Eternal, by lyradaemon

Chapter 4: Part 1 – Ideas?

I've moved this one because it and the one which follows happen after the other chapters.

A/N: I've no idea to whom this applies (well, I have an inkling, but you might have to guess…!) Just suffice to say it popped into my head one evening. I originally posted it on livejournal, but thought I might share it here. Not that anyone will care.

Disclaimer: I'm not sure to whom this actually belongs. Sorry if these 'characters' are yours. I mean no harm.

These 2 have both been mentioned in previous chapters, but not in the same one. PLEASE review if you do read it, and any guesses would be welcome!!!

"Well you must have some ideas."

Tilting my head slightly I regarded the figure standing petulantly before me. This was going to be interesting.

"What makes you think I would have even the slightest idea what to buy?" I ask lightly.

Ah yes. I've been asked to come up with some brilliant idea for a certain significant other's 'birthday present' – yes, I know, I've no idea how they decided when this 'birthday' actually was. Suffice to say it was yet another ridiculous, extravagant idea and, once again, I've been dragged into the middle of it.

"You spent rather a long time together, if I recall" – a pointed look – "so you might be in a better position than I to come up with something."

I raised an eyebrow. "That's not the point. It's your idea to have a birthday, so you can figure something out." I almost winced at the venomous look I got. However, the expression changed abruptly: scowls and frowns were replaced with remarkably moving puppy-dog eyes and a pleading pout.

"Just one idea? Please? I don't care what it is – anything."

I pretended to be considering this. Finally I nodded – after relishing the slightly desperate look appearing in those startling eyes. "Ok. An idea. Two if you behave yourself." I was rewarded with a grin. "How about…a book."

"A book? Dear God, have you gone completely insane? Is that what sunburn does to you? I'm not getting a bloody book. I'll be ignored ever after if I did!"

I put my hands up in mock surrender. "Ok ok! Sorry. I just thought a book might be appreciated, since you both seem to have so many…"

Derisive snort. "We. Huh."

Next idea: "Err…clothes?"

"Are you trying to say something?"
Back peddle. "Jewelry?"

"A beautiful diamond ring? Hardly."

"I was thinking more along the lines of discreet necklace myself-"

Dismissive wave of the hand. "Next."

"Um, well, how about…" frantic scramble through brain. "Something technological?"

"I'm afraid that electricity is yet to be embraced in my beloved's little world. A digital camera would be quite beyond the realm of understanding."

"Ah, right." Then a thought struck me. Brilliant – if I didn't value my life, that is… Ah, who cares, say it anyway. "Self-tan?"

The thunderclouds are back. This is, I belief, the proverbial point in cartoons when someone yells from the sidelines – "Run."

Quickly, more to prevent myself from yelling aforementioned word, I hastily supply the first thing that jumps into my frazzled brain. "Photo frame?"

Pause: it's like an animal has been stopped in their tracks. A big cat maybe. Like a lion. Yes, that's rather good…

"Photo frame? Hmm. Not sure about a frame but…photos certainly…" A thoughtful expression. A nod. "Yes. That's it. A photo album. Lovingly compiled by yours truly (Oh dear). Perfect." I am again fixed by those eyes, but this time they're amused. "You're quite wonderful, you know that?" I am then caught up in strong arms and mercilessly hugged. "A veritable fountain of knowledge, in fact. Though with that sire of yours, it's not wonder." A low chuckle which sends shivers down my spine. Damn it. Stop.

I am let go finally. "I'd better be off then – I need to make a start with this photo album."

"Do you have any photos?" I ask innocently, knowing the reply.

"Of course I don't. I still need to get a move on though."

"The birthday's in March. It's only February now."

"Precisely. I have lots of photos to take." A suspiciously delighted smirk appears. "Au revoir for now then."

I am given a quick kiss on the lips for my troubles before the whirlwind that is my eternal nuisance and grudging joy disappears to find a camera.

I sigh.

I was so going to get my ass kicked when the truth emerges of where the idea came from…