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So you are older, it seems. If that’s recent. The question is how long you’ve been singing, isn’t it?
[ Clay smiles thoughtfully, and tried to place her. Based on that statement he puts her back at least a couple hundred years. ...He’s done much worse. He can take the sting of saltwater if it means not feeling ancient.
Another sip of champagne as he looks her over but breaks eye contact first to eye a passing plate of hors d'oeuvres. It stinks of raw fish and he flits back to Cadence. ]
No sports then. What do you like to do outside of... work?
[ Clay smiles thoughtfully, and tried to place her. Based on that statement he puts her back at least a couple hundred years. ...He’s done much worse. He can take the sting of saltwater if it means not feeling ancient.
Another sip of champagne as he looks her over but breaks eye contact first to eye a passing plate of hors d'oeuvres. It stinks of raw fish and he flits back to Cadence. ]
No sports then. What do you like to do outside of... work?
Edited 2021-01-04 01:58 (UTC)
[ She takes another sip as she pointedly refuses to answer implied question. ]
Long enough. And please, you have to have several hundred years under your belt as well. Some of those land deeds were older than the Mayflower.
[ She watches the tray pass by as well; she debated taking some since she’s no hunting this evening, but it’d basically be empty calories. ]
Like I have a wealth of free time; my clients’ antics tend to make long days for me. [ A pointed look. ] And I believe you’re already familiar with my other major time commitment.
Long enough. And please, you have to have several hundred years under your belt as well. Some of those land deeds were older than the Mayflower.
[ She watches the tray pass by as well; she debated taking some since she’s no hunting this evening, but it’d basically be empty calories. ]
Like I have a wealth of free time; my clients’ antics tend to make long days for me. [ A pointed look. ] And I believe you’re already familiar with my other major time commitment.
[ He grins and moves closer to her by allowing a person with a walker to pass behind him. The assistive device has him actually moving again to give them room and he sighs. ]
My family may have been pilgrims; you don’t know.
[ At that moment he looks down and realizes how close he had gotten and clears his throat before he motions that he’s going toward a piece of art across the room, his free fingers grazing her wrist as he walks toward it. ]
I’m sure you make time for yourself. I imagine you are a fan of something when you are between meals, work, and sleep. [ Sirens sleep, right? Why didn’t that come up in his research? ]
People manage much shorter lives than us. It’s actually impressive, honestly.
My family may have been pilgrims; you don’t know.
[ At that moment he looks down and realizes how close he had gotten and clears his throat before he motions that he’s going toward a piece of art across the room, his free fingers grazing her wrist as he walks toward it. ]
I’m sure you make time for yourself. I imagine you are a fan of something when you are between meals, work, and sleep. [ Sirens sleep, right? Why didn’t that come up in his research? ]
People manage much shorter lives than us. It’s actually impressive, honestly.
[ He's still digging it seems, trying to get a nugget or two of her backstory, or at least interpersonal information she's not willing to concede. Preferring not to lose out on his behaving by throwing him a defensive verbal barb, she elects instead to go with her other default distracting tactic. ]
Yes, I do enjoy some other recreational activities...
[ She slides one hand underneath his jacket to press against his chest, quirking one eyebrow with a knowing look. Her other hand rests again on his neck, runs a line back and worth where spine meets skull. ]
Are you set on sticking around to win that vase, or...?
Yes, I do enjoy some other recreational activities...
[ She slides one hand underneath his jacket to press against his chest, quirking one eyebrow with a knowing look. Her other hand rests again on his neck, runs a line back and worth where spine meets skull. ]
Are you set on sticking around to win that vase, or...?
[ Clay knows it’s evasive. He’s very aware, in the back of his mind. However, he's also is a strong martini and three glasses of champagne deep with not much else on his fire-filled stomach. Even without the alcohol, it usually doesn’t take much to get Clyteus to bend to carnal desire.
There’s a dramatic sort of stall as he looks toward the vase with consideration. A small sigh of defeat. ]
I think I’ll survive without it. I believe there must be a hotel nearby with vacancy, if you want to accompany me?
[ A smile that shivers at her touch just a bit. He looks down and meets her eyes and feels the need to make sure she agrees, despite his immunity to her charms. ] ...All part of your compensated responsibilities tonight, of course.
There’s a dramatic sort of stall as he looks toward the vase with consideration. A small sigh of defeat. ]
I think I’ll survive without it. I believe there must be a hotel nearby with vacancy, if you want to accompany me?
[ A smile that shivers at her touch just a bit. He looks down and meets her eyes and feels the need to make sure she agrees, despite his immunity to her charms. ] ...All part of your compensated responsibilities tonight, of course.
[ The double pat she gives his lapel is only slightly condescending. ]
Good man. [ Man. Lizard. Whatever. ] That sounds great; I'm partial to The St. Regis or Lowell myself.
[ She's trying to make out what exactly that look is for, why he seems so intent; however, uncomfortable with examining it too thoroughly, she labels it as a softer variation on his already self-imposed infatuation with her. He'll learn, as they all do...it's simply a matter of how much she has to double down on that lesson.
In the meantime though, why not have a little fun? As a treat. ]
Good man. [ Man. Lizard. Whatever. ] That sounds great; I'm partial to The St. Regis or Lowell myself.
[ She's trying to make out what exactly that look is for, why he seems so intent; however, uncomfortable with examining it too thoroughly, she labels it as a softer variation on his already self-imposed infatuation with her. He'll learn, as they all do...it's simply a matter of how much she has to double down on that lesson.
In the meantime though, why not have a little fun? As a treat. ]
[ Clay smiles then, and it’s lustful but with the implication of something softer. His expression, while desirous, is deeper rooted than that usual smiles he gives to women, something fairly new but he can’t presently see it to be disturbed by it. At current, he is a bit too intoxicated by her aura and the alcohol to consider it, but were he able to rewind and observe it later, he would... perhaps feel a bit discomfit. ]
Hmmm. I believe I have an outstanding favor waiting to be exploited at the St. Regis, as a matter of fact.
[ He leans in then, holding her face and kissing the other side of her jaw with a low hum. ] I’ll make a call and then summon my driver?
Hmmm. I believe I have an outstanding favor waiting to be exploited at the St. Regis, as a matter of fact.
[ He leans in then, holding her face and kissing the other side of her jaw with a low hum. ] I’ll make a call and then summon my driver?
Oh, well isn't that wonderfully convenient.
[ Now, Cadence couldn't give two shits whether or not Clay actually does have an outstanding favor; that was ultimately just the ends justifying their means.
But the obedience to her whims? Definite turn-on.
Cadence turns to bare her cheek for his kiss, exposing her neck for easy access and closing her eyes for a moment as he travels southward. For any other woman, it would've been a submission, a surrender to that pleasure.
With Cadence? Always hard to tell if the viper was lulled or simply lulling you. ]
Sounds like a plan.
[ Now, Cadence couldn't give two shits whether or not Clay actually does have an outstanding favor; that was ultimately just the ends justifying their means.
But the obedience to her whims? Definite turn-on.
Cadence turns to bare her cheek for his kiss, exposing her neck for easy access and closing her eyes for a moment as he travels southward. For any other woman, it would've been a submission, a surrender to that pleasure.
With Cadence? Always hard to tell if the viper was lulled or simply lulling you. ]
Sounds like a plan.
[ It isn’t very surprising to Clay, in retrospect at least, to find his bed empty when he wakes up in a hotel room after a night of niceties and money-pushing and shaking hands. The first time it happened, he had been more or less just annoyed she hadn’t woken him. The second time he sighs and pays the bill with a tinge of wounded pride, as it had been- well, he felt like it was an even better night than the first. He had a few reasons for thinking such.
Four weeks after their first nighttime outing together- with a few meetings between which involved less arguing for the most part- the wealthy, would-be benefactor sighs and sits straighter. A click to minimize a window, containing an email reminding him of a charity benefit for a children’s research hospital he pledged to annually. This was an especially important tax benefit and good press for his company, he’s been reminded by the person to whom he starts typing an email. ]
Miss Laine,
I hope this email finds you well. Attached is the information for a charity ball next week- Would you be so kind as to see if you have availability? The last two events with you were quite enjoyable and I would like to invite you to this one. Let me know if you can’t make it.
You will be compensated for your time as previously arranged.
Best,
Clayton Emerson
CEO, Thornmire Enterprises
Four weeks after their first nighttime outing together- with a few meetings between which involved less arguing for the most part- the wealthy, would-be benefactor sighs and sits straighter. A click to minimize a window, containing an email reminding him of a charity benefit for a children’s research hospital he pledged to annually. This was an especially important tax benefit and good press for his company, he’s been reminded by the person to whom he starts typing an email. ]
Miss Laine,
I hope this email finds you well. Attached is the information for a charity ball next week- Would you be so kind as to see if you have availability? The last two events with you were quite enjoyable and I would like to invite you to this one. Let me know if you can’t make it.
You will be compensated for your time as previously arranged.
Best,
Clayton Emerson
CEO, Thornmire Enterprises
[ Cadence is about halfway through her third cup of coffee that morning when she hears the high, short thrill of the email notification.
It has, without getting too candid, Not Been A Good Morning--she and the wider legal staff have been buried in ligation prep in response to some Gulf mogul suing the company over account mismanagement. She knows that the losses a half-wit on the 26th floor costed the half-brother of second cousin of the Emir of wherever is ultimately chump change--none of their foreign investors bet on a single investment house, no self-respecting client would--but it hasn't stopped said half-wit from being shown the door while Cadence finds herself neck-deep in paperwork. She's not even defending on this one (her assignment to baby sit the ever-needy Mr. Emerson remains in place,) the sheer amount of prep work is that daunting.
She scans the email with a critical eye, interested in its contents if only for the novelty of breaking up her review of piles of internal documents. ]
Mr. Emerson,
Thank you for your well-wishes, I hope I may say the same of you. I can ensure I am available for your event, though I would like to be clear that given its close proximity to the holidays, our usual billing rate will be doubled. Please confirm that this extra cost is acceptable to meet your needs for this event.
Best,
Cadence Laine, J.D.
Partner | Investment Management Dept.
BNY Mellon Investment Management
It has, without getting too candid, Not Been A Good Morning--she and the wider legal staff have been buried in ligation prep in response to some Gulf mogul suing the company over account mismanagement. She knows that the losses a half-wit on the 26th floor costed the half-brother of second cousin of the Emir of wherever is ultimately chump change--none of their foreign investors bet on a single investment house, no self-respecting client would--but it hasn't stopped said half-wit from being shown the door while Cadence finds herself neck-deep in paperwork. She's not even defending on this one (her assignment to baby sit the ever-needy Mr. Emerson remains in place,) the sheer amount of prep work is that daunting.
She scans the email with a critical eye, interested in its contents if only for the novelty of breaking up her review of piles of internal documents. ]
Mr. Emerson,
Thank you for your well-wishes, I hope I may say the same of you. I can ensure I am available for your event, though I would like to be clear that given its close proximity to the holidays, our usual billing rate will be doubled. Please confirm that this extra cost is acceptable to meet your needs for this event.
Best,
Cadence Laine, J.D.
Partner | Investment Management Dept.
BNY Mellon Investment Management
[ Despite the obviously over-formal and pandering tone, Clay found the corner of his mouth twitching as he read “same of you.” The realization had his expression as rapidly sink into a deep scowl before finishing the rest of the email; it deepens when the holidays are mentioned, then again at the “billing rate” doubling. ]
Cadence,
That won’t be a problem. Your help with my family’s funds that were tied up in Japanese contracts more than furnishes your higher rate for this stressful and busy season. Thank you again for those late nights that saw our investments out of their claws. Good riddance.
I do hope you’re doing something enjoyable for yourself after this first quarter? As far as the upcoming event, it should be more traditional than that fundraiser in October. Maybe that’s at least something to brighten your month.
Clayton Emerson
CEO, Thornmire Enterprises
[ Clay gives a wry smile and presses send, fondly remembering the children’s hospital and halloween costumes. He would hold the memory of black-dressed and vaguely Morticia-looking Cadence being cajoled into a red clown nose for the event’s social media content. He was sure it was the last time she would ever speak to him when he re-shared the post on his personal account for “good press” on his business. ]
Cadence,
That won’t be a problem. Your help with my family’s funds that were tied up in Japanese contracts more than furnishes your higher rate for this stressful and busy season. Thank you again for those late nights that saw our investments out of their claws. Good riddance.
I do hope you’re doing something enjoyable for yourself after this first quarter? As far as the upcoming event, it should be more traditional than that fundraiser in October. Maybe that’s at least something to brighten your month.
Clayton Emerson
CEO, Thornmire Enterprises
[ Clay gives a wry smile and presses send, fondly remembering the children’s hospital and halloween costumes. He would hold the memory of black-dressed and vaguely Morticia-looking Cadence being cajoled into a red clown nose for the event’s social media content. He was sure it was the last time she would ever speak to him when he re-shared the post on his personal account for “good press” on his business. ]
i realized her position/dept title was duplicative of the company name shhh ignore the change
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beckonings
2021-11-21 02:04 pm (UTC)(link)
[ Cadence's lips twist at the memory of over-eager photographers shoving a tacky little plastic red nose in her hands, eagerly pushing her to play along "for the sake of the kids." Cadence almost skinned Clay and got herself a new purse for spreading the photographic evidence. ]
Mr. Emerson,
It's not a problem, our department is happy to assist with whatever legal assistance you may require as a valued client with BNY Mellon. Please do not hesitate to inform our team should any new issues arise; we are still diligently working on resolving your other identified concerns.
[ It goes without saying that Cadence is more than aware of her company's security screening procedures on company servers, so if her jaw begins to cramp from clenching in forced professionalism, then that's simply the cost of doing business with a "valued client" such as Clay Emerson.
Actual Translation: If I get another text from you at 1 AM about some inane "client need," that new handbag option is still very much on the table. ]
Be assured that I do not plan to take any personal leave until your concerns regarding your account are sufficiently resolved. [ A pause in her typing while she ponders how that actually nice gesture about the stupid nose incident makes her feel. ] I appreciate you letting me know the attire requirements for this latest event, I'll be sure to dress accordingly. When would you like to meet ahead of the event?
Cadence Laine, J.D.
Lead Consult | Department of Legal Affairs
BNY Mellon Investment Management
Mr. Emerson,
It's not a problem, our department is happy to assist with whatever legal assistance you may require as a valued client with BNY Mellon. Please do not hesitate to inform our team should any new issues arise; we are still diligently working on resolving your other identified concerns.
[ It goes without saying that Cadence is more than aware of her company's security screening procedures on company servers, so if her jaw begins to cramp from clenching in forced professionalism, then that's simply the cost of doing business with a "valued client" such as Clay Emerson.
Actual Translation: If I get another text from you at 1 AM about some inane "client need," that new handbag option is still very much on the table. ]
Be assured that I do not plan to take any personal leave until your concerns regarding your account are sufficiently resolved. [ A pause in her typing while she ponders how that actually nice gesture about the stupid nose incident makes her feel. ] I appreciate you letting me know the attire requirements for this latest event, I'll be sure to dress accordingly. When would you like to meet ahead of the event?
Cadence Laine, J.D.
Lead Consult | Department of Legal Affairs
BNY Mellon Investment Management
Hi Miss Laine-
Of course! Wouldn’t wanted you to have missed out on holiday fun of the last event, and/or feel out of place by arriving in something that suits your more traditional aesthetic. That said, this is formal dress that you’ll likely not need to shop around to dress appropriately. You always do look terrific when I see you in person.
[ Read: Please. PLEASE find something in that giant closet i’m SURE you own- probably with a whole set of shelves devoted to heels. And those Choos he bought months ago had better still be there. If he ever gets the elusive invitation to see her dwelling he will check. There’s a delay while he tries to picture where Cadence might live and what it looked like inside. An extra moment while he chuckles at the idea of it being nautically themed. ]
I’ve attached the details in case you didn’t get it. Better two copies than none, you might say. The other file you’re getting is some financially motivated correspondence drafted by my law team, as well. When we meet later this week I wanted to discuss that further, but don’t trouble yourself overmuch about reading it right away. Does Thursday night work for you? There’s actually a sushi restaurant on 47th I was recommended if you wanted to work around your daytime obligations.
My treat, of course.
[ The last line before his automated signature even gives him pause. He didn’t even hesitate before he tacked that on. Odd. The clown nose photo really must have his guilt by the balls. ]
Of course! Wouldn’t wanted you to have missed out on holiday fun of the last event, and/or feel out of place by arriving in something that suits your more traditional aesthetic. That said, this is formal dress that you’ll likely not need to shop around to dress appropriately. You always do look terrific when I see you in person.
[ Read: Please. PLEASE find something in that giant closet i’m SURE you own- probably with a whole set of shelves devoted to heels. And those Choos he bought months ago had better still be there. If he ever gets the elusive invitation to see her dwelling he will check. There’s a delay while he tries to picture where Cadence might live and what it looked like inside. An extra moment while he chuckles at the idea of it being nautically themed. ]
I’ve attached the details in case you didn’t get it. Better two copies than none, you might say. The other file you’re getting is some financially motivated correspondence drafted by my law team, as well. When we meet later this week I wanted to discuss that further, but don’t trouble yourself overmuch about reading it right away. Does Thursday night work for you? There’s actually a sushi restaurant on 47th I was recommended if you wanted to work around your daytime obligations.
My treat, of course.
[ The last line before his automated signature even gives him pause. He didn’t even hesitate before he tacked that on. Odd. The clown nose photo really must have his guilt by the balls. ]
'parachute' really grabbed you by the emotional balls, huh
beckonings
2022-08-01 06:58 pm (UTC)(link)
Mr. Emerson,
Thank you for letting me know, however [ Cadence takes a pause and thinks about what new item she wants to milk out of him, but frankly comes up blank. She curtly hits the backspace a few times, regrouping her thoughts. ]
Thank you for letting me know. I believe I have a suitable outfit in mind, but if any secondary expenses crop up later on I'll be sure to loop back. [ Translation: Not off the hook just yet, lizard man. ] At any rate, you can mark me down to attend with you for that night and we'll bill your normal account closer to the date.
[ Cadence pauses and stares at the second hurdle in the email, leaning back into her leather desk chair as she stares at the text. His poor taste in selecting a seafood restaurant aside, it's...too comfortable, maybe? Cadence sits with the potential implications for a moment then mentally waves the thought off, quick as it came. They know the rules between them; if he wants an extra expense in the name of loneliness, so be it. He certainly wouldn't be the first ancient billionaire in this city to try to buy his way out of loneliness. ]
Unfortunately, I cannot make your request for Thursday this week as we'll be conducting a review of a separate senior client's account that day. If the discussion can wait, I will have greater availability next week. Otherwise, I can assign someone from our team to sit down with you.
Let me know your preferences as your earliest convenience.
Best,
Cadence Laine, J.D.
Lead Consult | Department of Legal Affairs
BNY Mellon Investment Management
Thank you for letting me know, however [ Cadence takes a pause and thinks about what new item she wants to milk out of him, but frankly comes up blank. She curtly hits the backspace a few times, regrouping her thoughts. ]
Thank you for letting me know. I believe I have a suitable outfit in mind, but if any secondary expenses crop up later on I'll be sure to loop back. [ Translation: Not off the hook just yet, lizard man. ] At any rate, you can mark me down to attend with you for that night and we'll bill your normal account closer to the date.
[ Cadence pauses and stares at the second hurdle in the email, leaning back into her leather desk chair as she stares at the text. His poor taste in selecting a seafood restaurant aside, it's...too comfortable, maybe? Cadence sits with the potential implications for a moment then mentally waves the thought off, quick as it came. They know the rules between them; if he wants an extra expense in the name of loneliness, so be it. He certainly wouldn't be the first ancient billionaire in this city to try to buy his way out of loneliness. ]
Unfortunately, I cannot make your request for Thursday this week as we'll be conducting a review of a separate senior client's account that day. If the discussion can wait, I will have greater availability next week. Otherwise, I can assign someone from our team to sit down with you.
Let me know your preferences as your earliest convenience.
Best,
Cadence Laine, J.D.
Lead Consult | Department of Legal Affairs
BNY Mellon Investment Management
[ Clay gratefully tabs over when his email dings and rescues himself from writing and rewriting another request to someone far less enjoyable. The adjective coming to mind makes him furrow his brow, but he still smiles. He knows she hates him, and that almost adds to his enjoyment of making her work with him. Worth every expense to get the sort of friction (pun intended) he hasn't had in many years, which is saying a lot from the lizard man. Physically she immediately caught his attention, but her vicious personality sealed it for him both professionally and personally; the latter he's not supposed to mention, of course. ]
Hello Ms. Laine,
That sounds like a plan. You know where to find me if anything changes regarding the event or anything you might need. I'll go ahead and RSVP for two and meet you at the hotel.
As far as our meeting, that's perfectly fine. I'll just enjoy the restaurant with other company, in that case, since I already made the reservation. We can rearrange our meeting though. Not that others aren't qualified, but I find you to be the most productive consultant I've worked with in several years, and trust your insight greatly.
Let me know what works for you next week. As I mentioned, it isn't terribly urgent, it's just a matter I wanted to handle sooner rather than later.
Respectfully--
Hello Ms. Laine,
That sounds like a plan. You know where to find me if anything changes regarding the event or anything you might need. I'll go ahead and RSVP for two and meet you at the hotel.
As far as our meeting, that's perfectly fine. I'll just enjoy the restaurant with other company, in that case, since I already made the reservation. We can rearrange our meeting though. Not that others aren't qualified, but I find you to be the most productive consultant I've worked with in several years, and trust your insight greatly.
Let me know what works for you next week. As I mentioned, it isn't terribly urgent, it's just a matter I wanted to handle sooner rather than later.
Respectfully--
[ There's a small eyebrow quirk at Clay's mention of "other company" (really, is that a sad attempt at trying to make her jealous..? As if he could) and she flexes her fingers before setting to work at killing any misgivings he may have on his sway over her. ]
Mr. Emerson,
Thank you for such a prompt response about the RSVP for next week. [ Translation: Well, someone has nothing going on for them right now... ]
I'm delighted to hear that the reservation isn't going to waste, and I hope your alternate company finds the food to their taste. [ Because I sure as shit don't, suggest seafood again and I'll drown you in the harbor. ]
As much as I am gratified by your satisfaction in the work I and our team have put on your case, unfortunately I will not have much availability until the very end of next week, if that will still meet your needs. If you have any additional read ahead materials you would like me to review, either from your own records or those that BNY Mellon keeps on your behalf, please let me know; I will do everything in my power to keep our meetings succinct and preserve your valuable time.
Best,
Cadence Laine, J.D.
Lead Consult | Department of Legal Affairs
BNY Mellon Investment Management
Mr. Emerson,
Thank you for such a prompt response about the RSVP for next week. [ Translation: Well, someone has nothing going on for them right now... ]
I'm delighted to hear that the reservation isn't going to waste, and I hope your alternate company finds the food to their taste. [ Because I sure as shit don't, suggest seafood again and I'll drown you in the harbor. ]
As much as I am gratified by your satisfaction in the work I and our team have put on your case, unfortunately I will not have much availability until the very end of next week, if that will still meet your needs. If you have any additional read ahead materials you would like me to review, either from your own records or those that BNY Mellon keeps on your behalf, please let me know; I will do everything in my power to keep our meetings succinct and preserve your valuable time.
Best,
Cadence Laine, J.D.
Lead Consult | Department of Legal Affairs
BNY Mellon Investment Management
Edited 2022-08-10 01:17 (UTC)
[ Clay is sidetracked by another obligation with his side hustle (one irate phone call later about someone who is late in payments and that is NOT acceptable, as per your contract- ) and does take a half hour to respond to this particularly fun email. ]
Hello Cadence,
Anytime! I am looking forward to it, certainly one of my favorite “work activities” (if you can call it that) on my calendar this month. I’m sure it will be a nice dinner based on the positive Google reviews, but you’ll be missed. I’ll try to make it up to you, haha.
I’ll send you anything else I think is relevant in a future email. I can’t put my full attention on this at the moment. A client of mine needs me, so I may be unavailable for a few hours. Of course, you have my cell, if anything comes up that my staff can’t answer. That said, I’ll be checking my emails remotely until tomorrow.
Enjoy the rest of your day and thank you for the help, as always.
Best,
[ (read between the lines on the last note - text me later? xoxo) He smiles at the thought of Cadence reading his thinly veiled invitations and shifts into a grimace at his next task. Clay groans and pushes himself back from the desk to excuse himself from the office. Brooklyn was a fucking zoo this time of year- ]
Hello Cadence,
Anytime! I am looking forward to it, certainly one of my favorite “work activities” (if you can call it that) on my calendar this month. I’m sure it will be a nice dinner based on the positive Google reviews, but you’ll be missed. I’ll try to make it up to you, haha.
I’ll send you anything else I think is relevant in a future email. I can’t put my full attention on this at the moment. A client of mine needs me, so I may be unavailable for a few hours. Of course, you have my cell, if anything comes up that my staff can’t answer. That said, I’ll be checking my emails remotely until tomorrow.
Enjoy the rest of your day and thank you for the help, as always.
Best,
[ (read between the lines on the last note - text me later? xoxo) He smiles at the thought of Cadence reading his thinly veiled invitations and shifts into a grimace at his next task. Clay groans and pushes himself back from the desk to excuse himself from the office. Brooklyn was a fucking zoo this time of year- ]
did i do this reply just to avoid writing the next starter? who could say!!
beckonings
2022-10-22 07:56 pm (UTC)(link)
[ Cadence is knee-deep in a completely separate deposition transcript that's failing to hold her attention when the tell-tale email notification chimes on her computer. She caps her highlighter and shifts her swivel chair over to the monitor, scanning the email with a critical eye. ]
"Haha"? Who even types that in a professional email?
[ Her ever-lit flame of indignation flares at the implication he's too busy to speak with her and her fingers are poised to respond to the email before she pulls back, disquieted by her own knee-jerk reaction.
Why is she even giving this prat the time of day again? Client or not...
Instead, Cadence sets her out of office up early and pulls up her phone's contact list, scanning through an admittedly extensive list of potential meals and dates, depending on the evening. She settles on one, a Wall Street stock broker with dark hair and a thinly veiled humiliation kink that'll work wonders for her pent up rage this evening--he responds to her text about dinner within minutes, and she leans back in her chair, trying to use the gratification of being highly desired fight off the feeling of unease forming a pit in her stomach.
It's fine. He can admittedly play the game better than her usual prey, but they both know how the hunt ends. ]
"Haha"? Who even types that in a professional email?
[ Her ever-lit flame of indignation flares at the implication he's too busy to speak with her and her fingers are poised to respond to the email before she pulls back, disquieted by her own knee-jerk reaction.
Why is she even giving this prat the time of day again? Client or not...
Instead, Cadence sets her out of office up early and pulls up her phone's contact list, scanning through an admittedly extensive list of potential meals and dates, depending on the evening. She settles on one, a Wall Street stock broker with dark hair and a thinly veiled humiliation kink that'll work wonders for her pent up rage this evening--he responds to her text about dinner within minutes, and she leans back in her chair, trying to use the gratification of being highly desired fight off the feeling of unease forming a pit in her stomach.
It's fine. He can admittedly play the game better than her usual prey, but they both know how the hunt ends. ]
[ Donning a freshly cleaned haircut and a new navy suit, Clyteus waits for an elevator. One hand holds short cup of caffeine in the hand also holding his phone to ear, briefcase clutched in the other. ]
That meeting could have been an email. [ He complains with a sigh to the vice president next to him while he listens to the line trill. As if the little man would do anything but laugh and agree with someone like Clay. ]
Come on.. pick up, siren. [ A much quieter sigh as the phone trills for a fourth time. He pulls from his ear to confirm he’s calling the cell for “Cadence Laine” and not a misdial. ]
That meeting could have been an email. [ He complains with a sigh to the vice president next to him while he listens to the line trill. As if the little man would do anything but laugh and agree with someone like Clay. ]
Come on.. pick up, siren. [ A much quieter sigh as the phone trills for a fourth time. He pulls from his ear to confirm he’s calling the cell for “Cadence Laine” and not a misdial. ]
[ Cadence isn’t particularly busy when the call comes in; she’s actually closing out or handing off a few remaining tasks so she can head home early for once.
But she sees the caller ID flash on her phone and maybe presses “decline” a little too forceful than is strictly necessary. ]
Oh sit and spin Emerson. You can sweat it out a little.
[ She’s too early to pick up her dress from my dry cleaners, but there’s always getting her nails done while she ignores him; Cadence gathers her jacket and keys and lets the new legal aid, Lucy, know she’s heading out for the day and let any calls she hears go straight to voicemail. ]
But she sees the caller ID flash on her phone and maybe presses “decline” a little too forceful than is strictly necessary. ]
Oh sit and spin Emerson. You can sweat it out a little.
[ She’s too early to pick up her dress from my dry cleaners, but there’s always getting her nails done while she ignores him; Cadence gathers her jacket and keys and lets the new legal aid, Lucy, know she’s heading out for the day and let any calls she hears go straight to voicemail. ]
Bitch.
[ Clay scoffs as the phone triple beeps to let him know the call has ended. Two rings. She pushed him to voicemail- and he’s only mildly surprised. Her emails have been a tad icier than usual and he was hoping to break that tension before they met. Hope is a strong word, perhaps. ]
What time am I picking you up? If I’m still getting you there?
If you’re still going…
[ He hisses under his breath as the device signals a sent message. With a ding, he exits the elevator and walks toward the lobby. He really hopes his driver isn’t feeling chatty. The last thing he needs is to take out his irritation on Alfred. The ellipses appear on her screen again- if she even opened the message to see the first send. ]
And what are you wearing tonight?
[ Clay scoffs as the phone triple beeps to let him know the call has ended. Two rings. She pushed him to voicemail- and he’s only mildly surprised. Her emails have been a tad icier than usual and he was hoping to break that tension before they met. Hope is a strong word, perhaps. ]
What time am I picking you up? If I’m still getting you there?
If you’re still going…
[ He hisses under his breath as the device signals a sent message. With a ding, he exits the elevator and walks toward the lobby. He really hopes his driver isn’t feeling chatty. The last thing he needs is to take out his irritation on Alfred. The ellipses appear on her screen again- if she even opened the message to see the first send. ]
And what are you wearing tonight?
[ Unfortunately for Clay, Cadence firmly refuses to use read receipts, so the 40 minutes where she’s getting her nails done for tonight and “can’t touch her phone (so sad)” are filled with silence on her end.
It’s only after she paid and in a cab to her apartment that she finally responds: ]
I won’t be needing a ride tonight
[ A small pause while the tell-take bubbles crop up on Clay’s screen ]
and I’m still deciding on what I’ll be wearing tonight
Have fun unpacking that, asshole.
It’s only after she paid and in a cab to her apartment that she finally responds: ]
I won’t be needing a ride tonight
[ A small pause while the tell-take bubbles crop up on Clay’s screen ]
and I’m still deciding on what I’ll be wearing tonight
Have fun unpacking that, asshole.
[ Either the dragon is in a netter mood after the reflective hour of getting home and taking a shower… or he’s just getting used to navigating Cadence. A sigh, but he finds a neutral and rather positive response to picking up the phone and reading her snarky messages. ]
But… she’s coming. Hm.
[ The phone goes back on his sink countertop as he looks up into the mirror. Clay finds the comb next to his hand soap and slicks his hair back. Another sigh and he stops short- and for a moment wonders why he’s nervous but realizes that it’s relief he’s feeling as he looks at his own expression, and looks at the half a smile given to it. ]
She’s coming.
Fine. I’m wearing black, so just avoid blue if you can so we don’t clash. It also won’t match with your gift.
[ As he often did when thinking about something precious, Clay’s hand goes to the felted box sitting by the tie he’s picked also lying next to him. His bare shoulders rise and fall when he looks at himself again. Lips draw tight as he passes a judgmental look. ]
You are truly a fool this time.
But… she’s coming. Hm.
[ The phone goes back on his sink countertop as he looks up into the mirror. Clay finds the comb next to his hand soap and slicks his hair back. Another sigh and he stops short- and for a moment wonders why he’s nervous but realizes that it’s relief he’s feeling as he looks at his own expression, and looks at the half a smile given to it. ]
She’s coming.
Fine. I’m wearing black, so just avoid blue if you can so we don’t clash. It also won’t match with your gift.
[ As he often did when thinking about something precious, Clay’s hand goes to the felted box sitting by the tie he’s picked also lying next to him. His bare shoulders rise and fall when he looks at himself again. Lips draw tight as he passes a judgmental look. ]
You are truly a fool this time.
[ Her cell chimes just as Cadence is part way through her evening make-up routine, and her now french-tipped fingers reach for it a little quicker than she’d care to reflect on. She studies the text for a few minutes, debating if it’s worth responding, but she glances at her black cocktail dress and decides against it. Residual ire at him or no, she…doesn’t want to be late. Unprofessionalism, and all that.
Once she deems herself adequately coiffed, perfumed, and all around made-up to her standards, she calls a taxi and heads over to the gala, fiddling with her clutch. She still wants to put him in his place after his sad little ploy from the other week, but that only works if he hasn’t actually gone and replaced her. She chances another look at the last text he’s sent, fingers tapping on the side of her phone case, and decides to take him at his word despite residual concern quietly eating at her.
Still in control. Still have the upper hand. ]
Once she deems herself adequately coiffed, perfumed, and all around made-up to her standards, she calls a taxi and heads over to the gala, fiddling with her clutch. She still wants to put him in his place after his sad little ploy from the other week, but that only works if he hasn’t actually gone and replaced her. She chances another look at the last text he’s sent, fingers tapping on the side of her phone case, and decides to take him at his word despite residual concern quietly eating at her.
Still in control. Still have the upper hand. ]
[ Clay arrives before her taxi, his driver- who was not chastened despite his annoyance with Cadence earlier- dutifully off to wait for his employer to summon him back. No earlier than 10pm per his instruction. Even if Miss Laine decided to be a shrew, he was determined to have a good time. It came from his pocket enough to be here that he would enjoy himself even if it meant swallowing his spite.
However, there was no need for it when he sees her dressed in black, golden hair perfectly draped over her shoulder. It’s a good thing her profile is facing away from him because he’s noticeably captured by the sight of her. Being used to her business attire of suits and skirts, the curve of her calves highlighted by strappy heels and the collarbone visible beneath a beautiful necklace holds his eyes.
Recovering, he gives her time to check the peacoat draped over her forearm before he more or less beelines towards the beauty he’s chasing. The realization he’s mentally acknowledged a chase makes him curse his arrogance and idiocy once more. Clay clears his throat and catches her eye before he walks closer. His head leans over the hand he places on her bicep, to be heard in a loud whisper over the din of the crowds. ]
You look incredible. As always.
However, there was no need for it when he sees her dressed in black, golden hair perfectly draped over her shoulder. It’s a good thing her profile is facing away from him because he’s noticeably captured by the sight of her. Being used to her business attire of suits and skirts, the curve of her calves highlighted by strappy heels and the collarbone visible beneath a beautiful necklace holds his eyes.
Recovering, he gives her time to check the peacoat draped over her forearm before he more or less beelines towards the beauty he’s chasing. The realization he’s mentally acknowledged a chase makes him curse his arrogance and idiocy once more. Clay clears his throat and catches her eye before he walks closer. His head leans over the hand he places on her bicep, to be heard in a loud whisper over the din of the crowds. ]
You look incredible. As always.
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