[SKELL] Hey, there, Saturday.

[axelgreysein]

A X E L ❧ G R E Y S E I N ;

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[atrb=style, padding: 5px; background: #FFFFFF; border: 2px dashed #B13E0F; -webkit-border-radius: 10px 10px 10px 10px; -moz-border-radius: 8px; opacity: 1.0]The first classes had passed by like nobody's business for Axel; it was a week into the first semester and the first Saturday evening of the school year now stared teachers and students alike in the faces. The wide array of feelings about this weekend apparent by the after-school chatter and bustle of Friday. As Axel had wandered into the hall outside of his class after Friday had ended, most of the newer students seemed excited to have lasted the first week and were eager to return to their next class, whenever it would be, since not all of them were majoring in Sociology and some had classes on other dates. Many less new students, however, seemed to trekk out of his room like they were on death row; they seemed exhausted already, and it had only been a week. He knew how these students worked, though. As soon as they got a hint that they might be doing poorly in his classes, they put forth more effort and Axel was more than willing to return them the credit which they'd willingly given up at first. Still other students seemed happy that the week was over and were eager to get home to their parties or their pets or their beds. Axel, on the other hand, wanted to take a night out on the town to celebrate the first week's success. Dressed in dark blue straight-leg jeans. a plain white tee-shirt with an unbuttoned blue-and-white-checkered collared shirt over it, and white Nike shoes, Axel had meandered out of his apartment by approximately five in the evening of the lovely Saturday which awaited him. He hardly looked like a teacher at the moment; then again, he never did. His attire was rarely professional. Just comfortable. His hair was partly sleeked back, but as always it held that definitive upward spike to it that gave him a bit of a wild look. He looked at the coat rack beside his door for a moment before deciding against wearing a jacket - after all, if he got cold he could just jog or duck into a building. There were plenty around. He wandered the streets of Radiant Garden for a while, at first just keeping it to the school campus to check that all was in order - or so he would say to a superior who asked him why he was wandering around - and then he exited the campus to go out into the evening, wandering the brightly lit streets. It was quite warm, as he had been expecting. Dark gray clouds loomed overhead, and in the distance Axel heard the rumble of thunder. Still, he had time to walk around before the rain would fall, as he assumed it would by the speed at which the clouds were rolling in, ominously covering what light remained of the day. The city was a beautiful sight to him; the lights of signs and windows illuminated the streets and set a faint golden glow over the horizon and against the blackening sky. Inside every building was noise, whether it was the sound of music with a heavy bass-line, the clink-clank of plates and silverware and the chitter-chatter of families and friends gathered for dinner, or just the sound of cars humming as they rolled across the pavement, their lights blaring over the little town. The air, too, was pure, but Axel could smell it; he could smell the rain in the air, just waiting to come. He strutted over the sidewalks with his hands in his pockets, enjoying the feel of the hot wind as it rushed at his chest and slowed him, whipping at his shirt. For almost fifteen minutes he just walked before the air took on a sudden chill, and the heavens parted to release a torrential downpour of warm water drops. He looked up at the sky for a little bit, a grin on his face as he appreciated the slight massage he was receiving from the sky. The sound of a tinkling bell and a rush of cool air that came from a door opening swiftly caught Axel's attention and he let his emerald eyes drift back to the Earth; he'd stopped in front of the Timeless River Café, a personal favorite of his. A couple emerged, ducking under their hoods and hats, giggling and squeaking playfully as the rain began to soak them. Axel grabbed the door as they left and entered the little building, shaking his head quickly as water scattered off his head. There were only a few other people in the Café he noticed as the door shut behind him. He half-buttoned his shirt and tucked it into his pants, looking a little bit more professional now, but still dressed much in the style of most of the college students who were into being fashionable. He gazed around at the quaint little Café, rather enjoying the feel it brought of reminiscence, even though he'd never been alive in the era it was based off of. It was just one of those places that forced its history and its feel onto you, and you didn't mind it. He certainly didn't. A waitress smiled at him and told him to take any seat; he chose one with two empty seats beside the windows that looked out onto the already drenched world outside. Axel remembered the first time he'd come here after he'd been employed by Kingdom University. As a matter of fact, he was pretty sure that he'd come on a day just like this. It was pouring a sweet, warm rain outside - lightning shot through the sky as Axel reminisced, followed by a low, rumbling thunder - and the cool air in the building felt good to the new professor as he'd entered this place, a place which held new meaning to him as time passed. He'd entered and gotten himself a nice iced white chocolate mocha with whipped cream on top, as well as a bowl of vanilla cream puffs - a rather girly food, but he enjoyed it. He settled into his seat as the waitress came over. "Can I get anything for you, Mr. Greysein?" the girl asked. "Just the usual, please, miss," Axel replied with his dazzling grin, and she dipped her head and quickly turned to skip off to the kitchen to place his order. Axel rested his arms on the table and stared out into the rain, a bright, content look in his pretty eyes as he listened to the sounds in the back of the restaurant - orders being called with an authoritative but polite tone, pots and pans and bowls and plates and silverware making a ruccus, and things sizzling and grinding and bubbling where they may. He felt a buzz in his pocket and picked out his iPhone quickly. It was a text from one of his friends. They wanted him to go to a party. He responded, smirking outwardly, "No thanks, Az, I've got plenty to do her at the Uni. Maybe later." He slipped his phone back into his pocket, intending to ignore it a while longer. The waitress returned and said, "I'm sorry, Mr. Greysein, both the mocha and the puffs will be a little late; the chefs had a little mishap in the back and, well..." Axel laughed and waved her off good-naturedly. "Hey, don't worry about it. Things happen. I'm in no rush." She nodded, appreciative of his understanding, and then she returned to the kitchen to assist. Of course Axel would be understanding with her; long ago, this girl had been Axel's student - one of his most promising, even -, but she'd been forced to drop out of college when she'd gotten pregnant after a party with some horrible young men. Her family had hated her at first, so Axel felt it his duty to care for her when no one else would; the two had grown very attached, but after the baby had been born, her parents had begged her to come back so they could care for her. Unfortunately, having dropped out of college ruined her aspirations of becoming a college teacher for Sociology. Now she was trapped here instead of living her dreams. Axel felt bad for her, but she seemed alright with where she was working and how her life had turned out. Axel turned back to the window, watching people run through the rain and watching cars zoom away, splashing through puddles as they moved. Axel wondered, without really thinking about it, if, perhaps, he could have some company in this lovely, cool Café.	[atrb=style, width: 100px; vertical-align: center;]
[atrb=style, background: #b2c7d6; padding: 8px; border: 2px dashed #B13E0F; -webkit-border-radius: 10px 10px 10px 10px; -moz-border-radius: 5px; opacity: 0.6] Tagged: Skell Harvey Wordcount: 1465 Notes: Axel's outfit ; 7:00pm, raining outside. Do as you wish! Credit: JADE of FD & KU

[Skell Harvey]

First week in a new town. First week with a new job. First week in practically a new life. And she was already busy with work, it seemed…

Skell perused out of her apartment and popped open a bright red umbrella. She figured she’d take the little bit of a workload she had already and get it sorted through, perhaps plan out her lectures for the week. She knew work would only pile up at an exponential rate after everyone got situated, so she better seize the free time she had to not be flustered later.

She absolutely adored the rain. Especially in a city, rain just gave a more cozy feel to everywhere around her. And especially in a coat, dress, and stockings, the rain was particularly nice to spend time with. No worries of clothing bogging her down, although wind was troublesome every now and again. But it was particularly nice to be indoor when it rained, and she thought she knew of just the place to go visit. She thought she had spied a café on her way back home one day after school… It was somewhere around here…

A couple had crossed her path, in rather a joyous state. Skell flashed a warm smile toward the two. They weren’t overly affectionate, but you could tell that they did care for each other, and it was terribly cute. As much as she was for her independence, she had a soft spot for such sights.

”Ah, there we are~” deep brown eyes lit up in the stark atmosphere as she spotted the swinging door of the café up ahead. Listening to the harsher raindrops hit her umbrella quicken, she hurried to the door and into the café.

It was welcomingly warm. The fumes from the kitchen sent a warm tingle down her spine and tickled her cheeks to blush slightly. She had never been here, but already she knew she’d grow quite fond of the place. Leaning off to the side, she shook her umbrella just out the window to rid it of how wet it was for politeness, and set it in the bucket with a couple other umbrellas.

A soft sigh escaped her lips as she took in her surroundings. There were a few free tables… perhaps she could – oh, hello.

He looks familiar…

Clutching the strap of her messenger bag, her eyes lingered on the familiar red mane of hair she spotted once or twice in her building from afar. She had never uttered a word to the familiarity, but if she was right, this man was the Sociology professor… how lucky of her! An opportunity to meet more faculty!

”Might as well give it a shot…” and with a soft smile, she walked over to the table he sat at. He was staring out the window, perhaps deep in thought. Her only hope was that she wasn’t intruding on anything, had he been waiting for someone…

”Excuse me…” she set a hand on the back of the chair across from him, ”Is someone sitting here? Mind if I join you?” If he allowed it, she’d promptly take her seat. Maybe he was completely oblivious to who she was… ”Pardon. I’m Skell. The new Criminal Justice professor at Kingdom University. You’re the Sociology professor, right?”

[axelgreysein]

A X E L ❧ G R E Y S E I N ;

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[atrb=style, padding: 5px; background: #FFFFFF; border: 2px dashed #B13E0F; -webkit-border-radius: 10px 10px 10px 10px; -moz-border-radius: 8px; opacity: 1.0]Axel watched the cars zoom by, dripping shadows that hurried past the windows of the café as though they were in a rush to escape the light that flooded from the building, only to be wiped out by the darkness of the streets. Axel, himself, prefered to walk, even in weather so stormy as this. People seemed so sheltered, so spoiled nowadays. Kids always played their games inside and never came in contact with allergens that, as young children, they could build up an immunity to, so they spent the rest of their life hacking and wheezing whenever they came in contact with it again. It was a fact; if they found a hair in their food, they'd complain and throw it out, and if it happened at a restaurant, they would throw a fit and refuse to pay or worse, they'd sue the restaurant for such "low standards". Odds are, the hair was their own, too. Axel knew that he, himself, was rather young. He wouldn't go around preaching to people to not do this and not do that or be sure to wash behind your ears and all that; however, he was entitled to his opinions and observations, and his opinion was that people should go walk in the rain more often. Movement in the corner of his eye caught Axel's attention, and a very sweet and pleasing voice of a woman met his ears. He turned quickly at the sound of it, a curious look spreading over his face to see who was addressing him, though not by name. She stood with her hand softly grasping the back of the chair across the table from him, a soft smile on her slightly rosy face. Her attire stirred up some recognition, some memory, in Axel's head. She was about five feet tall, dressed in a very unique bright red button-up coat with a pale colored dress of some kind underneath it; her hands wore black gloves, and her boots and stockings beneath her dress were black as well. Her hair, itself, was black and bore to it a lightness, a very pleasant curly style, and her eyes were nearly as dark. Oh, yes, Axel knew now that he had seen this woman before - recently, even. Though he couldn't place a finger on a name, he spread his hands out, nodding to the chair and giving the lady a warm, welcoming smile. "No one there but the air, madam," he responded, sitting up tall in his chair. "You're very welcome to join me; I love company. I have already placed an order, though." She accepted his welcome swiftly and settled herself right in the chair. Axel hadn't the time to ask who she was since she seemed so familiar, nor the time to introduce himself, and she spoke. He let out a silent breath as he listened to her intently, intertwining his fingers on the table with each palm touching the surface of it. "Pardon. I’m Skell. The new Criminal Justice professor at Kingdom University," the woman said shortly after taking her seat. Automatically recognition lit up Axel's face, his smile growing even brighter. Ah, yes, Miss Harvey! No wonder I recognized her. I wish she and I had met sooner; she already seems like a dear. A quick question followed with a slight tone of hesitance. "You’re the Sociology professor, right?” The man dipped his head deeply and replied as he straightened up, "That I am, Miss Skell Harvey; the one and only Axel Greysein of Kingdom University. Please, though, call me Axel." He extended a hand across the table to her for a handshake and offered her another bright smile. "How are the students treating you so far? Are you enjoying the campus? How are you getting along with the other staff?" He shook his head, laughing in spite of himself, and he said apologetically, "I am sorry for bombarding you with questions, miss. I mean it only in friendliness." He let his hand fall back into his lap and he watched and waited for Skell's answer with interest and patience.	[atrb=style, width: 100px; vertical-align: center;]
[atrb=style, background: #b2c7d6; padding: 8px; border: 2px dashed #B13E0F; -webkit-border-radius: 10px 10px 10px 10px; -moz-border-radius: 5px; opacity: 0.6] Tagged: Skell Wordcount: 732 Notes: Sorry it's so short! :3 Credit: JADE of FD & KU

[Skell Harvey]

He seemed like a nice guy! Taking her seat as it was welcomed for her, Skell set her messenger bag down by its legs and pulled her coat off her shoulders, allowing it to rest on the back of her chair. This revealed a white dress, simple in its entirety, but with slight lacing intricacies and sheer points along her shoulders.

”No worries that you just ordered… I wasn’t too hungry –“ And just as she uttered those words, a waitress came up to their party.

“A new friend, Mr. Greysein? What will be your order?”

This waitress seemed a sweet one, greeted by a just as sweet smile.

”I’ll have a decaf white mocha, please… and… a vegetarian omelette?”

“Would you care for any sides? Salad, toast, or potatoes?”

”Oh, potatoes, please!”

“Will do… and your order will be with you shortly!” she directed to Axel before running off. Skell redirected her gaze to the man sitting across from her, her chin propped up on the back of her laced hands. Eyes widened when he announced he knew her full name. She wasn’t sure whether or not to feel bad about it… or flattered. From all that she heard, the Sociology professor did his job quite well. Yet not enough for his name to have stuck. Maybe it’s because she never had a chance to really see his face up close. She was so much better with faces than with names…

But something told her she wouldn’t be forgetting his any time soon.

”Oh, haha, no worries…” he made her grin. That was nice, ”I understand. It’s quite nice, actually…

“The students are lovely, so far…” she thought back, giving a small laugh at remembering one particular student, ”Some are quite the flirts, though. Didn’t expect that at all…

”But the campus is beautiful as a whole. I’m quite fond of the architecture… the greenery… it’s all very lavish if you ask me. But the atmosphere as a whole is great. I feel safe, welcomed… I’ve only met one other faculty member. Believe his name was Tenshi… he’s the Psychology professor. He was nice, as well. Interesting fellow, but thought-provoking.”

Her eyes lit up with interest as she leaned forward a little, ”Well? What about yourself? Do you like the university? Your students? Faculty?” And she paused, realizing how professional this whole conversation was turning, despite the day of the week it was. So, she added further, ”And what do you like to do? Any hobbies?”

[axelgreysein]

A X E L ❧ G R E Y S E I N ;

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[atrb=style, padding: 5px; background: #FFFFFF; border: 2px dashed #B13E0F; -webkit-border-radius: 10px 10px 10px 10px; -moz-border-radius: 8px; opacity: 1.0]Skell removed her bright jacket from over her shoulders and placed it over the back of her chair. Axel waited patiently for her to finish settling into her seat before he attempted to make conversation of any sort. Once her jacket was removed a lovely, simple yet intricate white dress that Axel couldn't help but smile about; she did seem to have unique tastes in fashion, and not even the bad or sarcastic sort of unique. It was truly interesting to see how differently people dressed, and how much fashion changed and affected peoples' personalities. She said as she got comfortable that she didn't mind that he'd already ordered, and that she apparently wasn't hungry, but she was cut off as Axel's student returned to the table, her hands clasped in front of her and that ever so sweet smile lighting up her face. She greeted Miss Harvey kindly and asked for her order; apparently the Criminal Justice teacher changed her mind about not being hungry, for she ordered a white decaf mocha and a vegetarian omelet with potatoes on the side. Axel smiled at how his little outing was turning out already; first the walk around town and the campus, a rain shower, then he got to come to this amazing little café where his favorite former student was working, and he got to meet a co-worker who was also a very sweet and beautiful woman. The girl instantly memorized Skell's order and turned to Axel, promising him that he'd receive his food shortly, and then she turned giddily on her heel, strutting back to the kitchen with her head held high. Axel sighed; he was happy for her. He really was. As soon as she disappeared, Axel returned his full attention to the woman across the table, once more folding his hands against the table and relaxing in his chair. She didn't seem to mind all of his questions, and that pleased him. He'd truly hate to pry. He wasn't that kind of person - well, he tried not to be that kind of person. But she answered his questions readily, that same sweet, beaming grin on her face as she spoke of her students. They really were flirts at this school; maybe it was something in the air, but a lot of kids got hot for teacher sometime during the school year. She went on to tell of how she felt for the campus. It was good that she liked where she was working. Axel agreed wholly that the place had a sort of lavish feel - her words exactly. It was all rather extravagant, what with all the tennis courts, the soccer fields, even the little cafés inside the school; the place was one of the most expensive and extraordinary school in the world, Axel was sure. He did love the place dearly. It was homy and inviting. Most people settled in here quite well, but then others had a little more trouble because it was just too relaxing, but that was beside the point. Skell went on to speak of her experiences with staff; she'd apparently only met one other teacher at this point, one by the name of Tenshi. Axel knew Tenshi, though not well enough to make a real connection. He smiled and nodded happily and replied in his calm, relaxed voice, "That's great to hear. I'm quite fond of our campus, myself. The custodians pride themselves in keeping everything in tip-top shape. As for the teachers, I'm sure you'll meet more as the year progresses. Right now they've all delved into kicking the year off." Then, the tables turned a bit and Skell leaned forward, her dark eyes taking on an excited and interested glow; she asked him his opinion on these things. "Oh, I love my students. They're a blast to teach, especially in Controversial Social Issues. The First Years are very timid at first, but once you get them out of their shell then they shine and show that they really do have some good thoughts about life." He separated his hands and tapped his fingers on the table, pursing his lips melodramatically in thought and furrowing his red brow, then continuing on, "As for faculty, I'm happy we have such a wide variety of teachers who are so passionate about their subjects. Some teachers don't even care about their job, and that only hurts the students and their education and wastes a lot of money that they spend on coming to this prestigious place." She took a pause after her answered her questions, and then the questions became a little more personal, but not too personal so that Axel became uncomfortable. She asked about what he liked to do - his hobbies. "Well," he started with a deep breath as though it were going to be a long list that would drag on forever, "I enjoy playing volleyball in my spare time - any sport, really. I'm just an active type person. I love any time that I can get outside. The world is such a beautiful place; I think people spend too much time inside ignoring it." As he said this, there was a bright flash of lightning outside the window; he looked out and heard the roaring thunder, louder than it had been earlier in the night. The rain continued to beat down on the earth. He laughed very softly at this almost irony and looked back at Skell, continuing, "I like just being around people. I'm social. I don't know where I get it from, but it comes in handy quite often. And, this is a little less relevant, but I've always wanted a puppy." He leaned back in his chair and laughed slightly, putting his hands behind his head and taking in a deep breath, arching his back and stretching his muscles. "What about you, miss Skell? Surely you've got a life outside of this new school."	[atrb=style, width: 100px; vertical-align: center;]
[atrb=style, background: #b2c7d6; padding: 8px; border: 2px dashed #B13E0F; -webkit-border-radius: 10px 10px 10px 10px; -moz-border-radius: 5px; opacity: 0.6] Tagged: Skell Wordcount: 1042 Notes: Done! Credit: JADE of FD & KU

[Skell Harvey]

As Axel answered each of her questions, Skell really could do no more than just listen to his thoughts. He worded them nicely, as though he were presenting them on a silver platter before her. It was nice to see that he took such care in answering a newcomer’s, maybe even a “novice’s,” questions.

He mentioned his Controversial Social Issues class, and she remembered seeing that in the overall school course catalogue when signing up for classes to teach. It wasn’t available, of course, but there nonetheless to inform her of what classes were offered and available to students nonetheless. By the sound of its name alone, it seemed more than interesting. She loved talking about anything of substance with people, especially if it got you to view things from a different perspective. Life was rather drab if you viewed a picture from the same angle day after day. Hearing someone else’s thoughts were usually enlightening, and she walked away from the conversation with a great new vantage point for when she went to experience the situation in the future. Sure, sometimes the discussion would grow heated – but it’s Controversial Social Issues. That’d be expected to happen some time down the road. So long as the talk was kept civil, they would be just fine…

Definitely something for her to keep in mind for them to discuss some time later. If she even got the chance to. For now, her mouth remained shut and she attentive.

But the next couple things made her frown just ever so slightly. And it pulled her to make a remark of her own, whether just for filler or to let him know she was still paying attention to him, ”They don’t? That’s a shame… I don’t understand why you’d take a job in teaching if you weren’t committed to it… it isn’t very fair to the students. Guess I’ll know these people when I see them…”

Skell was happy to hear that Axel was an active one. The turn of conversation easily put a soft smile back on her face, and set her head to tilt girlishly in interest. About to respond to how into sports he was, she was held to bite her tongue at the rumbling thunder. Oh, thunderstorms! How absolutely beautiful… and it seemed as though she wasn’t about to leave the café any time soon…

Hope he didn’t mind the company for as long as he intended to stay there.

And then he surprised her with a rather random remark about wanting a puppy. It was adorable in its randomness, and it commanded a soft laugh from her. For some reason, he seemed more endearing after that comment. Horribly cute, even. Which was odd, for someone who had such handsome features. Or, at least, it was odd to her.

”A puppy! Oh… darling. If I wanted a dog… it’d have to be a Husky… they just have the most beautiful eyes, and they’re incredibly loyal from what I hear… but I think I may be more of a cat person. Even more so a ‘bird person’ if there were such a thing. Siamese cats are gorgeous… tabbies, too. Or black cats… cockatoos are awfully stunning. Although little birds like finches and larks are beautiful, as well. Doves… oh, the list goes on…”

As she trailed off, he popped up a question to her. At first, she merely blinked at him. She just moved here, so it wasn’t as though she had a set routine in her life. But new environments never meant leaving your old habits back at home. And as she answered him, her eyes carefully watched his movements, what seemed to be his natural and absent-minded habit of gesture. She hoped she wasn’t being too obvious.

”Well… I don’t do too much outside of the apartment, as of right now. As much as I am competitive and don’t mind a good game of a sport, I’m very much an indoor person… I love the arts, so usually I’ll indulge in them within the frames of my walls. I like to paint, to draw in general, really. Especially people. Theatre is always lovely to partake in every once in a while, as are concerts. When no one is listening I’ll sing, haha…” the last bit was meant to be a light-hearted joke; she didn’t mind too much singing absent-mindedly within the company of friends. If it was a stranger, of course she’d be very shy about it. But that’s just how many people were around new company. Especially if the company was the sort that they’d want to impress. Not that, to make this more relevant to the current situation at hand, Skell felt she needed to impress Axel. Although he was quite the charming fellow, if she had to say so herself…

”I’d like to explore the larger city around the campus, though. I’m a huge city girl. I love everything about the city. I’m especially interested in its night life. The bright lights, the interesting people, the busier streets… as much as it’s nice to kick back and relax some days, I really adore the fast-paced life of the night-scene. Know of any good places to visit at night? I don’t drink, but I like to dance.”

She must have been talking for a while, because the lovely waitress from earlier showed up with her arms skillfully adorning two plates and two mugs. Immediately Skell spotted her order, and she could only assume the other half was what Axel had ordered earlier. Giving a friendly smile and a lean-back off the table, Skell thanked the waitress as she made her stay short-lived and returned to the kitchen. Brow furrowed, brown eyes remained fixated on the dish that lay before Axel’s figure.

Just what was that?

”Uhm…” an awkward start, ”What… what are those?” She had never before seen anything quite like those. The coating of powdered sugar on them could have been a near-sucker for her to want to order them, but it was the vanilla scent that came from them that she absolutely fell in love with. It was her guilty-everything. Its scent, its flavor, its color… everything about vanilla rendered her weak to the knees. She tried to mask this surely abnormal interest by grabbing her knife and fork and inhaling to begin at the cutting away at her omelet, smiling sheepishly to herself as she just realized its portioning.

My was this place gracious… A graceful reach for the pepper, a dash of Tabasco sauce, and she was ready to go.

[axelgreysein]

A X E L ❧ G R E Y S E I N ;

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[atrb=style, padding: 5px; background: #FFFFFF; border: 2px dashed #B13E0F; -webkit-border-radius: 10px 10px 10px 10px; -moz-border-radius: 8px; opacity: 1.0]As Axel spoke, he took note of how attentive his companion was; miss Skell seemed to be a lovely woman with much to offer the world. She was respectful to those she associated with - friendly, even - and she listened with an open mind. Her face hid nothing. Every thought or emotion and agreement or disagreement played out on her gentle face with each statement that he made. With his comments about the school, he could see that she was, perhaps, slightly impressed by something he said. Perhaps it was just his devotion to his students and the school in general that so greatly intrigued her. Maybe she was just friendly and liked listening to others' stories. That did seem reasonable. She must be a rather social woman to willingly come up to him in this endearing little café and join him at his table in pleasant conversation. She seemed like an absolute doll to Axel. A more apparent display of her displeasure appeared as a frown when Axel mentioned the indifferent teachers. She seemed to agree with his words. The people who just didn't care were the kinds of people that irked Axel most of all; apathy was most definitely his pet peeve, especially when it came from adults meant to enrich the lives of countless students. College was a life-changing event. It couldn't be done haphazard - futures depended on an education. You couldn't afford to be lazy with it - or that was Axel's opinion, and he was beyond pleased that Skell shared his views. In fact, her agreement brought a happy grin onto his face. Well, she's a very sensible woman! I'm very, very pleased to have met her this fine night. As soon as the topic had changed to more personal matters, Skell had taken the smile back, once again listening intently to his own ideas. She had a tilt in his head that made Axel grin, and when she opened her mouth as if to reply, the crack of lightning and the boom of thunder caused her to hesitate, an almost fascinated and enthralled look shining in her nearly black eyes. Then, at his final comment about the puppy, he managed to extract a laugh - oh, what a darling laugh that was. Axel hoped dearly that he and miss Skell would remain friends throughout their time here; she was a darling! It was his turn, now, to listen to her attentively as she spoke; he set his elbows on the table and rested his chin against his knuckles, his deep jade eyes focused on her face. She spoke in an excited voice, and she continued to speak, saying one thing and then correcting herself or adding onto what she'd just said. He nodded with agreement when she mentioned that she'd love to have a Husky because they had amazing eyes. Indeed, Huskies were an amazing breed; they were very loyal, just as Skell had said, and they were active, just like Axel would enjoy. They'd be the kind of dog that you could hug in bed during the cold winter or relax against during the summer with your head against their side. He'd have to do some more research about dog breeds and find a breed that would fit his lifestyle the best; he'd like to get a rescued pet. Kids like his ex-student at the café could get second chances, so why shouldn't animals be able to as well? They couldn't even defend themselves - someone had to. Skell continued to speak, going on about pets. She thought she may be a cat person, or a bird person. He was pretty sure there was such a thing as a bird person. She talked of Siamese cats and tabbies and black cats and cockatoos and finches and larks and doves and Axel found himself just liking his co-worker more and more as a person as she went on. Axel replied with a laugh as he leaned back in his chair once again, "You have a very interesting taste in pets! I don't dislike cats by any means, but they just don't enjoy the same things as dogs - you can go run and swim and wrestle with a dog, but cats are much better for when you're just laying at home with a cup of cocoa watching television." He squinted thoughtfully, then grinned again. "To be honest, I'd like a pigeon. I've always liked the funny way they coo. They've been given many different awards for bravery - carrier pigeons have a good reputation. I'd like to have one of those. I'd send a letter back home to let people know how things are going here. It seems a lot more classy than an e-mail, and a bit more personal. Right? I'm actually quite a fan of so-called snail mail." He ended his response with a little chuckle, then looked at Skell, asking her about her own habits out of school. She seemed... confused, maybe. Perhaps she just had to think about it. Then again, she had just moved to Radiant Gardens before the beginning of the school year. "Well," the lady began, ”I don’t do too much outside of the apartment, as of right now. As much as I am competitive and don’t mind a good game of a sport, I’m very much an indoor person… I love the arts, so usually I’ll indulge in them within the frames of my walls. I like to paint, to draw in general, really. Especially people. Theatre is always lovely to partake in every once in a while, as are concerts." Skell smiled and laughed a little bit as she finished, "When no one is listening I’ll sing.” Axel laughed as well, smiling back at her and saying with his confident voice, "From what I can hear of your voice at this moment, miss Skell, I can assume that your voice is actually quite lovely!" He leaned forward and rested his elbows on the table and continued, "I don't think you should hide your talents from the world. You seem to have a lot to offer - namely an unexplainable enthusiasm that I wish I could harness to inspire the entire world." She went on, talking about how she'd like to explore the city, and he leaned back again. The smells from the kitchen were slowly distracting him, but he dearly wished to pay attention to miss Skell. She was a very interesting character! He thought carefully about her questions, scratching his chin for a moment as he thought, furrowing his red brow. Somewhere to dance? Well, I never thought she'd be into something like that. Axel lifted his head and replied, "Well, I know of several dance clubs around the campus, but I, personally, have never been to one in all my time here. It's just never interested me - or I've just never really had anyone to go with." His face lit up and he beamed at her. "Perhaps we can ask around and find out where the best places could go - we could explore the excitement that's city night-life at a dance club together." He could understand if she turned down his offer - to be honest, it almost seemed like he was asking her on a date. That wasn't what he was intending, really. He just wanted to go explore the city as friends since he'd never really done so on his own. He tended to get ahead of himself, though. Perhaps she'd understand. He hoped he wouldn't scare her off; he was quite fond of her already. The waitress appeared from the kitchen - oh, how skilled she was carrying their orders, a mug in each hand and a plate on each arm - and walked over to them, that same beaming grin on her face that had been there after she'd left with Skell's order. She set the mugs down first and the plates followed, and with one final smile to her former teacher and his companion, she whirled around and danced back through the café to wait once more in the kitchen. Axel sighed happily, pleased that he'd chosen to come here; the cream puffs were exactly the way he liked them, a little bit cool in the middle. Just as Axel was about to pick up on of the bite-size puffs in his hand, there was a soft mumble from Skell that startled him slightly. He looked up and blinked. "What... what are those?"

[/i] she asked curiously, gazing at them with a hungry expression. She seemed very... well, interested. He grinned again and answered, putting his hands in his lap, "They're cream puffs! Little flaky pastry things with nice, cool vanilla cream in the middle and a bit of powdered sugar over the top. They're absolutely amazing - I get them every time I come here." He grabbed the edge of his plate, pushing it a little bit towards her. "You're more than welcome to help yourself to some!" On the plate sat ten - never enough, but he usually resisted getting a second plate.[/div][/td]

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Tagged: Skell
Wordcount: 1602
Notes: ...
Credit: JADE of FD & KU

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[Skell Harvey]

He was much more engaged in their conversation than Skell had anticipated – and she loved it. Her day outside could have started off quite horribly had his answer to her question to join him at the table been any different. Hell, her entire relationship with the rest of staff could have been bent as far as her attempts went had he been sour or short with her. But, to the pleasant contrary, Axel was a sociable guy – as he had stated earlier. A wonder lingered, however, as to whether or not he treated all newcomers like this. Perhaps he just truly was such a good-natured person.

Maybe his role as a Sociology professor influenced his social behavior. She wouldn’t be surprised. Her studies in Criminal Justice have influenced her approach to individuals and thoughts on society, however minute.

”Mmm… yes, felines are certainly more fitting to a calmer atmosphere. But perhaps that’s just what I need… when I’m outside of the comfort of my own home, I’d love for a soothing atmosphere. Not that dogs cannot provide that. I’m sure they can. But,” she giggled at the thought, ”… my size would make wrestling with dogs quite concerning.” For a moment, she leaned back and flickered her eyes down the bit of figure she could see before the table interfered, ”What are you? Six feet tall?” Her face melted into a more neutral expression, a cute smile. The last thing she wanted right now was to come across as though she were checking out a fellow colleague. No matter how handsome his features…

But he was certainly pulling at her strings. They had so much in common, it was slightly suspicious.

”So you’re a fan of snail mail, too? I try to keep in touch with friends here and there with letters… I’ve never used a carrier pigeon, though. I am fond of them, though. You see a pigeon, you know there’s a city nearby…”

A light blush coated her cheeks when he complimented her voice, her eyes widening slightly and shifting to focus on him and only him. It rendered her slightly speechless, such a comment as flattering as that. And he went on… this man certainly knew how to charm. Whether he was conscious of it or not. Skell wondered how many people he has been able to charm in the past so easily and with such seamless effort. Maybe he was a specific sort of social persona. The sort of flirtatious bug that fluttered about, doing its unique dance that facilitated the wooing of unsuspecting others.

And then – what was this? That definitely sounded like… did he just?

”Haha, are you asking me out on a date…?” she chuckled, eyes averted down to her nails playing with each other. Even if he did this to everyone, she ashamedly enjoyed the attention. Skell wasn’t one to be so open to such invitations – especially when she knew the person for no more than an hour! In fact, she usually shied away or flat out rejected such requests. Either the feeling was solely platonic, or she perceived the other in a negative light.

But what if he just was genuinely being nice?

”I’m only teasing!” she covered, looking back up at him, a hand brushing back a lock behind one ear and twirling a finger about another, ”… I’d love to go. When is convenient for you? I prefer earlier in the semester before things get overly busy. If you aren’t sure now, I could give you my number, or – oh! You can just knock on my door to talk, I have no problem with that.” She paused, lingering on his reasons for not having gone before, ”Do you not dance, Axel?”

She poked her fork at her deliciously smelling omelet before her, slicing it with the side of her fork to cut a piece she could easily fit into her mouth. As she chewed, her gaze warmed as he described the sweets he ordered, smiling wider when he pushed his plate toward her in an offer. He was just too nice…

Finishing her mouthful, she replied with, ”Oh, no no… go ahead. I have my dish to finish…” She knew what it felt like to have an act of kindness go unaccepted, so she was sure to follow up with, ”But, if I have enough room when I’m done with this, surely…”

And she continued on with her omelet, sure to look at him only when she thought appropriate. Some people did not appreciate being stared at as they ate. Made them feel awkward.

If he stared at her, she’d definitely feel bashful. What a weird effect such a stranger had…

[axelgreysein]

A X E L ❧ G R E Y S E I N ;

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[atrb=style, padding: 5px; background: #FFFFFF; border: 2px dashed #B13E0F; -webkit-border-radius: 10px 10px 10px 10px; -moz-border-radius: 8px; opacity: 1.0]Axel listened more intently than he had ever thought possible when Skell responded to his opinion of pets with her own opinion that ended up becoming a little giggle; she spoke of how she might like a cat because of its need for a calmer atmosphere, and then she mentioned that, though she imagined a dog could provide the same feel, she couldn't wrestle because she was petite. He laughed his characteristic little laugh with her. His idea of pets didn't seem to conflict with her ideas, which was good. Why was it so good? The thought occurred to Axel that he rarely got off to such a seemingly perfect start with one of his co-workers. Generally the first meeting was very... professional. If they met as teachers, and that was how teachers seemed to meet, then they would only find themselves able to discuss things as two faculty members would discuss things in an educational meeting. This was one of the first times when an entirely professional meeting had become social; both seemed to leap at the opportunity to make a new friend, and already their relationship - as friends, that is - seemed promising. Axel watched Skell as she leaned back, a confused look glimmering over the surface of his shining emerald eyes. She looked him, or what she could see of him, over for a moment with those dark eyes of hers, and then she spoke. "What are you? Six feet tall?" Well, that had come out of left field. The man laughed, a smile spreading over his face. "On the dot, miss Skell," he responded, making a light and playful clap with his hands before setting them casually back on the surface of the table. "I'm impressed. How'd you figure that out just by looking at me?" Her face had melted into something less focused, something more... Oh, what's the word... yes. Cute. Miss Skell's face is very cute. The thought brought the tiniest pink onto his finely angled cheeks. This certainly did seem like a date they were on. Still, Axel assured himself that first meetings could seem a lot like a date; it was all about getting to know someone you think could be worth being friends with, and miss Skell certainly seemed worth his time. He was really quite impressed with the way this was going, though it was a bit amusing to watch as the two took turns blushing, blinking, looking away, or changing the subject. Like two little hummingbirds, both wanting the share the same feeder but not wanting the others to know they've got the same ideas in mind. Cute. He nodded as she spoke of snail mail, as they called it. Compared to hundreds of years ago, what techno-paths of today called snail mail had been a lot more like cheetah mail. It was certainly easier than walking hundreds of miles to deliver it yourself - and the person receiving the letter was the one who had to pay the money instead of the one who'd sent the letter. My, oh, my how things changed. Like Axel, Skell made attempts to keep in touch with her friends. It seemed that the both of them preferred the more classic way of life. Though it certainly took more time to write out a letter, fold it perfectly, put it in the envelope, stamp it, and put it in the mailbox, Axel felt it was worth it. Letters just said "you're worth the extra time and effort for me to make our conversations more personal." Skell had never used a carrier pigeon before. In truth, neither had Axel, but that didn't stop him from wanting to have a pet one. That broad, dashing smile of his appeared on his face once more and he told her, a slight laugh on his voice, "The day I get a carrier pigeon, I'll write you a letter telling you I've got one, and I'll send it to you with my pigeon." Miss Skell certainly seemed to like her cities; her love of pigeons only furthered this idea that Axel had received. "When I get a pigeon, will you help me name it? You're interested in the arts; perhaps you know of a less well known artist I can name it after." At Axel's compliment of her voice - a very sincere compliment, indeed! - her face turned red, and he, himself, couldn't keep from going slightly pink again, but that grin stayed on his face; he'd meant what he said, by all means. Her voice was lovely, like music to his ears, and he was certain that, if she were to sing, it wouldn't just be music to his ears: it would be music to his heart. That's what music really was. It wasn't a beat. It wasn't a pitch or a note. It wasn't about the phrasing or the rhymes or the language. It didn't matter whose voice it was; if your heart thought it was music then you knew that was so. Music was about soul and an idea - your idea -, not about what the fans say and who the artist is talking about. Or, at least, that was Axel's opinion. Skell only furthered his opinion by blushing without responding, and though he wished to fill the silence that made the woman only that much more enjoyed by Axel, he could think of no words to say that wouldn't ruin the moment. And then he decided to ask her out to dance. Really, it was a bold move, even for him; he tended not to plan so far into the future, but considering the span of one's life, what was really a "long time"? All he really cared about was how Skell was going to respond. She suddenly chuckled, "Are you asking me out on a date?" To be honest, Axel didn't even know, but his question could turn out in many different ways, as far as Axel could see. First off, she could be repulsed and straight up deny him with no consideration of his feelings - something which, he was almost certain, Skell wouldn't do. Second, she could toy with the idea for a little bit, then turn it down either because she felt it was unprofessional of them as teachers to date or because she just didn't feel ready. That was more likely. Third, she could toy with the idea and say yes, but only if they didn't say it was a date, and Axel was fine with that. He hadn't exactly intended for it to sound like a date, but friends went on dates too, didn't they? Sure, most people just called it "hanging out" or "getting together", but really, what was wrong with a date? Fourth, though, was an option he, secretly, liked better, and that was that she squealed with delight and said absolutely. Of course, that was the one he expect the least out of all of them, even less than he expected her to completely and instantaneously deny him. Watching her, her eyes fixed on her nails with that instant of silence in the air, was the longest moment Axel had ever endured. She looked up suddenly and lifted one hand to brush her black hair behind an ear, and she told him she was teasing. Then, the relief. She'd love to go. To be honest, Axel was pretty sure he could have smoothed his way out of that topic if things had gone south. He was good at making bad things get better. Now came the planning part. When would be convenient for him? She preferred earlier in the semester, it seemed. He still had to ask around to find the best place to go; he wasn't going to take Skell to some crack-house because he didn't know where any good dances were. He could ask some of his students, but that might seem a little... weird. Wouldn't it? And he didn't want a rumor going around that he and miss Skell were dating. They were just friends going out to a dance. Wow. Everyone uses that excuse. By the end of the night, someone ends up either heartbroken or the happiest person alive. Somehow, it wasn't a risk Axel wanted to take; he'd do all in his power to ensure that he didn't let Skell be heartbroken by him. They were friends and, for now and maybe forever, that was all. He replied, "Maybe in two or three weeks. I'll have time to look around and go check out some of the local ones, maybe one in the more glamorous part of the city. I want to find a good one with as few frequent drunks as possible." She told him that if he wasn't sure now then she could give him her number. That or he could just go to her home and knock on her door. He laughed a little at that. "To be honest, I'd feel a little strange going over to your home unannounced. Perhaps I could have your number so I can call you before I decide to wander over to your house." Now that he thought about it, that seemed a smooth way to get both a girl's number and her address. He was certain he seemed like he was trying to date her now. He was grateful when the opportunity for a slight subject change came along. "Do you not dance, Axel?" Skell asked him curiously after a little pause. To be honest, that was a good question. "No, no, I dance. Just..." He laughed, interrupting himself. He shook his head and started again. "I dance, but I tend to just do it at home when something comes on the radio and I feel like I've just gotta do a little jig or something to it. I've never had anyone with me at a dance to tell me if I dance alright. I suppose I don't go because I'm afraid I'll make a fool of myself. Then again, if I just think of all the drunk people who've tried to dance before, I'm sure I'd feel better about my own dancing." He smirked, in spite of himself. "At least I don't trip over tables. That's always a plus." Really, that wasn't the reason why he hadn't gone dancing before. He just didn't want to be alone when he went out to dance. He just got a bit lonely on his own, sometimes. Really, if he wanted to, he could get over it, but he decided not to when it came to dancing because, really, dancing was only fun on your own if you were going out to get a chick to take home, and that had never been Axel's style. If he was going to bring a girl home, it'd be someone he knew, someone he invited home for fun, not because she was a girl he wanted to have "fun" with. Again, it wasn't his style. He was independently dependent, or dependently independent. The last one was probably right. For a moment, he watched Skell bite at her omelet as he awaited her offer for cream puffs. He nodded with acceptance once she told him that she had to finish her dish and he pulled the plate back towards him, grabbing a cream puff between his two fingers and letting his other arm drape over his lap. He rolled the puff around in his fingers for a moment before shrugging and popping the treat into his mouth. He chewed it thoughtfully, leaning back in his chair as he did so and then looking out the window into the rain that was steadily growing heavier and colder. It was fun, watching the people rush about in the rain, covering their heads with whatever they could use - a hood, an umbrella, a newspaper, anything. It was funny because they'd likely be just as wet when they got home as they would have been without something to cover them. Oh, the wonders of modern society. Axel swallowed and turned back to the table. He grabbed another cream puff, then hesitated and looked at Skell. She was in between bites. "How is that, anyways? The omelet, I mean. I don't remember ever getting one from here before."	[atrb=style, width: 100px; vertical-align: center;]
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[Skell Harvey]

Her own laugh mingled with his in the air when she found out her guess was right, ”Oh, really? You know, it was entirely a guess. I figured you’d have to be taller than in the five-foot range… you just have that sort of sculpt to you, you know?” A blush. Had she just said that? Man, did it ever sound like she was checking him out, ”I mean – if you were any shorter, I figured it would look a bit off… not that… you could look off – I mean -- !” A laugh of pure embarrassment followed her scramble for words, ”Ooh… forget it.” A dismissive wave of the hand swept out as her other hand cupped her chin up, palm and fingers covering most of her mouth and tapping at the tip of her nose.

Just listen… don’t talk… stop embarrassing yourself… what a way to first meet a coworker. Good going, Skell.

Axel somehow had a grip on Skell’s composure, and he probably didn’t know it. His words could easily play on her emotions and expressions, his most recent one of the sending messages causing her to shrink back behind the veil of her hand a tad bit more. What a cute gesture of him…

”I would love a letter. They’re always nice to receive. Great pick-me-ups for the occasional bad day,” then the gentleman proposed she helped name the pigeon. And he was clear to make the distinction that the name be of an artist that wasn’t well known. Pulling away from her cover and cocking a brow, she inquired, ”Less well known, hm? You would like your pet to serve as a flying advertisement? Haha… sure… I’ll help you name it. Try to get a male – they’re less fussy I’m sure.”

All the while between their constant exchanges of ever-moving topics, Skell observed his demeanor and how he held himself. He was a confident man. Axel lifted his head with the air of someone who was not the least bit shy, but probably had a gauge of what would be inappropriate to say. Maybe if she were any other girl, he would not have been so lucky as to get away with some of the questions he asked her. Why, if a stranger were to survey the two, he would have to be both deaf and blind to fail to see the playful flirtations being volleyed back and forth. Her blushing and rendered speechlessness, his grinning and engaged stare, both obvious signs of at least enjoyment of company.

And indeed, she quite enjoyed his company. Perhaps too much too soon. There was something magnetic about his personality. Something that just made her want to spend more time with him to learn more about him. Something that made her want to pry even deeper into that charming character of his.

But wow, was she surprised at how taken she was already. He must just be a charmer to everyone. Yes, he must.

”Do you not drink?” A nod preceded the comment as she made a mental note of when to expect an invitation from him to go dancing – if he were, indeed, to follow through with all this. He voiced his concerns and she respected them, politely obliging, ”But of course. I’ll give it to you… in a bit.”

Two had to play at this game. After she’d made a good effort through her food. She was much hungrier than she had thought, already getting through a quarter of her omelet and a good portion of her potatoes. As she ate, she listened intently to the gentleman describe his dancing behavior. It made her smile as she ate, averting her eyes down to her plate as the corners wrinkled from how genuinely he made her smile. He was awfully endearing…

”Oh, Axel. I’m sure you dance just fine… so long as you’re having fun, and you’re in good company – even if you’re the world’s worst dancer – it really doesn’t matter. Not going to lie, though. It is a plus if you know how to dance, for one reason or another.” She wasn’t about to go into what those reasons were. No, she was being quite the tease now. This happened every once in a while when she was comfortable with the people that surrounded her. That smirk that danced onto his face enticed her further, but pulled her into a giggle at the same time. A curled hand went in front of her mouth to cover it shyly just in case there were remnants of food. She even turned away slightly, suddenly self-conscious about how she appeared to her company.

This was odd… she never really was self-conscious before.

Relaxing back to a state where she could consume food again without the worry of choking, she proceeded to finish about half of the food on her plate. There was a slow and what-felt-like-long moment that sat between them from when she rejected his offer for a cream puff to when he decided to speak up again. She had noticed that his gaze was out toward the people on the outside, trying to get out of the rain. The café itself at this time was much busier than when she first arrived. It was warm, cozy, bustling. She loved it.

”It’s quite delicious, actually… you’re more than welcome to try some! At least a potato slice. They aren’t dry or anything…” And now it was her turn to gently scoot her dish forward enough to be clear she didn’t mind if he prodded at her food. Something told her she would not mind sharing most things with him, actually…

[axelgreysein]

A X E L ❧ G R E Y S E I N ;

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[atrb=style, padding: 5px; background: #FFFFFF; border: 2px dashed #B13E0F; -webkit-border-radius: 10px 10px 10px 10px; -moz-border-radius: 8px; opacity: 1.0]Skell and he both laughed after she had correctly guessed his height. She told him that that's all it was: a guess. Of course, she'd had to use some figuring in order to get an idea of how tall he might be. It's not like she could - or would - just walk up to him and measure his height with a tape measure she just happened to carry around. That would be odd. Then she commented that he just had that sort of sculpt - the sculpt of a six-foot man? he thought, a tad amused - and then his grin widened when Skell began to blush. She began to fluster herself, stumbling over words to try to come up with some excuse or honest reason for why she'd been looking at him and sizing him up. He held his hands up in a calming, "chill out" gesture, his smile going from amused to an understanding look. "Hey, Skell, don't worry about it. I know what you mean. Or, at least, I think I do." She waved off the topic dismissively and he leaned back in his chair, feeling a bit of pity for the woman. It's not like he'd never jumbled his words before; it was kind of adorable. That thought was a bit out of line, he had to admit. He was happy he hadn't said it aloud; the two of them had only just met, and despite that Skell and Axel both had a lot in common, they were only new friends, and friends they would remain until he was sure the time was right. After all, there were complications with the school's code of conduct for teachers that would interfere with their unlikely relationship... Why am I even thinking about this? For God's sake, Axel, get a grip. He kept his outward composure very well, keeping that same attentive stare on his face and that smile slightly upturned at the corner of his mouth. He had no right to be thinking anything about Skell other than what she'd already told him. Maybe - maybe - someday they'd get to know each other well enough for him to consider those things, but for now - Oh, damn it, Axel. Just drop it and pay attention. He instantly forced the topic to leave his mind and returned his attention to Skell. She said how she'd love a letter since they were such good pick-me-ups; that certainly was true. It was just exciting to go to the mailbox and see an envelope with your name on it. It was great to know that someone was thinking of you - well, when the letter wasn't spam or an advertisement or something. Then it was just rather annoying. But coupon books were nice every once in a while. Not that he'd let anyone else know he felt that way; coupons, for whatever reason, seemed girly or something to other gentlemen. If they wanted to pay four dollars for a gallon of milk then that was their business, but he'd rather by two for the same price. That wasn't the point, though. Skell mulled over his query for her to help him with finding a name for his potential pet carrier pigeon. She suggested that he get a male pigeon since they were probably a little less fussy than female pigeons. "I may have to do some research about carrier pigeons. I don't know enough about them to really be a good owner right now. I have time, though," he told her with a short nod. "I think I'd like a boy pigeon, though. I wonder where I can buy one. Do you think Down The Rabbit Hole, the local pet store, has carrier pigeons?" Skell asked him if he drank. "Eh," he started off with a shrug, "I'm not really a drinker. I've never done much more than take a sip or two of beer and tried some wine. It's just not something that I'm into, especially seeing how people tend to act once they've had too much. I don't want to end up making a fool of myself or hurting anybody." That was true. He didn't know what kind of drunk he was and he didn't want to find out. That was just the way it was. He was happy when she told him she'd give him her number, but he still found it a little pushy and awkward that he'd asked it in the first place. The way that she said she'd do it later made sense, but it still made him feel as though he'd asked too soon, like his point hadn't been properly made or he'd been too pushy with his question. He knew, however, that this wasn't the case, or he dearly hoped that it wasn't. He didn't want to chase away one of the only teachers he'd made real contact with this year - though, in all fairness, it was only the first week. Sure, he'd have time to make more friends and get closer to teachers as the year progressed, but Skell was different. This was the closest he'd gotten to any teacher, really, especially in such a short amount of time. ”Oh, Axel. I’m sure you dance just fine… so long as you’re having fun, and you’re in good company – even if you’re the world’s worst dancer – it really doesn’t matter. Not going to lie, though. It is a plus if you know how to dance, for one reason or another.” Skell's voice rang in his ears. He was happy to hear that she felt so sure he'd be a good dancer. Now both had complimented the other's music-related talents - he her singing and she his dancing - without having any clue as to what their talents actually were. He grinned. "Yeah, and that's why I want to go to a dance with you; you're as good as company gets." Oh, that wasn't a flirt and a half or anything. His grin got a little sheepish as he continued on smoothly and casually, not letting her comment on his blunder - he hoped he didn't come off as rude for that. "I always wanted to take a dancing class of some sort. Like ballroom dancing. I mean, I don't really know where I could use ballroom dancing, but still. I think it would help me with other dances if I got the more complicated things down. Just my opinion." He folded his hands together and set his elbows on the table, glancing down at his plate of cream puffs and once again contemplating taking another treat. He decided to wait as he noticed Skell turn away slightly, looking slightly embarrassed. The man raised an eyebrow but said nothing, just leaning back and giving her an understanding nod and a sweet smile, looking out the window so as to allow her more privacy to eat her omelet since she was clearly so shy of eating and smiling and talking when in his company. After his query about the taste of the omelet, Skell replied that she rather enjoyed the flavor, and then she did the same as Axel had done earlier with his cream puffs: she gently pushed her plate towards her company, offering him a bite of anything on her plate. Good, so she wasn't really a germaphobe or anything. That was good; Axel was a very sanitary man, anyways. He turned back to the table, eying the omelet for a moment before picking up the fork on the napkin near to the window and taking one slice of potato. He ate it slowly, chewed on it, rolled it over his tongue, trying to decide if he liked it - and like most things about this place, he did like it. The potato really was quite flavorful. He swallowed and grinned. "Thank you very much, miss Skell. I've found something new I like. I'll let you enjoy more of your food before I attempt to steal more." This was followed with a very soft, deep chuckle, and then he turned his attention to the mug that was placed only a short distance from his plate of cream puffs. He grabbed it by the handle and brought it to his lips, enjoying the taste of the iced white chocolate mocha. It was very much like he remembered. He set the cup down and licked the whipped cream off his lips before quickly eating another cream puff and waiting for Skell's response.	[atrb=style, width: 100px; vertical-align: center;]
[atrb=style, background: #b2c7d6; padding: 8px; border: 2px dashed #B13E0F; -webkit-border-radius: 10px 10px 10px 10px; -moz-border-radius: 5px; opacity: 0.6] Tagged: Skell Wordcount: 1493 Notes: ... Credit: JADE of FD & KU

[Skell Harvey]

Upon a rather bashful visage, Skell cast a warm smile for Axel as her eyes shifted back and forth, from her plate to his comforting expression. ”… Wonderful.” A soft laugh trailed afterward, filling up the silent void between them.

A bit of her wondered just what he meant by his understanding – how was he to decipher what she meant? Well, except for the obvious. That eyes will naturally rest on an appealing figure, and observe even from a distance. Although, people who are striking in a different fashion got just as much attention for the exact opposite reason. But surely he knew he wasn’t on that end of the spectrum… She frowned slightly in vain. Before she had sat down to talk to this lovely gentleman, Skell’s thoughts on him were just that he was a handsome fellow, and most likely out of her status to speak to. Lucky she took the chance to test her theory out and proved it wrong, but it was at the cost of realizing faulty character in herself. Well, better she catch it on her own than to have Axel point it out to her. That’d be absolutely dreadful…

Why do I even care what he thinks?[/i] It could be knowing that her coworkers may have a decent level of respect for her, respect that she’s earned. But she thought back at her brief meeting with Tenshi, and wondered if it would matter any more what he thought about her than what this Redhead thought.

”Well… I wouldn’t be the best person to ask. I don’t know of very many pet stores that do carry carrier pigeons. But it’s worth a shot, right? I’ll know if they do the day I get a letter from you, I suppose. Hehe…” A visit to the pet shop wouldn’t be half a bad idea. She’d love to see if they maybe had a Siamese cat she could look into. Or a cockatoo. Those birds are absolutely beautiful, from their mannerisms to their pristine white feathers.

Then they touched a topic not as pristine. Skell gave another warm smile and straightened her posture, poking at her food with her fork, getting a potato slice to stick. She was impressed with how honest he was being with her – unless she was expecting him to be just too good of a person.

”You’re a good guy… I haven’t touched my lips to liquor, actually. But I have seen what it does to people. Some people have fun with it. Others become a bit more friendly, others abusive. But, really, I just can’t stand the smell…” at the thought, she wrinkled her nose, immediately stuffing her mouth with a sizable chunk of omelet and potato to drown out the imagined odor.

The thought went away as quickly as it had come when he flattered her once more by commenting on what good company she was, and even as far as to mention it within the context of a dancing scene. Now, if that wasn’t a strong mark of flirtation, she wasn’t sure just what it could be. She caught him, though, and cast him a striking look, lips curled up in a pursed, wide smile, conscious of the food still in her mouth. And before she could comment, he quickly moved on to something that was less, well, them-centered. Usually when men tried to flirt with her right off the bat, she found it in great distaste. But she didn’t mind the behavior so much from this fine man. He was quite smooth, and spoke with a genuine air.

And she hoped she came across as genuine when her face lit up at the mention of ballroom dancing, ”Is that something you’re really interested in? Oh! I’ve been trying to find a class for ages, but there’s always the trouble of finding someone to dance with, too. Usually the class is filled with other women. Not that I’m opposed to homosexual relationships or anything – I just like the traditional image of a suave man moving smoothly with a hopefully just as graceful lady across the floor, you know? So… if you find something…” she paused, just staring at those sparkling emeralds for a moment. Despite how bright they were, she was absolutely warmed by them, ”… let me know~?”

She watched him as he accepted the offer and had at a potato, observing him intently, finding something fascinating with how his expression changed with every slight movement of his mouth. She pulled her eyes away.

Skell, you’re being incredibly inappropriate now. Don’t be so vain. This is friendly conversation – get a grip![/i]

A sudden satiation met her as she finished off the omelet, but a few potato slices left. A passive sigh escaped her lips, and she rolled her neck slightly, leaning back in her seat with a reach for her mug. The hot vapor from it tickled her already pink cheeks from their flirtatious banter, and she closed her eyes to take in its warmth as she took a sip. Absolutely wonderful…

”Consider what’s mine is yours. I don’t mind sharing with you.”
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[axelgreysein]

A X E L ❧ G R E Y S E I N ;

[atrb=cellSpacing,10,true][atrb=border,0,true][cs=2][atrb=style, background: url(http://i53.tinypic.com/wt84yh.jpg); width: 485px, bTable][atrb=style,-moz-border-radius: 15px; border-radius: 15px;,true]
[atrb=style, padding: 5px; background: #FFFFFF; border: 2px dashed #B13E0F; -webkit-border-radius: 10px 10px 10px 10px; -moz-border-radius: 8px; opacity: 1.0]Skell returned a smile to Axel as he made his rather pathetic attempt to calm her down. His emerald eyes shimmering pleasantly, he watched her as, shyly, she glanced from her plate to his face and back again. Really, if the word adorable didn't describe their interactions this fine evening then nothing did - really, even adorable didn't do it justice, but kawaii is a little, well, foreign. Anyone watching the two might absolutely mistake them for being on a date. They were certainly behaving like a couple, exchanging little compliments and flirts and casting each other coy little glances, sharing food and stories and everything. Skell said with a little giggle, "Wonderful." Then the two went off to their own thoughts, making their opinions and realizations and such without a word about it. It was likely that they both knew that they were flirting like school kids, but it didn't seem to deter them from the behavior. It was much too enjoyable. There was, indeed, a silence that filled several moments, and in those moments, Axel thought much the same thought that Skell had thought: How do I understand what she was trying to say? Really, years in Sociology and Psychology classes all taught him, rather well, how to read people - he didn't abuse the ability, but it naturally came into play. And it didn't really take a behavioral expert to know that you naturally tend to look at people, to examine their every feature, physical and all, and try to figure out who they are and what they look like on your own. Even Axel fell prey to this; he had caught himself several times during the meal, examining her features - her rich curly black hair, her eyes that seemed almost black in the warm light of the café, her flawless face, her peculiarly interesting and eye-catching attire, the way she carried herself when she moved and how she worded everything she said, so carefully... these were the things he noticed. He kept his wits about him, though. He kept himself from staring hard and making a fool of himself or making the meeting seem awkward. He felt a little dumb, though, as Skell answered to his question about whether or not the pet store might have carrier pigeons. She hasn't been in town this long, idiot, he berated himself silently, keeping that sweet smile on his face as she continued to speak. She said she supposed she'd know if they had carrier pigeons if she got a surprise letter from him. He grinned. Wouldn't that be a pleasant surprise, indeed? Perhaps the two of them could visit Down the Rabbit Hole someday soon and look through all of the animals. Wouldn't that be fun? He was thinking much too far ahead, though. After all, they'd just met; though they'd hit it off surprisingly well, there was no promise that they'd be friends a couple days from now, let alone a couple weeks. Still, something told him they'd be in touch for quite a while. They had to be; they had so much in common! In response to Axel's comments about drinking, Skell said, ”You’re a good guy…" Sometimes Axel didn't feel that way, but he was happy she thought so. "I haven’t touched my lips to liquor, actually. But I have seen what it does to people. Some people have fun with it. Others become a bit more friendly, others abusive. But, really, I just can’t stand the smell…” At that, Skell wrinkled her nose a bit, and Axel couldn't help but let out a soft chuckle. He said nothing, and Skell picked up a piece of potato in order to rid herself of what Axel assumed was the smell of alcohol - he knew what that was like sometimes. You think of a smell or a taste or something and it absolutely sickens you, so you just eat something else to wipe that odor or flavor out of your head. The human mind was a very strange thing. Axel was pleased when the conversation switched from alcohol and the way people behaved when influenced by it to the topic of dancing of any sort - chacha, salsa, foxtrot, anything. She seemed to agree; he could tell by the way her face lit up with excitement, her dark eyes taking on a catching spark. He was glad they shared yet another common interest! She exclaimed excitedly, "Oh! I’ve been trying to find a class for ages, but there’s always the trouble of finding someone to dance with, too. Usually the class is filled with other women." Again Axel chuckled as she began to fumble over her words about how she wasn't a homophobe; neither was Axel, but dancing with a guy just didn't seem the same. She seemed to agree: "I just like the traditional image of a suave man moving smoothly with a hopefully just as graceful lady across the floor, you know? So… if you find something…” There was a pause and Axel looked at her face, deep into her brown eyes that seemed to seek his own eyes, and then she finished, a sincere look on her face that made Axel's belly twist and his heart suddenly beat faster, "let me know?" He swallowed and took a deep breath, the charming smile lighting up as a dazzling feature again, and he replied, "Absolutely, miss Skell. There isn't a girl in the world who I'd rather dance with." And that was the truth. It may be because he didn't know that many other girls, or it may be because Skell was special. She was different. Teachers were teachers, but Skell... she was something new. Something Axel had never experienced before in his entire life. Whatever emotion she was instilling in him right now, he didn't want it to go away. Ever. The way she watched him, so intrigued by ever move he made... though peculiar, it was new. It was... flattering. She looked away and he, too, looked down at his plate of cream puffs, snatching one up and popping it in, hoping to distract himself. Skell let out a soft sigh and Axel looked up, curious to see what would cause her to breathe so heavily, and then he smiled as he saw most of her meal disappeared. "Well, I see you're done with that. If you're not too full, my offer for a cream puff or five still stands." He flashed her another of his broad grins and once more pushed the plate towards her. He leaned back in his own chair as she had done moments prior, and he snatched his mug of a white chocolate mocha in his hands, taking a sip of his own. He set the cup on the table and motioned to it. "You're more than welcome to try this as well. I'm not a germaphobe or anything." And then she said exactly what was on his mind. ”Consider what’s mine is yours. I don’t mind sharing with you.”	[atrb=style, width: 100px; vertical-align: center;]
[atrb=style, background: #b2c7d6; padding: 8px; border: 2px dashed #B13E0F; -webkit-border-radius: 10px 10px 10px 10px; -moz-border-radius: 5px; opacity: 0.6] Tagged: Skell Wordcount: 1233 Notes: ... Credit: JADE of FD & KU

[Skell Harvey]

Honestly, her heart was melting bit by bit with every second that passed by between them. It was like a scene from an adorable movie, or a chapter that you wanted to read over and over in a book about a first encounter. Something so sweet, felt so right; something that just made you smile when you observed it. Something that made you glow when you were in it…

Amidst the silence she had played with her food and teetered upon glancing at the wondrous figure before her, stealing a glance whenever she could see fit and sly. It made it more fun and exciting for her when he had no idea she was looking at him. She had an inkling of a feeling he was observing her every now and again, and the thought only made her cheeks redden more. If she would look in the mirror, she’d be quite surprised at her complexion, as this had not happened at all in the past. She thought her cheeks were incapable of such color transformations. Instead, she was quite surprised and flustered when his eyes flickered up to hers. Contemplating shifting her gaze away, she gave in to holding a moment’s gaze at him, smiling sweetly with her eyes in slight bashfulness before looking back down to her mug, taking a light sip for the sake of being busy.

Breaking away from the pristine mug, she’d give her light-hearted comments about the pigeon and watch that charming smile dance across his face. That grin in the slight smirk that it was could make her swoon in a moment. Her heart surely fluttered once he gave it to her. Skell really hoped she’d see him soon enough in the future, and quite often, too. She was growing fond of the feelings welling up inside her, it’d be such a shame if she’d have to witness it go. In a place she was new and foreign to, this moment made everything feel so welcoming. Cozy. Yes, cozy would be a very good word for it. And warm…

And she felt even warmer with their eyes locked as they were, as his attention seemed hinged on her completion of her sentence. Her request. That if he found anything close to what they were talking about, a ballroom dancing class, to promptly sign her up with him. And she relished in the reaction she pulled from him. She noticed the slight shift in his neck denoting a swallow, and the air he commanded before that charm sat on his face with those pearly whites beaming once more. And then that velvety voice of his, holding on to every word as it came out from his mouth.

And he had her in his grasps once more. Her heart fluttered at the comment. She was absolutely taken. My, did this man know how to talk up a lady. A wide, flattered smile crept slowly onto her face, and instead of her eyes darting away in their usual bashfulness, she held his stare.

He really had the most stunning eyes she had ever seen. Really, this moment made her wish she knew Axel better. It was reflective of that moment in a movie where the couple, probably after knowing each other for months or so, had a moment where they just connected. All of a sudden, everything fell perfectly into place, and they just knew this was meant to be. That this was perfect. The couple was already close enough to probably lean into each other. And then the couple would mutually lean in closer to each other for at least a warm embrace, and maybe a kiss… a kiss…

A kiss? Oh my, Skell. You’re absolutely lost in this boy…

Her eyes meandered from those gorgeous jades of his to his hairline, around the frame of his face to admire the teardropped markings on his cheeks. Further down those wondrously sculpted cheek bones of his along that strong jaw. Then back up across his chin to rest on those two lips of his. Those lips. Those lips…

Before he notices! Look away! Do something![/i]

So she sat up and gave a small stretch, eyes shifting to look out the window. It was still storming quite heavily out there, and the streets had become more or less empty because of it. The perfect ambiance. Made everything all the more cozy.

And then words of reciprocation slipped, ”And there isn’t a guy in the world whose company I’d rather have…” but perhaps it was pushing for a bit more. It went beyond the boundary of just dancing, and pushed into everything outside of just the arts. It pushed into moments like now, sitting down and conversing with someone. Anyone. The person sitting across from her could be the most prestigious man to have ever existed, and he wouldn’t be able to hold a light to the torch that Axel held. She really didn’t want this moment to end. She would give anything just to sit and enjoy this wonderful evening with this wonderful man for the rest of the day, and maybe even longer. But that was surely asking for too much… how could she even? He was a busy man, you’d think. He was probably just taking a moment’s reprieve in the café, and nothing more. Turning back to face him, however, she realized the gravity of the words she had uttered, and my how she hoped he wouldn’t take them sorely.

Call it whatever you wanted: infatuation, Cupid’s arrow. Skell was struck by this man’s poison. And she loved it.

He pushed the plate toward her, and with an interested lean forward, she plucked one cream puff from the plate and held it to her lips. A deep breath to savor the sweet, vanilla smell, and then a bite to consume half of it. Slowly, she chewed, eyes closing as a new warmth of deliciousness made her mouth water.

”Oh, Axel, these are absolutely divine…” a soft sigh as she eyed the second half of the cream puff still in between her fingers, turning it around, ”I love vanilla…”

It was true. Everything about vanilla – the color, the scent, the flavor – she absolutely adored. It was her perfume, her shampoo, her body wash. Call her obsessed, too, while you’re at it.

She eyed him before she eyed his drink that he offered next. A warm tingle spread up her spine once more. This boy…

”My, are you the charmer… any more and I’ll be wrapped around your finger,” she teased, taking a sip of her hot drink first as she contemplated his iced one. Cold… she wasn’t much one for cold drinks. On the occasion they’d taste good, but it was such a cold day, ”I don’t know, you… I get cold awfully easily, and seeing as how it isn’t the most warmest day out… I couldn’t dare take a sip without the promise of being kept warm.” Probably the most blunt and direct line of flirtation she had ever uttered. In no one else’s company would this exploring and daring side of her show. With Axel, a complete stranger, she was fully comfortable and willing to try anything. Somehow, for whatever reason, she felt safe with him. She just knew he wouldn’t bring her any harm.

And she really didn’t care about how cold the drink was, really. The only thing she was thinking of was that it touched his lips… and the thought was overwhelming.

Nice to know he wasn’t a germophobe, because neither was she.
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