That was over a half an hour ago, and the occupants were stone quiet as
Quatre continued to mumble under his breath. This was terrible, horrible,
and just plain bad. He'd purposely avoided bringing Trowa here because it
wasn't exactly a place you went if you didn't have enough credits to buy
your own colony. He knew Trowa would be uncomfortable, and while he'd
bought his lover many suits here, Trowa had never once accompanied him. He
nearly shuddered at what Trowa and his friends were about to witness.
Finally the car pulled up to a skyscraper and stopped. When the door opened, he took a deep breath and nodded to himself once, before stepping out. He really, really hated this.
Together the six of them walked to the door before Quatre pulled out his wallet, extracted his credit card, and swiped it, punching in five hundred and fifty-five credits, and waiting.
Duo's voice was hesitant. "Um, Quatre? Why did you just pay the door five hundred credits?"
He answered without turning around. "Because that's how much it costs for it to open."
He knew they wouldn't understand. Quatre was about to bring them into a world none of them had ever been in, and when Trowa had come close at the winter gala, the society papers hadn't stopped talking for months. No, this was wrong and evil of him; but he'd made a promise and he intended to keep it. Killashandra and Shingam would have new clothes by the end of the day, even if he had to sell his soul for them!
"Um, Quatre?"
Quatre spun on Duo a hard expression on his face. "Duo, do me one favor. I think I've been pretty laid back and relaxed about our friendship for the most part, wouldn't you say?" At Duo's cautious nod he continued. "I need a favor today. I need you not to say a word-at all-until I tell you too, ok? This isn't a small man's game right now, and the things you usually say and do could get us all in a lot of trouble in here, got it?" A little hurt, Duo nodded. "I'm sorry to be so harsh, but really, this isn't like the art gallery, the things you could say or do until I tell you otherwise could literally destroy my career."
"I thought we were buying clothes?"
"We are."
And then, as if on cue, the door opened to reveal a huge man in a business suit.
"Mr. Winner."
"Simus, the thirty-eighty floor please."
The burly man nodded, and with thankfully minimal effort, Quatre maneuvered them all into the elevator that had opened to the outside of the building.
The walls were made of bullet proof, tinted glass; and Quatre felt some measure of happiness watching Shingam and Killashandra fascinated as the elevator moved to the upper floors. Somehow the children knew to be quiet, he thanked Allah for at least that.
The ride was quick, and before he knew it, Simus was announcing their floor. Suddenly, he remembered something he had to do.
"Hold the door." Turning to Trowa, he gripped his partner's chin tightly in his hand and forced his lover to look him in the eye. "You walk proud and stand tall in there. Dirty looks mean nothing, money means everything, and I have more then they'll ever see in their entire lives. You remember that, and you remember I'll take care of you-remember I take care of what's mine."
Quatre nearly cursed himself at the last part. Ever since he and Trowa had been together, he'd never made any mention of Trowa being his; at least not like that, like Trowa was a piece of property. Lately however, it was all he wanted to do, like this morning, he wanted to claim his partner, to show Trowa not dominance, but possession. But he had to be careful. Trowa had felt owned by the mercenaries that had raised him and Quatre was always fearful he'd cross the invisible line Trowa had drawn in the sand. He was always worried he'd say or do something to scare his partner, his most precious lover, always scared...
But now wasn't the time. He needed Trowa to listen to him, to do as he'd just instructed. He needed Trowa to look down his nose at everyone they were about to come in contact with; he just hoped Trowa would understand.
Leaning up on his toes, he delivered a hard and impassioned kiss to Trowa's stunned lips before nodding once to Duo and then stepped from the elevator.
The entranceway screamed money. Green marble decorated every surface, while expensive oriental rungs ran the ten feet to a receptionist desk that would normally have been the CEO's style. Live flowers sat everywhere. The air was clean, not filtered; this air was purchased, bought by the cubic foot and shipped. It was the epitome of a last man's walk through glory before facing the lions.
"Mr. Winner, we weren't expecting you." A tall, gorgeous man in a tailored brown business suit stepped forward. His hair was dark and slicked back, making him all the more beautiful to look at; Quatre reasoned it was so more people didn't hate his guts. The look didn't work for Quatre one bit.
"I'm not in the business of making appointments, Gaury. Unless it's become a new requirement, of course."
Smiling in a look that read purely, "I'm catering to the rich" Gaury offered his apology. "No sir. You never need an appointment-"
"Good." Turning he looked to Shingam and Killashandra, both in Heero and Trowa's arms. "I require clothing for my children."
"Of course, Sir. We weren't aware that you-"
Quatre knew what he was going to say, and he didn't like it. He really hated this guy! "Mr. Gaury, I don't tell my tailor of my stock plans, why would I tell him of my newest acquisitions?" He hated himself for doing it, but he briefly touched Killa's cheek, indication what his "acquisitions" were. He was being a businessman, entering into a hostel situation. He was being a bastard. Frighteningly, he was playing the role of his father.
"No, why would you, Sir. Well then, we'll seat you with Meesa-"
"I'll see Jeovony. She knows what I like. Send for her."
"Mr. Winner, Madam Jeovony is currently working on her newest spring line and has strictly forbidden any--"
"Tell her it's Quatre Winner, she'll see me. If she's insistent, tell her I'll triple her fee." He turned to regard Killa again, hating himself all the while. "My children will only have the best."
"Of course. If you'll follow Cory, she'll take you to the East room."
And now, Quatre was pissed!
"Gaury, how much would you say I spend here when I come? Or more to the point, how much do my sisters spend to have you outfit them in the latest Earth styles? I'm not looking for hard numbers of course, just a rough guess." He sensed Trowa tensing beside him and prayed to Allah that his lover could stand his uncharacteristic behavior for just a little while longer.
Gaury looked trapped-which he was-before answering in a diplomatic way. "Quite a lot, Sir."
"That's an understatement, but I did ask for an estimate. So tell me, why do you insist on sending me to the East room every single time I come here? It wouldn't have anything to do with you not liking me, now would it?" Scare tactics. He'd watched his father use them more than once, watched grown men nearly weep in fear of what his father could do to them. Once he'd wanted to be just like him, now all he wanted to do was forget he'd ever lived. Betrayal could do that to a person.
"No. Sir. This establishment values your business always. Please, which room would you like?"
Standing proud, Quatre gestured to the right. "We'll take the North room, tell Jeovony we'll meet her there." He used his eyes to tell Trowa to move in that direction, while he threw over his shoulder, "Don't concern yourself, I know exactly where it is. Send for a vid and fax, and bring up a menu, I think my guests may be hungry."
He knew Trowa was unsettled, he needed to get his lover away from curious eyes immediately; not to mention his children.
They walked down a long corridor before Quatre turned to the right and presented his hand for inspection, he spoke into the voice print. "Quatre Raberba Winner, Owner of Winner Enterprises Incorporated." The door opened without hesitation.
Stepping aside, he ushered his family and friends into the room before stepping in himself and stating clearly. "Secure room."
There was a bleep and then a mechanical voice. "Room is secure. Thank you, Mr. Winner."
Taking in a deep breath, he gave a huge sigh before turning to Duo and offering a smile. "Ok, you can talk now."
Duo hesitated, Trowa didn't. "Quatre, what's going on?"
Sighing again, Quatre pointed to the couch and gestured towards it. "Let's sit down first. That always takes a lot out of me."
"I can tell." Trowa wrapped an arm about his shoulders, and Quatre leaned in for a measure of strength before pulling back and moving to the couch.
The room was huge, vaulted ceilings covered in reams of fabric stretched to and foe. Beautiful and expressive works of art hung on the mirrors, while white cashmere carpet lined the floor. At the end of the room stood a pedestal, with three marble steps required to reach it. On three sides of the pedestal, were couches, chairs, coffee tables, and lamps, all of the most exquisite taste and privilege. Behind the pedestal, and where four walls should have been were mirrors, they wrapped about the room in one continuous piece that was unbroken and obviously made to fit this exact room. A small console rested to the right of the pedestal, and occasionally it flashed but did not beep.
To the couches directly in front of the pedestal, he led them. Once there, he literally fell into the exquisite piece of comfortable decorum and closed his eyes. Thankfully, the worst was over, for the most part. He'd have to act again when Gaury came in but he was safe for the most part. Now all he had to do was reassure Trowa, the children, and his friends.
Sitting up, he smiled warmly at Trowa, and pushed back the curls that escaped Killashandra's satin ribbon. "I know that was ugly, and you're confused, and nervous, not to mention upset with me; so just let me explain." To his credit, Trowa nodded. "As you could tell, this isn't the first time I've been here. Actually I came here for the very first suit I was ever given. I was five, and it was for my sister Orla's wedding. Back then this shop was on L-1. Anyway, I've known Gaury since I was about eight. To say he never thought I'd rise to be the head of the Winner Corporation would be an understatement. He was my father's favorite, and Gaury did most of his tailoring. The man purposely use to stick me with pins." He grimaced, remembering how much that had hurt.
Duo interrupted. "You were that mean to the guy because he stuck you with a few pins?"
They didn't understand, he'd just have to explain. "I hate the man because he knew from dealing with my father that I was gay; the man then proceeded to make that tidbit public knowledge. His ability to circle information through this shop is legendary. When I bought a suit here for Trowa, back when we'd first gotten together, Gaury was responsible for the entire planet knowing my boyfriend's measurements. The man is a bigot from the word, and I can't stand him. I suppose it's cruel, but I get a great deal of satisfaction by making his life miserable." He smiled to himself, and was pleased when both Heero and Duo nodded in understanding.
But when he looked to Trowa, there was a concerned expression on his lover's face. He hated seeing it there; hated knowing that his actions had put it there. He never wanted to upset Trowa, never.
"What is it, Beloved?"
"You.told him the children were yours. If you were concerned about this ability to spread gossip, why tell him at all?"
"Gaury will undoubtedly have the information across the globe in about a month, the colonies should have it in one and a half. I want the papers to cover it! I want society a buzz with it, and mostly I want my sisters to squirm wondering if the rumors are true or not. People will speculate, they'll say that I went to have my children clothed, and brought you and some friends instead of a wife or girlfriend. No one will understand, and it'll throw them all into chaos. They'll be so busy chasing rumors, they'll leave us alone. No one in high society would ever think to ask the members of the scandal if it's true or not; we'll be fine for months. By the time it all settles down, my twenty-first birthday will have come, and then I'll really have some important news." He smiled against the sudden pain he felt. It was still hard for him to remember that his sisters had chosen to stand against him; still hard to remember that all the family he needed was right here in this room with him.
He felt Trowa take his hand, and he gently squeezed to let him know he was ok. Trowa wasn't buying it. A strong arm came about his shoulders and drew him into an even stronger chest. He wanted to apologize for earlier, but couldn't quiet seem to find the strength, he'd apologize later, tonight, with Trowa tucked safely into him; away from things and people that could hurt him.
Duo whistled. "Man Quatre, remind me never to get on your bad side. You play this game really, really well. It's actually kind of scary."
He nodded. "Yes it is. But I learned from the best, and I guess I have to be thankful to him, at least for that." Trowa's grip tightened about him and Quatre nuzzled into him, thankful for the comfort.
The chimes rang, and Quatre reluctantly sat up. Standing, he turned once more to look at Duo. "If it's who I think it is, it'll be fine, but just in case, don't say anything."
Duo nodded. "Sure, I'm starting to understand how my big mouth could get you into some serious trouble."
"You have no idea." He smiled and then moved to the door and released the security.
The door opened, to reveal, a woman in her mid-forties. Her hair was stylishly pulled up, and her clothing was the cutting edge of fashion. She carried herself with poise and power, and Quatre was immediately happy to see her.
"You demanded to see me, Mr. Winner?"
Quatre understood the game, the door was still wide open, their security compromised. Curtly he nodded. "Yes. Thank you for taking the time, I know you're very busy."
"Actually you have no idea. My spring line is due out in only a matter of days, and I'm busily working on it."
"I'm sure I can compensate you for any lost time." He nearly laughed when she winked at him.
"I'm sure you can.Quatre. Perhaps, something a little less-shall we say- monetary?"
HA! She wasn't stupid, Madam Jeovony had been up and down the social latter herself enough times to know what he was playing at.
Smiling wickedly, he answered. "I'm sure we can come to some-mutually beneficial-arrangement."
"Wonderful." And with that, she walked into the room.
Quatre closed the door, but not the security pass, before turning and being completely and utter kissed by a woman old enough to be his mother. And it wasn't just a motherly kiss either, it was a full out, tongue and all kiss. Laughing mentally, he wrapped his hands up into her hair, crushed her to him, and returned the impassioned kiss in kind. He loved his woman!
* * *
Trowa didn't understand it, and he wasn't going to stand for it either! In an act he thought he'd never commit, he raged across the room and literally pulled Quatre from the groping hag of a woman. But he'd really yanked, and Quatre lost his balance, crashing into him. Trowa was sure his rage was the only thing keeping him from tumbling over. He wanted answers and he wanted them now!
"Quatre." His voice was calm and appropriately labeled deadly.
Suddenly, the link rushed with love and affections; with promises of forever and feelings of trust. Then that one emotion, the one he associated with Quatre and himself now a family, passed across, and he loosened his grip on his lover's arm.
"Secure room." He heard Quatre say before the computer beeped and answered back.
Head ducked, blonde bangs falling in his face, Quatre giggled; and so did the woman.
"Quatre, Luv, you didn't tell me he was so possessive." Her voice was nice, like the sound good crystal makes, pure and true, nothing like he'd heard it while she'd been standing in the doorway; and certainly not how he'd heard it as she'd propositioned his lover-HIS Quatre.
Still giggling, Quatre looked up at him before winking and turning to the woman. "Actually I didn't know myself. Now that I do, I may have to make him jealous more often." Quatre smiled up at him then, showing through the link that he was only kidding. In response, Trowa presented his confusion.
A frown crossed Quatre's face before he brought his hand to Trowa's cheek. "Sorry Trowa, Madam Jeovony and I have been.conducting, a show for this establishment since not long after the suit incident we were talking about. Damage control." He smiled, turning to gift Duo and Heero with the same look. He saw Shingam relax back into Heero. "It's nothing."
"Speak for yourself." The woman-who didn't look quiet so ugly anymore- said. "Every time you come I get the best kisses of my life." She winked to Trowa. "I guess I know why you keep him around."
Quatre laughed and then introduced them. "Trowa Barton, this is Madam Jeovony; Madam, my partner, Trowa."
The woman extended a hand in a position that required something other than a handshake. "Mr. Barton, I'm charmed." Leaning at the waist, Trowa lifted her hand to place a light kiss before standing and nodding once.
"He's quiet, but charming; and by the gods, would you look at those legs, he's positively the exact person I was looking for! Oh Quatre you must let me borrow him! I've been desperately searching for a model for my spring line, and I haven't been able to find anyone! It's impossible! You must let me test a few things out on him, oh you must!" The woman was immediately eccentric, yet did it with the air that it was her normal everyday attitude towards everything. Not sure what was really going on, he looked down at Quatre in question.
But Quatre was looking up at him with a look that spoke entirely of pride and possessiveness. His voice ran clear with the same. "He is beautiful isn't he?"
"Of course he his darling, but I wouldn't expect anything less." Madam Jeovony smiled at him, and suddenly Trowa didn't know if he should be excited that Quatre found him beautiful or nervous. He opted for nervous.
"Of course not. I only pick the best." Quatre winked at him again. "But today Trowa isn't the reason I'm here-"
"Oh no you don't! I absolutely refuse to hear another word until you let him model for me! I'm so dreadfully desperate, Darling. Please, please, please!" Trowa couldn't help but feel a little sorry for the woman; she really did sound like she was desperate. Quatre just smiled wickedly.
"Well, perhaps we can come to some arrangement."
Madam Jeovony's eyes became huge, and even Trowa was stunned that Quatre now seemed willing to wheel and deal, with himself as the object. Then it was like watching a door close over her face, she was suddenly very aloof, yet still seemed in a good mood. "What type of arrangement are you looking for?"
Quatre smiled up at him. "Two conditions, one, the sitting fee is eliminated; and two, Trowa can take home the outfit he likes best. I believe that sounds fair."
The woman brightened instantly. "Wonderful, I was going to offer an outfit anyway, and honestly, Darling, when was the last time you ever paid a single credit to come and see me anyway? I love it when you visit; society talks about my little shop for months after you come." The two of them laughed, and Trowa couldn't help but feel like he'd just been traded for a new suit, literally.
Quatre must have felt his thoughts, because he turned then and took his hand, leading him back to the couch. His voice was soft and tender when he spoke. "Madam Jeovony usually charges her clients to have them sit with her; by that I mean just to have her in the same room as they are when they're trying on clothing. She usually makes suggestions and such, but it's quite a handsome fee. You posing for her will literally be about as much as fifty thousand credits." Trowa stopped dead in his tracks half way back to the couch and just stared at his lover.
Madam Jeovony interrupted. "Quatre! You make it sound like all I do is stand there! And besides, those credits are hardly anything to my clientele, not to mention pocket change for you, so stop grumbling. Besides, I do run that blasted machine, don't I?" She gestured towards the console that stood flashing next to the platform.
Quatre laughed, and then tugged to get him to continue towards the couch. "Actually, the best part will be the outfit you'll get to take home. Having one of Madam Jeovony's sets is a very big deal. She has impeccable taste, and her designs are wonderful. Having one before it hits the spring market-well, let's just say I'll have to show you off in it." They reached the couch and Trowa sat, reeling from what he'd just heard, and feeling once again, that warm glow at the thought that Quatre wanted to show him off. Turning to his lover, he nodded his consent.
"Great!" Quatre kissed him quickly before turning back to address Jeovony. "Then we're agreed. However, first thing's first. Madam Jeovony, I'd like to introduce you to my friends Duo and Heero." They both kissed her hand in greeting. "And finally, you're clients today, Shingam and Killashandra."
Jeovony drew in a deep breath and brought her hand to her chest in surprise and wonder. "Quatre, they're simply beautiful! Look at his eyes-and her hair, she's like an angel! My gods, they could wear almost anything with their coloring!"
Again Quatre laughed. "They are beautiful; and wonderful. However, they need clothing and after a terrible.incident at the mall today, we've come to beg your help."
The woman looked appalled. "The mall! Oh my, I can't believe the richest man in the universe takes to the mall for his own children's clothes. It's horrible, you should be ashamed! But don't worry, you're here, and you've come to the right place. I dressed you when you were little more than Shingam's age, and I was dressing your sisters before they were Killashandra's. Although I must insist upon something first."
"What would that be?"
"You must let me burn these clothes when they're out of them! They hardly fit, and.I.can't believe you'd even take them into public looking like this!"
Quatre shook his head. "They had nothing else to wear." Jeovony looked skeptical. "Shingam and Killashandra haven't exactly been staying with me very long, and when they arrived, they had little more than what they were wearing."
A tragic look settled onto her face and suddenly Madam Jeovony was kneeling in front of where Quatre sat. "They're war orphans, aren't they? You've adopted war orphans."
Quatre turned to look at the children, one in Duo's lap, the other in his. "I suppose you could say that. More to the point, they adopted me."
There was a sad and yet respectful tone in Jeovony's voice then. "You have a heart of gold, Quatre. I'd expect nothing less from Quatrene and Raberba's child."
Trowa noticed more than anyone the tensing of Quatre's shoulders at the mention of his mother and father. Quatre didn't know much about his mother, only that she was kind and wonderful, and that when she died, his father grieved for years. And his father, Trowa reached for his hand at the thought.
Quatre smiled up at him before turning back to the woman. "Thank you. I'm honored to be compared, even if I do fall short when it comes to my mother. Perhaps we should." Quatre was getting uncomfortable, Trowa could feel it through the link.
Jeovony noticed it too. "Well enough of that, who's first?"
Smiling, Quatre turned to look at Shingam. "Would you like to go first so you know what Killa should expect?"
The boy looked questioningly at Quatre before nodding and wriggling out of Duo's lap. Taking his hand, Quatre stood and walked him over to the pedestal.
Finally the car pulled up to a skyscraper and stopped. When the door opened, he took a deep breath and nodded to himself once, before stepping out. He really, really hated this.
Together the six of them walked to the door before Quatre pulled out his wallet, extracted his credit card, and swiped it, punching in five hundred and fifty-five credits, and waiting.
Duo's voice was hesitant. "Um, Quatre? Why did you just pay the door five hundred credits?"
He answered without turning around. "Because that's how much it costs for it to open."
He knew they wouldn't understand. Quatre was about to bring them into a world none of them had ever been in, and when Trowa had come close at the winter gala, the society papers hadn't stopped talking for months. No, this was wrong and evil of him; but he'd made a promise and he intended to keep it. Killashandra and Shingam would have new clothes by the end of the day, even if he had to sell his soul for them!
"Um, Quatre?"
Quatre spun on Duo a hard expression on his face. "Duo, do me one favor. I think I've been pretty laid back and relaxed about our friendship for the most part, wouldn't you say?" At Duo's cautious nod he continued. "I need a favor today. I need you not to say a word-at all-until I tell you too, ok? This isn't a small man's game right now, and the things you usually say and do could get us all in a lot of trouble in here, got it?" A little hurt, Duo nodded. "I'm sorry to be so harsh, but really, this isn't like the art gallery, the things you could say or do until I tell you otherwise could literally destroy my career."
"I thought we were buying clothes?"
"We are."
And then, as if on cue, the door opened to reveal a huge man in a business suit.
"Mr. Winner."
"Simus, the thirty-eighty floor please."
The burly man nodded, and with thankfully minimal effort, Quatre maneuvered them all into the elevator that had opened to the outside of the building.
The walls were made of bullet proof, tinted glass; and Quatre felt some measure of happiness watching Shingam and Killashandra fascinated as the elevator moved to the upper floors. Somehow the children knew to be quiet, he thanked Allah for at least that.
The ride was quick, and before he knew it, Simus was announcing their floor. Suddenly, he remembered something he had to do.
"Hold the door." Turning to Trowa, he gripped his partner's chin tightly in his hand and forced his lover to look him in the eye. "You walk proud and stand tall in there. Dirty looks mean nothing, money means everything, and I have more then they'll ever see in their entire lives. You remember that, and you remember I'll take care of you-remember I take care of what's mine."
Quatre nearly cursed himself at the last part. Ever since he and Trowa had been together, he'd never made any mention of Trowa being his; at least not like that, like Trowa was a piece of property. Lately however, it was all he wanted to do, like this morning, he wanted to claim his partner, to show Trowa not dominance, but possession. But he had to be careful. Trowa had felt owned by the mercenaries that had raised him and Quatre was always fearful he'd cross the invisible line Trowa had drawn in the sand. He was always worried he'd say or do something to scare his partner, his most precious lover, always scared...
But now wasn't the time. He needed Trowa to listen to him, to do as he'd just instructed. He needed Trowa to look down his nose at everyone they were about to come in contact with; he just hoped Trowa would understand.
Leaning up on his toes, he delivered a hard and impassioned kiss to Trowa's stunned lips before nodding once to Duo and then stepped from the elevator.
The entranceway screamed money. Green marble decorated every surface, while expensive oriental rungs ran the ten feet to a receptionist desk that would normally have been the CEO's style. Live flowers sat everywhere. The air was clean, not filtered; this air was purchased, bought by the cubic foot and shipped. It was the epitome of a last man's walk through glory before facing the lions.
"Mr. Winner, we weren't expecting you." A tall, gorgeous man in a tailored brown business suit stepped forward. His hair was dark and slicked back, making him all the more beautiful to look at; Quatre reasoned it was so more people didn't hate his guts. The look didn't work for Quatre one bit.
"I'm not in the business of making appointments, Gaury. Unless it's become a new requirement, of course."
Smiling in a look that read purely, "I'm catering to the rich" Gaury offered his apology. "No sir. You never need an appointment-"
"Good." Turning he looked to Shingam and Killashandra, both in Heero and Trowa's arms. "I require clothing for my children."
"Of course, Sir. We weren't aware that you-"
Quatre knew what he was going to say, and he didn't like it. He really hated this guy! "Mr. Gaury, I don't tell my tailor of my stock plans, why would I tell him of my newest acquisitions?" He hated himself for doing it, but he briefly touched Killa's cheek, indication what his "acquisitions" were. He was being a businessman, entering into a hostel situation. He was being a bastard. Frighteningly, he was playing the role of his father.
"No, why would you, Sir. Well then, we'll seat you with Meesa-"
"I'll see Jeovony. She knows what I like. Send for her."
"Mr. Winner, Madam Jeovony is currently working on her newest spring line and has strictly forbidden any--"
"Tell her it's Quatre Winner, she'll see me. If she's insistent, tell her I'll triple her fee." He turned to regard Killa again, hating himself all the while. "My children will only have the best."
"Of course. If you'll follow Cory, she'll take you to the East room."
And now, Quatre was pissed!
"Gaury, how much would you say I spend here when I come? Or more to the point, how much do my sisters spend to have you outfit them in the latest Earth styles? I'm not looking for hard numbers of course, just a rough guess." He sensed Trowa tensing beside him and prayed to Allah that his lover could stand his uncharacteristic behavior for just a little while longer.
Gaury looked trapped-which he was-before answering in a diplomatic way. "Quite a lot, Sir."
"That's an understatement, but I did ask for an estimate. So tell me, why do you insist on sending me to the East room every single time I come here? It wouldn't have anything to do with you not liking me, now would it?" Scare tactics. He'd watched his father use them more than once, watched grown men nearly weep in fear of what his father could do to them. Once he'd wanted to be just like him, now all he wanted to do was forget he'd ever lived. Betrayal could do that to a person.
"No. Sir. This establishment values your business always. Please, which room would you like?"
Standing proud, Quatre gestured to the right. "We'll take the North room, tell Jeovony we'll meet her there." He used his eyes to tell Trowa to move in that direction, while he threw over his shoulder, "Don't concern yourself, I know exactly where it is. Send for a vid and fax, and bring up a menu, I think my guests may be hungry."
He knew Trowa was unsettled, he needed to get his lover away from curious eyes immediately; not to mention his children.
They walked down a long corridor before Quatre turned to the right and presented his hand for inspection, he spoke into the voice print. "Quatre Raberba Winner, Owner of Winner Enterprises Incorporated." The door opened without hesitation.
Stepping aside, he ushered his family and friends into the room before stepping in himself and stating clearly. "Secure room."
There was a bleep and then a mechanical voice. "Room is secure. Thank you, Mr. Winner."
Taking in a deep breath, he gave a huge sigh before turning to Duo and offering a smile. "Ok, you can talk now."
Duo hesitated, Trowa didn't. "Quatre, what's going on?"
Sighing again, Quatre pointed to the couch and gestured towards it. "Let's sit down first. That always takes a lot out of me."
"I can tell." Trowa wrapped an arm about his shoulders, and Quatre leaned in for a measure of strength before pulling back and moving to the couch.
The room was huge, vaulted ceilings covered in reams of fabric stretched to and foe. Beautiful and expressive works of art hung on the mirrors, while white cashmere carpet lined the floor. At the end of the room stood a pedestal, with three marble steps required to reach it. On three sides of the pedestal, were couches, chairs, coffee tables, and lamps, all of the most exquisite taste and privilege. Behind the pedestal, and where four walls should have been were mirrors, they wrapped about the room in one continuous piece that was unbroken and obviously made to fit this exact room. A small console rested to the right of the pedestal, and occasionally it flashed but did not beep.
To the couches directly in front of the pedestal, he led them. Once there, he literally fell into the exquisite piece of comfortable decorum and closed his eyes. Thankfully, the worst was over, for the most part. He'd have to act again when Gaury came in but he was safe for the most part. Now all he had to do was reassure Trowa, the children, and his friends.
Sitting up, he smiled warmly at Trowa, and pushed back the curls that escaped Killashandra's satin ribbon. "I know that was ugly, and you're confused, and nervous, not to mention upset with me; so just let me explain." To his credit, Trowa nodded. "As you could tell, this isn't the first time I've been here. Actually I came here for the very first suit I was ever given. I was five, and it was for my sister Orla's wedding. Back then this shop was on L-1. Anyway, I've known Gaury since I was about eight. To say he never thought I'd rise to be the head of the Winner Corporation would be an understatement. He was my father's favorite, and Gaury did most of his tailoring. The man purposely use to stick me with pins." He grimaced, remembering how much that had hurt.
Duo interrupted. "You were that mean to the guy because he stuck you with a few pins?"
They didn't understand, he'd just have to explain. "I hate the man because he knew from dealing with my father that I was gay; the man then proceeded to make that tidbit public knowledge. His ability to circle information through this shop is legendary. When I bought a suit here for Trowa, back when we'd first gotten together, Gaury was responsible for the entire planet knowing my boyfriend's measurements. The man is a bigot from the word, and I can't stand him. I suppose it's cruel, but I get a great deal of satisfaction by making his life miserable." He smiled to himself, and was pleased when both Heero and Duo nodded in understanding.
But when he looked to Trowa, there was a concerned expression on his lover's face. He hated seeing it there; hated knowing that his actions had put it there. He never wanted to upset Trowa, never.
"What is it, Beloved?"
"You.told him the children were yours. If you were concerned about this ability to spread gossip, why tell him at all?"
"Gaury will undoubtedly have the information across the globe in about a month, the colonies should have it in one and a half. I want the papers to cover it! I want society a buzz with it, and mostly I want my sisters to squirm wondering if the rumors are true or not. People will speculate, they'll say that I went to have my children clothed, and brought you and some friends instead of a wife or girlfriend. No one will understand, and it'll throw them all into chaos. They'll be so busy chasing rumors, they'll leave us alone. No one in high society would ever think to ask the members of the scandal if it's true or not; we'll be fine for months. By the time it all settles down, my twenty-first birthday will have come, and then I'll really have some important news." He smiled against the sudden pain he felt. It was still hard for him to remember that his sisters had chosen to stand against him; still hard to remember that all the family he needed was right here in this room with him.
He felt Trowa take his hand, and he gently squeezed to let him know he was ok. Trowa wasn't buying it. A strong arm came about his shoulders and drew him into an even stronger chest. He wanted to apologize for earlier, but couldn't quiet seem to find the strength, he'd apologize later, tonight, with Trowa tucked safely into him; away from things and people that could hurt him.
Duo whistled. "Man Quatre, remind me never to get on your bad side. You play this game really, really well. It's actually kind of scary."
He nodded. "Yes it is. But I learned from the best, and I guess I have to be thankful to him, at least for that." Trowa's grip tightened about him and Quatre nuzzled into him, thankful for the comfort.
The chimes rang, and Quatre reluctantly sat up. Standing, he turned once more to look at Duo. "If it's who I think it is, it'll be fine, but just in case, don't say anything."
Duo nodded. "Sure, I'm starting to understand how my big mouth could get you into some serious trouble."
"You have no idea." He smiled and then moved to the door and released the security.
The door opened, to reveal, a woman in her mid-forties. Her hair was stylishly pulled up, and her clothing was the cutting edge of fashion. She carried herself with poise and power, and Quatre was immediately happy to see her.
"You demanded to see me, Mr. Winner?"
Quatre understood the game, the door was still wide open, their security compromised. Curtly he nodded. "Yes. Thank you for taking the time, I know you're very busy."
"Actually you have no idea. My spring line is due out in only a matter of days, and I'm busily working on it."
"I'm sure I can compensate you for any lost time." He nearly laughed when she winked at him.
"I'm sure you can.Quatre. Perhaps, something a little less-shall we say- monetary?"
HA! She wasn't stupid, Madam Jeovony had been up and down the social latter herself enough times to know what he was playing at.
Smiling wickedly, he answered. "I'm sure we can come to some-mutually beneficial-arrangement."
"Wonderful." And with that, she walked into the room.
Quatre closed the door, but not the security pass, before turning and being completely and utter kissed by a woman old enough to be his mother. And it wasn't just a motherly kiss either, it was a full out, tongue and all kiss. Laughing mentally, he wrapped his hands up into her hair, crushed her to him, and returned the impassioned kiss in kind. He loved his woman!
* * *
Trowa didn't understand it, and he wasn't going to stand for it either! In an act he thought he'd never commit, he raged across the room and literally pulled Quatre from the groping hag of a woman. But he'd really yanked, and Quatre lost his balance, crashing into him. Trowa was sure his rage was the only thing keeping him from tumbling over. He wanted answers and he wanted them now!
"Quatre." His voice was calm and appropriately labeled deadly.
Suddenly, the link rushed with love and affections; with promises of forever and feelings of trust. Then that one emotion, the one he associated with Quatre and himself now a family, passed across, and he loosened his grip on his lover's arm.
"Secure room." He heard Quatre say before the computer beeped and answered back.
Head ducked, blonde bangs falling in his face, Quatre giggled; and so did the woman.
"Quatre, Luv, you didn't tell me he was so possessive." Her voice was nice, like the sound good crystal makes, pure and true, nothing like he'd heard it while she'd been standing in the doorway; and certainly not how he'd heard it as she'd propositioned his lover-HIS Quatre.
Still giggling, Quatre looked up at him before winking and turning to the woman. "Actually I didn't know myself. Now that I do, I may have to make him jealous more often." Quatre smiled up at him then, showing through the link that he was only kidding. In response, Trowa presented his confusion.
A frown crossed Quatre's face before he brought his hand to Trowa's cheek. "Sorry Trowa, Madam Jeovony and I have been.conducting, a show for this establishment since not long after the suit incident we were talking about. Damage control." He smiled, turning to gift Duo and Heero with the same look. He saw Shingam relax back into Heero. "It's nothing."
"Speak for yourself." The woman-who didn't look quiet so ugly anymore- said. "Every time you come I get the best kisses of my life." She winked to Trowa. "I guess I know why you keep him around."
Quatre laughed and then introduced them. "Trowa Barton, this is Madam Jeovony; Madam, my partner, Trowa."
The woman extended a hand in a position that required something other than a handshake. "Mr. Barton, I'm charmed." Leaning at the waist, Trowa lifted her hand to place a light kiss before standing and nodding once.
"He's quiet, but charming; and by the gods, would you look at those legs, he's positively the exact person I was looking for! Oh Quatre you must let me borrow him! I've been desperately searching for a model for my spring line, and I haven't been able to find anyone! It's impossible! You must let me test a few things out on him, oh you must!" The woman was immediately eccentric, yet did it with the air that it was her normal everyday attitude towards everything. Not sure what was really going on, he looked down at Quatre in question.
But Quatre was looking up at him with a look that spoke entirely of pride and possessiveness. His voice ran clear with the same. "He is beautiful isn't he?"
"Of course he his darling, but I wouldn't expect anything less." Madam Jeovony smiled at him, and suddenly Trowa didn't know if he should be excited that Quatre found him beautiful or nervous. He opted for nervous.
"Of course not. I only pick the best." Quatre winked at him again. "But today Trowa isn't the reason I'm here-"
"Oh no you don't! I absolutely refuse to hear another word until you let him model for me! I'm so dreadfully desperate, Darling. Please, please, please!" Trowa couldn't help but feel a little sorry for the woman; she really did sound like she was desperate. Quatre just smiled wickedly.
"Well, perhaps we can come to some arrangement."
Madam Jeovony's eyes became huge, and even Trowa was stunned that Quatre now seemed willing to wheel and deal, with himself as the object. Then it was like watching a door close over her face, she was suddenly very aloof, yet still seemed in a good mood. "What type of arrangement are you looking for?"
Quatre smiled up at him. "Two conditions, one, the sitting fee is eliminated; and two, Trowa can take home the outfit he likes best. I believe that sounds fair."
The woman brightened instantly. "Wonderful, I was going to offer an outfit anyway, and honestly, Darling, when was the last time you ever paid a single credit to come and see me anyway? I love it when you visit; society talks about my little shop for months after you come." The two of them laughed, and Trowa couldn't help but feel like he'd just been traded for a new suit, literally.
Quatre must have felt his thoughts, because he turned then and took his hand, leading him back to the couch. His voice was soft and tender when he spoke. "Madam Jeovony usually charges her clients to have them sit with her; by that I mean just to have her in the same room as they are when they're trying on clothing. She usually makes suggestions and such, but it's quite a handsome fee. You posing for her will literally be about as much as fifty thousand credits." Trowa stopped dead in his tracks half way back to the couch and just stared at his lover.
Madam Jeovony interrupted. "Quatre! You make it sound like all I do is stand there! And besides, those credits are hardly anything to my clientele, not to mention pocket change for you, so stop grumbling. Besides, I do run that blasted machine, don't I?" She gestured towards the console that stood flashing next to the platform.
Quatre laughed, and then tugged to get him to continue towards the couch. "Actually, the best part will be the outfit you'll get to take home. Having one of Madam Jeovony's sets is a very big deal. She has impeccable taste, and her designs are wonderful. Having one before it hits the spring market-well, let's just say I'll have to show you off in it." They reached the couch and Trowa sat, reeling from what he'd just heard, and feeling once again, that warm glow at the thought that Quatre wanted to show him off. Turning to his lover, he nodded his consent.
"Great!" Quatre kissed him quickly before turning back to address Jeovony. "Then we're agreed. However, first thing's first. Madam Jeovony, I'd like to introduce you to my friends Duo and Heero." They both kissed her hand in greeting. "And finally, you're clients today, Shingam and Killashandra."
Jeovony drew in a deep breath and brought her hand to her chest in surprise and wonder. "Quatre, they're simply beautiful! Look at his eyes-and her hair, she's like an angel! My gods, they could wear almost anything with their coloring!"
Again Quatre laughed. "They are beautiful; and wonderful. However, they need clothing and after a terrible.incident at the mall today, we've come to beg your help."
The woman looked appalled. "The mall! Oh my, I can't believe the richest man in the universe takes to the mall for his own children's clothes. It's horrible, you should be ashamed! But don't worry, you're here, and you've come to the right place. I dressed you when you were little more than Shingam's age, and I was dressing your sisters before they were Killashandra's. Although I must insist upon something first."
"What would that be?"
"You must let me burn these clothes when they're out of them! They hardly fit, and.I.can't believe you'd even take them into public looking like this!"
Quatre shook his head. "They had nothing else to wear." Jeovony looked skeptical. "Shingam and Killashandra haven't exactly been staying with me very long, and when they arrived, they had little more than what they were wearing."
A tragic look settled onto her face and suddenly Madam Jeovony was kneeling in front of where Quatre sat. "They're war orphans, aren't they? You've adopted war orphans."
Quatre turned to look at the children, one in Duo's lap, the other in his. "I suppose you could say that. More to the point, they adopted me."
There was a sad and yet respectful tone in Jeovony's voice then. "You have a heart of gold, Quatre. I'd expect nothing less from Quatrene and Raberba's child."
Trowa noticed more than anyone the tensing of Quatre's shoulders at the mention of his mother and father. Quatre didn't know much about his mother, only that she was kind and wonderful, and that when she died, his father grieved for years. And his father, Trowa reached for his hand at the thought.
Quatre smiled up at him before turning back to the woman. "Thank you. I'm honored to be compared, even if I do fall short when it comes to my mother. Perhaps we should." Quatre was getting uncomfortable, Trowa could feel it through the link.
Jeovony noticed it too. "Well enough of that, who's first?"
Smiling, Quatre turned to look at Shingam. "Would you like to go first so you know what Killa should expect?"
The boy looked questioningly at Quatre before nodding and wriggling out of Duo's lap. Taking his hand, Quatre stood and walked him over to the pedestal.