Chapter 3 : Greg negotiates (or at least he tries)
Here he was at last. The week that had elapsed was nothing but the most beautiful nightmare he ever had. His meeting with his personal angel, his promotion, his break up… That was a bit too much for seven days, wasn't it? But now, it was midnight again at the office. This time, nobody had been silly enough to ask him why he stayed so late: as DI, he had discovered that paperwork as a DS was a simple walk beside the river compared to… that pile of documents and … things he had to fill and sign… It simply had no end. But that was not the reason he stayed. Well, he would have anyway, but tonight was the appointed day of his meeting with his Angel.
Suddenly, he didn't feel so sure about his excitement for the event he had been waiting for all week: what if Angie had changed his mind? What if he never wanted to speak to him again? What if he had never intended to follow their alliance? What if it was a one-time thing? What if…
"Hello, Gregory."
All his uncertainties vanished suddenly when he heard that voice, and it seemed like satin against his skin just to be listening to him.
"Hi, Angie!"
He hoped he didn't sound too eager, maybe that would scare his Angel off. By the way, when exactly had he started referring to that man as his Angel?
"You look tired."
Angel was trying to sound indifferent, but Greg hoped the slight worry he had perceived was for real.
"Why, thank you…"
"It suits you."
Wait a minute, was Angie implying that he'd like to tire him? There was no way this was an innuendo and not the fantasy of his own devious mind, was there?
"… Well, I wanted to thank you! You know, you helped us and the family will never know who to thank that for, but what you did was great anyway."
"Immaterial. I had the occasion to help some of my co-citizens and there is no wonder I did it."
"Yes, that's coz' you're a good man."
"…" Greg could swear that if he could see his Angel right now, he would be blushing.
"And I was promoted DI thanks to you, you know."
"I was informed of this consequence. I offer you my congratulations, as well as my condolences for the unfortunate repercussions on your personal life."
"So you control CCTV and you were informed of a promotion that was made public this morning… Who exactly are you?"
What's more, that meant his Angel spied on his love life… But that was good, very good indeed.
"Gregory" His voice sounded like that which is usually used for impatient and spoiled children. "I thought we had already discussed that. My identity shall remain secret, and before you ask, no, I will not reveal you my name, whatever motive you declare."
Why had this "we" to sound so delicious?
"Just how did you know that was my next question?!"
"That was quite simple to determine. The stiffness in your shoulders suggested you were about to tackle an issue of some importance and the way your eyes went from the camera to your desk that you thought you were going to face reluctance, yet it was important enough that you decided to try anyway, and you have obviously been very straightforward since the beginning of our acquaintance."
Okay, lesson number 1 of the evening: never underestimate an angel. They may have wings but they are so cunning and intelligent (and have a gorgeous voice, don't forget that) and they know about everything concerning us, poor earthlings basking in their glory.
"… Wow… I suppose everybody who has ever met you has already told you, but you're amazing…" Greg said in awe.
"This particular aspect of my personality was never brought to my knowledge, however I am glad you are appreciative of such a simple deduction. But I am afraid it would be expected of me to show my satisfaction by soothing your very legitimate curiosity, which is not in my power."
Greg took a long breath, trying to calm the overwhelming fear that had taken him. He really didn't want to lose his Angel because of his well-known inability to control his emotions.
"So I have to say thanks for your help and farewell?" Well, maybe that was a little over-eager.
"If you would wish so… I had thought our partnership could extend to future cases where my help might be useful, but if so is your will, it will be surrendered to."
"Is that a posh way to say: let's work together?" Hope had risen in Greg's heart, and there was no way it would not be broken if this was taken from him.
"I fancy it could be expressed like that… I had considered giving you some information I might have better access to and help you improve your observation skills." The hint of amusement that seemed to be characteristic of Angie's mood when speaking to Greg was back.
"Then that's a bloody big yes. You don't realize how helpful and wonderful you are, do you?"
"…"
Oh, that was the silent blush again…
"Then let's say each week, same time, same place, except if you actually have another place where you can talk to me, and I want the right to some extra consultations if there's an important case." Greg was not so naïve as to let his Angel be off with an immaterial promise.
"Your wish is my command…"
"Is there absolutely no chance I'll ever see you for real?"
"You'll hear me, that's more than most people get…" Greg genuinely hoped he wasn't imagining the regret that voice conveyed in those few words.
"Fuck! I mean that's disappointing…"
A few moments of silence passed, neither men wanting to end the conversation.
"Anyway, I very much look forward to our next encounter, and you'll be my personal tutor then…"
If he had expressed this fantasy out loud, this was utter shite…
"And I look forward to teaching you many things…"
Maybe this was okay, if the fantasy was shared…
"Good night, Gregory, and until next week…"
The voice was already gone when Greg whispered: "If I had a TARDIS, all I would do is go right here, in seven days time…"
