Anthony held onto Alex's arm and nodded at Victoria's thinly veiled order.  "Oh, I think I can make myself available, Victoria.  Not too many other obligations at the moment, so...I would be happy to attend with Alex.”<br/><br/>He smiled at Alex and nodded at Alex's last words to both he and Victoria.  He looked deep into Alex's face and gave a brief smile.  “I think that might be the case, Alex.  A cab is definitely in order.  Shall we?”<br/><br/>He turned to Victoria and gave her a brief nod.  "It was a pleasure to meet you Victoria.  Tommorrow night?”  As he spoke, his mind turned to hers, addressing her as well.<em>As you say, my Lady.  Perhaps there will be something to be gained by taking him home for now.  </em><br/><br/>He turned with Alex and guided the other man through the crowd.  He leaned close to him, his arm entwined with Alex's arm.  They seemed like a standard couple, close and intimate, with one guiding the other who was slightly tipsy.  As they moved, Anthony let his mind enhance the impression that they were giving off, both to the crowd that they passed through, as well as the one Alex felt in his mind.  He subtly made the image comforting, yet slightly charged with electricity.<br/><br/>As they reached the door, Anthony stopped Alex and turned him to face him.  He reached up and straightened Alex's tie, then smiled at him.  "You are very handsome, Alex.  Thank you for the company.”  As he turned to guide him out, he let his mind again slip into Alex's thoughts, placing more thoughts there, lurking just beneath the surface.<br/><br/><em>Don't let it end.  Don't let the night end.  Not yet.  </em>