[Elaine] Sitting, Waiting, Wishing.

He could see her and was close enough to touch her...but something was wrong. He was in an empty room with one open window letting the dawn cast its glow through its opening, the wind violently blowing the shredded draperies in a rather unnerving way. And there she was hunched in a corner, her long loose hair wildly surrounding her face, the shadows around her obscuring her features, but he knew it was her by the shape of her silhouette and how he felt- he just knew and it was something he couldn’t explain.  Julian started to panic inside and he could feel the hairs on his arms stand up as he looked at her. “Are you okay, love?” His own voice sounded alien to him and he tightened his lips at the sound. Why is she standing in the corner like that? Why isn’t she moving? The fear started creeping up through his body and he shivered. He took a single step forward and she immediately cowered, throwing her arms over her head as if she thought he would hit her, and started to tremble while spitting insanities so quietly that Julian couldn’t understand any of it. Why in the world is she acting like this, I would never hurt her… He slowly reached out his hand, “…I’m not going to hurt you…I would never…you know that.” He spoke softly in a voice that was unknown to him. Her head jerked, tilting up at him, the light spilling into the room clashing into her eyes. Julian snatched his hand back, and took a step backwards. Her eyes were not her own, it was like looking into the ocean during a storm. Vast, dark, empty…lost.

     Julian abruptly opened his eyes and blinked feverishly trying to erase the image from his mind. What in the bloody hell was that about?! He sat up quickly reaching over to his nightstand that was littered with tattoo request drawings. Once he finally found his cigarettes and matches through the mess he lit it. He pulled the smoke into his lungs and felt the rush of calmness go straight to his head. He exhaled, Please tell me this isn’t going to start up again, he rubbed his face with his free hand out of irritation from not having a dreamless sleep. Julian had always experienced vivid dreams, on and off, since he was a child. He had no idea why or if it was something that was common among wizards, but he hated it. He hated it so much in fact, that he would often drink too much in hopes to completely pass out to avoid his nightmares all together. At times, his dreams would have him wake up completely soaked from his own sweat, other times he would wake up wailing on objects around him, and very rarely he would actually wake up totally panic-stricken and sobbing. Luckily for him, he never spent the night anywhere long enough with anyone for them to see that side of him, although, he had been told on more than one occasion that he talked in his sleep.

      Julian looked at the clock and felt like there was something he was supposed to do, 11:30pm…hmm…what- Oh shi-- His eyes got big when he remembered and he threw his blue comforter off of his long legs and hastily rolled out of bed. He was going to be late, like always. Julian had told Elaine Morgan that he wanted to meet up with her later on that day. He rushed, bathing himself quickly and getting his clothes together just as fast. He would NOT let himself be more than a couple minutes late, especially because it was her. He wasn't exactly sure what it was about her but he knew she was one person that he did not want to disappoint. Since he was already behind schedule, he didn’t have time for his more stylish attire so he settled for something more casual and relaxed. He shoved his keys and wallet in the back pocket of his trousers then grabbed his camera and placed the neck strap around his neck before walking out the door into the busy London town.

      Feeling a mix of both excitement and nervousness, he couldn't help but smile hugely at the thought of getting to see her again. As he walked he slid his hands in the pockets of his trousers and allowed himself to think of the night they all met- Eva, Elaine, and himself. He shook his head at the memory and laughed to himself, more in disbelief than amusement. They all still hadn’t mentioned that night and Julian always wondered to himself if they remembered that night at all. It was a night a young man wouldn’t soon forget, as it was a goal most young dreamed about. But Julian had not intended for that night to go the way it did. He had no idea that the chain of events would have led to the three of them being intimate. When alcohol is involved mate…anyting can happen , he thought to himself. Julian frequently wondered if this act affected Elaine in an ill way towards him. She was always polite and happy, especially when she and Eva were in the same room together, but he- himself never got to spend much time alone with her. For reasons unknown to him, he wanted to know more about her. After that night they had met and he started to live with her and Eva, he had found himself thinking about Elaine in a romantic way- the images of her and that night burning through his brain at random times throughout the day while he did his work- or cooked- or walked. Curiosity burned through Julian when he thought about her, and this feeling was something that was very brand new to him.

      He finally arrived at the small café. He looked around, squinting from the brightness of the sun, to see if she was anywhere at the tables outside but because it was so busy he couldn’t really see her anywhere. Maybe she’s not here yet… He peered through the large window, right where a young couple was having their tea. The women from inside double glanced at him and the man seemed to have a problem with Julian standing there. Julian raised his hand as if to say excuse me- ‘sorry’ he mouthed.   He looked at the watch on his left wrist- he was exactly ten minutes late, he grimaced at his unreliability. But just before he thought about walking inside, nervousness crept up on him again. He had a sinking feeling in his stomach and wished he had invited Eva. He missed her just as much as he missed Elaine, plus she would no doubt take the awkwardness out of this situation. Julian struggled with his emotions for a second, before tossing them somewhere in the back of his brain. He straightened up. Took a quick glance in the window at himself and then went inside.

      There was a tall blonde that was 'all legs' working at the counter. Her blouse was buttoned at little less than what it should have been and showed a peek of what she was working with up top. She looked up at him and asked him what he wanted, batting her eyelashes a little too obviously. Furtively unimpressed- and with fought irritation- he smiled politely replying, “I’ll have a large coffee, please. Black.” Julian waited for the barista to finish up with orders before him, looking around to see if he could spot Elaine anywhere in the hectic café.

    He smirked slyly when he thought of using the fact that the place was too crowded as an excuse to take her somewhere else. Julian had a line of events planned in his head for the two of them today, so long as things worked out in his favor. But he had to be as casual as possible if he was going to get away with this.

Outfit:
http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/set?id=81999981

While her reason to go to Asia hadn't been pleasant at all, Eaine only had good memories when she thought about the time she and her best friend Eva had spent there. Everything had been fascinating. The people, the culture, the country, the languages... Only the food had been a little weird; why in the name of Merlin would someone want to eat insects, seriously. Especially insects that were still alive. A shudder ran through the small brunette and she tried to banish the thought of a fat, living maggot. Ew.

Not everything they had tried had been bad, though. Eating sushi in Japan had been amazing, as well as all the exotic fruits they had tasted and then there had been all the different kinds of tea. The young woman had always thought she was some kind of tea expert, being British and all that, but apparently she'd been wrong all this time. They had tried the most amazing combinations of herbs and fruits and till now she hadn't found anything similar back at home. It was frustrating but maybe that only meant that she had to go back to Asia, if only for a few weeks. Eva would surely like that.

Absent-mindedly, Elaine touched the spot behind her left ear where she had gotten her first and only tattoo. She remembered the night well and not only the beginning but also the end. Eva had brought this guy back to their temporary home, a British tattoo artist, and after quite some drinks the Bulgarian had convinced her to get matching tattoos. They hadn't stopped drinking after the procedure and then everything had taken its course. The former Ravenclaw couldn't remember anymore who had kissed who first but it didn't matter. The night had been wild and blurry but the young woman had no regrets. She also knew that Eva thought the same and Julian... Well, she'd be surprised if he regretted anything.

The man had lived with them for a while before they had parted ways again and even though Elaine had sent him a few letters afterwards, they hadn't met again. Until now. She had been a little surprised when she had gotten his letter a week ago where he'd asked her if she wanted to meet but it had been a pleasant surprise. Why not? It would surely be nice to catch up again.

Elaine reached for her jacket but a look out of the window made her hesitate. The sun was shining brightly and in case she'd get cold, she could still use a spell to get warm again. So instead of grabbing her jacket, she only picked her bag up, slipped into her boots and left the apartment. The witch apparated to the little café where they had agreed to meet and when she looked at her watch, she noticed that she was actually a few minutes late. "What the...," she mumbled quietly, shaking her head. Great. It seemed as if her watch at home was broken somehow. Ah well, she had wanted to visit her family soon anyway. Her brother would surely be able to fix it again.

With small, quick steps the girl went to the door, opened it and went inside. She noticed him immediately. It was no surprise, though. Actually, it was pretty hard not to notice him with all his tattoos. There was something mysterious about him, something different and maybe even something dangerous but Elaine knew that he wasn't dangerous at all. Her face lit up and she crossed the distance quickly and embraced the man. "Jules. It's so good to see you again. It has been what...? More than a year?" The brunette took a step backwards and looked up at him. Was there a new tattoo?

The barista put a cup of coffee right in front of Julian and before she could ignore her, Elaine ordered a Latte Macchiato. The blonde gave her a weird look but she just ignored it and gave her a wide smile. Turning back to the wizard next to her, the muggleborn looked at him expectantly. "Do you want to go outside or should we look for a place in here?"

Julian had been eyeing a strange pair of men talking with wild hand gestures and a dialect that was unfamiliar to him when he saw the door to the café open in his peripheral view. He turned his view towards the general direction of the door. There she was, all 5’4” of her, looking brilliant in her blue dress and boots. Julian repressed a laugh as he watched her small stature and couldn’t help but find it endearing. When she noticed him and her face lit up, Julian expression immediately matched hers, making his mysterious appearance a bit more boyish in charm.

Elaine quickly crossed the distance between them and she hugged him and in turn he swiftly responded with a comfortably tight squeeze around her petite frame, rubbing her back briefly and as friendly as he could manage while she talked. “I’m not sure, love…it sounds right…but I know it has been too long.”

The witch took a step back and looked up at Julian as though she was pondering something or maybe taking in his appearance. Julian, being unsure what the look was for and a little nervous about it, was glad that the barista cut in to give him his coffee. He replied with a small nod of his head as a thank you and watched as Elaine ordered her drink. The wizard couldn’t help but snicker at her direct but polite manner towards the desirous bleach blonde barista.

Then Elaine looked up at him again with her naturally striking doe eyes and apple cheeks- entirely disregarding her questions for the moment. He immediately grabbed the camera that was hanging from his neck and took her picture. “This is for my gallery; I will be taking pictures of our time today so….get used to it. …Please.” He added with a grin in hopes that she would not be offended by his forwardness.

Before she could say much about the random photo, he answered her questions after he pretended to look around for a seat inside while picking up his coffee, “Let’s have a look outside, shall we? It seems a bit congested in here.” He paused for a moment, “Plus it’s a divine day outside,” he gestured toward the window. “We should enjoy it whilst we catch up.” He looked down at her smiling politely and cocked his head slightly towards the door, “Come.” Julian started to walk to the front of the café shop opening the door, with his freehand, and moving to the side so Elaine could make her way out first.

As he waited for her to pass through, he scanned the outside sitting area full of boisterous lunch breakers. "We could always go for a stroll. Have you eaten?" He was trying to keep himself collected as nervous as he was and was doing a particularly well job, in his own opinion. He had thought about taking Elaine out many times during their time together but never had the courage to ask let alone admit his slight crush outloud, to anyone or himself.

"Too long, indeed." the brunette nodded, her hair bouncing while she did so. "You have to tell me everything." As far as she knew, he hadn't stopped traveling after she and Eva had gone back to England and to some extent she envied him for that. Seeing her family again had made the muggleborn extremely happy, as well as seeing her friends again but traveling meant meeting new people and making new experiences and she missed that, missed it a lot. Maybe more than she wanted to admit.

Snap! Wait what? Elaine blinked, staring at Julian in disbelief. Had he just taken a picture of her without a warning? She couldn't be mad at him, though. Not after his words and the grin that made him seem a few years younger immediately. The former Ravenclaw laughed softly and shook her head slightly. "Okay, okay. I guess I don't have a choice, do I?" She had no idea what was so special about her or today that he wanted to take photos which he could display in his gallery but if that made him happy, she'd play along.

"Thanks," she gave the barista her sweetest smile when she handed her her hot drink, hoping that it would annoy that stupid blonde as much as possible. Elaine swung around again, the cup in her hand, and watched Julian gesturing towards the window. "Outside sounds perfect." To be honest, she had hoped that he'd say that. The day was way too nice to waste it. It didn't happen that often that it was that warm and sunny in London and she wanted to enjoy every minute of it. She followed her friend and gave him her widest smile when he held the door open for her. One might not think it but Julian was a real gentleman which she appreciated a lot.

Elaine stepped out into the sun and closed her big brown eyes for a second, enjoying the warmth on her face. When she opened her eyes again, she expected Julian to walk towards one of the empty tables but apparently he had other plans in mind. Next to that it didn't seem as if there was and empty table. Not wanting to go inside again, she nodded and moved a few steps so that they wouldn't stand right in between all the full tables. "A stroll sounds nice and no. Actually I haven't. I assume neither have you?" The young woman winked at her friend and started walking slowly.

She had thought that they'd only drink a coffee and then part ways again but this was nice as well. Except… Wait. Was this supposed to be a date? Elaine took a sip of her latter and glanced sideways at Julian. No. It couldn't be. He would have said something, right? She was being ridiculous. This was just a normal meeting between friends. The girl relaxed again and flashed her friend another smile. "So, tell me. What have you been up to? Any exciting stories to tell? And don't say no. I won't accept a no. Make something up if you want to." She grinned and took another sip. Her life wasn't really exciting right now. He better had a good story to tell.

This women is….  He was at a loss for words. One wink from her and he felt like doing a back flip in the middle of the crowd. Following slowly behind her and thoroughly enjoy his view as she started to walk. There was no harm in admiring her attributes as long as he kept it to himself. He rubbed his face to gain his composure, wiping a rather ridiculous smile off his face, and caught up to her in a couple strides of his long legs. “Haha, no. I could eat a horse right now-so long as it’s smothered in gravy.” She looked at him quizzically, and he shrugged, thinking it was because of what just came out of his mouth. She flashed another smile. He breathed in quietly, and smiled back, Merlin, she really is just gorgeous. Julian raised an eyebrow, smirking and looking over at her here and there as they walked, while she went on a rant with questions. He waited till she was finished and shrugged, “Well, after you and Eva left, I sloooowly made my way back to London. There really isn’t much to tell to be honest.”

He hesitated, knowing that this statement wouldn’t be enough for her, “But- besides traveling and those crazy stories,” He shook his head as memories of drunken moments came to his mind, not knowing those were the stories she was looking for, he continued, “I do have a rather twisted story, it is quite humorous if you look at it in the right light. Just keep an open mind, and I promise you will laugh.” He cleared his throat and shoved his free hand in his pocket, holding his coffee in the other, “Well, as I told you, I headed back home, to my mother’s house, I knew that she was pregnant and was due to give birth any time if she hadn’t already, so, naturally I wanted to see the baby.” He glanced sideways at her hoping that he was making sense.

“When I got home, I caught up a bit with Arienette-my mum- and she eventually asked me if I wanted to see my sister. Of course I did.” He tried not to laugh so he could finish his story, “Well, she’s beautiful and healthy, pale as snow, big bright blue eyes, and brilliant red hair- she is lovely.” Julian couldn’t help but feel a little proud as he thought of her. He paused, looking down at the ground so that he wouldn’t laugh as he continued, “The only problem is, Arienette is married to my step father, Regis…” He took a sip of his coffee and licked his lips.

“And Regis…is African American….” It was the first time he told anyone and it was indeed just as funny out loud as it was in his mind. He wasn’t entirely sure if this story was unfitting but she wanted a story and that’s the best story he could think of that was true and one she hadn’t heard. Maybe his sense of humor was a bit off but Regis didn’t seem to care that Julian’s sister wasn’t his child, so why should he? Once he got his laughing under control, he took another sip of his coffee.

“But more recently, I’ve been wrestling with alligators in my spare time. It’s rigorously character building. But the other competitors couldn’t handle my extraordinary physical man strength, so I quit because I was so tired of winning.” He flashed a wide grin, hoping his lie would lighten the mood if she had been feeling weird about his first story. “Anyway, enough of that. How are you, love?  Are you still teaching?” Julian only knew certain things that she chose to share with him. Or things Eva, Elaine, and himself talked about back in Asia. He tried to think back on some of the letters they wrote back and forth to each other, but Julian’s memory was working against him.

They passed a few restaurants after a couple minutes of walking. Julian realized he had no idea what she liked to eat- besides her tea obsession that he’s seen her indulge in- he honestly had no clue where to stop. He himself wasn’t picky and would eat just about anything but he panicked inside as he realized he hadn’t really thought of his plans thoroughly. Greyson wasn’t use to taking women out on dates, as far as he knew, the most important things were that he was to pay and make sure she got home safely. He had other plans he was still hashing out depending how the day went, but he had no idea how he was going to make it happen yet. Not to mention the fact that she had no idea.

Jules plan was to make the day memorable- something- anything to get him out of the friend zone. But he had to be subtle, so she would think it was on her own accord to make the transition. He knew deep down that the reasoning behind this was his fear of being rejected, he didn’t want to make himself vulnerable, but he swatted the thought away just as quickly as it came. "Let me know if anything looks appealing to you. I'll eat anything." He made the remark as a reminder to her, but was listening to what she was saying.

"Horse isn't really my cup of tea but something else would be nice." Chuckling softly, the brunette winked at her friend before she focused on the path in front of her again. The sun was warming her back and right now the girl didn't want to be anywhere else, especially not alone in her apartment. The day was way too beautiful to waste it. Elaine raised her eyebrows slightly at Julian's next words but before she could say that she wouldn't accept his answer, he seemed to notice it himself. So instead of giving him a disapproving look, she opted for an encouraging smile instead.

He'd said that he'd slowly made his way back to London which meant that he had been somewhere else before he came back. For a short while she let her mind wander and thought about all the adventures she and Eva had experienced. Maybe it was time to leave England again for a while. She'd have to talk to Eva about it the next time the Bulgarian visited. Elaine didn't doubt for a second that her best friend would agree immediately. Eva was like a bird, a free spirit, and she just couldn't stay in the same place for too long.

The words twisted and humorous caught her attention again and she looked back at the man beside her. "I always have an open mind. You should know that." Her pale pink lips formed a small smirk when she thought back to their night together more than a year ago and for a second she wondered if he had bragged about it to some of his friends but Elaine had to admit that he seemed more of a person who'd just keep it his secret.

Julian continued and acting on impulse, Elaine linked arms with him, the cup of coffee now in her left hand. So he had a little sister now, okay. The girl nodded at his words and sipped at her coffee, curious what the twisted part about it was. A smile played about her lips when he talked affectionately about his sister and she nodded once more. She had always adored children which was why she could definitely understand why he seemed to be so smitten with the baby. The man began to laugh but all she could do was giving him a confused smile. Why was it a problem that his mother was married to his African American... oh!

Her big brown eyes widened and for a second the muggleborn had no idea how to react. Usually she'd say that she was sorry but Julian was actually laughing. Elaine still didn't really know what to do but his laughter was contagious and so she joined in. "You know," she said after a short while, "I was not expecting this but I guess it is quite funny when you look at it from an outsider's perspective. And sorry that I'm asking but your step father is okay with that? Did your mother even explain?" While it was quite... special, she still wondered how anyone could be okay with that. Anyway. It wasn't her business and she surely wouldn't judge anyone.

His next words made her chuckle again and she had to admit that she was glad for the change of topic. "Alligators, huh? I've never understood why you guys always have to prove who the strongest one is. I'm impressed, though. Definitely impressed." The brunette tried to stay serious but failed miserably and laughed again. "I'm fine," she replied after the laughter stopped, "And yes, I am still teaching. The kids can be little brats sometimes but I know how to handle them. They just don't want to be bored. As long as you combine teaching with telling stories, everything's fine."

"I'm also painting in my free time and I like to pester the Ministry whenever it's possible." The girl winked again and offered him a wide grin. She didn't know if she had told him about her dislike for the Ministry but if not, he'd know now. By now they had reached a street with lots of restaurants and the witch looked around, trying to find one that looked appealing. "What about the little Italian restaurant over there? You like Italian, right?" After he replied, the two walked over there and Elaine let go of his arm to sit down at one of the empty tables in the sun. The waiter appeared immediately, handed them the menu and walked away again.

"I think I'll go for a glass of white wine and a pizza with Parmesan and rocket salad. What about you?" The waiter came back soon with a bottle of water and took their orders. Once he left again, Elaine leaned back, her brown eyes focused on Julian. "Have you seen Eva lately? She just left London again a few days ago."

He watched already big eyes widen but he was pleased to see she eventually laughed with him. The day so far, in Julian’s opinion was going well she was, after all, linked arm and arm with him. As he walked he looked at other men with a smug expression, as if to say, yeah, she’s on my arm. He could help but feel a little boastful towards her impulse. He was practically floating. Until she started asking questions. He cleared his throat, more out of nervousness than anything.

He hadn’t expected her to want to know more details, but it was a natural reaction he supposed, “Well,” He bought himself some time to think, and then he looked at her, “My stepfather didn’t say anything…so I just let it go. My mom…she’s…a certain way,” He thought about his mother’s face it was the first time in a long time he’d seen her genuinely happy, “I think maybe it’s better to just leave it to them, plus it’s not the child’s fault, I’m sure my stepfather would be a better dad than whoever the real father is. He would be there financially anyway.” He winked to show good spirit and hoped she wouldn’t prod any further. He honestly didn’t want to get into his family bullshit. What he said did bother him for a split second though, Regis wasn’t really there for him as a father figure, would he be there for Jazlyn? The thought made him want to go back to his mother’s house and set things straight but he quickly realized his emotions were getting the best of him. Like a broom to dust, he swept his thought away into a safe place in the back of his mind. He would tend to these later, when he was alone.

Her laugh brought him back to the here and now. He smiled instinctively; he could easily put her laughter as one of his top favorite things in his life at the moment. “Because we’re all tools, love. We live to prove who had bigger balls than the next chap.” He nodded seriously, “Impressed? Really?” He smiled widely, watching her trying not to laugh. It took everything in his power to keep his thoughts quiet. He just wanted to tell her what he thought of her. Especially looking at her, at this moment. He snapped a picture with his free hand. Catching her off guard again. She stopped laughing eventually and Julian fought hard to concentrate on what she was saying, he was so attracted to her. All he kept thinking about was finding a room somewhere… “Teaching and telling stories, right. Who could say no to that?” He nodded looking forward and listening as they walked, “You’re still painting, yes, I like the sound of that...” He smiled to himself as an idea popped into his head as she winked at him. “I do love a woman covered in paint, there’s nothing sexier in my opinion. And pester the ministry about what, exactly, your activist hobbies- you mean?” He wondered for a moment as they searched for a restaurant, what exactly she stood for, he didn’t honestly know and for some reason it bothered him, his thoughts were interrupted when she pointed out a restaurant, he nodded, “Italian it is.”

Once they got inside the restaurant she let go of his arm to his disappointment, he shook off his feelings quickly, there was something unnerving about the way she made him feel. He didn’t like it when he thought about it too much. The waiter handed them there menus and Julian read over everything a couple of times, he couldn’t really focus and the words were registering. She asked him what he was getting, “I have no idea.” He palms were a little clammy and he could feel his anxiety kick in but his outside appearance didn’t seem to change, it was all internal, he listened to her as she ordered, wine in the afternoon, and she’s actually eating food and not just a salad, see keeps getting better, it was his turn, “I’ll have a pint of Guinness and make that the bottle for her and i'll have…” he pointed to the first thing he saw on the menu, it was Sirloin steak with some type of cream sauce - “that,” He had no idea how to pronounce it since the title was written in Italian, and he wasn’t even about to try. “And can I also have…this”, it was a pizza also written in Italian. “Thank you.” Julian was very polite even though the man looked at him quizzically and left. Julian hadn’t eaten anything at all and he naturally had a huge appetite. “We have to get tipsy in the middle of the afternoon, it’s a necessity.”

The waiter came back with their drink and Julian had just took a sip as she asked her next question, he chocked a bit having been unprepared of Eva’s mention, he cleared his throat and looked out the window then at her again, “Eva-er- yeah, I seen her…I actually took pictures of her not too long ago.” Merlin, he really had forgotten about that night? Inside all he wanted to do was throw himself off a bridge. He couldn’t believe he actually went through with his relations with Eva, knowing how close they were. He panicked a little inside, shit, shit, shit, does she know…that’s her best friend of course she does…maybe Eva hasn’t mentioned it… he battled his thoughts for a moment, he didn’t want to lie to her, but he didn’t want to bring up anything that could hurt his chances, “I’m surprised you didn’t go with her. You two are…quite attached…” He smiled nervously then bit his bottom lip as he thought, “Did you see her before she left...” He tried to act as nonchalant as possible thought his leg was shaking underneath the table. He took another sip of his beer and realized his question was suspicious, “I’m just curious where she ran off to now?” He leaned back in his chair rubbing his chin in anticipation, preying to whatever higher power there was that Eva kept her mouth shut. Though he almost knew his luck wouldn’t be that grand. Julian by nature was a honest person, he didn’t really sugar coat things or lie, but this was one situation that he would do anything to get in Elaine’s good graces and so far, he was doing a horrible job with that by sleeping with her best friend. He closed his eyes at the thought for a second, internally irritated with himself as he pinched the bridge of his nose. He regained his composure and waited.

After a few minutes the food came out.

So his mother was some kind of a slut? It wasn't that she would ever say it out loud but the thought definitely crossed her mind. And his stepfather was either stupid, madly in love or both. Julian was right, though. If his parents were fine with that, it would be pointless to interfere. He was probably also right with his second comment. The fact that his stepfather accepted the baby without even saying anything meant that he would care for the girl, no matter what would happen. At least the little one would have a happy life. That was something. Realizing that the matter was closed for him now, Elaine didn't press any further.

"Oh yeah. How could I forget that. Men. You are all the same." The young woman winked playfully at her friend, definitely enjoying his company. He took another picture but this time Elaine didn't say anything. He'd just continue doing it anyway. Moreover by now she was actually quite interested in the pictures. Not because she liked to see herself but because she wanted to know what he saw in her. "Believe me. Lots of children can say no to that. I can be pretty strict, though. They think they get what they want but in truth I get them to do exactly what I want." Elaine loved her kids but if she wanted to, she could indeed be rather strict. Most of them knew that they should better not mess with her and they didn't.

His comment about a woman covered in paint made her raise her slender eyebrows but she decided not to reply to it. It was a little confusing. On the one hand it was just who Julian was, he made comments like this one without any hidden agenda, but on the other hand that was exactly what confused her. The brunette didn't want to send the wrong signals but she also didn't want to withdraw. She liked him lots but there was no spark between them; at least not on her part.

"Mhmmm, exactly. I'm usually the one who has to paint all the signs and then use a charm on them so that the text changes. Only last week we were pretty successful and stopped a new law from being passed." The former Ravenclaw was rather proud of it and it showed on her face.

He ordered and Elaine's eye grew bigger and bigger. What the… "Wow. Someone seems to be hungry. Let's make a bet. I bet you won't be able to eat it all. You decide on the prize for the winner." She laughed and shook her head slightly. Steak and a pizza. Crazy. The waiter returned and she took a sip of her wine as soon as the waiter filled her glass. Tasty. The brunette nodded at the Italian, signalizing him that she'd take the bottle. He disappeared again and the witch focused back on her friend.

"Oh, that was you. She only told me that she went to a photoshoot at some guy's mansion. It wasn't yours though, was it?" His demeanor changed a little and she wondered if she had said anything wrong. "I think I was busy that day but I really don't know anymore. I hope you two had fun?" Elaine looked over the rim of her glass at him, trying to figure out what was going on. "Yeah. I did. She always visits me last before she goes away again. We went out. It was fun. You know how she is. It's never boring with her." Julian still seemed nervous but after a while everything turned normal again.

Their food arrived and Elaine smiled happily when she saw her pizza. It looked delicious. "So? You haven't mentioned a prize yet. I'm curious." Her happy smile turned into a mischievous one while she waited for him to reply.

Julian nodded at her hungry comment. "I'll take that bet and raise you…hmm…let’s see…prizes," He raised his eyebrows up and down playfully, and rubbed his hands together slowly, "If I eat this entire pizza and my steak," He narrowed his eyes as he thought, "You'll have do whatever I tell you for however long we are together, so if I tell you to jump you jump- if I tell you to say something, you say it." He smirked mischievously. "But I promise it won't be anything like ‘take off your clothes’ or something equally piggish." He took a swig of his beer and sat back and folded his hands in his lap. "And if I don't finish everything…same goes for you, you tell me to do something, and I'll do it. If you say squeeze that guys butt," He pointed to a heavyset man that was having a hard time picking up his wallet that fell- it wasn't a very pretty sight, "I have to squeeze that blokes butt." He raised his eyebrow, nodding and trying to look serious.
   
"Good God, no." He laughed at her question. Not because it was a silly question but because the idea of Julian ever owning a mansion was quite laughable. "No, my dear, that was a friend of mines house. I do his tattoos and we are...fairly close," He shrugged, because Julian wasn't really that close to anyone, "and he told me I was allowed to use his house for a photo shoot." He cleared his throat feeling better knowing that Eva hadn't mentioned their little fling. "Ha, yeah we had fun. The house is huge. No, there's never a dull moment with that girl, I know." In his mind he was using all his strength to shove the memory of him and Eva in very small and cluttered closet. "I got some really nice shots." He decided it was best to get off the Eva topic, "So you guys went out, that sounds fun. I haven't been to a club…since I came back to London?" He shrugged, "I bet you could cut a rug?" He winked jokingly.  Julian was more of a bar kind of bloke but he never could really turn down the offer to go out. He wouldn't step one foot on the dance floor without an obscene amount of alcohol in his system, no negotiations.

He took a huge bite of his pizza and chewed a bit before talking, "So what law did you stop from being passed?" He was not only curious, but he loved the way she talked about the things she loved. The pride she had in her work was always apparent on her face. He finished chewing and stuffed another mouthful of pizza in his mouth. Julian had no manners when it came to eating and it was obvious he wasn't really taught how to eat properly in public. He was no stranger to talking with his mouth full; he would just stuff it in the side of his mouth like a chipmunk if he had to say something while he ate. He washed the rest of his first slice of pizza with a swig of beer. He savagely cut his steak and shoved generous piece in his mouth.

"I couldn't even imagine you protesting," He laughed, as he tried to think of her walking about screaming at ministry officials with a huge sign over her head, "You're so…tiny." Although he laughed, he watched himself knowing that by making fun of her might not sit with her well, especially since she was so invested. “But I would definitely listen to the tiny, nice looking, intelligent girl who can stop laws from being passed.” Hopefully that saved him if there were hard feelings. He finished off his stake and picked up another slice of pizza. One down, five to go, she was going down with this bet. “I mean, I can see your kids taking you seriously….but they're tinier than you…so…that’s understandable.” He was being an asshole, of course, but he hoped it would make her laugh.

Elaine rested her chin on her hand, her big brown eyes focused on Julian's face, while she waited for his reply. The way he was rubbing his hands together told her that she should better not lose and when he finally told her what he had in mind, laughter filled the air. "Are you serious?" The muggleborn shook her head slightly but she was still grinning. Elaine faked a sigh and nodded. "Okay. I'm in. No way back." She wasn't easily embarrassed and approaching strangers definitely wasn't a problem for her. Moreover… She and Julian were friends. He knew her and he would surely not want her to steal something. Teasing strangers and doing embarrassing things? It would be fun; even if she lost.

Not his mansion then, okay. She hadn't really thought it was his anyway. "That's nice of him. You need to show me some of the pictures. I bet they're gorgeous." It was as much a compliment to his photographic skills as it was one to Eva's ability to look stunning. It hadn't been the first time that the Bulgarian had worked as a model and Elaine had already admired her previous work. Her best friend couldn't be considered beautiful in the classical way but there was something about her that drew people in. The brunette couldn't name it but she could definitely see it whenever Eva was around.

"Really? We should go clubbing then. A new one opened a while ago and it's quite good. Good music, rather cheap drinks, nice audience." She shrugged, taking another bite of her pizza. "We could go there together or wait until Eva comes back the next time. I don't mind either way." Out of the corner of her eyes, Elaine watched Julian eating, hoping that she'd win their little bet. He didn't have the best manners when it came to eating but the witch didn't mind much. She had got to know him like that and it was definitely not in her place to tell him what to do.

They were talking about her again and Elaine finished chewing before she raised her voice again. "They wanted to forbid the healers at St. Mungos to treat people without money. Can you believe it? Sooooo ridiculous. It's all about money nowadays." This time she sighed for real and took a sip of her white wine. "Anyway. There were enough people against it and I'd like to think it was because of our efforts." Her head snapped up when he started laughing, a snappy comment on her tongue but then he continued and she relaxed again. "You better."

Julian made another comment about her height and she waved it away. "Oh come on. Your jokes are getting old. I'm not thaaaaat tiny. You're just used to seeing me next to Eva who's a giant." Elaine laughed softly nonetheless since he was not that wrong. He was done with the steak and the rest of the pizza was next. Damn. It really looked as if he could eat it all. The waiter walked by and the brunette stopped him. "Another beer for my friend, please." She smiled at the young guy before she turned around again. The more he drank the less he could eat. Brilliant.

He nodded slowly, “Completely serious.” She agreed to the terms, “Bet.”

“Yeah, he’s a saint for letting us crash there.” Julian grinned obviously proud of himself, “Fucking stupendous, they came out better than I had hoped. Eva honestly has a gift.” He nodded agreeing with Elaine’s prediction, knowing her best friend already knew this information about Eva better than he did.  Something about the way she worked in front of a camera, or people for that matter, gave the Bulgarian a definite spark and she’d proved that in countless ways, “Most definitely! I’ll have to show you them another time.”

Julian shrugged, mirroring her movements, “Why not?  I think I know the place you’re talking about. A friend of mine works there. Nice kid. Probably get some free drinks out of him.” He winked playfully. Julian weighed the options as Elaine finished, “Well, we could wait five years for Eva orrrr we could just go together. I’ll be your body guard slash dance mate.” He looked to her smiling coolly. Surely Elaine could manage herself but Julian couldn’t help himself from flirting with the woman across from him. “Or bring Eva. You guys would be perfect wing women.”

He leaned forward a bit when she began. “Figures. Money is a necessary evil. It’s a shame, really.” He could definitely understand her perspective as she continued. I like to think it was because of our efforts, “Well cheers to you Ms. Morgan,” He tilted his glass to her, “Making the world a better place.” Julian then made a few jokes about her height and the witch waved them away. He laughed lightly; he quite enjoyed her feisty nature, “Touché.” He nodded, slightly amused, “Eva is tall, for sure. ” After shoveling bits of food in his mouth, Julian started to feel content. The only problem was he still had a little ways to go…his steak was gone but there was just the matter of pizza…

That damn pizza. He picked up another slice as he heard Elaine order another beer for him. More beer? No. He was already full. Julian stifled a burp with his fist, “Shit. Excuse me.” He let out a sigh as he relaxed in his seat, throwing the slice back on his plate, and placed a hand on his chest, “Merlin…my bloody stomach going to have irreparable damage.” He narrowed his eyes at the slice of pizza with mild distain before turning to the waiter who placed the beer in front of him, “Cheers, mate.” It was a halfhearted thank you as he turned his attention back to Elaine, “I see what you did there,” He raised an eyebrow knowingly, “And I applaud your cunning.” He laughed lazily.