Beware of Blondes with messages

[Claire Organa]

Claire listened to Trevor, of course he would have expected the worse, and if she knew what he was thinking she might have responded. But she wouldn't have an answer she was doing as her cousin asked.

Who truly knows the mind of another person?

"I don't think I've given up anything, I stood my ground with them and what I find acceptable and what is wayyy beyond my comfort zone. But this Queen, even if she weren't my family. I found her story to be something that women could be drawn to"

She listened to his accounting of all the things that his family had, and how he had gone to school, and was a success. Claire hadn't been able to afford school, she worked her whole life to get ahead.

"I'm glad your family was so very fortunate." She wouldn't say she was envious of it and would love to have gone to school, and have a distinguished education, and experiences that would only contribute to his being successful.

Claire's family not so much, they had lived on the streets of Balmorra among the homeless with very little except what they had been able to keep, which wasn't much. Yes they worked for what they had all of it. That experience that life made her ambitious to do well.

Claire thought about her story, and the Queen's story, "When the Queen was still a small child her parents were killed in an uprising on Alderaan. Her father, mother, and oldest sister all killed in front of her, and her other sister. To ensure their safety the Queen was sent to Corellia to live with very distant relatives of her mothers. She stayed there until she was of an age where they told her who she was. It took her a lot of time to accept it, and to reconcile with her living sister. When she was 18 an attempt was made to kidnap her when she returned to Corellia, with help she escaped but the kidnappers gave chase and damaged the ship she was on. It crashed on a planet that had few inhabitants, and definitely no technology, and for over a year she lived there as they lived off the land, and forged the metal pieces needed to repair the ship's hull. She's been through a lot and her asking me to do this thing for her, I couldn't refuse. But I can refuse to marry someone because she wants me to." Claire smiled but looked away embarrassed by what she was about to say.

"I want someone to love me, I want to be his goddess meaning that he adores me for who and what I am with all my flaws" Claire looked over at Trevor. "She seemed to understand, I don't know if she did"

She could hear in Trevor's voice a bit of indignation that she might have given up her independence, but she hadn't. She was still Claire who worked for everything she had and loved it. "I'm still independent Trevor, and so is my sister Victoria. If my mother and father decide to serve the Queen's will, I can't stop them. I control only me."

Would she be in trouble, because they wouldn't drink the kool aide, she giggled at his summation of what the Queen offered.

"No Trevor, if I return and tell them that House Alde declines the invitation to meet with her, I won't be in any trouble. She will try to understand why, but would not be angry." Arianna would probably be hurt by it but that was what happen sometimes, "My opinion Trevor, she hasn't asked anything of your family except to come see her. Is that dangerous?"

[member="Trevor Alde"]

 

[Trevor Alde]

[member="Claire Organa"]


Trevor agreed that the Queen probably wouldn’t be angry with Claire. It would; however, no doubt influence the Queen’s opinion of her cousin and her ability to complete a simple assignment. If that was important to Claire he didn’t want to diminish her value or image to the leaders of the remnant of Alderaani nobility.

He had never made himself sit down and think about what he wanted or expected in a wife and a marriage; but, her opinions and desires definitely softened his heart towards her and he found that he shared them. He smiled at her, reached across and gently took her hand. “We need to make a pact… Claire of House Organa and Trevor of House Alde… just between the two of us. As we were both part of the marriage equation proposed by the Queen and your family, we need to agree. Neither of us will agree to any such arranged marriage… until such a time – if it should ever occur – that we can look each other in the eyes and answer the question, do you love me with an unhesitating YES and will you marry me with an equally enthusiastic I will. If we never reach that point, we will protect each other from the families’ desires no matter what angst it may cause them.”

Their pact made, he reluctantly released her hand and sat back. His eyes never left hers as he continued, “I can assure you, if any Alde goes to meet the Queen it will have to be me. And you’re right… just accepting an invitation doesn’t seem like a lot to ask.”

He arched an amused brow and teased, “Unless you consider the assassinations and kidnappings that seem to plague House Organa. Perhaps you should just stay here and be adopted by House Alde… it sounds safer.”

He chuckled at the look on her face and added more seriously, “I do have a problem though. As resolute as my father is to remain here and leave Alderaan to Alderaan… he highly respects the Houses. If he found out that I knew that there was an Organa in Nuba City and she wasn’t offered the hospitality of House Alde, he would have my head. Please allow me to move you from wherever you are staying to be a guest in our home. We have plenty of room – I’m sure by the time we get there, mother will have the guest suite opened and freshened and ready for you. We can arrange any transportation you need to accommodate your meetings.”

He grinned at the thought of the expression on his parents’ faces when he brought home Claire Organa of House Organa. He gave her dazzling smile and implored, “Please say you accept.”

 

[Claire Organa]

Claire squeezed Trevor's hand, "It's a deal Trevor, no one in these times should have to be pushed into a marriage" When he withdrew his hand she finally felt she had someone on her side.

If he only knew the length they had all gone through to make it known what they wanted. But of course Arianna did say there were some Hapan nobles that might be interested in having a connection to Alderaan and that she was currently looking into it for a marriage for her niece [member="Alyesa Praxon-Organa"], and Arabella Darkhold. Even though it was mentioned that neither woman was interested in marriage.

Claire laughed, "I know it is a" she sighed, "House riddled with such things, I just don't understand it all. You would think after all of this time that has passed that it would no longer be an issue." Obviously it was, something about just bearing that name instantly made living a commodity on a time clock.

'It would be great to have you come to Balmorra, there are opportunities there, and it can be a gateway to travel if you are so inclined. There does not seem to be a lot there to do unless you have a good imagination." She was going to tell him a story about something she and Victoria had adventured on as children, but was stopped by the offer to stay with his family.

"oh" she looked at him without thinking her hand went to cover her mouth she was quite surprised by the offer. "stay in your home" She hemmed and hawed over the idea for a few moments.

"It would be, quite the honor to meet your family and stay in your home. It is quite the generous offer" She had started to think of all the things she could say and play out a reason not to go.

But he said please.

She nodded, "I'd love to" It wasn't the thought of meeting his parents, it was she was afraid of not acting the correct way in front of what was nobility. This whole nobility thing was definitely throwing her line of thinking for a loop.

She needed to feel like she could be herself, and each time she moved now all she could think of was that someone was watching and critiquing her. She just couldn't live like this, it was pressure plain and simple.

Right then she decided to forget all of it, she was a business woman, a good person and a title wasn't going to prevent her from being herself.

"You're sure your family won't mind Trevor, I'd have to inconvenience them in any way."

[member="Trevor Alde"]

 

[Trevor Alde]

[member="Claire Organa"]


Trevor smiled at the thought of his parents’ reaction when they received the message he was about to send.

“It will be no problem at all and like I said, I would be in big trouble with my father if he found out an Organa was on Nubia and didn’t receive the hospitality of our home.”

He gave her an exaggerated smile and added, “And I assure you, they will make sure you are properly chaperoned while our guest.” Trevor was pretty sure he couldn’t slip into her suite for a late night rendezvous even if invited, which he didn’t expect. His parents would take their responsibility to House Organa seriously… Claire would be very safe while on Nubia; especially from him.

He quickly keyed a message into his comm unit and sent it to both parents. Responses came back almost immediately and their brevity confirmed the reaction he expected.

“OK. It’s all set and you are expected. Mother will have the guest suite ready whenever we arrive. It’s not huge by any means but includes the bedroom, a private en suite bath, a small seating area, and a balcony overlooking the Black Canyon.”

He sensed her nervousness at meeting his parents and was sympathetic although they should be small potatoes for her compared to meeting Queen Organa. “Don’t expect any pomp and circumstance, Claire. My parents left Alderaan over thirty years ago and have lived far from the shadow of the court too long to curtsey and bow… or to expect it for that matter. We are just a hard working Nubian family these days.”

“Where is your luggage, Claire? If it’s out of the way, I can arrange to have it delivered to the house rather than taking time to stop by and pick it up.” He though a moment and added, “Oh, my… you aren’t staying here are you? If you have room here in the convention center, half the women downstairs probably think you are a paid escort working the meeting.”

 

[Claire Organa]

The atmosphere of the restaurant seemed to have been lost during the conversation. They each had the questions they needed to ask, and the conversation had been covering a number of subjects none of which Claire found boring.

Claire was listening to Trevor as he explained that there would be no worry of pomp and circumstance in House Alde. A relief cascaded down her arms and legs, shifting her feet slightly. She had dressed to draw attention to her business, she hoped that it would be enough to draw a few in.

She needed to work on the store front tonight after the party. A promise she made herself when she accepted coming here on her dual mission.

She did laugh to herself when he mentioned that she would be chaperoned, it had been a little while since she had a chaperone, or needed one. As Trevor described the room she grew excited all that space, all to herself. Wow, wait till she told Victoria.

The conversation switched over to where was her luggage, she had started to say that yes it was here. She looked out at the city for a moment, "Well if they think I'm a escort for the convention, they should know I'm a well-paid escort, or better yet a well-dressed escort." She smiled her mind thinking on potential customers.

Then she shrugged her shoulders, "There are some that would say I prostitute myself out to get a deal. I do bend over backwards for my regulars, the women who helped me get started. But Trevor, I've worked hard at this." Whatever flip answer she may give it was important that it be known she worked at this job, sometimes around the clock.

The small minds of people to make such assumptions, for a moment her mind wandered to a role play. If she were married would her husband want to play a game where she was a very bad girl? Claire laughed for a moment, and then looked over at Trevor. Who knew if he liked bad girls, or good girls. Or good girls who knew how to be bad. Either way

"Probably should retrieve my bags from the room. I need pack one of them up" She had showered and changed prior to coming down.

"Will the ladies think less of you if they think you're with a paid escort?"

[member="Trevor Alde"]

 

[Trevor Alde]

[member="Claire Organa"]


Trevor relaxed in his chair and smiled at Claire’s question. “If they know me, they will know you aren’t an escort,” he assured her. “Chase and I tried that once when we were freshmen in college. It was more exploring our freedom being away from our homes for the first time than a shortage of available dates. It just sounded so exotic and glamorous to us at the time in our naïve youth.”

Trevor laughed and actually blushed at the memory and the confession wondering why he was telling her this. “Anyway, it was neither and we never went back. Oh, if you do have another session with Chase’s wife, I’m sure he would appreciate you not mentioning that to her.”

He toyed with a shrimp trying to think the best way to word a question that seemed to be very important to him for some reason that in itself was a frustration to him. He didn’t want to want to know… but he did.

“So, Claire. Did your resistance to the arranged marriage thing have anything to do with you having someone special already?”

Tre cringed. Could he have asked that any more awkwardly? As if it was any of his business anyway. Why did he care? Was there a friggin’ Alde family curse that made the males fall for the first Organa female they met? That was something to discretely ask his father later if he wanted to feel really foolish.

All Tre knew was that the attraction he was feeling for Claire was inexplicable for any other rational reason. It couldn’t simply be that she was a beautiful woman; smart and driven to succeed; caring about her family; kind enough to laugh when he tried to say something amusing; and brave enough to be willing to look for the lost Alde’s. Perhaps he needed to get her home to the chaperones so they could protect him from her.

 

[Claire Organa]

[SIZE=12pt]She tilted her head till her ear rested in her palm she played with the lobe as she listened to him talk about being a freshmen in college. She couldn’t help but wonder what other things did he get into and she couldn’t help but wonder did she miss out by not going.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=12pt]“OH I won’t mention it to his wife, but considering some of the conversations I’ve had with her. I don’t think she would be as upset as you might think. She seems to accept that her husband is human, and he wasn’t a choir boy in college” She looked at Trevor trying to figure out did he have a bad streak in him, she rubbed her ear again. A habit she had formed a long time ago she did it now and didn’t realize it happened.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=12pt]He was playing with his food when he asked her THAT question. She sat up straight now taking in a little breath she had hoped he wouldn’t ask her this question.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]“I put up resistance because I think it’s an archaic practice, and they were talking like it was just another day in the office. I’m not property to be bartered off. Besides it was” She hemmed and hawed a little bit, “scary them trying to fix me up. For all I knew you could have looked like Darth Vader after the accident”[/SIZE]

[SIZE=12pt]She tried to be honest without sounding juvenile.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=12pt]“And I really do want to be with someone who knows me, and treasures me for me not because I have some name that people recognize” She looked down at the table and then back up at him. Him with his elegant manners, resonating voice, and his eyes. His eyes she kept looking away from concerned about staring too long and looking like a girl mooning over her favorite actor.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=12pt]“Was college a lot of fun?”[/SIZE]

[member="Trevor Alde"]

 

[Trevor Alde]

[member="Claire Organa"]


“Even so, I’m sure Chase would appreciate not having that topic come up at any family gatherings,” Trevor chuckled. A couple of very frightened college freshmen made a quick trip to their family doctors following that weekend, just to be sure they didn’t take anything away from that night other than a mixed assortment of memories. So, their exploits were soon common knowledge and the source of a great deal of good natured teasing… after their parents’ initial shock wore off. Yes, that was a topic better left in the past.

He listened… and didn’t hear an answer to his real question. Was she being evasive? Was there someone at home she didn’t want him to know about? It was really something he needed to know. The answer would set the tone for his future relationship possibilities with Claire or at least open up possibilities if things progressed in that direction. But… he couldn’t let himself become infatuated with her if she wasn’t available.

He had asked a bluntly as he could. When she was at the house, he would release his secret weapon on her… his little sister. Amilee was a master at girl talk and could coax the deepest secrets from a girlfriend. Yes, Amilee would find out if Claire was involved for him.

“College started out fun because we didn’t realize how hard it really was. Chase and I were in a small group of friends that played a lot when we were freshmen; and, we all ended up receiving academic counseling before we could move on to our sophomore year. We both found our direction and buckled down to achieve our goals. Chase and I both received degrees in engineering and I had a double major, the second being business administration and finance. So, yes… college can be too much fun. You definitely have to find a balance graduate.”

Tre looked at the appetizer tray. Signs of intense grazing were present but now it seemed they both had little interest in eating. “Do you want to order a main course, or, if you are ready to go, I’ll make you my world renowned dessert when we get settled into the house and introductions are done?”

 

[Claire Organa]

[member="Trevor Alde"]​

​

She looked across the table at him she had not answered his question, why? She was too busy day dreaming about his eyes and that soft curve of his lip. She blinked she drew herself back to the land of the here and now, and smiled.

"I wish at times I had gone, it seems like an experience that helps to build character, and at times discipline." She shrugged slightly, "maybe one day I will go" She sighed this time she was greatful for all that she had, she just at times was wishful.

She was slightly hungry the thought of a main course was tempting, but now dessert and getting out of her party clothes and into something comfortable. That appealed to her, even though she was comfortable in what she was wearing and knew that it made her look good it was time to come out of the heels.

They would need her bags, she leaned forward looking him in the eyes, "What is your world renown dessert?" Some sugar confection, ice cream? chocolate? There were so many choices, what would he say....

 

[Trevor Alde]

[member="Claire Organa"]


Trevor couldn’t help but study her eyes as she spoke of attending college. He sensed her uncertain longing, her wondering if it was something she had missed in her life.

“The vast majority of the people in the galaxy never attend a university,” he commented. “Most of them lead happy, fulfilling lives never knowing the difference. That said, if you have a desire to master an area of study,” he gave her a wicked grin and added, “like politics, for example… you should attend. I’m sure you would be a very successful student.”

He saw the uncertainty flicker across her face, even if she tried to control it, when he asked about the main course. He felt like an ass assuming she wasn’t hungry just because his stomach was tied in knots being this close to her.

“When we get to the house and you’ve met everyone, if you decide you are hungry, I will grill you something by the pool before your dessert.”

When she leaned forward and asked him in that voice what his dessert was he nearly melted. Composing himself, he smiled and answered in his best version of a low, sultry voice, “I have to have some secrets for you to discover as we go along. You’ll have to wait until we are out by the pool later to find that out.”

He called the maître d over and asked for a house phone. When he got it, he called the front desk and said, “This is Trevor Alde. Miss Claire Treadway and I will be checking out. Can you arrange to have our luggage brought down for us? Oh, and have my cruiser brought around as well. Yes, Miss Treadway of Contessa… that’s her. Fine we will meet the bellhops in the lobby shortly.” He caught the look of concern on her face at the thought of someone packing up her belongings. He heard the desk clerk hang up before he added, “Oh yes, Miss Treadway rinsed out some undergarments. Be sure they collect them from the shower curtain rod as well. Thank you.”

He hung up the phone, gave the wide-eyed Claire an innocent look and asked, “What?”

 

[Claire Organa]

"I know" she responded to his picking up on her regrets of college, "I just think I missed something" it was kind that he would try to provide her with words of comfort, words to ease the anxiety of not being sure. Yes Trevor was living up to the ideal romantic hero of any one of her favorite novels. She knew that being around him would most definitely give her thoughts of long walks under a silvery moon, with jasmine hanging on the air and he would be perfection, holding her close, leaning in to give her a kiss...

WAIT WHat her underwear. Pop went the perfect bubble, she was now blushing bright red. "Why not just put a banner up down in the lobby, Clare washed her undergarments" She said it mixed with sarcasm, and humor. Was she sure he had a sister.

He mentioned food right now she'd probably pour his dessert over his head, "You're cooking me something might be quite lovely" Oh she was going to think of something that would turn his cheeks red.

She took a breath, moving her hand to indicate breathing in, then breathing out. "Perhaps a conversation with your mother when we get to your home would help cool my cheeks a bit, do you think I should speak to her?" Claire wanted to be polite.

[member="Trevor Alde"]

 

[Trevor Alde]

[member="Claire Organa"]


"Why not just put a banner up down in the lobby, Clare washed her undergarments"

Trevor grinned at her embarrassment and appreciated her response. She did have a great sense of humor. He couldn’t resist one last barb, “Well at least now I know you wear undies.” His eyes slipped down to her chest and back to her eyes as he added, “Sometimes…”

Perhaps he’d gone too far this time. Before her indignant sputtering could be turned into a reprisal, he stood and offered her his hand to help her rise from her chair. “They will be downstairs ready for us by the time we reach the lobby,” he said softly; almost apologetically but not quite.

He offered her his arm, hoping she would hold onto it as they walked. Perhaps as an effort to calm herself she asked, "Perhaps a conversation with your mother when we get to your home would help cool my cheeks a bit, do you think I should speak to her?"

Trevor was walking slower than he normally would; not because he thought she would have trouble keeping up, but, because he was enjoying her company and he wouldn’t have her alone when they reached his home. “I’m sure a conversation with mother will be part of the plan. She will at least want to know what your intentions are towards her eldest son.” His grin told her he was at least partially teasing. He was actually curious how they would respond to meeting an Organa.

By the time they reached the lobby their baggage was collected and present and the cruiser out front waiting for them. Trevor settled their bills with the front desk and they were soon loaded and heading for the main thoroughfare. Trevor played the part of the tour guide as he drove them home; pointing out points of interest for both a tourist and an enterprising business person wishing to expand her business.

The Alde home was located in the mountains on the north side of Nuba City. It was situated with a city view from the front and a canyon view from one side. A large patio and pool were in the rear.

When Trevor pulled up he was surprised to see his parents outside waiting for them. He got out of the cruiser and went around to open Claire’s door for her. As soon as she stood, Trevor turned to introduce her but was shocked to see his parents rushing forward and grabbing her up in a group hug like a long lost relative.

“Claire Renee Organa! We would recognize you anywhere,” Trevor’s father exclaimed.

His mother was patting Claire’s cheek like she didn’t believe she was really there. “Oh, Claire! You look just like your mother Elinor!”

Trevor’s father added, “Yes she does, but, she has Simon’s eyes.”

Trevor all but forgotten, they led her towards the house one parent on each arm. Gregor said happily, “Claire, welcome to our home!”

 

[Claire Organa]

Her mouth dropped and then he stood up and was offering her his arm keeping her voice low as they walked along she spoke smiling at anyone who looked their way, “Well Trevor I didn’t know you had that much experience to know whether a woman was wearing under pants or not. I really think I will have to speak to your mother tell her what a bad boy you are.” She looked up at him with a cheesy little grin. “Isn’t the real question not whether I’m wearing any, but rather am I wearing anything at all under this dress?”


Even the short ride in the lift to the lobby, she still held onto his arm their little bantering and teasing all in good spirit.

She slid into the cruiser making sure her rather short dress did not hike up any farther than need be. She looked out the windows as Trevor guided them through the traffic; clearly he was accustomed to the way the traffic moved.

She looked over at him this was not an uncomfortable moment with him playing tour guide and her being a tourist.


As they pulled into the house Wow she thought it’s stunning. What was more unusual his parents were out front, she looked over to Trevor a bit panicked. Even as they stopped she could see their excited faces she smiled and waved as Trevor opened the door.

She slowly stood up his father on one side his mother on the other she nodded, “Thank you, yes I’m told that a lot” She looked at Trevor and then back to his parents as they moved forward, “Thank you allowing me to come stay while I’m here” She listened and relaxed a bit. This show of affection from strangers was disarming. “Thank you Trevor”

“My parents are fine, thank you for asking, I’m sure if they can they would love to come” they moved through the doors and she could already see the pool outback. OH my.

It seemed as though they were offering her everything except the kitchen sink, “I’d love a drink, and Trevor said he’d be dessert, I mean he would make me dessert. Or food.” She was a bit nervous.

[member="Trevor Alde"]​

 

[Trevor Alde]

[member="Claire Organa"]


Trevor followed them inside, a smirk on his face as his parents overwhelmed Claire with their welcome. She glanced back once, and he shrugged as if to say, See. I told you no bowing…

His father looked back at him and said, “Well, Trevor… bring our guest’s luggage inside and take it up to her room.”

“Ahh… yes, of course,” Trevor replied. He really didn’t want to leave her alone with his parents this soon, but, he knew those bags wouldn’t magically move themselves to the guest suite. He looked into the luggage compartment of the landcruiser and was shocked at how many bags she had. After very careful arranging, he managed to pick up all of them except one. Normally he would take two trips but he really wanted to rejoin them and hear what was being said. He did something he normally avoided like the plague - he used the force. Telekinesis was one of the few things his mother had been able to teach him before he developed his anti-force attitude and quit trying to learn. He lifted the largest bag about a foot of the ground with the force and headed for the house; force pulling it along behind him. He made it without too many mishaps – one occurring when he happened to hear Claire tell his mother that he would be dessert. She corrected herself quickly enough, but, even so, his mother turned and gave him a look that had sent him scurrying to his room to hide on many occasions growing up. The distraction caused him to lose his concentration and drop the bag. He hurriedly corrected himself and proceeded to move her luggage to her room.

Returning as quickly as he could, he rejoined the conversation by asking Claire, “How about that drink, Claire? Oh! I know just the thing.” He opened a bottle of Alderaanian wine and poured them all glasses. He held his glass up and admired the ruby red color of the liquid. “I don’t know if this will ever be available again,” he added somewhat sadly. Taking a sip he suggested, “Mother, why don’t you show Claire her room and let her change into something more comfortable and freshen up if she wished. I’ll be preparing a few things for the grill that I promised her.” He would have been happy to show her the room, but, he doubted that his mother would let him anywhere near it while Claire was inside – especially after that little dessert comment.

“That sounds like a good idea,” Geselle admitted. “Come with me, Claire, and we’ll get you set up in your room. Oh, bring your wine, dear. We definitely prefer things casual here.”

 

[Claire Organa]

The two women left the group to wander up to the room Claire could not help but look around at the home, “Your home is quite lovely Duchess Alde” Claire remembered what Arianna had told her one could not sell their title.

Claire had grabbed the wine glass as instructed, “It was quite by chance that I ran into Trevor I’ve come from Balmorra looking to expand my business” Claire was not sure why she was explaining but then she remembered something, “I’d like to ask a personal question”


Trevor’s mother looked at Claire perhaps still glad to be able to entertain someone with the last name Organa Claire did not know but she could see it in the woman’s eyes she was happy about something. Could it be she was happy to see her son come home with a young woman?

Claire did not care at the moment when they entered the room where Claire would be staying it was so beautiful. Not lavish in an ugly way but simple and elegant the lines connected and balanced the room. The colors were soft and welcoming everything made her go wow.

“What is your question dear?”

She wanted to ask the question about the sister and say something about the comment on her under garments. “Do you think Trevor would go with me shopping tomorrow?” It was part of her business plan to check out the local fashions what was worn here as traditional garments.

“OH I’m sure we can arrange that”

Claire thought great and after a few other pleasantries with his mother the women headed back downstairs Claire looked out to see Trevor busy at the grill, excusing herself she headed towards him, still carrying her drink.

“So your mother says you can go shopping with me tomorrow” All she did was smile, let’s see how he handles that.

[SIZE=12pt][member="Trevor Alde"][/SIZE]​

 

[Trevor Alde]

[member="Claire Organa"]

Geselle narrowed her eyes at Claire’s question. It had been a long time since she had quit her jedi training - peaking at the level of a knight. Even so, she could read people pretty well. She was relatively certain shopping wasn’t what Claire really wanted to talk about. She knew her eldest son could be contentious at times and could only hope he hadn’t offended Claire in some manner – if she knew him – with teasing of some embarrassing sort. She also could tell by the way the two of them were casting sidelong glances at each other that thoughts of dessert – if they weren’t already there – were percolating below the surface and would be rearing its tempting head soon. She couldn’t fault them for it. She and Greg had been younger and unmarried when they first became intimate. If that’s what they wanted, she knew she couldn’t stop them; however, she would NOT be making a call to her old friend Elinor and telling her that her son Trevor had knocked up her daughter Claire while she was a guest in her home. That was NOT going to happen. She didn’t press the issue and was actually amused at the thought, “Oh, I’m sure we can arrange that.” Please don’t let him take her to Susie’s, she thought trying NOT to imagine what that encounter would be like.

Trevor had used the time the ladies were upstairs preparing an assortment of vegetables and seasoning steaks for the grill. He was surprised that his father had disappeared into his office as soon as the ladies left, but, he was glad he didn’t have to answer too many questions. They were inevitable but at least they were delayed for now.

The Alde family all preferred the taste of charcoal grilled meats but they were also too impatient to use charcoal alone. Their grill had a gas starter that caught the coals on fire and had them up to cooking temperature in a fraction of the time. He had the meal almost finished cooking by the time Claire rejoined him on the patio. Her smiled at her and was about to greet her when she proclaimed, “So your mother says you can go shopping with me tomorrow.” Trevor didn’t react outwardly but inside he cringed. He responded, “Oh, I know just the place – Susie’s Boutique.”

Jeselle was trying to stay out of sight but she did hear his response. “TREVOR!” she growled at him through their familial force connection. It had been years since she invaded his mind like that and he involuntarily jumped. He didn’t respond - he refused to communicate with anyone via the force and speaking to her would reveal that silent reprimand. Susie was an old college sweetheart that took their eventual breakup poorly. Taking Claire into her store might violate that unspoken promise to protect Organas visiting under your roof. Still with the threat of shopping – it was tempting. He moved closer to Claire pulling out a chair for her at the patio table. As she was sitting down he leaned close enough for his breath to tease her neck and whispered so that only she could hear, “That would give me a chance to buy you something special…” The thought of seeing Claire in a very sheer bra and panties set had an enormous appeal.

 

[Claire Organa]

"special?" she looked at his face was he up to something? She half laughed unsure of his intent, "You do remember I own a clothing company and have seen just about everything that a woman or a man can wear under their clothing, right?" She could smell food cooking now her stomach growled again growing more insistent that she put something into it.

He was wearing a devious little grin. "I think shopping will be good for you Trevor" She then lowered her voice, "it was either you shop with me or I have a talk with your mother" It was an idle threat but one she hoped would encourage him to spend more time with her. He had a sense of humor that mirrored her own and he currently did not let her get away with anything. A trait which she enjoyed.

Claire could smell the seasonings, and the vegetables as they began to break down on the grill. She took a deep breath, "Whatever it is you are cooking it smells wonderful" She was hungry. Clearly Trevor was distracted by something, some thought or was he concentrating too hard on grilling.

"Trevor as you still planning on making dessert?" She asked quite innocently, she was looking forward to something sweet.

[member="Trevor Alde"]​

 

[Trevor Alde]

[member="Claire Organa"]


Still leaning close Trevor grinned and teased softly, “I’m sure you have seen everything. I just have a thing or two in mind that I believe you would look ravishing in...” And I’d love to see, he thought to himself. As he stood up he let his cheek brush against her ear. It was more innocent and less direct than actually kissing her ear, but, was an unexpectedly intimate contact. Unfortunately for Trevor, he felt the shock of it more than she seemed to. Trevor felt that special electric tingle that craved for more. He was stunned speechless and turned back to the grill hoping she didn’t notice. Gods above, he had to have that talk with his father about the Organa/Alde history. Was there something inexplicable there that rendered Alde men jibbering idiots in the presence of Organa females… or was it just him?

He placed the vegetables on a platter and the steaks on another and placed them on the table. He had set the table and placed glasses of ice water at each place. He refilled her wine glass and sat down next to her. He prepared enough food for his parents to join them if they wished but had the idea they were going to leave them by themselves.

“I prepared a variety of vegetables in case there are things you don’t like; hopefully there will be something that does suit your taste. Please help yourself. The steak seasoning is a spicy blend I grind myself. I hope you like it.”

Trevor sipped his wine as he watched her serve her plate then he filled his own. He smiled at her when she asked about dessert and replied, “Yes, there will be dessert… save room!”

After they had both taken a few bites of food he told her, “Amilee and Simeon are at an overnight class project at the observatory so you won’t get to meet them until morning.” He wondered if Simeon and Claire’s sister were the same age. He would love to see if he would react to her the same as Tre was finding himself responding to Claire. Misery loves company? Maybe except he really didn’t feel miserable… more confused.

Changing the subject he continued, “When I was 15, my father and I renovated the space above the garage and made it into a large bedroom and ensuite for me. Until then Simeon and I shared a bedroom. The move made us both very happy,” he explained remembering those days fondly. “I have an apartment in Nuba City now that’s closer to work, but, I stay out here in my old room when family things are happening.”

He took another sip of his wine and said very softly, “I’ll be staying here until you head back to Balmorra.”

 

[Claire Organa]

Claire kept smiling like nothing was wrong. She wasn’t sure if anyone had noticed that she seemed to keep this Cheshire cat grin on. Is that right she thought well isn’t that very interesting. As his cheek brushed her ear she had this sensation that seemed to travel from her ear to the very center of her core it made her feel weak in the knees.
Oh my. She looked up at him.

The platter was placed on the table “I love vegetables this is great’ she nodded her appreciation of his efforts. She wasn’t sure if his parents were joining or if they were going to continue the welcome wagon. Claire took another sip of her wine, “Alderaan, wine from Alderaan. There may not be any more so sad” They may never see the world of their ancestors Claire still struggled with the knowledge of what the Sith were doing to their home.

Save room for dessert, excellent she loved dessert. “You know there are people that actually have dessert before they have dinner. The reason they say is why wait to have the best might as well have it first” What would he think of that?

Claire took in the information about the other Alde children and their whereabouts. So that was why it was so quiet. She knew when she and Victoria got together there was place safe from them and the decibel level of noise in the house was usually tripled.

So now he was telling her where his room was, she chewed and smiled. Was that so if she got lost she would at least know where to find him? Or was he hoping she would climb out the window and down the trellis to sneak off to his room?

“I will keep that in mind if I need to find you, especially tomorrow morning when we get ready for shopping” She gave him that innocent look that she practiced on her mother and father.

“Trevor all kidding aside, thanks for all of this I sure was not looking forward to spending the next few nights in the hotel. I travel a lot and it gets old. This is nice. Thanks” She leaned over and kissed his cheek in the appreciative sisterly fashion. Maybe one day I can return the favor.

So he’d be here the whole time, “I hope that you’re staying here doesn’t keep you from any pressing business appointments or social engagements. She was fishing that time had he given up anything or anyone to stay here.

[member="Trevor Alde"]​

 

[Trevor Alde]

[member="Claire Organa"]


Trevor chuckled and responded, “If you want your dessert first, I’ll go make it. It won’t take but a couple of minutes to finish preparing.” He realized with no small amount of chagrin that there weren’t many things that she could want that he wouldn’t try and do for her. That was something he had no desire for her to find out. He had a feeling that would be the end of Trevor as the world knew him and he had no idea if that would be good or bad.

He tried to ignore the butterflies that began swarming in his stomach when she kissed his cheek. “You’re welcome to stay here as long as you’d like. We are all very happy to have you,” he replied softly and just as seriously as her thanks. He had a feeling he would survive the evening better if he tried to maintain the light banter – getting serious with Claire seemed like a bottomless well he would fall into if he ventured too near. “I’ll have to do some work each day but I can log into our network from here and do what I need to get done.” He didn’t have any social engagements planned, but, he certainly wasn’t going to admit that to her. He was saved from further response by his parents rejoining them.

Gregor and Jeselle sat opposite the two of them. Greg handed Claire an old holopic and said, “I’ve been digging through things in my office trying to find this. I thought you might like it.”

It was a picture of two couples riding thrantas high in the mountains of Alderaan. “Those are the four of us, your parents, Jeselle and myself. We were playing hooky from school and doing something we all loved. Anyway, I thought you might like to have it. We’ll let you two continue your conversation. The four of us can talk about family tomorrow.”

Greg stood to leave but Jeselle simply smiled at Claire and said as if she were telling her a secret, “If you look really close, you’ll see that I’m riding with your father and your mother is riding with Greg. Those were the original couples… before we got things straightened out.” She stood to leave with Greg and said as she was leaving, “We really need to have some girl time to… chat… about things.”