Meeting the Lady (Marguerite)

[MARGUERITE SAINT-JUST]

Intently listening to Danny, to his input on critics and careers. That was generally the hopeful consensus for careers to blossom instead of washing away. She nodded, not entirely to agree but to understand. "What if the person is determined to make that dream career come true? Sometimes... someone needs that little bit of encouragement." Smiling back at Danny, "Even the most correct person can be wrong." There were some in the Entertainment industry whom were told to not even try, they would never make it, etc. And yet they proved everyone wrong and made it big time! She was one of them!
"Depends upon how one takes the words of someone else," with a grin as she watched Danny's facial expressions.

"Ahhh, true," glancing down a moment as she fingered her napkin, "Feeling the music." Returning her gaze to him, "No doubt your music may inspire at least someone out there." And smiled hoping that he would at least take some pride that he touched someone in a good way.
With a smirk and a little shift in her chair, attempting to be amusing and haughty tilting her head slightly up, "Good," and she softly snickered. He indeed was an interesting fellow. No doubt he would number among the intellectual many she knew.

A bit baffled as to why he was a bit disturbed about 'home' and returning. Pondering this a little. Perhaps it was something there he was escaping. Sounded like her years ago, not wanting to go back to Milon la Chappelle, to her parent's graves. But she finally did. She had to face all her fears. Especially due in part to the St Cyr scandal.
She could tell, she hit a nerve with him and she would not dig further with that issue.
The fact he stated he missed his parents, tugged at her own pains. At least his parents were still alive. She tried so hard not to let tears well in her eyes; for the loss of her parents would be an ache that would NEVER go away!
She reached a hand over to lay gently upon Danny's hand and her slightly glassy eyes with no smile upon her face, hoped that she would drive home the message, "Spend what time you have with them." And then allowed a strained little Mona Lisa smile while blinking away the tears.

As the server inquired if she was finished, she nodded and sat back, removing her hand from Danny's hand, motioning to the bowl, "Yes, Thank you." and the server removed her bowl of soup, too. Though she didn't finish her soup, she did manage to enjoy most of it.

Now she was utterly intrigued! He could trace his family lineage impressively! She raised her brows to show her genuine interest. "That is quite impressive, Monsieur Lenoir," her eyes sparkled, matching her grin. She studied Danny, highly interested in him. Hopefully by night's end, he will make a hell of an impression upon her!

It wasn't long after that the Server came out with the food, placing the plates before each of them. Looking over her food with a pleasured but critical eye, nodding and started to dig in after sporting her proper manners with the napkin, her poise in the chair, silverware, etc. Being as much as a regal type as possible. By now, she was out to impress Danny since he impressed her. She would look forward to more intellectual conversations with him. Hopefully he will attend a good number of her parties, too.

[ERIK DANIEL LENOIR]

"Miss Saint-Just, please don't misunderstand me. I am not a critic and do not wish to, nor have I ever ruined anyone's career by my words. I am not in the public eye and don't wish to be. I only stated that in the unlikely event that any of my words were to ever influence the course of anyone's career, it is then up to them to take them to heart or discard them and do what they will. But aren't we all thankful that I am not a critic?" Danny smiled a bit sardonically.

"Perhaps you would care to hear some of my classical compositions sometime and you can tell me if they are inspiring. As I said, my music for the games is just fluff." Danny wondered what she thought of him. So far, it seemed to be going well. Even his arrogant statements were not putting her off.

Then she reached her hand over and touched his. It made him tingle all over. He smiled. When he had touched Siobhan's hand, she had not liked it very well. Of course that had been set up as a business meeting, even though Danny had hoped it would go further. But Marguerite had not minded him touching her and he definitely did not mind her touch on his hand. But Marguerite looked a bit sad now. Her eyes were glassy and he wondered if she were alone if she would be weeping for some reason. He had mentioned his parents, did that set off a bit of sadness in her? "I'm sorry, Miss Saint-Just, if I said anything to trouble you..." He looked serious now, and concerned.

She simply told him to spend what time he could with them. He nodded and said, "Yes, even though we are a continent apart, as I said, I do see them when I visit London. And they come here too." He always had to be on his best behaviour then and he dare not forget to take his medication for if he did, they might very well try to find a way to commit him again for his own good. That phrase inspired quite a bit of fear in Danny's heart. No one else knew what was good for Danny...only he knew, whether with his medication or not. He had managed so far for twenty years in New York City, he would manage many more years. He knew his parents were concerned, but really, he was an adult now. He could fend for himself. Just because he had a few strange episodes....that was hardly a reason to put a fellow away for several years of therapy. he didn't think it did any good. He could out-think those so called professionals any day of the week. It seemed that his parents had decided that since they had heard nothing to the contrary, that Danny must be cured. And he was for the most part. Most days...

She seemed to be impressed that he could trace his lineage back quite a way. Her eyes started to sparkle again. He smiled. He liked impressing her. This seemed to be going quite well for a first date. Although, Marguerite might not think it was a first date. He didn't know what she thought it was, but like it or not, it was a first date and Danny had every thought of continuing to date her.

Danny took a fork full of food and chewed it, thinking about how he should choose his words carefully. He had almost forgotten what he had ordered from the menu. This was very good, but he didn't let that distract him from gazing at Marguerite. The actress was the most impressive and interesting person he had ever dated and he would not let her slip away!

[MARGUERITE SAINT-JUST]

As he explained he would want or likely be a Critic, she kept an open mind about it. Namely searching his eyes intensely to see what truth lay within them. And it appeared that despite his adamant feelings and opinions about the Arts, he was telling the truth to a certain extant. She believed in the same way. Sort of. She enjoyed working with highly talented people and giving credit where credit is due. However, she was quite picky about those whom she worked with. They damn well better be good! Chemistry and seriousness in the Arts was key to success. If someone didn't feel the same way, they had no business nor right to be a part of this demanding profession.
Calmly and respectively she nodded as he wrapped up his explanation, then smirked as she glanced down at her wine, reaching he fingers for it to pick it up. "One less Critic to worry about. One more valued Patron to please." And toasted him with a smile before she took a good drink of her wine.

First it was his paintings and now his music? Goodness! What all did this man do?!? His artwork both concerned her and delighted her with curiosity. Concerned because she felt a slight tugging or need to please him, that he was finding some excuse- Ahhh! There it is! An excuse... to see her! She grinned with coy realization as she set the glass of wine down then her fingers fiddled with her napkin to dry them. "Perhaps, Monsieur Lenoir." It was quite impossible to figure out which made her more curious - his paintings or his music! But how could she refuse! His offers were enticing. Yes... offers. The paintings... his music... attending the Opera. By this time it was practically impossible to wipe off that smirk from her face. She came to New York to perform to the masses a wonderful production and now it seems that she's caught the attentions of a man rather dead set upon becoming more than just... acquaintances. Well, she was no innocent, pure and naive. She had to admit to herself, he was alluring in his own way - intelligent, ambitious, charming, handsome, even cunning! Ok, she had to admit, he had her attentions! That was NEVER easily accomplished!
Fluff. How he said it was rather cute and amusing, and caused her to snicker sweetly. "I hardly believe it simply... fluff, Monsieur Lenoir." Smiling back at him. "I'm sure your compositions are quite enjoyable." Or not. Tough to say until she heard it. Wait?!? Was she actually seriously considering listening to his music?!? What the hell was wrong with her!?


The question now was... did he take her advice about parents seriously? Seeing them once a year... well, she supposed that was fair enough. But if her parents were still alive, she's see them more than just once a year. Which reminded her, she should take some time off to go see her brother or perhaps her brother could come here to visit! The thought made her smile as she gaze off distantly for a moment.
She hoped that she had not crossed the line between them so to speak, but perhaps she could influence him not to take life for granted, especially that of his parents. She knew she had a powerful presence and often used that to some advantage, be it her own or for charitable reason.
"It's quite alright," she attempted to reassure Danny, as her eyes blinked several times to belay the tears that threatened to well in her eyes. But she said nothing further than that. Either he knew about her parents had died when she was young or he didn't know at all. Either way, she wasn't about to press the issue.
"Good," with a slight nod and a weak smile.

With the plate of food before her now, that elegant entreé of perfectly prepared sauteéd chicken, with a pureéd potato - aka mashed potatoes - and a steamed veggie lightly seasoned. It was a simple but elegant meal nevertheless. And... befitting with good company.
In between her dainty, genteel motions while eating - even elbows off the table and sitting straight, all the hallmarks of a girl who had etiquette drummed into her from a young age - she took a drink of her wine then sat the glass down. She was searching for something else to talk about. Already he had stated some things about himself which made her rather curious about this Gentleman. Glancing quite briefly, to not be so obvious, to his left hand and noticed ... there was no ring! She couldn't really be delighted, no ring did not always mean not devoted to someone else.
The music softly overhead and all around was barely heard. Often some mellow song from Frank Sinatra or Harry Connick jr, or even something from Josh Groban or Sting or Adele. Someone rather well known. The song currently playing was a charming one, almost seemed to sing to her - "I Like The Likes Of You" by Debbie Reynolds.
"So... Monsieur Lenoir," as she set her tablesettings down to gaze upon him, " Tell me more about yourself, if you don't mind doing so," then taking another drink of wine. It was a rarity she caroused with a patron. Often she dined or conversed with fellow peers, or co-workers, or someone like her agent or anyone else business related. This was... a first. It was ... refreshing.

[ERIK DANIEL LENOIR]

Marguerite was looking intently at Danny. It didn't bother him as it would normally, for she wasn't staring, she was looking at him with interest and she seemed to have unsaid questions which she was not ready to put to words. Her own thoughts seemed to occupy her for a time and Danny ate silently and slowly, watching her every move with interest and smiles.

He wondered what lay beyond those eyes, those strange and beautiful eyes, what was she thinking? Did she like him? Would she forget him as soon as they parted? The thought upset him. She must start to care about me! We are made for each other! His eyes were on her very intently. He hoped she would say something to tell what she felt, anything, just a crumb of hope was all he wished for. He hoped his accomplishments impressed her. It was always his behaviour, which some considered strange, that put them off. Even if a date started off well and they saw each other for a while, Danny's intensity often had unexpected results, usually a loss of interest on the girl's part at the very least.

But now Marguerite gave Danny a ray of hope. She said perhaps.
In Danny's book, perhaps meant yes, but I don't want to tell you this minute. She must be thinking it over. Danny touched her hand with just the tips of his fingers. "As Mum used to say, a penny for your thoughts..." Then he grinned. "I'll even up the price. Tuppence for your thoughts..."

And she kept coming back to the question of parents. What was bothering her about that? He had told her at the very least he saw them once a year and usually much more than that. And that didn't count the times they came to New York. Did she think he should live with them? His Mum would like that, but Danny wouldn't.

Then she asked, almost suddenly, to know more about him. What more was there to say, at least at this moment. It was too early to tell her anything about his past problems. In fact, anytime was too early to delve into that. He kept on eating, as a way of getting a bit of time to think. He blinked, then looked over at her and finally he spoke. "Well, I told you that I grew up in England. I went to school there. As a child, I didn't enjoy school. " He didn't say that in addition to being bored because he was so much further ahead than his classmates, but it was mostly because of being bullied by the other children and even some of the teachers. Later when he was in higher education, people were not quite as openly hostile, and the professors were mostly fair. Still there was talk behind his back and he never felt comfortable....and all because his face was deformed... He snapped back to the present time. What else did he wish to tell her? He could say nothing about the time he spent in the hospital because of his psychotic episodes. Just thinking about it made him feel a bit shaky.

"Well, I told you that I am an architect, didn't I? I am a musician, I paint a bit, compose a bit, dabble in computer games...not much really. Oh...yes, I like to go on long walks in the park. I've met some interesting people there. And I live in a high-rise. What else? Oh yes, I've completely turned American in the morning. I drink coffee instead of tea." He laughed, a bit nervously.

[MARGUERITE SAINT-JUST]

Once again the sensation of his hand made her head spin and yet she restrained herself from any hint of it. Or tried to at least. This Gentleman was indeed that, but more. A smile graced her lips at his inquiry of her thoughts. How he said it was rather witty. She liked that. She was speechless however.

Luckily, he went on with his answers to her inquiry. Indeed his lifestyle intrigued her. Especially walks in the park. That made her perk up and brows rise, "Oh?" And she gazed intensely back at him as though to study his face, "How is it that I simply have not seen you before then?" No doubt they just were never around at the same time, but she, too, fancied good walks, even a jog. Maybe a ride on a bike or a horse, in the park. "Oui, there are very interesting people in the park." Of that, they agreed.
Another gentle snicker escaped her at the conversion from tea to coffee. "tsk tsk," she stated teasingly in a good way, with a playful smirk. "What ever would your Countrymen say?" She snickered again, "So long as it's a good coffee," and continued to smirk, winked at him and took hold of her glass of wine to finish the glass off.
Her plate by now was fairly devoured and the hour was getting late.

Her mind now returned to 'that tuppence for her thoughts'. Glancing down while deep in thought, "Monsieur Lenoir," she paused briefly, but she was fairly serious, "I admit, you have been a delight this evening." And here she was thinking she nearly denied his invitation. It was highly irregular of her to do this. And thought she was curious about more personal things with him, now was not a good time to ask. All she offered for now was a smile and, "Perhaps you will collect upon that thought someday, Monsieur Lenoir."
With that, she picked up her purse to remove her credit card to pay for her dinner.

[ERIK DANIEL LENOIR]

"You also take walks in the park? A bit mundane, I must say, but I enjoy it. Exercise, fresh air....and have you ever gone walking in Central Park after dark? It's quite lovely after dark. Not many people about, no one looks at you...I quite like that." His eyes sparkled as he spoke about the nighttime. Then he smiled. "I expect you would welcome the night to hid from all your adoring fans..."

"How is it that you've not seen me before?" He smiled and a light-hearted laugh left his lips. "My dear Miss Saint-Juste, there are over eight million people in New York City, with 1.6 million of them in Manhattan alone. The chances that two of these people might see each other without purposely meaning to meet beforehand, would be practically nil, if you consider the odds." He was intrigued with her eyes and smiled, gazing intently into them. "Of course, there is coincidence, if you believe in that..."

When she spoke of his morning coffee instead of tea, he grinned. "I expect I might be called some sort of American turncoat. But it's just in the morning. And it's the bad influence of my housekeeper. She makes coffee for me instead of tea in the morning and I actually have begun to like it. But don't spread that talk about! I shall denounce it as an evil rumour straightaway!"

She said, in effect, that she would take a rain check for her thoughts and speak about them later. "It's just as well," he remarked. "I don't expect I have tuppence on my person at the moment...you might have to settle for some American money..." She seemed to become a bit quite for a moment and Danny again wondered what she was thinking. Obviously his little witty sayings was not really having an effect on her. "Perhaps you shall collect on that some day... I shall certainly be waiting hopefully..."

Then, to his horror, he saw her pull her credit card out of her purse. "Oh no, Miss Saint-Just...you are not to pay for this. I asked you out and I shall pay. Do not disparage me by doing otherwise." Danny was a bit serious, the smile disappearing from his face rather quickly. If she paid for the dinner, it would seem that he was just a fellow who wanted a free meal. It would seem that she hadn't taken him seriously..that this wasn't a real date. It was important for Danny to pay for this meal. Who did she think he was.... some fellow trying to take the famous actress for a "ride?" He frowned, called over the server and made a rather large production of asking for the check and making certain it was handed only to him. He inserted the credit card and handed it to the server, who brought it back quickly. Danny signed for the meal and now the meal was over.

Danny was still looking a bit miffed as they stood up and put on their coats. Danny held Marguerite's so she could slip into the sleeves. But he didn't want it to end on a sour note. "May I escort you home, Miss Saint-Just?"

[MARGUERITE SAINT-JUST]

Evening strolls... nighttime walks... sounded delightful however she would be utterly mad to even attempt to venture through Central Park alone at those times!
"Can't say I have," she stated slightly coy and vague. Though she wasn't looking at him, her face betrayed the idea that she would be utterly foolish to wander about an infamous park in the center of a massive metropolis. Apparently he enjoyed it and she would not judge him for that, but was a tad envious perhaps. Ever so slightly. Barely.
"I have during the day, mornings mostly." Offering him one of her best smiles. "I don't mind the people at all. I do mind bad situations thought."

She simply smiled as he went on about they having never met. Yes, true.. true... the chance of meeting would be astronomical to say the least. And yet... he said it all in the last part. Simply continued to sport her most wonderful smile, "Of course," and had that look upon her face that she believed in miracles and chance and coincidence, etc.

Barely a snicker with her smile, "Coffee in the morning... tea in the afternoon... what a healthy balance!" Pausing while smiling, "I think you have just found the secret to a zen style of two rival drinks. I commend you, Monsieur Lenoir!"

Then her face, in a dramatic style since she was an Actress, appeared to look dramatically hurt in a slightly comical way, placing her hand upon her chest with a slight gasp but nothing too loud or overly done. "No tuppence?" attempting to sound shocked. "tsk tsk," then she grinned with a little wrinkle of her nose, "or perhaps something else to take the place of money," she wasn't sure what yet, but... it could be... practically... anything. And left the option open ended.
Dear God! What was she doing?!? The more she played this little charade, the more she actually was going for the possibility of 'collecting' in the future from him! He was good! Quite good! She adored his wit.

A slightly bit stunned but tried not to show it. The man was paying for Dinner tonight! It was not a business venture, in fact it was simply just pleasurable dining with a stranger. A fan. And he - this charming patron of the theater - was treating her. This RARELY happened! In fact, she did not quite remember a time that a non- celebrity fan treated her to anything! There's a first time for everything.
With a gracious nod and a grateful smile, "Merci, Monsieur Lenoir. I am touched by your act of kindness." And so, a little hesitantly, she returned her card to her purse then returned her attention to Danny after she watched the server with the bill. This somewhat made her uneasy. Again, this really did not happen to her, where some random man was so kind to her. The act left her stunned, humbled and speechless.

She stood from the chair and table, glanced at the offered coat and barely smiled. He was being quite the Gentleman and so she would oblige his courtesy. Allowing him to put the coat on her as it seemed he wanted to. Wondering if the morrow he will rant and rave about this evening to all his friends and co-workers.
At that moment, she carefully glanced about to see if there were any paparazzi photographers about. What an annoying bunch of people. Always invading someone's privacy it seemed. Especially hers!

All situated in her coat, she looked back at Danny. Once again, stunned but smiled. After a moment as she had gathered herself together, another gracious nod, "Of course. Why not?" And the smile became a grin, she strode up to his side and took his arm. Perhaps not the smartest move but.. she was known for her daring and wits, not for being cautious and timid.
And so... she gave him the directions to where she lived... which was not far. She had to be close to the theater if at all possible... just in case.
She allowed him to walk her home despite the risks.

[ERIK DANIEL LENOIR]

Danny realized when he said it that probably ladies would not want to walk in Central Park at night by themselves. "Perhaps you would do me the favour of walking with me in the park at night. It's quite pleasant, and if you would like a chaperone, I'm your man."

"You believe in coincidence, then, Miss Saint-Just?"

She launched into a fake-dramatic couple of gestures. It was cute, he thought. She was funny. She spoke of switching tuppence for something else. He grinned and said, "What do you have in mind, Miss Saint-Just? Nothing untoward, I should hope..."

When Danny seemed a bit upset that she was planning to pay for the dinner, she thanked him profusely. "It's not an act of kindness, it's the thing to do, Miss Saint-Just. I would not think of allowing a lady to pay for my dinner, especially if I had asked her to dinner." Then he raised his left eyebrow in a faked look of arrogance. "I only break that rule if it's my birthday. I let ladies pay for my dinner then....I shall mark it in my book if you wish to make it a date. It's in January," he said, rather tongue in cheek, with a wink. Of course he definitely hoped they would still be dating in January and he actually was serious.

Then, to Danny's great surprise, after he helped her on with her coat, she took his arm and told him where she lived. This was amazing! She actually seemed to like him! Of course other ladies had too, at first. He hoped this would be a longer term relationship. Danny always hoped, but this was only the first date...

She was daring. A famous lady going on a date with someone she didn't know, a fan perhaps, and giving him her address. Well, she would not be sorry. He would prove to her that he was as special a person as he knew he could be.

[MARGUERITE SAINT-JUST]

Raising her brows as they walked along, pondering quickly what Danny had stated about walking in the park with him, especially at night! With brows raised still she glanced over at Danny with a charming smile. Speechless for a moment. It was sweet that he wanted to see himself at her Champion, a knight in shining armor, but there was a point of going too far. Even if his offer was quite fancied by her. This Daniel Lenoir was quite the gentleman. But his behavior could also be nothing more than a rouse to blind side her, rape or murder her. It would be stupid of her to be so ignorant and go with him blindly.
On the other hand, he could be genuine. It was difficult to tell unless she took that blind risk.
"That is very sweet of you, Monsieur Lenoir," keeping her delightful smile. She couldn't accept however she could not deny his projection of being her Knight in Shining Armor. "I shall keep your offer of security and companionship in mind."
What the hell did she just say?!? It slipped out of her mouth - companionship?!? Surely he wasn't a body guard or the sort to even take into consideration her popularity.
Which once again, she glanced about to see if there was someone watching her. No doubt there was one paparazzi out there following her somewhere nearby.

Her thoughts shifted to his inquiry of coincidence. Pondering briefly and then nodded, "Oui. I do," she replied. Though as odd as it felt, she strongly did believe in it. How could she not? There were many things in life that could not be explained, it simply happened. "Who am I do deny the many instances in life that simply cannot be explained?" She glanced sideways at him once again wondering if he would recant his belief.

Oh, dear. He inquired 'what'. Of this, she had no clue. She simply couldn't be so bold but she couldn't be too naive. Instead she gave him a light, genteel snicker. "I suppose not," almost sounding like she had been defeated, almost dramatically pouting. Was she wanting something? Perhaps. But she wouldn't be so needy... or would she? She was not beyond a one night stand, that was for sure. "At least... " and she hesitated, trying not to blush or be rather rude or apprehensive about this, "Nothing you wouldn't care to receive or take no delight in."
Once again... what the Hell was she doing?!? This man was charming to a sense that she felt like having been swept off her feet!

And now.. she was truly swept off her feet! Stunned and it showed, at how he was such a wonderful Gentleman, not only word, but by deed! Blinking a couple times as her stunned visage still reflected her current mindset. She truly was stunned.
A smile crept back upon her face when he stated reason to breaking that rule. That seemed like a solid reason. Again, a soft snicker that made her sound apprehensive. Was he moving too fast? She dared not even think of befriend him longer than tonight. And yet, it seemed that it most likely will go that route! He was charming! Entertaining. A true Gentleman. His wit matching her own. He was forward, yes, but... his truly by this time had indeed swept her off her feet! She knew sweet men like this before but they were never this bold enough or worse, they were married. And suddenly....
She glanced at his left hand, again, verifying that there was no ring. There was no hint of a ring ever having been on that finger and she had to stifle a smile.

"Oh, Monsieur Lenoir," pausing a moment as she walked beside him, arm and arm. "I do hope I shall make your Wife or Girlfriend insanely jealous of my company in your presence." Perhaps she was phfishing to see if it were true that he was unwed. Third time was a charm perhaps, as she could not bring up such an issue before.

[ERIK DANIEL LENOIR]

Danny felt as if this lady liked him. Of course perhaps because she was an actress, she could appear to like someone even if she didn't. Danny was grateful he had taken his medication today, and for the last few days. He was thinking clearly now. It would not do any good to have confused thoughts and worse yet, to express them to this lady. It would do no good to have a first date and not appear to be perfectly sane. Which he was. Most of the time. Definitely tonight. First impressions were important.

He thought she would go for a walk with him in Central Park some time. And after dark, it was a lovely time. He was amazed that this famous actress liked him so well. He thought he could see it in her eyes, in her smile. But he couldn't be sure. Again the idea that she was an actress. Could she be playing him? Leading him on and then she would somehow see through his façade and think that he wasn't quite right? Many other people had thought so. He wasn't sure what he did that made them think that of him, but it happened usually when he had forgotten his meds. He could become a little anxious then. But he was on his meds, he was smiling and calm and she seemed to be liking him. This was good.

She spoke about coincidence. Danny grinned. "Who knows why two people find themselves together?" She must like me, Danny thought. Why else would she have taken his arm and allowed him to escort her home? She had gazed at him so lovingly, the thought, over dinner. This was wonderful...now it was up to him to make sure they had a second date.

Then she said something....and it sounded as if she were fishing to find out some information on whether he were married or not. I do hope I shall make your Wife or Girlfriend insanely jealous of my company in your presence. He smiled. "There is no one else, although I have had other girlfriends before, certainly. But no one I cared to date for a long time." This wasn't exactly true. It was the girls who didn't care to date Danny for a long time once they found out his mental processes were oft times rather a bit different from what they expected. Danny called it "eccentric." The girls called it other names...

[MARGUERITE SAINT-JUST]

Ahh, yes. Who knows why? She smiled at him for a moment before that smile gave way to a coy grin. "Oui. So true." Pausing a moment as she gazed before them in a brief ponder, "various reasons I suppose," but stopped there. And what was the reason that she and him met? Was it simply coincidence? A plan? Who knew for sure.

Keeping her eyes gazing a head of them and nearly kicked herself silly with embarrassment realizing she flubbed big time! The words did not come out as they should have! Not! NOT! She hoped she would NOT make his Wife or Girlfriend insanely jealous. But when he mentioned he had neither, she did her best to hide a little smirk. Naturally, he would have been with gals in the past. So why was she feeling a twinge of jealousy? Oh, well. And brushed it aside. Actually he could be lying about everything and took it all at face value.
She listened to his brief excuse and was a bit curious. "Oh?" pausing but a moment, "May I ask why? Excusez-moi," realizing she perhaps was going beyond her boundary and asking such personal questions. "Forgive me for being rude, Monsieur." It was perhaps too soon. Oh, what was she thinking?!? He was only going to be a One Night Stand! Nothing more! Right?

[ERIK DANIEL LENOIR]

Danny was quite elated that Miss Saint-Just was allowing him to see her home. He hardly expected that. As usual, the streets of New York were filled with people walking everywhere or nowhere as they always did, at all hours of the night. It might as well be noontime, the crowds never stopped walking. Alone in a crowd, that's what Danny liked about New York. You were never alone, but always alone. Now of course, it was different, at least tonight. He had a companion and a lovely one at that. He was so pleased and frankly, surprised that the date had turned out so well.

They walked toward her place of residence and Danny said, "Miss Saint-Just, if you would care to, you may call me Danny.... I'm a bit informal. But if you prefer to be formal, that's fine also." He paused.

"I would love to have you hear some of my musical compositions sometime....sometime in the near future would be quite delightful. Of course, if you'd rather do something else, I would be delighted with that also. It's completely up to you. He looked at her, caught her eye, and smiled. "And I shan't take no for an answer..." He smiled again, hoping he wasn't being too forward. "I have a housekeeper who makes splendid meals. So we could have dinner there. Please think about it."

Then she asked why he only stayed with women for a short time. He seemed a bit reluctant to answer, or perhaps unable to answer. "I suppose....I have never....found the right girl. " He really didn't know how to explain it. Most girls just didn't like Danny, especially after they came to know him. He didn't have any idea why. He was only slightly eccentric. There were many people like that...

[MARGUERITE SAINT-JUST]

As they walked along the streets of New York, inching closer and closer to her residence, she barely contemplated in his presence but took delight in his company. There was something about this man that seemed to be attractive. She could barely pull herself away from him. He was such a charming mystery that unfolded next to her. She was liking this man's company!

With a little smile, glanced down and barely a snicker, "Very well," a single nod, "Danny." Lifting her head to briefly look at him with a smile. So.. they were going on more than first name basis? Was this progressing too quickly? Wait? What was progressing?!? As much as she wanted to deny her curiosity of the man, she had to keep telling herself this was simply... a fling. Some one night stand. Nothing more. Nothing serious. She wasn't the sort of gal to just jump into bed with any man. And yet... it seemed like it here!
With a continuing smile, "Veuillez-Please," correcting herself for perhaps he wasn't so proficient in French, not everyone was and she had to keep reminding herself of that, "Call me Marguerite." Pausing a moment as she glanced forward for but a moment then turned to look at him with still a smile, "or if you prefer.... 'M' ".
Never had she ever taken on a nickname or pet name. But somehow... this seemed to click.

Now looking away as he continued about his music. How tempting it was. And the more he spoke of it... the more she wanted to hear it! Even started developing an overwhelming curiosity to hear it now!
The near future. She pondered on that. She had few friends here in New York and those she knew... were associated with the production. If the man was of some Entertainment influence, it was perhaps best to try and know him, befriend and perhaps... have another ally in the Entertainment industry.
"No. No." as she shook her head then nodded, "I would be delighted to hear your music... Danny. I look forward to it." Gazing back at him, catching his eyes and nearly was breathless. The energy this man exuded... was SO strong! She felt such a chemistry, a fire, so much energy from him... between them... she could barely handle it! It felt like she was going to explore or was overloaded and about to shut down! So much.. and it felt SO WONDERFUL!!!
Raising her brows and a snicker. Won't take 'No' for an answer? he was quite persistent! How could she refuse him?
She snickered again then laughed a little more, "Dinner, hmm?" oh, now he was being more than charming and tempting and hopeful. Was this a wise decision of a famous person like she?
She stopped and faced him, glancing about, keeping a little away from people and making sure people wouldn't quite recognize her, "Monsieur Lenoir..." pausing as she glanced down and smirked, then looked back up at him, "Danny." Another glanced sideways, "You do realize that I am a-" and spoke a little softly so that only he could hear, "- a world famous Actress," looking back at him with slightly raised brows and a curious visage, as though awaiting an answer. "You are not doing this, charming me simply because you want to put yourself in the spotlight and flaunt to the world that you slept with me?" She was serious but had that gentle visage. She wanted the truth from Danny. If he was using her, she'd walk away from him in a heartbeat. But... God.. she was hoping that he was not using her for his own ends and means to get into the spotlight and tarnish her reputation.

With a sigh, "If your intention is pure," she paused and smiled, keeping a soft voice, "then I would love to have dinner with you."

Taking back up his arm to continue walking with him to her place. She listened to his explanation of why he was still single, a smirk slowly curled her lips as she looked up, "Well... Maintenant, nous savons que le problème ... there you are!” turned her head, locking her eyes upon him as she grinned, “You are looking for girls!” gesturing with her hands as always and being a little dramatic facially as well as with her voice, plus kept the grin upon her face. “Perhaps... you need... a woman,” wrinkling her nose as she leaned closer to him for a moment, again gesturing with her hands and snickered while walking on. They were almost there to her residence.
A nod with her head and gesture from her hand, indicating forwards, “My place is just ahead,” she told him with that charmed genteel French accent.

[ERIK DANIEL LENOIR]

Danny again marveled at the fact that this woman liked him. She said that he could call her Marguerite or M. Danny smiled. He had a very winning smile when he was sincere. "Marguerite it is then, and perhaps sometimes M."

She said she would be delighted to hear his music. This was good! He was liking her more and more and with every word she seemed to be emitting the same signal that she liked him. He hoped he wasn't reading her incorrectly because sometimes he confused what he thought was love for something it wasn't. Obviously that had happened with his previous girlfriends. Some of them had taken off quite suddenly too. He could never quite trust anyone right away. He realized he should be careful, but he threw caution to the wind. Marguerite was fantastic, she liked him, at least at the moment, and he hoped he wouldn't do anything to spoil it.

The Marguerite stopped and said, quietly so it could not be overheard, that she was a world class actress and she continued, You are not doing this, charming me simply because you want to put yourself in the spotlight and flaunt to the world that you slept with me? His eyes opened wide at her words. "Me, in the spotlight?" Just the thought of it made his throat constrict. "I hate being in the spotlight...and the other, you think I only am interested in you because I want to get in your bed?" He was disappointed and somewhat angry that she would misunderstand his motives. He wanted to date her, yes, but it was because she was beautiful and fascinating, and she liked him. He thought it could lead to a lovely relationship. "Do I come across that badly? Do I seem so selfish?" He was beginning to hyperventilate a bit and his hands were shaking and clammy. Well, he had been wrong. This was over before it had begun. "Let's go. Where do you live? I'll escort you home."

Danny was so disappointed. Then she said she'd love a dinner with him. "I doubt it," he said. "There will be no dinner." She said perhaps he needed a woman instead of a girl. He nodded his head, not really hearing her. She pointed out where she lived and he nodded, a painful knot in his stomach.

[MARGUERITE SAINT-JUST]

She smiled at Danny when he consented to calling her by her first name. Odd as this was, it felt as though she had known him all her life and had finally got back together with an old friend.

Bit by bit, she was thinking how different this would be from her past relationships. It would only be an innocent dinner, and listen to his music - muddle through it perhaps as she didn't really expect him to be absolutely fantastic. But really, this was not just a moment to pacify a fan. She had a feeling he wasn't really an obsessive fan. Most of her fans would talk non-stop about her work - seeing her in this, repeating that in hopes to get her to reply, demanding an autograph. But this man... he did none of that! She was incredibly curious about him and wondered why... why was he so interested in her then? Hopefully... this would not lead to her demise in more ways than one!

Of course she was serious about putting her foot down! She was not about to become someone's little trophy or play toy and have her reputation she worked so hard for ruined, let alone by some guy who wanted to make a name for himself by using her. It's happened before and she eventually ended that pathetic relationship. She learned from that experience though. Never again will she be taken for a ride!
As Danny seemed to become rather tense and spooked, like he was having an anxiety attack, she watched him to see if he was acting and making it seem that he was just leading her on.
Little by little though, as he went on... he seemed rather ... well, it seemed his intentions were pure! Did he really not want to be with her because she was a celebrity? Was he really sincere about not just having sex with her?
Stunned as he went on and she simply listened rather speechless. She couldn't believe she was standing before an actual honest Gentleman who not after her for her money, fame, body, selfish motives, etc. and was blinking a few times as her mouth slowly opened and still looked shocked.

No dinner?!? She winced and blinked a few times. As he moved away she grabbed his arm and wanted to keep him out of earshot of others. "Danny," She moved up close beside him, gazing into his brown eyes so intensely but with absolute sincerity and humility. "Je suis désolé. Please," Still locked upon his eyes, "understand what I am saying. Where I am coming from," Pausing as she kept her eyes locked upon him. Her eyes searching his face in hopes to see if he would understand her and not be angry with her. "I have had someone do this to me before. I'm not bound to make that same mistake again... to let someone use me for their own benefit." She wanted to see how real this man was. After all, he didn't ask once about her career, he simply... talked to her. Like a true friend. Like Suzanne did. Sometimes like when her brother Armand and she talked. She continued to grasp his arm, but none too tightly, to keep him near so she could speak to him confidentially even though they were standing on the sidewalks of New York City.
The fact that Danny denied dinner with her now, she was hell-bent and determined to have dinner with him! She was going to hear his music! She will see his artwork! And by God, Lord knows whatever else! NO ONE shuns Marguerite Saint-Just like yesterday's fashions!