Black Ties for Charity

Brook Hollow Country Club

Polished hardwood floors gleam in the light that filters in from the large windows which overlook a private patio. Expensive Persian rugs rest beneath each grouping of furniture. Two large fireplaces can be found on opposite walls, giving the club a generally warm atmosphere. To the back of this large, open room, is a bar that is continually manned by an employee.
Billiards and card tables can be found in a smaller room down the hall, as well as a separate room for shuffleboard, and another for quiet games of chess. Outdoors features a series of private tennis courts, each equipped with a trainer to help those members who have never attempted the sport before.
The most important piece of the club takes up a large portion of the outdoor acreage. A complete 18 hole golf course, featuring both water and sand traps, as well as small decorative lakes always has at least one group of club members on it.


Snow white. Coal black. With dashes of blue for colour. Classic elegance seems to be the theme of the evening here at the country club. The centerpiece of the room seems to be a massive ice sculpture, depicting a Pegasus rearing up beside a Grecian woman holding a cornucopia spilling its fruits onto the icy ground below. The table settings are stark white set on black chargers, accented with finely polished silverware and black-stemmed hand-blown glasses. At the center of each table is an artful arrangement of Texas bluebells spilling up and out of hand-crafted translucent black wide-mouthed bowls. Place-cards are set out at each of the tables, denoting the seating arrangements for the evening and each place setting has a simple white gift box with black ribbon set out; party-favours for the guests. Sheets of contrasting black and white sheets are draped against the walls, offset now and again by fabric blue to match the flowers. The bar is in full service, the bar personnel all dressed 'to the nines', as are the staff that filter through the room with drinks, appetizers and assistance for the guests being hosted for the evening. The doors leading out onto the grounds have been left open, to allow the soft summer evening to waft in, and rising above the murmur of conversation are the soft strains of violin and harp, coming from a small stage set just opposite the bar proper.

—-

A bespectacled almost middle-aged man in a classically cut tuxedo, Dr. David Trudeau, stands at the door, greeting the guests in a chain of well-wishers and hand-pressers. Smiles, nods and words floating on the air such as 'a pleasure' and 'good to see you', and 'oh great, you could make it' make for a murmured backdrop to the affair. He's genuinely happy to see each, and is making sure that every guest that walks in the door is acknowledged.. and encouraged.

—-

It's for a good cause, it's for a good cause, it's for good cause. If Sebastian repeats the mantra to himself enough times, he might actually start to feel better about it. What is 'it'? Well, it's not the two fifty he dumped into buying his way in the door, it's not even the money he spent on renting the tuxedo he's sporting. No… it's the actual /wearing/ of the tuxedo. It itches, it's uncomfortable, the shoes pinch his baby toes. Bleck.

Despite it all, he puts on his best smile, all dimples and pearly whites, and makes his way inside. Never you mind the end of the yellow stuffed banana visible peeking out of the weird little sling contraption he has strapped on under his tuxedo jacket. There is no soft gurgling and squeaking coming from the slingbag. This is not the banana-monkey you are looking for. Who would have thought it would be impossible to find a sitter for a baby owl monkey for ONE damned evening?

—-

Ivan has a philosophy when it comes to life. And that, simply put, is appearance is everything. Therefore, is it any surprise to find him sweeping into the even in a flawless and rather expensive dark suit, tailor made for him. Is it any surprise that the white stitching and trim of the tux is impossibly flattering? Is it any surprise that his grin is wide, attractive, and incurably smarmy, similar to the ones found on most politician's faces? He is entering with the accompaniment of a young woman - but to the surprise of those who follow him, that young woman isn't the 'Queen of the Crazies'. Behind him, a handful of government officials accompany the esteemed mayor of the city, McNaab.

—-

Wit has managed to clean himself up appropriately for the benefit tonight. He doesn't wear a tuxedo, but he DOES manage to pull off a pin-striped designer suit, shined shoes, and coiffed hair. Thankfully none of his tattoos or piercings are in view tonight. The young man tucks his hands into the pockets of his slacks as he wanders in, smiling over at David very briefly. It's a smile that seems to say: 'I hear you but am not really listening'. This sentiment is mirrored by his huge pupils. Rather uncharacteristically he is NOT in the company of a young woman, but seems to have come stag. He nods to David and then goes to find his seat — loath that he used his actual God-given name to pay for this social fiasco.

—-

Dressed in a somewhat sparkly black cocktail dress, and wrap heels, Chloe enters on Ivan's arm. Though she's aware that any photographers are going to have a field day with this, she's well prepared for it. A mental scan of the room is given as they enter, as promised. « Three, perhaps four people in attendance that are not quite human. A vampire is nearby, but I can't tell whether they are in the building or not. » This projected at Ivan as she smiles for a photographer, and then nods to those she knows in attendance. She may just be a librarian, but she does know quite a few people here.

—-

And while the good doctor is at the door, Mignonette is doing the real work. That is to say, making sure the food is ready, it is, the drinks are flowing, they are, the ice sculpture is not too melty, it isn't, and the entertainment is where they need to be. Tonight she's the woman behind the throne, as it were. Add to that checking each table to make certain that everyone has their designated seat set out for them, and no one's been missed. There's even a small table set close to the center of the room for a bit of information on the charity, a well as a duo of volunteers to answer questions about the charity and the upcoming inoculation program.

—-

Trevor has never been a fan of wearing a tux, though his had to wear them in the past. At the moment he is pulled off a pair of glasses and sticking them into the inner pocket of his jacket. A hand lifts to smooth down his hair slightly while he moves on into the room after greeting the door greeters and of course paying the fee. His gaze drifts over the area, friendly smiles and nods offered to any who he happens to make eye contact with. The mostly large animal vet figured it was a good cause and also figured it was a way to get out and meet the public in some way or form.

—-

As time passes the start of the affair, Dr. Trudeau excuses himself and heads towards the mic'd podium with the logo of 'Bright Futures' sitting in front in full display.

Tapping the microphone, he leans in and speaks, wincing as the echoes come out louder than he expects. Changing the volume of his voice, he begins,

"Ladies and gentlemen, if I may have your attention.." and he waits a moment before continuing, "On behalf of the men and women working so diligently on the behalf of Bright Futures, I would like to welcome you all to the first annual black tie dinner. My name is Dr. David Trudeau, and I'm here representing the Center for Disease Control in Dallas. I am the senior lead researcher for the area, for those who may not know who I am."

Taking a deep breath, he continues, "On the list for this evening's events is a small auction to give you all a taste of what is to come later on this summer, to tempt you.." Here, he breaks and smiles, a hint of a laugh is given, and he continues, "and behind me on the screen, the children from the elementary schools have put something together for us as a surprise.

"Now, you all in this room may not realize it, but in this city alone, there are thousands of children at risk for childhood diseases that we simply never found.. and now, starting school, we have the chance and the opportunity to reach out to the families and protect them and ourselves. With each child not innoculate, we run the risk of the specific disease attacking them and potentially mutating.. and moving on from one child to another." Smiling tightly, he inclines his head towards his audience. "It is thanks to your generosity that we never see such an epidemic. Thank you.. and enjoy your evening."

—-

First thing's first, find a seat, his own seat, God's seat, the Queen of England's seat, it matters not! So long as it's sort of out of the way and secluded. Sebastian seems in a bit of a hurry find that seat. Nods and excuse me's and smiles, they're all offered in the appropriate places, but the sounds that are not coming from the odd slingbag he's wearing are becoming more urgent.

SQUEEAK, MEEEEP…

"Shhhh," the zoologist murmurs as if that might actually help quiet the little critter. "I know you're hungry, I'm working on it, yeah… no be quiet before you get me tossed out on my ass." All delivered in a hushed, stage whisper of a voice, of course.

—-

You can't have an elegant dinner without elegant serving staff, and who better to work at a charity function than a recipient of charity? Even if he isn't exactly a beneficiary of /this/ charity, in particular… Todd Landers is dressed neatly in a suit and bow tie, though some observant folks may notice that his socks are a rather odd shade of pale purple. He carries a tray of appetizers, and offers it to each guest that he passes, though he pauses to glance up toward Dr. Trudeau as he gives his speech.

When the speech is over, he glances around, glances to the tray, then catches sight of another server. A look of recognition brightens his features, and his usual good-natured smile returns as he starts to circulate with the tray of appetizers.

—-

"Ahaa…I can't wait to read the newspaper tomorrow…" Ivan mutters through his teeth brightly, beaming at everyone all around and looking very much at home in such a social setting. After greeting the good Doctor superficially, he begins to make his way to his seat, leading Chloe every step of the way. "You clean up well, by the way. Don't know if I had the chance to let you know earlier." There's no explicit response to the words that have been injected into his mind.

—-

Get out and live. That's what Chloe is intending to do this evening — in a safe manner with a friend. When she hears the little squeak her head swivels in Sebastian's direction. "Isn't that Sebastian Reynolds from that program… oh geeze.. what was it called? It was some wild life program." Chewing on her lip while she thinks of the name, she doesn't actually obtain it from memory before a thought comes loud and clear from the crowd.

« OHMIGAWD THAT'S THE GUY FROM THE HEART OF THE WILD. »

"… The Heart of the Wild? He must have something with him. I wonder if it's part of this evening's program." After a pause, she glances back at Ivan and whispers, "Are you sure that Faith won't mind my accompanying you this evening? I'd rather not upset her…"

The compliment actually causes a pretty blush to grace Chloe's cheeks. "Thanks, so do you, Fontane." Beat. "Now where are we seated?"

—-

Once David makes his way up to the stage and the evening kicks off, the servers begin to move out into the gathering crowd, carrying drinks and canapes, appetizers and whatnots, as there is a social mingling period, before the actual dinner. The bar also opens, which seems to get quite a bit of attention. As for herself, Mignonette moves away from doing the paperwork, as it were, to something she has far too much experience with. That is to say, she goes out to meet and greet. And first on her list is someone she recognizes, professionally, if not personally, as she makes her way over towards the mayoral collective, sans mayor of course.

—-

Stepping away from the podium, David stops and allows for traffic moving past as people make their ways to their seats. Already, the wait-staff is moving around the room, champagne on trays, aperitifs on others, offering their goods to any and all, in a group or solo and seated at the tables. Water glasses are filled, and behind the podium, the screens come to life. The background of the video gives some music to the room where the quartet ceases their set. They'll be back and soon enough.

Moving past Ivan, Chloe and the mayor surrounding, David slows and nods his greeting, "Good evening, ma'am.." Always the ladies first as Chloe is acknowledged.. "Good to see you all.. welcome.. and I hope you have a good evening. Thank you for coming."

Blue eyes catch Todd.. and there's a genuinely appreciative smile. Maybe the man has a chance.. before he returns his attention to the mayor's retinue. "Hope you check out the things for auction.."

—-

Trevor looks up to listen to the speech from the doctor. A slight smile offered glad to see that for sure the money is going to a good cause for sure. A glance is sent towards Sebastian as he catches the slight squeek and he can't help but blink a moment. Perhaps his just hearing things? Anything is possible in a group this big. Still he gets the feeling that is something a bit more animal around at the moment.

—-

Wit does not pay anyone any compliments. «I must have been high when I thought this was a good idea. Oh right, I was.» This errant thought makes him laugh, however. He vaguely listens to the words and phrases flying about around him, but mostly he takes the opportunity to ogle Chloe and Mignonette, and the various other women who are attending tonight's benefit. As a server comes by with champagne, he takes his fake ID out and offers it to one of them. "Double vodka, ice. Step on it." Wit makes a bit of an odd snorting noise before he looks down toward his giftbox. With all the restraint of a five year old who has just wolfed down an entire carton of Oreos, he busts it open and takes out the cufflinks, eying them for a long moment before he puts them back. When Wit notices who Chloe is with, he brightens and starts to wave wildly at Ivan. "Oi!" He says before he decides to be proper after all, getting up to go see the other man and his delectable redheaded date.

—-

Quiet applause is offered where it should be offered, inserted automatically via years of these sorts of things. Sebastian's parents attended many a black tie when they weren't out in the jungles or the outback. But the zoologists attention is focused, mostly, on the squeaking critter in his slingbag for the moment. He pulls a bottle from his pocket, an itty bitty little bottle to match the itty bitty size of the critter clinging to the stuffed banana in the sling.

The urgent squeaking comes to an abrupt stop when that bottle finds its way home.

"Thank God," Sebastian murmurs along with a roll of his eyes heavenward. If there are eyes upon him, he has yet to notice any of them. Cuff links, too, will have to wait until the little one is fed and happily asleep once more.

—-

"The guy from what?" Ivan had never been one for watching television. Most of his time in front of the tube was dedicated to his near religious devotion to hockey. However, he does end up throwing a curious look in Sebastian's direction. "Mhmm? Oh. Faith's fine with it, don't worry. The crowds scared her away, but she insisted I show up, so here I am. Anyway." Catching the red head's blush, Ivan ends up grinning. Quite mischievously. "Call me Ivan. I am, after all, your date for the night. I think we're somewhere over…" Before he finishes that thought, David is making his way past. With that, Ivan pauses and nods to the man. "Top notch job, Doctor! The city of Dallas thanks you!"

But then…there's a person. Waving like a maniac in his direction. Taken aback, it takes Ivan a second or two before he realizes who the other person is. "Oh! Ah - hey there."

—-

Once finding the table, Chloe opens the giftbox and squeaks herself. Snapping on the bracelet, she nearly jumps when someone greets the table with an 'Oi' and spins around to see who it is. In the process, she nearly loses the bracelet, but easily saves it without it tumbling to the floor. "This is absolutely cute and gorgeous at the same time. Thank you for inviting me, Ivan." At least she's got the good graces to be thankful that she got to attend an event like this, despite the havoc it's doing on her mind.

She rejoins her 'date' and says, "DeWit, right? University student, had trouble with the computers at the library?" The thought he has is duly noted but not commented on. It's inappropriate conversation for a black tie affair.

—-

Todd makes his way through the crowd, pausing with a patient little smile whenever someone reaches for something on his tray. He's managed not to scandalize anyone just yet, but the night is still young. As he passes by Sebastian, he is momentarily distracted by the creature peeping out of the man's jacket. He stares, wide-eyed and open-mouthed for a moment, and then glances to the tray. "I…don't think we have any animal food here. Would you like one of these…um. Things?" he offers, helpfully, holding the tray at Sebastian's eye level. As he waits for an answer, it gives him an excuse to gawk at the creature a little more.

—-

It's a drive-by, for certain. Mignonette Savoy's approach, however, brings David around to reach out to touch the woman's arm in brief greeting. The pair are busy this evening, but not too busy that he can't give the woman a compliment. "This looks great, Miss Savoy.." His voice lowers and his blue eyes behind glasses gleam with amusement, "I'll be looking for the leaves, however," and his voice rises, "It's a great turn-out."

—-

It's a little monkey and a little bottle. It doesn't take long for the former to suck down the latter. It takes even less time for the tiny infant to snuggle up with the big stuffed banana and fall sound asleep.

Sebastian turns his attention up toward Todd just as little 'Bubbles' the monkey falls asleep. He offers the waiter a dimpled grin and offers, "You can pet her if you'd like. She won't bite, doesn't even have teeth yet. Her name's Bubbles," in a hushed whisper as if he's still worried he'll be tossed out if his Big Secret (that's probably not so secret really) gets out. He politely plucks a 'thing' off the tray. "Thanks. I'm about half starved."

Just a beat and he reaches into an inside pocket of his tuxedo jacket. He retrieves a check, made out to the charity of the evening, and holds it out. "Can you see this gets where it needs to go? My parents got word, sent a little something to help out."

—-

"Alexander DeWit, that's me." Wit says with confirmation before he smiles at Chloe. "I thought I'd recognized you…" Wit leans into Ivan, looking a little concerned. "How is Rose?" Except then he sees a rather fetching brunette and clears his throat. "Hold that thought. I'll call her soon. You two kids have a lovely evening!" He says before he starts to make his way in the direction of the girl.

—-

Mignonette's forward progress is halted, if politely, by Dr. Trudeau's hand on her arm, and she does two things at once. The first, is to reach out to a passing server and retrieve two glasses of champagne, one of which she offers to the researcher, and the second, is to to accept the compliment, with her usual charming smile, "Well, I had to make certain I looked as wonderful as you. The tux suits you." The comment on the leaf brings a bubble of laughter, "Take a look around, I'm sure you'll find the leaves eventually." Indeed, it might well be a bit like Where's Waldo, except Waldo is a maple leaf or two hidden somewhere in or around the main banquet hall. They just need finding. "You'll be dancing, later, I take it?"

—-

Trevor had stepped off to the side when his cellphone buzzed him. Problem being a large animal vet you tend to be on call at all hours of the day. With the phone places back into his jacket pocket he starts to wander towards the table. A friendly smile and nod offered now and then. Soon enough he finds himself at the same table where Sebastian is and spots an empty seat so figures he'll just sit down. "Evening." Is offered towards the other man at the table. Well he might as well be all friendly like and see where it gets him.

—-

Todd brightens a little as Sebastian offers to let him pet the critter. "Oh! Seriously? That would be amazing…" Belatedly, he realizes that Sebastian is whispering, and he glances around, before looking back to the man with an abashed little grin. He lowers his voice to a stage whisper, and reiterates, "I mean… That would be amazing." He juggles the tray a little, and reaches into Sebastian's coat to give the little monkey a pat.

When Sebastian comments about being half-starved, Todd beams a little, and sets the entire tray on the table next to him, "Well, here. You can have the whole thing. I don't think anyone will mind…Everyone here looks really well-fed, don't you think?"

The check, however, causes Todd's smile to dim, as he looks a little uncomfortable. "Oh. Um." He reaches, awkwardly, and takes the slip of paper, examining it carefully. He blinks with some shock, and looks up. "Wow. That's a lot of money, sir. I'd love to help, but…where is it supposed to go again?"

—-

Ivan looks bemused. "Funny - that's how my first girlfriend described me." The ego of the Titanic, this one. Rerooting his attention to Wit, Ivan barely has the opportunity to open his mouth, before the younger man has excused himself. This leaves Ivan blinking, before letting out a laugh. "He's…eccentic, isn't he? Good people, though. Mostly. I hope." Not that he has much to judge on, only the declarations of his significant other. "And hey, it's no problem, Chloe. You're actually doing me a big favor by showing up in the first place."

—-

Hello and goodbye! Wit moves so swiftly away from them, that Chloe has to blink to ensure she actually saw his presence. "A friend of yours," she asks Ivan before moving back toward the table. "Look, Ivan! You've got some gorgeous new cuff-links. You can wear those to the wedding, I'm sure. They'd look pretty spiffy, and…"

There is a slight wince as she gets another jolt of people thinking about Sebastian, and she tries to ward it off. No medication this evening. If she can handle fangbangers at Mary's, a charity dinner should pose no problem.

"I did promise that if you wanted to take the heat off of Faith, I'd step in. So here I am."

—-

The champagne is taken gracefully, and he inclines his head in thanks. Unlike some people, Dr. Trudeau seems equally at ease dressed up as he is dressed down. It's all a matter of being comfortable in his skin, as it were. He holds it up quickly, and offers in a sotto voice, "Here's to a successful evening for Bright Futures," before he takes a small sip.

"You do indeed look radiant.. and yes, I think I may dance a little later." His brows rise in the question, or was that an offer? "Once the quartet begins again."

Behind the podium, the children are laughing and singing, and the shots are interspersed with pictures of their little plays done throughout the year. As it goes, there are empty seats at tables shown, and the 'money shots' begin.. nurses office, 'get well' greeting cards written in childish scrawls for stricken students.

David, for his part, looks pleased. "Is this a challenge then, Miss Savoy?"

David's eyes scan the room, watching the people as they chat in their circles, others taking their seats as the wait-staff serve their before dinner assortments.

Soon enough the salads begin to come out of the kitchen, and the real meal begins…

—-

The little monkey responds to the attention by releasing the fur of the stuffed banana from one tiny little 'hand' so that it can reach out to wrap it around the end of Todd's finger. BIG eyes open to peer up at this new person… and it burbles out a contented little sound.

Sebastian smiles, who wouldn't. "Ain't she cute?" He sounds almost like a proud father, but it distracts little from his desire to eat now that food is right there in front of him.

Forgetting his manners for a moment, he speaks around the 'thing' shoved in his mouth, "Iunno." It's offered along with a shrug before he chews, swallows, and continues, "Whoever's putting this little show on tonight? Dr.. what's his name? Trudeau? That guy that was giving the speech, yeah? Or I'd assume that was him?"

—-

Trevor hums faintly while casting a glance to Todd then back to Sebastian, curious at what is in the other man's jacket. "Taking your work out with you hum?" He questions with an amused tone, finding it more amusing then anything. It would be rather hard to do that with any of the animals he works with. For some reason he thinks a horse would stand out. "I believe that is his name." Is offered with a helpful tone.

—-

"Everything is a challenge, when it comes to you, Doctor. Including trying to shoehorn meetings into your schedule. But I can't imagine that finding a few leaves in such a small room (it really isn't) should be any problem for you. And don't worry, if your dancing is terrible, I'd be more than happy to lead while you follow." As dinner is served, it's really done rather neatly. Those who RSVPed previously have their choice of fish and seafood, chicken, vegetarian or prime rib brought to them, the others are politely polled and them have their selection delivered, along with the other accoutrements. Mignonette continues to scan the crowd, but politely, "It looks a though Todd is doing rather well, and he seems to have run into our celebrity of the evening. Is that a banana in his pocket, or is he just very happy to see us?" Thankfully, Mignonette does not seem to have caught sight of the monkey just yet.

—-

Todd grins cheerfully at Sebastian. "Oh, she's /adorable/. I love animals. I mean, animals that are as cute as she is. What's her name, again?" As he speaks, he reaches to tuck the check into his shirt pocket, but unfortunately, suit jackets do not have pockets. He frowns to himself, and reaches inside the jacket. In the process of searching for his pocket, he discovers a small set of notecards. Some have pictures of people, others have neatly scrawled notes. All are directly related to this charity dinner.

Todd's face lights up as he finds the cards, as cheerful as a child who has unexpectedly found a stash of forgotten Halloween candy. "Dr. Trudeau, you said?" he verifies, as he flips through the cards. He eventually finds a polaroid of the doctor, clearly marked with the name 'Dr. David Trudeau'. "Yep! I can do that!" he announces, brightly. He glances to the check, then back to Sebastian. "You want me to take this check to Dr. Trudeau, right?"

—-

"Huh?" Eloquent isn't he? Sebastian's question is aimed at Trevor, then the Zoologist's brain catches up. "Oh! Yeah, uh… I sort of forgot to find someone to look after her until the last minute and everyone was busy," he babbles, softly. He still seems to believe that most of the people in attendance are completely unaware of his little stowaway.

"Bubbles. That's her name." Spoken like a proud father and directed at both men paying the little critter attention. "Her mother abandoned her at birth so I've been caring for her."

He loses himself for just a moment, watching the little monkey while it watches the goings on around it in wide eyed, blessedly quiet, wonder. Oh… right. Sebastian bobs his head in affirmation. "Yeah, Dr. Trudeau gets the check." By now? Well, he's caught on that there's something a little special about Todd, but he's perfectly willing to allow the man the honor of performing this little task for him.

"When you get back, you can hold her while I eat dinner, yeah?"

—-

"Todd is looking collected and calm. I'm impressed with him, actually," David replies. "He's handling the responsibility well." Ultimately, that may mean that, as a doctor, he could recommend to his caretakers that Todd is actually competant to do basic jobs and perform them accurately and well, allowing him to be an active and productive member of society. However, he won't write such down, necessarily, should Todd be receiving assistance. He won't jeopardize that.

Looking back to Mignonette, he offers an elbow, "My dancing isn't as bad as all that, so no.. you won't have to lead and I won't follow."

The good doctor nods to passers by, offering quiet greetings and hellos even as some stop to simply chat for a moment. Food is calling them, however, and the table is set up. Before he retires to his table, the last announcement before the auction should be made,

"Dinner is beginning to be served. Drinks will be available all evening.. thank you."
—-

"Well, kind of. A friend of Faith's, an acquaintance of mine. I've met the man…once, I believe?" Ivan's explanation is cut short as Chloe begins going off on cuff links, which prompts the lad to frown with confusion. "I…err. What?" What're you on about, woman?" « Man, sometimes people can - oh crap. You can hear this, can't you? » "…Erm. Yeah, well, I'm much obliged anyway…d'you want something to drink?"

—-

"The giftboxes, Ivan. Little presents for attending." That's the explanation he gets.

Finally seated, Chloe turns in her chair enough to watch the video as it progresses, though she does scan the room every so often. Focusing on that quite a bit, actually, as she tries to pry out the Shifters, Werewolves, and others that may be present. Witches are always the most difficult to locate, but the Two-Natured are easy for her now, and so she focuses on Sebastian and Trevor for a long silent moment, a smile continually plastered to her face.

« Those two, I think, » she offers to Ivan. « I can't hone in on it, but it's near that table, and I doubt it's the baby monkey that Reynolds is carrying with him. »

Once that assessment is made, she glances around again and then reaches forward to take a glass of champagne from the table, sipping at it very slowly. "This will be fine. If I have too much more than this… I think Faith will kill me."

—-

Trevor nods slightly to Sebastian and chuckles once more. "Well at least she can travel easily. The animals I deal with are rather noticable at least." This said with an amused tone while he looks to Todd and offers a slight nod to him as well. His gaze drifts over the room once more and he catches Chloe looking at him and Sebastian and lifts a brow slightly as he watches Chloe back. Trev is rather framiler with Sebastian's work so perhaps the woman is merely staring at him? He'll go with that idea. A friendly nod is offered back to Chloe though none the less.

—-

Todd smiles cheerfully at Sebastian. "Right. I'd like that. Just…Remind me, okay?" he requests, with only a trace of embarrassment. "I'd hate to forget. She's so cute…" He gives the monkey a final little pat, then looks back down to his hands, with the polaroid and the check. "Right. The check is for Dr. Trudeau." He glances around, surveying the room, then belatedly adds to both Sebastian and Trevor, "Enjoy your dinner!"

With that farewell, Todd moves away through the crowd, occasionally looking back to the polaroid before scanning the crowd again. When he finally spots David, he grins and heads in that direction, with a friendly wave. "Dr. Trudeau?" he queries, as he approaches. He gives Mignonette a polite smile, as well.

—-

Mignonette moves easily, putting her best 'Yes, I did have a cotillion' foot forward, as she slips a hand into the crook of David's arm, allowing him to lead, at least towards the table, pausing to take the time to offer a, "Thank you, and please extend our gratitude to the mayor for his support," to the contingent that's now sitting down to dinner, before she settles in herself, her attention returning to Todd, who seems rather taken with the naturalist sitting off in the corner, "Thank you for clearing him to help. I don't know all of the circumstances, of course, but it is good to see him doing so well. And he seems genuinely happy to be here." And certainly the staff, all of whom were given some forewarning, have had nothing but good things to say about him. "I'm sure that was a banana."

—-

With a lovely lady on the arm, David begins to lead her to their assigned table. Todd's progress, however, stops his own, and the doctor turns at his name. "Ah, Todd, yes.." His brows raise in askance as he asks, partially hinting while leaving it yet open, "Is that for me?" and a nod is given towards the cheque.

David pauses a moment after asking, and stares at Todd's lapel.. and a grin comes forth. "I like your maple leave lapel pin, Todd."

—-

"Yeah, it's a good thing we don't have an abandoned baby elephant at the zoo," Sebastian replies along with a little snickering fit of giggling. Ahem. He gets that under control just quickly enough that it manages to not become embarrassing.

Looks? Even prolonged ones? He ignores them for the most part. It's something he's been accustomed to and has grown immune to over the years.

With Todd on his way to deliver the check, the Zoologist keeps an eye on the process the best he can through the crowd while speaking with Trevor. "He seems like a pretty decent dude…uh.. a really nice… Aw, the hell with it. I'm no good with this formal talk."

He reaches into the slingbag and, for a brief moment, pulls the stuffed banana out along with the monkey clinging to it. Only a moment or two pass before he's hiding it away again at a more upright angle for the little critter.

"So, you work with animals?" He obviouses at Trevor.

—-

Todd looks at the check in his hand, and gives a small, uncertain smile. "Yes, I do think so…" he replies. He compares the polaroid and the check, then nods a little. "Yes. It must be," he decides, and hands over the check quite easily. He starts to tuck the cards into his pocket, only to be slightly surprised by the compliment. He looks down at his lapel to find the maple leaf pinned there, and smiles. "Oh, now where did that come from? Well, I'm glad you like it! It's a nice pin, isn't it? Aren't maple leaves from Canada or something?" he muses, with his usual polite but slightly puzzled smile.

—-

Trevor chuckles softly at the thought and nods. "I don't think your could carry the elephant far that's for sure." A glance is sent after Todd before he looks back to Sebastian. "He seems alright an what not.. An don't worry I'm not one for formal talk." He grins and leans back in his seat slightly before nodding. "Yes. I'm a large animal vet.. Handle small animals a few days out of the week as well." A glance is offered to the little animal that is pulled from from the bag. "Cute little critter there. Hope it works out well for her."

—-

"Oh. I knew that." Ivan lies frowning as he turns his attention to the gift boxes. The amount of people at the event has guaranteed his flightiness for the time being. Not to mention the barrage of thoughts running through his mind, all of them not originating from his person. "I see…huh? Why would Faith kill you?" It is at this point that someone approaches Ivan, whispering into the man's ear. "Ah…hold on to that thought. S'cuse me for a second, will you?"

Off Ivan disappears, taking measured strides until he reaches the front of the hall. All smiles, he moves to shake hands with David, and then Mignonette graciously before stepping forward to address the masses.

"Why, hello, people of Dallas! You all look rather stunning. Now I've been around the world, but I've got to say the citizens of Dallas are among the most beautiful people in the world. And I'm not just saying that to get a cheap round of applause, even though I am." He grins here, brightly. "Because, I don't need a cheap round of applause. We have so much to applaud tonight, don't we? First of all, let's give a hand to Dr. Trudeau and Miss Savoy for putting this all together. It's all so beautiful, isn't it? But let us recognize not only their work tonight, but their magnanimous efforts for the community as a whole. Truly, it is the philanthropists and the bleeding hearts of this nation that gives it such character."

Pause from Ivan. "But even more so, let us put our hands together for the cause in itself. For the children who will benefit from this labor. For the future president we may be effecting, the future man of distinction. Because make no mistake, the children are our present as well as our future. And on behalf of the McNaab office, we publically applaud and sincerely thank all who have gone out of the way to ensure a brighter tomorrow. Eat. Drink. Be merry. Every single one of you have earned it. Anyway, I'm Ivan Fontane, and as they say, back where I'm from…let's get this party started!"

—-

Sebastian lets his attention fall more fully on Trevor once he sees that Todd has the whole check thing under control. He wasn't worried! Honest! "Willing to help out, that's always a good quality." The words are in regards to the waiter. "Maybe I'll see if he wants to volunteer a few days a week with me at the zoo," he muses almost to himself.

Soon enough, however, he turns the subject away from Todd and mentions, "You know, I've helped deliver elephant calves, tiger cubs, you name it, but I have never seen a cow give birth. Or a pig, or anything that a person might call a big animal vet out for."

—-

That she's been caught staring doesn't seem to bother Chloe. She is staring. Then again, so are quite a few people. Seems that the population of Dallas liked the wildlife programming.

As it is, when Ivan disappears on her, she begins in on the salad, only to choke on it when he makes a speech. Settling her fork down, she claps when it's necessary and then returns to the food. She strikes up an idle conversation with their tablemates, holding the thought as requested until Ivan returns. In the meantime, she downs the rest of the champagne and then looks over her shoulder for waitstaff so that she can get another.

—-

Reaching to take the check, David puts it in his inside pocket, but not before looking at it and showing Mignonette. "Thank you, Todd. You're doing a really good job out there. I'm hearing compliments about your work."

The doctor nods his head at Todd's memory, encouraging the slightly younger man. "Yes, it is. It's the symbol of Canada. That's where I'm from.." so it's a little bit like home. "There are a few more hiding around the room, so I'm told. If you can remember it, once you are done with your duties, see if you can't find them for me?" Two tasks might be asking too much of the man, but David wants to see how far the cognitive ability and the multitasking goes.

The scanning of the room shows him that people are enjoying themselves; laughing, talking, eating.. the salads are all passed out now..

Squeezing Ivan's hand in greeting as the man takes the podium, David moves out of the way. Applauding where approprite, he makes a slightly bigger deal out of it as one of the fundraising public faces.

As the greetings and thanks are finishing up, the second course begins to come out of the kitchen.. the main course, and the smells from the kitchen…

—-

Trevor ohs as he hears Sebastian. "Really?.. Well if you want I don't mind if you ride out with me on some calls dealing with that at times." He lifts a brow at the thought of Todd volunteering at a zoo. "Why not? Might open up a whole new world for him after all." A small day planner is taken out from the pocket of his jacket and he flips a few pages peering in at it. "There's a farm on the other side of Dallas that should be having some calves soon actually." He pulls out one of his cards and offers one to Sebastian. "Why not call me in a few days? I'll know more then."

—-

Ivan's handshake is accepted and returned, though she moves aside easily, settling in beside David for the duration of Ivan's speech, which receives a resounding round of applause in and of itself. Functions such as these are as much about show as they are about substance, after all. And so, the mayor's aide is given the spotlight, and she's more than happy to support him in that, including the modest tip of her head in thanks to his acknowledgement, before the main course comes out. Prime rib for her. "Thank you so much for being willing to help us tonight, Todd. It really was kind of you. And you do look quite handsome." Because whatever else he might be, he is a volunteer giving up his time for the charity. And she's not about to let that go unacknowledged.

—-

"I'll trade you, calves for an overdue Giraffe," Sebastian suggests as he takes the card and tucks it away in a pocket. "I have another local vet on standby that wants to be there for it. Summer… what the hell's her last name again? I think she's gettin' horizontal with a man named Brett."

As soon as the words are out of his mouth, Sebastian quite literally facepalms. His hand moves up to cover his face and drag down over it slowly. Filter, it just failed him. He tries to just move on with the conversation and skip over his slip up.

"She should have had the thing last week. The giraffe, not Summer."

—-

Todd gives a bright smile at the praise from David. "Well, thank you! I'm sure I'm doing my best…" Mignonette's praise on top of it causes him to blush and look down, clearly embarrassed. "Well, I'm glad to help, ma'am." Looking down puts the maple leaf back in his field of vision, which draws his attention back to the problematic source of the maple leaf. He glances around, sneaking a look at a passing waiter who is dressed quite similarly to himself, aside from the missing maple leaf. He considers the information provided so far, then finally reaches a conclusion that inspires the question, "Am I from Canada?"

David's next request causes Todd's smile to dim slightly, and he reaches for his front pocket. He goes through a fairly similar search and discovery to the one performed when Sebastian asked for his help, eventually pulling the notecards from his pocket again. This time, he pulls out a pen as well, and flips through the cards. Finding nothing related to maple leaves, he adds a note on one of a couple of blank cards: 'Find maple leaves.' Once he has done this, Todd looks up to David and smiles. "Okay! I'll try to find them, if you like. What do you want me to do with them?"

—-

Before disappearing back to his table, Ivan lingers about David and Mignonette, as genuinely happy as he looked on stage as he approaches them. "Once again, can I just say, great job guys. You really stepped it up this…" Only belated does Ivan realize he may be interrupting their discussion with Todd, and he immediately falls silent, almost embarrassed. "Sorry about that - excuse me. I get somewhat over-zealous at times."

—-

Trevor looks amused and chuckles while nodding. "Summer?.. I work for her now and then at her clinic. To keep up my small animal skills." He blinks at the talk of Summer and Brett. A faint ah escaping him. "I have to admit I don't know her that well. She seems like a very nice woman though. Great vet too." A slight nod is seen. "Well.. I'm sure your vet's at the zoo have cheked the giraffe out well. Perhaps she just isn't ready hum?" There's a pause before he goes on. "Though I would enjoy coming back and seeing that. I haven't been around zoo animals since being at school.. Not that it was that long ago."

—-

The conversations that Chloe is picking up on, the mental filter failure, just makes her snicker a little into her food. When the main course is delivered, she eyes it and thanks the server, asking for another glass of champagne. Of course, at the snicker the man to her left asks if everything is alright, and she has to explain that it wasn't a covered laugh at all, but rather a small choking on a piece of radicchio.

—-

"I don't know, Todd, but I know I am.. and I appreciate the sentiment there." David smiles kindly and shakes his head, "I don't think you are, though."

The smells from the kitchen cues the doctor, however, and he reaches out to touch Mignonette's arm once more. "Are you—

"Oh, no.. please. It's okay." Dr. Trudeau smiles directly at Ivan, "You have no idea how much your support means. It means that the families may actually bring their kids forward.. and people will be digging just a little more deeply."

Reaching his hand out to clasp Ivan's once more, it is certainly a photo moment. "Hope you have a good rest of the night, and you get some dancing in before it ends." It'll be going on for some time.

—-

"Of course she isn't ready, would /you/ want to squeeze something the size of a baby giraffe out of…" This time Sebastian's filter pops up in time to save him from total disaster, almost.

Inside her little slingbag, Bubbles lets out a demanding SQUEEAAAK. Perfect timing! Draw the attention away from her 'papa's' missing brain to mouth filter. The squeak also reminds him…

He raises a hand in the air to try and get Todd's attention before he raises his voice just loud enough to carry and asks, "You still wanna help me out here?" Because the man said he wouldn't want to miss the opportunity.

"Really though, I think they were just off on her date of conception."

—-

Mignonette's attention, and her smile turns to Ivan, as he approaches his table, and she echoes David's sentiment, pulling him into the conversation, if only briefly, as he seems keen to return to his table, and likely his meal. "There's really no need to apologize. You've been so wonderful, personally as our liaison and as a representative of the office, we really can't thank you enough. You've been just as instrumental as we have, in getting the charity going as well as it has." As David touches her arm, she looks back, the professional smile turning, well, a bit more, well, mischievous, "Aren't I always?" Hollow leg, yes, she has one. "Let me take care of it." Which she does. The two quasi-countrymen are like an old married couple. Only, without the old and without the couple.

—-

Trevor blinks and chuckles softly as he hears Sebastian. "True.. I don't blame her at all." This said while just grinning. "Though I could say the same thing about cows." He offers with a slight shake of his head. "I'm sure she'll be fine.. Animals tend to be rather smart in that regard after all." A glance is offered towards Todd then back to Sebastian.

—-

Todd smiles apologetically at David. "Oh, okay. Well. That's fine. I'm sure it's written down somewhere. Everything is, right?" He glances aside, distracted as David gets busy talking to Mignonette. He smiles, vaguely, then gives a little polite wave to David before he wanders off, following one of the other servers. Luckily, this takes him near enough to Sebastian to notice the wave, and he gives a little smile. He alters his course to take him back to the table, and glances between Sebastian and Trevor. "Sure! …How can I help?" he asks, in his best polite-server voice.

—-

Ivan's handshake is firm and emphatic as he hold's the good doctor's limb. "It was my pleasure, Dr. Trudeau. I'd love to be a part of your future endeavors as well, if there's room for me. And you too! Hey, what do you know - maybe I'll even see you on the floor later on." Releasing David after a few publicity shots have been taken, Ivan eventually turns to Mignonette. "Aww, shucks. Now you're just flattering me - but I've got to admit. Flattering will in fact get you everywhere. "Hey - Miss Savoy. Save me a dance, yeah? Have a nice meal!" And with that, Ivan practically bounces off, invigorated by the rush of being ahead of the crowd. Before sliding into his seat, he places a hand upon Chloe's shoulder, letting her know of his presence. "Hey. Missed me?"

—-

A quarter through the main course, Chloe glances over at Trevor and Sebastian again briefly. Then she sets her eyes on Todd, giving him an odd look. Something isn't quite right with that one's mind, but that could just be the champagne talking as well. Dulls the senses a little.

At the hand on her shoulder, she jumps a little, not really scanning to see when Ivan was returning. "I may have, but I think your dinner missed you more. You had better sit and at least grab a small bite before they clear the plates."

—-

"I think it's a save thing to say about almost any potential mother. Makes me happy every day that I have dangly…" Damnit. Sebastian's filter is really failing him tonight. Likely has something to do with the 'rubbing elbows with the upper crust', it always made him nervous.

But a distraction arrives in the form of Todd. He pulls the banana-monkey from its little slingbag and, without regard or care as to who sees it, offers, "You said you wanted to hold her, while I ate my dinner? It really would be helping me out."

The little critter clings to the banana like it would cling to its mother's back in the wild. Its wide eyes peer around the room curiously. It lets out a little demanding squeak, another one… …and another one. It's a loud little thing for having such tiny lungs.

"Sorry, I didn't catch your name?" Or did he? Maybe he's just as forgetful as Todd? "Or yours for that matter?" he directs at Trevor. "I'm Tian Reynolds." If there ws doubt in the room, it's gone for those nearby him now.

—-

David watches as first Todd heads off and then Ivan before he chuckles and shakes his head ever so slightly. Time to eat something before the auction teaser begins.

Only making it back to the table and pulling the seat out for Mignonette does he get before the auctioneer stand and take the microphone.

In a booming voice, the man speaks, "I'd like to welcome you, one and all. This is just a small collection of what we have in store for you later this summer. Might I add, if there is anyone who wishes to donate items to the action later for the Bright Futures, which, by the way, is a tax-deductible donation, see me after. Now…"

And it's down to business.

"We have a few things for you.. a Tiffany lamp, a couple art deco lamps, and some signed oils. I'd like you all to get good looks, so bidding will begin in five minutes. Thank you."

—-

Perhaps an ironic fanfare should accompany the entrance of one of the 'celebrities' who is supposed to be attending this evening, as he limps his way in halfway through the main course. As he leans intermittently on his cane, Steve reaches up to try to straighten the knot in his tie, which is almost impossible to do one handed. For all his lateness, he's looking sharp and styled, even if his expression is a little vague. He's aware that he's late, so he's limping more quickly than is strictly comfortable.

—-

Trevor just peers at Sebastian a moment, a soft chuckle escapes him and he grins. "True.." Is said while shaking his head slightly before he glances to Todd and the little monkey that is offered over to Todd. He ponders if the other man will be able to hold onto the little animal alright. "I'm sorry.. Name is Trevor Lockwood." He pauses. "Guess I should be putting doctor in there somewhere now." He never was big on the title, only wanted to do his job more then anything. "Nice to meet you Mr. Reynolds."

—-

Todd blinks at Sebastian, suddenly a little wide-eyed. "I did?" He regards the monkey for a moment, but gives a slow little sappy smile, and reaches out to take it, gently. "Awwww…She's adorable…" He glances back to Sebastian, still grinning sappily. "I'm Todd Landers. Nice to meet you, Tian. Trevor." He lifts a hand to pet the baby monkey, then asks, uncertainly, "Am I holding her right? I'm not going to hurt her, am I?"

—-

"I'll be sure to save you a space on my card," Mignonette offers, a finger reaching down to tap the old-fashioned dance card she sets out on the table beside her. A smile sends Ivan on his way, before she returns to her meal, Todd also having returned to Sebastian's table. And for a little while, it's quiet, at least from the still dining section. The auction is running nicely in the background, providing as much entertainment for the onlookers as serious acquisitions for the people moving over to the chairs set out for bidding. And with the lull in the need to meet and greet, Mignonette can turn her attention back to people watching, and she does finally get a glimpse at the…good lord, yes, that is a monkey. «Remind me never to put him on a guest list again. Even for charity, without checking all of his pockets.» But with Todd holding the tiny creature, and well, the dinner going too well to have it be interrupted with a scene, Mignonette decides to just grin and bear it, as it were. At least the Tiffany lamp sells well, as does one of the oils, a landscape.

—-

"Righto! Food!" Pleased, Ivan jumps right into his plate, eating with gusto. Up until, that is, his phone begins ringing in an obnoxious version of 'That Mexican Diddle'. You know the one. "Whoa. S'cuse me fo' a sec', I gotta get this…" And with that, the man with food filled in his mouth heads out of the hall to answer it.

—-

"You're doing find, Mr. Landers," Sebastian assures the older man. "Look, she likes you!"

It's true! Little Bubbles coos and burbles and meeps contented and happy little sounds over the attention. "You know. I could use someone like you to help me out at the zoo a few days a week. Someone that has such a way with the baby critters, yeah? Interested?"

He's not missed the 'specialness' that is Todd, the offer is made not only in spite of, but maybe because of. Everyone has a right to find their lot in life and it seems animals make Todd's lot a happy lot?

Sebastian turns his attention back to Trevor. "It's a pleasure. Always nice to meet someone like minded a little, right? Not everyone can do the things we do on a day to day basis."

—-

Chloe really could have told Mignonette that there was a monkey. She not only heard it, but spotted it fairly shortly after arriving. Picking up on the thought she grins a little. Just as she's about to finish her main course though, Ivan is running off. « Do you need… just give me a moment then. » This shoved at Ivan as she excuses herself from the table.

—-

Moving toward the hostesses table, she looks at the oil paintings as she passes. A name on one of them catches her eye and she blinks. "Ahh, Miss Savoy?" This asked of Mignonette before she continues, "If I am unable to remain for the auction," she nods toward the door where Ivan is headed, "Is there a chance I could have someone bid in my stead?"

—-

Trevor smiles while watching the monkey and todd as he sips at his drink. "It sounds like fun.. You might enjoy it." Is offered to Todd before his gaze turns back to Sebastian and a nod is seen. "That is true. Its not the easiest job in the world. Animals are not always that helpful with telling anyone anything now are they?" Though he does have a way with some animals that he works with at least. He looks towards the talk of the bidding but isn't that interested in items that are seen. He'll just have to send another check with some amount later on. Easier then taking home something he doesn't need.

—-

Todd melts at the coos and burbles from the baby animal, and gives her another gentle pet. "You really think so?" Todd asks, attention split between Sebastian and the little monkey. He brightens at the offer. "Really? I'd really like that! She's adorable…" He falters a little, then, and glances around. With a faint embarrassment, he leans over and lowers his voice, "I should warn you… I don't really remember meeting you. I mean, you're nice and all, but… I don't really remember much of anything, to tell the honest truth. But if you're okay with that, I'd love to help!"

—-

Steve limps his way deeper into the room, trying not to catch anyone's eyes. When he sees that most guests are seated, he approaches a server and asks whether it is still possible to be seated. After a bit of negotiation and the agreement to forego the first course, Steven is shown to one of the seats just vacated by a departing guest, and the dirty dishes cleared away from his place. Clearing his throat awkwardly, he sets his cane on the floor and scoots his chair up, offering an attempt at his most charming smile.

—-

Mignonette turns, as one of the guests approaches her, and she winces, eyes watering a moment as she catches sight of Chloe, her mind flashing, not with words, but a single sharp, painful image. The woman herself, but not vibrant and alive as she is now, but instead limp, a ragdoll lying like a broken toy at the bottom of a grave, looking like little more than something used and then cast away. The image, at least from the lawyer's side is painful and all-encompassing, making it nearly impossible for her to focus. It's only years of practice that allows her to force the vision away, long enough to answer, "Of course, that small group of men and women by the phone bank are handling all bids for people who cannot be here. If you give them your information and your spending limit, they will bid for you up to your maximum."

—-

"Well, to tell the honest truth, sometimes there are people I'd like to forget meeting," Sebastian replies along with a wink. "I can remember for the both of us, yeah? We can just write stuff down on your cards before I leave. I can get your address and pick you up on the way on the days I need ya? Sound good?"

Watching the man interact with the little critter has /Sebastian/ melting just a little bit.

Animals, they really can be the best therapy. Who knows? Maybe remembering will come easier when Todd has to remember for the well being of a baby critter?

He offers Trevor a smile. "Oh, they speak. In their own way, their own language, for the folks that know how to listen."

—-

The wince is replicated on Chloe's face, and she eases back a step. A solid look is given to Mignonette and she frowns briefly. "I have never quite garnered that reaction before, though I apologize, Miss Savoy." « For whatever pain you are suffering. » Glancing over her shoulder she looks to the phone bank and forces a bright smile. "Alright then, thank you. I'll leave word with them that if I don't manage to win that which caught my eye the money is to be straight donated to the charity." While she is far from rich, a certain event has left her with enough that she can donate a nice and tidy sum to the charity and not be hurting.

—-

Trevor offers a smile and nods as he hears Sebastian. "That is so true.." This offered with a friendly knowing tone. His cellphone starts to buzz once more and he clears his throat a moment. "Excuse me.." Is offered as he turns slightly in his seat and answers the phone. After a few moments of talk he stands up, pone going back into his pocket. "Well.. I hate to go but I have to go deal with a colicing horse. Was nice to meet you both." This said to Sebastian and Todd. "You all have a good night now." He says while starting to wander off to the door.

—-

Hopefully Sebastian will not be /too/ optimistic in letting a small creature's well-being depend upon Todd. Regardless, Todd brightens at Sebastian's reaction, and gives a sweet smile before returning his attention to the little monkey, just to be sure she doesn't fall. "That would be lovely. I'm sure the address is written down somewhere. Everything is." He glances to Trevor, and since his hands are busy he just gives a quick nod. "Okay. Take care, now!"

—-

"I'm sorry, it's not you at all, ma'am. I do have terrible headaches. And sometimes they come on quite suddenly." That is, after all, the cover story in her medical record. "If you do not find something that you like tonight, we will be having another larger auction later in the summer. And we'll send out programs with the items which will be available." Mignonette offers a practiced courtroom smile, as Chloe moves off to place her bid, before she turns back to her table, pulling a pen from her purse and, with nothing else handy, she ends up spreading one of the cloth napkins out in place of her dinnerplate as she begins to sketch, David doing his best to cover for her, even if he has no earthly idea what's going on with the woman.

—-

The excuse is all well and good, but Chloe knows full well it is more than what was being said. Still, she's been schooled well in the last few months as to how to keep things under wraps. So she graciously dips her head in thanks. A well practiced smile of her own is offered as she disappears toward the bidding area, and places hers for one of the oil paintings. When she realizes that Ivan has yet to return, she decides it's best if she maneuvers her way out to the hall to ensure there isn't some larger problem, and so that she won't just be left behind — after all, it wasn't her limo she arrived in this evening.

—-

In due time, perhaps. Sebastian is, after all, an optimistic thing by nature. He offers the departing Trevor a wave coupled with, "See ya around!" …before his attention shifts back to Todd. "You really /are/ good with her." The little monkey is just eating the attention up. Her big old yellow-ish eyes drift shut and she shifts so that she can get the best access to the scritching and petting.

But Sebastian holds his hands out and says, "Why don't you let me hold her now so you can look for that address. I'm sure it's written down." He winks. "And I'll give you one of my business cards and write down a summary of the night's events so you can look at it and know you know my name when I call?"

—-

Mignonette continues to sketch diligently, having enough foresight to mask what she's drawing. But it's as if almost all of her attention is focused on getting the sketch out. So much so that she doesn't notice the dinner being cleared away and dessert being served to follow. She won't stop, until the sketch is complete. And once it is, she doesn't look at it, just neatly folds the napkin and tucks it into her purse. What she'll do with it later is anyone's guess.

—-

The auction, small, but fruitful, continues, coming easily to a conclusion, before David rises to give the final 'Thank you,' speech, and free the dinner guests to do their now late night mingling, most of them heading out into the open air, the party turning into exactly that, as the bar picks up service, the dancefloor opens, and, as all of these function do, it turns to drinking and revelry. But, in the end, it's all for a good cause.

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