A step forward

[Prophet]

Parthenon - Club Envy - VIP Area

Vivica: "No need to explain, Cameron. You've had a thing for 'roun the way tricks like THAT since we were teenagers.."

Cameron exhaled deeply as he embraced Karen in a warm hug.

"Vivica...please...just calm down..."

Looking back it had been a stupid decision to have the BOTH of them there. But to be honest, he really didn't know that the two of them still harbored such bad feelings between each other. He OBVIOUSLY hadn't been there when he was considered dead. He didn't know what exactly went on in those months because he was busy being tortured to death at the hands of his sister and MALICE. He was preoccupied. So sue him. It actually left a poor taste in his mouth for BOTH of them. Cameron had come a LONG way since first embarking in life with The Six and if he could make things right with people like his sister and Morgan? Then surely these divas could take a SEAT and calm their asses down for one night in order to honor the person they were THERE to celebrate. Coupled with the exchange he had just had with Delilah in her penthouse, he was no longer in the mood to tolerate any kind of foolishness.

He focused his attention on Karen, whom he had come to a new level of understanding with in the previous month, having worked hand in hand with the Doctor to help Delilah onto a path of healing. He ribbed her about the Dinner Party on Aerie.

Karen: "Yes, that reminds me. The next time you decide to send Michael wandering to my suite in a drunken stupor, I'll have to return the "favor"...by turning you into a mushroom."

Cameron smiled.

"Well, Dr. V...like you sang in the Great Hall...those boots were made for walking..you should have put them to good use and walked over Mikey's back... [laughing] which i'm sure you DID!"

Karen: "I'm happy that Blaze is feeling better. She really has come to fill a void in our lives that was left by...Foxfire. But it's good that she can see now we see her for who SHE is...not just who she LOOKS LIKE.

From the corner of his eye he saw Blaze entering the Club and he smile and pointed over to her.

"And she is LOOKING pretty damn good tonight..."

[thinking for a moment]

"I'm very glad too...I've managed to connect with Blaze today in a way I NEVER think I could have with Foxfire...surprisingly...not surprisingly it involved a lot of groping."

Suddenly, Nicolas came over and tried in haste to lighten the mood he was sensing between Alycia and Vivica. Cameron's eyes lit up as he walked over to Nicolas and gave him a big hug.

"NK! There you are, man! We did it!"

He then sent a thought call.

"I know...stupid fucking decision...I'll take care of it..."

Cameron sent the thought to Nicolas as he began to tease Karen a little bit. His ears began to burn with incredible discomfort as he realized that SHANIA TWAIN?! was being played in one of his venues.

"What the fuck?"

He turned his head to see Cassandra engaged in a rather lively karaoke battle with some young man. The crowd seemed to enjoy it, but Cameron was simply not having it. He grabbed his phone for a moment.

"That brunette who's a little sharp is with me, however. Don't you let her NEAR another microphone for the rest of the night."

"Like I don't have enough to deal with...now I have to babysit Pippy Longstocking?"

Cameron pushed that thought out of his mind. As his mind snapped back to reality and the people at the table, he heard Vivica.

Vivica: "Well, if we all start drinking as much as it appears Alycia has already, I think we are ALL in for a good time!"

Cameron shot a dagger like stare at Vivica as he tugged gently on Alycia's arm and gave her a stern look, shooting her a thought call.

"Alycia....PLEASE. Don't...not here...I'll handle this..Not the time...NOT the place..."

He watched as Vivica was walking away when he could hear Ava taking her seat.

Vivica: "Sister Mary Vivica from her on out Nicolas! I promise! Now if you'll excuse me, I need another damn drink...and I think CAMERON might be just the person to get it with me! Karen? Mike! Very happy to see you...I'll catch up with you both later!"

Ava: "Who else did you invite, Cameron? Jodi Arias?"

Cameron scrunched his face up as he turned to Ava and smiled sarcastically.

"No, not Jodi! But don't worry...Helena and Diana are on their way as we SPEAK, and then later I thought we'd try to bring my MOTHER back to life!"

[a grin appeared on his face]

"And by the way, Cassadine..nice."

He quipped, indicating that he had caught a peak of the show that she and Simon had put on in the hallway some ninety floors up.

Just then he heard Vivica in his mind.

Vivica: "Cameron King, you get your hot to trot ass OVER to this bar!"

Cameron rolled his eyes.

"Look..everybody! Get settled in and PLEASE start enjoying yourselves..."

[pointing to Cass]

"Maybe not THAT much...but let's everyone remember we've all gone through FAR worse situations than THIS. Perspective. Now...if you'll excuse me..."

He turned on his feet and made his way over to the bar where Vivica was seen pounding a rather strong drink. He went up to her and she opened her mouth, no doubt to unload. Cameron placed his hand up, effectively trying to stop her from speaking.

"Look...I DIDN'T realize that things were still so bad between you and Alycia..I'm sorry. Had I known I would have let the both of you know and let you make your OWN decision as to whether or not you wanted to come...but V?! Come on...Alycia is part of our family. She's part of Blaze's family. I invited you here tonight because you always got along with Foxfire...you two worked together on a LOT of the merger stuff between Illustra and The Parthenon. You respected each other and I wanted you to meet Blaze. Obviously I arrived WAY too late to run any kind of damage control...but could you just do me a favor and stick around? I know Blaze would appreciate it...and I WOULD appreciate it...you wanted me to make more of an effort...well, I'm trying...but you're not making it easy...."

 

[Longshot]

Parthenon - Club Envy - VIP Area

Simon stopped at the bar in order to get himself a Ketel One Vodka before making his way over to the VIP Section. He watched from afar as Ava made her way to one of the tables. Everybody looked to be somewhat on edge but he couldn't exactly tell from what. Had their little tryst really caused that much of a stir? Nah, not even Simon was THAT conceited. He couldn't find the fiery redhead from earlier anywhere around and he figured she must have stopped at one of the many other bars to get a drink before heading over.

He got his drink and began to make his way through the club, amidst the bodies dancing and a small crowd cheering for a young woman who seemed to really be into Shania Twain, which made him laugh pretty loud. The dancefloor was now becoming PACKED. Thankfully, Simon had been to the VIP Lounge of Envy many times and he knew that the others would be relieved to have their own private dance floor. As he was making his way towards the VIP, a rather drunk woman was twirling around with her drink in her hand and singing loudly.

Drunk Bitch: "WOOOOOO!!!!!! I LOVE this SONG!"

She was stomping around like a retarded horse and dancing like one for that matter when she stumbled forward and began to trip on her heels, sending her on a collision course headed straight towards Simon as her drink began to fly out of her cup almost in slow motion. It was set to ruin his entire outfit and cause him to look bad in public.

"NOT the Marc Jacobs, sweetheart.."

For a split second his light seafoam green eyes glimmered a sparkling green color as he continued to walk. All at once, in what seemed like a fit of incredible luck, the liquid spilling from the glass at GREAT speed seemed to alter it's course as the woman HERSELF began somehow managed to trip FURTHER on a rough spot of the dance floor and was JERKED in the other direction causing her to narrowly miss Simon altogether as he walked pass not giving her another look.

Walking up the steps he made his way to the group JUST as Cameron walked off. Great, now he wasn't going to have a proper introduction made FOR him.

"Bad ettiquette, King..."

He decided to start with Nicolas.

"Nicolas King! We meet again! I didn't realize everybody had started gathering together. I was lost in the music...."

He shook the man's hand while shooting a quick and knowing, almost devilish glance at Ava before making his way over to Karen, Alycia and Mike.

"I hope i'm not interrupting. I'm Simon Pratt...I work with Cameron at The Zenith Group. He invited me tonight...He seemed to think it was a good idea for me to get to know his group of friends!"

[turning to Ava]

"Ava...Good to see you again...mind if sit down?"

Simon received his greetings from the others as he took a seat on the opposite side Karen and Mike, sitting right next to Ava. Once he was settled in his seat, he daringly let his hand roam under the table and into Ava's thigh as he looked at her and spoke into her ear for a moment.

"So much for a proper introduction from King...I feel like the new kid at school..."

 

[Persephone]

Cameron: "And by the way, Cassadine..nice."

Unbeknownst to Ava, Cameron had witnessed hers and Simon's hallway tryst earlier. Narrowing her eyes just slightly, a coy smile spread across her lips as she took another sip of her drink. She didn't bother to acknowledge what he was referring to to clue in the others, she just left it at that. As Cameron left, Simon arrived. Ava eyed him as he greeted Nicolas with the enthusiasm of an old friend, before apologizing for taking so long to come up. I was lost in the music.. He stated before giving a sideways glance at Ava with a devilish smile. Slightly amused, Ava smirked before turning her attention to the cocktail waitress that arrived at the table.

"Another double Evan Williams on the rocks. Save the ginger ale."

The cocktail waitress nodded and headed to the bar to fetch Ava's drink.

Simon: "Ava...Good to see you again...mind if sit down?"

"Of course."

She was polite--not overly friendly. Scooting over so Simon had some room to get in, as soon as they settled, his hand was immediately on her upper thigh, dangerously close to....clearing her throat, Ava smiled at the cocktail waitress as she returned with her drink.

"Thank you."

As she took a sip of her drink, Simon leaned in and whispered in her ear.

Simon: "So much for a proper introduction from King...I feel like the new kid at school..."

"You certainly aren't acting like it."

She softly whispered back, in reference to him groping her under the table. Not that she wasn't ENJOYING it....but it was a little strange considering Karen Victoria was sitting right across from her. Deciding to break the ice, Ava looked at the others and smiled.

"Cameron actually assigned Simon to work with me. I think he[Cameron] was going to announce it....but since he's dealing with some drama at the moment, I suppose I will! I've decided to branch out from Cassadine Enterprises and oversee the building and development of the Parisian Parthenon in France. I'm actually very excited...."

As she said 'excited', she looked over at Simon. Excited about the Parthenon, sure....the type of excited SHE was talking about? Oh, that was all from him. Looking back at the others.

"..to be doing something different and out from under my father's name."

 

[Titan]

Delilah's Suite, 94th Floor, The Parthenon

Wow. WOW.

Andrew rolled over onto his side, so he was facing Delilah.

“Do you want to order some food? Room service actually makes a pretty terrific cheeseburger…”

He trailed a finger down her bare arm.

She turned her head towards him. She smiled.

Delilah: “Andrew-“

She rolled onto her side and propped herself up on one elbow, then leaned in to him and pressed her lips hard against his. This was good.

Delilah: “Get out.”

Um, what?

“Um, what?”

Delilah: “It was nice and all…”

Nice!?

Delilah: “…but it’s time for you to go now.”

She got out of the other side of the bed, pulling the sheet with her, leaving him exposed. Exposed. She stood looking down at him, expectantly. Confused, he stood up and started to dress. He had only managed his boxers when she picked up the rest of his clothes and shoved them into his arms.

Delilah: “Well, thank you…”

She ushered him to the door and opened it.

Delilah: “If I need you, I’ll call.”

She pushed him backwards out the door, then shut it forcefully. In his face.

What had just happened?

He turned slowly, dropped his clothes into a pile in the hallway, and began to put them on piece by piece. He was stunned.

Usually, they WANT you to stay.

Normally he had to sneak out. He’d never been kicked out before. And after only three times!

He draped his rumpled tie loosely around his neck and slung his suit jacket over one shoulder.

But still…

…once you’re in there once, it’s easier to do it again!

And of course, he had been good. Great. Fantastic even. She just didn’t want to let on how much she liked him. The little minx.

He smiled and nodded to himself as he walked down the hallway the rest of the way to the elevator and got in. It might seem like this was a put down but in actuality it was something to be celebrated. This deserved a drink.

He sauntered into Club Envy still a little unsteady on his legs, but definitely in a more upbeat mood. He ordered another beer from the bar and sat down, surveying the scene inside the club.

 

[Black Widow]

Parthenon: Envy

All she had to do was make it past the reception desk without seeing any one she knew. She put on her most aggressive don't-fuck-with-me face and briskly strutted through the lobby.

She arrived at Envy to a rather well done dubstep remix. The place was packed pretty well but Haleigh didn't want to stay down on the main level with the socialites and wannabes. She headed up to the VIP lounges where the company was sure to be more selective.

As she came around the corner, just before the velvet rope, she slowed to a halt.

Random patron: excuse me, miss?

She wasn't paying attention. She'd spotted Cameron, over at the bar with Vivica. He glanced her way for just a second, their eyes locked.

Random patron: hey lady?

Her heartbeat was dependable. It didn't skip, or speed up, it just kept humming along, a steady 750 beats per minute, like an engine at idle. It was her head that stopped working for a bit. A smile tugged at the corners of her mouth subconsciously. Cameron. a single thought to jump start her brain again. She looked away, breaking their eye contact and the trance. Good thing neither he nor Nicolas could hear her thoughts (or lack thereof) anymore. Malice had made sure of that. They still sense her consciousness, but all higher brain function was inaccessible to telepathic powers and if they pressed, they'd find themselves with a severe 'brain freeze' sensation.

Someone grabbed her arm.

Random patron: hey, Black Widow!

She easily rotated out of his grip and then grabbed him by the hand, twisting his wrist to the point of pain, but not enough to break it as she turned her attention finally on the guy that had been talking to her. He was nobody..... a flat scan. Probably just wanted to buy her a drink. She released him with a gentle apology. He looked surprised, then pleased.

Guy: IT IS YOU, Black Widow! I saw you on the news! Hey, will you sign an autograph for me?

"Sorry, I don't have a pen."

Nearby girl: I have a pen!! Would you mind? OMG!

Fuck. Fuckity fuck fuck.

Girl to first guy: hey, will you take our picture?

And out came the camera phones. Lights started flashing, people started gathering. Haleigh considered opening fire on the crowd.... but that would be bad press for everybody. She started signing her moniker on random things, bar napkins, baseball caps, body parts and lingerie. It looked like somebody had directed a strobe light at her. People were taking selfies with her while she signed for them, and reaching above the crowd to get photos of her before they got close enough to shove something in her hands to sign. She was trapped about ten feet away from the rope, and their was a circle of about thirty people and growing starting to envelope her. The bigger the circle got, the more people that caught on. Every body asked the stupidest fucking questions imaginable.

Why didn't SHIELD let her cover it up? Why the fuck did they want to go public with the Avengers Initiative? Stupid Tony Stark, coming out as Iron Man and setting the precedent.

 

[MorningStar]

Delilah's Suite, 94th Floor, The Parthenon

Delilah rolled onto her back, and lay there, staring at the ceiling. Her body was sticky with sweat, and tendrils of her long blonde hair stuck to her face and neck.

“Do you want to order some food? Room service actually makes a pretty terrific cheeseburger…”

Now what to do with him?

She turned to look at him, trying to think of the right thing to say.

“Andrew-“

Hmm…’Shut up’?...’I’m not hungry’?...’Thanks’?

She rolled onto her side and looked at him, naked beside her. He did have a super hot bod, even if she would never tell him that. And he had stamina, that was for sure. Thank god for 26 year olds.

I need some kind of closure here.

She planted one last hard kiss on his mouth, then pulled back and looked him in the eyes.

“Get out.”

He looked confused. But of course, he probably wasn’t the brightest bulb out there, dumb jock that he was.

“It was nice and all…but it’s time for you to go now.”

She got out of bed, careful to wrap the sheet around her so he didn’t get any further ideas. She was tired and didn’t want to deal with him anymore. He was moving so slowly, like he didn’t believe that she actually wanted him to leave. She needed to pick up the pace, so she started picking up his stuff for him. She thought about throwing it out in the hall and letting him go fetch it, but that would have been rude, so she handed everything that was his to him and shooed him out the door into the hallway.

“Well, thank you. If I need you, I’ll call.”

Shutting the door, she was finally alone. She breathed out a long sigh of relief and went back to the bedroom. Curling up on the bed, she noticed her stomach rumbling.

Huh, I guess I am hungry.

She picked up the phone next to the bed and hit the button for room service. A staffer picked up on the other end and asked her for her order.

“I heard you guys make really great cheeseburgers.”

 

[Recall]

Parthenon - VIP Lounge

Vivica slugged back her vodka drink with great speed as she watched Cameron approach her. The bartender had made good on his word to refill her glass as soon as possible. This time she took a sip. If she kept up at THIS pace, then she would become as sloppy as she had accused Alycia of being

Soon, Cameron was in front of her but before she could even SPEAK, he motioned for her to stop, as if she were some kind of well trained labrador. She looked displeased as he spoke.

"Look...I DIDN'T realize that things were still so bad between you and Alycia..I'm sorry. Had I known I would have let the both of you know and let you make your OWN decision as to whether or not you wanted to come...but V?! Come on...Alycia is part of our family. She's part of Blaze's family. I invited you here tonight because you always got along with Foxfire...you two worked together on a LOT of the merger stuff between Illustra and The Parthenon. You respected each other and I wanted you to meet Blaze. Obviously I arrived WAY too late to run any kind of damage control...but could you just do me a favor and stick around? I know Blaze would appreciate it...and I WOULD appreciate it...you wanted me to make more of an effort...well, I'm trying...but you're not making it easy...."

She blinked and shook her head in disbelief. Who WAS this man standing before her because she almost didn't recognize him.

"Do you a FAVOR?"

Vivica threw her hands up in desperation as she placed one hand on her hip, and left the other to gesture up and down in the air as she spoke to him, trying to keep her composure.

"Cameron, my entire LIFE has been spent doing YOU favors..and where the HELL has it gotten ME? When is it time for YOU to step up and do a favor for ME! Because you CERTAINLY haven't done any ever since you hooked up with The Six..."

This had been a long time coming for Vivica. She would not go into it as deeply as she wanted because the situation simply didn't warrant it, but she WOULD not stop until she had let Cameron have a piece of HER mind.

"Were you doing me any favors when you dissappeared off the face of the planet and left me to run your entire company?! Were you doing ME a favor by somehow completely forgetting to even INCLUDE me in the goodbyes read at your funeral? I don't know when you WROTE those Cameron...but to sit there, with everybody around me assuming that we were the best of friends and I didn't even get a formal goodbye?! Meanwhile every member of The Six was left with some kind of heartfelt parting words...Do you have ANY idea how hard that was for me? Do you even CARE?"

She took a longer sip of her drink this time before setting her glass down on the table. She began to poke him in the chest as she spoke.

"Then you leave your estate in the hands of a woman who CLEARLY despises me and took EVERY opportunity to make her opinion of me known...WHILE reading your will, I might add?! She made me feel less than human, Cameron. Like a fuckin' GROUPIE when ALL I ever tried to do was give you the space and freedom to enjoy the new FAMILY you found...BUT in doing so, you seemed to FORGET the family that you HAD..and the ONLY person in your life that looked at your like you were a GOOD person! And now suddenly because she finds you TOLERABLE you LEAP at the opportunity to get into her pants? How quickly you forget the work that *I* had to do, with the help of Zach Armani, I might add, in order to fight off the SEC when she tried to bring them in to DESTROY YOU."

"I went to GREECE to help stop your insane sister and I was regarded as deadweight...LESS than human by nearly EVERYBODY on that goddamn team and still I said NOTHING...I even tried to HELP them by trying to take out Stavros when I had the chance, and when I TOOK a bullet to the neck BECAUSE of it...I was left for dead! Not a single ONE of them has spoken to me since!"

She looked over at the group from across the way, and she resented them. All of them had been through so much together, had done TERRIBLE things to each other, but somehow managed to find a respect amongst themselves, a respect that they never truly extended to Vivica.

"I was saddled with a company I did NOT want...a company that WITHOUT ME, you wouldn't have had the pleasure of HAVING, and I don't even get so much as a THANK you. You get brought back from the dead, meet me at a diner and spend all your time talking about your unrequited love with HALEIGH..."

[looking over]

"Who's just arrived by the way..."

Vivica took a sip of her drink and tried to calm her thoughts. The last thing she wanted to do was have an argument with Cameron on what was supposed to be a lighthearted and fun occassion, but his sheer ignorance at the fracture in their relationship was appalling and Vivica simply couldn't let it be unspoken any longer.

[softer]

"You look great, Cameron. You've obviously found some peace. You know who you are now and it shows...and I'm over the MOON to see you this happy...but you forgot who you WERE, and you forgot the people that GOT you there...and part of me gets it. You found a family in a spiritual sense and you found Alison...but you cast me aside. You may may finally be in a good space with your teammates, and you may finally have made ammends with THEM, but you CERTAINLY haven't made ammends with ME, Cameron..."

She placed her fingers over the bridge of her nose trying to relieve the chaos that was swirling around in her mind. She waved her hand in the air in a 'we're done' kind of gesture.

"But being the friend that I AM? I'll play along tonight. I will be charming and I will be a good girl, if only because I hope to GOD that Blaze VICTORY never has to experience the kind of behavior from most of them that *I* have...."

Vivica rolled her eyes and let out a heavy sigh that dripped with some relief. It had felt good to finally say what had been on her mind for the last two years.

"I love you Cameron...like a brother. But if you keep treating me like I'll always be there just because I have been, well then you might find yourself in a similar situation to the one you created with HALEIGH...Now, go and be the boisterious and charming host I know you are. I will be fine...and for NOW, we can table this...but you DO owe me an apology and you DEFINITELY better start working towards making this right...."

 

[Prophet]

Parthenon - Club Envy - VIP Area

She blinked and shook her head in disbelief. Who WAS this man standing before her because she almost didn't recognize him.

"Do you a FAVOR?"

Vivica threw her hands up in desperation as she placed one hand on her hip, and left the other to gesture up and down in the air as she spoke to him, trying to keep her composure.

"Cameron, my entire LIFE has been spent doing YOU favors..and where the HELL has it gotten ME? When is it time for YOU to step up and do a favor for ME! Because you CERTAINLY haven't done any ever since you hooked up with The Six..."

This had been a long time coming for Vivica. She would not go into it as deeply as she wanted because the situation simply didn't warrant it, but she WOULD not stop until she had let Cameron have a piece of HER mind.

Cameron's eyes widened for a moment as he definitely was not expecting this type of reaction from her. He realized that it would just be best if he kept his mouth shut and let her get all of this out, plus he wasn't exactly sure what she was talking about.

"Were you doing me any favors when you dissappeared off the face of the planet and left me to run your entire company?! Were you doing ME a favor by somehow completely forgetting to even INCLUDE me in the goodbyes read at your funeral? I don't know when you WROTE those Cameron...but to sit there, with everybody around me assuming that we were the best of friends and I didn't even get a formal goodbye?! Meanwhile every member of The Six was left with some kind of heartfelt parting words...Do you have ANY idea how hard that was for me? Do you even CARE?"

She took a longer sip of her drink this time before setting her glass down on the table. She began to poke him in the chest as she spoke.

Cameron hung his head for a moment as he listened to the words of his hurt friend. The time leading up to the time he had been captured, Cameron had been in Los Angeles. He had left The Six because quite simply he couldn't DEAL with being part of them anymore. The revelation that Alison was his sister...Erika and then having to destroy his mother? Coupled with the aftermath of The Inferno? Cameron simply felt as if the team was better off without him. It had been stupid and selfish and short sighted, but it was a decision that Cameron made and had to live with. He didn't realize how affected by the situation Vivica had been, and he felt bad...REALLY bad.

"Then you leave your estate in the hands of a woman who CLEARLY despises me and took EVERY opportunity to make her opinion of me known...WHILE reading your will, I might add?! She made me feel less than human, Cameron. Like a fuckin' GROUPIE when ALL I ever tried to do was give you the space and freedom to enjoy the new FAMILY you found...BUT in doing so, you seemed to FORGET the family that you HAD..and the ONLY person in your life that looked at your like you were a GOOD person! And now suddenly because she finds you TOLERABLE you LEAP at the opportunity to get into her pants? How quickly you forget the work that *I* had to do, with the help of Zach Armani, I might add, in order to fight off the SEC when she tried to bring them in to DESTROY YOU."

"I went to GREECE to help stop your insane sister and I was regarded as deadweight...LESS than human by nearly EVERYBODY on that goddamn team and still I said NOTHING...I even tried to HELP them by trying to take out Stavros when I had the chance, and when I TOOK a bullet to the neck BECAUSE of it...I was left for dead! Not a single ONE of them has spoken to me since!"

He had only heard the stories of what had happened with Erika after his death. But by then, she had already been reduced to nothing more than a play thing by Diana. Malice had manipulated the already fragile and jealous relationship she had with Alison and used it to torture Cameron for reasons that Cameron wasn't still sure of to this day. Malice seemed to have a PERSONAL vendetta against the children of Kelly King that went outside her standard operating procedure. Normally, Diana operated in the shadows. Her work was impeccable but it was for the most part secret. With Cameron, Erika and Alison, her work was aggressive and seemed intentionally direct. It was part of the reason that Cameron HATED her so much. The woman had taken his mother and his sister away from him, and she KILLED him in the process. The only thing that kept him able to return was his sheer force of WILL allowing his astral soul to remain in tact, something that he was sure even surprised Diana. She touted quite often that she was a far stronger telepath than anything that he was capable of, but BOTH of them had managed to survive deaths that others would have not have been so lucky to have, and it was because of the way they were able to assert and use their abilities.

Cameron had discovered Vivica had been shot only AFTER he had met with her at the diner after stopping Haleigh and Zach outside the church, before Sharon Kelly led her onlsaught on the streets of New York City. He was going through so much and his FIRST moments back on Earth, he was faced with seeing Haleigh pick out a wedding venue. It had been difficult to say the least. Hearing Vivica speak, he didn't realize just how hard of a time she had HAD with the rest of The Six in his absence.

"Vivica, of course I care...It's not that black and whi--"

She continued, not listening to him.

She looked over at the group from across the way, and she resented them. All of them had been through so much together, had done TERRIBLE things to each other, but somehow managed to find a respect amongst themselves, a respect that they never truly extended to Vivica.

"I was saddled with a company I did NOT want...a company that WITHOUT ME, you wouldn't have had the pleasure of HAVING, and I don't even get so much as a THANK you. You get brought back from the dead, meet me at a diner and spend all your time talking about your unrequited love with HALEIGH..."

[looking over]

"Who's just arrived by the way..."

The tone of the conversation and hearing her name sent Cameron for a loop. Instantly, the hairs on the back of his neck raised as Vivica announced her arrival. He turned his head only for a second, and instantly their eyes were locked in an intense gaze. It was so good, yet so painfully bittersweet to see her. They hadn't been themselves with each other in a very long time, and while that allowed them to somehow move on with their lives and really become BETTER people, the look the two exchanged seemed to say that BOTH of them wanted, more than anything to just be able to be in the same room with each other, have a beer and simply forget everything that happened between them. They both wanted something that most likely could never HAPPEN.

Cameron finally was able to control himself as he shook his head feverishly and turned back to Vivica. The entire exchange between him and Haleigh had lasted a few fleeting seconds, but to him, it had felt like a lifetime. He felt himself wanting to leave Vivica and welcome Haleigh back into the fold, which only confirmed to him that everything that Vivica was saying...was RIGHT.

Vivica took a sip of her drink and tried to calm her thoughts. The last thing she wanted to do was have an argument with Cameron on what was supposed to be a lighthearted and fun occassion, but his sheer ignorance at the fracture in their relationship was appalling and Vivica simply couldn't let it be unspoken any longer.

[softer]

"You look great, Cameron. You've obviously found some peace. You know who you are now and it shows...and I'm over the MOON to see you this happy...but you forgot who you WERE, and you forgot the people that GOT you there...and part of me gets it. You found a family in a spiritual sense and you found Alison...but you cast me aside. You may may finally be in a good space with your teammates, and you may finally have made ammends with THEM, but you CERTAINLY haven't made ammends with ME, Cameron..."

She placed her fingers over the bridge of her nose trying to relieve the chaos that was swirling around in her mind. She waved her hand in the air in a 'we're done' kind of gesture.

"But being the friend that I AM? I'll play along tonight. I will be charming and I will be a good girl, if only because I hope to GOD that Blaze VICTORY never has to experience the kind of behavior from most of them that *I* have...."

Vivica rolled her eyes and let out a heavy sigh that dripped with some relief. It had felt good to finally say what had been on her mind for the last two years.

"I love you Cameron...like a brother. But if you keep treating me like I'll always be there just because I have been, well then you might find yourself in a similar situation to the one you created with HALEIGH...Now, go and be the boisterious and charming host I know you are. I will be fine...and for NOW, we can table this...but you DO owe me an apology and you DEFINITELY better start working towards making this right...."

He looked Vivica up and down and could feel nothing but remorse for his actions. Much like the group had done with Blaze, he had done with Vivica. He had simply assumed that she would adjust to his new life as quickly as he had. He assumed that she was okay, and that she would be able to navigate things better than she had. He now understood Blaze's perspective in a whole new light.

Cameron grabbed Vivica's shoulders and he squeezed them, looking her directly in the eyes as he spoke.

"Vivica...I love you. I love you more than I will ever be able to show you. You singlehandedly saved me from a life that would have killed me a long time ago. You were the first person to believe in me...and somewhere along the way, I dropped the ball...I'm sorry. I'm....REALLY SORRY, Vivica...I had no idea. You know better than anybody that sometimes my ignorance knows no bounds....But I promise you THIS. I WILL make this up to you. I will MAKE things right between us...and the fact that you seem willing to give me a chance to do so after everything I've done...well that speaks volumes to the relationship that's still THERE between us...I promise I will show you a good time..."

[he began to turn away]

"And in regards to Alycia...SHE isn't the same person she was...and by all accounts, neither are YOU. Please, for me...give her a chance. You've only seen the worst side of her...but you two have similarities, if you look. She sacrificed EVERYTHING in order to try and protect mutant kind...and THAT includes you...and...well..Vivica, I like her. As a woman...and as a friend. If you don't want to get to know that Alycia for ME...well then do it for yourself, because you might be surprised.

He gave her a softened shrug as he turned around and headed back to the group, nearly counting the steps and the feet between him and Haleigh. He walked past the group and down the stairs into the main hall, hoping maybe not to be seen by the others as he was hoping that he could have just FIVE seconds where his every action and behavior and words towards Haleigh wouldn't be under the giant magnifying glass it always was.

Cameron slowly approached her.

"Black Widow! Black Widow! Please! I want a picture too!"

Haleigh swiveled on her feet, turning around to be faced with Cameron King. She gave him a soft smile as he got closer and enveloped her into a warm and firm hug. The hug only lasted for a few moments, but this was about the only way that Cameron and Haleigh communicated successfully anymore. Everything they wanted to say to each other, was hidden inside this hug. Cameron had learned a long time ago the esoteric ways in which Haleigh showcased things, and you had to LOOK for them, or you would miss them altogether. He smelled her hair, her skin...and that lingering 'connection'...that ridiculously strange and confusing and TERRIBLE magnetic charge that had ALWAYS been there between them, from the moment they had survived the Ant Lions in the Citadle could be felt at full force. He pulled away as his hands remained on the ends of her shoulders.

"Man....I missed you. You won't believe the amount of drama I've managed to already be involved with...and I've only been here for five minutes. Let's just say, I should have looked over the guest list a little more thoroughly.."

He removed his hands from hers. Nobody looking from the VIP Lounge would see anything that looked remotely uncouth from each other, but it was apparent that both of them were both happy and a little uncomfortable to see each other again.

"Now...mind if I escort the celebrity to the party? Or is she too high and mighty to be on the arm of a humble real estate mogul?"

Cameron smiled and extended his arm out.

 

[Ruby]

The Parthenon - Club Envy: Main Floor

:: Once the music changed, and everybody was out on the now PACKED dance floor, Cass turned to Drew. ::

“Thank you so much for doing this! I had a blast!”

Drew: “You know what? I kind of did too. Sorry about my friend’s comment back there. It IS a little embarrassing…”

*laughing*: “Well…YEAH. But I think that it’s ridiculously cute somehow.”

:: They both shared a smile and then spoke in unison. ::

“So…”

Drew: “So…”

:: They both laughed at the now awkward moment. She smiled widely. ::

“Hey, maybe later we can share another dance?”

Drew: *smiles*: “I’d like that…”

“Okay, see you around.”

:: She nodded at him, took his mic from him, and then took her leave, making her way back to Thompson who was still in the spot by the dance floor. He still had a big smile on his way as he reached for the mics in her arms. ::

Thompson: *amused*: “The jig is up, Johnson. Though you did, indeed, put on a great show, and the floor is now packed, it seems that one Cameron King placed a text to security, and security placed a call to ME, telling me to make sure you don’t go near a microphone for the rest of the night.”

Oh. Fuck.

:: Cass’ smile had frozen as she processed Thompson’s words. That meant he would probably want to talk to her at some point, and in her present state of hunger? It would be BAD to be near him at all. Thompson seemed to think she was upset. ::

Thompson: *softly*: “Hey, don’t be like that. You were great; the atmosphere totally changed for the better. Your voice was amazing as well. But doing non-karaoke karaoke? That MIGHT not have been the best thing for tonight…”

:: He nudged her. ::

Thompson: “Don’t worry, Johnson. I’m sure it will all work out.”

:: He patted her on the shoulder before handing her her bag. ::

Thompson: “Here’s your bag. I have to return these mics…”

:: He moved away leaving Cass to wonder what the hell she was going to do NOW. At the moment she couldn’t go NEAR the VIP section. Being near Nicolas was bad enough, but now that she knew CAMERON was here? Their combined energy in the atmosphere would make her… She shuddered. She didn’t even want to think about that. She had to feed on some energy before she could even be near those two. As she made her to the bar, she was stopped by patrons commenting on her performance, most of them saying they loved it. ::

Random Girl: “Are you going to sing another song?”

“Oh sorry. Apparently I’m on the no-fly list now…’scuse me.”

:: She headed to the bar and sat down. On her right was a guy who began making eyes at her as soon as she sat down. ::

Guy: “Hey…”

:: Cass glanced at him. He was cute, nothing special though. But his energy…now THAT was something to be talked about! Her eyes locked with his. ::

*quietly*: “Hi.”

Guy: “I saw you out on that dance floor. You were amazing.”

“Thanks…”

:: She was going to say something else, but he interrupted her. ::

Guy: “Although, I was fantasizing it was me up there with you...”

:: He whispered in her ear. ::

Guy: *whispers*: “And I was taking your clothes off…”

:: Oh, ew! But at least he was headed in the right direction…just not the direction that HE was thinking of. She ran her fingers all along his arm until they were resting on his wrist. Her heartbeat quickened as she was now on the prowl, the huntress eyeing her prey. His lips were now brushing against her ear, his energy BECKONING her. Her breath came in small gasps. ::

“Let’s go somewhere QUIET…”

:: She lightly pushed him away as she got off her stool. He paid for his drink and then tossed his right arm around her waist, his hand just lightly grazing her butt. He nuzzled the top of her head with his lips, giving her tiny kisses. She walked towards the bathrooms in the club, knowing there usually was a janitor’s closet near them. She bypassed both bathrooms and the guy let out a little moan in anticipation. She opened the door, checking behind them that NOBODY was looking and pushed him inside. She shut the door behind her and he immediately pressed her up against the door, kissing her neck while his hands were tugging at her dress’ hemline. ::

Guy: “Oh my god, you are so gorgeous…”

:: He began to slowly kneel down, his eyes looking up at Cass, making eye contact with her and he began the process of what he hoped to accomplish. When he was on his knees, his eyes never leaving hers, she began to kneel down as well. His energy…it was too much. She softly kissed him on the lips and then ran her fingers of both hands through his hair. His breath had quickened and his hands were now grasping her butt. He pulled her to him, falling backwards gently until she was on top of him. Soon they were kissing, Cass shuddering in anticipation of her first energy intake, the guy shuddering because of…well, OTHER things. Her hands grasped the back of his neck gently and…psionically started draining him of his energy. Suddenly the guy began to struggle, kicking his legs and flailing his arms. Because Cass was still kissing him, his screams were muffled. She gripped his neck tightly, still draining him and she watched as his skin took on a grey pallor. His movements slowly stilled and he fell limp on the floor. She stood up and nodded. Though his skin was extremely grey, he’d wake up in the morning good as new…and wondering what the hell happened and how he got in the janitor’s closet. Cass shook back her hair. She felt more alive than ever before since her little meeting with Cameron back in the Clubhouse. She picked up her bag from the floor and opened the door a crack. The coast was clear and she slinked out of the janitor’s room and into the ladies’ bathroom. ::

Ugh! His attitude…it made me feel so dirty! Yuck! And his mouth…it tasted so gross! I need a beer to wash it out.

:: She checked herself in the mirror and was pleased to see that she looked even MORE beautiful than before! She was good for an hour or so before feasting again. She headed back out to the main floor of Envy and headed for the bar. She sat down in the empty seat beside him. A bartender came over to her. ::

Bartender: “Can I get you anything?”

“I’d like a Stella, please. A pint, if you will.”

:: She sighed and placed her bag in front of her, turning back to the dance floor to watch people dance. ::

 

[Artemis]

Envy- VIP lounge

::Alycia looked at Karen in a rather astonished way as the doctor silently reprimanded her. For Karen, it was more about maintaining a sense of decorum than it was about actually advocating For VIVICA. Alycia understood that...and backed of, with a smirk on her face, for the MOMENT.::

:: She looked at Vivca once more::

Yeah bitch, hide behind Karen. That's what you do BEST. Ride the coat tails of your BETTERS to some illusion of relevance

:: Nicolas arrives, pouring on the charm and trying to be a peacemaker::

Nicolas, dont you look nice tonight? ::winking as she greets him personally:: But I'd be a little more concerned about who I was seen and photographed with, if I were you. Just imagine what MORGAN would think, seeing you drapped all over that Kmart Blue Light Special[Vivica]!?

:: Cameron shows up, working OVERTIME to try to mitigate a volatile situation. Alycia, already feeling loosenedup from her 3rd spearmint life saver, stood up to greet him personally, a greeting that he returned equally, much to Vivca's dismay and Alycia's RICH delight::

EAT IT, TAPE DECK! ARE YOU FULL [OF JEALOUSY]? DO YOU WANT SOME MORE?


:: Alycia seats herself as Ava arrives::

"Hello everyone."

Why hello there, Ava.

:: Alycia says as she happily accepts her newly arrived drink from the server::

Walking over to the small bar that was exclusive to the VIP lounge, she ordered herself a double shot of Evan Williams on the rocks with a splash of ginger ale. Taking a sip of her drink through the small red straws, that's when she saw her across the club.

"Vivica Lennox is here? [scoffing] I should of aimed a little higher"

Well...there's always next time!

:: Alycia says in a cheerful tone::

Taking a seat next to Alycia, Karen, and Mike, she rolled her eyes.

"Who else did you invite, Cameron? Jodie Arias?"

She deadpanned. But strangely enough, Alycia seemed amused. And that's when it dawned on Ava--Alycia hated Vivica probably about as much as she did, if not MORE. She forgot about their heated past after Cameron had "died". And now Alycia was unofficially seeing Vivica's best friend [Cameron]? Oh, this was certainly turning into an even more interesting night than she anticipated.

Well no...people actually KNOW who that is and why she's infamous. With this one here? I think maybe he searched "redundant and beyond irrelevant" on google and she popped, right alongside cassette players, vcrs and other useless recording devices that she as so much in common with.

Have a problem? Don't worry, Vivica Lennox, fountain of useless information, will be here to bore you into a stupor and you wont even remember what the problem WAS!

:: Alycia and Ava, both loosened up from their drinking and BOTH being known to enjoy catty behavior from time to time (even toward each other) both enjoyed a moment at Vivica's expense even as others looked on with varying degrees of awkward discomfort::

"[CASS]SHE'S here too? [taking a few sips of her drink] I might have to head down to the common folk as soon as i'm finished with my drink."

She jokingly stated, referring to the elite guests that made up the main floor of the club.

No no...we can send "speak and spell" over here instead. At least Cass is not cursed with a personality of a dial tone.

:: She says with a haughty tone as she takes a moment to inspect her manicured finger nails and her feminum bracelets shimmer as they catch the light from above::

Alycia....PLEASE. Don't...not here...I'll handle this..Not the time...NOT the place...

He watched as Vivica was walking away....

::Alycia's brow furrowed as she heard Cameron's thought call::

OH PLEASE!? That retro mattel toy was practically PAWING all over Nicolas before she invited herself to our table....

...but FINE. Not another word. I promise. BUT...don't get mad if my mouth remains closed LATER ON tonight as well!

:: Alycia "replied" with a smug look on her face as she sat back and crossed her legs at the knee, noting the arrival of Simon.::

and who is this?

He shook the man's hand while shooting a quick and knowing, almost devilish glance at Ava before making his way over to Karen, Alycia and Mike.

"I hope i'm not interrupting. I'm Simon Pratt...I work with Cameron at The Zenith Group. He invited me tonight...He seemed to think it was a good idea for me to get to know his group of friends!"

THAT remains to be seen...

:: Alycia says in a haughty tone as she eyes him with a mix of curiosity and contempt. What WAS it about Cameron!? It was like he had a habit of rounding up every STRAY he could find and bringing them home!::

[turning to Ava]

"Ava...Good to see you again...mind if sit down?"

Simon received his greetings from the others as he took a seat on the opposite side Karen and Mike, sitting right next to Ava.

YOUNG MAN! I beg your pardon!?

:: Karen bellowed as Simon nearly knocked her drink over by accident as he seemed to misjudge his distance from the table while seating himself.::

:: Alycia couldnt help but giggle as Mike quickly calmed the agitated doctor and Ava looked almost RELIEVED, like a GOOD, OLD FRIEND was now sitting with her. Alycia had no idea that if only she'd look under the table, she'd SEE just how "GOOD FRIENDS" they WERE! ::

So much for a proper introduction from King...I feel like the new kid at school...

Well...now that you're sitting at our table...why don't you tell us why we shouldn't haze you, like a "new kid at school?"

:: Alycia asked with a witty tone as she tilted her head to the side a bit and smiled at him. She could tell he was measuring out his presentation to them. He KNEW he was in the presence of people that would not suffer foolishness lightly. If CASS thought SHE had a hard time...Simon was going to get it worse::

Deciding to break the ice, Ava looked at the others and smiled.

"Cameron actually assigned Simon to work with me. I think he[Cameron] was going to announce it....but since he's dealing with some drama at the moment, I suppose I will! I've decided to branch out from Cassadine Enterprises and oversee the building and development of the Parisian Parthenon in France. I'm actually very excited...."

As she said 'excited', she looked over at Simon. Excited about the Parthenon, sure....the type of excited SHE was talking about? Oh, that was all from him. Looking back at the others.

"..to be doing something different and out from under my father's name."

::Alycia batted her eyes and laughed through her nose a bit as she sipped her drink while Ava mentioned that Cameron was busy dealing with "DRAMA" at the moment. Still, she continued to listen as the goddess made Simon seem more relevant with her explanation.::

:: It had been EASIER for Alycia to look at Persephone as PERSEPHONE THE GODESS, rather than AVA, the WOMAN. Since Alycia had spent a SIGNIFICANT amount of time trying to bring down the Cassadine family for their deep ties to Mystech. It was...bittersweet to see Ava accept the term of passing through the Seige Perilous and become MERGED with Persephone. She'd been "THIS CLOSE" to destroying Ava herself and by then, it had become a VENDETTA as she sought to AVENGE Sharon Kelly's death at the hands of Master Mold, which was BUILT by Cassidine industries!::

:: Still, she DID manage to bust up Stavros' empire, for which he surprised her by AMBUSHING her in her satellite office in Illustra, intending to KILL HER. She defended herself, hitting him in the head with a golf club and sending him crashing through the panoramic window and falling to his death, 99 floors down to the ground.::

:: While Alycia had helped Persephone (now merged with Ava) to cement her status as a legal citizen w/OUT any criminal record, this one moment changed THEIR dynamic FOREVER and it was only in the past few WEEKS that their relationship had begun to THAW.::

:: To look at her now and listen to her, was more revealing about her as a WOMAN than anything else Alycia had paid attention to about her for years!::

hmmmm

:: She nodded as she listened, drinking more of her drink and directing the server over::

My glass is very empty!

:: the server nodded as Alycia declared it was time for another one::

Congratulations Ava.

Simon, you should take notes from your boss. she just made you seem more interesting in mere seconds than you have in the last 5 minutes.

 

[Sally Spectra]

Surprise!

::Of all the Six, Haleigh was the most RESERVED when it came to interacting with the fashion goddess. Sally knew enough about Haleigh to understand it was the hybrids nature not to over extend herself, but Zach, bless his little heart, had almost become DRUNK from the empathic RUSH he felt around Sally the first time he met her at After-Dark. The woman was EVERYTHING her supporters AND haters said about her. She helped MORGAN revive her career, signed mutually beneficial contracts with Niclas and Cameron's companies and gave Blaze Victory more than a "start" in an executive career in the fashion role. She was well aware of their status as mutants and it didnt mean a thing to her. She was always a champion for the minority, she being one herself::

:: All of these things, coupled with her genuine, bold, brash charm and bodacious style made her IMPOSSIBLE not to like, even for Haleigh and so, the hybrid didn't fight it, she gave in, and let Sally make her over for the night and boy did she EVER!::

Uh HUH! Look at you! you're even WALKING with some sass now!

Now. Let's go knock 'em dead!

:: Haleigh told Sally to bill her, Sally laughed, waving her hand dismissively, just reminding Haleigh remember, the best payment is advertisement, and to make SURE she struts her stuff in her outfit and if anybody asks...SPECTRA is the designer!::

:: Arriving at the club, Sally had her designs on NICOLAS being her dance partner for the evening. She slipped in to the club, making a lowkey entrance, but definitely drawing some looks and a few whistles from men young AND old in her figure flattering, cleavage showcasing dress.::

:: She already knew where to find the Six. But before she would reach them, even as a THRONG of people exploded around poor Haleigh, something...someONE else caught Sally's eye.::

He sauntered into Club Envy still a little unsteady on his legs, but definitely in a more upbeat mood. He ordered another beer from the bar and sat down, surveying the scene inside the club.

:: the well manicured hand of Sally Spectra SUDDENLY and UNEXPECTEDLY covers the beer mug Andrew was holding just as he was putting it to his mouth and forces it BACK down to the counter::

ANDREW!

:: Sally's contralto voice booms as he is now confronted with her, looking QUITE different than she had hours ago when he last saw her::

What are YOU doing in HERE!?

:: She stood RIGHT in front of him and it was impossible for him to even get out of his seat as she stood there with one hand on her hip, tapping one of her high heels on the floor::

 

[Rampage]

Wow...just wow. Cam and drama seem to be in tune tonight as Cam goes off to talk to Vivica and Alycia stays behind to drink and wait to pounce on someone else. THAT poor someone just happened to be Simon Pratt, who manages to almost knock Karen over. Mike stopped that quickly, 'readjusting' Simon so as to properly seat him beside Ava.

Mike: Whoa kid! Steady there...you OK?

Nicolas laughs as he looks on.

Well...now that you're sitting at our table...why don't you tell us why we shouldn't haze you, like a "new kid at school?"

:: Alycia asked with a witty tone as she tilted her head to the side a bit and smiled at him. She could tell he was measuring out his presentation to them. He KNEW he was in the presence of people that would not suffer foolishness lightly. If CASS thought SHE had a hard time...Simon was going to get it worse::

Nicolas rolled his eyes as he kept laughing. Cam could not manage to avoid drama. No matter WHAT he did, it was going to be a bit more spicy than he would like. Nicolas leaned back and decided to simply ride the wave...unless it messed with Blaze's fun. Then and ONLY then would he make a move.

Then something caught his mind's eye...he knew immediately what it was, WHO it was. And he smiled knowing that Haleigh was finally HERE. Cameron was already there, saving her from the crowd that was gathering. He sent out a thought to Cam.

Good job there CK, now double back before your next conquest eats your new recruit for lunch. We need to try to gather this bag of cats before the lady of the evening arrives.

Standing, Nicolas moves over to the bar where Vivica is drinking. He smiles as he looks at the pretty metahuman. He changes his voice to the corniest white guy voice he could imagine.

Ma'am...if you would, it is almost time to receive the guest of honor. We have some tables reserved and I cam certain that we can all find a seat to our liking for the presentations. Our friend here (nodding to the bartender) will be sending attendants to stand by for any drinks you might need. If you will take my arm and come back we can all enjoy the show.

He was obviously trying to lighten her mood, her irritation was written all over her face. It was only mildly working at the moment. He softened his face as he spoke again in his own voice.

Look Vivica, you are here now. You may as well enjoy yourself. Don't allow anything to take away your good cheer. You got it goin' on girl, you deserve to have some fun. Besides, I am not letting this long face...

<<Nic reaches out and grabs her chin playfully>>

rule the night. OK? OK. Now let's roll.


Nic escorts Vivica back over to an adjacent table as Mike was already reorganizing their personal security detail to give the VIP additional privacy as they had their own party for the night. Nothing too in-your-face, but definitely designed for maximum privacy. He spotted Cass at the bar in the general area and nodded to the bartender, who let her know that the show was about to be underway.

 

[Shadow Weaver]

Envy- VIP

<< Karen remain poised, though she did have this odd sensation...as if her very BRAIN was "loosening" up a bit. She no longer felt AS concerned about the COMMONERS down below. Still, Vivica and Alycia were on the verge of what was clearly a confrontation LONG in the making.>>

<< Karen leaned over to Michael>>

What could he [Cameron] have been THINKING!? Inviting BOTH of them here!



<<Karen was obviously CLOSER to Alycia and cared for her. However, she didn't necessarily have anything against Vivica. She recalled the woman from Cameron's funeral and the reading of his will, but she wasn't present during the caper involving Erika King and Stavros Cassadine. She hadn't known that Ava, before passing through the Seige Perilous to MERGE with Persephone, had SHOT Vivica in the neck and was essentially left for dead. THAT kind of thing would almost CERTAINLY make someone understandibly resentful...to say the least.>>

:: Still, NOW was not the time and the place for EITHER of them to make a scene and each of them was testing the other to see who was likely to OVER REACH first::

<<Nicolas called for calm and to remember who tonight was for. But even HE wasn't always known for discouraging drama and dysfunction But to his credit, he'd grown so much. his humour now was more well placed and his mischief was almost endearing at times. Still, just like his aunt Dominique, Karen would only go SO FAR...>>

<< Soon Ava arrives...or rather RETURNS.>>

Hello, Ava.

<< Ava seats herself, Karen leaned over and spoke quitely to Ava.>>

That was quite a performance you put on out there on the dance floor, dear.

<< Karen said in a rather knowing tone as she lightly teased Ava. Karen had a sense of where and WHY Ava had disappeared>>

<< Soon, Ava and Alycia were taking shots at Vivica>>

Now, NOW Ladies.

<< Karen immediately interrupted>>

I will not have this "mean girls" routine unfolding at my table. We're supposed to be here to enjoy the night with BLAZE...

<< Looking at Vivica, not yet aware that Nicolas had briefed her on Foxfire vs Firebird>>

...VICTORY.

Let's not allow ourselves to showcase our BASE instincts and remind the girl of why she almost LEFT?

<< The doctor admonished ALL present, Vivica included.>>

<< Vivica excuses herself and Cameron follows her to the bar.>>

<< After a few moments..>>

Can somebody explain to me what just happened on the dance floor a few moments ago?

<< Referring to Cass' impromptu "pre-show" on the dance floor and the unusual reception it received.>>

<< Everyone appeared to be in various states of "rare form". Even the doctor fidgeted a bit as she tried to regain her poised presentation. She leans over to Michael once again as the others talk>>

I hope Blaze will be along soon...

<< Soon, SIMON PRATT shows up and Karen looks up at the young man with a bit of irritation in her sapphire blue eyes. THIS was the young man Ava was DRAPED over on the dance floor! And NOW, here he was, with a debauched expression on his face and an ELEMENTARY attempt at being COY, as if he hadn't just been with Ava in some TORRENT lust filed moment before they suddenly turned up again?>>

The young man with the rhythm of a lamp post...

<< Karen said rather dismissively to Michael. Noting Simon's rather UNimpressive dance moves from earlier.>>

<< He introduces himself. Michael responds, Karen does not. She simply continues to stare at him for a moment until he finally INVITES himself to sit down, accidently bumped the the table and causing her drink to nearly fall on her expensive dress!>>

YOUNG MAN! I BEG YOUR PARDON!?


<< Karen bellows with a sharp tone. Michael attempts to calm her.>>

THAT poor someone just happened to be Simon Pratt, who manages to almost knock Karen over. Mike stopped that quickly, 'readjusting' Simon so as to properly seat him beside Ava.

Mike: Whoa kid! Steady there...you OK?

Nicolas laughs as he looks on.

This is a SPECTRA COUTURE dress, Michael! I don't want it RUINED by some jack-the-lad!? Otherwise, I MIGHT just have to turn him into an ARTICHOKE.

<< and of course, SHE could do it. Karen was definitely in rare form. BUT it wasn't NEARLY as pronounced as it was the night she got completely plastered off of HEMLOCK at Aerie during the Six's big dinner party>>

<< As he attempts to mingle, Karen back's Alycia's play>>

Yes, Cameron was not known for his ettiquette...for quite some time.

<< the doctor says in an icy tone>>

You don't seem to be much further along in that.

<< Still agitated that he nearly caused her drink to spill and she herself to nearly fall out of her chair in his OVER eagerness to seat himself next to Ava>>

 

[Ruby]

The Parthenon - Club Envy: Main Floor

:: After receiving her beer, Cass turned back around, watching the dancing. She HOPED her spontaneous 'performance' would end up being a GREAT thing for The Parthenon and that she didn't hurt its reputation. Just then, she heard a VERY familiar voice. She turned with interest and spotted the guy she and Cameron both seen on the 94th floor getting grilled by Sally Spectra just a few seats over. She watched with interest, along with the rest of the crowd at the bar. ::

ANDREW!

:: Sally's contralto voice booms as he is now confronted with her, looking QUITE different than she had hours ago when he last saw her::

What are YOU doing in HERE!?

:: She stood RIGHT in front of him and it was impossible for him to even get out of his seat as she stood there with one hand on her hip, tapping one of her high heels on the floor::

:: She chuckled softly. A hot guy like that…of COURSE Sally Spectra would know him! Just then, the bartender appeared. ::

Bartender: “Miss? You’re wanted over in the VIP section by Mr. King.”

*suspicious*: “Which one?”

Bartender: *embarrassed*: “Oh, uh, Nicolas, is it?”

:: She narrowed her eyes. She sure as hell wasn’t going to go there just yet. As much as she wanted to be there for Blaze, the thought of being in the AREA as Cameron and Nicolas made her mouth water even MORE. She swiveled around and spotted Nicolas. If he could read her mind once, he’d be able to do it again. ::

I WANT to be there, I truly do, but I’m HUNGRY Nicolas. I can’t be in the same proximity as both you and Cameron right now. I’m sorry.

:: She turned back to watch the showdown between Sally and the hot guy. Andrew. She knew that Envy was guest access only and Andrew shouldn't even be here. And she also knew how Sally doesn't like when her staff violates their privileges. Cass sighed. She couldn't let Andrew get in trouble. She got off her stool and walked over to Sally. ::

"Oh Sally! Don't be mad at him! It's my fault. I spotted him with Delilah awhile ago, and I thought she was here, so I had invited him."

:: She turned to Andrew, silently willing him to play along. ::

*apologetically*: "I'm so sorry, but I don't think I see her! Would you like to stay a bit longer as a guest of MINE? I feel REALLY bad about having you use your pass key and everything only to find that Delilah isn't even here..."

 

[Sally Spectra]

Envy

:: Sally eyed Andrew like a bird of prey as she rolled her tongue around inside of her mouth and smirked a bit, waiting for the young scamp explain himself::

:: Suddenly, Cassandra Johnson shows up, rather fortuitously, attempting to explain on his behalf.::



:: Sally looks down at the girl, somewhat AMUSED by her moxie! It was endearing, but it was not enough ::

:: She noted the intrigue Delilah had for Andrew, despite her attempts to downplay it. Those two probably WOULD hook up, if they HADN'T ALREADY. With as much tension Delilah was radiating...a roll in the hay with a handsome stranger, no-strings-attached would be the PERFECT way to work out some of that frustration! BUT Delilah wouldn't be HERE in this place, not with the others. Sally knew that. She ALSO knew that unless Cassandra had met Andrew not more than 5 hours ago, there was NO WAY she would have known him well enough to know he was HER employee OR that he had a special hotel pass key due to his position in Spectra Boutique.::

:: Tilting her head to the side a bit, her facial expression said "OH PLEASE!" as she smirked at the girl::

Cassandra.

:: Most people called her Cass, some called her CJ, but when SALLY said "CASSANDRA" it sounded so regal and elegant::

:: Sally greets the girl with a warm, friendly tone as reaches forward, taking a moment to adjust Cass' top a bit, which had become rather OFF CENTERED since her latest "SHOW" on the dance floor.::

Nice dress, honey. You have good taste!

:: the fashion maven nods and winks::

But one thing you DON'T have, is the ability to FOOL ME.

I've been around the block a FEW times in my day, little girl. I've pulled a few tricks and used "smoke and mirrors" to get by and I know a LINE when I hear one.

You're going to have to do better than THAT.


Stick around though, I was just on my way UP to see OUR [ the six] friends! We can go together! RIGHT AFTER, I handle BUSINESS HERE.

:: Looking at Cass with no uncertainty in her eyes or her face.::

And rest assured darling, THIS IS BUSINESS. MINE and my EMPLOYEE'S.

:: Turning to Andrew.::

I'm WAITING...

:: For an explanation. Sally was all heart but she ALSO didn't take any nonsense or tolerate BS either. ::

 

[Titan]

Club Envy, The Parthenon

Maybe this place wasn’t so bad – still not his scene, but it was growing on him. Hell, he might even give the ladies of the room a treat and dance a bit. He raised his glass to his lips but something stopped it. Then he heard a familiar voice.

ANDREW! What are YOU doing in HERE!?

Fuck.

Fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuuuuuuuuuuck.

Wasn’t Sally a little old to be in a club? I mean, it was late, and didn’t people her age go to bed early?

He tried to get up, to flee, but she was RIGHT THERE and there was no escape.

“Uhh…”

Then some crazy girl he’d never seen before came up to them and started talking utter nonsense. But before he could ask her if she needed her meds, Sally told her to stand aside.

I'm WAITING...

“Look, Sally…”

He tried to think of a really good lie…and then he just said to hell with it.

“I’ve had a really rough...and strange…night. I just wanted a beer. I know I shouldn’t have used the passkey to get in here...it won’t happen again, I swear. Believe me, things have been too odd for me to want to repeat them any time soon. I’ll get out of here right now, I promise.”

He picked up his jacket and started to stand up from his barstool.

 

[Sally Spectra]

Envy

“Look, Sally…”

He tried to think of a really good lie…and then he just said to hell with it.

“I’ve had a really rough...and strange…night. I just wanted a beer. I know I shouldn’t have used the passkey to get in here...it won’t happen again, I swear. Believe me, things have been too odd for me to want to repeat them any time soon. I’ll get out of here right now, I promise.”

He picked up his jacket and started to stand up from his barstool.

No no....I'm afraid it doesnt work that way, my dear boy. Have a seat.

:: Sally blocks his exit and pushes him back down into his seat gently but firmly::

You see, that passkey I entrusted you with? Is NOT an all access pass to the restricted areas of this hotel for your personal use.

I could have your job for this ya know. Right now!

:: She stares him down intently, even as a bewildered Cassandra watches this scene unfold::

Now, if you wanted to check this place out...all you had to do was ASK and I would've made arrangements. I'm personal friends with the OWNER of this hotel AND I always want to help my employees whenever I can.

But I simply WON'T tolerate this kind of disregard for my policies and procedures, do you understand me? Have I made myself clear?

You pull a stunt like this again and it's your butt!

:: Satisfied that Andrew now KNEW she meant business, after a pause, she looked at the bartender.::

Hey there, young man!

:: waving him over::

I want you to put this boy's tab on my account. At these prices he'd have a stroke before the night's over!

Bartender: Certainly, Ms. Spectra!

Sit here, take the load off. Eat, drink, be merry, with my compliments Andrew.

:: Patting him on the shoulder::

And remember, Mama always takes care of her babies, but she'll kick their BUTTS too!

:: turning to Cassandra::

Now then, shall we go?

:: taking a step forward and then turning back to Andrew::

Oh and you BETTER be to work ON TIME tommorow, Andrew.

:: turning to Cassandra again, the two women walk off::

Cassandra honey, that was really sweet of you and all. I've been known to do a few rescue missions myself! but don't EVER try that with me again. My employees know I'm as accomodating as they come, but when I need to address a matter, I will do just that.

:: they make their way up to the VIP lounge::

STAND ASIDE BOYS!

:: Sally commands to the security detail as she Cassandra strut past and find the Six::

Hello there boys and girls! MAMA has arrived!

:: It made Sally's heart glow with pride to see that just about EVERYONE at the table was wearing her designs::

And may I sayyyy...you all look simply gorgeous!

I found this little lady down below, trying to help a naughty puppy that I had to discipline. Does she belong to you?

:: squeezing Cassandra's shoulder a bit and playfully pushing her forward to the others::

 

[Longshot]

Parthenon - Club Envy - VIP Area

Simon introduced himself to the group.

Alycia: That remains to be seen...

"Well, she's certainly a winner..."

As Simon began to make his way over to sit next to Ava, he bumped into the table next to him which nearly catapulted Karen's drink into her lap.

Karen: YOUNG MAN! I beg your pardon!?

The faintest flush of pink appeared on Simon's cheeks as he apologized to the woman and a rather hulking man who appeared to be her date stepped up and helped him gain his balance and find his seat. Simon was NOT an accident prone man so anything something like that DID happen to him, he became incredibly embarrassed.

"Excuse me! I'm so sorry!"

Mike: Whoa kid! Steady there...you OK?

Karen: "This is a SPECTRA COUTURE dress, Michael! I don't want it RUINED by some jack-the-lad!? Otherwise, I MIGHT just have to turn him into an ARTICHOKE."

Simon nodded as he was seated and began to let his hand roam around in Ava's lap as he mentioned to her that he felt somewhat like a new kid in school.

Ava: "You certainly aren't acting like it!"

He laughed softly as his hand inched dangerously close to forbidden territory. Simon THOUGHT he had spoken quietly enough for only Ava to hear, but apparently, the woman across from him had QUITE the ear. And eyes. And rack. Actually, for an older woman she was pretty smoking hot. Simon understood now the young man who helped him earlier was sticking around. That woman was a MILF.

Karen: Yes, Cameron was not known for his ettiquette...for quite some time. You don't seem to be much further along in that.

Simon cocked an eyebrow and tilted his head slightly as he eyed the woman up and down.

"Well..it seems that Cameron isn't the only person in attendance having problems with ettiquette, Miss---Oh...that's right you didn't bestow me the honor of learning your name when I introduced myself just now...and about my ACCIDENT earlier, would you like my right ARM or simply my head on a platter in order to show that i'm TRULY sorry for accidentally bumping a table? Because it's obvious my apology didn't seem to be enough...."

Alycia: "Well...now that you're sitting at our table...why don't you tell us why we shouldn't haze you, like a "new kid at school?"

"Well, these people are a real TREAT. Cameron's friends sure have an interesting way of enjoying themselves..."

"Well...now we are talking! I think you SHOULD haze me...make it brutal...but with one stipulation...I'd like Cassadine here to do the flogging."

Simon took a sip of his drink and smiled to himself. These group of people had made it apparent that they had no interest in getting to know him, so he sure as hell wasn't going to show any pretense with them. Just then...

:: It made Sally's heart glow with pride to see that just about EVERYONE at the table was wearing her designs::

And may I sayyyy...you all look simply gorgeous!

I found this little lady down below, trying to help a naughty puppy that I had to discipline. Does she belong to you?

:: squeezing Cassandra's shoulder a bit and playfully pushing her forward to the others::

"Well...at least SHE seems fun!"

 

[Ruby]

The Parthenon - Club Envy: VIP

Cassandra.

:: Most people called her Cass, some called her CJ, but when SALLY said "CASSANDRA" it sounded so regal and elegant::

:: Sally greets the girl with a warm, friendly tone as reaches forward, taking a moment to adjust Cass' top a bit, which had become rather OFF CENTERED since her latest "SHOW" on the dance floor.::

Nice dress, honey. You have good taste!

:: Though she’d prefer being called ‘Cass’ or ‘CJ’ or even ‘Johnson’ than to being called by her full name – due to a certain MALE someone - Cass didn’t mind SALLY calling her ‘Cassandra’. Her VOICE gave it a certain…flair. She smiled but then blushed as Sally ADJUSTED the top part of her dress…right there at the bar! Then the designer nodded and winked at her. ::

But one thing you DON'T have, is the ability to FOOL ME.

I've been around the block a FEW times in my day, little girl. I've pulled a few tricks and used "smoke and mirrors" to get by and I know a LINE when I hear one.

You're going to have to do better than THAT.

Stick around though, I was just on my way UP to see OUR [ the six] friends! We can go together! RIGHT AFTER, I handle BUSINESS HERE.

:: Looking at Cass with no uncertainty in her eyes or her face.::

And rest assured darling, THIS IS BUSINESS. MINE and my EMPLOYEE'S.

:: Cass nodded and meekly stepped aside. She only wanted to save a smoking hot man from a tongue lashing. She did not enjoy that she would be going up to the VIP section sooner than she had hoped. But what Sally Spectra wanted, Sally Spectra got and who was she to deny Sally THAT? After all…it was Sally SPECTRA. So she waited…and was dismayed when Andrew spoke up. ::

“Look, Sally…”

:: Well. Of all the guys she had to try and ‘save’ of course she had to choose an IRISH one. As in, somebody from Ireland. Or was he from Northern Ireland? It didn’t matter. They were all the same; same hotness, same accent. From the way he looked at her, though, he CLEARLY thought she had escaped from a mental institution. First her ex, now THIS guy. It was official: Irish men sucked…and so did their beer. Sally began speaking so Cass took a few small steps backward and watched for a bit. ::

No no....I'm afraid it doesnt work that way, my dear boy. Have a seat.

:: Sally blocks his exit and pushes him back down into his seat gently but firmly::

You see, that passkey I entrusted you with? Is NOT an all access pass to the restricted areas of this hotel for your personal use.

I could have your job for this ya know. Right now!

Now, if you wanted to check this place out...all you had to do was ASK and I would've made arrangements. I'm personal friends with the OWNER of this hotel AND I always want to help my employees whenever I can.

But I simply WON'T tolerate this kind of disregard for my policies and procedures, do you understand me? Have I made myself clear?

You pull a stunt like this again and it's your butt!

:: Cass had turned around mid-way through Sally's little talk and was watching the dancers on the dance floor…if only to give them a bit of “privacy”. She was pretty impressed by Envy. Everything seemed to be on a much grander scale here than at After Dark. But she wouldn’t be ‘stealing’ ideas as Thompson had implied earlier. No, she preferred After Dark back home. Though Ella Price owned the club, Cass considered AD to be her ‘baby’ too. She had a lot to do with the bar menu, the snacks menu, she was actually the one who had ‘discovered’ Bryan! She loved AD; she truly did. She only turned around when she heard Sally’s voice.

Now then, shall we go?

:: Cass went over to Sally and began walking with her, but Sally turned back to Andrew and told him he had better be to work on time the next day. They began walking. ::

Cassandra honey, that was really sweet of you and all. I've been known to do a few rescue missions myself! but don't EVER try that with me again. My employees know I'm as accomodating as they come, but when I need to address a matter, I will do just that.

*wickedly*: “Oh, but Sally, I couldn’t just sit by and let a seriously good-looking man get a tongue lashing!” *serious*: “But you’re right; I do apologize for it.”

:: She winked at the fashion maven. She smiled fondly at her. ::

*fondly*: “I just want to thank you for helping my associate, Bryan Ross, at After Dark find this amazing dress! I love it and yes, I DO seem to be in need of an upgrade in my clothing.”

:: They began making their way up to the VIP section. Cass was starting to panic inside. Yeah, she DID drain someone but would that be enough? She wasn’t sure, so she wanted to talk to Karen about it. She wanted to nip this hunger in the bud. Sally announced their arrival. ::

Hello there boys and girls! MAMA has arrived!

And may I sayyyy...you all look simply gorgeous!

I found this little lady down below, trying to help a naughty puppy that I had to discipline. Does she belong to you?

:: Cass had a small smile on her face as she was pushed forward by Sally. ::

*meekly*: "Hey all..."

 

[Black Widow]

Envy

"Alright, alright, I'll sign a couple more and then I'm going upstairs."

It was a hassle, but secretly, it was kind of nice. A stark contrast to the way she was treated when Bishop outed them initially, when everybody hated them for what they were.

Voice behind her: Black Widow! Black Widow! Please! I want a picture too!

Cameron??

She turned quickly. It WAS him. She smiled without realizing it, and he wrapped her in a hug. Not one of those friend-hug half ass upper body only hugs, either. This was the full body contact hug that looked like two souls attempting osmosis.

This is probably a bad idea. Alycia or Dominique or whoever else he's fucking right now might get the wrong idea. Is it bad that I want them to get the wrong idea? Is it bad that I want the wrong idea to be true? I shouldn't be doing this. I shouldn't be entertaining these kinds of thoughts.... Oh, what the fuck ever. Stop, just stop for a few seconds and enjoy it while you can.

Haleigh closed her eyes, and for just three seconds, stopped analyzing everything and allowed herself to just FEEL the embrace.

Cameron: Man....I missed you.

"I missed you too."

She replied quietly as he pulled back. He looked great, but she didn't think it would be a good idea to say so. A comment like that was so loaded. That was the thing about talking to Cameron now... so much history, so much tension between them. Hardly anything they said to each other could be taken at face value.

Cameron: Now...mind if I escort the celebrity to the party? Or is she too high and mighty to be on the arm of a humble real estate mogul?

"Hardly. All this celebrity well wear off quickly. The public spotlight has ADHD. But I should be asking YOU if this is okay...... arriving on your arm for everyone to see.... won't Dominique mind? Or is it Alycia?"

She said playfully, taking his arm anyway as they crossed the velvet rope and approached their friends and colleagues. Some of them she'd seen recently, some she hadn't.