Hey guys, just wanted to let you know, none of these lovely characters are mine, they are from the brilliant mind of Thomas Harris. Hope you guys enjoy my story! –M.L.

Hannibal sits in a dark and quiet room. The only source of light comes from a dim table lamp shining on his work. Hannibal is currently drawing Clarice, except her features are child-like, and her hair is a pale blonde. Like Mischa's. Clarice quietly peaks her head in the door and light shines in from the hallway. Hannibal quickly notices. Without looking up, he begins to speak.

"Good evening, Clarice".

"Evenin"

Clarice is warmly bundled up in a plush bathrobe and has a cup of tea in her hand.

"I suspect you're feeling better now, Clarice."

"I guess you can say that. My heads still a bit stuffy, but that's it."

"Sit."

Clarice sits in the big love-seat across from Hannibal's desk. She takes a sip of tea before she begins to speak.

"What are you drawing today?"

"Only what's on my mind. When I begin to feel surrounded by the pressures of everyday life, I simply find ways to relieve myself. Whether it's drawing, or writing, or whatever it may be. I never see you escape to that relief, Clarice. I am afraid it is stress that has sickened you, and I'd like to find a way to help you."

"Your so damn deep, Hannibal."

"Clarice, don't avoid the point."

Clarice sighed and snuggled herself deeper into her robe.

"Alright, what do you wish to do about this, Hannibal"?

"Follow me."

Hannibal rose from his chair and stared at Clarice for a minute as she stayed snuggled in the love-seat. He swiftly started towards the door. Clarice sniffed and pushed herself out of the chair to follow the elegant figure ahead of her.

Clarice followed Hannibal up to their bedroom where he sat her down on the bed. He took the tea from her hand and sat it on the bedside table.

"Clarice, I love you dearly."

Clarice blushed softly as she got caught in his deep maroon eyes. No matter how hard she tried, she couldn't make her eyes pull away from his, and it didn't help when he caressed her face and held it in his hand.

"Goddammit Hannibal. If you're gonna do it, do it!"

Hannibal smiled slightly and leaned in to kiss Clarice. He stopped slightly right before he reached her lips to look into her eyes for approval, and then kissed her gently. Her lips reminded him of both rose petals, and fine silk; he couldn't decide which one was more fitting because they were both equally divine in different ways.

Hannibal slowly parted from Clarice, her face still cupped in his hand.

"Wait here."

Hannibal walked out of the room and shut the door, and Clarice set her hands in her lap and looked around the room.

Downstairs, Hannibal walks outside and sets up for their night.

I know this chapter was short, but my first chapters are usually pretty short. I'm really going to try to finish this one, and I like where it's going. A lot of people want to know which Hannibal and Clarice I base my characters off of. Well, for Hannibal I use a mixture of Anthony Hopkins's portrayal, and Mad Mikkelsen's portrayal. As for Clarice, I prefer Jodie Foster, but whatever makes y'all enjoy the story more. Feel free to comment and follow the story. Thanks so much. –M.L.