Thread: The Manor (Mr. Quixotic & Malicious Lullaby)

Hawthorne had no intent to cause offence, or presume to know Harper, with the questions he asked. It was purely his own opinion, based on experience. Some women were independent spirits, who knew what they desired, and were happy to live by their own rules, caring little for the opinions of others whilst the vast majority remained chained to wheels of convention and unquestioningly followed the expectations of society. Tisch had a greater respect for the former, which included the Escorts who attended his events, than the latter, however there was a third type who excited him above all else. That was the independent spirit who remained trapped within the confines of conformity those who'd yet to receive the opportunity, or found the confidence to allow their true inner-selves to roam free. It's what he sensed in 'Izabel' that first night, however even now as he listened to Harper Collin's speak, and watched carefully her reaction to his words, Tisch still couldn't be certain if he'd gauged correctly, or if it were just wishful thinking on his behalf. The only way to discover the answer was to spend more time in her company. Not exactly an onerous task, Tisch contemplated as he almost became lost in her dazzling green eyes, and blinked rapidly to bring himself back to reality. A quizzical eyebrow raised with the comments about her boyfriend, and the fingers of his free hand tapped the desk, but he didn't interrupt. Only when she'd finished, did he reach across to slide the returned cheque into his top draw, and open his mouth to respond. The first thing which slipped from it was a chuckle if nothing else Harper Collin's definitely had a sense of humour and quick wit. Believe me, if I were that talented, your bra would already be popped, and panties laying on the floor, but unfortunately those are skills not even I possess. Certainly would have come in handy through High School. The man shot her a wink, then his demeanour turned to one of disappointment, and seriousness. As she bid farewell, he stood and inclined his head, his tone soft and containing a hint of sadness, which matched the look in his eyes. I guess this is goodbye then. It's been a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Ms Collins. When she reached the door, and stopped to speak, Hawthorne was perched on the edge of his desk, and his gaze met hers. You're correct, in that I don't like things too easy. Easy come, easy go, as they say. What I don't understand, Harper, is why would your boyfriend be ashamed of you? We all have needs, and wants. I don't know what you asked of him, but I can only presumed it's what you mentioned to me. That you desired him to take you, savagely, as you wished of that man at the ball? Tische paused, and an expression of amusement was the last thing to pass across his features before she exited the room. Even if you did consider him boring. Not the type of man to pathetically chase after a woman, and plead for her to stay, Hawthorne remained seated on his desk when she exited, and called out through the open door the natural projection of his voice carrying to her through the large rooms, even as the distance between them increased. That man still dreams of ravishing you, however first he'd require you to be totally honest with yourself, and decide what it is you search for. Not just in the moment, or for a week, a month, or a year, but for the remainder of your life. Who you want to be Izabel or Harper? The final words were uttered as she departed the Manor, and as she disappeared from sight, Hawthorne placed his head in his hands, closed his eyes, and sighed. Harper was certainly a challenge, but then wasn't that what he'd been searching for? ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Steve Kirk spent the Friday night alone, and pottered around the apartment on the Saturday morning. Even though she'd not stayed the entire night many times, ever since the incident with Harper it had felt cold and lonely. At least, when they hadn't been together, he'd been able to pick up the phone to share a joke, a laugh, and conversation, and in the past week he'd missed that. Finally swallowing his pride on the Saturday afternoon and thinking that they'd both had enough time to stew over their argument, and hopefully forget about it, Steve Kirk picked up his cell. As much as he'd missed the sound of her voice, the Physical Education teacher decided that on this occasion it may be easier for both if he texted, rather than called. Hey baby, I've missed you. Thinking we could meet for lunch on Sunday. Let me know if you're free. Sent button hit, Steve attempted to focus on the old black-and-white movie which had just started on cable. His kind of film. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Hawthorne's eyes opened slowly, and he stared at the wooden door, beyond which lay the world outside of the Manor. Less than a minute it had taken him to gather his thoughts. GEORGE. The assistant's expression was one of curiosity when he stepped through the entrance, and noted the empty seat which had recently been occupied by Harper. George was intelligent enough not to question where she was now. Yes, Hawthorne? Tisch raised his gaze to his friend. Harper Collins. It shouldn't be too difficult to locate her address. Please, forward a dozen red roses, and on the card, state that I will have a limousine collect her at midday on Sunday, for a tour of the Manor. Unfortunately, I didn't receive the opportunity to extend her that courtesy today. You could also mention that, following the tour, I'd be honoured if she could stay on and provide her thoughts on possible themes for my next event. Harper Collin's strikes me as a creative woman. Is that all, Sir? Not quite. Ensure my private number is included, in case Ms Collin's wishes to decline the invitation. I wouldn't like to be seen as pushy. George's smile matched that of Hawthorne's as the man took his leave.