Cole had long ago learned that what one wants is irrelevant in this life. His Djinn curse had rendered him beyond the notice of others at a very early age. Begging for food or shelter was impossible when one couldn't be seen or remembered. Cole's heart had hardened to diamond in those years that followed, learning to fend for himself, learning to steal. Giving nothing and expecting nothing. So when Ezra explained that he and Catori would be working together, he was well conditioned to accept the task in spite of his overwhelming disapproval. What he wanted was irrelevant. Ezra had made the decision and given him the task, Cole would deliver, even with a handicap such as this woman with the silver tongue.<br/><br/>Her glare and growl seemed to rattle the bars of his caged emotion, her words even more so. Rather than rise to the bait he turned back to Ezra, answering her question, "No. I won't be needing anything. We'll contact you the second we find a lead." Words between them seemed so redundant. She knew what he'd do and she knew he'd update her swiftly and discreetly, just as she also knew he wouldn't ask for anything unless absolutely necessary. His response was purely a formality. He gave the queen a slight nod and then turned, heading for the door, not waiting for Catori to follow. Heading down the stairs he began making his way for the front exit, cutting around the club patrons and dancers, his movements graceful in a way that had been learned by practicing avoiding people who weren't aware of his presence. All the while his mind seemed to dwell on Catori. The case of who was responsible for the Crowning Memories hit was fairly simple, and would only require evidence to prove his theory, but the woman? She was a<i>mystery</i>. For one thing, he knew almost nothing about her except that Ezra trusted her. That would normally be enough, but Ezra was not infallible. Catori was hiding something, he could practically taste it. It was in her almost fox-like ease and grace. It was a glint that danced in her eyes. He'd figure it out, of course, but for now it was important that he focus on the mission.<br/><br/>And that was<i>another</i>thing that gave him pause! How did she seem to illicit so much of a distraction for him? Was it her Darksider power, digging its claws into his mind? He actually shook his head as if to clear the thought and looked around having stepped outside. He was about to start walking when he noticed Catori going for her Kawasaki parked not far from the door. A moment of intense annoyance and self disgust boiled inside him before he cleared his throat and walked over to where she was mounting the bike, the effort needed on his part was like pulling teeth, but discipline in spite of pride allowed him to force out the words, "I will... need to ride with you..." It was the most diplomatic way he was going to ask for permission. Already sensing the inevitable question he proceeded to explain in his usual measured tone, "My Djinn traits do not allow me to drive a vehicle... safely." He continued, "People fail to notice me and it leads to high speed collisions." He knew he could take the train, of course, but she would still beat him to the jewelers by 20 minutes<i>at least. </i>Who knew what evidence she might trample over in that time? This was the only way to keep an eye on her<i>and</i>investigate Crowning. Still, everything in his red eyes said he'd rather pull out his finger nails and salt the wound than ask for assistance<i>now</i>from<i>her</i>. He seemed almost pained to add the next word, a hint of a growl on the edge of it, "...<i>Please</i>."