florianjace

[florianjace]

˙ ˖ ✶ Liliana

"If you can balance the ratios of all three then I'm sure it would be fine. Maybe do a little less of each, otherwise you'd just have an apple pie with a hint of pumpkin." Florian commented as he worked on his own candle that smelled like one of maison margiela's replica scents. This one was reminiscent of by the fireplace. "Add in your pumpkin and apple first and then lastly add your cinnamon. Besides, bath and body works has a candle with all three. So it's definitely an option."

Starter for: Liliana & Open @bhqextras

Event: DIY Fall Candles

Liliana was so happy that fall was here and she was able to smell all of the pumpkin and apple smells without feeling judged about how she could smell them all year if she could. She decided to attend the make your own candle at Sappho's. "Listen." She said as she looked at the person next to her. "I need some help. Do I combine apple and cinnamon or pumpkin and cinnamon? Because I think both ideas would be good but I feel like all three together could be too much." She mentioned.

[florianjace]

˙ ˖ ✶ Tobias

"I can, don't know about many others but yeah I was taught how to do it. Doused coffee? You know I'm not even gonna ask, I'll just let myself get distracted by something else." What he didn't mention was that he meant Tobi's pretty face, but otherwise he just ignored the implications. "We might as well do it, but it's fine I can pay for both of us if anything." Raising a brow at the question, he honestly had no idea on how to reply to such a question. "Magical? I don't know, but it's definitely worth the wait." he mused taking a few bites. "There's very few things I'd let myself call magical. I'll let you guess what they are,"

“what?  you  seriously  can  just  make  it  at  home?  bloody  hell,  the  only  thing  i  can  make  at  home  is  a  doused  coffee.”  he  did,  of  course,  imply  dousing  it  with  a  particular  substance,  but  tobias  did  have  some  kind  of  social  manners  preventing  him  from  just  saying  that  in  broad  daylight.  maybe  it  was  all  about  the  first  impressions  too.  “i  swear  to  god  you  just  listed  half  the  menu.  honestly,  if  you  wanna  try  half  the  menu,  i'm  so  down.  maybe  we  can  wrangle  them  into  a  special.”  since  it  was,  after  all,  on  discount  due  to  the  anniversary.  the  more  purchases,  the  merrier  right?  standing  in  line,  not  realising  he  mirrored  florian's  chin  -  tapping  with  his  own  finger,  signet  ring  flashing.  “outta  all  that,  only  had  taco  al  pastor.”  his  accent  did  little  to  assist  the  authentic  term.  “wasn't  magical.  was  it  magical  for  you?” 

in the end, though, he did also order the birria. following after advice sought. gaze searching the other's.

[florianjace]

˙ ˖ ✶ Dom

"Given your pasty complexion, I wouldn't doubt that it does. Wouldn't hurt you to actually get more sunlight." Florian rolled his eyes, slightly exasperated about the whole ordeal but he guessed it was a nice excuse to be out and about. "More like I'm using you as a human meat shield because I'm short and I really don't need to be going to jail because I beat up a guy who thought it would be slick to grab my ass as he walked past." Florian huffed crossing his arms. "So you'll do for now, besides I guess you might be better company than me having to stick this out by myself." @chcmpagneprblms

starter: (specifically for @drvioletmetcalfe, @s3renities, @tctteredwings, @kitsantoss, @florianjace, @lakeywinters , @theocooper , @mvximized & @kieranhqs ) but also open to whoever wants to reply! @bhqextras location: Riot House's Rest Zone

(this is a group starter not a group thread!)

"nooo, the light! it burns!" he exclaims dramatically with a hiss as someone comes in to interrupt his little sanctuary. as much as he enjoyed being out in the sun being sardined by a whole bunch of people, and how much he actually enjoyed loud, live music...he didn't connect with any of the stuff the festival had to offer genre wise (no matter how fucking dreamy hozier and his voice were, but you didn't hear that from him). the second the man discovered the little resting spot he found himself letting out a sigh of relief, sinking into the couch instantly and bopping a bit to kiss' i was made for loving you while asking for a drink...he didn't care what kind, just as long as it was strong. "you here to take me away? so soon? this little diddy and i were just gettin’ to know each other…" he's still speaking with that dramatic tone of voice, clutching his drink in hand with an exaggerated look of distress on his face, emphasized with a jutted out lip.

[florianjace]

˙ ˖ ✶ Gavin

"Knock yourself out," Florian said half amused as he watched Gavin pretty much wish to try on every little silly prop for the photobooth tent. Not that he was ecstatic about it himself, in fact he abhorred taking pictures, but the man seemed to be enjoying himself far too much for him to deny him this one thing. "I'll just be slightly to the side in the picture, don't wanna take away from everything that you're doing."

starter: (specifically for @mvximized, @kitsantoss, @florianjace, @lakeywinters, & @caddel) but also open! @bhqextras location: Photobooth Tent

(this is a group starter, not a group thread!)

gavin gasps, eyes big and wide as they scan through all the possible props available, quickly reaching out for the cut out mustache with a handle, beaming happily over at the other as held it just under his nose, quickly putting on a bowtie next and then putting on a viking hat and stopping what he's doing when seeing the plastic firefighter hat and snorting as he picks it up to show the other. "i mean i kinda gotta, right? would that be too cheesy? or just like...cheesy enough, ya know? what do you think?....man i coulda brought my suspenders ta match! or would that've been too cheesy?....actually kinda wanna put on everything at once, these are all so fun...so take your pick or forever hold your peace if there's somethin' ya want, you gotta tell me right now, or i'm doin' it!"

[florianjace]

˙ ˖ ✶ Andre

The pitter patter of their steps on the city pavement simply intensified those thoughts he'd been so desperate to drown out moments before. A confirmation of their arrival, a simple touch that provided so much, everything hastening the inevitable between these two...what's the word, frenemies, would be lovers, people so imperfect for each other that they're nothing more than destined to be bound together by a silly little red string. Regardless, it all came to a halt as he was met with two little furry souls.

"Why would they be weird about you having two cute kitties? I know people are allergic but just take a Benadryl and move on with your day." Florian giggled at the superstition but didn't poke fun or mock Andre. "Well, bad spirits or things meant to do you harm. Why do you think Witches and cats have been attached at the hip for years." Smiling at their names he planned to extend his hand so they could get used to his scent, and scratch softly behind their ears as much as he could once he got the chance. "So Treasure in Portuguese?" Flor couldn't stifle down his laughter at the idea of wearing some bridesmaid sweats. "It's okay just one of your shirts will be fine, but wearing sweats reminiscent of Juicy Couture is on my bucket list. You thinking I'd fit in those is honestly very romantic of you."

Seeing how Andre was with his pets warmed his heart, a different side of the man he'd never once thought could even be there. Florian found himself unable to keep himself from smiling, and as he got to know the two little bundles of fur for himself, he found that he could truly get used to this Andre. That sudden burst of bravery quickly subsided as he found himself shocked at his own actions, thankful for the shadows cast across his features that hid his own blush. And then there was that challenge, those sweet words just like honey on Andre's lips. Now he couldn't back down, and he found himself wanting it even more, staring down at those few loosened buttons that revealed that tight fit body.

"Perfect actually," Florian mused as he stepped closer to the bathroom door, letting his fingers trace the curve of his chest, the muscles Andre's shirt barely hid. "But you know, the more I think about it the more I think it's gonna be so nice how tonight I might not be able to say anything except your name, unless..." he paused letting his eyes drop below Andre's waist. "My mouth is otherwise occupied." he mused. And with that he felt as if he sealed his fate, stepping inside the bathroom and letting his pants fully drop onto the floor.

"Turn around, I don't want you to see me undressing right now," A request that came with the need to hide that ugly thing on his back, as he slowly let all his clothes fall haphazardly on the floor. As went inside the shower he extended his hand for Andre as he pressed his back against the wall. "Come, cause I know you're going to make me do just that."

As Andre moved forward through the mental quicksand of his apartment's lobby, he couldn't help but think, god, I hope Effie didn't see that. He'd never hear the end of it, and could almost hear her singing across the city blocks, I told you so! I told you so! He had to stop himself from rolling his eyes just at the thought of it. And he also had to try not to think about how she was also always right. No, no, he'd ignore that fact for as long as he could. "Oh, good. Sometimes people are weird about them, which is weird to me. Who else will ward off the spirits?" He joked, thinking back to his incredibly superstitious mother, who all but forced him to get a cat the second he'd moved out of the house. "Well, there's Tesouro, he's my old boy, almost 9 years old. Then there's Figgy Pop, Fig for short, she's my baby, barely a year old." Andre realized that talking about his furry children had sufficiently calmed his nerves, as well as the anticipation of seeing them. He was in his safe space, his element, he reminded himself. "Oh yah, 'course," Andre agreed, looking back over to Florian, trying not to think about him wearing nothing but one of his dress shirts, "I've got some sweats you can sleep in. They're from Effie's sister's hen party and say bridesmaid on the butt in rhinestones, but they should fit you just fine." As the elevator opened into his apartment, Andre's cats were already by the door, summoned by the familiar ding of the doors opening. "Hello little ones," he greets them under his breath, kneeling down to scratch them each behind the ears. As he straightened up again, Florian had stepped closer than possibly ever before, and Andre's breath hitched in his throat. As the other pressed a kiss to his cheek, he hoped that the dim lighting of his foyer and his complexion would hide the blood that rushed to his face. "Saving water, eh?" Andre smirked, his mind thinking back to every time he'd used such a line on previous conquests. The thing was, he couldn't tell if Florian was being serious or not— he was definitely the type to actually be worried about saving water— but the two had also been embroiled in hyper-sexual bad-faith flirting all night, so it could really go either way. Standing up a little straighter, Andre put his hands on his hips and looked suspiciously at the other, giving Florian a moment to admit that he was kidding or make another joke at his expense. But then, wouldn't it be just so fun to call his bluff? Andre stepped back and pulled his wallet and keys from his pockets, dropping them on the foyer table, and began to walk leisurely toward the bathroom just a few feet away, his prada loafers quietly patting against the stone floors. "I like an environmentally conscious fella," he teased, slowly unbuttoning his shirt as he walked, and stopping in the doorway of the bathroom to turn back. "I like the water scalding hot. That good for you?"

[florianjace]

˙ ˖ ✶ Vismaya

"I guess," Florian sighed feeling as if that word didn't really make sense to him anymore as any chance of truly becoming a champion or medalist were shattered by his parents. Medical professionals whose own hubris would lead to devastating consequences, it was laughable at best. "I'm a professional figure skater, and I'm also a dancer, they don't have to go hand in hand but it's what I'm good at. I teach classes for both but obviously there's a better market on the ice since dance is currently overly saturated." The ever so pragmatic Florian explain as he rested his chin on his palm. Looking out to the views, the trace thoughts of Andre surfaced back.

"Don't I know it. Pompous egotistical maniacs who think having a few muscles will sway minds." He scoffed at the idea, visibly rolling his eyes at his very words. "This guy is all of those things...but he's not as bad as some of the others, there's sweet sides to him sometimes. Yes, he's made me reconsider my stance, cause I don't know there might be something there and I might be a bit too rigid sometimes." he sighed. "Thing is, there's not a chance he's the dating type, I think one night stands are more his thing, and they're definitely not for me."

"There is no manual to dating and life in general, but I don't want to just spread my legs to the whole of New York, besides there's crazy people out there." Besides the reservations on promiscuity, there was also the giant reminder on his back, that ugly scar that made him feel heavily unwanted. "Probably good, if anything he's good conversation."

In true therapist fashion, Vismaya listened intently and nodded as Florian spoke, letting him work out his thoughts through speaking instead of bombarding him with questions. She could tell that there were many layers to the sweet boy and his aversion to dating, but she would proceed with caution, processing each layer with careful precision, lest she scare him off entirely. "An athlete, wow," she remarked, genuinely impressed. Her dark brows rose and she leaned forward a bit in her seat, "Do tell! What kind of athleticism do you partake in? I'd love to hear about it, if you're comfortable expanding." She, herself, grew up in and out of dance class, depending on the whims of her mother, so the topic of any sort of athleticism always made her perk up like the ears of an excited dog. Ah, a guy. There's always a guy. Vismaya nodded, a thoughtful countenance on her soft features. And of course she noticed that kittenish ghost of a smile on the boys lips when he spoke about this illusive guy, but she decided not to comment. "Ah, trust me, I know the type. New York is crawling with them," she sympathizes, letting out a good-natured laugh at the thought of such neanderthals-- of course, being the fantastic sex & relationship therapist that she is, she wouldn't call them neanderthals... perhaps, confused, or... insecure. "Hm. So, this guy... his ego aside, has he made you reconsider your reservations toward a traditional date?" She asks, before elaborating to cover some of the bases on the topic. "And, you know, it's not at all abnormal to feel averse to traditional dates. To some, dates are casual, laid back, and to others, dates are vulnerable, and high-pressure." Vismaya shrugs, hoping that Florian doesn't feel that she is on the team of his friends-- magnanimous as they may be, her goal is to help Florian find his endgame, and figure out what steps to take to achieve such goals. "However, if, hypothetically, this guy... maybe, you guys are having a good time, out with friends, and he asks you out for a drink. How do you think that would make you feel?"

[florianjace]

˙ ˖ ✶ Xenia

"Selena it is, and besides she's one of the greatest artists of all time. Her music still charts to this day, she's a national treasure, hell international as even people world wide are gearing up to beat Yolanda's ass." Flor decided not to comment on the happy memories of Xenia's parents, he simply smiled at the idea of the happy couple. He himself didn't really have those great fond memories to look back on and was just left with more disappointment than anything else. "Thanks, my back is just not doing the best right now because I might've over exerted myself on the ice yesterday." he said feeling a bit sheepish about the whole thing. "Well you're my sister, sort of, so of course I love spending time with you, I'm here for you no matter what."

Xenia's smile softened, a touch of nostalgia flickering in her eyes as Florian mentioned Selena. "You know, I’d like to think they did meet to a Selena song. My mom used to play her all the time when I was little. We’d dance together in the kitchen... It’s one of the few memories I have left of them. So yeah, let’s go with Selena," she said, her voice warm yet tinged with a hint of bittersweetness. When Florian suggested she go dance without him, Xenia shook her head gently, her gaze full of understanding. She knew of his issues with his back. "Honestly, I’m more than happy to hang out here with you. We don’t need to be on the dance floor to enjoy the night, right? We can just talk; listen to the music..." she said, leaning back slightly but still focused on him. "I’m really glad we’re here together, Florian. It’s been awhile since I’ve felt this relaxed. And I wouldn’t want to spend it with anyone else."

[florianjace]

˙ ˖ ✶ Andre

Florian snorted watching Andre's reaction, and there was just something intoxicatingly satisfying out of getting a rise out of this man. Flor was entirely positive it was because he just in a state of eternal annoyance thanks to the man, so giving it back just felt delicious. Although, right now that thin line between annoyance and yearning was blurring with each passing second. The thought of being entirely alone with Andre promised too much. Too many unspoken words that had been left clinging in the air now swayed back and forth between their lips, itching to get closer as if only to taste. Whatever walls he'd been putting up his entire life, somehow this one man had found the most minuscule crack and slithered in. His snake like tongue all too fetching.

Seeking safety and comfort in Andre had never crossed his mind, not once. As the man's calls grew louder his grip on Andre drew tighter, closing the space between their bodies, feeling all the muscle and sinew of man pressed against him. At a loss for words, he simply followed suit, all too enamored with the concept of holding his hand, and the stringent confusion that came soon after. "Okay," he responded, unsure of what to say as his thumb kept brushing Andre's hand. Why did it feel good, or even...right? As their hands unlatched he felt a stinging sorrow as the ghost of his touch lingered, but he digressed, not wanting his mind to continue with the cacophony of thoughts of wanting him, of all people. Seeing Andre go through the motions of bringing Flor up, he studied all the haphazard ways his hands moved and how his lips curved, his lips. Florian couldn't shake his eyes from those sweet curves of decadence that had been plaguing his thoughts. "Oh I love cats, what are their names?" he mused, grateful for the distraction but was quickly met with another worrisome discovery. "Uh, I need a shower, but I don't have any clothes, could you lend me some?" he asked.

Taking in the fact that he was now in Andre's apartment, he couldn't help but peruse all the things his eyes caught sight of. It was luxury and pretty neat, not the party flat he truly believed this man owned. A surprising smile made his way up to his features as he turned to face Andre and drew closer to him. Standing on his tip toes he pressed his lips on the man's cheek. "Thanks for coming to my rescue, and um...this is awkward but I believe in saving as much water as possible, so would like to shower together?"

Andre rolled his eyes to the heavens and back at Florian's comment, and it caused a tingly anticipation to rise in his chest, the anxiety fluttering beneath his ribcage. Deep in the recesses of his mind, Andre had thought about doing diabolical things with and to Florian, but he had set a firm boundary, telling himself that the boy was annoying, naive, 'not his type'. And then came tonight, and as the late summer, humid, sobering New York air hits him like a brick wall, Andre realizes that this jenga tower of a dance they had been doing for weeks was getting flimsier with every move-- entirely unhelped by the fact that he is literally walking the boy back to his apartment. Lost in tempestuous thoughts -- anxious and unsavory alike -- Andre is yanked from his distraction when he hears the unmistakable sound of some jackass following behind them, making deplorable comments at Florian. His ears perk up, and his muscles tense, preparing to wholly knock the lights out of this asshole. He's just about to turn around and confront the man when he feels a smaller hand slip into his own. There it is again, that cold, enticing panic somewhere deep beneath his ribcage, blossoming, spreading all over his body in a tingling sensation. He looks down at their connected hands, and then to Florian, his eyes wide as he listens to the boy's words. Taking too-long to process what he's just said, he just nods, continuing along the path to his apartment, even though he feels like he's on another planet. "S' alright," is all he can say as they approach the corner, and he stops to look in all directions before continuing across the street, all the while hyper-focused on Florian's hand in his. "Uhm. It's just at the end of this block, my building." The closer that Andre's building got, the faster his heart rate. But, he always felt a little lighter once coming into his apartment building, especially because it means he's just that closer to seeing his cats. As they approached the building, Andre reluctantly let go of Florian's hand, fishing out his wallet and retrieving his keycard, tapping it against the security system and then typing in that month's 5-digit code. As the doors buzzed loudly in recognition, Andre reached over to open the heavy glass door, gesturing for Florian to enter, before he led them across the marble floors to the elevator. Once inside, he pressed the 8 button, and the elevator rattled into motion, carrying them up to the top-floor apartments. "Oh, I have two cats. You know, in case you don't like cats. They're good, though, they won't bother you, they usually sleep with me."

[florianjace]

If you would like to take part, all you have to do is reblog this post! If you do participate, please make sure to check the notes and send out memes to other members who are participating as well. Memes can only be sent out through the weekend, but members are free to respond to any leftover memes they receive past the weekend! Below are our selection of memes. If there are any you do not want to partake in, please specify that in your reblog. Happy meme weekend! Activity Reminder: Answering memes count towards a total of one in-character interaction for activity, regardless of how many meme questions you respond to.

MEME WEEKEND: 8/23-8/25

Starter Prompts: Boroughs Meeting Starters

Headcanon Prompts: Shakespearean Character Ask Meme

Emoji Prompts: Ask muse how good they are at...

Connection Prompts: Anonymously put a name in my inbox and my muse will talk about them while under the influence 🍹

[florianjace]

˙ ˖ ✶ Tobias

"I wouldn't know, never been, but I can speak about the authenticity of tacos to a certain degree." Florian was glad for the company and of course for the free food. A hot guy and a meal that would certainly hit the spot was not something he'd so easily pass up, especially when the man in question was as peculiar as he was friendly. "Usually I just get all the ingredients I need and make it at home, but this is nice too, hopefully. I think I'll go for some tacos al pastor, and maybe the bulgogi tacos, or hmm, birria sounds like a good option as well." he said tapping his finger on his chin. "Birria, then we can get the consome as well."

"Hopefully that is to your liking,"

closed starter for @lovemetopieces ; @mrmcrch or @ccrusso or @dcmwells ( muse of your choice ) ; @florianjace , @ the 10 year anniversary @ casa del tacos, queens.

note : not a group thread, just a group starter.

“yeah,  i  sure  am  going  to  try  every  single  kind  of  bloody  taco.  do  you  know  how  hard  it  is  to  find  good  tacos  in  england?”  and  truth  be  told,  tobias  had  not  been  into  the  depths  of  looking.  he  had  been  consumed  with  work  during  the  afternoons,  and  looking  for  authentic  cuisine  that  tasted  real  and  also  good  hadn't  been  on  the  top  of  the  priorities  list.  it  was  all  about  making  sure  he  ate  something.  (  at  times,  that  also  didn't  work.  )  these  days,  at  least  he  enjoyed  the  work  that  his  job  brought  about,  despite  how  it  still  somewhat  consumed  each  waking  hour.  “it's  impossible.  you  have  to  go  weird.  deep.  and  strange.”  that  didn't  sound  as  though  he  was  speaking  on  tacos,  but  tobias  loved  to  talk  in  the  double  -  entendre.  he  sometimes  didn't  even  realise  he  spoke  like  that. 

pointing  at  the  menu,  he  offered:  “you  tell  me  which  one  you  wanna  start  with  and  what  journey  you  wanna  take,  and  i'll  spot  you.”  one  of  his  love  languages  was  gifts;  that  meant  paying  for  anything  that  crossed  his  path.

[florianjace]

˙ ˖ ✶ Andre

The demure caress, and mindful placement of his finger on Andre's skin had the appropriate effect. What Florian didn't expect was the sudden yearning for closeness the second he sat back down, how every fiber in his being wanted more than to be in Andre's lap, feel the tightness of his body and how taut and strong his muscles truly were. The Adonis of a man a sickening temptation that drove Florian's mind to placed unexplored. He silently chided himself for feeling that inkling of want, that which he deemed a distraction and blamed the alcohol for dampening his true thoughts on the man. A daunting feeling of annoyance overtook him once more as Andre spoke, forcing an eyeroll out of Florian. His keys being misplaced was definitely not how he thought his night would go, and at the sudden offer his cheeks burned bright.

"What ever will I do," he mimicked mockingly as his eyes narrowed on Andre. "Thanks," Florian mused as he watches the exchange between his would be savior and Effie. How he wished that in those moments he could perfectly read lips, but the dim lighting and the clamor made it almost impossible to truly focus on what most minute movements. So Florian resigned himself to his fate, resting his back against the booth, as he let the scenery before him drown out any thoughts wishing to surface. "Cute, never been called that before, guess you've been thinking about having me in your mouth if that's the first thing you think of," Florian teased, walking in front of Andre till the door, so he could hide how truly flustered his features truly were at saying such rash things.

Finally, the hit of what could only be described as the smell of New York filled him. Just two blocks away, he reminded himself, a short walk and he'd be alone with Andre and thought itself terrified him. So as he began his trudge, following the man he stood pretty close. The bars and clubs acting like a revolving door of people as they spilled onto the streets, the denizens of the nightlife. One of which began tailing Florian cat calling after him as he got closer, instinctively he reached for Andre's hand, linking their fingers together as if to signal that he was taken. The man took notice and turned around, forcing a sigh out of Florian. "Sorry about that, couldn't think of anything else to get him off my ass." he said, but never let go of the other's hand.

As taboo as it might be for Andre to admit this, to himself or anyone else, he does think himself quite handsome, and ever since senior year of high school back in Malibu, his vanity has been a monster in constant need of quelling. That said, he's also got a slightly pathological obsession with maintaining his appearance; constant trips to the gym, getting waxed, facials, massages, a 7 step skincare routine, and spending just as much on clothes every month as he does on rent ( in the city, no less. ) On top of that, he has an unfathomable need for Florian's approval, so the comments on the alleged thinning of his biceps have made him consider leaving the bar and going to the gym right then and there-- and he almost doesn't focus on the heat of Florian's fingers against the skin of his bicep, but he decides to lock that away for his private, agonizing rumination at a later time. Andre raises an eyebrow at the other, trying to think of a retort when he notices Florian rummaging through his belongings. The immediate reaction makes him giggle, and he shakes his head in jesting dismay. "What ever will you do?" He teases, looking at his phone to re-read and confirm the contents of a text he read a few minutes ago. "Look, Effie was supposed to stay at my place tonight, but she didn't end up drinking, so she's goin' home. I have a perfectly good guest room, like, two blocks away. No need to alert the media," he teases, producing his own keys from his pocket, and downing the last of his scotch. "I fancy a walk back to my apartment anyway. Join me or don't, I really don't care. But we are in Manhattan, so your best bet with the nearest hotel is going to cost you four-hundred dollars minimum." After this, he stands, absentmindedly pressing the creases out of his shirt before stepping to the other side of the table to say goodbye to the rest of their friends. "You sure you wanna go home, Fifa?" He asks his friend, placing a warm hand on her shoulder. "I'm good, Dre, haven't had a drop of alcohol and I just want to get home to my cats. Besides..." Effie very indiscreetly flashes her eyes between he and Florian a few times, "seems like you two will need the privacy anyway, eh?" The girl wiggles her eyebrows, purely to annoy Andre, and he retaliates by giving her shoulder a gentle shove. "Come off it," he groans, rolling his eyes before resigning to giving her a kiss on the cheek and bidding adieu, doing the same with their other friends, and returning to Florian. "Ready to go, cupcake?" he asks with raised brows, twirling his keys on one finger.

[florianjace]

˙ ˖ ✶ Vismaya

Florian knew his friends meant well and they just wished to see him happy with some form of companionship, or at least as some of them put it get under someone so you can relax a little. He couldn't help but love them but he did question their judgment most times. "You could say that again, and I tried to be nice about it so I agreed to this instead of being subjected to more dates," he sighed, finding it difficult to say no to them. Florian hated disappointing others, one of his fatal flaws was the need to please those he cherished and adored. "I've never gone on a date before, so I don't know the whole rules of how it's supposed to go. All my life I've been training to be an athlete so there was little to no time for relationships. They were just distractions, and I still think they're not really necessary." Florian shrugged, feeling scar on his back itch all of a sudden, an ugly reminder of why he could never truly find himself beautiful no matter how many compliments were thrown his way.

"There is one guy...but he's got his head far too up his own ass to even see that I might be slightly interested." Florian spoke softly thinking about Andre and how easily he could get under the man's skin and it made him smile a little. "He's not a bad guy at all, just annoying overall and needs people to shower him with praise, so I don't think it would work out either way."

Vismaya chuckles, hearing that Florian simply wants his friends off of his back, and she nods in understanding. It's always an easier start to any type of therapy when the client is the one who seeks out the help, with goals in mind, but in this case, she feels like it shouldn't be too hard to help Florian figure out what he wants out of their sessions. She could see that there were many more things on his mind than on his tongue-- not an unusual observation in these sessions-- but it made her curious, and she wondered if there were someone on his mind, someone that his reservations with intimacy were keeping him from. "Well, despite their best intentions, it seems like your friends have not vetted these dates very well, hm?" Vismaya chuckles, visibly cringing when he mentions a ventriloquist. However, her brows raise as Florian admits that he's never really gone on a date. She cocks her head to the side, nodding as he finishes speaking. "Well, for starters, that's very understandable, not wanting to attend these dates, especially when you have bad luck with them in the past." She assures him, shifting slightly in her seat, resting her hands together in her lap. "So, I want to hear about your aversion to the dates themselves. Ventriloquism and ranch aside, do you feel like the action of dating is something that you would potentially be interested in, should the right person come along?"

[florianjace]

˙ ˖ ✶ Andre

It was alarming. The way Florian remembered that first chance encounter, dimly lit rooms and music that made it all but impossible to hear. Silhouettes of people milling about, and then there was this one man. Pompous, exuberant, indulgent, haughty, narcissistic, annoying, cute, Andre. His name sounded so bitter sweet on his lips, like the ghost of a kiss that should've been that very first night but as the events played out, he'd never admit how he wished to replay that same night over and over to see if there could a miraculous different outcome. Then he remembered the vexing words, the veiled insults in the form of compliments, and how Florian rolled his eye unimpressed, over the conversation but most of all scared. Terrified of what he felt in those very few moments where they were forced against each other in a crowded room, and how he realized for a mere moment, they fit perfectly together.

"I was about to say I could show you better than I could tell you," Florian smirked, knowing that all of his figure skating gear had been stoned to perfection and how'd he'd taken design lessons so he could do them himself. There was not a single costume that didn't enhance his assets, and how truly wonderful he felt on the ice. "Oh I truly must," he chuckled, playing into the game. "You really do believe all eyes are on you in a room, huh? Hope you keep that same grace and confidence when all those eyes see you on the ice, because my eyes will definitely be glued to you."

As he reached the bar past Florian he took a heavy breath, reading a text from his best friend that asked what the hell was going on between him and Andre. An assortment of emojis that signified any sort of attraction felt offensive in this instance as he replied swiftly and glared back at his friend. People were truly losing their mind if they thought he had any sort of interest in this man. But he was playing this game to ensure he could hold something over Andre Etienne Temple. As he walked back he let his fingers travel up and down Andre's arm, exploring the so called bicep the man had been flexing prior. "Hmm, just as I thought, very skinny, needs a lot of work," he giggled before sitting down with another drink.

At the rebuttal he simply smiled, looking at Andre from over his drink. "It's simple, you'd love to have a win over me and make me admit that you truly can do anything, mister athlete." he teased. "I can think of a few things I want," he mused, his finger circling the rim of his glass he shot the man a glance. Rummaging through his belongings he felt a bit of panic when he couldn't find his keys. "Fuck! this is just what I needed," he blurted out as he stared up at the ceiling taking a deep breath. "Guess I'll find a hotel for myself tonight because I locked myself out of my place and my roommate won't be back for 3 days. First time this has ever happened to me, so don't try to rub anything in, Andre."

Andre was constantly perplexed by his own feelings towards Florian, ever since their first gritty encounter at a crowded party in someone's cramped Brooklyn apartment. It was dark, everyone was already drunk, the lights were low, and the introduction was brusque at best, but the air between them buzzed with an energy that Andre didn't understand. For starters, Florian was far from his usual type-- girls who drooled over him and guys he met at the gym. There was one long term relationship in his early twenties, with a boy from his senior data analysis course in college, but when he refused to go public with him after a year of being madly, secretly in love, and Andre had been sworn off of 'feelings' ever since. All he allowed himself to care about these days was work, hookups, his clothes, and having a nice looking grid on instagram. And Florian, in all his 5'5", figure skating, shit-talking glory, was a direct threat to the walls he'd carefully constructed. Andre was about to retort, something mean with a flirty edge, when Florian all but forced him to imagine him in a figure skating costume, the spandex clinging to his strong thighs, the pronounced curve of his arched back, the outline of his-- okay, stop, Andre, that's enough. "Hm, I don't believe you," he arches a brow, shifting uncomfortably in his chair as he tries to think of something less.... stimulating, "I guess you'll have to show me, then, won't you?" "See, I want to be insulted, but you seem to have a lot of pent up feelings about my biceps, don't you?" Andre chuckled, shaking his head as he smirked tauntingly at the boy. The smirk was promptly wiped away, though, at the taunting whisper in his ear as Florian got up to get himself another drink. ET? Part of him knew what that meant, but he wouldn't admit to himself that Florian could know him well enough. Andre pointedly had to stop himself from watching the boy walk away, turning his attention forcefully to the distant conversation of their friends at the other end of the table. He noticed his closest girl friend giving him a too-knowing look over the rim of her diet coke, and he glared at her in response. She just laughed at him, in that way that let him know that they would be ubering home together so that he could tell her in no uncertain terms that he did not have the hots for Florian, absolutely not, that's preposterous!! With a suspicious look on his hard-lined face, Andre listened to Florian's proposal, a brow arching at the terms of the bet. "And uh," the smirk returned full force, "What makes you think I want something from you, then?" He knows what he's doing, daring Florian to say what they've both silently agreed not to say, but he certainly won't be the one to break the ice (pun intended). "Alright, bet." Andre extends a strong hand across the table to shake on it, "And don't worry. You won't have to worry about figuring out what you want from me."

[florianjace]

˙ ˖ ✶ Andre

If there was one way to describe how Florian felt in the presence of Andre Etienne Temple it would be perpetual annoyance. There was always an underlying comment, a double entendre, a chess match in this never ending game of cat and mouse. Florian could never figure out if he was the cat or the mouse here. His eyes narrowed as he watched the interaction between Andre and the waitress, his smile suddenly souring as his mood dampened, but not even Florian himself knew what it was that he felt at the moment. Watching Andre grin as the waitress winked in his direction. He scoffed in response at the little flirtatious show before him. Taking a sip of his own cocktail, a fruity mixture that didn't taste like death and despair, he gave the waitress a glare before she disappeared. "Careful with all that Scotch, you're starting to sound even more simple than before, and that's quite an achievement."

Dance and Figure skating, there was nothing that gave him more confidence than the very thing he dedicated his entire life to mastering. "Figure skating when it comes to me, and if you're so confident then sure I'll even let you pick your own skates. Hope you don't mind children, the kiddos I teach are in the intermediate stage now and since it's not rocket science you should be able to join in with them like it's nothing." Florian mused giving Andre an audience to what he could only hope would be one hell of a show. "And yes I do do it, and I look really good in and out of the ice," he purred.

"Seeing as conversation isn't really your strong suit I figured you would at least try to be somewhat decent looking," Florian said as he scanned him over, and little by little he drank every detail he could find of him, and each time he felt himself linger more and more as if there was just an endless list of unknown discoveries and wonders to find the more he glanced at Andre. "I was simply observing you, and how you so casually like to flex your biceps when in conversation to make your shirts look tighter." Florian said getting up, coming around to Andre's side as he leaned in close to his ear. "And I've seen better, ET." he cooed before wandering to the bar so he could order himself another cocktail since the waitress paid him no attention. As he came back, he shot Andre a wink as he sat down. "Wanna make a bet for the lesson? If you pass my class I'll let you ask for whatever you want, and if I win...haven't decided yet on what I want but, what do you say? Will you take the bet or are you chicken? Remember, it's not rocket science,"

Andre could only smile, self satisfied, and lean back as Florian replied to his athlete dig. It was low, and Andre knew that, but his sensibilities had been dulled by scotch and the cheap thrill of annoying the boy across the table. Without being asked-- Andre was quite predictable after all-- the group's waitress dropped off another scotch, giving Andre a sly smile and batting her long eyelashes at him. "Thought you could use another," she said in an undoubtedly flirty tone, before winking and walking back to her other tables. "Thanks, love," Andre smiled, bringing the scotch to his lips with a smug grin tugging at his lips as he sank back into his chair. To his own surprise, the waitress- who he would usually be drooling over-- quickly dissipated from his mind, and his attention turned quickly back to Florian. Though he'd never admit it, the thought of an ice skating class churned his stomach into knots. He could lift, he could run, he could do that weird thing where you throw ropes up and down, but he had all the balance and grace of a dog on a tightrope. "Please," he scoffed, hiding behind another large gulp of scotch before he lies through his teeth, "It's ice skating, not rocket science. Can't be that hard. You do it." Just as Andre is starting to feel less wobbly about the prospect of ice skating, Florian asks about his bench pressing. Reluctantly, he nods. Andre almost blurts out a defense before he can stop himself, but he manages to keep calm. "Been keeping track of my biceps, have you?" he teases, leaning forward with his elbows on the table-- and if he's flexing his biceps while he does... well, no one has to know. "I knew you were eying me earlier."

[florianjace]

˙ ˖ ✶ Vismaya

Uncomfortably, typically described as a sense of unease and awkwardness, and right now it clung to the very air around them, making it feel dense and heavy. Florian thought his breathing had hitched ever so slightly as he scanned the room taking in the minute details with meticulous precision until he felt his breath still. No matter how much he trained himself using pseudo interviews he was still awkward in sit down situations such as this. He found himself admitting that she was quite pleasant regardless of the situation, her smile immediately disarming. She was good. That much he could tell. "For the most part I just want them to get off my back, because they only did this because I keep blowing off every guy they try to set me up with." he sighed. "One of the friends involved in this has found someone they're head over heels for so they might be the ring master," Florian visibly groaned, rolling his eyes as a cheeky smile broke through as he thought of his friend and their current standing with love. It was brief but a flash of Andre crossed through his mind and he smiled, cheeks heating up before he cleared his throat. "Most of the guys they've set me on dates with have been total duds. A guy obsessed with ranch and blue cheese, one who only wanted to talk about obscure sports, and then there was the ventriloquist," he didn't feel the need to go further.

"I've never actually gone on a date, I don't show up to something I know won't work out for me, especially considering I did not like them at all from the get go."

Vismaya was well acquainted with nervous clients. She'd had plenty of clients who barely said anything their first appointment, and some who left in the middle of the appointment all together. Having only done introductions with Florian so far, she could tell that she would need to focus on alleviating the pressure in the room, let him know that he didn't need to spill all of the beans on the first day. Hearing that Florian's friend called him tightly wound brought a smile to Vismaya's face, and she let out a charming chuckle. "Well, Florian, first we'll discuss what you want out of these sessions. Your friend only wants what's best for you, but only you know what's best for you." Knowing that her pen moving incessantly throughout a session can sometimes be a turn off for clients who don't want to feel that their inner most secrets are going to end up immortalized in a file drawer, she sets her clipboard and fountain pen to the side, and moves from her desk to the arm chair beside it, sitting with her legs crossed beneath her. "Do you want to start by telling me about why you think your friend wanted you to have this session with me?"

[florianjace]

˙ ˖ ✶ Andre

Andre was definitely a figure Florian couldn't figure out, there was just something about the other that simply irked him. He couldn't tell whether it was that smug grin, the curve of his lips, how his muscles could sometimes be seen through his clothing, or just the cadence with which he spoke. Whenever he was close all Florian could focus on was his presence. Especially since it seemed Andre went out of his way to annoy him at every opportunity. Still he couldn't deny that out of all the drab gatherings and events he's been dragged to recently thanks to the blossoming love of his friend, there wasn't one that Andre didn't at least make...interesting.

"Very cute how you think chugging pre workout and lifting some silly little weights means you're an athlete," Florian scoffed rolling his eyes, but soon after giggled as he truly thought there was some humor there. "My little ice thing?" That truly annoyed him since it felt like a pin prick against his skin. "Going fine thanks for asking, and since you're so curious I hope you do realize that our friends signed everyone up for my ice skating class, it's supposed to be intermediate to expert but I can make sure to make it a beginner lesson for you," he mused sweetly, shooting him a wink.

"Also you said you were benching a lot earlier right?" he said looking at Andre's biceps. "Odd, considering they've been looking like they've lost definition as of recent."

A loaded bar, friends to impress, and someone to annoy? In Andre's eyes, this was the exact recipe for a perfect night out. Usually stuck in his own head, it's natural that he didn't think about what mingling friend groups might bring-- from Andre's perspective, he thinks he's a pretty all around lovable guy-- so seeing the effect he had on Florian was, at first, interesting, but had become something of a minor obsession for him. He's annoyed people before, sure, all of the time, but something about annoying Florian had all the thrill of jumping a subway turn style in college or... licking a battery. Luckily, their mutual connections seemed more in love than ever, so he didn't see the thrill dissipating any time soon. Just as Andre is ending some flippant story about benching 270 at the gym, he hears Florian's familiar tone piping up from across the table. Normally, a comment like that would suck the wind out of Andre's sails for at least a few minutes, but coming from Florian, it only spurred him on. After taking the last drink of his scotch, Andre matches the other's smirk. "Sounds like the fellow athlete is a little jealous, eh?" No, Andre does not think maintaining his abs makes him an athlete, but-- you know-- anything to annoy Florian. Andre can't help but laugh at the way the other phrases his question, nor can he help the way that it endears him more than he's willing to admit. After pushing the sleeves of his shirt back up to his elbows, he leans on the table. "My finance bros and I have been very busy, thanks for asking. How has your, little, uh, ice thing been going?"

[florianjace]

˙ ˖ ✶ Vismaya

Dating had not been a big part of his life for as long as he could remember. Florian only ever had time for training, whether it be dance or his favorite time on the ice, there was no room for distractions. With shattered Olympian dreams and the decimation of trust, he was left to pick up the pieces of what some would call a life half wasted. Most of his youth entirely consumed by a dream that was no more, and how even though he wished and yearned for that closeness, there was a very big thing still haunting him that made it impossible for him to let anyone in.

"So how does this work? My friend scheduled this appointment for me cause she said I'm too tightly wound so I don't know what she means by that." he said with his arms crossed, skeptical about this whole ordeal. @deceptaconn