Disclaimer: I do not own Black Cat or its characters.

Creed hummed to himself merrily as he flipped another pancake and lowered the temperature on the stove. He pressed down on the flapjack, then slid the spatula underneath it to lift it and place it gently on the plate next to the pan that already had several piled on it. The plate that was already full of food was on a silver tray with a tall glass of milk, a small bowl of butter, and a bottle of syrup on it. He knew it still wasn't going to be enough for his beloved, so he poured more batter onto the pan, imagining in his head what Train's reaction was going to be to waking up to a stack of pancakes first thing in the morning.

I guess he won't be surprised since I've brought him breakfast in bed every morning for the past four mornings.

It was three days away from his Kitten's birthday and Creed was starting to feel like he hadn't done enough, so to make up for it, he decided to make Train breakfast in bed every day until his birthday. He also gave his love the cat statue before they went to bed last night and he was still reeling from Train's reaction, but Creed felt like he needed to do more for his Kitten.

Train said the statue reminded him what it was like that day at the recital hall when I gave him a piano lesson… Oh, I can't wait until he sees the painting this morning!

Creed set the painting up on an easel before he left their room and threw a small blanket over it just in case Train woke up before he finished making breakfast. Creed was sure Train would inspect it if he saw it, but he hoped that maybe his beloved would be too tired to notice it and just go back to sleep or even leave the room to find him.

Train also still has the two dozen roses in a vase on the nightstand next to our bed. And he makes sure to take care of them as well! It sets my heart on fire!

Even though they had been sleeping in the same bed for far longer than just the last three days, Creed only recently started referring to the room they shared as 'their' room. The only reason he didn't before was because it wasn't necessarily public knowledge that they were sleeping in the same bed. Even though all their friends knew it, it wasn't really something they openly talked about unless they were poking fun at Train. It also was not something Train was willing to truly admit out loud to anyone other than Creed.

But now that I had to sacrifice my bed for Kenneth, I'm far more willing to unabashedly refer to Train's room as 'our' room. And the best part is, Train has yet to correct me.

Creed tested the waters of what his beloved was prepared to admit in terms of their relationship by slipping in the fact that Train's room had become their room and was overjoyed when his love didn't correct him. In fact, he even heard his Kitten using the same terminology as Creed. It may have only been once, but it was enough to fan the flame of hope in the silver man's heart.

I feel like any day now he's going to admit how he really feels about me. The only thing that has made these last three days stressful is the fact that we're still housing Nica and her family which gives me and Train even less privacy than we had before.

The house wasn't very large, so everyone was constantly taking up each other's space. Creed and Train had taken to spending as much time in their room or on the roof as possible just so they could get a moment to breathe. However, Creed knew they were doing the right thing. They hadn't heard from Watts at all which Sven said was a good thing, but worried Creed.

I know he says no news is good news, but I don't think that applies here. It worries me that he's been so quiet and hasn't even attempted to come over and confront his wife or take his daughter back. Makes me think there's something more sinister going on with him.

Creed sighed as he sprinkled a few more chocolate chips into the batter then removed the pancake that had just finished cooking. He placed it on a new plate and poured more batter in the pan. The first plate he made was for Train, but the second one was going to be for the rest of the house. He had been making sure his beloved's first sight was Creed handing him a large plate of food every morning, but he also never failed to neglect the rest of the house. Creed always made sure there was enough for everyone else to come and eat whenever they woke up.

Creed sighed as he flipped the next pancake, poking at it idly as he thought of what his beloved's reaction was going to be to the painting. Not only were the roses still surviving on the nightstand next to their bed, but the statue was sitting on their dresser, positioned so Train could see it no matter where he was in the room. Creed planned on giving his Kitten the ukulele tomorrow by serenading him and he had been in contact with E to meet them for dinner the next day.

I was planning on having her come out with us for Train's actual birthday, but apparently that's also her sister's birthday, so she can't. It'll still be a nice present for my Kitten though. However, I wanted to give him more, but this is all I had time for…

Train insisted that he didn't need to get him anything, but Creed ignored him since he thought it was absolutely ridiculous that Train thought he didn't deserve all the attention. His beloved kept saying over and over again how it wasn't even his birthday yet and Creed needed to relax, but that word did not compute to the silver man when it came to seeing Train smile.

I'd stop the Earth from spinning or the sun from burning if I had even the smallest idea that it would make Train happy. Why would he ever think showering him with love and affection the days before he graced this planet with his presence would be anything less than necessary?

"Are you bringing Train breakfast in bed again?"

Creed jumped a little at Eve's voice, throwing the pancake in the air but skillfully catching it with the spatula before it hit the ground. He breathed a sigh of relief then placed the cooked food on the plate that was meant for his house mates.

He turned to Eve and frowned at her. "Don't sneak up on me like that!"

Eve rolled her eyes slightly as she made her way to the coffee pot to brew a large batch for the house. "I didn't think it was actually possible to sneak up on you."

Creed sighed and turned back to what he was going, pouring in more batter as he spoke to the girl. "You're more skilled in stealth than you realize, Eve. As good as you are with teaching, you could also pursue a career in private eye or even a spy."

Eve shrugged her shoulders, but Creed could tell she appreciated the compliment. "I want to be a sweeper."

Creed chuckled a little at her innocent answer. "Maybe that's what you want now, but that could change your mind in the future. You have a thirst for knowledge that's admirable and shouldn't go to waste."

Eve frowned at him as she turned away from the brewing pot. "Are you saying sweeping doesn't teach you anything?"

Creed sighed again as he pressed down on the pancake. "It's not the same thing as going to school and getting a degree."

Eve shrugged her shoulders and moved towards the kitchen table to clean up after her late night tutoring session she had with the teenagers. They had been studying late to distract Aliane from the stress of her life, but they forgot to clean up the books and papers. "Anything I can learn in school, whatever level the school may be, is something I can teach myself."

Creed nodded. "Yes, but you can't get a degree without going to school."

Eve sighed as she piled the books and papers. "Maybe I don't want a degree… I enjoy sweeping and I learn a lot from it." She glanced over her shoulder to look at Creed and in that moment, the silver man could see how much she had truly grown and matured over the last two years. "Do you really think you haven't learned anything since becoming a sweeper?"

Creed thought about what she said, distracted from his cooking for a second by the poignant, yet cultivated tone she used. She was right. While his past self may have seen sweepers as weak and useless trash, now he was able to see why so many people were attracted to the career. The thrill of chasing down a degenerate and handing him over to the authorities was more exciting than he thought. He had also not only learned a lot about how society worked and how people worked, but they had traveled so much and seen so many different places that Creed couldn't deny he had learned a lot about the world.

While we may not have left the continent yet, it's incredible how many diverse people there are here. I've learned not only about different cultures and lifestyles, but I've also gained human skills that have helped with my interactions with society and people.

Creed had always been able to charm people into doing whatever he wanted, but he knew it wasn't right to always pull that skill out just to get what he wanted. Over the last two years, he learned he didn't like manipulating people and found it was far more rewarding to help them. In fact, anytime he did have to manipulate someone as part of their sweep, he felt terrible and carried it with him until Train was able to convince him he wasn't a bad person for doing that.

It's nice being able to connect with people and making relationships that are based on mutual interests or trust instead of fear or manipulation. I was never able to do that before. I was never able to connect with people so easily, nor did I ever feel like I even wanted to.

Creed smiled and nodded his head, placing more batter on the plate as he answered the girl. "You're right. I've learned a lot. Far more than any school could ever teach me… But still, I think we just want you to know if you ever change your mind and want a career outside of sweeping, you are more than capable of it. And if you do, you can still do sweeps on the side if you ever miss it."

Eve didn't seem like she was willing to accept that, but she nodded her head nonetheless. "I just wish Sven would stop pestering me about it. Sometimes he makes me feel like he doesn't want me to be a sweeper."

Creed shrugged his shoulders. "He may not, but that's probably because it is a dangerous career. Despite your obvious skills, clear maturity, and superior intellect, you're still a child in his mind."

Even rolled her eyes as she flipped idly through one of the books she stacked on the table. "I wish he didn't… I'm not going to be a child forever."

Creed frowned and nodded his head in understanding. "Yes, but he's been raising you as if you were his daughter. It's only natural that he would see you as such and want to keep you safe."

She turned around fully so she could face Creed. "But does he really not want me to grow up?"

Creed glanced over his shoulder and gave her a sympathetic smile. "Unfortunately, that's just another trait of adults. Train and I don't like seeing you grow up either. But, we're not as upset about it as Sven is."

Eve sighed, then glanced out the window that gave view to the common room. "Where is Sven anyway?"

Creed blinked at her, then followed her gaze into the common room as well. He frowned when he realized Sven was not on the couch. "I'm not sure… I didn't even notice he wasn't there."

Eve smirked at him. "You sure your skills aren't starting to deteriorate? Should I tell Sven to be worried about you instead of me on our next sweep?"

Creed stuck his tongue out at the girl, then turned back to his cooking. "Maybe he went out for a walk with Nica or something. He's done that before."

Eve turned her head and looked out the window that led outside and frowned. "In this weather? It's already been raining for an hour…"

Creed sighed and shrugged his shoulders. "I don't know then. It's a small house, so it's not like there's really anywhere for him to go. I'm sure he'll show up, don't worry."

Eve rolled her eyes. "I'm not worried. I'm trying to subtly hint at where I think he might be…"

Creed froze for a second, blinked down at the almost finished pancake, then looked over his shoulder at the girl. "You think he might be in his room with Nica?"

Eve shrugged her shoulder. "They have been getting a bit cozier lately."

Creed looked away quickly so Eve wouldn't see his amused, yet concerned face. "Even if he is, I doubt he'd do anything. She may not be with Watts, but they are technically still married. I'm sure that goes against his gentlemanly code."

I'm happy Train doesn't have a code like that. If he did, he wouldn't have slept with me on my birthday. I know he still feels guilty about that and even though he was going to end it with Lin before that happened, he carries the guilt with him every day.

Eve noticed the look on Creed's face and knew he was thinking about Train so she stepped towards him and grabbed the spatula from his hand. "Go give Train his food. I can finish up for the rest of us."

Creed sighed at her as she yanked the spatula from him. "It's okay, I can finish up. I'm almost done anyway."

Eve pushed him aside slightly. "Need I remind you how much Aliane and Kyoko eat? They may both need a plate as big as Train's. Also, I know that look in your eyes. You, once again, somehow found a way to trace whatever we were talking about back to Train and you're going to start talking about him non-stop which I really don't feel like listening for the thousandth time."

Creed felt himself blush a little. "It wasn't that hard of a transition this time considering what we were talking about…"

Eve knew what Creed was hinting at and smiled a little, happy that he was willing to speak openly with her about such things. As she got older and after catching Creed and Train in so many intimate situations, she had more questions about sex which Sven and Train were both compeltely resistant to talk to her about it. Creed was the only one that would have those hard conversations with her, since he seemed to know she needed to learn about it at some point.

Creed has told me before that he think it's wrong to leave me in the dark about things like sex.

"You better be careful Sven doesn't show up and yell at you for even insinuating a conversation about sex with me." Eve was still smiling as she spoke, knowing she could use that word freely around Creed.

Creed rolled his eyes. "That man… I know he's protective, but sheesh, you need to know about these things if you're going to make good choices in the future. You're turning out to be a lovely young lady and I'm sure you'll have many suitors knocking at the door soon."

Eve blushed a little as she flipped the pancake. "I don't think Sven will approve."

Creed sighed. "Sven won't have a choice. It'll be your choice. But, that's why it's important you know sex is beautiful and natural. You just need to know to be careful because people can easily become shrewd when it comes to manners of the carnal desires."

Eve nodded her head, but seeing Creed wasn't leaving yet, she looked at him from the corner of her eye. "Aren't you going to bring Train his breakfast?"

Creed smiled. "In a minute. I just wanted to wait and see if you had any more questions about this since I know Sven won't talk to you about adult matters."

Eve smiled again. "Thank you for always speaking to me like an adult." She scooped the pancake up and placed it on the plate. "Do you need to get another gift for Train from my room?"

Creed shook his head. "No. I'm giving him the painting. Kyoko hasn't found the music box or ukulele, has she?"

Eve shook her head. "She almost did, but I was able to take it from her before she broke it." She noticed Creed get stiff and she rolled her eyes. "You can trust me, Creed. I won't let her break Train's presents. I promise."

Creed let his breath go and nodded his head. "Thank you."

He took the tray on the opposite side of Eve, patting her head gently and avoiding the spatula meant to hit his hand as he left. Before he walked down the hall, he glanced at the couch again to confirm that it was indeed empty. As he made his way back to his and Train's room, he stopped for a moment to press his ear against Sven's door, trying to gauge if Eve was right and he had spent the night there. He frowned when he realized he didn't hear anything, but also knew that didn't mean anything. However, he had to acknowledge that it was strange for him to still be asleep. Creed and Eve were usually the first ones to wake up, but Sven followed soon after, then Nica. The fact that neither of them had shown their faces gave life to the bio-girl's thoughts.

And even if he is in there, I could imagine him sleeping on the floor. She's made it very obvious over the last four days she has feelings for him and while Sven clearly is attracted to her as well, he's been careful to be respectful and kept his distance.

It was actually a bit amusing for him to watch. He and Train talked about it every day since they were both noticing the same things and they loved nothing more than poking fun at the green haired man. They were always careful not to hurt Nica's feelings, but they couldn't pass up the opportunity to make Sven feel uncomfortable.

I'm actually surprised Train has been so perspective of it. He didn't realize my feelings for him for all those years I loved him and I by no means tried to cover it up. It was as clear as the nose on his face, yet he had no idea until I spoke those three fateful words to him.

It seemed like after being with Creed and dealing with Kyoko he had learned to pick up on the signs of when people were attracted to him or to someone else. Creed was also pretty sure being with Lin helped as well since Number X made a big show out of his feelings for Train the moment he met the Black Cat.

The first thing he did when they met was kiss Train, so there can be no ignoring what his feelings for my beloved were from the beginning.

Creed sighed as he entered his and Train's room, being sure to be quiet so as not to wake his beloved. He smiled at his Kitten's sleeping form, sighing lovingly and allowing himself a moment to gaze at Train's bare chest that slowly rose and fell from the deep breaths he was taking. After a few seconds, he tore his eyes unwillingly away from his love and to the painting, frowning when he saw the blanket fell off it a bit. He rushed over and fixed it quickly, placing the tray of pancakes next to the roses on the nightstand.

Creed turned around and stared down at his Kitten once more, sighing blissfully as he reached out and caressed Train's face gently. "Wake up, my precious love…"

The only sound he got in response to that was a loud snore from his Kitten, Train's mouth agape with one hand tangled nis his chocolate hair, the other stretched out to the side. Both of his legs were spread apart and the blanket had somehow managed to wrap around his waist entirely, but did not cover anywhere else on his mostly naked body. Creed smiled and traced Train's face lightly with his index finger.

I don't know how he manages to ruin the bed in a matter of minutes every time I step away. And I swear, he spreads out purposefully the moment I leave.

Creed giggled at the little bit of drool that dripped down the corner of his love's mouth, reaching out and wiping it away, then cupping Train's cheek tenderly. "Train, it's time to wake up…"

Train mumbled something in his sleep, but did not move. Creed sighed in both longing and frustration as he glanced over at the roses. He reached out and plucked one out of the vase, brushing the red petals against Train's warm skin. Creed outlined his beloved's face with the rose, leaning forward so his lips were only a few inches away from Train's, an arousing chill gliding down his back as he felt his cat's breath sweep against his face.

Creed nuzzled his face a little closer to Train, moaning at the quiet purr his Kitten let out at the soft, gratifying contact of the flower. "If you wake up, Train, there will be more loving touches than just this flower…"

After a few more minutes of Creed's caresses with the rose, he finally decided to kiss his Kitten. He pressed his lips against his love's attentively, resting the rose on Train's cheek as his free hand cupped his other cheek delicately. As Creed applied a bit more pressure, he heard Train moan and stretch a little, then slowly return the kiss with a peaceful mewl as he removed his hands from his hair and the bed to wrap gradually around the silver man's back.

When he heard Train sighed blissfully, Creed deepened the kiss just a little. As much as he wanted to get his love worked up enough that he could possibly make love to him, he knew Train was going to turn him down again, and Creed desperately wanted to keep their tender moment going.

After a few minutes, Creed broke the kiss and smiled adoringly down at his beloved. "Good morning, Beautiful."

Train unknowingly purred again as Creed ran his fingers through his hair, leaning into the gesture as he stretched his back again and slowly opened his eyes. He blinked a few times when he saw not only Creed's face in front of him, but a single rose as well. He squinted at the flower, a smile on his face that he was too tired to hide as he rested his cheek back against the pillow to attempt to sleep again.

"What time is it?" Train muttered, but did not pull away from Creed as the silver man continued to touch every inch of his face with his hand and the rose.

Creed kissed Train's forehead between his words, not wanting to pull his lips away from the man he loved. "It's time for Breakfast In Bed Birthday Edition: Part Five - Chocolate Chip Pancakes."

Train stretched his arms and opened his eyes again, knowing he was smiling warmly at Creed and unable to stop himself from making the expression or reaching out to run his finger through his companion's hair. "You need to stop going so over the top for me. It's getting a bit ridiculous."

Creed shrugged his shoulders and kissed Train's forehead a few more times before pulling away slightly to grab the plate of food next to the bed. "Well, then I guess if you don't want these, I may as well feed these to the birds."

Train moved suddenly and grabbed Creed's wrist, stopping him from taking the food away as he pouted at the swordsman. "I'm pretty sure birds can't have chocolate. I'll eat this so you don't kill them."

Creed rolled his eyes and placed the plate back down, pushing his love back on the bed as he secretly grabbed one of the pancakes from the plate. "Oh? You're worried about the birds? Then I guess I can give them to someone else in the house. Since it sounds like you really don't want me to fuss over you."

Train narrowed his eyes at Creed. "You wouldn't dare give them to someone else and starve me."

Creed smirked, then nodded his head. "You're right. I'll never be able to deny you food."

As Train opened his mouth to respond, Creed shoved a pancake in his mouth, making the Black Cat choke and sputter a little, but he began chewing rather quickly and gave the silver man an annoyed, but delighted look. "Not cool, Creed!"

Creed giggled at Train and kissed his forehead again. "Don't talk with your mouth full, Train."

Train rolled his eyes and ripped out the end of the pancake Creed didn't manage to get in his mouth and sat up so his back was against the headboard. "Then don't engage me in conversation and shove food in my mouth while I'm talking."

Creed smiled and grabbed the tray, placing it on Train's lap as he leaned over and kissed him one more time on the cheek. "Your eyes give away how much you actually love the attention, Train."

Train blushed and pushed the rest of the pancake in his mouth, grabbing the syrup and pouring it on the plate as he spoke to his friend. "I'm gonna start wearing sunglasses so you can stop using that against me. You know I have no control over it."

Creed was nuzzling into his beloved's cheek, but pulled away and sat back at Train's words,giving his Kitten an evil look. "I will destroy anything that blocks my sight of those beautiful orbs you've been so magnanimously blessed with. And the fact that you can't control what color they turn makes it all the better."

And since I know you won't speak your heart's truth to me, they're all I have for confirmation of it…

Train sighed and brushed Creed away as he rolled up a pancake and dipped it in the syrup. "Quit gushing your doting sentences on my food. You're going to make them too sweet to eat."

Creed swooned at his love's words, but then frowned at the way Train was eating. "Train… use the silverware. I brought it so you could eat your food with it, not as decoration."

Train smirked at Creed through a mouthful of food. "But this way is more fun."

Creed sighed and rolled his eyes. "Are you turning twenty-four or four? Because sometimes I question it."

Train laughed at him, not bothering to cover his mouth since he knew it would annoy Creed. "If I'm four, then that makes you a pedophile and I won't tolerate such perverted people in my bedroom."

Creed smirked and leaned forward to rest his forehead against Train's as he spoke. "Don't you mean, our bedroom?"

Train blushed and swallowed a big bite, then picked up another pancake to shove into Creed's mouth. The silver man gagged for a minute, then moved quickly away from his beloved as the gunman laughed joyously at him.

Seeing Creed's pout, Train smiled and pinched his cheek. "Aww, I'm sorry, Creed. Were you not ready to have food shoved in your mouth yet? Guess you know how it feels now."

Creed's frown never left his face as he ripped the pancake out of his mouth, covering his lips slightly as he spoke. "I actually already ate while I was cooking your food."

Train rolled his eyes as he finally decided to cut the pancakes instead of eating them like a child. "Just once I think it'd be nice if you ate with me in bed…"

Creed smirked and ran his hand up Train's thigh. "Are you asking to incorporate food in the bedroom? I knew you loved food, Train, but I didn't know you loved it that much." He inched his hand between his love's thighs as he spoke. "However, despite how wonderful our intimate encounters are, I'm more than willing to experiment if that's what you want."

Train yelped when Creed lightly grabbed him between the legs, jumping slightly and almost knocking the tray off his lap. "Hey! Be careful! You're gonna make a mess!"

Creed chuckled, leaned forward and over the tray of food again as his other hand dipped its fingers in the syrup Train spread on his plate. "I'm fine with making a mess in bed with you, Train…"

I know I said I wasn't going to try and seduce him… but how can I resist such a sublime specimen of a man?

Creed moved his syrup covered fingers towards his love and slid them down Train's neck, making the cat blink in confusion. Train opened his mouth to question the man, but before he could, Creed's tongue slid up his neck and licked the sweet, thick liquid off. Train purred and relaxed into the gesture, tilting his head slightly so Creed could clean him of the sweet substance. As his companion devoured his neck, Train could feel Creed's hand continuing to gently caress his groin underneath the tray that still sat on his lap.

After a few minutes of the silver man nibbling his neck, Train felt his body starting to get a bit too heated and pushed away Creed's hand that was fondling him, but did not stop the swordsman from kissing his neck. "I thought you said you already had breakfast."

Creed smirked and continued kissing and licking his beloved's neck. "I always have room for seconds. As long as those seconds are you, Train…"

That comment created little bursts of excitement to erupt in Train's chest and he knew he was ready to throw the tray off his lap and pull Creed lustfully against him. However, he somehow managed to keep his cool, then glanced over the side of the bed, furrowing his brow at a canvas that was covered up.

Train swallowed back a moan as Creed sucked at his neck, his hand running gingerly through the silver man's hair as he spoke. "What's that?"

Creed sighed in frustration at Train's unwillingness to engage him fully, then glanced over where his beloved was gesturing. He smirked again, then went back to cleaning his Kitten's neck. "It's another birthday present for you."

Train unknowingly pulled at Creed's hair slightly, but his eyes did not leave the object. "Seriously? You're not done giving me gifts yet?"

Creed shook his head, his lips never stopping their actions on his beloved as his hand tangled itself in Train's hair since the cat would not let him massage between his legs. "Of course I'm not done. I'll never be done. I would shower you in gifts all year long if you'd let me."

Train rolled his eyes and leaned into Creed's lips. "Creed, you really shouldn't be-AH!"

Creed chuckled at his beloved's exclamation that his bite caused and pulled his lips away to smirk at Train. "I shouldn't be what, Train? Drenching you in my love? Feeding you breakfast every morning? Or sending pleasurable waves down your spine with my skillful lips?"

Train sighed and nuzzled his face a little into Creed's hair, breathing in the scent of the man he loved as he spoke. "Are you spending all your piano prostitution money on my birthday?"

Creed frowned and pulled away slightly. "I told you I was going to break that off the next time I see her. But, I refuse to set up a time with her when it's so close to your birthday. I want to spend this time with you. Not her."

Train smiled and placed both his hands on either side of Creed's face. "Jeeze, I thought you could tell when I'm teasing you by now."

Creed sighed wonderfully when Train kissed him, then whimpered when his beloved pulled away when he tried to deepen the kiss and massage between his legs again. "Come on, Train, let me give you a morning delight."

Train rolled his eyes, then pulled Creed's hand away from his boxers once more. "Delighting me doesn't always have to mean making me climax. I'm plenty happy with breakfast."

Creed whimpered and brushed his lips against Train's. "What about kisses?"

Train smirked. "Did you bring this in here for me to eat or not?"

Creed frowned, then ran his fingers through Train's hair as he spoke. "I'm still willing to feed it to the birds if it means I can keep touching you…"

Train rolled his eyes and shoved another pancake in Creed's mouth. "Don't kill birds, Creed."

Creed sulked at Train, but ate the pancake nonetheless. "You don't know pancakes will kill the birds…"

Train laughed at Creed's face. "What's this next present then?"

Creed smiled lovingly at his Kitten as he spoke. "Something I've been working on for a while. I hope you like it."

Creed kissed Train's hand, then placed it gently back on the bed before standing up and behind the painting. He locked eyes with Train as he drank his milk, then smiled and pulled the blanket off. Train's eyes widened and he spit some of his milk out at what he saw. He sat there dumbfounded, not sure what to say to Creed's proud, yet apprehensive face. Train could tell his companion was holding his breath as he waited for the cat's response.

"C-Creed…? Is… Is that a portrait of us in front of a piano…?" Train's voice was shaking as he spoke, not sure how he felt about the gift just yet.

Creed nodded. "Yes, it is! I told you I wanted to paint that moment to make it last forever."

Train blinked, then wiped his mouth of the leftover milk that was still there. "I thought that was just said in the heat of the moment…"

Creed giggled at his beloved. "Since when have I ever not come through with my declarations of what I'd do for you? Well, the things that I can do. I still haven't found a way to give you the stars, planets, and sun yet. But, if I ever find a way, you can bet your pretty little head I will make sure they are all under your ownership."

Train wasn't able to look at Creed's face since he was too focused on the portrait in front of him. "I never asked you for any of that… or this…"

When we first created the Apostles, I made him remove a portrait of me he had hanging above my bed. What made him think I would want something like this…?

Creed felt his heart sinking as he stared at Train's slightly disconcertered face. "Do you… not like it, Train?"

Hearing Creed's lugubrious voice, Train was finally able to look away from the painting and into the silver man's eyes. His heart cracked a little at the beseeching look Creed was giving him and knew he couldn't tell him he was a little put off by the gift.

He probably worked really hard on this… I also had no idea he was doing this which must have made it even more difficult to complete especially with how many people we have in the house. Besides, it is an amazing piece of art. And it's not like we're doing anything suggestive.

The portrait couldn't be considered porn since Train was sitting on the piano bench with Creed behind him, holding the cat gently in his arms as he watched Train move his fingers against the piano's keys stiffly. The background was quite gorgeous with the empty stage accentuating the two of them as they basked in each other's company under the spotlight with the instrument glistening elegantly in front of them. What was actually the most impressive part of this was the detail Creed paid to their faces. Train knew that's how he looked whenever he was near Creed or touching Creed, looking at Creed or even thinking about Creed, but the fact that his silver companion was able to recreate the deep level of devotion he felt for the man was remarkable.

And I have to say, he did a great job generating the way he looks at me. The more I look at it, the more I think I might actually kind of like it…

Train smiled warmly at the silver man, then shook his head. "No, Creed. I like it. I just don't know where we would hang it."

Creed let out his long breath of relief, then smiled at his love. "Well, if you would just move out with me like I suggested, we'd have plenty of space to hang it."

Train rolled his eyes. "This again? I told you, we're not at that point, Creed. Stop pushing the matter."

I really want to say yes, but I'm not ready. However, if he keeps making these grand gestures for my birthday, which I'm sure he will, I won't be able to turn down his offers.

Creed sighed and nodded his head. "I understand, Train. I think the painting will be just fine here. I know you're not big on hanging self portraits anyway."

Train shrugged his shoulders and took another bite of his breakfast. "I think this is actually better than that painting you hung in my room back then. That one bothered me more so because it was just me and I think it's egotistical to hang portraits of yourself everywhere."

Creed stepped away from the painting and sat back on the bed next to Train. "But paintings of the two of us are acceptable?"

Train scooted over so Creed could lay down next to him and fed his companion another bite before responding to his statement. "I think it's at least more socially acceptable. I mean, people have caricatures of themselves in their houses, don't they?"

Cered frowned at his beloved, chewing and swallowing the food before he spoke. "Please don't compare my artwork to simple caricatures. This took far longer than one of those silly pictures and I guarantee you I worked harder on it."

Train pinched his cheek again. "That's not what I meant and you know it. I mean, I don't think it's strange for couples to hang paintings made of themselves in the house."

Creed stared wide eyed at his love, his mouth opened slightly as his heart began beating so fast in his chest he was sure he was going to have a heart attack. "Train… Did you just refer to us as a couple?"

Train froze with the fork in his mouth, staring straight ahead as the color slowly drained from his face.

Shit! Why did I say that?! How the hell do I get myself out of this?!

Train pulled the fork out and chewed his food, keeping his eyes fixed on the nearly empty plate as he spoke. "I-I don't think so. I-I think you're just hearing things."

Creed smirked as his beloved blushed, knowing exactly what he heard, but not wanting to make Train uncomfortable.

He just had a freudian slip! He sees us as a couple! That explains why he got so upset when he thought I was sleeping with that old woman. We're so close to being lovers again I almost can't stand it!

Creed felt his hand twitch, ready to throw the tray on his Kitten's lap off the bed and ravage his body, but instead he took a silent, deep breath and rested his head on Train's shoulder.

Not yet… I need to be patient. This proves if I'm patient he'll be mine again.

Cred wrapped his arm around Train's elbow, nuzzling his face into his beloved's neck as he cuddled his body closer to him. "Did you enjoy your breakfast?"

Train breathed a sigh of relief, happy to hear Creed wasn't going to harass him about his subconscious comment and nodded. "Amazing as always. Was anyone else awake?"

Creed nodded his head and moved even closer to his love when Train moved the tray off his lap. "Eve was. And we couldn't help but notice Sven wasn't on the couch."

Train cocked an eyebrow at the silver man. "Really? Where is he?"

Creed shrugged his shoulders. "Not sure, but Eve and I think he might be in his bedroom with Nica."

Train smirked. "Is that so? How ungentlemanly of him."

Creed chuckled and sighed blithely as Train rested his head on top of his. "Well, we don't know for sure if it's true. I put my ear against the door to try and hear for anything, but there was nothing. However, I'm aware that doesn't mean anything and I don't think Sven would do anything that, as he has put it, 'would disrespect her'."

Train chuckled as he turned his body slightly so Creed could cuddle against his chest, running his fingers up and down the swordsman's arm as he spoke. "She is still married."

Creed nodded, cooing merrily as his beloved caressed him affectionately. "I think she's going to leave Watts. She has to, right?"

Train sighed. "I would agree, but it's not our decision to make."

Creed matched his love's melancholy sigh. "Right…"

Creed adjusted his body slightly so he was resting against Train's chest, wrapping his arms around his beloved's back as their legs tangled together tightly. He smiled and buried his face into his Kitten as he felt Train's finger running up and down his back, tickling his soft skin soothingly as he rested the side of his face on top of Creed's head. The swordsman shut his eyes, his body relaxing as he allowed the warmth of Train to encase him, squeezing his cat firmly as he let out a long, peaceful sigh.

They remained like that for several minutes, nothing but silence passing between them until Creed finally broke it with his enamored voice. "I love you, Train…"

Train felt his mouth open, ready to say the words back to Creed, but was able to shut it and kiss the top of the man's head instead. When Creed made a happy noise and held him tighter, Train had to work even hard not to say it back to him.

"Are the rest of the strays in the house taken care of for breakfast?" Train kept moving his fingers up and down Creed's back as he spoke, burrowing his face into his companions hair and taking in a deep breath.

Creed nodded and smiled against Train's chest. "Yes. Eve finished up for me so I could come bring your breakfast. And I don't know if you can hear it, but it's pouring outside. We're probably going to be stuck indoors all day."

Train smiled into Creed's hair at the idea of being stuck in bed with him all day, creating a whirlwind of ambrosial heat to surround him as he held Creed more securely in his arms. "Then, I don't know about you, but I think I'm still feeling a bit tired."

Creed's heart was beating rapidly at Train's implication and was more than willing to accept their schedule for the day. "You know I'm never going to pass up the opportunity to lay in bed with you all day, Train. You don't even have to ask."

Train's ear perked when he heard movement coming from outside and was able to judge by the volume of it that Kyoko finally woke up. He then heard another door open, followed by the teen girl screaming something about Sven and Nica which caused the green haired sweeper to yell at her to be quiet. Their argument slowly subsided when he heard Nica's calm voice enter as well, but he was unable to hear what she was saying. However, none of that seemed to matter since Eve's voice called for them to enter the kitchen and get breakfast.

Train chuckled and lowered them both so they were laying on the bed instead of against the headboard. "Besides, there's too many people in the house right now anyway. I don't know about you, but I think I could use a day off from the chaos that has become our home."

Creed smiled and nodded his head, snuggling as close to Train as he could as his beloved wrapped the blankets around themselves. "Agreed."

Creed had cleared his schedule the entire week before Train's birthday so he wouldn't be interrupted with anything other than his beloved. Anastasia actually told him to take the week off with the excuse that he needed a break, but Creed knew she was doing it for him and Train.

And I'm eternally grateful to her for that. I also think I'm grateful to the new strays in the house since they seem to make a great excuse for Train to stay in bed with me all day.

Creed knew Train wanted to stay in bed with him, but wouldn't say it out loud. That didn't both Creed. If his love wanted to lie to himself a bit longer about what he really wanted, it didn't matter as long as he could curl up under the warm blankets and into his Kitten's strong, loving arms. As the silverette settled his body fully into his beloved's, he sighed peacefully as Train wrapped his legs around Creed's so their bodies were pressed fully against one another. Listening to the gentle patter of the rain rapping against the window, Creed obscured his face fully into his love's chest, allowing the sounds of the weather and his beloved to lull him back into a tranquil sleep.

"HEY! Kyoko didn't get any of the chocolate chip! Quit hogging them!"

Aliane looked the other teen up and down, then shoved the last chocolate chip cookie in her mouth, smirking at Kyoko as she ate it. "Sorry, but chocolate chip cookies are my favorite. You should have been faster."

Kyoko growled under her breath and reached across the table to grab one of the plates of cookies Creed had baked for the house. "At least don't eat all the snickerdoodles."

She grabbed the plate before Kyoko could take it and pouted at her. "Sorry, those are my second favorite."

Kyoko wanted to yell at the girl or even blow out a puff of fire to get out her frustration, but Train already had a talk with her about how she needed to be nice to Aliane and not show her powers and she didn't want to break a promise to her crush. Instead of arguing with the girl, she sighed and took the plate that was closest to her and nibbled sadly on an oatmeal raisin one.

Aliane smirked and popped her tenth cookie in her mouth. "There you go, you're being healthy!"

Kyoko rolled her eyes and slumped in her chair, hiding behind the book Eve told them both to read. "Whatever…"

Aliane heard the annoyed tone in her muffled voice which only made her smile brighter. She knew Kyoko had been trying to be extra nice to her lately after everything that happened with her family, and she decided to take advantage of it. Kyoko had even stopped fighting with her over Train and allowed Aliane to tackle him or sit on his lap whenever she wanted. While Aliane knew it bothered the other teen, she didn't care. In fact, the girl's annoyance only made her want to push the boundaries even more with how far she could go. Not only was she enjoying getting under Kyoko's skin, but Train hadn't been pushing her off either, so she was able to sneak in a few kisses when the older man wasn't ready.

Nica frowned at her daughter, sitting on the couch next to Sven and Eve, each of them reading quietly together. "Aliane, be nice and share. Kyoko's been nothing but nice to you since the day we got here. The least you can do is share the snickerdoodles."

Aliane pouted at her mother, then pushed the plate over towards the other girl. "Fine…"

Kyoko made a happy squeal and grabbed three of them, shoving the sweets in her mouth with a big smirk on her face. "Thank you Aliane-kun." She looked over at Nica and waved merrily at her. "Thank you, Nica-sama!"

Sven blinked in confusion at the girl's politeness. "I can't believe she actually thanked both of you…"

Nica smiled kindly at the man and patted his knee. "I think that has more to do with Train than anything else. I know he's spoken to her about being sensitive to our situation. And for that, I am eternally grateful."

Sven blushed a little at the woman's smile along with the hand that was still on his knee, then hid his face behind the newspaper he was reading. "Train's the only person she listens to after all…"

Eve turned a page in her book and entered the conversation. "Not entirely true. She listens to me as well. And occasionally Creed when he's stern enough. So I guess it's really only you she never listens to."

Sven glared at her from over the paper. "Yes, but I think we all know if Train told her to jump off a bridge, the only question she'd ask is which one."

Nica laughed and leaned against him a little, her hand still resting on his knee as she spoke. "I don't think Aliane is any better."

Sven shrugged his shoulders and didn't bother to push the woman away. Eve eyed them curiously, looking her guardian up and down before turning back to her book. She tried to question him on the nature of their relationship several times since the last few days, but he either avoided the question completely, or stated nothing was happening. Yesterday, when she saw him and Nica leaving the room together, he explained to her that Nica had been crying and he went to check on her, then ended up falling asleep on the floor. When Eve asked why he stayed in the room he very nervously responded that she didn't want to be alone.

I believe everything he's saying since I don't think he'd do anything like that while she's still married, but I wish he would be honest with me about what he feels for her. I can tell he likes her, but he still sees me too much as a child to talk to me about 'adult matters'.

She wasn't even able to talk to Creed about it for too long since he and Train had spent the entire day yesterday in their room. They only came out for dinner and then went to bed rather early. However, in the short amount of time that she saw them, the silver man was able to comfort her and let her know they did respect her as the young woman she was becoming, but when it came to matters of the heart, it was hard for adults to be honest with themselves let alone other people.

"What about you? Haven't you always been honest with how you feel about Train?" Eve asked from the kitchen, glancing out the window into the common room where Nica and Sven sat next to each other at the table.

Creed smiled warmly and followed her gaze, but his eyes were instead on Train who was sitting on the couch with Aliane on his lap, his face obviously annoyed but not wanting to push the girl off him. "You could say that I'm the exception to the rule. When I fell in love with Train, it was too strong, powerful, and passionate to ignore. I never made an attempt to hide it from him or anyone else mostly because I couldn't. Other 'normal' adults usually work hard to hide their feelings for one reason or the other. Usually it's because they're worried their feelings won't be reciprocated and they'll have their heart and ego broken."

Eve gave him a curious look. "That never worried you with Train?"

Creed nodded. "It did. But like I said, I couldn't hide how I felt about him. Even at the beginning when I tried, it never lasted long and I always ended up wearing my heart on my sleeve despite my best efforts. After a while, I stopped trying. But like I said, I'm the exception to the rule. Humans are very arrogant people with fragile psyches."

Eve sighed, then nodded. "I guess that makes sense…"

Creed was finally able to pry his eyes away from Train and back to the girl. He patted her on the shoulder and gave her a sympathetic smile. "I understand it's difficult for you. Not only does it hurt you to know Sven still sees you as a little girl, but like I said yesterday, that's probably never going to change no matter how old you get. The best you can do is not let it bother you and continue proving to him how mature you have become."

What Creed didn't want to tell her was that watching Sven have feelings for a woman probably made Eve feel like she was supposed to see that person as a mother, which was most likely hard for her to accept. He figured her feelings were probably similar to children who come from divorced families and were having a hard time accepting a step parent. Eve was most likely struggling to understand that if something were to happen with Sven and Nica, the woman may start to act like a mother to her or she might start to see her as one. Eve may have liked Nica, but that didn't mean she was willing to accept her on such a familial level. As much as the girl hated to admit it, she was protective of Sven as well.

Eve frowned, then went back to cutting vegetables. "Thank you for talking to me, Creed."

Creed smiled again and patted her head. "I'm always willing to lend an ear to one of the first people that accepted me into their lives without question."

Eve smiled slightly at the memory and went back to reading her book, deciding she was going to trust what Creed had told her and try to not let the wall Sven built around subjects like that bother her. It may have been a short talk, but it was enough to make her understand her guardian just a bit more. When she saw Nica rub Sven's knee a little, she was able to ignore it in favor of her book.

"As long as you're sharing, toss your grandpa a snickerdoodle as well!" Kenneth was sitting across from the teen girls at the table.

Aliane smiled at the old man and slid the plate towards him. "You can have as many as you want, grandpa. My stomach is actually starting to hurt."

Nica looked over quickly at her father and daughter, her face a bit alarmed as she spoke. "I told you not to eat so many! And Dad, you need to be careful too. You know sugar doesn't agree with your body."

Aliane rolled her eyes and ate another cookie out of spite. "Says the woman who hasn't eaten any."

Nica frowned at her daughter, then at the mostly full plate that sat on the coffee table in front of them. "I don't want to spoil myself for dinner."

Aliane made an annoyed sound as she leaned back in her chair. "It's only one o-clock! There's plenty of time until dinner!"

Sven chuckled a little, then leaned forward to take a cookie for himself. "She's right, you know. After everything you've been through, I think you deserve to treat yourself a little."

Nica was about to protest, but Sven shoved a cookie in her mouth, smiling at her as she glared and chewed. He opened the paper back up, ignoring the woman's look as he went back to reading the daily news, still looking for any signs of the Apostles that he could. "Kenneth seems to be doing better. He seems more… focused, if that makes sense."

Nica dabbed her mouth with the back of her hand lightly as she glanced happily at the old man. "He's not in a hectic environment anymore. That helps."

Sven rolled his eyes. "I don't know how you could consider this not hectic."

Nica's voice was distant as she spoke. "You don't know what it was like with him…"

Sven regretted what he said immediately and was about to comfort the woman when they heard someone entering their house without knocking. Everyone's eyes went to the door instantly, watching as Rinslet stepped in and frowned around the room.

After scanning all their confused faces, the thief finally landed on Sven's as she spoke. "Wow, it's a packed house isn't it?"

Sven growled at her. "Haven't you ever heard of knocking?!"

Rinslet rolled her eyes. "Haven't you ever heard of locking the door? Especially considering your line of work you have no idea who has a grudge against you."

Sven narrowed his eyes at her, knowing she was hinting at the Apostles, but not wanting to say anything in front of the peoples he barely knew. He grumbled and turned away from her as he spoke. "I thought it was locked…"

Rinslet cocked an eyebrow as she watched Nica leaning against him, her hand on his knee as she blinked innocently at Rinslet. "What a cozy position you find yourself in…"

Sven blushed at Nica's giggled, then turned another glare at the thief. "We're just helping out some friends. Don't make it weird."

Rinslet snickered as she entered the house and closed the door behind her, locking it as she made eye contact with Sven, as if trying to show him how to do it. "You're the one that just made it weird." She ignored the man's angry mutters as she scanned the room once more. "Oh, quit your grumbles, old man. I didn't come here for you anyway. Where are Creed and Train?"

Eve gave the woman a curious look. "Why do you need them?"

Rinslet patted the bio-girl's head as she passed by her. "I have a special mission for them."

Sven's angry look changed to an inquisitive one. "What kind of a mission?"

Rinslet glanced over her shoulder at him as she spoke. "One that only those two have the proper skills to do, so don't even ask if you can join." She turned around and pointed at Eve, stopping her from speaking. "It's nothing you can do either, sorry. It's going to be an adult event anyway."

Kyoko looked up at the woman curiously, cookies still shoved in her mouth as she spoke. "Adult event? Kyoko is an adult!"

Rinslet stepped over to her and flicked her forehead. "Eve is more adult than you are. I'd bring her before I brought you. Besides, you also don't have the skills that this mission requires."

Sven narrowed his eyes at the woman. "Just what 'skills' are you referring to?"

Rinslet gave him a knowing look. "You and I both know those two are capable of things no one else in this room are capable of."

Sven wasn't sure if she was referring to their Tao or not, but decided to keep his mouth shut anyway. He knew Train and Creed had skills beyond their Tao that made them different, which is something everyone else in the room knew as well so it was better not to push the subject.

Aliane didn't like what Rinslet was saying and glared at her. "You better not be getting my Sugarplum into anything dangerous…"

Rinslet grimaced at the pet name the girl gave the Black Cat, not sure how Train was able to tolerate both her and Kyoko at the same time. "Train wouldn't have become a sweeper if he didn't know the danger of it." Deciding to ignore the teen's continuing glare, she turned around to address Sven again. "Where are they?"

Sven pointed up. "On the roof. Although, you may not want to bother them just yet. Train just got back from visiting Lin so I have no idea what you'll be walking into after they spent the whole morning apart."

Rinslet nodded and walked away from him. "Thanks for the heads up, but I'll take my chances."

She left quickly through the back door before anyone else could say anything more to her. As soon as she stepped outside, she heard Train's voice arguing with Creed about what she could only assume was something dumb.

"I don't want the damn oatmeal! They're gross!"

Creed pouted. "Are you saying you don't like my baking, Train?"

Train winced at the look Creed was giving him, then glared. "That clearly isn't the case considering I've already eaten a dozen sugar and chocolate chip ones!"

Creed rolled his eyes. "Then just try one of the oatmeal! I promise it's better than you realize."

"NO!" Train yelled as he tried to push the silver man away who was attempting to pin him down and force feed the cookie to him.

Creed shoved the cookie in his mouth and grunted as he fought the Black Cat. "Just try one bite, Train!"

"NEVER!" Train shouted as he reached over to the plate rested next to them and grabbed one to feed Creed. "If they're so delicious then you eat one!"

Creed choked a little on the cookie his love shoved in his mouth as he tried to pull his head away from Train while keeping him pinned down. "I already did! In fact, it's the only kind I've had since you refuse to eat them!"

"BECAUSE THEY'RE DISGUSTING!" Train shouted behind the cookie his friend had forced into his mouth.

"NO THEY'RE NOT!" Creed shouted in response, his voice muffled as well as Train held a cookie in place in his mouth.

Rinslet watched the scene for a few minutes, chuckling in amusement, unable to deny the chemistry they plainly had with each other.

I know I was pushing Train and Lin together for so long, but that was only because I didn't see how obviously he belongs with Creed. When Creed first joined us, I just assumed everything between them was going to be dead. But now, it'd take a complete moron to not see how well they fit together.

She knew they weren't technically together, but that was because Train apparently was a complete moron. No one else had a doubt in their mind how the cat felt for the swordsman, but Train was still holding back his true affections for Creed. She understood the reason behind his hesitancy and as much as she wanted to tease the gunman about it, she didn't because she knew it wasn't her place. Train needed to move at his own pace and admit his feelings to Creed when he was ready. Until them, at least they both seemed happy with whatever it was that they had going on between them.

And this scene above me only confirms how perfect they are for each other and how Train feels about him. He loves Creed and Creed loves him. Now it's just a matter of Train being ready to say the words out loud.

She watched them for a few more minutes, then crossed her arms and spoke in a loud voice. "Could you two stop flirting for three seconds and notice that you're not alone?"

Okay… Maybe a little bit of teasing won't hurt.

They both froze in their position, Creed holding onto one of Train's wrists and pinning it to the roof while his other was being held in the air by the cat's. They both had an oatmeal cookie half in their mouths, and one of Train's knees was pushing into Creed's stomach while his other was pinned to the roof by the silver man's leg. They both stared at Rinslet for a few seconds, Train looked surprised at seeing Rinslet and Creed looked frustrated at his beloved's reaction.

After a few minutes, Train turned his head away from Creed and spit the cookie out, making the silver man glare and scold him as he released his hand from the cat's grasp to remove the one that was in his mouth. "You didn't even bite down!"

Train smirked deviously at the man. "Because I told you oatmeal cookies are gross. They're the evil step-sisters of chocolate chips! A malicious doppelganger!"

Creed rolled his eyes and looked down at Rinslet, but did not release Train. "How can we help you, my dear thief?"

Rinslet smiled at them for a second, then gave Train a serious look. "How's Lin?"

Train frowned a little. "He's doing better but… he won't be released for another four days."

Rinslet matched his frowned. "I thought he was going to be released in two?"

Train sighed. "So did I and so did everyone else, but the doctors wanted to keep him a bit longer so he could receive more physical therapy."

The woman pouted for a second, then smirked at Train, trying to make light of the situation before she got too upset. "Distracting him too much, Black Cat?"

Train rolled his eyes. "Let's not get started on that again. I only just got Sephiria on my side a few weeks ago."

She laughed lightly, then looked back up at them and crossed her arms. "That's not what I came here for. Are you both really going to have a conversation with me from the roof?"

Train smirked. "What's wrong? Can't make the climb?"

The thief glared at him. "You know I can't…"

Creed giggled and leaned forward to kiss his love on the forehead, then let him go and leapt gracefully off the roof, landing directly in front of the woman. "I'll be a gentleman since Train will not."

"HEY!" Train yelled from the roof, laying down so he was on his stomach and his head was leaning off the side of the house.

Creed blew his Kitten a kiss, then turned back to Rinslet. "It's been a while since we've seen you. To what do we owe the pleasure of your company?"

Rinslet smiled at him. "Charming as ever I see, Creed. That charm is exactly what brings me here."

Creed gave her a sweet smile. "Oh? Have you come to confess you've fallen for me? I'm sorry, as lovely as you are, I'll have to decline. As bratty as he can be, my heart only has room for Train."

"HEY!" Train yelled again, tossing a cookie at the back of Creed's head which the swordsman was able to catch with ease.

Creed glanced over his shoulder and took a bite of the cookie, then winked at his cat. "You know it's true, Train."

Train glared at him. "Which part? The part where I'm bratty, or the sappy part about your heart?"

"Both!" Rinslet and Creed said together, then ignored Train's childish grumbles as the gunman rolled on his back, head still hanging off the roof as he stared up at the sky and ate another cookie.

Rinslet smiled at Creed and gestured for him to sit on the bench that was against the house with her. "We don't have much time so I'll just get right to why I'm here: I need you and Train to accompany me to a fancy dinner party tonight at a local crime boss's mansion."

Train's head was hanging several feet about them, but he was able to hear them nonetheless. "Why are you going to a crime boss's party?"

Rinslet rolled her eyes and looked up at him. "Because I was invited."

Train frowned at her as he swallowed another cookie. "Why were you invited?"

Rinslet growled and glared at the man. "Because I'm an attractive woman!"

Train smirked at her, enjoying how easy it was to get under her skin. "You are?"

Train laughed and avoided a rock she picked up off the ground and threw at him, but Creed was able to land a hit on him with a very small pebble he found on the ground. "Don't be rude, Train. We barely see Rins as it is, let's not scare her away so quickly." He looked back at the woman and frowned. "Although, I do agree with Train. How exactly did you get invited to a crime boss's party and why do you need us to accompany you?"

Rinslet stuck her tongue out at Train, then turned back to Creed. "Don't worry about how I got invited, just know I'm in and they're expecting me to bring my handsome, charming boyfriend."

Train laughed loudly at that comment. "Oh, man, who's the poor sap that you roped into doing that?!"

Rinslet glared at him again as she spoke. "I'm in the middle of asking right now…"

Train's face went pale. "Noooo, no, no! I'm not doing that!"

Rinslet brushed his words away. "I'm not asking you! I'm asking Creed!"

Creed blinked as the woman smiled back at him. "Why me?"

Rinslet smirked and patted his knee. "Because you're the only man I know that fits the bill of handsome and charming, but is also going to be a strong ally if it comes to a fight."

Train pouted at her. "I'm right here, ya know…"

Rinslet smirked up at him. "Which part are you offended by? The fact that I'm saying Creed is more charming than you are, or the fact that I plan on borrowing your boyfriend for the night?"

Creed smiled happily and looked up at Train, waiting to see if he was going to deny that label and felt his heart lift at the flustered look his beloved took on. Hearing nothing but stuttering in response, Creed sighed blissfully.

He may not know how to deny that label since to anyone outside looking in they'd think it was true. Anastasia told me that as well and while I'd prefer to have the 'lover' title, I'm more than happy to accept being Train's boyfriend, even if he isn't ready to admit it. But at this point, how can he?

As much as Rinslet wanted to be understanding of Train's situation, the fact that he was still not willing to admit that Creed was even his boyfriend was a bit frustrating.

Rinslet smirked up at Train as she spoke. "Oh, come on, Train. You can't sit there and tell me Creed isn't in some way or another your boyfriend. Deny it all you want, the look in your eyes and the blush on your face says otherwise."

Creed smiled thankfully at the woman, happy there was someone who was willing to be blunt with Train even though it made his beloved uncomfortable. He looked back up at Train and saw the red-orange mixing in his golden eyes and knew that meant the gunman was toying with the idea in his mind.

He still won't say it out loud, but maybe this will be just another push to get him to say what he's really feeling soon.

Train's heart was beating fast when Rinslet used the title, but it felt ready to explode when Creed locked eyes with him and gave him that hopeful, puppy dog look he always did when faced with a direct conversation about their relationship.

I know we fit all the definitions of using that label, but I don't know if I'm ready for that title yet… No matter how much I want it.

Train sighed and sat up so neither of them could see his face anymore. "Fine, Creed's your date for this shindig. What do you need me for?"

Rinslet smirked knowingly at Creed, then spoke low enough so only he could hear here. "I didn't hear him deny it…"

"What was that?" Train said as he glanced over his shoulder and looked down at them both.

Rinslet smiled at Creed who beamed joyously at her, then answered the cat's question. "I said don't worry about what I need you for! Just know I need both of your skills tonight if I'm going to make it out of there safely."

Creed frowned at her. "I was hoping I heard you wrong the first time, but I guess I didn't… Did you really say it was tonight?"

Rinslet nodded her head. "Yeah. Sorry for the last minute notice, but I was only able to get a last minute invite this morning."

Creed sighed. "I had plans with Train tonight…"

"You did?" Train said as he peaked back over the roof and down at them. "What plans?"

Creed gave his love a playful look. "None of your business."

Train rolled his eyes. "Sounds like it should be since I'm involved in them. But I guess that means they were more birthday surprises… Creed, seriously, you need to chill out. You don't need to surprise me every night!"

Creed brushed his words away and addressed Rinslet again. "Just exactly how important is this mission?"

Rinslet sighed. "Important enough that I'm going to agree with Train and say you can take the night off from spoiling your real boyfriend and pretend you're my date. Besides, I have a hunch they'll have information pertaining to the Apostles."

"Apostles?" Train leapt off the roof and landed in front of them both, giving Rinslet a serious look as he spoke. "What makes you think that?"

Rinslet smiled at him, happy to have both of their full attention now. "My gut mostly, but the few interactions I've had with them I've heard them talking about supplying weapons for an organization they refuse to say the name of. I can't imagine who else it would be."

Creed locked eyes with his beloved. "You're not going to let me say no to this, are you, Train?" He sighed in defeat at the steely look Train had in his eyes. "Train… After hearing that, it's not just the plans I had for us tonight that's stopping me. It's also Sephiria. We can't make a move on the Apostles without giving her a heads up."

Train rolled his eyes. "Like she tells absolutely everything she's doing in regards to the Apostles."

Creed rubbed his eyes. "She tells us whatever information she thinks is important and she would absolutely tell us if she had a lead on where they were."

Train sighed in frustration and threw his hands in the air. "And if this gives us an idea of where they are and what they're doing, we'll tell her! Not to mention we also give her all the information we find on them and we've been doing that long before we had this alliance. However, lately it's been nothing so this could not only give us a lead on where they are, but we might actually have something new to report for once."

Creed frowned at his beloved, knowing the real reason behind his annoyance right now and not wanting to cave into Train's impulsive side. "Train… I really don't think we should do something related to the Apostles without Sephiria."

We can't do something without her knowledge. Especially if she still doesn't fully trust me yet. I know Train called her and explained the situation with the piano performances, but still, I have a feeling she's going to be keeping an even closer eye on me.

"It's not like she isn't going to know where we're going anyway. I'm sure she's got extra guys on your right now." Train said as if reading Creed's mind.

Creed rested his head in his hands. "I don't feel right going behind her back. You know her relationship with us is a bit… contentious at the moment."

Rinslet blinked in confusion at that. "Why's that?"

Creed brushed her words away. "It's a long, misunderstood story, don't worry about it. But, it's hard to earn Number One's trust back once you lose it. Even if it was just a little."

Train rain his fingers through his hair as he spoke. "This isn't going behind her back, Creed. The Apostles have gone dark ever since they almost killed Lin, but we've still been seeing their propaganda popping up everywhere which means they're still moving. This could be the best opportunity for us all!"

Creed frowned at his beloved. "I told you they're probably just laying low after what happened and Sephiria agrees, I mean…" He looked back at the house quickly to make sure no one was listening, then spoke in a low voice. "The last time we saw them, Lin's death was their goal and as far as they're concerned, they succeeded. Charden isn't dumb enough to attack us again after believing they killed a number. He knows how angry you and Sephiria will be and how dangerous it would be to make a serious move right now. You need to give it time..."

Train clenched his fist. "Time won't subside my anger, Creed…"

Creed reached out and took hold on his love's fist, kissing and caressing it gently. "I know, Train… I'm just trying to let you know there's no reason to rush. They'll come out of hiding again soon. I know it."

Train glared at Creed, but did not pull his hand away and made sure to keep his voice low as well. "I haven't been rushing. I've been very patient. Uncharacteristically patient I might add."

Creed sighed and tangled his fingers around Train's. "I know…"

They had had a few arguments over going after the Apostles after what they did to Lin, but Creed was able to subdue his beloved over and over again. It helped that Sven, Eve, Lin and Sephiria all agreed with him, so luckily the conversation wasn't brought up too much. However, as proud as Creed was of Train for not obsessing over it, he knew it was always in the back of his mind.

I'm glad he's learned that revenge isn't the answer to everything. If he was the same person he was a year ago, he wouldn't have rested until the Apostles paid for what they did to Lin. At least now he's in control enough of his impulses to not always go charging in without a plan.

Train knelt on the ground in front of Creed and gave him a pleading look. "Creed… I know we've had arguments about this before but… I've been silent about this for far too long now. They've been quiet for a while now and I'm worried once Lin is out they'll come back and attack him again. If we can find out any new information to help us fight them before he's released I believe it'd be for the best." He squeezed both of the silver man's hands in his own and made sure his eyes never left his companion's. "Please…"

Creed bit his lip, wanting to argue with his beloved, but knowing he most likely wouldn't win.

He wanted to hunt them down almost immediately after Lin woke up, but I was worried he was acting a bit too harshly and made sure to keep a close eye on him. As much as I've been able to get him to control his heedless whims, right now, judging from the look on his face, I think he's thought it through…

Train pulled Creed's hands so they were closer to his face and rested his forehead against them. "Creed… We can't let them slip away. Not again. Not when we have an opportunity thrown in our laps like this."

He sighed and glanced at Rinslet. "How certain are you that we'll learn something about them?"

The thief smiled. "I'm very confident."

Creed looked back at his Kitten, then rested his forehead on Train's.

I'll just have to make up tonight for him another day… I'll reschedule dinner with E tonight...

Creed smiled and kissed Train's forehead gently. "You know I can't say no to that face…" When he saw the happy look in his Kitten's eyes, he pointed one finger at him and tried to speak firmly despite how happy he was to see his love relieved. "But we need to call Sephiria and let her know what we're doing. Okay?"

Train smirked and nodded. "I'll call her as soon as we're done talking to Rins." He then turned to Rinslet. "Sounds like we're in! What time is the party?"

Rins smirked. "Eight o'clock sharp. I'll be here at seven with a car that will blend in with the vibe these people expect." She looked at Creed for her next question. "I assume you know how to dance?"

Creed nodded, but kept loving eyes on Train as he spoke. "Of course I do. What kind of man would I be if I didn't?"

Rinslet rolled her eyes, then addressed the next question to Train. "Do you have a tux?"

Train blinked at her. "I have a suit…"

She shook her head. "No, for your roll you need a tux. I'll bring one tonight. Creed, do you know his measurements?"

Creed smirked and pulled Train forward and onto his lap, leaning back into the bench as he wrapped one arm around his beloved's waist while the other rested possessively on his hip. "I'll measure him as soon as you leave and let you know."

Rinslet chuckled as Train blushed, but as soon as she saw Creed give the cat a lewd look, she stood up quickly and prepared herself to leave. "Right, well, remember tonight you are my date and Train won't be around us all night since he'll be with the rest of the help. So, I suggest you get whatever you need to get out of your system now before you're separated."

Train yelped as Creed traced his hand slowly down his thigh, but managed to stop the silver man so he could address what the woman just said. "Wait, what do you mean by 'the help'?"

Rinslet brushed his words away and decided to leave from the side of the house instead of through the door. "Like I said, don't worry about it. I'll see you both at seven!"

As soon as she turned away, she heard Train yelp again and Creed's prurient voice respond to her. "Give me at least an hour to get his measurements. I'm sure I'm going to get distracted a few times."

Train yipped as Creed slipped his fingers between his legs and began massaging his inner thigh. "Stop it, Creed! I need to call Sephiria, remember?!"

Creed smirked at his beloved. "She can wait an hour… Besides, I need to make a call as well."

Train let out a purr despite himself as the silver man kissed his neck gently. "It was your idea to call her! Now you suffer the consequences! And just who do you need to call?!"

Creed chuckled and nibbled on his beloved's neck a little as he spoke. "Don't worry about it. And just what consequences will I be suffering? You seem to be enjoying this as much as I am..."

Rinslet wasn't sure what happened next since she had turned the corner of the house and exited through the gate, but she had a feeling Creed wasn't wasting a second since Train let out another surprised cry. The last thing she heard was his shouted protest which slowly fell silent, signaling to Rinslet that she had chosen the right moment to leave.

It's ridiculous how attached they are. Train needs to just accept his feelings and be with Creed already. I can feel their chemistry from here and I can't even see them anymore!

A sad thought occurred to her and she sighed sympathetically for her friend in the hospital.

I just hope whenever Lin gets out he'll be able to handle their relationship...

Train growled down at the bowtie around his neck, fiddling with it in irritation with one hand, the other on the steering wheel as he drove them to the black tie event Rinslet baited them into attending. "How long is this thing supposed to be?"

Rinslet rolled her eyes from the back seat. "We haven't even gotten there yet and you're already complaining?"

Train glared at her through the rearview mirror. "You're not the one that has to wear a noose around their neck all night!"

Rinslet returned his glare. "High heels and a tight dress are not as comfortable as you may think."

Train sighed and glanced at Creed who sat next to her in the back, his heart beating a little faster at how handsome he looked. It was the first time Creed wore a suit since they went to Freesia's birthday party. It wasn't the same suit since that one had been long lost, but Train thought its simplicity made him look better. The suit itself was a plain black with a white undershirt and black shoes. However, the tie was silver with blue stripes, which went well with Creed's hair and eyes. His long locks were pulled back so more of his face could be seen, a single strand rebelling as it fell on one side of his head, cascading down his face which Creed kept tucking behind his ear.

"Where did you get this car, anyway?" Train asked in an attempt to distract himself from Creed.

Rinslet caught the cat looking at Creed quite a few times and gave him a knowing smirk. "Don't worry about it. Just drive."

Train sighed and sulked in his seat, already regretting tonight despite how much he wanted to find out more about the Apostles.

I need to keep my eyes on the prize. This is to hopefully get information on the Apostles. This is for Lin.

After glancing between Creed and the road a few times, the swordsman finally realized what his beloved was doing and smiled at him through the mirror, then winked playfully. Train blushed and lowered himself in his seat a little, embarrassed at being caught essentially checking Creed out.

"I never thought something would be more uncomfortable than a regular tie. Why do I have to wear this monkey suit anyway? And why am I the one driving you there?" Train spoke quickly so he could divert his attention onto his thoughts instead of the attractive man in the mirror.

Rinslet smirked at Creed who had been beaming joyously upon catching Train looking at him again. She wore a blue dress with silver heels and a matching silver jewelry set, her hair tied up with a few strands dangling playfully down the sides of her face. She wore this outfit specifically to match Creed, since they were supposed to come off as a date for the party.

Rinslet sighed in annoyance at the cat. "Those were way too many questions asked way too quickly, but I'm pretty sure I answered them all before we left. You're the help. And the help wears tuxedos and drives cars for their bosses."

Train rolled his eyes and sat back up so he could see the road better. "And where exactly am I supposed to go all night while you're off dancing the night away with Creed?"

Rinslet saw the pleased look in Creed's eyes, then cocked an eyebrow at Train. "Getting jealous already?"

Train glared at her, making sure to avoid looking at Creed as he spoke. "That's not what I mean. I mean, where is the rest of the 'help' going to be while the rich people wine and dine and kiss each other's asses?"

Rinslet leaned forward and smacked the back of his head with her silver clutch, then leaned back in her chair. "I've told you a thousand times. Is this what it's like being Sven?"

Creed chuckled as he reached out and rubbed the back of Train's head where Rinslet hit. "Pretty much. But, I actually think you're handling it much better than Sven usually does."

Rinslet rolled her eyes as Creed attempted to comfort the cat, then looked out the window to ignore them both. "Probably because I haven't had to put up with it as long as he has… Don't tell him I said this, but after just one car ride of you, I actually feel kind of sorry for Sven."

Creed allowed his fingers to linger in Train's hair for a bit, then sat back in his seat. "I've been partnered with Train far longer than anyone else, so if you should feel sorry for anyone, it's me."

"HEY!" Train yelled as he glared at Creed. "I'm not that obnoxious! Even if I don't listen, I always get the job done!"

Creed smiled at his beloved, then reached out and caressed Train's shoulder for a second. "I know Train. You're amazing."

Rinslet sighed and looked back at Creed. "Do I have to remind you that you need to treat Train like he's your employee tonight? You can't flirt with him, look at him lovingly, and you cannot, I repeat you cannot embrace him in any romantic way. That includes hugging, hand holding, and kissing." She wrapped her arm around the silver man and smiled mischievously at Train through the mirror.

Creed frowned at her, but kept his other hand reaching out to touch Train. "I thought we needed to pretend to have an 'open' relationship so it's safe to still flirt with others?"

Rinslet nodded. "Yes, but you can't be doing those things with the help. Only other guests get information from them. And when we're not flirting, we need to act like a real couple. You need to act like you're completely enamored with me."

Train rolled his eyes as he watched Rinslet pinch Creed's cheek, knowing the thief was trying to upset him with her playful teasing towards his companion. It didn't work since Creed's other arm and his eyes never left him. "That's a hard task for anyone to accomplish. I'm not even sure how Jenos has kept it going for so long."

Rinslet glowered at Train then smacked his head again with her clutch. "Shut up, Boy! I don't want to hear sass out of you again! You're taking orders from us tonight!"

Creed giggled and rubbed his beloved's head again, smiling adoringly at the cute whimper Train let out. "Why didn't you ask Jenos to come with you tonight? That would have also given Chronos first dibs on any information on the Apostles."

Rinslet sighed. "The fact that he's with Chronos makes it impossible to do anything like this with him since he can't do anything without their permission. I figured you'd both realize that." The men gave her a silent understanding and she continued. "Besides, I picked you for the specific reason that you're reasonable and charming. Jenos is too similar to Train in his boorish mannerisms, lack of ability to stay quiet, and repellent attitude."

Instead of being offended by the woman's words, he decided to turn her comments into a compliment. "Think what you like, Rins, but I have a fanclub that would disagree with how repugnant you think I am."

Rinslet rolled her eyes. "I hardly think two teen girls' opinions matter when it comes to true love."

"Yes, but I think the man you deemed good enough to be your date tonight has a valuable enough opinion when it comes to how charismatic Train is. And I don't need to remind you if you speak that way about Train in front of Lin, you're going to get quite an earful from him as well." Creed smiled at Train, reaching out and pinching his pink cheek slightly.

The woman wanted to rest her face in her hands, but she knew that would mess up her makeup so she decided to ignore them both again by looking out the window. "Guess I said that in the wrong company."

She glanced back over at Creed and watched as he quickly became distracted by Train, trying to tickle the cat who was pushing the silver man away as he attempted to drive. She watched them for a few minutes, smiling slightly at the obvious happiness they had found with each other despite not having a label that defined their love.

Is this plan going to work? I mean, I know Train will be away from us for most of the night, but all it'll take is one person seeing them even catching a glimpse of each other and our entire cover will be blown.

She sighed as Creed leaned on the median between the front seats, touching and flirting with Train as much as possible before they arrived since he knew he couldn't when they got there. Rinslet hit them both with her purse, rolling her eyes at Train's yelp and Creed's pout as she spoke in a serious tone.

"You two really need to keep your emotions in check when we get there…" She leaned back in her seat and crossed her arms.

Creed sighed, but did not pull away from Train, grabbing his arm gently as he looked back at the thief. "That's why I'm trying to get it all out of my system now. But, all the time in the world would never be enough time to get all the love I feel for Train out of my heart."

Train jumped a little as Creed poked his side playfully, making sure not to swerve the car as he glared at the silver man from the corner of his eye. "Do you want me to crash the car?"

Creed pouted at his beloved, but poked him again despite his Kitten's protests. "You'd never crash the car before being served a delicious meal."

Train rolled his eyes. "Like the servants will be served the same food…"

Rinslet leaned her chin on her elbow and her elbow against the window frame as she glanced at the cat. "Actually, you'll probably be near the kitchen for the most part which means you get first dibs. Also, I'm sure the servants hate their bosses which means the cooks will most likely be giving you all the best stuff they make."

Train smiled at that and sat up a bit straighter, then winced again when Creed poked and pinched him. "Does this mean I'm supposed to pretend to hate you both while I'm talking to them? Because at this point, I don't think it'll be much of an act."

Creed frowned at his cat and pinched his cheek playfully. "You can't pretend to hate me, Train."

Train grumbled at Creed and smacked his hand away. "I will crash this car if you keep trying to distract me, Creed."

Creed sighed since he knew Train was grumpy not only because of the uncomfortable outfit he wore, but also because he didn't like what they were doing. He never liked it when they had to attend fancy parties while they were with Chronos so it made sense he didn't want to go to the event.

I know he's only doing this for Lin, but that doesn't change the fact that he doesn't like it. He'll probably be in a bad mood for the rest of the night. Well, at least until he gets food.

Wanting to make his beloved feel better, Creed ran his fingers through his hair gently and tried to remind him why they were going to the party. "The night will be over before you know it, Train. And we'll have information about the Apostles by the end of it." He gave Rinslet a knowing look as he spoke. "Right, Rins?"

Rinslet was about to say she couldn't promise that, but stopped herself when she met Creed's eyes. She sighed and nodded her head. "That's right. But, just for my own state of mind, can we go over the plan again?"

Creed nodded, but did not pull away from his beloved as he spoke. "Train will drop us off at the front, then park the car with the rest of the party guests' vehicles. Then, he will go through the back entrance and meet the rest of the servants and gather whatever information he can about Jeffery Jollin and his crime organization. While this is happening, we will be upstairs, schmoozing with the guests to find out whatever can from them about the same thing."

Rinslet nodded and smiled at the man, then looked at Train through the rearview mirror. "Did you get all that, Train? Or do we need to repeat it again?"

Train glowered at her, then looked back at the road. "No, I got it. Find out whatever I can about Jollin and his organization. You're splitting the sweep evenly with us, right?"

Rinslet rolled her eyes, then looked back out the window. "I told you the sweep isn't Jollin himself, it's just the files he holds. It's all speculation that he even runs a crime organization."

Train gave her a curious look through the mirror. "Then why do you keep referring to him as a crime boss?"

Rinslet sighed in frustration. "Because everyone knows it's true, they just don't have the proof. That's what the sweep is for. The proof. Once we have that and hand it in, they'll probably put a sweep out for him and then we can go after him for that."

Train nodded. "Got it. But you still didn't answer my question: You're splitting the reward evenly with us, right?"

The woman narrowed her eyes at him. "It won't be an even split… As I stated before, I'm the one that brought this to you, so I get the bigger cut. Not to mention I'm the one with the invitation, so you're only getting in because of me."

Train scoffed at her. "But we're the ones that will bail you out if there's any trouble. You said it yourself, you came to us because you can't do this without us."

Rinslet rested her forehead against the window as she spoke. "Part of your pay is going to be any information you find about the Apostles there. And you'll have first rights to that information since you'll be the one sneaking off from the servants and taking whatever documents you can find."

Train nodded. "Right. Do you still have that map of the mansion?"

Rinslet opened her clutch and pulled out the paper to hand to Train. "Here. Be careful with it. You have no idea what I had to go through to get-HEY, WHAT DID I JUST SAY?!"

Train grabbed the paper roughly from her and shoved it into his pocket. "Whatever. It's not like I'm gonna use it anyway. Just ask Creed, I always manage to stumble my way to the correct location without ever even glancing at a map."

Creed frowned sympathetically at Rinslet. "It's true. No matter how many maps or blueprints I've given him over the years, Train always gets frustrated trying to figure them out and ends up ignoring them in favor of his instincts." He sighed lovingly at his Kitten, still running his fingers through his hair as he spoke. "But, to his credit, he's right. He's never failed in a mission like this before."

Rinslet rolled her eyes and looked back out the window. "Then why bother asking me for them?"

Train shrugged his shoulders as he smiled at Creed's compliment. "Because I knew you were going to force them on me anyway, so I figured you may as well hand them over now before we got there."

Rinslet rolled her eyes. "Whatever… Just be careful and remember, no one can see you when you're looking for files. This is a stealth mission. You cannot get caught no matter what otherwise they'll send every guard after you and lock the whole place down with us inside."

Train brushed her words away. "Don't worry, I won't get caught. And even if I do, Creed and I can take on a few mooks. Right, Creed?"

Creed nodded and smiled at his beloved. "Right." He looked back at Rinslet as he said his next sentence. "That doesn't mean we aren't taking this seriously, Rins. I promise, Train and I have done this kind of mission thousands of times while we were with Chronos. Even a few times with the Apostles."

Train rolled his eyes. "Except I was the eye candy when we went to Freesia's party..."

Rinslet smirked at the cat. "Aww, that's sweet! Are you saying you think I look good enough to eat, Train? With all the looks you keep stealing at Creed, I thought he was the only one you wanted to snack on tonight."

Creed and Rinslet both laughed at Train's bright blush and red cheeks, the silver man avoiding a smack from his beloved as the gunman swiped at both of them. "That's it! I'm crashing the car!"

Rinslet yanked Creed away from Train and wrapped her arm around his elbow again, giving him a serious look as the cat pulled up to their location. "Remember, you need to act like Train is your servant tonight. Give him orders."

Creed licked his lips as he glanced at Train. "Trust me… I have no problem giving Train commands."

Train blushed and Rinslet pinched Creed's arm. "And don't look at him like that! I swear, those lascivious eyes are going to doom us all."

Creed shrugged his shoulders. "It's Train's eyes that doomed my heart." He winced when Rinslet pinched him again, then gave her a sweet smile. "Don't worry, my dear, I've played the role of a fake lover before. I can do it again tonight."

Train rolled his eyes as he watched Creed kissed Rinslet's hand and parked the car by the front door of the mansion. "Alright, we're here. Get out so I can make myself scarce."

Rinslet glared at the cat. "No, you get out and open the doors for us, Boy."

Train wanted to glare back at her, but knew people were already looking and decided against it. He opened his door quickly and stepped to Rinslet's door to let her out first. He even went so far as to offer the woman his hand and bowed slightly, since he knew that's what a good servant boy would do. Rinslet smiled at him, then allowed Train to lead her to the sidewalk in front of the mansion as the cat turned to let Creed out. He did not offer the man his arm to help him, since he knew that would look strange. In fact, he made sure not to make eye contact with Creed, as if trying to show he was submissive to the swordsman.

As Train let Creed out, Rinslet was approached by a few men who didn't seem to know she was with someone. Wanting to please as many people as possible, the thief walked away with them, leaving Creed and Train alone for a minute.

Creed frowned slightly as he eyed his beloved from the corner of his eye, not liking Train acting so meek towards him, despite the sexual implication his perverted mind was making. He looked around to make sure no one was looking and quickly wrapped his arm around Train's side and pulled him closer, tucking his chocolate hair behind his ear as he nuzzled his face close to his beloved's.

"Don't worry, Train, it'll be over soon and then we can get home and take these outfits off. Unless… you'd like me to put on a little show for you while I still have this on… I can tell you like the way I look."

Train blushed and pushed Creed away. "Stop it, someone's gonna see it and Rinslet is gonna blame me for blowing it."

Creed looked around again to make sure no one was looking, then cupped Trains chin lightly and gave him a sweet, tender kiss on the lips. When he pulled away, he smiled warmly at Train and caressed his chin with his thumb for a second. "You look amazing tonight as well, Train. Then again, you always look amazing."

Train bit back a yelp as Creed subtly grabbed his ass and walked away, making his way to Rinslet and putting on a huge, yet charming show about the men surrounding his date. He watched as the two of them walked into the mansion arm in arm and waited until they were inside before he let out the breath he was holding.

"Dealing with sexual harassment from your boss, huh?"

Train blushed and turned around quickly to see a woman about his age wearing a tuxedo very similar to his. "WH-WHAT?!"

The woman rolled her eyes and gestured towards where Creed went. "That silver haired guy. I saw what he did to you and I saw you didn't fight it. Does it happen so often that you're that used to it?"

The woman was much shorter than Train and quite thin, but with a pretty face. She had platinum blonde hair that was tied back in a ponytail, but was still long enough that it reached her knees. Her skin was very pale and her eyes were a bright green with a harshness behind them that made Train wonder what these servants' lives must be like for someone so young and beautiful to look so jaded.

Train wasn't sure what to say and started to stammer like an idiot. "I-I… That is… U-ummm…"

The woman gave him a pitiful look. "You poor thing… You're traumatized." She glared at the direction Creed and Rinslet went. "Don't worry, they're all assholes. Unfortunately, abuse like that is common for us. Especially when you're as good looking as we are."

Train blinked at her. "Are you saying you are abused by your boss?"

The woman sighed and nodded. "Yeah… but after witnessing what your boss does with you, I actually feel lucky. At least my employer has never gone so far as to kiss me. And judging by the way yours kissed you, it actually looks like he has feelings for you." She looked Train up and down curiously. "How far has he gone with you? And do you actually enjoy it?"

Train blushed and felt himself ready to explode with embarrassment, but remembered what Rinslet said about blending in with the servants and managed to control himself. "What?! With him?! He's a bastard! And his woman is no better, but at least she doesn't put her hands on me like he does."

The woman blinked at him. "Oh? So just how far has he been pushing the boundaries with you?"

Train sighed and ran his fingers through his hair, looking away from the woman as if he was ashamed to even think about it. "I don't want to talk about it… Do you know where we're supposed to park these stupid cars?"

The woman gave him another sympathetic smile and nodded her head. "I do. Just follow me. I can show you where the servants entrance is as well. Leads us right into the kitchen! It's great!"

Train nodded and looked back down at her. "You've been here before?"

The woman nodded. "Yup. Loads of times. You must be new because this is where they always meet for every occasion. Come to think of it…" She looked back at the door where Creed and Rinslet went through and squinted. "I don't think I've ever seen them here before either…"

Train was able to answer her with confidence since they had gone over their reason for being here over and over again. "My lady met Mr. Jollin a couple weeks ago at a gala. He was taken with her immediately and invited her to this event. I assume they're just here to get some of his money, despite how much they already have."

The woman seemed to accept that lie as she rolled her eyes and chuckled bitterly. "Jollin does like them busty… However, considering this specific event is for new people, I guess I shouldn't be surprised I've never seen you before." She looked up and Train and smiled, offering her hand to the cat. "By the way, my name's Vivian. And you are?"

Train smirked and took her hand as he gave her the name Rinslet assigned him for the night. "Clay Barnes. Nice to meet you."

She released his hand then turned back to her car that was parked behind Train's. "Well then, follow me, Mr. Barnes. I'll introduce you to the rest of the gang."

Train frowned at her. "Please don't call me 'mister'. And have you really been coming here long enough to know the staff?"

Vivian nodded. "Yup! And I've been in this business long enough to know if we don't move our cars soon, Willie is going to be pissed off."

Train cocked an eyebrow at her. "Who's Willie?"

A car behind hers began honking its horn, earning an angry look from a few finely dressed people that walked by and towards the front door. A thin, middle aged man stuck his head out through the window and glared at Vivian.

"Come on, Viv! Quit flirting with that newbie and move your car! I don't care how cute he is, I need a drink NOW!"

Vivian rolled her eyes as she pulled out her keys and approached her car. "Aren't you driving them home tonight, Willie?"

The man named Willie brushed her words aside. "Ah, whatever! It's not like I'm gonna get smashed! I just need to drink enough to forget how awful my life is."

Vivian sighed as she opened her car door. "Sounds like you need to get smashed then. And I don't think your bosses will appreciate that."

Willie rolled his eyes. "They'll be too drunk themselves to notice anyway. Besides, if I drink too much I'll just crash the car and kill us all and that'll solve all my problems!"

Vivian sighed as she stepped into her car. "I don't understand how you can make something so morbid sound so optimistic."

Willie smirked at her. "We're all going to die one day, Sweetheart. I'm just one of the few people that accepts it." He glanced at Train, eyeing him up and down with an interested look, then frowned at his face. "Hey, Good Looking, we can't move our cars without you moving yours."

Train jumped as the man beeped his horn again, then ran over to his car, jumped inside and turned it on. He saw Vivian pulled her car up next to his and rolled down her window. "Don't let Willie bother you, he means well. The parking lot is just around this corner, but where we have to park is kind of tucked away since they don't want anyone to see the servants."

Train rolled his eyes. "Of course." He gestured with his hand and smirked. "Lead the way."

Vivian nodded and rolled up her window, driving past Train. Before the Black Cat could even pull out of the park position, Willie peeled out from behind him and drove in front of him, giving Train a suspicious look as he sped behind Vivian, still beeping his horn at her. Train rolled his eyes, confused that the man would so openly disrespect such a powerful group of people.

Not to mention yell at me to move my car then just speed past me before I could. Guess he feels confident enough in himself and his position with his employers. And Vivian seems like she knows what she's talking about as well. Guess I'll have to keep them both close to me if I'm going to find anything out.

Creed put on another sweet smile as he declined the fifth dance from another scantily clad woman. However, he knew his date was in a far worse position, since she had been pulled aside for a dance more times then he could count. Creed also couldn't help but notice how inappropriate her dances became each time she accepted.

I can say no to these women if I don't think they'll know anything, but she has to say yes since it's unacceptable for a woman to turn a man down. It's sexist, but around people like this, it's true. Besides, it's the best way to flatter these people enough to let their guards down and tell us more information.

However, so far neither of them had any luck. They had been there for over an hour and everyone either didn't have anything to share since they were new friends of Jollin, or were completely unwilling to share anything they might have known. Creed wasn't surprised how far reached some of these people were, though. The way Rinslet made it sound, the party they were at was for new friends Jollin wanted to get closer with. And he had a feeling he knew why the man wanted to get closer to Rinslet.

I just hope Train's doing better than we are.

Creed sighed sadly as he sipped on his wine, leaning his back against the bar and watching Rinslet hold back a grimace as the much older man she danced with put his hands far too low on her waist. The silver man smiled proudly as he watched his friend politely and subtly move his hands up, playing it off as a teasing gesture as she smacked his chest playfully.

She's really quite good at this. Almost as good as I am.

"Excuse me, Sir?"

Creed turned around and looked at a petite young girl who was a few years younger than him, a cute blush and small smile on her dainty lips as she spoke. "I couldn't help but notice you were standing here alone. Mind if I keep you company during the next dance?"

Creed stepped away from the bar and over to the woman, taking her hand gently in his own. "I'm sorry, my dear, but do you see that beautiful woman over there dancing with that vulgar old man?"

The woman looked and frowned, nodding her head slowly and speaking with a sour tone. "Yes, I do… She's been hogging all the rich men tonight." She looked back at Creed. "But I came here because of how beautiful you are. Not for your money."

Creed felt like his lips were going to fall off from the fakeness of his smile, but managed to keep the facade going. "Your kind words warm my heart, but I'm sorry to inform you that I am here with that woman tonight and I promised her the next dance. Or whatever next dance she can pry herself away from the other men."

The woman blinked at Creed, then glared at her. "She's not worthy of your presence…"

This woman sounds a lot like how I used to talk about Train.

Creed chuckled lightly and bowed to the woman, still holding her hand as he spoke. "Nevertheless, I need to keep my dance card open for her for a little while longer. So, as lovely as you are, I will have to decline your offer. For now, at least."

The woman sighed wistfully as Creed kissed her hand, then frowned as he stood and released her hand. "Can I at least buy you a drink?"

Creed had been nursing his glass for the last thirty minutes so he would stay sober and sharp, so he winked at the woman as spoke in a purr. "Come find me after I've finished this. Then we can have a chat about a drink and possibly more."

Creed took another sip as the woman walked away despondently, then locked his eyes back on to Rinslet. After seeing how handsy the men were getting with her, he wanted to make sure he kept an eye on her in case he needed to jump in and knock someone flat on his ass.

Well, not literally since I know that won't come off as very gentlemanly, but I want to make sure she's okay. However, she seems to be able to handle herself well. Guess I shouldn't be surprised. She's probably used to men treating her like a piece of meat.

Despite turning down every woman that approached him, he had been able to engage in conversation with each of them, but none of them seemed to know anything. So far it seemed like Creed had been attracting the mistresses of the rich men which meant they didn't know much. They were only there to impress Jollin, but for the most part, they were just a bunch of titillating airheads. Chances were even if they did overhear anything important, they were either too dimwitted to know it was important, or too enticed by the money to remember.

Or should I say too interested in the money to ever want to relay anything they know to a stranger. They could also be here to be offered as mistresses for Jollin… God, I hope that's not true. Especially since if it were true, I'm sure that's why Rinslet was able to get an invite after meeting the man only once.

Creed glanced over at Rinslet to make sure she was okay and chuckled when she looked at him and gave him a playful, yet disgusted look before gracefully placing the man's hands back in more appropriate spots. He then looked over where the woman who just offered to buy him a drink walked off to and watched as she talked pleasantly with an attractive group of girls.

That woman seemed brighter than the rest of them. Maybe I will take her up on that dance later this evening. She might actually have something more worthwhile to say.

Still, no matter how he looked it at, he and Rinslet weren't getting anywhere. It wasn't as if they were doing a bad job, they were just having bad luck.

Maybe if Train stayed with us, everyone else here would be having bad luck. That's one of the many things Train is good for. I understand why Rinslet didn't want him up here with us and I know he hates events like this. Even though it's only been a little over hour, my Kitten would probably be bored out of his mind already and start shaking people down for answers.

Creed sighed and looked down at his glass, swirling it around slightly as he frowned deeply, his thoughts very easily wandering off to his beloved again.

I hope he's getting enough food in the servants' chambers… I know Rins said he would, but I don't know if she was just saying that to make him feel better.

"Well, no matter how you look at it, Jollin is going to be in control for the next several years."

"What makes you sound so confident?"

"Well, I mean… Do I need to remind you who they've recently made contact with?"

"What does that mean though? How does that affect what Jollin does with his regular…. Business?"

"Depends what you mean by his regular business."

Creed's ears perked at the conversation as he casually glanced over at a group of women who were talking a few feet away from the bar he was leaning at. They were gathered around a table and, even though they weren't being specific with their conversation, they were certainly loud enough that he didn't need to strain to hear the conversation. After listening to them speak about whatever the organization they were talking about for a few more minutes, Creed's curiosity peaked.

Could they possibly be talking about the Apostles? I mean, what other well known organization would create a relationship with a crime boss?

He knew they didn't have any physical proof that Jollin was a crime boss yet, but after seeing what the dinner party and the guests that attended it were like, Creed didn't need physical proof to believe it himself. He had been to enough crime boss parties to know what they looked like. However, that wasn't what the sweep was, so he knew they still needed to find something to confirm what he was already sure of.

If I can find out Jollin is associated with the Apostles… That would probably be enough to fulfill the sweep. I know first hand only a certain kind of person deals with the Apostles.

Creed smirked as he took another sip of his wine, then turned around and ordered a bottle to send over to the women. He had a feeling Rinslet wouldn't be too pleased about the expensive purchase since she said anything he bought she would cover with her share of the reward money, but he was sure Train would appreciate Creed using her money, so he didn't hesitate.

Creed continued sipping his drink as he watched the bartender bring the ladies the bottle, waiting for him to point out who had brought it for them. When the bartender placed the bottle on the table then gestured towards Creed, the silver man smiled at them and raised his glass a little. He saw the women giggle, then turned his head away as if he was no longer interested in what their reaction to his gentlemanly gesture was. He heard the bartender walking back and knew what he was going to say before he even said and slipped him a rather large tip, the cash also courtesy of Rinslet, then smiled kindly at the man.

"Thank you very much. I'll head over now."

Creed walked away, not bothering even another glance at the bartender as he smiled and stepped towards the group of women. As he approached, he knew he had made the right decision of not only buying them the bottle, but walking over to them since their insistent giggling did not stop. Creed had to resist the urge to roll his eyes, knowing that would only show the women how annoyed he already was with their inevitable flirting.

Seriously, is this what it's like to be Train dealing with Aliane and Kyoko? The conversation hasn't even started, yet I'm already annoyed.

"Ladies…" Creed said as he took the first woman's hand and kissed it gently. "Sorry to intrude on your conversation, but I couldn't let such a lovely group of women go without a bottle of fine wine."

The first woman whose hand he took giggled a bit too brightly for Creed's taste and spoke so sweetly the swordsman thought he was going to throw up. "Such kind words from such a handsome man."

Another woman took a position next to him and matched the first woman's tone. "And what exactly is someone as handsome as you doing all by yourself?"

Creed could smell the booze wafting off her body and smirked at her, disguising it as a flirtatious expression instead of a disgusted one as he spoke. "While I may have been standing at the bar alone, I have not felt it."

A woman standing on the other side of him spoke next, the fake sugariness of her voice making Creed's skin crawl. "I can only imagine with your classically dapper features, suave charm, and obvious youth you've had your pick of the litter tonight!"

Creed made sure to look humble as he addressed the woman. "Let's just say the women at this event have been more than generous with their compliments."

Another woman in front of Creed spoke next. "And just how generous have you been with them?"

Creed held back a gag at the woman's lewd look and smiled politely at her. "Unfortunately, not as generous as they would have wished seeing as I did not come here unaccompanied. And I've been owing her a dance for quite a while."

The first woman frowned at him. "Oh? Is that true? And who is so lucky to have been your date for the evening?"

Creed glanced over at Rinslet who was being led around the dance floor by another man who seemed just as handsy as the last. "The woman who's had her hands full with almost every man this evening."

One of the women in front of him scoffed and rolled her eyes. "Trust me… We've seen just how occupied she's been with all the viable men tonight."

Creed chuckled at her. "By viable, do you mean rich?"

The woman on his other side grabbed Creed's arm as she laughed and spoke. "Obviously that's what she means because clearly she's not looking at the eye candy that just walked right into our arms."

The woman that scoffed rolled her eyes again. "And just how available is he if he came here with that woman?"

The drunk woman next to him giggled. "He wouldn't have bought us a bottle of wine nor would that woman be dancing with literally every man tonight if there wasn't an understanding between the two of them."

Another woman looked Creed up and down, an inquisitive look in her eyes as she spoke. "Is that true?"

Creed didn't bother to push the woman off him who was still latched onto his arm as he smiled sweetly at her and nodded his head. "It is. We may have attended the party together, but there is no agreement about us leaving together."

The women laughed together as if Creed had made some kind of grand joke, making him want to cover his ears but instead he took another sip of his wine. "So tell me ladies, what brings you to this event?"

The drunk woman spoke first and Creed was happy to see how little of a filter she had. "Isn't it obvious? We're inventory brought here to be approved by the beloved Jollin!"

Another woman elbowed her subtly, then spoke. "We're all dates of one of the men that works for Jollin."

Creed smirked knowingly at her. "Is that so? Well, then why would you be so jealous of my date for taking away all the 'viable' men, as you put it?"

All the women, then the first woman spoke again. "We don't have to keep secrets from… I'm sorry, what's your name?"

Creed smiled courteously and then bowed to the women, finally freeing his arm from the one who had not let go the entire time. "Chris Mitchell, at your service, i miei amori."

Creed kept his head low as they giggled again so he had a moment to make an annoyed face, then slowly stood back up, giving them a minute to calm down before they introduced themselves as well. He didn't bother to remember their names since he knew he didn't care enough to remember and he wouldn't be referring to any of them by their first names anyway.

Sweet talk and pet names will get me far with these ladies, so there's no point in putting in any more personal work for these women than I have to.

"Well, seeing as we are now on a first name basis, I think I will agree with your friend in saying there's no need to keep secrets from each other. After all, we were all invited to the same party, correct? What's the truth between beautiful people over a glass of wine?" Creed held up his glass as if referencing what he meant, ignoring as the woman to his side wrapped her arm back around his elbow.

"A glass or two, that is!" Said the drunk woman as she poured all of her friends a glass, then topped off Creed's even though he did not ask her to.

The woman who seemed hesitant to be honest shrugged her shoulders, then sipped at her wine delicately. "You make a good point, Mr. Mitchell."

Creed smiled warmly at her, skin crawling when the woman next to him leaned her head against his shoulder a little. "Please, call me Chris. As I said before, we are on a first name basis."

The first woman returned his smile and took a dainty sip of her wine. "So, tell us, Chris. What brings such a young, good-looking man like yourself here? I don't know if you've noticed, but you're not exactly in... friendly company."

"Or young!" The drunk woman said a bit too loudly, earning a few strange looks from the people around them.

Creed frowned slightly at her only because it seemed like the rest of the women were beginning to get annoyed by her and he wanted to make sure they accepted him completely. However, they both had a point. Creed hadn't seen anyone his age that wasn't part of the staff. Most of the men there were forty or older making him the youngest man that was attending the party.

The women, however, have so far all appeared to be between twenty and thirty. The oldest I've seen couldn't have been more than thirty-five which leaves me to believe my earlier hunch was correct. Not to mention this drunk woman pretty much confirmed that.

Creed shrugged his shoulders. "Sorry, I cannot help my age. However, my mother always said I was an old soul. Maybe that's how I'm able to fit in so well here."

They laughed again and the woman on his other side traced his arm with her fingers lightly. "I can think of a few other places you could 'fit in' if you're interested."

Lord, no.

Creed smiled suggestively at her. "Perhaps later, but I would like to circle back to what was previously stated by this elegant woman." The first woman giggled and covered her mouth with the back of his hand as he gestured politely at her. "What do you mean by we're not in friendly company? Everyone has been nothing but cordial to me since the moment I arrived."

The drunk woman laughed again and poked his chest. "Sounds like it's mostly been the women. I'm sure the men have proven to be quite standoffish."

The woman on his arm rolled her eyes. "Oh please! There are certainly a few men here who have probably had their eye on Chris as well!"

The woman who was fingering the muscle of his arm glanced to the side where a man was standing and catching quick glimpsing at Creed. "There's one right now!"

Creed looked up to see the man who had been looking at him, nodded kindly in his direction, then watched as he turned away quickly. "While I have been known to dabble in both fields, he's a bit out of my age range."

The drunk woman gave him a perverted look. "Is that so? Well, then can I interest you in the company of myself and my suitor?" She gestured towards a large, much older man who seemed almost as drunk as she was, laughing boorishly with other men who seemed to be bothered by him. "He's been looking for the company of a handsome young man for quite some time and I promised him if he found one I'd like, I'd part take in the devil's three way."

Creed held back a grimace as the man seemed to notice his mistress was talking about him and locked eyes with him, the level of lust in his face would be enough to make a demon blush.

Not for all the money in the world… Honestly, with all the offers made towards me tonight you'd think we were at an orgy.

Creed decided not to entertain the idea that the party was indeed meant to start an orgy and turned back to the woman. If the night appeared to be swaying in that direction, he'd grab Rinslet, hunt down his beloved, and leave quickly. No amount of money or knowledge of the Apostles was enough to be stuck in a room with these pompous, self-entitled humans trying to tear their clothes off.

Absolutely no loyalty among them. Now I'm really happy Train isn't with us. I'd have my hands too full batting people off him that I'd have no time to find out any information.

"I think I will have to decline that offer for now. However, that does bring me back to my earlier point of being treated very kindly since I've been here. Where exactly are the non-friendly party guests?" Creed had to work hard to make his voice sound affable since he was getting tired of being sidetracked with undesirable erotic conversations.

Not to mention this one who won't let go of my arm and the other woman who seems fanasticated with my bicep. Has she never seen a muscle before?

The first woman spoke which Creed was grateful for, since she seemed to be the only one willing to engage in actual conversation with him. "Throw a rock and you'll hit someone who isn't friendly. Actually, don't throw a rock because they'll throw a bullet."

Creed smirked at her. "I can handle myself."

"I'll say you can…" Said the woman who was mesmerized with his arm. "Is this a sword hilt attached to your hip?"

Creed held back a curse as the woman lifted his jacket a little to get a better look at his body and saw his Imagine Blade Hilt.

This woman is starting to get a bit too handsy. At last the other one is just hanging on my arm. This one seems a bit more adventurous. Probably due to the alcohol.

Creed smiled at her and nodded. Luckily, the blade would never be seen unless he decided to use it. "Indeed it is, but no need to worry, it's just the hilt. See?"

The woman watched as he detached it, actually happy to have a bit of a break from the two on either side of him as he showed off his hilt. "It was given to me by my grandfather. There is no blade because that part went to my sister. He pretty much raised us after my mother died at a very young age. I bring it with me everywhere."

Where the hell did that load of crap come from? Whatever. It seems to have worked. It's so easy to manipulate desperate women with a sob story and good looks.

"That's so sweet!" Said one of the women on his side as she latched back onto his arm, jostling him slightly that he almost spilled his newly refilled glass of wine on his suit.

Creed managed to keep his face calm as she spoke and addressed the woman. "Please be careful, this suit is new."

And Train obviously enjoys how it looks on me so I intend on wearing it again. Maybe even for his birthday.

The woman who discovered his sword tucked the strand of hair that kept falling in front of his face behind his ear. "Well maybe we can talk you out of it another way."

Is this what it's like for Train when he tries to talk to me sometimes? It's frustrating! Maybe I owe him an apology…

Creed frowned at the thought and shook his head slightly.

No, I know it's not the same. Because while it may annoy Train a little, he likes it when I talk to him that way.

Creed put on a fake shocked look as he responded to her. "If I didn't know any better, I'd say you were trying to seduce me." The woman laughed again and Creed bit his tongue to prevent himself from telling her to shut up, then turned back to the most reasonable woman. "Should I be worried for my female companion for the evening?"

The woman blinked at him, then frowned at Rinslet. "Possibly… This event is filled with mostly new women Jollin may show an interest in and I have a feeling he will be quite interested in her."

The drunk woman laughed. "She's certainly his type!"

Creed nodded. "You'll have to forgive me for all my ignorant questions, but we're new to this little family, so I'm still learning. Is this event purely for Jollin to increase his… shall we say collection of beautiful things?"

The woman smirked at him, then poked his nose. "Bingo. And don't worry about your questions. This is all of our first times here."

Creed held back a shiver at the confirmation.

I guess Jollin and I share something in common about enjoying beautiful objects, but it sickens me to think this man thinks of women as objects. As beautiful as I think Train is and as much as I claim he is mine, I would never ignore the fact that he's a human being with thoughts and emotions. I proved that when he was with Lin. No matter how much it hurt, I let him go… More than once, actually.

Creed blinked at her. "Really? But you seem so knowledgeable."

She shrugged her shoulders and sipped her wine. "That's only because my boss is very generous with what he knows. And by generous, I mean he enjoys my body a bit too much. It's so easy to get him to talk." She winked at Creed. "Care to find out why?"

Again, hard pass.

"Let's see where the night takes us. There are quite a few that have already offered. Present company included." Creed managed to drink more of his wine without spilling any or pushing away either woman that was attached to him. "Other than enjoying beautiful objects and women, what else does Mr. Jollin dabble in?"

The drunk woman snickered. "The better question is what doesn't he dabble in?"

Creed chuckled at her comment. "Maybe it is. Would you care to enlighten me?"

The reasonable woman sighed as she looked off towards a grand pair of doors Creed was certain the man of the hour would make an entrance through later in the night. "You name it, he's involved with it. Do you really not know anything?"

Creed managed to blush since he knew the gesture would enchant the women. "Sorry, but as you are eye candy for your bosses tonight, I am that for my date. She was the one invited. I'm merely just accompanying her."

The whole 'open relationship' idea seems to work well with this crowd. Another reason I'm happy Train isn't here. I would not share him with anyone let alone these people.

The woman nodded. "Makes sense. So she was invited by Jollin himself?" Seeing Creed nod, she rolled her eyes. "The rest of us don't stand a chance then… Although I guess the night won't be a complete waste seeing as the woman he is undoubtedly going to choose brought someone the rest of us can enjoy."

Creed smiled again and ignored the rest of the women as they laughed. "I'm glad I could be of service to your gaze. However, I must ask so I know what I've gotten myself into this evening by agreeing to come here… Would you say Mr. Jollin's business outside of this party is on the up and up?"

The woman on his left side snorted. "Exact opposite of that. He's even recently made contact with a really shady group."

The woman on his right side leaned over Creed and glared at her. "Don't say that too loud! You know there are a lot of supporters here!"

The drunk woman rolled her eyes. "My boss included…"

Creed frowned at them all. "What group are you talking about?"

They were silent for a minute, then the reasonable woman spoke. "...We can't really say their name, but… Let's just say they've made a lot of noise in the underground world recently…"

Creed's heart began racing a little and he desperately wanted to say the name of who he thought they were talking about, but he had a feeling doing that might break the trust they had been placing in him.

If just saying the name is taboo I can't think of what other group it might be other than the Apostles. I'm just happy I'm so from dettached from Taoist that they don't immediately recognize me as the former leader anymore.

"I see…" Creed said as he glanced over at Rinslet as she danced with a new man to a new song. He was able to make eye contact with her, then gave her a look that told the thief he got something.

The drunk woman frowned as she scanned the room. "Actually, isn't someone from their organization supposed to be here tonight?"

The reasonable woman blinked at her drunk friend. "Really?! Where did you hear that?"

The drunk woman winked at Creed with her next statement since it was meant mostly for him even though she addressed it towards her friend. "You're not the only one who's able to get their boss to talk about business in bed…"

Creed pretended he didn't see the look as he asked her a question, his heart beating rapidly as he spoke. "Do you have any idea who?"

The drunk woman shrugged her shoulders. "No idea, but I would imagine someone who's capable of talking to people like this."

The woman on Creed's arm nodded. "Someone who is used to parties like this and able to smooze rich, drunk people with a lot of influence and power in the underworld."

The woman on his other arm agreed with her statement. "And seeing as it's considered fopaux to come alone, there will at least be two of them which means they'd both have to be able to fit in with a crowd like this."

The reasonable woman nodded as well. "And it wouldn't hurt if they were both good looking. Especially since they're probably still trying to make an impression with Jollin. And he loves good looking people despite their gender." She smiled at Creed. "Which is why I'm sure your date chose to bring you specifically."

Creed's blood from pumping harder with each statement they made, but he managed to keep his cool as she smiled at her and spoke. "Oh? Does Mr. Jollin enjoy the company of men as well?"

The woman shrugged her shoulders. "I'm not sure, but I doubt it judging by the other men who are here. That doesn't mean an attractive man isn't helpful. A handsome man is nicer to look at than an old, fat one and since that's mostly what's here, I'm sure you're a sight for sore eyes even to the straightest man in the world."

Creed managed to keep his smile through the anxiety that was rushing through his chest. "Flattery will get you everywhere, my dear…"

The women giggled and Creed saw the reasonable woman about to speak again, but her eyes widened as she stared at something behind him. Another woman's face changed as well which signaled the women on either side of Creed to glance over their shoulders to see what had changed their friends' faces and demeanor. They took on a similar look which made Creed frown and open his mouth to question them. However, before he could, the drunk woman spoke again.

"Is that…?" She whispered and nearly dropped her wine glass.

The reasonable woman nodded her head. "I think it is… I heard the rumors about her and I saw the videos, but I didn't think it was true."

The woman on his other arm nodded. "Me either… I thought they had to be doctored…"

Creed was about to open his mouth again, but was cut off by another womanly voice that came from behind him, one that he recognized all too well.

"Well, well, well… What a shock to see you here…"

Creed glanced over his shoulder at the woman, narrowing his eyes slightly as she smirked and looked at the women who were surrounding him, giving them an amused look as she spoke again. "I'm sorry to say you're wasting your time with this man. As charming as he may be, his heart only has room for one person…"

Creed smirked evilly at her, turning around so he could face the actress fully. "Ms. Parass… What a pleasant surprise."

Echidna smirked as she crossed one arm around her waist and lightly sipped a glass of wine in the other. "It's been far too long, my dear…"