A Chance Meeting (Closed for myself and AngelofyourNightmares)

[andygorn]

Name: Jacques ('Jack') Florien Bouchard
Age: 36
Ethnicity: Caucasian
Nationality: French by birth, now living in America
Height: 6' 6"
Hair: Black, long and wavy, usually keeps this in a ponytail
Eyes: Intense blue
Build: Toned and athletic, like a runner's physique
Occupation: Although independently wealthy due to his family's business investments, Jack is an artist by trade and he shows and sells his own paintings and sculptures from time to time at high society gatherings and exhibitions.

2 years ago, Jack went through a very messy divorce after finding his wife of 8 years in bed with 2 other men. (This was resolved about a year ago).
In the intervening time, Jack has thrown himself into his work and his parent's family business. He has also been on quite a few dates, either ones which were set up by his friends, or by meeting people in bars, or from his occasional forays into speed-dating.
Many of these have ended in one-night stands, but he is looking for something more longer-term than a couple of nights.
Jack does still receive calls from these women asking for "return dates" and he often accepts them; not because he thinks that "anything is better than nothing", but in the hope that -in time- one of them might develop into a longer relationship.
=====
After the culmination of yet another of family's Business Meetings, Jack felt that he needed to clear his head.
Taking the keys to his British Racing Green Bentley saloon, he drove away from his parent's mansion into the city centre.
With his family's very wealthy and pampered lifestyle, the City Centre wasn't somewhere any of the others usually had any cause to go to.
However, as an artist, Jack always felt that his talent needed a raw edge to really come alive and he often found his muse whilst travelling around the rain-soaked streets amongst the neon and crazy traffic of the general public.

He hoped that his immersion in "mainstream life" (as it were) gave him and his work a more down-to-earth quality and helpoed him to be more of a "people-person", rather than being like virtually the rest of his family and flaunting his wealth and looking down upon everyone else with scorn.

Lost in his thoughts, Jack suddenly realised that he'd been driving around the city for some time, but found that he'd got lost somewhere along the way and was in a part of town whidch he didn't recognise.

Jack wasn't naive: he knew that there were tramps and beggars in the city streets, as well as ladies of the night and criminal gangs, but he suddenly found that he was in a definitely less well-off neighbourhood.
Not that he minded being there...there were good and bad people everywhere; Jack wasn't prejudiced at all and he didn't judge people by their looks, age, lifestyle or colour...but, then again, he also knew that not everyone was as honest or as friendly as they at first appeared and he resolved to at least kept his wits about him as he drove around looking for familiar territory.

At first, he'd thought that the Bentley would attract way too much negative attention from criminals and car-jackers...until he realised that, looking around, despite the obvious poor housing and run-down look of the area, quite a few of the cars parked by the pavement were expensive marques, so he felt much more at ease.

Although the Bentley was fitted with voice-activated satellite navigation and GPS, it was working only intermittently at best...every time he got his bearings, it would cut out so he only got vague references about his location.
Unfortunately, his strong French accent (which he still clung onto) also did not make things easier for the help with the machine's voice-recognition software either...

Finding a place to park outside a nearby bar, he exited the vehicle and resolved to ask for directions. Driving for some time in the bland air of the car's air-conditioned cabin had also made him thirsty and a bar would be as good a place as any to get some information, slake his thirst and somewhere to pass the time.

From the outside, this bar had clearly seen much better days...perhaps a sport's bar in a former life, it looked dimly lit and uninviting, yet it was the only bar he'd seen for a while and Jack didn't exactly fancy trying to negotiate the busy evening traffic without knowing at least where he was.

Jack entered the bar with a little trepidation...

 

[AngelofyourNighmares]

Amber

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k105/Snurch78/Woman/Actresses/Lacey%20Chabert/65587a67.jpg(Pic of Amber)

Amber Lynn thompsan
Age:20
Ethnicity:White
Occupationart time bar maid that lives out of her car... sweet yet very shy and timid.. has been with a few guys.. but nothing serious.

Amber found herself kicked out of her home by her drunken father, not sure why she just decided to get a part time job, and live out of her car.. times were rough especially in the cold.. but she was managing, she had good friends.. that let her shower at there home, and she ate at the diner every day.. and the bar supplied her with just enough to eat, and but clothing.. and pay the gas for her car.

Amber was young but had her share of men, not that she was shy she just never found someone to truly love her, nor truly satsify her.. she filled her nights with staying at the bar and drinking to much, or singing to entertain the barflys as one would call them. She was doing just that tonight.. and she often bought herself.. a few nice outfits nothing sluuty but just enough to keep them going. http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k105/Snurch78/Woman/Actresses/Lacey%20Chabert/40def7e2.jpg(Dress)

She sighed as she sat at the bar and then her favorite song began to play so she got up and grabbed a mic beginning to sing.. noone ever really noticed the sadness and loneliness in Ambers eyes....

 

[andygorn]

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k105/Snurch78/Woman/Actresses/Lacey%20Chabert/65587a67.jpg(Pic of Amber)

Amber Lynn thompsan
Age:20
Ethnicity:White
Occupationart time bar maid that lives out of her car... sweet yet very shy and timid.. has been with a few guys.. but nothing serious.

Amber found herself kicked out of her home by her drunken father, not sure why she just decided to get a part time job, and live out of her car.. times were rough especially in the cold.. but she was managing, she had good friends.. that let her shower at there home, and she ate at the diner every day.. and the bar supplied her with just enough to eat, and but clothing.. and pay the gas for her car.

Amber was young but had her share of men, not that she was shy she just never found someone to truly love her, nor truly satsify her.. she filled her nights with staying at the bar and drinking to much, or singing to entertain the barflys as one would call them. She was doing just that tonight.. and she often bought herself.. a few nice outfits nothing sluuty but just enough to keep them going. http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k105/Snurch78/Woman/Actresses/Lacey%20Chabert/40def7e2.jpg(Dress)

She sighed as she sat at the bar and then her favorite song began to play so she got up and grabbed a mic beginning to sing.. noone ever really noticed the sadness and loneliness in Ambers eyes....

As Jacques entered the dimly-lit bar, he quickly saw that it was stocked with the usual array of barflys, hangers-on and people looking to score. Whether these latters were looking for partners or drugs, he didn't know, but at least he knew enough not to ask them.

He walked over to the long bar on the left and ordered a bottled Coors, not quite trusting the establishment's bar-pumps.

To say that the place had a certain ambience would have been a little bit of a disservice to the word, but the place did at least have a homely-type feel, so quite a few of the people inside would be locals; he hoped that perhaps this lessen the chance of him being involved in any bar-room fighting.
Pushing such thoughts to one side, some music came on and a young lady who had been sitting along the bar from him got on stage to sing.
He had, of course, noticed her immediately as soon as he'd entered; her brown hair was really nice and she had a lovely kind face, not to mention her very nice figure-hugging blue-green dress.

Due to the scrutiny of his parents, as well as an almost limitless amount of meetings and hard-line business deals, Jacques had grown accustomed to watching people's body language. These skills had been so ingrained into him over the years that it just came as second-nature to him now:
He could see that the woman's relaxed attitude with the staff and patrons indicated that she was well-known in the bar and also that she had very probably sung in public before.

He'd initially thought that it might perhaps be a karaoke night, but the absence of a machine and big-screen TV (as well as the natural talent that was evident as soon as she opened her mouth) gave the lie to this idea.
He wasn't familiar with the tune, so he let the music wash over him; not really listening to the words, but just feeling the melodies and her voice as it floated through the air.

Although her voice was strong, he thought he saw a sort of resignedness to her movements and especially to her eyes.
For some unknown reason, out of all the people he had seen tonight, he found himself being drawn to the lovely singing woman.
Even though (at a pinch) she might be old enough to be his daughter, he felt intrigued by this lady and -against his upbringing- he resolved to try to find out a bit more about her.

Jacques had tried to ask a couple of questions about who she was, but he'd been largely rebuffed by the barman who (understandably) was a bit reluctant to tell a complete stranger about one of his regulars.

She certainly had a talented voice and as she started the second chorus, after having given a little tip, Jacques had at least been able to arrange for one of her favourite drinks to be waiting for her when she finished the song.
The note under the drink said: "Courtesy of a new fan, J." and he was pretty certain the the barman might point him out to her at some stage.

 

[AngelofyourNighmares]

Amber

Amber went to the stage... it was the one thing that made her happy in life, the bar always seemed to get quiet when she sang.. but she didn't think noone ever noticed the words to her songs.. or the fact that her music was always sad.. she never needed words on a screen.. music next to work was a big part of her life.. she loved to see people smile when she got up there.

She began singing slowly and noticed a man, that had seen the better side of town walk into the bar, must be lost she thought to herself.. he looked like a man out of one of those fancy magazines, a older quite attractive man.

At times Amber felt awkward thinking any man was good looking, she always found herself saying most men were to good for her.. that she was just some white trash, although she did clean up nicely.. and in cloths from cheap stores she looked like a dream her friends would tell her... she was often offererd to stay at friends homes, but felt she was putting them out of place so she refused.

She smiled at the bartender he was probably one of her closest friends, like a much older brother always protecting her from the leeches that tried to use her for a quick piece of ass... sure she had slept with a few men.. but that didn't mean she slept with just any bar fly.. and her friend Jimmy wouldn't let anyone get over on her.

Her face showed a sudden contenment when she sang, but in her eyes there were still plenty of sadness.. she wasn't sure at times if she were coming or going.. and she thought of taking her friends up on there deals of living with them, but Amber was to independent to allow anyone to take care of her.

She noticed Jimmys look to the new man and wondered what was going on.. so she finished her songs stopped by one of the regulars and gave him a friendly kiss on the cheek.

Then she walked to the bar and went behind it which shocked the new richly looking man that was sitting alone nursing his coors light. She gave a friendly smile and Jimmy whispered that the man had brought her a drink.

She walked over and smiled at the man... ''Are you lost?'' She whispered.

 

[andygorn]

Amber went to the stage... it was the one thing that made her happy in life, the bar always seemed to get quiet when she sang.. but she didn't think noone ever noticed the words to her songs.. or the fact that her music was always sad.. she never needed words on a screen.. music next to work was a big part of her life.. she loved to see people smile when she got up there.

She began singing slowly and noticed a man, that had seen the better side of town walk into the bar, must be lost she thought to herself.. he looked like a man out of one of those fancy magazines, a older quite attractive man.

At times Amber felt awkward thinking any man was good looking, she always found herself saying most men were to good for her.. that she was just some white trash, although she did clean up nicely.. and in cloths from cheap stores she looked like a dream her friends would tell her... she was often offererd to stay at friends homes, but felt she was putting them out of place so she refused.

She smiled at the bartender he was probably one of her closest friends, like a much older brother always protecting her from the leeches that tried to use her for a quick piece of ass... sure she had slept with a few men.. but that didn't mean she slept with just any bar fly.. and her friend Jimmy wouldn't let anyone get over on her.

Her face showed a sudden contenment when she sang, but in her eyes there were still plenty of sadness.. she wasn't sure at times if she were coming or going.. and she thought of taking her friends up on there deals of living with them, but Amber was to independent to allow anyone to take care of her.

She noticed Jimmys look to the new man and wondered what was going on.. so she finished her songs stopped by one of the regulars and gave him a friendly kiss on the cheek.

Then she walked to the bar and went behind it which shocked the new richly looking man that was sitting alone nursing his coors light. She gave a friendly smile and Jimmy whispered that the man had brought her a drink.

She walked over and smiled at the man... ''Are you lost?'' She whispered.

Jacques hadn't expected that the girl who had been singing would be an employee too; he hoped that maybe he might be able to come back here and see a little more of her. He thought for an instant that perhaps he had been too forward, but when she walked over to him and smiled, it was like he lost conscious thought for a second, lost in her face. Even after singing such a heartfelt number, Jacques thought that her voice still retained an indelible sweetness to it.

Waking himself up as if out of a trance, Jacques smiled winningly back at her. His smile also held a little embarrassment that she had correctly sized him up in only a couple of seconds: he usually prided himself that he didn't let his inner feeling show on the outside, but her smile and voice had been so disarming that he couldn't help it.
Laughing a little, he replied in his lilting French-American accent: "Yeah, you got it in one...but then again I DO 'stick-out-like-a-sore-thumb', don't I?" he joked, looking down at his immaculate black Dior suit and shirt.

"I guess that you get drinks bought for you all the time and I hope that you didn't mind me buying you one, but I was just looking around trying to get a 'feel' for this place, when you started singing and..."
He paused, searching for the words and wondering whether he should be so forthcoming with a complete stranger; but -still a little unsure of what he was doing- he put aside his reservations and, with his sincerity clear in both his voice and his face, added: "...your voice was so clear and lovely that it stopped me dead in my tracks..."

Coughing a little self-consciously, he quickly said:
"I mean, it's a lovely song and you really did it justice. I didn't know the words, but I think you conveyed the feeling behind the song really well."
"I have seen quite a few singers in my time, and I think that you would have a great range to try other styles of singing as well.:
"Please say if I am being too presumptuous, but I think that maybe that song is your favourite...or perhaps NOT your favourite as such, but it might be the one you sing the most often...?"
"My sister is a skilled voice coach and I've learned a few things about music: If you don't mind me saying so, I think that your voice would be able to sing happy tunes as well and trust me, you don't need ANY of her help."

Jacques smiled at the young lady reassuringly, sensing that she had an inner pain which she was too scared to tell anyone about directly, but which was evident when she sang. Maybe she'd never felt close to someone, or that she had been hurt before and was wary of people in case they might do so again?
He didn't know why (or really how), but he felt like he wanted to try to heal this young woman's pain.

"I hope that I've not said too much, ma'am...my name is Jacques, or 'Jack' to my friends...I hope that you might call me 'Jack' too..?"

 

[AngelofyourNighmares]

Amber

Amber stood in front ofhim, the smile never seemed to leave her face, although in her eyes one could see the loneliness and the pain.. she had been through so much in her young life.. abuse.. living out of her car.. her mother walking out.. her own stupid pride of allowing what friends she did trust help her.

She looked him over as he began to speak he had a kindness to his tone and she smiled at that. ''Yeah we don't get to many that wear nice suits in this bar, but you do look nice'' She said softly and smiled sitting in the stool that was at the bar. ''I hope Jimmy didn't give you a hard time, he's just really protective over me'' She said and smiled her same bright smile once again.

''I do get alot of drinks bought for me'' She said witha blush... ''Most woman here do, but it usally only means one thing here.. if you know what I mean'' She said witha light airy laugh. ''Singing is a big part of my life.. its what I do best, and it helps to somehow sooth me,m if that makes any sense.. but it's always extra nice knowing that someone enjoys hearing it.'' She said and looked at him again, kindly and softly.

''I always sing sad songs.. I like the melody.. and the words behind them are so more in depth.. and yes that was my favorite song.'' She said and smiled as she took a sip of her drink. ''I've never really had training.. I thought about it in the past.. but then I think what's the point.. noone really needs someone to tell tehm what there good, at.. you usually just know.. and another reason is I only sing at this bar and mostly for my patrons and such.. I guess in a sense it scares me to learn more and sing a song or a style my voice isn't used to and really mess it up'' She said her voice a little shaky when she spoke.. there was something about failure that really got to her.

She smiled at him softly, he seemed at a loss of words around her, surely she didn't make him nervous.. Amber was unsure of herself as well quite often.. but at times she tried to control it and just let herself not care so much what others thought of her.

''Please call me Amber'' She said and placed her hand out for him to shake.. as she smiled her tender smile at him.

 

[andygorn]

Amber stood in front ofhim, the smile never seemed to leave her face, although in her eyes one could see the loneliness and the pain.. she had been through so much in her young life.. abuse.. living out of her car.. her mother walking out.. her own stupid pride of allowing what friends she did trust help her.

She looked him over as he began to speak he had a kindness to his tone and she smiled at that. ''Yeah we don't get to many that wear nice suits in this bar, but you do look nice'' She said softly and smiled sitting in the stool that was at the bar. ''I hope Jimmy didn't give you a hard time, he's just really protective over me'' She said and smiled her same bright smile once again.

''I do get alot of drinks bought for me'' She said witha blush... ''Most woman here do, but it usally only means one thing here.. if you know what I mean'' She said witha light airy laugh. ''Singing is a big part of my life.. its what I do best, and it helps to somehow sooth me,m if that makes any sense.. but it's always extra nice knowing that someone enjoys hearing it.'' She said and looked at him again, kindly and softly.

''I always sing sad songs.. I like the melody.. and the words behind them are so more in depth.. and yes that was my favorite song.'' She said and smiled as she took a sip of her drink. ''I've never really had training.. I thought about it in the past.. but then I think what's the point.. noone really needs someone to tell tehm what there good, at.. you usually just know.. and another reason is I only sing at this bar and mostly for my patrons and such.. I guess in a sense it scares me to learn more and sing a song or a style my voice isn't used to and really mess it up'' She said her voice a little shaky when she spoke.. there was something about failure that really got to her.

She smiled at him softly, he seemed at a loss of words around her, surely she didn't make him nervous.. Amber was unsure of herself as well quite often.. but at times she tried to control it and just let herself not care so much what others thought of her.

''Please call me Amber'' She said and placed her hand out for him to shake.. as she smiled her tender smile at him.

Realising that he'd previously forgotten most of his manners, Jacques took her soft hand and shook it warmly. "Hi, Amber," he replied as he found that she had a very sweet, bright, smile.

Running an appreciative (but not lecherous) gaze over her slender figure, he replied: "You look very nice yourself."
With a hint of hesitation in his voice once again, as he was lost for words due to the gorgeous sight of her, he added:
"Most singers I've seen get a bunch of flowers at the end of a very good performance...but all the florists hereabouts were shut, so I got you a drink instead, " he joked, hoping that she'd smile once again and added:
"I think that many people don't get the recognition they deserve, so I'm just trying to redress the balance a little."

"I think perhaps that I may understand what you mean about feeling the need to be free to express your talents, as I am much the same; my meagre skills lie with sculpting and a little painting, but my family is too stifling to allow me free rein."
"I think sometimes that you have to find your own limits and be proud of what you can achieve, rather than what you can't."
Looking into her eyes, he tried to speak reassuringly to her:
"For example: NOT everybody can sing like YOU can...you were a real joy to listen to...and I think perhaps that you should be proud of this instead of worrying about failing. After all, no-one recalls that Aretha Franklin and Billie Holliday can't sing heavy rock, yet they are world-renowned for the things that they CAN do."

As he talked, but realising that he was rambling a little, Jacques saw behind her eyes and there was definitely some sort of pain or hurt behind them.
'She is a beautiful woman' he thought 'she shouldn't have to bear such a thing at such a young age.'

"Anyway, I digress somewhat, back to you, Amber: Even though it was a sad song, it looked like you really enjoyed your singing and I thank you for the pleasure of hearing your voice. I think I know what you mean about singing soothing the soul...sometimes one can lose oneself in the things that you love so that all your cares seem to go away."

Looking back into her lovely face with a concerned, yet kindly, expression on his own, Jacques tried to tell her that (although he could not know what she was going through) he did want to take away her pain. He added: "but sometimes our worries never really DO go away, do they?" he asked rhetorically.

With a start, he realised that he had been lost in her lovely deep eyes and said: "Sorry, I ask too much and that WAS a bit too 'deep', wasn't it?"
"To change the subject, what are you doing for the rest of this evening?" he enquired.
Amber had a very lovely figure and a really cute smile, but he tried to partially block this as her kindness and the sight of her was stopping him from thinking clearly.
"Perhaps you would be kind enough to grace me with another delightful song?" he asked indicating the stage "Or perhaps you have an appetite? I'm not sure of the eateries 'round here, but maybe you might know of a place?"

 

[AngelofyourNighmares]

Amber

His hand felt strong and soft in her small one, and she smiled once again as she looked at him softly and tried with her eyes to read what he must be thinking.

She smiled and laughed slightly at his comment aobut buying her flowers... ''Well I do like flowers, but I do not maintain them well, so I presume a drink is more suitable for me'' She said witha bright laugh. She blushed as she thought of him saying she looked nice.. ''Well thank-you for that as well'' She said and looked down at her feet for a moment.

''Why don't you take the inititive and forget what your family thinks.. you are the type of guy, and please remind me if I am being to forward.. but you seem the type to satisfy others... why not satisy yourself.. if painting and such is what you yearn for or love doing do it... I did.. sure it can be hard at times, to just let go and be on your own but with good friends and faith anything can happen'' She said witha smile and a blush to her cheeks.. here she was almost preaching to this man that was older and probably more experienced than her in so many ways.

She watched him as he stopped talking for a moment... it was odd to find a man that wanted to talk to her besides Jimmy that is... but Jimmy was closed lips.. this was different for her, he actually listened when she spoke.

''I am glad you enjoyed hearing me sing.. and don't get me wrong I have sang some rock and roll before in my time, but I just like this slow soothing type of music.. and yes at times it can make all your cares go away.'' She said softly.

''I guess not..'' She said a little to sadly and then looked away from his handsome face and drank some more of the drink he had gotten for her.

''Theres a nice little resturaunt down the street and around the block.. if you'd like to go..'' She said softly and smiled.. they too knew Amber very well. ''But then we have to get you home surely your wife must be worried?'' She asked and smiled.. maybe she wanted to know for herself thats why she had asked.

 

[andygorn]

His hand felt strong and soft in her small one, and she smiled once again as she looked at him softly and tried with her eyes to read what he must be thinking.

She smiled and laughed slightly at his comment aobut buying her flowers... ''Well I do like flowers, but I do not maintain them well, so I presume a drink is more suitable for me'' She said witha bright laugh. She blushed as she thought of him saying she looked nice.. ''Well thank-you for that as well'' She said and looked down at her feet for a moment.

''Why don't you take the inititive and forget what your family thinks.. you are the type of guy, and please remind me if I am being to forward.. but you seem the type to satisfy others... why not satisy yourself.. if painting and such is what you yearn for or love doing do it... I did.. sure it can be hard at times, to just let go and be on your own but with good friends and faith anything can happen'' She said witha smile and a blush to her cheeks.. here she was almost preaching to this man that was older and probably more experienced than her in so many ways.

She watched him as he stopped talking for a moment... it was odd to find a man that wanted to talk to her besides Jimmy that is... but Jimmy was closed lips.. this was different for her, he actually listened when she spoke.

''I am glad you enjoyed hearing me sing.. and don't get me wrong I have sang some rock and roll before in my time, but I just like this slow soothing type of music.. and yes at times it can make all your cares go away.'' She said softly.

''I guess not..'' She said a little to sadly and then looked away from his handsome face and drank some more of the drink he had gotten for her.

''Theres a nice little resturaunt down the street and around the block.. if you'd like to go..'' She said softly and smiled.. they too knew Amber very well. ''But then we have to get you home surely your wife must be worried?'' She asked and smiled.. maybe she wanted to know for herself thats why she had asked.

Jacques noticed that Amber was caught in a paradox...sometimes she was so full of life that she really lit up the room with her passion and enthusiasm, yet at other times she seemed so sad.

The feel of Amber's soft little hand in his own had been fantastic and -even though they had only just met- Jacques felt a need to care for this young woman.
He looked back into her eyes, trying to convey this to her with his kind (yet slightly concerned) expression as he said:
"Hey Amber, you are so full of life, it is such a shame for you to be sad; I will not pry in case it brings back bad memories for you."
"Let me, Jack, take the worries from you...at least for tonight, let us not talk of troubles. After all, the night is still young."

Jacques replied: "Yes, I think you're definitely right about taking the initiative and following one's dreams; I came to this area to try to find some inspiration for my next painting project and I think that I'm getting a feel for the place and I might even already have found my muse."
"Good friends can sometimes be hard to find...maybe you could help me to look for one?" he joked.
(He didn't say it, but he hoped that he had already found a friend in Amber...she was certainly wise beyond her years and very beautiful).

Even though they had only just met, Jacques felt an need to care for this young woman and he looked back into her eyes, trying to convey this to her with his kind, yet a little concerned, expression as he said: "Hey Amber, you look SO sad, but I will not pry in case it brings things back for you. Let me, Jack, take the worries from you, at least for tonight...let us not talk of troubles, after all, the night is still young."

"I too am hungry, the restaurant you mentioned sounds nice."
Jacques finished off the last of his drink and gallantly offered her his hand to take to help her out of her seat and he softly replied: "I was divorced a little while ago and I haven't got a girlfriend at the moment."
"I'm not presuming that you have a wife or girlfriend," he jokingly added, "but are you seeing anyone at the moment, Amber?"

Jacques' pulse raced a little faster as he got a scent of Amber's delicate perfume and he looked into her gorgeous face, lost in her eyes for a moment, and he hoped that she would say 'no'.

 

[AngelofyourNighmares]

Amber

How could someone she just met seem to know her so well.. maybe what they said about fate and soulmates really were true she often wondered about that at times.

She looked at him a little skeptical... ''Okay why not it can't hurt anythnig right.. but Jack don't refere to yourself as a third person again'' She added teasing him just a little. ''Its not really that I am sad.. just at times I have alot on my mind, and I try to forget.. but you know how that is you can't just forget life.'' She said and finished her drink carefully.

''I hope you've found what your looking for, this isn't the best of towns but theres alot of nice people here that you can trust.. I have a handful of friends that I look out for and they as well look out for me.'' She said softly.. one should wonder how she knew so much for such a young girl. ''I am glad you have your muse'' She said with a giggle trying to lighten the mood up for a moment. ''As for as friend you have one right here.'' She said with another bright smile.

''I had a girlfriend'' She said with a laugh. ''No I am not seeing anyone at the moment however.. I am sorry to hear for your divorce, Jimmy went through one and his was quite messy, I really hope yours was nothing like that.'' She said and looked at him reading his face.

''Let me just grab my coat and we'll get going'' She said with a smile, as she said good bye to Jimmy and gave him a quick kiss on the cheek and Jimmy gave the older man that look as if to say if you hurt her I will come after you.

 

[andygorn]

How could someone she just met seem to know her so well.. maybe what they said about fate and soulmates really were true she often wondered about that at times.

She looked at him a little skeptical... ''Okay why not it can't hurt anythnig right.. but Jack don't refere to yourself as a third person again'' She added teasing him just a little. ''Its not really that I am sad.. just at times I have alot on my mind, and I try to forget.. but you know how that is you can't just forget life.'' She said and finished her drink carefully.

''I hope you've found what your looking for, this isn't the best of towns but theres alot of nice people here that you can trust.. I have a handful of friends that I look out for and they as well look out for me.'' She said softly.. one should wonder how she knew so much for such a young girl. ''I am glad you have your muse'' She said with a giggle trying to lighten the mood up for a moment. ''As for as friend you have one right here.'' She said with another bright smile.

''I had a girlfriend'' She said with a laugh. ''No I am not seeing anyone at the moment however.. I am sorry to hear for your divorce, Jimmy went through one and his was quite messy, I really hope yours was nothing like that.'' She said and looked at him reading his face.

''Let me just grab my coat and we'll get going'' She said with a smile, as she said good bye to Jimmy and gave him a quick kiss on the cheek and Jimmy gave the older man that look as if to say if you hurt her I will come after you.

Jacques' warm smile broadened as Amber agreed to his suggestion.
There was something about this young woman which he could not get from his mind:
Ceratainly Amber is stunning, but her vivacity and zest for life and following her dreams is also a very attractive quality for him.
Many other women he had seen were what the media called 'career women' (i.e. 'career' first, 'woman' second), but Amber's approach was altogether different and very vibrant and exciting to be around.

"Okay no 'third-person-stuff' anymore. " he replied, enjoying her slight teasing and her lightening of the mood...Amber had such an easy-going manner about her that he found very refreshing and (although she obviously did worry about things) Amber's life seemed so much more free compared to his own constricting world of business deals, family intrigue and politics.
Perhaps this area -and maybe Amber herself- was his muse after all? Jacques sincerely hoped so.

Jacques found himself smiling at everything Amber said and when she flashed her radiant smile, he could not stop himself from smiling wider back at her, hoping that she would see his expressions for the reassurances he was truly trying to give her (and not coming across as cheesy or insincere).

"Thank you also for your friendship and I hope that you will count me as a friend also."
His heart skipped a beat as she told him that she wasn't seeing anyone and her delicate laughter lit up the room.

Jacques shrugged noncommittally -but cast down his eyes for a second in confirmation- when she mentioned divorce:
Yes, his had been messy and prolonged, but Amber didn't deserve to be burdened with this part of his chequered history; he was just glad that it was all over and that he never saw his ex-wife again.

His mood instantly lifted at the sight of Amber before him and her no-nonesense approach to life and Jacques quickly said genuinely:
"Yes, it was bad, but for me it was a longtime ago and these times are now long behind me. I want you to know that I'm not carrying any...how you say...'baggage' from those times."
Smikling warmly at her, Jacques added: "Let us not talk about things in our pasts, Amber, I think that we have to make the current moments count, yes?"

It wasn't the case of being a rejection of her question (and he hoped that she wouldn't take it as such)...it was just that the events of his former wife were almost long-dead to him now and he was trying to move on.

Jacques had been unable to take his eyes off her ever since he first saw her and he still couldn't take his eyes off Amber even when she leant over to kiss Jimmy goodbye. He also couldn't fail to notice the look of warning on Jimmy's face...
Given Jimmy's position as Amber's friend, Jacques knew what Jimmy would be thinking, but he also knew that -having just met Amber for the first time- there was little that he could do to reassure the man of his honourable intentions towards Amber.
Therefore, he casually glanced at Jimmy and finished off the last remaining sips of his drink in a measured way, not wanting to appear too eager to leave.

Jacques realised that he'd probably been a bit uptight with Amber so far, not really letting himself go and allowing themselves to enjoy each other's company.
It had been a while since Jacques had been out for dinner with a woman and
there was something about Amber which he found very intriguing and which made him keen to know more about her. As he placed the empty bottle back down on the bar, he found himself really relaxing in her presence and he very much hoped that he wouldn't blow things with her.

 

[AngelofyourNighmares]

Amber

Amber enjoyed the way Jaques seemed to smile at her, it was kind and sincere and that was what she needed, cause in her mind he was to good for her, but they were just friends so really no need to stress herself out over anything.

She smiled as he even laughed at her not funny joke, and looked him over once again.. there had to be something wrong with him.. no man could be this perfect could they? And then she thought that his family probably runs his life and tonight he was just letting go and she enjoyed the fact that maybe she brought this side out of him.

The tenderness in his smile meant even more to her than he could ever in his lifetime imagine.. and she didn't want to come off as cheesy so she didn't say anything about it.

''I do... I do not exclude anybody as my friend, although to be honest.. I feel this odd connection with you.'' She said gently and looked him over.

She had hoped mentioning his divorce hadn't upset him in anyway seeing as that was the last thing she wanted to do.

''I am glad to hear that, I just didn't want to drudge up any bad feelings from that time in your past.'' She said and looked at him trying to read what thoughts he might be thinking. ''As far as baggage, and living in the moment I completly agree'' She said with her soft laugh again.

''OKay lets get out of here'' She said with a smile.

 

[andygorn]

Amber enjoyed the way Jaques seemed to smile at her, it was kind and sincere and that was what she needed, cause in her mind he was to good for her, but they were just friends so really no need to stress herself out over anything.

She smiled as he even laughed at her not funny joke, and looked him over once again.. there had to be something wrong with him.. no man could be this perfect could they? And then she thought that his family probably runs his life and tonight he was just letting go and she enjoyed the fact that maybe she brought this side out of him.

The tenderness in his smile meant even more to her than he could ever in his lifetime imagine.. and she didn't want to come off as cheesy so she didn't say anything about it.

''I do... I do not exclude anybody as my friend, although to be honest.. I feel this odd connection with you.'' She said gently and looked him over.

She had hoped mentioning his divorce hadn't upset him in anyway seeing as that was the last thing she wanted to do.

''I am glad to hear that, I just didn't want to drudge up any bad feelings from that time in your past.'' She said and looked at him trying to read what thoughts he might be thinking. ''As far as baggage, and living in the moment I completly agree'' She said with her soft laugh again.

''OKay lets get out of here'' She said with a smile.

Jacques had been smiling ever since he started talking to Amber and his smile only grew wider every time she laughed or cracked a joke; he hoped that she'd not take offence at this.

Like her voice, Amber's smile was very tender and gentle and he realised with a start that he might be taking a shine to her, even thought he'd only just met her.

Amber's comments about feeling a connection between the two of them struck a chord within him too.
Hesitantly, yet sincerely (and hoping that he hadn't said too much), Jacques replied: "It's not like I usually say this on a first meeting or anything, but I think I know what you mean about a connection...because I think I felt one too, Amber."
Lost for words omce again, Jacques cleared his thrioat and announced:
"Well, here's to living for the moment and having no baggage." he toasted her.
He offered her his arm and (in quite a passable James Cagney impression, despite his accent) replied: "Yeah, let's blow this joint, kid." he laughed self-deprecatingly at his own impression, hoping that she would find this funny.
He was surprised that he found himself longing for yet another more smile from her.

 

[AngelofyourNighmares]

Amber

Amber noticed every one of Jaques smiles and everytime he smiled she found herself smiling as well.. there was something different about this man.. not that she could allow herself to get to close.. seeing the lifestyle she lived.. but a close friend wouldn't hurt.

She was well noticed the sincerity and kindness in his eyes, she was sure he had a mean streak.. what person didn't, she was always peaches adn cream herself.. but it usually took alot for Amber to get mad.

She smiled lightly at his agreement to there connection... ''I am glad you agree I wouldn't want you to think I am some crazy chick.'' She said with her light yet airy laugh. She took his arm and giggled at him impression.. as they both began to leave the bar. ''And don't forget second chances'' She said with her same thoughtfulness.

 

[andygorn]

Amber noticed every one of Jaques smiles and everytime he smiled she found herself smiling as well.. there was something different about this man.. not that she could allow herself to get to close.. seeing the lifestyle she lived.. but a close friend wouldn't hurt.

She was well noticed the sincerity and kindness in his eyes, she was sure he had a mean streak.. what person didn't, she was always peaches adn cream herself.. but it usually took alot for Amber to get mad.

She smiled lightly at his agreement to there connection... ''I am glad you agree I wouldn't want you to think I am some crazy chick.'' She said with her light yet airy laugh. She took his arm and giggled at him impression.. as they both began to leave the bar. ''And don't forget second chances'' She said with her same thoughtfulness.

Jacques noticed with delight that they were both smiling at each other a lot and he knew that -despite their seemingly different backgrounds- they seemed to think quite alike.

Jacqued found that he was very comfortable and at ease with Amber.. something that he hadn't felt in a long while.
He seemed to be able to relax in her company and his years of uptight upbringing seemed to just vanish whilst they talked.

He joked: "Hey, crazy chicks are okay in my book too, Amber...I think that you've got to just be who you are, not what people expect you to be..."
With a shudder of realisation he added: "Y'know, I guess I always thought that was true, but I never really knew it until now...here with you..."

He smiled broadly as she took his proffered arm and he opened the doors to the bar for her, following her out into the street.

"Yes, here's to second chances, too." Jacques laughed lightly and easily in agreement with her own soft laughter.

Although it was not particularly cold, he could sense a chill coming in the air, so he chivalrously took off his very soft, warm woolen jacket and wrapped it around her shoulders.
"There you go...I wouldn't want you to catch a cold in this weather."
He'd almost got an electric shock from the sensation of his fingers brushing ever so slightly against the skin of her shoulder, yet he resisted the temptation for his arm to follow the jacket into position around her shoulders; instead it returned to the crook of her arm as he allowed her to lead along the sidewalk.

 

[AngelofyourNighmares]

Amber

Amber wondered what kind of man Jaques would be if he was a little bit more free from his family.. she knew getting involved romatically with him was out of the question, seeing as the fact she was poor and he was definantly rich.

She was happy though for the fact, that he had seemed content in her company.. she didn't want him to feel anything but at ease, with her.

She giggled at the fact of him saying crazy chicks were okay too. ''I am glad you think so'' She said softly and smiled at him... ''Is this your true self?'' She as ked as sje began walking with him once again.

''Its a very nice night out'' She said then wishing she could take it back..seeing as that was such a cliche thing everyone said.

''Second cahnces can be exciting'' She said gently as she looked over at him.

She blushed as she carefully placed his coat around her bare shoulders.. ''Thank-you'' She whispered and gently looked over at him her arm linked with his as they walked to the small diner that she had spoken of.

 

[andygorn]

Amber wondered what kind of man Jaques would be if he was a little bit more free from his family.. she knew getting involved romatically with him was out of the question, seeing as the fact she was poor and he was definantly rich.

She was happy though for the fact, that he had seemed content in her company.. she didn't want him to feel anything but at ease, with her.

She giggled at the fact of him saying crazy chicks were okay too. ''I am glad you think so'' She said softly and smiled at him... ''Is this your true self?'' She as ked as sje began walking with him once again.

''Its a very nice night out'' She said then wishing she could take it back..seeing as that was such a cliche thing everyone said.

''Second cahnces can be exciting'' She said gently as she looked over at him.

She blushed as she carefully placed his coat around her bare shoulders.. ''Thank-you'' She whispered and gently looked over at him her arm linked with his as they walked to the small diner that she had spoken of.

Jacques could not recall being happpier in the last couple of months than he was right now...Amber's attitude and tone were SO refreshing and vibrant when compared to the stifling family life he knew.

He was a little taken aback at her question about whether this was his true self...yet he understood her slight apprehension...here was a lost rich guy who -even though they'd only just met- she was going out to eat with.
"Yes, Amber, this IS the real me: My family is so caught up with image and intrigue that -from a young age- we were all taught to keep our thoughts and emotions hidden. I hope you don't mind me saying so, but with you, I feel that I can open up and be my true self; nothing hidden and no pretence."

"I know that you are also being yourself with me, too. This is so refreshing and a real eye-opener for me, as most of the women I have dated seemed only to be with me to get their hands on one thing..." seeing the query in her eyes, he jokingly added, blushing slightly: "no, not 'the other thing'...they want to get some of my family's money. " Jacques laughed a little at his own slight innuendo.

"Yes it IS a nice night out, Amber...I hope you won't mind me adding that your company makes it all the better?"
He looked across at her face, hoping that he hadn't said the wrong thing, but his smile widened once again when she mentioned that second chances can be exciting and he had to agree with her:


"Yes indeed, Amber; I've not had too many of these in my life and I'd like to make the most of this one...I hope that I don't blow it."
Jacques had almost surprised himself with his openness, but he swiftly brushed such thoughts aside as he lost himself again in the delight of her company and her physical (and emotional? or perhaps mental?) closeness as they approached the diner.

Jacques's sense of etiquette had been drilled into him from an early age, so holding doors open and giving up his jacket came as second nature to him...
However, with Amber these actions came to him so easilty and and it felt so natural (rather than being rehearsed or routine as it had been with all the other women in his life).

Jacques held one of the doors open for Amber and allowed her to lead them inside.

 

[AngelofyourNighmares]

Amber

Amber hadn't felt this content with a man in a very long time, if ever besides her friends but this was by far a very different feeling.

''I'm sorry I am not trying to pry.. its just you mentioned your family.. so I didn't know if you were really being you, or being this way in hopes they would find out and get angry.'' She said gently and explained herself.

She giggled when he mentioned his thing and made a joke... ''Sure of yourself are we?'' She teased lightly and slipped her hand now into his... ''I understand, but trust me I, have never needed money in the past.. and never will in my future I get by on the little I make and I am happy... '' She was lieing slightly she was happy, but at times things were rough.

''You know something I never really felt this way before.. but you make me feel completly at ease with myself.. so I must thank-you for being so honest with me.''

''This isn't a fancy place just so you know, but I know the people well, and there very honest and its all family ran.. its a nice place..'' She said gently as she looked back at him before openeing the door.

 

[andygorn]

Amber hadn't felt this content with a man in a very long time, if ever besides her friends but this was by far a very different feeling.

''I'm sorry I am not trying to pry.. its just you mentioned your family.. so I didn't know if you were really being you, or being this way in hopes they would find out and get angry.'' She said gently and explained herself.

She giggled when he mentioned his thing and made a joke... ''Sure of yourself are we?'' She teased lightly and slipped her hand now into his... ''I understand, but trust me I, have never needed money in the past.. and never will in my future I get by on the little I make and I am happy... '' She was lieing slightly she was happy, but at times things were rough.

''You know something I never really felt this way before.. but you make me feel completly at ease with myself.. so I must thank-you for being so honest with me.''

''This isn't a fancy place just so you know, but I know the people well, and there very honest and its all family ran.. its a nice place..'' She said gently as she looked back at him before openeing the door.

Amber's honesty was very nice and infectious; Jacques could not be anything other than completely honest with her, either...

"No worries, I understand you wanting to ask just to be sure: after all, I could have been any sort of bad character."

He laughed at her joke; they seemed to be getting on really well and her feelings were mirrored in his own.
Looking straight into her eyes, he replied: "Usually, if I was in a boardroom or an office, I'd say, 'yes, I am sure of myself'...self-assured and confident, but never cocky, nor arrogant. But with you, I'm not very sure of myself: you are very different to the women who I have taken for a meal and your attitude is really refreshing and vibrant...you have much to be proud of, Amber."

Suddenly, Jacques felt Amber's hand slide into his; although it was unexpected, the feeling of her small fingers amongst his was very welcome indeed and he couldn't stop a childish smile of wonder cross his face as he gently squeezed her hand reassuringly whilst taking in the gorgeous sight of her.
Jacques replied: "Even though we have only just met, I have a feeling that I definitely do trust you, Amber. Your honesty is VERY charming and a gentleman must behave like one all the time."
Cheekily, he quickly added, joking playfully: "Well, NEARLY all the time..." as he gave her hand another brief squeeze.

Once again, Jacques looked into her gorgeous eyes soft face as she turned and opened the door to the diner. Amber and Jacques smiled gently at each other at exactly the same moment, causing them both to laugh as they entered.

 

[AngelofyourNighmares]

Amber

She was glad she could be honest with him and he didn't take things the wrong way with her.. she looked at him softly and smiled that same gentle smile at him.

''I am a pretty good people reader... I mean I can look at someone and pretty much sense how they are, not that I won't give them the benefit of the doubt, cause I will.. but your different and I can see that''

''Well I am glad to hear that your not to cocky...''She said lightly and smiled up at him... she loved the fact the fact that he was so tall.. loved everything about him... did she love him no.. could she yes.. would she allow herself.. no way.. he was to good for her.. and he couldn't find out her way of living.

''Its good to be naughty sometimes'''She said with a gentle laugh as she looked at him once again...

When they both laughed as they entered, everyone looked at her and she smiled up at her new friend.

''Don't worry there like family''

 

[andygorn]

Jacques said sincerely:
"I really thank you for your honesty and kindness, Amber:
"My job has taken me all over the world and I have to cut hard-nosed deals with people who I've never even heard about or met, so I was trained to really look at people's body language and to 'read' them in a few minutes."
"But with you it's SO different...I'm really at ease with you and I think that -with you- none of my so-called 'defences' are raised up with you..."
Looking into her lovely face, he added: "...at least I hope that's what you're picking up on, too?"
He smiled down reassuringly at Amber; still not quite able to believe the effect this gorgeous young woman was having on him, but it was a feeling which he would not have traded for the world...

"Well thank you for saying that, ma'am" he said, slightly bowing deferentially to her in genuine respect.
"Some people think if you've got a bit of money, that you live on a cloud with no idea of reality; actually, I can think of a few people I've met who are like THAT..." He laughed as he recalled some of the some of the characters he'd had to put up with in the name of his family's business dealings.
"I try real hard not to be arrogant and to treat everyone with respect." Gently squeezing her hand a little to add emphasis to his words, he added:
"But, of course, there are some people who get a little more respect than others." As he said this, Jacques looked straight down into her eyes to try to let her know that she was one of these latter people.

Smiling very warmly back at her, a cheeky note to his voice and a slight twinkle in his eyes, Jacques replied, laughing gently: "Yeah, I can live with naughty too..."

Jacques found that Amber's delicate fragility was very attractive and he also admired her for her inner strength which she showed from time to time.
He hoped that his attentive looks to her would convey some of this, but not too much so that she was frightened off by them.

As they entered the diner, he realised that nearly every eye was upon them: Not that he would EVER have any idea of hurting anyone, let alone Amber, in a million years, but it was just a little gentle reminder that he was a stranger in this place. Jacques hoped that he might be able to make a good impression with them, so that they could come back again...
He hadn't been assuming (nor really considering) anything about this delightful woman by his side, but -once he thought about it- his heart leapt a little at the hope that he may be able to see her again.

Jacques allowed Amber to lead as they walked into the diner, still holding gently onto her soft hand, feeling the delicate skin of her palm in his own... Jacques found that the more Amber held his hand, the less he wanted the fabulous feeling to end.
Jacques smiled widely and warmly to her again and realised that since meeting Amber, tonight was the first time he had been genuinely happy in weeks.
He hoped that his happiness would be easy for her to read on his face and he found himself yearning for another of her drop-dead wonderful smile.

 

[AngelofyourNighmares]

Amber

''No need to thank me.. I do not believe in lying to anyone.. nor do I want anyone lying to me, so I try and always be honest with everyone, as much as possible..'' She said and smiled at him gently as she looked at him softly. ''Its good to be different at times.. my friends think its a uniqness.. but I am sure many people respect you as well.. your a good man so it seems to me anyway'' She said with a light laugh.

She laughed when he called her mamn knowing he was joking... ''No problem sir'' She said bumping him playfully as she looked back at him gently. ''You know this nights more than what I thought it would be.. thank-you'' She said with a smile that should show him how much this night was meaning to her.

''Good, cause I bet you can be bad if you want.. I like to live on the edge... exciting..'' She said with a laugh.

''They have a nice jukebox here if you want to play anything later on'' She said witha bright smile.. ''It has everything on it.'' She said with a light smile once again.

She smiled as everyone seemed to eye her new friend down and she giggled a little at that.. it was nice to feel protected and have good freinds.. ''Come on lets go get my favorite booth'' She said leading him to the back where the jukebox was as they both sat down.

She smiled as they both sat down and she made sure she sat beside him.. the feel of him close by was a nice feeling, she thought to herself. ''Thanks for agreeing to come with me'' She said gently.

They talked about simple things before Ambers favorite waitress came over.. and gave Amber and smile.. as Amber introduced her as Cassie.

 

[andygorn]

"Yeah, unlike the rest of my family, I find that honesty IS the best policy." Jacques replied.
"Your friends have definitely got it right; I've got to agree that you definitely are unique...and in a good way," he added good-naturedly, smiling to her once again.

When she had thanked him for the night so far, her voice was the most gentle and tender sound he'd heard for a long long time and he had to admit that he had enjoyed the feeling of her body bumping against his own.
He could sense the meaning in her words and he determined to make this night extra-special for her, no matter what it took.

Recalling his frequent extreme sports things like base-jumping events for charity and just general fun, Jacques laughed: "Yeah, compared to the rest of my family, I'm really 'bad-to-the-bone'...but I'm always looking for new things to try, too, so any suggestions will be gratefully received."

Spying the jukebox in the corner, he asked: "Yeah, we can check out the 'box a little later...but I'm not sure if a sheltered old-timer like me would know any tunes on it, though." he joked self-deprecatingly.

As Amber led them to the booth, he was enticed by the curves of her walk and once again he felt delight at the feel of her soft body close to his own.

Smiling winningly, Jacques replied: "Yes, it's been a really good night so far, and the night is still young, n'est-ce pas? I mean...isn't it?"
"There's no need to thank me for coming with you, Amber...it really is my pleasure. I should thank you for showing me a great time so far -long may it continue- and such a nice place to come to, as well."

After a little light conversation, Jacques could see that there was a waitress coming over to their booth and he said: "What sort of things do they serve here and what's your favourite food and drink, Amber?"

 

[AngelofyourNighmares]

Amber

''Well i'm glad then in a way you kind of don't do things according to plan.. cause thats what counts to me honesty and integrity.. among loyatly... but you seem to have all three'' She said with a gentle smile.

''I come here every night for dinner.. so before we order I can definantly say the food is good... but I jog to stay in shape... every morning its refreshing..'' She said not wanting him to think she did anything stupid eating out but staying so fit.. ''Its hard to stay in shape.. but three hours in the am is a great workout'' She said gently and smiled. ''What about you, you look in shape..'' She said with a smile.

''I've never been sky diving i've always wanted to try that'' She said with a gleam in her eyes when she thought of the excitement and thrill of jumping from a plane.

''Well your not old.. but this place is.. and they have mostly older music somes up to date however.. but it had a good classic quaility to it.'' She said gently.

She liked feeling him close with her.. it was comforting almost... now the hard part is what if he asked if she needed a ride home.. she could cover it up by saying she would stay here and wait for a friend something like that.

''I am glad your enjoying it as much as I am... and yes this is a nice place... I of all people should know that.'' She said gently as she looked at him softly.

''Everything is good here's a menu though, she knows what I like'' Amber said softly and touched his hand gently... ''Though if you want something juicy they serve a mean char boiled hanburger'' She said witha laugh.

 

[andygorn]

"I've got a confession to make about that.." Jacques started "...I'm afraid you're correct, you had me pegged straight away... and I thought that I had good body-language skills!" he joked in reply, finding that humour was easier and easier with her.

"Many thanks to you for saying that about my figure, Amber; it's nice for my hard work to be noticed. " Unaccustomed as he was to honest compliments, a blush came to Jacques' cheeks as he spoke.
"May I say that you're looking really good on your regime, too?" Jacques couldn't stop another blush rising to his cheeks again.

He added: "Three hours a day is a bit much for me, I'm afraid, Amber... my parents have always been in pretty good shape themeselves -especially my Mom- so I guess I've just got their genes...but yes, I agree people have to work at a body to keep it in shape.
"I go to the state gym every other day to do some weights and cardio, whilst my older brother Marcel, who's a REAL fitness fanatic, helps keep pretty much the whole family on their toes with a strenuous workout and some intense Savate sessions whenever he comes into town....I've probably still got a couple of bruises from the last time he visited last week." he admitted honestly, his face displaying memories of a couple of times where he'd been knocked and thrown to the house gym's padded floor.

"Sky-diving could be a really good idea, actually...I've never tried jumping out of a plane: jumping off a building and a cliff, yes, but never out of a 'plane for some reason. I've got a good head for heights, though and it sounds like it would be really fun." he mused. "...but I've heard that it gets lonely going solo, though...I hope I'm not being too presumptuous, but maybe you'd like to try it sometime, too?"

Referring to the nearby jukebox, Jacques replied: "Classic music's okay with me, too. I really like Motown and Blues, but I enjoy pretty much any music that has an emotion to it...even if the emotion is 'dance to this'." he joked, seeing a ghost of a smile play across his lips at his jape.

Jacques felt very much at ease with Amber and the closeness of her body next to his...although their side-by-side position had been unexpected, his reservations had disapeare in the first couple of seconds and it was a very welcome feeling to have her near.

Jacques was not at all surprised to find that he had listened in rapt attention to Amber's every word tonight: Her voice was so gentle and soft and her manner was so kind that he found her enthralling.
He had no-one to liken her to, so he allowed the feeling of joy at being with her to infuse his entire body; taking in the qualities of her voice, the light -yet heady- scent of her perfume and the gorgeous sight of her in her dress. In particular, Jacques enjoyed the feel of her hand upon his own.

His fingers softly stroked across the back of her hand tenderly in a manner which was supportive (rather than implying anything) and he announced:
"After such a high recommendation, you've convinced me...Yep, char-boiled hamburger it is, then." they both laughed freely again with each other.

Jacques added: "Although I should maybe skip the salad side though: I don't want to overdo it." he joked, the ready laughter from each of them mingling with that of the other.