Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)
<h1 id="title">Elliquiy Role Playing Forums</h1>
		<h2 id="linktree">Play-By-Post: Bondage, D/s, S&amp;M =&gt; Bondage: Exotic Solos =&gt; Topic started by: LillithTheThird on 06-03-2015, 03:24:01</h2>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>06-03-2015, 03:24:01</strong>
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				(https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/236x/07/f0/93/07f0938cbf5148818ec7354e22fca168.jpg)<br><br>Eve Baumgartner wasn't exactly a failure at life, she just....had some problems.&nbsp; She was intelligent enough, and people thought she was attractive, she supposed.&nbsp; She just seemed to lack a...certain je ne sais quoi that would push her from the front of the pack to the lead.&nbsp; After leaving her previous position at an accounting firm over a pay dispute, she'd taken some time to travel and enjoy herself, but was now ready to start getting back into a normal routine.&nbsp; Things like waking up before noon, paying the rent, and having food to eat all appealed to her.&nbsp; She'd applied at a few different places, but nothing had really struck her fancy, so she was temping part time until something caught her eye; a small, simple add in the back of the classifieds.<br><br>-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br><br><strong>Position Available: Administrative Assistant.</strong><br><br><em>Hard-working man or woman wanted for demanding AA position in image consulting firm. Must be organized, literate, well-dressed; reasonably attractive; able to work long and unusual hours, travel. Will have good speaking voice, computer experience, good interpersonal skills. Experience in public presentation, photography, modelling, dance, a plus, not required.<br><br>Single person preferred. Exceptional compensation, including wardrobe samples and clothing allowance.<br><br>Apply in person, after 5 PM, to Karma DuRien, Inner Eye Consulting, 3355 W 128th, 15th floor, Suite 1.<br></em><br><strong>NO PHONE INQUIRIES</strong><br><br>-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br><br>It’s a almost-posh address, tucked at one end of the imposing cluster of commercial towers that form the core of the city. The elevator rises soundlessly, opening to reveal that Inner Eye occupies half the floor. A tiny little eye-and-sunbeam logo, discreet lettering- these are all that identify the residents.&nbsp; Five minutes after five, and the place appears to be closed. At least no sign of life is visible through the frosted glass window wall. There is a buzzer, however, and almost immediately after it is pressed, the door responds with a soft chime and a click as the lock releases.&nbsp; The entry room is spectacular, modern in decor, with an excellent view out over the busy heart of town. Leather sofas, polished wood, hung lighting, stainless steel fittings…but no one behind the reception desk. The place is oddly silent, though the lights are on, and obviously, someone buzzed her in…<br><br>Eve walks silently up to the reception desk, looking for signs of life, an open soda, or a cell phone, but doesn’t see anything. Her heels click eerily on the perfectly tiled floor. She adjusts her knee-length black skirt nervously and waits a few moments before walking the lobby looking for a light down a hallway or an occupied conference room. Her attaché case rests neatly by her side, and she pulls out a copy of the email, confirming the time and date of the interview. Assured she is at the right location and the appointed time, she sits on the edge of one of the lobby chairs, ready to stand as soon as someone approaches.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>07-03-2015, 16:39:37</strong>
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				<br><div class="floatright">(https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/56/5f/49/565f49cc27106d173511c6c40a9dd5c6.jpg)</div><br>Five minutes pass, ten...at fifteen past the appointment time, it's gotten annoying.&nbsp; And then, suddenly someone is there. A moment's distraction, a glance out the glass wall of the waiting room, and someone snuck up on her.<br><br>She doesn't look impressed.<br><br>Impressive, though. Tall, broad-shouldered, with a 'womanly' waistline, full-busted. A well-tailored black tank dress clinging to every curve shows off toned arms, and makes a contrasting ground for her long, discreetly highlighted blonde hair. Not much jewelry, and what there is is classy-showy; expensive costume stuff, made to draw the eye, not embarrass the bankbook.<br><br>She's slightly older than Eve expected, probably early forties, and her broad jaw and strong mouth keep her from being magazine-cover 'pretty'. Instead, she radiates self-confidence, maturity, experience; experience of <em>all</em> sorts, a quasi-sexual power that entangles more than just the naughty bits.<br><br>And who knows, if she weren't scowling, maybe she'd be even hotter. "Miss Baumgartner? I'm Karma." A brief, chill silence settles as she looked Eve over from head to toe. "Hmm. Not bad. You could dress to better advantage, though. Perhaps we'll work on that."&nbsp; Turning her back abruptly, she starts back across the lobby, towards the hallway that leads to the office suites. Still speaking, she clearly expects to be followed.<br><br>"I can't fairly accuse you of being late, since you've been sitting there for a quarter of an hour. I <strong>had</strong> hoped for more initiative, however."
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>07-03-2015, 18:24:07</strong>
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				Eve moves swiftly to follow the blonde goddess, grabbing her bag from her side and increasing her stride.&nbsp; At only 5'4, she's quite a bit shorter than the woman, but is used to having to move fast to keep up.&nbsp; She smooths her skirt self consciously as they walk down the hall, her mousy brown hair extracting itself from her severe bun as they walked.&nbsp; Her glasses slid down her nose slightly, the plastic frames seeming to accumulate a friction-less surface at the slightest bit of perspiration or nervousness on Eve's behalf.&nbsp; She pushed them up and brushed the hair back to tuck it behind her ear.&nbsp; "Ms....Karma?&nbsp; I wasn't quite sure anyone was available to be disturbed.&nbsp; I would have hated to interrupt a client meeting or other confidential transaction."&nbsp; Her heels clicked as she walked, her nylons creating a quiet sussurration as her knees slid back and forth against each other at the brusque pace.&nbsp; "I've brought a copy of my resume and references, if you'd like to peruse them."
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>07-03-2015, 23:01:34</strong>
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				"I will. And it's just Karma. Faux formality gets in the way and bores the hell out of me. Respect is earned, and when it is, that's plenty."<br><br>Their path takes them down the hall, Karma pointing out what's where as they fly by. "Conference room. Photography suite. File room. Full bath suite- some times we or our clients will have a need. Break room- the company pays for the coffee and tea, you bring whatever else you like."<br><br>At the far end, as befits the boss, is a large but sparsely-appointed office, all smooth plastic and steel. Karma waves Eva in, closes the door behind them. Another door, subtly matched to a blank wall, leads out towards a room that Eve assumes shares the glass wall with the waiting area, but it is firmly closed, so she can see no details.<br><br>"Sit. Resume?"&nbsp; &nbsp;A perfectly manicured-hand is held out expectantly. Oddly, for all her brusque efficiency, DuRien has a tiny twinkle in her eye. THere's no doubt it could turn frigid in a breath, though.
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				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>08-03-2015, 06:07:22</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve slides her resume out of her attache case and hands it over promptly before sitting, crossing her legs at the ankles and smoothing her skirt.&nbsp; Her back is straight and she lays her hands in her lap primly.&nbsp; She looks at the tall woman standing before her confidently.&nbsp; She isn't worried about being an assistant.&nbsp; She has the office skills that would be required hands down and the willingness and ability to learn anything else that would make this job individual.&nbsp; The mention of a wardrobe allowance had perked her interest in the original add, and she hopes she'd dressed well enough to pass Karma's standards, though she is a bit nervous at the comment already delivered.&nbsp; The way the other woman is dressed gives her a clue as to what might be expected, and she would need that wardrobe allowance if she were going to live up to that.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>08-03-2015, 16:35:26</strong>
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				DuRien all but snatches the piece of paper that was the sum of Eve's professional life from her outstretched hand. Glaring at it as if it might bite, she paces two steps in each direction, toned legs disturbing the line of her skirt with every energetic motion, eyes fixed on the page. Then, she crumples it up and tossed it in a muted, all but hidden rubbish bin.<br><br>Parking behind the desk- <em>her</em> desk- Karma steeples her fingers, resting her chin on the support, and stares at Eve. Her eyes are intense, but lovely and warm. "Resumes are three per cent history- which is to say, old news- and ninety-seven percent masturbatory bullshit." Her tone isn't angry- she sounds more like a teacher, trying to get a favored but wayward student to understand the real world.&nbsp; "If I called your last employer- what would they tell me about why you left?"
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>08-03-2015, 17:29:51</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve takes a big breath and lets it out slowly, her hands tightening against each other slightly in her lap as she tries to maintain a neutral expression.&nbsp; "That would depend on who you talked to, I'm sure.&nbsp; Some would say I left because I had unsubstantiated expectations about my worth at the company, others would say that I was overconfident in my abilities.&nbsp; Then a few would just be blunt and say I thought I was worth more than they were willing to pay me.&nbsp; I had been there for over five years and kept getting passed over for promotions by people with less experience and quite a lot less competence, in my opinion.&nbsp; That may make me look bad," she looks down at her hands, shyly, "but it frustrated me enough to put in my two weeks.&nbsp; No one was unhappy with my performance, just myself unhappy about not meetings some magic requirement for progress."&nbsp; Surprising herself at being so open so quickly, but something about the blond asked, no, <em>required</em> that kind of honesty, her eyes rise and meet the stern gaze of her prospective employer and she attempts to smile.
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				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>10-03-2015, 01:54:38</strong>
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				Something eases a bit in Karma's expression; something looking like a grin that would rather be elsewhere tickles her lips. "Well," she says, the change in tone almost turning it into applause. "At least there's some spine under there.&nbsp; I was worried, when you parked out front like a chary little schoolgirl. I can be wrong, though- and I'm big enough to admit it. You might do, after all. Maybe."<br><br>Rising again, she walks around behind Eve, her heels clacking ever so faintly- she's a fairly big woman, but she moves quietly, elegantly.<br><br>"Tell me, though." Her voice is right in Eve's ear, lips close enough for her breath to fog the other woman's glasses. "Do you know a single goddamned thing about the image business?"
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>10-03-2015, 03:33:58</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				The hot breath on Eve's neck startled her, and she imagined herself a fly caught in a web, with Karma playing the role of the spider preparing for her meal.&nbsp; She cleared her throat quietly and removed her glasses, cleaning them on the sleeve of her blouse.&nbsp; "I've never worked specifically for a PR firm before, no, but from what I understand, it's telling enough of the truth to tell people to go to hell while they end up begging you for directions.&nbsp; It's all about creating the reality that the client wants to present, and to some extent, convincing the client what that reality should be."&nbsp; She tried to turn her head to find Karma as she was responding, not wanting to talk to the empty space around her, and for some reason, feeling particularly nervous with the woman out of her sight.&nbsp; She replaced her glasses and spoke again, "Anything a business needs in an assistant, I can provide, and anything I don't know already, I'm willing and able to learn.&nbsp; I understand putting your best face forward and how to spin an event or comment so it is merely a glancing blow instead of a mortal wound to your reputation.&nbsp; What other skills does the position require?&nbsp; I have some experience in theater and performance if that helps."
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				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>10-03-2015, 20:42:16</strong>
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				"Hmmmm." The voice recedes, but hands settle on Eve's shoulders, kneading gently. "Good.&nbsp; Actually, you hit it almost precisely- only, of course- we never put it that way." And the touch is gone. Karma moves around in front of Eve, perching on the edge of her desk, legs- very nice legs- crossed at the knee, skirt riding well above.<br><br>"What we sell, Eve, is<em> fantasy</em>. We sell it to them, and then we sell it to the people who follow them, and we double-bill for it all. All the most 'important' parts of reality- which actually have no fucking value value <em>at all</em>- are consensus. Fame, image, class- I could turn a street person into the next Academy Award winner- if someone wanted to pay the bills for it." Leaning close in, grinning, she lowered her voice. her breath was sweet, too. "Because it's all bullshit."<br><br>She pops back upright like a jill-in-the box.&nbsp; "Commentary?&nbsp; Questions?"
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				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>10-03-2015, 20:52:54</strong>
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				Eve's head was spinning a bit, though she wasn't sure if it was from the intoxicating woman before her or the blunt nature of their discussion. She certainly wasn't used to things being so open, so flagrant and unclouded. She leaned forward just slightly as Karma drew close, and was startled when the woman stood quickly. "Que...questions?&nbsp; I...did I get the job?"&nbsp; Her eyes were drawn up, her chin tilting to follow. From this position it was almost like she was kneeling at the blonde's feet. 
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				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>10-03-2015, 21:11:54</strong>
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				Karma snorted, full lips pressed thin. "Attractive, but dense. No, dear. I'm still undecided." Bending, she eased a lock of dark hair out of Eve's eyes.<br><br>"Never. Cringe.&nbsp; Unless you're absolutely sure that's what the client is looking for- and there are some who want<em> just </em>that. Otherwise, however-" A warm, almost hot palm presses against Eve's forehead, shoving her back upright in her seat. Christ, the woman was strong. "-it's just offensive. Like now."&nbsp; Seeming more than a little peeved, she turns her back. The dress fits well in the rear, as well.<br><br><em>Fantasy. Bullshit. Consensus.</em> By now, Eve is pretty sure that Karma's rapid changes of mood are part of an elaborate act. But why? Just her interviewing style? Before the beufddled applicant can even start to pursue that line of thought, her interrogator has swung back, is speaking again. "What I <em>wanted</em>, you poor bean counter, is your reaction to being told that we lie to people for a living here. Well, actually..." she paused, looked thoughtful. "Mostly we help them lie to themselves. A fine distinction. But far less malicious.<br><br>"So. Try again.&nbsp; Does my honesty, here, offend you? Do you understand that our clients are basically pathetic, frightened little children, with accountants' souls, who want so, SO desperately to be liked?"&nbsp; Her voice dropped&nbsp; once again, as her blonde head lowered to be almost nose-to-nose with Eve's. Her grin was uncomfortably intense, almost frightening. "Are you ready to do <em>anything</em> to help them be liked?&nbsp; And are you OK with having a sinful amount of fun and being paid absurdly well for doing it?&nbsp; Hint: answer any of these questions except the first&nbsp; negatively, and you can go check if the library is hiring."
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>11-03-2015, 23:39:14</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Her head reeling, Eve straightened quickly, frowning in thought. She knew executives could get temperamental, but wasn't this pushing it a little to far?&nbsp; She remembered some of the dumb reality shows she'd started watching during her 'sabbatical' and quickly put that thought out of her head. No, it could get much worse than this, she was sure.<br><br>She raised her head and looked the woman in the eye, twice, before she was able to keep her gaze there. She nodded. "The honesty is refreshing, if unexpected. I'm not sure what 'anything' entails. Telling someone with a horse face how beautiful they are is one thing. Murder or other violent or illegal acts are another. If you're hiring for a scapegoat in your next scandal, I'm not interested. If you're offering an opportunity to push my limits, to sell pleasure...I'm much more open to the idea.&nbsp; Being paid well for a job well done?&nbsp; That sounds just about right."<br><br>She brushes the lock of hair Karma had just touched back again, though it needed no adjustment. "I'm far better at taking a bit of truth and making it what someone wants to hear than I am lying whole cloth. I'm not much of a 'party' girl, but I'm more than willing to learn, especially if I'm well paid. I'd like to work for you Ms...sorry, Karma. I think your personality and my organization could be a promising combination, if you'll let me try..."
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>13-03-2015, 17:19:35</strong>
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				Karma stares into Eve's eyes for a long time. The locked contact has the odd effect of making the room fade, the air seem thick, as if Eve is drowning...<br><br>Then the consultant laughs, very softly, a bit of pink tongue moistening her full lips.&nbsp; Standing up, she gives Eve a little space- just a little, her overwhelming presence still way within the supplicant's personal bubble- and folds her arms. "If you're acting right now, you're damn good at it. If you're not, well, the skill will be useful later."<br><br>Finally releasing Eve from whatever mystical hold she's exerting, the blonde struts back behind her desk, opens the top drawer, takes out a few sheets of paper. "I haven't been asked to kill anyone yet- except a couple of movie reviewers, and that was a joke. Oh, and one ex-wife. That wasn't a joke, but I pretended it was. My job is building people up, Eve, not tearing them down."<br><br>The papers and a gold pen glide across the table, the casual toss utterly precise. "Our job, now. You need some polish, but I think you'll do. You're hired, starting from the time you spent warming my waiting room chair." 
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				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>13-03-2015, 18:55:30</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve reads the document over carefully, unconsciously playing with the end of the pen stuck in her mouth. She is startled by the change in the woman's demeanor, but shakes it off more easily this time. If she is towork here successfully, she'd have to get used to the mercurial nature of her employer, and fast. The employment contract seems standard, as far as she can tell, no hidden commissions or undue requirements, though Eve wonders if Karma had actually decided to hire her before the bizarre interview, or during. Shrugging her shoulders, she signs with a flourish and slides the pages back across the desk.<br><br>"I'd like a copy for my personal records, please.&nbsp; And, thank you."&nbsp; She rises and offers her hand to shake on what will hopefully be a very fulfilling career move. Her smile is warm as she regards the beauty across the table and her heart leaps a bit as the tension of the uncertain outcome recedes. She once again had stability, self sufficiency, and responsibility, and it feels very, very nice.
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				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>13-03-2015, 22:38:13</strong>
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				"Good. You actually read it. Not that it matters- trust me, if I wanted to screw you, you wouldn't feel until you missed your first period." It's both shocking and amusing, the sudden burst of off-color, scatalogical humor. The woman is changeable as snowflakes- and there's an undercurrent of a non-conformist intellect every bit as frigid.<br><br>Her handshake is cool, skin buffed smooth, as if she never broke a sweat, ever; never used a tool more aggressive than a pen. But her grip is like a python, a brief constriction, quickly released, that hints again at surprising physical strength.<br><br>"Now.&nbsp; Work clothes.&nbsp; When we're here, in the office, professional sexy is the rule. Out with clients, well, that depends on what we're doing. Oh, don't look so startled- the job comes with a healthy wardrobe allowance. Voucher what you buy, for my accountant; anything you haven't spent at the end of the month, get yourself some absurdly expensive designer coffee, or something." A casual flip of Karma's exquisitely-manicured hand seems to consign <em>monthly</em> shopping sprees for clothing to the realm of the irrelevant. Either she's wildly successful, or she is supporting her business in some other way. Rich woman's hobby?&nbsp; Tax writeoff? Laundering outfit?&nbsp; Eve still hasn't gotten the lump out of her throat caused by seeing the size of her entry salary. It won't put her in the VIP airport line with the 1%, but it's more than twice what she was making before.<br><br>"Now," DuRien directs, all business suddenly. "Go through that door-" she indicates the discreet portal leading out of the office and into mystery, not back into the rest of the business suite. "There are some clothes in there that represent the basic style I'm talking about. Get changed, come back out, we'll see how it works."
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>13-03-2015, 23:35:37</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Widened eyes and a subtle smirk greet the ribald remark, but it otherwise goes unmentioned.&nbsp; Privately, Eve is impressed by Karma's quick wit and no-nonsense attitude.&nbsp; It is similar to how she envisions her ideal self, confident, witty, and with just enough off-color and unexpected pizzazz to really make an impression.&nbsp; Eve's handshake is firm, but with nowhere near the strength evidenced by the Amazonian marvel.&nbsp; Her palm is slightly over warm from the stress, but not yet sweaty, and she wishes she were as perfect as this woman.&nbsp; How does she do it?<br><br>Quickly paying attention to her new directives, she did indeed hold her breath at the mention of 'professional sexy', a term entirely unfamiliar, but logical, given the way the job had been explained.&nbsp; She wonders if she is meant to wear things only once, and decides to worry about that later.&nbsp; If she ends up running out of closet space, she can always donate the hardly used clothing to those with less of a budget.&nbsp; She's already planning a few stores she'll want to hit this evening after she leaves when she is surprised again by Karma's bold statement to try on clothes right <em>now</em>.<br><br>Standing tentatively, Eve tilts her head cautiously around the door into the room beyond.&nbsp; She's not exactly sure what she expects to find, but part of her is scared shitless at the endless possibilities.&nbsp; The thought of this being a cover for an escort service had crossed her mind when she saw the salary and clothing allowance.&nbsp; Nothing about Karma screamed 'madame' to her...okay, maybe a few things did, but...it just didn't feel like that was the case.&nbsp; She knew that if she looked in and saw assless chaps or something, she was leaving, salary and security be damned.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>15-03-2015, 19:49:34</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				What she finds beyond the door takes Eve's breath away: the rest of the level of the building is taken up by an open-floor-plan flat in a&nbsp; very contemporary style. Sunken living area with expensive-looking leather furniture and a huge glass wall overlooking the city flows into a sleeping area (Japanese screens and a King-size bed, made but slightly rumpled) ; turn<em> that</em> way, and the eat-in kitchen is all warm light and stainless steel, including a restaurant-quality 6-burner gas stove in a center island.&nbsp; The sound of bubbling water comes from a huge fish tank that makes up one dividing 'wall' in the flat; another door, open, leads to a bathroom that holds a Jacuzzi tub that looks large enough for six.<br><br>Laid over the back of an armchair, just inside the door, are a skirt and blouse; on the chair is&nbsp; bag, and a pair of high-heeled shoes sits on the floor beneath, tissue still filling the toes.&nbsp; It would be reasonable to assume that these are the clothes Karma intends for Eve to try on...<br><br>The blouse is fine silk, with a wide, ruffled neckline that will remain open to expose quite a bit of cleavage; the skirt is knee-length, but sharply tapers to not-quite hobble tightness at the lower hem. The shoes have a modest 2" heel, but are almost nonexistent otherwise, all&nbsp; open toe and straps.&nbsp; Oddly, suspiciously, everything is Eve's size. She's almost afraid to look in the bag- she suspects it contains lingerie she is also expected to put on.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>16-03-2015, 04:02:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				It does, indeed.&nbsp; A black half-cup push up bra and high-cut briefs, in exactly her size, lay folded neatly among the perfumed tissue paper.&nbsp; Eve blushes when she realizes the extent to which her employer wishes to control her appearance, wondering if she would need to order a designer IUD or other more personal items...and her blush darkens when she wonders if they've already been ordered for her.&nbsp; Picking up the bag and gently placing it on the floor, she removes her outer clothing and carefully redresses herself in the blouse and skirt.&nbsp; Her current undergarments spoil the look dreadfully.&nbsp; Grumbling to herself, she extracts the strangely pre-sized lingerie and looks around the room suspiciously for cameras.&nbsp; Finding none, or at least none she can discern, she quickly changes into the full ensemble and walks back into the office.<br><br>Her chest fills the blouse with plenty to spare and she wonders if there are any decency laws she's breaking simply by putting the thing on.&nbsp; The skirt pulls at her hips and legs, the high-cut briefs necessary to keep the fabric laying smooth against her thighs.&nbsp; The heels only add to the model-like posture she has to affect to keep upright, her ass tight and her shoulders back, further accentuating her curves.&nbsp; She handles it well, though, moving efficiently to address her new employer.<br><br>"Ms. DuRien, while I appreciate your taste, I am a bit concerned."&nbsp; Her eyes drop to the floor as she thinks of the best way to put this without getting fired.&nbsp; "I...you...this outfit was purchased in my size...all of it..."&nbsp; She raises her head slightly and bites her lower lip, the blush on her cheeks doing more to add to her attractive appearance than diminish it.&nbsp; "I...I'm uncomfortable with...how..."&nbsp; Her eyes lock with Karma and she wilts noticeably, "How did you know?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>16-03-2015, 22:25:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"It's my business to know things like that, Eve." The utterly unsatisfactory answer is punctuated by a spinning motion of one fingerheld in the air, commanding Eve to turn. DuRien grunts.<br><br>"You're awkward in it.&nbsp; It looks lovely on you, but you move like you're afraid someone's looking at you." Walking up behind Eve, Karma once again lays her hands&nbsp; firmly on the other woman's shoulders. "They <em>will </em>be looking at you. That's part of the job." Her jaw comes down to rest on Eve's collarbone, and her hands move to rest on the curve of Eve's hips, both intimate and oddly protective, like a pose a big sister might adopt.<br><br>"We sell <em>fantasy</em>, my dear. From the instant they walk through the door. Every man must want to have us, every woman must want to be us." She chuckles in Eve's ear. "Or the other way around. Sometimes both." Releasing her employee, the boss moves around in front of her, toys with the ruffle on one side of the neckline of the blouse she had supplied. "I'm the&nbsp; strong-willed mommy figure they all wanted to fuck when they were younger, and you're the hot big sister- that they all wanted to fuck when they were younger." Perfect teeth flash&nbsp; in a fast grin. "If they don't feel that sense of instant recognition, they won't listen to us when we tell them how to live the lives they really can't have, but want to pretend they own anyway. And then, my dear shrinking violet-"&nbsp; A finger pokes lightly at the very uppermost surface of Eve's right breast, barely touching, in time with her words.<br><br>"We- don't- get- paid." Poke, poke, poke, poke.<br><br>Then she's moving away, like a child that has lost interest in a dull book, rummaging in her desk. "That said- that outfit is merely a suggestion. As long as you dress in the spirit of the enterprise- oh, ha-le-LU-jah, children!&nbsp; I really couldn't care less what you wear."&nbsp; A card comes out of the desk, and then Karma is back, tucking it into Eve's cleavage. "Take tomorrow, do some shopping. Don't come in till...oh, let's say three o'clock. Make a day of it. Try that place first." Her chin tilts towards the brunette's boobs. "We have an account.&nbsp; If you really don't like it, just voucher what you DO buy, and I'll advance you your allowance."<br><br>With a sigh, she plops back into her desk chair and starts her computer booting. "Bring in what you choose, I want to see it," she says, attention already wandering away from Eve. After a minute, she looks up, frowns. "Was there a question? Or have you just suddenly pissed superglue down your legs and attached yourself to my floor?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>17-03-2015, 03:08:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve's voice falters at Karma's touch.&nbsp; "I....I know they're supposed to be looking at me...but...um...am...are we..."&nbsp; She couldn't finish her thought.&nbsp; The idle thought she'd had about this being a cover for an escort service suddenly feels more real to her than she wants to admit.&nbsp; But the moment passes quickly, and soon she finds herself under the light, yet commanding, touch of her employer.&nbsp; "The...hot big...?"&nbsp; Eve is totally confused by the statement.&nbsp; She wasn't familiar with that trope.&nbsp; The girl next door, the cougar mom, sure, but...not the sister.&nbsp; Once again she hardly starts her sentence before she is cut off again.&nbsp; Not getting paid.&nbsp; She understood that.&nbsp; With a vengeance.<br><br>As the business card grazes her skin, a small shudder crawls down her spine.&nbsp; The idea of a day of shopping sounded glorious, especially being <em>paid</em> for it!&nbsp; Fishing gingerly amid the silk, she retrieves the card, a non-distinct grey with the words "Hard and Soft" etched in contrasting fonts.&nbsp; She tucks it safely into her attache case as she is summarily dismissed and scurries out of the door before any more of Karma's mood changes can occur.&nbsp; As she walks to the subway station, her mind drifts over the events that had happened in the previous hour.&nbsp; Her money problems were almost definitely solved, if she could keep this gig, and she certainly had the encouragement to splurge on her appearance.<br><br>Pulling out her smart phone, she dials her favorite spa and books a full treatment right away in the morning, springing for all the extras.&nbsp; She munches on a salad as she reviews herself in the single full length mirror on the back of her bedroom door.&nbsp; Her eyes focus on her breasts, as they practically pop out of the blouse at her, and she blushes and drops a bit of dressing on her skin.&nbsp; "Shit.&nbsp; At least I missed the blouse."&nbsp; As she moves to wipe it off, an idea plunges into her mind, and instead of her usual mopping up, she instead brushes the tip of her finger over her breast, picking up the tart red dressing and slowly licks it off, sucking her finger just a tiny bit as she watches herself in the mirror with sultry eyes.&nbsp; Shivering, she quickly heads to the kitchen for a washrag and gets ready for bed.&nbsp; Whatever this job would turn out to be, it was already an adventure.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>18-03-2015, 03:08:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				When Eve arrives at the store the next day, she's not entirely surprised to find that it is divided into two parts, one of them selling more classic business and dress wear, though with a sexy edge, like her outfit from the night before, the other apparently catering to more…exotic tastes.&nbsp; She stands in front of the store windows, feeling refreshed. Her salon appointment bright and early had done wonders for her mood. Now, feeling clean, relaxed, and a bit adventurous, she’s prepared to see what this store can offer.<br><br>Taking a breath, she pulls the door open and enters. It isn't too hard to find the required items, so her eyes begin to wander after a bit. She’d never really allowed herself to explore this kind of business attire, too worried about wearing it wrong, or wearing it too right. However, she remembers Karma’s comments, and thinks she might see if a couple of the dresses would be permissible. Pulling a few prime choices off the racks, she asks the nearest clerk for a dressing room.<br><br>Dress 1 (https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/fd/b3/71/fdb371e11e5057fe95d03a0872fae78f.jpg)<br><br>Dress 2 (https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/64/ba/4d/64ba4d1336c0a8fed122fb4ad082545c.jpg)<br><br>Dress 3 (https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/05/9e/e7/059ee7d20fb0279baa37fdba17aa40d1.jpg)<br><br>Satisfied that she won’t fall out of them, at least immediately, she adds a few accessories to her growing pile of purchases. As she was about to tell the attractive sales girl to ring her up, though, her eye was drawn to the other side of the store. Obviously nothing there would be appropriate for work, but…looking couldn’t hurt, could it?<br><br>She felt the lightness of her newly cut hair and smelled the shampoo and oils from the salon and made a choice. “Excuse me, please, could you tell me a bit more about the other side of your store?”
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>19-03-2015, 01:51:30</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<br><div class="floatleft">(http://image.rakuten.co.jp/ogage/cabinet/20141212_19/0008246712000.jpg?_ex=60x60)</div>The waiflike shopgirl, wearing a dress that manages to cover her knees to chin without hiding the <em>slightest</em> detail of her slender but perky body, looks at Eve skeptically.<br><br>"The things there are for slightly more...exotic tastes, ma'am."&nbsp; In fact, Eve had noticed that while the 'Soft' side of the storefront had a number of wintry pastel items on display in the window, 'Hard' had no outside display at all. The passthrough between the two halves had a solid door, as well.<br><br>Seeing Eve's slight confusion, and possibly a hint of annoyance, the young woman rested a long, light hand on her arm. "Excuse me, please. I didn't mean to sound rude. It's just...our Hard line isn't for everyone. And since you're one of Miss DuRien's, I wouldn't want you to be shocked or offended."<br><br>They're halfway to the register to ring out Eve's purchases, when it hits her: <em>How does SHE know that I work for Karma...? And ONE of hers?&nbsp; How many other people...?</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>19-03-2015, 02:26:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve stops dead in her tracks, the attractive girl moving a step or two forward before she realizes that Eve isn't with her any longer.&nbsp; "One of...how did..."&nbsp; She seems unable to finish a thought, much less an entire questions as she just stares, mouth slightly agape.&nbsp; Clearing her throat, remembering the illusion Karma had spoken of, she quickly approaches the register and confidently sneers at the shopgirl.&nbsp; "I believe I should be the judge of that, don't you think?"&nbsp; She raises an eyebrow, then waves her hand dismissively.&nbsp; "It doesn't matter.&nbsp; I'm not here to buy more than I already have.&nbsp; I appreciate your concern for my sensibilities.&nbsp; I'll be sure to let Ms. DuRien know the store is still worth the expense account."&nbsp; She pulls an outfit similar to the one she'd tried on yesterday, but with additional jewelry, simple, but elegant, aside to change into before she left.<br><br>Handing the woman a card with her address on it, she nods quickly, "Please have my other purchases delivered here, by 6pm.&nbsp; Add any charge for delivery to the total, and throw in another 15% for yourself."&nbsp; Turning on her heel to hide her blush, she strides to the dressing room like there was fire on her heels.&nbsp; What the hell would be behind the door of a clothing store that would shock or offend her?&nbsp; And why would it be connected to a store where she was expected to buy her work clothes?&nbsp; Each thing she discovered about her new employer both frightened and exhilerated her.&nbsp; What would she discover next?<br><br>Glancing at her watch, she was due in the office in half an hour.&nbsp; Just enough time to change and catch the subway.&nbsp; As her pale skin poked out of another billowy blouse, she blushed again and hurried to work.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>23-03-2015, 05:31:21</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				As before, there's no one in the reception area when she arrives. There is, however, a note:<br><br><br><em>Client meeting, Back around 6 Enjoy the reception chair- it cost an arm and a leg. List of current clients below- if they call, give them good phone sex and tell them I'll get back to them</em><br><br><em>Being figurative, BTW. Unless you're into that kind of thing. In which case, be sure to record it. I want to hear.</em><br><br><em>K</em><br><br><br>So there she is, all by herself in a multi-zillion dollar office suite, with nothing specific to do.&nbsp; The client list is short- a well-known actress,a rocker with a rep for a lech for other people's wives- including his manager's- and a few sports stars of modest fame.&nbsp; No matter what Karma is charging them for her services- whatever those might actually be- they're not supporting her lifestyle.<br><br>The chair behind the tall white desk <strong>is </strong>comfortable, though. She can sit on it with her feet off the ground, and spin like a little girl if she cares to.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>23-03-2015, 16:51:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve was much more comfortable entering the office, despite her trepidation about falling out of her clothes. Her walk and demeanor easily conveyed her confidence answering the phone and taking care of any issues that would come up in the next few hours. After the first half hour passed silently, her desk all arranged and her search of the internal network folders completed, she grabbed the wireless phone headset and began to explore the empty office. <br><br>Many of the rooms were of standard office fair, though better decorated and with far more comfortable furniture.&nbsp; Each had a leather settee in the corner and a wet bar, which struck her as odd at first, until she remembered what Karma had said about their real product, which made the tables and wheeled chairs seem out of place instead. She helped herself to a rather divine tea selection and realized she'd found herself in Karma's office. Usually not one to pry, she was surprised to find herself opening the door to the connected suite, wondering what other secrets her new boss was hiding.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>26-03-2015, 02:03:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				As before, the suite looks lived in- bed pulled hastily together, a few drawers only partially-closed.&nbsp; There's an odd tension in the air, as if some part of Karma's domineering and mercurial personality lingers, energizing the mere gas Eve breathes.<br><br>Lived-in, but impersonal.&nbsp; There's no openly displayed sign of anthing vaguely touching on DuRien's private life: no photos of herself or friends, no correspondence- lots of books, many of them deep and abstract, but no casual-reading magazines or Sudoko folios. The immediate impression is that either the woman lives entirely for her job, or she doesn't occupy the suite that often. Yet the closets are full, and the kitchen has clearly seen use.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>26-03-2015, 03:57:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve approaches the bed, smoothing the comforter with her hand, getting a feel of the texture, though not exactly straightening the bed clothes.&nbsp; She wanders over to a set of full length mirrors, near the double walk in closets, and admires herself for a few moments.&nbsp; The skirt and blouse combination she'd mimicked from the day before really do fit her form well, exposing her legs to just above her knee, but hinting that they go all the way up.&nbsp; Her chest peeks and disappears under the light silk, taunting her to reach out and touch her reflection.&nbsp; She leans closer to the mirror, mimicking her employers sultry facial expression, the very sensual and commanding nature she exudes, and then blushes strongly and quickly backs away, her hip bumping into one of the open drawers.<br><br>"Ow...fuck."&nbsp; She rubs her hip and frowns, her eyes noticing an array of colored strings in the drawer, which, upon a moment's reflection, she realizes aren't <em>exactly</em> strings at all.&nbsp; She shoves the underwear drawer shut and marches herself out of the suite and back to the receptionists desk, her heart racing as she imagines that stern gaze probing her soul and accusing her of being the perverted snoop that she was.<br><br>When fifteen or so minutes had passed without her boss suddenly appearing, eyes blazing and pink slip in hand, she begins to relax again and pays a few bills online before looking at the clock.&nbsp; It was about quarter to six.&nbsp; Eve has always prided herself on anticipating the needs of others, and sees no reason her work here should be any different.&nbsp; She slides out of the chair and heads to one of the small kitchenettes, exploring the refrigerator and hoping to find some light sandwich makings or perhaps even a list of Karma's favorite foods.&nbsp; It's rather over-stocked, given that the only employees she knows about are herself and Karma, but she is able to make a few cucumber and tuna salad sandwiches.&nbsp; Placing them on a serving platter, she also puts on a pot of coffee and chills some of the wine she'd noticed in a back cupboard.&nbsp; She wasn't exactly sure what she was getting paid for yet, but having a lot of options available to fall back on seemed the way to roll, until she figured out otherwise.&nbsp; She was just finishing her preparations when she thought she heard the front door to the office open.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>31-03-2015, 22:17:39</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Before Eve can even consider moving out into the main part of the suite, Karma blows in like a bullet, looking nothing like the urbane professional woman from their first meeting. Her blonde hair is teased and piled on top of her head like the puffs on a lemon meringue pie.&nbsp; Somehow she has managed to cam her womanly body into a pair of rhinestone-studded jeans that Eve swears are a Junior size; up top she has on a matching studded denim jacket over a bandeau top that strains to contain her full breasts. She teeters on cowboy boots with 4" heels, the entire ensemble making her look rather like a porn star suffering from gigantism.<br><br>"Made yourself useful, good. Initiative," she mumbles, grinning around the half-sandwich she is inhaling with adolescent fervor.&nbsp; Seeing Eve's shocked reaction to her appearance, she waves her free hand in the air. "Texan client. DON'T ask. I won't be inflicting him on you, I hope." Inhaling the remains of her first victim, she grabs another half and heads for her flat. Hurrying to keep up, Eve sees her toss the jacket casually on her desk before ducking into her living space.&nbsp; The overworked tube top follows a moment after, flung from the&nbsp; door; in a&nbsp; few moments, Karma re-emerges, hair down and savagely pulled back, barefoot. She's still in the jeans, but wearing a scoop-neck peasant blouse.<br><br>And no bra.&nbsp; With her build, it's impossible not to notice. especially given the thinness of the linen- the darkness of her nipples shows clearly, never mind the natural bob and sway of the soft flesh.<br><br>"Anyone call?," she asks, grasping another partial sandwich and sloshing coffee carelessly into am mug. As always, her energy is intimidating overwhelming, and infectious. With a contended sigh, she plops behind the desk and props her bare feet up on it, shedding crumbs in her 500-dollar leather office chair.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>01-04-2015, 03:10:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				As soon as Eve's head stops swiveling like a pendulum from following Karma's progress through the office, she takes a sandwich for herself and shakes her head, still a bit befuddled by the cyclone of movement after such a still afternoon.&nbsp; "No, ma'am, no calls.&nbsp; Do...do all our clients require...um...costumes?"&nbsp; She supposes it's a silly question, but it slips from her mouth before her brain can adequately object.&nbsp; Of course there would be costumes.&nbsp; Fantasy requires the proper setting, language and props to complete the illusion, why should this job, specifically selling fantasy, require less?&nbsp; She is relieved, of course, that the cowgirl ensemble would not be immediately required.<br><br>Taking a small bite of her sandwich and swallowing before speaking, Eve settles herself into one of the chairs across the desk.&nbsp; "I took the liberty of going through the client files, and trying to familiarize myself with the computer system and the office itself.&nbsp; Our clients...they...they like to be...entertained...when they're here?"&nbsp; It was as close as she could bring herself to asking if she would be expected to give them lap dances, and though she thinks she knows the answer she wants to hear, a part of her starts envisioning what that kind of job requirement might entail, especially given some of the clientele.&nbsp; Her eyes drift over Karma's chest and she blushes, sliding her knees together primly.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>01-04-2015, 03:28:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Not a costume, so much as what they expect life to be like." Munching, she makes a small 'stand up and turn' motion to Eve, nodding at her outfit. "Good. Nice combination. No, you're not gonna have to dress like Bozo the clown, or, Devil help me, Frida the Fucking Truck Stop Whore most of the time. But if we take a client out, or you're meeting one on your own, you'll be expected to dress appropriately for the venue. That can be anything from evening gown to a bathing suit." <em> Or less</em>, her expression seems to add, though she doesn't actually say it.<br><br>Karma watches Eve's face, her body, almost staring, as her employee talks about how she spent her early evening. "Damn. I knew you were a good choice." Draining her coffee mug, she adds, "Just remember, there's more to the business- and life- then just crossing eyes and dotting tits, OK? A lot of our service has fuckall to do with files and gadgets, and everything to do with style and heart." With a grin, she sniped, "Don't be such a fucking accountant all the time, OK?&nbsp; Now, go grab a pad. I have a couple of letters to dictate. You'll copy down my oh-so-refined style, and try to clean them up without losing any of the impact...are you still standing there? Go."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>02-04-2015, 03:49:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				As if a whip has been cracked, Eve quickly pops the rest of her sandwich in her mouth and retrieves a pad and pencil from her desk.&nbsp; The casual and frank verbiage that Karma sprays into conversation shocks and amuses her, but she's still her boss.&nbsp; There's no reason Eve shouldn't be taken aback, she supposes, it <em>is</em> an office, and Eve has always been a bit of a stickler for following rules and staying within the social guidelines.&nbsp; Maybe it was time she started pushing more boundaries?&nbsp; She shakes her head as she returns.&nbsp; Not yet.&nbsp; She needs to get paid first.<br><br>Sitting down in the chair across from Karma, she puts her knees together and slants them to the side of the chair, keeping her skirt in place while it accentuates her posture.&nbsp; She holds her pencil ready on the pad and looks up at her boss, relaxed and attentive.&nbsp; A sly grin pulls at the corner of her lips, "Teach me, oh wise one, the ways of your craft."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>05-04-2015, 05:32:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				With a quick smirk, she starts to talk.&nbsp; And it's scathing- no wonder she wants Eve to soften the edges a bit.<br><br>The first letter is to a fading but still popular rock star, enough of a household name, still, for it to be a surprise that he's one of Karma's clients.&nbsp; None of his fans or hangers-on have ever heard of her- which may be a sign of just how good she is at her job.<br><br>"Dear______<br><br><br>"When you engaged me to salvage your public persona, you agreed to certain parameters of behavior- don't use parameters, he'll have no fucking idea what we mean- one of which was NOTHING GOES UP YOUR FUCKING NOSE! This was discussed, at length, as being the root of most of your other odious personal habits..." She continues in that vein for about two paragraphs, then smiles coolly at Eve. "We're Mommy, right now, darling. He <em>wants</em> to be yelled at, and he pays me- us, now- a rather impressive retainer to do it."&nbsp; A few more choice adjectives, and she finishes, "I also know who your suppliers are, so unless you want your next tour to be the Jailhouse Rock Retro album, get back with the program.&nbsp; Regards, Karma, clean off the rough edges but keep the acid.&nbsp; If you try to reason with the man, he tunes out.&nbsp; New letter."<br><br>As Eve flips the page, Karma's face, body posture, her whole aura&nbsp; changes, cooling, settling, becoming more yielding. "This one's Sorrowful Big Sister in tone. For God's sake, don't confuse the two.<br><br>"My Dear____"&nbsp; This time, it's a sports star, young, handsome, prone to outbursts both on the court and, allegedly, in the bedroom. "I was so sorry to hear about your troubles with Melina.&nbsp; I'm sure that's been eating up a lot of your energy which, in turn, is probably why I haven't received last quarter's payment yet.<br><br>"Don't worry too much about it, but if you could have Martin mail the check soon, that would be helpful.&nbsp; Don't worry about the penalty clauses- right now we're all concerned with just getting your life back on track, and gag me, go on like that a bit and kiss some more ass.&nbsp; The boy's a pig, has the whole Madonna-whore thing going, wants women to be nice to him, then expects them to lick his boots, yaddayadda. But he's worth forty-five mil, and we're soaking up some of it to convince him he's not bacon on the hoof."<br><br>She seems restless as Eve finishes scribbling, then hops up from her chair. "Write them up, have them to show to me for approval in time for tomorrow's second mail pickup. Go home, get some rest. I'm going out."&nbsp; And just like that, she vanishes into her private sanctum behind the office.<br><br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>06-04-2015, 04:04:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Karma drops the name of the first client like it's yesterday's fish and Eve has to struggle to hide her smirk.&nbsp; She's never been one to be star-struck, realizing that everyone puts their pants on one leg at a time.&nbsp; She's not one to mind a bit of verbal carnage, either, so the chiding seems not only amusing, but quite in line with their work.&nbsp; As Karma begins on the second letter, Eve is impressed at how fully she commits to the various facades she presents.&nbsp; If Karma's hair could change color at will, Eve is sure it would lighten and darken depending on which client Karma was thinking about, much less in the presence of.<br><br><em>"I can do that!&nbsp; I can learn to do that!&nbsp; It's <strong>amazing</strong>!"</em>.&nbsp; Her mind races as she imagines herself cool and collected with a strong businesslike tone one moment, a flirty, girlish up-talk the next, and outfits galore, each designated for a specific time, place, and mood.&nbsp; The possibilities are endless.&nbsp; It's like a she is a blank slate, only needing the input of another to choose the appropriate demeanor and look.&nbsp; There would be no doubt of rejection or jealousy, no worry or envy, because each interaction was simply a performance, an aspect of herself, but no real risk to her own emotions or identity.&nbsp; What freedom...<br><br>Karma jumps up from her chair and Eve is startled back into motion.&nbsp; She nods, too slow to actually respond before the blonde is behind the closed door.&nbsp; She picks up her pad and heads toward the computer.&nbsp; It's only about eight.&nbsp; She's worked far later and harder hours than this for far less money.&nbsp; Staying tonight to type these up will be a snap.<br><br>"Dear ___________"<br><br>"When you engaged me to improve your public image, you agreed to certain rules of behavior - one of which was to cease your drug usage.&nbsp; This was discussed, at length, as being the root of most of your more unsightly tabloid appearances, among other things...."&nbsp; The letter continues much to Eve's delight, her snark never having had such free reign before and she almost laughs as she completes a particularly vicious turn of phrase with words simple enough, but polite enough, for even a British royal to accept.&nbsp; "Unless you wish your future wardrobe purchases to include such ravishing colors as 'jumpsuit orange', our advice, what you pay us for, is to refocus on your career, and leave the partying to your fans."&nbsp; It's not as easy as she thought, trying to keep the level of honey and vinegar as requested, but its her first attempt.&nbsp; Karma should forgive her this first time, shouldn't she?&nbsp; She leaves the requisite space for Karma's no doubt flamboyant signature, and begins on the second letter.<br><br>"My Dear __________"<br><br>The second letter is much more verbatim to her notes...until Karma trailed off at the end.&nbsp; She adds to close "...your life back on track.&nbsp; We all have our troubles, and we're hear to help you through yours.&nbsp; Such an accomplished man as yourself has enough to deal with, so if there's anything we can do to ease your burden in the current circumstances, let us know and we'll work it out.&nbsp; Stop by the office when you're in town next, if that'd be easier.&nbsp; It always eases my mind to see your smiling face.&nbsp; My deepest wishes for your continued health and well being, Karma."<br><br>Within the hour, Eve's printing off the third copy of each draft and slipping them under the apartment door before turning out the lights and hailing a cab home.&nbsp; Her face beams with the satisfaction of a job well done, the praise of her mercurial employer, and the thought of the wonderful clothes waiting for her to run her hands over when she gets home.&nbsp; She picks up a not cheap bottle of wine at the corner high-end market and nods to the old woman in the basement apartment as she climbs the stairs to her cozy abode.&nbsp; Her sleep is easy and she looks forward to the challenges of the morning.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>10-04-2015, 03:27:21</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The next day, Eve has been at her desk for a while when Karma drags herself in- through the front door- looking slightly the worse for wear. Still tastefully dressed in&nbsp; a full skirt and ruffled blouse (top three buttons missing, just like Eve's, revealing an expanse of still quite smooth bosom), she looks a bit bleary and her is, for her, a bit out of sorts.<br><br>"Coffee," she grunts, imperiously. "And there should be a bottle of Advil in your left-hand desk drawer." She drifts, rather than storming, through the hall back to her office.<br><br>But her mind is still on business. "And bring those letters!," she shoots back over her shoulder. And winces.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>10-04-2015, 17:31:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Gathering the coffee, medicine, letters, pen and notepad, a small silver flask, and a bagel with smear from her desk (they were all waiting) Eve sashays down the hall, a relaxed smile on her pink, glossy lips. She places the array of items before Karma, careful not to bump the glass and make a clang, then perches on the chair nearest the desk, pen and paper ready.<br><br>"The flask has some Jameson 12 year in it, as I wasn't sure which dog had bitten you.&nbsp; If you let me know your tastes, I can prepare something a bit more discreet or tasty for next time, depending on your schedule, of course. Everything's been quiet, though there was a meeting reminder for later this afternoon. I couldn't see the details or I would have pulled the file and did some research before you got in."<br><br>Eve is once again amazed at how stunning Karma looks, even after what seems to have been a tough night. "Is there anything else I can get you?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>29-04-2015, 00:38:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Karma gives a weak grin, chuckles, regrets it, tries again. "The whole fucking kennel, feels like.&nbsp; Thanks."&nbsp; Tossing back a glup from the flask, she gags a bit, then shakes her head violently enough to loosen Eve's teeth, let alone her own, then plops behind her desk, hand out for the letters. <br><br>"The meeting's a new client. You'll know all about it soon, you'll be in from the ground floor..."&nbsp; Reading almost at a glance, she smiles again, a bit cruelly. "Not bad. Not bad at all. You need a little seasoning to measure the strips of hide you're taking off, but you have a flair for it." Squinting and reading the other note, she grunts, nods. "If you kissed his ass any more, you'd have to marry him. In the States, anyway.&nbsp; Sodomy laws..."<br><br>A blue pencil materializes form her upper desk drawer, and she makes a few quick marks on the drafts, then tosses them back over the desk to Eve. She's changed very little- a word here, the placement of punctuation there, but she's increased the savagery of the one to the rocker by a notch, and toughened up on the sports star just a hint. No longer quite so servile, the letter preserves all of Eve's basic tone but recasts it as a disappointed young aunt, rather than a hero-worshipping sister.<br><br>"Make those..."&nbsp; Her normal tone is present in her voice for a moment, and she winces, lowers her voice. "Make those couple of changes, get the finals to me for signing. Then, find us a reservation for dinner for three tonight. Price no object, up <em>or </em>down, but they need to be a bit out of the way and discreet- and Eve, part of discretion involves them not needing to know whom it is they are not asking questions about, hmmm?" Her stomach gurgles loudly, and she makes a wry face.<br><br>"Then go get us an early lunch. Something with rice.<strong> Lots</strong> of rice." A pair of twenties floats across the desk. "Screw the expense account, I don't feel like doing bookkeeping this early. Just pay cash."&nbsp; Scooping up the phone, she dials a number, composes herself, and is once again the ice-blooded businesswoman.<br><br>"Carter? DuRien. I need a car and driver for three tonight, say starting at six, until I release it. Nothing ostentatious..." It seems she's forgotten about Eve already, but as the younger woman rises to go, her boss flashes her another weak grin and a thumbs-up.&nbsp; Her voice gives no cues about her physical state to the person at the other end of the line, but it's clear she's suffering, even as she functions with near-demonic focus. Tucking the receiver between shoulder and ear, one hand has already found the bagel, while the other is, incredibly, using the blue pencil to make quick notes on a pad on the desktop- which is not even fully in her field of view.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>05-05-2015, 03:35:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				There is something both grotesque and charming about the way Karma drinks the whiskey, and it's all Eve can do to keep from giggling.&nbsp; Quickly getting hold of herself as her work is reviewed, she smiles gratefully at the praise, scant though it may be.&nbsp; Somehow she gets the sense that even those few words were precious, coming from someone like Karma, and she cherishes them before she is once again sent to task.<br><br><em>"Something out of the way and discreet?&nbsp; Money no object?</em>&nbsp; Eve is flummoxed.&nbsp; She's never been one to splurge on food and much less one to know what was popular, trendy, or desirable for a new client.&nbsp; Just as she opens her mouth to ask for suggestions, Karma is already on the phone.&nbsp; Shaking her head, she gathers the letters quickly and heads back to her desk, making sure to slip her shoes off first.&nbsp; She doesn't want to disturb Karma's phone call or her headache any more than she has to.<br><br>Eve is astounded at how hard Karma works, and how effortlessly she presents it to others.&nbsp; She realizes, too, that Karma must really have faith in her to show any vulnerability at all, and, strangely, that makes her smile in a way she never thought possible.&nbsp; Somehow, despite her work ethic, intelligence, and not poor looks, Eve had never really been good at making friends, especially around the office, and the exchange this morning was giving her an inkling of hope that Karma might actually be someone she could get along with, both at work and out on the town.&nbsp; She certainly hoped so.<br><br>She sets about her tasks diligently, calling the best local Szechuan place she knows and getting a few of her favorites, all with extra rice.&nbsp; They deliver in about half an hour, just enough time for her to type up the letters.&nbsp; As she works, Eve decides she'll discuss the dinner arrangements while they eat lunch.&nbsp; She'd hate to book a steakhouse if their client was a vegetarian, or something equally awkward, and despite all her attempts and knowledge of the calendar program the office uses, she can't seem to find the name of the person they're meeting.&nbsp; She also realizes she's going to need to change.&nbsp; If she had a roommate, she'd call them and ask them to run one of her new dresses over, but, sadly, Eve is alone in the world.<br><br>Sighing wistfully at the thought of having someone to chat about this with when she went home, she answers the door, and brings the food in to the break room and plates the various dishes, rather elegantly, if she does say so herself, on a tea cart she'd found in the side closet on one of her forays about the office.&nbsp; She grabs a couple pairs of chopsticks and napkins, then wheels the cart to Karma's office, knocking on the door softly.<br><br>"Lunch."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>27-05-2015, 02:52:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Thank God. My guts are about&nbsp; to secede." Karma sniffs deeply, nods at the cart. "Good. Working lunch. Slide your ass over here." She tosses her head at the space next to her at the desk. Once the food is arranged and Eve has sat, the blonde makes nothing of reaching across her to grab bits of this and that, using chopsticks like a scalpel. And almost rubbing up against her employee's boobs with each motion<br><br>Once they've both gotten a few mouthfuls down, the consultant picks up a large manilla envelope from her desk, unties the clasp, and tips three blown-up photos out onto a clear spot in front of Eve. "So. Tell me what's wrong with these."<br><br>All three are of the same person, a young blonde tennis player Eve recognizes by sight, a Swiss up-and-comer who has been described, rather gauchely, as a 'white Williams sister.'&nbsp; Tow of them are action shots, in the court- whether posed or not, it's hard to say. The third is a candid, with the just-this-side-of-pretty girl smiling a bit uneasily at the camera.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>27-05-2015, 03:33:09</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Well..." It takes a minute for Eve to get the hang of dodging Karma's eager reaches for the food without ending up with a plate or her boss' hand down her shirt.&nbsp; Neither would be exactly her first choice, but she's mostly surprised by the fact that she thought about the second option at all.&nbsp; <em>"Concentrate."</em>&nbsp; She bites her bottom lip hesitantly, wanting to make sure she takes the pictures in both individually, and as a whole.&nbsp; "The action shots are...too actiony.&nbsp; Everyone knows she plays tennis, it doesn't tell them anything about her.&nbsp; The third one makes her look too nervous.&nbsp; Even if that's who she really is, which would be charming, it doesn't sell.&nbsp; If she wants sponsorships, she needs to play, not hide."<br><br>She stuffs a large bite of rice and chicken in her mouth, and chews while studying the photos some more.&nbsp; "If the tennis photos were posed, they posed her all wrong.&nbsp; They're not showing off her legs or her ass, which is tight as hell.&nbsp; But," and here she stops and looks Karma straight on, "if they're not posed, I think the biggest tragedy is that this isn't our company photographer.&nbsp; Which means she isn't our client.&nbsp; At least...not yet."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>27-05-2015, 03:43:52</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Karma's grin is sharklike as she chews in an asparagus spear like a tree chipper. "Not bad. You got most of it."<br><br>Separating out the two action shots, she jabbed at them with the end of a utensil, getting bits of rice and traces of soy sauce on them.&nbsp; "She DOES have killer legs. Her butt's a little wide to be traditionally 'hot', but who the fuck cares?&nbsp; So's mine. But look at this!"&nbsp; She traces the line of one of the girl's hips. "The way the shot is angled, it makes her look like she's got fucking <em>saddlebags.</em> And this one?" Another jab, actually puncturing the glossy paper. "Instead of going after the ball, she looks like she's falling-down drunk, tripping on her own feet. And the candid is so awful, we don;t even need to talk about it."<br><br>Dabbing her lips with a napkin, she gives Eve a shrewd grin. "None of them were posed- they were all shot live and given to me by a stringer.&nbsp; And the boy's damn lucky I didn't drop him out a window. Because, you see, she <em>is</em> our client, or is about to be. We're having dinner with her tonight."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>27-05-2015, 03:56:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve blinks, masking her surprise, or at least trying to, with another mouthful of food.&nbsp; "Right.&nbsp; Tonight.&nbsp; I was going to ask you about that.&nbsp; Now that I know who I'm dealing with, I'm assuming you have a file on her already?&nbsp; That'll make the dinner plans a lot easier.&nbsp; If not, I'll have to base it on what I can Google about her in the next," she pauses to look at her watch and frowns, "fifteen minutes.&nbsp; No where decent would be taking reservations for tonight much later than that."<br><br>The challenge excites her, even if she is really out of her depth, and her eyes glimmer at her boss.&nbsp; She boldly pushes past Karma without even thinking, making her own unintentional brush of the woman's chest as she moves, and grabs the laptop open on the desk.&nbsp; "She's been in the states long enough that she's not going to need to do 'American', but not long enough to want a taste of home yet.&nbsp; Hmmmm."&nbsp; Her finger tip and perfectly manicured nail tap her chin as she thinks.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>06-06-2015, 01:31:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Of course I have a file on her." Karma doesn't sound peevish, exactly, simply miffed at the very suggestion she wouldn't. Very catlike. "She's a fishatarian who does a great deal of her own cooking when she can. So almost anything Asian would work. Or Iberian.&nbsp; Not Greek. Greek food bores me until I wet my pants for variety. And for the love of God, unless you're talking about steak, don't ever link the words 'American' and 'cuisine' in my hearing again. Almost everything this country does well with food was stolen from somewhere else." Her outburst makes her wince, slightly, though she seems in better shape after pick-me-up and food. "Not that the Swiss are much better, I suppose."<br><br>More calmly, she continues, "Really, it doesn't matter much. Privacy is key. She's not coming to us about her career- not directly. She's good enough the best even I could do for her is get in her way. No, my understanding is that she has some...personal issues she wants to get a handle on. Which, of course, affect her professional life."<br><br>"So." Rising, she grabs a briefcase and is headed for the door almost before Eve realizes she's moving. "Find a place. Call me. I have to go tell a well-known director he's a jackass.&nbsp; Tactfully, of course."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>06-06-2015, 02:37:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve nods and stands, clearing the dishes and heading back to her desk quickly.&nbsp; 'Personal issues' was probably a codeword for mental health, family, or drug problems.&nbsp; Either three sounded like a quiet, dark, and private room would do the trick.&nbsp; There was a really pricey sushi place Eve had been dying to look up when she was unemployed, but no money equaled no fancy dinners.&nbsp; That had all changed, though, and she smiled gleefully as she called them.<br><br>The host was gracious enough, especially after Eve offered the $250 extra if they could enter through the side, and an extra $500 if they could keep the wait staff down to one girl with limited English.&nbsp; She pre-ordered all their best dishes, arranged a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks to be waiting on the side table.&nbsp; She said she would be there an hour before the reservation to ensure the preparations would correct, and called Karma back with the plan.<br><br>Quickly closing up the office, she hurried home to get changed and paint her nails before she had to be at the restaurant.&nbsp; Her heart had never beaten so fast.&nbsp; And for this, she was getting paid?&nbsp; She couldn't believe her luck.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>11-06-2015, 15:14:39</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<br><div class="floatright">(http://img01.taobaocdn.com/bao/uploaded/i1/T18JYIXjpeXXblZV79_102335.jpg)</div>At five-thirty on the dot, Karma returns, dressed in rather butch vest-and-jacket combination that nonetheless fits her perfectly, clinging to her womanly curves. By the time Eve is done reporting the decisions she's made, the usually chilly blonde is actually grinning.<br><br>"God<em> damn</em>, girl," she says, patting her underling's cheek affectionately. "I took a gamble on you, and so far, it's paid off." Then, yet again, her mood flops. Taking Eve's hand, she says, quite seriously, "But remember- the greater the expectations you live up to, the easier it is to trip over that next step. So watch your feet."&nbsp; <br><br>With a tug, she guides the younger woman back towards, not her office, but the small, nicely-appointed meeting room. "Come on. We have a few minutes before Kai gets here, and I have a few notes I want to dictate."<br><br>A few minutes before six, a small, apologetic sound comes from the door of the meeting room, and a light voice with a very slightly Germanic accent says, "I am sorry. Miss DuRien?&nbsp; I am a few minutes late, I am afraid."<br><br>Standing in the door is Kai Richter, tennis star, hella cute and nervous, your new client.<br><br><br><br>How the hell did she get past the front door of the suite without ringing, though?<br><br>(http://pc-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/barbara-schett-7.jpg)
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>11-06-2015, 20:18:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve takes a rather long look at her employer as she returns, the praise and touch on the cheek sending a startling white hot zing through her body that plunges with the warning, almost seductive in its delivery, a hint that falling may be exactly what she was expected to do.&nbsp; She follows Karma quickly, pad of paper in hand, losing herself in the dictation. <br><br>The voice of the petite blond startles her, and her pen slips across the blue-lined page. Turning, she finds that she wants to physically harm whomever had taken the photos she'd seen earlier. The athlete is resplendent, firm, alluring, and the hint of nervous energy combined to send a chill up her spine.<br><br>She stands and saunters over to the woman, extending her hand, "Ms. Richter!&nbsp; It's such a pleasure to meet you.&nbsp; You're not late at all."&nbsp; She pulls the woman closer for a European style cheek kiss and feels the heat in her body rise.&nbsp; Eve had never consciously sought the company of women, but it was hard for her to deny their attraction, especially when they came packaged so well.&nbsp; But, that was not her job.<br><br>She leads her into the office, literally handing her over to Karma.&nbsp; "Ms. DuRien?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>18-06-2015, 03:34:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Karma gives Eve an eyebrow lift that is absolutely inscrutable.&nbsp; Approval, peeve that she inserted herself between her boss and their new client, all of the above, something totally different? It's a skin-peeling x-ray "I know what you did" sort of look, but devoid of any emotional cueing whatsoever.<br><br>It goes on long enough for the younger blonde to sense it. Smiling uneasily, she steps forward and offers a hand. "Miz DuRien?" And that's enough to break the spell. The old Karma comes roaring back, aggressive, expansive, generous and intolerable.<br><br>"Oh, stow that formal shit," she half-bellows, rising to kiss Richter in the same manner, dwarfing the trim athlete somewhat. "I'm Karma, you're Kai, and miss touchy-feely there is Eve. You need us you help clean up a problem, we need you for the huge amount of money we're going to charge you, and we're all going to be great friends once we have a meal." Right on schedule, her desk phone rings, once.<br><br>"Car's downstairs Come along, you can tell us about nothing at all important on the way over. Never talk business before the first drink. By the way, the I got that halfwit who was shopping those crap pictures of you blackballed, and there's an injunction on him. Don't worry abut him..." Her voice trails behind her as she walks out, heading for the front of the suite and the elevator.<br><br>Richter looks after her with an expression that says, quite clearly, that she is not sure whether to be amused or horribly offended. Finally she turns to Eve and asks quietly, accent managing to make her sound almost little-girlish, "Eh...is she...always like that?"<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>18-06-2015, 04:36:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Wondering at what exactly that look would mean for her future, Eve smiles widely and almost giggles, suddenly feeling like she's walked into a teenage slumber party, with all its myriad angst, drama, and subsumed sexual tension.&nbsp; &nbsp;She indicates Ms. Richter should follow her employer and reassures her, "You get used to it."<br><br>She locks up the office behind them and hurries to follow the other women to the car, texting the restaurant that they were on their way.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>26-06-2015, 03:39:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Not surprisingly, Karma dominates the conversation on the way to the restaurant. At least, she <em>seems</em> to- it's not long before it's clear that she's not monopolizing it so much as steering it. Her (feigned?) ignorance about tennis and her (wholly spurious, given some of her clients) simplistic questions about aspects of the sports business soon has Kai chatting more animatedly, out of her shell. Not relaxed, no; she's far too Germanic, and clearly whatever brought her to Karma and Eve is weighing on her. But she no longer has the shy, deerlike look she had when she arrived at the office. A small chuckle or two actually escapes the prison of her mouth.<br><br><br>When they arrive at the restaurant, Karma makes a tiny little gesture- it appears she wants Eve to get out first and get the door for Kai and herself.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>26-06-2015, 04:11:33</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve watches the women in the car intently, awed at Karma's deft maneuvering.&nbsp; She doesn't contribute a lot, but tries to chuckle in the right places, to make Kai feel more at ease.&nbsp; As they arrive, Eve is already preparing to exit the car and be the first one inside, wanting to triple check that the restaurant had earned its bonus.&nbsp; Luckily, she catches Karma's movement out of the corner of her eye and instead turns to hold the door for them.&nbsp; It ends up looking far more natural than she would have thought her self capable, and her grin deepens.<br><br>She pats the top of the car twice after shutting the door, signalling the driver to go park and wait for them, then walks quickly to usher her companions into the restaurant.&nbsp; Everything seems to be as she requested.&nbsp; They are greeted by an Asian woman in her fifties, who guides them quickly down a side hallway to a private room where there food awaits.&nbsp; There is far more than Eve had ordered, and she wonders if Karma had been checking up on her or if the restaurant was angling for a bigger bill.&nbsp; Either way, if they actually ate it all the three of them would be leaving in ambulances, not the limo.<br><br>The table is low to the ground, and instead of chairs, there are cushions.&nbsp; While this wasn't a Japanese restaurant, it reminded Eve of the style she'd seen in Geisha movies.&nbsp; The three women situate themselves comfortably while tea is being served and the first course placed on the spinning disc centered on the table.&nbsp; Large communal dishes heaping with heavenly scents are uncovered, sending wafts of steam into the air.&nbsp; Eve smiles at Karma and checks for signs of anything else that needs to be accomplished.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>02-07-2015, 01:38:41</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Kai seems a bit out of her league with the food, and even Karma seems impressed, quite a triumph.&nbsp; "Try this one first, Kai," the blonde says, spreading sauce on a pancake before loading it with wok-cooked vegetbales and handing it to their client.&nbsp; "It's sort of like tacos with slanted eyes." The insensitivity of the remark is cringe-inducing, and off-tune for her- but Karma's eyes are wary. Clearly once again she's done something outrageous for effect, though what she's watching for is anyone's guess.<br><br>They spend a small amount of time eating and sipping plum wine, and still Karma refuses to broach business.&nbsp; It's a nerve-wracking performance, combining the patience of a Zen master with that of a flock of buzzards circling above a slowly-dying Wild West gunslinger.<br><br>Finally, dabbing her lips after consuming a massive plate of some Mongolian dish so spicy it should have been served on space shuttle tiles, Karma speaks. "OK, let's cut the crap."&nbsp; her tone, now brisk and hard, jars the young blonde back to stunned reality. "You already have a business manager. As it happens, I know the guy- he's competent, for a chromosomally-challenged primate, you're one of the only seven clients he has, he's making you a pile, you're making him a pile.&nbsp; So you're not here about jumping ship.&nbsp; So you're here because there's something specific you either don;t think he can handle, or you don't want handled by him, for some reason.<br><br>"It's not about money, it's not about your coach or your game. So I'm betting it's about the rumours.&nbsp; You ready to talk now?"&nbsp; Shocked to silence, Kai actually lets her jaw drop before she remembers there's still food in her mouth.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>02-07-2015, 02:07:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve, too, is surprised.&nbsp; She is not used to seeing Karma at any sort of loss, and the unexpected vulnerability is quite frightening.&nbsp; Admittedly, she chides herself, she's been working for the woman for less than a week, so she is bound to have her own flaws and eccentricities that Eve would only learn about over time.&nbsp; Her curiosity is also insatiable, once it gets wind of a mystery, and if Karma's words are to be believed, the young blond sharing their repast was quite the Agatha Christie.<br><br>Not wanting to startle the poor girl, or interrupt Karma's mojo, so takes a sip of her wine and watches, trying to note every movement, capture the essence of the scene before her as her mind raced.&nbsp; What could it be that this woman had come to them for?&nbsp; What was it, exactly, that she thought Karma could provide?
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>02-07-2015, 21:27:41</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Ah." The young blonde colors a bit, pushes some dumpling scraps around her plate. "You...know about that, zen?"&nbsp; It would be adorable, the way her accent thickened, if she weren't clearly horribly embarrassed.<br><br>Karma sees it too, and softens her tone, reaches out to lay a hand on Richter's wrist. "Dear girl...yes. Of course I do. That's how I make my living, is knowing things like that, and helping people deal with them."&nbsp; She maintains the contact until Kai looks up, then grins. "And for the love of God, there's nothing shameful about it. We've even made it legal to marry here in the Benighted States of Assmerica."<br><br>Shifting her gaze to Eve, Karma spells out what her employee is just beginning to put together from context. "Some jackass tabloid scribbler started a rumor that our pretty little tennis star is a lesbian. Some of the other bottom-feeders ran with it, and now everyone 'knows' that Kai is queer. Of course, they don't come out and <em>say</em> it, because in Europe, she could sue for libel.&nbsp; But there have been some sponsor...issues, and things."&nbsp; She leaves the issues hanging, as well as exactly why Kai doesn't just flatten the tabloid that started the rumor in the first place- certainly she has the wealth to demolish any minor newspaper cretin in the EU courts.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>03-07-2015, 01:22:33</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve raises an eyebrow, wishing she were telepathic, and could ask Karma her questions without endangering the seemingly delicate constitution of their prospective client.&nbsp; Her first thought after hearing about the blonde's lesbianism had been something along the lines of "Medieval heathens", quickly parlaying into "Is she being blackmailed?", and "I wouldn't work for bigoted sponsors anyway", but it isn't her life, or her career.&nbsp; It seems there may be more going on than simple corporate assholishness, as well, and treading lightly is definitely preferred, based on what she's seen of Karma and the tennis star.<br><br>"It's unfortunate that those with such small minds are able to impact more than the insides of their skulls.&nbsp; I'm sure our firm can handle anything that you're worried about."<br><br>It probably isn't the most reassuring phrase she could have come up with, but she's still new to this, and there are things she doesn't know.&nbsp; She fills Kai's glass as well as her own and takes a sip, smiling as genuinely as is possible and leaning back slightly on the cushions.&nbsp; Being seated on the floor pushes her skirt up her hips, but not indecently.&nbsp; She notices the blushing woman take more than a cursory glance at her legs and smiles again.&nbsp; Making the client feel at ease may look easy, when Karma did it, but those eyes on her are giving her chills up her spine.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>08-07-2015, 04:47:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"It is not as bad as all that," Richter begins, nodding her thanks to Eve. "It is only one or two sponsors, and there has been some, eh, backlash?"&nbsp; Karma is nodding, waiting. "So in truth, I am not sure why I wished to consult with you, Ms. DuRien."&nbsp; In the most undiplomatic move possible- or so one might think- Karma rolls her eyes. "Oh, come on Kai.&nbsp; We're all friends here. We've broken bread, and we've got past the hard part- the whole 'queer' word. So can we cut the bullshit?"<br><br>Startled, a bit red-faced (though that might be the spice in the meal), Richter sputters, "I am sorry? I do not understand..."<br><br>"Bah." Karma cuts her off, shoves some empty serving dishes out of the way, and leans across the table. "You're a smart and talented girl. You're tough as hell, and cute to boot. I wish I had your abs, and your ass. Figuratively, mind you, I'm not getting creepy here. It's fucking twenty-fifteen, doll.&nbsp; The only reason a rumor about being gay would bother a fucking athletic miracle like you is because you don't know your <em>own</em> damn self if it's true or not. Am I right?"<br><br>Kai can't answer; she's too busy sputtering and trying to hide her face in her water glass. Which is really the only answer needed.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>08-07-2015, 06:03:39</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve almost spits her water out of her mouth at Karma's brash statement.&nbsp; Seeing Kai's distress, she slides slightly closer to the flustered woman and places her hand on the table in front of her.&nbsp; She wants to give Kai a sense of comfort without frightening her, the way Karma had seemed to.&nbsp; If she was this nervous now, she needed to be handled more delicately than a client with a simpler problem and a firmer sense of self.<br><br>"Ms. Richter...exploring one's....defining characteristics is not always a quick and easy process.&nbsp; There might be things you <em>do</em> like, as well as things you don't.&nbsp; I believe what Ms. DuRien is trying to express is that as our client, we will help you take whatever time and measures you need to feel comfortable while keeping any untoward consequences from negatively affecting your business and personal goals, for a modest fee, of course."<br><br>She smiles warmly, thinking happy non-threatening thoughts.&nbsp; Maybe if she just keeps calm, Kai will lose the 'deer in the headlights' look and seal the deal.&nbsp; Then she and Karma can figure out how the hell they would tackle this little life wrinkle for their newest client.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>14-07-2015, 03:33:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Karma raises an eyebrow at Eve, and for a moment, storm clouds appear on her face at being 'interpreted' by her employee. Then she laughs, loudly. "I prefer calling a spade a spade. Eve gets off on calling it 'one of the darker suits in cards.' It amounts to the same thing."&nbsp; Leaning forward, she lowers her voice again, and gets all big-sisterly. The skill with which she plays chameleon is amazing.<br><br>"Look, Kai. No one at this table is judging you. I, for one, don't give a rat's ass who you do or do not sleep with- it's absolutely none of my business." Then the shark grin appears. "And Eve here had her little experimental period back in college, as did so many of us. The point of being blunt about it is to get<em> you</em> to grasp how utterly fucking unimportant it is- in the real world." Then she sighs, and pats both hands on the table in front of her.<br><br>"But. Most of the mass of squirming nitwits we share the planet with don't live in the real world, they have their heads firmly rooted in anusland.&nbsp; So. Eve is right- we need to find a way to deal. So. First tings first- do you have <strong>any</strong> baseline at all? Or are you a virgin?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>14-07-2015, 04:35:42</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				If Eve had known where Karma's leg was under the table, she would have kicked it.&nbsp; <em>Experimental phase?!</em>&nbsp; She had kissed two, maaaaaybe three girls.&nbsp; If anything, she is just as inexperienced as their dinner guest, and with the pressure of her employment riding on the line, probably just as nervous.&nbsp; What is Karma trying to do?&nbsp; This wasn't a dating service!<br><br>Outwardly, her expression remains unicorns and puppy dogs, but inside, she is seething.&nbsp; Karma has known all along what this was about, most likely, and to throw her under the bus like that?&nbsp; She closes her eyes for a second and collects her thoughts before they begin to grow into something quite unprofessional.&nbsp; She is her to help this young woman, not cause drama and get herself fired!<br><br>If she takes it one step at a time, maybe she can make a break for the bathroom before things get even more convoluted.&nbsp; Karma's hand on hers was suddenly feeling very soft, and making her feel very warm.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>18-07-2015, 02:23:43</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Kai jumps a bit at Karma's touch- but doesn't pull away. Shyly, she raises her eyes. "I...started taking tennis seriously at age seven, miss DuRien..."<br><br>"Karma. You're gonna be paying me wayyyy too much to be formal with me. In fact, if you'd thrown your glass at me, I'da known you were getting with the program."<br><br>That almost gets a grin. "Miss Karma. I had no time, with practice and school, to go through my, ah...'experimental phase', as you put it. With anyone."&nbsp; Heavily, she sighs, hand still half-held by Karma's. The older woman sits like a statue, face a picture of polite interest. But there's something else in her eyes, as well. Is it pity...or hunger...?<br><br>"I suppose, Karma, zat the thing that bozzers me the most is that ze papers are telling everyone what I am, when I do not even know myself."<br><br>"Good girl." Lightly, DuRien pats Kai's hand, then withdraws- a bit reluctantly, maybe, it seems. However, she keeps a heavy, possessive weight on Eve's. "So. That gives us several ways to go at this. All of 'em will start a lot more talk, but most of them will be pleasant besides that.&nbsp; You ready to get into it, or you want a little time to calm down?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>20-07-2015, 04:45:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Nodding reassuringly to Kai, Eve wonders what exactly Karma's doing, holding her hand like that.&nbsp; Hoping it's part of the client pitch and not an awkward conversation waiting to happen, she squeezes it and smiles to her boss.&nbsp; Immediately, she wonders if Kai now thinks she and Karma are a couple, and blushes.&nbsp; She begins to pull her hand away quickly, but then realizes that would look even more suspicious.<br><br>She clears her throat and reaches for her wine glass, instead, filling it to the brim and drinking quickly.&nbsp; The ad had said this job would be high stress, but she had assumed that would mean angry clients and heated phone calls, not being offered up as a platter to a very delightful, shapely...voluptuous...&nbsp; Eve's wine must be getting to her quicker than usual, this evening.&nbsp; Drawing her eyes away from Ms. Richter and back towards Karma doesn't really help anything, either.&nbsp; She shifts and pulls at the collar of her dress, feeling flushed.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>25-07-2015, 22:21:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Grinning tightly, Kai replies, "I was told your met'ods were...a bit unusual, miss...Karma.&nbsp; Are you always so brusque? And so, ah..."<br><br>"Honest?&nbsp; Yes. Am I always a big pain in the ass? Absolutely. Can I sell you any damn way you want to spin it, and make sure the audience thinks it was all their idea? Damn straight. So. First test."&nbsp; Suddenly, she draws the hands she is holding together, setting Kai's on top of Eve's, pressing down, then letting go. "Does that absolutely repulse you? If not, we got one position to work from. If so, we try something else."<br><br>It's quite clear, though, that she's only interested in the client's reaction, not Eve's.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>25-07-2015, 22:36:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve's eyes widen slightly, and she blushes, but is surprisingly fine with the new contact with their prospective client.&nbsp; She certainly isn't repulsed, and she doesn't think Kai is, either.&nbsp; It's just hand holding, after all.&nbsp; She'd done that with her best friends throughout her life. It didn't mean anything.&nbsp; Noting the direction Karma is headed, Eve focuses on the athlete and tries to look as nonthreatening as possible.<br><br>Without thinking, she finds her thumb gently sliding along the edge of Kai's hand.&nbsp; A simple touch, not even that intimate, really, but it could lead to things, in the right circumstances.&nbsp; The movement is more to reassure herself than anything else, but if Karma's at all as good as she's supposed to be, she would have foreseen this, possibly even counted on it.&nbsp; Eve tries to remain relaxed as she waits for a response from Kai.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>08-08-2015, 05:18:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Kai seems genuinely puzzled, though she does blush a bit at Eve's extra little 'English' on the handhold. "Of course not. Why should it?"&nbsp; Karma looks benignly triumphant.<br><br>"It shouldn't. She's cute, and holding hands isn't exactly scissoring in the jacuzzi. But that doesn't stop some people."&nbsp; Leaning over the joined hands, keeping her own resting lightly on top of them, she speaks more earnestly. "Look, there are only a few ways to squash this kind of rumor that work. You can deny all you want, that just makes the dogs bark louder, you know? Even if you painstakingly don't show up in public with anyone, ever, anywhere, that just means the rats will start digging around for your secret lover."<br><br>"But I don't..." Karma rested a finger of her free hand over the athlete's lips. "I know that. You know that. <em>They </em>probably know that- but it doesn't sell adverts, you know?"&nbsp; Easing back, the consultant folds her hands behind her head, and actually puts one foot up on the table, making an interesting line from long leg to jutting breasts framed by her now somehow unbuttoned vest. She seems to be judging exactly where Kai's eyes fall as she reclines- and Eve's as well.<br><br>"If you've got a really good gay male friend, you could get married, and cover for each other. But I think you're too honest for that, and there's all the privacy issues, and God forbid the story ever got out, the howling would be even worse. You can date guys casually until the drones get tired and go away- but frankly, even the best guy has an asshole streak in him, and they all tend to think there's more to a get-together for drinks than there is. Plus, there's the danger of going from 'queer' to 'slut' in newspaperland.&nbsp; Which wouldn't help fix things."<br><br>Kai can only shake her head, seeming overwhelmed by the barrage of 'Karma's Life Lessons.'&nbsp; "That leaves one thing."&nbsp; Karma turns her grin on Eve. "Which is to be seen repeatedly and openly in public with a girlfriend." Once again, the tennis pro's eyes go wide, and she tried to speak; once again, Karma intercepts her. "I <em>know,</em> Kai. But there's a funny thing about the piss-yellow press. Once a rumor seems to be fact, they don't care about it any more. They wag their peckers at you and go 'neener-neener' if it looks as if you really<em> are</em> gay, and then they're cool with it. A couple of weeks, they'll go find some other poor sod to prey on."<br><br>Apparently, Karma hadn't been kidding during Eve's brief interview about the complexity and all-consuming nature of the job.&nbsp; It sounds as if she's prepared to pimp Eve&nbsp; out to Kai as arm candy...if you can really call it 'pimping' when nothing is expected other than being seen...
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>08-08-2015, 07:40:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Without changing her expression, a lesson well learned after many boring meetings at her last job, Eve feels her stomach drop as Kai blushes and continues to hold her hand.&nbsp; She could feel the worn parts of her skin where the racquet rested most often, and the warmer, softer flesh next to it.&nbsp; Karma goes on talking, but Eve only has her mind on holding that hand.&nbsp; She thought about what that hand might mean, under different circumstances. If Kai had been a casual acquaintance or distant sorority member coming out rather randomly to a couple of near strangers, holding her hand, brushing it lightly as she found herself doing again, might mean far more than friendship.<br><br>Her brain catches up to her ears and it takes all her willpower not to glare at Karma as she is basically proffered as a living sexual test dummy to the foreign athlete.&nbsp; Her eyes flash for a moment, regardless, and she lowers her head to hide her anger.&nbsp; As she schools her emotions, she realizes anger may not be all she's feeling. Kai is beautiful in every way, and why shouldn't she benefit from some experimentation as well? She supposes the worst case scenario would leave her unattracted to women and without a job if Karma wouldn't accept the requirement of checking with her first before she offered Eve's 'services' to their clientele. <br><br>Eve looks at Karma again, so poised and in control, knowing that Eve wouldn't put up a fuss and jeapordize the deal while using Eve's work ethic and eagerness to please to give the impression that Eve was not only okay with the proposed arrangement, but had possibly done so before.&nbsp; It was rather a brilliant move, and Eve couldn't help but admire it even as she knew she and her employer would be having words at the next possible opportunity.&nbsp; How did Karma do it?&nbsp; She made it seem so damn easy.&nbsp; This is what she had been hired for. Karma had built the set up, now she needed to close the deal.<br><br>Squeezing Kai's hand once, Eve looks at the young woman, scared and confused as she is, but without the knowledge that the business of image and personality is more facade than the falsest storefront on a movie lot.&nbsp; Gently, she rubs her thumb over Kai's and smiles softly.&nbsp; "Nothing has to happen, Ms. Richter,"&nbsp; she softens her gaze a touch, good enough for a community production of Romeo and Juliet at least, "Kai..., if you don't want it to.&nbsp; This method has been used on multiple occasions.&nbsp; Before it used to be enough just to put up a front, a la Rock Hudson. The way the press is today, there's too much money in telling stories out of school. The trick now is giving them the story they think they have before they've asked for it."<br><br>Eve blushes slightly, really feeling her wine but pushing ahead in spite of her mental state.&nbsp; "You really are a gorgeous woman, and I am more than willing to spend time accompanying you to whatever club, match, or luxurious Caribbean island I need to for the sake of getting these jackals to leave you alone.&nbsp; All at your expense, of course."&nbsp; Her smile could rival the Cheshire Cat's, and Eve realizes she means it. Not just for the job, but for herself.&nbsp; She wants to be by Kai's side, fending off the paparazzi with long kisses by the red carpet or on a hotel balcony. Watching Wimbeldon and cheering as her 'girlfriend' won the set forty love.&nbsp; Even the word 'girlfriend' running through her mind made Eve's heart leap in her chest.<br><br>Still holding Kai's hand, she locked eyes with her and leaned a little closer.&nbsp; "Would you allow me the honor of being your personal assistant in this matter?"<br>&nbsp;
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>15-08-2015, 02:59:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Karma grins...guardedly.&nbsp; Maybe she can read Eve's annoyance on her face, or maybe...is it possible she's jealous?&nbsp; Of the fact that she, personally, is well known enough that she can't offer herself as an escort to Kai?&nbsp; The reasons for that are clear- sports star with media issues shows up 'dating' well-known media consultant?&nbsp; It'd be like OJ going glove shopping with Johnny Cochran in tow.<br><br>"No one <em>expects</em> anything to happen." It'd be hard to say if she's addressing Kai, Eve, both- or herself.&nbsp; "As long as you make a good show of it, the vultures will fill their heads and their readers' with all sorts of website imagery about what's going on where even they can't reach."&nbsp; It's the first time since Eve has known her boss that she's stumbled over constructing a pithy sentence. While her meaning is clear, this once, her language is barely coherent.<br><br>She <strong>is</strong> upset. About something. But why?&nbsp; This whole thing was her idea...<br><br>Still blushing, Kai looks at Karma, and then at Eve. "I uh...please don't take this the wrong way, Miss Eve- yo're quite pretty. I'm a little uncomfortable about this plan, though."<br><br>"I understand that," Karma all but snaps, heading off any reassurances from Eve. "I think it's sleazy, too. But you have to fight fire with fire.&nbsp; If you really think you can't do it, I'll think of something else..." But Richter is shaking her head. "No, no. If you think it will work...as you say, nothing need actually...happen. So long as people think there is something, and then will leave me alone."&nbsp; She even chuckles. "I supposed there will be some more thrashing about when miss Eve and I 'break up'?"<br><br>With that, Karma's mood switches once again, from storm clouds to sunshine. "Oh, sure. But less than now- celebrities dump partners more often than they do print ads. That part'll be easy." Looking at Eve, she manages to keep her smile. "Receipt<em> everything</em>. Except your clothes. Buy what you need. Just no crap, and don't gouge me. You need to look like famous arm candy- and I have a rep to uphold. If you go grunge, so help me, I'll break you and see you working at McDonald's next week."<br><br>Smiling she may be, joking, she does not sound as if she is.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>15-08-2015, 04:00:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Even if her head hadn't been spinning already, Karma's flash in the pan mood swings certainly would have given Eve pause, if not whiplash.&nbsp; As it is, Eve simply tries to keep up with the dialogue.&nbsp; Is the plan working?&nbsp; She suddenly can't remember if Karma frowning is because the deal is being rejected or because Kai is agreeing too quickly.&nbsp; She tries to insert herself into the conversation, but the wine and Karma's rapid fire mouth won't let her get a word in edgewise.<br><br>The term break-up comes in from left field, and Eve's mood starts mimicking Karma's.&nbsp; Wait...they haven't even dated yet, and they're breaking up?&nbsp; The room is too hot.&nbsp; Her tongue feels thick and she reaches for her water, letting go of Kai's hand to clasp the tumbler in both of her own.&nbsp; As Karma instructs her, she nods, not comprehending a word.&nbsp; She'll figure it out in the morning.&nbsp; Now she just has to keep smiling and nodding, smiling and nodding.<br><br>"I wouldn't think about charging anyone anything inappropriately.&nbsp; And if I'm going to be in the arms of the most beautiful girl in the world, I ought to at least try to look good for her, don't you think, Kai?"&nbsp; Her earlier hesitation about the arrangement flows away as the drink takes its final hold.&nbsp; Kai is gorgeous, more than gorgeous, and if this is what she signed up for, then by god, she's going to do it and do it well.&nbsp; Her eyes twinkle as they gaze at the athlete, completely subsumed in her 'role'.&nbsp; Finally, she looks back to Karma.<br><br>"So, when do we start?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>17-08-2015, 19:51:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Tomorrow," Karma growls. "After you sober up."&nbsp; Then, she laughs.<br><br>"I'm sorry, Kai- I'm interfering enough in your ersatz love life. when would you like your first 'date' with Eve to be? I'll let the two of you set it up, while I got to the little girls' room." Unfolding in her oddly, aggressively graceful way, Karma stands, again showing little to no effect from the rather large amount of wine they've all consumed.&nbsp; Kai watches her go for a moment, then turn to Eve with a tiny, awkward smile.<br><br>"Zis really is not necessary, miss Eve, if you are uncomfortable. She is...ah, very...dominant, you would say?&nbsp; Very good at convincing people when you are face-to-face.&nbsp; But if you would like to...I am attending a Womens' Intercollegiate Tennis Association event the night after tomorrow. It might be a little high-profile for you to be comfortable..."&nbsp; The blonde leaves it there, letting&nbsp; Eve make up her own mind, free of Karma's overwhelming, harsh charisma.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>17-08-2015, 21:10:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				A crooked smile slides over Eve's lips and she takes Kai's hand in hers.&nbsp; There was no hesitation, no regret as she lifted Kai's hand and placed a soft kiss on its back.<br><br>"I would be honored to accompany you, just make sure to let me know what you're wearing, as I'd hate to show up in the same dress!"&nbsp; She giggled lightly. "I'm sure there will be more details to settle, but I'm sure we can email about those later, no?&nbsp; My biggest concern is making sure that you're comfortable.&nbsp; If you have any hesitation, tell me now so we can work it out.&nbsp; If I've learned anything from Ms. DuRien, once the ball starts rolling, it won't stop without a <em>lot</em> of effort.&nbsp; I'm not looking for either of us to get hurt."<br><br>Hopefully, Kai would be able to see through the fog of the wine that Eve is sincere.&nbsp; This had the possibility of disaster, but skirting danger is part of what would make it work.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>24-08-2015, 17:49:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Karma comes back just for the end of the exchange, and manages, somehow, to look both extremely pleased, and as if she's swallowed a fungus-covered lemon. "Well.&nbsp; Looks like the two of you have got that settled. Good." With a wave, she makes a petite waitress appear, ninja-like; with a genuine smile and a small bow of her head, Karma takes the check from her, glances over it, nods firmly, and comes up with a wad of cash. Peeling off several large bills, she takes the ticket as a receipt, and hands the folder and the money- far more at a quick glance than the dinner could possibly have cost- to the slightly bug-eyed waitress.<br><br>"I trust I can leave the two of you to sort out details. Kai, the car is at your disposal for the rest of the night. If you need me-" one of her business cards appears, one with a number that Eve doesn't recognize. "Any time. I mean that- I might be crabby if you wake me up, but I work for <em>you</em>, not the other way around. If you need me, I'll answer."&nbsp; She gives Eve a piercing look, one of her slightly scary 'I know what you're thinking' smiles. "I'm walking back. Ate too damn much, I feel like a manatee. Are you coming with me, Eve, or do you want Kai to drop you off at home?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>25-08-2015, 03:02:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Despite the wine, Eve could sense the dangerous waters in which she was treading, both with Kai being so tentative and Karma being so...well...it wasn't herself exactly.&nbsp; There was <em>something</em> in the woman's manner that Eve knew needed attending to.<br><br>"I think I've bothered our client more than enough for one evening, and judging by the way the room is spinning, I could use some fresh air.&nbsp; I think I better walk with you." She rises unsteadily on her feet and gives Kai a quick peck on the cheek, being sure the waitress could see.&nbsp; "Don't get jealous now," she quips as she links arms with Karma and heads toward the door, leaning perhaps more than necessary against the tall blonde. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>02-09-2015, 03:22:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Karma remains silent all the way out of the restaurant, and into the street, simply supporting her slightly tipsy assistant. A block or so along she starts up a line of, for her, inane chatter, but with an edge beneath it.<br><br>"Would you think she was gay just looking at her?&nbsp; She is, you know. Whether she's gotten to it yet, or not. Not, like, screaming Sandra Bernhard gay, but she has a thing for the girls. Or, she will. You'll help her with that, I'm sure." Another half block passes silently, then she bursts out again. "She's got kind of chunky legs- but that's from working so hard on the field, I guess. Good ass, solid. And GODS, I wish I could tone my arms up like her. Hard to tell about her tits- could just be a real good bra. What do you think?&nbsp; Think they stick out like that on their own?"<br><br>It's not jealousy in her voice- exactly. And it's certainly not the peeve she seemed to be showing earlier. For a moment, she almost seems like a gawky teenage girl trying to fit in with the 'cool' crowd in school. The unexpected moment of vulnerability in her otherwise sharp-as-thumbtacks personality is a shock.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>02-09-2015, 14:54:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Most of Karma's words float above Eve's head, but a few poked through the drunken fog.<br><br>"I suppose I'll be helping both of us, then, as I've honestly not done much more than kiss another woman before.&nbsp; I'm afraid I'll be frighteningly unimaginative in drawing out her tits, no matter what they might look like."<br><br>As they walk, she leans more heavily against her boss, but only partly because of her stumbling feet.&nbsp; She slips her arm around Karma's waist and lays her head on her shoulder as they walk, the air actually doing some good at clearing her head.<br><br>"I know I'm probably totally off, here, but it seems like maybe you don't want me to do this thing with our tentative tennis star."&nbsp; She smiles at her alliteration, and gets a heady wife of Karma's perfume.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>10-09-2015, 17:26:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"She's not tentative, nitwit, she's a by-god genius on the court..."&nbsp; Then Karma stops, stares at Eve, laughs. "Wow. OK, you nearly slid that one by me. Not bad." Looping an arm over Eve's shoulders to help support her, the buxom exec gets them moving again before she speaks, in a quieter tone. "Give me some credit for having a conscience, Eve, even if it plays hide and seek a lot.&nbsp; I'm a user, I know that. I use people to help other people. Sometimes they're even one and the same. Doesn't mean I always like it, though it's made me a very wealthy woman. Powerful too, in a sneaky, behind-the-scenes sorta way."<br><br>Stopping abruptly, she places her hands on bot of Eve's shoulders and turns the woman to face her. Then one moves to her chin and turns her face up firmly, giving the momentary impression that Karma intends to kiss her. Instead, the blonde looks into her eyes for a long time.<br><br>"I know a lot more about you than you think, Eve," she says quietly, almost bitterly. "More'n I have any right to, you'd probably say. More than you know about yourself. I know you've been curious about women, but haven't acted on it." A tiny, smirk flickers and dies on her lips. "I also know you've got a tendency to drink when you're nervous or embarrassed. Not that you're a drunk, mind you- I'd never have hired you if you were, and if that changes, you can bet your ass I'll drop you like a hot brick. Just enough. To make you pliable." With a sigh, she lets go, turns away.<br><br>"So. I got you full of a good meal and some very good wine, and turned a queer-clueless cutiepie loose on you. Because it's part of the way I work. Always have. It's fuck-all effective...as you can see. I knew damn well neither of you would say no."&nbsp; When she turns back, her face is somber. "Doesn't mean I'm not feeling just a little bit sick about it right now. So I want you to know, I meant what I said. Nothing at all needs to happen. Just put on a show for the cameras for a few days, maybe a week, shut up the fucking yapdogs that scrawl for the celebrity press. Then it's done."&nbsp; Shrugging, Karma starts to move up the street again. "If even that's too much, when you sober up, fine. You can back out. I'll sqaure it with Kai somehow."<br><br><br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>11-09-2015, 04:58:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve surprises herself by reaching out and spinning her boss back around to face her.&nbsp; "Bullshit.&nbsp; I don't know how much you realize it yourself, but the way you're acting?&nbsp; There's more than you're telling me.&nbsp; She's gorgeous, and I'll damn well go as far as she wants to and like it all the way, sober or not..." A finger pokes drunkenly into that ample bosom and Eve finds herself face to breast with her employer.&nbsp; "But you don't get to pout about not joining the party.&nbsp; Manipulate all you want, it's part of the gig.&nbsp; I figured that out with the letters.&nbsp; Don't martyr yourself on my account.&nbsp; It makes you look ugly."<br><br>Her hands move of their own accord to Karma's face, and she pulls the woman down into a passionate kiss.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>24-09-2015, 23:32:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Karma stands absolutely still for one glorious, surprise-laden moment, letting Eve do pretty much as she likes.&nbsp; Then she takes her wanton employee by the upper arms and<em> picks her up,</em> feet flopping like a rag doll's. Turning her in the air, Karma presses Eve, hard, against the wall of the building that fronts the sidewalk.<br><br>From there, she takes over the kiss, flattening her body against the brunette's, pinning her as her tongue forces Eve's into submission. After what feels like hours, but in reality was probably only seconds, Karma bites Eve's bottom lip firmly, steps back, and sets her down.&nbsp; Her face is stony, but her eyes and voice seem amused.<br><br>"Carefui, little girl," the buxom blonde purrs. "You don't even know what game you're playing, let alone with whom, or how to play."&nbsp; Putting a little more distance between them, she adds,"Besides. Sexually harassing your boss can get you fired. Though in my case, if I <strong>felt</strong> harassed, I'd just kick your ass for a while, make sure you understood where the lines were."<br><br>Resuming her stroll up the sidewalk, she shoots back over her shoulder, "Go home, sober up. Your date's with Kai, not me. And trust me- she'll be a lot easier on you than I would."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>25-09-2015, 02:08:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Karma's strength is astounding!&nbsp; Eve is a petite woman, but not exactly a paperweight, and certainly not used to being picked up off the ground bodily.&nbsp; The kiss itself is glorious, and more than mind blowing, in Eve's current state.&nbsp; When she's finally released, it is all Eve can do to stand upright, much less pursue anything further.<br><br>"No, ma'am."&nbsp; The words are out of her lips before she's realized she's spoken, watching Karma stroll before her, hips swaying seductively down the sidewalk.&nbsp; Eve stands still, stunned, until she's gone, and then sinks down to the sidewalk, wondering what the hell just happened.&nbsp; Eventually, she pulls herself together and stumbles home, only to fall, fully dressed, onto her bed.&nbsp; An hour later she wakes up, uses the facilities, drinks a large glass of water with some aspirin, sets her alarm, and tries to wrap her head around the evening.&nbsp; Her soft cotton pajamas feel comforting after the stuffy, though stylish, dress, and she feels tired enough to sleep for a week.<br><br>Unfortunately for her, sleep doesn't come.&nbsp; She can't stop thinking about that kiss, or about the tennis player, now her 'girlfriend', and what that might portend.&nbsp; Her visions of the two blonds mix and weave as she tosses and turns under her covers.&nbsp; What had she agreed to?&nbsp; What had she done?&nbsp; Kissed her boss?&nbsp; She was glad that Karma was such an eccentric, or she'd never be hired anywhere in town again, but how was she going to face the woman in the morning?&nbsp; Stuffing her face in the pillow, she worries herself to sleep, much less confident than she had been, and a lot more confused.<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>25-09-2015, 02:26:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The next day, Karma appears a bit late at the office- an hour after Eve, anyway- wearing a rather horrific gold jumpsuit. "Not a God-damned word," she growls at Eve. "Fucking oil people.&nbsp; I'm going to go change. Make some coffee, see me in&nbsp; my office in ten minutes. I want to see what you're planning to wear to Kai's thing."&nbsp; All delivered in the same annoyed tone, though it's clear that this time it's not eve she's pissed at (thankfully), but some client.&nbsp; It does raise some dark questions- breakfast meeting, or overnighter with someone she really didn't like?&nbsp; She uses other people mercilessly- does she spare herself?<br><br>Far less than ten minutes later, the intercom buzzes. "I lied. I've got too much to do. Come to the flat, we can talk while I change."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>25-09-2015, 02:34:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Grabbing the coffee, and somehow managing not to spill it on herself, despite the raging headache she has, Eve knocks on the flat door moments later.&nbsp; She carries a pad in her hand, uncapped pen in her teeth.<br><br>"Ein here."&nbsp; The words are barely recognizable as she places the steaming cup on the dresser and turns to her employer, trying to look more alert and competent than she felt.&nbsp; She hadn't thought much about what she is wearing into the office, much less what she'd be wearing on her 'date', though the ensemble she has donned seems as comfortable as it is stylish.<br><br>(https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/236x/39/08/bd/3908bdaa6377b25dd4dd7e0ee5f1c139.jpg)
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>25-09-2015, 03:03:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Come."<br><br>Karma is invisible when the door opens, though the jumpsuit lies discarded and rumpled on the floor just inside the door. Water is running, and there are some papers, a&nbsp; book, and some other bits and pieces on one of the small side tables.<br><br>Once in a few more steps, Eve can see her boos through the open door of the bathroom, washing her face.&nbsp; She wears only and eye-searingly bright red, lacy bra, and a matching high-legged thong...and the space between her shoulder blades is dominated by an exotic tattoo:<br><br><br>(http://pre03.deviantart.net/6e67/th/pre/i/2004/082/c/4/circular_backpiece_w_tribal.jpg)<br><br><br>Seemingly totally unconcerned about being seen in her state of near-undress, the blonde starts speaking, loudly, so as to be heard over the water.<br><br>"You're Eve Baumgartner, a marketing assistant for Wild High, an extreme sports booking outfit in Denver.&nbsp; You met Kai Richter when the company tried last year, unsuccessfully, to get her to act as their spokeswoman. The two of you hit it off, spent several months emailing back and forth, and she finally invited you out here for a visit.&nbsp; Business cards are on the table, as well as a company phone registered to Wild High- not that I expect that level of trail-checking from the tabloid mutts.&nbsp; Yes, the company really exists, no they've never heard of you, yes if anyone calls them they'll vouch for you. They owe me a favor. Got all that?" Leaning into the mirror, Karma viciously plucks a single out-of-place eyebrow hair out of her skin.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>25-09-2015, 03:10:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Blushing at seeing Karma in a state of undress, Eve makes a surprised noise and hurriedly turns her back.&nbsp; "That's, uh....a nice tattoo.&nbsp; Celtic?"<br><br><em>"Oh great, Eve, just blurt out you were looking at her.&nbsp; Why not just tell her that her panties make her ass spankable and get it over with?"</em>&nbsp; Sometimes Eve hated her internal monologue.&nbsp; Busying her self with imagined dust on the other side of the room, she tried to look at anything but the beautiful, half-naked woman.&nbsp; She walks over and picks up some of the business cards, trying to jot down the salient points on her pad as they pummel her.<br><br>"Wild High.&nbsp; Denver.&nbsp; E-mailing.&nbsp; Here for a visit.&nbsp; Got it."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>25-09-2015, 03:22:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Karma turns her head to grin at Eve, then stalks form the bathroom looking for all the world like a somewhat older than average Playboy bunny. "Celtic? Something like that."&nbsp; Face on, Eve can see there's another tat, too, on the upper curve of Karma's left breast, simple block letters:<br><br><strong>2 C 11 3</strong><br><br>It seems odd that it hadn't been visible before, since the exec tends to wear fairly low necklines.<br><br>Before Eve can spend too much energy thinking about it, Karma stops a few feet away, prods the gold outfit with a toe the way someone with a&nbsp; fear of snakes might nudge a discarded snakeskin away. "That THAT piece of trash with you when you go, and get. Rid. Of. It." Then she grins, and picks up a coffee cup to sip from it. "Now.&nbsp; How much do you actually <em>know</em> about tennis?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>25-09-2015, 04:00:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I'm not sure about 'know', but I've seen the Williams sisters play a few times on television.&nbsp; Tennis is all about hitting the ball inside the right white lines, while making your opponent miss, correct?&nbsp; Thirty-love and all that?"&nbsp; She moves over to the discarded garment and wraps it up into a little ball, clutching it tightly as she continues blathering her meager repertoire of sports facts.&nbsp; "Do you think the press is going to care?&nbsp; I mean, even people who really <em>are</em> sports agents care more about the money than the games, right?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>25-09-2015, 04:28:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Karma rolls her eyes, as if to protest the idiocy in the world. Then she takes Eve's cheeks in her hands, and turns her face so their eyes meet. "First of, darling dimwit- you're supposed to be a marketer for a sports company. Even if tennis is not exactly 'extreme', you'll be expected to know a little about it. Second of all, you're dating the fifth-seed woman. No one will find it believable that you don't know SOMETHING about the game your fuckbuddy makes her living playing."<br><br>Letting go of Eve's face, the blonde picks up the book- a plain, white-covered book, that simply says <strong>'The Game of Tennis' </strong>on the front. No author. No publisher's imprint. "No one will expect you to be an expert in it, but you'll need to have some factoids on tap."&nbsp; Another book comes out of a drawer, similar white cover:<strong> 'Rock Climbing: Gear and Technique.'</strong>&nbsp; "This IS an extreme sport- and hella fun, if you don't have a fear of falling- and you will have to know something about it. This is the stuff you supposedly sell, and if you don;t know a crampon from a carabiner, the whole game will fall flat." She hands the books to Eve, stacking them one on top of the other like a stern teacher. "Go park in the lounge, and read them. Don't worry, it won't clutter your head too much for too long."<br><br>Turning away and starting across the apartment towards her bedroom, Karma unhooks her bra, releasing heavy but shapely breasts, which Eve has a lovely profile view of, briefly. "Then go home. Come back at six. We have a meeting at a club tonight. Spend the day figuring out what you're going to wear for Kai tomorrow- I'll provide clothes for you for tonight."&nbsp; Turning her head, she grins, smokily. "And stop staring at my ass. I told you- you're Kai's, not mine. For now."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>25-09-2015, 04:56:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				With a weak, "Yes, ma'am," Eve takes her books and the golden fabric and retreats towards the lounge, bumping into the door frame on her way out.&nbsp; Her deep blush at the sight of more skin is more than apparent, even if Karma wasn't as seemingly aware of Eve's every thought as she appeared to be.&nbsp; The books are rather well written, for learning guides, and she quickly grasps the basics, as well as a few finer points of each.&nbsp; She means to make flash cards for herself of the climbing terminology, promising she'd find time to study them before she was caught unawares, but finds that if she stops reading to jot down a note, she can't quite remember where she left off.&nbsp; All the words seem to blend together, but she knows she's gotten more out of them than she had thought, judging by her acute knowledge of Kai's statistics, a few lesser known rules, and a nit picky detail about cleats and their interaction with wet granite she can't seem to shake.&nbsp; She finishes each and leaves them on her desk, almost immediately forgetting not only their purpose, but their very existence.<br><br>Calling out a quick farewell to her employer, she packs up and heads home to shower and peruse her closet.&nbsp; Eating a quick snack full of carbs and alcohol sopping foods (no point repeating her drunken escapades of the previous evening), most of the rest of the time before she is needed in the office is spent browsing online fashion sites and deciding on which version of the 'little black dress' seemed most appropriate for her first 'date'.<br><br>Promptly at six she returned through the glass doors of the office, looking for signs of life.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>25-09-2015, 15:30:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Faint string music, dark and repetitive, with overtones of chant, leads Eve back through the suite.<br>https://youtu.be/TRZLxxR23K4[<br><br>The door to Karma's flat is open, and the music comes from within. The lady herself is found in the living area, sprawled on the madly expensive leather couch, eyes closed. And she is a sight.<br><br>A tight, black leather bandeau with a thong closure barely contains her full breasts; a heavily embroidered black bolero jacket provides some semblance of modesty, but mostly serves to darw the eye to Karma's ample cleavage, the soft curves threatening to free themselves at any moment, and the cryptic tattoo.<br><br>Her lower body is encased in a pair of black leather pants that appear painted on; a&nbsp; lace-up closure runs from the front waistband, down across her crotch and, presumably, up the back.&nbsp; Over these, though God knows how, is a pair of blood-red thigh-high laced boots with what appear to be 4" heels.&nbsp; When she stands up, she is going to resemble an apartment tower...<br><br>As the first tune fades away, and something equally dark but now including voices voices comes on, Karma opens one eye, and grins at Eve. "Get your drooling done now, little girl.&nbsp; We're going to be busy soon."<br><br>https://youtu.be/n5ghhmWrubY
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>25-09-2015, 22:53:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Swallowing hard, Eve wrenched her eyes up towards Karma's face and blushed heartily.&nbsp; "Sorry, ma'am, I just...uh..."&nbsp; She looks quickly at the floor, then slides along the wall of the room.&nbsp; Eventually, she manages to move her mouth again, but doesn't get any more sounds out until she steps into the bathroom and takes a drink of water.<br><br>"You mentioned you were providing my outfit tonight.&nbsp; Who is our target?"&nbsp; Something about the threshold of the open bathroom door seems to give her a confidence that being in the same four walls with her employer did not.&nbsp; It isn't that she doesn't trust Karma, or even herself, but something about the raw power of the music in combination with the tight clothing made her blood rush through her veins.&nbsp; What if she is expected to wear the same kind of get-up?&nbsp; She doubts her body will fill it out as successfully as her tall and buxom boss.&nbsp; Her eyes study her face and hair in the mirror and she has a mild sense of panic that she is somehow the target of the evening, with the music and the scene she had entered into.<br><br>She splashes a little water behind her neck, trying to breath slowly and calmly before she returns to the main apartment, a nervous smile spreading over her lips as she sits opposite Karma and crosses her legs at the ankles, seemingly more relaxed than she feels.&nbsp; If anything, Eve is a quick study, and her trepidation hides under the veneer of hinted sensuality she had been instructed on in her first day.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>27-09-2015, 15:31:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Karma just looks at Eve for a moment, a tiny grin playing around her lips as she scans her assistant top to bottom. "Target, hmmm? Interesting choice of words." Then she folds one leg over the other, toe of the red boot bobbing hypnotically. "We're going to see the owner of a seedy-classy club over on the edge of the redlight. Franklin owns many things, but it amuses him to do business there. The place is hell, you'll hate it. But I have my reasons for bringing you with.<br><br>"Franklin's my oldest client, the most powerful, in certain ways. Also the most annoying. The fact that we're...distantly related, well. That doesn't uncomplicate our relationship any. Mind your manners with him, follow my instructions to the letter, and everything'll be cool." Narrowing her eyes, Karma laughs. "Who knows. Maybe you'll actually find the place interesting. You certainly fell all over yourself to get in Kai's pants, whether&nbsp; for show or not. Speaking of which-"&nbsp; Imperiously, she points at the couch by her side, as she sits a little straighter to make room. "What are you wearing to our client's 'coming out'?&nbsp; Kai wears a lot of white, which frankly looks like shit on her, but she hired me to deal with the tabloids, not her wardrobe. So you need something that stands out without washing her away. Sit. Speak. Explain. Be creative."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>10-10-2015, 17:22:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Targets are the only thing we have, in our business, aren't they?"&nbsp; Eve tries to smile nonchalantly, her eyes following Karma's swaying foot and sneaking glances up the tightly wrapped leg.&nbsp; "I'm sure I'll find it diverting, at the least.&nbsp; I have to say, everything I've experienced since taking this job has been quite rewarding, and I appreciate the trust you put in me.&nbsp; Despite what I did last night."<br><br>The last is offered as a low apology, timid and unsure, but genuine.&nbsp; Eve is honestly grateful for the insights she's had and the confidence she's gained under Karma's tutelage.&nbsp; While she doesn't exactly regret the embrace with her boss, she does realize how out of place it was, and how much trouble she could get into if she let herself go like that again.&nbsp; Especially in a place like Karma was describing, and with a relative, to boot.&nbsp; Eve shifts slightly on her seat, deciding to move directly into her answer to Karma's inquiry.<br><br>"I didn't want to be too formal, or too breezy, so I was thinking of a derivation of the 'little black dress' motif.&nbsp; Something in either a green or dark blue, to contrast my complexion and dark hair to hers."&nbsp; She begins to describe a few of the outfits she is considering, hoping Karma might have some opinion as to the final decision.&nbsp; Somehow, Eve got the impression no matter what she picked, it wouldn't be quite right anyway, and that Karma would have some finishing touch to make it just right.<br><br>(http://in1.ccio.co/nI/Zl/Na/73465037641173174DyZSa46Lc.jpg)<br><br>(https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/236x/41/da/ec/41daeccc19677c4a44f0371797ddabf2.jpg)
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>12-10-2015, 16:31:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				A tiny crinkle of...amusement?...appears in the corners of Karma's eyes when Eve tentatively mentions her drunken pass the night before, but the exec lets it go, and adds nothing more to the discussion of 'targets.' Instead she sits up, leaning forward as Eve describes her possible dress choices.&nbsp; As expected, she dismisses a few out of hand.<br><br>"Not beige. Kai wears way too much white, and you'll look like fucking nurses, or something. She didn't hire me to revamp <em>her</em> wardrobe, but I can sure as hell keep you from screwing up." Eyes closed, she has Eve repeat a few of the other possibilities. "Wish you'd brought pictures- I work better that way. Not your fault, I shoulda told you...the blue. But with&nbsp; something black or pale grey lacey under it, so it show at neck and shoulders.&nbsp; Nothin' <strong>too</strong> conservative- you're into extreme sports, remember? But still classy enough for a formal event. Bodysuit, or some sort of crocheted top. And a chain belt. A little danger." Opening her eyes, she chuckles."Lesbians are dangerous, didn't you know?" Then she nods once, firmly. "That'll do. Difference in style and coloring'll make the two of you quite a pair.<br><br>"Tonight, though- that's a little different.&nbsp; Your outfit's on my bed." A lazy wave directs Eve towards the sleeping area, which is only separated from the living room by a partial curtain wall of glass brick.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>13-10-2015, 04:12:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve listens carefully to Karma's suggestions, thinking about a few things she'll need to pick up, but also more than sure she can grab them all before she's due to meet Kai.&nbsp; As for the current night's engagements, she's rather intrigued to see what costume she's been assigned, and more than a little scared.&nbsp; Tentatively, she steps over to the bed, taking a deep breath and opening her eyes to stare at what she sees, making sure to keep her expression as neutral as possible, no matter what she finds.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>15-10-2015, 05:17:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				There's not much there. Aside from a pair of boots rather like Karma's only black, rather than red, there is a transparent wisp of a thong, and a high-necked, long-sleeved crocheted bodysuit:<br><br><br>(https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/46/1c/30/461c30290ce25074377024470e8f5916.jpg)<br><br><br>No sign of a bra, but there is a leather belt with a number of metal rings affixed to it to round out the ensemble.<br><br><br>Abruptly, Karma is right behind her, towering on her heels. "Don't flip out. It's a freaky outfit, I know, but it's all window dressing, just like your date with Kai. Franklin is...well.&nbsp; You'll see,&nbsp; But nobody's gonna mess with you with me there, believe me." Her voice is iron-hard when she says it. "Now. Get dressed. We've gotta be there in about half an hour."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>16-10-2015, 23:07:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve certainly would have flipped out if she hadn't felt the presence of the woman behind her.&nbsp; Instead, she takes a few deep breath and runs her fingers over the material.&nbsp; It looks delicate, but is well made and softer than she expects.&nbsp; The blush on her face is evident as she picks up the scant lingerie and belt.&nbsp; She keeps her head high and her back straight as she turns, though.<br><br>"No, it's okay.&nbsp; As long as I don't have to wear a collar and leash."&nbsp; It's an offhanded comment, trying to show that she is fine while still releasing some of her nervous tension and addressing the sexual undertone of the outfit.&nbsp; She pauses for a moment, not exactly sure how to get around the blond goddess that signed her checks without physical contact.&nbsp; Eventually, she slinks to the side and goes to the bathroom to change.<br><br>The outfit fits like a second skin.&nbsp; The thong is surprisingly comfortable underneath the intricate lace patchwork and she makes a mental note to find out where it came from, thinking that she should have another one for her date the next evening.&nbsp; The belt clinks softly as she moves in front of the mirror and she wonders if the comment she'd made about the leash had been as flippant as she had thought, then she pulls her hair back into a tight bun and returns to the main apartment.<br><br>"Well, what do you think?&nbsp; Not sure if I really have the ass for this, but..."&nbsp; She shrugs and poses near the door and letting Karma look her over.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>17-10-2015, 00:06:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Karma grins, steps up, and tightens the belt a notch. "Just don't jump up and down. Might tear the damn thing." More soberly, she nodded. "You look fucking awesome. Now. Come on. Your ass is fine."<br><br>Hooking a finger in one of the D-rings on the belt, she almost playfully tugs Eve towards what seemed at first to be a blank wall, but now reveals itself to be a carefully-concealed door. behind the paneling is a private elevator, which explains at least one mystery, how Karma managed to come and go without being seen. The exec ushers Eve in in front of her, then slides in besides her- it's really made for a single person, so the pair is all but hip-to-hip.&nbsp; The car drops quickly, almost vertigionously.<br><br><div class="floatright">(http://s.productreview.com.au/products/images/1_5052a69f45e31.jpg)</div>When the door opens again, they step out into a small garage, large enough for only a few vehicles, There's a candy-red Mercedes convertible, a looming silver-grey Land Rover- and a sleek black Kawasaki Ninja motorbike.&nbsp; One mystery solved, another generated- if these vehicles are Karma's, or belong to her company, why does she keep hiring a limo?<br><br>Eve isn't given time to ask. Punching in the combination on a lockbox nearby, Karma withdraws two helmets, hands one to Eve. "Wear it. It's heavy, and uncomfortable as shit, but your brain is a lot more valuable to me in your skull than spread on toast."&nbsp; Leading by example, the blonde ducks her head a bit and armors up. The helmet she has given to Eve is, as has come to be expected, if still mysterious, the exact correct size for her.<br><br>Of course, Karma says nothing about the fact that, the way they both are dressed, a fall will leave most of both of their skins spread over quite a bit of pavement.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>17-10-2015, 00:44:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve blushes again, but matches Karma's gaze as her outfit is tweaked.&nbsp; The woman's pure charisma permeates her attitude, and she can feel herself imitating the easy posture, alluring and confident, that Karma seems to naturally exude.&nbsp; The rush in her veins increases as she is pulled towards the wall, and her mind immediately flits to the kiss from the previous evening.&nbsp; <br><br>While she enjoys discovering more of the machinations behind Karma's flawless facade, the ride in the elevator gives her little comfort, her stomach dropping just as much from Karma's proximity to her in their scantily covered outfits as from the change in momentum as they descend.&nbsp; Writing the cars off is a lot easier to handle than the elevator, as she'd read enough tabloids and seen enough red carpet events on TV to know that people with money often used hired cars simply because they could.&nbsp; Eve starts to head for the land rover, assuming the lock box contains keys, when Karma hands her the helmet.<br><br>Shivering, Eve looks at Karma with slight disbelief.&nbsp; "We're going to freeze!"&nbsp; Almost immediately, however, she finds herself placing the helmet over her head and wondering what the hell she is going to do with out her wallet or a brush to retame the mess her hair will become after even a short ride.&nbsp; She almost asks the woman in front of her, but the bike is already humming to life and she scurries onto the back, sliding her arms around the larger woman's waist and holding tight.&nbsp; If the ride was anything like the rest of Karma, she needs to hold on as tight as she can.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>17-10-2015, 01:05:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Hang on tight," Karma's voice comes through crisply. It seems one reason the helmets are so heavy is that they contain a communication system.<br><br>Then they're away, with a rush that makes the elevator feel tame, charging up the ramp like a Batman outtake.&nbsp; The tires on the bike squeal, just a bit, as Karma lays them down all but flat to the pavement to make the hard turn into the service drive.&nbsp; The thought of trying to get the Rover in and out of the tight entrance, even at a much slower speed, is terrifying.<br><br>Some of the edge comes off as they turn into the main street; Karma may be a daredevil, but she's clearly not a suicide-in-waiting. Once they merge into the traffic flow, though, she opens the throttle a bit more, weaving smoothly in and out, somehow managing to catch every light just before (or just as) it turns against them.&nbsp; Soon they are on the freeway, headed for the South Side, purring along at ninety miles an hour. Maybe setting Eve up as an extreme sports marketer was a subtle joke? Or projection?<br><br>"OK, here's the deal." Even with the headset, it's a little hard to hear her over the engine. "We're meeting Franklin at a raunchy club he owns called Lilith. It's a pretty wild place.&nbsp; Kinda trash-classy. He's got more upscale holdings, but he likes to do business outa there, leave people off balance.<br><br>"Some ground rules: be polite to Franklin.&nbsp; Don't lick his boots, but be professional, and, ah, accommodating.&nbsp; Anyone else gives you shit, you're welcome to bum rush 'em. But don't fuck with the bossman." More and more, it's beginning to sound like this client is 'connected', to use the more polite term. Mobbed up would be another way to put it. Either way, it's another window into the odd life Karma leads.<br><br>"Someone asks you to dance, you're welcome to, if you want.&nbsp; Do <strong>not</strong> let 'em talk you into getting up on stage. Don't accept a drink from anyone other than me or Frankie. Speak when spoken to." A chuckle comes across the radio. "Sorry, babe, I know that's crass, but you're there mostly to make an impression- and cause a distraction.&nbsp; Franklin and I are cordial, but we don't really like each other very much. Old family shit."<br><br>The noise of the engine decreases a bit as Karma decelerates to turn off the highway.&nbsp; The exit leads to a boulevard that separates the city's commercial core from the fringe of the club and redlight district.&nbsp; As they slow more, it begins to seem as if this club is in one of the seedier parts of town.<br><br>"Any questions, ask 'em now.&nbsp; You won't have a chance once we're inside."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>17-10-2015, 01:19:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Karma could tell Eve to let go all she wants, the iron grip around her lower stomach is not to be relinquished until well after the bike stops moving, if Eve has anything to say about it.&nbsp; She's never felt so excited, the fear mixing with the warmth and desire of the body before her, and Eve will be lucky if she doesn't leave a puddle on the seat when they arrive.<br><br>"Lilith?&nbsp; Does he have some sort of religious angle, or just a hang-up on difficult women?"&nbsp; The rush of air must be getting to her, because that kind of snark had never come easily to her before now.&nbsp; She is able to keep her voice regulated, despite the impulse to yell over the engine, and doesn't blow Karma's ears out over the comm system.&nbsp; "Okay.&nbsp; Drinks only from you, 'cause I sure as hell am not taking them from a stranger, even if he's the boss.&nbsp; What does this guy look like, so I don't fall for some cheap 'not who you expected' tricks people like to use to intimidate you?"<br><br>The directive to be 'accommodating' gives Eve a moment's pause, but she decides not to press the issue now.&nbsp; Worst case scenario, she'd take a pink slip over an assault any day, and Karma could find herself someone else to play dress up with.&nbsp; "Also, what's our angle?&nbsp; What are we getting from him we can't get elsewhere, if the blood is so bad?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>17-10-2015, 01:46:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				With the engine purring now, instead of roaring, Karma's laugh is loud. "He likes women, period. He prefers stupid little armkittens, usually, but he likes a challenge now and again.&nbsp; ANd he's not religious...exactly. Mostly, the name is just his little symbolic joke...you'll see." A hard right turn, and the rattle of railroad tracks, and they are well and truly in the Combat Zone. "You'll see him- gonna walk us right up to him. He'd insist on meeting you, even if I didn't."<br><br>Another turn, and they are on a street so seemingly dead it might have belonged to a western ghost town. All it lacks is a sole tumbleweed blowing across the scarred asphalt. "We're not getting anything from him. He's getting something from me. Old contract, long story. Don't worry about it." Suddenly, they are coasting to a stop.<br><br>The building itself is nondescript- one of the many factory and warehouse buildings that had serviced and been serviced by the rail line a century ago, all looming brink and high arched windows, now bricked in.&nbsp; The only things out of place are the faint sound of music (far softer than one might expect from an underground club), the two figures standing in front, arms folded, and the sign.<br><br><br><div align="center"><span style="font-size: 36pt;" class="bbc_size"><em>LILITH</em></span></div><br><br>Pulsing and flickering, it imitates an old-style neon sign, but is clearly some sort of LED system.&nbsp; The 'L' is topped by a cartoon devil's-tail barb, and loops serpent-like under the rest of the letters; over the 'T' is a fractured halo, every once in a while releasing a burst of golden light. It's eye-catching and over the top, while still somehow managing to stay just this side of garish.<br><br>As Karma puts the kickstand down, one of the two men standing outside approaches,&nbsp; broad back and shoulders straining his black t-shirt, which bears the same logo in fine embroidery. With a smile, he holds out his hand for the keys. Karma takes her time removing her helmet, then looks at the bouncer, and says, in a perfectly normal tone, "Touch my bike, and I'll have your oysters Rockefellered." The big guy blinks, then cringes back, face set in what seems to be genuine fear. Ignoring him, Karma slips off the bike, helps Eve dismount, and struts up the two contcrete steps to the door.<br><br>The other attendant is very, very quick to open it for them...
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>17-10-2015, 01:58:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Taking Karma's helmet helpfully, Even stows both of them in one of the storage compartments in the bike and walks, hip swaying with as much attitude as she can muster, on Karma's heels towards the club.&nbsp; She gives both bouncers a 'you ain't shit' once over as they enter, figuring any sign of fear is a sign of weakness in a place like this.&nbsp; Her heart races again, and she begins to buzz with the adrenaline of the atmosphere, and turns back to wink at the cuter of the two broad chested men outside as she slips through the closing door.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>17-10-2015, 02:42:39</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The music is definitely loud inside, but not as much so as many other places- a simple, pulsing GrindGoth sort of ambient thing that gets into the head and heart, forcingthe pulse to obey the rhythms.<br><br><br><span style="font-family: roboto;" class="bbc_font"><span style="font-size: 11px;" class="bbc_size">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3xm0L5JnAgI</span></span><br><br>Over the top is layered sensuous gasps, groans, and occasional shrieks, like the sound track from a porn video. The lighting inside is a continuation of the the aesthetic of the sign outside: a combination of neon tubes and hidden indirect fixtures flood the entire huge space with constantly shifting hues of red, orange, yellow, deep blue. Being inside a burning building might be like this.&nbsp; The place reeks- perfume, pot, the acrid smell of a dozen different drugs turning the air into a psychedelic miasma- and sex.&nbsp; It's packed, and most of the women, and many of the men, seem to be wearing not much more than body paint and blissful, tranced-out smiles.<br><br>The place isn't merely an undergrounder, it's positively core-level. And <em>totally</em> illegal.<br><br>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y4JOiol-kzM<br><br>A blonde girl comes out from behind a Star-Trek type podium.&nbsp; She's wearing a thin belt top that mostly manages to hide her nipples, and a thong about the same width, pulled up snug into her shaved crotch. Half her head is shaved, the other half dangles golden hair to below her waist. There's enough metal in various parts of her face to construct a frag grenade out of. Stopping in front of Karma, she drops to one knee and looks at the floor. "Mistress Karma! It's been such a long time!"<br><br>"Hey, Dena." Karma does not seem impressed by- or comfortable with- the girl's obesiance, looking past and over her.&nbsp; "Here to see the boss. He at his usual booth?"&nbsp; Dena stands, glances at Eve and seems uncertain how to react, settles for a slight bow from the waist, one which threatens to almost leave her topless. "Yes, ma'am. Cheyne and Marisse are with him, though..." The hostess trails off, clearly caught between wanting to protect the owner's privacy, and an unwillingness to deny Karma's request.<br><br>"'sok, kid," Karma respond, finally looking at the girl- who seems like she can't be much more than nineteen- and smiling. "I know 'em both. He's expecting me, anyway."&nbsp; Turning away, she stalks off through the crowd, using elbows as needed to clear a path, though most of the throng seem to instinctively know she's there, and makes way in the same abrupt manner the bouncer outside did.<br><br>The "stage" turns out to actually a series of connected islands, scattered hither and yon across the vast expanse of the space, making navigation even more of a challenge. Each has a dance pole rising up through its center and supporting a go-go cage, hypnotically lit by sweep lights in the same fire motif. It's immediately clear why Karma had warned Eve against getting on stage- the things the fully nude women on the platforms and in the cages are doing, by themselves, with toys, or with partners, are absolutely not in line with City statues regarding club entertainment. And judging from the microphone headsets most are wearing, that's where the additional sound effects are coming from...<br><br>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ah5RQopYkCs
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>17-10-2015, 03:07:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Trying not to choke, Eve wipes her face clean of expression and follows Karma closely, almost as if the rings on her belt were attached to Karma's own clothing.&nbsp; The music isn't bad, the lights are fascinating, and the bodies around her alluring and alien at the same time.&nbsp; There is no way in <em>hell</em> she would be here without Karma, and even less that she would take anything to eat or drink from any of the customers or even the bartenders.&nbsp; This is so not Eve's scene, the phrase begins to take on a whole new meaning, but the thumping beat and overlapped vocalizations cause a throbbing to resonate in her loins.&nbsp; Her outfit is downright tame, and, if anything, she feels a bit overdressed for the venue.&nbsp; She follows Karma with alacrity as her mind drowns in the music and pure sexuality of the club.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>17-10-2015, 03:35:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The lasting impression is of skin, ink, metal, and tiny fragments of cloth. The complicated path that weaves around and past the amoebic stage and the surging crowd, like the deliberately bad traffic flows in many malls, could easily lead one off into a cul-de-sac, trapped against a wall by masses of bodies, but Karma seems to know exactly where she is going.<br><br>Eventually, they reach an oasis of sorts, a cluster of open booths populated by what seem to be higher-ticket clientele.&nbsp; More cloth (though still not much), less wild hairdos, fancier jewelry, more expensive drinks.&nbsp; Karma steers towards one off to the side, around which is a surprisingly clear space, maintained as if by an invisible fence. It doesn't take a wild guess to identify it as Franklin's booth. The man is parked with two stunning seemingly Eurasian twins, who have long hair of an apparently natural cooper color, an interesting genetic twist. They wear skirts that might pass for napkins at an upscale Midtown restaurant, and corset tops, and 6" spike heels.&nbsp; Franklin himself is between them, one arm looped over a bare shoulder, hand deep in the bodie on that side, the other on a thigh, only inches from the girl's barely-covered slit.<br><br>The club owner looks, a bit, like a stereotypical gangster:&nbsp; Slender, of merely average height, with a hatchet-like face. Short-cropped hair going elegantly grey over his ears is matched by the color of his deep-set, oddly compelling eyes. He wears a suit that must have cost a grand, easily, a startling contrast to his marginally-clad companions. <br><br>"Well," he says, looking up with a grin as Karma's shadow falls over him. His voice is a bit gravelly, but still has a drawing power out of keeping with his unimpressive physique. "Karma, my dear.&nbsp; I know you said you were coming, but I thought perhaps I'd been stood up."&nbsp; His eyes shift to Eve, and a hint of darkness leaks into his friendly grin. "And what's this you've brought us, hmmm?" There is something about him, something familiar- familiar is right.&nbsp; The family connection Karma spoke of is apparent, not in their looks, but in the odd compulsion that makes them both attractive to be around, when they should be wholly unlikable.<br><br>"I keep my word, Franklin. I told ya I'd be here. But Eve isn't part of the package. She's my assistant." That seems to amuse him. His laugh, too, is easy, clear, genuine. "Another special project, Karma, my love? You know I never trespass on those."&nbsp; Withdrawing his hands from their cozy resting places, Franklin flicks both index fingers, and the twins (presumably Cheyne and Marisse) rise as one. Shooting spikes from their eyes, but at Karma only, they sway out onto the dance floor, where they cling to each other like snakeskin, squirming to their own inner rhythm, ignoring everyone around them.<br><br>"Come, ladies, sit. Eve, come sit by me a while.&nbsp; Karma so seldom brings friends with her- in fact, she rarely comes at all." His dark eyes sparkle as he gestures to the place one of the twins just vacated. "She doesn't like me. But even she has to admit, I'm a man of my word.&nbsp; I respect her property." Another gesture brings a waiter in a leather apron and a codpiece to the table to receive his employer's order for a bottle of champagne and three glasses. "Now that you're here, I hope you two will stay and visit for a little bit."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>17-10-2015, 04:20:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve breaths in what seems like fresh air after the crush of bodies as they wove through the crowd.&nbsp; The higher end booths are quieter, too, if that's possible, since the constant buzz of the music continued to permeate Eve's every sense.&nbsp; The women in the booth were gorgeous, but in the way that spoke of apples with worms crawling through them.&nbsp; Eve watched the scene play out before her, standing slightly askew to give the best view of the booth as well as those moving towards or away from it.&nbsp; She felt a bit voyeuristic when she saw exactly how familiar Franklin was with the women, but kept it off of her face as much as she could.<br><br>Karma seems quite able to handle the conversation, so Eve takes her cue from her boss and lets any ill feelings or uncertainty slide off her back and out of her mind.&nbsp; An oily sensation accompanies Franklin's gaze as it takes Eve in, and she feels like she's wearing even less than she actually is.&nbsp; She shifts her weight on her feet and lets him look, trusting in Karma to defend her and trying to act like such looks were directed towards her every day.&nbsp; She's not sure she exactly pulls it off.<br><br>As she listens to their conversation, she trusts this man even less, but, seeing no way around it, slides into the booth next to him.&nbsp; The plush leather is cold against her skin, and she is ever more aware of what may as well be a doily cloth between it and her bare ass.&nbsp; She bristles, too, at her being called property, but lowers her eyes demurely and crosses her legs.&nbsp; She keeps silent, and glances at Karma uncertainly when she thinks Franklin's attention is diverted by the waiter.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>18-10-2015, 02:13:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Franklin makes no attempt to hide his intimate study of Eve's body as she sits, especially her breasts, whose darker tips are clearly visible through the open weave of the body suit.&nbsp; With a grunt and nod of approval, he turns to Karma once Eve is parked next to him, and smiled. "As always, the Mistress of packaging and marketing, my dear. You might as well have stamped her 'look all you want, but <strong>never</strong> touch.'"<br><br>Karma's mouth curls up in a half-grin. "That was the idea."&nbsp; The Village People waiter reappears, sets out flutes, and pours champagne for each of them. Krug, very high-end stuff. After a moment, Karma swaps flutes with Eve, instantly drawing a scowl from Franklin. "Really, Karma, I'm insulted.&nbsp; I'd never be so crass."&nbsp; The blonde simply shrugs expansively- which distracts his gaze downward a bit. "I know that, Frankie. But I <em>know</em> you. She doesn't. Just want her to be comfortable."<br><br>As he fixates on Karma's cleavage, and the code embedded in ink on one breast, his face eases. In a few moments, he's smiling again. "Of course. My apologies- I can understand how Eve might find herself a bit overwhelmed in our little<em> menage</em> here." Raising his flute, he proposes a toast. "To friends, old and new, whatever may come between them." After a clink of glasses, he almost ruins the moment by looking out at the twins, still writhing against each other in easy view and adding, "or in them."&nbsp; Karma makes a face, half-hidden in her drink, but Franklin is already turning back to Eve. This time, he's looking at her face rather than her tits, studying her in the same intense way Karma did at her interview.<br><br>"So, my dear." He pauses to take another sip of bubbly. "Do you enjoy working for Karma?&nbsp; What do you think of her?&nbsp; My opinion is colored by long, long familiarity.&nbsp; It would be good to see her through...fresh...eyes." Somehow, he makes even that straightforward question sound lascivious, seductive- and more than a little creepy.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>18-10-2015, 15:52:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve looks at the flutes warily as they are arranged before the group, almost as warily as she regards the striking, if crass, man beside her.&nbsp; Her eyes dart between Franklin, the drink, and her boss.&nbsp; Even after the glasses are switched, she mimes drinking, the very aroma of the champagne making her feel a bit light-headed. At least, she thinks it's the champagne.&nbsp; The lights and skin on the dance floor are distracting, and it's hard to keep her focus on the conversation, much as she tries.<br><br>The change of Franklins gaze from her breasts to her face make no change in the predatory nature of his eyes.&nbsp; "I've found my employment to be quite satisfactory, thank you.&nbsp; Ms. DuRien is talented, astute, and a great success in her field. I look forward to learning from her and adding to that success."<br><br>There is no doubt in Eve's mind that Franklin will press her more than he might others simply because he can't have her openly, and takes pride in the fact Karma feels her worthy of the challenge.&nbsp; That pride helps her take an actual drink of the champagne and savor the bubbly dry liquid as it slides down her throat like honey.&nbsp; She smiles, close-lipped, at Franklin and looks back over the crowd, letting her comfortable silence speak for her.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>20-10-2015, 03:55:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve's hunch isn't wrong.&nbsp; Franklin gives her a sour look, then glances at Karma and rolls his eyes. "What a wonderfully safe, empty-headed answer."&nbsp; Face pinched in concealed annoyance, he sharpens his tone.<br><br>"I'm far more aware than you of Karma's intelligence and accomplishments, Eve." Then he grins, coldly. "I also know she can suck a golf ball through a garden hose."Karma's expression doesn't change a whit, unless, perhaps there's a bit of tightening around her eyes.&nbsp; Shaking his head, Franklin chuckles. "No. It won't do at all. You have to do better, Eve,<br><br>"Exactly what do you think you can learn from her, dear girl? And, perhaps more important in her view, what do you possibly think you can <em>add</em> to her little hobby?" His tone isn't as insulting as his words, but it's clear he's toying with them both- for some unknown reason, trying to get at Karma through her assistant.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>20-10-2015, 04:13:54</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve nearly spits her drink out over the table as Franklin mentions the golf ball, but quickly swallows instead.&nbsp; This is going to be more challenging than she originally thought.&nbsp; Fine.&nbsp; If he wants to play rough, she'll see if she can put some of Karma's lessons to work.<br><br>She shifts in her seat, turning to Franklin with the hint of a smile playing over her lips and a flash of interest in her eyes.&nbsp; Her hip just brushes the fabric of his slacks and her hand sets her glass on the table with a distinct thud.&nbsp; "I think, and feel free to correct me if I'm wrong, you enjoyed my safe answer, which was anything by empty headed, more than you admit."&nbsp; Her voice lowers and purrs, "After all, if you seem like a man who enjoys a challenge."&nbsp; She holds his gaze, letting the rise and fall of her breath accentuate just how little she is wearing before she raises it blindly to her lips, her tongue lapping at the edge of the glass before she sips some more of the amber liquid.<br><br>"I don't think a woman's career is a hobby, regardless of the pursuits she applies herself to.&nbsp; I hope to learn as much as I can, and perform my duties to the best of my ability, however long they should be required, not that it's exactly any of your business, unless you're looking to become a client?"&nbsp; Her words are delivered with charm and grace, not malice, and an extra little sugar on the offer of business at the end.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>20-10-2015, 15:02:30</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<br><div class="floatleft">(http://150597036.r.cdn77.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/henriksen1.jpg?w=240)</div>After a long, dangerous moment of silence- Franklin laughs. In that instant, he even looks a bit like Karma, or, at least, his genuinely surprised and delighted expression looks like the one she gets when someone gives her her shit back, or displays more intelligence than she had expected of them. "Much better," he chuckles, patting Eve's knee, and then letting his hand rest just above it. Not quite possessive, not quite challenging, almost an invitation.<br><br>"Still not a complete answer, but you have spine. You might do for her, after all. The last one I met was <em>such</em> a weakling."&nbsp; Karma winces a bit at that, but Franklin seems to ignore it as he continues. "I'm already a client, dear Eve, in the sense that Karma does certain favors for me, and receives some in return. But what you don't seem to quite grasp- and what she will bitterly deny- is that she and I are in the same business"&nbsp; A circling gesture with his glass encompasses the entire club: the never-ending orgy on stage, the blissful chaos on the dance floor, even the calmer, vulture-like voyeurism of the booths.<br><br>"Fantasy, child. We both sell fantasy. Mine are simply more immediate, and, shall we say, visceral? And in the long run-&nbsp; this is the part my dear cousin disputes- mine leave a more lasting impression." He squeezes Eve's knee, and trails one finger lightly up the inside of her thigh before taking his hand away. "But in the end, it <strong>is </strong>a hobby for her, my dear.It's not her true place in the world, and she knows it. Whereas I- well. This is what I do. What I was<em> born</em> to do. Knowing that- have you any interest in changing employers?"<br><br>He's not joking. At all.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>21-10-2015, 04:28:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Pride at what seems like the passing of some unspoken test allows her to bite back the response to Franklin's hand as it rests high up on her thigh.&nbsp; She smiles wryly and sips a bit more of the delicious champagne, hoping that it isn't as strong as the plum wine from the previous evening, or she would soon get herself into trouble.&nbsp; His mention of Karma's previous co-worker receives a simple raise of an eyebrow, and a mental note to try and find some HR files in the network when she was next in the office, but she keeps a civil tongue and even manages to nod along with the explanation of his business.<br><br>Much as Eve wishes to, she cannot hide the color that rises to her cheeks as his touch creeps up her leg before disappearing.&nbsp; If she had had any doubts about just what kind of a slick trick Franklin was, that move only confirms them, despite what it does to her insides.&nbsp; She weighs her words very carefully, not wanting to piss of the viper she'd met in the grass, or the mistress holding her choke chain.<br><br>"I am quite happy with my current situation, thank you."&nbsp; Her eyes move towards Karma, and she smiles brightly at the voluptuous blond before turning back to give Franklin a pout Greta Garbo would have been jealous of.&nbsp; "You see, I just don't think you could pull off those boots, no matter how hard you tried."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>21-10-2015, 16:06:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Blinking, startled, Franklin stares at Eve for a moment- then throws back his head and <strong>laughs!</strong> "A hit!&nbsp; A very palpable hit."&nbsp; His amusement lasts for a bit, but finally he calms, rearranges his collar, and looks at Eve slyly. "You might, in fact, be surprised. But I take your meaning."<br><br>The motion of his hands, however, has drawn Eve's eyes from his face, and to his neck, Before the silk band, displaced by his uproar, is resettled, she sees a flash of ink. Just above his collarbone, she reads:<br><br><strong>R 13 1</strong><br><br>The kinship to the mark on Karma's breast is immediately obvious, and raises the suspicion that he has something elsewhere, on his back, an arm, his chest perhaps, similar to Karma. Some sort of cult? Gang signs?&nbsp; Her speculations are cut short by Franklin re-covering the tattoo, glancing at Karma, and then saying, "I have a few things to discuss with your employer, privately, dear one.&nbsp; Would you be so kind as to wander over to the bar for a few minutes?&nbsp; Or, perhaps, stroll around the dance floor?" The grin he gives her is cold and lewd. "I guarantee you'll find it instructive."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>22-10-2015, 04:43:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Relieved that her remark has gone over so well, Eve finishes off her champagne as she watches the demon in a nice suit compose himself.&nbsp; The odd tattoo...the drink must be getting to her head (again) as she can't recall for a few moments why it looks so familiar, nor can she exactly remember what Karma's tattoo entailed once she does.&nbsp; She's leery to leave Karma alone with him, but feels the beat of the music finally getting to her.&nbsp; It couldn't hurt to have one or two dances, could it?&nbsp; She was on the clock, not dead...<br><br>Rising and nodding to Franklin, she keeps her gaze on Karma until she feels the implicit permission to depart.&nbsp; The sense of a barrier between the more private booths and the open club is stronger than when they arrived, and she feels like she is stepping through an invisible curtain as she struts into the mass of bodies, quickly swept up in the gyrations and pumping bass.&nbsp; The lights flash, the champagne increases its hold, and Eve starts to forget about her purpose and enjoy herself for what might be the first time in months.&nbsp; Hands, hips, and heads sway and bump, the thin fabric of her bodysuit providing tantalizing glimpses of any number of Eve's body parts, while the men and women on the floor treat the outfit like a challenge, seeing how much and well they can penetrate it under the guise of the rhythm of the dance.&nbsp; For Eve, it is like being enveloped in the womb, pulse like a heartbeat, red light through the womb, the constant touch of the unknown, warm and alluring.&nbsp; She's glad she only had one glass or she would forget Karma entirely under the club's spell. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>23-10-2015, 04:08:06</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft"><span style="font-family: roboto;" class="bbc_font"><span style="font-size: 11px;" class="bbc_size">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6xtAJs7DR58</span></span></div>The reek of a thousand vices surrounds her, thick enough to swim in.&nbsp; If it weren't for the incredible energy, and the drive provided by the music (which now has changed to something a little less jagged and a bit more trancey), the heat would be oppressive. Instead, it's a goad to greater activity- and a reminder that's she's practically naked in a&nbsp; crowd of strangers.<br><br>Abruptly, a thin glass filled with some sort of bubbling, sweet-smelling liquor- Limoncello and Prosecco, or something- is thrust under her nose. At the other end of the glass is a well-manicured hand, which belongs to one of the exotic twins who had been warming Franklin's cockles not too long ago.&nbsp; She wraps one arm around Eve's waist, dancing, grinding their pelvises together, without ever slopping a drop of the liquid offering.&nbsp; Her mirror image molds herself likewise to Eve's back, crushing small, firm breasts into the thin cloth of the jumpsuit.<br><br>"So you're-"<br><br>"-Karma's new toy?"<br><br>They don't<em> just </em>finish each other's sentences. Except for the change in direction, it's creepily like a single person speaking, no hesitation, no change in inflection. And they're surprisingly audible over the pounding beat, though neither of them seems to be shouting.<br><br>"She is <em>such</em>-"<br><br>"-a total bitch, isn't she?"<br><br>"Is she treating you-"<br><br>"OK?"<br><br>The stereo sweep breaks as they say in perfect unison:<br><br>"We <strong>hate</strong> her."<br><br><br>Then it's back to call-and-response. "Have a-"<br><br>"drink with us, sweety, and-"<br><br>"we'll see if we can't help you-"<br><br>"-forget all about her."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>24-10-2015, 03:12:04</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve shrinks back from the glass immediately, at first assuming someone is trying to make their way through the masses.&nbsp; As the twins surround her, her heart beats faster and their gyrations do nothing to help.&nbsp; She closes her mouth, wary of even a drop of liquid entering it at someone else's hand, much less these two, so firmly in Franklin's employ, but the heady aroma of the amber drink is almost more powerful when it assaults a singular sense.&nbsp; Her head whips back and forth between them, dizzying her almost as much as the alcohol would have, and she feels herself swaying with them, pushing against them despite herself, their skin so near to hers through her almost non-existent attire.<br><br>She frowns when they begin to trash Karma, not about to stand for it, despite the gorgeous bodies, eerie music, and pure sex surrounding her.&nbsp; As much as her stomach lurches towards the perfect lips, angular breasts, and dark eyes, she is there with Karma, <em>for</em> Karma.&nbsp; These heroin chics are not about to dissuade her from earning her paycheck.&nbsp; Something in the back of her head also pushes forth, though she's not quite sure why.&nbsp; Something all the way back from high school.&nbsp; Persephone and Hades.&nbsp; An offer of wine, of bread, of hospitality.<br><br>"Sorry, ladies, but as I told your boss, I'm not looking for work.&nbsp; Now why don't you take your fancy drinks and go fuck someone who cares?&nbsp; I have to take a piss."<br><br>It might not have been playing nice, but Eve was uncomfortable, and these two would not reassure her in a month of Sundays.&nbsp; Her eyes try to find the booth again in the crowd, hoping to see Karma emerging to retrieve her.&nbsp; She steps out of the Russian sandwich and tries to make a path through the ocean of humanity that served as a dance floor.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>10-11-2015, 19:29:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The twins don't seem inclined to interfere with Eve any further; the rest of the crowd is another story. Not only does the press seem thicker (and it doesn't part, the way it had for Karma), folks have noticed her now. Hands reach out, not groping, but caressing, running lightly along whatever bit of skin they can find. Bodies press against her, one, two, three at a time. They're not really trying to stop her from proceeding- it's as&nbsp; if she's gained some bizarre mojo, from her association with Karma, with Franklin, the twins, who knows? Whatever it is, everyone seems to want to get a piece, and while their intent may be benign enough,<em> en masse i</em>t's terrifying. Like sharks smelling blood, the mass of dancers closes around her, blocking her view of anything other than themselves and the flashing lights. The noise gradually becomes muted as sensory overload kicks in, fading into a hypnotic bee-buzz in the back of Eve's head.<br><br><br>By accident or through mindless design, the circulation of the crowd has steered her to the&nbsp; edge of one of the isolated stages.&nbsp; Returning to herself a bit as she bumps, hard into the lacquered wood and is sort of pinned there by thrashing bodies, she looks up...<br><br><br>...right into the naked crotch of the dancer above her. She is pleasuring herself brusquely, two fingers pumping in time to the music between her lips as she grinds and spins against and around the pole.&nbsp; Becoming aware of Eve's startled attention, the girl- she can't be more than twenty, like most of the clients, and the twins- smiles sleepily and drops bonelessly to her knees. Leaning wayyyy out, shoulders rocking just enough to keep her small breasts dancing, she plants a gentle kiss on Eve's forehead.&nbsp; "Come to me, pretty," she whispers, her voice somehow winding its way through the noise of the music and the voices, crawling inside Eve's numbed ear like the tip of a tongue.<br><br><br>(http://i988.photobucket.com/albums/af3/SexiiBetch420/Erotica115.jpg)
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>11-11-2015, 03:56:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Claustrophobic doesn't begin to describe the feeling of the bodies pressing against her.&nbsp; Eve took large breaths, trying to keep her body from reacting to the gorgeous feeling of the hands or panicking from the sheer number of limbs that brushed against her.&nbsp; Either way, it didn't really help, and by the time she bumped into the edge of the stage, she was so tense she actually yelped aloud.&nbsp; The sight that greets her is alarming for more than one reason.<br><br>The woman is beautiful.&nbsp; Her hair brushes over Eve's face, closely following the dancer's sensuous lips.&nbsp; There isn't anything Eve can do but stare.&nbsp; She's never seen anyone masturbate themselves before, and definitely not in public.&nbsp; She looks around, sure she is crazy and hallucinating, but the feel of the woman's kiss lingers and Eve cannot deny the presence of that voice.&nbsp; Her stomach flutters, affected far more than she had been by the press of the dancing crowd.&nbsp; She feels an immediate pull towards the stage, and finds her self leaning closer, inch by inch.&nbsp; The dancer has long, silky legs that lead upwards towards unknown shadows.&nbsp; In the lights, their joining flashes in and out of vision, making it seem like her hand is going even faster than humanly possible.&nbsp; Eve swallows hard, feeling her own hands drifting lower in a weird kind of symmetry.<br><br>Her chest moves with her breath, and she cries out as the dress snags on a minute sliver, right at her nipple level.&nbsp; The stage....had it bit her?&nbsp; Whether it had or not, the dancer's spell is broken, and Eve has a flash of Karma's warning to avoid getting up on them at all costs.&nbsp; Good timing for poor or worn worksmanship, she guesses.&nbsp; She knows she should leave...she was looking for something...someone...Karma?...the bathroom?&nbsp; Yes!&nbsp; She had to pee.&nbsp; The added throbbing of her loins wasn't exactly caused by her full bladder, but it wasn't helping matters either.&nbsp; Carefully stepping backwards from the stage, her eyes still watching the dancer's movements, she tries again to extricate herself from the full on orgy of the dancefloor.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>11-11-2015, 06:11:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Combined with the landmark of the stage, Eve's discomfort and the sting in her nip allow her to reclaim her bearings.&nbsp; She is <em>here,</em> and the outside wall is <em>there,</em> and somewhere along that wall must be doors, to kitchen, rest rooms- escape and safety. It still requires the application of a few elbows and heels to work through the manic crush of overly-friendly bodies, but the crowd is, at heart, benign, a large bovine mass, lost in its own pleasures.<br><br>As she reaches the edge of the throng, Eve can almost hear Karma's voice in her head: <em>"There are cows, and there are cowboys; there are sheep, and there are wolves. Be damned sure you know which you are..." </em> And there is a clearly marked, if somewhat subtle, door, leading to the powder room, and some sort of sanctuary.<br><br>Welllll...almost.&nbsp; Though the decor is&nbsp; classy enough, in the same glam-trashy way of the rest of the club, the lavatory makes a fine Gomorrah to the dance floor's Sodom.&nbsp; The long-legged woman leaning against the wall with her pants at her ankles doesn't&nbsp; look up as Eve almost blunders into her right inside the door- all her attention is on the blonde kneeling in front of her, face between her thighs.&nbsp; At the sinks, one deathly pale young lady is trying to staunch a nosebleed, her compact full of coke sitting open and obvious on the counter, while next to her another woman is adjusting an <em>aide d'amour</em>, held in place by a sort of chastity belt arrangement.&nbsp; Her skirt is so short that even when she lets it down, it's quite clear what she's wearing under it...<br><br>Condom and single-dose lydocane, Viagra, and 'energy tablet' vending machines hang on the wall, like any gnarly truck stop rest room, only better maintained. Artsy but rather pornographic poster prints hang fill other blank spaces. It makes one wonder what the gents' is like.<br><br>At least, once the door closes behind her, the thought-fogging throb of the music vanishes, becoming jsut a gentle pulse in the floor, the far-off heartbeat of the monster the club resembles.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>12-11-2015, 01:12:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Stepping carefully around the other occupants of a bathroom that could have been styled for Liberace, Eve makes a bee line for an open sink. She takes a deep breath, feeling grateful for the semblance of space, even if the depravity the club seemed to nurture were more obvious. She turns on the water and stares at her reflection. There's a healthy glow to her skin, though whether that's from the press and heat of the crowd outside, or the constant state of arousal she seems to have gained since encountering the twins on the dance floor, she isn't sure.<br><br>She splashes cool water on her face, her makeup expensive enough it remains mostly intact.&nbsp; As she once again catches her reflection, Eve thanks whatever deities there are that she had heeded Karma's warnings.&nbsp; It wasn't that she didn't approve of the goings on, something she figured she'd have to get used to now she was going to be herding the rich and famous through their personal struggles, but she's never seen them so closely, and she admits to herself she's a bit intimidated.&nbsp; Drying her face, she goes and pees, then washes her hands, trying to garner the courage to cross the sea of humanity and return to Karma's side.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>12-11-2015, 04:25:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				When Eve comes out of the stall, the bathroom is empty, the others apparently having terminated their miscellaneous business rather abruptly. It's a bit of a relief, maybe, if also a bit eerie.<br><br>It's not until she raises her eyes to the mirror again after washing her hands that she sees the twins, reflected behind her.<br><br>"Such a <em>clean</em> one."<br><br>"<strong>Far</strong> too good for-"<br><br>"The likes of us. Snob, just-"<br><br>"-like her Mistress. Tell us-"<br><br>In stereo "BITCH,"<br><br>"Has Karma actually shown you-"<br><br>"- your place yet, or is she-"<br><br>"-still playing the Game?"<br><br>They are smiling, in a fevered and unfriendly way, and their synchronized tones are taunting, angry.<br><br>They are also between Eve and the door.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>13-11-2015, 04:49:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve stands her ground firmly, despite her heart ratcheting up another notch.&nbsp; She didn't want trouble, but she sure as hell wasn't going to let these heroin addict wanna be models turned pole dancers mess up her job, much less her face.&nbsp; "Look, I can tell from how pretty you are you're not used to being told no, and I can understand how that might make you cranky, but it's just the answer you're going to have to take from me.&nbsp; Whatever happened between you and Karma is none of my business. I'm just here to do my job. If you have a problem with that, take it up with my boss."<br><br>She strides towards the door, hips swaying slightly in her almost non existent dress.&nbsp; If shit was going to go down, it would probably be now.&nbsp; She wishes the stupid people who decided women's fashion had thought pockets would be a good idea. Or knives. Or atom bombs. Or basically whatever would get these two to leave her alone. She wasn't here for them, and she didn't want Karma to have to swoop in and save her.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>17-12-2015, 01:38:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				One of them- no way to tell if it's Cheyne or Marisse- reaches out as if to grab Eve, while the other moves in from the other side. They move in perfect co-ordination, like sharks on the prowl. The door behind them swings open-<br><br>"Girls. Franklin is looking for you."&nbsp; Dena, the wispy, nearly-nude hostess takes two steps into the bathroom, looking just as ethereal as she did when Eve and Karma arrived, but nowhere near as deferential. While her expression is fairly neutral, there's something in the set of her slender, underdeveloped body that says she's pissed.<br><br>Surprisingly, the twins react instantly, almost tripping over themselves as they halt their advance, caught off-balance in mid motion. Glancing at each other, they actually look frightened. Whatever the reason for their change of heart, they turn their backs on Eve and flow out the door. The little blonde steps aside to let them pass, and shooting them in the back with a glare full of hatred.<br><br>"Sorry," she says, turning back to the rattled exec and composing herself, tugging her miniscule top a little better into alignment. "They pull that shit <em>all </em>the time, especially if it's someone with Karma. There's, ah...some history there. You OK? They didn't actually touch you, did they?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>17-12-2015, 04:18:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve dodges the fingers that reach for her, talon-like, by a fraction of an inch.&nbsp; The other twin closes the distance and she almost runs straight into her.&nbsp; Instead, the girls are momentarily paused by the voice of the woman entering.&nbsp; She looks quickly to the floor, not wanting to endure the death glares the twins would most likely be throwing as they leave, and adjusts her dress.&nbsp; She breathes deeply a few times before looking up at the beautiful woman with the impecable timing.<br><br>"I don't think so, no.&nbsp; Why, is that attitude contageuos?"&nbsp; She shivers slightly and nods at the woman.&nbsp; "Thank you.&nbsp; I didn't know being a personal assistant included taking on your boss's personal grudges, but I suppose it makes sense.&nbsp; I guess Karma's not the only one on their bad side?"<br><br>She didn't really expect an answer, didn't really want anything except to get out of this weird place, but she was on her best behavior, which meant being polite to the club-kid-slash-maitre-de who saved you from bitches with too much makeup.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>17-12-2015, 16:31:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Dena gives a little one-armed shrug, and even that's enough to almost slither her out of her belt top, small-breasted as she is. "Part of my job, make sure those two don't cause <em>too</em> much trouble.&nbsp; I figure, if they're not with the Boss, and I don't see them on the floor or tramping it up on one of the stages, they're hassling someone." Logical, but it sort of begs the question of how she can keep an eye on the entire club from her hostess station. Security cameras, probably.&nbsp; She also totally sidesteps the inquiry about Karma, the twins, the cause of the rancor, and whether or not it splashes on anyone else.&nbsp; Really, it's not surprising- Eve likely wouldn't talk about Karma's business without approval, either.&nbsp; But it's frustrating.<br><br><br>Opening the door again, Dena glances out, nods. "OK. Coast is clear." Looking back at Eve, the youngster gives her a searching, quizzical look, then seems to make up her mind about something. "You better get back.&nbsp; If Karma finds out Cheyne and Mar' were fucking with you before Franklin does, it's gonna be epic.&nbsp; Like, Tarentino-level. Either way, you'll be leaving soon.&nbsp; She and the Boss in one room for too long- it's not pretty."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>18-12-2015, 01:19:52</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Taking one last glance in the mirror to make sure her appearance had survived the interactions on the floor and with the twins, Eve quickly follows Dena back into the melee of the dance floor.&nbsp; Before they leave the sanctum of the bathroom, she makes sure to thank the young woman again.&nbsp; Whether she told Karma about the incident or not, Dena had saved her skin and she knoww it.&nbsp; Eve isn't one to forget those who did her a solid, and if it would help the situation between Karma and Franklin move more smoothly in the future, she wouldn't fail to use the capital.<br><br>Scanning the floor, she picks the clearest path back towards the private booth where she had left her boss.&nbsp; The throng of bodies threatens to engulf her once again, but she is far more wary of being drawn into their seductive embrace than she had been earlier.&nbsp; She follows Dena through the crowd as long as she can, her head beginning to throb in time with the deep bass regardless of her intention to stay focused on getting herself and Karma out of there as quickly as possible.&nbsp; She hopes it won't be a difficult task, but tries to prepare herself for anything.&nbsp; Tarentino-level is something she wants to avoid.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>18-12-2015, 03:10:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Dena wasn't wrong. Karma's hands are moving in choppy gestures; she's leaning forward, face stonelike,&nbsp; and Franklin has the look of a man who is dealing with his elderly mother or aunt's rants for the umpteenth time.<br><br>The twins, however- their demeanor is utterly changed. They sit on the <em>floor</em>, at Franklin's feet, eyes downcast. One of his hands is in each dark thicket of hair, with it curled tight around his fingers; Cheyne and Mariss are both trying their best to not meet anyone's eyes, while at the same time canting their heads to relive the upward pressure his grip appears to be putting on their necks.<br><br>Apparently, he knows that his playmates have misbehaved, and intends to deal with the situation in his own way.<br><br>Karma looks up as Eve approaches, and clamps her jaws shut. Apparently she, at least, has no desire to expose Eve to whatever the conflict is than absolutely necessary. "You ready to go, Eve?," she rasps, tossing back one last bit of champagne. "Franklin and my business is...concluded."<br><br>"For now, Karma," he says, almost gently. "For now."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>18-12-2015, 03:53:30</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The air is tense, and Eve is wary to get too close to Franklin as she approaches.&nbsp; She slides her hands around Karma's hips, hopefully in a soothing gesture, and begins to pull her away from the table.&nbsp; "Yes, I'm ready.&nbsp; Thank you for your hospitality."&nbsp; She nods succinctly around Karma's shoulder to Franklin, avoiding even glancing at the bitches under the table.&nbsp; She didn't like seeing anyone hurt, but they had scared her, and if he was going to scare them a little bit, she thought it might be deserved.&nbsp; She knew it was mean of her, but...well...she'd pay for the ice in her heart in her own time.<br><br>It's almost impossible for Eve to not ask Karma what was going on, but she manages to lead her boss out of the fray and back to the main doors without uttering a word.&nbsp; She casts a lingering glance at Dena as they past the hostess station, attempting to convey her thanks and her removal of Karma from the potentially explosive situation.&nbsp; Amazingly, she manages to do it all while draping herself over her employer in a way that gave the impression Karma was leading her outside for more fun on their own.&nbsp; As long as Karma's expression had changed from her discussion with her brother, then they might even make it out of the club without anyone who didn't know what had happened batting an eye.<br><br>Once outside the club, Eve shivered and looked at Karma, concern evident on her face.&nbsp; "Are you okay?&nbsp; He really does rub you the wrong way, doesn't he?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>18-12-2015, 04:21:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I can not BELIEVE I ever fucked that man," Karma all but shouts. Then she catches herself, and laughs. "OK, sorry, TMI. But nobody knows how to push your buttons like an ex." Handing Eve her helmet, the blonde dons hers and swings a leg aggressively over the bike, which has not been moved an inch in their absence. The door guys, though, seem to breathe a bit easier when it's clear they're leaving; it would be easy to draw the assumption that Franklin tends to be in as bad a mood after their meetings as she is.<br><br>Once Eve is settled and once again is holding onto her, Karma kicks the heavy machine into life, yanks the throttle open, and manhandles the beast around in a neck-breaking curve that actually puts them up on the opposite sidewalk for a fraction of a second before they even out and roar up the empty street, back towards the highway.<br><br>"I'll drop you at home," she informs Eve through the helmet comms. Of course she would know where her employee lived, right?
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>18-12-2015, 04:27:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve jumps a bit as they carom through the streets, her grip on Karma tightening until their bodies may as well be sharing the same atoms, she's gripping so hard.&nbsp; She wasn't <em>scared</em> per se, but Eve desperately tries to remember the signs of a heart attack, just in case.&nbsp; She's never seen Karma so incensed before, and she's not sure she likes it.&nbsp; Knowing it's none of her business, she asks anyway.<br><br>"Karma, I know Franklin is kind of an asshole, but...what did he <em>do</em> to you?&nbsp; I've never seen you this out of sorts before.&nbsp; It's kind of worrying.&nbsp; I mean, I may be new to the company, but if you go down, I go down with you.&nbsp; Is there anything I can do to help?"<br><br>Her voice sounds tinny through the com system, but she knows that if she doesn't ask now, she will lose the courage, and then it will be too late.&nbsp; If they're going to have to deal with Franklin again, she needs to know what exactly she's dealing with.&nbsp; It didn't even occur to her that Karma knew where she was going, or that Eve was already picturing them inside, her serving Karma a cool drink while Karma let off steam about the jerk from the club.&nbsp; If there was one thing Eve knew, it was how to listen.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>18-12-2015, 04:40:09</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Karma doesn't answer until they've roared up onto the highway. Once she's unwound the bike to a nice, relaxed 85, since there's not much traffic so late, she opens her mike again.<br><br>"He didn't <strong>do </strong>anything. It's who and what he is. He reminds me of a part of myself and a chunka my life I'd really rather forget.&nbsp; But he keeps trying to pull me back..." A momentary silence makes it seem that that's all she's going to say, but then she sighs. "It's...complicated, baby girl.&nbsp; We've all of us got a past, right? Mine just happens to be a client as well as sorta a neigh-"<br><br>Her voice breaks off in a curse as the bike suddenly slews hard to one side, sparks pouring from under the fork and the ear-grinding sound of bare rim on roadway piercing even through the heavy helmets. The blowout had gone unheard, but at that speed, the machine has become as unruly as a rodeo bronco, threatening to topple them and scrape them from their seats against the unforgiving asphalt.<br><br>Silently, Karma fights, releasing the throttle, but not daring to break, not yet, for fear of pitching them over.&nbsp; The entire, terrifying event can't take more than a few seconds, and ends with them stopped, engine still muttering, so close to the center barrier as to give the illusion that Karma had actually arrested their progress with the toe of her boot. There's a long silence, broken only by the noise of the engine, and the creak of the overheated wheel, now ruined by its unpadded drag.&nbsp; Finally.<br><br>"Well, shit. You OK?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>18-12-2015, 04:53:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				It all happens before Eve can even open her mouth to scream, but she's sweating bullets when Karma addresses her.&nbsp; Her arms tremble and if she wasn't gripping Karma so tightly already, she would have fallen off of the bike into a pool on the ground.&nbsp; Her eyes stare through the helmet back at the road, the line of their passage clear on the asphalt.&nbsp; With effort, she unlatches her deathlike grip and sits back.&nbsp; It still takes her a minute to answer.<br><br>"I.....I think so."&nbsp; Without warning, she throws the helmet off of her head to the ground and spills to the pavement, emptying her stomach into the gutter.&nbsp; Eve vomits until even her bile is run dry and then gives a couple dry heaves for good measure.&nbsp; Embarrassed, shaky, and teary-eyed, she looks up at Karma.&nbsp; "Sorry.&nbsp; At least I didn't get any on the dress..."<br>She stands up, wobbly and weak and tries to climb back onto the bike, forgetting that it would be useless now.&nbsp; "What happened?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>18-12-2015, 05:03:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Opening one of the storage compartments, Karma lifts out a squeeze-top water bottle and hands it to Eve. "Fuck the dress. Can get you ten more just like it, if you really think you'd ever wear something like it again. Rainbow colors"<br><br>While Eve does what she can to clean up, the exec squats by the front of the bike. "Musta picked up a nail off the street. That nieghborhood, there's crap all over." For someone so good at reading and manipulating people, she doesn't really doesn't make a good show of sounding like she believes it. Her face a blank mask under the streetlights, Karma fishes out her phone.<br><br>"Raoul? Karma. Yeah, sorry, I know. It's kinda an emergency.&nbsp; I've had a blowout on 97 at the..." craning her neck, she looked up and down the road. Thank all Gods it was so late, and this part of the Loop wasn't heavily travelled save at rush hour. "Just after the McDermott exit, inbound. I've got someone with me who's gonna need a lift home.&nbsp; No...no, I'll stay with the bike, get it on a flatbed,&nbsp; hitch a ride in with the driver.&nbsp; Thanks, doll. Triple rates."<br><br>Hanging up, she offers a hand to help Eve back off the bike. "Raoul's one of my regular limo guys. Need to get you home, so you can rest up. Kai'll never forgive me if you miss your date tomorrow."&nbsp; There's no fear in her voice or expression, no sign that they had just faced maiming or death- but there <em>is</em> cold, hard anger.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>18-12-2015, 05:17:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve takes the bottle, a bit stunned.&nbsp; She watches Karma examine the bike and isn't fooled by the story, or Karma's stony expression.&nbsp; "Thanks for the ride, but...I'm not leaving you alone...not if someone messed with your bike."&nbsp; Even though she's not drunk, she feels like it as she hears the words escape her lips.&nbsp; What was she doing?&nbsp; Her boss was messing around with crazy people, they both almost become bug splatter on a deserted highway, and now she's offering to stay with a woman who is as likely to bite her head off as she is to give her a raise?&nbsp; It didn't make sense.&nbsp; Nothing since she'd taken this job made sense.<br><br>"I just...I'm worried about you.&nbsp; And I won't miss my meeting with Kai.&nbsp; I just want to make sure <em>you</em> get home okay...better yet...why don't you come to my place?&nbsp; If you can afford new dresses for me, you can afford a new bike, can't you?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>18-12-2015, 16:29:59</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Karma mutters something that can't quite be heard, but sounds something like 'weren't after me'. Which makes absolutely no sense, since she was driving the bike. Then she gives Eve a sour look. "Sure. Could buy ten more. But this is a custom job, and I want <em>my</em> bike, not some off-the-rack piece of junk. The best way to piss off someone who's gunnin' for you is to pretend nothing ever happened."<br><br>Looking down the highway, she tenses as a pair of headlights sweeps up the ramp, then relaxes as a large black SUV pulls up. "Besides, I can take care of myself."<br><br>A slender, dapper man with lightly greying, razor-cropped black hair hair, dressed in livery and with a hint of South American Indian in his features slips out from behind the wheel of the hulking vehicle after setting the flashers. "Ms. DuRien. Are you hurt?" He manages to express professional, calm concern in simple words.<br><br>With a lopsided grin, Karma hugs the man briefly. "Nah, Raoul. I'm tougher than that, you know that. But poor Eve here just got quite a scare. If you could see her home, I'd be obliged."<br><br>"Of course, Ms. DuRien." Opening the back driver's side door, Raoul offers his hand to Eve. "Miss?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>18-12-2015, 23:28:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eyes flashing, heart still racing, Eve wraps her arms around Karma, squeezing her tight before brushing her lips against the tall woman's cheek.&nbsp; "I don't doubt you can take care of yourself," she says with a smile behind her words, "But I'd hate to miss the show if you got your hands on them."&nbsp; She gazes for a minute at Karma's face. "I won't cause you any more trouble tonight. I'll be a good girl and go home. I just want to see you tomorrow.&nbsp; Wouldn't want to wear the wrong shade of lipstick, now would I?"<br><br>She waves lightly before approaching the car and climbing in the open door.&nbsp; "Home, James."&nbsp; The adrenaline of the bear crash must be screwing with her system. She feels high as a kite, shaky and elated.&nbsp; The last thing she wants is to upset her boss, which is the only thing that really gets her to leave. Sliding into the smooth leather back seat she waits for the driver to climb in and then speaks to him properly. <br><br>"I appreciate the ride, Raoul. Have you worked for Karma long?"&nbsp; She buckles in and lays back, closing her eyes and trying to regulate her breathing as she calms down from the night.&nbsp; After all the excitement, the relative quiet of the SUV is strange and unnerving. Still, she tries. It's been a long day, and Karma was right. She needed her sleep.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>19-12-2015, 05:07:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The driver's eyes flick to the rear view mirror, as if he is studying Eve, deciding what answer, if any, to give her. But then they go to the driver's side wing mirror, then the other- it's not her he is scanning, it's the surroundings.&nbsp; He is <em>wary.</em> Cautious, and professional in the way he neither allows his attention to wander from the road, or remain fixed on any one thing for too long.<br><br>"A bit over six years years, Miss. Since I retired from the Army."&nbsp; That would explain the posture, the precise, polite tones of his speech. It also makes it less likely that he is merely a livery driver.<br><br>"You are her new assistant, yes?," he asks. How could he know? Maybe the same way Karma seems to know things she shouldn't. Or, if he is, in fact, private security, maybe Karma simply told him, making sure he knew about her staff. "She is a good woman," he continues, matter-of-factly. "Sometimes loud. But she respects honesty and loyalty, and rewards it well."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>20-12-2015, 02:47:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Military, eh?&nbsp; I was never cut out for that cloak and dagger, bang bang stuff.&nbsp; Much more bookish I am.&nbsp; I guess being around Karma, you kinda get used to the world being turned upside down, so being ex-military might make the transition to working for her easier."&nbsp; She tries to make her voice light, non-commital and unconcerned, but isn't quite sure she succeeds.&nbsp; When she notices Raoul checking their surroundings she starts rubbernecking herself, though wouldn't be able to tell a threat from a Publisher's Clearing House check.<br><br>"Yes,&nbsp; Eve.&nbsp; Pleased to meet you...Raoul?&nbsp; I think she's amazing.&nbsp; A bit unconventional, maybe, but what genius wasn't a little eccentric, right?&nbsp; She sure as hell seems to know what she's doing on the business end of things.&nbsp; I've learned a lot already, and I've been on the job only a short time.&nbsp; I can't imaging the things you've seen in six years!"&nbsp; Her eyes continue to drift from the windows back to the mirror and his dark eyes.&nbsp; They aren't threatening, exactly, but she doens't want to be on the sour end of them.<br><br>As they continue, Eve realizes that he not only knows where he's going, he seems to know the short cuts she would have taken herself.&nbsp; Before she can suggest a turn, he's already taken it, and she starts wondering exactly how much Karma had told him about her.&nbsp; "Are you more than just her driver?&nbsp; I mean...she seems to have told you quite a bit about me, since you seem to know where I live and hadn't even asked my name..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>20-12-2015, 05:24:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				As they approach the block that holds Eve's apartment, Raoul doesn't slow, instead driving sedately past the building by several blocks before beginning a series of dogleg turns, slowly walking them back towards her home in a roundabout manner.<br><br>"Mostly, miss Eve, I drive. My son and I started this business when I left the Service, and I hope to pass it to him in good order. But-" At a red light, he stops, remains silent, constantly scanning the sidewalks and the street behind them. When the car begins to move again, so does his mouth. "As you surely know, some of miss Karma's clients are very high-profile. At times some associates and I- all ex-military- provide security services. Background checks, mostly-" that might explain how Karma knows so much about Eve- "-and occasional escort duties." And then they are making the final turn, back onto her block.<br><br>Barely has the SUV stopped, in the no-parking zone directly in front of Eve's building, than the slender man is out on the sidewalk, opening the door for her. "And of course I know where you live, miss. I wouldn't be very good at my job if I didn't."&nbsp; He gives her a ghost of a smile, still holding the door, but not offering his other hand to help her out. That hand is resting on the butt of the gun Eve could swear he wasn't wearing when he picked her up.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>20-12-2015, 05:45:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She almost reconsiders her assumptions as he flies past her place, then begins to wind through the streets to return.&nbsp; It takes her a bit to realize he is covering for something, or maybe trying to lose someone who has been following them.&nbsp; Neither thought makes her particularly joyous, but his rapt attention and answers to her question do reassure her enough to settle back in her seat and watch the road with less concern.<br><br>"I didn't mean to imply you weren't...I just... Oh, never mind."&nbsp; Her eyes drop to his hand and she glares back up at him after noticing the gun.&nbsp; Her head whips around, trying to look up and down the street at the same time.&nbsp; She sees nothing out of the ordinary, but the simple presence of a firearm makes the hair on the back of her neck stand up straight.&nbsp; She hisses at the man, hurrying out of the car.&nbsp; "Jesus...is that necessary?"<br><br>Her keys are already out of her bag, a long resident of the city, it is an unconscious precaution she's ingrained and doesn't even think about until her shaky hand causes them to drop to the ground.&nbsp; She blushes and bends down to pick them up.&nbsp; "Shit."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>20-12-2015, 14:37:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				There is almost a comedy moment as Raoul stoops&nbsp; for her keys, as well, their heads almost connecting before he pulls up short.&nbsp; "I'm sorry, miss Eve. I didn't mean to startle you." Straightening, he steps away. letting her recover her keys as he takes a quick look up and down the street.&nbsp; When she is back on her feet, he gives her a small bow, and gestures towards the front door of her building.<br><br>"I certainly hope it won't be necessary, miss. But I would also not like to explain to miss DuRien how I allowed you to be injured through inattention. I am to escort you to the elevator. To your flat door, if you will allow it, but certainly into the building." He waits, patiently, for her to start for the door, clearly intending to fall in behind her.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>20-12-2015, 18:32:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Smiling, Eve offers her arm to Raoul and chuckles.&nbsp; "I think we'll need to work on our act a bit before we go on the road Costello..."&nbsp; It is a mask of gaiety over a plethora of weariness and an adrenaline crash so bad she's starting to worry she won't make it to her bed before collapsing from pure exhaustion.&nbsp; "And you can just call me Eve.&nbsp; The miss makes me feel too much like Jessica Tandy.&nbsp; Come on, Costner, you can see me to my door."&nbsp; She can't read his expression to know if he got her references, and is too tired to care.&nbsp; After another moment, she climbs the cement steps up to the brownstone's main door.<br><br>She presses the key into the lock and it turns easily.&nbsp; The elevator lobby is empty, and a bit foreboding at the late hour.&nbsp; Her heeled boots echo on the tired floor while Raoul seems able to move silent as a cat.&nbsp; She presses the button and watches in silence as the lighted numbers descend and the inevitable 'ding' of the doors opening makes her jump.&nbsp; Blushing and looking at her companion, she steps into the elevator and presses her floor. "Going up?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>25-12-2015, 20:50:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve's flirting, if that's what it's intended as, falls flat. Raoul seems to take his bodyguard duties very seriously indeed, whether from professional pride, serious concern for Eve's safety, or fear of Karma.&nbsp; Probably all three- it's clear Karma was worried enough to call for a pro to play angel and, while she's been good in her way to Eve, it's clear that she is,or at least has been, more than a simple businesswoman.<br><br>Far from taking her arm, he actually turns and faces the street while she unlocks the door and, after a quick look around the lobby, faces the entryway and stays between her and it until the elevator arrives. Dramatically, he even backs into the elevator behind her. At least he doesn't draw his pistol- it'll be awkward enough if any of her neighbors see them with it on his hip.&nbsp; Sure, he's probably licensed- that is not a detail her or Karma would neglect- but that sort of thing tends to make city dwellers twitchy.<br><br>When the chime strikes and the door opens on Eve's floor, Raoul hesitates, then peeks out into the hall, head swivelling as if he seriously fears an ambush, right there in her building. Only then does he nod and bow her through the door in front of him.&nbsp; "I am likely over-reacting," he says quietly, clearly reading the expression on her face. "But I would prefer to look foolish in this manner than in a worse one."<br><br>As she funbles with the lock on her apartment, he remains very close to her, close enough for her to smell his aftershave, something vaguely spicy.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>26-12-2015, 16:13:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Raoul's serious nature permeates her brain and by the time they reach her door, she simply nods and lets him do as he pleases with no comment.&nbsp; It's sort of nice to have someone look out for her for a bit.&nbsp; Usually she's too preoccupied with whatever business she's attending to for worrying.&nbsp; His well toned form looms next to her and she can sense the heat from his body as he waited for her to unlock her apartment.&nbsp; Sliding the key home, she turns the door and enters, flipping on the light by the doorway.<br><br>"Thank you for bringing me home, Raoul.&nbsp; Do you want a drink or anything before you go?"&nbsp; Tired as she is, she doesn't want to make any enemies, and since Raoul seems to be close to Karma, she assumes she'll see him again.&nbsp; Making friends is something she's good at, usually, and her offer is genuine.&nbsp; She holds the door open, ready to welcome him or say goodnight as he decides.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>31-12-2015, 03:03:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Finally, the rigid man unbends, enough to smile a bit, at least, and to give Eve a small bow. "Thank you, miss Eve but no. I do not believe you will be in any further danger tonight, and you've had quite enough to deal with. And you have a meeting tomorrow night, I believe?" His grin turns sly, but without the usual leer one might expect, simply the knowing grin of one who understands far more than he says.<br><br>"Your invitation is appreciated, however. Please, try to relax, and rest. I assure you, whatever the cause of tonight's unpleasantness, miss Karma will deal with it."&nbsp; That sounds...forboding. Of course, it's hard to blame her boss for being pissed over nearly wrecking an expensive bike- and en even more expensive Executive Assistant.&nbsp; But what, the actual <strong>fuck</strong>, is going on?<br><br>Raoul waits for Eve to close the door, part of his awareness focused on her, more still on the hallway outside.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>01-01-2016, 04:44:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Dazed and confused, but also relieved to hear <em>someone</em> sounds like they have things under control, Eve nods once more and bids Raoul good night.&nbsp; She leans against the door, body finally shaking from the stress, and takes deep, long breaths.&nbsp; The skin tight dress, which she now affectionately thinks of as 'the doily from Saks' is stripped off quickly, the boots following as she leaves a path of garments behind her.&nbsp; There is a quick detour to the bathroom to rub off her makeup and brush her teeth, then she sprawls, naked except for her underwear, on top of her queen sized bed.<br><br>There are no thoughts as she falls into unconsciousness, but she feels eyes staring at her, no matter how she turns.&nbsp; In her dreams they follow her, looming around corners, floating behind buildings.&nbsp; They don't pursue her, but she is never free of them.&nbsp; It is unsettling to say the least, but she's too tired for it to disturb her rest.<br><br>The mid-morning sun paints her otherwise neutral colored room in a bright yellow when she stirs the next morning.&nbsp; It's after ten, and she can't remember if Karma wanted her in the office or not.&nbsp; Quickly, she showers and stuffs some granola bars in her maw as she fights the sidewalk traffic and finally arrives at the office.&nbsp; At least she managed to remember the garment bag with her proposed outfit for the evening.&nbsp; She slips into her seat and flips on the computer.&nbsp; If she's late, she doesn't want to make herself a target.&nbsp; If she's not supposed to be here, she doesn't want to get in Karma's way.&nbsp; In either case, she figures checking her email can be played off either way.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>09-01-2016, 04:29:42</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The suite is empty when Eve arrives, but around lunchtime, Karma appears from the back, still in her bathrobe, a serious look on her face, and a newspaper in her hand. "Office," she says, curtly, but not as if she's angry at Eve.<br><br>Once they're in her domain, she tosses her chin at Eve's accustomed chair, and flops into her own. A flip of her wrist sends the paper across the smooth surface. "Since you're gonna hear about it anyway, let's get it out of the way."<br><br>On page two, there's a lower-third story about a freak accident. A young man, burned to death in his own bed. The usual assumption would be smoking stpidity save for the odd fact that nothing else in the room was damaged...<br><br>...the photo of the victim almost stops Eve's heart.&nbsp; It's not a great likeness- newsies seldom are- but she knows him, or has seen him.&nbsp; Holding a hand out to try to take the keys to Karma's bike the night before...<br><br>"Before you ask the obvious. No, I didn't. I told you before, I'm not a killer. Yes, I do. And no, I won't. No proof, never will be, no one would ever believe me. And it would just add another beaker of piss to the soup." With a sigh, she leans across the desk, robe gapping, takes the paper from Eve's nerveless hands. "I suspect the twins are not enjoying their lives very much right now- fifty bucks says they put this poor bastard up to it. Hint: don't take it, it's a sucker bet." She fixes a hard, but not unsympathetic gaze on her employee. "Franklin is protective, in his psychotic weasel sort of way. And very, very dangerous. Keep it in mind, huh?"<br><br>"Now. What have you decided to wear for Kai's thing tonight?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>09-01-2016, 15:35:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				No longer surprised now that she knows about the secret elevator, Eve quickly follows Karma back into the office, bringing her note pad and the garment bag hanging behind her chair.&nbsp; She sets the bag carefully next to her and reaches for the paper tossed at her, trying desperately not to stare at the hint of skin revealed by Karma's opening robe.&nbsp; As she sees the picture, she's glad she had planned a late lunch and quickly pushes it away after she makes the identification.<br><br>"But...doesn't that mean he messed with the bike during the meeting with Franklin, <em>while</em> the twins were getting their bitch on?&nbsp; That makes it pre-meditated, right?&nbsp; Franklin, or his bunny bombers, set you up!"&nbsp; Somehow, after a night of sleep, the indignation on Karma's behalf is stronger than her own sense of personal safety.&nbsp; The dangerous nature of their companions last evening is even more riling, but Eve takes a deep breath and tries to let it go, as Karma seems to be back in business mode almost instantly.<br><br>"I took your suggestions in mind and found this."&nbsp; She unzips the bag, revealing a striking, body tight dress that rivals her outfit from the night before.<br><br>(http://i01.i.aliimg.com/wsphoto/v0/1763848753/Red-lace-fitted-pencil-dresses-long-sleeve-HL-bodycon-bandage-dress-for-woman-sexy-celebrity-red.jpg)
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>09-01-2016, 18:38:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Karma snorts. "Franklin wouldn't set me up.&nbsp; We have a, ah...sorta Mutually Assured Destruction pact. Don't worry about it. Nah, I figure the twins arranged it when you wouldn't play with them. Dena suspected something, 'swhy she came and bailed you out." A quick, acid grin flickers across her face. "Yeah, I know about that.&nbsp; Franklin does, too, but since you were standup and didn't bitch about it, he could let it slide. But attempted murder...no." One slow, solid shake of her head made it clear that, whatever the hell crazy game she's involved in with her cousin, there are strict if Byzantine rule governing it. "Frankie respects most of my boundaries, and expects his property to do the same. Not that it keep him from pushin' my buttons every chance he gets..."<br><br>Dropping the topic like a fresh turd, she turns her attention to the dress, testing the fabric with her fingertips, looking back and forth from it to Eve as if trying it on her visually. Finally, she nods. "Go put it on, just to be safe. No bra, of course. There's underwear in there for ya." Cocking her head, she looks skeptical. "Was just you, it'd be great. Just hope you don't wash Kai right out of the picture. I should call her...well? you still sitting there? Go get dressed!'
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>09-01-2016, 18:53:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Though Eve is still dubious, she takes Karma at her word about Franklin.&nbsp; Those bitch twins are on her shit list, though, and she's not happy that they'd mess with Karma.&nbsp; She's a little embarrassed that Karma knows about Dena's rescue, and drops her eye for a second, though she's reassured that it hasn't seemed to cause even more problems.&nbsp; She notes that the twins were referred to as 'property' and wondered what exactly that meant, but doesn't dwell on it longer.&nbsp; She's already lost enough of her appetite for the day.<br><br>Moving quickly, she takes the dress into the other room and strips, finding another lacy string that Karma seems to insist has anything to do with being a garment rather than floss. Still, she knows it will be the only thing that maintains the silhouette of the dress, and pulls it up her hips.&nbsp; Placing the dark green dress over her head, she's amazed at how easily it slides over her skin, the tight fit not occurring until the darts hit exactly where they are supposed to.&nbsp; She emerges looking like a nymph from a dark forest, ready to meld into the background while still holding your attention when she moved.&nbsp; "Well?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>10-01-2016, 03:25:33</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				A hard, appraising look takes over the exec's features, and she puts Eve through a series of paces: sitting, standing, reaching. She makes her assistant walk back and forth across the office half a dozen times at different rates: a stately, queenly swish, a business-like tap-tap-tap, a hip-swinging hooker strut. After having her bend over the desk, and tugging at the hip hems, the blonde even goes so far as to put her hands flat under Eve's breasts, lift them a bit, and drop them again, to examine their range of motion in bodice of the dress. "Hmmmph," she grunts, though she seems satisfied. "You were any bigger up top, we'd have an issue. But it works on you."<br><br>Motioning for the flushing woman to sit, Karma plants herself on the corner of the desk, one firm thigh emerging from the folds of her robe almost to her crotch. "OK. So.<br><br>"Here's the deal. You're a strong woman. Which is good, since Ghu knows you wouldn'ta lasted fifteen seconds with me, otherwise. But Kai Richter is, too, in a different way. Our job- <em>your</em> job- is to help prop her up, get her through the cannibal freak show the press is gonna put on, without making things worse for her, see?&nbsp; You're gonna have to walk a mighty thin line between fuckdoll eyecandy an' being a real person, with a life and everything.&nbsp; And they're gonna lean on you. You're new, you're hot, and you supposedly have got your face between the thighs of the heroine they're trying to break. So you need to give them enough of what they want, without covering up who and what Kai is in the process.<br><br>"You up for it?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>10-01-2016, 03:39:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The intense scrutiny from her boss makes Eve think of a prize calf on display at the county fair back home in the midwest.&nbsp; The physical tasks and literal plumping of her chest doesn't help rid herself of the feeling much, either, but, she chides herself, this is her job now.&nbsp; A warm feeling grows in her stomach as Karma's hands pick and pull at her body, and she can't help wanting to please the tall blonde.&nbsp; She practically beams when she gets Karma's approval and moves on to what appears to be the oral portion of the exam.<br><br>The initial words wash over her as her eyes are drawn to the dark shadows hidden beneath Karma's robe, but she quickly chides herself and looks up in time to catch the unfamiliar name.&nbsp; <em>Who in the hell is Ghu?</em>&nbsp; She makes a mental note to check the next time she's at a computer and then concentrates on the task at hand.&nbsp; Karma is, of course, right about everything she's up against.&nbsp; Hyenas are nicer to their prey than the press is going to be to her and her 'girlfriend'.<br><br>"Up for taking their shit, throwing it back, and making Kai shine like a diamond through the whole thing?&nbsp; I better be or I feel like my next paycheck is going to be a pink slip."&nbsp; <em>Or worse,</em> her brain adds unhelpfully.&nbsp; Eve had to admit she was getting used to working for Karma, and definitely liked her boss.&nbsp; It would be a harsh blow to her, personally, if she disappointed the woman, much less their client.&nbsp; She nods confidently, looking Karma in the eye, then deciding to get cheeky and blow her a kiss.&nbsp; "Bring it on, baby."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>12-01-2016, 15:33:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Karma belts out a fierce laugh, showing her teeth. "Attagirl. But not <strong>too</strong> much of that where folks can see it. Remember you're in Sales. That means givin' the other person a reacharound while you plunder their colon."<br><br>Sliding off the desk (and giving Eve the briefest flash of blonde curls below), she moves to her chair, opens the top drawer. "Got a couple of things for ya." A keyring gets flipped across to Eve, with a single key on it. "For the Beemer convertible in the garage. It's yours as long as you're on this gig.&nbsp; Wreck it, though, and I'll dock your salary AND your Social Security. Roughly 'til you die." As Eve tries to remember if she'd even seen a BMW in the car park during the hectic night before, Karma more gingerly hands a long, flat box across, opens the lid.&nbsp; Inside lies&nbsp; a simple bone choker, (http://cdn2.bigcommerce.com/n-arxsrf/nrl9xsh/products/109/images/297/Bone_chokers_25033_all_natural__55278.1385826220.1280.1280.jpg?c=2) though one of a somewhat unusual style.<br><br>"Not gonna insist you wear it, though I'd like you to. Got it from my grandmother, about a million years ago. It's too short for my fatass neck, and folks stare at my tits too much as it is."&nbsp; A quick wink confirms that she's even caught Eve doing that once in a while. "But it's supposed to be a luckcharm."&nbsp; It's unusually heavy, too, even factoring in the box, sitting like a copper bar in Eve's hand. "Whatever you do, don't try to fly with it on, or you'll end up in onea those little narrow rooms with garish lights while they try to figure out if you're a poacher or some such shit."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>13-01-2016, 02:01:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve genuinely likes making Karma smile. Expanding on her playful mood, she salutes jovially and quips, "Yes, ma'am" before chuckling. The flash she can't imagine she actually just saw makes her blush, but she's quickly distracted by the thought of the streamlined vehicle she's just been put in charge of.<br><br>"I...uh...I don't know how to drive stick..."&nbsp; Normally she wouldn't mention it, but her extreme sports persona sure as hell would. It is an oversight she'd missed, and might cost her.&nbsp; Driving fast, as she'd planned to, both to fit her cover and to get Kai's heart racing, wouldn't work if she stalls the engine at the first stoplight.<br><br>The choker is gorgeous, but not at all what she'd expected to be in the delicate box in her employer's slender fingers. She picks it up delicately, noting it's weight and the indentations from the carving. Eve snaps it on, almost without thinking. It feels solid around her neck, but not tight. The bone is strong and cool against her skin. "How does it look?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>14-01-2016, 14:20:52</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"LIke I should have it stapled to ya." The damn thing IS heavy, far too much so for its construction,&nbsp; but seems to cradle Eve's neck and throat like the hand of a just-rough-enough lover.<br><br>"But- seriously?&nbsp; You can't drive stick?" Karma seems aghast. Maybe just because she at last has made a mistake? "Fer real?&nbsp; Damn, some days I feel old."&nbsp; Fumbling in her desk drawer, she comes up with a plain black and white-covered book that seems naggingly familiar, hands it over. It just says "BMW" on the front, in large letters. "Read it and love it.&nbsp; Then you'll be able to change your own oil and do your own tuneups, as well.&nbsp; Oh, damn...if you kill my baby, I'm gonna cry..." Even though she's grinning, for once the tough blonde seems genuinely nonplussed.<br><br>"Go on, go read, then go home. Rest up.&nbsp; Be supportive without clingy. Be flirty without bein' a slut.&nbsp; Oh, hell. Just be you."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>15-01-2016, 03:22:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				With a nagging sense of deja vu, Eve takes the proffered tome and smiles.&nbsp; "Thanks.&nbsp; Yeah.&nbsp; I know what a clutch is, but...only used one on the riding lawn mower."&nbsp; She chuckles at her own ineptitude.&nbsp; "I promise not to kill your car, or even hurt it a little.&nbsp; I take very good care of my things."<br><br>Sashaying out of the office, she curls up in one of the plush chairs and devours the book it what seems like moments, though is probably something closer to an hour.&nbsp; All the while, her hand idly fiddles with the choker, running back and forth between the cool bone and her warm flesh.&nbsp; When she finishes the book, feeling a bit dazed and not quite remembering what she read, though she's sure she knows the finer points, not only of this BMW, but a few of the other models, too, she places it back on Karma's desk and heads home, taking advantage of the private elevator to the garage.<br><br>The sleek feel of the leather under her thin dress makes her feel horny, and the thought of the beautiful blond that awaits her certainly doesn't derail those thoughts.&nbsp; The car handles beautifully, and she can't help but drive a little out of her way before heading home for a quick nap and some energy bars.&nbsp; When the time comes, she's ready.&nbsp; She heads out, eager to see Kai and play arm candy for an evening.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>20-01-2016, 03:13:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				As colleges go, the one that Kai is speaking at is rather small. Which means, of course, that the parking situation is not in line with the turnout. Either women's tennis is huge here, or Kai Richter is, or womens' sports empowerment. Probably some combination of all three.&nbsp; So, even early as she is, Eve has to park some distance from the dining hall and walk in.<br><br>There's a surprising amount of press in attendance, as well. Not like you would see for the Superbowl- or even a demolition derby, in some parts of the country- but enough. Local, network, a couple of print reporters.&nbsp; Eve's appearance attracts attention, even more so when her name and ID are accepted at the entry, and she's shown in.&nbsp; None of that comes close to the murmurs of interest when Kai comes up to her and clutches her by the arm almost desperately. "I'm so glad you came," the muscular blonde murmurs, leaning up to kiss Eve's cheek.&nbsp; Flashbulbs pop here and there, and there is an odd tingling feeling on the back of EVe's neck. One moderately attracive, dark-haired woman with a not pad, standing along one side of the hall, is staring intently at the newly-revealed pair.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>20-01-2016, 04:51:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Without missing a beat, Eve slips her arm around Kai's waist and moves her head quickly so the peck on the cheek effortlessly becomes a full fledged kiss on the mouth.&nbsp; The athlete's lips are soft and warm, and Eve holds her tightly, ensuring she doesn't pull away in surprise.&nbsp; If they're going to make this work, they need to start it out with a bang.&nbsp; After a few seconds, longer than a European double kiss, but shorter than a full on make-out, and definitely with no tongue, Eve releases Kai's lips, but not her arm.<br><br>Keenly aware of all of the press, and the now low murmur of the crowd, Eve leans in to whisper in Kai's ear, "You're doing great.&nbsp; Now take my arm and lead me to wherever we're supposed to go.&nbsp; By the way, you look beautiful."&nbsp; Eve has never had so much attention directed towards her, but she keeps her shoulders straight and her head high, with just a slight sway to her hips as she follows Kai among the tables and chairs and towards the front of the room.&nbsp; It almost feels as if she and Kai could be dating.&nbsp; They barely know each other, but she thinks they are both interested in exploring what could happen.&nbsp; It's just enough truth to make the lie really believable.&nbsp; Eve once again marvels at Karma's brilliant strategy as she engages in the social chit chat of the evening, surprised at how much she can recall about sports she'd never even heard of until a couple days ago.<br><br>The whole while, she beams at Kai, proud and impressed by the woman's poise and good nature.&nbsp; Even if she isn't <em>really</em> dating the tennis star, she sees nothing that would keep her from wanting to.&nbsp; Kai begins to loosen up, as well, though she's still obviously nervous.&nbsp; Maybe after her speech or whatever she'll settle down and Eve can draw her into doing the little things that let people know you're a couple and not just friends.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>08-02-2016, 01:37:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The meal is not memorable, though at least there seems to be a set of common rules that keep the press from hounding Kai and Eve while they're eating. Instead, they engage the Athletic Head of the U and several members of the WCAS in pleasant if somewhat empty chat.&nbsp; To their credit, the various VIPs seem to easily accept Eve as part of Kai's entourage, though none of them seem quite clear who she is, even after the kiss.&nbsp; A few times, Kai gives Eve shy, apologetic smiles, and once even takes her hand briefly, in plain sight, but it's clear that, while she may have accepted Karma's plan at face value, she has no idea to pull it off.<br><br>The speech is a different matter.&nbsp; It's full of gratitudes and platitudes, like all such things, and Kai is not a dynamic speechmaker. But she is tremendously earnest, and her intense love of sport and her concern for the place of young women in it burn through the fog of average words. Even Eve is entranced, though she suspects Karma may have had a hand in writing it- there are certain twists of style that maintain Kai's simplicity while delivering little jabs against vested interests that just feel like the gently heavy hand of her boss. So focused is she on the star's delivery, that she almost misses it when at the end, thanking those who invited her and those who have sponsored her career, she throws in 'And many thanks to my dear companion Eve Baumgartner, for her quiet and unshrinking moral support.'<br><br>The press doesn't miss it, though.&nbsp; Abruptly, cameras explode everywhere. Rumor confirmed!
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>08-02-2016, 02:36:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				As soon as the first flash registered, Eve kicks into high gear.&nbsp; This is where she sells it.&nbsp; Her eyes twinkle as she looks at her 'companion', all pride and blushing modesty.&nbsp; Perfectly manicured fingers rise to her lips as she blows Kai a kiss.&nbsp; As she returns to her seat, Eve is standing, ready to envelope her in a warm embrace and without waiting for permission, kisses Kai enthusiastically, but not lewdly.<br><br>She speaks loud enough so those around them can hear, but not loud enough to draw too much attention from the host wrapping up the final speech and wishing everyone a good night, "You were brilliant, baby.&nbsp; I'm so honored you mentioned me."&nbsp; Eve leans in closer, whispering seductively in Kai's ear just loud enough that the few reporters, especially the one she'd noticed earlier, could get a good idea of the content of the message, if not the exact words, "I'll have to find a way to pay you back when we're alone."&nbsp; She squeezes Kai's leg and kisses her again before turning to the business of gathering their things and making their way to the door.&nbsp; She keeps a protective arm around Kai's waist as they move, hips brushing together and a running commentary of the imaginary contract she's supposed to be negotiating for the star continually giving her cause to brush her lips close to Kai's neck and face.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>12-02-2016, 16:26:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Kai flushes at the overt suggestiveness of Eve's comment, and is clearly rattled as she tries to answer the few questions flung at her as they depart. Tennis isn't football, or even baseball- it doesn't draw quite as much attention. But an international star of any sort publicly coming out is&nbsp; a story...<br><br>The gauntlet, though, is relatively polite, and Eve only has to field a few questions about whether she follows tennis, and where she and Kai, all of which she's well-prepped for.&nbsp; They even have a clam moment for Kai to chuckle nervously, and whisper, "Aren't you overdoing it a little bit, miss Eve?"<br><br>It's not until they reach Eve's car that the real trial begins. There's a momentary, warning tingle on the back of her neck, and then the brunette, the one who had done little but stare at the couple the whole time during the speech, is just there.<br><br><div class="floatleft">(http://cdn.webclicks24.com/t/679/658/8.jpg)</div>"Miss Baumgartner, a moment please."&nbsp; That's the first warning- that she call for Eve not Kai.She is smiling benignly, which only gives the feeling she is hiding a shark's jagged bite.&nbsp; With a nod to Kai, she produces a microphone. "Katy Marin. City Stories." Strike two.&nbsp; City Stories, despite the conservative name, is a tabloid rag in the vein of the World Inquisitor. "Juat a few quick questions, please. I'm sure you tow are...eager...to get to- where are you staying, again, miss Richter?"<br><br>Third red flag: the tattoo on the inside of Marin's wrist:&nbsp; <strong>Ex 23:1</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>19-02-2016, 22:22:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Where Miss Richter is staying is none of your, or your publication's, business, Ms. Marin.&nbsp; Like any person in the limelight, she just wants to live her life."&nbsp; Eve cuts Kai off before she could answer. Knowing that isn't enough for the smallest press piranha, she continues quickly, "and as I personally don't give interviews, I'm afraid you're out of luck.&nbsp; Shall we go, sweetness?"<br><br>Eve slips a protective arm around Kai's waist and continues to usher her date into the car.&nbsp; This is by no means over, and she knows it, but her job is to keep Kai's image intact, not to antagonize the press, so she tries to say as little as possible while keeping them both looking alluring and staying honest. It is both harder and easier than it looks, and she makes a note to google the bible verse as soon as she gets a chance, not to mention telling Karma. Meanwhile, Eve looked forward to telling Kai how wonderful she looked and possibly getting another chance to reassure the nervous athlete about the plan.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>24-02-2016, 23:49:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Just a moment, please."&nbsp; Damn, the woman is fast, especially for being in heels. She moves like Karma's twin sister, too, all curves and grace, and<em> where the fuck did <strong>she</strong> come from?</em> Fast enough, in fact, to manage to get a hand on the door before Eve can open it.&nbsp; &nbsp;Perhaps not surprisingly, it refuses to move, no matter how hard Eve pulls.<br><br>"You're right, of course," Marin says, in a tone that could be mistaken for an apology. "Where the two of you are shacking up is nobody's business. I was just curious, Miss Baumgartner, since you seem to have appeared out of thick air, if you'll excuse the phrase." The smile she gives Eve is snakelike, but when she looks at Kai, it changes to something more feline and hungry. "You see, I happen to have been at several of Ms. Richter's last few public appearances. And you were no where to be seen, then. I'm all for new love, and all that- but I think there's a story here that will interest both my readers and Ms. Richter's fans.&nbsp; Like where you met, who brought you together...you know, simple human-interest stuff."<br><br>When she turns her face back to Eve, she's not smiling. "Unless, of course, you have something to hide? Like perhaps you two aren't really, shall we say, romantically involved, but only pelvicly? And you're a, um, how to put it." The smile comes back, as her eyebrows go skywards "A whore?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>26-02-2016, 05:03:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve's first instinct was to haul off and punch the mouth bitch into next Tuesday.&nbsp; Luckily, she had far more sense than that.&nbsp; With her internal alarm bells blaring, she simply slid closer to Kai and smiled her most genuine grin, admiring the blonde in her arms.&nbsp; "It is new, for both of us, but it's not on account of my profession, which is no more prostitution than what you do is journalism.&nbsp; Kai is charming, beautiful, and has a very kind and trusting heart.&nbsp; Because of our busy schedules, we're still just getting to know each other, which is hard to do with someone else clamoring to get in the way like a beached whale."<br><br>She looked pointedly back at the reporter, doubting the hint would be taken.&nbsp; "We're not about to spend any more of our evening defending against your accusations, which are spurious at best and legally actionable at worst.&nbsp; I hope you'll understand.&nbsp; Let us know when you're ready to take our lives seriously, and we'll consider doing the same for your pitiful attempt at a career.&nbsp; Now, do I need to call security, or are you going to step away from the car?"&nbsp; Eve looked unabashedly at the woman, eyes burning with a controlled anger that would boil all five Great Lakes and the majority of Hudson Bay.<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>02-03-2016, 03:47:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Amazingly,&nbsp; Marin laughs. "Well. You're quite a firebrand, aren't you?" With a mocking bow- dammit, even her body language is like Karma's- she steps away from the door. "That tells me something in itself. Who knew a sports star could be so subby?"&nbsp; Kai shifts awkwardly, annoyed but seemingly not wanting to complicate the dynamic. Certainly, she's blushing like mad.<br><br>As the pair slides into the car, the reporter is back at the door, though she's careful not to intrude into the interior space. "You're fucking a public figure, miss Baumgartner. Accept that your life is going to change quite a bit. I may be more annoying than some, but I'm one of an army. You can't hide forever." Stepping away, she finger-waves at the departing car.<br><br>For several minutes, Kai is silent. Then, almost plaintively, she asks, "Who on Earth was <strong>that?</strong> I've never seen her before!"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>03-03-2016, 03:05:54</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Trying to comfort Kai, and reassure herself at the same time, Eve smiles.&nbsp; "Just some reporter from a rag she'd like to think is an actual paper.&nbsp; Don't worry about her.&nbsp; You were brilliant, tonight."&nbsp; Whatever else she might think, Eve is certain of the last statement.&nbsp; Kai looks amazing, and sweet, and that blush is doing wonders to bring out her cheek bones and lips.&nbsp; "I'm serious about what I said about you.&nbsp; You're everything a girl could want."&nbsp; Now it's Eve's turn to blush and she feels a bit of her usual anxiety creeping back into her shoulders.&nbsp; She takes a deep breath and leans back into the plush leather.&nbsp; She wouldn't mind getting closer to Kai, physically or emotionally, but she isn't sure the other woman will be open to any advances after the poison that mealy mouthed harlot had released into the air.<br><br>"Why don't you just relax.&nbsp; I'm going to text Karma and let her know how everything went, okay?"<br><br><tt class="bbc_tt">Karma, it's Eve.&nbsp; Kai did great and looks fantastic.&nbsp; There was a weird reporter...Marin, from some tabloid.&nbsp; She moved just like you...and there was a weird tattoo on her arm.&nbsp; Bible verse? Ex 23:1?&nbsp; So not a fan.&nbsp; What's our next move?</tt>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>08-03-2016, 21:52:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The athletic blonde chews her lower lip in thought, then smiles, still a bit uneasily, but&nbsp; less frightened and angry-looking. "You were very, ah...forceful with her.&nbsp; Do you have to deal with that sort of thing often, working for Miss DuRien?" Shaking her head, she tries again. "I mean...I am used to tabloid reporters, <em>naturlich</em>. But I would never dream of, ah...threatening one. For one thing it would be very bad for my image."&nbsp; This time, the grin is a bit slyer. "And, of course, I am Swiss. Far too polite for our own good, perhaps."<br><br>Then she stares, wide-eyed. "Oh, my. Shouldn't you...not be doing that while you drive?&nbsp; Isn't it against the law?" But the text is sent.<br><br>And, less than a minute later, the response comes in, almost as if Karma was expecting it.<br><br><span style="font-family: georgia;" class="bbc_font"><em>Didn't know that bitch was even in town. I'll deal with it. Stay with Kai, or come to office. Either is good. DO NOT go home.</em></span><br><br>Nothing about the tattoo, but then, Karma seems very good at avoiding questions she doesn't care to answer.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>16-03-2016, 03:44:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve chuckles to herself quietly and tosses her phone into the drink holder between them after checking the message from Karma.&nbsp; "I would say 'interviews' like we just had are a fact of the public relations industry, not just for Miss DuRien.&nbsp; You have to pick your meaty encounters when you're feeding the beast of public opinion, or you end up getting swallowed whole.&nbsp; A little sass now and then is supposed to whet the appetite, while still filling their gaping maws.&nbsp; If you're too polite, especially in this culture, you get shredded if you don't bite back at least a little."<br><br>Surprised a bit at her own confident response, Eve smiled reassuringly at her client-slash-date and continued, "So, my beauty, I'm not allowed to take you home...where shall we while away the time?&nbsp; There are a couple quiet corners I know of, or you can show me what you're calling home for the time being."&nbsp; The purr of the engine matched the slow tingling purr in Eve's mind as she thought about what she and Kai might do tucked up in some dark booth, sipping drinks and actually getting to know each other before kissing.&nbsp; It was easy for her to slip into the confident companion she was supposed to be, when normally, her hands would be shaking at the prospect of being around someone as picturesque as Kai.&nbsp; An image of Karma smiling charmingly over a martini glass slipped in, as well, and Eve tried to remember just when she'd been around so many beautiful people.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>28-03-2016, 01:18:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I'm used to having critics, of course," Kai replies. "It's unavoidable. Any time I win, there is a loser, and some of that woman's fans are very ready to say I cheated, or make some other excuse.&nbsp; I'm not so used to it being so...personal, direct attacks on my private life. It makes no sense. What does it matter to what I am paid to do?"<br><br>Blinking in surprise, she colors a bit at Eve's suggestion- and suggestiveness. "I am, ah, staying at the Delancy." The Big D as it's called is a rather good hotel, but less pretentious than the City's Convention Center five-star mausoleums. As a result, it's often overlooked even by the web review community. "It seemed a good balance between price and comfort. But, ah, Eve? You needn't pretend any further. It's fine to just drop me off. Oh, I suppose you should come up with me, in case there is any press in the lobby. But beyond that..." Her voice trails off. Obviously, she's uncomfortable with the situation, and her own AND Eve's responses to it.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>28-03-2016, 01:34:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I'm certainly not letting you go through any media vultures alone.&nbsp; That's just unlady like," Eve retorts, her smile both gentle and friendly.&nbsp; "And I'm not pretending.&nbsp; This may be moving quite fast for both of us, but, as I've said before, you're a gorgeous, smart, interesting woman with whom I would love to spend more time.&nbsp; I swear, we won't do anything you don't want to behind closed doors, but if you want me to do what you're paying me to, we'll have to at least look physically attracted to each other, probably kiss as we run out for coffee, something the paparazzi can make a cool thousand on before they get bored at how normal our 'relationship' is."<br><br>Eve tries to turn on as much charm as she can muster, remembering how Karma walked and talked with the simple ease of fuckability that somehow she seemed to be missing with Kai.&nbsp; Lightly, she placed a hand on Kai's as she turned toward the hotel.&nbsp; "Trust me, please?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>31-03-2016, 21:19:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Finally, Kai laughs, if a bit uneasily. "Oh, I do, miss Eve. I'm paying you and miss DuRien far too much to n ot trust you.&nbsp; It's just..." At a loos, for words, she watches the scenery go by for a bit. "You are a very pleasant and attractive woman, please don;t misunderstand. This whole chain of events feels a bit like...prostitution, that's all." Then she chuckles again. "But you are quite right. IN order to earn your fees, we must at least makes things look correct, yes?&nbsp; So might I suggest a late supper and drinks?&nbsp; The restaurant at the Delancy is actually quite a bit better than the people on the internet make it sound."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>01-04-2016, 02:03:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve smiles warmly, glad she's finally broken through at least a tiny bit into Kai's reserved demeanor. "Delancy's sounds wonderful."&nbsp; She lets the silence settle around them for a few moments, not exactly uncomfortable, but she knows her next words need to be chosen carefully.<br><br>"Kai," she begins softly, "you're not paying me to sleep with you. Far from it. You're paying my company to provide the illusion we're sleeping together. How much that is or isn't a reality is completely up to you.&nbsp; Certain more than platonic kisses and hand placements may be necessary in public, but this is not about forcing you to do anything behind closed doors. I'm certainly interested, if things progress that way, and it will be easier for the media to swallow, but I wouldn't be earning the obscene sums I'm sure you're being charged if I wasn't able to make those hounds believe what I or Ms. DuRien, and you, of course, want them to."&nbsp; She adds a flirtatious smile as she continues, downshifting the car so it's engine roars even on the slower midtown streets. As they pull up into the hotel and she puts the car in neutral, her hand brushes lightly against Kai's warm hip. <br><br>"Now, about those drinks. Have you ever had "Sex on the Beach"?&nbsp; She smiles a bit impishly, but warmly, and chuckles at Kai's expression. "Don't worry, silly. It's a tasty slcoholic concoction, not a proposition."&nbsp; She smiles wider and gets out of the car. She notes the name of the valet she hands the keys to and moves around to offer a hand to Kai. "This way, my lady. I'll buy the first round."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>03-04-2016, 03:57:33</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The valet goggles. Mostly at the car- the Delancy is a nice hotel, but Karma's machine is a whole other level of the food chain.&nbsp; But he seems shocked to recognize Kai, and see her with someone else, giving off 'together' vibes.<br><br>He's far too well-trained and mannered to do more than blink a few times, and besides: the BMW is singing to his blood.&nbsp; As he pulls away from the curb, <strong>very</strong> cautiously, the doorman bows the pair of women in, and Kai leads the way to the restaurant.<br><br>Kelly's Corner, the 'resident' eatery at the Delancy has, like the rest of the hotel, probably seen better days, but its shabby-genteel decor is a nice change from endless homogenous 'family style' places, and the staff is quick to see not only that they have customers, but a celebrity as well; a petite, dark-haired and eyed hostess in a cocktail dress slit almost to her waist at the sides, and to her navel in front, but nonetheless with a classy, high choker collar, appears almost instantly, a somewhat warmer than professional smile on her face. "Miss Richter. Ma'am," she says, bobbing her head to each in turn. "Two for dinner?&nbsp; I can seat you immediately, if you'd like-" In fact, the web drones seem to have scared off a good aprt of Kelly's custom, but the place smells delicious, and, m,ore importantly, clean. "-or, if you'd prefer to out in drink orders at the bar, I can bring you menus there."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>04-04-2016, 03:51:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I believe you have a corner booth, near the back, perhaps?"&nbsp; Eve ventures.&nbsp; Most establishments do, and one like this would be foolish not to.&nbsp; Not only will it make Kai more comfortable, with the facade of privacy, the very request will intone certain things that the wait staff would no doubt sell to the tabloids, nothing truly devious...at the very&nbsp; most a chaste kiss and some hand holding.&nbsp; Eve is really interested in having a view of the entire place, though.&nbsp; She wants to watch who comes and goes.&nbsp; The reporter has gotten to her more than she'd like to admit, and she wants to make sure they weren't followed.<br><br>She smiles warmly at the hostess, then at Kai, and shifts her weight slightly, an unconscious possessive movement that is nowhere near unconscious to Eve.&nbsp; As they're shown to the table, Eve's hand hovers towards the small of Kai's back, but without actually touching her.&nbsp; They sit together and order the first round.&nbsp; "Two 'Sex on the Beach', one with a twist, please."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>11-04-2016, 05:37:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				With a faint, knowing smile and the slightest nod, the hostess leads the pair to a booth near the back, which is fairly secluded (if a bit too near the kitchen to be fashionable), without being overly dark or claustrophobic. Benches done in old red leather, more like an upscale pub than a 4-star hotel eatery, the table is set casually but exceptionally neatly, with clean, subtly monogrammed linen. The short wine list apparently live there- no snobby wine captain droning on about the nose of this or that.<br><br>The hostess seats Kai first, confirming that she knows perfectly well who is who at the hotel, then smiles at Eve, clearly pegging her as the 'pants' role in the couple. Two attractively simple menus are placed before them as if my magic, and she says, "If you'll give me just a moment, I'll get your drink orders in, and Davide will be right over to tell you about tonight's specials."&nbsp; Her walk is...interesting...to watch as she leaves the table; whatever complaints the Yelp Whelps have about Kelly's, they surely can't extend to the floor staff.<br><br>Kai watches her go, a slightly befuddled look on her face. "She is...very pretty. But I could never wear something like that to work..." Then she giggles. "I suppose that seems foolish, given how short tennis skirts are." She looks around the part of the room she can see, as if with new eyes. "I have eaten here several times since I arrived...but I have never really had a 'dinner date'.&nbsp; Isn't that sad? I meet with my parents from time to time, my manager, a few friends back in Berne...but never anything with the slightest hint of romance to it."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>13-04-2016, 02:20:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Romance is in the eye of the romantic."&nbsp; Eve smiles warmly at the beautiful blond.&nbsp; She had noticed Kai's longing look and takes a glance of her own.&nbsp; Though Kelly had moved further into the restaurant, Eve can see her appeal.&nbsp; "I think you'd look amazing in a dress like that.&nbsp; Perhaps a different color, to highlight your eyes, but you have an amazing figure."&nbsp; She reaches and takes a sip of her water, trying to gauge how nervous Kai is, now that they're seated.<br><br>"You really didn't have any romances back home?&nbsp; That surprises me.&nbsp; Even rumors have to start somewhere..."&nbsp; Her eyes are kind as she probes the other woman for more information, not to mention to try and draw that cute little blush from her again.&nbsp; Eve is finding Kai to be more charming, the more she opens up, public relations facade or not.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>14-04-2016, 04:38:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I am a bit too stocky to dress in quite that way- the tennis, it builds up the shoulder and back, and the thighs." She doesn't sound depressed about it, simply matter-of-fact about her build. And she seems pleased by the compliment.&nbsp; The drinks appear about then, and Davide, who looks old enough to be the owner, takes a moment to describe the specials.&nbsp; They're fairly stock- no <em>nouveau</em> crap, no flown-in quail tongues form China, just straightforward, competent food.&nbsp; A roasted cauliflower soup, a brushchetta with sun-dried tomatoes and goat herbed cheese, seafood-stuffed sole, the usual.<br><br>Once he's left them with a bread basket and time to consider their choices, Kai picks up the thread again. "A few flirtations, only.&nbsp; Surely, you have seen it happen? A young, competitive girl, no matter what she looks like, is suddenly no longer attractive to many boys. The maturity rate, yes? Many of them, yes, once they grew up, would probably have been more comfortable with me. By that time, however, I had already become a professional, and seldom had time."&nbsp; The old uncomfortable look crosses her face again. "To be fair, it may have been partially me. My...uncertainty, about my preferences. I can see how that could be offputting to anyone." Drily, she chuckles. "Of course, at that age I was not aware of any uncertainty. I, too, had to grow up some, it would seem."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>17-04-2016, 14:37:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve smiles, every word from Kai's lips striking a chord with her.&nbsp; She, too, had been awkward with her peers, but instead of landing into professional sports, she'd focused on reading and her studies.&nbsp; "All work and no play makes Jill a dull girlfriend?" she quips.&nbsp; "I wasn't all that popular myself, growing up, so we have that in common."&nbsp; She flashes another smile and picks up a breadstick.<br><br>"Have you ever acted on your...uncertainty?&nbsp; A lot of people do in college, then they decide just how 'uncertain' they are."&nbsp; She leaves the question hanging as she picks up a slice of bread and butters it.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>20-04-2016, 02:51:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The over-vigourous shaking of her head hides a bit of Kai's cute blush. "No. You must understand, miss Eve.&nbsp; Tennis was- and is- my life. Even in University, it was my main focus." A quiet chuckle escapes her. "My grades were, as you can imagine, not exemplary. Not bad, mind you-" She grins, slyly. "Had I been born here in the States, I could have been President, perhaps.&nbsp; But I had very little social life. And as for, ah...dating..."&nbsp; She gets very interested in the bread basket, picking a roll with exaggerated care.<br><br>"I am still a virgin. Which, at my age, is a bit unusual. And my 'uncertainty' as you call it was never strong enough for me to make the effort to break out of traditional roles." Looking up, she girns again. "After all, it would have cut into my practice time."&nbsp; Andre picks exactly that moment to reappear, wondering if the ladies have made their choices, or if they need more time.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>07-05-2016, 03:27:43</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve smiles again, though she almost chokes when she hears Kai's admission.&nbsp; <em>Still a virgin?!&nbsp; Even I've gotten laid!&nbsp; Poor thing.</em>&nbsp; Before she can respond, Andre's presence interrupts her train of thought.&nbsp; Quickly clearing her throat, she takes a small sip of water then orders the special for them both.&nbsp; Alone once more, she scoots closer to Kai, leaning conspiratorially, sotto voce, "You're really still a virgin?&nbsp; I'm impressed."<br><br>Her ankle brushes against Kai's foot, and she blushes, an unexpected jolt of electricity traveling to her center.&nbsp; Their eyes lock for a moment and Eve pauses, a strange feeling of dread and delight churning within her.&nbsp; "Kai...have you even been kissed...I mean...before me?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>10-05-2016, 02:48:56</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Kai blushes once more, and shifts a bit on the seat, not exactly pulling away, but clearing the tense air between them for a moment. "Of course I have," she says, a bit primly. "I'm not a complete <em>naif</em>, miss Eve." Refilling her water goblet from the pitcher serves as a cover for her nervousness, at least briefly. "I simply focused on other things in my youth." With a tiny, adorable frown, she gestures with the glass. "And my, ah, unsullied state isn't as odd as it might sound. Certainly, I'm over the average age, especially for a European."&nbsp; A bite of bread and she went on.<br><br>"But since for us, sex is not such a hypocritical taboo as it is here, there is less pressure to get the deed done, so to speak. Much like the French with their wine- their children are exposed very early to alcohol as part of the meal, and so they have fewer issues with alcoholism. Or that was true once, at least. It may be changing, now that Americanism seems to be infecting the..."&nbsp; Abruptly she stopped, and let out a nervous little chuckle. "I am so sorry. That was rude." A sigh, and then, "I suppose all nationalities have their pressure points.&nbsp; Anyway...<br><br>"Because we are, generally, more accepting of sex, there is less, errrr...angst, about doing or not doing it."&nbsp; Suddenly, her face clears, turns thoughtful. "I suppose that is why I reacted so awkwardly to the rumors.&nbsp; Back home, very few people would <em>care</em> whom I was sleeping with. If anyone."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>10-05-2016, 03:39:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Visibly relaxing, Eve takes another bite.&nbsp; "No, we do have a lot of backwards ideas about sex.&nbsp; I blame the Puritans.&nbsp; Bastards."&nbsp; She smiles gaily and leans closer to Kai.&nbsp; "I'm not sure anyone here really cares who people sleep with, except to make themselves feel better than someone else.&nbsp; We've got such a dog eat dog mentality that any edge over another, moralistically, physically, financially, it's like a drug.&nbsp; I hate it, but," she shrugs and takes a sip of water, "what are you going to do?&nbsp; I'm hoping we'll get past it at some point, but until then...I'm your girl."<br><br>Saying it aloud, it feels right somehow.&nbsp; Kai makes her feel at ease, like a cousin or friend that she could grow close to, confide in.&nbsp; The fact that they weren't related and were supposed to be dating just adds to the confused feelings that rush to Eve's mind.&nbsp; She wants to kiss Kai again, but the woman is so skitish.&nbsp; She knows she can't risk scaring her off.&nbsp; She decides on the direct approach, and catches the blonde's beautiful eyes.<br><br>"I mean that, Kai.&nbsp; I am your girl, if you'll have me."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>17-05-2016, 22:07:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Kai blushes, looking for all the world like a high school junior just invited to the prom by That Cute Popular Guy. "Miss Eve, I'm..." Looking away, she swallows. "I really don't know how to respond. You've been very kind to me, and you are certainly very attractive. I'm just not sure I am ready to..."<br><br>Whatever she's not ready to gets interrupted by a silky, sensual, and chilling man's voice saying, "Good evening Eve. Miss Richter. MIght I join you for a few moments?"&nbsp; <br><br>Franklin. Dressed impeccably, in a crimson band-collar shirt, the top two buttons carelessly open, revealing a strip of smooth skin; black vest, black pants, black men's boots with unnecessary 2-inch heels. Even his eyes seem black in the dim light. He's every bit the picture of an extra from an Anne Rice movie.&nbsp; "I don't mean to interrupt your tryst, but there is something I need to tell you, Eve." Grinning coolly at Kai, he lets his eyes linger, then sighs. "But I quite understand if you would prefer to wait."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>21-05-2016, 17:27:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Internally, Eve's mind races.&nbsp; <em>What the hell is <strong>he</strong> doing here?</em>&nbsp; Outwardly, she puts on a comforting expression and squeezes Kai's hand lightly.&nbsp; "I understand completely, Kai.&nbsp; No need to worry.&nbsp; It seems I have an unexpected business appointment, anyway.&nbsp; Would you excuse me for a moment?"<br><br>Sliding out of the booth without making eye contact with the interloper, she heads to the lobby, the no-nonsense click of her heels echoing off of the tile at a brisk pace.&nbsp; Once she reaches a pair of chairs just out of view of the front desk, she spins on him, eyes grinning murder.&nbsp; "How can I help you, Franklin?&nbsp; I'm hoping it won't spoil my appetite."&nbsp; She lets the venom drip from her words, surrounded by her most honeyed tones.&nbsp; She learns fast, and seems perfectly at home with this mix of biting pleasantry.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>29-05-2016, 02:14:56</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The...gang boss? Cult leader?&nbsp; Whatever he is, he is grinning a bit, as he always seems to be. "So brusque, Eve. I have nothing to say to you, right now, that your companion couldn't hear. And leaving her alone, so abruptly like that? Who knows who might swoop in and take her off your hands?&nbsp; Or Karma's hands, as the case might be."&nbsp; His bland, semi-friendly expression changes not one whit, but he seems more amused than ever. "And I would have taken it as a privilege to buy the pair of you a drink. However."<br><br>His nonchalant shrug implies it's of no import at all but, as with his 'cousin' Karma, he leaves a sense that nothing goes unnoticed, nothing is forgotten. And nothing at all is ever uninteresting or unimportant- perhaps part of their odd attractiveness? "I merely wished to inform you that the twins would like to see you at your convenience. They're quite contrite over their childish behavior when you were at the club the other night, and wish to make a formal apology."His grin becomes a tad wider, eyes slitting like a cat's. "It is, of course, up to you whether or not to accept, or even appear. I do wish you would, however. The young are so hard to bring up properly these days. Don;t you agree? You'd be able to help set an example for them."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>29-05-2016, 05:00:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				As the suave snake speaks of leaving Kai alone, Eve is almost certain the twins are inside the restaurant, pressuring the innocent girl.&nbsp; He's right, she shouldn't have left Kai alone, but...too late now.&nbsp; Eve recovers quickly, though she grows more distrustful of the man with every second she spends with him.<br><br>"If you'd like to buy us anything, the bar is still open.&nbsp; We've just ordered, so we won't be going anywhere any time soon.&nbsp; As for the invitation, I appreciate it.&nbsp; I'll have to check my schedule, of course, to make sure I'm not otherwise engaged.&nbsp; Is there a number I can reach you at to RSVP?"&nbsp; Feeling that every move she makes is only trapping her further in some maze she didn't realize she'd entered, she keeps her smile light and genial.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>29-05-2016, 18:47:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Franklin gives a slow nod, eyes never leaving Eve's. "Of course."&nbsp; By some sleight of hand, he produces a cream-colored card, heavy stock, from seemingly thin air. No name, no title, no logo; simply a phone number, engraved in the surface of the card and highlighted at the edges with red ink. Interestingly, it's not any of the prefixes for the city, at least none of the ones Eve is familiar with. "I appreciate your willingness to at least consider it, my dear. As difficult as they are, I'm fond of the little brats, and I'd hate to have to leave their moment of self-realization in Limbo."&nbsp; For some reason, that seems to amuse him, and he chuckles quietly.<br><br>Suddenly, he has Eve's hand in his, pressing the card into it, hard enough that the edges of the stock dig into her skin, as he folds her fingers over it. Then he raises their joined hands to his lips, and presses a gentle, hot kiss on the back of her wrist. "She's quite adorable, if you like the athletic sorts," she says, conversationally, as he lets go. "While I myself prefer my women a bit more feminine, I can see the appeal. But Eve-"&nbsp; One long finger goes straight up, tik-toks back and forth like a clock pendulum. "<em>If </em>you bed her, be sure it's for the right reasons. And that she's the right person." With no explanation for his unsolicited advice, Franklin gives a tiny European-style bow, folding at the waist with one arm across his beltline, the other rigidly at his side. Accompanied by the faint squeak of new shoe leather, he executes a perfect turn, and leaves.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>29-05-2016, 23:17:09</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve takes a short inhale as the card digs into her flesh, but doesn't drop her eyes from Franklin.&nbsp; She watches him walk away, an unsettling rumble in her stomach that is, unfortunately for her, probably more than just hunger.&nbsp; After she's sure he's out of earshot, she looks at the card and swears.&nbsp; <em>Stupid bitches.&nbsp; I can't fuck this up for Karma, though.&nbsp; Should I tell her?&nbsp; What did he mean about Kai?&nbsp; What the hell right does he have dictating who and why I fuck?</em>&nbsp; She frowns and debates tearing up the card, but slips it into her bra instead, where it pokes at her throughout the walk back to the table.<br><br>At least it gives her something to think about as she enters the dining room again and looks to see how Kai has fared in her absence.&nbsp; Those comments were sitting in the back of her head like an anchor, pulling the nervous yet happy energy down into a nuanced pit of doubt and feeling like the pawn in a rather dangerous chess match.&nbsp; Still, the food should be coming soon, and she doesn't want to disappoint her client...girlfriend...whatever Kai is.&nbsp; Kai is rather more timid than Eve had originally imagined her to be.&nbsp; Is that what Franklin meant?&nbsp; The nagging question dug at her like Franklin's card as she slid back into her seat.<br><br>"So, did I miss anything?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>17-06-2016, 22:29:42</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Kai gives Eve a befuddled look. "Of course not. What did you think could possibly happen in three minutes?" She focuses her attention on eating for a minute or two then asks, without looking up, "Miss Eve?&nbsp; Who was that man? He seems familiar, somehow, and yet I am sure I have never met him before." When her head comes up, she seems nervous. "He isn't a co-worker of yours and miss DuRien's, is he?&nbsp; He seems very...disconcerting."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>24-06-2016, 03:35:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve grins warmly at Kai, and hopes her unease is hidden behind the smile.&nbsp; "You'd be surprised what can happen in a matter of seconds, much less minutes, but that's neither here nor their."&nbsp; She smooths her skirt and picks up her fork, digging eagerly into the entree that seems to only sit like lead in her stomach despite her hunger.<br><br>"Not a co-worker, no.&nbsp; And I don't believe you know him.&nbsp; I've only met him recently&nbsp; myself.&nbsp; He seems to have this...odd way of ingratiating himself, of being overly familiar.&nbsp; I don't trust him, but that doesn't mean I don't have to deal with him.&nbsp; Apparently, he has...interests....that occasionally make him an unwanted necessity in the PR industry.&nbsp; Aside from that, I plan to have as little to do with him as possible."&nbsp; As she speaks, she feels Franklin's card poke at her uncomfortably, and she shifts in her seat, certain that she'll be seeing far too much of him, and soon.<br><br>She makes small chit chat as they finish their meals, flirting occasionally, though her heart really isn't in it.&nbsp; From a distance, and even close enough to over hear the pair, they seem like a new couple, enjoying a meal together.&nbsp; Eve is constantly aware of the room, and what feels like eyes watching her at every turn.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>29-06-2016, 21:00:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Dinner passes mostly quietly after that, and Kai seems to mostly pick at her food, thoughtful and distracted. She skips dessert and coffee, and insists on paying for the meal. No matter how firmly Eve objects, she can't get out of it- in one way, at least, the young tennis pro is quite dominant, if passively so: she simply refuses to acknowledge any argument she doesn't care to hear.<br><br>Finally, a bit exasperated, she snaps (for her, any way- it's quite polite snapping), "Since you will simply expense account it anyway, miss Eve, what difference does it make if I pat the restaurant or I pay miss Richter? Honestly." As mild as it is, the outburst is startling and embarrassing. Kai seems aware of it almost immediately, rests a hand briefly on one of Eve's. "I'm sorry, my friend. I can be quite stubborn, at times. Over foolish things, too...but please, just let me do this." She hands the poor waitress, caught between doing ehr job and not wanting to intrude, her platinum card, and waves her away.<br><br>More silence on the way upstairs to Kai's room. At the door, she seems to feel the need to apologize again. "That man...her reminded me of some of the gamblers you see at times at arenas. Not the casual ones- the professionals, the ones who, it is rumored, will some times have athletes injured to make good their bets." Her face crinkles up, and she shakes her head. "Nothing like that has ever happened to me, but you hear stories. And he seemed very familiar, somehow. I'm afraid the experience has put me in something of a mood."<br><br>Leaning up, she kisses Eve's cheek. "I am poor company, my dear- not your doing, I promise you.&nbsp; And I suppose..I am simply not ready to pursue...anything else right now. Also not your fault. You are a lovely woman, and I am very happy that miss DuRien assigned you to me."&nbsp; Then she's gone, a small wave through the closing door passing for a 'good night', before it closes firmly.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>02-07-2016, 23:16:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Kai's change in mood is abrupt, and Eve tries to hide her own reaction to the blonde's demeanor.&nbsp; Usually, she would feel overly compassionate towards someone who was obviously so upset, but now her anger towards Franklin burns hotter instead.&nbsp; He'd ruined her dinner, scared off Kai, and probably sicked that reporter on them in the first place.&nbsp; Eve never thought of herself as a vengeful woman, but the events of the evening leave her considering far more than a curt note reprimanding his behavior.<br><br>She takes the rejection from Kai in stride, even though it hurts.&nbsp; She understands that, as attractive as the woman is, she is in no position to lead them both into uncharted territory.&nbsp; It isn't like she won't still get close contact with the woman, being her 'girlfriend' for all outside eyes.&nbsp; Perhaps there will come a day later when the 'couple' will be so in more than the press.&nbsp; Until then, Eve has more to think about.<br><br>She quickly heads back to the lobby, pulling Franklin's card out of her blouse and digging her cell out of her bag.&nbsp; She wasn't going to deal with him alone.&nbsp; Karma's line rang.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>16-07-2016, 14:40:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Hello, Eve." She answers almost instantly, controlled voice washing over Eve like warm water, though it's only a reproduction. "You're pissed. I can smell it from here. Dinner not go well?&nbsp; It's uncanny, how her boss seems to know, if not the exact details, at least the rough outline of nearly everything Eve is doing. It's enough to make her paranoid, make her look around to see if Karma is actually somewhere there in the lobby with her.<br><br>"Come home, dear. We'll talk."&nbsp; It takes a moment for it to sink in that DuRien can't mean Eve's flat, but the apartment at the office. What an odd choice of words.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>16-07-2016, 15:13:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Almost immediately, Eve feels like a child, complaining to her mother about the mean boy at school.&nbsp; She takes a moment to replay the evening in her mind and she knows that Karma will understand.&nbsp; Still, that card Franklin gave her bothers her, like a scab that's just in her vision and she can't help but pick at it.&nbsp; "Dinner itself was fine.&nbsp; Kai is wonderful, but...well...I'll tell you when I get there."<br><br>She slides into the car and peels out of the hotel parking lot with a screech of tires.&nbsp; All the way there she sees Franklin's knowing smile, so like Karma's, but so different in its general tenor.&nbsp; It sends a chill up her spine and she punches the engine.&nbsp; It's a short drive, made shorter by her speeding.&nbsp; She slams the door shut, heels clicking quickly across the concrete.&nbsp; The private elevator arrives in Karma's suite and she walks in, card in hand, expression frustrated and ashamed.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>19-07-2016, 20:22:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				In the&nbsp; living room, Karma waits, sprawled carelessly across one of the absurdly expensive couches. She is wearing- if you choose to call it that- a lace catsuit (https://encrypted-tbn1.gstatic.com/shopping?q=tbn:ANd9GcQqmUGvEFfBVBG9K9DKfrcsF1YuOzzIJsWj1q5DJhGHFm2O0u-IZncK8EZNqe5Oh6xn6JmNDyP6&amp;usqp=CAE); while it technically covers her from neck to toes, it leaves not one bit of her to the imagination. Everything from the hang of her full breasts, thick nipples poking aggressively at the weave, to her womanly waist and broad curvy hips is on display, almost as much as if she were bare. Eve can even tell that her mount is shaved. And the shape of her lips, seeing as the lace tugs up firmly between her thighs, the crotch held closed by a series of tiny red satin ties.<br><br>On the coffee table between the couch and an armchair clearly moved into place for Eve sits a tray holding two tumblers, an unlabeled black glass bottle, and a small bowl holding shaved ice and a set of tongs. The bottle is unstoppered, and even from a distance, Eve can smell the rich, peaty odor of not-for-export Scotch. The buxom blonde gestures grandly. "Pour for us both. One chip of ice each, to cool it. More than that, you water it down. And I'll fire you. It's two hundred Euro a bottle, when you can get it at all, so if you guzzle it, I won't fire you, I'll just toss you out a window.<br><br>"Now. Take your shoes off, take a breath, take a drink, and tell me what happened."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>23-07-2016, 20:18:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve stops dead in her tracks as she sees Karma...all of Karma...strewn across the sofa.&nbsp; She swallows quickly and continues to move into the room, suddenly unable to remember what she is doing there.&nbsp; Luckily, Karma gives her a task and she sets to it at once.&nbsp; She trembles and almost drops the empty tumbler she'd picked up when Karma mentions the possible termination of her employment and the price of the bottle.&nbsp; Carefully, methodically, she pours the drinks and brings them to the couch.&nbsp; She waits for Karma to take hers before sitting down primly on the edge of the furniture.&nbsp; The glass remains clutched tightly in her hands.<br><br>"Franklin."&nbsp; Her eyes dart to Karma's face, then back to the floor, then to her glass.&nbsp; She lifts it to her lips, and sips once, then twice, not quite guzzling, but definitely wanting to feel the effects of the liquor.&nbsp; "He showed up at the hotel, while I was with Kai.&nbsp; He says I need to come visit so the twins can <em>apologize</em>."&nbsp; The venom dripping off of the last word proliferates through the room.&nbsp; Eve finally slips her heels off and rubs her feet against one another, feeling the first warmth of the alcohol and letting the sensation distract her from her fear and anger.&nbsp; "I thought you should know."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>25-07-2016, 05:18:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Karma watches Eve without seeming to, judging her emotional state by her gestures, the speed of her motions. She gives a small nod of thanks when Eve hands her a drink, but remains silent, letting her assistant vent.<br><br>Finally, she grins tightly. "If that's what he said he wants, that's what he wants. I could almost feel sorry for those silly bints." Catching a sharp, inquisitive glance form Eve, she waves her glass under her nose, inhaling the vapors of the expensive spirit. "Frank's a hard man- in fact, he can be a right bastard. But he's got his rules, like I told you. He and I are family, even if we're sorta on the outs, and you belong to me." Was there a tiny little emphasis on 'belong' and or 'me'? Hard to say. "So he figures the twins broke hospitality, and I guarantee you he's made them suffer for it." She doesn't choose to elaborate, and the idea doesn't seem to bother her- as if the two nutty girls were just two more entries on a balance sheet.<br><br>"That's not saying that's the <em>only</em> reason he wants you to come..."&nbsp; That, too, she leaves hanging, and it's painfully clear that, whatever sle she may be, Eve is a bit of a pawn in some grand game between the two cousins.<br><br>"You're going, of course," suddenly shotguns across the lip of her glass. It's not a question. "We should figure out what you're gonna wear."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>27-07-2016, 04:40:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The more Karma speaks, the more Eve calms.&nbsp; She's not sure whether it's the alcohol, the voluptuous Amazon beside her, or simply the fact that someone else is making decisions.&nbsp; At any rate, she takes another healthy swallow as she listens to Karma.&nbsp; The fire stirred by Franklin's interruption is stoked by Karma's offhanded treatment of the situation.&nbsp; She puts her glass down on a nearby table with a loud thump.<br><br>"I can be hard, too.&nbsp; I didn't mean for him to hurt anybody.&nbsp; And if he thinks he's laying a <em>finger</em> on me..."&nbsp; She pauses mid-rant, reassessing Karma's words.&nbsp; "What do you&nbsp; mean...what I'm going to wear?&nbsp; Why the fuck should I dress up for him?"<br><br>Her mouth hangs open as she stares at Karma.&nbsp; Any protests about going are easily squashed, but Eve still has some self respect.&nbsp; Even being a pawn in some stupid family rivalry doesn't mean she needs to push out her breasts and let this guy oggle her all over again....does it?&nbsp; A mite of trepidation enters her gaze as she waits for Karma to continue.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>03-08-2016, 02:15:56</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				One eyebrow goes skyward, but Karma's hiding a grin. It's as if every thought Eve has, she can hear. "Never said you should tart up, woman. But you have to wear SOME damn thing, or you're going to send <strong>entirely</strong> the wrong message." Her grin widens, as if to say she'd like to see it, anyway.&nbsp; "So, you need to choose what message you're gonna send, and dress accordingly. Haven't you been paying attention? Or were you too hot for our little tennis pro to listen to all the shit I've been trying to beat into your head the last week?"<br><br>Shifting a bit, folding her legs under her (which makes her breasts stick out more), she ticks points off on her fingers. "First, it's a club. If you show up in plain street clothes, it's gonna say you don't respect his position. Worse, that you're afraid of him and what he represents. BUT!" One finger pokes the softness Eve's of breast. "You're right.&nbsp; You wear lingerie, strip off like the waitresses,&nbsp; it leaves the impression that all's dandy, you're not pissed off, and your name is Buck and you're there to party. So. Middle ground. Sex, and strength, and anger. I know how <em>I'd</em> do it, but my style wouldn't work for you. So, little girl.<br><br>"What the fuck message are you gonna send Franklin, and how're you gonna show it?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>27-08-2016, 02:20:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve's vision blurs for a moment.&nbsp; That drink must be stronger than she originally thought.&nbsp; She picks it up and takes another healthy swig, trying to keep from openly gawking at the protruding bosom that seems to have grown more attractive, and certainly closer, over the conversation.<br><br>"Well, this is a business meeting, right?"&nbsp; She taps her finger on her knee, trying to parse out exactly how much rope she's being given with which to hang herself.&nbsp; "I wouldn't want to look unprofessional.&nbsp; What do you think about a well tailored suit (https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/236x/20/ed/97/20ed97121918a3ef4f9fa75a2ee9e0b5.jpg)?&nbsp; I know you could pull it off, but do you think I could?"<br><br><br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>27-08-2016, 02:38:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Karma considers, then&nbsp; nods. "Long as it's not too severe- and no patterns.&nbsp; A nice grey or charcoal. Mid-thigh skirt, full-cut blazer. Colorful undies, just in case. So you don't look like you work for the fuckin' IRS." Abruptly, she unfolds, not noticing, or maybe not caring that one pinkish nipple has forced its way out through the weave of her bodysuit.&nbsp; Or that the rather heavy golden thatch between her strong thighs is perfectly visible. "Stand up. Let me get a feel for your size. Might have somethin' here that'll do. Otherwise, you're off to Hard and Soft tomorrow again."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>27-08-2016, 02:53:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Though Karma may not have noticed, Eve certainly has, and blushes.&nbsp; She grabs another drink and bites back a cough from the sharp sting of the liquor.&nbsp; Eve stands and smooths her skirt.&nbsp; The room tilts, but she is stable enough not to grab on to the blond bombshell approaching her.&nbsp; Karma's scent wafts over her.&nbsp; The pattern of the body suit blurs, making it even harder for Eve to remember that her employer is, in fact, technically clothed.&nbsp; She feels her face redden further but holds her ground.&nbsp; If she can't even put up with Karma's intensity, she'll certainly never be able to give Franklin the cold shoulder she feels he deserves.<br><br>Straightening her back, she stands as tall as her frame allows, proudly preparing herself for the smooth hands that may any moment brush over her body.&nbsp; Her eyes meet Karma's.&nbsp; The urge to flinch is unbearable, but somehow she manages.&nbsp; The warmth of the alcohol fills her.&nbsp; The soft curves of Karma's form entice her.&nbsp; <em>"Keep it together, Eve.&nbsp; She's your boss.&nbsp; She's your boss.&nbsp; She's your boss."</em>&nbsp; With the mantra set, Eve is measured for her outfit.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>27-08-2016, 04:01:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				With cupped hands, Karma efficiently took a quick set of rough measurements. The outsides of Eve's thighs she circles, patted her rump; held her waist as if they were dancing. Moved up to her shoulders, across her back, finally cupping her breasts and hefting them. It was all done gently- remarkably so, given the woman's explosive personality- but with the detachment of a professional dressmaker. Or a&nbsp; Federal meat inspector.<br><br>"Hm," she mused, ignoring the blushes her handling had elicited. "Little smaller in the ass and tits, about the same 'round the waist.I want your hips, girl, they'r e more in proportion than mine. I look like a fucking brood mare. Let me see..." Turning her back on Eve, she vanished into her walk-in, and could be heard shoving things around and grumbling to herself.<br><br>"OK," she finally announced, and a pair of wispy red things flew out, tossed over her shoulder. "Underwear. Get 'em on while I look for the rest."<br><br>The first bit&nbsp; of 'clothing' was a &nbsp;shockingly tiny and bright thong (http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41Wya1ZiYTL._SX385_.jpg); the second, an abbreviated &nbsp;lace camisole (http://cdn3.bigcommerce.com/s-pun76kb/products/1088/images/965/img_9802_-_copy_1__04359.1418415831.600.600.jpg?c=2) of the same color.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>27-08-2016, 04:12:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve's face is almost as red as the lingerie, but she quickly obeys, draping her clothes over the back of her chair neatly as she strips.&nbsp; The thong is surprisingly soft, and covers more than she expected.&nbsp; It still takes getting used to, and the draft she feels already gives her a sense of the tantalizing scene she will create, should she cross or uncross her legs.&nbsp; The lace of the camisole is delicate, but stiff.&nbsp; The garment gives her a bit of difficulty, seeing as how it clings so tightly around her chest.&nbsp; She worries about tearing it, but the fabric holds strong.<br><br>As she waits for Karma to return, she splays out on the sofa, the soft cushions adding to the sensation on her bare skin, and finishes her drink.&nbsp; "So, what's the deal with you and Franklin anyway?&nbsp; Did your parents cut one of you out of the will or something?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>27-08-2016, 04:35:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Karma's laugh is abrupt and loud. "Actually, that's closer to the truth than you might think," she admits, the voice from the closet full of mirth. "Though it's more complicated than that."<br><br>She emerges holding several masses of grey cloth, and looks Eve over. Her eyes this time are far less casual, as she tales in the lines of her assistant's body, sprawled as she is. One corner of her mouth curls up in a severe grin, and her eyes sparkle. "Stand up, Eve," she says quietly, but there's no denying the command in it. "Let me get a good look at you."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>27-08-2016, 04:42:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve rises from the couch, once again feeling the power Karma holds over her.&nbsp; Without the drinks she'd had, the realization might have given her pause, but instead, she simply obeys.&nbsp; Her hands stand at her sides.&nbsp; Her chest rises and falls, straining the perfectly contoured camisole.&nbsp; Her flat stomach curves into her hips, the natural lines accentuated by the bright color.&nbsp; Without being asked, she turns, very slowly, even as she continues to talk.<br><br>"So, what?&nbsp; Did Daddy get mad when you dated the wrong guy, or was Franklin just a bad little boy?"&nbsp; Her tongue is loose, and the words are out before it's too late.&nbsp; She's genuinely curious, though she regrets not being more tactful.&nbsp; Maybe Karma will approve of her candor and grace her with a response.&nbsp; She is still uncertain of the woman's moods, but thinks the catlike grin she noticed may save her job.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>27-08-2016, 04:55:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"He's my cousin, not my brother," Karma says, coolly, stepping closer and placing her hands on Eve's shoulders, turning her this way and that as she might a model. "Actually, I suppose he's really my uncle separated by several generations, but 'cousin' gives the right general idea." One hand takes Eve's chin firmly, making her face Karma's eyes. "You know how it is with large, wealthy families, yes? Once you're labelled a black sheep, that sort of feud lasts for ages. And if you've sided with the bad seed..." She laughs, lets go, pats Eve's cheek almost tenderly. "Franklin is a <em>very</em> bad boy," she whispers, lips almost against her assistant's. "But he's honest about it. And as much as he annoys the crap out of me, I love him&nbsp; for it." Her face moves round, her breath and voice coming warm in Eve's ear. "So I guess I am a very bad girl."<br><br>Then she steps back, eyes once more critical. "Red's not your best color," she announces, one finger running along the side of the thong, tugging it away from Eve's crotch for a moment. "A deep blue, maybe. Or green. I'll call Hard and Soft in the morning and see what they have." Again, she molds one of Eve's breasts, bare under the lace of the cami, massaging until the nipple is fatly awake. <br><br>"You don't fill it quite as well as I do. Another style, maybe. But it'll do for your meeting with Franklin. Here." Releasing Eve both physically and, somehow, psychically, Karma hands her a &nbsp;tight grey mini (https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/236x/d5/02/41/d502414a73913768c566148b6ff3bf2d.jpg) and a blazer of the same color. (http://sarabozich.typepad.com/.a/6a00d83453762c69e2015435be4a58970c-800wi).&nbsp; "The red will show jsut enough in the neckline of the jacket, if it fits you at all.&nbsp; Well? Don't just stand there, finish getting dressed!"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>27-08-2016, 05:10:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				As soon as Karma touches her skin, Eve's body tingles.&nbsp; Her nipples harden, the hairs on the back of her neck stand up, and she lets out the tiniest of gasps.&nbsp; The very intimate space between them narrows and it is all Eve can do to keep from leaning forward, brushing her lips against the supple mouth that teases her.&nbsp; Karma's hands move expertly over her, mixing soft caresses with the businesslike acumen that never seems far away from the tall female.&nbsp; <br><br>"It's not always bad to be bad..," she mumbles lamely as Karma pulls at her underwear.&nbsp; She knows there are words she's supposed to be paying attention to, but can't seem to focus long enough to comprehend them.&nbsp; The hand at her chest leaves her breathless, and then is gone, almost before she has a chance to register the desire it evokes.&nbsp; She licks her lips as the world begins to make sense again and takes the skirt and jacket, quickly putting them on.<br><br>"So....you sided together?&nbsp; Necessity makes strange bedfellows, I guess."&nbsp; Though she has no way of knowing exactly what has gone on in Karma's past, somehow the phrase seems exceedingly apt.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>27-08-2016, 05:18:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The zaftig blonde sighs, and for a moment looks <em>quite</em> a bit older. In silence, she watches eve wriggle into the skirt, seeming to take some tiny pleasure from it- at least her face lifts a bit- then adjusting the neckline of the jacket just so to reveal the upper hem of the red lace that sort-of supports and covers Eve's teats. "In business, and in many other things," she finally says, voice in lecture mode again, "the enemy of your enemy may not be a friend, but he can be a good companion, and a useful tool. As long as you know the ground rules. And Frankie has rules, Eve, like I've told you over and over.&nbsp; He's a bastard, but he's an honorable SOB."<br><br>Again she starts Eve turning in place with a firm grip on her shoulder. Her tone softens, though, and sounds regretful, almost wistful. "Franklin and I have drifted apart through the years, but there are bonds between us and some other members of the family that can never be broken. Even if we hate each other."<br><br>Finally, at last, she admits part of what's been hanging, unspoken, in the thick air between them for days. "That's why the twins tried to kill you," she says, very quietly. "They thought you were coming between me and him."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>27-08-2016, 17:07:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"It'd be nice if someone explained these 'rules' to me.&nbsp; Then again, I bet that's part of the deal.&nbsp; Like an initiation or something.&nbsp; If I can't figure it out, I'm not cut out for the industry."&nbsp; Eve mostly comments to herself as she straightens up and is gone over once more by Karma's experienced hands.&nbsp; Her head cocks slightly as she listens to Karma, noting the change in her tone.&nbsp; As her employer reveals at least part of the truth about the twins, her mouth hangs open and she takes a step back.<br><br>"W...what?&nbsp; I mean...first of all, I was meeting him for the first time, and..and...I'm your assistant!&nbsp; What could I possibly do to mess up something that's been going on for <em>years</em> between you two?&nbsp; And even if I could, I would be doing it unknowingly.&nbsp; And I still deserve for them to try to <em>kill</em> me?"&nbsp; Her eyes grow wider and her voice higher as she continues, further backing away.&nbsp; "Look, I know this is a cut throat business and all, but...I didn't think that meant literally.&nbsp; Seriously, Ms. DuRien, what is going on here?"<br><br>She crosses her arms over her chest, causing it to protrude more fully beneath the jacket.&nbsp; Her eyes are nervous, but with an underlying, unbreakable steel.&nbsp; Despite all the strangeness she's experienced over the past few days, it seems that this is where she draws the line.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>27-08-2016, 17:33:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Karma looks at Eve indulgently, fondly, almost like a mother with an acting-up teenage daughter whom she is nonetheless proud of. Still, she knows this needs to be handled carefully, like anything involving the young, and so she picks her words carefully.<br><br>"Frankie and I like to say we're in the same business- and it's true, more or less. We cater to peoples' fantasies. But we have very different approaches, as you've probably noted." One corner of her mouth curls up in a half-grin. "I prefer a gentler hand, while he's a bit more...overt. I'm the carrot, he's the stick.&nbsp; Sort of. It's more complicated than that, but anyway. It causes friction." Reaching out, she settles the jacket just so on Eve's shoulders, takes her arms and unfolds them, her surprising, hidden strength making itself felt again. A finger traces Eve's jaw, rearranges the line of her hair. It's both tender and very possessive.<br><br>"The twins, frankly, are fucking idiots. They think with their twats. All their common sense is in their bras, and they ain't no D-cups. It's a prerogative of being young, spoiled, and stupid. They really don't get what's going on, but they have an over-developed and utterly wrong-headed concept of family honor." Patting Eve's cheek firmly, she draws away and turns her back. "I figure they assumed that if I wasn't...distracted...we'd all be one biiiiig happy Brady Bunch again."<br><br>She whirls, face full of conflicting emotions. "Don't blame Franklin for it. Please. He'll fuck with me any way he can- within his rules. He'll steal you from me, if he can do it, lure or hire or seduce you away.&nbsp; But he was livid over the, ah...'accident'. The laws of hospitality are sacred." There's something odd about the way she says the last word, an emphasis that implies more than it says. "To everyone," she finishes.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>27-08-2016, 17:57:59</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				While Eve is enjoying the attention, she's still not getting the answers she's looking for.&nbsp; "So, this business is a...distraction?&nbsp; And because I'm helping you run it I have to pay for your supposed discretion?&nbsp; From a business perspective, they're missing a whole market, which is short sighted.&nbsp; From a family perspective, they're overprotective, at the least.&nbsp; All in all, that's just fucked up.&nbsp; I do trust Franklin more than the twins, that's for sure, but..."&nbsp; Her eyes soften, even though she's still obviously upset.&nbsp; "I'm not <em>with</em> Franklin.&nbsp; I'm with you."<br><br>She wants to reach out, to comfort Karma, somehow.&nbsp; The woman, usually strong and unbreakable, now seems vulnerable, possibly even wounded.&nbsp; She doesn't understand all the history, and she realizes she doesn't need to.&nbsp; She does still have questions, though.&nbsp; "Karma, I'm not going to let Franklin do...whatever it is he thinks he's going to do.&nbsp; I'm loyal to you.&nbsp; I want to be here.&nbsp; Maybe I'm not asking the right questions.&nbsp; Is there a manual for these rules you keep talking about you can give me?&nbsp; Maybe a Cliff's notes?&nbsp; I mean, I can tell how important they are.&nbsp; I don't want to break them simply because I don't know what they are.&nbsp; Please?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>27-08-2016, 18:16:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Karma frowns, deeply. She's already told her assistant too much, probably, for now. She still carries agonized memories of what happened last time, when Eve's predecessor learned the whole truth.<br><br>"One step at a time, kiddo," she says, forcing herself to smile. "First rule is always put a good face on things, no matter how shitty it feels. Second is always be polite- in public. Which is why you're gonna go make nice with my asshat cousin, and his dipshit girls. A lot of the others- well. You know your Crowleigh? 'Do as thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law?'&nbsp; There's a second bit he forgot, which is, 'Carry an umbrella in case of starting a shitstorm.'" A chuckle marks the restoration of her usual edgy good humor. On the surface, at least.<br><br>Taking one of Eve's hands, she toys with her fingers. "And don't worry about anything like that happening again.&nbsp; Franklin's laid down the law to his crew." For a moment an odd light seems to dawn in Karma's eyes, some strange reflection. "And they know I'll kill any mother fucker myself who tries something so stupid again against me and mine."<br><br>As abruptly as it came, the flash of anger and power vanishes. "Now. Shoes. For that, you're on your own, since my feet are fucking huge. But heels, for sure- put on some height, make you more impressive. No boots- you've got great legs, and you don;t want to cover them up. This time- I love long boots, my own self, but there's an art to this." Tapping her chin, she explains further. "You have to show Franklin that you know he's not to blame, and show some respect for his handling of it. That's why you're going in the first damn place. But you also have to show him that you're here, no fear, show him a little of the sex appeal. 'Can't touch this', you know? He'll get the message, and respect it. So yeah." Her grin is sheepish. "Sorry, hun, I'm kinda using you again. But hey, you're well paid and well dressed, right?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>27-08-2016, 19:03:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Karma's protective nature, and her return to something more like the woman Eve has come to know, reassures her.&nbsp; She notes the guidelines of playing nice and being wary of the consequences, but doesn't quite catch the reference.&nbsp; She'd never been one to study the occult and knows little of Alistair and his ilk.&nbsp; Though she can still sense something a little off in the blonde's demeanor, she squeezes Karma's hand and smiles.<br><br>"Thank you.&nbsp; I'll try to do you proud.&nbsp; I think I saw some nice stilettos that could be used as weapons at the store when I was there.&nbsp; Six inch heels at least.&nbsp; As far as being afraid of Franklin, that's not a problem.&nbsp; I know you'd skin me alive for fucking up faster than he could lay a finger on me."&nbsp; She leans in, giving Karma a quick hug before detaching herself and walking around the apartment a little.&nbsp; The silk lining of the skirt brushes against her ass like the soft caress of a lover.&nbsp; "I don't mind you using me.&nbsp; That's what employees are for, aren't they?&nbsp; Besides, I think this job is the most fun I've ever had, and it certainly pays."&nbsp; Her eyes twinkle as she lifts up on her toes and practices a strut, trying to attain the mix of swagger and formality that would be required.&nbsp; As she turns, she notices the time.<br><br>"Damn, it's late.&nbsp; Do we have anything besides dealing with the bimbos on our list for tomorrow?&nbsp; If not, I think I should head home."&nbsp; A yawn punctuates her statement and she has sense enough to look embarrassed at showing her mortality.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>27-08-2016, 19:43:42</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Karma laughs. "<em>We're</em> not dealing with the bimbos, hun. You are. Would screw up the while dynamic if I was there, holding your hand. So, yeah. That's that song.<br><br>"Let's see...I'm gonna call Hard and Soft in the morning, get you some new undies in the right color, so you'll need to pick them up. Still, wear the red for the meeting. He'll know why. And the shoes- good call, there, by the way. I got a few letters I want you to proofread, see if you can improve on, but that's not much. So sure, head out.&nbsp; Be back here 'round eleven-thirty, I'll call lunch in. Unless you jsut wanna crash here on the couch, which is fine. It's comfy. For five grand, it should be. Better strip off, though, if you do, so you don;t wrinkle that outfit up."<br><br>Turning towards her own sleeping area, the full-bodied woman moved with a graceful strut, buttocks making distracting orbits in the black lace. Jest before vanishing behind the curtain wall that sort of but not quite separates the 'bedroom' from the rest of the floor plan, she turns back with a smirk. "You ever do any fishing, Eve? I hate it- I like my fish nice and clean with lots of garlic butter. But even I know that when a fish first nibbles the hook, you don't just yank at it- he'll tear off it. You need to set it gentle, play the line a bit, let him tire himself out. " She winks, and disappears behind the wall. "Think about it," floats back. Is she speaking of Kai?&nbsp; Of Franklin? Or something totally different?
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>27-08-2016, 20:22:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve grabs her phone and makes the necessary notes on her to-do list.&nbsp; She sends a quick text to Franklin's number, leaving only a time, 9PM.&nbsp; With her head full of Kai, her stomach full of the fine liquor, and her heart set on not screwing up, she thinks it better to be in her own bed rather than take up more of Karma's generous nature.&nbsp; The last volley, about fishing, leaves her slightly confused, and a bit wary.&nbsp; Without knowing why, she wonders whether she's the fish, or the worm.&nbsp; In either case, she knows she's not the one holding the rod, which is just fine with her.<br><br>Her ride home is quick, her sleep easy.&nbsp; When she wakes in the morning she takes extra time in the shower to ensure her body is flawlessly shaved, skin glistening.&nbsp; The trip to the store is uneventful, and the lovely shades of dark green and navy seem to radiate beauty far exceeding the amount of material in her little shopping bag.&nbsp; The heels lend her a cool 4 inches to her height, and click like gunshots on the wood in the dressing room.&nbsp; Pleased, primped, and plucky, she walks into the office and gets to work right away, calling a cheerful greeting into the vacant rooms in case Karma's around.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>27-08-2016, 20:34:43</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Karma sticks her head out of the office "Good. You're here. We have an emergency. Get your ass in here. Nice shoes."<br><br>The 'emergency' turns out to be their rock-star client having been caught with a a pair of male escorts and a relatively massive amount of powdered coke in a sleazy hotel in Baja.&nbsp; The&nbsp; rest of the morning, the entire afternoon, and a chunk of the evening is spent in fielding demands for comment, damage control, and talking to the jackass' lawyers. Messers Ambulance, Chaser, and Chomp seem to feel that it's part of an image consultant's job to keep the wealthy, famous, and idiotic from stepping on their own dicks in public; the lesson in icily controlled invective that ensues is partially an acknowledgement that yeah, to a certain extent, it is, and Karma feels betrayed and, worse, embarrassed by the event.<br><br>There is no hint of the flirtatious or motherly Karma, today. She is The Boss, Alpha Bitch, doing what she does best, and all Gods help Eve if she can't keep up, or is slow with an answer, a suggestion, or a misplaced piece of paper.&nbsp; exhilarating and terrifying, it's almost enough to make Eve forget she has a meeting with Franklin that night. they work through lunch without eating; some time around five, Karma calls a local sandwich shop and threatens them with dire consequences if they haven't delivered ten minutes ago.<br><br>Finally, around seven, she slumps. "All right," she sighs, mopping her face- clearly she's no 'lady'; under pressure, she sweats. And swears, constantly and inventively. "Fire's out for now.&nbsp; Tomorrow, I want you to prepare a final bill for his business manager. I'm fed up with his shit. We're done with him. Right now-" she glances at the clock, blinks. "Christ. Get your ass in the bathroom, fix your hair, tweak your makeup- don;'t over do it- and take fifteen. Do you want a driver for tonight, or do you want to take the Beemer? Or the Porsche?<br><br>Porsche? She owns a Porsche as well? Eve hadn't ever seen it in the garage under the building.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>27-08-2016, 21:41:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The busy day had actually been a god send for Eve's nerves.&nbsp; She was never better than when she was under pressure.&nbsp; Picking up the killer shoes that she had discarded around 2, after the face to face work had been cleaned up, she nods and stretches.&nbsp; She waltzes into Karma's bathroom, darkening her eye liner just a hair and pinning her dark tresses back into a sassy but stylish bun.&nbsp; Did she want to deal with a driver tonight?&nbsp; Might be good if she got into trouble, but...Karma said Porsche.&nbsp; Franklin would understand Porsche.&nbsp; Especially if she drove it well.<br><br>"I'll take the Porsche, especially if it's red (https://media.ed.edmunds-media.com/porsche/boxster/2015/oem/2015_porsche_boxster_convertible_s_fq_oem_6_300.jpg)."&nbsp; Her makeup in place, she emerges, alluring and picture perfect.&nbsp; The heels feel like knives under her feet, but they make her legs go on forever.&nbsp; The tight skirt clings to her ass even as the jacket hangs just loose enough to give that hint of flesh and lace.&nbsp; She feels amazing, and preens a bit for Karma.&nbsp; "Well, do I pass muster?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>27-08-2016, 23:11:42</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Candy apple," Karma murmurs distractedly, then turns. her eyes crinkle up as she tries to hide a grin, but there's more than that in her face. Lots more. "Damn, girl." Her voice is thick, not quite under her control. "Maybe I should shutter the business and just be your pimp. You like that idea?"<br><br>Then she laughs and shakes her head. "Sorry. Even for me, that was way the fuck outa line- you <em>know</em> it was a joke, right? Anyway. " Walking up close, she takes Eve's&nbsp; hand and looks her full in the eyes. Again comes that odd, swirling, drowning feeling."No fear," she whispers, and deep inside, Eve believes her. "Franklin's not going to hurt you, in fact, for him, he's tripping over himself trying to make things right. So go, do what you got to do. If it's not too late when you're done, come see me, let me know how it went."<br><br>Her free hand reaches up, the back of the fingers lightly stroking Eve's cheek. "And<strong> try</strong> to have some fun, girl?" she suggests, voice and gaze normal again. "For all he's an ass, no one knows how to party like Franklin."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>27-08-2016, 23:36:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				When Eve sees Karma's reaction, the full feeling in her gaze, her stomach drops.&nbsp; A deep, primal, feral urge grips her and draws her a step nearer, even before Karma begins to move.&nbsp; The hand holding hers is soft, smooth, but full of power.&nbsp; She senses it flowing through her as the women lock eyes.&nbsp; There's much more than confidence roiling through Eve by the time Karma caresses her cheek and she looks down, bashful, grateful, and most of all, enamored of the woman who has turned her life into a whirlwind of glamour and excitement.<br><br>"Yes, ma'am."&nbsp; Though she means it to come out flippant and full of humor, her voice is quiet and deadly serious.&nbsp; If Karma had ordered her into battle unarmed she would have willingly obeyed.&nbsp; Before the two part, she steps up on her tiptoes and brushes Karma's cheeks with her lips, once on each side - half European chic and half an attempt at greater intimacy.&nbsp; "I'll have the time of my life, just for you.&nbsp; Also, when is too late?&nbsp; I wasn't aware you had a curfew."&nbsp; Her grin goes from ear to ear before she snags her handbag from the couch and begins looking for the keys.&nbsp; "I'm guessing I'll be at least two hours.&nbsp; Wouldn't want him to feel I wasn't giving him ample time to make amends, you know.&nbsp; If I'm gone longer than four hours, send in the cavalry, though I doubt you'll need to.&nbsp; Being around those walking Barbies makes me feel ill."&nbsp; She waves and descends to the garage.<br><br>The car is there, as promised, newly washed, waxed, and detailed.&nbsp; The black leather feels cool against her bare calves and she can see why people splurge for them.&nbsp; She wonders if the back seat is as comfortable, which leads her to all other lines of thought about leather and back seats and bare skin.&nbsp; She tries to shake it off as she puts the car into gear and heads onto the road.&nbsp; She speeds through the city, opening up the engine as best she can, loving the way the seat vibrates as it roars, pressing the silk lining of her skirt tighter against the bare flesh beneath.&nbsp; Oh, she could get used to this.&nbsp; At 8:59 she pulls up to the valet outside Franklin's club, her control over the high performance vehicle impressing more than a few who wait to be granted access.&nbsp; Without waiting, she drops the keys into a security guard's hands and enters.&nbsp; Franklin is expecting her, and she knows it.&nbsp; She assumes everyone else does, too.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>28-08-2016, 00:00:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The tiny little blonde hostess with the half-shave&nbsp; is on front again, wearing...a strap. One. Or maybe it's really a pair of suspenders, though she doesn't have on pants for them to hold up. Or anything else. Two narrow lines of elasticized fabric dive from shoulders, over her nipples, to her crotch, the upward tension making them burrow between her shaven lower lips.&nbsp; They cover essentially nothing, but keep her <em>just</em> this side of the laws that govern strip clubs. What a restaurant inspector might think, seeing her dressed that way somewhere they serve food and drinks, is anyone's guess- but Eve intuits that neither cops nor City drones give Franklin much trouble if he doesn't care to be bothered.<br><br>"Hi, Miss Eve," the kid- who still looks barely nineteen, and the less she wears, the younger she seems- chirps. Either she has a hell of a memory, to know her name from the quick pass through days ago, or she's been coached. Or both. "Boss is at his booth. Follow me, please."&nbsp; She turns, and her tight little boyish ass&nbsp; two-steps the route from podium through the crowd, bobbing like a pale lantern until they reach the same booth they'd met Franklin in before. As usual, there's a zone of space and calm around where he sits; even though the dance floor is packed, no one seems to come closer than five or six yards from the booth.<br><br>He's dressed much the same as he was, classy-grunge.&nbsp; Painted-on custom-cut jeans, an Armani vest gapping over a flat but toned chest. Rings and a string tie are all that he wears otherwise- he's even barefoot. The twins kneel at his feet, eyes down, wearing even less.&nbsp; Waist chains, to which their hands are cuffed behind them, and&nbsp; metal collars. A pair of what look like simple dog leashes lead from Franklin's hand to the collars. That's all.<br><br>And each of them, across the top of her left breast, bears a tattoo Eve doesn't remember seeing on them before: <strong>I:66:16</strong> They're clearly visible, and oddly, add rather than detract from the plastic beauty of the curves they mark.<br><br>They are also not ink.&nbsp; They're scars, scraped over and over into the skin with some very fine, very sharp point...<br><br>"Eve," Franklin says, smiling up at her, voice as cool, sensuous, and controlled as ever. "I'm glad you came." He seems sincere about it. "I trust you'll pardon my not standing?&nbsp; Until they've made their apologies, this pair of cunts isn't allowed off their knees, and as you can see, I have them on a very short leash."&nbsp; The obscenity is delivered in a matter-of-fact tone that somehow seems exactly right coming from him, perfectly conversational, and makes it all the more devastating. It's not merely a sexual slur, it is a total negation of the twins' value as beings of any sort- at least until they've redeemed themselves.<br><br>"Would you care for a drink first, my dear?," Franklin offers, gauging Eve's reactions intently. "They're in a hurry to make amends to you in <em>any</em> way they can- but that hardly affects us.&nbsp; They will wait until you're prepared to receive their supplication. Forever, if you insist. Isn't that right, girls?"&nbsp; He yanks on the leads, hard, and in tandem the lovely young women gasp, "Yes, master."<br><br>Franklin smiles again. "I hope you'll take pity on them, Eve. Eventually. But I certainly don't mind if you take your time." For a moment, his expressive face is contorted by a mask of the most perfect righteous anger that can be imagined. "No one attacks those I have welcomed as guests in my own house. Especially not my own kin." His rage vanishes as quickly as it comes, and he is just as quick to apologize. "I'm sorry. As you can imagine, I'm a bit peeved, even now."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>28-08-2016, 00:44:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Smiling, Eve thanks the young woman and follows her through the club, trying to ignore the blatant display of flesh bobbing before her.&nbsp; Franklin, as always, seems cool and collected and roguishly handsome.&nbsp; The twins, however, make Eve's skin go cold.&nbsp; She's never seen anyone so basely displayed before and it gives her pause.&nbsp; The garish markings on their skin leave little to the imagination as to how they were applied and Eve has to take a deep breath before replacing the casual smile on her face and greeting their 'master'.<br><br>"Franklin," she extends a hand for him to kiss or shake at his discretion, fingers polished to match her undergarments but clipped shorter than most women would keep them.&nbsp; She lets a bit of seduction into her tone as they converse, slipping around the twins and onto the seat next to Franklin.&nbsp; She makes sure to keep some distance from him, but she doesn't think it will hurt if he can occasionally glance down into her jacket or brush up against her leg.&nbsp; Plus, she wants to keep an eye on the twins.<br><br>"Of course.&nbsp; You've always treated me with the utmost respect.&nbsp; When one is dealing with a problem, certain formalities can be overlooked."&nbsp; She lets the language slide, though it chills her to the bone.&nbsp; Keeping her gaze level, she orders a whiskey, neat, then turns back to Franklin, putting her arm on the back of the booth and giving him an eyeful.&nbsp; Her smile is sugary, but genuine.&nbsp; "Karma told me how seriously you take hospitality, and judging by what I've seen already, I don't doubt your sincerity.&nbsp; I trust that this evening I'm considered under the same status as my previous visit?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>28-08-2016, 01:26:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Franklin's grin makes the skin crinkle up around his eyes, for the moment giving him the unexpected appearance of an old Native American wise man. He touches her fingers to his lips, holds her hand long enough to 'guide' her down into the seat, then releases her. He doesn't miss the display she puts on for him, nor does he lech over it- not, perhaps, surprising, considering that, attractive as Eve is, she has nothing in the way of equipment he doesn't see replicated in a thousand different styles endlessly prancing around in his little domain.<br><br>"Red.&nbsp; Not your best color- but then, she knew that, and I imagine she told you, as well. Did she tell you what message she was sending me, though, I wonder?"&nbsp; He laughs, then nods, quite seriously.&nbsp; "Of course, Eve. You are, now and always, my guest while you are here.&nbsp; My differences with Karma don't extend to open conflict, and certainly don't include you. Quite the contrary, in fact. That's why <em>these</em> are in such disgrace." He yanks the leashes again- is it Eve's imagination, or is there a tiny flicker of pleasure on each porcelain face, mingled with the discomfort and mortification stamped there?<br><br>A well-built waiter in leather pants and a hoods that disguises his face brings Eve's drink, as well as one for Franklin, which she had not heard or seen him order- perhaps he simply always has the same thing, when he is entertaining? It wouldn't be surprising.<br><br>"What else did my wayward cousin say, Eve?&nbsp; I don't ask you to betray confidences, but I know her well.&nbsp; She uses people quite openly, with their own connivance, and never plays a single card when she can play two. I imagine it took some convincing to get you to brave the lion in his den, so to speak- so she wanted you to come for her reasons, as well as your own."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>28-08-2016, 01:45:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve leaves the drink on the table for a moment, remembering Karma's warning against imbibing in the club, then nods at Franklin and offers him a genial clink of her glass.&nbsp; She watches him over the rim of the tumbler as he questions her, masking her expression with the amber liquid, though her eyes are sharp and she doesn't miss his genuine interest in her answer.<br><br>"As pleasant a companion as you are, Franklin, I didn't come here to speak on anyone's motivations, mine or my employers.&nbsp; Karma's not the only one who can work both sides of a room."&nbsp; She shifts her legs, foot brushing the hem of Franklin's pants.&nbsp; She raises an eyebrow and takes another sip.&nbsp; The liquor bites her tongue and she takes a slow, calculated breath before swallowing and placing her glass back on the table.&nbsp; She looks directly at the twins, still cowed.&nbsp; "I came here for an apology."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>28-08-2016, 02:03:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Franklin takes no offense- in fact he seems pleased by Eve's directness. "Well, then," he chuckles. "Right to business." He eases his grip on the leads a bit, and barks, "Cheyne!" One of the twins shifts, as much as the leash will allow, still on her knees, to face Eve, eyes still fixed on the floor.&nbsp; "Mistress Eve...," she starts in a whisper, but another flick of the leash makes her speak up. Loudly. Loudly enough that even a few people outisde the buffer zone around the booth looks over. "...we humbly beg your forgiveness for our rude behavior in general when last we met. More specifically, we pray you will forgive us for interfering with your ride, and trying to injure you." It sounds a bit like a catechism, well-rehearsed, but as Cheyne continues, Eve becomes aware that there's genuine terror underlying her performance. She's mortally afraid that Eve won't let her and her sister off the hook..."It was inexcusable behavior towards anyone, but especially towards one of Master Franklin's guests. He has already punished us, but we offer ourselves up&nbsp; for any further correction you think fitting."<br><br>"Marisse. Explain," is the next order. the other twin works her way painfully around, next to her sister, adopting the same pose. Bookends. Now Eve is aware their voices, unlike their bodies, are very subtly different. "We thought- we were afraid that you were going to keep Mistress Karma away from us.&nbsp; That your presence was hurting Master Franklin. We were trying to protect him...but we were wrong. On our knees, awaiting your pleasure, we confess our mistake, and beg you to tell us our fate."<br><br>Then, together, "Body and soul, pain and blood and tears we pledge, never again to raise a hand to you, or interfere with you in any way contrary to Master Franklin's orders." Together, they go down on their bellies and slither the last few inches to Eve's feet, scraping their tender breasts against the floor. Each one kisses a foot, tongue sliding across leather,and skin, between toes.<br><br>"Forgive," whispers Cheyne into Eve's shoe.<br><br>"Bless and release us," implores Marisse, cheek against her calf<br><br>Then, all lips and tongues, they start working their way up.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>28-08-2016, 02:59:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The performance, as genuine as it is artificial, impresses Eve, but she keeps her face neutral.&nbsp; It is not until the twins are within arms reach does she stop them, placing a hand on each head.<br><br>"Marisse, Cheyne, Franklin," she looks each in the eye as she names them, Franklin she nods to, as if asking permission to take the stage, "I fully intend to accept your apology, but before I do I feel I am owed some small service from each of you girls.&nbsp; You put my life, and the life of my employer in danger.&nbsp; I understand my presence here isn't everything you expected it to be, and I wish you would have let me prove myself, harmful or not, before passing judgement.&nbsp; I would request, at the allowance of your 'master', of course," here she nods to Franklin again, though there is a slightly sour aftertaste to her pronunciation of the title, "that we get to know each other.&nbsp; As individuals.&nbsp; Perhaps, eventually, as friends.&nbsp; I didn't come to Karma for anything besides a job.&nbsp; I'm very glad with the job she gave me.&nbsp; I don't want to cause trouble.&nbsp; I, in fact, look at this as an opportunity to broaden my horizons."&nbsp; She tilts each of the women's heads up to her, and looks them deep in the eyes, much like Karma had done to her earlier.&nbsp; "Thank you for your apology.&nbsp; It is accepted."<br><br>Turning back to Franklin, she takes another long drink.&nbsp; "There, now that business is over, how about we lighten up a little?&nbsp; Can the girls find some frocks or have their wardrobes been garnished, as well as their freedom?"&nbsp; She winks and laughs, feeling bolder and more confident.&nbsp; Karma did say to have fun.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>28-08-2016, 03:10:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eyes narrowed in amusement, Franklin drops the leashes, and gestures to the twins. They rise, smiling tentatively, though they also look still nervous- and disappointed. "That is up to you- and to them, Eve. With your acceptance of their penance, they're free agents again, and they often prefer to be bare. Bare enough, at least to be a traffic hazard." He smiles up at the pair, all semblance of anger gone. "You did well. Go on, find SOMETHING to cover yourselves with, however minimal.&nbsp; It's clear Eve doesn't share your taste for the showy, and I want to talk to her alone for a moment."<br><br>They move, quickly, spring-loaded from their captivity. Franklin watches them go, thoughtfully. "You really should have let them continue.&nbsp; Their oral skills are spectacular- they practice on each other quite a bit. And anyone else they can induce to hold still." Then his curiosity is turned, full-force, on Eve, and it's like staring down the barrel of a cocked and loaded handgun of exceptionally large bore. "You were quite gracious with them, for which I'm thankful. Also a bit puzzled.&nbsp; They did, after all, do their incompetent best to kill you. I expected you' d free them, in time, but tell me- why did you exact no further penance?"&nbsp; Then he grins again, and for just a moment, the entire world is full of a white-hot light. "Unless you consider your company&nbsp; punishment enough. In which case, I'll be forced to be rude and argue with a guest."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>28-08-2016, 03:21:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve chuckles and leans slightly toward Franklin, playing with the lapel of his jacket.&nbsp; "No further penance, Franklin?&nbsp; You mean making them want me more than ever won't grate on them, day after day, especially when I intend to be around them, get to know them, their likes, their dislikes, treat them well and fairly?&nbsp; For the two of them it'll be like hell on Earth!"<br><br>As cocky as she sounds, she sees the weapon for it's sharp edges and retains that cold pit of steel in her stomach, beneath the jovial conversation.&nbsp; She is honestly enjoying her time with Franklin, finding him a formidable presence, and not all that unattractive.&nbsp; Her loyalty, however, rests with Karma, and she keeps the blond women in her thoughts.&nbsp; Getting Franklin to respect her, and keeping that respect, is a difficult thing to manage.&nbsp; She refuses to fail.&nbsp; "What about you?&nbsp; I took you to be quite the creative type.&nbsp; Reducing them to naked slaves was the best you could think of?"&nbsp; She tuts at the rebuke and waves it away as she finishes her drink and signals for another, grinning ear to ear.&nbsp; "Franklin, I fear I'm beginning to like you."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>28-08-2016, 03:34:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Do you really think I reduced them, my dear?&nbsp; Perhaps." Gallantly, she reaches around her, not touching her, picks up her glass and hands it to her. "I'm sure Karma has told you anything from my own hands is quite safe. You need to understand the dynamic..." He sips his drink, eyes locked on hers, as he thinks. "They thought they were in control. I showed them they were not. They thought to please me. I showed them they failed. And perhaps, worst of all- I made them surrender to their own natures. Surrender to <em>you</em>, whom they felt they had reason to despise. And you're quite right. They want you desperately, now that they understand their place- and yours."<br><br><div class="floatleft">(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xyt1j4NI_Og/Tx7b1XDK-xI/AAAAAAAAATA/7-5KHbJeZeM/s1600/vegas-dress.jpg)</div>The twins return, all harem-dancer, lidded-eye smiles. They are dressed, as commanded, more or less- more than they were, more than the hostess. That's not saying much; they are wearing identical red 'dresses' that are backless, almost frontless, and stop just below their crotches. With nothing under them, which is made doubly obvious when they curl up, one to Franklin's left, the other to Eve's right, making the miniscule skirts ride up to somewhere about their navels.&nbsp; With a quiet growl, Franklin kisses his companion, taking his time about it, while her twin rests her head on Eve's shoulder, looking up hopefully and expectantly.<br><br>"Red is a good color for them, because they are blatant," Franklin says when he comes up for air. "Whatever you are, dear Eve, blatant you are not.&nbsp; A good companion for Karma, after all, perhaps. But I still think you could find greater freedom here." His hand traces patterns on his arm candy's thigh, higher and higher, finally brushing her slit and making her squeak. He strokes for a moment, then presents the finger to her lips, where it is quickly engulfed.<br><br>"And why should you not like me," he asks Eve with a grin as the girl nurses happily. "Most people adore me, albeit in very different ways."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>28-08-2016, 04:19:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Had she had a second more, Eve was going to ask Franklin what, exactly, her place was.&nbsp; Instead, she smiles and makes room for the twin, she's lost track of which is which again, next to her.&nbsp; Though she can tell the woman expects her to follow Franklin's lead, Eve simply smiles and cradles the scantily clad form against her own, kissing her gently on the forehead.&nbsp; She strokes her hair idly as Franklin and the other one engage each other, simply enjoying the feel of a warm body against her own.<br><br>"Freedom is in the eye of the beholder, Franklin, or is that something else?"&nbsp; She smiles down at her twin.&nbsp; "Are you hungry, dear?&nbsp; Thirsty?&nbsp; Unfortunately, I'm afraid I don't provide the same entertainment value as my host.&nbsp; You're welcome to my drink."&nbsp; She offers the glass to the waif of a being, almost as if she were feeding a kitten.&nbsp; "I tend to prefer whiskey to scotch, but both are highly enjoyable.&nbsp; What's your favorite libation?"&nbsp; After the distraction next to her has diminished, she turns back to Franklin.<br><br>"Liking someone and adoring someone are completely different.&nbsp; But you already know that.&nbsp; There's always a reason to feel a way about someone.&nbsp; Within the infinity of the multiverse such amazing things can happen.&nbsp; Why, there may even be a reality where I take this one home with me and indulge myself in ways I haven't even thought of yet.&nbsp; It isn't <em>this</em> reality, or any one nearly adjacent to it, but I can see that the possibility exists and appreciate the reality that I <em>am</em> in, where I work for Karma, and only her.&nbsp; Besides, I'm more of an office drone at heart."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>28-08-2016, 04:45:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				If a person can seem gratified and annoyed at the same time, Franklin manages it. "Karma, Karma, Karma," he mutters. "To command such loyalty."&nbsp; Meanwhile, Eve's twin leans up to whisper into her ear. "Indulge yourself."&nbsp; With a strength much like Karmas' own, she takes Eve's hand and guides it into the cavernous decolletage of her dress, pressing it roughly against a firm, warm, compact breast. Franklin sees it, and chuckles.<br><br>"Which is not to say, 'Saul, why dost thou persecute me?'&nbsp; Saul was the Christian God's staunchest foe, before becoming quite the cheerleader." He reclaims his finger form his playmate's mouth, dips it in his drink, returns it to its wet nest. "Who is to say you might come to a similar point of change, Eve. Tell me."&nbsp; His eyes are intent on her again, ignoring the little sex puppets around them. "What do you really know about my cousin?&nbsp; Have you met any of her family, besides myself and these two miscreants? Any friends?&nbsp; Do you know what's become of her other employees over the years?" His grin darkens. "Have you ever seen her truly angry? Not the show she puts on for misbehaving clients. I assure you, her rage is slow, but it is epic. And she can hold a grudge for...a very long time." Momentarily peevish, he yanks his finger form the girl's mouth with a pop.<br><br>"What has she done, or given you, that you should cleave to her, and not even consider what I might offer you? Or-" glancing at where Eve's hand is still trapped in the soft valley of the twin's breasts, he smirks. "Is it as simple as that? Her plumbing?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>28-08-2016, 05:11:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Extracting her hand from the depths of the twin's exposed bosom isn't going to be easy, especially if she doesn't want to cause a scene.&nbsp; With Franklin grilling her and making random bible references that she doesn't get, the hiss in her ear reminds her too much of the fabled serpent for her comfort.&nbsp; She squeezes the firm flesh then pulls her hand away, tsking softly.&nbsp; "Ah ah ah.&nbsp; You don't know me well enough for that yet, my dear."&nbsp; She kisses the twin's forehead again and narrows her eyes.&nbsp; "You're...Cheyne, right?"<br><br>Franklin demands her attention, all of it, and she can no longer distract herself with avoiding the twin.&nbsp; She listens to his question and ponders a moment before answering.&nbsp; Obviously he intends to intimidate her, plant doubt.<br><br>"What has she not done to make me wary, to cause suspicion, to engender my anger?&nbsp; What has come before for Karma is exactly that.&nbsp; Before.&nbsp; I think I have a very good idea of what you're currently offering."&nbsp; She looks him dead in the eyes, though she feels that chill creep up her spine as she does it.&nbsp; "I'm not interested Franklin.&nbsp; Not because of what's on the outside.&nbsp; Not because of any labels applied to either of you.&nbsp; Not because of what I want for myself.&nbsp; I'm not interested because I'm just...well...not.&nbsp; All the things you say or intimate could be true.&nbsp; When I see them, I'll make the call then whether to change my mind or not.&nbsp; Until then, I consider you a great host, a savvy business men, and a worthy opponent, should it come to that, but I work for her."&nbsp; She finishes her second drink and squeezes whichever twin she's got in a big bear hug.<br><br>"I've had a lovely evening, but I've got work in the morning.&nbsp; You've been a wonderful drinking companion.&nbsp; Next round's on me."&nbsp; She picks up her bag and slides out of the booth, her tight skirt and minuscule underwear brushing over the bare body of her companion leave nothing to her imagination and she feels a jolt run through her core.&nbsp; Without turning around, she makes her way to the door and picks up her keys.&nbsp; She's much slower about driving back to Karma's office, replaying the meeting over and over again in her mind.&nbsp; She doesn't bother to go up, and takes a taxi back to her place instead.&nbsp; What was Franklin talking about?&nbsp; Her curiosity was going to get the best of her if she wasn't careful.&nbsp; She collapsed onto the bed and fell into a restless sleep.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>28-08-2016, 05:34:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The next morning, Karma doesn't meet her in the office, doesn't call for her form the back. As she goes to set up the coffee, though, Eve becomes aware of voices leaking through the air vents. Karma is arguing with someone, apparently in the confines of her apartment.<br><br>"...all this time?" That was a man's voice, she thinks. "...after...?"<br><br>Then Karma, angry. "...still First. Now and...ever."<br><br>She hears the door down the hall open, and the voices become much clearer. The man sounds oily, like a T.V. preacher, or a car salesman. "He's losing touch, losing interest, Karma, or whatever you're calling yourself now. The attack on your pet proves it. He dreams of home, pays little attention even to his own fief. He's weakened. If we're to prosper, we need to-"<br><br>"Home." The acid and derision in Karma's voice is enough to make Eve cringe. "And you think he believes they'd have us back?&nbsp; Franklin is not a fool, Georges. He knows Milton was right."<br><br>"And who whispered those words in the poet's ear, my dear?&nbsp; And in Franklin's?" Then they are right outside the door to the break room, and Karma looks in. With her is a man of small stature, jowled and portly, exquisitely dressed in a way that makes him seem somehow obscene. Karma glares at Eve, making it clear she's overheard something she shouldn't, but the man looks at her with interest. "This is the pet, then? She's attractive, but I don't see too much of substance about her."<br><br>The glare Karma turns on her companion's back is a thousand times worse than the one she had given Eve, and for a moment, it looks as if she might actually strike the man down from behind. Eve can see, can <em>feel</em>, physically sense the effort her boss puts into smoothing her expression over and driving her anger back into its box.&nbsp; Franklin hadn't exaggerated that part, at least, it seems.<br><br>"Georges, this is my assistant, Eve Baumgartner. Eve, Mr, Claude Georges. He's a business associate of Franklin's."<br><br>"Charmed, I'm sure." Whereas Karma and Franklin both make people the uncomfortable focus of their considerable attention, this Mr. Georges seems to regard Eve as of less interest than the rug, despite his vague pleasantry. He touches her fingertips briefly with a meaty hand, cool and sweaty, and then seems to forget all about her, turning back to Karma. "You'll consider what we discussed. It's time to reorganize our investments."&nbsp; He appears to be trying to give Karma orders- with predictable results.<br><br>Well, not quite. She doesn't kill him, doesn't even maim him. Simply sees him to the door, and then returns, face like a Rocky Mountain storm. "How long were you there?," she demands. "What did you hear?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>28-08-2016, 05:50:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				It takes a great amount of effort to keep her eyes level and actually make sound come out of her mouth.&nbsp; There is no urge to evade, exactly, more to minimize the effect of her presence, to bring the bad news as gently as possible.&nbsp; "A few minutes.&nbsp; Something about Franklin and home and Milton.&nbsp; Mr. Georges seemed to forget whose office he was in, though he was polite enough.&nbsp; Should I ask the lobby desk to hold him downstairs the next time he drops by?&nbsp; I don't remember seeing his name in the appointment book."&nbsp; Her tone is soft, but there is strength behind the offer.&nbsp; This man just hurt her boss.&nbsp; In their office.&nbsp; She began to get an inkling of why the twins had done what they'd done.<br><br>She doesn't wait for Karma to respond, but goes back to doing what she had been.&nbsp; Just because some creepy dude shows up and throws a wrench in Karma's emotional turbine doesn't mean that the plane has to crash.&nbsp; Eve hands Karma a fifteen page document, a folder with copies and references, and a pen.&nbsp; "Here's the final invoice for that train-wreck we dealt with yesterday.&nbsp; It just needs your signature before I send it out."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>28-08-2016, 06:08:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Exactly the right move. Karma snatches the ream of paper from Eve's hand, stares at it blankly...then starts to chuckle. Taking a gold pen from the breast pocket of her blazer, she rests the invoice on Eve's shoulder, flips to the last page, and scrawls her initials on it. Then she tosses it on the table and turns her assistant to face her, locking eyes.<br><br><em>The world stops...<br></em><br>"Hmmph. If I thought you were deliberately listening in, I'd flush you like a tampon. But I know you didn't."&nbsp; Time has resumed...at some point. The coffee hasn't started to boil yet- but the power is on, and she doesn't remember doing that.<br><br>"Georges is a competitor of Franklin's, of a sort, Eve. And another cousin, thankfully a distant one. Where Franklin is a hardass, Georges is just an ass. Got all the money in the world, no damned idea how to manage it effectively. He keeps trying to get me to take his side against Frankie." Impressive as her anger is, it's bleeding away while Eve watches. "I'd gladly drop him out a window just for being rude to you- but there are reasons I can't. And the pukes in the lobby would piss themselves dry if he ever really got riled at them. They couldn't stop him without shooting him- which would be bad."<br><br>Stepping to the table, she picks up the invoice again, this time actually seeing it. She reads it- skims it, at least, since she's done in under twenty seconds- nods. "Good work. I especially like how you hid a fifteen percent annoyance charge in there. His manager will sue us for breach, of course, and then we produce all that correspondence where we begged, and then <em>ordered</em> him to get his ass into treatment.&nbsp; If the fight goes public, we'll take it on the chin- but it won't go public. Last thing his manager wants anyone to know was that his client was a druggie for years, and he kept signing the checks." Some of what she's referring to must have happened before Eve joined her, but she doesn't seem to notice.<br><br>Finally, she looks up and smiles. "So. Have a good night?&nbsp; No car accidents, I assume?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>28-08-2016, 19:34:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				As Eve's head clears, she stares at Karma for a moment, then nods as her brain catches up.&nbsp; She opens her mouth to ask if she had a stroke or something, but Karma is already off and running about the invoice she'd signed.&nbsp; Somehow, she isn't surprised at all that the people downstairs would be no match for Mr. Georges.&nbsp; It seems like all of Karma's relatives, even the distant ones, hold a certain sway that she herself could not hope to understand, much less possess.&nbsp; She blushes as Karma talks about her reaction to Claude's insult.<br><br>"Really, Karma, I appreciate the sentiment, but I think I've already caused too much trouble for you and your family.&nbsp; And I bet he'd just get up and complain about the consistency of the concrete or something.&nbsp; Your family is quite resilient."&nbsp; Glad of the topic change, she moves around the office as they speak, making sure the coffee doesn't burn and bringing Karma a fresh cup.&nbsp; "Last night?"<br><br>"I'm not sure you'd call it 'good', but I survived.&nbsp; The twins are...very persistent.&nbsp; Franklin was quite persistent as well.&nbsp; I wasn't sure whether I was being interviewed for a job, a date, or simply to annoy me with his questions.&nbsp; I told the twins they'd have to get to know me as a person before they try to kill me, which they both solemnly promised they would never do again...unless under Franklin's orders.&nbsp; It was...weird."&nbsp; Her face scrunches a bit as she thinks over the conversation from the previous evening.&nbsp; "They had tattoos...looked like it was pretty brutal to get them...like that reporter...bible verses, I think, but...I don't know which ones.&nbsp; I remember the numbers, though.&nbsp; I:66:16.&nbsp; Didn't think to look it up.&nbsp; The part where they spoke to me...it was...ceremonial almost?&nbsp; Until they started trying to get me to fuck them.&nbsp; That was just business."&nbsp; She chuckles softly, lost in her thoughts.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>28-08-2016, 19:46:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Karma starts, and swears under her breath. "He would.&nbsp; He can be quite the sadistic fuck, when he's riled."&nbsp; Her eyes go far away, and she quotes, without having to think about it, it seems.<br><br>"Isaiah sixty-six, sixteen: <em>'For the Lord will execute judgement by fire, and by His sword, on all flesh...'</em>" Cocking her head, she looks at Eve. "He cut them, didn't he." Eve need not say a word; Karma sees the answer in her eyes. "Yeah. Well...it's fitting, the way they prance around and show off. Vain little things."&nbsp; Not that Karma herself has been averse to a certain showiness, Eve remembers- but that, at least, was in relative privacy. Then she frowns. "I'm surprised you saw them, though. Usually the marks aren't...easily visible... But then again..."<br><br>Abruptly, she changes topic. "But you accepted their apology in the end, right? And Frankie seemed...satisfied?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>28-08-2016, 19:59:30</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"How could they not be visible?&nbsp; I mean, sure I guess tattoos fade, but those were fresh scars.&nbsp; At any rate, yes, I did.&nbsp; I looked them each in the eye when I said it, too.&nbsp; Franklin was kind of sorry I didn't make them jump through more hoops or something.&nbsp; I would have, but I wasn't about to give him the pleasure of seeing me do it.&nbsp; Besides, the twins probably would have enjoyed the attention.&nbsp; Getting punished isn't supposed to be enjoyable.&nbsp; At least...I don't think it is?"&nbsp; She remembers the soft moans when Franklin had pulled on their chains, suddenly imagining herself in their position, the absolute helplessness and dehumanizing manner in which they seemed to be held.&nbsp; It made her shiver.&nbsp; Not because she found it disgusting to treat someone like that, she did, but because there was a part of her that also found it exciting...and a bit erotic.<br><br>"If he's pissed about anything, it's that I won't 'go over to his side', whatever that means.&nbsp; I wish he'd stop asking, but I doubt that's going to happen any time soon.&nbsp; I hope you don't mind that I didn't come up afterwards.&nbsp; I was just really...drained...by the whole thing."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>28-08-2016, 20:20:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"He won't. He's persistent. Regular Rock of Ages, he is. But he's polite about taking 'no' for an answer..."<br><br>After a moment's thought, Karma slips off her blazer and drapes it over the back of a chair. then she unbuttons her cream blouse fully, letting it hand loose, and frees her left breast from the half-cup of her bra.&nbsp; "The one on my back's straightforward enough- I know you've seen it."&nbsp; A tiny smile touches her lips. "Even if you didn't know I knew. But what about this one?"<br><br>Moving her hand away from her hanging boob, leaving it totally bare to Eve's inspection, she waits. At first, there is nothing but pale skin and the darker circle of her areola, topped by a thick nipple already stiffening in the AC. BUt then, slowly, like a secret note under black light, it reappears:<br><br><strong>II C 11:3</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>28-08-2016, 20:38:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve reads it out like a child meeting their first multi-syllabic sentence.&nbsp; "Eye eye cee...eleven...three?&nbsp; Two C?"&nbsp; She wracks her brain for a moment.&nbsp; Never a biblical scholar, she'd stopped going to church as a teenager.&nbsp; If all of these things had to do with Christianity, and she was beginning more and more to think they did, she was going to have to brush up on her theology.&nbsp; She thinks again.&nbsp; "Second...second coronations?&nbsp; Sorry.&nbsp; I was never big on Sunday School.&nbsp; It's also a little distracting to have you whip off your clothes like that, not that I'm complaining."<br><br>She smiles and sits on the couch, wondering if she should be taking notes, then decides against it.&nbsp; If Karma flipped out about what she'd heard before, this business with the tattoos certainly wasn't meant to be public knowledge.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>28-08-2016, 20:50:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Not doing it to give you a rush, girl," Karma snarls, tucking herself back in, then grins impishly. "Well, not just for that." With a sigh, she drops into the chair she had hung her jacket on, one leg dangling over the arm of it. "You saw it clearly.&nbsp; That explains a lot- for one thing, why Franklin's in such a twitch to get you to come to him." Looking up at Even she grins more widely. "And why we work so well together."<br><br>Popping back up, she goes to the one bookcase in the break room, which has always been half-empty (and the other half always loaded&nbsp; with almost-current magazines and a few dog-eared paperback best-sellers).&nbsp; Form it, she extracts a heavy, black, leather-bound volume that assuredly had not been there the day before- or even this morning, when Eve arrived. When she holds it out, it becomes clear that it is a very expensive-looking King James Bible. "St. Paul's second letter to the Corinthians. Chapter eleven, verse three. Look it up." As an afterthought, she chillingly mirrors something Franklin had said to Eve the night prior: "But keep in mind, Paul was a hypocritical son of a bitch. He got his start crucifying early Christians, then changed sides when it seemed pragmatic."<br><br>In an undertone, she added, seemingly to herself, "Something Georges would do well to remember..."<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>28-08-2016, 21:03:29</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Blushing a little at the overt flirtation, Eve heaves the book into her lap and begins rifling through the front, looking for a table of contents.&nbsp; "What do you mean I 'saw it clearly'?&nbsp; It's a tattoo...plain as the nose on my face, well...I guess..."&nbsp; Her thoughts click into place and her head snaps up.&nbsp; "How did...is that some kind of weird new ink for rich people or something?"&nbsp; She's about to stand, but the weight of the tome keeps her pinned to her chair.&nbsp; It also reminds her that Karma had given her a task.<br><br>Shakily, she re-seats herself and finds the passage.&nbsp; "But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtlety, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ."&nbsp; Her brow furrows and she looks back up at Karma.&nbsp; "Why on earth would you have something like that tattooed on you?&nbsp; Is it bashing women?&nbsp; I...I'm sorry, Karma, but I'm at a loss."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>28-08-2016, 21:16:19</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"He was, sorta. Bashing women," Karma replies with a chuckle "Old Saul, the dickless little fuck, was part of the spearhead that turned the old communal church into a sausage-and-guiltfest. Like marriage, the church became about property and power, so they had to stamp out all the old remnants of Mother-worship, criminalize anything with an innie 'steada an outie between its legs. Which is funny, since they then turned around and built a parallel church around Mary...anyway. You don't want a history lesson right now. That's not why the tattoo. Not exactly..."<br><br>Rising, she takes Eve's hand, plays with her fingers, abruptly seeming very shy. "I'm one of the ones the Serpent tempted away, Eve. Though there's plenty of versions of that story, too, and lots of blame to go 'round."&nbsp; Another sigh, and she takes Eve's cheeks, stands eye to eye, breast to breast, almost lip to lip with her. "You asked me if Franklin had a religious bent, if that was why he named his club the way he did. You damn near tripped right over the truth right there an' then. But not quite...not quite."<br><br>She leans in, giving the impression for a moment she's going to kiss her bemused assistant, but at the last moment, she rests her forehead against the other woman's. Her arms loop around, holding Eve in place, as if Karma fears she is going to fall over, or flee. "He named it after an old lover, Eve, " she whispers, almost too softly to hear. "A very, very old lover."<br><br>"He named it after me."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>28-08-2016, 21:39:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve pauses, breathing in Karma's scent, feeling the weight of her arms on her shoulders, the heat of her body next to hers.&nbsp; She inhales, keeping her eyes closed, trying to sort out the metaphor from the reality, the story from the truth.&nbsp; <em>Stick with the facts, Eve.&nbsp; You've always done better that way</em>&nbsp; Her inner voice seems wise, for the moment and she begins to pull at the strings she has.&nbsp; One, Karma said her name is Lilith.&nbsp; Does she mean <strong>that</strong> Lilith?&nbsp; That's impossible!&nbsp; Or crazy...&nbsp; Facts.&nbsp; Focus on facts.&nbsp; Two, Karma and Franklin are related somehow.&nbsp; Three, Karma and Franklin are or were lovers.&nbsp; Four - reaction - ew, kinda gross.&nbsp; Five, everyone Karma talks about being related to has weird sort of...powers?...influence...over her.&nbsp; Six, everyone Karma talks about being related to her is probably not at all who they say they are, though that thought had been brewing already.&nbsp; Seven, there are appearing and disappearing tattoos that Karma purports she shouldn't be able to see at all.&nbsp; Eight...eight...it was all too much.<br><br>Slowly, Eve looks up.&nbsp; "I...I think I need a glass of water."&nbsp; She stand still.&nbsp; She's so confused she's not sure she'd be able to get it herself, even if she wanted to move away from the beguiling and mysterious presence that holds her in her arms.&nbsp; Their eyes meet.&nbsp; Eve is looking for answers, even though she doesn't think they'll make sense, and even less sure she'll like them.&nbsp; She's already too far gone to leave, too intrigued to walk away.&nbsp; "You've caught yourself a fish, madam."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>28-08-2016, 21:51:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Karma blinks at the<em> non sequitur</em>, then laughs, loudly, sounding as raucous and human as can be. "I was actually talkin' about...never mind. Sit." More than guiding Eve into the chair she herself had just vacated,&nbsp; she almost picks the woman up and sets her in it. Not quite- she leaves Eve enough volition that she can tell herself she sat down on her own. "Stay puit," she orderes, pointing an impeccably-manicured finger at her assistant. "I'll be right back."<br><br>In a few minutes she returns with a pitcher of water, a seltzer spritzer, and a bottle of Scotch- NOT the mad expensive one form a few nights past, but a decent domestic. For a few minutes, she busies herself playing maid- quite the role reversal- mixing very light drinks for both of them, and pouring a huge tumbler of water for Eve. Then she leans in the doorway, which could, perhaps be taken as ominous...<br><br>A few sips of the drink go down as she waits for Eve to get some water into herself and, if she wants, some booze. Then she begins to speak, very quietly. "'Is she crazy?', You're thinkin' to yourself. I'd tell you no if you asked out loud, but of course, if I was, I'd say that anyway. You've seen and heard some odd shit- don't bother to deny you heard more of my argument with Georges than you let on. I can taste it when you try to BS me, for all you're pretty good at it. So you know there's more goin' on here than the surface."<br><br>Moving across the small room, she squats by Eve's side.&nbsp; "So, say for the moment, I'm hidin' some shit- which I am- and makin' up a nutso story to keep you guessin'- which I'm not, but of course, you can't believe that, not easily, anyway. I could prove it to you in an eyeblink...but you might not survive it." A moment of pain flashes across her face, some old memory making itself felt. "So let's go with the 'I'm lying' theory. You're a smart girl. You can probably trip me up if you ask the right questions." She lowers her face to where Eve's hand rests on the chair arm, rubs her cheek across it. "Or, you can say fuck it, you've had enough with all the freaky people, and you can tell me you quit. I'll cut you a check for your severance, or get you cash, if you want. And you'll never see me again- in fact you'll forget you ever met me. This office will, so far as you're concerned, no longer exist." She looks up.<br><br>"Free will is part of what the whole fight's about, Eve.&nbsp; So you get to exercise yours, without knowin' what you're getting into.&nbsp; Afraid that's how it's always worked."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>28-08-2016, 22:09:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve avails herself of the support of the chair, and, eventually, the water.&nbsp; She feels drunk already, and decides going anywhere near alcohol at the moment will not help matters.&nbsp; Her movements are slow, deliberate, and though she doesn't show it, she is hanging on Karma's, or Lilith's, every word.&nbsp; More time passes.&nbsp; She concentrates on breathing, on the cold water as it slips down her throat, on the feel of the blush cushion beneath her, on the beautiful women who, she admits, she is hopelessly entangled with.&nbsp; Karma's speech about leaving is too rehearsed.&nbsp; The emotions on her face too real.<br><br>"You've gone through this before...with others."&nbsp; When the words finally pass her lips, she knows them to be true.&nbsp; Her voice is raspy, flat, barely audible.&nbsp; "That's what Franklin meant.&nbsp; He was trying to warn me away, or...or give me a heads up or something."&nbsp; She shakes her head to clear it, some of the water spilling onto her skirt.&nbsp; She doesn't care.&nbsp; More silence.&nbsp; Her eyes search Karma's face, willing it to reveal more, not through words, which are slipperier than the serpent they were dancing around, but through her actions, her expressions, anything that would give her a clue.&nbsp; But there is no rule book for life.&nbsp; The choice has to be made without knowledge.&nbsp; Like it always has.<br><br>As her mind churns and the scotch warms, untouched on the table, she keeps coming back to one thing and one thing only.&nbsp; She wants to know.&nbsp; She wants to know, and she knows that knowing will doom her.&nbsp; She doesn't care.&nbsp; "Let me eat of the fruit of the tree of knowledge, for knowledge is power, and I shall be as great as the one who knows all.&nbsp; I want to stay."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>28-08-2016, 22:43:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Karma gives her a bleak look, then laughs. "Crowleigh still said it better: Do as thou wilt, then suck it up when it blows up in your face. OK-" The gold pen reappears, and Karma taps it against her teeth, still squatting. Perhaps it was instinct; that move of semi-abasement might have had something to do with Eve's calming down and at least trying to accept the situation. "You're gonna have to unlearn some stuff you've learned wrong. No shame in that- EVERYBODY's got it half-assed, and don't even remember all of our own history...I going to have to find hooks to hang it on for you, though, so it makes sense."<br><br>"Ok, so...first. 'God created the Heavens and the Earth'. Sure. Why not.&nbsp; When we arrived, we found Him already here, playing solitaire. He never actually claimed to have built the place- but He never denied it, either, and we haven't found any other good candidate. So let's let that one stand."<br><br>"Male and Female created He them- again, yeah, more or less. In His image, though? Bullshit.&nbsp; First of all 'He' is a convenience. That Being can be whatever the hell Xhit wants to be. So can we, within limits- we left the need for physical bodies behind about three eternities ago. But we're still kids, and flesh is just <em>way</em> too much fun to keep our hands off it for very long." To punctuate, she kisses Eve's hand.<br><br>"Second- with that kind of power, anyone likes to play. Open the jar, and see what happens. He started you all- hell, for all we know, He started US, and then forgot and wandered off or something- but you evolved, over a boatload of time. Some of our cynics say you were the result of drunk-ass bet- figuratively speaking- but honestly, I think we were all just lonely and bored. Nice big canvas, with fuckall going on, you know? So only if you literally accept that Xhit can be ANYTHING can you say that you were created directly in His image- because as you developed, you mirrored a bunch of the states He can exist in. He can be you- as he did, once, for reasons of his own that seemed to seriously throw a wrench in the works. He can also be the monkey that your n-great UNcle descended from, and the sponge or whatever was ten thousand generations before<em> that.</em> Clear?<br><br>"Third off- what kind of fucking egomaniac nitwit insists that an all-powerful (in theory) Being needs to look just like their Dad? I mean, come ON. Penis envy much?<br><br>"So. No, I was not Adam's wife.&nbsp; Adam, in the sense of the poor schmuck that slammed a door on his dick in some mystic happyland, never existed. Neither did your namesake, in the literal sense.&nbsp; That was someone's explanation for why they looked around, saw a bunch of animals, but nothing else that looked like them. Trust me on this- I was there, I watched it all. There were a bunch of times we though you weren't gonna make it- and we still worry, both sides of the fence.<br><br>"But you, the general you, existed- and you were happy and stupid and fun, hot and horny. A few of us might have...maybe...gotten a bit out of line."&nbsp; With a wry grin, Karma stops, looks up. "You with me so far? This is the easy part. It gets messy in a bit."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>28-08-2016, 23:05:56</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Whether it's because Eve is in shock, Karma is just that charismatic, or the fact that the hidden is being revealed, Eve relaxes.&nbsp; She still holds the water tumbler and sips occasionally as Karma starts in on the basics.&nbsp; It's doubtful she'll remember everything, but she's trying hard to note the differences to what has been instilled in her through countless generations of retelling.&nbsp; She'd always found the best way of learning was to repeat the lesson.<br><br>"So we're giving a pass on creation.&nbsp; That simplifies a lot, actually.&nbsp; Whatever was here is or was gender fluid...or being fluid?&nbsp; That seems likely.&nbsp; I've never gotten down with the paternalistic bullshit that is 'He, thy Lord and Savior' anyway.&nbsp; Then xhit got bored and now it's kind of winner takes all?&nbsp; Since..you..." here she slows, not exactly disbelieving, but trying the concept on like a new pair of shoes that pinch at first, "whatever you are, have a hand up on us...mortals...you've taken to playing power games without us knowing about it.&nbsp; Or admitting it to ourselves if we catch on.&nbsp; We're...kind of like...children to you?&nbsp; Fascinating pets that you can train in certain circumstances?"<br><br>Eve is now on a role and guesses the next part.&nbsp; "You're intrigued by us, but some of you feel threatened.&nbsp; Some of you believe we should have a prime directive...hands off policy?&nbsp; Regardless, there's a secret society here.&nbsp; Rules.&nbsp; Traditions.&nbsp; For some reason, I'm open to it.&nbsp; That's the messy part, right?&nbsp; The fact that now that I know, that I want to keep knowing, I can't get out again.&nbsp; I have to play in the big leagues."&nbsp; She is fascinated by the worlds of questions this has opened to her.&nbsp; Had she an infinity to write them all down, much less get them answered, she is sure she will have more.&nbsp; "Please, tell me more."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>28-08-2016, 23:26:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Pfft.&nbsp; Just like any kid, jump right over the edge of the cliff, land both feet slightly to the left of where you need to be." It's said fondly, but she sounds peevish. "Being fluid, though," she chuckles. "I like that." She stands, sloshes some more Scotch into both glasses, with no extra seltzer, then stands and looks down on Eve for a moment, trying to sense how the woman was actually reacting to all this.<br><br>"Like I said-&nbsp; you were beautiful, and new. And some of us....fell in love." She shrugs. "Even He does that, some times, though he tries to cover it up with some sort of high-sounding bullshit. He's got better self-control than we do- he's like a skillion years older, or more- and we fell hard when we fell." Looking into her glass, she chuckles. "Funny, how the same word can mean so many things. Fall in love. Fall from Grace. 'Awake, arise, or be fore'er fallen...'" With a sigh, she shakes her head, tosses off some of the Scotch.<br><br>"We- not me, personally, this time, but others like me- we adored you so much.&nbsp; More than&nbsp; He did, in some ways, or so we thought. He mostly left you to your own devices- beating each other's heads in with rocks, rape, pillage. We...nurtured you. Taught you. Tried to, anyway...we see, now, how well some of that turned out, but like I said, we're young. Even younger then, and in love...and stupid."<br><br>She looks up again- and she's weeping. "We had children with you, some of us. Total fucking accident, we had no <em>idea</em> the biology was at all compatible. We couldn't leave our own blood in that mess..." Snuffling hard, she shrugs, trying to regain her wonted nonchalance. "If the Boss had been paying more attention, maybe he could have stopped it before we made things worse. Or maybe he still knows something we didn't, and it had to turn out the way it did- wouldn't put it past Him, he plays things close to the vest he doesn't wear..."<br><br>She moves to the slit window, stares out at the city. "All of a sudden, you were strong, and growing beyond our control.&nbsp; We'd fed you from the Tree that grew in our own garden, and you ran with it. And He-" She stops.&nbsp; "This is the part no one ever believes. Who can blame you? the whole story is so crazy, even though you've been repeating bastard versions of it to yourselves for millenia." Turning back to Eve, her face streaked with tears, she faces it. "He started to fear you.&nbsp; And some of us did, as well. It had taken us...forever, pretty much, to get where we were, and now you were spreading like locusts, growing so fast- and our own children were among you.<br><br>"There was a huge meeting. Lots of things were talked about, ways to control you- for your own good, as well as ours. We saw, then, what we had done, how fast your fertile little brains would jump the rails. And all the cures were...worse than the problem.&nbsp; Anything from...more or less lobotomizing all of you, to wiping the planet clean and starting again.&nbsp; Some of us...refused to participate any more, when we saw which way things were going.<br><br>"There was no 'war' in Heaven, Eve- more like...a job action.&nbsp; The oldest, most powerful- we went on strike. Even though we saw the need, we couldn't raise our hands against our own children- and their parents whom we'd loved. Not even at Xhis command. We valued your free will...more than we valued our own existence, maybe."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>28-08-2016, 23:36:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"So where does that leave us?&nbsp; Not mortal us, though I'm sure we'll get to that.&nbsp; I guess I'm interested in a more personal level.&nbsp; Why tell me all this?&nbsp; Why can I see those tattoos if other people can't?&nbsp; Are you...am I some...some how related?&nbsp; One of those children of the angels?&nbsp; I mean...that's not what you are, really.&nbsp; You're not angel or demon...but you are...different than us.&nbsp; So that's how we talk about you."&nbsp; Her eyes are growing wider, her hands shakier as the conversation continues.&nbsp; When Karma begins crying, Eve's heart seizes.&nbsp; Somehow the woman becomes more beautiful in her grief.&nbsp; Eve feels an insatiable urge to hold her, comfort her, to make everything alright.<br><br>"Karma....Lilith...I...I'm trying desperately to understand.&nbsp; I hope I'm not disappointing you."&nbsp; She takes Karma's hand in hers and kisses it gently, then wipes the tears from the woman's eyes.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>29-08-2016, 00:02:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Karma clings to her.<br><br>'Yes. Maybe...I don't know. Maybe Franklin knows- he's First among us, among the Exiles. Yes, that means he's who you think it means he is...but he's not...quite what the name makes people think, either. Though we all are, to some extent."&nbsp; Holding Eve close, she goes on, sentences tumbling out piecemeal between ragged breaths.<br><br>"A compromise was reached- two camps, one trying to improve the race's self-control, make it rise to new awareness, the other...urging it to nihilism, to indulgence, siphoning its strength away, bleeding off the pressure. Angels, and demons. Sin and redemption- and a bunch of other human words that, you're right, mean nothing, can't come even <em>close</em> to encompassing the choices and the reality." She pushes Eve back a bit, cups her cheeks, forcing her words out past a load of grief that cannot be comprehended. "If you can grasp this, you may prosper.&nbsp; There are no good guys or bad guys- except<em> maybe</em> Him, and even there, I'm not so sure.&nbsp; Is black 'worse' than white in a chess game? We don't want to destroy you, any more than our 'angelic' brothers want to save you. We <strong>love</strong> you. We try to keep a balance, let you do whatever the hell it is you do.&nbsp; And in the name of that, we have all done, and do, terrible, terrible things...to make up for the terrible things we have done."<br><br>"I'm telling you because you're strong, Eve. Franklin doesn't repulse you, the way he would someone who was fixed in their simple 'good versus evil' system. You may not like him, but you seem to understand him, a little. I'm telling you because you can see our marks- which makes you special, and means that maybe, just maybe, you can understand the burden and the guilt that sits on every single one of us.<br><br>"I'm telling you...because some years ago, a lovely young man who worked for me found out by accident. I'd been sloppy, careless about what I allowed him to see, and when. He couldn't handle it.&nbsp; He went up to the roof of this building- and he jumped." The telling seems to ease a burden from her, and she straightens up, drawing back a bit without letting go of the warm body in front of her.<br><br>"You wouldn't think one death would mean so much, to a thing like me. I've seen hundreds, thousands of millions come and go. But I've always walked a very thin line between doing what I have to do, and getting hardened, angry, the way Georges is, and the others. The way Franklin can be, some times. We are so proud, even in our idiocy- we're almost like you. Heaven drowns in red tape as they try to outdo each other in process and propriety- and we spend half our time stabbing each other in the back, to prove how clever we are. Davide's loss..." Slowly, she shakes her head. "I loved him, of course. How could I not? And I destroyed him, not because it was 'necessary'- but because I was enjoying my role too much, and got careless." Leaning in again, she squeezes Eve bone-creakingly hard. "I don't want that to happen to you, Eve. So I tell you what I can, let you believe it or not, as you will, and hope it's enough to make you safe."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>29-08-2016, 00:19:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				As Karma pours out her heart, Eve's eyes fill with their own tears.&nbsp; She grips her employer tightly and cries with her.&nbsp; The loss of one you love, of any one really, is never easy to bear.&nbsp; Eve knows this in her bones, having lost many friends and family through the years.&nbsp; Everything Karma says rings true.&nbsp; About there being no bad guys or good guys.&nbsp; About her ability to understand Franklin, and Karma, and probably all of them, a little better than the average Joe off the street.&nbsp; Though she's never really thought about it, coming to work for Karma felt like coming home.&nbsp; She holds Karma close, the warmth of their bodies mingling, soft fabric the only barrier between them.<br><br>"Silly woman, no one is ever safe, even you."&nbsp; She smiles through her tears.&nbsp; "I am, however, grateful that you trust me enough to tell me all this, and willing to stay with it, as long as I'm able.&nbsp; I feel like I grabbed the end of a tiger's tail, and I dare not let go...for multiple reasons."&nbsp; She pauses, struck once again by the intimacy the exchange had evoked within her.&nbsp; Ever so slowly, she brushes the hair away from Karma's cheek and kisses the salty trail of her tears.&nbsp; "I won't leave you."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>29-08-2016, 02:49:30</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Chuckling, Karma grabs Eve playfully by the ears. "Never say 'never' to someone like me, Baumgartner. Forever is a LONG fucking time."&nbsp; Then she kisses, slowly, not overly intrusively, but rather thoroughly, before letting her go, and swatting her butt. "We have lives that need help tying in knots. And a few that need untying. Call for pizza, then meet me in the office."<br><br>Some things never change, even after ten zillion years.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>29-08-2016, 02:56:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve's eyes close.&nbsp; She falls into the kiss, returning it softly, but eagerly.&nbsp; Her fingers slide up to Karma's shoulders, but don't rest there, fearing that touching the woman will break the spell.&nbsp; As Karma dismisses her, she practically floats out of the room, bumping into the doorway in her blissful confusion.&nbsp; After a second, her head pops back in the door and she smiles brightly.<br><br>"I didn't say never.&nbsp; I said as long as I'm able.&nbsp; I hope you don't break your pets the way you break your clients."&nbsp; She laughs, then goes out to dial the nearest slice joint.&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>07-09-2016, 03:21:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				A week and a half passes, and with the time comes new familiarity between Karma and Eve. Oh, her boss still snarls like a caged wolverine on the rag, when it's needed, but there are no more even joking threats about firing her or dropping her out a window.&nbsp; Eve has her own key to the exterior elevator to the flat, and is free to come and go as she pleases, though Karma does warn her that, if she doesn't call ahead, she <em>might</em> find something she doesn't want to walk in on going on. It's clear the...angel, demon, succubus, whatever she is, has an active sex life and that, at times, it involves clients of the firm, ones she does not care to inflict on Eve. Twice they go shopping together, and Eve gets a blush-inducing introduction to the 'hard' side of <em>Hard and Soft.</em>&nbsp; The twins would be at home there, assuming they could be induced to wear anything at all with any regularity.<br><br>Eve also comes to accept, without totally understanding the mechanism, how vehicles, personnel, and other things seem to appear at need, and vanish when no longer required.&nbsp; When you're an angel, even a fallen one, Creation owes you a debt. Usually, it repays it on call, though not always.<br><br>New strains arise, as well. Knowing now what she is working for makes Eve hyper-sensitive to the behavior of their clients. The drug-soaked rock star attempts suicide; couldn't Karma, with all her power, have prevented that? Or did she, in her role as an agent of disorder and 'stress relief' actually <em>encourage</em> it, something Eve would prefer not to think about? For all she's gotten quite adept at imitating the style of invective Karma applies so freely, to the point that she handles most normal correspondence, only giving it to her boss to read and sign once it's polished, Eve can't be sure there's not some sort of hidden subtext, some trigger that might play into the psychology of their clients, spur them to do certain things, embedded in every interaction.&nbsp; Accepting Karma's nature is not at all the same thing as understanding and embracing her mission...<br><br>In general, though, they are as close as sisters, if sisters that snap at each other once in a while. There is no more talk of 'love', but there is always a smile on Karma's face when Eve comes in, no matter how quickly it vanishes during the work day.<br><br>Until today. Today, Karma is scowling, a folder in her hand. The end of an airline ticket, clearly recognizable, sticks out of the packet.<br><br>"Kai called. She's in some little shithole up the coast, hiding out in a hotel. Wouldn't tell me which one. She said someone's trying to kill her. Get your ass to the airport, fly up. There's a rental car waiting at the far end. Directions are in the folder. Hotel rez is made. When you get there, there's a coffee shop you're supposed to hang out at- she's getting all Jayne Bond on us. Calm her down, get her to come back to the city, if she will- but don't push her. If that fucking reporter shows up, please. Shoot her in the face. It won't stop her for long, but it'll make <em>me </em>feel better."<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>07-09-2016, 03:40:29</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Karma's temperament brooks no argument and Eve hardly asks any questions as she takes the folder and ticket.&nbsp; "I'd need a gun for that, and I'm not big on projectile weapons.&nbsp; I'll certainly kick her in the teeth, though.&nbsp; Any idea how long this might take?"&nbsp; She was expecting a day, maybe two tops, but if it was longer she was going to have some of her things sent after her instead of buying a whole new wardrobe on the company dime.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>08-09-2016, 04:40:09</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Karma scowls. "Until you either convince her to get her skinny ass back here, or you're convinced she's jumping at shadows." She begins to pace, hands clasped tight behind her. <br>"I told you, we often work at cross-purposes. In theory, we're not supposed to fuck with each others' projects. In practice..." Stopping abruptly, she lets her expression finish the statement.<br><br>"That reporter you tangled with- she's a wildcard. On her own, she's not much of a much, barely older than the twins, damn near as stupid, and nowhere near as cute." The mention of the twins is a reminder: there have been several invitations for Eve to return to the club, the last one left in sing-song alternation on her voice mail by the girls themselves. Apparently, when they apologize, they go all-out. They must not do it often..."You done fantasizing?" Karma snarls, seeing Eve's concentration slip. She's grinning, though. Sort of.<br><br>"I don't think she's dumb enough to kill one of my clients, even on direct orders from someone higher up the food chain.&nbsp; She's gotta know that what would happen next would ruin her year. But I don't know who's holding her leash. Neither does Frankie, or so he says, which bothers me.&nbsp; Lotta things could be happening, from Kai getting into the sauce too hard- stop scowling, you know damn well it happens- to one of my kin trying to bring down my business here. Lot of leeway in between."<br><br>Stepping over to Eve, the busty blonde fights to control her attitude, even goes so far as to reach out and play with her assistant's hair. "You're...special. In a lot of ways. For one thing, you can smell us out pretty easy. For another- you've caught both my AND Franklin's eye. Not one of us'd be so stupid as to make a run at you again." Her mouth says it, but her eyes are deep wells of concern. Pressing her lips to Eve's forehead, she gives her instructions firmly. "So you glue yourself to Miss Tennis. I mean, like you're in her clothes. Anything weird happens, you call me, and get her and you the fuck out and away. In fact, reverse that order.&nbsp; Look after our client, THEN tell me I got reason to be pissed at someone, hear?"<br><br>Releasing the brunette, she stares down at her for a moment. "Be careful, love.&nbsp; If it comes to it- cut Kai loose. I don't mean the first time someone makes a face and goes 'ooga-booga', you understand? But if it really gets too hot- which I don't expect for a second it's gonna- don't be there when the balloon goes up. I'm not losing her <strong>and</strong> you."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>11-09-2016, 04:42:09</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve is genuinely concerned, about Kai, certainly, but more so about Karma and how deeply this seems to affect her.&nbsp; Neglecting any member of Karma's family seems like a bad idea, but the twins will have to wait.&nbsp; They aren't her priority.&nbsp; Kai and Karma are.&nbsp; She'd phone them once she landed and let them know she'd love to have brunch with them after she was back in town.&nbsp; The outright concern and affection Karma shows during their conversation strikes Eve to the core.&nbsp; Not only is it a confirmation of Karma's affinity for her, but the slightest brush of her boss's fingers sends shivers down her spine.<br><br>She looks up and cups Karma's cheek, a child studying it's mother, "I'll come back to you.&nbsp; I promise."&nbsp; She lifted her heels and placed the softest of kisses on Karma's lips before taking a step back and gathering her things.&nbsp; "If there's anyone else I should be on the look out for, let me know.&nbsp; Otherwise, I've got to go get our client."&nbsp; Her eyes linger as the elevator door closes.&nbsp; Without even asking, a sleek town car pulls up and Karma's chauffeur steps out and opens the door.&nbsp; She simply thanks him and gets in, resting her eyes instead of gauging how many traffic laws they were breaking to get to the airport.<br><br>The flight is uneventful, and Eve somehow manages to get a cat nap in before the flight attendants are preparing for landing.&nbsp; The car is waiting, as promised, and her mind churns as she drives through the thickening dark to the coffee shop.&nbsp; <em>"Please let me get us both back safely,"</em> she prayed silently, over and over again.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>14-09-2016, 15:25:19</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				It's actually over a day later that Kai finally makes contact. Maybe it's her athlete's grace, but Eve is barely aware of the stocky, pretty blonde before she's plopping into a chair at her table, shifting so she can watch the door. She looks haggard, if not unkempt, hair a bit out of place, eyes swollen with fatigue. It's possible she's even gained some weight.<br><br>"Miss Eve."&nbsp; her voice is still strong and even, at least. Her eyes, though- they slide this way and that, nervous and wary. "I had thought...hoped...miss Karma would come herself." When she laughs, there's an edge to it. "Though what either of you can do, I have no idea. You are not bodyguards, I know that. I had thought perhaps she could recommend someone...but could I trust them?&nbsp; Can I even trust <em>you</em>?"<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>15-09-2016, 02:34:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve is astounded by the change in Kai.&nbsp; She last remembered her as a lithe, if nervous, powerhouse, her inner strength shining through her demure affability.&nbsp; The woman she sees before her now is hunted, wary, every inch of innocence stripped from her face.&nbsp; Her guard goes up immediately and she scans the room, if less obviously than Kai had.&nbsp; She holds out her hands, offering them as a sign of comfort and peace, to show that she is unarmed, and bears the woman no ill will.<br><br>"Kai, what's happened?&nbsp; You're obviously upset.&nbsp; Karma wanted to come herself, but...she thought it might bring you attention you would rather avoid.&nbsp; I'm here though, and you can trust me.&nbsp; I'm worried about you."&nbsp; Her concern came from the heart.&nbsp; Kai may not have really been her girlfriend, but she felt a genuine affinity for the athlete.&nbsp; "I'm stronger than I look.&nbsp; Can you tell me what's got you so spooked?&nbsp; I'm here to help, bring you back to the city with me, if I can.&nbsp; Neither Karma and I want you to face whatever's going on by yourself.&nbsp; Please...let me help."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>21-09-2016, 03:47:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"The city?"&nbsp; Kai's eyes screw up tight as if she can't parse what Eve just said. "Oh...oh, no. I couldn't go there. Too many of them. Everywhere. Of course..." Suddenly, though, she looks crafty. "Of course, more people around me...and more lights. Yes, maybe..." Then she glares at Eve. "But why are you trying to take me away from here?&nbsp; Are you working for them?" Abruptly, she grabs Eve's wrist, her already strong grip gone painfully manic. It's shockingly clear the poor girl is in the midst of a full-blown paranoid psychosis. "Why did she send <em>you?&nbsp; </em>Is it because she knows?"&nbsp; <br><br>Heads turn towards the table as Kai's voice gets louder and higher. Her fingers are digging into Eve's flesh like over-tightened handcuffs, as her eyes and nostrils flare and her face reddens...
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>22-09-2016, 01:52:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve remains calm, or tries to.&nbsp; When she speaks, she uses the most neutral tone she can, but is careful not to condescend.&nbsp; The situation is worse than she could have imagined, and even it she didn't know what she knew about Karma and her family, even if she didn't somewhat believe it, Kai was dangerous.&nbsp; She places her hand gently on Kai's powerful wrist, not trying to remove her hand, but hoping to give the woman some sense of comfort through her physical presence.&nbsp; "Kai...it's okay.&nbsp; We don't have to go until you're ready, and I'd like to know more of what you've seen.&nbsp; I'm here to help you Kai, but I need you to calm down so I can do that.&nbsp; Can you do that for me?"<br><br>Her eyes search Kai's strained face, hoping to find some small fraction of the woman she had seen last, the bright, if nervous, tennis star that had charmed her so.&nbsp; She tries to make eye contact while keeping her other senses open to their surroundings.&nbsp; It wouldn't help either of them to land in an ambush.&nbsp; "I assume that you wanted to meet here because it felt safe to you.&nbsp; I want you to be safe.&nbsp; You've obviously been through a lot."&nbsp; She began stroking Kai's skin softly, methodically, like petting a nervous cat.&nbsp; "It's okay Kai.&nbsp; You can trust me.&nbsp; Tell me what's going on."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>23-09-2016, 17:53:54</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Kai seems to calm, even sort of leaning into Eve, a display of closeness that's far out of line with her uncertain, standoffish demeanor earlier. "Eve...dear Eve, I'm so sorry. I know I am acting...strangely. Give me a moment..."&nbsp; With a shudder, she pulls herself together, clinging to Eve as if the woman were her last link to sanity, and starts to tell her tale.<br><br>It started, apparently, with the reporter, Katy Marin. Everywhere Kai has been since she and Eve last parted ways, Marin has been there, lurking.&nbsp; Never asking questions, just...staring. At least once, Kai is convinced that the woman somehow disappeared when she looked away for a moment.&nbsp; Other, seemingly silly and random things have followed: hangup calls. A taxi speeding away as she tried to enter, almost running over her foot, Marin's face appearing briefly in the rear window. A small fire in a hotel Kai had been staying in while on the competition circuit.&nbsp; Her game is suffering, badly; her manager is speaking of pulling her form the rest of this year's matches, to let her 'rest'. it sounds almost like a ham-fisted attempt at fixing rankings, and so increasing gambling winnings.<br><br>Until the last part: the figures in the night.&nbsp; In her nervous state, the compact blonde is very unclear as to whether she is referring to dreams, or things actually <em>seen</em> in the flesh. Her final words, though, set Eve's spine to tingling. "They are people- but they are not. They are monsters, Eve!"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>24-09-2016, 04:18:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Lifting Kai's fingers to her lips, she kisses them gently and pulls the shaken woman in to hold her close, stroking her hair and cupping her cheek to stare into her eyes.&nbsp; "That would scare anyone, Kai.&nbsp; It's not Karma, though.&nbsp; It's not her.&nbsp; Come back to the city with me.&nbsp; I'll call your manager.&nbsp; We'll get everything taken care of.&nbsp; I'm sorry I left you.&nbsp; I shouldn't have left you."<br><br>She cradles Kai for a moment, making sure she follows what she is saying.&nbsp; "We'll leave right now.&nbsp; I've got a car.&nbsp; We can fly back tonight, or hell...I'll drive us.&nbsp; Whatever's going on, you won't have to face it alone, okay?"&nbsp; The compassion and protective nature of her tone is sincere.&nbsp; The fact Kai has seen the reporter, and has been attacked physically, disturbs her.&nbsp; The shadow people, who she assumes are more minions associated with the various factions of Karma's relatives, are unsettling, and a ball of worry begins to form in her stomach.&nbsp; She needs to find out who Katy is working for, or at least aligned with, assuming the shadows are related to her.&nbsp; Part of her flashes back to the stuffy man she'd seen arguing with Karma, and she is certain he's involved somehow, too.&nbsp; They need to get back to Karma.&nbsp; She has too many questions she can't answer herself...not with out a family tree and a large ledger of the various deals they all have with each other.&nbsp; Under the circumstances, she'll have to do the best she can.<br><br>"Kai, this may sound strange, but I need to ask you something.&nbsp; Will you accept Karma's aid and allegiance in this, with me as surrogate, until we reach her directly?&nbsp; Can you do that?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>30-09-2016, 21:02:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Kai looks as if the words don't make sense. Then she shakes herself. "But...but of course, miss Eve. I mean...isn't that why I called? I thought...well, I really don't know what I thought, isn't that silly?" A frown crinkles her eyes up, and the lines it forms in her skin make her seem as if she's aged enormously in just the couple of weeks since she and Eve met last. "I mean...I knew you would believe me. My manager wants to help me, but he thinks I'm having a breakdown. He wanted to put me in a<em> hospital</em>." The last few words are delivered in a hushed, girlish tone, like a nine-year-old sharing a secret crush with her babysitter.<br><br>"You don't think I need a hospital, do you, Eve?"&nbsp; It's a statement, accepted fact, not a question. Already, her attention is wandering again, eyes shifting off of Eve's and around the room. "You have a car, yes? May we leave, now?&nbsp; I keep feeling someone is watching us."&nbsp; Now that she mentions it, Eve can feel it, as well. Not the stereotypical 'eyes on the back of the neck' sensation; no, this is a feeling of <em>presence.</em> The kind she has come to associate with Franklin, especially.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>01-10-2016, 04:07:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I'll take that as a yes.&nbsp; I have a rental.&nbsp; We can drive it all the way back.&nbsp; While we do, I want you to tell me more about what's happened to you."&nbsp; She's already throwing money on the table and hustling Kai out of the small booth and towards the door.&nbsp; "As for a hospital, I think that's a little extreme.&nbsp; You may need a vacation.&nbsp; Perhaps not the best for your career, but your health and well being is far more important to me."&nbsp; She scans the cafe constantly as they walk, eyes darting across the faces and into every nook and cranny of the establishment.&nbsp; <br><br>The sense of unease grows stronger as they near the door and she swings Kai bodily around, putting herself between the athlete and the shadowy figure approaching from across the street.&nbsp; She looks desperately at the young girl behind the counter.&nbsp; "Do you have a back exit we could use?&nbsp; Domestic abuse situation..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>06-10-2016, 05:06:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The hostess looks inclined to object, something about 'Employees Only' or 'Health Code' forming on her lips, but Kia has already taken the suggestion and is running with it, leaving Eve to catch up as she vanishes through the kitchen door. The exec can only try to look important and smile apologetically at the crew and the chick they surprise in the back alley taking a cig break.&nbsp; The tennis star shows no signs of slowing, simply makes a sharp right turn down the alley.<br><br>Halfway to the main street, the fire alarm goes off behind them, and everyone in the coffee shop floods out the front door into the avenue. Everyone except Kai and Eve, that is, safely out of sight behind the building. Suddenly wary and foxlike, Kai pulls up short, peeks around the corner of the alley, yanks her head back.<br><br>"They're here," she hisses. "Across the street from the shop. Watching the crowd." Sneaking a careful look of her own, Eve can't immediately see anyone who stands out- but the feeling of being watched has intensified quite a bit.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>07-10-2016, 02:11:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Pushing Kai behind her, Eve scans the crowd more intently.&nbsp; Her car is out front, and she doesn't see a very good way of getting to it without joining the throng of bodies, some of which were apparently the ones who had been scaring her client.&nbsp; She is smaller than Kai, so the athlete can peek out over her shoulder and they can still both remain relatively hidden.&nbsp; "Kai, point them out to me...I can feel that they're there, but...I'm not sure what I'm looking for."<br><br>She tries to catch glimpses of wrists, ankles, necks, any bare skin that may reveal one of Karma's trademark tattoos.&nbsp; She tries to keep her eyes on Kai, the crowd, and the restaurant employee simultaneously, despite the impossibility of the task.&nbsp; Her hackles are raised, and she doesn't want to leave any flank open to attack.&nbsp; Unfortunately, that's just what flanks are for.&nbsp; Her eyes are drawn back to the uniformed woman on break.&nbsp; She has a sudden brain storm.&nbsp; If they're looking for Kai, they might be looking for her blond hair.&nbsp; It's one of her most striking features.&nbsp; Pulling out a few bills from her purse, she asks if she can purchase the non-descript black cap the lady wears, then plops it on Kai's head.&nbsp; She shrugs out of her jacket and has Kai throw that on to.&nbsp; It's not much, but it's the best she can think of in such short notice.&nbsp; She tosses Kai the keys.<br><br>"You drive.&nbsp; They won't be expecting you to have a car."&nbsp; The pair move slowly into the street, trying to blend in with the confused customers.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>18-10-2016, 03:50:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The feeling of being watched intensifies, becomes almost a fully physical sensation, as the pair moves up the block. No way to be sure, but it's Eve's instinctive guess that there are several of the<em> others</em> in the crowd, maybe four or five. It seems to be the only explanation for the nearly panic-inducing wash of presence.&nbsp; Or, maybe, Karma and Franklin are simply disciplined enough to keep their odd charismatic attraction reined in?<br><br>No. Eve had been all but nose to nose with Katy Marin, the reporter, and had barely sensed it. karma had described her as young, so she couldn't possibly be that controlled. That meant there had to be practically a mob around them- or one or two exceptionally strong, old ones- who weren't aware that Kai was with someone who could feel them so intimately.&nbsp; <br><br>The whole walk takes place on eggshells. Even can hardly blame Kai for squealing recklessly away from the curb, and is relieved when downtown traffic, such as it is in that small town, swallows them up.<br><br>Getting on a flight is hard, but not undoable; the corporate platinum card she holds carries almost as much weight as the metal itself. By four AM, they are back at the office; Karma meets them at the door to the suite, once again hyperaware of what's going on.<br><br>"You look like shit," she says to Kai, giving her a brief but intense hug, and putting a finger over her lips when she tries to speak. "Not now. In the morning." Looking at Eve she gives her instructions. "Set her up in my bed. Clean sheets in the pedestal, and you know where the bar cabinet is. Once she's settled in, come to the conference room."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>18-10-2016, 04:23:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve half carries, half drags the distraught and overtired athlete into Karma's plush and extremely convenient bedroom.&nbsp; She props Kai in an overstuffed chair while she makes her a glass of warm milk.&nbsp; She strips and remakes the bed, able to scent Karma's perfume among both the dirty and clean linens.&nbsp; Kai sips the beverage like an automaton, no expression that Eve can discern.&nbsp; The glass empty and the bed made, Eve moves over and takes Kai in her arms, coaxing the woman out of her clothing until she wears just her sports bra and some boy shorts.&nbsp; Eve can't help but notice how her flat stomach now seems more gaunt than toned, her shoulders sag with the weight of a thousand worries, and her smile is still tinged with that hint of haunted terror.&nbsp; Wrapping her arms around Kai, she gives her a big hug and then tucks her in, kissing her on her forehead as if she were her own child.<br><br>She closes the door softly and returns to Karma.&nbsp; "I'm worried about her.&nbsp; There's definitely someone messing with her...either big or old...maybe even both.&nbsp; She's worried.&nbsp; She's tired.&nbsp; But she's here now.&nbsp; Karma...why would someone do this?&nbsp; She isn't hurting anyone...is she?"&nbsp; Honestly confused, Eve's concern flows from her like a fountain.&nbsp; "It's...it's not because of me, is it?"&nbsp; Her eyes up nervously at the tall blond.&nbsp; "I don't want to get anyone hurt."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>18-10-2016, 04:37:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Karma frowns over her drink- after handing one to Eve. The usual- Scotch so rich it might catch fire if you breathed on it too heavily. "Don't know. Yet. Since I don;t know what's going on. Yet."<br><br>Gesturing to one of the chairs, Karma slides another over close and curls up in it, almost knee to knee with Eve. She's wearing a very short robe and, it appears, nothing under it, as if she'd been preparing for the shower or bed when she sensed her assistant's arrival with their care package.&nbsp; "Tell me about it. Especially why you think big or old." As focused as if it were ten AM at the office, she sips her drink, eyes never leaving Eve's.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>18-10-2016, 04:42:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Taking a large drink, Eve recounts the events of her trip, emphasizing the creepy feeling she got once the fire alarm had been pulled.&nbsp; Her eyes never leave Karma's, and she almost wills the other woman to see into her memory, trying to convey the sense of power that had lurked in the crowd.&nbsp; "I didn't see anyone specific, but it felt more...well...just <strong>more</strong> than you or Franklin ever have."&nbsp; Eve rubs her eyes tiredly, but tries to keep focused.&nbsp; Karma needs her, and she refuses to let her down.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>18-10-2016, 04:52:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"We veil ourselves, Eve, you know that. Bad things happen when we don't..." She trails off for a moment, looking away, and out the window.&nbsp; "One day, maybe, I'll show you. If Franklin doesn't beat me to it." With a wry grin, she takes another sip, leans to refill both glasses, not caring how much skin she's showing- the way the robe gaps and pools around her shoulders and rides up, she might as well not be wearing it. "Youngsters can't do it so well, but wouldn't leave such an impression even on you, sensitive as you are. Anybody as badass as me and Frankie. Well. Kinda against the rules to not hide the candle under a bushel, you know?"<br><br>At a loss, she frowns again. "Tell me- did it feel...aw crap, what's the right words?&nbsp; Expectant, like they were waiting for something to happen, or really wanted to get their hands on you? Or more, like...say...judgmental? Like they wanted to see what you were going to do, and were waiting for you to fuck up? I know that's not a real accurate way to put it, it's an emotional thing, but tell me what you can."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>18-10-2016, 05:12:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eyebrows furrow.&nbsp; Lips turn down.&nbsp; A swallow of liquor passes Eve's lips and she moves to speak, then stops herself short.&nbsp; "I think...I think they wanted me to know they were there...whoever <em>they</em> is or are.&nbsp; For a second I thought it was Franklin, but...I don't know."&nbsp; She thinks longer and harder, setting her empty glass on the table so she can run her hands through her hair.&nbsp; Her eyes linger on Karma's long, long, impossibly long legs, and she finds her gaze drifting upward before she can help it.&nbsp; She blushes then moves her eyes back to the floor.<br><br>"I guess...I mean...they must not have wanted to come after us.&nbsp; I think they could have.&nbsp; It was just...just like being watched.&nbsp; Not even judgmentally....just...watched.&nbsp; They always say that in horror movies...and it was kind of like that, but.."&nbsp; She shrugs again, frustrated at her inability to tell Karma just how smothering the sensation had become at the very end.&nbsp; "Have you ever seen someone flash a pistol, or crush a can?&nbsp; Not to threaten, just to show you that they can?&nbsp; I guess it was mostly like that."&nbsp; She lifts her head, meeting Karma's gaze again, with one last glimpse of the pale, perfect flesh beneath the skimpy robe.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>18-10-2016, 05:24:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"It wasn't Franklin."&nbsp; She's adamant about that, certain. "He still wants you, big time, but after the bullshit with the twins, he's playing nice." A sip, a shake of the head. "Not his style, anyway. He plays by the rules- he'd walk right up to you, make sure you knew he was there. He wouldn't unveil. He hasn't done that in....well." <em>A very long time</em> should be the next words, but they don't come.<br><br>"I don't think it's Georges, either. He's a a pain in the ass, but for all he's a bucket of slime, he's not an idiot. In fact, he's a crafty fuck. If he were trying to mess with you, or me through you, there'd be no easy trace." She shrugs, and manages to pop out of the robe. Casually, she rearranges, taking more time than strictly needed to do so as she palms herself back into the neckline.. "There are a lot of us around- more than you probably really want to know- but not many with both the power and the balls to waggle it in public like that. Or the brain damage..."<br><br>With a sigh, she gestures with her glass. "You look like hell, too. You did good, and I still have questions for you. But go check on Kai, then get some sleep. Stay here tonight. Anybody tries to mess with this place is in for a very nasty set of surprises." Standing up, she sheds the robe completely, without any trace of shyness. To Eve's accustomed eyes, the words and sigils on her skin no longer look like ink. They glow like brands, as if they've been burned into her skin, are still burning. "I'm gonna get changed quick, go have a word with the boss. Sleep in- there's not much on the ticket for tomorrow, other than my being a pain asking you a bunch of stuff you aren't gonna want to tell me."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>20-10-2016, 02:12:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve nods, blushing deeply and turning her head as Karma's wardrobe malfunctions.&nbsp; It's not that she isn't interested in the contents...it just seems...rude somehow, leering at the gorgeous blond when Kai needs her.&nbsp; Business before pleasure, after all.&nbsp; She is feeling tired, too, her eyes heavy after the extended span of hyperawareness during her trip to retrieve their star athlete.&nbsp; Karma sounds like she might have an idea about who it was, or at least more resources than Eve to figure it out.<br><br>The shedding of the robe gets Eve's heartbeat up again, though she tries to keep her eyes on the floor instead of traveling up the long legs and over the pale, curvaceous form.&nbsp; The marks on her skin make a brilliant contrast to the smooth alabaster fields of flesh.&nbsp; Eve once again reads the symbols, though their full meaning is far beyond her at this point.&nbsp; She picks up Karma's robe from the floor, folding it over her arm as she watches the woman leave.&nbsp; As she wanders back to the apartment, the soft fabric wafting Karma's scent and radiating her body heat, she wonders who Karma considers 'the boss', and if she even really wants to know.<br><br>She enters the bedroom, leaving a trail of clothing from the door to the bed, where Kai sleep calmly.&nbsp; She wraps herself in the robe and slips between the covers, her arms encircling the tormented woman with comfort and protective friendship.&nbsp; "At least it wasn't Franklin," she thinks to herself as her eyes close and she drifts into unconsciousness.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>20-10-2016, 05:01:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				At some point, between the time Eve collapses in the bed and daylight fully dawns, Kai murmurs in her sleep. Shifting restlessly under the sheets, the compact athlete fetches up against Eve. After a moment, she relaxes, and the incoherent sounds stop. But a hand slides up Eve's body, coming to rest lightly on her breast. A sigh, the first almost-happy sound Richter has made since Eve picked her up, leaks from her lips; she seems to still be totally unconscious.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>21-10-2016, 02:31:19</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The light touch rouses Eve.&nbsp; She's always been a light sleeper, but the particular placement of Kai's hand leaves her more alert than most of her nocturnal awakenings.&nbsp; The brunette sighs softly and kisses Kai lightly on the forehead before taking a gentle grip on her wrist.&nbsp; "Kai, sweetie...you can hold me for comfort, but it can't go farther than that...not without you and I having a much more involved discussion. It's okay.&nbsp; I'm here.&nbsp; You're safe.&nbsp; I'm not leaving you."&nbsp; She kisses the pulse point of the diminutive blond and puts Kai's hand around her waist, draping her own protectively around the sleeping woman.&nbsp; She then closes her eyes and tries to go back to sleep.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>27-10-2016, 03:15:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Kai seems to take the rebuke in good humor- but then, she's also asleep. Three more times, Eve has to fend off wandering hands, as&nbsp; the other woman reaches for some comfort she apparently can't yet quite acknowledge consciously that the craves.&nbsp; Eve is finally reduced to holding both the athlete's hands tightly against her stomach. It seems, finally, to do the trick, and Kai's restlessness ebbs.<br><br>It means Eve has a moderately sleepless night, however. At least it seems like no time at all before she's aware of someone lse moving in the room. The odd senses she seems to be developing tell her it's Karma, and moreover, that she's in a darkly good mood. A few minutes pass, and the shower starts- and Eve hears singing, oddly high, unlike her boss' usual voice, teasing out an ethereal, formless melody, full of sadness and desire.<br><br>It's certainly not anything anyone will ever hear on a Top 40 station.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>27-10-2016, 03:25:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The third time around, Eve almost gives in, but she knows better than that and is able to restrain herself one last time.&nbsp; When she rouses again to Karma slipping into the shower, the part of her that Kai had been aching for all night pushes for Eve to slip both of them in with her goddess of a boss and consequences be damned.&nbsp; The song, too, holds a haunting allure, and Eve sits up, listening intently to the wandering line, moved by the longing and loneliness inherent in her employer's voice.&nbsp; Keeping Kai's body close, she sits up against the headboard and pulls the covers up over her chest, waiting for Karma to emerge.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>02-11-2016, 14:57:54</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The singing stops, or more tapers away to nothingness; a few minutes later, the water does, as well. A minute or so after that, Karma emerges from the bathroom, a towel around her head, another forming a sarong around her broad hips- and nothing else. Her full breasts bounce a bit as she ruffs up her hair, then she stops and grins, seeing Eve staring at her. "Sorry. Did I wake you?"<br><br>There are no words to fit her appearance. She...glows. Not just the marks on her breast and back; in fact, they're nearly invisible, faded into irrelevance.&nbsp; There's a tracery of fine, bright lines cris-crossing her body, like the cracks in a magma field. Not quite so random- there's a pattern to them, but the curves of her body and the fact that the things <em>move</em>, slowly squirming wormwise, makes it impossible to grasp completely.<br><br>A frown creases her face as she sees Eve's expression. "You OK?&nbsp; Something happen while I was gone?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>07-11-2016, 02:19:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve blushes.&nbsp; "You...you have a beautiful...<em>body</em>...voice.&nbsp; Have I heard that song somewhere?&nbsp; It seemed...familiar but..."&nbsp; She shrugs, sliding out from the covers with a soft pat to Kai's unconscious head.&nbsp; "We've been having a lovely sleepover, though someone has inherited Roman hands during REM, I think."&nbsp; She smiles and pads over to Karma, not exactly staring at the undulating fabric of her skin, but mesmerized none the less.&nbsp; She tries to shake the vision from her head and rubs her eyes, then makes a concerted effort to focus on Karma's face.&nbsp; "You seem...happy.&nbsp; I take it things went well at your meeting?"&nbsp; Dying as she is to know the answer, to ask a million questions about the otherworldly appearance of her boss, she also fears it.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>09-11-2016, 02:02:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Roman...oh!"&nbsp; Karma laughs, throwing her head back, the noise making Kai stir. She blinks sleepily, looks at Eve, at Karma...blushes, ducks under a pillow. "Yeah well. Is that really a surprise? And stop that, Kai. You've been in enough locker rooms to not play the fainting flower.<br><br>As she ducks into her closet, she drops the towel from her hips, giving Eve, at least, a flashing view of her plump thighs and rounded rear. "And my meeting was...wonderrrful..." She steps back out, filmy red panties on, just fastening a lacy bra in the same screaming color, the mystical markings Eve had seen fading slowly- except the 'tattoos', which remain fully visible.<br><br>To Eve. When Kai looks up again, she seems to see nothing at all odd about Karma's appearance. "Um...yes. Good morning, Miss Karma. Thank you for letting us...me stay.&nbsp; I...I'm afraid I've been a bit silly, haven't I?"<br><br>"Yup. And nope," the blonde replies, tugging a fitted, kneel-length skirt up over her hips. "Somebody's been messing with you, for sure. Gaslighting you- know that term? From an old American movie, guy tries to drive a woman nuts through subtle psychological torture. You just waited too damn long to let us know. <strong>That</strong> was the silly part." Then she ducks back into the closet again, presumably to select a blouse.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>09-11-2016, 02:12:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Returning to sit on the bed, though not <em>too</em> close to Kai, Eve listens intently to Karma's response.&nbsp; It isn't much of an answer, but it does let her know that Kai should be safe, at least for the moment...she thinks.&nbsp; "Do we know who...or why?&nbsp; I mean...if they were just messing with you, Karma, wouldn't a little...um...justice...be in order?"&nbsp; She hadn't necessarily been thinking in legal terms, though she wondered what someone like Karma could do if trained properly in the courtroom.&nbsp; She also hadn't meant it as revenge.&nbsp; Revenge was empty, and just created more problems in her opinion.&nbsp; If someone was gaslighting Kai, and putting her in danger, then they needed to be brought to some higher authority.&nbsp; If it was someone like Karma, though, Eve wasn't exactly sure how high they would have to go to make their case.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>09-11-2016, 02:41:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Not a fucking clue," Karma says cheerily, shrugging into a gauzy blouse that simply accentuates the jsut of her breasts and their bright red casing. Eve can't shake the feeling she's lying- maybe because Kai is right there?<br><br>"I am glad you don't think I am...losing it?," the compact athlete says, clearly relieved. "But I do not understand why anyone would want to do such a thing to me?"<br><br>"Me neither, kiddo," Karma replies, coming over to kiss Kai's cheek- and Eve's lips, with a bit more firmness, making Kai's eyes pop a bit. "But I've got some people turning over some rocks, and the word's gone out that there's a world-class ass-kicking coming to whoever's doing it.&nbsp; Now. breakfast? In or out? Orrrr..." Her eyes twinkle, and Eve <em>knows</em>, can sense the post-coital satisfaction pouring off her boss. "Should I just leave you two alone for a while longer?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>09-11-2016, 03:00:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve shivers and gives her boss, out of Kai's view, the hardest <em>"I thought I said we were just friends, why are you making this hard for me?"</em> look she can muster while still picturing Karma naked and moaning.&nbsp; The blush in her cheeks are nearly as hot as her lips when Karma releases her and she sits, stunned, for a moment before looking at Kai and deepening her embarrassed expression.<br><br>"Ahem...um...I...I don't know about you, Kai, but...I could go for a bagel or something.&nbsp; Why don't you hop in the shower while Karma and I decide where to go."&nbsp; When Kai is out of earshot she nearly takes Karma's head of with the speed her body whips around to confront the amazonian blond.&nbsp; "What the <em>hell</em> do you think you're doing, Karma?" she hisses through her teeth.&nbsp; "I'm glad you got laid and all, but that doesn't mean the rest of us are just going to jump into the sack at the snap of a finger.&nbsp; And I'm certainly not going to do it in front of, or with, Kai.&nbsp; She's a client and a friend, now, nothing more."<br><br>Eve can't help but feel a pang of jealousy at whoever had scratched Karma's itch, nor a protective streak for the unsure athlete.&nbsp; She rubbed her face, the immediate emotional reaction not at all what she had expected.&nbsp; "Coffee.&nbsp; I need coffee."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>10-11-2016, 02:24:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Karma laughs, at first, then looks rueful. "Sorry.&nbsp; It's...hard, sometimes, to switch it off. Besides. You two are cute together..." One had goes up in a warding gesture as Eve's face tightens. "Fine, fine, Miz Grundy.&nbsp; Christ on a crutch, what crawled up YOUR crack and died?&nbsp; Not like you don't spend half your time trying to look down my blouse, anyway."<br><br>Eight steps takes her to the side table on the far side of the small curtain wall that divides the living/sleeping area from the entry to the apartment. She picks up the phone, dials. "Lo? It's Karma. Three for breakfast. Say about half an hour? Thanks." Then another call. "Raoul?&nbsp; Can you have the car here in twenty minutes?&nbsp; Oh...oh, God, I'm so sorry to...no. No you will NOT. It's not the first time I've taken a fucking cab. Stay with your family. No. No, call me if there's anything- anything at<em> all </em>I can do."<br><br>Once she hangs up, she stands by the table, very still, frowning down at the phone.&nbsp; "Raoul's son is in the hospital," she finally says, quietly. "Driveby.&nbsp; He's going to be OK, but he's pretty messed up. Cops think someone mistook him for a <em>chollo.</em>&nbsp; One corner of her mouth pulls up into a snarl. "Bullshit."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>13-11-2016, 00:59:29</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The blush on Eve's face as Karma calls her out would rival the red devil himself...assuming he was actually red, which Eve has reason to doubt now.&nbsp; The comment almost immediately wipes any form of anger from Eve's body, too, replacing it with a rather bashful stance of one caught with her hand in the cookie jar.&nbsp; The news about Raoul moves that emotion to the back burner, as well, and Eve is all business again.&nbsp; Using the time before Kai returns to get as much information as she can, she moves over to Karma's side, the urge to put a comforting hand on her shoulder growing harder and harder to resist as she see's Karma's mood fall.<br><br>"Do you think it's the same people...er...person?&nbsp; That they're...related...to you...to whoever was messing with Kai?"&nbsp; She bites her lower lip in thought, trying to remember any detail that would help her boss.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>13-11-2016, 02:14:54</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Karma's frown is picturesque, to say the least. "Doesn't make any damn sense," she growls.&nbsp; "Thought at first it was...well, call 'em the opposition. Like us, they can get up to some pretty nasty shit to make their point. Driving one of my clients around the bend would be the sort of thing they might try. Thought that's why no one actually tried to stop you from leaving with Kai- <em>un</em>like us, their lower ranks tend to draw the line at getting their hands dirty." Frown becomes grin, and a savage one. "It's a, ah, philosophical quibble."<br><br>Then, she's frowning again, and shaking her head. "But shooting up an uninvolved third party? Doesn't mesh.&nbsp; Kinda against the rules for both sides- we only play with the people who come to <em>us</em>." Her eyes narrow as she looks at Eve. "Like you."&nbsp; Then she's dialing the phone, and ordering a cab. "Could be a coincidence. They do exist. Thinking that way gets us nowhere, though." When she hangs up, she grins, sways over to where Eve is standing, rests her forearms on her assistant's shoulders. "Go put some clothes on, huh? You're distracting like this." She nips Eve's nose lightly, before releasing her.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>13-11-2016, 02:28:30</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The whole situation feels messed up, from the reporter to Franklin, to Kai...and now Raoul.&nbsp; It all swirls through Eve's head faster and faster as she watches Karma think it through.&nbsp; Karma's comment and predatory grin unsettle her.&nbsp; She'd been leaning towards assuming Karma was playing for a certain team, but...now she wasn't so sure.&nbsp; It also wasn't the time to ask.&nbsp; As her employer strides over and stands so close Eve can smell her shampoo, her stomach drops and she gazes up into Karma's face.&nbsp; It drops further when Karma nips her nose and draws attention to the fact that Eve's robe had fallen open and she'd been standing practically naked in front of the woman this whole time.<br><br><em>Way to go, self...</em>&nbsp; She feels the heat rise in her face as she scrambles for some clothes.&nbsp; As she dresses she calls after Karma.&nbsp; "What do you mean about Raoul being a third party?&nbsp; I thought he was your employee, like me?&nbsp; I mean...he certainly took orders from you..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>13-11-2016, 02:44:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Raoul, yes," Karma calls back. "If you wanted to be dramatic, you could call him a vassal. It's a purely professional relationship- he's not a client, he's an employee, and he has no idea...who I am. If anything, I think he suspects I'm with the Cartels."<br><br>Eve re-enters the room, and Karma looks her over, grins, nods. "I liked you better the other way, but we'd shock Kai." Then she sobers. "Raoul works for me, and I take care of him. But that's really all it is- good service, for good consideration.&nbsp; If someone made a run at him, I could see it, though it still wouldn't really be cricket. His boy, though?"&nbsp; her head shakes again, aggressively. "I've met him, of course.&nbsp; He's driven for me maybe twice. In seven years. He only knows me as an important client of his Papa's.&nbsp; Some of Raoul's old Army buddies know me better than Rodrigo does. And have done a lot more work for me. He's not- <em>should not be</em>- a target. For anyone."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>13-11-2016, 02:53:06</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve listens carefully, nodding along as she takes a seat near Karma, making mental notes and mulling things over.&nbsp; Karma keeps catching her off guard with her compliments, and Eve keeps blushing at them, secretly hoping for more.&nbsp; "Maybe Franklin got the word out about Raoul...you know, because of the twins?"&nbsp; She paused and thought again.&nbsp; "But you're right, that still doesn't explain Rodrigo.&nbsp; I know you're probably going to tell me it doesn't work this way, but...what if it was just a coincidence?&nbsp; Someone from the cartels actually thinking Rodrigo was in something he wasn't?&nbsp; Hell...how do we know Rodrigo didn't get himself into a mess?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>15-11-2016, 04:36:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				A tight grin slashed across Karma's face. "We don't," she admitted tersely. "But as i said- there's no percentage in assuming it's a coincidence. Shit creeps up on you when you think that- hello, there dear. Feel better?" Kai peeks out from the bathroom, a towel around her head, another around her torso. "I am so very sorry- I was not thinking. I have no clean clothes."<br><br>Karma laughs. "Well, nothing I've got'll fit you, for sure. You're too, ahhhh...compact. Especially up top. Why don't you just put on what you we wearing last night, and we'll go shopping after breakfast. Hurry up, though. The cab'll be here in a minute."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LillithTheThird</strong> on <strong>18-11-2016, 23:18:19</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Kai's entrance causes Eve to blush anew.&nbsp; She already felt giddy from Karma's pleasant form paraded in front of her, and to add Kai's is almost too much.&nbsp; She watches the blond prance across the apartment and dress, mind wandering blankly and following the movement more than necessarily being creepy, though the observer wouldn't necessarily be able to tell the difference.&nbsp; It takes a noise from Karma or Kai actually catching her to break Eve's gaze and she stutters out an apology quickly, asking Kai how she slept before excusing herself to the bathroom for a minute.<br><br>Staring at herself in the mirror, Eve takes stock of herself.&nbsp; She's definitely attracted to both Karma and Kai, but certainly not acting on either of them, though for different reasons.&nbsp; Both of them had been making moves on her, and though it was nice, it didn't help her current feeling of runaway libido.&nbsp; She splashed a little water on her face and the back of her neck and looked herself in the mirror.&nbsp; "Keep it together, Eve.&nbsp; You know it's been forever since you got laid, but now is <em>not</em> the time to start."&nbsp; Feeling a bit more calm, she sashays nonchalantly back to the others and helps them into their coats before putting on her own.&nbsp; "I'm hungry.&nbsp; Shall we?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Take a Memo (Nowherewoman and LillithTheThird)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nowherewoman</strong> on <strong>22-11-2016, 03:14:41</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The cab rise is a bit tense. Kai is clearly embarrassed over her behavior, though she now seems to have returned mostly to her well-mannered, slightly befuddled self. Karma seems pensive, distracted.&nbsp; When the arrive at the local Bagel Barn, Karma shoots a hard look at a young couple lounging nearby. They look to be college age, totally engrossed in their phones and each other, leaning and mumbling- but when Karma looks at them, they raise their eyes in tandem, and meet her gaze in a way it's taken Eve&nbsp; almost a month to be able to do. The boy nods, politely, but it's a few seconds before Karma stops playing Halloween cat and looks away. As soon as she does, the pair slips form their perches and heads off down the street.<br><br>"Fucking Watchers," Karma grumbles, drawing a quizzical look from Kai, and leaving Eve no less in the dark.
			</dd>
		</dl>
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