So This is What Rich People Do in Their Spare Time

He laid back and looked up at her, heaving a sigh. "You know what. I think we could use some fun. Come on." He helped her out of bed and asked her to grab one end of his mattress after he stripped the sheets from it. They carried it out into the hall. He chuckled a little at the perplexed look on her face. "Don't worry, all will be revealed shortly." He told her to drop her end and stand back a little. He got on his knees on the mattress and scooted forward, allowing gravity to take effect, zooming down the stairs and rolling off once he got to the bottom. He landed a bit painfully and winced as he got up. "Knew we were missing something! Mind going to get the blankets from the room? We'll just throw 'em at the bottom here." He grabbed the end of the mattress and started lugging it back up the steps.

And it Finally Clicks

She chuckled a little at him. He was teasing her now. He had probably been teasing her all along and she'd just been to dense to know it. She grinned a little and said "Then I guess it'll just have to do."

Compromise

He shook his head and quirked up one side of his mouth. "You really are incorrigible, little one." He swiftly kissed her hand and went to flop on the other bed. "This Horrible Hagar of a bed is all mine. Much more comfortable than yours, don't worry." He winked at her broadly. He threw all the frou frou pillows and puffy blankets under the bed and came back to sit on the edge of her bed. "You think you can deal with this? It's my last offer before I sleep on the floor." He smiled softly.

A Bed of My Own

He was too kind to her. It's completely understandable to get frustrated when someone is being frustrating. However she was intrigued by this alternative option. After he joined her on the bed, he pulled her closer to him. She enjoyed just sitting there. The bed was softer than anything she'd been on in years and his closeness was making her feel warm and light. A few minutes later a group of men in carrying another bed. This one smaller but much fancier. She watched wide eyed as the men began rearranging the room and setting the new bed up. When they got around to the bed they were sitting on Penny made to get up, but Jasper took her hand and kept her next to him. She was shocked and exhilarated when the bed moved under her. She smiled a little and tightened her grip on his hand.

The men left the room and he leaned in close whispering, "Happier now?" into her ear. It made her shiver a little, though she tried to suppress it. She turned towards him and said with a little half smile "Is that one mine?"

I've Got the Power

Jasper was utterly surprised when she took his hand. He looked up at her and she looked away and sighed. He covered her hand with his other one and got up, ashamed at himself. He had let his temper show, and that was inexcusable. He tipped her head up with a finger and restrained himself from kissing her sad little mouth. He apologized softly. "I'm sorry, Penny. I know how hard this is for you. I should be doing my best to relieve your stress, not corner you and have you make a choice. There is an easy solution to all this, I just didn't want to go through the extra trouble. Don't beat yourself up so much, flower. Just trust me." He sat her on the bed and gave her a warning look. He called Neila in and gave her some terse instructions before dismissing her and turned back to Penny, climbing up onto the bed and pulling her beside him.

What seemed to be a few moments later, the door opened again and four men entered, carrying a twin mattress wrapped in luxurious fabrics. He smiled to himself, hoping that this gamble worked. He knew Penny would want to take the smaller bed, but he also knew she didn't want that silk and velvet. Honestly, neither did he, but he would do what it took to get her to sleep in her own bed. He held her hand as the bed was moved with them still on it, just rotated a bit. The bookcase was moved and the other bed placed there. He hoped the determent of the fabrics and the nearness of the window to this bed would be enough. He gave a small nod to the movers and a signal to Neila to leave. She frowned a bit, but closed the door behind her. He gave a happy sigh and leaned into Penny. "Happier now?" he murmured in her ear.

Trying to Try Harder

Penny closed her eyes and sighed. She could tell she had angered him, and that this was going way downhill very quickly. She scolded herself for pushing him. Maybe she should reconsider the bed sharing thing. I mean, after all, it was a large bed. Heck, it might as well be two beds. She got up from the window sill and walked over to where he was sitting. Taking his hand cautiously she looked into his eyes and whispered, "I'm sorry. I'm trying. I really am. It's just hard for me, sometimes..." She sighed again, and looked down, slightly embarrassed. "Maybe we could both take the bed? I wouldn't be able to sleep at all with you on the floor."

He Cannot Make This Any Clearer

He saw something close in her face and he sat down, a bit frustrated. "No, it's not time for bed yet, and no, we can't table it until then. It doesn't matter what time it is, I won't change my mind. And I'd rather not be up until the wee hours of the morning because then I'll just give up and sleep on the floor anyway. Which is where I'm heading." He scrubbed his face, tucking his annoyance away and sighing up at her. "We're at a stalemate here, so what do you propose we do since I'm not sleeping in the bed, and you're not sleeping in the bed, and neither of us will change our minds. And the suggestion that I sleep in the bed is out. Just...not there. So don't even consider it as an option any more."

Aaaand It Missed by a Mile

"If it's just as comfortable, why can't I take it. I wouldn't even know the difference." She looked at him and she saw the love and she saw the caring, but she also saw pity. She was no one's charity case and although she did need him, she was able to survive on her own for over 5 years. She didn't need pity. "Is it even bed time yet? Maybe we could table this till then?" Maybe he'd be more reasonable when he was actually tired.

Change in the Game Plan

"It's a big deal, flower, because I would feel wretched taking it. It's just not how I was raised." He switched tactics. Taking slow steps toward her, he let all his worry and the tenderness he felt for her show. "Please, Penny. For me. It would put my heart at ease and I could get a good night's rest sleeping anywhere of you took the bed. And look," he walked back to the chair and pushed the lever down on the side. The bottom slid more or less horizontal. "It's just as comfy as the bed. I'm not sacrificing comfort for you, even though I would in a heartbeat. So please. For me?"

Oh No You Don't!

"But why sacrifice any night of comfort when I can sleep just as comfortably anywhere?" She was trying to avoid the whole sleeping in the bed together issue. Was she actually ready for that? Probably not. She still couldn't bring herself to taking the bed. "Jasper, I don't even remember the last time I slept in a bed... Why is it a big deal?" She didn't need it, and she wouldn't sacrifice his comfort because of her short comings in this area.

A Modest Proposal

"Ohhh no you don't. My condition to sleeping in the chair is if and only if you sleep in the bed. I have slept in much worse conditions than this, and I can sacrifice a few night's sleep for your comfort. I'm just as stubborn as you are and I think after all this time of sleeping in the cramped and uncomfortable, that bed is looking a mite inviting. I'm taking a stand on this issue, my flower. That right there is your bed. You will sleep in it...unless." He leaned back with a wicked grin. "We could sleep in it together."

You Wanna Go, Boy?

Penny smirked up at him. So he wanted to play, huh? She had no doubt that he could remove her from the chair with great ease, but that didn't mean he could make her stay in the bed. She stood up and walked over to the window and opened it. She climbed onto the sill curling up into a ball and resting her head on the glass. "You may have the chair then, if you want it. I'll sleep here." She couldn't let him sleep on the chair or the floor. She was used to sleeping in awkward places, and didn't sleep that much anyway. If he took the chair or the floor, he'd be stiff and in pain the next morning. Well, maybe after a night of that, he'd take the bed. He'd gone through so much trouble for her already, she just couldn't take his bed.

Oh Hell No

He grinned at her, grateful for a challenge. If she wanted to get into a match to see who was more stubborn, she had an excellent contender in front of her. "You seem to forget I can bodily move you from that seat," he said, mock-sternly. "And there is no bloody way I'm sleeping in that bed. I will sleep on the floor before I sleep in your bed, my flower. And I can guarantee that the floor is much less comfortable than the chair."

This is Unacceptable

The house was large and grand. She saw rooms that housed art and rooms that housed people and rooms that didn't even seem to serve functions other than to be rooms and add space to the already massive house. She was allowed to peak into almost every room, although the one they purposely bypassed held curiosity for her, but she allowed herself to be lead away.

When they finally made it back to the room, he plopped down on the bed telling her of their plans for tomorrow, then suddenly sat up, very self consciously. He dragged the chair over and she realized that he was expecting her to take the bed. Before he could sit, she slid into the chair. "I don't want to take your bed," she said. "I can sleep here just as comfortably." She reached over and pulled her bag off the bed trying to emphasis her point. She set it beside the chair and waited for his response.

The Grand Tour

He led her through the downstairs, and the kitchen which she'd already seen, to the grand dining room, which was, as named, very grand. They passed through the salon, and a number of other rooms which weren't ever used. There were sparse furnishings, as most of what they owned was still in London, but his mother had a knack of using the least to the most effect. Rich tapestries and unique sculptures dotted the walls and hallways, giving an almost cozy effect compared to the cold rock walls. The chandelier in the main foyer was another spectacular piece, a conversation starter for sure.

He led her up the winding stairs to the part of the house where most of the bedrooms were at, including the ones for the staff. He almost showed her his study but bypassed it at the last second in a rather inelegant move. The floor here was carpeted instead of stone and it was darker. He let her peek into most of the rooms, letting her get an eyeful before they wandered back to the room.

"I think I'll show you the grounds tomorrow," he smiled as he flopped on the bed. He immediately got back up and scratched his head sheepishly. Wasn't his bed anymore to be flopping on. He motioned for her to sit down and with a bit of effort, dragged the chair over. "Anything else you'd like to know?"

Remembering How to Feel

There were many things that Penny couldn't remember the last time she's experienced. She didn't remember the last time she had slept in a bed or the last time she had eaten ice cream, but the last time she had been held she remembered very clearly. It had been 7 years ago, 2 days before her parents had died. She was 12 and had just lost her pet goldfish. Her mother had cuddled and held her until the tears had ebbed. She felt Jasper pick her up and the tears broke. She needed him and she needed to be held, so she let him hold her until the tears stopped and she began to wonder how it was she got there in the first place.

Sensing this he put her back on her feet gracefully and smoothly in a move she would have never been able to accomplish. He took her hand and she allowed him to have it. "Would you like a tour of the house? It's big, but homey. It's home." She smiled slightly at the word "home." She nodded and like an excited school boy, he started leading them around the mansion called "home."

All Better Now?

"Oh, my flower," he whispered. He hoped he didn't cross any boundaries when he picked Penny up and set her in his lap, cradling her to his chest and kissing the top of her head. "I have needed you from the first moment I saw you, and I'll need you forever more." While he was wasn't sure what to do with tears, he knew it was a sign she was letting him in. They sat there for a bit until he felt her growing uncomfortable.

In a move he made seem natural, or so he hoped, he stood and placed her on her feet, cursing her lightness. It was unacceptable how much she weighed. He smiled at her, taking her hand in his. "Would you like a tour of the house? It's big, but homey. It's home." He stressed the last word and gave her hand a little squeeze.

Overwhelmed

"I couldn't leave you even if I wanted to." She was close to tears. He had worked so hard, was trying so hard to make her feel comfortable and wanted, but she just kept messing it up. She got up in order to sit beside him on the floor. "Jasper..." his name sounded so right coming from her mouth... "I need you. I don't know why you need me, but for as long as you'll have me, I'll be here." She closed her eyes against the tears welling inside them. She hadn't realized she had had that in her, but as soon as she said it, she knew it was true and knew that she had meant it. She just hoped that he knew what he was getting himself into with her...

Trying to Understand

He sat down, hard. "This is for you, love. I don't need...this," he waved to the decorations amiably, trying to make her understand. "This is exactly where you belong. I came and got you. By no means are you intruding. That," he said, pointing at the bed, "is where you are sleeping for as long as you will stay. I have sleeping arrangements that are just as comfortable." He picked up her hand and placed his face in it, looking pleadingly into her eyes. "Don't leave me. Not when I've just found you. Will you stay? I can find somewhere else to be if it's me that you are nervous about."

You Could Actually See the Metaphorical Light Bulb

She looked down at him kneeling before her as she sat in the chair. It made sense now. The abrupt exit earlier when she had asked him where he would be staying. How stupid of her to assume that this was her room. "This is your room, isn't it... I'm intruding. I don't belong here." She look apologetically into his lovely eyes and felt a pang that she couldn't explain. What was she doing here? This was crazy. She knew she couldn't leave though. She needed him more than she'd ever needed anything. Maybe there was a couch or something he wouldn't mind her staying on... Surely there were trees on the grounds. She just needed to be near him.

What are You Apologizing For?

Her apologies broke his paralysis. He struggled to keep from scaring Penny but ordered Neila out in a terse voice and kicked the door shut behind her. He sat Penny down in the large chair next to the door, apologizing. "I'm sorry, I didn't want you to find out like this. This isn't your fault, I'm not mad or anything." He shook his head and slung a shirt on, plopping a towel on his wet hair. "Are you okay? I feel so bad now," he said as he placed his hand lightly on hers.

It's a Scene from an Anime

Penny wasn't sure how she felt about Neila. They mostly walked together in silence, Penny to shy to break it and and Neila finding no need to. They had came to the room that Penny had been brought to when she first arrived, and she followed Neila in. Jasper was in there, half naked and still wet... Penny froze and felt a blush start to spread across her cheeks. It was obvious that Jasper was not expecting them yet, and was just as shocked as she was. Penny found she was having problems looking away from him. My God! He was gorgeous! It's really unfair for someone to look so attractive. She used as much will as she had to tear her eyes away from him and turn around stammering "I-I-I'm sorry. So sorry... I didn't...".

Foiled Your Plan. Surprise!

The leftover food he said to either pack up and they could use the leftovers later or they could take a break and the crew could eat. He didn't mind either way. He was worried how little food Penny had eaten but her stomach had probably shrunk with the lack of food. He gave a little wince and cursed himself for not finding her sooner. But she was here now and that was all that mattered. He asked Neila to stall her while he took his shower and told Penny to give him a few minutes and he would meet her back at the room.

He hurried down the hall, making sure no one saw him acting so undignified. He didn't have much time to do what he needed to before the girls returned. He hoped Penny could get along with Neila. He had a limited choice of female staff for Penny to confide in. He quickly stripped off his clothes and jumped in the shower, slipping and almost falling on the already-wet bottom. The water still had some warmth left to it, which was good. He'd been afraid he would have to take a cold shower. He washed with his usual shampoo, not bothering with anything fancy. He'd just dried off and was buttoning his pants when Penny and Neila entered, a grin on Neila's face. He wondered if she could possibly have timed it any worse. He knew she did that on purpose. He froze, with no shirt on and his hair still dripping.

Feelings of Misplacement

After her shower she dressed herself with clothes from the dresser. Jasper came back and she gave him a little smile. She was certainly much more presentable now. He lead her to the kitchen where she was introduced to the chef. She shook his hand shyly and looked around with wonder. She had never seen such a large and beautiful kitchen in all her life. She was feeling much more comfortable with Jasper at her side, but she still couldn't shake the slight feeling of misplacement. She belonged with him, but did she belong here?

The chef asked her what she wanted to eat, and all she could do was shrug. He made her an array of things and she sat with Jasper at the table in the kitchen. She tried everything and ate some more of everything. It was all so tasty. She wasn't used to so much food, and stopped when she realized her stomach probably wouldn't hold a single bite more. There was still a lot left, and she felt awful wasting it. She looked up to see Jasper watching her and blushed a little. It really shouldn't be this easy for him to get to her... but he did. And she liked it.

Give That Girl A Sandwhich

He had Neila come and get him when Penny was done with her shower. He could practically feel the warmth and energy she was starting to give off. He walked with them to the kitchen, stopping himself from reaching for her hand twice. Frustrated, he crossed his arms and balled his hands into fists, giving a little growl. When they reached the large room, he allowed himself to smile. This was a real kitchen, not the one she was working in before. He introduced her to the head chef, Stefan, and told them to make anything she wanted to eat. He sat her down at the small table off to the side. He enjoyed eating with the cooks and helping out, so he'd insisted of placing a table where everyone could sit and talk over a good meal. Jasper looked at Penny who finally seemed to have some life in her eyes and color in her cheeks. She was just gorgeous.

Heaven On Earth

Penny watched him go then turned awkwardly to the lady she had been left with, Neila. The stood in silence for a moment or two. Neila broke it. "Would you like me to show you to the bath room?" Penny nodded shyly.

Neila led her to a spacious bathroom off of the main bedroom. "It has been fully stocked with an array of products. You can use whatever you would like. Just ask if you have any questions." Penny nodded at her again, and she turned and left the room.

Penny took her time exploring the bathroom. She pulled back the shower curtain and was amazed by the size of the tub. She read the labels on the shampoo bottles picking out the one that seemed least expensive and best for her hair. She left her clothes folded neatly on the toilet and turned on the water. She could have spent hours just standing under the warm spray. It felt fantastic. However, she knew that hot water didn't last forever, and that she should probably continue with her shower. As she showered she started to sing: "Another turning point / a fork stuck in the road / Time grabs you by the wrist / directs you where to go..." She didn't know who it was by or what the music sounded like. Most of the random songs she knew where songs that she had heard Jasper singing sometimes offhandedly in her dreams. If ever there was heaven, a warm shower had to be it.

Oh What Now

Jasper smiled and rubbed her arm briefly with his hand. "It's closer than you think, my flower." He heard Neila snicker and he graced her with a glare. "I'll give you some privacy now. Don't let Neila ruffle your feathers. In fact, if she gets too annoying, I give you permission to order her to not talk. And I expect," he switched his gaze to the smug Neila, "that whatever she says or asks is to be followed as if it were me." He didn't wait for a reply, but swept out of the room and shut the door softly behind him. He headed to his study with a smile and a skip in his step.

I'll Take Four, Please...With Bubbles...Lots of Bubbles

The contrast was amazing. How could such a luxurious place even exist so close to the run down streets that she had been frequenting? It almost didn't seem fair. She tried not to just stare in wide eyed shock, but everything that caught her attention just seemed to get bigger and grander. He lead her to a room that was pretty and full of furniture. She smiled a little at the books. They were thoughtful. She had always dreamed of owning books.

The thought of a shower sounded so divine. Although she had always attempted to keep clean, washing in public bathrooms in stores across the city, the thought of a real shower made her almost giddy inside. He looked at her, ready to depart in order to give her some privacy, and she asked, "Your room... it'll be close? You won't be too far?" In a place this big, she knew his room could be anywhere, and she didn't like the idea of not being able to find him if she needed him. She knew she could take care of herself, but... just in case. You know?

He Acts Like A Lady

He heaved a sigh at her words and leaned back, glad that she was calm enough to ask questions. "Not that long, actually. And we're going to my house. That's where you will be staying. And don't be alarmed when we get there. Just think relaxing thoughts. In fact--ah, here we are." The car rolled through the gates in front of a large mansion. He worried a bit about what she would think of it all. Expansive grounds, delicate architecture, the whole place screamed money.

He gave her an apologetic look and climbed out of the car, bringing her bag with him. A gentleman should always carry a lady's bag. He slung it over his shoulder, not caring how dirty it was, stopping once to make sure it survived the toss. He led the way up the steps, Neila bringing up the rear. He brought her to a large room he had especially furnished for her, soft colors and plants, with a large bed with modest fabrics. It was sparsely furnished besides the bed, with two dressers, a book case with books already on it but with room for more, and wicker chair. Everything in there to remind her of the outside. He placed her bag gently on the bed and asked Neila to stay with her.

"You can take a shower and get clean. Nice hot water. I'll come back when you're done, okay?" He whispered to Neila to keep an eye on her and to burn the clothes she was wearing at the moment. He turned back to Penny. "If there is anything else you need, don't hesitate to ask. Clothes are in the drawers, I think you'll find they fit you well." He looked at her, seeing if it was okay that he left her with a stranger.

Buildings Make My Face Hurt

She relaxed a bit at his words, sitting back slightly in the seat, but kept the the same pose. Something about it was comforting. She watched the buildings fly by trying to remember the last time she had been in a car. Surely it had been years. She realized that looking at the buildings wizz by was starting to make her head hurt so she turned to face Jasper. He seemed relaxed enough, like everything was under control. This was comforting in a way. She asked him, "Where are we going? How long of a trip?"

Channel The Zen

He glanced over at her as the car started to move. She was huddled in the corner, looking like she didn't even want to touch the seat, clinging to herself. He scooted closer to her, but still giving her plenty of space. The last thing he wanted was for her to feel caged. He knew she didn't like that. He gently tugged the bag from her grasp and put it on the seat next to her. "It's just a car, Penny. It is a vehicle to be ridden in, to get dirty and it is transporting the most precious person it ever will. Relax, nothing is going to bite you and nothing more is going to be taken away. You're safe now, I promise. You don't have to think about anything right now, just relax."

Down The Rabbit Hole

At his light touch she knew he wasn't going to change his mind. He lead her to the car, and she let go of his hand in order to get in. She slid as far back and away from the door as possible. Painfully aware of how clean and pristine everything was she put her bag on her lap and sandwiched it between her chest and her knees. Her arms went around her knees and her head rested on them. Her goal was to touch as little of the car as possible. He got in beside her and closed the door.

Candy From Strangers Isn't So Bad After All

He saw her gaze dart from the car to him, and he thought she was going to make a run for it. But she just looked up at him with those sad green eyes of hers, unsure as what to do. He felt an overwhelming need to once again just protect her from the world, but he tucked it away, saving it for a day when she could understand. He took her hand loosely, so she could pull away at any time, and stroked it with his thumb reassuringly. Such a frail flower, she was. He led her to the car and smiled at her tenderly. "Go on, don't be alarmed. It's all going to be okay, I promise."

Pretty Please With Sugar On Top

As she picked up her backpack she could sense his distaste and discomfort. She'd been so focused on herself that he hadn't realized that this might be awkward for him as well. She scolded herself as she followed him out the front. He motioned to a large and fancy car waiting in front of the diner and she just stopped and stared, suddenly aware of how dirty and unkempt she was and how perfectly flawless he was. How was it OK for her to even be thinking that she could be anywhere near that car. She hesitated, glancing up at him, seeking permission in a way. Maybe one last chance for him to realize he had made a mistake...

A Plan Better On Paper

Jasper grimaced to himself. He just had to make up a story about parents dying, didn't he? Of all the idiotic things he'd done in his life, this was certainly in the Top Five. Penny already had a permanently defeated but stubborn look on her face, but that small moment revealed so much pain still. He had the urge to just embrace her and hold her in his arms, to say it was all going to okay, but he settled for taking a step to stand next to her. The money handed over, he placed a light hand on her shoulder to stop her from barreling from the room. He flipped open his cell phone and pressed the call key twice.

"Bring the car around, I've got her...No, there's no need for...that. Yes, I'm sure. Just do it." He sighed irritably and tried to smile at Penny reassuringly. "Come on, my flower," he whispered. He thanked the boss and started out of the office, careful to keep a firm but gentle hand on her at all times.

Pay Me, Biotch

Penny saw the boss turn towards her for any sign that this statement was untrue. The pain of losing a family was not one that Penny had to fake, merely one that needed to be brought to the surface. The boss sighed and headed toward the small safe where the money was kept. "I'm sorry for your loss."

Penny sighed inwardly quickly burying the pain that she found never quite went away. She glanced quickly at Jasper while turning around to receive her payment. He seemed slightly shocked and she wondered how much of that he had seen. That was probably the first time she had let her guards down since she had put them up. She had done it for him. The part of her that wanted to be near him was conflicting with the part of her that didn't want to trust anyone. She pushed those thoughts aside to take the money from her boss.

Pow, Right In The Kisser

He saw Penny jump out of the way at the same time he turned. The door's handle bit deep into his side and he hissed, knowing there would be a bruise for sure. Narrowed eyes looked at him. "Are you the delivery guy? Tomas said you were back here. I wish I could see but I've misplaced my glasses again." So they were hers. He stepped in between her and the item in question. There was no need for her to get a good look at him.

"I'm sorry," he lied smoothly. "I'm afraid Tomas must have been mistaken. I'm just here to pick up Penny. The blonde waitress said it would be alright if I waited in here."

"Daisy. That girl never remembers anything I tell her. You're not supposed to be in here. And what's this about you wanting your money? Your shift isn't even over," the woman switched her attention to Penny.

"Ah, our father just died, and we have to go stay with our aunt for the time being, and she lives far away." He bowed his head, thankful for small blessings of bad eyesight. "We don't think we're coming back so if you could just give Penny whatever money she has earned thus far? She's a stubborn one when it comes to taking care of herself." He looked disparagingly at Penny's shoes.

The Spell is Broken

Well, she guessed her feelings of being watched had been right. She didn't like that idea, but she didn't get much time to think about it. She sensed it before she actually heard anything, and jumped out of the way to avoid being hit by the door. Her boss was back. What bad timing. She didn't look to happy either. "What are you doing back here?! Stop bothering people and get back to your dishes!" Penny looked at her and said "I need to leave now. May I have my money please?"

A Life Should Have Secret Plans

Her cringe hurt him, but he tucked it away. Bloody idiot, he scolded himself. Of course that would be too much for her. He sucked in a breath at her question and took a mental step back. There was not enough distance between them to think clearly, but he dare not move away from his spot in front of the door. "Now, you can come with me, to my house, where we have quarters set up for you. Or you may continue about your day, but know that I am not leaving your side, even if it means you are fired. I will not let you slip away, my flower. And don't think you can slip away unnoticed," he said with a slight smile. "I have eyes all around."

Actions Speak Louder than Words

She flinched away from his touch, then instantly regretted it. Partially because of the lose of contact, but mostly because of the slight hurt on his face that he tried so hard not to show. She was confused as to how his needing her was obvious. She couldn't remember the last time she was actually needed. She was also confused as to what was going to happen next... so she asked. "What happens now?"

First Encounters

When she'd started to move toward the door with purpose, he simply subtly slid to be in her way. Her skin brushed up against his, and he resisted the urge to kiss her right then and there. He stiffened, knowing that would not help his cause. She paused at the touch, he knew she felt the connection as well. She looked up at him with those green eyes that haunted him and asked, "Why are you here?"

He hesitated. Why was he here? To save her, to take her home with him, where she belonged? They were true, but not what she was looking for. That would only scare her. "Because I cannot live without you, obviously." He touched her cheek cautiously, cradling her face in his hand.

Wake Up Call!

His words forced her back into reality. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath. She had to get out of here. Had to think. Mumbling something that was supposed to sound like "I have to go," Penny attempted to maneuver around the man who was claiming to be Jasper. As she did so, she accidentally brushed against him. It was like waking up after having a bucket of water thrown on you. How can you deny a feeling that strong? He could have only been Jasper. She turned towards him again and asked quietly, "Why are you here?"

Just Breathe

Jasper looked at her, her eyes wild. She was not taking this well. He could see bland recognition and denial in her face and he set the clipboard and glasses down slowly. He took a careful step forward, his hands spread in a peaceful gesture. "Penny, don't be afraid. It's just me. It's Jasper. I know you know me. Just calm down. Take a deep breath. Everything is going to be fine. I'm here; you won't be alone anymore. Just think about it. I'm not going to do anything. I'll stand right here. Take your time. I'm never leaving you again."

Santa Is Real!

Penny looked up at the sound of someone coming in the office. Figuring it was her boss, she started to make towards her when she realized that that wasn't her boss... and what was with those glasses... and what was he doing in the back office... and why couldn't she move? After a slight pause she heard him say "Penny?" She couldn't take her eyes off him. ...notrealhe'snotrealhe'snotre... She didn't know when her thoughts had turned to that, but it was all she could think. All she could get out was "Who...?" Like she didn't know the answer to that already.

First Glimpse Through Really Bad Glasses

Jasper tapped his finger impatiently on the coffee mug, drawing a glare from the guy sitting next to him. Yeah well, bugger off, mate, he thought as he met the man's gaze cooly. The man quickly found something else to do with his time. And speaking of time, Jasper felt like he was running out of it. He looked furtively around but saw the waitresses busy with orders. He wouldn't find a better opportunity. He got up from the chair and walked straight back into the kitchen like he belonged here. He grabbed up a clipboard that looked like it was used for inventory and the pair of glasses on top. He slipped the glasses on then immediately regretted it. Whoever wore these had serious bad eyesight. Made him wonder where that person was now...He strolled among the workers, looking under counters and inside fridges, pretending to mark things on the sheet and meeting everyone's gaze with a business-like nod.

"Hey you!" Cringing a little on the inside, he squared his shoulders and turned.

"Yes?" he asked politely. It was a large man waving a meat cleaver around carelessly, a jovial expression on his face.

"You wanna see the boss, her office is in the back. She stepped out, but she'll be back. Said she was waitin' for ye." Jasper gave an acknowledging nod and continued to the back. He didn't see his girl and she must be around here somewhere. He spied a door slightly ajar and slipped into it, closing the door behind him and heaving a sigh.

The glasses were making his eyes water and he massaged his temples as he turned around and spotted a figure though the distorted view. He gave a small start and started apologizing when he noticed...red hair...He squinted over the tops of the glasses into sad green eyes. His jaw dropped. "Penny?"

Dishwashing Rebel

Penny had made it to the back office, but it was empty. "Well, great," she thought. "Now what am I going to do." She had only worked here a week, but the money that she had earned was what was going to feed her and pay for band aides for the next couple of months. She couldn't very well leave without it. She also couldn't justify staying when things were feeling so hinky. She wouldn't have survived this long on the streets had her sense of suspicion not formed quickly. Perhaps she would be back soon. Just taking out the trash or something. She supposed she could wait in the office for a few minutes... but if she didn't come back, she might just have to cut her losses. It was spring time. Surely things would be growing outside the city she could eat.

Feelin' the "Mojo"

Jasper felt something was wrong not long after the waitress came back with his coffee and apologetic smile. He flipped open his cell and hit the call button twice. It rang once then Neila picked up.

"Watch the back. Cover all entrances but keep your distance. Something's up."

"It's not even close to th--" she began but he interrupted her mid-sentence.

"Just do it." He hung up abruptly, grabbed his coffee and sat at the bar on the stool with the best view of the kitchen. If Penny came though the front, she couldn't possibly miss him.

"Mojo" Is In Vogue

"Hey, Penny" said the waitress who's name Penny never bothered to remember, "There's a pretty cute Brit wanting to treat you to food after you shift waiting for you." Penny looked at the waitress with suspicion. "Tell him I'm not interested. Tell him to take his assumptions and shove them somewhere." Somehow she knew it wouldn't be that easy. There was some weird mojo going down. There weren't many dishes this time of day, so making sure to take a route that wouldn't be visible to the dining area, she went to see if her boss was in her office. As she did so, she closed her eyes and thought "Hey Jasper. I think I may need to get out of here early... there's something strange going on. Tell you about it later, if you don't already know." She always feels silly assuming that he would need updating. If he was just part of her mind, he would automatically know everything she knew. Somehow, though, it just seems easier to tell him anyway. Brains are weird like that.

Close

Jasper was still sketching the girl from his dreams when his cell phone vibrated on the desk in front of him. He flipped it open.

"What," he said in greeting, keeping his voice entirely uninviting.

"It's me." The warm voice on the other end was Neila. He relaxed back in his chair. "She entered a diner. Looks like she's a dishwasher. I think you'd better come down here and make the transition easier. She's not going anywhere for a while so there's no need for us to act rashly."

"Yeah, I hear you," he drawled. "On my way." He hung up and closed his study, bringing the key with him. He called to have a car waiting, one of the less conspicuous ones. He would scare her away with too much money. As he got in the backseat, his breath hitched and he worked to calm himself. He was so close, there was no time to lose it.

The car dropped him off and Neila met him in the front. He told the driver to park and wait for him, no matter how long. He told Neila to cover the back in case his plan didn't work. With a nod and a swing of her long hair, she walked away. He slouched into the diner, wishing he'd worn clothes a little less...rich. It was a cozy diner and he was obviously out of place among the old-timers and down-on-their-luck-ers. He scowled at all of them and sat in the farthest booth from the kitchen. When the waitress came with her sunny smile, he asked her how long the dishwashers normally worked.

"Well, there's one in there now and I think the shift runs until three. Is there a reason you asked?" She clearly wasn't the brightest bulb. He smiled at her and said he'd just take some coffee for now and to tell the dishwasher there was someone waiting for her out here at the end of her shift with a free meal. He settled in to wait.

A Girl's Gotta Work To Eat

Penny stretched as she woke up remembering just how much she hated cities. Cities were necessary every now and then, though because they had anonymous jobs. She was currently washing dishes at a restaurant down the street. Hey, gotta eat. She needed new shoes too, but those could wait until closer to winter. She looked around, thankful this city at least had the decency to build a park despite it's lack of trees. When living on the road, sleeping in trees was the easiest thing for her because no one ever bothers to look up. Trees are better than park benches which are better than the ground. Last night had been a park bench night. Only two more days in this dreadful city then she could get back out to the open skies and clean air. I mean, she couldn't even see the stars here. What a way to live.

She had been experiencing a sense of foreboding these last couple of days. Almost as if someone was watching her. She wasn't too worried about it. You'd be amazed what you could escape after 5 years on the streets. She had told Jasper about it in her dream last night, and he didn't seem worried. If he wasn't worried, she knew that she didn't have to be either. She closed her eyes and thought "Off to work, now. Almost done with this place." She grabbed her backpack and hoofed it the block and a half to the diner.

A New Hope

Jasper was in his study, intent on his latest sketches when the door opened smoothly and shut just as softly. He straightened but didn't turn, brushing his auburn hair out of his eyes.

"Neila."

"Good news," the woman said softly. "She was spotted south of here, in one of the many alleys in the city. We're just waiting for the word to pick her up."

"And you think you really have her this time?" He sighed, thinking of the many disappointments in the past.

"This one looks closest to the sketch as I have ever seen." The woman leaned forward a bit, her black hair falling over her shoulder in the motion. "She dreams."

Jasper's eyes narrowed and he rose abruptly. "How long has she been under surveillance?"

"For the past week or so. I believe your search for the girl is over. How will you explain this to your parents?"

"They need not know," he said dismissively, waving his hand. "Bring her in. Gently. Though do not let her get away. If need be, subdue her. She'll thank me for it someday." He was more worried than he let on. He knew she was a fragile thing and this might push her over the edge. But the quicker she was off the streets and safe with him, the better.

"Hmhm. They will find out about it sooner or later you know. Which would you rather it be?"

"That will be all, Nelia," he replied, frowning. She gave an almost imperceptible smile and left. He sank back down into his chair, sighing heavily. "Everything will be all right, Penny," he whispered at the sad eyes sketched before him.