Merriman-Sallie, at the nightclub

[merrimanlyon]

In all his time at Milliways, Merriman had never actually expected to set foot in Madame Lilly's nightclub -- to say nothing of the other business she runs. But a favour is a favour, and a worthwhile favour at that. And now that his schedule elsewhere is starting to clear, setting up a free evening is markedly easier to arrange than it would have

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[realmrsreynolds]

Sallie, for her part, arrives precisely on time. This took a rather considerable amount of effort, wanting to flee the ranch before Jack saw her more dressed up than even a trip to church usually warrants, but Sallie restrains herself.

The older woman has visited Lilly's place of business a handful of times, but usually only to visit Lilly or Inara someplace a bit quieter than the confines of the bar. She finds the table immediately, smiling at the man waiting for her.

"Merriman. It's nice to finally meet you."

[merrimanlyon]

He stands as soon as he catches sight of her approaching the table, returning her smile with a quiet one of his own. He doesn't exactly bow, so to speak, but he inclines his head to her in a courtly manner.

(This is a practice date, he reminds himself firmly. The use of first names is not merely appropriate -- it is expected.)

'Good evening, Sallie.' Before he moves round the table to pull out her chair, he picks up the orchids and presents her with the lightly scented bouquet. 'It is a pleasure to finally meet you as well.'

[realmrsreynolds]

There was definitely not an expectation of flowers on Sallie's end, whatever Lilly might have suggested to Merriman.

"Thank you very much!" This is a nice start to be sure. "What kind are they? I'm not sure I've seen the like before."

[merrimanlyon]

'They are called cattleya orchids,' he replies, quite pleased to see that his selection meets with approval. 'I thought that a bouquet of roses would seem a trifle forward of me, but orchids are by no means a second-best choice. They are quite a popular flower where I come from, both for flower-growers in general and as gifts for ladies.'

His hand is on the back of her chair, prepared to pull it out for her.