Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: She's pausing for a bite to eat during a break from work. At least she's had a chance to change into normal clothes while going out and about. At the moment, she's reading over the diner's menu and trying to figure out what to eat.

Jarod Freeman: He comes into the diner, a hand running through platinum hair as he flicks his cigarette away. The man looks like he's had a rough night, and likely hasn't slept. A quick glance around as he steps in, eyes passing over the booths and the counter.

LRM -> Jarod Freeman: Rayvn? That you?

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: d10: per+alert: 10,2,7,2,

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: She looks up and spots Jarod, a thoughtful frown on her lips as she lifts her hand to gesture him over. He doesn't look so great.

Jarod Freeman -> LRM: It's me!

Jarod Freeman: He looks up, noticing Nia, and nods to her, heading over in that direction. A smile goes to her, warm enough under weary eyes, and he takes a seat at her table. "Hey, you."

LRM -> Jarod Freeman: Sorry to interrupt, but I didn't get the C&P. Um, what happened? :-(

Jarod Freeman -> LRM: Sorry, forgot to sitemail you the log URL. http://www.ravyns-nest.ws/jan31adrian-spitfire-alice-teri-felisa.htm

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: "How are you?" She looks concerned. "You look..well..terrible.." She hands her menu over. "Pick something. My treat."

LRM -> Jarod Freeman: Oh cool. So, safe and sound?

Jarod Freeman -> LRM: Yep!

Jarod Freeman: He shrugs a little. "I've seen better days." He takes the menu and looks it over. "How are you?"

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: "I'm doing all right." She leans back in her seat. "What's wrong? You want to talk about it?"

LRM -> Jarod Freeman: Yay! Oh god thank you, I was scared to death! *L*

LRM -> Jarod Freeman: Okies, going to OOC. Sorry to bother.

Jarod Freeman: "Relationship stuff." He shrugs a little bit, sighing. "Complex...sort of family thing. Hard to go into, really..."

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: She nods with a soft smile. "Well, if you need a friendly ear, mine's always available."

Jarod Freeman: "Thanks." He nods, smiling slightly to her. "Just...couldn't be in an empty apartment right now."

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: "At least you don't have a big empty townhouse like me. I only go there to sleep and sculpt because it's..so..empty." She shrugs. "She's gone?"

Jarod Freeman: "Family commitments." He rubs at his face a little. "Yeah, pretty much. She's back in...Seattle, I think?" He shakes his head. "Somewhere in the Pacific Northwest."

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: She reaches out to touch his hand and give it a comforting squeeze. "I'm sorry, Jarod." What else could she say?

Jarod Freeman: "Thank you." He gives a very short, very brief smile. "I appreciate the sentiment."

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: "You're welcome." She smiles. "If there's anything more I can do, just ask."

Jarod Freeman: "I will. Thanks." He looks over the menu for a moment, silent as his eyes pass over the words. After a brief pause, he stes the menu down and slumps back in his seat, watching the table.

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: "You're welcome." She steals the menu back from him so she can pick out what she wants to eat. "We should go out and party or something tonight. Or whatever you want to do..to cheer you up."

Jarod Freeman: He smirks a little bit and wipes at his nose. "Going out sounds good. I could use something to take my mind off."

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: The waiter comes over and Nia orders her supremely bad for her health burger and a milk shake with a side of fries before turning her gaze to Nia. "What do you want to eat?"

Jarod Freeman: "Hmm?" He looks up. "Umm...chicken strips. Ranch. Coffee. Thanks."

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: She hands over the menu before leaning back in her chair, folding her hands in her lap. "If I didn't live all the way in Upstate, I'd offer you crash space on my couch."

Jarod Freeman: He smiles a little, grateful for the offer. "No, it's fine. Thanks, though. My apartment's fine...just not now. Saw her off early this morning...didn't want to go back, you know?"

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: "Well, if you do need to, my door's always open to friends...my nutty neighbors be damned." She laughs a little.

Jarod Freeman: He grins a little bit. "Ahh, the infamous insane neighbors. They're always fun..."

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: "Yeah, I'm surprised they didn't call the cops the other night when I brought some friends over. I know they didn't expect me to have a social life."

Jarod Freeman: "Paper-thin walls in your apartment?"

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: "I live in a townhouse." She supplies. "The walls aren't paper-thin, per se, but they're not thick enough for my sanity. I live next to some elderly people who are handy with binoculars and those little microphone thingies that you use to listen in on conversations."

Jarod Freeman: "Air horn. That's what I say." He nods a little. "That'll teach them their lesson."

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: "I'll keep that in mind." She chuckles. "At least I haven't brought anyone home to have sex. That could be really awkward."

Jarod Freeman: He smiles slightly to that, nodding. "Yeah...yeah, I bet it would."

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: She's blushing for some reason at the moment. Tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear, she smiles as her milkshake is delivered. Strawberry. She likes strawberry shakes. His coffee is set down in front of him. "So, what do you plan to do now?"

Jarod Freeman: "Plan to do?" He shrugs slightly, pulling a packet of NutraSweet out and playing with it, eyes locked on the blue packet. "Work. Sleep. Eat, from time to time. Open the club, maybe lose myself in that for a little bit."

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: She nods understandingly. "Well, I'm going to make sure that you throw a bit of socializing in there too. Can't have you turning all hermit on me or anything."

Jarod Freeman: He stares at the packet, then nods. "Don't worry. I won't be able to turn hermit. Couldn't if I wanted to."

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: She takes a sip of the milkshake as their food is delivered. "I know we don't know each other all that well, but I really do care. I just wanted to let you know."

Jarod Freeman: "I appreciate that." He puts the packet away as their food comes, looking up to her and smiling. It's not a strong smile. But it is sincere.

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: Well, a sincere smile is still a smile. She gives him a brilliant one before picking up her burger to munch on it, trying to do so..gracefully.

Jarod Freeman: ((Pauses for now))

Jarod Freeman: He looks down at his food, picking up a strip of breaded chicken, going to dip it into the ranch. "So...did I tell you last time about the club I was opening? I'm sorry, I'm spacy...can't quite remember."

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: "Yeah, I think you mentioned it. What sort of club is it again?" She sets her burger down briefly and dabs at her lips with a napkin.

Jarod Freeman: "Dance club. Going to be a place for those in our...former line of work to meet, as well."

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: "Ooh..that should be fun. I've only been to..um..seedy bars and clubs lately. It's been..interesting. Except for that one time in Limelight, I haven't really been to too many clubs at all..just a strip club on occasion."

Jarod Freeman: "Well, this will be quite the different atmosphere for you," he says with a slight smile. "All dancing...two floors. Plus the VIP room for us. I think you'll like it."

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: "It sounds like it'll be great." She does actually sound excited. Her whole face lights up and everything. "I can hardly wait. If you need any help or anything, just let me know. I can sculpt decorations or something for you if you like. Free of charge."

Jarod Freeman: "I'll tell my business partner. She'll be happy to know that...she might want to commission your work, too, for something personal."

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: She picks up her burger again for anothe few bites before setting it down in favor of her milk shake. "That'll be cool. I like work."

Jarod Freeman: "Yeah...she lost a piece of work a while back. I'm thinking perhaps she might like a new one. I might just commission it from you, as a gift to her."

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: She gives him a smile, then. "That's really sweet of you. I'd be glad to do it." As always, she's all smiles and pleasantness.

Jarod Freeman: "Thank you. I'd appreciate it...and of course, I don't expect any deal, just because we're friends." A bit of a wink...he really doesn't expect it, he's just teasing her a bit. A good sign, perhaps.

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: She waves it off. "Of course not. I'll charge you extra for the priviledge." She giggles, obviously teasing him as she wipes her fingers off on her napkin before adjusting her scarf a little. Her neck's warm.

Jarod Freeman: "Lovely." A wink.

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: There is a faint blush at the wink..because Jarod's just too attractive really. "Absolutely..what's a little over-charging between friends."

Jarod Freeman: "Well, that's okay. I don't mind donating to the Nia retirement fund some." He chuckles a little, picking up his coffee and sipping at it.

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: "Yes, for that one day when I give up being in the hotel business." She tugs at her scarf again..maybe he might not notice the fading bite marks on her pretty neck. That's why she's wearing a scarf.

Jarod Freeman: He glances at the bite mark, eyebrow raising slightly, but says nothing about it. The cup of coffee is set down, and he goes for another chicken strip. "And the hotel business will be all the more lost for it, when it happens."

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: That compliment makes her beam sunnily, her cheeks flushing with pleasure. "Thank you, Jarod." She takes a sip of milkshake before stirring at it absently with her straw. "I do like my job, but I don't want to do it forever, you know?"

Jarod Freeman: "Yeah, I know." He slouches back in his chair. "I'm kind of the same way. Maybe it's part of why I agreed to this club so readily, you know? A chance to find something else for my interest."

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: She nods. "I want to explore other options, but with my schedule, it's really difficult. As it is, I spend my time at work and then go out drinking and stuff..usually in places I probably should go, but I'm surprisingly safe there."

Jarod Freeman: He little chuckle. "Yeah, I know the feeling. I tend to go places I shouldn't, either."

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: She takes another sip of milkshake before picking up her burger. "It's nice being young and having so many opportunities to do..stuff.."

Jarod Freeman: "Yeah..." He nods, repeating himself. He doesn't look so young right now. "Yeah. Opportunity is a good thing."

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: She watches him for a moment before scooting to the chair beside him. Her food can wait. Her friend needs a hug now.

Jarod Freeman: He looks over at her a moment, brow furrowed...confused by her motion, perhaps. Not quite getting it. He moves his hands from the chicken strip basket, brushing them off on each other.

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: She doesn't intend to be the awkward hug that it's kind of turning out to be. She just wraps her arms around him and gives him a gentle hug. "Things are going to be fine, Jarod..you've got friends who care. You'll get through this." She's really going for comforting at the moment.

Jarod Freeman: He finds himself leaning into the hug, arms wrapping around her and squeezing tightly. "Thanks, Nia. I...really appreciate that." His eyes close, resting his chin on her shoulder.

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: She gives him a bit of a nuzzle as she holds onto him. "Anything for you, Jarod. That's what I'm here for." Her voice is sweet and warm as the embrace lingers.

Jarod Freeman: "And that you're here is highly appreciated," he murmurs, relaxing a little to the sound of her voice, the arms around him. He seems to have no intention of releasing the hug for a long moment.

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: She warmly strokes his back, rubbing gently, trying to make him feel good. "I'll always be here..whenever you need me. Wherever." She murmurs, her eyes closing.

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: [I don't have my books, but what do I roll for heighten sensation?]

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: [From the Lore]

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: [I found it!*loves her some internet*]

Jarod Freeman: ((Int+Intuition vs. 6 *S*))

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: [3 Succeses..Eugenia Phelps: d10: int+intuition: 7,7,4,4,9]

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: Yes, she's cheating a little bit to make the good feeling of the back rub feel that much better.

Jarod Freeman: d10: Per+Aware: 6,7,3,8,7, He smiles a little, giving a slight "mrr" sound at the back rub, melting into it a bit. "Best use of that I've seen since getting free, Nia," he says with a chuckle.

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: "It just seemed like the thing to do. It's the first time I've used it since I was Freed.." She gives him another nuzzle. "You deserve it.." She continues the back rub while snuggling with him just a little. "Maybe I could give you a full-on back rub later or something? I just want to cheer you up." She murmurs softly, so sincere sounding without ulterior motives.

Jarod Freeman: "Sure," he says with a nod. "That would be nice...thank you. I think I need to soak the tub for a long time...that'll do wonders." They are water demons, after all. And his words, of course, are implying nothing...they simply are what they are.

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: She grins understandingly with a faint nod. "Whirlpool tubs are amazing things..I'm so glad I have one." She laughs breathlessly and just continues to rub his back. "Is there anything else I can do to make you feel better?"

Jarod Freeman: "No, thank you." He shakes his head. "You're doing more then enough...thank you."

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: "No need to thank me, I'm just a people-pleaser." She giggles and just continues to rest in his embrace, letting it linger for a little while longer while her hands continue to manipulate his back. She's not stopping until he wants her to.

Jarod Freeman: After a long, long moment, he finally pulls away, albeit very reluctantly. People might start to wonder. He smiles a little and leans back, sighing. "So...back to food?"

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: She smoothes a hand over his hair and then laughs a little. "Yeah, back to food..before people think we want more than just hugs right now."

Jarod Freeman: "Yeah." He smirks a little bit. "How scandalous would that be?" Oh, my god, I'm starting to sound like Ouestucati. He laughs a little at that, or maybe his words.

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: She tugs her food over. "Well, no more scandalous than other things." And she's blushing a little while pulling her milkshake over.

Jarod Freeman: "Oh?" He makes a pointed look at her neck, grinning a little, as he takes his last piece of chicken and dips it in the ranch.

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: The blush deepens. "It seemed like a good idea at the time." She presses her fingers to the scarf.

Jarod Freeman: "Hey, whatever works for you. Congratulations." He chuckles, completely without malice in his teasing.

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: "I wouldn't necessarily congratulate me." She laughs, still blushing. "A quick screw in a dingy bathroom does not an earth shattering experience make."

Jarod Freeman: "That, Nia, is entirely dependant on you. I've found that location means little, it's who you're with. But, since you were the one not describing it as earth-shattering, I'll take your word for it in this instance."

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: "Well, honestly, it was probably not a very good idea on both our parts. He's a nice guy and all, but..well..the situation is complex."

Jarod Freeman: "They usually are."

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: "It was just a one-time thing that he probably wouldn't have gone through with if we hadn't been..under the influence."

Jarod Freeman: "Under the influence." A curious look, brow slightly furrowed. "Too much too drink, then a trip to the bathroom...yeah, guess that wouldn't be exactly world-shaking."

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: "But, well..at least I'm no longer a virgin so I don't feel so pathetic." She actually giggles a little nervously as she takes another sip of her milkshake.

Jarod Freeman: "Nothing pathetic about being a virgin," he says, shrugging. "But there's nothing pathetic about not being one, either." He pushes the backset back, then lifts his coffee cup to finish it.

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: A little shrug. "Well, at least when I decide to have kids one day, the doctors at the sperm bank won't look at me funny." That makes her laugh a little.

Jarod Freeman: "True enough." He smiles a tiny bit, looking away, toward the window to watch the people outside.

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: She finishes off her milkshake before finishing her burger and wiping her fingers off. "Well, I've managed to kill the conversation. I need to get the hang of this sort of thing.."

Jarod Freeman: "It's...okay. It's not you...it's me."

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: "You want to talk a bit?"

Jarod Freeman: He shakes his head. "Not yet. Too new." His voice goes a bit distant. "Too hard to talk about, yet."

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: She reaches for his hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. "All right. I'll be here when you're ready."

Jarod Freeman: He squeezes back lightly, looking back to her. "Thanks."

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: Her smile is gentle as she holds his gaze. "You're welcome, Jarod." Quietly, just holding his hand for a moment.

Jarod Freeman: A long moment, gaze fixed on hers, showing all the pain and sadness there, the gratitude and care for Nia. He's there, and then, with a blink, he looks away slightly. "Umm. Well, I'm done. You?"

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: "Yeah." She rubs her thumb over his hand before releasing it gently. "I'm done with my food.."

Jarod Freeman: "Okay." He rubs at his shoulder a little, absently. "What next to our agenda?"

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: "Let's see, how about we take a short walk. The day's not so bad and I have some time to kill before work. After work, I'm going to steal you or something."

Jarod Freeman: He smiles a little and nods. "Sounds like a plan."

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: "Because you need fun." She nods sagely and pulls out her wallet to pay for their meal. "And that's an order." She waggles her eyebrows a little before laughing.

Jarod Freeman: "Yes, ma'am." He chuckles a little, ready to leave when she does.

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: She pulls her coat on, grabs her bag, and heads for the diner's door. "I'm glad this winter isn't all that cold. Layering up on skirts takes a lot of time and effort."

Jarod Freeman: He follows along. "Yeah...I would imagine so."

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: "I just hate pants." Something that Felisa will never understand. "I feel freer in skirts." She grins. "So, where do you want to walk?'

Jarod Freeman: "Not Central Park. Anywhere else is good."

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: "Hmm..Battery?" She suggests, holding a hand out to him.

Jarod Freeman: "That works." He nods and takes her hand.

Eugenia Phelps [Generic 50's Diner]: She squeezes his hand gently before heading down the street. "Good. Fresh air will do us a world of good."