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gwenpaint-blog · 6 years ago

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A Couple of Cute-cumbers

((In which PI and Miss Paint go on their afternoon Valentines date and adorkableness ensues.

@dilldaydreamer

Pembrooke

Your name is Pembrooke Ingleton and you are on a date for Valentines Day! Well, sort of yes date but light completely no pressure it's just a thing to do for Valentines Day date. Date-lite. With a lovely Gwen Paint even. The two of you decided on an impromptu picnic, you picking the mysterious location and her picking the contents of the picnic basket. You had an idea for where to go, a bit of a risky choice since for all you know she'll be put off more than intrigued. But! Well, an attempt is being made. You finish your shift and switch into a nicer outfit in your office that you thought to take with you. This was perhaps the first Valentines you've actually had...things to do even. Late afternoon picnic with Pain, late evening meeting with Fin. And you aren't going to think about how you spent the day before making dick shaped cupcakes for Rex or the flood of cards you've been getting today. God damnit there are probably going to be some more waiting for you when you get back in tomorrow. That ass.

But for now! FOR NOW, it is pleasantries! You get your coat and step out of your office...preparing to wait in the lobby for her to arrive since it seemed easier to meet at the precinct than not.

((Don't forget about the shorts.))

Pembrooke

Oh. Yes. That's right. The second you try to put on your formal slacks they turn into formal shorts. God....damnit.

Miss Paint🌽

Your name is Gwen Paint. You are excited for your casual date with Inspector Pemprooke. Earlier you had spent most of the day with Karkat and enjoyed romantic movies and popcorn and giggling. Then your moirail helped you get ready for your date by helping you choose a cute outfit. You pack up your picnic basket with the food you had prepared. Everything that would be tasty to eat at room temperature save for the drinks which you were keeping cool in a thermos. You also have some fresh fruit to cute up and top the drinks once they're poured. You pack some blankets as well just in case you get chilly. You catch a cab to the precinct and head in sending Pembrooke a quick text to let him know you were at the meeting location.

Pembrooke

You get the text just as you are heading out, creating that scene of you checking your phone as you walk through the gate separating the lobby from the rest of the precinct. Looking up, you smile. "Ah! Hello! I'm glad that you were able to make it. Ah...apologies for my attire. Grey magic. It is...how it is. But! Compared to prior worries I'll take it if this is all they're going to throw at us!" You eye the basket and blankets, good practical things. Yes good. Excellent. "Are you ready to go?"

Miss Paint

You take in his appearance and... well you actually can't object too much to the view though this is a cruel time of year to do such a thing to a person. "Oh dear. Well, at least they look well on you. I'm quite glad I brought blankets now!" you say cheerfully. You nod to his question and hold up the basket, "Quite ready!"

Pembrooke

"Wonderful. Right this way madame...well...to my car. It's uh, we're not picnicking here I promise. Just...need to get to the garage first." Smooth Pembrooke. Very smooth. But hey at least the garage is slightly heated so your legs won't freeze immediately. You lead her through a couple corridor's out into the closed garage where your car is. After that momentary debate inwardly about if you hold the door for the backseat so she can put the basket in or should you hold the front door passenger side...ending up with you awkwardly trying to open too many doors...you both somehow find yourself in the car as two people about to drive off do. Fastening your seatbelt, you give a smile. "Thank you by the way, for agreeing to this. I hope it will be fun!"

Miss Paint

You giggle and blush when he calls you madame and giggle a little more when he goes a bit door crazy. You thank him warmly as you put in the basket in the back and then deposit yourself in the front passenger seat. Buckling up yourself, you cheeks flushed softly you say, "Well I was quite delighted you wanted to. And considering the company I know it will be enjoyable!"

Pembrooke

Well now you're cheeks are flushing as you start the car up and slowly pull out of the garage. You begin driving through the city, minding the traffic and not seeming in a notable hurry as you go. "Anything exciting happen since we last talked in your life?"

Miss Paint

"Not really. Well, one of my bosses tried making chocolates today and red food coloring exploded all over. I helped them clean off their hands with some stain remover," you tell him, laughing a little at the recent memory. "They were very sweet and offered chocolates to everyone who wanted them."

Pembrooke

"Oh goodness. That sounds like an adventures. But I'm glad it sounds like it all worked out in the end." you smile wide at the anecdote. "It is always nice when everyone is able to enjoy a holiday in some way or another."

Miss Paint

"Mhm! It's certainly been a lovely one for me this year, and hopefully for many others," you agree warmly. Then you start peeping out of the windows, curious of where you're going. "Ah! I'm so excited for this mystery!" you laugh a little at yourself.

Pembrooke

"Same!" Excited...nervous. Same thing really. The car drives through part of the city until it gets to the gate of what seems to be a security fence as a guarded gentleman of Dersite aesthetic steps out of his booth with a flashlight and clipboard. You roll down your window as he peers in at the both of you, flashing his light to the backseat with a telltale curiosity. "State your name and business." the man says. "Inspector Pembrooke Ingleton with Miss Paint." you say back as you hand him your identification. "Expected to meet with Archival Caregiver for a 5PM inspection of warehouse 6-B." The man looks over the ledger, looks back in the car...then hands your identification back as he checks off a few things before giving you a slip of paper. "All clear. Have a nice day inspector." he says before turning to his booth to lift the gate to allow entrance. You slide the paper onto your dashboard and give Gwen a smile and a wink.

Miss Paint

A hand gently pats his arm, "Well if it helps the nerves at all, I am happy and excited for whatever you have planned because you wanted to do it with me." The exchange between him and the guard only makes you more curious and you peer out all the harder. "Inspection?" you raise an eyebrow as you glance to him again. "Inspection of what, oh Inspector Pembrooke?" you grin.

Pembrooke

"Oh. You'll see..." you grin back, feeling a bit more confident now that the most stressful part has passed. Your calls pulls up to one of the large nondescript warehouses and you step out of your car....wrapping your coat around you best as you can because cold cold cold legs. Chances are by the time you get around to her side she's already opened the door so you settle for opening the backdoor for her to help get the basket and blankets before making your way to the cold metal doors. Trying the door, it's unlocked and you step inside...holding it open for her. Inside is well..its a pretty big empty warehouse...got a bit of a chill to it but certainly less so than the outside. Dim lights make up a lot of it and inside seems to be some various shapes and boxes all covered with tarps and sheets. As you close the door, a small dersite fellow waddles up...his shell a bit dusty from age as he shakes your hand. "Ah. Right on time as always. Hello Ingleton. Hello. And hello young miss." the older dersite chirps as he adjusts his bowtie with a nod at Paint.

Miss Paint

You gather up the blankets and basket as he expects and thank him as he hold the door for you. He looks so cold. Darn grays and they're poor timing, they couldn't have at least waited till spring? You greet the older gentleman and smile, "Hello sir." You glance around curiously. It was kind of neat how big the place was. You'd never been in a warehouse before.

Pembrooke

"Thank you again for this ah...inspection." you smile at the old dersite, which gets a chuckle from the smaller fellow. "No problem. It's nice really. What with city hall and well...you don't need me ranting my opinions on that one again. Not with such lovely company. Come come...I'll take you to it...." With that, he starts to toddle off towards what seems to be a large dome of a room inside the warehouse, held together by scaffolding and rope and partially covered with large sheets of fabric to try to keep the dust off. However light shines out from what would appear to be the doorway and he leads the two of you in and...in a way it's like a small room within the room. Inside, the walls are covered with beautiful mosaic...glossy purple and black stones among gold filigree and gems as pictorial scenes of old Derse spread from one wall to another. Large spires all done up in tiny stone, to what would seem to be the depiction of lush forests of glowing plants and small black rocked figures amongst them. Another wall containing what would seem to be the old royal court complete with the black king and queen themselves sitting regal amongst a crowd of well dressed denizens. And the domed ceiling itself, a collection of dark stones glittering with the light coming from the lamps currently on inside...causing them to reflect and sparkle like stars. In the center, among the lamps, is another comfortable looking blanket that has been spread out along with a small bouquet of flowers. The old man pats you on the side. "I'll be in my office. Be good you kids and let me know when you're done." You've known him a while, enough to know he trusts you not to try to nick the stones out of the wall and be unattended. With a smile, you wave your hand to the room. "I remember you were working on a painting once...of old Derse. This room...it was excavated from the desert a while back. Recovered from a building not destroyed. I figured...well...perhaps we should actually sit down a bit and I'll bore you with the history."

Miss Paint

You gasp audibly when you enter this place, looking around in wonder you snap back your attention when the man speaks and you nod when he says to be good you nod wordlessly. Pemprooke has thoroughly stolen your words and your breath with this incredible surprise. A smile finds its way to your lips and you nod to him as well, your eyes misting up as you set down the basket and start to lay out the thickest blanket to shield you both from the cold floor. You wipe at your eyes a little as you sit, "Ah sorry. I suppose as a Prospitian I really have no right to feel emotional over this, but Derse is my home and seeing this... is very moving," you tell him as you unfold blankets for you both.

Pembrooke

You give her the time to enjoy the room in silence...looking about yourself. It had been a while since you last saw it yourself but even you can't deny it's breathtaking. Once she sets the basket down, you go to help her with the blanket. "I don't think an apology is necessary at all. I wasn't born here but to an extent I feel closely to Derse as my home as well. And it's well, beautiful. I remembered how you were working on a painting yourself and figured it would be inspiring for your work. As well as..." You sit on the blanket, looking around with a slight frown. "There's a lot of red tape and drama regarding this place. It was excavated...an incredibly rare find. But there's so much argument over what to do with it. Some want to show it in a museum so people can view it as the art and rare relic that it is...some feel its positive portrayal of old Derse is problematic so it should be destroyed. Some want to send it to Earth where museums have offered to purchase it for their own displays. A lot of...big suits arguing about it. So here it sits...gathering dust." Your smile returns. "It's why my friend was willing to let me do an 'inspection', it's...lovely. A shame that few eyes get to ever see it. So it's nice that at least there's someone else who can sit and appreciate it."

Miss Paint

It hurts your heart that bureaucracy and most likely Prospit bullcrap is putting this beautiful history at risk. But as much as it hurts and angers you, you don't want to ruin this time with him. It also would likely be unwise to show how anti-Prospit you are to a man of the law even if he might be sympathetic to your feelings. "I... I really hope they put it in a museum here... It... It just feels wrong to destroy or send away what belongs to Derse...." is the most you say on the matter before you sigh. You summon a smile and look around once more, secretly committing the images around you to memory as you are fully intending to keep the history of Derse alive if it's conquerors intend to destroy it at every turn. "This is really truly wonderful..." you say looking back to him speaking with a great deal of feeling. "Thank you for letting me see this..." "I suppose it's now my turn but I am unsure I can match you in the excellence of your surprise," you say as you open the picnic basket and start to take items out.

Pembrooke

"Same." you nod, looking up at the sparkling dome above the two of you. "I don't think it is any sort of secret my stance regarding the former monarchy but...it feels like it would be a crime to destroy such a significant piece of history. Or to send it away...it's a part of this planet's history for better or worse. It should be here for it's people. Something to be viewed and appreciated..." A shake of your head and a chuckle. "It is one of the reasons I suggested to bring some art supplies. That said, you are welcome to take some photos as well. Goodness knows Archival and I and a few others have already. Just in case. Just...well...the location is confidential. The last thing any of us want is for this to go public and some group come to deface it or steal it to sell off. I'm...I'm really hopeful that it will have it's chance to be freed to allow public viewing one day." You decide to stop rambling, if only because you worry this is going to end up depressing. Which is the opposite goal of this afternoon. So instead you turn your focus to the picnic contents with genuine curiosity and interest.

Miss Paint

You scoot a little closer to him to share warmth and the food more easily. "I really hope you are successful in convincing those who need convincing... And thank you. I will but now it's time to eat," you say wanting to bring back the good cheer. After all Pembrooke had been so kind as to go out of his way to share this with you. You really hope the food stacks up. "So we have~ butternut squash greek salad," "Pumpkin sandwiches," "A fancy citrus and strawberry mocktail! which is just a cocktail with no liquor so this is basically a smoothie," "And lastly for dessert, upside-down apple and cinnamon pie!" You lay all the items out for you both and get the cutting board and chop some strawberries for garnish on the drinks. You look to Pembrooke and do a little jazz hand gesture as you blush and say, "Ta da~"

Pembrooke

There is an excited "oh my goodness!" to each reveal, your face lighting up more and more until the dessert. "This all looks...amazing! Goodness! I love it. You've beyond matched me, or perhaps it is the perfect pairing of scene and food." Sorry Fin, you're going to have no room in your stomach for anything dinner-like. "Thank you so much for the magnificent feast yo-" you pause as your hand lays on something with a crinkle. You look down...oh! Right! The flowers. "Ah! I forgot. For you!"

Miss Paint

You blush deeply, "I'm glad you like it. I was a little worried going vegetarian for the meal but I figured if anyone would enjoy it, it would be you." The crinkle catches you attention as well and you look curiously in the direction of the sound. Seeing the flowers, you gasp yet again, "Oh my goodness, these are beautiful! Pembrooke you are too sweet!" You are very glad that you actually brought him a gift as well.

Pembrooke

"Truth be told, I tend to lean heavily to vegetarian. Not that I'm horrifically opposed to meat but for the most part...I find it largely unappealing. Sort of an omnivore by necessity." Because face it, food is expensive in Derse much less anything akin to fresh produce. Or really anything that isn't canned or dried. "I think you made a magnificent call." Yay, she liked the flowers. That was a bit of a gamble on your part...but you couldn't pass it up. Not very often you get to pay into the commercialism of the holiday. "I'm quite certain the sweetest thing is that cake over there." your retort with a laugh.

Miss Paint

He's got you blushing so darn much! "I'm glad. I've learn a lot about helping canned or dried vegetables better, but it's hard to beat fresh even with how expensive it can be. It's one of the few things I can make my frugal heart buy," you laugh a little. You hold the flowers for a moment, smiling at them. "I've never been given flowers before... The feeling is really wonderful... Oh! And I got something for you too actually!" you say as you set the flowers out of the way and safe from being crushed and you reach into the bottom of the basket and pull out a little box wrapped in simple brown paper. You offer it to him, "I hope you like it."

Pembrooke

"Too true. Fresh fruits and veggies are probably the biggest dent in my paystub.." you laugh. At her comment, you suddenly feel a bit guilty for not getting a fancier bouquet. You honestly thought she was someone who had been gifted flowers before. But any self deprecating conflict is forgotten as you see her pull out a small box. "...oh! Oh thank you." you smile wide as you carefully start to unwrap it. You weren't expecting a gift at all, so this is quite pleasant!

Miss Paint

Inside the box is a pretty handsome teal bowtie! You picked it because you thought the cool color would look lovely on him "How do you like it?" you ask with a nervous smile.

Pembrooke

Your eyes light up. "Oh! It's so cute! I love it!" you beam as your thumb traces along the pattern. "Ahhh! Thank you so much! It's wonderful!"

Miss Paint

Your smile is pure happiness at his delight. "I'm very glad. Bowties suit you so well so I thought it might be something that is nice to have many options with," you say. You then get out plates and utensils and ask him, "Ready for a particularly squash themed meal? Well, squash themed aside from the dessert."

Pembrooke

You have a sudden desire to buy more bowties. But! For now, squash squash squash and picnic! Tucking your legs up closer to you, you make yourself more comfortable on the blanket with a nod. "I am always ready for squash themed meals. Born ready for them."

Miss Paint

You giggle and serve the food for the two of you, passing him a fork you ask, "So, what's the best vegetable aside from pumpkin?"

Pembrooke

You accept the fork with a smile and laugh. "Oh goodness. Bringing in the difficult questions here. I mean...most all of them are good in their own time and place. Like leeks? Amazing...potato and leek soup is divine. But cauliflower is nice...and artichokes...I've yet to meet a potato or carrot I didn't like. And yes...my nickname I guess is fitting because cucumbers and pickles are delightful. Zucchini as well..." You pause. "Perhaps I should have just listed the ones I don't like. Heh...what about you? Any favorites?"

Miss Paint

"Well potatoes of course, corn is delightful too. Asparagus is very tasty and peas of all kinds are yummy! I think there is only one vegetable that i can't seem to like no matter how hard i try," you admit to him as you start to nibble your salad.

Pembrooke

"Mmm." you nod and nibble your own food as she speaks. Once your mouth is clear you finally speak. "Same. For me, it is okra. It's so vile. Slimy. Just blugh....the worst in my opinion. It's like the hagfish of plants."

Miss Paint

"It's tasty in jambalaya. For me it's broccoli. I can't stand the taste. It so sulfery" you say as you laugh over his description of okra.

Pembrooke

"We now know one another's vegetable weakness. Excellent." you grin before taking another bite, enjoying the taste. You are quite certain Paint could open her own restaurant...and you'd end up a poor man because of it. "This is really good. My utmost compliments to the chef."

Miss Paint

And thus the blush returns and you smile shyly as you say, "I heard they made it for someone they like quite a bit..."

Pembrooke

Oh. That leaves you without a counter, as you awkwardly titter with your cheeks growing flush. "Ah....hah ha." How do you even follow up a line like that. "Ah. Perhaps then...at some point I should try to make something for someone I like quite a bit...ah hahhah..."

Miss Paint

You blush more and pat his arm softly, "Maybe I could teach you, i-if you like..." You stuff your face a little to ensure you can't add on some terrible fumbling words to that offer.

Pembrooke

A pause, then a smile. "That'd be nice. At some point I'd love that."

Miss Paint

You return his smile as your heart does all those fluttery things. You continue to eat gazing around thoughtfully, but his eyes keep calling yours back to them. The desire to kiss him is there and making your chest pound, but would he want to kiss you in return? "I saw you like to dance online. I learned not too long ago and rather likes it myself," you tell him, face flushed still.

Pembrooke

You eat and glance around, enjoying the food but also having that mental moment of wishing you had made yourself a list of conversation topics. What if things go quiet for too long and it gets awkward? Bad planning on your part. Then again pulling out a sheet of paper full of conversation subjects may also be equally awkward. So you're a bit relieved when she brings up the conversation of dancing. With a nod you finish your current bite of food before responding. "Oh. I do. Well, in the sense what I've been learning is fun. Haven't had much chance to really put it to the test. Ah heh...I suppose dancing in lessons or by one's lonesome is a very different beast than in a large public area."

Miss Paint

"It's a little intimidating I admit to be on a public dance floor, but also the energy of everyone is wonderfully invigorating!" you say with a smile. "At least at the dance hall I went to everyone was quite kind and encouraging." You pause for a moment then stutteringly you ask, "W-w-would you like to....? D-dance with me I mean"

Pembrooke

That makes sense in retrospect and with less paranoia...that the dance halls would probably be supportive rather than cruel to those on the floor. Though, oof...there was still something rattling about being around such a crowd of people and the risk of people noticing you. Though at her question you pause. "....right now?" you ask...then make the face of No you dork she likely meant later! There's not even music here. Also why didn't you bring music?? "Ah...I mean. I would! At some point. Yes. Yes that would be nice. I'd love to dance with you."

Miss Paint

"Ah well... if you don't mind music off my phone... w-we could... now?" you say rather shyly. Maybe it's a bad idea but, it sounds fun and if he's nervous in public maybe dancing more in private would help him find his confidence.

Pembrooke

You perk up at the suggestion. "Oh. That would be, nice. Though ah...perhaps a slower dance..." you look around at the mosaics and lights on the ground used to illuminate the area and just how much a tripping hazard could occur if you were to try a jaunty jig in here. "...I'm pretty sure Archie would have my head if I tripped on a blanket and knocked something over."

Miss Paint

You nod, "That's probably for the best. I'd be sick to my stomach if I fell into any of this. Now lets see..." you scroll through your phone's selection and find some pretty music which should be suitable. "I think I've got a good song," you say as you look back to him. You were going to dance with Pembrooke. If your heart could make delighted squeeing sounds it would right now.

Pembrooke

The music starts up and you nod with a smile before setting your now empty plate aside on the blanket. Rising to your feet, you dust yourself off before picking the most empty spot in the room for minimum risk of tripping hazards or risk. It is a pretty song, and oh goodness you're actually going to dance with Gwen. That sudden worry of how you may step on her feet or actually forget all the moves is bubbling up and for once you're sort of glad for the slight chill in the room because otherwise you fear you'd be sweating. Holding out your hand, you give a warm but perhaps a bit of a nervous smile. "If I may."

Miss Paint

With a shy smile of your own, you take his hand to stand with him and pray that your feet don't betray you. Please do not step on the inspector feet. You are silently pleading with them. Your free hand comes to rest lightly on his shoulder as you look up into his face.

Pembrooke

The please do not step on Gwen feet chant is in your mind as well as you lightly put your free hand on her side where you were taught. Not too high, not too low. Got to be proper here. You look down into her eyes and the nervousness slightly fades as you wait for the song to reach a point in which you can start with the beat. As it does, you take a breath and start to move with the music. Maybe a wee bit more shaky than you would have liked for your starting steps but the motions and habits quickly kick in.

Miss Paint

You follow his lead, nervous but smiling. You fumble slightly stepping off beat at the start and stammer a little 'excuse me' but you start to find the flow of the timing with him. The movement becomes more natural and easy and you relax and your smile grows as you dance together.

Pembrooke

Later on you'll likely reflect how romantic a scene this is, in the sense of a picnic for two in such a place, dancing a slow dance in the middle of an artistic wonder of Old Derse's beauty. Amongst sparkling stones of glittering images that must have take the crafters months to slowly place each and every pebble. But right now you are SO NERVOUS AND TRYING TO NOT STEP ON FEETS OR TRIP.

Miss Paint

You almost trip when the song end and you catch yourself with a semi-panicked 'Eep!' then you laugh in relief. "Goodness. Of course I managed to trip over myself of all things," you say good naturedly through a deep blush.

Pembrooke

You feel the trip and are ready to catch her, but she catches herself so you laugh as well as you let her go. "I'm amazed I didn't trip, must have been my lucky day. But ah...thank you! For the dance. It was nice, wonderful even. Have you taken lessons, or is dancing something you have a natural skill for?"

Miss Paint

"No thank you! It was lovely and you dance so well. It made me feel more at ease,"You say warmly. "A friend actually taught me when we went out for an evening," you tell him. "So I've danced all night once." You retrieve your phone and turn it on sleep mode then turn back to him. Brushing a little hair back from behind your ear you smile, "You really have a habit of putting me at ease even when I am doing something that would make me fretful."

Pembrooke

"All that in one night? Goodness you're a natural." you exclaim with a chuckle. You offer your arm, if anything you now have the jitters so perhaps this is a good time to walk around the dome to get a closer look at some of the mosaics you pass by. "Oh? Oh goodness I'm glad. I worry often that my fussing habits are going to rub off on everyone I meet."

Miss Paint

You blush more at his compliment as you take his offered arm, enjoying the simple movement of walking then snort at his last comment, "Oh goodness, no fear of that with me. I was a natural born fretter. I've fussed myself into a tizzy more than once." You giggle, "To an extent it's rather good cause it's kept me alive. But it's nice to be able to relax."

Pembrooke

"Same. Ha ha...same. I'm pretty sure my fretting has kept me alive a few times as well." you confess with a laugh. "But yes...it is quite nice. Relaxing." At least until you forget for a while and probably overwork yourself again but that's how that goes. Glance over. "You're not too cold are you? Not really the warmest place for a picnic I confess...." you say, as you walk around in shorts. You hypocrite.

Miss Paint

You cuddle against him a bit and smile, "I'm quite warm like this if you are... And we can return to the blankets if we get chilled... The view is lovely no matter the angle."

Pembrooke

"I'm quite alright. Just wanted to make sure you were as well." And even if you were a bit cold, you don't want to return to the blankets just yet. This is fun, nice...relaxing indeed. Even if you're heart is feeling a bit fluttered. The two of you stop in front of the mosaic of forests and fields, and you give a sigh. The loss the planet felt was tragic across the board, but there is that small farmer part of you that feels a particular sting at the ultimate devastation of what few native plants the planet had. You heard they were incredibly beautiful in their own way. "Sometimes I go out with some of the excavation groups in the desert. Part of it is that yes...sometimes folks of the city like to try to hide illegal goods in the desert..but I cannot deny there is always a small part of me hoping to uncover that cache of like...a grainery. Or an old flowershop. Or something containing seeds from the old Derse." Shrug. "A bit of a silly dream perhaps."

Miss Paint

You squeeze his hand a little, "It's not silly in the slightest! I think it's important that if we can... That we restore life to Derse that it once had... Maybe regrowth can bring healing like nothing else has since the war.... It's a beautiful dream... to want to see things grow..." You gaze hope at the scene, hopeful in spite of everything. "I think it's a wonderful dream and one I hope comes true...." you tell him as you rest your head against his shoulder.

Pembrooke

"Same..." it's all you can really think to say as you give her hand a small squeeze back, taking one more moment to look at the quaint pastoral scene. Overall, you feel quite happy being able to share something like this, to be able to pull your strings for something pleasant instead of another lead to a potential criminal den. "I hope this has been a pleasant Valentines for you. I felt like as an artist, it would be an experience you'd personally enjoy."

Miss Paint

"It was not only pleasant but exceptional. I'm really grateful to you for thinking of me to show this to..." you tell him as your heart pounds all too loudly in your ears while looking into his kind eyes. Then you remember, "Oh! I should probably take those pictures! I can't imagine they'll like us to stay too much longer since it will be getting dark and they probably have their own evening plans."

Pembrooke

There's a tiny part of your subconscious starting to develop in the idea of perhaps this is romantic. And the vague consideration of a kiss...but then it's gone as she mentioned the pictures and you snap to attention. "Oh! Right.. Right right. Archie is a good sort but you're quite right. Best to not dilly dally too much. Aha ha ha. If you'd like, I can start putting things away as you take the pictures."

Miss Paint

"Oh! If you want to. I wouldn't want to force the task on you while I dally about with photos," you say feeling guilty at the thought of him cleaning up while you play with your phone.

Pembrooke

"It is not a problem at all! I'd be happy to." you cheerfully quip back, already starting the task.

Miss Paint

You thank him profusely then set about taking so many pictures it's a little absurd. When you finish you help him with folding up the blankets and as a fold draws you close together, you pause as you look into his face again and a blush lights your freckled cheeks for the one hundredth time that evening. You ask yourself if you are that bold as to go for a kiss. Is it too soon? Would he be uncomfortable? It was a very romantic date along with the friendship of it....

Pembrooke

Each item is carefully wrapped and returned to the basket to prevent any spilling, and with her help the two of you fold up the blankets quite neatly...leaving no evidence of the two of you ever being here in the first place. Well...yes if you got your tools out you could probably find some evidence, you aren't going to be THAT thorough but for a non-crime scene this is a pretty good clean up job if you say so yourself. You find yourself looking into her face and that fluttery feel in your chest starts up again. Is it improper to kiss on a date like this? Does that feel too rushed or Valentines entrapping? What is the etiquette for this situation?? Hngngn... Like a cursed specter, your conversation with Rex the days prior creeps into your mind, the whole not doing the will-they-won't-they shtick as if an accusation that is your methodology. Hmm. Yeah no, time to be bold!! "Ah." comes the completely not bold at all squeak. "I was, wondering. If it's ok with you that is and please by all means if not tell me so I will understand because I don't want to imply or make things more awkward but would it be alright if I kissed you?" Oh yeah. Bold and Smooth. Like fine sandpaper.

Miss Paint

His delivery does not make the sentiment any less sweet and certainly it sends your heart rushing to the races as it were. Your flush goes from soft pink to bright pink and you nod. Later you take great pride the fact that you manage to say, "Yes," aloud and without stammering. One hand rises to cup his cheek, and you lean in nervous but ready as you pray you are not the worst kisser he'll ever experience.

Pembrooke

How do people do this in a suave and charismatic way? You have no idea because you're quite certain you're about as rosy cheeked as Paint's hair is about now. But you're also smiling like a silly fool as the touch of her hand on your cheek sends tingles down your spine. Do you keep your eyes open? Close them and hope for the best? Once again, you realize you have NO IDEA WHAT YOU ARE DOING. And suddenly you aren't sure why you were nervous about the dancing, that seems like child's play nervousness. Inconsequential to the sudden worry you're going to chip her teeth if everything goes wrong. Ok, okay....movies don't lead you wrong now. As you get close enough to feel her breath on your face, you close your eyes and lean in for the kiss. Something just tender, soft, nothing zealous or crass now....it's a first valentines day after all.

Miss Paint

Your own mental dialog on how to kiss comes with a bit more stiff orders to yourself as though there were a tiny and stern instructor in the back of your mind. Your eyes close maybe a moment before his and you feel the warmth of his lips pressed to your own, soft, intimate and sweet. It's a strangely lovely moment that on one hand is far too short and on the other is far too long as your mental dialogue of panic over if you are doing this well rages. You can't really tell yourself who pulls away first, but your smile is shy and exuberant all in one. Your hand lingers on his cheek a moment longer before you move it away. You really don't know what to say, so you smile and say the first thing that pops into your dazzled brain. "We should do this again sometime..."

Pembrooke

No smashing of noses or a clack of teeth so tiny yay as you enjoy the softness and warmth of her lips. You too aren't entirely sure if you pulled away or her, but you have a dopey smile on your flushed face and you're pretty sure if she was a spy you'd be ready to tell her all your secrets like the twitterpated fellow you are. She says something and you hear again sometime so you nod. "Ah. Yes! That would be nice! Definitely. Ah hah..." you titter giddily. "This has been...wow." Your vocabulary has been diminished it seems as you take her hands into yours. "Thank you."

Miss Paint

And that look on his face and his adorable stumbling over language sends your heart into a renewed bought of fluttering before the last had even seized. You giggle like a lovestruck loon and keep one of his hands held in yours as you gather up the picnic basket with the blankets, sort of on an autopilot or responsibility. "Thank you... It's been.... I-incredible... Y-you're incredible..." you say, not even minding the return of your stammers as you start to lead the way out without really thinking about it.

Pembrooke

"I'm pretty sure you're the incredible one this evening. The food was, amazing. You're quite amazing." you fluster and babble as you help her into her coat. "This has been-oh! I need to tell Archie real fast we're leaving! One second!" You sprint off for a quick second towards a small door near one of the sides, leaning in where Paint can easily hear a hurriedly said "We'reDonehadAGreatTimeThankYouAgainArchieGoingNowTa!" before you're sprinting back over to her with a nervous laugh. "Sorry about that. But ah..." oh no you lost your train of thought. "It's been amazing." With a smile you open the door leading back out and...OH RIGHT. IT'S REALLY COLD. You close the door. Put on your coat, THEN open the door.

Miss Paint

He's got you giggling a lot and you thank him profusely once more for helping with your coat and getting the door. When you reach the car you separate one blanket from the rest and once you and Pembrooke have both gotten in and buckled up, you gently lay the folded blanket on his lap to keep his legs warm. "I'm glad you liked the food. And really you are amazing yourself, it's simply the truth," you tell him and then place a quick and shy kiss on his cheek.

Pembrooke

You thank her for the blanket to keep your legs warm for the drive until the heater kicks in proper. Which is easier than thanking her for the compliments she's saying. Hnn why is accepting compliments so hard. You're trying to ready something to say when you feel a peck on your cheek, and there goes any words you could say, right out the window. Putting a hand on your cheek, you smile warmly. "...ah. Ahah. Thank you. You're quite amazing too. The truth. The truth indeed." With that, you chuckle and turn on the car...driving her to wherever she requests to be dropped off at. There's a few questions in your mind. If things get serious, you feel the compulsion to come clean about your race. Also the possibly conversation about Rex...and Fin? But for now you're going to kick those thoughts out the window and just enjoy the car trip and warm glow of having a splendid date.

#dilldaydreamer #long post #discord rp #((adorkable #((Bless your hands Mabs

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rifleshotsandflowerpots-blog · 7 years ago

Text

Leads and Tears

In which PI visits Jade’s flower shop and helps her grieve a little while getting some useful information on a murder. @dilldaydreamer

🌺 Shadow 🌺 (Jade/Skylla)01/06/2019

> You've not been yourself for [insert how long it's been]. Going out on a murder spree with Eridan, trying to find the bastard didn't help, especially when you didn't find him. Now you're moving about in your daily routine with silence autonomy. Your mind is just... blank as you work in your flower shop.

>You're not going to be much help if someone asks you more in depth questions today. @Mabs (PI/02/gT Jake)

Mabs (PI/02/gT Jake)01/06/2019

>You've not been yourself much either. (I'm going to set this before the meeting PI has with Droog since I expect after that meeting things are gonna pick up) Right now you just...are putting the motions in. Time to make busy, gather clues, wait for the ball to drop not even a couple days after the New Years Ball had dropped. And this currently means checking flowershops. A minor detail, but who knows maybe someone buying a couple dozen roses will give you a name to lead on...if anything it is what keeps you going right now amidst the turmoil in your head.

>It's only once you reach the shop you realize that oh, this one is a bit more known. It's Jade's, the last time you were here you were dropping off a bushel of succulents.

>The small bell jingles as you step in and look around, obviously dressed for work than pleasure, though the expression on your face seems more sad than somber.

🌺 Shadow 🌺 (Jade/Skylla)01/06/2019

> You hear the bell and the opening of your door, and you look up from your sweeping, mustering up the energy for a small smile. "Hello! Can I help--?" > Oh. It's an Officer. You blink and then you realize that it's not just any officer; it's Pembrooke.

> "....hello Officer Ingleton." You say softly, holding the broom close to yourself as you give him as much attention as you're able to with this haze in your mind.

> "Are you here for more flowers today?"

Mabs (PI/02/gT Jake)01/06/2019

>You give her your best smile, but there's an obvious fatigue and it doesn't quite reach the eyes. "Sadly I'm here on official business. Though...now that I'm here and thinking about it, I should get some flowers as well."

>A pause "Nothing you are in trouble for mind you. I'm on an investigation and was hoping I could get your assistance with something..."

🌺 Shadow 🌺 (Jade/Skylla)01/06/2019

"Well I suppose I'll do my best to be helpful then."

> You notice the tiredness in his eyes and hope he's doing alright; maybe a long night again? "What might I be able to help you with?"

Mabs (PI/02/gT Jake)01/06/2019

>You move up to the counter and look around, noting the displays of flowers and particularly eyeing fresh cut roses. "I was hoping if possible to get a list of sales and names in regards to anyone who had bought a dozen or more roses. Timespan from about December 29th till New Years Eve. I assure you I have no plans to harrass your clients, this is more for cross-referencing purposes."

🌺 Shadow 🌺 (Jade/Skylla)01/06/2019

"Roses?"

> You frown a little, trying to think if you did. You... can't remember much. You might've sold a good amount though. "Um, I don't really have names but I think I might have sales records. Though I think most people pay with cash so I'm not too sure how helpful that will be." You admit softly, reaching for a drawer. "Can I ask what you're investigating that requires flowers??"

Mabs (PI/02/gT Jake)01/06/2019

>There is a tiny twinge in your stomach. From the friendliness to Crew members, there has always been the slight inclination she had soft ties to the organization. But hmm... "A murder unfortunately." you say solemnly, taking a gamble. If she did have crew connections you expect she'll put two and two together. If not, not necessarily news that would betray too much information. "I have reason to believe the perpetrator had bought a fair amount of roses for the...eghn....event. Sadly though a fire has destroyed most of the evidence so I'm trying to claw for what leads I can."

>You tilt your head and give a tired sigh. "It's incredibly frustrating. And a small shot, but I feel set to trying to take it."

🌺 Shadow 🌺 (Jade/Skylla)01/06/2019

> Oh. Oh. Of course. He's looking into Aradia's death. Of course he would be; the fire itself would have caused suspicion, and who knows what kind of evidence the police found at the scene of the crime. It would be very poor form if the police did not look into it.

> You should ignore saying anything to him. You don't want to say something you shouldn't. That doesn't stop your hands from shaking as you pull out your sales record, nor the tears threatening to spill from your eyes.

> It doesn't stop that hurt in your chest spreading again.

Mabs (PI/02/gT Jake)01/06/2019

>The body language is noted...and you somewhat regret mentioning it now. That fine line of investigation and human condition...as human as you can muster.

>You drop what professional demeanor you have as you give her a look that is just sadly sympathetic. "....I'm sorry. She was your friend, wasn't she."

🌺 Shadow 🌺 (Jade/Skylla)01/06/2019

".... yes."

> That soft admission is enough to make the dam break, and you can feel the tears spilling. All the emotion you tried to bury, to forget for the while, comes back in full force, and it's a miracle that you're still standing on your two legs right now. "S-She was my friend; I loved her. A-And I never g-got to tell her--!"

Mabs (PI/02/gT Jake)01/06/2019

>You feel your heart break, as you pull out a handkerchief. Part of you wants to go around and offer a hug...but it also feels like it would be unprofessional? Or perhaps that is just the excuse for you not being sure how much physical boundaries Jade prefers.

>You opt for the compromise of holding it out as you gently pat her on the shoulder, leaving room in case she wants to go for the hug. "I'm so sorry. I.." what do you really say to someone in mourning. It'll be alright? That never sounds right. She didn't deserve this? No duh. You momentarily wish you had an Elliot to summon and speak on your behalf. He likely would know what to say.

🌺 Shadow 🌺 (Jade/Skylla)01/06/2019

>You're shaking a lot. You haven't let yourself cry for Aradia, not really. So to feel all these emotions immediately; it's almost too much to bear. You don't want Aradia to be gone! You want her back you'd do anything to bring her back!

> You ignore the handkerchief and latch yourself onto PI, hugging him tightly as you sob. You will be scolding yourself for your lack of control, but you just want to be hugged right now. You just want to grieve.

Mabs (PI/02/gT Jake)01/06/2019

>You hug her and help keep her balanced, not saying much as you let her cry into you. There is a bit of effort on your part to not end up sympathy crying...eyes slightly misting. These were often the worst parts of your job. Not the scene themselves but seeing the aftermath, the people hurt from what occurred. Being witness to the ripples that one's horrific actions cause.

>There is nothing for you to say, so you simply hold her, rocking slightly as you gently pat her back.

🌺 Shadow 🌺 (Jade/Skylla)01/06/2019

> It's probably at least ten minutes or so before your sobs are reduced to sniffles, and you reluctantly let go of the taller man. "I'm... I'm s-sorry for crying on you sir..."

> You mumble, feeling a bit embarrassed as you wipe at your eyes.

Mabs (PI/02/gT Jake)01/06/2019

>You offer the handkerchief again with a soft smile. "I don't feel there is a need to apologize. I have no doubt this situation has been well, awful in many ways for you. Difficult doesn't begin to describe it. If anything I'm more concerned for you, is there anything I can get you? Some water or tea?"

>You recall there being a cafe some parts away. You can't have a flowershop without some little barista sprouting up a block or two later.

🌺 Shadow 🌺 (Jade/Skylla)01/06/2019

> This time you take the handkerchief with a soft thanks, wiping the tears away. "Oh, no I'm alright... I-I think I just needed a good cry."

> You attempt a small but meaningful smile. It's a habit to bury these sorts of emotions down, but at least this time it was kinda nice to have someone to comfort you, even for a little bit.

Mabs (PI/02/gT Jake)01/06/2019

>You nod "I know it likely doesn't offer much comfort right now, but I do promise I am going to do what I can within my power to make sure whoever did it doesn't go unpunished."

>You opt to leave out the part where you suspect it's more a case of it being a race of who gets to them first, your men or Droog's.

"I'm so incredibly sorry though, for your loss. For everyone's loss. There's no words that can really make it better, but my heart does truly go out for those affected."

🌺 Shadow 🌺 (Jade/Skylla)01/06/2019

"Thank you." It's hard to say much more than that, but the fact that someone outside the crew, outside the family, acknowledging helps you, even just for a little bit.

> You reach back to grab your sales record, ready to give him what you can, but a thought crosses your mind. You... you shouldn't say anything. It's not really your place, but you have no doubt that Droog already knows about who she was seeing and since you and Eridan couldn't find the bastard....

"Officer... I-I don't want to get in trouble for saying this... but Aradia was supposed to see someone t-that night..."

Mabs (PI/02/gT Jake)01/06/2019

>You pause, and an understanding nod follows. "I can say with confidence that I will not allow anything said to come back to trouble you. This has been a tragedy as is..."

>The details of someone meeting is new to you and you give a concerned expression. "...I am going to take a wild guess this person has not been seen since?"

🌺 Shadow 🌺 (Jade/Skylla)01/06/2019

> You trust Pembrooke to keep his promise so you force yourself to relax your shoulders. "Yeah... she was seeing a troll; Carcha Cautus; I never actually met him, but Aradia spoke about how a-adorably anxious her was. She had met up with the guy a few times before. New Years Eve she was supposed to see him when....."

"....I've tried looking for him, but I haven't found him anywhere. I don't know if... if that meant he was involved or not, but maybe you will have an easier time finding him?"

Mabs (PI/02/gT Jake)01/06/2019

"Carcha Cautus...."

>You repeat the name. Something about it sounds incredibly familiar but you can't quite put your finger on....

>You tense up a moment, then pull out your phone to look something up. Something to do with browsing gifts for a certain number and trying to find cute shark themed objects and getting lost on wikepedia for another 3 hours when it hits you and your stomach tightens as another puzzle piece clicks towards that foreboding dread.

"....I...may actually have something to go off with that. If anything it's a name to ask the other shops as well...hnn."

>You exhale "I appreciate this Jade. And I promise I'll be doing what I can to get to the bottom of this."

🌺 Shadow 🌺 (Jade/Skylla)01/06/2019

> He figured something out; you can see it across his face. It's not your place to question, but maybe you'll keep an ear out on the police chatter, just to be on the safe side.

> Instead you give a small smile before pulling out the sales records for him. "I appreciate that Sir. If.... If you do find him, will you let me know? I just... Aradia seemed to really like him. I'd hate for him to really be involved but... I think it would give me piece of mind if you learned what happened to him."(edited)

Mabs (PI/02/gT Jake)01/06/2019

"I'd hate for that too..."

>You expect he was never a real person to begin with, but if he was you would put your money more into him being dead and buried in the desert or river somewhere as an add-on.

"It's at least a name to check the databases in...see if anything turns up there. It's certainly something. Thank you. If I find him, I'll let you know. But that said, please take care of yourself as well. And ah. Oh. I was going to buy. A thing wasn't I. Ah ta ta ta...my apologies."

🌺 Shadow 🌺 (Jade/Skylla)01/06/2019

> He seems a little rattled; well, more than usual. Maybe whatever he knows is too close to home? "Oh! Hey it's alright." You assure him with a little smile. "You don't have to buy.... whatever it was you wanted to buy today! I'm not planning on going anywhere so you can always come back."

"But thank you again." You say before remembering the handkerchief. "Um... you want this back sir...?"

Mabs (PI/02/gT Jake)01/06/2019

>You pause, and focus yourself. No sense going into a tizzy just yet. You still have more to this investigation. Though...you can already feel your unease being replaced by something else. Disappointment? Anger? Just....you exhale. "It's alright. Ah...yes please. Sorry."

>You take back the handkerchief and fold it away as you look around the shop. "I did want to pick up a bouquet for Elliot, something cat safe because Anubis is a terror like that. And maybe just something small and cheery for my office. Ah heh...I get a feeling I'm going to be in there a while..."

🌺 Shadow 🌺 (Jade/Skylla)01/06/2019

> You too, focus yourself as you don't allow your mind to haze over again. Be present Jade; you know flowers! Besides, it's the least you can do if you were really going to listen to the police chatter later.

"Well, daises and carnations are pretty cat friendly." So were roses but... let's not go there. "And a small pot of violets could help to brighten your office if you'd like? I could always make the bouquet and bring it by the station later?"(edited)

Mabs (PI/02/gT Jake)01/06/2019

>A soft smile

"That sounds wonderful."

>You start to pull money out to pay, more doing the motions than anything as your mind whirls with new information. There is a pause as you look up at her. "I really do hope...you're alright. If there is ever a time you just want to talk, as friends. No officialness to it. If you just need some company, please never hesitate. You're a wonderful lady Jade."

🌺 Shadow 🌺 (Jade/Skylla)01/06/2019

> Oh. You weren't expecting that; not one bit. You blush a pretty pink and duck your head shyly. You still don't take compliments too well it seems. Still, how very kind of him.

"...I think I will be, in time. I will take your words to heart though Sir."

> Sometimes it's just not fair how sweet PI can be!

Mabs (PI/02/gT Jake)01/06/2019

>There is another nod as you finish your purchases "Please take care of yourself, as much as you can. I'm going to do what I can to get to the bottom of all of this I promise. And I will let you know if I figure anything out about this one gent. It's going to get solved."

>You give her a tired but hopeful smile as you pick up your purchases "Thank you again so much for your time, and your assistance. I won't let it go in vain."

🌺 Shadow 🌺 (Jade/Skylla)01/06/2019

"I really, really, appreciate that Officer Ingleton."

> You return the smile, feeling.... lighter. A little more yourself than you've have been the past week. It's certainly only a start, but a start nonetheless. "Be careful, when you investigate this Sir. Be safe as well."

#logs #backlog #some time after aradia's death #dilldaydreamer

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