Kaia breathed in the cool night air, as she leaned against the rough exterior of the warehouse.  She had stepped out briefly for a break from the heated discussion inside.  A faint smile on her lips as she heard the door open and close softly nearby.  

She didn’t bother to look, already feeling the familiar presence stand casually beside her.  She looked up at the night sky instead, watching the air she exhaled escape above until it became nothing.

Gentle fingers slid the long bangs behind one ear while a heavy and warm coat was draped around her light sweater.

“I was going back in another minute.  No need for all this.”  She gestured towards the coat and the hot chocolate mug that was placed into her hands.

She glanced up to find amber eyes wink warmly at her before staring upwards.  Kaia admired the muscular length of him as he casually leaned against the wall.  One eyebrow raised at the dark v-neck sweater and jeans, a stark contrast from his suit just a few moments ago.

“I figured rain check on our date was in order, while we wait for our guest to arrive.”  He answered, his deep and calm voice always soothing the anxious thoughts she kept to herself.

Kaia scooted closer and leaned her head against his shoulder.

“It’s too soon.  Why now?”  She muttered, voicing some of her frustrations.  “After all this time, he decides to show up.”

Christian reached over to adjust the coat securely around her before wrapping one around her.

“Why not.”  He simply answered.

She glanced up at him with narrowed eyes.  A slow smile formed on his lips at the sight of those narrow emerald gaze, like a deadly panther.

“Since when have you gained the gift of foresight?”  She grumbled after a moment, burying her face into his chest as he closed his other arm around her.

She could hear his soft chuckle as she continued to hold onto him.  

There was an awkward cough, but the couple ignored Everett as they remained in their own world.

Everett raised a hand in greeting as he passed by.

“Nice night, folks.  I brought some sustenance, if you’re interested.”  He greeted them with a slight curve of his mouth.

Kaia smirked back while Christian eyed the plastic bag with interest.  “Any chance there’s a rotisserie chicken and some wine in there?”

Everett flicked him off in good humour while Kaia nudged at him with a small laugh.

“Come on, let’s snack with the others.  Might as well stock up on energy before this crazy night is over.”  She pulled at his hand.  

Christian pretended to resist while Everett already disappeared through the large metallic door.

“Can’t I have you to myself just a bit longer?” He wheedled, holding her by the waist as she tugged at him to get into the doorway.

Kaia rolled her eyes and stopped to lean back at him.  She looked up to find him already looking down, a twinkle in those golden eyes.

“Tell you what.  Whatever happens tonight, let’s go on a late night picnic.” She offered, eliciting a raised eyebrow from him.

She smiled slowly and turned around to place her hand on his chest, keeping her gaze locked with his.

“You dress up in that cute little black tie affair you favor and I’ll bring the food and drinks.  I’ll even bring a picnic blanket and the whole works.”  She added, spreading her fingers to fan her hand across his chest.  She could feel his steady heartbeat, comforting the howling darkness inside.

With a low chuckle, he held her close, lightly resting his chin on her head.

“I am up for anything, as long as it’s with you.”  

Kaia felt herself relax into his embrace, even as she could feel the voices inside tell her that it would be another rain check.

She glanced up, pushing the thoughts away and smiled again at him.  His sharp eyes could tell something was worrying her but he instinctively tightened his hold around her instead.  

“Right back at you, bright eyes.”