How odd it seemed to Vivienne, that Monsieur de Sabre no longer scared her the way he used to.  Yes, he was still indimidating, and his comment about how to honor Joss had left her speechless, she finally felt she could keep up her end of any conversation with the man.  Still she felt more relaxed around Bob, and often glanced his way during the conversation.<br/><br/>"Merci, David, it is kind of you to say so."  Having just begun to dance when she was last on the Last Laugh, Vivienne hadn't thought David ever noticed her, or her dancing.  Nor Bob for that matter, other than in the way anyone would notice someone they considered to be somewhat of a nuisance.  It was the fear of pestering the crew that she had remained more of a shadow in the background back then.  She was no longer that shadow, and if it took proving herself now, she was up to the task.  Being every bit as much of a partner as any of the crew, she intended to be counted when it was required, and would watch out for her interests, since it was clear no one else would.<br/><br/>As David spoke so eloquently of the adventures they had enjoyed in the past, and possibilities of the future, Vivienne looked to Bob.  She still longed to talk to him more of his own travels, and perils but just couldn't bring herself to do so now.  It soon became apparent she had chosen wisely to let that subject go, when Alexa showed up and immediately put herself into the center of attention.<br/><br/>Vivienne recalled the passed days on the Last Laugh when both women were young girls...both blond...both having similarities in their skills and talents...and whether Alexa intended to be or not, Vivienne had always felt to be in competition with her.  That both women had been shy and unassuming probably hadn't helped, with neither one seeking the other out for companionship.  She hoped her impressions were false, and that time had opened them both up to possibly establishing a bond of friendship now, but only time would tell.<br/><br/>And that was then, and this was now, and Vivienne vowed not to let past experiences dictate the future ones.  Of course seeing that Alexa gave the appearance of being much more financially sound than Vivienne hampered those intentions a little.  She would try to ignore those advantages, and find other ways to keep the other woman on an even keel with her.  Again, they were both equal partners in  this new venture, and nothing Vivienne was aware of should change that.<br/><br/>As the woman was now joining the little group but hadn't greeted either Vivienne or Bob also perterbed the younger woman.  Moving her chair closer to Bob, to allow a bit more room for Alexa, Vivienne sat up a little straighter, and kept her eyes and ears open.  Assuming the role of one who could be more benevolent, Vivienne spoke up first.<br/><br/><strong>"Bonsoir, Alexa...it is good to see you."</strong><br/><br/>It was then that Bob became talkative and started to regale them all with tales she was curious about.  Unfortunately before he said much, David spoke up again, and the conversation shifted yet again.  Rather than get irritated, Vivienne kept her mouth shut and listened.  Perhaps she would still find out about Bob in prison, and gain further insight into David and Alexa that might be beneficial later.