled on his back and closed his eyes, starting to drift off before she was even done.*
Dagny: *Finished, she turned off the lights and checked the doors and windows before walking to the bed room. She shut the door just a bit, letting the dim light from the night light in the living room into the bedroom. Walking to the bed, she sank down next to him and pulled the covers up over her shoulder as she snuggled close to him.*
Everton: *Mostly asleep, he wrapped an arm around her shoulders and hugged her to his side.*
Dagny: *Smiling happily she draped an arm over his chest before attempting to fall asleep. It was hard, but with him next to her, there to distract her, she eventually fell into a deep sleep.*