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[almosthonorable]

[ contrary to popular opinion, crime does pay ]Ben has an abundance of good cheer that has nothing to do with the holiday season. Which is why, if you plunk yourself down next to him -- or, hell, just wander up to the counter near his stool -- he'll probably offer you a smile, a nod, and even a drink

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[tragic_mask]

Melpomene's on a nearby stool with a drink, which is nothing new.

She gives him a nod, from the other side of her brandy-colored glass.

[almosthonorable]

Ben looks up from the gift basket he just received from Sunshine courtesy of Bar, and returns the nod.

"Evenin', miss."

[tragic_mask]

"Good evening," she says, just loudly enough.

[almosthonorable]

His lips quirk in a half-smile.

"Tell me you're not the type to make a man beg you to break bread with him," he says, nodding toward the abundance of pastries at his elbow.

[tragic_mask]

Melpomene quirks a brow.

"I don't think I'd be in my right mind if I let free cookies go by."

She tilts her glass at the mixture. "They look quite cheerful, too."

[almosthonorable]

"Cheerful? They're divine -- see for yourself."

He requests a pitcher of milk and two glasses from the bar.

"And please do tell me who I've got the pleasure of sittin' with, while you're at it."

[tragic_mask]

She sets down her alcohol, peers forward, chooses a bright pink specimen.

"Delicious."

After a moment's appreciative chewing, she adds: "I'm Melpomene, by the way. Who might you be?"

[almosthonorable]

"Ben Wade," he says with an easy smile. "And I can assure you, Miss Melpomene, the pleasure's all mine."

[tragic_mask]

"I should hope not," she says, with a wry smile.

"I'd like to have some pleasure left for myself."

[almosthonorable]

A beat.

"Y'know, I do believe that's the first time I've ever gotten that argument."

He pours milk for them both and pushes a glass toward her, in case she wants it.

"I think I like you already."

[tragic_mask]

"Thanks," she says, with a gesture to the milk.

"I do my best to keep things new and exciting."

[almosthonorable]

"So you're givin' this place a run for its money?"

[ ooc: gah, apologies for my epic slowtime fail -- absolutely no worries if you'd rather let them fade, but i'm all kinds of game if you'd like to continue! ]

[tragic_mask]

[ooc: it's very okay! carry on. :D]

"You know, I like to think that."

She smiles, and shrugs. "But I guess everyone likes to think he's original."

[almosthonorable]

"That's the gospel truth," he says, bemused.

"Tell me 'bout yourself, Miss Melpomene."

[tragic_mask]

"There's lots to tell," she says.

"Where to start?"