Angel and Liam - Chapter 38b - A Cup of Java
Story Title : Angel and Liam; Beginnings
Chapter Title Chapter 38b -A Cup of Java.
Chapter Summary: Liam and Sirius stop at a coffee shop.
Main Characters Liam, Sirius, interesting Londoners
Rating PG
And when I do you better hide all the girls… cause I’m gonna break their hearts all round the world
**I’ll Cry Instead - The Beatles**
@@@
“Time’s a wasting, luv. Got plenty to do today. ”
It might have been that bone crushing grip Sirius had on his hand, or maybe his shoulder nearly being pulled from its socket that gave away Sirius’ excitement at showing him through London. Liam was glad for that. Sirius’ intense determination that they keep moving would keep them from stopping too often along the way. And even if Sirius didn’t understand his stupid imagination, he would be safe under Sirius’ watchful eye.
Racing through the street, eyes turned and tongues wagged as they passed. Knowing he was now bright red, Liam yanked his hand from Sirius’ grasp and hid it in his jeans pocket.
“Don’t let them bother you luv. You wouldn’t know it to look at them, but ‘bout half these guys would be hand in hand if they had the guts.”
“Really?”
“Yup. Too worried about what others say…stupid berks. Always wanting to blend into the ‘proper’ world…proper idiots is what they are.”
Liam liked the way Sirius put things. They were stupid berks. Yet he didn’t offer Sirius his hand. What if everyone thought he belonged to Sirius? What if they thought he was Sirius’ boy?
“Come on, keep up. Food’s just ‘round here. We’ll have a quiet cup of coffee and talk, man to man.”
Good! A few pastries and coffee with Sirius sounded wonderful. His stomach growled in agreement. He was starving!
Every thought of alone time with Sirius was shattered as they turned the corner. There, at one of the white wrought iron tables in front, two giggly girls sat, huddled together; two goonies as far as he could see. Quite sure he and Sirius were to topics of their conversation, he closed his eyes in hopes they might just disappear, or maybe he could walk by without incident. However, all Liam managed to do was bump into Sirius, which elicited even louder giggles from those two.
Sirius wasn’t too bothered with things. Grabbing Liam’s wrist he led him forward, towards the door and those hens.
“Gods Miranda, he’s soooooo cute,” the dark haired one cooed.
Why didn’t Sirius do something? Gods! Stupid girls, especially that red head. Liam wondered how she would like a few more freckles. And that brunette… maybe.
“Yeah the good ones are gay.”
“You think so?”
“Duh… hello… earth to Leslie…they’re holding hands,” Miranda rolled her eyes, “Yup, look like a couple to me.”
“Not just brothers or good friends?”
“Girls.. girls,” Sirius smiled, “Stay right there. We’ll be right back and join you.”
“Really?”
“Sure. My friend and I would love your company, wouldn’t we Liam?”
A growl threatened to escape.
“What d’ya think, Miranda? Should we?”
“No way; we gotta get to work before we’re missed. Can’t afford to lose another job.”
Looking back at the boys Leslie crinkled her nose, “We’ll be off in a bit. See ya then?”
Liam’s colour was now deep beet red.
“Gods is he cute!” In one provocative movement, Leslie jumped to her feet, winked at Liam, flipped her hair and twirled around. They walked away… giggling. “Did you see him blush? I think he likes me.”
“Listen Leslie, don’t be daft. He’s ga…”
“No he’s not.”
“Yes he is.”
“Be quiet. I don’t wanta hear it.”
As soon as they were out of earshot Sirius teased, “You alright luv?
“Yeah, but… how come you flirted with them?”
“I did?”
“Yeah, you did.”
“They weren’t cute?”
“Nope.”
“So we’re not in London to have a good time?”
“Uh-huh.”
“So have a good time.”
“But they’re girls.”
“You noticed.” When Liam continued to look puzzled, Sirius continued, “Listen, not to worry. I’m not interested in shagging them… well maybe Miranda. Always had a thing for red heads.”
Liam’s eyes opened wide in disbelief. “But…”
“But what?”
“Remus doesn’t mind?”
Sirius guffawed, “Nah, Remus doesn’t mind. And luv, you need to chill a bit. You know I’m pulling your chain… right?”
Liam nodded. He still didn’t like the idea, knowing how miffed he’d be if Angel and Sirius were alone in London flirting with those girls.
“Good,” Sirius squeezed his shoulder, “Now come on, I’m dying for coffee.”
Nestled between two dark brick establishments, the coffee shop, with its white painted plank exterior looked out of place. No display window graced those walls; rather a single window was hewn into the planks. If he and Sirius got on their tip toes they could possibly have glimpsed inside….if it weren’t for the ivy.
This place was amazing; with its long pebbled walk leading through an eating area containing tall white chairs and tables and with its ivy blanket, the shop could have easily adorned the cover of a children’s faery book. And it was this fact that planted a seed of suspicion in Liam.
Was Sirius taking him to every non-mugglish place in London? The feeling grew even stronger as the front door seemed to open on its own, with only the slightest push from Sirius. This shop should have been back in Diagon Alley… Hold on! Maybe they weren’t even in London… maybe…what if they really weren’t anywhere and it was all a dream. He may wake up and find he was still in his bed, ready to begin his day with Sirius. Or maybe…
Stepping across the threshold, he glanced above the door. It would be just like those dark wizards to have put a charm above all the muggle shop entrances. Muggles would have thought them very cool and New Ageish. And he’d be in real trouble. Nothing there…. He sighed in relief, thinking how good it was to have Sirius around just in case.
And speaking of Sirius; in the time it took for Liam to check the entryway for safety, Sirius had quickly strutted across the floor, plopped onto a stool at the coffee bar and proceeded to chat up the female behind it. Liam shook his head in consternation. What was it with Sirius and females?
And what was it with this place? The inside was as far from the faery book façade as it could be. Filtered through white sheers, sunlight shone through the lone window, crossing the room, finally settling on Sirius. This muggle place sure was strange, not a stick of furniture inside; well, with the exception of the two stools and the bar.. and they were nailed to the floor. The room was scrubbed clean from top to bottom, not a spec of dust anywhere; about as welcoming as a mausoleum. Even the sun’s warmth was little help.
His trainers were reflected in the shiny black and white tiled floor as he tiptoed towards the conversation at the bar.
“It’s always lovely to see you Sirius. Your usual?”
“Yup. And seeing you is one of my greatest pleasures when visiting the city.”
“How’s Remus? Not sick I hope.”
“Naw… he is fine. This trip, its just me and my nephew.”
The female turned, her dark brown eyes taking in every detail. Liam wished she wouldn’t, he must be bright red by now. Though he must admit, Sirius had good taste in females this time. This one had a sweet smile and must have been from India; a far cry from those giggly girls… especially that redhead.
“Come on in dear,” she handed Sirius a cup, “Sirius didn’t tell me he had such a handsome nephew. Make yourself comfortable. What can I fix for you?”
A huge sign hung behind the counter listed all the things you could buy and how much they cost. The thing covered nearly the entire wall.
Standing there, knowing he looked like a prat, Liam silently read the names of dozens of unfamiliar drinks.. What was he gonna do? He couldn’t just point. ‘come on idiot, think’ he said to himself. And then he got a great idea… Lalena. She was nearly a muggle. And she probably liked fancy coffees. He’d just talk silently with her.
But then he remembered that stupid promise he made. He wasn’t to do magic or communicate silently outside of Grimmauld…. Damn this wasn’t gonna be easy. “Don’t they have plain coffee?”
“Sure, but try something different. I’m having an Irish creme cappuccino”
“OK…” Liam looked down the list, thinking he might as well just swallow his pride, close his eyes and point.
Sirius sipped his coffee and waited. “Well pick one. This is my treat. Up for something to eat?”
Liam’s stomach growled in answer.
“A dozen scones and whatever my nephew here chooses.” He handed the clerk a few pounds, grabbed the bag and walked away. “Whenever you’re done… I’ll be sitting outside. Don’t take too long.”
Liam was a bit miffed. How could Sirius leave him alone?
“I can help you if you want.” The beautiful soft voice came from the tiny woman peeking over the counter at him. “I don’t like coffee myself, but it smells wonderful.”
“Thanks,” Liam sighed.
“Not to worry.” She stepped from behind the counter, “I am very good at this. No one has complained yet. First I must take a good look at you.”
Liam didn’t much like being scanned up and down. He wished she wouldn’t. It was downright embarrassing.
As if in deep thought, she furrowed her brow and crinkled her nose, making her diamond stud sparkle. “Let me see…..hmmmmmm. You are certainly a challenge. Maybe if I had your name.”
“Ummmmm.” Liam was suspicious. Surely she heard Sirius call him by name. Why did she want him to say it aloud? Was there dark magic… or even worse… But Sirius knew her, so it couldn’t be that; or could it?
She giggled. “Listen luv, I’m just trying to help you decide. If it is any easier, I’m Pallavika.”
“Liam,” he whispered.
“Very nice to meet you Liam. Now you seem to have chocolate written all over you. Am I correct?”
He nodded.
“And I bet marshmallow, graham crackers and whipped cream… lots of it.”
“Uh-huh.”
She beamed proudly. “Well Liam, you might not believe this, but there is nothing like that on the menu. However, you are not to worry, I don’t need a recipe. How ‘bout I whip it up special… just for you?”
A few minutes later Liam stepped from the shop with a lovely treat that Pallavika had christened ‘s’more delight’. She had even added it to the menu. He wished she wouldn’t. What if someone knew it was him? What if they found him? What if….? And anyway, how did she know?
He paused and took a deep breath, feeling a bit silly, yet happy to be out of there. Muggle girls were a bit… Well he didn’t know what, but he didn’t much care for it.
Sirius sat at one of the small white wrought iron tables. “‘bout time. Only a few scones left.”
Setting his coffee down, Liam punched Sirius’ shoulder, which Sirius returned.
Sitting down, Liam pulled out the Flake and licked the whipped cream from it.
“She’s cute, isn’t she?” Sirius said.
“Who?”
“Pallavika.”
“Well her clothes are lovely. And so are the shoes. And I love the bracelets.”
“Thought you would. Indian clothes can be very beautiful. Those trousers are called churidars. Indian men wear them too.”
Liam stuffed a scone into his mouth, “Do they come in robin’s egg blue?”
“I am sure they do. Now hurry up, the film starts in just a few minutes. We don’t wanta be late.”
“Really? We’re going to a film?”
“Sure we are… and don’t ask me which one. Now get a move on. I don’t want to hear you stomach growling when we’re in the theater.”
@@@
Still to come in the chapter- Liam and Sirius
• Get their hair styled
• Go to the movies
• Go to the park
• And finally shop for clothes.
@@@
Links to all Chapters
Or Click on the "Angel and Liam" tag to display all chapters.
Chapter Listing
Chapter Title Chapter 38b -A Cup of Java.
Chapter Summary: Liam and Sirius stop at a coffee shop.
Main Characters Liam, Sirius, interesting Londoners
Rating PG
And when I do you better hide all the girls… cause I’m gonna break their hearts all round the world
**I’ll Cry Instead - The Beatles**
@@@
“Time’s a wasting, luv. Got plenty to do today. ”
It might have been that bone crushing grip Sirius had on his hand, or maybe his shoulder nearly being pulled from its socket that gave away Sirius’ excitement at showing him through London. Liam was glad for that. Sirius’ intense determination that they keep moving would keep them from stopping too often along the way. And even if Sirius didn’t understand his stupid imagination, he would be safe under Sirius’ watchful eye.
Racing through the street, eyes turned and tongues wagged as they passed. Knowing he was now bright red, Liam yanked his hand from Sirius’ grasp and hid it in his jeans pocket.
“Don’t let them bother you luv. You wouldn’t know it to look at them, but ‘bout half these guys would be hand in hand if they had the guts.”
“Really?”
“Yup. Too worried about what others say…stupid berks. Always wanting to blend into the ‘proper’ world…proper idiots is what they are.”
Liam liked the way Sirius put things. They were stupid berks. Yet he didn’t offer Sirius his hand. What if everyone thought he belonged to Sirius? What if they thought he was Sirius’ boy?
“Come on, keep up. Food’s just ‘round here. We’ll have a quiet cup of coffee and talk, man to man.”
Good! A few pastries and coffee with Sirius sounded wonderful. His stomach growled in agreement. He was starving!
Every thought of alone time with Sirius was shattered as they turned the corner. There, at one of the white wrought iron tables in front, two giggly girls sat, huddled together; two goonies as far as he could see. Quite sure he and Sirius were to topics of their conversation, he closed his eyes in hopes they might just disappear, or maybe he could walk by without incident. However, all Liam managed to do was bump into Sirius, which elicited even louder giggles from those two.
Sirius wasn’t too bothered with things. Grabbing Liam’s wrist he led him forward, towards the door and those hens.
“Gods Miranda, he’s soooooo cute,” the dark haired one cooed.
Why didn’t Sirius do something? Gods! Stupid girls, especially that red head. Liam wondered how she would like a few more freckles. And that brunette… maybe.
“Yeah the good ones are gay.”
“You think so?”
“Duh… hello… earth to Leslie…they’re holding hands,” Miranda rolled her eyes, “Yup, look like a couple to me.”
“Not just brothers or good friends?”
“Girls.. girls,” Sirius smiled, “Stay right there. We’ll be right back and join you.”
“Really?”
“Sure. My friend and I would love your company, wouldn’t we Liam?”
A growl threatened to escape.
“What d’ya think, Miranda? Should we?”
“No way; we gotta get to work before we’re missed. Can’t afford to lose another job.”
Looking back at the boys Leslie crinkled her nose, “We’ll be off in a bit. See ya then?”
Liam’s colour was now deep beet red.
“Gods is he cute!” In one provocative movement, Leslie jumped to her feet, winked at Liam, flipped her hair and twirled around. They walked away… giggling. “Did you see him blush? I think he likes me.”
“Listen Leslie, don’t be daft. He’s ga…”
“No he’s not.”
“Yes he is.”
“Be quiet. I don’t wanta hear it.”
As soon as they were out of earshot Sirius teased, “You alright luv?
“Yeah, but… how come you flirted with them?”
“I did?”
“Yeah, you did.”
“They weren’t cute?”
“Nope.”
“So we’re not in London to have a good time?”
“Uh-huh.”
“So have a good time.”
“But they’re girls.”
“You noticed.” When Liam continued to look puzzled, Sirius continued, “Listen, not to worry. I’m not interested in shagging them… well maybe Miranda. Always had a thing for red heads.”
Liam’s eyes opened wide in disbelief. “But…”
“But what?”
“Remus doesn’t mind?”
Sirius guffawed, “Nah, Remus doesn’t mind. And luv, you need to chill a bit. You know I’m pulling your chain… right?”
Liam nodded. He still didn’t like the idea, knowing how miffed he’d be if Angel and Sirius were alone in London flirting with those girls.
“Good,” Sirius squeezed his shoulder, “Now come on, I’m dying for coffee.”
Nestled between two dark brick establishments, the coffee shop, with its white painted plank exterior looked out of place. No display window graced those walls; rather a single window was hewn into the planks. If he and Sirius got on their tip toes they could possibly have glimpsed inside….if it weren’t for the ivy.
This place was amazing; with its long pebbled walk leading through an eating area containing tall white chairs and tables and with its ivy blanket, the shop could have easily adorned the cover of a children’s faery book. And it was this fact that planted a seed of suspicion in Liam.
Was Sirius taking him to every non-mugglish place in London? The feeling grew even stronger as the front door seemed to open on its own, with only the slightest push from Sirius. This shop should have been back in Diagon Alley… Hold on! Maybe they weren’t even in London… maybe…what if they really weren’t anywhere and it was all a dream. He may wake up and find he was still in his bed, ready to begin his day with Sirius. Or maybe…
Stepping across the threshold, he glanced above the door. It would be just like those dark wizards to have put a charm above all the muggle shop entrances. Muggles would have thought them very cool and New Ageish. And he’d be in real trouble. Nothing there…. He sighed in relief, thinking how good it was to have Sirius around just in case.
And speaking of Sirius; in the time it took for Liam to check the entryway for safety, Sirius had quickly strutted across the floor, plopped onto a stool at the coffee bar and proceeded to chat up the female behind it. Liam shook his head in consternation. What was it with Sirius and females?
And what was it with this place? The inside was as far from the faery book façade as it could be. Filtered through white sheers, sunlight shone through the lone window, crossing the room, finally settling on Sirius. This muggle place sure was strange, not a stick of furniture inside; well, with the exception of the two stools and the bar.. and they were nailed to the floor. The room was scrubbed clean from top to bottom, not a spec of dust anywhere; about as welcoming as a mausoleum. Even the sun’s warmth was little help.
His trainers were reflected in the shiny black and white tiled floor as he tiptoed towards the conversation at the bar.
“It’s always lovely to see you Sirius. Your usual?”
“Yup. And seeing you is one of my greatest pleasures when visiting the city.”
“How’s Remus? Not sick I hope.”
“Naw… he is fine. This trip, its just me and my nephew.”
The female turned, her dark brown eyes taking in every detail. Liam wished she wouldn’t, he must be bright red by now. Though he must admit, Sirius had good taste in females this time. This one had a sweet smile and must have been from India; a far cry from those giggly girls… especially that redhead.
“Come on in dear,” she handed Sirius a cup, “Sirius didn’t tell me he had such a handsome nephew. Make yourself comfortable. What can I fix for you?”
A huge sign hung behind the counter listed all the things you could buy and how much they cost. The thing covered nearly the entire wall.
Standing there, knowing he looked like a prat, Liam silently read the names of dozens of unfamiliar drinks.. What was he gonna do? He couldn’t just point. ‘come on idiot, think’ he said to himself. And then he got a great idea… Lalena. She was nearly a muggle. And she probably liked fancy coffees. He’d just talk silently with her.
But then he remembered that stupid promise he made. He wasn’t to do magic or communicate silently outside of Grimmauld…. Damn this wasn’t gonna be easy. “Don’t they have plain coffee?”
“Sure, but try something different. I’m having an Irish creme cappuccino”
“OK…” Liam looked down the list, thinking he might as well just swallow his pride, close his eyes and point.
Sirius sipped his coffee and waited. “Well pick one. This is my treat. Up for something to eat?”
Liam’s stomach growled in answer.
“A dozen scones and whatever my nephew here chooses.” He handed the clerk a few pounds, grabbed the bag and walked away. “Whenever you’re done… I’ll be sitting outside. Don’t take too long.”
Liam was a bit miffed. How could Sirius leave him alone?
“I can help you if you want.” The beautiful soft voice came from the tiny woman peeking over the counter at him. “I don’t like coffee myself, but it smells wonderful.”
“Thanks,” Liam sighed.
“Not to worry.” She stepped from behind the counter, “I am very good at this. No one has complained yet. First I must take a good look at you.”
Liam didn’t much like being scanned up and down. He wished she wouldn’t. It was downright embarrassing.
As if in deep thought, she furrowed her brow and crinkled her nose, making her diamond stud sparkle. “Let me see…..hmmmmmm. You are certainly a challenge. Maybe if I had your name.”
“Ummmmm.” Liam was suspicious. Surely she heard Sirius call him by name. Why did she want him to say it aloud? Was there dark magic… or even worse… But Sirius knew her, so it couldn’t be that; or could it?
She giggled. “Listen luv, I’m just trying to help you decide. If it is any easier, I’m Pallavika.”
“Liam,” he whispered.
“Very nice to meet you Liam. Now you seem to have chocolate written all over you. Am I correct?”
He nodded.
“And I bet marshmallow, graham crackers and whipped cream… lots of it.”
“Uh-huh.”
She beamed proudly. “Well Liam, you might not believe this, but there is nothing like that on the menu. However, you are not to worry, I don’t need a recipe. How ‘bout I whip it up special… just for you?”
A few minutes later Liam stepped from the shop with a lovely treat that Pallavika had christened ‘s’more delight’. She had even added it to the menu. He wished she wouldn’t. What if someone knew it was him? What if they found him? What if….? And anyway, how did she know?
He paused and took a deep breath, feeling a bit silly, yet happy to be out of there. Muggle girls were a bit… Well he didn’t know what, but he didn’t much care for it.
Sirius sat at one of the small white wrought iron tables. “‘bout time. Only a few scones left.”
Setting his coffee down, Liam punched Sirius’ shoulder, which Sirius returned.
Sitting down, Liam pulled out the Flake and licked the whipped cream from it.
“She’s cute, isn’t she?” Sirius said.
“Who?”
“Pallavika.”
“Well her clothes are lovely. And so are the shoes. And I love the bracelets.”
“Thought you would. Indian clothes can be very beautiful. Those trousers are called churidars. Indian men wear them too.”
Liam stuffed a scone into his mouth, “Do they come in robin’s egg blue?”
“I am sure they do. Now hurry up, the film starts in just a few minutes. We don’t wanta be late.”
“Really? We’re going to a film?”
“Sure we are… and don’t ask me which one. Now get a move on. I don’t want to hear you stomach growling when we’re in the theater.”
@@@
Still to come in the chapter- Liam and Sirius
• Get their hair styled
• Go to the movies
• Go to the park
• And finally shop for clothes.
@@@
Links to all Chapters
Or Click on the "Angel and Liam" tag to display all chapters.
Chapter Listing