mia_quarter

Fri, 05 Jun 2009 05:44:28 GMT

This pup is no longer in use.

27 March, 2007; Apartment Building; Liam Neeson, Mia Kirshner; R

Tue, 27 Mar 2007 11:21:22 GMT

[Cross posted to liam_q.]

Mia used her hip to shut the door behind her as she brought up one of the last boxes of clothes from the truck. She still wasn't sure who exactly had lent Liam the truck but when she'd looked at the boxes around the apartment at the hotel she was thankful for it. Even more so after they went and picked up the few pieces of furniture and necessities from the stores. Setting the box next to the rest Mia looked over at Liam where he was pushing the two seater couch that had been brought up earlier she smiled a bit. She knew he was still nervous about everything, he'd been fidgeting all day when they'd gone to pick up things, when they'd signed the final bit of paper work for the apartment and gotten the key. Biting her lower lip Mia walked over to stand behind him, just barely brushing a hand against his back. "I think there's just the boxed up bookshelf in the truck, then it's all empty."

"And we leave luxury behind." Liam reached back and pulled Mia beside him. "We won't have much my love, but the bed looks comfy and the big old fashioned bath will definitely hold two." He bent down and kissed her head. "Ready to start unpacking or will we find the glasses and have a drink first?" As he spoke he led her into the kitchen where he had a bottle of wine sitting in a sink full of cold water.

"Luxury can be over rated," Mia said, almost a reminder of the mantra she'd been telling him for the last few weeks. When she saw the bottle she gave his hand a squeeze and nodded her head. "I think we deserve a drink. Then we can worry about unpacking the essentials."

Liam grinned and walked to a small box marked 'kitchen - fragile' and pulled out the glasses they recently bought down at the market. "Not exactly elegant, but care to join me in a tumbler of wine to celebrate out first real home together?"

Mia noticed the box and couldn't help but smile. Seemed that while she'd been grabbing boxes at random Liam hadn't been too out of it with where he put them. "I'd love to."

Lifting the bottle out of the sink, Liam quickly uncorked it and poured two glasses. He handed one to Mia and raised his own, "Here's to a happy home together and the fact I remembered to pack a corkscrew."

Giggling a bit Mia nodded her head. "Agreed," she said and clinked her glass with Liam's and took a sip.

Liam took a drink and looked around the kitchen, "It's good the place is small I think because we don't have much to put in it."

"Do we really need a lot?" Mia asked and gave Liam a small poke. "I think this is fine Liam. Not the smallest, just...comfortable."

"You have to remember you're a lot littler than me," Liam chuckled and pretended to duck. "But we'll manage with what we have and I've got a few places to get some work this week."

"I could always get you a wheel chair and then you'll be shorter then me." Mia grinned so Liam would know she was joking and leaned her head against his chest. "A few places, that's good."

Liam took a playful nip at her ear then nodded. "Nothing long term ... labouring mainly but the money is good."

"My boss has been giving me more hours at the bar, so that's a plus there." Mia hooked an arm around Liam's waist and let her eyes close, listening to Liam's heartbeat. "I thought about looking into some of the bakeries down the street, see if they have something early in the morning maybe for a few days a week."

"Don't do that love," Liam said softly and a little sadly. "We'll manage and I only quit because I want to go to bed with you and wake up next to you."

Mia looked up and gave Liam a look before nodding. "It'll be something to think about if we need the money, how about that?"

"Maybe," Liam said noncommittally and held her tighter. "Or maybe not."

Mia shifted up onto her tip toes and gave him a kiss. "We'll be okay Liam, please stop worrying." Nudging him with her hips she pulled away with a grin, walking out into the living room so she could sit on the couch.

"I have a better idea," Liam grinned and backed away to open another box where he pulled out a set of new cotton sheets. "Like to help me make up our bed?"

Stopping half way to the couch Mia looked over her shoulder, eyeing him a little oddly. "Make the bed?" she asked in a teasing tone.

"Been a while, but I think I remember how," Liam chuckled and pulled out a pillow to throw at Mia grateful to see a twinkle in her eye.

Just barely catching the pillow Mia set her glass down on a stack of boxes and moved up behind Liam, swatting his ass with it. "Then let's get moving old man."

"Cheeky," Liam laughed as he walked into their little bedroom and threw open the large double window. "Looks like a good strong bed don't you think?"

"Yes, probably the biggest thing we own now." Mia was fairly certain that Liam had a hidden meaning there but ignored it and instead sat on the bed, bouncing just a bit. "I'm glad the store offered free delivery on this though, I can't imagine us trying to get it up here."

"I can just see you carrying one end with me on the other." As he spoke Liam unfurled the sheet over the bed covering Mia in crisp white cotton.

"Until one of us dropped an end." Sputtering a bit under the sheet Mia used her arm to push it back to glare at Liam a bit before getting up to help. "Probably would have been me."

"I'm the old fart remember," Liam said as he tucked in a corner and smoothed out the wrinkles to start on the next.

Mia did the same and shook her head as she walked past Liam so she could do the other top corner. "But you're my old fart."

Liam nodded. "I can't argue with that." He threw a pillow case to Mia and stuffed his own. "But looking at this bed, our bed, I'm feeling younger by the minute."

Setting the pillow up at the top when she was done Mia gave Liam a look before flopping down on the bed. "Now whatever would make you feel younger that has a bed involved?"

A cheeky answer was on the tip of Liam's tongue but it vanished at the sight of Mia. "I must have done something very right to have you in my life Mia."

The tone in Liam's voice was different just enough that Mia pushed herself up with her elbows while staying reclined on the bed. "What makes you say that?" she asked, not even noticing her voice getting softer.

Moving over to sit on the edge of the bed Liam reached out and stroked his fingers through her hair. "Because you are pretty damn special," Liam whispered and leant down to brush his lips against hers.

Mia's eyes had automatically closed when she felt the light touch of Liam's fingers and she leaned up into the kiss. Pressing her hand against his chest, fingering the fabric as she let Liam lead.

Easing himself onto the freshly made bed Liam lay on his side very close to Mia and said, "I know this is going to be difficult but I'm starting to understand that we can make it because we're here in our own place ... together."

Running her hand along Liam's stomach Mia looked up at him and nodded slightly. "That's what I've been telling you silly," she whispered and shifted a bit so she could look at him a bit more head on.

"I know," Liam murmured, "But I'm more than a little pig headed and was raised to see it as my job to support my family."

"And that's something very endearing about you Liam." Mia brushed her fingers along Liam's cheek. "My family never was into helping each other out."

"I just have to remind myself that I need to let you be part of all this. That we are equals in it all." As Liam explained this to Mia he was also explaining it to himself.

"You do." Mia nodded her head and leaned in to press a kiss to Liam's chest through his shirt. "Don't think you have to do this all on your own."

Backdated: 20 February, 2007; Paddle Steamer; Mia Kirshner, Liam Neeson; PG

Fri, 23 Feb 2007 09:49:42 GMT

[Crossposted to liam_q.]

The jazz band in the stern of the boat had attracted many of the dinners to the dance floor leaving the bow relatively quiet. Liam reached out to take Mia's hand and lead her to the rail. "I'm happy we didn't cancel this," he said as he put his arm around her shoulders. "Tomorrow we can penny pinch, but tonight we can forget all that right?"

Mia leaned against Liam's body and nodded her head. So far the evening had been rather pleasant. She hadn't known anything about Liam's plans for Mardi Gras until Liam had finished his initial freak out over quitting. They'd sat down and looked at some of the finances and what she was pulling in when Liam mentioned it. "This is really nice Liam, we shouldn't worry about the stuff to come now."

Liam sighed, "You're right we'll figure it out." He turned to give her a gentle kiss and looked at the festivities on the shore. "I think I'd like to try to stay and stick it out for a while."

She pressed a kiss against Liam's shoulder as she turned around in his arms, watching his face. "Did you think we should move cities? I never thought you'd wanted to do that."

"I want to stay here Mia," Liam admitted, "But I'm nervous I don't have contacts built up so we'll be on our own."

"Liam I've always been on my own." Reaching up Mia brushed her fingers along Liam's cheek and hooked her arm around his waist. "Just means we'll be eating like I use to."

"I know love, but I wanted you to have so much more," Liam murmured, "Nights like this for example."

"Liam, I never asked for any of that," Mia said and pulled out from under Liam's arm to take his hand, wanting to walk around a bit. Lacing their fingers together Mia squeezed his hand. "I don't need that if I have you."

"And you have me." Liam pulled her back from rail and held her at arm's length to wiggle his hips. "Fancy a little dance for Fat Tuesday?"

Mia laughed and nodded her head before looking him over. "Dancing sounds fun. Are you sure? Typically you don't want to dance."

"It's New Orleans, it's Mardi Gras and the alcohol is paid for," he laughed and pulled her closer.

Closing her eyes Mia listened to the music for a moment before swaying her hips to the beat. "This is nice," she whispered.

"Very nice," Liam crooned then giggled, "And you are just the right height for me to rest my chin on your head."

Even though Mia knew that Liam was teasing she gave him a light poke. "I bet we still look weird to people. At least no one tells you what a lovely daughter you have."

Liam actually laughed even though it was something that had worried him in the past. "Well little girl, we are weird ... so I think we fit this city just fine."

Backdated: 12 February, 2007; Rue Royale; Mia Kirshner, Liam Neeson; PG

Wed, 21 Feb 2007 08:29:30 GMT

[Crosspoated to liam_q.]

Liam sat quietly on the balcony watching the street decorations for Mardi Gras go up across the road. He drained what had been a large glass of whiskey and rubbed his hand nervously over his eyes waiting for Mia to get home.

Rolling her neck Mia sighed as she walked up the street toward the hotel. The bar had been busier then normal but luckily Mia had only been asked to man the coffee stand and nothing else. Looking up at the decorations Mia frowned. She knew that Liam had talked about leaving, being around more, but she had to wonder if she'd be spending the event by herself. Shaking her head at the though Mia walked up the steps to the hotel and quickly made her way to the room. Stepping inside Mia dropped her purse and kicked off her shoes before feeling a light breeze. "Liam?" she asked surprised to see the balcony door open.

Liam's heart skipped a beat when he heard Mia call his name. He took a breath and answered, "Out here sweetheart." Turning to see her walk through the balcony door he smiled and reached a hand towards her.

Mia took Liam's hand and gave it a squeeze before looking out at the skyline a bit. "You okay?" she asked, wondering why Liam was home this early. Home and drinking, she added when she saw the drink in his other hand.

"Sit with me a while," he answered with a small smile. "I'm not sure about the okay bit ... scared to death more like it. I quit my job Mia."

Mia nodded and sat down on the arm of the chair Liam was in, brushing her fingers through Liam's hair. "You did? she asked, swallowing to hide her surprise.

"I did." He nodded, curled his arm around her waist and rested his cheek against her. "Shite Mia ... we have a month to find a new place to live ... and I better start looking for a job."

Mia bit her lower lip but turned her head instead, kissing Liam's forehead. "We'll figure something out. I can try getting more hours at the bar. Or find something else."

"Oh Jeez Mia, I've messed things up haven't I?" Liam had lost jobs before but always when he was single ... there was so much more at stake as one of a couple.

"No, not at all." Mia shook her head and brushed her fingers over his cheek. "Don't think that. We can handle this right?"

"Yeah ... we can," Oh God I hope we can. Liam eased back and patted his lap. "In the mean time we have a luxury apartment and I don't have to get up early."

"Hey I use to live in worse conditions. Remember that." Mia said reassuring him before sliding into his lap. "So does that mean you want to do something?"

Holding her close, Liam gave Mia a gentle kiss. "I always want to do something," Liam grinned, "But I'm not sure my body will co-operate with total panic running though my veins."

"Smart ass," Mia said and nudged Liam a bit before kissing him back. "Do you want to stay in?"

"I'd like to stay in if you don't mind," Liam said and cuddled her tight.

Mia nodded her head, brushing her fingers through Liam's hair. "We can do that."

Liam wasn't kidding when he said to Mia that he was terrified and clung to her for support. "I love you Mia."

Closing her eyes Mia nuzzled in against Liam and let her hand drop down to brush against Liam's neck. "I love you too."

5 February, 2007; Oz; Cillian Murphy, Mia Kirshner; PG

Tue, 06 Feb 2007 04:25:00 GMT

[Cross posted to prettycillian.]

It's the last song of his second set, and Cillian was ready to get off stage, out of his heels and have a drink before heading home to bed and the warm body he knew would be in it. The thought made him smile a bit as he sang, sashaying around stage, playing to the audience, giving them what they would wanted. It had been a long bloody day...hell, a long bloody month...but on stage, he always drew strength from the audience, it was the afterwards that left him feeling a little wrung out.

Mia ignored the looks that she was getting as she walked through Oz. Liam had a late meeting set up for the day and she wasn't scheduled at the bar until the end of the week. Instead of staying at the hotel all day Mia had decided it would be fun to go out and asked around for places she could go for local entertainment. Which had pointed her here. One of the girls at the hotel had told her it was a little odd but if she could handle the alternate style there it was a lot of fun. Looking toward the stage Mia could hardly believe that the person on stage was really a guy, he looked almost too pretty. Finding an empty table near the back Mia sat down and picked up the menu that was propped up next to the center piece.

As Cillian ended his song, the audience erupted in applause and cat calls and he bowed, blowing a kiss to everyone as the house lights went up. "Thank you," he said breathily, then headed backstage to get into something a bit more comfortable before heading out to get that drink and maybe a bite to eat before heading out.

A few moments after the lights had gone back up someone was over to find out what they could get for Mia with a charming smile and a touch too much make up.

By the time the person walked over Mia had figured out what she wanted and ordered one of the light meals and something to drink. Setting the menu off to the side Mia looked toward the stage and back at the person. "Are there more performances or did I get here really late?" she asked.

"Basically yes, Kitten's the main show tonight," the server responded, smiling. "First time here?"

Mia nodded her head and gave the server an equal smile. "Yeah, had some people tell me I might enjoy it here. I'm probably pretty obvious huh?"

"Well, you had to ask..." The server winked. "I'll get your drink and put your order in, 'kay hon?"

Mia nodded her head and thanked the server. With the lights up in the place Mia was able to look around a bit more, looking part at the clients in the place and part at the way the place was decorated in general.

Coming out from backstage, Cillian made his way to the bar, smiling charmingly at the bartender. "Hi love."

"Usual?" the 'tender inquired, returning the smile.

"Of course."

A moment later a glass of amaretto sour was sat in front of Cillian and he plucked it up, taking a deep sip before turning to peruse the room.

Mia had finally turned her attention toward the bar she wasn't far from after looking around the club. Even with only hearing part of the music when she came in Mia had to admit that Oz was definitely not her usual cup of entertainment but she was enjoying it. She stopped when she saw who she thought was the singer from the stage. Seeing the person more up close Mia couldn't understand why the person looked so familiar.

Catching the young woman watching him, Cillian gave her a small smile and a little wave before going back to his drink, struck by familiarity as well, but too tired for his brain to engage just yet.

When the singer smiled at her Mia returned the smile, frowning a bit when she still had that weird sense of deja-vu. Looking down at her table Mia glanced back up at the man, trying to picture the face without the make up.

Finally, after a moment of frustration, Cillian decided what the hell and grabbed his drink, moving over to the young woman's table with a smile. "Good evening, would you mind terribly if I sat with you for a moment darling? It's just, I know I've met you somewhere before and I'm trying to place it..."

Mia was a little surprised when the singer walked over to her table but nodded her head. "Sure, seats open," she said looking at the man now that he was closer to her. "Strange as it is I have that feeling too."

Taking a seat, Cillian extended his hand to her. "I'm Kitten," he introduced himself. "Perhaps it's because you frequent here?" Except he knew it wasn't that...he was generally pretty good at placing that kind of familiarity--at least inside of the club.

"Mia," she said taking the man's hand and shaking it. At the suggestion for why they looked familiar to each other Mia shook her head. "Under normal circumstances I might say yes, this is my first time here though."

"Mia..." Cillian repeats, and then it suddenly clicks into place. "You work at a restaurant in Vegas...or at least you used to, right?"

Mia blinked, a little taken back that someone knew where she'd come from...although God knows she met tons of tourists there all the time. "Yeah, I use to, haven't since I moved here."

"I remember now," Cillian said, grinning now that he had placed her and it would stop bugging him. "You probably don't recognize me, even if you remembered. You kept me company for a while late one night a little over a year ago. I would have introduced myself as Cillian then."

At the name Mia tried running through the few customers she'd ever really sat down and talked to when she was working in Vegas. "Cillian...New Orleans Cillian," Mia stopped when she said that and laughed. "Oh my God, I feel silly!"

Cillian giggled, taking a sip of his drink. "Don't...I look a little different than the last time you spoke to me...and I imagine you meet a lot of people trying to tell you their sob story. So you live in New Orleans now? What a small world...and you are a brave soul."

Mia looked Cillian over and nodded in agreement. "Just a little different," she said winking to show she was kidding. At Cillian's question she nodded. "Yeah, living here now. My boyfriend got a job here, didn't want to end things yet."

"Fair enough," Cillian nodded, smiling and thinking of his own boyfriend. "I can definitely understand that. Here! Let me buy you a drink?"

Mia smiled at Cillian and nodded her head. "That would be nice," she said and watched the man across from her. "Is this how you were performing when we met?"

"Yes," Cillian responded, then motioned to the sever with a wink and a blown kiss. Turning his full attention back to Mia he smiled. "I didn't necessarily feel it was appropriate to lead with that, especially off my home turf as it were." He shrugged again. "Not everyone...understands."

Mia shrugged her shoulders a bit. "If you're happy, and you obviously make an impression that's all that matters." She gave Cillian a friendly smile, letting him know that she was okay with it. "Although you look way prettier than a boy should."

"Well, now that I've seen you here, I would hope you don't have a problem with it." Cillian smiled, and then blushed a bit. "You're not the first to say that...I think it's because sometimes it's hard to tell, with me...and a lot of people feel drag queens should be obviously that." He winked.

"Some people at my boyfriend's work told me I should come here, I'm glad they told me to come." Mia laughed a bit when Cillian blushed. "I don't know if they need to be obvious...just, maybe not necessarily put girls in a complete run for their money."

Laughing softly, Cillian shook his head. "At least look at it this way--at least we are generally after different kinds of men, or at least the men are."

"One would hope," Mia said and gave Cillian a wink. Leaning back in her chair Mia shook her head a little. "I really didn't expect to ever run into someone I know here."

"Well I never expected to run into someone I met while in Vegas--so the feeling is mutual..." Cillian responded, sipping his drink.

The person she'd placed her food order with dropped it by then and Mia nodded in thanks before looking over at Cillian. "I didn't plan on sitting with anyone, is it okay if I eat a bit while we talk?" she asked, not wanting to be rude to the man who was obviously using his break to chat with her.

"Please..." Cillian flapped his hand a bit, smiling. "I don't want to interrupt your meal--in fact, if I'm bothering you I can bugger off."

Mia laughed and shook her head as she picked up the piece of dinner bread off the plate. "Not at all, it's nice to have someone to talk to. Part of why I came out tonight is I'd be home alone otherwise."

"What about your boyfriend?" Cillian inquired, though he realized that was quite an intrusive question and chuckled. "Sorry." He grinned a bit sheepishly, knowing he should be heading home, but he couldn't pass up on such a coincidence, seeing the young woman again. Especially since she had kept him company one night.

"Don't be." Mia waved off the apology and took a bite of food, swallowing it before continuing. "He's in a late meeting tonight, didn't feel like staying in."

"Ahh," Cillian nodded smiling. "I'm sure my boyfriend thinks the same thing sometimes! I keep late nights as well..."

"Probably feels bad he can't be with you, I know that's how my boyfriend gets." Mia couldn't help but grin at the way that Cillian seemed to light up a bit at the mention of his boyfriend. "If I'm keeping you from him by all means don't feel you have to stay here."

"I've got a bit longer...perhaps we've crossed one another's paths again for a reason, I'm not one to ignore such a thing," Cillian replied, smiling as he sipped his drink, thanking the server as another one was placed before him.

Mia thought about that and nodded her head. "That's always a possibility, especially considering the distance between those paths."

"The distance could be further I suppose..." Cillian commented. "We could have met in Ireland..." he winked.

Mia laughed. "I wish. I've always thought it would be interesting to go and travel a bit more. Just never really had the funds to do it."

"Well, don't take me as world traveled--I've never been all that many places myself," Cillian responded. "I just happened to be born in Ireland..."

"I was born in Canada, Ireland sounds more fun." Mia gave Cillian a small smile before taking a bite of her food.

"I suppose it depends on your viewpoint--I've never been to Canada, so I'll reserve judgment. I do miss Ireland sometimes though," Cillian admitted with a shrug.

Cillian's comment made Mia raise an eyebrow. "I get a feeling that you leaving wasn't exactly...planned."

Considering her words for a moment, Cillian tried to decide on an answer. "In the end, leaving Ireland proper was my choice, I suppose...but the events that led up to it, not so much."

"That's never much fun," Mia said frowning a bit. "I kind of did the leave my parents behind so I could be what I wanted and not what they wanted."

"Well we're in a similar boat, though I didn't have much say in the matter. That's water under the bridge though," Cillian stated, smiling suddenly. "Maybe I should send them a thank you card someday." Not bloody likely. "After all, I'm quite pleased with the life I have and I suppose in a round about way they made that possible."

"You're obviously comfortable with yourself," Mia said and gestured to the clothes Cillian was still wearing. "I think that has to amount for something."

"Yes it does, you're definitely right there," Cillian said with a smile. "It's the only way to be to be happy. Who gives a flip what people think? There is always at least one group of people out there willing to accept you for who you are, you just have to find them. Or if not a group, at least one person and that's all anyone really needs, isn't it?" He considered his own words, given how exhausted he'd been lately and wanting to just...maybe get away from Oz. That didn't mean he felt any less accepted by his "family" here, or that it had anything to do with them.

Mia thought about that and nodded her head at how true Cillian's views were. "I like the way you put that. I've always believed that there's someone that will accept you for who you are, never really found a way to say it that's quite like that." She leaned back in her seat and thought about how accepting Liam was, how at home she felt with him. "I've never had the group of people thing quite so much, but having one person...I think that's the ultimate goal."

"And do you? You mentioned your boyfriend--and you may please feel free to tell me to mind my own bloody business and my manners at any time you wish, my dear." Cillian smiled, sipping at his drink.

Mia nodded her head, unconsciously smiling as she thought of Liam. "Liam's good to me. I know he doesn't expect anything from me other than to be myself."

"That's definitely a good start," Cillian said, smiling softly. "Everyone should have someone that encourages who they are. Full stop."

"Hopefully you have someone like that as well," Mia said, remembering how sad the other man had looked when she'd first met him.

"Yes I do," Cillian said quickly, a smile breaking out on his face as he thought of Eric. "Waiting for me to come home actually--he's a good man as well; strong and handsome and all manly..." He sighed wistfully then winked at Mia. "And accepts me just as I am--frocks and all."

Mia couldn't help but smile at the way Cillian was talking about his guy. "Sounds perfect, especially if he's accepting of you being like this or other wise." Looking down at her meal Mia felt her cheeks blush a bit. "If he's waiting for you at home I shouldn't keep you."

"I don't mind offering a little company for a while longer and ...seeing as how I think maybe fate had a hand in this and I'm basically a native here now. I'd like to leave you with my phone number."

Mia nodded her head. "That would be nice. I must admit that I haven't really made many friends here, save a few people that work at my boyfriend's hotel."

"Oooh he has a hotel?" Cillian asked with interest. "That sounds exciting! And you've just made a friend now if you want one, I enjoy speaking with you!"

"Basically, he runs the place, doesn't own it but still close enough." When Cillian mentioned having a friend Mia grinned. "Having a friend would be good. That's the one thing I miss here."

"That bit can be hard, forging new friendships...here..." Reaching into his purse, he fished out a little notepad and a pin, scribbling down his house number and his cell number. "You feel free to call me anytime, or drop by here--I work too damn much for my own good."

Mia looked at the piece of paper and nodded when she could read the hand writing. "Thanks Cillian," Mia said taking the piece of paper. "I don't know the numbers off the top of my head but you can get a message to me if you call the front desk of Rue Royale, or I'm a barista at a jazz bar called Bayou Blues. I can call you with my numbers when I get home if you want them."

"If you want to give them to me, then I'd be delighted. Rue Royale, got it..." The young man committed the name to memory, chuckling inwardly as she called him Cillian--so few people did these days.

"Then I'll get them to you. I'm a bit embarrassed that I don't know them off the top of my head. But then again I don't really have to give them to many people." Mia pushed the nearly empty plate off to the side of the table.

"Pish! Don't be embarrassed, I was terrible with the phone numbers when I first got here! They were different...and you should have seen me trying to suss out the wrong side of the road shite!" The young man giggled. "I still won't drive!"

Mia felt a bit of relief at that and giggled. "Oh God I don't know how I'd feel about that, I never even thought about that for you!" Thinking about how weird it would be to be behind the wheel of a car, let alone expected to drive on the 'wrong' side of the road Mia giggled a bit more. "Phone numbers suddenly look more easy."

Cillian winked. "See, it's all a matter of perspective..." he said with a grin. "You'll do just fine."

Mia gave Cillian a wide grin. "I think I'm going to enjoy having you as a friend."

"Well, I certainly hope so!" Cillian twittered delightedly. "And your meal tonight is on me, don't argue."

Mia opened her mouth to do just that, argue with Cillian, but closed it just as quickly. For some reason she had a feeling that Cillian wasn't quite the right person to try and argue with. "You didn't need to but thank you all the same. I don't cook but if you ever come into the bar I can make you coffee free of charge."

"Well, there's something to be said about a free cup of coffee. I do however cook, so you'll have to come over sometime and let me make you dinner--or perhaps you and your beau both, it could be a double date of sorts. I love to cook and plan and what not. Do you think he'd be interested?"

"That's sweet of you," Mia said and nodded. "I'm sure I can talk Liam into agreeing to go out for dinner, especially if I threaten to walk around at night by myself, he's not too keen on that."

"Our men have something in common then! Eric hates when I do that!" Cillian giggled, smiling. "So, it'll definitely be a date then. I can't wait."

"Whew, at least it's not just mine. I keep telling him I'll be fine, I walk on the populated well lit streets," Mia said and shook her head a bit, trying to keep from getting too giggly. "I'll talk to him about it though, a double date sounds nice."

"It's this primal thing--as infuriating as it can be, it's kinda nice isn't it? Big strong men trying to protect us and defend our honor?" Cillian winked at Mia. "Though, let's be honest, they aren't wrong--things aren't as safe as they used to be. But still..."

"Oh things definitely aren't as safe, but I like telling myself that I took care of myself for a long time before finding that big strong man." Mia laughed a bit and shook her head, looking over at Cillian. "Is your guy really big?"

"Oh yeah..." Cillian grinned. "Well over six feet tall--I feel so small with him, in a good way of course...and muscles, but not the overly done kind of way, you know?" He winked, smiling still. "And I know what you mean about taking care of yourself, I've been doing it myself for a long time, hard to let go and rely on someone else."

"Sounds like your man is a bit like mine. He's over six feet and I'm well...I'm me, really little, we look like such an odd couple." Mia giggled a bit when she thought of how many of her acquaintances back in Vegas had given her weird looks once they saw who she was dating. "Oh tell me about it being hard to rely on someone else. I have to admit Liam wasn't too happy when I said I took a job, but I just...I don't want to live off someone else, if that makes sense."

"God, honey, does it make perfect sense!" Cillian exclaimed, flapping his hand lightly. "It's a battle I'm fighting myself...I sometimes feel like I'm being unreasonable, but you know...?"

"Being unreasonable but kind of tempted by it right?" Mia shook her head at herself. "Sometimes I'm so tempted. But I don't know what I'd do if I didn't do something, even a small something."

"More tempted than I'd ever be willing to admit," Cillian sighed. "I mean...the option to just be a little...house wife? It's kind of appealing, but on the other hand I'm not sure if I'd know what to do with myself, or if I could handle totally relying on someone else's income--I mean besides, I love to shop way too much; not that I'm full of cash or anything and can go wild, but when I go shopping, I don't have to ask anyone's permission to spend the money, you know?"

"I try and do art, sometimes go a bit nuts with the art supplies so I completely understand." Mia thought a bit of the way that Cillian talked, realizing they had quite a bit in common. She'd actually contemplated being the stay at home girlfriend for Liam herself, and if she actually had a house she might be able to do it. Staying around the hotel though...definitely wouldn't work. "I have to admit that I don't go clothes shopping all that often. Are there good places around here for that?"

"You don't go clothes shopping?" Cillian sounded absolutely scandalized. "We must remedy that! I'll take you myself...just two girlfriends out shopping. There are amazing places for whatever style suits your fancy! Oh see, this might be better than dinner!"

Mia laughed, some of Cillian's enthusiasm wearing off on her. "I usually go clothes shopping when something is dying of my own clothes," Mia said before shaking her head. "Going out shopping would be nice. Maybe you can help me find something to wow the working boyfriend at home."

"Oooh is he in need of wowing?" Cillian inquired. "I know just the place and I'd love to help you find something, I need a few new things myself. It's a date!"

Mia grinned actually feeling a bit relieved to have something to do instead of wander around by herself now. "Yeah, I think I need to wow him a bit, make him forget stupid work things."

"Well then, you've come to the right person. We'll have him very wowed..." Cillian winked, patting Mia's hand. "And we've a wonderful pallet to start with anyway; I won't accept that you couldn't wow him dressed in a paper sack!"

Mia blushed at that and gave Cillian a small smile. "For some reason I don't doubt that, although wowing him where he forgets everything else...definitely a goal of mine."

"Well, that should be a goal of everyone shouldn't it?" Cillian grinned. "Nothing is more satisfying than making your bloke forget his own name for a bit."

"Oh I would hope. Do you get the chance to do that with your man a lot? I hope so."

"Well, I like to think so!"

Mia grinned. "With how you look I'm sure you do." Gesturing to Cillian Mia thought back to the few things she could remember about the man from Vegas. "You look very comfortable with yourself, definitely holds sexy there."

"I suppose in my line of work and lifestyle you have to be comfortable with yourself, or you don't last very long and go quite mad," Cillian responded with a smile.

"Then this job works for you." Mia shook her head and laughed a little. "I have to admit I hadn't thought this was the work you were doing when I first met you."

"Really?" Cillian cocked his head to the side--deciding not to point out that he wasn't sure when this job had stopped working for him. "What did you envision me as?"

"Thought you were just in customer services, like I was." Mia shrugged before shaking her head. "I mean you are, just didn't think being up on stage like this."

Laughing softly, Cillian shrugged. "I didn't mean to mislead...it's just not the sort of thing you lead with, unless you live here."

"I can understand," Mia paused, trying to find a way to say what she meant without sounding crass. "I'm sure there have been times people haven't taken that well and you have to be careful outside of your element."

"There have definitely been times," Cillian agreed, smiling softly. "So, I just try to stay inside my element as much as possible."

Mia smiled at that, resting her elbows on the edge of the table again. "I'm going to have to thank the person that told me to head over here if I wanted out of the hotel."

"We'll send them flowers." Another soft giggle. "Fate's funny like that, I suppose."

"Yes. Apparently we're meant to be girly friends." Mia giggled a bit before looking at her watch, nearly sticking her tongue out when she saw the time. "I probably should try and sneak back home and let you get on with your night, I've kept you here far too long."

"No you haven't, but I don't want to keep you now. I should be getting home as well...it's been a true pleasure, Mia."

Mia reached out and gave Cillian's hand a shake. "Same to you, we'll have to go shopping soon."

"Definitely." Leaning forward, he kissed Mia's cheek lightly. "Would you like me to walk you out?"

"You don't have to," Mia said pulling her jacket up from where she'd shrugged it off over the chair. "Need to get in all my big girl moments as I can."

Laughing softly, Cillian just shrugged. "You think having me walk you out makes you less of a big girl?" he teased.

Mia thought about that and laughed when she realized how that sounded. "No, just, I dunno what I meant." Shaking her head Mia nodded toward the meal Cillian had said he'd pay for her. "I appreciate the food and the company."

"I know what you meant," Cillian stated, flapping his hand and smiling. "And you're welcome, it was my pleasure."

"My treat next time," Mia said before getting up to head home. "Have a good night Cillian."

"You too Mia." Smiling, Cillian rises as well to go make his goodbyes.

4 January, 2007; Street; Brendan Fraser, Mia Kirshner; PG13

Thu, 04 Jan 2007 08:51:00 GMT

[Cross posted on brendan_q.]

Brendan dashed along the narrow street, politely throwing 'excuse me's to passer-by’s he nudged with his box of pralines. He had been told to deliver to a nearby cafe, but needed to get back to make some more for the day's trading. He muffled a 'fuck!' when he bumped into a woman. "Oh ma'am I am so sorry!" he apologized profusely.

Mia blinked a few times as she found her footing, suddenly glad her purse was hooked up over her shoulder instead of held in her hand. When the man that had hit her started apologizing Mia looked up and shook her head. "It's okay, I wasn't watching where I was going much either."

"Are you okay?" Brendan was painfully aware that his bulking frame could have caused damage to such a slight young woman. "Man I'm sorry."

Mia paused a minute and aside from her shoulder stinging a bit she felt fine, a bit amazed she didn't drop the single bag she had in her hand. Nodding her head Mia looked up at the man and gave him a slight smile. "I'm fine. Really, should have been looking."

"I haven't made for a good start to your day have I?" Brendan shook his head. "Damn hurrying never gets you anywhere but we still do it don't we?"

"Not the worst," Mia said knowing how true that was. Considering all things Mia knew there were tons of ways to start out a bad day, this was rather mild. "Well, the season definitely doesn't help with hurrying," she added when she realized the man was still standing near her.

Brendan sensed a slight sadness in the woman. "Look the least I can do is share a little of what had me in a hurry. I work at Sweet Things, you ever tried their praline?"

Mia shook her head, the name not sounding familiar to her at all. "No, I've never been there. Although I haven't been living here too long." When the man offered some of the sweets Mia actually smiled a more honest smile. "You don't have to do that."

"Of course I do," Brendan grinned. "There's plain, nut and chocolate...try a bit of each and tell me which is the best...call it on street research."

Mia raised an eyebrow, wondering if she'd somehow managed to get run into by one of the town oddities but ended up laughing a bit herself. "Is that your marketing ploy? Find the people that you don't know and bump into them for product placement?" she asked, her voice light to show she was teasing a bit.

"Cover blown," Brendan laughed. "Although I don't think management will be impressed with me handing out free boxes to all and sundry but that's what you'll get when you tell me which one you like the best. It's the least I can do."

"It was a simple accident; you don't have to feel that guilty." Mia hooked the handle for her bag around her wrist and looked at the box the man was holding. "If you're going to insist though I'm guessing it would be better not to argue though right?"

"Too damn right," Brendan pushed the box towards her offering a sample from the top. "There are wrapped samples at the top, take one of each and tell me what you think...no hard sales involved I promise. Sugar always makes things better."

Mia peeked at the contents before taking one of each of the wrapped samples. "What are the flavors again?" she asked, peeling the wrapper off one of them once she had one of each in her hand.

"The one you're about to eat is plain," Brendan informed her. "I've worked on the original recipe though. It's authentic New Orleans praline but I've tweaked the recipe they used to try and make it a little tastier. I'd like to know what you think; it's the first batch I've put out."

"So you do these yourself?" she asked before taking a bite. She hadn't had praline in ages, at least not since she was still back home with her family, so she didn't know what she was quite expecting. The taste wasn't bad, definitely had a bit of sweet to it and she nodded her head, taking another bite of it.

"The nut is better though I reckon, has more of a kick to it. Try that next and leave the chocolate for last, there's a bit of a secret to that one." He handed Mia a package of the nut praline with a smile.

"This isn't bad," she said once she finished the plain one, already unwrapping the nut one. "Although I have to admit lately my sweet tooth is usually filled with pastries." Mia blushed a bit at that and took a bite of the next piece. This tasted a bit more familiar and Mia smiled.

"I did a stint as a pastry chef," Brendan said. "But my last gig was as a chocolatier...that's why I saved the chocolate for last. It's praline with home made chocolate mixed through it." He winked, "Now try this one. It's decadent."

"I can cook basics," Mia admitted and unwrapped the last piece. "So all this, is amazingly over my head.”

Brendan shrugged his shoulders. "It's my trade. I have to admit I love messing with recipes." He put the box down and held out his hand, "I'm Brendan by the way. New to New Orleans myself."

Mia popped the piece of praline into her mouth, barely keeping herself from groaning at the mixture of chocolate and other goodies. Bunching up the wrappers Mia took Brendan's hand and shook it. "I'm Mia, pleased to meet you Brendan."

"So the chocolate is a winner huh?" he grinned back.

Mia blushed a bit again and nodded. "The nut ones remind me of being a little girl but the chocolate definitely wins. Although...you are talking to a woman, most like chocolate."

"Guys do too believe me," Brendan smiled. "Well take a box...no make it two as a sorry gift. Might make the day pass better."

Mia opened her mouth to argue that he really didn't have to apologize that much. Especially when she could have ran into him just as easily. When he gave her a slight look Mia signed and opened the bag she was carrying to put the boxes in. "You really didn't do something all that horrid you know."

"That's not the only reason I'm forcing them on you," Brendan added. "I reckon by midday that arm of yours will have recovered from being slammed by this dumbass but whatever's bugging you will have returned to your mind so you'll need a sugar hit."

Mia stopped when Brendan said that, wanting to ask him what he was presuming but couldn't find the words to really say anything. "That's sweet of you," she managed finally.

"Intended pun?" Brendan giggled.

"Slightly." Mia laughed, not having really realized how that sounded until she said it. "Okay, not fully but it makes me sound a bit smarter if I say yes."

"Well Mia enjoy, and if you need a refill just pop by the store. It's near the Market and there's always a handful of samples with your name on it...no purchase required," Brendan grinned.

"Thanks Brendan." Mia closed her bag again and made a mental note of the area Brendan mentioned. "I might just have to stop in."

"Please do, I promise not to slam dance with you next time."

"I'll have to hold you to that Brendan," Mia said.

"Take care yeah?" Brendan patted her lightly on the arm. "Nice bumping into you."

Mia nodded her head. "You take care as well Brendan, don't rush so much," she said giving him a grin.

"I'll try, although it worked out pretty well this time," Brendan returned the grin. With that he was off at an enforced slower pace back to the store to replace the goods he had just given away. When Mia had turned the corner he started to run again. Now he was later than ever.

28 December, 2006; Rue Royale; Liam Neeson, Mia Kirshner; PG13

Thu, 28 Dec 2006 08:31:41 GMT

[Cross posted to liam_q.]

Even with the chill in the air Mia had pulled on one of her heavier sweaters and a jacket and was currently sitting out on the balcony to their room. She had a sketch pad on her lap and had been doodling things she saw out on the street for the last hour. Or at least she'd been attempting to. Frowning at the page she'd been working on Mia crossed a line through one of the pictures and flipped to a clean page. Tapping the eraser of her pencil to keep the blood flowing in her fingers she sighed. "I use to be able to do this," she mumbled to herself.

Liam had given up on the day's work finding the account books to be totally un-cooperative. There suite was quiet when he entered and Liam wondered briefly where Mia was. Walking quietly towards the french windows he spotted her frustrated form sitting on the balcony. "Hey beautiful," he whispered softly and bent down to lay a gentle kiss to her hair.

Mia looked up, well aware she'd probably have jumped if she wasn't starting to feel the cold she'd been sitting in for awhile. "Hey," she said when she saw Liam standing behind her. Looking back at the amount of light in the sky she frowned a bit. "Stop in to check on me?"

"Stop in to check on me?" Liam frowned knowing full well that it must seem like that. He stroked his hand over her hair and said quietly, "It'll settle down Mia ... I promise." He slid his arms around her shoulders and, kneeling down, hugged her against him.

Mia nodded her head, not really trusting herself to say she knew cause honestly she wasn't really sure she knew anymore. Forcing a smile Mia leaned up and kissed his cheek. "If you need to get back at it you don't have to hang out around. I was going to eat at the cafe next door tonight if you want to try and join."

"I'm not going anywhere tonight unless it's with you," Liam murmured, "The cafe sounds good, but I could always try my hand at making something for us here if you want?"

Mia had to admit she was surprised when Liam said he was staying in for the night. If it wasn't for the fact that Liam looked okay she would have been worried something bad had happened. "If you want to that's fine. Wasn't expecting you home for dinner which is why I thought of the cafe."

"Work can sort itself out because I want to spend tonight with you," Liam said softly concerned at her tone of voice. "I want to cook for you, feed you and hold you until you're screaming at me to give you some breathing room."

"I don't think I'd scream at you." Mia flipped the sketchbook on her lap shut and slid the pencil in the little elastic holder on the cover before turning her attention more toward Liam. Unconsciously pulling the sleeves of her jacket down further around her hands. "So what are you going to cook?"

"Will we go all sensible and I can whip up a pasta or maybe I can melt some chocolate and I can feed you chocolate dipped strawberries?" Liam suggested while giving her a gentle kiss on the neck.

Mia closed her eyes and smiled, unable to keep from leaning in against Liam. "Mmm, I haven't had chocolate for a bid."

Liam's mouth moved around her neck until his lips brushed her throat. "Maybe I could just pour it on you," he teased. "Although I did promise to feed you didn't I?"

Mia laughed a bit, keeping her eyes closed as Liam's lips moved over her skin. Missed this. "I'm sure there'd be time to eat later."

With a grin, Liam straightened up and held his hands out to Mia. "Come on beautiful," he said, "Let's get you inside where you have no excuse to wear that jumper."

"Are you saying you don't like it?" Mia asked, trying to look a bit offended as she uncurled from the chair. Stretching out a bit Mia took his hand, tucking her sketchbook under one arm before letting him lead her into their room.

"Hate it ... loath it," he laughed and after closing the doors, carefully eased it over her head. "How could I like anything that stops me do this?" He winked and bent over to kiss her now bare shoulder.

Mia shivered at first when Liam pulled the jumper up over her head, not use to the change in temperature. Instinctively moving a bit closer Mia laughed. "But it keeps me warm," she said in a half attempt to argue.

"I think I'm big enough to do that," Liam suggested wrapping his long arms around her while nuzzling her neck. "Think we could manage something warming?"

Mia leaned in, curling against Liam's chest. "Mmm, I think we can figure something out."

Rather than head for the bed though, Liam led Mia to the large over stuffed couch. He quickly undressed and then held up his hand before making a naked dash back to the bedroom returning with a large fluffy blanket. After spreading it on the couch he carefully and slowly proceeded to remove the rest of Mia's clothes.

Mia raised an eyebrow at Liam's antics before grinning lightly. "You have that something face you get," she said finally, brushing her fingers along Liam's shoulders as she stepped out of the rest of her clothes.

"I've heard my face describe many ways before but not as a something face," he chuckled and got her to sit where he could wrap the blanket around her. "Room for two, but I need to get something first." Liam jogged into the kitchen complaining bout the cold tiles on his feet but returned with a bottle of wine and packet of chocolate biscuits.

Mia pulled the blanket up under her chin as she listened to the noise of Liam in the kitchen. She couldn't help but smile to herself. After not seeing Liam much the last few weeks this was nice, nice enough that Mia pretty much forgot how down she'd been earlier in the day. When Liam came back out Mia laughed. "Cuddle time dinner?" she asked scooting over so Liam had more than enough room to sit next to her.

"Yes ... now let me in, I need some body heat too now," he chuckled and quickly snuggled in next to Mia. "Not the height of elegance I know," Liam said as he slipped a chocolate between her lips and took a swig from the wine bottle.

Mia pulled the chocolate into her mouth, chewing it slowly as she snuggled in against Liam's body. "I've never said I needed elegance."

"And I don't think I tell you nearly enough how much I need you," Liam murmured and gave her a soft slow kiss tasting the sweetness of the chocolate on her lips.

The kiss made Mia's body tingle and she let out a happy sigh, brushing her hand against Liam's chest. "Mmm, missed you," she said when they pulled apart.

He wrapped them a little tighter in the woolen blanket and whispered, "Things will get better ... that's a promise. I've hated not having this."

Mia nodded her head, much like she'd done outside, except she ran her hand along Liam's thigh. "I hope so."

"All I know is that no job is worth the look I saw on your face before," Liam said seriously and pushed the hair from her forehead to give it a soft kiss. "I'd rather wait on tables or deliver room service."

Mia looked down a little at that, while she'd been picking out how much her mood had been shifting lately she hadn't wanted Liam to know about it. Didn't want him worrying about her. "You're doing what you want, which is good," she said finally, taking Liam's hand in hers.

Liam squeezed her hand a little and said, "Well I am right now."

Thu, 21 Dec 2006 10:37:23 GMT

[Private]

Christmas is only a few days away, because of the holidays and the influx of people I've been doing a few more shifts at the bar then normal. Not that I think Liam's notice too much, he's not home very much either.

Although considering how work is going I don't know if that's the best place for me to be either. I've been trying to figure out why I reacted so much to the man that flirted with me, Pierce. I think in a lot of ways its because of Liam, because I barely see him. But...still. I've never been the type to do that. And for a moment, I almost forgot that I have Liam.

Maybe tonight I'll go down and eat at a table near the main offices, maybe I'll get to at least see him even if he's on his way to another meeting.

16 December, 2006; Bayou Blues; Pierce Brosnan, Mia Kirshner; PG13

Sat, 16 Dec 2006 09:37:38 GMT

[Cross posted to pierce_q.]

Mia glared at the espresso machine when the alarm went off on it for the third time in the last hour. Even with all her experience serving and making coffee in the past the machine was starting to get on her nerves. She'd already mentioned to her boss a few days earlier she thought a part of it was going but that it would be workable until it was replaced, now she was second guessing herself. Turning the alarm off Mia pulled out a few things to check them before hitting the button again to have it start up. When the alarm didn't go off right away again Mia let out a sigh and shook her head as she walked back over to the sink to finish washing out the dishes.

Pierce hung around and watched the screen for the young Italian boy to finish sucking cock...he certainly wouldn't mind meeting that young man! With a grin he said to his replacement, "Okay I'm off for coffee and a panini. This one's nearly finished and then we're showing 'Twinks for Hire'."

He escaped the stuffy environs of the screening booth and stepped out into the fresh air. With a deep inhale he set off. He'd try somewhere different for lunch today...maybe the bar he'd seen advertising gourmet coffees. It wasn't a long walk, and when he stepped inside he could smell the coffee beans. With a grin of anticipation he walked up to the bar and called the girl over, "Do you do affogatos?" he asked.

It took Mia a minute to realize the voice she heard was directed at her. Lately when she worked this shift she rarely had people making there way over to her end of the bar, usually going for the booze or the music. Wiping her hands off on her apron Mia walked over to the counter and gave the man a quick smile. "Sorry about that," she said and thought about the supplies she had in the back. "Yep, I think we just got in some new ice cream for them."

Pierce was pleased to see this place knew its coffees, and even more pleased to see the pretty young lady serving them. "Think I could get some alcohol added to that? Oh, and the vegetarian panini," he added pointing to the specials board.

Mia wrote the coffee and sandwich down on a small notepad she used to show the sales for the day and nodded. "I can probably add a bit to it," she said idly before looking over the counter at the man. "Any specific kind you want?"

"You'd do that for me?" Pierce grinned. "If you could manage a little baileys I'd love you forever."

Mia laughed a bit at that and nodded her head. "Most people that say that say it to the other patrons." Moving away from the counter Mia checked the espresso machine before adding up the man's total. "It'll be eight even, I'll be back after I get the other stuff started for you."

"Eight? That's cheap!" Pierce pulled out a ten and said, "Keep the change, not much of a tip but I'm sure I have some change in my pocket as well." He smiled, "And I'm sure you get your fair share of compliments along the way."

"Not usually," Mia said and looked the man over before walking over to get one of the pre-made vegetarian panini's, sticking it in the grill to warm. With that going Mia walked out from behind the coffee bar and walked over to the actual bar, asking the man working it for a shot of Bailey's.

"Attractive young girl like you...I don't believe it!" Pierce persisted as Mia brought him his coffee.

Mia put the shot in the coffee before handing it over to the man, putting his panini into a small carry away basket. "Usually men give other men attention here," Mia said looking over at the guy, giving him a slight grin.

"Oh that sort of bar huh?" Pierce grinned as he took the panini. "You're wasted here then."

Mia rested her elbows on the counter. "I dunno if it's intended that way or the people just are. I appreciate the off handed compliment though." Biting her lower lip Mia raised an eyebrow. "Am I guessing you swing differently then most or your just a flirt by nature?"

"Not an offhanded compliment at all," Pierce smiled neglecting his panini and coffee. "I swing whichever way there is something worth swinging towards. And you...well let's just say watch out for that tree!"

"Someone exaggerating?" Mia asked noticing the way the man was looking more at her then the food he'd just purchased.

"Not at all," Pierce replied putting his hand on hers. "You're a very pretty young lady...pity there's no one else around to tell you that."

Mia didn't pull her hand away from the touch but did look down a bit at the off handed comment. "It's not hard to get use to."

"Well you shouldn't have to, you should find yourself a place where the men can appreciate you." Pierce kept his hand on hers. "I'm not suggesting anything untoward like those bars on Bourbon though."

Mia glanced back up at the man and raised an eyebrow, holding the man's gaze. "What kind of place are you suggesting?"

Pierce cursed that his place was such a dump, and that taking a young girl like this back to Blue Visions probably wasn't a good pick up option. "Some place where I could get to know you better?" he said, his voice deepening.

Mia felt her cheeks flush at that and looked down at the counter top where there hands were. God what are you doing? "I'm not that interesting."

Pierce rubbed his thumb over her hand, "I beg to differ."

As much as Mia had the inkling this wasn't right she had to admit the touch was nice. Especially when she'd barely seen Liam and hadn't been working with Viggo lately. "Just cause I look pretty and don't mind slipping a bit of booze into coffee doesn't really make me interesting."

"You're making this difficult work missy!" Pierce laughed. "Okay, two questions. First is what is your name? I can't see you liking me calling you missy all night."

The question made Mia realize she wasn't wearing the small name tag her boss had made for her when she'd started simply wearing an apron for her outfit. Considering the bartenders only wore street clothes Mia had thought doing the same would be the best option for her, just with a little cover. "Mia," she said before giving him a slight smile when she realized something. "You had the first two letters right at least. Your second question?"

"Mia...a pretty name for a pretty girl," Pierce continued to compliment Mia. "The second question...why do I find a cute girl like you alone in a bar where she's got to wait for me to tell her how wonderful she is?" Pierce did his most charming gentleman gesture and
kissed her hand.

When the man kissed her hand Mia felt her cheeks flush and couldn't stop from thinking of Liam suddenly. "Umm," Mia paused and looked down a bit. "Perhaps there's someone that's too busy to say it?" she offered finally.

Pierce instantly pulled away. "So you have someone? I'm sorry. Well, not sorry for him but sorry for overstepping the mark." He shook his head, "Too busy to deal with a catch like you...silly man."

Mia was surprised how quick the other man backed away from her all things considered. Shaking her head Mia looked between him and the counter. "Don't apologize, I should." Looking back up at him Mia reached for his sandwich so she could get him a new one that would actually still be warm. "Been on my own quite a bit," she said, not really sure why she put the comment out there but she did. Walking away from the counter Mia took out a new vegetarian sandwich, prepping it automatically to put it on the griller again.

"How could he leave you on your own?" Pierce smiled. "That's criminal."

Mia kept her eyes trained more on the grill then looking back at the man. "He works a lot," she said almost as though it was a simple answer. Although saying it out loud, hearing someone else ask her about being left alone...Mia frowned wondering if that's why her mood had been in the crapper so much lately.

"I hope he realizes what he's missing. If there weren't a Mr. Missy I'd be in for keeping you company."

Mia did look over her shoulder at that, looking the man over before turning back to get his fresh panini off the grill and wrapped up. "And do you have a name?" she asked as she walked back over, setting the fresh panini on the counter.

"I'm Pierce, and if you ever find yourself without that hard working man just give me a yell," Pierce said taking the panini with a 'thanks'.

Mia nodded her head, even though she had a striking suspicion that she wouldn't see Pierce again, unless he had a craving for spiked coffee. "Thanks for the small ego boost Pierce," she said before marking down a second panini, deciding the cold one she could take home with her to eat later.

"I did mean what I said," Pierce said. "I'll be honest with you Mia, I'd usually be in here giving other men attention. It's got to be a special lady for me to pay women attention. And you're a special lady."

Mia stopped, half wondering if she'd spoken more aloud then she'd meant to. Fingering the pen she had in her hand she nodded, giving Pierce a more genuine smile. "Told you it was the area around here," she said giving him a wink. "And if you ever need some jazzed up coffee I'll be your gal."

"I might just be back then...for the coffee and a check on my special girl?" Pierce grinned. He might have lost out on a potential fuck, but this Mia was a nice girl and he hoped that man in her life was treating her right.

Mia laughed a little at that. "I should be here."

9 December; Johnny Depp and Mia Kirshner; near the French Market; G

Sat, 09 Dec 2006 23:19:04 GMT

[Cross posted to johnny_quarter.]

It wasn't freezing outside, not exactly, but it was pretty damned cold for New Orleans. What his mother would call "sweater weather," but Johnny hadn't been able to scrounge up a sweater amongst the piles of crap that decorated his studio. So today he wore a beaten-up leather jacket, holdover from his biking all over the country days, maybe the only tangible memory he had of those years other than a few photographs. His guitar wasn't holding tune very well due to the weather, but he didn't have quite enough for this month's rent yet after the big donation he'd made on the first for National AIDS Awareness, so he was playing on his corner near the market to make a little extra, depending on the charity of the locals now that tourist season was over.

Mia was walking down the street, not really sure where she was going but she was just glad to be out of the house. The air was cold enough that she was sure her fingers would be numb if it wasn't for the gloves she wore but not nearly as cold as she knew it could be. Looking in the windows of the shops she passed Mia stopped when she heard the sound of music a few shops away, live music from the sound of it. In this weather? Mia ignored the shops she was walking past and instead stopped a few feet away from where the cause of the music was sitting, strumming on a guitar.

His guitar case rather devoid of change, excepting the contributions of a few sympathetic passersby, Johnny was getting bored. He decided to play something that he actually felt like playing, namely a Jeff Buckley tune. Okay, so "Lover You Should Have Come Over" wasn't exactly standard busking fare, but it was one of his favourites. As he sang, he smiled at the girl who has stopped nearby, ostensibly to listen, and nodded in her direction.

When the man looked at her Mia smiled back at him. She was a bit surprised by how quickly people were walking past the man instead of stopping to listen for even a bit. Even with the chill or the holidays Mia couldn't imagine just ignoring the person was there all together. Taking a few steps closer Mia thought over what she had left over from working at the bar this week, adding a few numbers up in her head before figuring how much she'd put in the case when he was done with the song.

When he finished singing, Johnny reached for the tuning pegs again, smiling when he saw that the young woman was still there. "Any requests, ma'am? I think you're the only person today who's actually stopped to listen," he admitted with a little shrug. "Guess it's a bit cold out for music.'

"Cold and people don't know rushing through life doesn't help," Mia added and took one of her gloves off so she could actually get into her pocket to get her wallet. "I don't know much on requests, play whatever you usually would."

Johnny smiled and nodded in thanks when he saw her take her wallet out. "That's my philosophy entirely--it's a beautiful world we live in, you know? Why hurry?" With that he got an idea, and grinned as he started into a sweet little love song he'd heard recently. "This is the first day of my life, I think I was blind before I met you. And now I don't care I could go anywhere with you--and probably be happy."

When the man started playing again Mia smiled and pulled out half of the tips she'd gotten herself a few nights ago. Dropping the bills into his case Mia put her wallet back in her pocket and slipped her glove on, leaning against the side of the building to listen to him.

When Johnny finished the song--or rather, when he got to a point where he knew no more verses, he stopped and looked up at her. "You sure about that? Normal contribution is a quarter," he joked.

"I'm sure," Mia said, not even bothering to look at the bills she'd left. "I know how it is to try and perform to get someone to give you a bit extra for your pocket."

Johnny smiled at that. "Well, you can be assured it's for a good cause at least, ma'am. Everything that isn't going for food or rent always goes to charity. You're a performer, then?"

"If it helps someone it's always for a good cause." Mia shook her head when the man asked if she was a performer. "I'm a barista, before that was a waitress, basically a pretty monkey that brings people food. I wish I was a performer."

Johnny snorted at that. "I don't know, sometimes I feel a bit like a 'pretty monkey' during the tourist season. I put up a little sign that says all money goes to the AIDS foundation, hoping to get some sympathetic souls, and a lot of times instead I've gotten kids coming by offering five bucks for ten minutes in an alleyway. Just slightly degrading."

"Hate to say it but at least you're offered money for going in the alleyway." Mia gave the other man a smile to let him know she was partially kidding. Her time in Vegas had been… interesting. There had been a number of times she'd been hit on; many times people had said there had to be a back room she could take them in. None had ever offered her money for the things they always said they wanted to do to her. "Do you do other things or just play?"

"Oh, I'm a regular Renaissance man," Johnny teased, setting his guitar down for a second. "Aside from playing and getting propositioned by boys half my age, I also teach high school art and music, and I do art in my spare time as well, sometimes on the street for charity as well though usually only in the summertime."

Mia let out a low whistle and grinned at him. "That sounds great. Much better then running a coffee machine. I try and do art, keyword on the 'try'."

"Hey, trying is succeeding as far as I'm concerned. I mean, 'good' or 'bad' art is only subjective... though maybe I've been teaching far too long," Johnny mused with a smile. "Where do you run this coffee machine, then?"

Mia smiled at the way the man talked. He might be a teacher but he definitely had a way to make her feel at ease. "Over at Bayou Blues, little jazzy bar. For some reason they have a coffee bar and no one could run it."

"Oh, I know the place," Johnny replied. "I love jazz...didn't know they served coffee, though. How long have you been working there?"

"A few months give or take." Mia shrugged her shoulders a bit. "Honestly I didn't think the place did either 'til I went in to respond to the help wanted sign."

"It's been a while since I've been there. Sometimes I feel like I've lived in New Orleans forever, though it's not even quite ten years yet."

"I just got here not long ago." Mia lowered herself a bit so she was more at eye level with the other man. "Came from Vegas, so this is a bit of a change."

"Vegas, huh? I went through there once," Johnny remembered, his eyes darkening slightly as he remembered the trip, Vegas being one of the stops shortly before his best friend got sick. "Can't say I saw much of the town, though."

"Its nothing fancy really. Most places aren't." Mia noticed the way that the other man seemed to deflate a little. "What brought you here?"

"Well I was kind of aimless for a while, living with my brother and doing odd jobs and art stuff... I ended up teaching eventually and I came to New Orleans for a gig teaching ESL to French-speakers. I was tutoring French after school, and after a few years I got my GED and got a fulltime job at the school I'd be working with," Johnny explained. "So, here I am, still teaching the brats in my old age. What about yourself? Something tempting pull you away from Vegas?"

"You don't look that old to me," Mia said before she realized she'd said that out loud. When he turned the topic over to her she nodded her head. "Boyfriend got a fancy job, I came with him."

"Ah, very nice." Johnny grinned. "And I'm forty-three. That's old to you, I'm sure."

Mia shook her head. "My boyfriend is older then you I'm afraid."

"Really?" Johnny smiled and shook his head. "Well I guess that gives us middle-aged men hope, then," he joked. "Though I think at this point music and art are the only true loves I can fit into my life."

Mia laughed a bit at that. "Age is just how much experience you've had on the earth, nothing more." Looking down at the man's guitar Mia bit her lower lip before asking, "Do you show your work anywhere?"

"I haven't, no. Always thought I was a bit too blue collar for that," Johnny admitted. "Although, I did meet a guy a while ago who might be able to get me a gallery showing for some of my paintings."

"I'd like to see your work, if your playing is any indication." Mia knew if it wasn't as cold as it was she probably would be blushing a bit.

"Well thank you," Johnny replied with a little sitting bow. "My name's Johnny. Johnny Depp. I'll, erm, try to come by the Bayou Blues and let you know if I ever do get a show," he offered.

"I'd appreciate that Johnny," Mia said before shaking her head at her manners. "I'm Mia by the way."

"Lovely to meet you, Mia. I'm afraid I've gotta get back to this," he said apologetically, nodding at the guitar. "But thanks again for the contribution, and I'll be sure to stop in sometime after my next paycheck and sample your coffee-making skills."

"Sorry to keep you," she said and nodded her head. "Hope to see you again Johnny."

Sat, 25 Nov 2006 09:13:43 GMT

[Private]

Well, Halloween came and went, so did Thanksgiving. So far my mood has been fairly steady and fairly blank. I even blew off work once this week just so I could go wander around the French Market hoping to get inspired. I know Liam would hate it if he found out that I was wandering around down there by myself at the hour I was. But at the same time I just felt like I needed it.

I think tomorrow I'll get up early and go down at a more decent hour.

Backstory: Early September, 2005; Las Vegas; Cillian Murphy, Mia Kirshner; PG

Mon, 06 Nov 2006 07:16:13 GMT

[Cross posted to prettycillian.]

Cillian couldn't sleep, not with everything going on. It had occurred to him to knock on Ioan and Marton's door but he also hadn't wanted to disturb them. At least this was Vegas and it never closed, so he knew if he headed down to the casino of the hotel they were staying in, he'd find at least people moving around. He could only watch so much news alone...

Heading downstairs on the lift, he leaned against the wall--he'd thrown on what he had at hand, a pair of old jeans and a sweater that was a size or two too big for him, making him look both smaller and younger than he actually was...which was saying a lot. He'd already washed his face for the night, and he hadn't bothered even applying light make up again--he was hardly looking to pick up anyone. His long dark hair was pulled at the nape of his neck and he'd almost come out barefoot, but had put on a pair of sandals at the last second.

Making his way to the restaurant, he decided he'd like a bite to eat...and hadn't wanted to call room service, since Marton and Ioan were insisting on paying for everything.

Mia pushed the stray strand of hair out of her eyes as she made her rounds in her section. For the most part the evening had been slow in comparison to how it usually was and Mia was thankful for that. She was too tired today for some reason to really be able to cope with the large late night crowds. She'd just finished setting up one of the cleared off tables when she saw a young man walk into the restaurant. The host had taken a break and unwillingly Mia had told her she'd watch the front. Wiping her hands off on her apron Mia walked over to the man. "Evening, just one?"

"Yes ma'am," Cillian responded politely, smiling a little tiredly. "I won't be much trouble." The young woman was very beautiful and Cillian felt bad thinking of just how much she must get hit on. He knew how bad it could suck.

Mia noticed how tired the other man looked and relaxed a bit. "I appreciate that," she said and gave him a smile before picking up a single menu. "Do you want a table or would you prefer a booth?"

"A booth if it's alright," Cillian replied as he followed the young woman deeper in the restaurant.

"Not a problem, it's fairly slow right now so there are a lot available." Mia looked over her shoulder and smiled at the man before stopping by a booth, setting the menu down. "Is this okay?"

"Perfect, thank you..." Cillian responded, sliding into the booth, toying with the menu. "Can I by chance get a cup of hot tea?"

"Of course." Mia did a mental check of the kinds of tea they had. "Anything specific in mind? We have some really good herbal mixes or some mint teas."

"Oooh mint tea please, with a touch of honey if you have it. I could use a good cuppa," Cillian countered with a smile.

Mia finally gave the man a genuine smile. "The mint's my favorite. I'll bring out some honey for you with it."

"Thank you!" Cillian exclaimed and meant it.

"No problem." Mia walked away from the table, jotting down the tea on a ticket when she was behind the main counter. Filling a metal tin with hot water Mia dropped in a few bags of the tea and let it sit, rummaging through the condiments until she found the honey.

Cillian fidgeted with a napkin as he waited, trying to just...relax, but he was jittery.

Making sure to get a few extra packets of the honey Mia put the small tin and a clean cup on a tray, finally making her way back over to the table. "Here you are," she said as she set the items in front of him. Mia noticed the guy messing with his napkin and tucked the tray under her arm. "Did you decide on something to eat?"

"This may sound a little silly, but is there anyway I could get a grilled cheese sandwich?" Cillian inquired after thanking her for the tea, already reaching to prepare it--almost blindly as he kept his attention on the woman.

"Not silly at all." Mia was surprised the man kept his eyes on her while he prepared his tea. "We have a three cheese grill, comes with fries or onion rings. Would that work?"

"Oh, that sounds perfect, though I don't need the fries or onion rings...a little heavy for this late with that much cheese--but I never could pass up cheese."

Mia nodded and blushed a little bit, realizing that it really was late. The past week she'd done nothing but night shifts so it always felt mid-day to her. "Cheese is definitely one of the best inventions. Just let me go put this order in and let me know if you need anything else."

"Thanks," Cillian replied warmly, wrapping his hands around his mug and lifting it to his nose.

Mia bowed a bit and headed to the back, writing down the man's order and putting it in with the cook. Checking on her other tables Mia finally sat down for a minute while she waited for the guy's order to come up. When she thought of the customer she looked over to his table, frowning a bit when he seemed to look a little...sad.

The tea was very good, hit the spot really...and while he might be having it alone, at least there were people moving about. Closing his eyes, he let the steam waft up into his face for a moment.

When the bell dinged behind her Mia turned around and picked up the plate with the man's grilled cheese. Making sure to grab a bottle of ketchup in case he wanted it she made her way back to his table. "Grilled cheese, nothing extra."

"Perfect, thank you," Cillian smiled, tugging the plate closer delicately. "I appreciate it."

"I'm here to serve." Mia checked how low the man's tea was, making a note to get another little pot going. "Besides, you look like you could use a smile."

"That obvious?" Cillian responded, offering her a soft one as he sipped his tea. "It's just been a long...well...few weeks I guess."

Mia gave him a reassuring smile. "You just look sad. Are you visiting or living?"

"Just visiting..." I hope... Cillian added, but didn't say it. "I guess more worried than sad? I don't know, maybe a little sad too..." he laughed softly, though there wasn't much humor.

"Hopefully you'll end up worrying over nothing."

"I hope so..." Cillian trailed off, thinking of what must be going on back home, and hoping he'll still have a home to go to. "Are you from Vegas?" he asked suddenly.

Mia shook her head, a bit surprised the man had started asking her about herself. "No, kind of drifted here."

"Maybe that's the best way sometimes, eh? It's how you end up where you belong..." Cillian commented thoughtfully.

"I'd like to think so." Mia nodded as she thought about that a bit before really feeling like that was it. "Much better than just ending up some place on a fluke."

"There's something to be said for fluke as well," Cillian stated with a half smile. "Chance can do very good things for you."

"I'd like to hope so." Mia looked from the man down to his plate of food and felt her cheeks flush a bit. "I should let you eat before I have to send your sandwich back ‘cause I let it get cold."

Cillian laughed softly. "I won't be sending it back because it's cold," he said, noting her blush. "It's probably me who is keeping you; I guess I just needed the company. I should let you get back to work."

Mia looked around the dinner and laughed a bit. "Tonight's actually been really slow, being Vegas and all." She turned back to Cillian and gestured to his pot of tea. "I'll go whip up some more tea for you though, give the impression I'm working."

"Thank you that would be lovely. I really appreciate it--I meant it when I said I wouldn't be trouble for you..." He gave the young woman a charming smile.

"No problem," she said returning the smile. "I can tell you're not a trouble starter. You have too kind of a face." With that Mia walked back to the kitchen to get another pot going for Cillian.

Blushing slightly, Cillian started to pick apart and nibble on his very delicious--if a little cold--cheese sandwich.

After getting to the kitchen Mia made quick work of making a new pot of tea for the man. Grabbing a few extra things of honey she looked at her watch before checking to see if the hostess was back from her break yet. When she saw her up front Mia walked up to the girl and asked quietly if she could take her own break. Once she had the okay Mia went back to retrieve the pot of tea and took it over to Cillian's table. "Fresh pot for you."

"Thank you," Cillian smiled as the girl came back with the pot of tea, more than ready for another cup at this point. He'd finished most of his sandwich--all he was going to eat anyway--and was just settling in.

Mia noticed the fairly empty plate and looked at her watch again. "Was there anything else I can get you before I sit down for my break?"

"No, don't let me keep you...please..." Cillian responded, shaking his head.

"You sure? Or if you just need some company," Mia said blushing a little at the offer.

"I'd love some company," Cillian said with relief, smiling. "I just didn't want to intrude."

Mia shook her head and sat on the other side of the table. "Not at all. Don't really have much to do when I get breaks. Typically I just hide out of sight from people that know I work here and expect to get served if I'm on the clock or not."

Cillian giggled softly. "I get how that can be," he assured her. "At least I'm your only customer and I don't expect you to fetch me tea while you take your break."

"I appreciate it. The only thing I plan on getting is my own meal when the bell goes off saying it's done." Mia leaned back a bit in the booth, letting herself relax. "What do you do for work if you don't mind me asking?"

"I'm a ...performer," Cillian responded with a smile, hands wrapped around his tea cup once again. "I sing, do a bit of dancing."

"Now that sounds way more fun than waiting on people." Mia smiled a bit. "In casinos or more night club places?"

"Well, in a lot of ways you're still waiting on people," Cillian replied thoughtfully. "And it's a nightclub, if you will." Putting it mildly...

Mia nodded her head. "I can see how it would be waiting on people. At least you wouldn't have someone telling you what you brought them tastes like shit." Dimly Mia heard the ding of the cooks and smiled apologetically. "Be right back."

"I'll be here," Cillian smiled, having to admit she had a point.

Getting up from the booth Mia gave a nod to the cook when she picked up the plate of food. She'd ordered a cup of broccoli cheese soup and a half sandwich for her dinner, just the scent of something she liked made her stomach growl. Grabbing the few condiments she'd need she made her way back to Cillian's booth, setting down the food before sliding back into the seat. "Sorry about that."

"Oh please, it's fine," Cillian smiled. "Looks good. So how long have you been in Vegas?"

"Something warm," Mia said with a smile, pulling apart her sandwich so she could dunk the edge in the soup. "I've been here a few months, it's...different."

"It certainly is...I'd never been here before. It's like...a make believe world." In a different way than new Orleans.

"It's easy to get lost in. Which definitely has appeal." Mia paused to eat some of her dinner.

Cillian cocked his head to the side at that comment, considering. He supposed she had a point, though he wondered if it were a specific or general one.

Setting down the remainder of her sandwich Mia leaned back again, idly stirring her soup with her spoon. "Sometimes I like knowing the fact I can just disappear if I want to."

"You say that like you've some experience with it," Cillian commented, even though he knew it was none of his business whatsoever.

Mia shrugged her shoulders. "I've had a bit, kind of left the family behind. Didn't want to be what they wanted me to."

Cillian laughed suddenly, though there wasn't much humor in it. "I completely understand what you mean there..." Granted, he had no choice but the leave the family behind, but he was definitely getting away from not being what they wanted.

"As much as it's nice you do from the look on your face I wish you didn't." Mia shook her head when she realized throughout the whole conversation she'd never asked the man's name. "I can't believe I didn't ask this before but, what's your name?"

Cillian considered for a moment, considered giving her Kitten--it's what everyone knew him by these days. But for tonight, he just wanted to be Cillian. "I'm Cillian," he offered, extending her hand to her. "Cillian Murphy."

Mia reached across the table and shook Cillian's hand. "Mia Kirshner, pleased to meet you Cillian."

"Likewise," Cillian said, shaking the girl's hand with a perfectly manicured one of his own.

"Cillian, I actually like the sound of that." Mia grinned before eating a spoonful of soup.

Blushing a bit, Cillian smiled as he sipped his tea. "Thank you."

When the other man blushed Mia smiled a bit to herself before turning to the remainder of her dinner.

"You're very beautiful," Cillian said before he even realized it, then laughed softly, blushing. "And that really wasn't a come on."

Mia looked up at that, smiling as she pushed her plate to the side when she finished up with her soup. "I think had you wanted to hit on me it would have been sooner," Mia said before shaking her head at how that could sound a bit cocky. "Thank you for the compliment. I see myself more plain than beautiful."

The young man giggled softly, watching Mia. "Well, you're hardly plain," Cillian assured her with a smile. "You've great bone structure."

"My mother wanted me to be a model or an actress when I was younger; I always told her I never could see it."

"Well, if it's not something you want it's not what you should be doing anyway," Cillian commented. "Right?"

Mia nodded her head. "I'd agree, I don't think I'd be happier doing that." Stretching out a bit Mia looked over at Cillian. "Did you fall into what you do now or did you know you wanted to do that?"

"A little bit of both I suppose? I've always known I wanted to perform in some manner...and the day I walked in for the audition, I knew it was what I wanted to do. Does that make sense?"

"It does, sometimes you just know." A noise from the front of the restaurant caught her attention and Mia frowned when she saw a large group of guys, from the looks of things a slightly drunk large group of guys. Looking at her watch Mia relaxed a bit, knowing the hostess would seat them in a different section because of her break. Gesturing to the guys Mia smiled at Cillian. "Now that's how I knew you wouldn't really cause me problems."

Glancing over, Cillian chuckled sympathetically. "Large roving, drunk groups of men are never a good thing," he stated, speaking from a certain amount of experience himself.

Mia made a face. "God no, large roving groups of men are bad, drunk are worse." Thinking about the way that Cillian said that she tilted her head, looking at him. "Sounds like you know what you're talking about?"

"I suppose I do a bit, hazard of the job and all...it seems that can be a hazard of a lot of jobs, doesn't it?" Cillian chuckled with a self-conscious shrug.

"Unfortunately." Mia nodded her head a bit and glanced at her watch. "How long are you visiting here?"

"I'm...not sure," Cillian admitted, eyes sliding away for a moment. "I'm...well...I live in New Orleans..."

If it hadn't been for the constant news on the hurricane Mia would have probably asked Cillian why he'd traveled so far but for once Mia didn't feel completely out of the media loop. "I'm sorry," she said, her features softening a bit.

"Thanks..." Cillian replied. He had tried to steer away from the New Orleans part since he arrived in Vegas because it was just easier, what with everything going on and generally he was beyond being able to handle the sorries, but he didn't mind it from Mia. Maybe he was just too tired. "I know Vegas probably seems like an odd choice of refuge...but I sort of got kidnapped by some friends."

Mia shook her head. "It doesn't really seem all that odd. Vegas I think is kind of made up from people that are escaping something. Most people just don't admit to it."

"I suppose you have a point...it just seems a little surreal--even for someone who lives in New Orleans..." The young man smiled softly and shrugged.

"Vegas is all just one big show, remember that Cillian." Mia reached out and gave his hand a squeeze before getting up from the booth, putting her dishes together with Cillian's. "I appreciate you letting me join you for my break."

"Isn't that true about everything?" Cillian mused to himself more than anything. He smiled at the young woman as he stood. "Thank you for keeping me company during your break."

"No problem, do you want me to get you anything else?" she asked, picking up the dishes.

"No, I think I'm going to head up to my room and try to get some sleep," Cillian responded with a smile.

Mia nodded and took a few steps away from the table before turning back around. "I'll bring out your bill for you."

"Thank you, I appreciate it," Cillian nodded, taking the napkin out of his lap and wiping his mouth delicately with it.

Moving back behind the counter Mia made sure she was clocked back in before setting the dirty dishes in the back. Pulling out her notepad she rang up Cillian's meal and printed out the receipt he could take up front when he was ready to head out. With all that done Mia walked back over to his table and set it down. "I hope you have a good evening Cillian."

"You as well, I hope it's quiet for you." Taking the receipt, Cillian left a hefty tip for Mia and then headed to the front to pay.

Mon, 30 Oct 2006 06:58:24 GMT

[Private]

For some reason the last few weeks my mood has been in a slump. I don't know if it's because of the location change or the way my schedule and Liam's hasn't really meshed since we went out and met his friend. The last few nights when I have been able to stay in the hotel I've tried doing something artistic, something to get out of this funk. Nothing's really working so far.

I think in the next few weeks I might start looking around the area again. See if I can find a nice place me and Liam could move to. I know that we're living free in the hotel he's running but maybe that's it...this doesn't exactly feel much like a home.

Halloween's coming soon. Maybe that will cheer me up.

18 October, 2006; La Rêve Delicieuse; Liev Schreiber, Viggo Mortensen, Liam Neeson, Mia Kirshner; R

Wed, 18 Oct 2006 10:31:15 GMT

[Cross posted to liev_quarter, viggo_q, and liam_q.]

Despite the way the weather was all day Liev enjoyed being outside. Although some of his enjoyment definitely could be with the person he was walking with. He hooked his arm over Viggo's shoulder and gave him a quick kiss on his cheek. "Why do you have that look?" he asked watching Viggo's slight scowl. He'd made plans to finally introduce Viggo to Liam but he had a feeling that Viggo wasn't too thrilled about that. "I can always call and cancel if you'd rather go home."

"Nah, I want to go," Viggo said leaning against Liev. "Just a little nervous. I mean you've known this guy a long time and..." He gives up with a shrug.

Liev let his fingers brush against the base of Viggo's neck. "And...what? He'll love you Vig." He gave Viggo a reassuring smile and slowed their pace as they came up to the place Liam had suggested for a meet up. "He looks intimidating but then again I use to get told that until someone came and picked me up at a bar."

Viggo giggled and said, "Now I'm really worried." He took a breath and hesitated before walking through the door ... Okay Mortensen, it's a friend not the in-laws.

As they walked in Liev let his arm drop from Viggo's shoulders, instead letting his fingers brush against the small of Viggo's back. He looked around the place before noticing Liam leaning down next to a short brunette and grinned. Seemed he'd get to meet Liev's little thing as well. "Over in the back booth Vig," Liev said giving Liam a quick wave.

"They're here," Liam whispered to Mia and raised a hand to return the wave. He edged out of the booth and stood ready to greet them.

Mia looked up, barely noticing that Liam had gotten out of the booth when she caught sight of the darker haired man accompanying who she assumed was Liev. What do they always say about small worlds? Standing up as well Mia stood next to Liam and gave Viggo a smile.

"Hey Liam," Liev said when he finally reached them, giving the man a quick hug before looking over at the girl, amazed at how short the girl was in comparison to Liev. Instead of completely focusing on the girl Liev reached behind him and took Viggo's hand. "Viggo, this is my friend Liam."

"Pleased to meet you Viggo," Liam smiled and reached out to shake his hand giving Viggo a quick once over ... definitely Liev's type. He then put his arm around Mia and said, "This is Mia, the woman I'm lucky has no taste in men."

"I have taste," Mia said defensively giving Liam a poke in his side. Reaching out she shook Liev's hand in greeting before looking over at Viggo. "Didn't expect to see you tonight Viggo."

Liev looked from Mia to Viggo at that comment, raising an eyebrow.

Viggo grinned at her before saying to Liev, "Didn't you know I have a woman on the side?" He laughed then raised his hand in surrender to both big men, "Joking! I met Mia at Bayou."

"He's the one that helped me get my job actually," Mia corrected, slipping out from under Liam's arm to give Viggo a hug. "I'm glad you came, all I was informed was I was meeting your boyfriend." Mia gave Liam a playful glare before gesturing toward the booth for Viggo to sit, sliding into the other side.

"Seems they've buddied up huh?" Liev asked, looking over at Liam while glancing over at Viggo at Mia's phrasing.

Viggo returned the hug, but kept his eyes down to avoid Liev's look. He suddenly felt the need to explain that he didn't say that but simply kept quiet until Mia eased away and indicated for him to sit down.

"Hmm," Liam said while he slid in next to Mia. "We may have to keep an eye on these two."

"Why? Afraid I'll tell your dirty secrets?" Mia asked, resting her hand on Liam's knee when he slid in next to her. "Although I think I'd rather find out more about your friend than you."

Liev held back the frown when Viggo seemed to pull away a bit. Taking his seat next to Viggo Liev shook his head at Mia's suggestion. "I don't think there's a ton you'd really want to know about me."

"Oh I don't know about that Schreiber," Liam threatened and put his hand over Mia's to let her know he was just kidding. "I'm sure I could tell these two a few interesting stories about you."

"And like wise I'm sure, depending on what you've told your lady about." Liev looked over at Viggo and contemplated going to get drinks for them all, even though Liam's threat made him second guess that.

"If you're going to out him for being more decidedly into men I already know that," Mia said and picked up her drink, taking a sip.

"She is quite good at getting you to volunteer information," Liam chuckled, "So there's not much she doesn't know already." He gave her a grin and then looked at Viggo who was sitting quietly. "I'd be careful of her Viggo or it'll be coffee and gossip in no time." Liam reached over, slapped Viggo's shoulder and smiled at Liev.

Liev was thankful for Liam's joking and looked over at Viggo. "I'll go get us some drinks okay?" he asked, waiting until Viggo nodded before sliding out of the booth.

Mia watched Liev walk away before leaning in a bit against the table. "No wonder you light up when you talk about him Viggo. He's very nice on the eyes, and big."

Viggo smiled and glanced at Liam before replying, "He is ... he's a pretty special person too. Plus his dog loves me."

"Awww he has a dog?" Mia looked over at Liev who was leaning against the bar. "I'd says it's a big dog from his looks but I'm probably wrong."

"Very wrong," Viggo giggled, "She is a tiny Fox Terrier called Chicken and has us both totally wrapped around her little paw."

Liam watched as Viggo started to relax and decided he wasn't totally Liev's usual type. Sure Viggo had all the physical attributes, but there was something else and Liam couldn't quite pin it down. He could see, however, why this one had Liev worried; Viggo was a keeper.

"I'd like to think that most pets do that." Mia took a drink of her water. "I use to have a cat when I was younger, would be a brat when it came to ripping things up but a few head butts and kitty baths I was ready to forgive her."

After a moment Liev finally made his way back to the table and slid in next to Viggo, setting a beer down in front of him, just barely catching the weird look on Liam's face. "So did I miss embarrassing tales?" he asked shifting his hand so he could give Viggo a quick squeeze against his knee, hoping that Viggo hadn't gotten put on the spot much while he'd been waiting for drinks.

"Just finding out there's little woman in your life Schreiber," Liam stated and gave Viggo a small wink.

Liev had to think a moment before laughing. "You tell them about Chicken huh?" he asked looking over at Viggo, glad to see some of the tension was gone in Viggo's features finally.

"Yep, your big brave dog," Viggo grinned and lifted his glass to his lips. "Go on, pull your wallet out and show them your photo."

"Awww." Mia drew the sound out and turned her attention to Liev. "I want to see the puppy."

Liev gave Viggo a bit of a mock glare before pulling his wallet out and flipping to the picture he had of Chicken, passing the wallet over to Mia and Liam to inspect. "She can be brave when she needs to. I still remember the first time you let yourself in during the middle of the night. Made you trip and break the coffee table right?" Liev asked, humor in his eyes when he looked over at Viggo.

Viggo groaned at the memory and said, "But at least she gave me lots of kisses when I was lying in the middle of the living room clutching my shin. Actually you gave me a few too if I remember right."

"Of course. After I finished thinking someone was breaking in." Liev let his hand brush against the back of Viggo's neck before giving his cheek a kiss.

Hiding a giggle Mia passed Liev the wallet back. "She's cute...I think I like that story more though."

Liam watched the exchange and he knew now what he'd seen in Viggo that he hadn't in any of Liev's other companions ... Viggo loved him. "Yeah I think I like that story too," Liam said quietly with a smile. Viggo surprised himself by blushing and reached for his drink.

Liev smiled at the blush and had to fight to keep from nuzzling Viggo's cheek. As much fun as it could be Liev didn't want Viggo to get more embarrassed. "He calls her Chicky all the time," Liev said finally, taking a drink of his own beer before looking over toward Mia, watching the girl.

"I love my Chicky," Viggo said, "I'd love a dog of my own, but at least I get to see Chick. The guy who moved into the apartment next door was talking to me about taking on a pet because he had a job linking owners with their pets after Katrina. I'm pleased Chicky wasn't around then."

"Were you both here then?" Mia asked, resting her head on Liam's shoulder, a touch of sadness in her features.

Liev nodded, his hand squeezing Viggo's knee under the table again. "I'm glad she wasn't either. That would have made things harder."

Viggo nodded and said quietly, "I was in the Superdome ... I didn't know Liev then. I was on my own."

Liam turned his face and kissed the top of Mia's head. He sighed and looked from Viggo to Liev and said, "I remember phoning and trying to talk you into evacuating days before it hit."

"You shouldn't have been," Liev whispered. He was thankful the table they were at covered enough of their laps and Liev moved his hand to rest against the inside of Viggo's thigh. Naturally the two of them had discussed Katrina a bit when they first met but Viggo usually shied away from details and it always made Liev want to hurt whoever put that tone in his voice. "I know you called me, quite a bit actually. And I did leave, just not when it was advisable."

With a slight shrug Viggo gave Liev a small smile and raised his glass, "We're here now though."

Liam lifted his own glass and said, "Amen to that."

Mia and Liev both did the same and as a group took a drink.

"So what's your guy's story Liam?" Liev asked giving a pointed look to Mia as he leaned back in his seat, keeping his hand on Viggo's leg.

"My guy's a total brute," Liam said with a straight face. "Picked me up in a bar and just wouldn't take no for an answer."

Viggo looked at the expression on Mia's face and couldn't help giggling.

Mia looked between Viggo and Liam before poking him in the side. "You don't have to be such a smart ass." She leaned forward and rested her elbows on the table. "He picked me up in a bar actually. Although sometimes I think he was intending for the guy that was behind me."

Liev winced at Liam's dead pan before shaking his head. "My apologies, I'm still not quite use to you actually dating a girl Liam."

"I'm not either," Liam laughed but turned to give Mia a gentle kiss. "Perhaps I just hadn't met the right girl until now?"

Mia grinned at that and returned the kiss. "I'd like to think so, but I doubt it's that."

"Oh I'm sure it's that," Liev assured her, a smile on his face when he saw the expression Liam had. Moving his arm to the back of the booth Liev let his fingers brush Viggo's shoulder, wanting some contact with him as well.

Viggo watched Liam and Mia and smiled at how comfortable they looked with each other. Without looking at Liev he shuffled closer and reached up to his shoulder to hold Liev's hand.

Liev looked over when Viggo's moved closer to him, a smile pulling at the edge of his lips, giving Viggo's fingers a squeeze. This was more normal of them and the fact Viggo was feeling more comfortable around his friend made Liev happy.

When Viggo moved closer to Liev Mia smiled and gave Liam a nudge. "I need to go to the little girl's room and you need a new drink," she said, holding Liam's gaze before shifting her eyes toward the other side of the table.

Viggo watched her shuffle out of the booth and said, "I'll come too ... well not the little girl's room, but I'll get the next round of drinks in." He rubbed his hand over Liev's thigh and slipped out to follow Mia.

Liam watch them walk towards the bar and the smile was still on his face when he turned to Liev. "I like him," he said quietly.

Liev stretched his arm out a bit before leaning forward, resting his elbows on the edge of the table as he looked from Viggo's form to Liam's face. "I'm glad," he said, how voice soft. "I like him too." Liev smiled at Liam and took a drink of his beer before fully meeting Liam's gaze. "Mia seems nice. You two look odd but you fit."

"We do don't we?" Liam grinned and watched Mia talking to Viggo at the bar. "She's made me a nicer person I think," he said and turned back to Liev with a chuckle, "That proves it has to be love doesn't it!"

Liev couldn't help but laugh at that. "You, nice?" He shook his head and leaned back against the booth. "I think you have it really bad for her if you've gotten nicer, especially with how you were when I met you. Down right bastard."

Liam laughed and shook his head, "I can't actually deny that; any of it. But tell me my friend what about Viggo? I noticed the chemistry there."

At the question Liev automatically looked over to the bar, relaxing a bit when he saw Viggo and Mia joking with each other as they waited for their drinks. "What about him Liam?" he asked, wincing when Liam gave him a pointed look. "Okay you haven't lost all the mean. I..." Liev paused again and looked over at Viggo's back. "I think I love him Liam."

The smile spread across Liam's face at Liev's admission. "I know you do Liev ... he loves you too, I saw that very quickly tonight." He looked down at his empty glass and chuckled, "I sound like my old mam. Bit different from our days of drunken fucking without even asking names."

Liev raised an eyebrow when Liam said that Viggo loved him to. Without looking he could hear the other two coming back to the table and decided he could ask about that later. "Oh, definitely different from those old days. But growing up is what we're suppose to do right?"

"So I've been told," he said and looked up at Mia to take their drinks from her so she could head to the bathroom. "Thank you Viggo," he said and raised his glass.

"You're welcome," Viggo smiled and slid back into the booth pleased to feel Liev's thigh against his again.

Mia gave Liam a quick kiss in thanks before excusing herself as she went in search of the restrooms.

Liev finished up the last of his first beer and grinned a Viggo as he sat back down. "Just in time," he said ruffling Viggo's hair a bit.

"Sober is not on my long term plans for tonight," Viggo drawled and took a big swallow of beer.

"I hope you're a better drunk than Liev," Liam laughed, "Close to a one glass screamer was Mr Schreiber here. You outgrown that in the city of cocktails, mocktails and beer by the bucket?"

"Like you're any better." Liev countered the comment easily, resting his hand against the side of Viggo's throat, his fingers brushing under the collar. He had half a mind to ask why Viggo was planning to get drunk for the even but decided he could find out later at home. Or the next morning after helping Viggo to bed.

"Okay okay," Liam held his hands up in defense, "I will admit I've been a bit of a 'piss pot' in my life, but my tastes have matured quite a bit."

"You only mildly get loud?" Liev asked unable to grin at how quickly Liam gave up. Leaning in so it looked like he was about to whisper in Viggo's ear Liev shot Liam a look. "When he's drunk he would have done worse to the table than you when Chicken tripped you up...on his own."

Mia frowned and looked over at Liam. "Have I ever seen you completely wasted?"

Liam smiled and shuffled along for Mia to sit down. "How much of that did you hear?" he grinned, "Actually I don't think you have ... well not completely wasted."

Mia slid into the spot Liam had made for her and raised an eyebrow at him. "Something about you being mature and possibly only mildly loud."

"Well that's all true," Liam smiled and put his arm around her. "So Viggo, Liev tells me you're setting up a gallery?"

"Been talking about me have you?" Viggo grinned and gave Liev an accusing look before nodding. "Yeah ... it's not a gallery yet, but maybe one day."

"I think I'll have to have lunch with Liev one day, alone," Mia said sweetly as she settled in against Liam.

Liev gave Viggo an innocent smile, letting his fingers brush over the line of Viggo's jaw as he talked. "I like being able to brag about you," he said, his voice softer than normal. When he caught how he sounded Liev turned his attention to his beer ignoring the slight blush he felt rising in his cheeks.

Liam barely held back a smile at Liev's reaction, admit it Schreiber ... you got it bad. He turned and looked at Mia, a lot like me.

28 September, 2006; Bayou Blues; Colin Firth, Mia Kirshner; PG13

Fri, 29 Sep 2006 02:03:23 GMT

[Cross posted to firth_q.]

Mia smiled gratefully at the man seated on the other side of the bar. The coffee bar had been slow tonight and had agreed to help out with the crowds at the bar when one of the bartenders had come over and pleaded with her. Viggo was off for the evening and she knew she would have gladly helped him out, didn't see a reason not to do the same for the other bartenders. Moving down the side of the bar Mia stopped in front of a guy that had just got up to the bar. "What will you have?" she asked, raising her voice a bit to be heard over the crowds.

"I'd like a scotch - what do you have?" Colin asked, trying not to sound too British as he parked himself on the stool he was lucky enough to come across as the barmaid asked him.

Mia looked behind her shoulder at the row of bottles lining one shelf. Before the guys had actually gotten her behind the bar they'd given her a very brief 101 for where things were in the bar and the simple instructions of grabbing them if the mix drink was something she didn't know. Catching a few of the brand names she turned back and repeated them back, already reaching for a glass.

"Yes, a Glenfiddich, it would be, if you'd be so kind!" he declared after running his eyes across the bottles.

"Coming right up." Mia took note of the time and stepped back to grab the bottle, dropping in a few ice cubes Mia poured the liquid into the glass before replacing the bottle. Grabbing a napkin and the drink Mia set them down in front of the man, standing on the lip behind the bar to give herself a little more height. "Six or I can start a tab up for you?"

Colin pulled out his wallet, tugging out a note and giving it a quick glance before handing the $20 over. "I won't be here long, so here you go," he told her with a smile. "Heading out for a movie," he added, glancing at his watch.

Mia took the bill and went to get the man's change before anyone else came up. When she returned she slid the change across the bar. "Movie by yourself or are you meeting someone?"

"Ah, tonight it will be on my own, I'm afraid," Colin told her with a sadly dramatic sigh. He grinned afterwards. "Only new in town, and the small number of friends I've made? They're all otherwise occupied tonight, oh woe is me!" He laughed and shook his head, the lack of real concern obvious in his face.

"Well at least you seem like you won't get all depressed going to a movie alone." Mia grinned at him, enjoying the friendly tone in his voice. Well...that and he wasn't overtly leering over her like some of the college kids that had come in a little drunk to begin with.

"No, in fact while I do prefer to have company most of the time, there are those small fragments in the vivid tapestry of life that deserve just a little bit of calm, retrospective singularity." He picked up his glass and gave her a cheeky grin before adding, "Or I just figured staying in would be too lonely so head out and catch a flick!"

"Either way, I think it's great." Mia leaned against the edge of the counter, looking around the bar and taking a quick glance at the area she was usually in. "Most people go out and never know where they'll end up, having an idea - even just a movie - is great."

"Why thank you my dear!" Colin said to her with a great flourish, taking her hand gently and kissing the back of it before releasing it again. "It does a heart good to know that some soul approves of one's decisions on this ragged path we all life!" Even to Colin's ears his statement sounded rather ridiculous and he laughed at himself. "I'm sorry, I sometimes get a little carried away," he said with a slightly rueful and apologetic grin.

Mia hadn't expected the kiss but didn't feel threatened by it at all either. "Glad to please, I have to be able to do something since I'm usually not behind the bar." She gave the man a wink and waved off the apology. "Don't be sorry, you're not doing anything bad."

"Well that's a relief to hear!" He laughed as he answered, lifting his glass to his lips again and taking another sip. "I do try and be good when I can," he added with a mishievous grin as he lowered the glass again. "Are people usually bad to you when you're working here?" he asked, the lot of a bar maid something he knew wasn't always the best, given some of the customers they had to deal with at times.

"Here not really. I'm helping them out with the crowds, usually I only deal with the coffee drinkers." Mia thought about some of the jobs she'd held down in the past. "Other places, yeah it can really suck being around drunken men."

Colin felt a momentary pang of conscience at her comment, giving her a small apologetic smile. "I'm sure it can, and does," he told her. "Suck that is," he added.

"Ehh so is life. I can get the same treatment outside of a bar as well." Mia shrugged her shoulders and excused herself when one of the said drunk men waved at her and pointed to the beer bottle he had.

Colin mused a while on her comment, feeling a little like he should feel guilty having been a little 'loud' at times when he'd had too much to drink.

Once Mia had gotten the customer another beer she made her way back toward the scotch drinking customer, feeling a bit safer on that end of the bar where there were less people.

"So are you from around these parts?" Colin asked her as she returned.

Mia shook her head. "No, just moved here awhile ago," pausing a moment Mia reached behind her and picked up one of the bottles of water for herself. "I'm guessing with your accent your not from here either."

"You'd be guessing right, my dear!" Colin told her, raising his glass in salute before draining the remaining scotch from it and returning it to the bar. "Colin's the name, being pretty new 'round town's the game!" he told her cheerfully, holding his hand out. "Well, hopefully not for too long.. the being 'new in town' part, that is," he added quickly. "Going to be around a little while I think!"

"Pleased to meet you Colin," Mia said giving his hand a shake. "I'm Mia...and hoping to get rid of the 'new in town' title as well."

"Mia. What a lovely name for a lovely lady," Colin told her, giving her hand a gentle squeeze before releasing it. "And could I impose on you my dear Mia to bring me another? I promise I will not get drunk in your presence."

"Thank you," Mia said giving him a genuine smile at the compliment. "Hey what else are bar's for?" Mia laughed and nodded her head, stepping away to grab the bottle of scotch. She made quick work of filling his glass again for him and returned the bottle to the shelf.

"Well, that of course is a rather good question. There is the social aspect, where one gets the opportunity to meet people, such as your delightful self," he offered as he paid her for the drink. "And the other side of that coin, a place to come and be lonely in a crowd, when trying to drown ones sorrows!"

"Aren't you forgetting one of the important ones?" Mia took a drink of her water and leaned against the counter, making it look like she was going to whisper a big secret. "Like the one where you pick up random people and have a good time?"

Colin blinked innocently at her. "Really? People actually do that??" he replied with eyes wide and a look of surprise on his face. "I thought that only happened in the movies!" he added, his hand pressing to the side of his face to add to the affect. He laughed, breaking the 'moment' and grinned broadly at her. "Well, there is that, but I didn't want you to think I might be trying to hit on you, especially as I am trying to make a good impression, unlike it seems some other patrons of establishments where you've been employed?"

Mia giggled at the antics and straightened up a bit. "I appreciate that, although if you were trying to hit on me I'd have to politely bow out."

"Then I would have to have gone and drowned my sorrows indeed!" he declared. "How fortunate it is that I was in fact merely sated with the beauty of your smile and lilt of your voice."

"I wouldn't want you to get drunk on my account." Mia took another drink of her water and checked the bar before leaning casually against the bar again.

"Ahh, fear not, dear lady, I will restrain myself and drown my sorrow in some mindless entertainment of the cinematic variety instead. That is if there's anything entertaining on of course!" he replied with a laugh. "What is on at the movies, do you know?"

"Honestly I wouldn't have a clue." Mia blushed when she realized how silly she sounded. "I haven't been out and about too often since I got in town. Found a job and other wise stay at home."

"Really? Well, I guess if that's what keeps you happy, then more strength to you," he told her and raised his glass in her direction before taking a sip from it.

Mia took a drink of her water in turn, thinking about that. It made her happy...to an extent. She knew things would change though when Liam was a little more settled into his job and wanted to take a day to go wander around. "It works for the time."

"So where were you before gracing this city with your presence?" he asked, resting an elbow on the bar and propping his chin on his hand.

"Vegas. Ended up there after doing a bit of traveling."

"Ah, and what did you think of Vegas?"

"It was nice." Mia shrugged her shoulders and picked at the edge of the label on the bottle of water. "It was different from here. Easy to get lost in."

"That can be handy sometimes!" he replied with a wink. "But sometimes a little daunting - especially if you have a sense of direction such as mine," he added. "Though being lost is a rather normal state of affairs for me!"

"Getting lost can be a real release, I recommend everyone do it at least once a month." Mia grinned proudly at that and laughed a bit at the whole conversation. "You know you're one of the only people that's really had a conversation with me that doesn't work here in well over a week?"

Colin was about to reply how he wished it was only once a month he found himself somewhere he didn't recognise when Mia continued. He blinked, his mouth snapping shut for a moment. "You are joking, aren't you?" he asked, a little surprised.

Mia shook her head. "I mean I get told side comments and the like, or asked what's a good drink I can make in a bar that has caffine instead of booze but..." Mia let her voice trail off and shrugged. "Wish I was kidding."

A frown was on Colin's face when she finished speaking and he shook his head, turning his glass on the countertop. "Well that's no good at all!" He glanced up at her, head tilted to one side. "So what brought you to New Orleans? I'm guessing it isn't family or friends talking you into moving here."

"You don't have to ask to be polite." Mia had a feeling the man wasn't but still wanted to put that out there. "No friends or family, my boyfriend got a job here...asked me to go with him."

"Well that's about as good a reason as any!" he declared. "What's he do?"

"High up in a hotel, not sure on the title other than I think he manages it all now."

Colin laughed, a little bemused at Mia's comment. So often he'd met spouses and 'other halves' who would sprout off their partner's position and importance in their position or career proudly. This young woman's almost vague unawareness was very different indeed. "Not the Chateau Sonesta, I'd hazard a guess?" he asked.

Mia shook her head. "No, definitely not that. I at least know where he works considering it's where we're liiving at the moment."

She didn't seem to want to mention the name and Colin didn't ask, taking another sip of his scotch instead. "Well I hope you manage to find some more conversations!" he told her cheerily. "Or the two of you manage to get out once in a while. Though I can imagine running a hotel of any sort would take a fair bit of time."

"Thanks Colin. It does take a bit, once he's settled I'm sure we'll get out more. And if I have people coming in like you that make their way over for coffee I might be in for more conversations."

"I'll be sure to make this my destination for coffee!" he told her with a genuine smile, then turns a little sheepish before adding, "if of course I can remember my way here, or where I am!"

Mia laughed and reached under the counter before sliding Colin one of the disposable coasters. The cardboard only had the bar's name on it but with all the locals that often came into the bar she was sure Colin would be able to ask directions to it. "While I condone getting lost this might help you out if you can't find your way."

"Excellent!" He picked up the coaster reading the bar's name,and slipped it into his pocket while finishing off his scotch. "Ah, that's a nice drop! Enough to warm the wee corners of your soul," he added with a wink as he stood up.

Mia picked up the glass when Colin set it on the bar, dumping the remaining ice in the trash. "I hope you enjoy you're evening."

"Thank you dear Mia, both for the scotch, and the very pleasant conversation! I'll be sure to drop by again soon and try some of your coffee - see what you can come up with in your 'creations'!"

"Look forward to seeing you again. I'll try and come up with something special." Mia gave him a wink as she dropped the glass in the sink for things to get cleaned.

Thu, 14 Sep 2006 05:53:47 GMT

[Private]

This last week I've been more tired than usual, but it's been a good tired. Work has been good, a little uneasy at times simply because I'm use to different machines, but good. After packing up to move to New Orleans life seemed to slow down a lot for me. Having something to do a few nights a week I think has helped it pick back up.

Although, on the flip side of that I'm realizing how much I was getting use to being home when Liam got off work. One night I saw him in passing, got in a few kisses and a hug before I left for my shift. It felt...odd. Makes me wonder how it was I could go days without seeing him back in Vegas because of our schedules. Now it feels odd to have the only interaction on a day be me curling into bed beside him, trying not to jar him enough that he'll wake up.

I think I'll need to ask the people I work with for some tips on places around New Orleans I can take Liam out to. Now that I have some money coming in that isn't going into rent for a shitty hole in the wall apartment I just really have the desire to take him out, treat him right...do the things he's been doing since we first met.

9 September, 2006; Rue Royale Hotel; Liam Neeson, Mia Kirshner; PG13

Sat, 09 Sep 2006 10:14:49 GMT

[Cross posted to liam_q.]

Liam rolled his shoulders and straightened up from the paper work on his desk. "Think it's time I gave up for the night," Liam said as he walked past his secretary's desk only to shake his head when he realized he'd let her go home over an hour ago. "Good idea Mr Neeson," he answered himself and locked the door behind him.

One of the benefits of living in the hotel, Liam mused as he stepped out of the elevator and slid his key card in the lock.

Mia looked up from the disarray of clothes she'd pulled out from the closet at the sound of the door opening. "Hey," she called out, only then realizing what a mess she'd created. After leaving the bar and Viggo Mia had gone home trying to find something she could wear. Unlike the cafe back at home her new employer didn't care what she wore as long as she didn't look too...trampy as the man had said. Now it was just a matter of what she'd wear and not get heartbroken over if it was wrecked. "How was your day?"

"Well, a lot less interesting than yours by the looks of things," Liam chuckled at the mess of the room. "Can I ask what you are doing? Or is it a 'woman' thing."

Mia picked up a large stack of her clothes and put them back in the empty suitcase off to her left before standing up. "Ummm, a mixture of both?" she offered before walking over to Liam, hooking her arms around his waist to give him a hug. "I got a job today."

Liam looked down at Mia and raised his eyebrow, "Did I miss something here?"

Mia shook her head and took a step back, keeping one hand against Liam's waist. "No," she paused and looked back at the mess, biting her lower lip. "Maybe."

"Don't look so worried Mia," Liam said and gently stroked her hair. "Come out to the balcony and fill me in."

Mia blinked a few times before nodding her head. "Do you want me to get anything?" she asked and gestured to the small fridge they had.

"Cold beer would be nice," he nodded and opened the glass doors leading to the balcony. The change over of pedestrian traffic had already started and he leant on the railing watching the last few shoppers drift off while the bars started to fill.

Walking over to the fridge Mia grabbed a beer before joining Liam out on the balcony, kicking clothes out of the way as she walked. "Here you go," she said when she stopped beside him, looking out at the view. She waited a moment and sat down in one of the chairs near the railing.

Liam turned around. His arms were folded, but he was smiling when he asked, "So where are you working?"

"A little jazz bar," Mia said and tucked her legs up under her in the chair, glad to see Liam smiling despite his stance. "They serve coffee, needed a barista."

With raised eyebrows Liam picked up his beer and sat in the chair next to her. "A jazz bar?" he said genuinely interested, "Sounds more fun than the little cafe back home. So how did you find out about it?"

Mia nodded, shifting enough she could rest her head against Liam's shoulder. "Definitely should be more fun than the cafe. I was exploring yesterday and saw a help wanted sign. The bartender was helpful and helped set up a meeting for me today with his boss."

Liam nodded his head thoughtfully. "Does that mean you start work when I finish?"

"On some days." Mia hadn't actually thought of that when she'd interviewed for the job but back in Vegas they'd managed to work around her late night schedules at the cafe. "I'm only part time, few days a week for start with the option for more if I want," she paused for a long moment and reached out to take Liam's hand. "I just can't sit here all the time knowing you're doing all the work."

"I know," he said and looked down at their joined hands. "I guess I just have an old fashioned streak. It is a safe place?"

Mia brought their hands up to her lips and kissed the back of his knuckles. "It looks like a safe place. The bartender is nice, I think he'll keep an eye out for me." She turned a bit and nuzzled against Liam's neck. "I appreciate you're old fashioned Liam, one day I might fully appreciate it. Just not now."

"Now you're trying to distract me aren't you?" Liam smiled and closed his eyes briefly at the feel of her lips on his neck. "Maybe I could get into Jazz and visit you now and then?"

"Is the distracting working?" she teased even though that hadn't been her full intent until now. "I'd like it if you come visit me sometimes. Walk me home after I get off maybe?"

"Mmm," Liam murmured and gave her a soft kiss. "Actually it would make me feel better knowing I could walk you home. But I have to ask do they sell Guinness?"

"Naturally," Mia said grinning at the soft kiss Liam gave her.

2 September, 2006; Bayou Blues; Viggo Mortensen, Mia Kirshner; PG13

Sat, 02 Sep 2006 08:33:11 GMT

[Cross posted to viggo_q.]

Viggo jogged down Decatur towards the bar ... he'd got too wrapped up in his renovations and was late to meet Mia. He slowed to a walk as he neared the address and saw the figure of the woman he'd met the night before waiting patiently near the doorway. Viggo brushed the what he hoped was the last of the plaster dust from his hair and grinned. "Hey Mia, sorry I'm late ... I have a bad habit of doing that."

Mia looked up from the apartment guide she'd picked up walking down to the bar when she heard the voice. Folding the guide she tucked it into her back pocket before smiling at the man. "No need to apologize. I've definitely had days like that before, and I don't really have an appointment."

"Don't worry about that," Viggo smiled and banged on the door. "Things are pretty laid back here ... the boss will see you. He glanced at the magazine sticking out of her pocket and asked, "You looking for an apartment?"

"Laid back is just what I need, last job wasn't quite as laid back." It took Mia a minute before she realized what Viggo was looking at and nodded a single time. "Kind of, my boyfriend doesn't know I'm looking into places for us yet. We just moved here a few weeks ago."

"Okay," Viggo chuckled, "So where are you looking? Here in the Quarter?"

"Just looking in general but around here would be nice." Mia fiddled with the edge of the guide before looking over at Viggo. "Do you live around here?"

Viggo nodded as the door was opened for them, "I rent a small place pretty close. Nothing flash but it has got a balcony." They walked through the darkened club towards the office area at the back where he signaled for Mia to wait while he slipped in to see the boss. He was barely gone five minutes when he stepped out with a grin, "Just go in ... I think I've almost convinced you are perfect for the job."

Mia smiled gratefully when Viggo came out, smoothing her hair out before going into the office. She was actually surprised at how quickly the 'interview' went considering she was in and out just as quick as Viggo had been. Stepping out Mia let the door shut behind her before giving Viggo a huge smile. "I got it."

"Yes!" Viggo laughed and did a little happy dance before giving Mia a hug. When he stepped back he gave her grin and shrugged, "You're gonna have to get used to me, I do that a lot."

Mia looked at Viggo and gave him a playful shove on his shoulder. "I think I can get use to random hugs." Grinning Mia couldn't help but feeling a wave of relief that she wouldn't have to rely completely on Liam to support her here now. "I think you buttered him up a lot before I went in."

"Moi?" Viggo said with wide eyes innocence and then admitted, "Well maybe a little. But I just pointed out that we are losing money having me do coffee when I could be selling beer." Viggo grabbed a packet of M&Ms from the back of the bar, opened them and offered Mia some. "So when do you start?"

Mia took a few of the M&Ms and popped a few into her mouth. "Officially the end of the week, said something about wanting to give me a day or so to get use to the place." She had to hold back laughing at that as she looked around the bar. After the cafe she worked at back in Vegas this definitely looked a lot more laid back, definitely not anything Mia was worried about. Especially when she'd been showed the list of coffee drinks they served. "I think he's giving me an out if I don't want to hang around a bunch of guys."

"I can't blame him for that," Viggo said crunching on a mouthful of chocolates. "Things can get rough at times, but generally the patrons are pretty laid back. The best nights are the traditional jazz or blues nights ... older crowd and a great atmosphere."

"At my last waitressing job I use to get hit on by the clubbers that were way too drunk looking for greasy food to soak it up." Mia shrugged her shoulders and looked around. "At least here it's not a punch of women walking around in skimpy skirts."

"That's true," Viggo nodded, "The worst we get is the college kids trying it on during the Sugar Bowl or Mardi Gras, but even then most of them tend to hang around bourbon Street where they can buy cheap beer and watch women flash their tits for beads." Viggo stopped, gave Mia a sheepish look and said, "Ah, sorry ... but that's what it gets like."

Mia shook her head. "Nothing to apologize for. I lived in Vegas before this, so that kind of thing I can imagine."

"Vegas hey?" Viggo said with a look of surprise, "Why leave a city of fun and gambling for a city of fun and ...well indulgence?"

"Gambling wasn't my scene," Mia said giving Viggo a wink before shaking her head, a grin on her face. "My boyfriend was offered a job here and he asked me to move with him."

Viggo nodded, "Good reason ... where does your boyfriend work? In the Quarter?"

"Yeah, I thought it was, he was keeping me in Vegas for the most part." Mia walked over and hopped up on one of the stools. "Yeah he works in the Quarter, just got hired at the Rue Royale."

"Rue Royale?" Viggo repeated; the name rang a bell. He frowned in concentration as a conversation with Liev came back to him and asked, "Your man wouldn't be the new manager would he?"

Mia gave Viggo a long questioning glance when he mentioned Liam's position. Leaning back against the bar from her seat Mia nodded her head. "Yeah, some friend of his helped him get the position."

A grin spread across Viggo's face and he chuckled, "Fucking small world. That friend is my friend ... my partner actually. I remember Liev telling me about an Irishman as big as he is."

When Viggo said the name Mia nodded, that sounded like the name of the person Liam had mentioned. "That's...okay I believe in weird circumstances but that's a bit...odd." Mia laughed a little and finally returned Viggo's smile. "So you helped me get a job and your partner helped mine."

Viggo laughed and shook his head, "Meant to be! We're gonna be friends and there is no getting away from it."

"From what I can tell that isn't a bad thing." Mia gave Viggo a wink before leaning over to steal a few more M&Ms.

1 September, 2006; Bayou Blues; Viggo Mortensen, Mia Kirshner; PG13

Fri, 01 Sep 2006 09:21:04 GMT

[Cross posted to viggo_q.]

When the street lights came on Mia had to start wondering exactly what time it was. She hadn't gotten use to the subtle differences of New Orleans, how long the sun was up was one of them. Shifting the bag she had brought with her back around so it rested on her back she headed further down the street. All day she'd been trying to familiarize herself with the city as well as scope out some potential places she could work at.

Logically Mia knew she could easily pick up some waitress job but honestly Mia was hoping to find something else. But at the rate things were going Mia had a feeling she'd end up taking a waitressing job. Even though Mia couldn't say she didn't enjoy not having to worry about fiances Mia didn't want to rely on Liam to support her. She'd never done that and didn't intend to start now.

She was just about to round the street corner to head back toward the hotel when through the regular street sounds she could hear just the faint amount of music. Pausing Mia looked around, her eyes stopping on a large sign just ahead for a pub...a pub with a "help wanted" sign in the front window. Mia bit her lip in thought and stepped closer, finally deciding to duck in when she saw a flyer inside advertising a jazz band. Can't hurt to look, can it?

Viggo moved quickly between the tables stacking glasses in the crook of his arm and watching out for any potential trouble. The crowd had been really good tonight as the band was pretty laid back, but with the heat and abundant alcohol there was always the chance of a fight breaking out.

He dumped the glasses in the sink and was about to start hosing them down when he saw a young woman approach the bar. "Hi," he shouted above the music, "What can I get you?"

Mia was impressed by the quick response from the man behind the counter when she'd barely just made her way there. So far the atmosphere was nice, seemed a lot like the pubs she'd left behind...well, aside from the live band playing in the background instead of pool balls and cat calls. Mia leaned up against the bar and gestured behind her toward the front of the bar. "Are you still looking for help?" Mia shouted, thankful the music was more jazzy than hard rock.

"As far as I know," Viggo grinned and signaled for her to follow him over to the area set aside for slightly more comfortable discussion. He sat on a battered looking leather couch and said, "It's not my place ... I'm just the hired help, but I know they're looking for someone to deal with this area. The 'coffee crowd'."

Mia followed the man over and took a seat across from Viggo. "Coffee crowd huh?" Mia asked and looked around the area. Well, Mia knew she could definitely handle serving up coffee. "Is it basically a serving and barista job?"

"Yep," Viggo nodded, "I've been filling in since our last one left and although I make a good espresso I'm better at pulling a beer." He smiled and rolled his eyes. "You new around here?"

Mia nodded her head. "Yeah, moved down here a week or so ago." She tucked some of her hair behind her ears and leaned her elbows on her knees. "I'm assuming if I have barista experience that might help me out a bit?" she asked before realizing if she was hoping to get a job being a little more formal would be best. "I'm Mia by the way."

"Hi Mia, nice to meet you ... I'm Viggo." He held out his hand to hold hers for a moment and nodded a greeting. "Barista experience will definitely help! Would you like me to pass on your info or even better, I know the boss will be here tomorrow early afternoon around two to go through the books."

Mia returned the smile that Viggo gave her and leaned back on her knees. "Either would work, honestly I'm just looking for something to get some money." Mia laughed a bit before adding, "Whichever you think might be best, I'm free in the afternoons."

"I work at the market in the morning, but can meet you here at two if you want," Viggo suggested, "A bit of moral support never hurts."

"You'd do that?" Mia asked, raising an eyebrow. She'd just met Viggo and the fact he was offering... God that's so much like Tom.

Viggo frowned a little at the question and shrugged, "Yeah... no problem. The boss can seem a bit gruff, but he's not really." Viggo looked over to the bar to check there were no customers and asked, "Can I get you a drink or maybe a very average coffee?"

"A beer works, if I have caffeine right now I might have to explain too much going home." Mia looked over her shoulder to see how the crowd was. "I should let you get back to work."

Viggo groaned and nodded, "Guess you're right ... the set is finishing and the punters need refills." He stood up and said, "So meet you out the front at two right?"

Mia nodded her head. "Definitely."

Mon, 28 Aug 2006 22:17:02 GMT

[Private]

So as of today I've been in New Orleans for just about two weeks. I haven't been out of the hotel too often, all of this still feels like a dream. When Liam first told me he'd gotten a job offer I thought that would be it and tried not to let him see how much of a disappointment that would have been. But when he asked me to come with him...it all felt too good to be true.

In many ways it feels like that now. Too good. Liam caught me looking through the job listings in the paper last night and insisted that I don't have to go back to waitressing, he can take care of me. But that feels wrong. I've never expected anyone to take care of me. Although I have a feeling he's hoping I won't get groped by drunken men anymore either but still.

Later this week Liam's supposed to be interviewing new staff and be in meetings all day. Maybe I'll go wander around town, see if I can find something to keep me occupied.

27 August, 2006; Mia Kirshner and Liam Neeson; Rue Royale Hotel; R

Sun, 27 Aug 2006 10:12:41 GMT

[Cross posted to liam_q.]

Mia bit her lower lip as she looked around the room they'd been given, frowning slightly at the boxes that had been delivered and were lining one wall. It was definitely more upscale than she was use to being in but she knew it was only temporary. Turning away from the boxes Mia walked over to the bed, laying down on her stomach. Liam wasn't due back from his orientation for another hour and Mia didn't know what she wanted to do until then. So far since they'd gotten in Mia had primarily stayed around the hotel, although the more she stayed the more she was absolutely sure she was going to have to get a job. They'd had a few conversations about the necessity of her working and Liam had told her a number of times she didn't have to. But doing this, staying around all day, just wouldn't work. Letting out a sigh Mia rested her head on her hands, looking out at the view from the balcony windows.

"Enjoying the view?" Liam asked quietly from the doorway before moving across the room to sit on the edge of the bed. "I cut the orientation short ... told them I will figure out pretty quickly what works and what doesn't and alter things accordingly." He laughed and shook his head, “I don't think they know what to make of the big Irishman."

Mia looked over her shoulder and smiled when she saw Liam. "The view's nice," she said and paused as she rolled onto her side when he sat down on the edge of the bed. "I'm much happier to see you though." When Liam had settled on the bed a bit more Mia moved so her head rested on his thigh. "Is it good your cutting out early already?"

"I'm the boss this time remember," he grinned and smoothed her hair back from her face. "We're going to be alright here aren't we? I mean once I get used to the heat and they get used to my accent."

Mia closed her eyes when she felt Liam's fingers move along her face, the motion calming the butterflies she still felt at being in a completely new place. "I think we will," she said finally and opened her eyes to look up at him. "There are definite adjustments but we should be able to get there." Reaching up Mia ran the back of her fingers over Liam's cheek. "Are they still having problems understanding you?"

"Uh huh," Liam chuckled and turned his head to kiss her fingers. "But it means I can swear at them and they won't know." He looked down at Mia and grinned, "This is a pretty big bed isn't it ... but have you seen how big the bath is?"

"I've been in the bathroom a few times since we arrived Liam," Mia said, the look on her face letting him know she was teasing, her index finger trailing the line of his jaw before she let her hand fall away. "I have noticed we haven't used it yet, if that's what you were implying."

"Mmm ... could be," Liam grinned, "I was just wondering if we needed to clean up a little before we check out the festivities outside."

Mia sat up from her position and scooted back on the bed. "You mean actually leave the hotel?" Mia added a little bit of shock to her voice before giggling, nudging Liam's side with her shoulder. "I think you can talk me into joining you for a bath."

"Well now beautiful Mia," Liam crooned and leant over kiss her forehead. "Will I call room service to run our bath or will I just have to go and do it myself?"

Mia raised an eyebrow. "We can have room service do things like that?" she asked laughing when she realized Liam was serious. God, definitely a change from Vegas. Mia pushed herself up and crawled over Liam, pressing a kiss against his lips. "I think we can run it ourselves...undress each other while it fills."

"We could have room service do that too you know," Liam chuckled wickedly and rolled her over onto the bed. "You stay right there and I'll get the bath started." Liam gave her another kiss and wandered off the bed and into the bathroom.

Mia watched as Liam left the room, giggling lightly and stretched out a bit on the bed. As different as the place felt Mia was happy that her relationship with Liam seemed to be the same. When she heard the water running in the bathroom Mia pushed herself back up into a sitting position, watching the empty doorway.

Liam grinned as he poured some of the hotel bubble bath into the large oval tub and watched the bubbles creep up to the edge. He stepped back and looked at himself in the mirror eventually pulling a face and turning away to undress and lay his clothes over the chair. "Almost ready ... both the bath and me!" he called through the open door.

Mia laughed and slid off the bed. "Do you want me ready when I come in or should I leave the pleasure for you?" she asked adding a bit of a purr to the end of the question.

"Just you stay where you are," Liam chuckled while he twisted the taps off. He leant stark naked against the doorframe and raised an eyebrow at her. "Your bath is ready madam ... would you like me to get you ready now?"

Mia had stayed by the edge of the bed until she saw Liam appear around the door. Biting her lower lip Mia let her gaze move down his body before looking back at his face. "I'd love to have you get me ready for my bath,"

"Your wish is my command," Liam grinned and strolled into the room with a decidedly wicked look on his face. When he reached the bed Liam ran his fingertips gently along Mia's leg before he grabbed her ankles and pulled her flat onto the bed where he tickled her feet mercilessly.

"Oh, now you're cheating!" Mia squealed, kicking her feet a bit even as she giggled, trying to squirm away from Liam across the bed.

"You never said there were rules to this," Liam chuckled and let go of her feet, but crawled onto the bed to where he could start to undo the buttons on her blouse.

"Mmm you know tickling can be bad," Mia said looking up at Liam when he crawled up onto the bed with her. Catching her breath she moved one hand out, sliding it down the middle of Liam's chest, fingers brushing against the dip just as she reached his hips.

"Not from my point of view," Liam smiled and pushed the blouse off her shoulders stopping only to kiss her collar bone. His fingers slipped one bra strap down and then the other before pulling her up enough to fiddle with the catch and frown, "A little help please ... the men I went out with rarely wore these."

Mia giggled a bit, resting her forehead against Liam's shoulder as she reached behind her to undo the clasp. "Do I have to give you a bit of lesson one day?" she asked as she nipped the side of Liam's neck when the clasp came undone.

"Hmmm could be fun," Liam murmured as he nipped at her neck. "But in the mean time we need this pretty little skirt on the floor and your pretty little arse in the bath."

Mia licked at the skin she'd bit on Liam's neck before leaning back, looking up at him. "Then what are you waiting for?" she teased.

"Bratty girl," Liam groaned and crawled off the bed where he deftly hauled her towards him to shimmy the skirt down over her hips quickly followed by her underwear. With a deep growl he hoisted her up over his shoulder, slapped her backside and carried her into the bathroom.

"Liam," Mia couldn't help but squeal a bit, wiggling on his shoulder until she caught sight of the view he was giving her of his ass. "Is this the reverse way of carrying me into the hotel room?"

"Only when we're naked," Liam replied and carefully lowered her feet to the tiled floor. He stood at the side of the bath and held out his hand for her to hold as she stepped into the bath.

She took Liam's hand unable to resist giving him a playful poke before stepping into the bathtub. Mia let out a low sigh when she felt the warm water against her skin and moved up enough that Liam would have enough room to get behind her.

The water felt good as it closed around him and Liam settled back pulling Mia against him. He stroked her hair and gave her a gentle kiss on the shoulder. "This is all going to work out fine," Liam murmured and wrapped his arm around her.

"Reassuring or trying to prove to yourself it will?" she asked, leaning back against Liam after he'd settled in behind her. Enjoying the warmth of the water and the warmth of Liam's chest against her back.

"Stating a fact I think," Liam said softly and rested his chin on her. "Good job, I like the city and most importantly you're here with me in a bubble bath."

Mia let out a content sigh and tilted her head back to press a kiss against Liam's cheek. Reaching up Mia let one of her hands brush his other cheek, leaving a trail of water on his skin. "I think if I hadn't met you I might have left Vegas sooner than now."

"I'm pleased you waited for me," Liam chuckled and returned the kiss, this time finding her lips.

12 August; 2006; Flight to New Orleans; Liam Neeson, Mia Kirshner; PG13

Sat, 12 Aug 2006 10:18:34 GMT

[Cross posted to liam_q.]

The seat belt sign blinked off and Liam instantly flicked the clasp and released it. He looked at the young woman next to him and grinned at the expression Mia had on her face. "I know, I should leave it done up but I hate the bloody things ... anyway, it's a short flight." When she kept looking, he chuckled and clicked it shut again. He settled back in the seat and smiled, "Another new city ... but I'm going with someone this time."

"That you are," Mia said and pushed the arm rest between their seats up. She was still in shock that she was on a plane with the intent to move. Hell the whole last few weeks had been a bit of a shock. From the moment Liam had told her he'd been offered a new job to the fact he was taking it, then when he asked her to go with. Mia shook her head and reclined her seat a little, her hand taking Liam's.

He squeezed her hand gently and pulled it up to his lips. "It'll be okay Mia," he assured her, "The job is secure and will pay a lot more ... and we're going into this together."

Mia smiled at him and nodded. "I trust you Liam, just...never done this before." She loosened her belt enough she could lean over and kiss Liam's cheek. "Moving away I've done, doing it with someone else...first time."

"Me too," he admitted with an incredulous grin, "but we've found our way through things and we'll do it here. Besides, I've heard the inhabitants are friendly and the alcohol cheap." He winked and playfully raised his eyebrows.

"Like you need to get me drunk," Mia said playfully, giving him a nudge as she tried stretching her legs out in front of her. "Did your friend find us a place to stay or do we have to do that as well?"

"Just at the hotel," Liam replied, "but we can look for something else if we want. Although it is nice never having to make your own bed and as hotel manager I'm sure I could get them to leave a few extra mints on the pillows."

Mia laughed and fingered the lines in Liam's palm. "Is it like your old place? Or smaller?" She leaned back and thought about the area they were moving to. She'd never been there personally but had a few friends that had at one point in time. "I can always go look for something," she said finally.

"Hmmm... from the information I've been given it's a bit bigger. Just as fancy, but a lot more Louisiana traditional." He let go of her hand and wrapped his arm around her instead. "I can help find something and make sure it has bloody good air-conditioning."

Mia welcomed Liam's arm around her and let her eyes fall shut. "So does that mean you definitely want to live with me? Permanently?" she asked, her voice soft.

"Oh bugger," Liam frowns and shakes his head, "It certainly looks that way." He chuckled and turned to kiss her temple. "I want that very much sweet Mia," he whispered, "I was so scared asking you to come with me."

The relief Mia felt at Liam saying he wanted to live with her made Mia's breath catch for a moment. She squeezed his hand, thumb brushing along the inside of his wrist. "Did you think I'd say no?"

"I thought a lot of things," Liam admitted and rubbed her shoulder. "That was one of the things that kept going through my mind. I would have stayed if you'd said no."

Mia blinked, fully watching Liam now. "You said this would be a bigger opportunity than there though....you would have stayed?"

Liam's fingers lightly stroked the hair that had strayed over her face and tucked it behind her ear again. "Of course I would have stayed," Liam smiled gently, "I still don't understand why you want to be lumbered with me, but you are the best thing that's ever happened in my life."

"I love you Liam." Mia let the words sink in before undoing the belt around her waist so she could press a lingering kiss to Liam's cheek. "I want to be lumbered with you because of that," she whispered.

"I think we are stuck with each other then," he murmured softly and moved just enough that their lips met.

"Well you won't hear me complain." Mia pulled back from the kiss, not wanting to get too into it, not when they couldn't do anything about it.

"Just you wait until I get you into the manager's suite at the hotel," he winked and grinned at the cabin crew member who overheard the comment.

Mia blushed a bit when the crew member gave her a look, the smirk on his face telling all too well he could read between the lines. She gave his thigh a little poke and hooked her belt back. "Maybe I'll let you have me."

"Oh will you now," Liam chuckled, "and here I thought I'd have to beg."

Mia thought about that for a moment, feeling her cheeks flush more at the thought of Liam begging her. "Mmm, maybe I should have you beg."

"Been a long time since I've done anything like that," Liam murmured close to her ear, "but I'd do it for you Mia."

Mia bit her lower lip to keep from moaning at the tone in Liam's voice. Looking over at him Mia held his gaze, her hand giving Liam's knee a squeeze. "You would huh?" she asked finally.

"I'd do it now if we had the room," he whispered and nuzzled her ear before sitting back in the seat and saying with a cheeky grin, "But as we don't I guess you just have to wait to see me crawl."

Mia gave Liam a bit of a glare when he sat back, already imaging the way Liam might look crawling toward her. "I'm going to hold you to that."

Mia's Bio

Mon, 24 Jul 2006 11:24:18 GMT

Mia moved away from her Canadian home after needing to get away from her parents. Throughout most of her life her parents tried to get Mia to move in directions she never wanted. She tried acting at their urging but never personally took an interest in it. When she continued moving away from the life that her parents wanted for her Mia decided it was time to explore.

After traveling and experiencing life Mia finally ended up in Las Vegas. Running short on cash Mia landed a job as a waitress at local cafe. With the income Mia managed to get an apartment and finally started feeling like she found a place she could lose herself, where she could simply escape. One night she treated herself to the local bar scene and ended up meeting Liam Neeson and struck up a conversation with him. Their conversations quickly turned into an unexpected romance and after a few months of 'dating' the two finally made their dating status official. Between working and Liam Mia started to feel as though she had control of her life again and with the help of a friend, David, she finally started pursuing the artistic love she picked up in her travels.

Things were moving along smoothly until Liam sat down one evening and told Mia that he was offered a job he couldn't refuse in New Orleans. Before the news could fully sink in Liam surprised Mia by asking her to move to New Orleans with him. Over the course of their relationship Mia had fallen in love with Liam she easily accepted Liam's offer, quit her job, and packed up her life to make the trip to New Orleans. After arriving in New Orleans Mia intends to find a job for herself despite Liam's assurances that she doesn't need to and Mia hopes that she will find someone similar to David to keep her working on her artwork.