On any other day Clark would have taken Caitlin's words if banter as an attack on his style. He still felt the slight twinge of hostility, noting how easily the insults flew from her tongue that were covered up by compliments. Of course he knew that he was not exactly the nicest person toward her either. Caitlin's presence threatened his job, and threatening his jon was a threat to his way of life, his happiness, his security.<br/><br/>In many ways it was unfair to take it out on her, she was just trying to survive in the world as well, and he doubted very much that her sole purpose was to fuck over his life. Of course rational judgements did not go along with rational thinking, Clark may have known these things, but like a caged animal who felt scared he fought back. His goal was to drive her off, scare her away, and make her quit. He didn't want competition, he wanted freedom, he wanted a monopoly in the company.<br/><br/>There was the temptation to say things like, 'well you can go to the banquet alone if you would like,' or 'well Prince Charming might have been a womanizer but Sleeping Beauty and Snow White were both typical damsels in distress who took a passive approach to problem solving instead of getting rid of their competition,' but alas he did not say anything along those lines.<br/><br/>He took her arm instead, "a drink beforehand does sound lovely, and don't think you will be getting into my bed either," he said the last part with a wink while keeping his tone playful and light. So long as things didn't turn hostile he would remain mostly cordial. As they walked to the bar to have a seat Clark, who was not big on fancy drinks or wine was not sure what best to order. Perhaps this would prove to be something Caitlin was of use for. "Would you care to order for us princess?"