Friday night, Aqua was waiting for Jack to come and pick her up for their date. Ven insisted that he would be fine and that he didn't need her hovering over her. She was ever so reluctantly pushed out of the apartment by him. She wondered if he liked having time alone, instead of having both Elsa and Aqua doting on him all the time.

Aqua stood there in her little dress feeling anxious and uncertain. She wondered if Jack would be ashamed that he was going to be seen with her in her little black dress. She had worked so hard to make it look nice. But it was a loose fitting dress, with a drop down waist. The skirt was two layered so it swayed as she walked. And it was sleeveless, like all the other girls wore. It was just a couple inches below her knees because she was scared of showing more skin than that with Jack. It'd give him ideas. Not to mention the slight V at her neckline which had made her blush to even sew! She made herself matching gloves as well.

Elsa and Ven told her that she looked lovely, even though they were practically family, it didn't count. With Elsa's help she had even added some blush and some lipstick, though sparingly. She knew it was wrong to actually look forward to dancing with Jack, but this was the first time someone truly wanted to be around her. She was drinking in his attention, though she would never admit it.

She had half a mind to run screaming back to her apartment when a car pulled up in front of her apartment. It was a cream colored Nash Touring. Her eyes widened when she saw Jack in the front seat. He was wearing a three piece black and white pinstripe suit. A blue tie accented his throat. He stepped out of the car once it was parked. He walked around the front of it and smiled at her.

"You look amazing, Aqua," he said.

All of the fear and doubt that she had in the making of the dress disappeared. She knew that shouldn't have made her feel better. His compliments and sweet words weren't going to change who he was or what he did. He was still a dangerous individual though the warning bells in the back of her head were becoming fainter and fainter with every day.

"Um… thank you."

"Ready to go?"

Jack offered her his hand. He looked like the devil himself trying to tempt her. The moonlight shone down on him, highlighting the features of his face. She felt her breath catch as she looked him over. Her hands clasped tightly in front of her heart. Jack waited, calmly, patiently for her response. He should have been furious with all of her reservations about him. At least by now. They had been putting on the song and dance for a few months. The irony that they would finally be dancing was not lost on her.

She placed her gloved hand in his. Even through the glove, his hand felt chilled. Automatically, she gripped his hand tighter, as if to share her warmth with him. Jack guided her to the passenger seat and helped her into the car. She nervously sat as this was her first time in a car before. They were well out of her price range. Or rather, if she didn't have debts, she might have been able to. Jack got into the driver's seat. The car rumbled to life shortly thereafter. Aqua shifted nervously.

"I've never been in a car before," Aqua confessed.

"Relax, doll, I've got this," he assured her.

Aqua believed him. She leaned back in her seat and watched the city roll by. She had no idea where Jack was taking her. She wasn't afraid. That small voice in the back of her head told her she should be. However, the faint alarm bells were so soft that they could barely register in her mind as she went along with what he was planning.

"Nervous?" Jack asked.

She gave an uncertain laugh. "Is it that obvious?"

"A little but we're just out for a bit of fun," Jack assured her, "I promise I won't bite."

Fun.

The word seemed so foreign… Aqua could not remember the last time she did something because it was fun or because she enjoyed it… She grew up quicker than most people her age had. With gang violence and having to fend for herself, she had no choice. There was no room for fun when she had to constantly be the adult and do the right thing. It's why Jack was able to strike his deal so easily. She could use the money from protection fees elsewhere. She still had debts to worry about after all.

"Not unless you ask me to."

Aqua couldn't help the shocked noise that escaped her. Jack laughed almost wickedly. She wondered how she looked to him at that moment. She certainly felt like a mouse looking at a cat that had her backed into a corner. Only this cat was playing with it's food. He wouldn't try anything, right? She was alone with him after all. Sure, Ven and Elsa knew she was going out but even she didn't know where she was going. If she went missing, how would they even find her?

"Absolutely not," she said firmly.

"Then I won't."

He said it simply. As if there were no doubts that he would follow through with his word. For some reason, that made Aqua's brain freeze up. A criminal that wouldn't do something immoral just because he wanted to? It made no sense. Once again, Jack was taking her black and white perceptions of the world and shaking them at the core.

"You… won't?"

The car pulled to a stop in front of a building. Neon lights glowed above the building - The Hail Hall. People were lined up outside the club - all waiting to go inside. There was a dizzying array of colors from all the different dresses each woman wore and the men were all dressed to the nines, ready to dance the night away.

Jack didn't get out of the car. He turned to look at her, seriously and firmly. She immediately flinched under his gaze. His expression became flinty when he saw her cringe away from him. She couldn't tell what he was thinking but she was afraid to ask. Her tongue stuck to the roof of her mouth as she tried to word a response to that cold look he was giving her.

"Aqua, we're just here to have a good time. Dance a little? Maybe have a drink if you're up for it," he said. "But I will not do anything you don't want."

He sounded offended that she would suggest that he would try to take advantage of her. He honestly couldn't have put all that work into dating her just so he could take her out. She was receiving more benefits out of their relationship than he did. He paid for her meals and she paid no protection fees. Surely, he wasn't doing all of this solely for the conversation. She hadn't exactly been amiable.

"I… don't go out often."

"I can tell, which is why I really think you need this night out."

He got out of the car and walked around the front. Then he opened the car door for her. Aqua placed her hand in his when he offered it to her. He easily helped her out of the car before handing the keys off to a valet. They walked right past the line waiting outside of the club. The bouncers took one look at Jack and threw the doors open wide for him.

"I own the club," Jack explained to her bewildered look, "It's a safe place."

"You… own the club?"

"That's okay, isn't it? Going to one of my establishments? I thought it'd make you more comfortable."

Once again, Aqua felt as if she had been knocked speechless. All this for her comfort? He was going out of his way for her once again and she was being ungrateful. That sat ill in the pit of her stomach. Out of the two of them, he was being kinder than she was and he was the one with a criminal background.

"I… had no idea," she stammered.

"I work too, you know!" Jack said. "I own a few clubs… Some clean some… not. This one's pretty clean."

Aqua bit her lip. She was pretty sure clean meant no drugs or alcohol. But pretty clean might mean there would be some usage. She was sure Jack brought her to one of the better clubs because he knew she wouldn't partake in any of those sort of recreational activities. But earlier, he said they could drink…Maybe she needed a drink to loosen up and not be so stiff.

"And you enjoy working at the clubs?" she asked.

"It's something I'm good at," Jack shrugged.

Aqua turned away to face the club before her. There was dancing. That was a given considering Jack had specifically asked her out to dance. Soft jazz played in the corner with a live band. There was a bar by the back. None of the shelves were lined with liquor bottles but considering the drinks patrons had in hand, Aqua was certain that folks were drinking.

"Do you want a drink first?" Jack asked.

"Yes," she said quickly, but then realized that was a very sudden answer, cleared her throat and said, "Yes please."

Jack grinned and guided her to the bar. People stepped out of their way the moment they saw Jack walking towards them. However, it wasn't out of fear of him. It was respect. Aqua could see it by the way they looked at him. There were odd looks when people realized she was on his arm. She immediately felt uncomfortable under their gaze. This unwanted attention from everyone around them only made her lean closer to Jack.

She kept her gaze ahead, so she missed the fact that Jack looked at her in surprise. His grip on her arm was a comfort in this sea of unknown people around her. However, be that as it may, he was the only person she knew in this entire club. She would rather be alone with him, than alone with all of the strangers. Who knew what was going on in their heads?

When they reached the bar, the bartender immediately joined them. He was a tall man with spiky black hair and a scar in the shape of an X on his cheek.

"Heya, Jack, who's the dame?"

"She's a good friend, Zack. Treat her better than you'd treat me," Jack said.

Aqua looked up at Jack in surprise, shocked to hear him make such a request. She wasn't asking for any special treatment. Although Jack had given her nothing but the utmost respect. He didn't force anything. He wasn't trying to manipulate her for his own again. He had even gone out of his way to not be seen in public. Because she was the one scared of the repercussions to her reputation.

Immediately, she felt bad for leading him on the way she had. She still wasn't sure what she thought of Jack. He had gone out of his way for her comfort so much. Not even once had she done anything to return any of his kindness, except to try to dodge any attempts at conversation or avoid giving him any personal details. It hardly seemed fair to him with all things considered.

"Ah, that kind of special. You got it," Zack said. "Now doll, what can I get you to drink?"

"Oh… um…"

Her mind went blank. She didn't drink. She didn't know the first thing about alcohol aside from the medical grade stuff. And that her father used to enjoy a scotch, before it was outlawed. And his death.

"First time drinking?" Zack asked.

She gave an uncertain smile and a hesitant nod. Zack nodded along with her, patient understanding written on his face. He didn't seem annoyed that she didn't know, or upset that she was taking up precious time where he could be making drinks for other customers. Still, Aqua spared a nervous glance to Jack, silently seeking his guidance on such a matter.

"How about two mojitos to start?" Jack asked.

Zack nodded and busied himself behind the bar to mix their drinks. Jack turned to look at her, looking completely serious. She almost took a step back due to the intensity of the look he gave her.

"You don't have to drink it if you don't want to," Jack said.

"No. It's fine," she assured him, despite her nervousness.

Two drinks were set down right in front of them. Jack picked up both drinks before passing her one. Her fingers brushed against his and she shyly glanced down at the drink. Aqua could see a lime wedge garnishing the glass' edge and mint leaves at the bottom. When she looked up, she found Jack was staring at her.

"Thank you," she said.

She lifted the glass and took a sip. The drink was surprisingly refreshing. It reminded her of summer nights. Something she would drink to take an edge off the hot evenings. And her drink even had ice! Now that was fancy. Jack smiled and took a drink as well.

"It's really good."

"I'm glad you like it."

With that, Jack guided her away to a small private booth. It overlooked the dancefloor and the live band. Music wafted through the air as the band played their hearts out. And couples danced freely. It was a bit overwhelming to watch it all. A lot of dancing, colors, flashes, and light filled the room.

"First time at a club, doll?" Jack asked.

Aqua gave him a shy smile. "You're the first person to ask me to go to one."

She wasn't sure what she was expecting, but him choking on his drink was not it. He coughed and grabbed a napkin to clean up his mess. He was stunned to say the least. Honestly, she wasn't sure why that was so shocking. Then again, most girls her age were at clubs, dancing, laughing, going out for milkshakes and movies. Shopping instead of making their own clothes.

"I'm sorry… but what?"

"You're the first person to ever ask me out," Aqua confessed.

She worked far too much to actually meet anyone else her age. Between that and her penny pinching, she just didn't go out. Not to mention, she took care of Ven in the evenings while Elsa did during the day. It didn't leave much time for a social life.

"A looker like you has never hit the town with anyone?"

She shook her head. Embarrassment washed over her. Indeed, it was odd for her to not have gone out with anyone. Though, most folks didn't live in a bad part of town like she did. Or have to pinch every penny they had. Even her dress had been a splurge. She hadn't had anything that nice in a very long time. Not since her mother used to sew her clothes. And those had been made out of flour sacks with floral print.

"Well," he said slowly, "Thank you, for giving me a chance. Even though I know you don't want to."

"You're not so bad," she said.

Then she immediately blushed. She had not had nearly enough to have her drink already loosening her lips. Her gaze dropped to the drink. Jack had to know the night was far too young for her to insist it was the drink talking. She would not take back what she said. Jack had been nothing but a gentleman. He had gone above and beyond what anyone would do if he was just skirt chasing.

"Are you all right? I think that's the first compliment you've given me," Jack said.

His smile was pure mischief. He knocked back his drink in a way that Aqua would never be able to manage. Once he got to his feet, he offered her his hand.

"Dance with me, Raindrop," he requested.

Her breath caught in her throat. A pet name? The personal nickname sent a flutter through her being. She placed her hand in his, this time, without hesitation or any second thought at all. She honestly didn't think.

Before she could utter a single word, she was yanked out of her seat and pulled to the dancefloor. She hastily followed after him. The lights overhead shone down, almost giving his hair a halo effect. The music picked up tempo and became something fast, spinning like her thoughts. Or perhaps that was her? She was acutely aware of Jack's hands. One was placed on her lower back and his hand clasped in hers. She was dimly aware that it was music for a tango.

When she looked up, his face was close. Too close. He was studying her every expression. As she was distracted, he dipped her. A light lit up in his eyes when she gasped, holding onto him tighter. He pulled her back upright and smiled. Despite the fact she was certain she was terrible at dancing, Jack's movements made it so that her steps were sure. She didn't stumble or fall or trip over herself.

She wasn't aware of the other dancing couples around them. The world was shrinking around her. Her head spun as she kept up with him. Jack twirled her about until her back was pressed to his front and they glided across the floor. One more spin and she was facing him, breaths mingling as he leaned in close. The music faded. Then something else picked up. Something slower. A waltz? Jack's fierce expression softened and he glided her into a box step. Her heart was racing from the tango.

"Cat got your tongue?" Jack asked.

"I-I had no idea you could dance so well," she confessed.

He took someone with no skill and made her seem moderately proficient. She was struggling to catch her breath, not used to being this active. Sure, she ran across the hospital floors to help the doctors and the patients, but this was exhilarating. She felt as if every nerve had suddenly come to life. Why had she never gone dancing before now? 'A lack of a partner to dance with,' a small voice whispered in her ear.

"I've got a lot of talents you don't know about," Jack shrugged.

"I… know. And I'm sorry."

Jack raised a brow, but he continued through the motions of the dance, guiding her along the floor. She took a deep breath, contemplating what to say to him. Jack had been so good to her and the guilt was crushing her. She knew he was a criminal but every action he took was the opposite. Maybe, just maybe, there was something honest between them?

As the music for the waltz ended and a foxtrot picked up, Jack transitioned once again, completely at ease. He could tell the song by ear alone, because no one announced what song was being played next. Granted, this was his own club and he probably knew the agenda for the night. Still, Aqua couldn't help but be impressed.

"I want to know you, Jack," she said. "Everything I can."

Jack stopped in the middle of the dance floor. The other dancers around the floor continued around them, swirling and twirling and stepping around them. He gave his complete and utter attention to her. His free hand sought hers and she gave it over freely. Clasping both of his hands, she squeezed them.

"Are you sure?" he asked.

She knew that if she agreed, there would be no going back for her. She would be committing to a felon. Elsa and Ventus would heartily disapprove of her choice. But Jack was giving her the choice. This time, she didn't feel like she was backed into a corner and forced to take the choice that benefited him the most. She wanted to continue to see him.

"I am."

Jack reached up, cradling her face. He gave her time to pull away before he leaned in and kissed her.