Preston Forest Shopping Center
The Preston Forest Shopping Center is large and classy. The entrance is open and spacious, a rectangular fountain surrounded by potted trees leading up the middle of the mall, with pathways on either side for shoppers. One can easily see both floors from here and the lighting is amazing - beside the typical electric bulbs, the roof is comprised of glass allowing the sunlight to filter in.
Shops and businesses spread out here both east and west as well as to the back of the mall. Hidden away in the back corner one can find the escalator to the second story, as well as washrooms and a bank of payphones.
A mall is a mall. It is moreso when schoolchildren are out for spring break. The older ones are simply dropped off and told they'll be picked up just before mall closing, and the younger ones run ahead of their parents, screeching in delight over this new toy or that new 'fad'. It's always something. It seems it just doesn't matter how upscale it is.
Packs of teens stand before the different planters, and huddle outside trendy stores with bags at their feet, pulling out their purchases and comparing them to the other bags of clothes. Now, the trading, the requests to borrow begins. Well, that and the instinctual need to accessorize..
This mall, however, is simply not the type of mall that Brett Coleman's students frequent. While the school is on the east side, it's buried a little more deeply, and the kids simply don't have the money, and in this day and age, there just isn't 'window shopping' anymore. As a result, he is pretty safe in knowing that he won't be stopped by a parent or a student while spending his evening picking up various bits that he is finding he needs; tie, dress shoes, maybe even a pair of pants that aren't jeans?
Nah…
Regardless, coming from a clothing shop with a small bag, Brett pauses just outside and takes a look around, getting his bearings, and working out exactly which direction he'd come from and where he needs to go to find the next item on the list. Bullet shopper. In, buy what he needs, and leaves…
—-
If ever there was a poster girl for mall shopping, it would probably be Mignonette Savoy. Raised by the best bred, best accessorized woman in East Baton Rouge Parish, she's certainly taken her lessons to heart. And so, the small woman, dressed to impress, as she always is when she's out, because, let's face it, when you're the scion of the Savoys you never have the freedom to be 'off' duty, she's in the midst of sweeping her way out of Cache, carrying more than a few bags along with her. All from the trendiest stores in the mall. Well, except for the garishly yellow bag emblazoned with 'Puppy World' on its side that looks as if it's trying to hide itself between the one of Neiman Marcus and the one from Nine West. She pauses, politely, as she gets to a gaggle of boys leaning up against the display outside of Hot Topic, a soft word excusing herself and having the desired effect, as the boys separate to let her through.
—-
Michael found that he was out of synthetic something he's not used to, having fed mostly off the hoof until recently; no blood means a shopping trip. It's because of this that Michael's at the Mall, a few weeks supply of True Blood in a bag, and a couple of X-box games tucked under his arm. He's a quick shopper himself, his list really only contains one thing, the games picked up in passing he doesn't however enjoy being surrounded by so many teens.
—-
If there's one thing that kids just naturally gravitate towards, it's the 'really cool' that can be used against any lesser being, that is, the unpopular kids, later. There is that pecking order.
As a result, unfortunately Michael's passage doesn't go unremarked by the herds of kids, and some of them actually play out their borrowed courage by calling out, "Hey, what'cha got?". He's got games? What do vampires play?
Turning in one direction, Brett's eyes are up, watching the store names, and in mid-stride, spins around when he realizes that he'd already been in the one direction, and that the center's map had pointed him in the opposite direction. He's used to being turned around, though. Happens all the time.
Bringing his gaze down once more, Brett's walking speed increases as he watches the swarm of teens begin to move in silent cue. He's more than familiar with the tactics. Weres could learn a thing or two from kids today.
First rule, safety in numbers. That's where their courage comes from, and that's what starts to make them lose theirs. Single, easy. Two, a little more difficult. More? Forget it.
"Michael." He's coming up from behind, cutting off a couple of kids as he makes his way up. A smile is on his face that almost makes it up to his eyes. Almost. "Hey."
—-
While the little drama plays out a little further down the walkway from where she is, Mignonette has come to a halt, at one of the small curio kiosks that are set up just so, just enough to make it so that when the mall is particularly crowded, as it is tonight, you can't help -but- stop if your eye catches on something. This kiosk, in particular seems to stock those silver charm bracelet beads that everyone seems to be raving over these days. Mignonette's flicking through the selection, even as one of the salesman comes over, the pair bantering as he tries to make the sale and she fends off his advances. Shopping is a very delicate negotiation, anyone really skilled in it would agree.
—-
Michael's learnt long ago; any group has a leader, it's with the leader that the courage rests, and so after a few moments of watching Michael makes his pick for who he considers the likely leader. He turns his gaze to the chosen teen with the perfect vampire expression, there's absolutely no hint of emotion as he looks at the teen, his tone however while similar, carries just a slight hint of boredom. "Buffy the Vampire Slayer, the second Buffy game, and Cold Fear." He glances at the bag and adds: "And True Blood; I'm hungry." Then his attention turns to Brett, he offers a nod of his head in greeting. "Brett. How are you this evening?"
—-
Brett's not sure if the leader of the pack got a chill down his spine, but all the little short hair on the back of his neck stood straight up to see the complete absence of.. anything on the vampire's face. Not a breath, not an eye flicker, nothing.
That certainly gives new meaning to 'deadpan'.
Well, the youth pauses as well, but he doesn't have near the amount of life experience to conjure up all the nightmares that could possibly come with pissing off an old vampire. Still, he's got enough smarts to back off a little. A nervous chuckle came at the mention of 'Buffy', and someone else pipes up, "Can you actually play the vampire and kill the slayers on that one?"
"I don't know.. might be kinda cool, though."
The kids that just didn't get the same helping of courage stayed much further back, and anything they might have said was done in whispers.
Soon enough, however, the response regarding the TruBlood was the final.. nail in the coffin? to disperse the crowd. Except for a couple potential fangbangers in the back with the other 'cowards' that had never met a vampire, but now..? The interest is shifted, however, by their friends, and they're grabbed and turned around to go check the leather pocketbook kiosks. Coach has sales!
Brett falls in to step, his small bag tucked under his arm, his voice low. "You really have Buffy in there?" He chuckles, "I'm good. Grabbing a couple of things that I didn't need until now."
Now that he doesn't really have to worry about direction, if only for the moment, and the kids are pretty much done, his shoulders relax, if only a little, even if there's that unsettled feeling. But that's sheer proximity. There's a somewhat familiar figure on their level, a short distance away. Playing it.. polite? Cool? Brett's not going to call out over a distance, no. He'll wait until they're closer, if their paths cross.
"How's the night so far?"
—-
It seems as if the ten minutes of haggling has finally paid off, as Mignonette accepts a small gift bag of charms, and the salesman rings up her purchase. Once the deal is done, it doesn't take terribly long for business to be concluded, and for the bag to be slipped into one of the larger ones she's already holding. There are days when one might wish to have an extra limb or two, but for now, she's managing. And starting off again, moving towards the center, which will, eventually, cross her path with the pair coming from the opposite direction. But for now, while she recognizes one, she's polite enough, herself, not to make any attempt to engage them. Boundaries and all.
—-
Michael's expression becomes far more human as he turns his attention to Brett, his tone somewhat amused as the teens finally disappear. "Yes. I'm a fan of the show; it's amusing both intentionally and otherwise." He his smile returns. "Although I do find myself wondering which side I should root for." He pauses at the question. "My evening's quiet so far, but the night is young so who can say what will happen?" He seems quite happy to continue with the slow pace he'd been keeping even during the teens attention.
—-
Brett laughs out loud as Michael 'comes alive', as it were. It's just so damned.. odd. When he visits home next time, he really needs to have a talk with his parents as he's pretty sure his brother would have absolutely no clue as to why things are just.. crawly. It's not as if a vampire had ever done anything to him.. no hatred, no dislike. Just a general feeling of 'ick'.
Might very well be a 'shifter thing'? That's what he's going to find out.
"Okay. Don't do that." Now the smile has reached his eyes, and he shakes his head. "That's just.. kinda creepy." While it may not be the smartest thing to say to a vampire, all things considered, Brett likes the guy. "Though I bet it helps with poker."
As Mignonette comes a little closer, Brett takes the opportunity to at least greet the woman. She's got that space up, he can see that from where he is, but still, it doesn't hurt?
With a handwave in her direction, he follows it up with, "Evening, Ms. Savoy."
—-
Never let it be said that Mignonette would ever forget her manners. Drugged (seldom), drunk (rarely) or overfed (often), she always has the right foot forward. So the greeting is acknowledged, and her game face is on. Friendly, professional, engaging. "And to you, Mr. Coleman." Whatever dirty laundry might exist between the woman and the man of an age with her is certainly not going to come out tonight. "Looks like you're enjoying the peace and quiet this evening." There's just a hint of a smile at the corners of her mouth to add that touch of sarcasm to her words. But soon, she moves on, equally polite, as turns her attention to Michael, "I'm sorry, I don't believe we've met. Mignonette." She doesn't offer the last name, as it's already been given.
—-
"It was meant to be." Michael it seems never gives much away; even now his expression is fairly deadpan although he does offer another smile. "Although it does become something of a natural state for vampires as they get older." The mention of Poker gets a wide almost nostalgic grin. "You should have seen me in Vegas in sixty three." Then his attention turns to Mignonette, his head bowing just enough to be respectful before he speaks. "No, I don't believe we have. I'm Michael Isonzo." It's a name that's tied to a number of recent investments in the city. "It's a pleasure."
—-
Brett chuckled at the quiet boast. "Oh, I bet." The word was on purpose. "Did they want to ride you out of town on the rails?" Now, Michael had said '63. Right now, he wasn't all that sure it was 1963 or 1863, and he wasn't going to be the one to ask.
At Mignonette's jumping the gun and taking it upon herself to introduce herself, Brett resisted the urge to facepalm. He didn't have the opportunity to introduce them, and would have done so, but…
Great.
He's going to try and overlook.. why is he taking it as a jab? Deep breath, and he'll be fine. Game face.
"So far." Brett lifted his bag, "One down, two to go."
Gesturing at the bags Mignonette is carrying, his brows rise slightly, "Successful so far, it looks?"
—-
As it seems that she's come upon the pair in the middle of a conversation, Mignonette knows well enough not to barge in on that, and instead turns to the part of the conversation, the introduction at least, that can attend to, "Yes it is, Mr. Isonzo. I've heard the name, it's a pleasure to finally meet the man that goes with it." Michael, for his part, receives a genuine smile, before she tips her head in Brett's direction, a glance down at her bags, "Yes, for the most part. I've had to redesign my wardrobe a bit, and Kirill has decided he wants to move in, so I had to get -him- a few things too. You've good taste yourself though."
—-
Michael returns the smile; it's good to be recognized. He speaks with obvious interest once he's aware Mignonette knows the name. "Oh? I hope what you've heard is good?" Once it's clear that both Mignonette and Brett have been looking to buy clothes Michael pauses; for a second he's once again motionless, his mind working over something, it's only a moment and he's back to looking at least somewhat human, he even 'fidgets' like a person.
—-
"Good to hear Kirill found a place," Brett says with genuine feeling. "He's a good dog. You could have done much worse."
As for clothes shopping, all Brett needs is a pair of shoes, oh.. and the pair of nice slacks, though he could easily forego those. He's taken by surprise, if only a little, as she offers her opinion on the bag that holds his purchase. "Oh.." He chuckles quietly and more than a little self-deprecatingly, "Only man in creation that has to buy his own ties."
Falling silent for Mignonette to answer the inquiry, he's actually interested in hearing the answer. Of course, what would the savvy attorney say? Particularly in a public venue— that he's a shyster and leaves a trail of money laundering but the authorities haven't ever gotten enough to swoop down and arrest him?
Doubtful.
—-
"You're a shrewd investor. You know how to negotiate, successfully, with some of the most notoriously difficult men and women in the business." That's what she offers in answer to the question. Anything else goes uncommented. As perhaps it should. "Not much. He's taken over the bed. I've been sleeping on the couch." A head shake at the comment, "Oh, I'm certain you're not the only man who has to buy his own ties. And just imagine the alternative. Someone else buying your ties and they're all horribly ugly, but they're gifts and you're obliged to wear them. That never works out well. "The key is in finding the right personal shopper."
—-
Bowing his head to Mignonette he grins. "You exaggerate, but thank you. It's true I've had some fairly interesting deals in my time… but not all of them have been successes, I've just managed to keep some way ahead of the odds." He finally puts down the bag of True Bloods placing the X-box games in it, he glances around the Mall; his expression thoughtful. The mall is currently quite busy despite the fact that it's a good while after sunset; teens still linger around in small groups some watching Michael with vary degrees of nerves although none approach him. He stands with Mignonette and Brett not too far from a kiosk selling of all things silver charm bracelets, a fact that's not unnoticed by the vampire.
—-
"Well, I'm hoping that I didn't happen to find the ugliest." Brett smiles, the self-consciousness still playing in the background. Reaching up to put a quick hand on Michael, he takes a step sideways. A nod is given to Mignonette as well. "I'm sorry. Still need to find shoes, and I think the mall map said it was," he points before them, "that way."
Brett tries once more before departing, "If you ever need any help with Kirill, let me know. I may be able to help, but I'm sure you won't need it."
Brett looks honestly disappointed in having to disappear, but another night, or later, would be easier for him to sit (or stand) and talk. "See you later, I hope."
Breaking away completely, now, he begins to make his way in the direction that he believes he needs.
—-
She's late. Of course she tried her best to be on time, but the class ran too long, and then there was traffic, and then-suffice to say, Desiree's a good 20 minutes late for her meeting with Michael. To top it all, the mall's crowded, and a Cowboys' fan spots her in the crowd. She smiles and signs an autograph, even posing for a picture taken with the guy's cell-phone. His only complaint?-she's not in her cheer leading outfit. What do these people think? That she wears it all the time? Anyway, by the time she spots Michael, she's later than she meant to be, and apologetic when she arrives. "There you are," she crows, a bright smile on her face. "This place is a madhouse, and then there was traffic, and I couldn't find a parking space—-anyway, sorry I'm late." She notices those with Michael, and nods politely as one of them starts walking away. "Did you bring friends to help you shop?" she asks.
—-
"I relay information that is passed on to me." Sometimes embellishing, sometimes now. But it is what it is, "I hope I haven't kept you from anything. You looked as though you were on your way to somewhere important." But then, this is the mall, everywhere is potentially somewhere important. An arch of a brow as Brett makes his less than politic exit stage left, as it were, but she offers a smile and a nod of her head regardless, "Of course, I'd be grateful for the help. I'm sure I'll be able to find a way to contact you." Even if at the present, she doesn't have a clue how that might be. "Ms. DeVilliers. So nice to see you again. I'd only just run into Mr. Isonzo." She does step back, to allow the duo to continue on their shopping expedition, "The traffic really is terrible this time of night."
—-
It take Desiree a moment to remember the girl standing with Michael, but once she does, her smile widens. "Mignonette," she says, her tone warm and friendly. "We met at the vampire bar, didn't we? My first time there and I wore a white dress. Oy." She rolls her eyes, laughing. "I've learned better since." Her head nods enthusiastically. "Traffic around here's been horrible ever since the church moved in. Mall traffic was bad enough, but now one doesn't dare come out on a Saturday or Sunday night. It's getting awful around here. I'm glad I don't come here often." She grins up at Michael, who is, after all, the reason she's here tonight. "We're here to spiff up Michael's wardrobe, get him out of the 80s and into the 21st Century," she teases. "There're some great stores here, and we'll be able to find everything we need. One stop shopping." A laugh. "Would you care to join us, Mignonette? I could use some feminine company on this shopping expedition."
—-
Michael looks at Brett as he departs a very brief nod, there's a hint of surprise at the hand, although Michael doesn't expect anyone but vampires to follow their customs, he turns his attention back to Mignonette shaking his head slowly. "No I was just waiting for someone, she should be here…" He cuts off as this is when Desiree shows up. Michael offers her a smile shaking his head. "Actually I'd only just met Ms. Savoy." He sighs looking at Desiree. "I like to think I've picked outfits that age fairly well… it's easier for me that way." His stoic expressions just touched by surprise at the invitation, if he remembers anything about shopping with women it's that things become more difficult for accompanying men the more women present, there could probably be a graph.
—-
"I rather liked the white dress. It was a nice change from what most of the people that go in there wear. Though I've only been a few times, and not at all since the time we met there." At the mention of the church, Mignonette's nose wrinkles, and her tone turns slightly acerbic, "Many things have become quite terrible, since the church moved in." But she seems happy enough to set aside mention of the church, as she returns to the conversation, giving Michael a thorough going over. Yes, definitely a born and bred shopper. "Oh, I don't know, I don't think he looks -that- unfashionable. You really can't go wrong with the classics." yes, there's a touch of humour in her words, "Oh, I wouldn't want to interrupt, and I'm certain you'd likely know his fashion sensibilities better than I would." After all, that is why Desiree's his designated shopper, right?
—-
Desiree takes note of the varying degrees of expression on Mignonette's face, nodding. The Fellowship topic is dropped with a roll of her eyes and an agreeing nod. "They wouldn't even let me put up a poster about the dance recital," she says last. Then, "Nonsense. You're perfectly welcome," she says firmly. "I may be a designated shopper, but another woman's opinion is always welcome. I don't have perfect taste when it comes to men. I like leather and denim, so I'd probably have poor Michael dressed up like some kind of biker." She laughs, eyes dancing with mirth. "Your clothes look perfectly classic, just like Mignonette says," Desiree agrees, "but I'd like to see you in something a bit more casual, besides a suit, I mean. I feel like Sgt. Joe Friday's come to visit me sometimes." She gives the vampire a wheedling, coaxing look. "I promise it'll be worth your while." Oooh, tempting fate, is she?
—-
Michael's always careful to avoid mention of the Fellowship, his own opinions somewhat biased against group whose religion is based almost entirely around his being a soulless monster. He offers a grin to Mignonette, his amusement obvious. "I have no fashion sensibilities, although likely that's why I'm here. I chose not to follow fashion any more than necessary when the cod piece became the height of fashion… I suppose I never took the time to try getting back in more than was necessary." With a look at Desiree Michael smiles. "I happen to like suits, they /are/ timeless. Still something more casual won't hurt."
—-
"You know, I've always wondered how that was every comfortable." Clearly, some fashion actually is outside of Mignonette's experience, "But, if you're both sure, I'd be willing to help out, as much as I can. I do tend towards being better at picking out suits and business attire though, as you can imagine, I should warn you now. But if you're alright with that, then I'd be happy to. Did you have any idea of where you wanted to go first?" Mignonette takes a moment, shifting her bags around to make them more comfortable to carry, before she allows the duo to choose a direction.
—-
"Yes, but timeless suits are still … suits," Desiree says pointedly. "You need some jeans and sweaters and so on," she tells the vampire. You can go riding on my Harley in a suit. That's just … wrong." She laughs, then, turning toward the back of the mall. "There're some great shops down this way," she says to both Mignonette and Michael. "We'll start with Milanos. They have suits which don't make you look like you walked out of a Frank Sinatra movie," she comments, stopping in front of a glass window. "See? These are gorgeous suits, but they're cut more modernly than yours. This's where my father bought his suits." She turns to Mignonette, looking her up and down. "Maybe you need some casual clothes, too. "Suits and ties are great for the office, but not so great when you want to do some hard rock dancing at the Warehouse."
—-
Shaking his head Michael sighs. "They were as uncomfortable as they looked, especially when they began making them out of more… solid materials." He shrugs at the comment about riding a Harley in a suit. "I have bike leathers somewhere at home, and I suppose you're right; two years is long enough to stand out." He falls into the universal pattern of men shopping with women they're close to; he nods his agreement to anything that he doesn't hate. "True, I suppose I should get some more modern cut suits; maybe I should visit a tailor for those though, a suit should be made to fit after all."
—-
Mignonette will allow Desiree to lead this particular expedition, and she's more than happy to continue along to Milanos, her comment coming easily, "And with your skin tones, I really like a dark blue for you, or maybe a nice smokey grey. Black's, well, it's a little bit, overdone, and doesn't quite give the right effect." A shake of her head, as she looks over at Desiree's assessment of her clothing, "Oh, believe me, this is about as casual as I get. I've never been much of a fan. And i rarely, if ever go dancing."
—-
"Then you'll love Milano's," Desiree tells him, gesturing the group toward the store. "Each suit is tailored to fit. You try on one in your size, and they will tailor it to fit you perfectly. Then, say, if you want something specially made? THey have your measurements and will make the suit—-or whatever, for you." It's not long before they're seated in a pleasant conversational grouping, a little Italian man speaking with them. Desiree wasn't kidding; they really do tailor suits (and other items) to fit the individual. She urges Ricardo to show some of the newer styles from Europe, mainly Italy and France. "And … how about some new suit designs for my friend here?" she asks, nodding at Mignonette. "Something that'll make her look pretty for the office and, say, a business dinner." Desiree nods agreement with what Mignonette says about Michael's suits. "Dark blue would look great on him. It would bring out the blue of his eyes."
—-
Michael for his part seems at least to know his way around suits; he quickly begins to assert himself somewhat, picking out cuts and materials with the ease of someone who's done so many times before. "I'll see the English cuts; I'm a fan of Gieves and Hawkes." Of course when it comes to standing still for his measurements Michael excels.
—-
Once Michael has been set on his way, and Mignonette has asked to kindly set her bags behind the counter to free her hands, she wanders over towards the accessories, pulling down a few things here or there, "I'd love to see him in something a bit daring. Maybe a bright pastel, or a classic pinstripe with a nonstandard tie." Oh, Michael, poor man, may have survived centuries, but he may not make it through the night tonight. At the offer for herself, she shakes her head, "I'm honestly alright. I have more than enough clothes to last me two lifetimes. As my mother would say…my other house is a closet."
—-
In an aside to Mignonette while Michael is getting his measurements taken, Desiree says, "The English always seem so stodgy to me. I do hope I can at least get him to try some jeans and boots." At the girl's comment about closets, Desiree chuckles. "It's the same with the dance studio. We have tons of costumes of all sizes. My extra bedroom is mostly closet space, now. I'd hoped to turn it into a sewing room, or a guest room—-but, nope, it's a stick it all away in there room." Eyes sparkling, she shakes her head. "A girl can never have too many clothes." She listens to what Mignonette has to say, nodding enthusiastically. "That cranberry shirt and this tie," she says, pulling a classically designed striped tie from a display. "They'd look wonderful with a charcoal gray suit, don't you think?" She places the items on the counter. "I've got to get to work on my costume for the dance recital, too. I'm dancing to "Hungry As A Wolf," and the costume's pretty spectacular."
—-
"No /bright/ pastel, I find they're usually garish." Michael looks at Desiree. "I personally don't mind pastel as long as it's not that bright." He frowns faintly. "The English suits aren't stodgy, only the ones that tend to get brought over here." He smiles faintly looking from Desiree to Mignonette. "Perhaps while we're going for the more extreme ideas I should consider a Nehru suit?" He's finally measured and ready to make his selection so his attention turns to the racks as he studies the cuts and equally important the materials; he's determined to get as much to his liking as possible while Desiree's distracted by the accessories.
—-
"Well, we are in Texas. If we can't get him to wear them here, we won't be able to get him to wear them anywhere. And we certainly won't find a better selection." Mignonette does look over, as she hears Michael's caveat to pastel, and she looks over at Desiree. It's -the look-. The look every woman shopping for every man has ever given her female accomplice. "Nehru? Only if you plan on attending a 60s mod pimp and ho party. And I really don't think that's your style." She finishes collecting things with Desiree, before she starts back towards the man actually doing his own shopping. That's refreshing. "The grey I think will do nicely. And I do hope I'll be able to come to the recital. My schedule's been so overloaded, as I've been trying to catch up on work. But I promise to do my best to be there."
—-
What is nice about Milano's is the women's section. "They have designer dresses, mostly from Italy - Rome, Venice, Florence, Milan. I love to look at them, and I've modeled for the store before, but I've never been able to afford them." Desiree gives a sigh. "Look at that black one. It's so simple. Must cost a fortune." She's distracted by the conversation between Mignonette and Michael. "And I sure as heck am not going as the 'ho half of that equation," she tells them with a laugh. "Actually, the Nehru is making a comeback. Some big star wore one on the Leno Show and now they're popular again." She looks over at Michael with fondness. "That would be so great, if you could. I understand hectic schedules, though, so I'll understand if you can't." She then turns to Mignonette, explaining, "My dance school is sponsoring a dance recital/benefit for the Dallas Wildlife Preservation Society. It'll be at the UTD Davidson Auditorium on the 24th of this month. Seven p.m. You should come - or at least buy an advert in our program book." Who hasn't heard of Savoy & Savoy, attorneys at law?
—-
Michael looks at Desiree and Mignonette. "I've worn jeans and boots before." He motions to a member of staff discreetly and asks about the price of the black dress Desiree was interested in, requesting that it be added to their items he heads over to the two women with a smile. "I like the idea of Charcoal grey; it's a good colour as long as you're willing to go with darker shades with it." He runs his hands through his hair. "As for the recital, I'm afraid sunset isn't until four minutes passed eight." He looks to Mignonette with mild surprise. "I'm afraid I never made the connection between your surname and Savoy and Savoy; I considered your firm once back in eighteen twelve." He frowns thinking back for a moment. "At the time it was more practical for me to go with a firm based closer to my business interests of the time, but I do remember your family were exceptionally capable."
—-
"I'm certain that the firm would be more than happy to buy out a page of advertising in the program. And perhaps a second page to be divided amongst a few other businesses you feel would be worthy, but that might not have the funds available to pay for it themselves? I'll leave it up to you to choose who. Just send all of the billing to the office and I'll have Desiree take care of it." Michael's comment does not go unnoticed, however, and as he speaks, she counters, "He's willing to go with jeans and boots," a soft whisper, which, given Michael's heightened perception, is not at all a secret, "I think you might get him into a few before the night is out." As Michael returns though, Mignonette holds up one of the choices, the cranberry shirt, which had just made it into the basket the two women are sharing, lips pursing as she looks between his face and the shirt, his face and the shirt, "I think this will work very nicely." No small amount of surprise on Mignonette's part either, as Michael makes mention of her family's firm, and the time period, but she recovers well, "I thank you for the compliment, on behalf of my family. And I will say that in the time since then, we have only become better at the field of law, and we have quite a few areas in which we specialize. And with an office here in Dallas, I would say that we are certainly closer to your holdings. And I do hope you'll consider our firm, should you have need of us."
—-
Of course, it was only a guess on Desiree's part, connecting Savoy & Savoy with Ms. Mignonette. Well, sort of. Desiree remembers the name from the papers. She hasn't drawn attention to the attack, since obviously Mignonette is the one in the article, and that would just be rude. "I've heard good things about them, too," Desiree says, smiling. "I didn't realize the family practice was that old, however. Eighteen-twelve. Imagine that. Were you based out of New Orleans at that time? I don't recall Texas being settled much back then. Or, if it was, it was mostly Spanish land grants and Mexican ranchers." Desiree's eyes keep turning toward the elegant black dress, with longing. But, she's being good, and the money she'd spend on that dress will be going into the bank. "I believe my father used your firm once, when someone sued him. Things were handled very well, and satisfactorily. THankfully, I've never had to make use of them myself. No offense, but I'd like to keep it that way." She grins at Mignonette, giving her a wink. "Oh, good. Jeans and boots will be next in line, and I know the perfect store for them. It's out off of I-35, just north of town. It's where we used to get our riding supplies. They have both English and western gear." She smiles widely. "We'll have to make a trip out there sometime and see you get properly fitted. Ain't nothin' any worse'n seein' a cowboy with sloppy britches," she jokes.
—-
Noting the looks at the black dress Michael seems to consider Desiree for a few moments and when he speaks it's in an almost off-hand fashion. "Will they need to measure you for that dress? I'd hate to buy it and find it didn't fit." He nods to Mignonette. "Perhaps, I'm currently quite happy with my law firm; they're more than capable, and since most of my money is currently invested in shares I don't have much need to cater to region." He shrugs a shoulder. "Although I did consider getting into show business recently; it's one of the few fields that requires more face time than I could afford before the Revelation."
—-
"Savoy & Savoy has been a practicing firm since 1755." Yes, they are actually older than the United States. "We've always been based out of Baton Rouge, although we do have a satellite office in New Orleans. Some holdings in New York, and now this office in Dallas." A shake of her head, and Mignonette's ready laughter, "Oh, I don't take any offense at all. Just because I am a lawyer doesn't necessarily mean that I want more business. More business means more laws being broken and more damage being done to people both rightly and wrongly. I am glad that we were able to assist your father, however." No laughter, to Michael, but the tip of her head she gives him is respectful enough, "I won't press, of course, and I'm glad to know that you have sound representation. But the offer is always there, if you have need of our services. Shall we try you in the charcoal and the cranberry?" Don't think you're getting out of this alive, Michael! Er…
—-
Desiree's laugh is loud and spontaneous. "Oh, that's a good one," she says to Mignonette. Her eyes are dancing with humor. "Of course, I guess it's a little ethnic, but the best jokes are. Sad to say, no one can really enjoy them anymore for fear of looking prejudiced or bigoted." Her remarks are made with a confidence she will be understood. "If I offend, please forgive." She nods enthusiastically regarding the charcoal and cranberry, telling Michael, "Might even let you take me out to dinner and dancing in that one." Teasing him, perhaps? "Why on earth would you be buying me that dress!" Desiree asks, her voice low, but urgently whispered. "It's 'way too expensive, and as much as I love it, I don't really /need/ it." She looks at the vampire with affection, but shakes her head when asked if "Madam" would care to try on the dress. "Seventeen-fifty-five, huh. Wow. I've never spent a lot of time in Baton Rouge. My family originally came from Nawlins'."
—-
Shoes, check. Something other than his high tops, anyway. Brett's getting into the spirit of the thing, but how pathetic is buying an entire wardrobe in one outing? Add that to the fact that while he does have some disposable income, he doesn't have -that much-. He's stopped in front of a more upscale shop than some of the shops around, even. Dropping $800 on a suit, well…
No.
Brett has his tie, has his shoes. Maybe, just maybe he'll look at the shirts.
Wandering in the front entry, he looks lost enough not to garner the attention of random shop wanderers. It's obvious he doesn't belong in the shop, and should he be given attention, it may take him longer to learn he's over his head.
Odd marketing and sales, but it keeps the riff-raff out.
—-
Michael studies Desiree for a moment, his expression thoughtful. "I suppose I would be buying you the dress because you want it and I can get it for you… There's no reason I shouldn't is there?" He offers his own affectionate smile to Des, then he's finally turning his attention back to the clothes selected for him. "I do like them." He nods. "I think I'll have them fitted."
—-
"Wonderful. I think he's waiting to get started on them right now." Mignonette, well, she doesn't -quite- roll her eyes, but close, "Oh, for goodness sakes, Desiree. Just go and try on the dress and see how it fits before he gets upset." Doubtful that Michael -will- get upset, she hopes, but the woman obviously seems to need a push to actually go and take the dress down off of the rack. Finally though, whether it's her words of Michael's, probably Michael's, Desiree finally does move away from the group, picking up the dress along the way and heading back towards the dressing rooms, one of the seamstresses going in along with her. They could be a while. "Right, so what else were you wanting to get while you were in here, Mr. Isonzo?" She goes give a glance around, catching sight of the lost lamb at the front of the store, "Mr. Coleman? Did you misplace something?" That certainly is the look on his face.
—-
Well, lost is a good descriptor. Deer in the headlights? Could be another apt description as he was called by name. A lopsided, self-conscious smile appears, uncertain whether he should wade in further, or take the hint and make a tactical retreat.
It takes him a moment to key in to where the voice came from, and as his gaze falls on the now familiar form of Mignonette Savoy, perhaps a retreat would be preferable? Unfortunately, his feet don't take the hint, and starts his way back. There, with her, Michael.
"Ah… no." Looking around on the racks, Brett knows that he's just not in the right store. Not for him, anyway.
"How are you guys faring?"
—-
With Desiree finally agreeing to try on the dress Michael looks to Mignonette; his tone stoic. "I'm beginning to suspect that I'm here so Desiree can play dress up with me…. even if I do really need a new wardrobe." He gives another of those almost cold grins. "That said I wouldn't mind a new watch… perhaps a Rolex." He turns to look at Brett his smile still there. "We're doing well enough, at least I think so. Did you have any luck finding those shoes you were after?"
—-
"That's usually the reason any woman takes a man out shopping. It's as much for her enjoyment as his." Mignonette is nothing if not honest, on that point. "And it's a point in your favour that she's willing to do it." A thoughtful look, as she considers, "I think there's a Cartier jewelers here that might have what you're looking for, but that's on the far side of the mall from where we are now." yes, she's been here that often that she doesn't need to use a map. "We're doing fairly well, thank you. Shopping for an important meeting?" One would imagine, given that he's come in here. "I'm free, if you need a point in the right direction."
—-
Brett has one hand holding his bag. The one small one seems to have been placed inside another, slightly larger one, and he jostles it slightly. "Got the shoes." He lowers his voice, and his tones take a slightly lighter timbre, "No Converse." Which seems to be the shoe he prefers.
The free hand comes up to scritch at the back of his neck in something of a new nervous gesture. "No, no meeting.." Brett shakes his head and looks slightly embarrassed. "And," he rolls his head back slightly and laughs self-deprecatingly, "I am not going to say what I was just about to or I would never, ever live to hear the end of it. No offense, Michael, but even if I was a vampire, it would take me -centuries- to live it down." He looks back at Mignonette, blue eyes gleaming in amusement, "There are absolutely no meetings I could think of in my career that would warrant a suit from here. I mean.. on a teacher's salary?" He shakes his head and shifts his jaw, "What's the dress.. suggestion for your house warming party?" Assuming he's still invited, that is.
—-
Nodding Michael chuckles quietly. "Yes, I remember. I sometimes think it's always been that way, certainly for all of my life." He places down his own bag as he once again checks the shirt and tie, his attention turns to Brett for a moment as he shakes his head. "I don't take offense, and in a way I agree as long as a suit's comfortable and presentable it should be good enough for any event, not that it's ever been that way."
—-
"One very good suit can stand in for a dozen suits of far lesser quality." Mignonette turns, now studying to school teacher, her gaze critical, but not judgmental, "But you don't strike me as the type who really wears suits. And I wouldn't say, that if I had a choice, I would put you in one. A nice button-down shirt, certainly. But that paired with a nicely cut pair of jeans, that would be much more fitting." As she hears the question about the housewarming, "Well, it's a daytime barbeque, with the potential of ending up in the pool. We're having a crawfish boil and every wonderful and messy that can come off of a grill." A beat, "So something you can easily throw in the washer hoping enough detergent will get the stains out, I imagine."
—-
A dress like the one Desiree's trying on takes time. Nor can you wear it with boots. She has the salesgirl go and find her a pair of shoes which will go with the dress before she even tries it on. That takes some time, since Desiree says she doesn't want any cheap ones. She may be wearing leather pants, but she's not a biker babe, and lets that be known pretty straight forwardly. Now, dressed in silk, she emerges from the dressing room, swathed in a designer dress which can only be described as amazing. It's cut along a Greek design, with one bare shoulder. There's a belt around the waist that looks like coiled snakes. "Well?" she asks, smiling and modeling the dress for them. There's no doubt it suits her, and she carries it well. Her hair has been hastily pulled up into some kind of knot that allows a curl or two to hang down over her shoulder. Designed as it is, it's a vampire's dream, since it leaves so much of her neck exposed. "What do you all think?"
—-
"A suit for every occasion. My mother agrees, too."
See now, what Mignonette describes is exactly Brett's style. Nice shirt, clean, unfaded jeans, and perhaps he'll trade in his high-tops for something more suited for the occasion.
"I happen to agree with you, Ms. Savoy." His enunciation of the name isn't quite as formal as the actual words spoken. A thawing in comparison to just some time ago? He can hope, of course.
The fact that it doesn't sound like he's been uninvited to the housewarming is heartening. "Right.. button-down—"
Desiree's exit from the dressing room catches Brett by surprise. He isn't aware that she's shopping with the pair, and so is taken completely unawares. Turning, he catches the full effect, as it were, and finds himself staring. Now that's…
"Wow?" He manages to resist the whistle of appreciation, but it's there in the single syllabled word.
—-
Michael shrugs his expression amused. "I suppose I've seen too many different styles go from being fashionable to being laughable, I buy a suit I often wonder what people will consider ridiculous in the future." As Desiree approaches Michael turns his attention to her, it of course wouldn't do for a vampire of his standing to be dumbstruck, so he simply takes a few steps towards Desiree his expression becoming very appreciative as he looks her over. It's only the fact that he actually uses gothic that may imply how thrown he is. "Skauns." He smiles brightly as he reaches out to take her hand. "My dear, you are one of the most beautiful sights I have ever seen. And I think Ms. Savoy was right; if you don't let me buy you the dress I will be very upset."
—-
"I'm certain that you could find something suitable, even on a teacher's salary in here, if you were interested in having a look around. I think you'll find that, in most stores, if you go further into the back of the store, that they usually have the most reasonable items placed there. The things about stores, is that while many of them want to seem upscale and exclusive, the fact of the matter is, that they also want customers and that means catering to every income level." As Desiree steps out, announcing herself, Mignonette turns away from the rack she was going over, that same critical eye passing over Desiree, silently, before she gives a nod, and a smile, "Its suits you quite well, Desiree. You look beautiful. It really highlights your colouring." Something every good dress should do. "I wouldn't do anything with the neck, but maybe a nice chunky statement bracelet and delicate earrings would set it off quite nicely." There's no doubt that Mignonette has failed to notice, not only Brett's reaction, but Michael's. But that, like many of the things Mignonette has seen of late, goes uncommented.
—-
It's a good thing Desiree knows how to walk down a runway and model a dress. She shows it off from several angles, posing. Brett's presence is quite a surprise to her, as well. "Fancy meeting you here," she says, grinning. "Ir I'd've known, I'd've brought your book," she says sadly. "As it is, we'll just have to wait for a trip to Cerebral Deli." But her attention is really on Michael, to see his reaction to what she wears. That tiny gold trim around the edges?—-yeah, it's real gold thread, which is why the price is so high. It's Michael's reaction that has her blushing as he takes her hand. She doesn't know the language, or what he's saying, but it sounds good. "Nothing more classic than black and gold," she tells them with a grin. "If I go broke, I can always sell the trim for market value." She laughs, glancing from one face to the other. "I guess I'd better go take this off. I can't exactly drive in it." But the look on the men's faces? They go straight to Desiree's ego. "Y'all are just being kind," she tells them, acting shy and back-woodsy. "It's a beautiful dress, and I love it. I can imagine dancing in this. Thank you, Michael."
—-
Breathe. See. It's easy. Take a breath in, let it out. Rinse. Repeat.
"It's okay. Carrying around a book in the mall…" Not something he expects anyone to do, honestly.
He has to force himself to physically turn away to hear what it is Mignonette is saying to him. He concentrates on the words, willing himself, "I may. It just looks like I would be running the gauntlet to get to the back. If I'm worthy, I'll make it to the more reasonably priced shifts."
Shaking his head, Brett steps to the side, out of Desiree's way, should she wander the few steps further. Michael intercepts, however, and he takes a further step in Mignonette's direction.
"Dancing?" Brett can't imaging a venue that would include dancing; well, okay.. and, come to think of it, Desiree could probably run in those circles…
Ho-kay, then. Brett exhales and turns around to the racks further in the back. "Right.. shirts." He's never felt.. inadequate, but there's a moment there that makes him wonder if he should just go back to The Gap and pick up a new pair of, say, Wranglers. It'd make him feel better, certainly.
Out of his league.
—-
Michael for his part makes no attempt to hide the fact that he's pretty much transfixed by Desiree; all those little human habits he puts on have dropped away, his only movements are conscious ones, he literally doesn't even blink. Once Desiree says she's going to get changed Michael releases her hand, offering a proper bow this time. As she leaves Michael turns to look at Mignonette and Brett, his mannerisms returning as quickly as they disappeared. "I think I will make my purchases and then speak to Desiree about heading to the Jewelers; I really do think a new Rolex is in order. And I really am beginning to get hungry." He offers a smile at that last as he picks up his shopping bag and offers another respectful nod to each of them. "I hope you enjoy the rest of your evening."
—-
Mignonette offers a smile, as she sees Michael walk over to Desiree. It's always nice to see a woman appreciated, as she should be. "Not much of a gauntlet. The store's not very busy, this time of the evening," less of a teenage presence and all. Once Desiree wanders off, and Michael moves to retrieve his things, Mignonette offers another to him, "Of course, Mr. Isonzo. Don't worry about any of this, I'll make certain that everything is taken care of, and I'm certain Desiree will be glad to have them contact her at the studio if they have any changes to be made." By the time she's finished with her goodbye, she turns back to…well, nothing, as Brett too has wandered off somewhere into the store. Well. That was something of a dramatic finish to the evening. Well, perhaps less dramatic and more expected. But now that her shopping skills seem no longer required, Mignonette moves to collect her bags from where she's stored them behind the counter.
—-
Brett's wandered further back, where Mignonette had recommended. Perhaps he's still very much the 'child' in that the moment one turns their back on him, he's nowhere to be found. Should anyone inquire about that to Mrs. Coleman, there are more stories than just his wandering off that could be told!
Still, it's a habit for him; for his part, it is giving him the chance to gather himself together and pull him out of the mire that could very well threaten. He won't allow it. So, Ramen noodles are on the menu, but if he wanted a shirt from this store, he'd get one!
Of course, the battle now is sizing. He needs 'tall' but not 'big'.
Looking around, casting his gaze through the store, he takes the moment to pull out the new tie and begin the task of matching up tie and potential purchase. The tie is straightforward enough; not a power red one, but a darker, navy blue with smaller flares through. Basic. Conservative. Would go with most of the shirts on the rack. Now, it's just a matter of finding the correct size.
He could be here all night…
—-
Mignonette, after a polite word to the woman managing the counter, retrieves her bags. She does take a moment, to look back towards the back of the store. It is, after all, where she did recommend that Brett look, if he wanted to find something reasonable. And as tall as he is, it isn't difficult to spot him wading through the racks. She almost takes a step in his direction. But then good sense and reality kick in, and she turns, leaving him to his shopping, and moves to depart the store. She has way to many things to carry back to the car, and a new man, as it were, waiting at home for his new chew toys and accessories.
