Anthony nodded at the picture, his mind feeling Alex's flash of anger.  He let Alex's mind fume on the thought of his new ex, while he offered a calming arm for Alex.  He looked at the picture for a while, then he nodded.  He turned to Alex and gave him a smile and nod.  "It will look very nice in your apartment, Alex.”<br/><br/>He slipped his fingers between Alex's and pulled his hand up to his mouth.  He gave Alex a brief brush of his mouth across Alex's fingers, before letting their hands fall back.  He let Alex move his arm into the crook of Alex's arm, letting the other man act the part of the lead.  Part of this was to get Alex to take the lead, to think he was the one who decided he wanted Anthony.  So far, so good.  Anthony turned back to the picture.  “A very good choice,” he said thoughtfully.<br/><br/>The distance of Victoria was welcome, to be sure.  However, the small amount of physical space was not accompanied by a lessening of her in his mind.  Anthony chose to accept it and not struggle to push her out.  He wondered briefly if the acceptance was his own or from her.  He also wondered if it even mattered, ultimately.  Most likely not.<br/><br/>Regardless, her momentary absence gave Anthony a chance to focus more on Alex.  Anthony motioned to a server.  When the man made his way over to them, he glanced at Alex, then back to the man.  "My...friend here would like to purchase that particular piece,” he said, indicating the chosen painting.  "Make sure he is able to do so without delay.”<br/><br/>Anthony's voice was steady, but there was a hint of strength underneath it.  It brooked no argument, no questions.  He didn't impart any supernatural strength or influence to it.  His own vocal inflections conveyed his expectations of being obeyed.  He turned back to Alex and gave him a brief smile.  He then bent in and whispered to the other.<br/><br/>“I hope you I am living up to your needs for a 'gay companion', Alex.  I am having an interesting time.  Thank you.”