[private text to (big) Loki]

[animator]

So.

New Year's Eve.

Congratulations, you're a "winner."

Comments

[animator]

If he ends up watching us for any length of time, think you could bring yourself to kiss a mortal again?

[you_have_heart]

I believe I could several times depending on his reaction.

[animator]

Excellent. See. This is a good friendship we're developing.

I'll make us a reservation at The Four Saisons. It's pretty upscale. Teach him to try and play matchmaker.

[you_have_heart]

I suppose we are friends now, aren't we?

[animator]

Close enough, at least. I've found myself speaking in your defense once or twice already.

Is that okay with you?

[you_have_heart]

[The response comes with a bit of a delay]

I believe it is.

[animator]

I'm a believer in giving people chances.

The more people tell me I shouldn't give you one, the more I think you might really need me to.

[you_have_heart]

You are a unique individual, Anita Blake.

[animator]

I hear that a lot.

There are a lot of people out there who have done bad things. Awful things, even. I'm no different. Some of the people closest to me are people others might label as irredeemable. All of them have proven themselves to be a lot more than their past deeds to me.

Some of them still do things I don't like, but I know I can depend on them to have my back, and that's more important to me.

Maybe it's just that I don't see things in black and white anymore. Not the way I used to.

[you_have_heart]

That is a very good world view to have.

Though you must know, I do love causing mischief.

[animator]

I'm well-aware. I don't expect anyone to be a saint. Even those people I depend on? That trust isn't blind. Some of them, I know that as soon as the money is good enough, or I no longer interest them, they'll be willing to turn around and hunt me just like they hunt any other monster. But that doesn't mean I'm not going to value their friendship while I have it.

Besides.

I'm hoping there's a difference between "causing mischief" and "leading an extra-terrestrial army."

[you_have_heart]

That was a different matter. I have found nothing to be gained in taking control of this small island.

[animator]

Good. Then anything else you might see fit to do, I'd like to think I can handle.

Besides. I felt like there was something missing from other people's stories about you. Kind of in a glaring way.

I'd rather hear your side of things someday.

[you_have_heart]

Perhaps on our date?

[animator]

In fact, that would be the perfect time.

[you_have_heart]

I would prefer to when our chaperon is not within ear shot.

[animator]

I was thinking the same. Your business is just that. Yours. Eavesdropping will be discouraged.

[you_have_heart]

Wonderful. What time shall we meet?

[animator]

Eight P.M. on Monday night? Meet me at my apartment, South 305. We'll head over to the restaurant together. A girl shouldn't out at night without an escort.

Well. Most girls. But I can play doting and doe-eyed for the night, I think. It might even be fun.

[you_have_heart]

And will no doubt infuriate Sirius even more.

I will see you then.

[animator]

See you then, 'sweetheart.' Don't be late.