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[ After Eames gets comfortable, he joins him and slides under the covers with a sigh. His hair is still damp, which means it's going to be an absolute horror when he wakes up. He takes solace in knowing Eames won't be that much better off.
And, as he thinks on it again, he's ridiculously glad he can just take in those small details. That Eames is still here, in one piece.
They're both on the same train of thought, it seems. With a small frown, Arthur rolls towards him on his stomach, one hand tentatively set on his chest. His chin rests on the forger's shoulder and somehow the closeness makes some of that fearful tension smooth away. ]
I know. [ Because he'd gone through a similar slew of thoughts. Not quite the same, being on the other side of it. But close. ]
I'm glad you're here.
And, as he thinks on it again, he's ridiculously glad he can just take in those small details. That Eames is still here, in one piece.
They're both on the same train of thought, it seems. With a small frown, Arthur rolls towards him on his stomach, one hand tentatively set on his chest. His chin rests on the forger's shoulder and somehow the closeness makes some of that fearful tension smooth away. ]
I know. [ Because he'd gone through a similar slew of thoughts. Not quite the same, being on the other side of it. But close. ]
I'm glad you're here.
[That's nice. Better. He presses his head against Arthur's, his wet hair cool against his forehead.]
Can't get rid of me that easily, [he says with a breathless, rueful laugh. He turns his head to cough again, groaning in frustration.]
If I wasn't bloody dying every five seconds with this fucking cough... I'd be having 'thank god I'm alive' sex, [he says through a yawn. Yeah, like that's happening tonight. But this is good. The closeness is... really good.]
Can't get rid of me that easily, [he says with a breathless, rueful laugh. He turns his head to cough again, groaning in frustration.]
If I wasn't bloody dying every five seconds with this fucking cough... I'd be having 'thank god I'm alive' sex, [he says through a yawn. Yeah, like that's happening tonight. But this is good. The closeness is... really good.]
[ Darling? Darling.
For a moment, he's silent, taking in the fact that he was just called darling. It probably shows on his face, the raised eyebrows, a bit askance. Is it an English thing? Or is this just an Eames thing? ]
Not if you can stay on task.
[ Since that's what really matters. Being able to get results. Never mind how this could be irritating as all hell. Arthur can push through it. ]
For a moment, he's silent, taking in the fact that he was just called darling. It probably shows on his face, the raised eyebrows, a bit askance. Is it an English thing? Or is this just an Eames thing? ]
Not if you can stay on task.
[ Since that's what really matters. Being able to get results. Never mind how this could be irritating as all hell. Arthur can push through it. ]
[He shrugs.]
I can multitask.
[Something flits over his face then, though, something more sincere and less... all of that before stuff. He's impressed Arthur's putting aside their differences.]
You're smart and capable. I appreciate that.
[Is what he ends up saying quietly. He rifles through his pockets.] You smoke?
I can multitask.
[Something flits over his face then, though, something more sincere and less... all of that before stuff. He's impressed Arthur's putting aside their differences.]
You're smart and capable. I appreciate that.
[Is what he ends up saying quietly. He rifles through his pockets.] You smoke?
Alright, if you say so.
[ Though he does believe him. Even if it's just a grain of belief, since forging is an art of multitasking. Keeping hold of the person's image, the way they move, how they speak. Arthur already knows he'd have difficulty even trying to do it. But then, he turns his powers of observation to a different end. For him, it's all in the details, in knowing the ins and outs of people and understanding the why.
Eames surprises him again, this time due to the easily given compliment. There might be a small blush filling out across his face. ]
Never picked it up. [ Having to keep up a continual peak form while in the military has stayed with him in small parts. Not to mention that he was really broke until about six months ago. ]
They'll be back pretty soon. If you want to avoid Dom judging your habits, may as well get that smoke in. Back porch is through there.
[ Arthur gestures towards the nice set of french doors leading out. ]
[ Though he does believe him. Even if it's just a grain of belief, since forging is an art of multitasking. Keeping hold of the person's image, the way they move, how they speak. Arthur already knows he'd have difficulty even trying to do it. But then, he turns his powers of observation to a different end. For him, it's all in the details, in knowing the ins and outs of people and understanding the why.
Eames surprises him again, this time due to the easily given compliment. There might be a small blush filling out across his face. ]
Never picked it up. [ Having to keep up a continual peak form while in the military has stayed with him in small parts. Not to mention that he was really broke until about six months ago. ]
They'll be back pretty soon. If you want to avoid Dom judging your habits, may as well get that smoke in. Back porch is through there.
[ Arthur gestures towards the nice set of french doors leading out. ]
[He's picked it up lately, which is dreadful, but Eames has always been bad at avoiding things that are dreadful for him. There's nothing quite like having a smoke.
There's nothing quite like a handsome man pinking in the face at a compliment either. Eames perches the cigarette between his lips, digging for a lighter, and nods, saluting him.]
Be back.
[And then he's sauntering back there, enjoying the fuck out of that cigarette after all that goddamned tension.
He saunters back in at the last minute, smelling a bit smokey but looking more at ease. Which is an achievement, he supposes.]
That's them, I s'pose, [he murmurs as he hears car doors.]
There's nothing quite like a handsome man pinking in the face at a compliment either. Eames perches the cigarette between his lips, digging for a lighter, and nods, saluting him.]
Be back.
[And then he's sauntering back there, enjoying the fuck out of that cigarette after all that goddamned tension.
He saunters back in at the last minute, smelling a bit smokey but looking more at ease. Which is an achievement, he supposes.]
That's them, I s'pose, [he murmurs as he hears car doors.]
Yeah yeah.
[ He doesn't believe that for a second. The yawn sort of punctuates the point. Arthur can feel the beginnings of sleep trying to drag him down, a comfortable warmth cocooning him from all sides. It's nice, laying so close. He can feel Eames' heartbeat under his palm, the steady rise and fall of his chest as his breathing starts to even out.
His eyes drift closed and exhaustion creeps in fully. Normally, he'd try to fight it, but falling asleep so easily escapes him most days. In the morning, they might talk about this. And what it means for them. Or maybe they'll just pretend it didn't happen.
Whatever the case, he'll tackle it then. ]
[ He doesn't believe that for a second. The yawn sort of punctuates the point. Arthur can feel the beginnings of sleep trying to drag him down, a comfortable warmth cocooning him from all sides. It's nice, laying so close. He can feel Eames' heartbeat under his palm, the steady rise and fall of his chest as his breathing starts to even out.
His eyes drift closed and exhaustion creeps in fully. Normally, he'd try to fight it, but falling asleep so easily escapes him most days. In the morning, they might talk about this. And what it means for them. Or maybe they'll just pretend it didn't happen.
Whatever the case, he'll tackle it then. ]
[ Goodness. Here it is, actual proof that Arthur last-name-unknown is a human being and not a robot from those old scifi movies he used to watch by sneaking into the theatre when he was small and still living in India.
He's not entirely convinced the other isn't just toying with him, though. That's just Yusuf's cautious nature, even if Arthur is scratching one of his cats ears. ]
No totem needed, but I assume you're here for a reason?
[ It's bad to assume, sure, but Arthur never struck him as a chatty type. Not to someone like him, and--oh, he's just been awkwardly standing in front of him the whole time, hasn't he? With an apologetic smile, Yusuf quickly scoots over and gestures to the shopfront. Please, sit, pretend I know how to entertain people. ]
He's not entirely convinced the other isn't just toying with him, though. That's just Yusuf's cautious nature, even if Arthur is scratching one of his cats ears. ]
No totem needed, but I assume you're here for a reason?
[ It's bad to assume, sure, but Arthur never struck him as a chatty type. Not to someone like him, and--oh, he's just been awkwardly standing in front of him the whole time, hasn't he? With an apologetic smile, Yusuf quickly scoots over and gestures to the shopfront. Please, sit, pretend I know how to entertain people. ]
[ He spends a few more seconds scratching the cat, a small smile curling the end of his mouth. Yusuf looks a bit paranoid around the edges; his cat is lapping up the attention it feels it deserves.
Straightening, he follows the gesture to sit, my wanting to make the chemist any more nervous than he already has. In some way, it's nice to know he has this effect still. Eames never takes him completely seriously and Dom started ignoring any warning signs early. Sprawled in a chair, he automatically tilts it back onto two legs. There's not anyone here who'll kick them out from him for a laugh. ]
A couple reasons, really. I was curious about your dream den— and no, I don't have any plans on blowing it to the authorities.
[ He's been in this sort of crime long enough that some things just aren't worth it. If some people want to spend their money on living out their lives in dreams, that's on them. ]
Secondly, I know this might be shocking, I don't hold grudges. You're a talented chemist, Yusuf. I haven't had that kind of clarity with a somnacin mix in a while. Ideally, I'd like to keep you on as a supplier, if you're interested.
Straightening, he follows the gesture to sit, my wanting to make the chemist any more nervous than he already has. In some way, it's nice to know he has this effect still. Eames never takes him completely seriously and Dom started ignoring any warning signs early. Sprawled in a chair, he automatically tilts it back onto two legs. There's not anyone here who'll kick them out from him for a laugh. ]
A couple reasons, really. I was curious about your dream den— and no, I don't have any plans on blowing it to the authorities.
[ He's been in this sort of crime long enough that some things just aren't worth it. If some people want to spend their money on living out their lives in dreams, that's on them. ]
Secondly, I know this might be shocking, I don't hold grudges. You're a talented chemist, Yusuf. I haven't had that kind of clarity with a somnacin mix in a while. Ideally, I'd like to keep you on as a supplier, if you're interested.
[ Yusuf isn't exactly a flightly person, but he sure as hell isn't one of the refined hitmen/military types. It helps and hinders -- he has an easier time talking to normal people, he feels, then maybe Arthur does (or that's another silly assumption), but he couldn't look around the room and find several ways to stab someone to death.
When he shuts his eyes for a fraction of a second longer than a blink, it's because he's trying to compose himself. Arthur is coming at him as a -- what, not friend, but as something, an acquaintance, and--
--there, right there. There it is. As soon as the subject shifts from him and to his work, it clicks. Yusuf's smile is his usual, humble but immensely proud, and he sits behind his desk. Old habit. ]
I would be more than honoured. [ With work from people like Arthur comes more money, and even with Dom's share, he's still wanting. The smile hasn't left, and his head sways to and fro for a brief second. ]
People are afraid to push the limits. I'm very glad you're not that type.
When he shuts his eyes for a fraction of a second longer than a blink, it's because he's trying to compose himself. Arthur is coming at him as a -- what, not friend, but as something, an acquaintance, and--
--there, right there. There it is. As soon as the subject shifts from him and to his work, it clicks. Yusuf's smile is his usual, humble but immensely proud, and he sits behind his desk. Old habit. ]
I would be more than honoured. [ With work from people like Arthur comes more money, and even with Dom's share, he's still wanting. The smile hasn't left, and his head sways to and fro for a brief second. ]
People are afraid to push the limits. I'm very glad you're not that type.
[ This is ridiculous.
Arthur isn't really a con man, never has been. His acting is somewhere in the subpar region– normally he gets by on the fact that people can never tell if he's joking or if he's being completely serious. Where he lacks, Eames makes up for in spades. After all, he's always going to be a forger first, thief second. He might disagree with the notion, but Arthur knows where his heart really is.
This imbalance should make them poorly suited for this job, since it'll be Eames doing most of the heavy lifting in terms of convincing their target that they're totally normal. And also that they're in love. That they've been dating for a while now and have decided to do the big step of moving in together before the Question is popped.
When the idea had first been pitched to him, Arthur had rejected it outright. Faking being in a relationship was a little more than beyond his capabilities. Never mind that pretending to be in a relationship with Eames of all people was just. Insane. Sure they worked well together on a professional level, but that had been reserved for ideation and dreamshare grounds only. It's altogether different to be pulled into something resembling a long con.
Eventually, the pile of pros had outweighed the cons in terms of logic and Arthur had been forced to capitulate to rationale.
He still thinks it's the most ludicrous idea they've ever come up with.
But it is hard to argue overmuch when he steps into their (their!!!) house for the first time. It belongs to a friend of a friend, who is currently backpacking somewhere in China and has happily rented the place to them for the term of their job. They take good care of it, he notes, quietly admiring the sparkling clean base boards, the original mouldings, and hardwood floors. For the last few minutes, he's just been wandering from room to room, getting acquainted with the space and making sure he knows every exit as soon as possible.
Eventually, he sits on the antique looking chaise lounge, pulling up a few emails to send off; mostly confirmation of arrival, that the keys worked thanks, and the plan to meet the target within the next couple weeks is a go. ]
How soon do you think meeting Graham is possible?
[ Norton Graham, their real estate mogul and target. For once, they're attempting to clear a name instead of throwing dirt on it. Arthur glances over to Eames, head tilted in question. ]
Arthur isn't really a con man, never has been. His acting is somewhere in the subpar region– normally he gets by on the fact that people can never tell if he's joking or if he's being completely serious. Where he lacks, Eames makes up for in spades. After all, he's always going to be a forger first, thief second. He might disagree with the notion, but Arthur knows where his heart really is.
This imbalance should make them poorly suited for this job, since it'll be Eames doing most of the heavy lifting in terms of convincing their target that they're totally normal. And also that they're in love. That they've been dating for a while now and have decided to do the big step of moving in together before the Question is popped.
When the idea had first been pitched to him, Arthur had rejected it outright. Faking being in a relationship was a little more than beyond his capabilities. Never mind that pretending to be in a relationship with Eames of all people was just. Insane. Sure they worked well together on a professional level, but that had been reserved for ideation and dreamshare grounds only. It's altogether different to be pulled into something resembling a long con.
Eventually, the pile of pros had outweighed the cons in terms of logic and Arthur had been forced to capitulate to rationale.
He still thinks it's the most ludicrous idea they've ever come up with.
But it is hard to argue overmuch when he steps into their (their!!!) house for the first time. It belongs to a friend of a friend, who is currently backpacking somewhere in China and has happily rented the place to them for the term of their job. They take good care of it, he notes, quietly admiring the sparkling clean base boards, the original mouldings, and hardwood floors. For the last few minutes, he's just been wandering from room to room, getting acquainted with the space and making sure he knows every exit as soon as possible.
Eventually, he sits on the antique looking chaise lounge, pulling up a few emails to send off; mostly confirmation of arrival, that the keys worked thanks, and the plan to meet the target within the next couple weeks is a go. ]
How soon do you think meeting Graham is possible?
[ Norton Graham, their real estate mogul and target. For once, they're attempting to clear a name instead of throwing dirt on it. Arthur glances over to Eames, head tilted in question. ]
Edited 2018-05-30 05:23 (UTC)
[Eames, of course, when he first heard this plan, said yes. A little absurdity and risk never bothered him. It was new and shiny, and therefore, Eames wanted to try it. And, if the faint blush on Arthur's face when he finally said yes made Eames really want to try it more, no one would ever know.
Eames has been busy going around the house and taking down any personal items from the owner's shelves. Wouldn't due for any guests to notice those. He's replaced them, temporarily, with "kid pictures" of both of them, random photos of random people he's found that match. (Don't ask him where he got ones so close to the real thing. It took work.)
Right now, he's sitting in the arm chair near the chaise lounge, frowning and caught up in thought. His face clears as Arthur asks him a question, and Eames bends over, puts a hand on Arthur's knee just as casually and sweetly as he can.]
Soon, I promise. Do we have to work? I'm tired from moving in.
Eames has been busy going around the house and taking down any personal items from the owner's shelves. Wouldn't due for any guests to notice those. He's replaced them, temporarily, with "kid pictures" of both of them, random photos of random people he's found that match. (Don't ask him where he got ones so close to the real thing. It took work.)
Right now, he's sitting in the arm chair near the chaise lounge, frowning and caught up in thought. His face clears as Arthur asks him a question, and Eames bends over, puts a hand on Arthur's knee just as casually and sweetly as he can.]
Soon, I promise. Do we have to work? I'm tired from moving in.
[ One of the downsides with the Fischer job is that he hadn't gotten to talk to everyone as much as he wanted. The person who'd gotten the most attention had been Ariadne– something he'd enjoyed, no doubt– mostly out of necessity. Cobb had fucked off to get Eames and that had left him in charge of making sure their architect knew what she was doing.
And then when Eames had come back with Cobb, it'd just been ideas and ideas and frustrating pulls of data. He hadn't spoken to Yusuf much aside from being a guinea pig for the different somnacin mixes. Well, it hadn't been much of "talk" and had been more of "here's a list of things that need adjustment for next time".
Yikes.
But there is one thing that sticks out and that's the fact that generally, Yusuf had been a positive personality. Good humor, low stress. Here he shows that in spades, smile wide and genuine, a little sing song lilt to his voice. It puts him at ease. ]
People are afraid of what they don't know. Though there is something to be said about caution.
[ The Cobbs are one giant warning sign. ]
At any rate, Dom is out of the field and I don't plan on retiring soon.
[ Basically, he fully expects his retirement to be death. ] Dreamshare people are a bit flighty, but I'd like to build a more permanent team. I've got a feeling it's about a year or so away from being less corporate.
[ The inevitable drop to average consumers. It doesn't bother him, since it just brings new territory, different jobs. ]
And then when Eames had come back with Cobb, it'd just been ideas and ideas and frustrating pulls of data. He hadn't spoken to Yusuf much aside from being a guinea pig for the different somnacin mixes. Well, it hadn't been much of "talk" and had been more of "here's a list of things that need adjustment for next time".
Yikes.
But there is one thing that sticks out and that's the fact that generally, Yusuf had been a positive personality. Good humor, low stress. Here he shows that in spades, smile wide and genuine, a little sing song lilt to his voice. It puts him at ease. ]
People are afraid of what they don't know. Though there is something to be said about caution.
[ The Cobbs are one giant warning sign. ]
At any rate, Dom is out of the field and I don't plan on retiring soon.
[ Basically, he fully expects his retirement to be death. ] Dreamshare people are a bit flighty, but I'd like to build a more permanent team. I've got a feeling it's about a year or so away from being less corporate.
[ The inevitable drop to average consumers. It doesn't bother him, since it just brings new territory, different jobs. ]
[ As soon as Eames puts that hand on his knee, he jerks away violently, so unused to the familiarity of it all. They've been touchy here and there, but it's normally on shoulders or elbows, places totally normal to touch an associate. If he's ever felt a bit warm from it, he doesn't let on since that's dumb and he's a grown ass adult.
Who totally has never had a crush on Eames. Ever.
Arthur's kept that tidbit to himself for years and he doesn't see the point in indulging even if this job is forcing the pieces to fit. Sighing, he tucks his phone in his pocket, eyeing the man across from him coolly. ]
A little concentration here, Eames. How soon is soon?
[ Carefully, he looks away, passes a cursory glance to the picture frames with well forged photos. He makes a note to replace a couple with some from his own collection. Because while most of them will hold up under scrutiny, there's a few he won't be able to fib through if he's grilled. ]
Is that one supposed to be football practice?
Who totally has never had a crush on Eames. Ever.
Arthur's kept that tidbit to himself for years and he doesn't see the point in indulging even if this job is forcing the pieces to fit. Sighing, he tucks his phone in his pocket, eyeing the man across from him coolly. ]
A little concentration here, Eames. How soon is soon?
[ Carefully, he looks away, passes a cursory glance to the picture frames with well forged photos. He makes a note to replace a couple with some from his own collection. Because while most of them will hold up under scrutiny, there's a few he won't be able to fib through if he's grilled. ]
Is that one supposed to be football practice?
[ Ah, Dom. Yusuf looks up expectantly, and while his smile is there, he can't say it's one of good cheer. Relief is closer to it, and he nods. He's glad Dom is out of the field, from a survival stand point, yes, but also because it takes a very specific type of person to do what he did: a madman, or someone with nothing left to lose. Yusuf isn't a betting man, but he'd bank on it being a combination. ]
Less corporate means more competition. [ It's not a warning, merely a point in conversation. That's one thing he's not worried about in the least - Yusuf may be humble, but he's aware of how good he is. He's also aware of how many customers of his are loyal. ]
If I do agree -- [ they both know he probably will, it's too good to pass up for someone as much of a drive for curiosity ] --I'd have to ask for a few things. Simple, really, but you understand.
Less corporate means more competition. [ It's not a warning, merely a point in conversation. That's one thing he's not worried about in the least - Yusuf may be humble, but he's aware of how good he is. He's also aware of how many customers of his are loyal. ]
If I do agree -- [ they both know he probably will, it's too good to pass up for someone as much of a drive for curiosity ] --I'd have to ask for a few things. Simple, really, but you understand.
[The violent jerk away leaves Eames blinking in surprise. He smiles, standing up and walking behind the chaise lounge.]
Probably within the week. And yes, it is. Problem?
[He lets his hands move to Arthur's shoulders, to rub gently (and test a theory).]
I thought I did rather well.
Probably within the week. And yes, it is. Problem?
[He lets his hands move to Arthur's shoulders, to rub gently (and test a theory).]
I thought I did rather well.
[ Yusuf's smile takes on a bit of an edge when Dom is mentioned and honestly, Arthur can't blame him. He's got his own set of issues with Dominick fucking Cobb and he plans to just ignore them until they're so far in the past it's dust and not open wounds. Right now they're fresh and he wants to set one thing absolutely straight: ]
You can speak your mind, I'm not gonna fly off the handle.
[ For all that he had a short temper with certain things on the inception job, it had really been the compound stress that drove him to snap. ]
A little healthy competition will be good for dreamshare. It's been in the hands of the ultra rich and the military for too long.
[ And just like any good American citizen, he hates a monopoly. ]
Name your terms.
You can speak your mind, I'm not gonna fly off the handle.
[ For all that he had a short temper with certain things on the inception job, it had really been the compound stress that drove him to snap. ]
A little healthy competition will be good for dreamshare. It's been in the hands of the ultra rich and the military for too long.
[ And just like any good American citizen, he hates a monopoly. ]
Name your terms.
[ This is something he can do. Yusuf is not a businessman, no, he's not all sharp suits and accounting, but while he's humble he is aware that he's very good at what he does. If not, Arthur wouldn't seek him out.
Plus, if he wasn't used to this sort of stuff, how the hell would he have a dream den like this and have actually managed to keep it?/ ]
The majority of training and prepping, if I'm needed, will be done here. I'll take 20% plus cost, and should anything here or myself are somehow threatened, it will be your responsibility to deal with that.
[ It's fairly simple, and a pretty good deal from his standpoint, and the next moment is brought up with only a slight hesitation. ] If... you are interested in financing some actual compound research as well, I wouldn't turn you down.
Plus, if he wasn't used to this sort of stuff, how the hell would he have a dream den like this and have actually managed to keep it?/ ]
The majority of training and prepping, if I'm needed, will be done here. I'll take 20% plus cost, and should anything here or myself are somehow threatened, it will be your responsibility to deal with that.
[ It's fairly simple, and a pretty good deal from his standpoint, and the next moment is brought up with only a slight hesitation. ] If... you are interested in financing some actual compound research as well, I wouldn't turn you down.
[ While Yusuf lists his terms, Arthur is silent, listening intently. He tips his chair back onto all four legs, leaning in and head tilted. Everything listed so far is fair and while he could potentially haggle the percentage down, 20% for the talent the chemist is offering really isn't bad. Not to mention that most chemists, unless absolutely needed, tend to do their prep work remotely and have their stock couriered or picked up.
Mal, in her heyday, had gone into the field with them. She'd been a special case though, and it'd been the early days of dreamshare when things were being discovered every time they went under. In her infinite curiosity, she hadn't wanted to miss anything. ]
I'll take care of it. Might need to go over some security protocols with you, as a heads up.
[ The usual: where to go in case of emergency, setting up a safe house, getting that extra key made. Arthur knows he'll have to make some calls as well, out in for at least one alias to be forged for Yusuf, in the event a crisis happens. He won't be able to babysit completely while he's away, but he can make sure there's backups and that their bases are covered. ]
Hold onto that thought. I'm interested, but I'll put us through a trial run of a job or two first.
[ He's not hurting for money, not after that job. More he's curious how this partnership will go now that Dom Cobb isn't here to bungle it all. ]
Mal, in her heyday, had gone into the field with them. She'd been a special case though, and it'd been the early days of dreamshare when things were being discovered every time they went under. In her infinite curiosity, she hadn't wanted to miss anything. ]
I'll take care of it. Might need to go over some security protocols with you, as a heads up.
[ The usual: where to go in case of emergency, setting up a safe house, getting that extra key made. Arthur knows he'll have to make some calls as well, out in for at least one alias to be forged for Yusuf, in the event a crisis happens. He won't be able to babysit completely while he's away, but he can make sure there's backups and that their bases are covered. ]
Hold onto that thought. I'm interested, but I'll put us through a trial run of a job or two first.
[ He's not hurting for money, not after that job. More he's curious how this partnership will go now that Dom Cobb isn't here to bungle it all. ]
[ When Eames gets up, Arthur automatically tenses, feeling a bit like some sort of prey being circled. He knows Eames doesn't necessarily mean to give that vibe, but he's touchy. ]
Contrary to what people might think of Americans, I don't know shit about our version of football.
[ Meaning if someone asks, he's going to flounder through an explanation. ]
I played hockey– I'll get you a photo.
[ And there it is, a small portion of his past given up. This isn't normal for them. Because while he knows how Eames likes his coffee (prefers tea), his sleeping habits, how much bullshit he tolerates on a job, they don't share their personal lives. It's always been about living in the current, not the past.
Somehow, he gets the feeling that this job is going to change that drastically. When Eames sets his hands on him, he freezes and then rolls his shoulders forward, ducking out from under the contact.
(Though truthfully he could use the massage, he's fairly sure his muscles have locked up enough to rival rebar at this point). ]
What. Are you doing?
Contrary to what people might think of Americans, I don't know shit about our version of football.
[ Meaning if someone asks, he's going to flounder through an explanation. ]
I played hockey– I'll get you a photo.
[ And there it is, a small portion of his past given up. This isn't normal for them. Because while he knows how Eames likes his coffee (prefers tea), his sleeping habits, how much bullshit he tolerates on a job, they don't share their personal lives. It's always been about living in the current, not the past.
Somehow, he gets the feeling that this job is going to change that drastically. When Eames sets his hands on him, he freezes and then rolls his shoulders forward, ducking out from under the contact.
(Though truthfully he could use the massage, he's fairly sure his muscles have locked up enough to rival rebar at this point). ]
What. Are you doing?
[He can almost feel the reluctant release of the information on Arthur's past, and despite trying to be friendly, he feels victorious, elated. He certainly doesn't want to make Arthur uncomfortable, but every little piece of the puzzle is so interesting. There's a hunger in him that wants to devour every little bit of information he can.
What happens then, though? When has Eames ever gotten to know someone that well? And yet, the desire is still there.
Arthur ducks forward, and Eames can't help but be a little insulted, confident smirk going stiff.]
Believe it or not, Arthur, we're going to have to touch for a job that requires us to be a couple.
[He tries to gather his composure and moves to sit beside him on the end of the chaise lounge. He raises a brow.] Practice is in order, I think.
What happens then, though? When has Eames ever gotten to know someone that well? And yet, the desire is still there.
Arthur ducks forward, and Eames can't help but be a little insulted, confident smirk going stiff.]
Believe it or not, Arthur, we're going to have to touch for a job that requires us to be a couple.
[He tries to gather his composure and moves to sit beside him on the end of the chaise lounge. He raises a brow.] Practice is in order, I think.
[ The air around them goes a little tense and he sits up straighter, immediately sensing it.
Eames goes to sit next to him and for a moment, Arthur doesn't make eye contact, just tries to digest the words. He's not wrong. At all. And he knew that going into this, which is half the reason he's so damn jumpy. All at once, it's like he's 20 again, heart caught in his throat when it came to the forger, words escaping his mind like sand in a sieve.
He thought years would temper the emotion, but clearly he was wrong. So he's pushing back in the only way he knows how– being brusque, cold attitude sharp and unmoving. ]
I know that, I'm– [ What, he's what? God, why did he agree to this? ] Fuck, I'm not built for this.
[ Miserably, he scrubs a hand down his face. ]
Can I take a rain check on that? [ Ugh, that sounds like a total cop out. So he amends: ] Until tomorrow, I mean. I think I need to decompress.
[ He needs to get his fucking act together, but Eames doesn't need to know that. ]
Eames goes to sit next to him and for a moment, Arthur doesn't make eye contact, just tries to digest the words. He's not wrong. At all. And he knew that going into this, which is half the reason he's so damn jumpy. All at once, it's like he's 20 again, heart caught in his throat when it came to the forger, words escaping his mind like sand in a sieve.
He thought years would temper the emotion, but clearly he was wrong. So he's pushing back in the only way he knows how– being brusque, cold attitude sharp and unmoving. ]
I know that, I'm– [ What, he's what? God, why did he agree to this? ] Fuck, I'm not built for this.
[ Miserably, he scrubs a hand down his face. ]
Can I take a rain check on that? [ Ugh, that sounds like a total cop out. So he amends: ] Until tomorrow, I mean. I think I need to decompress.
[ He needs to get his fucking act together, but Eames doesn't need to know that. ]
[All insult, hurt, and humor drain from Eames' face when Arthur starts having trouble with words. It almost physically hurts to know that he's having this effect on him, because he thinks it's bad, that he's making him that uncomfortable. He is, of course, but in a different kind of way.
He goes quiet, and is having trouble keeping the disappointment from his expression. What is Eames, eighteen? Might as well be, with the way he's acting. Like he's hoping that if he and Arthur just kiss, if he really feels what it's like to be with Eames, that he'll change his mind about him. It's ridiculous, and he saves his expression from falling too far, trying to smile casually.]
Of course. [He stands, moving toward the kitchen.] Want a cuppa?
He goes quiet, and is having trouble keeping the disappointment from his expression. What is Eames, eighteen? Might as well be, with the way he's acting. Like he's hoping that if he and Arthur just kiss, if he really feels what it's like to be with Eames, that he'll change his mind about him. It's ridiculous, and he saves his expression from falling too far, trying to smile casually.]
Of course. [He stands, moving toward the kitchen.] Want a cuppa?
[ Chancing a look, he shifts his gaze to Eames, face carefully neutral.
What he doesn't expect to see is disappointment.
That more than anything sends him reeling. He's seen Eames with virtually every other expression on his face, but this, this is the one that hurts the most. Arthur swallows carefully, pushes all the nerves down. Because of course Eames is disappointed; he can't be a professional about something so important to their job. It feels and tastes like failure to live up to the reputation he's built for himself.
It doesn't bode well for the rest of things.
Blowing out a sigh and giving Eames a wan smile, he nods. ]
Alright, yeah. Kettle looked like it was in the cabinet left of the stove, drinkware in the one next to that.
[ Arthur had given the kitchen a cursory glance, but his memory for details was good. Dependable.
The complete opposite of his ability to cope with his own emotions, which'll either collapse this job or collapse their working relationship. He's not thrilled to find out which happens first. ]
What he doesn't expect to see is disappointment.
That more than anything sends him reeling. He's seen Eames with virtually every other expression on his face, but this, this is the one that hurts the most. Arthur swallows carefully, pushes all the nerves down. Because of course Eames is disappointed; he can't be a professional about something so important to their job. It feels and tastes like failure to live up to the reputation he's built for himself.
It doesn't bode well for the rest of things.
Blowing out a sigh and giving Eames a wan smile, he nods. ]
Alright, yeah. Kettle looked like it was in the cabinet left of the stove, drinkware in the one next to that.
[ Arthur had given the kitchen a cursory glance, but his memory for details was good. Dependable.
The complete opposite of his ability to cope with his own emotions, which'll either collapse this job or collapse their working relationship. He's not thrilled to find out which happens first. ]
Edited (who drinks hot tea out of a glass, no one) 2018-06-01 06:13 (UTC)
[Something about Arthur's expression doesn't sit with him well... but he nods with a terse 'thanks' and moves quickly into the kitchen, out of sight. He allows himself one minute. He has one minute to be sad.
One minute where he lets himself think about how long he's wanted Arthur. More than just wanting, really, but it wouldn't do to examine that too hard. He clamps his hands on the edge of the sink and breathes out hard. It's going to be torture to see him like this, like he lives here, like he's with Eames. It's everything he ever wanted, and it's not real.
He takes in a calming breath then, because his minute is up, and then he goes to work fixing their tea. He loves making tea in a kettle. The proper way to do it, really. It's calming too, though, and while he's at it, he digs around and finds where Arthur hid some biscuits. The kettle starts whistling, and he turns it down, pouring them each a cup (not a mug, a proper teacup like Eames loves) .
He takes it all out on a tray, setting it down on the coffee table.]
There we are.
[He can't quite bring himself to look at Arthur, afraid at what Arthur might see in his own eyes.]
One minute where he lets himself think about how long he's wanted Arthur. More than just wanting, really, but it wouldn't do to examine that too hard. He clamps his hands on the edge of the sink and breathes out hard. It's going to be torture to see him like this, like he lives here, like he's with Eames. It's everything he ever wanted, and it's not real.
He takes in a calming breath then, because his minute is up, and then he goes to work fixing their tea. He loves making tea in a kettle. The proper way to do it, really. It's calming too, though, and while he's at it, he digs around and finds where Arthur hid some biscuits. The kettle starts whistling, and he turns it down, pouring them each a cup (not a mug, a proper teacup like Eames loves) .
He takes it all out on a tray, setting it down on the coffee table.]
There we are.
[He can't quite bring himself to look at Arthur, afraid at what Arthur might see in his own eyes.]
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