Tiding of What is Yet to Come (Ethan)(COMPLETE)

Blue was ready.

Where in the HELL was Rivers? She was totally ready to leave without his ass. She was only being nice and waiting for him because she knew that he would go ballistic if she suddenly took off. Not that she cared. She would be on a boat, but knowing him he would take funds out of HER account to RENT a boat that could subvert her own boat.. and then take it over.

Things she didn't need on her day OFF.

She bit her lower lip as she waited. Her fingernails drumming on her phone that she held in her hand waiting for him to come. Waiting on men. Worse than waiting on your grades to come in from school. Finally, a knock sounded on the door and she went over to the door and opened it. She wasn't dressed in her usual outfit. She was dressed in a somewhat sexy little outfit that really showed off some of her curves and the beauty that she had.

You're late. We have to get to the harbor.

She slid her phone into her pocket and picked up the basket by the door along with her satchel. One never knew when there was something she was going to have to fix. Not to mention the fact that, she just never felt comfortable without some sort of tools with her. And she had her other things in there. So she hoisted all that up. She was going to let him drive his car because she didn't feel like getting the Tank all out.

They got into her car and she looked over at him.

We have to head out to the harbor at the West End. We're going on a small boat ride. And no snide comments, you don't HAVE to come afterall. she reminded him though she really .. secretly.. wanted him to come. She had made enough food for the both of them. Cooking it herself last night and this morning when she had finished the short nap she had taken.

Still, she really hoped they could let their hair down and have some fun today. After the dojo yesterday.. she was frightened about what their date.. DAY would be like.

"John" wasn't ready. "John" was late.

This was one of the few times that he thought he could sleep at his own apartment. Since the "threat" to Blue was severely diminished, considering that Ethan hadn't ordered any more mercenary attacks since the previous one went so badly. He had no qualms about her sleeping on her own without him sleeping in his car outside her door. Either way, he was late.

Weaving through traffic, he glanced at the GPS on the screen Blue installed in his car yesterday. He knew the way, but he was concentrated on a small blue dot that, thankfully, wasn't moving. Blue had set it up to track her...well, the locket, so Ethan would know approximately where she was. Of course, if she left the locket somewhere, that could cause issues.

He finally arrived, nearly leaping out of the car and running up the stairs to her apartment, barely breaking a sweat. He knocked on the door, which was swiftly opened, at first glance, Ethan's eyes nearly goggled. Blue Tiran looked....kinda hot. She wore an outfit that accentuated her curves, and it was truly the first time he had seen her like that since the New Dawn Charity Ball.

You're late. We have to get to the harbor.

He nodded, still staring. Yeah....ok.

"John" shook his head clean of distraction as Blue took her things and walked down the hallway. Closing the door, he followed and even opened the door to the car for her.

We have to head out to the harbor at the West End. We're going on a small boat ride. And no snide comments, you don't HAVE to come after all.

I know where we are going. Has a snide comment left my mouth today?

He gave her a mildly mocking smile as he drove toward the West End. Making sure he went at a mildly speedy pace, they made good time to the harbor. Parking the car and paying for the parking on his New Dawn pass, Ethan looked around for a boat that Blue was talking about. Unfortunately, there were too many boats to count. Turning to his companion, "John" did his best not to check out her...erm...assets.

Ok Captain, where be this scurvy vessel?

He opened the door for her.

It was.. strange. So chilvalrous. Something she didn't get often considering that she was mostly just 'one of the guys'. But she had not really expected this kind of thing from Rivers. She slid into the car. She had thought about wearing shorts, but decided against it. She had kind of wanted to look nice for Rivers. She wasn't sure why, but she felt like.. this could be a good day for him.

If he kept his idiotic mouth shut!

She had the locket on. Though it was in her pocket. It didn't really go with the outfit. And she had the blue crystal necklace on that her sister had given her some months ago. Blue settled into the car as Rivers began taking them towards the harbor giving her lip already.

Blue grinned. No. Which is rare for you Rivers. Are you feeling all right today? she teased him.

They got to the harbor which wasn't too far, and Blue picked up her things. The basket was for their destination. She didn't explain it or anything. As they walked to the boat she looped her arm through his so they were walking with each other. He called her captain and she grinned.

Ahh, there's Rivers. I was starting to freak for a moment. Some sort of doppleganger came to pick me up and the real John was trussed up somewhere in a closet.. hmmm I wonder if the doppleganger would be better company... she mused in a teasing voice.

At the boat she produced two prepaid tickets for the upper deck area. Not exactly cheap, but they were the best seats and she was determined for this day to be really great. They were lead onto the boat over a ramp. On board, the man read their tickets and pointed them to the doorway that would take them to the upper deck where they would be guaranteed a seat.

The boat was old fashioned. The kind with the large red water wheel that it used to help push the boat forward. She loved these kinds of boats. Blue had a secret love for technology in simplicity. Which would surprise most considering how complex her creations tended to be. Blue had purposefully reserved two seats in the corner back of the upper balcony. Because, she loved the wheel so much. When they got there, she stowed the basket and her satchel under the seats and took her seat waiting for the boat to get going.

Sleep well last night? she inquired trying to make some small talk.

When Blue finally found the boat, she slid her arm around his, swinging the basket and such as they walked. Ethan felt a little uncomfortable with her doing it...it wasn't right, but he didn't want to be rude. He offered to carry the basket, or her satchel, but was quickly brushed off. Blue always had a need to know she could do things on her own, and far be it for "John" to encroach on her independence...except for that whole hovering and bodyguard thing.

That thought made him smile.

Ahh, there's Rivers. I was starting to freak for a moment. Some sort of doppelganger came to pick me up and the real John was trussed up somewhere in a closet.. hmmm I wonder if the doppelganger would be better company...

After her musings about a fake "John Rivers" being better company, Ethan turned to look at her. Ha ha ha...I bet the doppelganger wouldn't deal with all your hilarious jokes.

They boarded a large old-time wheel driven riverboat. As they walked up to the upper deck, the first thought Ethan had was how they were sitting ducks for a sniper...not that there would be, but that had always been the first place his mind went. As Blue stashed her parcels away, "John" leaned back in his seat, automatically running his arm down the railing by Blue's head. Cursing to himself, he didn't move it, he had already put it there...he just...didn't want to give her any ideas.

I shouldn't be doing this...but....its all I really want.

Sleep well last night? She asked, trying to start conversation.

Leaning forward, Ethan rubbed his eyes and dry washed his hands. The sudden motion of the water wheel caused him to jerk his head back, but he quickly gathered his senses and returned to simply dry-washing his hands.

Not really, no. He replied, looking at her with slightly tired eyes. All that time sleeping in my car...my body wasn't used to a soft bed. Tossed and turned for hours, until I finally conked out and missed my alarm.

The truth of it was, he had stayed up most of the night thinking of what the hell was going through his mind. That, and he spent some time in the car, focused on the little Blue dot on his GPS that didn't move as she slept throughout the night. Finally, he fell asleep in bed, and slept right through his alarm...by over an hour.

But she didn't need to know that.

How about you? You sleep ok? What exactly are we doing across the river?

Ethan did his best to relax as the boat cruised slowly across the river, the rhythmic movement of the wheel and the water that cascaded from it as it turned providing a nice compliment to the fair morning. Adjusting his shirt, "John" closed his eyes for a moment, letting the moment sink in.

He didn't sleep well.

His eyes were slightly red, and she felt bad for him. At least a little bit. He was a good person. Most of the time. And he took care of her, for the most part. And there were times she was frightened of him, times she wanted him to hold her because she always felt safe around him, and part of her that.. wanted him to say things she knew he was never going to say.

The dojo. Was clearly a mistake.

He hadn't mentioned it since, and her heart was not going to let her mention it. She was too terrified of finding out it was all some sort of accident. At least in her mind, she could imagine it was mutual on both counts.

She noticed his hands. How he kept wringing them. She wanted to hold them. But.. she didn't think it would be welcome. So she kept her hands to her own lap. When the boat lurched into movement, she got up quickly and spun. Her hair whipping around her, with it's soft curls and two colored strands. She smiled. Almost child like in demeanor as she looked out over the river and the way the wheel spun bright and beautiful.

Well if that's too comfortable for you, there's always the floor, or a couch, or my place. she gave a shrug.

He started asking her questions and she gave a slight smile though she didn't look away from the lovely wheel. The way the light shimmered on the drops caught in the air as the wheel spun quickly thorugh the water powering the boat faster. The steam rose up above the smoke stacks behind her, and she was holding onto the railing gently.

You know, I slept okay I guess. I was up for a while. Working on things. though she didn't mention it had nothing to do with technology and everything to do with the man sitting beside her.

The river. She smiled.

We're having lunch. And, hopefully, a nice relaxing day. Away from work, and stress, and people coming after me. Away from all of that. I hope anyway. Sometimes.. it frightens me.. these people you say are after me. I swear I.. I jump at shadows now. I've never .. been one to do that before. she admitted her eyes staying away from his. No sense in looking at him, so he could see the truth in her eyes.

In his peripheral vision, Ethan watched as Blue watched him. She wasn't the most subtle observer, and he caught the quick glances she cast on him, and he tried not to smile. He shouldn't be smiling at her...not like that. That was no way for a bodyguard to act.

She kept her hands in her lap, but her eyes were fixed on his hands, concern in her face. He had no idea what she was so concerned about, it was like she almost seemed...sad. He didn't like to see her in any form of discontent. That all changed when the boat started moving. Blue seemed to be entranced buy the motion of the boat, and mainly the wheel itself.

Well if that's too comfortable for you, there's always the floor, or a couch, or my place.

That, under normal circumstances, would most likely have brought some illicit comment or at least an intrigued raise of the eyebrow from "John." Today, however, he just wasn't on his game.

I don't think your place or mine has much differences in amenities, I don't see how that would help.

They spoke for a bit longer, and Ethan nodded as she said she had been working on things in to the night. She was a bit of a workaholic, and typically could go days without sleep or food. Somehow, she kept alive on drinks and Twinkies in those period of work exhaustion...though Ethan had no idea how. Finally, she explained the purpose of the day trip.

We're having lunch. And, hopefully, a nice relaxing day. Away from work, and stress, and people coming after me. Away from all of that. I hope anyway.

Ethan nodded as she spoke. She barely took her eyes off the wheel, a child-like glee floating across her face at the more primitive form of technology. It was smiles like that coming from her that made Ethan really happy.

Sometimes.. it frightens me.. these people you say are after me. I swear I.. I jump at shadows now. I've never .. been one to do that before.

Without thought, "John" held her soft hand for a moment, just enough for her to turn and look at him. I'm never going to allow anything to happen to you Blue. No one will ever hurt you with me around. you don't ever have to be afraid.

The moment seemed to hold on forever. If it went on for a minute, or an hour, Ethan wasn't sure. But...he liked it, a lot. It was moments like that, holding her hand while she was happy, that made him happy things had changed.

You really like the water-wheel, don't you?

Of course he didn't see any difference in their places. Because, it wasn't about whether the couch at her place or his was better or worse, it was about.. him not wanting to be at her place when he didn't have to be. It wasn't as though she could blame him. Last time he had stayed the night she had kept him frozen and awake for most of it. Looking back, it was cruel, but at the time she hated and resented him and what he was there for.

She couldn't take it back now.

His hand came to hers, and she looked over at him. He promised her that no harm was going to come of her. She bit her lower lip as she looked into his eyes. She hoped that was the case. She slid back into her seat, looking into his eyes. Twisted slightly, sitting on one leg while the other was out to the side foot resting on the floor.

He brought her attention back to reality and the water wheel again in a few moments, and the moment was gone. But she hadn't let go of his hand yet either.

Yeah... it's so .. beautiful in it's simplicity. So much power, for steam and a large wheel. Besides.. it's just.. pretty watching the water fly up to catch the sunlight and shimmer tiny rainbows everywhere. It's breath taking..

She shifted herself so that she was sitting normally again with one of her legs pulled up to her chest foot on the seat.

I saw this movie once, when I was a teenager, of this couple that got married on one of these. And it was so romantic, I thought. There they were, by the large wheel, with water spraying everywhere, and they kissed, and it was just so .. pretty. I don't know.. there's something romantic about it all I guess. she shrugged her shoulders.

She knew he probably wouldn't understand. It was kind of girly to think that, even for her. She wasn't a very girly girl, but she had her moments from time to time. The boat wasn't far from the other bank, and she was almost diappointed that their ride was over, even though they would be riding the boat back across later.

He nodded in understanding as she described why she enjoyed the waterwheel so much. Even he had to admit, the beauty one could find in nature was beyond stunning, it was a shame that a lot of his had been devastated or destroyed by The Enlightenment.

Yeah, its hard to imagine the world being so pretty when things had gotten so bad.

Blue shifted, and told him of a story about this movie she saw once as a teenager, and how it had influenced her in her love for a non-digital boat, and the possibilities it possessed. After she finished, Ethan just started laughing.

Oh my goodness...the movie's name is "Rivers of Our Lives." Don't look at me like that, they screwed up which movie they had for us in a Barracks I was at in...I think it was Montana. They had dozens of genetically and cybernetic soldiers sitting and watching because there was no other entertainment.

The memory made him smile, of good times back at the Barracks. It was a simpler time, at least for him. Things were either orders or not orders, and you had someone to fight and no real emotions to worry about. Sure, their were women around, but they didn't want a man for emotional support, they were looking for a few creds and someone to satisfy their needs. But...Blue was different.

It was at that moment Ethan realized he was still holding her hand, and Blue kept biting her lower lip. Did she not realize how attractive that was to men? Either she did, and she was not being fair...or she had no idea, and wasn't being fair. Regardless of the reason, the boat began to slow as the shore of the other side of the river came in to close view. A small town, a tourist haven no doubt, sat outside the dock. He wasn't sure if they were in Librium or a suburb of the major city. Either way, that was their destination, and as the boat docked, Ethan rose, dropping her hand.

This is your show Blue, lead the way. "John" spoke as he reached under the seat to give Blue her satchel while he carried the basket. He put the basket in the hand that was towards Blue...wouldn't want her getting the wrong idea, even if the wrong idea felt more right than anything else.

Blue blushed, profusely, when he laughed at her. Taking it as him making fun of her for liking such a girly movie. That was until he named the movie. Her eyes widened and her lips parted as her jaw dropped slightly. When he explained that movie night in the barracks once had gotten mixed up and ended up with this movie instead of the other.

Well good. You know the movie then, and the scene, and how.. sweet it really is.

The boat slowed down, and the wheel began to lose momentum as they began to glide into the dock. When it docked smoothely at the side and Blue and Ethan stood up gently. He grabbed her satchel and she took it. It was heavier than it seemed a satchel of that size should be. But her friend Jack had enchanted it for her so she was able to put at least two to three times the amount of things that it should hold.

He told her to lead the way and was holding the basket himself. Her brow rose, but she said nothing, though her hand felt empty and lonely. Message received, Rivers, message received. She shoved her free hands in her pockets curling her hands into fists as they walked side by side downstairs and off the ship. Normally, she waited the twenty to thirty minutes so that she could watch the boat head back across. But today she had plans, and besides, she didn't figure Rivers would be interested.

She nodded and lead him off towards a path. It wasn't exactly short. The path was long and winding, but she kept quiet for the journey. There was no reason to speak. They were walking away from the homes and houses, heading towards the park and gardens that were off to the side. The gardens grew closer and closer. The bright roses, and the subtle hues and bright colors depending on the flower. She found that it was beautiful, and as an elf, she could truly appreciate the beauty of it all.

When they reached the walled garden that was like a secret garden that was no so secret. She pushed a hanging ivy out of the way and they stepped through. She came here from time to time to emerse herself in the natural world when she spent so much in the civilized and technological world. They walked through the paths, passing many great picnic spots before she found the one she was looking for. It was a small secluded spot. There were flowers and roses everywhere. No benches, but a lone willow tree in the center.

Our spot for today. she said softly as she opened her satchel and pulled out a large soft quilt and lay it out underneath the hanging boughs of the willow tree. She sat down and motioned for him to sit where ever he was most comfortable. Probably, with the way things were going, on the opposite corner of the blanket. But where ever.

I made us lunch today.

Once they left the boat, Blue seemed to look longingly at the soft motion of the wheel as the boat seemed to test its systems before taking another trip to the city proper. Ethan wouldn't have been surprised if she wanted to sit and watch the boat leave, however long it took. He would have said it was ok to stay, but apparently Blue had picked up on his distancing and seemed none too pleased with it.

She lead him through a small town square, and down a random path that looked like it led to a large area of gardens and plant life. The basket made sense now, she had planned a picnic. A picnic! He wondered where she had gotten the food, since he didn't remember any particular trips to a grocer or deliveries of food to her apartment. But, he had been away all night, someone could've come with prepared food. "John" had never seen Blue Tiran cook, and while he did not doubt her abilities with a stove, he thought those abilities lay mainly with fixing and manipulating its systems.

This place...is unbelievable. Who knew something this vibrant could have grown in a decade?

The reaction Ethan had to the gardens seemed to be a common one. Many people in the gardens walked with a sense of astonishment and wonder. Some of his steps were lost in translation, and he tripped more than once because he was staring at some natural beauty of color, scent, and atmosphere. Blue brought them to a wall covered in ivy vines, and simply pushed them away and led Ethan through.

They walked the soft gravel paths past much pristine grass and trees, perfect picnic spots for whatever Blue had in mind. Ethan thought it best to keep his thoughts to himself as she passed many great spots with lovely views and nice places to sit. When she finally stopped, he understood. The willow tree, with its hanging boughs, was surrounded in a sea of pinks, yellows, and reds of the flowers that lined and encompassed it.

Our spot for today.

Ethan nodded, and placed the basket softly on the quilt she laid down. She motioned him to sit, and he sat crossed-legged across from her, next to the picnic basket. He thought it was far enough to be appropriate, but close enough to not seem rude.

I made us lunch today.

Her statement about making lunch made him look at her, a mix of unease and being impressed fighting across his face for dominance. Without missing a beat, he opened the basket's top and began to look inside.

You know Blue, just filling a picnic basket with Twinkies doesn't constitute a "picnic."

He smiled at her, thinking that the joke was pretty funny himself. Taking a moment to make sure she thought it was to, he peered in to the basket.

You...you really did make food! Wow, I'm impressed.

Passing her a plate and setting one for himself, Ethan began pulling the food in their containers out of the basket and arranging them around them. Looking at the place they were, what they were doing...how amazing she looked...it was perfect. With a heavy sigh, Ethan sat on his heels and looked right at Blue.

When are we gonna talk about yesterday?

There. It was out there...no turning back now.

Blue gave him one of her playful glares.

She had NOT filled the picnic basket with twinkies. Though she had on occassion only brought a package of twinkies with her when she came here. Sometimes she just liked to fully emerse herself in the magic.. the beauty.. the nature of it all. And to be alone. But this was the first time she had shared her favorite place not in the lab with someone. Not that she was going to mention that to him. He probably wouldn't think it was a compliment and he would probably bolt upright and suddenly have to find a toilet or something.

Shut up and open it. I worked hard damnit!

She couldn't help but grin at him anyway. She couldn't help but laugh when he was impressed with her food making skills. She had gotten some chicken and baked it. The rest was pretty simple. Cut fruit, some cookies that she had made, she hoped were going to be all right to eat. Some cut vegetables. Most of it was raw, except the chicken and the cookies.

I have talents.

They got their plates and she helped him unload the basket. Her hair was catching the sunlight, and the blue and black hues were shimmering softly in it. She had to admit, she really loved the way that they could work together. But she knew that he didn't want anything like that. She finished getting all the silverware out so that he could pick out what he wanted and she began to put fruit and a little bit of chicken on her plate. It wasn't spicy as she wasn't really sure if he liked spicy so she had gone with a lemon pepper baste.

Then he dropped the bomb on her.

Her eyes widened and she looked up at him biting her lower lip for a moment. She obviously, had no idea what it did to men.

I wasn't.. sure you wanted to. she admitted to him. I.. I .. it seems that.. you regret it though. From your actions there after, and today. And besides that.. was it real? I mean, you had just finished reaming me for.. for a faulty trigger system when.. you.. then seemed to.. understand WHY and then.. you just.. that was it. You turned on your cold shoulder and I.. I am left feeling quite confused.

She hadn't expected the question.

It was obvious the way Blue's eyes widened and she looked at him, biting her lower lip. Ethan really needed to explain what the hell that did to him. Hesitantly, it seemed, she began to speak.

I wasn't.. sure you wanted to. I.. I .. it seems that.. you regret it though. From your actions there after, and today. And besides that.. was it real? I mean, you had just finished reaming me for.. for a faulty trigger system when.. you.. then seemed to.. understand WHY and then.. you just.. that was it. You turned on your cold shoulder and I.. I am left feeling quite confused.

"John" listened without a word, not letting his eyes leave her. She thought he regretted it? He should...he was supposed to...but he didn't. Scooting over the blanket a little closer to her, he took one of her hands in his own.

Blue....I... the words were so hard to find. i don't want to talk about this...this scares the hell out of me. That would be the first time Ethan Kelly could remember feeling true fear. It wasn't from a weapon, an assassin, or a doomsday scenario...but from a pale half-elf girl in a tank top.

Blue, I regret a lot of things that happened in the dojo...but...kissing you isn't one of them. I regret going off on you about something that was my fault, I regret giving you the cold shoulder and not having this talk right then and there...

"John" shifted uncomfortably, and kept trying to look in Blue's eyes. Her hair was shimmering in the sunlight, and he felt that her scent was only accented by the flowers all around them. It made her seem far more radiant than he had ever known, and he had to fight to not hang his head in shame.

I'm your bodyguard, this breaks every rule there is for us. I should regret it, I should leave my post and find a new city to work in...but I can't. Not when you're here...

He moved.

Her eyes trailed him.

He came and took her hand. She let him. Chewing on the corner of her lip as she watched him try to say what he needed to say. He was talking about how this was scary. She could only nod in agreement. It was. She was technically seeing someone, though she had been unable to contact him and she was not sure what all that was about. But this.. this was something completely different. There was what she had felt with Sol.. and then there was this. And this.. was so much more.. vibrant for the lack of a better word.

He promised that he regretted nothing from the dojo except going off on her. She gave a little smile and looked into his eyes. She knew that she shone most brightly in her surroundings. Because, being that she was half elf, her elven side really came out when she was surrounded by such nature. It was one of her favorite things about coming here.

He told her it was breaking every rule in the book. She knew that. But for once, she didn't care. She slid closer, and into his lap. Straddling his lap. So that they were eye to eye with one another. Her arms swung around his neck gently laying on his shoulders.

Then.. you're fired. she whispered. Because if it comes down to having a stellar yet annoying bodyguard, and .. someone like you in my personal life, then I'll chose the latter every time. I love fighting with you, and bickering. I love making you get angry, and laugh. I love the way that we know each other, and are getting to know each other little by little. I like that you tease me about my twinkie habits, and keep me honest with eating and sleeping and I really like.. your hair first thing in the morning, when it's sticking up all over the place.. she laughed softly.

Blue bit her lower lip, for a moment.

What.. what do you want? John, you have to tell me. So I know where I stand. If you don't want me, then, fine, I can just be Blue. I've always been just Blue. I'm used to it. So don't do it for just me.. tell me.. what you want.

Ethan was so absorbed in his explanation, and mentally chastising himself since it wasn't coming out like he had planned in the car, in his apartment, and the dozens of other times and places, he hadn't noticed she had edged closer. "John" finally did notice when she straddled his lap, planting herself firmly, meeting him eye to eye.

Willpower that Ethan did have was slowly diminishing...especially the way she chewed her lip.

Then.. you're fired.

He smiled at her as she continued her explanation.

Because if it comes down to having a stellar yet annoying bodyguard, and .. someone like you in my personal life, then I'll chose the latter every time. I love fighting with you, and bickering. I love making you get angry, and laugh. I love the way that we know each other, and are getting to know each other little by little. I like that you tease me about my twinkie habits, and keep me honest with eating and sleeping and I really like.. your hair first thing in the morning, when it's sticking up all over the place..

He couldn't help but laugh at that, and he placed his hands on her hips, squeezing softly.

What.. what do you want? John, you have to tell me. So I know where I stand. If you don't want me, then, fine, I can just be Blue. I've always been just Blue. I'm used to it. So don't do it for just me.. tell me.. what you want.

There really was only one way he could answer her question. His hands slid up her back as he felt the lacy material, and he pushed her in to him. He caught her lips with his own, holding her in a tight embrace as he felt her kiss back after moments of shock. As the kiss broke, they sat even closer, their noses playing with one another as "John" answered her question.

If that doesn't answer it...I'll be blunt. I want you, Blue. I love when you glare at me and smile, and how you send Albert to spy on me, like you're not checking me out. Chuckling, he continued. I love how you think you're my boss. I love that you blush like no one's called you amazing before, and I love that you have no idea what you do to me when you chew your lip.

He kissed her again, softly this time. He felt her soft lips against his and nearly sighed in contentment. This shouldn't be what he wanted, but Gods help him, he did.

Besides...its me, or CheckMate, and I'm not putting you in anyone else's hands.

He wanted her.

Relief was instanteous on her face as she looked at him. She was so glad. The kiss had taken her by surprise. Where she had expected him to answer with words he had kissed her and the words had come later. But they were perfect. Both of them. She loved the way she felt safe with him. Like she felt she could open herself up entirely and she could enjoy the way that they were together. She didn't have to be afraid. He liked her when she was covered in grease, and when she was all fixed up.

He just wanted her.

They kissed again. Her fingers played in his hair. Her stomach pressing against him. She could not help but completely adore the way they fit together. Hoping, that he liked it too. Softly the kiss broke. Their noses softly gliding against one anothers as they sat there together. In their little spot.

Then you better stay real close, Rivers. Afterall, you have to keep me safe. she whispered softly.

Her fingers trailed down his cheek. Softly running over it. Her eyes watching his for a few moments. Thinking about the fantastic moment they were having here and now. With her in his lap. And him holding her just like she had wanted. She licked her lip and then grinned.

What does biting my lip do to you?

She asked him curiously as she bit into her lower lip again, just incase. She wasn't sure what it did to him but she wanted to know. Depending on what he answered would depend on what kind of weapon it became. She knew that she would use it, especially if it had power over on Rivers.

At least, now she knew. Now she knew that how he felt about her. That they could be something, something special. They could at least try to hide it at work sometimes. If they had to. But she just wanted him to be in her life. Blue kissed him again pressing her body as hard as she could against his.

Then you better stay real close, Rivers. Afterall, you have to keep me safe.

She whispered close to his ear...that drove him nuts too. He smiled at Blue while glee still shone from her face by his answers.

I promise...really, really close. Guess I'm sleeping on the couch from now on then.

The soft touch of her fingers on his cheek made him close his eyes and just experience her touch. The perfect moment was right here, right now. Ethan knew it had to end, but he wasn't happy about it.

What does biting my lip do to you?

You really want to know? You really think I should tell you?

As she nodded her head, he let his left hand drift up her thigh, towards her pocket. She probably thought it was some sort of sexual tease...and it was...but he was after something different. He had a hunch, and he reached in to her pocket and pulled out her cell phone.

Depends...probably something similar to what this does to you. What does this do to you?

Flipping open the phone, the screen flashed on, revealing the picture of him, shirtless and covered in sweat, boxing at the heavy bag yesterday. His hunch was right.

I saw your computer last night...setting your owl to peeping bird...tisk tisk Blue.

I'd like it if you did... maybe you could convince me to share a space with you.. you never know.

He was going to show her what the biting of her lip did to him. And as his fingers slid up her thigh she thought he was going to kiss her again. To make her body sing the way that he did often for her. Still, it was not anything like she expected. Before she could stop him, he had her cell phone in his hand and opened it. Blue's face turned about as red as any of the flowers close by as he noticed the screen saver.

Apparently, he had seen the image on her computer last night, and figured it might be here too. She looked away as he teased her. Gently her fingers grabbed her phone and closed it. Swallowing audibly, she burried her face in his shoulder. Incapable of saying any words just yet about the whole situation.

Caught red handed, that was for sure.

Fair enough then. Blue pulled back composing herself as she pulled herself off his lap and back to her place on the blanket. She didn't think she could even look him in the eyes for the time being. So she figured they might as well eat before they decided what else they were going to do with their day.

She had used Al, often, to spy on Rivers. It wasn't like he was innocent, he had a freaking tab on where she was all the time. He had nearly walked in on her showering once, they had some close calls and she was certain if he had a sexy picture of her.. he would likely have it somewhere where he could enjoy it. At least, that's what she was going to tell herself.

We should eat. she told him as she picked up her plate and grabbed some of the fruit. Starting to eat it slowly with her fingers. She didn't always need silverware, and sometimes it was just a hassle. She had grown up eating with her fingers and wooden chopsticks but today she went with her fingers.

So.. what are we now.. John? Are we seeing each other? Or.. no? I know we have to hide whatever it is.. at work. she asked curiously, actually using his first name for probably the only time in history without a 'boy' attatched to the end of it.

The shade of red Blue's face defied her name based on principal alone. Ethan found himself laughing as she grabbed at her phone, closing it, and buried her face in his shoulder. "John" took the time to lean in to her ear and whisper softly.

You are easily the cutest thing in the world when you blush like that.

Removing herself from his lap, Ethan had definitely felt a bit disappointed. He was really enjoying her there. Setting about the food, Blue suggested they eat, and she promptly began nibbling on some of the fruit. In response, Ethan grabbed his own plate, and added some of the selections Blue had packed for them.

Picking up a fork, he sighed in relief. I swear, if you had only chopsticks, I may have died from frustration...although, my chopsticks teacher is rather pretty, I wouldn't mind another lesson. Smiling coyly at her, he ate some of the fruit before putting some chicken in a roll and eating it like a sandwich.

So.. what are we now.. John?

"John" brought his head up to meet hers, not just at the inference of the question, but also at what she called him. He didn't think she had ever called him John in the weeks he had known her.

Are we seeing each other? Or.. no? I know we have to hide whatever it is.. at work.

Stalling for a moment by taking a bite of his food and chewing, Ethan thought as quickly as he could. What were they? That was an excellent question. He knew what he wanted...but he was never good at the whole dating protocol. Then again, he was pretty sure Blue wasn't a serial dater either.

Well...I guess we are seeing each other, of sorts. We kind of have a weird case. I wouldn't say we've been through enough...dating-wise, to be boyfriend/girlfriend. I wouldn't mind getting there at some point, though.

Thinking on it for a bit, he realized that was a shitty explanation, and he really was calling the shots on it..and that wasn't fair.

Blue...let's just lay it out. I want to be dating you, if you want the same thing...then we are. If you don't, then we're not. I'm on board for anything...so long as you're involved. By the way...this chicken is awesome.

It was a little dry...but she never needed to know that. This was looking to becoming an amazing day.

Your chopstick teacher better watch out. I don't take kindly to competition.

She grinned at him. But truth be told, she had liked teaching him how to use them. She still wasn't even sure how they had gotten to this point. The point where they had gone from being bickering angry people, to liking one another enough that they wanted to be together. Here they were kissing, eating a picnic on her day off, with a full day to themselves. So she had to admit, she liked the turn of events. It would mean some explaining when Sol came back... but she was certain he was never that serious about her anyway. At least, that's the vibe she had gotten. They did things together, had fun, but there had not been love. But then, did she love John? No. Not yet. But she could see it going there.

So .. dating but not boyfriend and girlfriend.

She wondered when the line was crossed from one to the other. She supposed when they both agreed not to see anyone else. Because that she supposed would be the only difference. The comittment to one another and no one else, at least temporarily to see how things went. Until marriage, or not marriage. He basically said he wanted to date her but it was also up to her to decide what she wanted.

Thank you for your compliment on the chicken. As you can guess I don't cook much. My mom is the cook. She's heavenly. But I never much picked up that kind of stuff. I got that recipe off the internet. she blushed.

Ready to talk to him about the whole dating or not dating thing she took a deep breath. He knew that she had been seeing someone when they met. But it had been a little while since she had seen him. He was off on some sort of .. mission.. or something.. and she had not been able to contact him. It seemed life here in Librium was moving on.

Well, I want to date you too. So that should be easy enough. We just have to remember to be professional at work because otherwise you will get fired. I'm sure Knightly is dying for a chance to get rid of you and just used the assholes at Checkmate.

Blue grabbed a roll and began to eat it. She wasn't 'huge' on meat. But she liked some, and so she placed a bit of chicken in it like John had done.

This is my favorite place you know. Outside of the lab. It's where I come to relax and sometimes to just be alone. To let my inner elf out in nature.. and to think. Some of my best brainstorming gets done here while I'm totally and completely away from my job and the lab. I really wanted to share it with you. Even if you didn't want to be with me. I thought, you might like to see.. it's not all grease and parts and sleepless nights. Though those dominate. she chuckled with a slight shrug of her shoulders.

It had actually turned out to be a pretty nice day, considering the potential for awkward conversation. While they sat on the quilt in the little piece of natural heaven they called their own for the moment, "John" and Blue sat and chatted while they ate their lunch. "John" was genuinely impressed with Blue's cooking ability, and she was appreciative of his compliments. They passed the time with smiles and light touches. She made sure to remind him of how they should act at work, as if Ethan didn't already know that.

Discretion will be my middle name. Knightly is dying to get rid of me because I threatened to rip his trachea out if he interfered with your work.

The thought of that interaction on the second day he knew the balding, fat man made Ethan smile. "John" wasn't a cruel man, but he knew who he could mess with and who he could threaten in to submitting. Pierce Knightly just happened to be a big chickenshit of a man who could be threatened....easily.

Besides...he can't fire me, or I would be by now.

As they sat, Blue began telling Ethan about the spot they were in...it was her favorite, and she wanted to share it with him. That put a smile on his face, made him feel warm inside. They ate the majority of their meal, and after they cleaned up the majority of the food, Ethan shifted over to lean up against the trunk of the tree, and beckoned her over with a small place of fruit.

She followed, whether she was being hesitant to be cute and sexy, or because she was unsure, he didn't know. Either way, he found it attractive. Instructing her to sit in his lap, she finally did and he offered her a piece of strawberry. He smiled at her when she ate it, and kissed her softly when she had just gotten the fruit in her mouth.

Thank you for sharing this with me Blue. I couldn't think of a better place to start something new.

With that, he plucked a purple flower from around the tree, plucking the thorns off, Ethan slid the stem in Blue's hair, tucking it behind he ear.

Nope...doesn't work. I think the flower is jealous because you're outshining it...what!? Why you blushing?

It was interesting knowledge to know that her sudden.. date.. had threatened to tear out Knightly's trachea if he interfered with Blue and her work. So he really was looking out for her from the very beginning. In way, it was endearing, a bit creepy since she hated him back then, but endearing all the time.

Lunch was over and Rivers slid up under the bow of the tree and beckoned for her to follow. She blushed and slowly moved over to him. Not really trying to be sexy, but just trying to get used to this whole new dynamic that had taken over them. Besides, when he was happy, open, and relaxed, he was really that much more attractive, and playful almost. Still, Blue slid into his lap and he fed her a strawberry which she took a bite of before they shared a soft kiss.

One of those amazingly romantic ones you remember for the rest of your life.

He seemed to appreciate the place. And the meaning behind it. She could only smile. He plucked a flower and placed it in her hair behind her ear, claiming the flower was sad because she was outshining it. Never, had someone said such things to her. Her face lit up brightly with a blush. He called attention to it making it go that much deeper.

I guess, I'm just not really used.. to being complimented in that way. Normally, it's good work Blue, or get to work Blue, or again your genius surpasses expectations Blue, or hey Blue if you ever get needy come find me. I'm not used to people thinking.. I'm really a woman.

Her fingers stroked softly over the skin of his neck and his jaw. She wondered sometimes why he had cybernetics. There was a lot in his file that just was missing. Probably some sort of classified information. She could have hacked it she supposed, if she had really wanted to. But she didn't. She didn't really have the time either.

Can I ask you a question? she asked him curiously. Waiting until he gave the go ahead, and she would ask. What happened... so that you needed cybernetics?

He loved the fact that he could get her blushing, and then call her out to make it worse. It was just adorable. She tried to explain why she blushed so much. How she had never been treated like he treated her, it only made Ethan smile bigger.

You better get used to it, because I don't plan on letting up. I think its great that you're way smarter about almost everything, and that you can do amazing things with electronics. No matter what you do Blue...you'll always be a woman in my eyes. Just know that, ok?

Placing a finger under her chin, he stared her down until she nodded in agreement. She trailed her fingers across his cheek and neck, and he gave her another smile.

Can I ask you a question? Nodding in acknowledgement that she could, Blue seemed to almost tiptoe around the question...like it was a sensitive subject.

What happened... so that you needed cybernetics?

She thought he got these from an injury.

It was Ethan's moment to bite his lower lip, in deep thought for a moment. He had never anticipated a question like that from anyone. Least of all Blue. He didn't have to tell her, he could lie to her. He was already lying about his true identity. However, this was real, and he didn't want to screw it up with a lie.

Ok, I'll tell you, but you can never acknowledge you know this...its kind of classified. I volunteered for cybernetic enhancement.

He let that sink in for a moment before continuing.

I was a fresh recruit out of basic, hadn't had an assignment or front assigned to me. I got selected as a candidate and was asked if I wanted to participate in a super-soldier program. Fact was, we were losing the war, and it was supposed to be humanity's "last resort."

He made sure to use the air quotes with his fingers...he felt it added to the story.

We did have a choice: Umbra for genetic testing, or Paladin for cybernetic enhancements. I chose Paladin. Didn't think I needed my genes getting screwed with, turns out, that was werewolf testing. All I remember is waking up one day in a hospital and feeling like I could do anything. I almost could too.

So, that's the story of my implants. Anything else you'd like me to share?

He bit his lower lip.

She was afraid he wasn't going to tell her. But he told her, that if he told her, she had to keep it to herself. She could only nod. She would agree to anything. Listening with all her being as he told her that he volunteered for the procedure. Her brows rose. She had never heard of anyone actually volunteering. But he explained that he had two choices when he was in the military. Genes, or cybernetics. And he chose the latter. She would have too. She wouldn't want anyone diving into her gene pool and fixin' things different ways.

You volunteered, but you don't seem to have had much of a choice? Can you function without them? Or are they permanent?

She probably could have figured out the answer by just reading his blueprint but she didn't want to. They were having a conversation and that was important. A civil conversation. Which was a rarity for them. She snuggled into his lap. Laying her head on his shoulder. She wondered if she would ever get implants. She had thought about them, from time to time, doing them on herself. But she was no surgeon, she would probably screw it up.

Well.. what about your family? Your parents? Brothers and sisters? Where were you born. I'd like to know that kind of stuff too. You know so much about me already. I feel like you're still a stranger sometimes.

She felt comfortable. In his arms. Under the willow tree. The great boughs swaying to and fro. In the soft breeze that played with her hair. That made the curls move and softly shimmer around her as she lay snuggling softly with John Rivers. This was perfection. If there was ever a moment that word could be used it would be right now.

And you could.. ask me things, if you wanted to know some things... too.

She agreed to being secretive, and she listened intently, like her life depended on it. It was quite impressive to have someone who wasn't involved in the initial project to be so interested.

You volunteered, but you don't seem to have had much of a choice? Can you function without them? Or are they permanent?

I volunteered. The screened me out of basic as being a candidate, if I chose to be. That is, my body was resilient enough to handle brain surgery without...complications. Whatever that means...I don't seem weird to you, do I?

He laughed with her as she undoubtedly made a humorous sarcastic comment about him.

I don't know, I've never tried, unless you know a team of doctors crazy enough to try. Hell, if they turned them off, I don't think I could lift myself up, my bones are...denser....than everyone else...in the world. I guess that makes them permanent, but that's ok.

I don't think I was all that bright before the implants. Now, I know all sorts of things, and can appreciate things other than guns, women, and military etiquette.

She asked about his family. It made sense she wanted to know about them, but the fact was...

I don't know that much about them. My parents died in that raid around my base. If I had siblings, it wasn't included in my files, and I never met them...not that I ever met my parents.

I'm originally from a small town in Kansas...which you now affectionately know as the Wastelands. I hear it was nice, once. I don't remember a single thing before the surgery.

She snuggled in to his shoulder, and he played with her hair on the back of her head for a bit. They sat there, in a moment that last forever, and yet was far too short, until she looked up and spoke.

And you could.. ask me things, if you wanted to know some things... too.

I know, I was just enjoying your company for a moment. What are your parents like? Do you see them? Anyone else, beyond Neona, you have for family out there?

She laughed.

Oh there are some weird vibes, I just doubt it has much to do with your cybernetics.

She shrugged and listened to his story. About the doctors and how he had picked it. Because he was a candidate that would survive brain surgery. He wasn't sure if he could even support his own weight if they turned his cybernetics off and that was probably quite true. He told her that he wasn't all that bright before the surgery, and she bit her tongue for a moment before it came out.

Maybe one of them is malfunctioning. Sometimes you say stupid things. she laughed and nuzzled him hoping he knew that she was joking. She hoped that the way they bickered at each other wouldn't change. It was one of the best things about him. That they could trade verbal blows and most of the time never hurt one another.

He mentioned that his parents died, and she found her lips kissing the side of his neck. No one should have to live without their parents. She knew what it was like to lose a family member. Her brother's death had hit the family very hard. He claimed that he didn't believe he had any brothers or sisters, at least his files didn't say so.

I saw, in your file, when you first started, that you don't remember your life before the cybernetics? Is that true? she asked him curiously.

Afterall, that was a lot of life to lose. She supposed if he didn't need to remember his family or something then, it wasn't a big deal. But there might have been great moments that he was missing out on because he didn't remember them at all. Then he answered her question, he really didn't remember, anything before the surgery.

Do you ever miss it? The things you forgot? I mean.. would you ever want to find out? she asked him curiously. With her powers, she could probably get some stuff, but she would never be able to fill in everything.

He asked after her own family and she smiled. She did love her familiy but she didn't feel very close to them. Sol had always pushed her to try to make amends with them, but Blue just wasn't sure she would ever really feel ready for that.

My mom is really kind and gentle. She's an elven woman, cooks wonderful food without trying. Every Sunday, I go out there to see them. My sister comes too when she's in town. My dad is ex-military. He fought with my Uncle. Who isn't really related to us, but he has always been my Uncle. He has cybernetics too, I keep his up to date.

She closed her eyes and leaned her body into John's fully. Enjoying the feel of them not being nervous or awkward, or fighting. It was so nice. So perfect.

My mom just wants her girls happy, married, and with children. She has pretty much put all her hopes into Neona. My brother Nathan.. died in the war. My parents.. took it very hard. So did Neona. I was barely a teenager. Neona ran away. The loss of both of them, ruined my parents. They forgot about me, for the most part. That was when I really just.. started spending my time creating, thinking, and figuring things out, found out I have a knack for it and... the rest is I guess.. history.

Talking about how her parents somewhat deserted her when she was the only one they had left, you could hear the pain in her voice. She tried not to show it. She tried to gloss over it. Especially when she was with her parents. But that didn't make it any easier. She still lost her entire family at the same time. They came back around a bit more once Neona came back about six months later. But it was never the same, the damage had been done to the developing psyche.