Post by Neal Caffrey on Apr 22, 2013 10:35:47 GMT -5
Amanda Cross: This isn't what Amanda would like to call a working night, since she's not at a good hotel, at least at the moment, though she has never outright solicited to someone unless in the four walls of a hotel room, after the fact, after the luring of her prey from the safety of a hotel bar or lounge. And it's a rule that she's never going to stray from. At the moment, she's wearing a fairly feminine dress, not so conservative like her usual times, but then again, she's not exactly on duty right now for her side profession. Click. Clack. Click. On the pavement, while a few New Yorkers are honking their horn due to some group of bikers trying to pretend that they're Lance Fucking Armstrong of the small intersection. Even as they race around the block, Amanda is very watchful of things the people around her; coming and going in the city; anywhere, really. Plus, the last client she had gave her a $2,000.00 tip for services rendered this Friday. Of course, he always likes to restrict her movements when she's with him, hence some of the small lines still evident on one of her wrists, but not so noticeable to the naked eye. No ones commented, yet. (D)
Neal G Caffrey: A few facts about Neal Caffrey. He enjoyed walking, providing the distance wasn't too great. When it was more than a few blocks, he'd grab a cab. He avoided the subways, and really could anyone blame him? There were criminals down there... He moved through the crowd, watching those about, easily picking out the pickpockets working the area. It was a take one to know one, sort of deal. Too, often, a pickpocket would telegraph his mark. A bit too watchful of one person in particular and it was easy to see who was on tonight's menu. Neal could have intervened. He didn't, however. He wanted to see what the kid had. He changed direction, heading back the other way as if he'd forgotten something and that was when his eyes fell on the woman: A shark of another kind swimming the waters. He played the 'who is she' game, trying to place her. She was sharp, crisp, but didn't have that lawyer air about her. Corporate. Definitely corporate, but she was too well dressed for the secretarial pool and not dressed enough to scream executive. She was a conundrum. Neal pulled his eyes away from her to check the progress of the youth about to either score or get a rude awakening.
Amanda Cross: Evidently she should have dressed a little warmer for tonight, grabbed that shawl that was hanging up in her closet that matches so perfectly with this dresses purple color, but she was in a mad dash to get out of there and take in the sights of the City. Earlier in the afternoon, she'd indulged in a huge salad, though, don't take her for a rabbit, she loves her meat just like any other carnivore; steak, and filet mignon are one of her favorite foods, besides seafood, that’s a whole other addiction to the palate, which was another reason why she hated leaving Baltimore like she did, besides Nathanial, besides a ton of other shit! And she was feeling hungry again, and cold, causing some small goose pimples to rise on her skin, effectively rubbing her upper arms, she looks left and right down the street. No cheap fashion shops here, not like the Fashion District. But looking over her shoulder that one last time, she happens to see someone whose looking at her? Narrows the brows, checking to see if its someone else up the street, of course, why would she know whose he's looking for? Sighs, and turns to re-face him again in the thick of those crowds, taking a risk, she's the one who decides to ....maybe walk past him or something? (D)
Neal G Caffrey: It wasn't a matter of could. It was a matter of should. There were far better ways of satisfying one's curiosity than to steal a woman's wallet from her purse and then feign finding it. Nope. He wouldn't do it. When she looked at him, he smiled, and then looked back for the kid and his mark, only to find the mark patting himself down looking for his wallet and the kid gone. Well apparently the kid was good enough. Neal gave a slight smirk; then started off once more. Idly he wondered what Elizabeth was making Peter for diner.
Amanda Cross: She noted that this good looking guy was smiling about something, not that it was any of her business, but she rather hope that she had something to do with it. And if he saw her face, she smiled back in return, maybe putting a little more sway to her hips than usual, maybe rubbing her arms a little harder, because it's also so damn cold out here tonight. Click. Yet she was trying to be oh so incognito about the whole thing all at the same time. Hence why she's found in hotels and places where her introverted (soliciting??) makes the most sense for personality type. Coming, now, much closer to him now, she accidentally on purpose, rubs her shoulder against his arm as she walks past. Not the best pose to attract a guy, but when you're cold, you're cold! (D)
Neal G Caffrey: It was reflex, really. And hey, she bumped him! But he'd taken no more than two steps past her when he stopped and turned. "Excuse me, Miss?" He stepped back toward her, the wallet offered out. What she was doing out here in fifty degree weather with no coat was a mystery to him, but he'd address that once he returned her wallet. "You dropped this."
Amanda Cross: As soon as he spoke, she too turned around to take in the rather exotic sight before her. And no, even in her personal life does she instantly drop for a man, this wouldn't be the case, either. Brows rose, when she saw her wallet/purse in his hand outstretched to her, "Oh dear", she says smiling, attempting to take it back, "It must have fallen", a regular Einstein this one, "...Thank you. Mr?", if she'd received her small wallet in time, she may as well get a cab, this was crazy walking out here like this, damn shawl! (d)
Neal G Caffrey: "Caffrey. Neal." he smiled. "You really should be wearing a coat." It wasn't like it was freezing but it was definitely cold enough for a coat. His head dipped and he stripped out of his own; then took another step toward her. "May I?" Yes he would ask before draping the coat over her shoulders.
Amanda Cross: Her eyes twinkled simply by the way he said his name, and her mouth curled into a smile since it sounded so, James Bond-like. But, sadly, another fictional hero has even topped his spot for her, though she lost her smile when he said that she needed a coat to wear. Like hell she knows! And pursed her lips while he removed his own coat and wanted to warm her up with his own: Sweet. She could smell his cologne that way, and nodded, "...Yes, you may Mr. Caffrey", turning in a way that would allow the coat to slip onto her shoulders and feel that immediate warmth. Seems the night is still young, "..And what brings you outside in this chilly weather Neal?" (D)
Neal G Caffrey: "Ah, just heading home from the office; Thought maybe to catch a bite to eat." Or mooch off of Peter and Elizabeth. She really was a great cook. He smiled. "And what about you Miss...." he left it hang, for her to supply her name.
Amanda Cross: Office on a Sunday night? That didn't make sense, but then some people never stopped leaving their offices in this big city. Still rubbing her arms with the weight of the jacket on her form, she too is getting hungrier, "Cross. Amanda", copying how he'd said his name and it delighted her to do the same. Yea, her eyes were twinkling again, she could feel it happening. Damn good looking man. "...There's a good restaurant not that far from here", offering, "...Aiellos Cafe. But it's more than that. They're actually serving some fine Italian fare there", (D)
Neal G Caffrey: "Well I was a sucker for a good risotto." He smiled and offered his arm. "Shall we?" And it wasn't his fault he was working on the week end. Blame Peter. He had a knack for putting ideas in his head and once they were there, he couldn't let them go any more than his mentor.
Amanda Cross: "I guess", she offers her arm, "Since I have your coat", she jests, yet in truth it was only a block or two before they might arrive. Conversation though was important on the way there, "..And what do you do for work if you don’t mind my asking Mr. Caffrey?", click, clack, click of the heels on the cement, while at the same time trying to avoid gum that had been stuck to the ground, or who knows what else. A battlefield for heels that’s for sure (D)
Neal G Caffrey: Oh Boy. He smiled that boyish smile. "I'm a special consultant for the FBI." He nodded. This is where she either grew fascinated or thought him a complete whack job.
Amanda Cross: F.B.I. It could be a godsend for her, but she also thought about the Defense Contractor, why alert the feds if it could be resolved quietly? Meaning Klaus. If she opens her mouth to this guy, wheels will get waxed and he'll probably walk. Too much thinking, in any case, was going on behind those blue eyes of hers, and finally, much, much too late, a smile formed, "...Special Consultant?", she adds, "Sounds stressful" (D)
Neal G Caffrey: Watching her, and those wheels turn, he wondered if she was wondering if he was trying to impress, or being truthful. "It can be, but it's also fascinating. It's been an experience that, oddly enough, I wouldn't trade for anything," even though he got there in a rather, round about way. "I've made some good friends in the Bureau."
Amanda Cross: The wheels continued to turn for her, maybe, much to his dismay or fascination, whatever the case may be, "...Friends are always good to have Mr. Caffrey", looking away from him towards the approaching cafe, maybe in a minute or two they'd be there? Giving his side profile yet another gander, "....But they can also betray you", fact, and for agents out in the field? There's no telling how many people have died by the use of that tactic (D)
Neal G Caffrey: "No," he shook his head. "Not Peter." he smiled. "He's the one person I trust above all others. And he's already gone above and beyond to defend me against those who would betray me." And... He was rambling.
(At this point, AOL imploded and I lost a good portion of the log.)
Amanda Cross: Interesting, she thought, but then again, he doesn't have some rogue politician making his life hell, now does he? Basically ignoring what he'd said until they'd arrived at the cafe. The waitress hands the menus and places them in a seat for four towards the back. It's not that busy after all, while Amanda sits down with her back facing the wall, observing the exits and entrances before calmly sitting down at her side of the table. She's read too many Vince Flynn books not to do such things, "...Right by the heater", Amanda whispers, not realizing until now how frustratingly cold she is (D)
Neal G Caffrey: Rather than putting his back to the room, he took the seat beside her, rather than opposite her. It was as much habit as anything. Not just from his experience in the game, but his time on the inside, as well. It was best to keep one's back where one could be assured no one was going to put a shiv in it.
Amanda Cross: She'd almost expected him to sit opposite of her, but yea, in the back of her mind, being that he's FBI and trained for these circumstances, she caught on rather quickly that he'd sit down next to her. She was looking over the menu for a few more seconds, and the cut tomatoes and mozzarella looked good, but that was Summer food. She wants something hot. Spaghetti. Meatballs. And he could eat all of the bread they bring. "...I think that I'm having the spaghetti and you?", brows raise, catching that side profile and absolutely enjoying it (D)
Neal G Caffrey: "Good question..." He'd been set on the risotto but the chicken parmesan looked really good. When the waitress arrived, he set his menu down and smiled up at her. "The lady will have the spaghetti, and I'll have the chicken parmesan, and a bottle of pinot noir, please." He smiled. Yes he was mixing red wine, with chicken, but it would go better with the red sauced pasta dishes and it was a light bodied red.
Amanda Cross: This was seeming more and more like a would be date and she is reveling in it. Good looking guy. Top of his field. Just wait until he finds out what she does in her side profession. Kripes, what a corner she's weaved herself into. Secretary. He can't know, no one can, really, it’s absurd. "..I'll have an apple juice and regular milk please", handing her menu to the waitress. (D)
Neal G Caffrey: Neal gave a double take when she ordered ... apple juice and milk. Recovering alcoholic? He smiled. "So, what do you do?" She'd asked first, it was only fair that he delve into her professional life. Besides, he wanted to know how close he'd been.
Amanda Cross: Or? The fact that she really doesn't drink alcohol all that much: maybe like once or twice a year and that was being generous. Let him think what he will about her alcohol priorities, and seeing his smile and hearing the question that followed, it was time to lie, or, tell a half truth. "...I'm a Medical Secretary over at the Surgery Center", gives the location, "...And they seem to like me", damnit, wishing that she'd ordered hot chocolate now. (D)
Neal G Caffrey: "Ah, medical." He nodded. "I would have said corporate, but medical...” he smiled. "I wasn't too far off." He had the right block, but the wrong street. "How long have you been doing that?" He smiled up at the waitress when she returned with their drinks.
Amanda Cross: She was forthright with him, "...Since Maryland", she says, "...I worked at St Josephs in Towson for a number of years, then a small stint at another doctors office", she adds, "Until I moved up here for a change of scenery", like NYC could be better than a true scenic waterfront? Sighs, "..And since I happen to like Chelsea, I moved there to a cozy apartment and loved it ever since", of course, he would do research, she was almost counting on him to do so after their meal. Things would match up, that much she knew, but there is always a chance for a mistake? (D)
Neal G Caffrey: Neal wasn't the sort to run a back ground check on a dinner date. Now if she were a mark, he would know more about her than she herself did, however that was not the case here. "And how long ago was Maryland?" He lifted his glass and took a drink, letting the wine roll around a bit before swallowing it.
Amanda Cross: She decided to have a drink of the juice, but then got suddenly more thirstier and had yet another sip. Finally, setting the glass down, absently licking her lips and looking towards the front of the cafe, and not seeing any new or interesting activity, she gave him the time of day, "..."About two years ago", she admits, swallowing, and thinking about Locke of all people, the good doctor from Towson (D)
Neal G Caffrey: "Still have family there?" He asked as he watched her, watch the room. She was definitely vigilant, more so than your typical medical secretary. "What did you do before? The medical secretary gig. What was your previous occupation?"
Amanda Cross: She raised the brows at the subject of family and if he knew any better, he wouldn't have asked, but she's beyond any sort of crying fits it induced in her younger years. Sighing, "...I'm an orphan Neal", spoken rather calmly, while watching him make his own deductions, "...I lost them when I was three, four years old. I don't want to remember when", she admits, allowing silence to be her possible accomplice, "...And I've always been in the medical field," possibly not answering, but thinking about her dead parents, she really doesn't feel like answering (D)
Neal G Caffrey: "Ah." He nodded, knowing all too well that family could be a touchy subject. "I lost my father when I was two." Most of his life he'd thought him a hero, shot down in the line of duty. He had even enrolled in the police academy to follow his old man's footsteps, until he learned his father was actually a dirty cop. He shook the thought away. "What made you want to follow medicine in the capacity you have? Or was it something you fell into?"
Amanda Cross: The food had finally arrived and it was the perfect escape from his questions. He's got the interrogation part down well, well, not exactly a dark room, but he like questions. And this is a possible date, she's got to cut him some slack. Jeezus. He lost his dad, too? That meant that at least he still has his mom, her eyes were getting wet, maybe because she was jealous that he has a living parent. "I fell into it, doing some online courses, and it took off from there", watching him a little while longer, "So how did you end up in the FBI?", time for him to be on the hot seat (D)
Neal G Caffrey: "Ah, well." He laughed. "I rather fell into it, or... it fell into me. The agent I mentioned earlier, Peter?" He paused, took a sip of his wine and then set the glass down as he regarded her. "He um... chased me for four years, caught me and as a result of his investigation, I did four years at Otisville." He nodded. "I was three months shy of release when I broke out for ... personal reasons." That he wouldn't go into, but he continued. "And Peter caught me again," he smiled. “He knew exactly where I would be and found me there. Back in I went, I got another four years tacked on for escape and I ... managed to cut a deal. I would work for the Bureau as a consultant in their white collar division, in exchange for getting out... with a few caveats and addendums." Now is when she says thanks but no thanks. Neal Caffrey in theory is rather charming. The reality... tends to be a bit much for most.
Amanda Cross: She really doesn't know all that much about Prisons, though that doesn't make her stupid about life, either. And it seems that that more he talked, the worse he became. Served time in prison. Ex-convict. Escaped. Basically, he's a fucking mess, she thinks, blinks, now, wishing that she'd gotten something alcoholic and this guy is on the freaking bureau? Sighs. Blinks. And looks completely away from him, swallowing, thinking about all that he's said and deciding on whether to let the cat out of the bag for what she does part time, but THAT would be stupid and she'd end up arrested. Fuck. Slow shake of the head. Each was no better than the other in her estimation, swigging on the milk at this point, swallowing and saying, "...That's a lot to swallow" (D)
Neal G Caffrey: "That it is," he nodded, lifted his glass an sipped. "And technically I am not in the FBI, simply a consultant." And once his release is given, he would still be a consultant. He'd made a home here, and even though he'd had moments, had even cut and run once, he still came back. It was in his blood now, just as surely as it was to pick a pocket or forge a Monet.
Amanda Cross: "Consultant", so either way, he was in prison, while being out of prison if that made sense. They used him until he might drop, same for that Baldacci book she's been reading for the Shaw series. Poor guy, but, yea, not so poor, either. They'd convicted him for running. Escaping and the look that flitted through her face was none too kind. She looked away from him in that instant because her soul felt ugly for doing so, thinking such thoughts when she's no better than him or anyone else. Taking big long breath, she admits, "...You're not really apart of them", the words were coming out harsh. Damn it and watching his reactions probably saw it one too many times and he's been fucking honest with her, "...then you're going to hate me", in a little whisper, for only his ears at their table (D)
Neal G Caffrey: "No, I didn't go to Quantico and through their training, I'm not officially an agent, but Peter is my partner. I'm his partner. We've got a ninety three percent conviction rate, and that's... Pretty impressive." He took his wine up as he caught that last. "You don't owe me anything. You asked a question, I answered. And in case you're wondering, I was convicted of bond forgery. I wasn't out knocking over banks, or shooting people. I actually hate guns." Didn't mean he couldn't use one, just meant he hated them.
Amanda Cross: She was unsure about her meal, then she realized that the meatballs would be too good to even pack up in a leftovers packet and Fuck she's hungry, its why they came out here. His honesty, what have you, his, not truly being on the inside, without really being on the outside was pushing her, probably to say something god-damned stupid in return. But its not like two other people don't know that she's rather close to, what would one more count, right? "You don't reserve judgments to other people, do you Neal?", she asks, watching him for sure to see if he's trustworthy, or not. Fucking Forger (D)
Neal G Caffrey: Neal regarded her a long moment, then leaned forward, turning more toward her. "If you have something you want to tell me; then by all means tell me. If it's something ... less than legal, think carefully. I may not be an agent, but I still work with one." Eyes on hers, he regarded her a long moment, wanting to know she did in fact understand what he was saying. "That being said... if you are in some sort of trouble, and I can help... I will do what I can."
Amanda Cross: She regarded Neal while he leaned forward and while he seemed to be offering her some sort of warning before proceeding, it gave her serious pause to continue with her original thought and that disgruntled her. The worst part about the 'surveillance age' is that Cameras seem everywhere. So flying outside angry would on exacerbate the situation. And leaving out the back would be awfully suspicious, so she restrained herself from talking and simply chopped up a meatball with her fork, cut it up in sections and took her time eating the delicacy. Chomp. Chew. Swallow. Repeat. Her eyes still narrowed, and wondering if he really needs to know? Anyway, he might just use it over her head in the future, or maybe even in his partner, Peter, who he likely has to answer to with his activities. Chew. Chomp. Swallow. "I suppose that it's not all that important" (D)
Neal G Caffrey: What ever it was, it was illegal. He leaned back, and started in on his own meal after refilling his glass. He started to reiterate the 'if you're in trouble' part, his lips even parted to do so, but she seemed to be a bit bristled over the subject and he let it drop. Instead he worked on his meal, taking a sip of wine here and there.
Amanda Cross: She kept on working on that huge meatball. And there were five more to go, swallowing one of her latest bites, but still she remained quiet, he couldn’t be trusted, because to her at this point, she's not sure if she can stop her side job. In some ways, it’s exhilarating, and it’s not always about SEX, but sometimes it’s terrifying and she's absolutely unsure if she'll walk out of there alive, especially when it comes to the BDSM types, like the last time, taking a big breath, and in that flickering of a memory at Klaus's hands, she finally , "..It might be of a political nature", giving him her full attention, "...With my past", there, THERE, "...And what he did to me in it" (D)
Neal G Caffrey: He paused, taking that in, and then nodded, "And this mysterious man from your past with political connections. He's putting pressure on you to do something you don't want to?" Taking the bite, he chewed slowly as he regarded her. Depending on the man, and what his connections were, it could mean anything from an investigation to something off book: Something a little more Neal and Mozzie, than Neal and Peter.
Neal G Caffrey: A few facts about Neal Caffrey. He enjoyed walking, providing the distance wasn't too great. When it was more than a few blocks, he'd grab a cab. He avoided the subways, and really could anyone blame him? There were criminals down there... He moved through the crowd, watching those about, easily picking out the pickpockets working the area. It was a take one to know one, sort of deal. Too, often, a pickpocket would telegraph his mark. A bit too watchful of one person in particular and it was easy to see who was on tonight's menu. Neal could have intervened. He didn't, however. He wanted to see what the kid had. He changed direction, heading back the other way as if he'd forgotten something and that was when his eyes fell on the woman: A shark of another kind swimming the waters. He played the 'who is she' game, trying to place her. She was sharp, crisp, but didn't have that lawyer air about her. Corporate. Definitely corporate, but she was too well dressed for the secretarial pool and not dressed enough to scream executive. She was a conundrum. Neal pulled his eyes away from her to check the progress of the youth about to either score or get a rude awakening.
Amanda Cross: Evidently she should have dressed a little warmer for tonight, grabbed that shawl that was hanging up in her closet that matches so perfectly with this dresses purple color, but she was in a mad dash to get out of there and take in the sights of the City. Earlier in the afternoon, she'd indulged in a huge salad, though, don't take her for a rabbit, she loves her meat just like any other carnivore; steak, and filet mignon are one of her favorite foods, besides seafood, that’s a whole other addiction to the palate, which was another reason why she hated leaving Baltimore like she did, besides Nathanial, besides a ton of other shit! And she was feeling hungry again, and cold, causing some small goose pimples to rise on her skin, effectively rubbing her upper arms, she looks left and right down the street. No cheap fashion shops here, not like the Fashion District. But looking over her shoulder that one last time, she happens to see someone whose looking at her? Narrows the brows, checking to see if its someone else up the street, of course, why would she know whose he's looking for? Sighs, and turns to re-face him again in the thick of those crowds, taking a risk, she's the one who decides to ....maybe walk past him or something? (D)
Neal G Caffrey: It wasn't a matter of could. It was a matter of should. There were far better ways of satisfying one's curiosity than to steal a woman's wallet from her purse and then feign finding it. Nope. He wouldn't do it. When she looked at him, he smiled, and then looked back for the kid and his mark, only to find the mark patting himself down looking for his wallet and the kid gone. Well apparently the kid was good enough. Neal gave a slight smirk; then started off once more. Idly he wondered what Elizabeth was making Peter for diner.
Amanda Cross: She noted that this good looking guy was smiling about something, not that it was any of her business, but she rather hope that she had something to do with it. And if he saw her face, she smiled back in return, maybe putting a little more sway to her hips than usual, maybe rubbing her arms a little harder, because it's also so damn cold out here tonight. Click. Yet she was trying to be oh so incognito about the whole thing all at the same time. Hence why she's found in hotels and places where her introverted (soliciting??) makes the most sense for personality type. Coming, now, much closer to him now, she accidentally on purpose, rubs her shoulder against his arm as she walks past. Not the best pose to attract a guy, but when you're cold, you're cold! (D)
Neal G Caffrey: It was reflex, really. And hey, she bumped him! But he'd taken no more than two steps past her when he stopped and turned. "Excuse me, Miss?" He stepped back toward her, the wallet offered out. What she was doing out here in fifty degree weather with no coat was a mystery to him, but he'd address that once he returned her wallet. "You dropped this."
Amanda Cross: As soon as he spoke, she too turned around to take in the rather exotic sight before her. And no, even in her personal life does she instantly drop for a man, this wouldn't be the case, either. Brows rose, when she saw her wallet/purse in his hand outstretched to her, "Oh dear", she says smiling, attempting to take it back, "It must have fallen", a regular Einstein this one, "...Thank you. Mr?", if she'd received her small wallet in time, she may as well get a cab, this was crazy walking out here like this, damn shawl! (d)
Neal G Caffrey: "Caffrey. Neal." he smiled. "You really should be wearing a coat." It wasn't like it was freezing but it was definitely cold enough for a coat. His head dipped and he stripped out of his own; then took another step toward her. "May I?" Yes he would ask before draping the coat over her shoulders.
Amanda Cross: Her eyes twinkled simply by the way he said his name, and her mouth curled into a smile since it sounded so, James Bond-like. But, sadly, another fictional hero has even topped his spot for her, though she lost her smile when he said that she needed a coat to wear. Like hell she knows! And pursed her lips while he removed his own coat and wanted to warm her up with his own: Sweet. She could smell his cologne that way, and nodded, "...Yes, you may Mr. Caffrey", turning in a way that would allow the coat to slip onto her shoulders and feel that immediate warmth. Seems the night is still young, "..And what brings you outside in this chilly weather Neal?" (D)
Neal G Caffrey: "Ah, just heading home from the office; Thought maybe to catch a bite to eat." Or mooch off of Peter and Elizabeth. She really was a great cook. He smiled. "And what about you Miss...." he left it hang, for her to supply her name.
Amanda Cross: Office on a Sunday night? That didn't make sense, but then some people never stopped leaving their offices in this big city. Still rubbing her arms with the weight of the jacket on her form, she too is getting hungrier, "Cross. Amanda", copying how he'd said his name and it delighted her to do the same. Yea, her eyes were twinkling again, she could feel it happening. Damn good looking man. "...There's a good restaurant not that far from here", offering, "...Aiellos Cafe. But it's more than that. They're actually serving some fine Italian fare there", (D)
Neal G Caffrey: "Well I was a sucker for a good risotto." He smiled and offered his arm. "Shall we?" And it wasn't his fault he was working on the week end. Blame Peter. He had a knack for putting ideas in his head and once they were there, he couldn't let them go any more than his mentor.
Amanda Cross: "I guess", she offers her arm, "Since I have your coat", she jests, yet in truth it was only a block or two before they might arrive. Conversation though was important on the way there, "..And what do you do for work if you don’t mind my asking Mr. Caffrey?", click, clack, click of the heels on the cement, while at the same time trying to avoid gum that had been stuck to the ground, or who knows what else. A battlefield for heels that’s for sure (D)
Neal G Caffrey: Oh Boy. He smiled that boyish smile. "I'm a special consultant for the FBI." He nodded. This is where she either grew fascinated or thought him a complete whack job.
Amanda Cross: F.B.I. It could be a godsend for her, but she also thought about the Defense Contractor, why alert the feds if it could be resolved quietly? Meaning Klaus. If she opens her mouth to this guy, wheels will get waxed and he'll probably walk. Too much thinking, in any case, was going on behind those blue eyes of hers, and finally, much, much too late, a smile formed, "...Special Consultant?", she adds, "Sounds stressful" (D)
Neal G Caffrey: Watching her, and those wheels turn, he wondered if she was wondering if he was trying to impress, or being truthful. "It can be, but it's also fascinating. It's been an experience that, oddly enough, I wouldn't trade for anything," even though he got there in a rather, round about way. "I've made some good friends in the Bureau."
Amanda Cross: The wheels continued to turn for her, maybe, much to his dismay or fascination, whatever the case may be, "...Friends are always good to have Mr. Caffrey", looking away from him towards the approaching cafe, maybe in a minute or two they'd be there? Giving his side profile yet another gander, "....But they can also betray you", fact, and for agents out in the field? There's no telling how many people have died by the use of that tactic (D)
Neal G Caffrey: "No," he shook his head. "Not Peter." he smiled. "He's the one person I trust above all others. And he's already gone above and beyond to defend me against those who would betray me." And... He was rambling.
(At this point, AOL imploded and I lost a good portion of the log.)
Amanda Cross: Interesting, she thought, but then again, he doesn't have some rogue politician making his life hell, now does he? Basically ignoring what he'd said until they'd arrived at the cafe. The waitress hands the menus and places them in a seat for four towards the back. It's not that busy after all, while Amanda sits down with her back facing the wall, observing the exits and entrances before calmly sitting down at her side of the table. She's read too many Vince Flynn books not to do such things, "...Right by the heater", Amanda whispers, not realizing until now how frustratingly cold she is (D)
Neal G Caffrey: Rather than putting his back to the room, he took the seat beside her, rather than opposite her. It was as much habit as anything. Not just from his experience in the game, but his time on the inside, as well. It was best to keep one's back where one could be assured no one was going to put a shiv in it.
Amanda Cross: She'd almost expected him to sit opposite of her, but yea, in the back of her mind, being that he's FBI and trained for these circumstances, she caught on rather quickly that he'd sit down next to her. She was looking over the menu for a few more seconds, and the cut tomatoes and mozzarella looked good, but that was Summer food. She wants something hot. Spaghetti. Meatballs. And he could eat all of the bread they bring. "...I think that I'm having the spaghetti and you?", brows raise, catching that side profile and absolutely enjoying it (D)
Neal G Caffrey: "Good question..." He'd been set on the risotto but the chicken parmesan looked really good. When the waitress arrived, he set his menu down and smiled up at her. "The lady will have the spaghetti, and I'll have the chicken parmesan, and a bottle of pinot noir, please." He smiled. Yes he was mixing red wine, with chicken, but it would go better with the red sauced pasta dishes and it was a light bodied red.
Amanda Cross: This was seeming more and more like a would be date and she is reveling in it. Good looking guy. Top of his field. Just wait until he finds out what she does in her side profession. Kripes, what a corner she's weaved herself into. Secretary. He can't know, no one can, really, it’s absurd. "..I'll have an apple juice and regular milk please", handing her menu to the waitress. (D)
Neal G Caffrey: Neal gave a double take when she ordered ... apple juice and milk. Recovering alcoholic? He smiled. "So, what do you do?" She'd asked first, it was only fair that he delve into her professional life. Besides, he wanted to know how close he'd been.
Amanda Cross: Or? The fact that she really doesn't drink alcohol all that much: maybe like once or twice a year and that was being generous. Let him think what he will about her alcohol priorities, and seeing his smile and hearing the question that followed, it was time to lie, or, tell a half truth. "...I'm a Medical Secretary over at the Surgery Center", gives the location, "...And they seem to like me", damnit, wishing that she'd ordered hot chocolate now. (D)
Neal G Caffrey: "Ah, medical." He nodded. "I would have said corporate, but medical...” he smiled. "I wasn't too far off." He had the right block, but the wrong street. "How long have you been doing that?" He smiled up at the waitress when she returned with their drinks.
Amanda Cross: She was forthright with him, "...Since Maryland", she says, "...I worked at St Josephs in Towson for a number of years, then a small stint at another doctors office", she adds, "Until I moved up here for a change of scenery", like NYC could be better than a true scenic waterfront? Sighs, "..And since I happen to like Chelsea, I moved there to a cozy apartment and loved it ever since", of course, he would do research, she was almost counting on him to do so after their meal. Things would match up, that much she knew, but there is always a chance for a mistake? (D)
Neal G Caffrey: Neal wasn't the sort to run a back ground check on a dinner date. Now if she were a mark, he would know more about her than she herself did, however that was not the case here. "And how long ago was Maryland?" He lifted his glass and took a drink, letting the wine roll around a bit before swallowing it.
Amanda Cross: She decided to have a drink of the juice, but then got suddenly more thirstier and had yet another sip. Finally, setting the glass down, absently licking her lips and looking towards the front of the cafe, and not seeing any new or interesting activity, she gave him the time of day, "..."About two years ago", she admits, swallowing, and thinking about Locke of all people, the good doctor from Towson (D)
Neal G Caffrey: "Still have family there?" He asked as he watched her, watch the room. She was definitely vigilant, more so than your typical medical secretary. "What did you do before? The medical secretary gig. What was your previous occupation?"
Amanda Cross: She raised the brows at the subject of family and if he knew any better, he wouldn't have asked, but she's beyond any sort of crying fits it induced in her younger years. Sighing, "...I'm an orphan Neal", spoken rather calmly, while watching him make his own deductions, "...I lost them when I was three, four years old. I don't want to remember when", she admits, allowing silence to be her possible accomplice, "...And I've always been in the medical field," possibly not answering, but thinking about her dead parents, she really doesn't feel like answering (D)
Neal G Caffrey: "Ah." He nodded, knowing all too well that family could be a touchy subject. "I lost my father when I was two." Most of his life he'd thought him a hero, shot down in the line of duty. He had even enrolled in the police academy to follow his old man's footsteps, until he learned his father was actually a dirty cop. He shook the thought away. "What made you want to follow medicine in the capacity you have? Or was it something you fell into?"
Amanda Cross: The food had finally arrived and it was the perfect escape from his questions. He's got the interrogation part down well, well, not exactly a dark room, but he like questions. And this is a possible date, she's got to cut him some slack. Jeezus. He lost his dad, too? That meant that at least he still has his mom, her eyes were getting wet, maybe because she was jealous that he has a living parent. "I fell into it, doing some online courses, and it took off from there", watching him a little while longer, "So how did you end up in the FBI?", time for him to be on the hot seat (D)
Neal G Caffrey: "Ah, well." He laughed. "I rather fell into it, or... it fell into me. The agent I mentioned earlier, Peter?" He paused, took a sip of his wine and then set the glass down as he regarded her. "He um... chased me for four years, caught me and as a result of his investigation, I did four years at Otisville." He nodded. "I was three months shy of release when I broke out for ... personal reasons." That he wouldn't go into, but he continued. "And Peter caught me again," he smiled. “He knew exactly where I would be and found me there. Back in I went, I got another four years tacked on for escape and I ... managed to cut a deal. I would work for the Bureau as a consultant in their white collar division, in exchange for getting out... with a few caveats and addendums." Now is when she says thanks but no thanks. Neal Caffrey in theory is rather charming. The reality... tends to be a bit much for most.
Amanda Cross: She really doesn't know all that much about Prisons, though that doesn't make her stupid about life, either. And it seems that that more he talked, the worse he became. Served time in prison. Ex-convict. Escaped. Basically, he's a fucking mess, she thinks, blinks, now, wishing that she'd gotten something alcoholic and this guy is on the freaking bureau? Sighs. Blinks. And looks completely away from him, swallowing, thinking about all that he's said and deciding on whether to let the cat out of the bag for what she does part time, but THAT would be stupid and she'd end up arrested. Fuck. Slow shake of the head. Each was no better than the other in her estimation, swigging on the milk at this point, swallowing and saying, "...That's a lot to swallow" (D)
Neal G Caffrey: "That it is," he nodded, lifted his glass an sipped. "And technically I am not in the FBI, simply a consultant." And once his release is given, he would still be a consultant. He'd made a home here, and even though he'd had moments, had even cut and run once, he still came back. It was in his blood now, just as surely as it was to pick a pocket or forge a Monet.
Amanda Cross: "Consultant", so either way, he was in prison, while being out of prison if that made sense. They used him until he might drop, same for that Baldacci book she's been reading for the Shaw series. Poor guy, but, yea, not so poor, either. They'd convicted him for running. Escaping and the look that flitted through her face was none too kind. She looked away from him in that instant because her soul felt ugly for doing so, thinking such thoughts when she's no better than him or anyone else. Taking big long breath, she admits, "...You're not really apart of them", the words were coming out harsh. Damn it and watching his reactions probably saw it one too many times and he's been fucking honest with her, "...then you're going to hate me", in a little whisper, for only his ears at their table (D)
Neal G Caffrey: "No, I didn't go to Quantico and through their training, I'm not officially an agent, but Peter is my partner. I'm his partner. We've got a ninety three percent conviction rate, and that's... Pretty impressive." He took his wine up as he caught that last. "You don't owe me anything. You asked a question, I answered. And in case you're wondering, I was convicted of bond forgery. I wasn't out knocking over banks, or shooting people. I actually hate guns." Didn't mean he couldn't use one, just meant he hated them.
Amanda Cross: She was unsure about her meal, then she realized that the meatballs would be too good to even pack up in a leftovers packet and Fuck she's hungry, its why they came out here. His honesty, what have you, his, not truly being on the inside, without really being on the outside was pushing her, probably to say something god-damned stupid in return. But its not like two other people don't know that she's rather close to, what would one more count, right? "You don't reserve judgments to other people, do you Neal?", she asks, watching him for sure to see if he's trustworthy, or not. Fucking Forger (D)
Neal G Caffrey: Neal regarded her a long moment, then leaned forward, turning more toward her. "If you have something you want to tell me; then by all means tell me. If it's something ... less than legal, think carefully. I may not be an agent, but I still work with one." Eyes on hers, he regarded her a long moment, wanting to know she did in fact understand what he was saying. "That being said... if you are in some sort of trouble, and I can help... I will do what I can."
Amanda Cross: She regarded Neal while he leaned forward and while he seemed to be offering her some sort of warning before proceeding, it gave her serious pause to continue with her original thought and that disgruntled her. The worst part about the 'surveillance age' is that Cameras seem everywhere. So flying outside angry would on exacerbate the situation. And leaving out the back would be awfully suspicious, so she restrained herself from talking and simply chopped up a meatball with her fork, cut it up in sections and took her time eating the delicacy. Chomp. Chew. Swallow. Repeat. Her eyes still narrowed, and wondering if he really needs to know? Anyway, he might just use it over her head in the future, or maybe even in his partner, Peter, who he likely has to answer to with his activities. Chew. Chomp. Swallow. "I suppose that it's not all that important" (D)
Neal G Caffrey: What ever it was, it was illegal. He leaned back, and started in on his own meal after refilling his glass. He started to reiterate the 'if you're in trouble' part, his lips even parted to do so, but she seemed to be a bit bristled over the subject and he let it drop. Instead he worked on his meal, taking a sip of wine here and there.
Amanda Cross: She kept on working on that huge meatball. And there were five more to go, swallowing one of her latest bites, but still she remained quiet, he couldn’t be trusted, because to her at this point, she's not sure if she can stop her side job. In some ways, it’s exhilarating, and it’s not always about SEX, but sometimes it’s terrifying and she's absolutely unsure if she'll walk out of there alive, especially when it comes to the BDSM types, like the last time, taking a big breath, and in that flickering of a memory at Klaus's hands, she finally , "..It might be of a political nature", giving him her full attention, "...With my past", there, THERE, "...And what he did to me in it" (D)
Neal G Caffrey: He paused, taking that in, and then nodded, "And this mysterious man from your past with political connections. He's putting pressure on you to do something you don't want to?" Taking the bite, he chewed slowly as he regarded her. Depending on the man, and what his connections were, it could mean anything from an investigation to something off book: Something a little more Neal and Mozzie, than Neal and Peter.