Owner	Pose
Warren Worthington	The Mount Sinai Children's Hospital Foundation annual gala is always a big event in the New York circuit. Everyone loves children. Each year it takes over the Guggenheim for an evening of speeches, cocktails, music and mingling. There is a silent auction of artwork donated by up and coming New York artists, and awards where everyone gets to see who outdid each other this year in making donations to the cause. You could tell who was having a good year by seeing how much their donations rose over the year before. And you could tell who was slipping. The event was popular enough that it is invite only, and the press happily shows up to cover the worthies arriving. There was a strict rule against press inside the event, so photographers covering the social scene took what they could get from people on the way in and out. Tonight, there were rumours that the hospital foundation was going to announce a large donation by Pierce Consolidated Mining. The company had just re-located its headquarters to New York and seemed to be hitting the scene with gusto. In fact, some were even saying Pierce Consolidated Mining might be receiving the Chelsea Ming Memorial Award, given to the largest donor of the year. This was of more than passing interest to a number of organizations. Cyborgs believed to be related to Pierce had been implicated in a number of high profile events in New York in recent weeks; a bank robbery, the attack on NeoGen, the destruction of a chemical plant. There were a lot of dead, and even more questions. But Pierce was nowhere to be found since his penthouse apartment burnt under mysterious circumstances over a month before. He had avoided all public appearances since then. But rumours were he would be at this event; it would not do for Pierce to miss receiving the award. Warren was invited as a matter of course, as were most Hellfire Club Members. He was also a donor, but hardly a top ranked one. His philanthropic priorities were elsewhere. Around 7, he showed up driving a sensible car, a new white BMW 750li. He was wearing a tuxedo specially cut and altered so it fit snugly around the base of his wings while still hanging naturally. He spent a fortune on custom clothing. Warren threw the keys to the valet and waved for the cameras as he made his way into the museum. He grabbed a drink from one of the servers and started making his rounds.
Jessica Drew	With the predicted attendance of Donald Pierce, SHIELD has taken an interest in the gala for a host of reasons. Jessica Drew found an assignment and invitation credentials awaiting her when she got home from the gym, along with a guest list and photos of each person on that list. Jessica needs to fit in, and not look the part of a SHIELD agent, so she has chosen a black lace dress with only the barest skirt and strapless top beneath the lace, leaving much of her body covered only in that black lace. With a nearly invisible earpiece, covered by cascades of polished dark brunette waves, Jess works her way through the room, watching for any sign of Pierce.
Warren Worthington	These events had their routine. Around 7:30, in center of the atrium, with the sweeping curves of balconies of the upper floors rising above, the president of the hospital foundation welcomed everyone to the event. She spoke briefly about the achievements of the foundation in the previous year and thanked specific event sponsors. Then she noted the silent auction would be begin at 8 and the awards at 8:30. There was clapping and the woman stepped down from the podium and returned to mingling. Warren made his way through the obligatories with practised ease and feigned interest. He was at the event for the X-Men tonight, his interest was in finding Pierce. But the game could not be ignored. He shook hands and exchanged air kisses, let himself be pulled away and introduced and did it all again. Asked after family and friends, and laughed at jokes. And he watched the crowd. But there was no Pierce yet. As 8 o'clock approached, Warren made his way to where he could watch the entrance to the silent auction. He chatted playfully with the daughter of the deputy mayor and her friend, both beautiful women. Warren hid his boredom and semi-inattention with practised ease.
Jessica Drew	Jessica doesnt have to feign too much interest. She mingles quietly among the crowd, but she knows so few from this circuit that not many people approach her. Except the menfolk...those who get too close. Those drawn in and compelled to speak with her about ANYTHING Jessica will entertain. She has finally escaped with a glass of champagne, moving near the entrance, as well. From here, she has a view of Warren Worthington, as well. He's the blonde Adonis of the room, and Jessica's deep green eyes are utterly transfixed as he speaks to the two young women. Maybe she lets her gaze linger a little too long. But really...who wouldn't?
Warren Worthington	Jessica is initially of little note, other than to the rare lower tier socialite trying to gauge where the newcomer fits. But as those men come too close and fall under her sway, word spreads on its own and more come to meet her, curious then positively drawn. Women she is too near for too long give arch looks and exchange comments on what she wears. Warren's right wing waves very gently back and forth while he talks with the two young women, white feathers catching the various colours of lighting in the room as it does. He catches Jessica's gaze out of the corner of his eye. Warren looks her way and smiles brightly, then returns his attention to the women he talks with. Someone laughs, too loudly. Victor Skou, son of Soren Skou the CEO of the global shipping company Maersk Group, is walking toward the silent auction room with two other men and a striking raven haired young lady on his arm. Tall, dark haired, handsome, and very sharply dressed, he is also slightly drunk judging by the way he walks. He is deeply engaged in telling some story. Jessica recognizes one of the men with Victor from earlier in the evening. Eric? Rick? An investment banker. Whichever it was, he had been hard to get rid of. The man nudges Victor and nods towards Jessica. Victor says something and the two men laugh. He drops the raven haired woman off his arm without a word and makes straight for Jessica. The woman left behind stares daggers at Victor's back then turns and disappears into the crowd. The two other men follow after Victor, very much the leader of their little group "Victor, you should meet Briana," Eric or Rick says. "You shouldn't be standing all alone," Victor says with a Danish accent and a cocksure smile, giving Jessica a once over. He puts one hand up against the wall near her, standing well into her personal space. "Aren't these parties boring? You know, you should come with me. I'll take you to a real party." The other two stand one on either side of Victor.
Jessica Drew	Jessica, currently masquerading under what Jess can only imagine as the pornstar name Briana Jameson, smiles charmingly to Victor and his almost-named cohorts. "Ohh on the contrary, I'm having a MARVELOUS time," Jessica gushes, in a bubbly voice. "I'm afraid I can't step out on the party, though. I'm the entertainment, after the awards. I have to slip into something a little more flashy, and sing." Her smile is bright, and her flushed expression beams with radiant contentment. Jessica should've been an actress.
Warren Worthington	"Sing? I bet you have a beautiful voice," Victor says with a bit of a smirk. He moves closer as Jessica's pull sets in. "There is still after the show," Victor presses. "You can give me a private performance." Warren's wings twitch when he sees Victor and hears his overloud voice. He says something to the ladies he is with and they laugh. Then Warren looks in Jessica's direction to make eye contact and raises an eyebrow at her.
Jessica Drew	"Sorry, Boys," Jessica asserts, making her space larger by pushing out her hands in a giant faux stretch. "My dance card for tonight's all full. But...maybe I'll get you a sneak peek at my next show, eh?" Jess smiles and tips up Victor's chin, looking him in the eyes. With a wink, she ducks under his leaning arm and sashays over toward this winged Greek God who seems a little concerned. "Nothin' to worry about, Angel," Jess smiles reassuringly. "Don't look so concerned. Your smile suits you -so- much better," Jess coos as Briana.
Warren Worthington	Warren laughs. "I figured you had it under control," he says and looks past Jess. Behind her, Victor's hands are clenched into fists. "Hello, Victor," Warren calls over. He smiles broadly. "Worthington," Victor grunts. He glares at Jessica for a moment and then plasters something resembling a grin on his face. Victor turns and stalks off to the silent auction. Warren looks amused as his attention comes back to Jessica. He holds out a hand. "We haven't met, I'm Warren. Please, meet Tara Fletcher, Deputy Mayor Fletcher's daughter, and her friend Meghan Andrews." No pheromones were needed. Tara and Meghan do not look at all pleased to see Jessica. Their smiles are forced.
Jessica Drew	"Briana Jameson," offers Jess, extending a hand to Warren. "Tara, Meghan...A pleasure to make your acquaintance." But Jess's attention continually flits back to the entrance, lest she should miss Pierce's grand entrance. Then she finds she still has her slender hand in Warren's and she blushes pink and gives him a sheepish smile as she draws it carefully away.
Warren Worthington	Warren seems mildly bemused. "It's a pleasure, Briana. Did you need to get inside?" he asks, gesturing off-handledly to the auction room. "There are some beautiful pieces going tonight, don't let us keep you if you're bidding..." "Beautiful pieces," Tara interjects brightly. "You should really go. They're going to close the doors any minute" "...or you're welcome to join us. Tara was just telling me all about her trip to the Turks and Caicos," Warren finishes, seeming not to hear Tara. He quickly scans a small group of people walking toward the auction room then his eyes fall back on Jessica.
Jessica Drew	"Oh, well I've perused the auction's offerings a few times. I think I'll revel in this angel's gaze awhile longer," Jessica responds to Tara almost vacantly, so lost is she in Warren's gaze. She's heard the rumours about him. They're likely all true, too. How can she blame him for being a playboy, when he is so utterly mesmerizing? So many women, so little time, she thinks idly as she finally turns her gaze on Tara with a patronizing smile.
Warren Worthington	Warren catches Jessica's gaze and smiles, feeling oddly flustered for a just a moment. Without thinking, he turns more toward Jessica, almost standing sideways to Tara and Meghan. "Tara," he flashes her a grin. "I haven't caught up with your mother yet tonight. Could you let her know I will come see her in a bit?" he asks. If looks could kill... Tara forces a polite smile and touches Warren on the arm, eyes on Jessica. "I will. Don't forget you're coming to the party at Elise's after," she says to Warren almost pointedly. "Right, Elise's," Warren says, looking away from Jessica. He smiles gamely for Tara, then his attention is back on Jessic. Tara squeezes Warren's arm and then walks off with Meghan in tow. Warren does not really seem to notice. Their heels clack smartly against the polished white floors. As the ladies walk off, the door to the silent auction room closes. "Looks like the auction has started, can I get you another drink?" Warren asks Jessica. He waves to one of the server without waiting for an answer and takes a fresh glass for himself after one is offered to Jessica. "I haven't seen you before, where did you say you were from?"
Jessica Drew	"Oh, I didn't say," Jess replies offhandedly. "But I'm fairly local. And you...well everyone knows who you are I guess. I bet it gets a little old not being able to go anywhere without women fighting for a scrap of your attention." She smiles warmly. She knows /exactly/ how that feels.
Warren Worthington	Warren returns the smile automatically, feeling a heady rush. He laughs. "Sometimes, but that's the game...." He considers Jessica for a moment, head slightly cocked to the side. He looks entertained. "Fairly local? That means you're either with the press or the police. Or the IRS. I paid my taxes, I promise!" he says spreading his hands.
Jessica Drew	With a dreamy sort of smile, Jessica laughs. "I don't doubt that." But his guesses are too close to home, and she has to damage control. "I'm not as interesting as all that, I'm sure. I'm just one of these girls who barely meets the standards for invitation to something like this." Her smile, however, becomes a bit dulled as her attention is diverted to the entrance. Two men walk in, shaking hands easily as if this is second nature to them. She recognizes them as two suspected operatives of Pierce. She tenses slightly, and lets her gaze linger on them as she asks her next question. "I admire your...your...work. Are...there particular...issues that demand m-more of your time and effort than others?"
Warren Worthington	Warren feels a pang of something when Jessica's eyes wander to the two men walking in. Jealousy? His brow furrows and his wings flex ever so slightly and relax. "My work is at a bit of a lull right now," he says, confused by his reaction to this woman and her deviation from any of the scripts he expected. His head swims and he fights not to just brazenly let his eyes wander over her curves. "I need to step away for a moment, but it was a pleasure to meet you, Briana. Come find me later if you like, you can rescue me from some other women vying for my attention," he says with a wink. He walks away toward a group of older people standing together and chatting, his parents' friends. He exhales slowly and drains his drink, then swaps the glass for another from a passing server. He smiles warmly, familiar and at ease with everyone in this group. A short time later he finds himself leaning against the railing of the second floor balcony, looking over the atrium and watching Jessica. He talks idly with a friend from his sailing club, but is not really paying attention.
Jessica Drew	By the time Warren has made his way to that balcony, the two men who arrived and gave Jessica a spark of hope that Pierce might arrive as well....they were leaving. She watches the two leave, never having interacted with them, and she looks around cautiously before touching a cleverly disguised communicator in a cameo brooch at her throat. "Both subjects are leaving the premises. Still no sign of our boy," she says quietly. Then, out of coincidence, she happens to glance up and see Warren chatting with a friend, and she offers a shy wave and a smile. What are you, a teenager, Jessica? She's certainly acting the part, and she reprimands herself silently for it.
Warren Worthington	Warren gives a small wave back and a smile creeps to his face before he realizes it, then he shakes his head slightly. "Warren Worthington," comes a woman's voice, melodic but reproachful. "I won't have you brooding again." Warren's friend chuckles and makes a judicious exit. When Warren turns he is embraced by a tall, slim woman in her late 50's, elegantly dressed in a blue gown. She had been one of his mother's closest friends and had taken a decidedly maternal interest in what Warren did since his mother passed. "Margaret," he says with a smile. He returns the embrace then turns back to look out over the crowd with Margaret beside him. "I'm not brooding, I'm taking a break." "Mhmm," Margaret says, and follows his gaze. She rolls her eyes. "Oh Lord, not you, too. They're all talking about her," she says with a wrinkle of the nose. "She's nobody, I checked. I saw you talking with Tara, she's such a sweet girl. And her father is going to be a senator you know." "Yes, I heard," he says still looking out over the atrium. Margaret reaches across to put one hand on Warren's cheek and turn his head to face her. "Warren, when are you going to settle down with someone nice?" She might as well have said acceptable. "George and I want to be God parents before we're 65, you know." Warren laughs. "Then I have lots of time," he says and kisses Margaret's cheek. "Don't worry, I will go back down and mingle." "With someone nice!" Margaret calls after him. Warren heads back down and joins everyone as people start to congregate ahead of the awards ceremony. The silent auction has finished and people are filing out.
Jessica Drew	Jessica is lingering near the auction's exit, watching those leaving and making small talk with a man who seems to be hanging on her every word. She is disengaged with the conversation, and she nods here and there as he prattles on. Instead, she is watching those filing out, to make sure she didn't miss anything. When her gaze again drifts upward, Warren is gone.
Warren Worthington	The president of the hospital foundation walks up onto the podium and the murmur of conversation dies down. She thanks everyone again for attending and takes time to thank each of the gala's supporters and their representatives. Everyone claps politely at each name. Warren stands toward the side of the crowd where his wings will not block anyone's view of the podium. Then the president starts into the awards. The million dollar donors are announced and presented their awards. Then two million dollar donors. The gold donors, donating up to five million dollars receive a big round of applause from those assembled and there is a great deal of chattering back and forth about what is coming next.
Jessica Drew	Jessica stands off to one side, listening to the names and clapping politely at the appropriate times. Her gaze, however, is on Warren as he stands watching, as well. She takes a glass of champagne from a passing waiter who seems intent to flutter around her rather than moving on. They're like mosquitoes here, she muses to herself. If she catches a glance from Warren, she blushes slightly and averts her gaze.
Warren Worthington	Warren looks around discreetly after clapping for each of the names announced. After the last of the gold award recipients are named, he turns to take another glass from one of the servers. He sees Jessica past the waiter and pauses mid-reach, notices her blush and look away. He feels warmer, suddenly. "Sir?" the server prompts. "Yes, thank you," Warren replies with a smile. He starts to turn away toward Jessica, but the man he is standing with catches his arm and nods toward the stage. "And it is our great honour to announce the recipient of this year's Chelsea Ming Memorial Award. We could not be happier to have the support of our donor, who is making it possible for the foundation to finish the refurbishment of the neo-natal care wing with an incredible $20 million donation and guaranteed support of another $10 million over three years. Please join me in thanking Pierce Consolidated Mining!" The murmurs and the clapping start immediately and people look around, trying to spot Pierce. Then two even staff push out a large paper-thin display that blinks to life beside the podium. And there is Pierce, dressed for the occasion in a remarkably non-descript room. "It is an incredible honour to receive this award. Pierce Consolidated Mining could not be more pleased to support Mount Sinai Children's Hospital Foundation this year and going forward. I feel a deep passion for the foundation's mission. The credit is to them and the hard working staff of this great institution. To another great year of bring smiles to those who need the most!" Pierce claps and the audience joins him. Warren claps politely, a wry look fixed on his face. "Damn," he says under his breath. Pierce waves to the crowd and the screen cuts out. The president of the hospital foundation thanks everyone again for coming and the music returns. The crowd spreads out again, as people start to talk over Pierce's award, absence and other things besides. Warren claps the man beside him on the shoulder and then turns, looking for Jessica among the milling hospital patrons.
Jessica Drew	When Pierce appears on the screen, Jessica's heart falls. "Damn..." There goes her chance. With everyone suddenly milling about, Jessica finds her chance to ecape the waiters, and she moves toward where Warren was standing, looking over the crowd for wings...
Warren Worthington	Warren looks across the crowd, making polite faces and noises as he moves through toward where Jessica had been, not seeing her anywhere. He comes to a stop, still looking around. "Warren," Tara sing songs playfully. "Are you ready? You didn't forget did you?" "No, I... Just a minute...I need to...." he trails off, flashing Tara a quick distracted smile. Then he keeps looking around, his heart sinking. "Where did you go?" he says to himself.
Jessica Drew	Everywhere Jessica turns, there's some gentleman who's said hello to her throughout the night. She tries to be polite, but there's an urgency building by the time she finally spots wings. She breathes a sigh of relief. But as she approaches, she hears Tara's reminder. With two quickened steps, she brushes against Warren's wing and touches his arm. "D-don't go...." Her tone is plaintive, and she has no right to ask it of him. But she does, all the same. "Please..."
Warren Worthington	Tara leans up against Warren and draws a finger down his chest, lifting one leg off the ground. "It'll be fun, I promise." From his vantage point, her neckline seems to plunge forever. Warren is about to answer her when feels the brush against his wing and hears Jessica's voice. "Briana," he says and turns toward her when she touches his arm and reaches out to take her hand. Tara makes a startled noise and stumble steps forward as the support of Warren's body disappears. Warren turns quickly back to the young woman and steadies her with one hand. "I'll catch up with you later," he tells Tara. Tara's eyes go wide in disbelief, quickly followed by anger. Then he turns his back on Tara to fully face Jessica. "Warren!" Tara says with a clack of one her heels on the floor. "I thought you disappeared," he says with a broad smile, not even hearing Tara.
Jessica Drew	Jessica shakes her head quickly. "I had something to do. I was..." She winces at Tara's outburst. "If you need to go," she begins. "I could catch you later...I didn't mean to take you away from..." Boobs, she thinks to herself. And yes. Yes, she did.
Warren Worthington	"No, it's just a party," Warren says quickly. He steps to the side so he does not turn his back on Jessica when he faces Tara. "Tara, I've got other plans," he says with an apologetic smile. "Are you kidding me?" Tara demands, looking between Warren and Jessica. She makes a disgusted noise. "Fine!" Tara spins on her heel and walks off. Margaret looks over and frowns at Warren. Warren turns back to face Jessica, not at all bothered by Tara's outburst or departure. "We could stay, or I know a place, it's not far," he says with a smile.
Jessica Drew	Pierce is clearly -not- going to show. Any and all of his consorts have vacated the premises. Inconspicuously, she touches the brooch adorning the lace at her throat. "I don't see any reason to stay...I think I'm good to take off." She smiles genuinely at Warren and looks around at the crowd. "Let's get out of here...I'm yours for the rest of the night."
Warren Worthington	Warren's face lights up and he offers his arm to Jessica. "Music to my ears." He walks with Jessica across the atrium, saying goodnight to a few people. Warren catches Margaret's eye and shrugs with a grin. The door is opened for them and the cool night air wafts in. Outside, cameras flash as they walk toward the valet. "...Mr. Worthington, who is your friend?" "...Miss, your name?" "...Warren, who is she?" Warren leans in toward Jessica. "Just ignore them," he says with a wink. He exchanges a few pleasantries and laughs with a few others waiting for their cars or limos. One of the men waiting shoots Warren dirty looks, and two come up to ask Jessica what she is doing later despite her being on Warren's arm. Eventually, Warren's car is brought up. The valet leaves the driver's door open and Warren passes the man a tip when they shake hands. Then the valet hustles around the car to hold the door open for Jessica. Warren looks over at Jessica with a smile as they start moving. "Where /did/ you come from?" he says with a laugh. "I think I just made half the people in there angry tonight."
Jessica Drew	Jessica laughs. "I'm not sure you'd believe me if I told you." She shakes her head. "I cannot believe I'm here with you...right now. I could just ..." She sighs, reigning it in. "I just mean...you're in such demand, I'm humbled even to have a moment of your time." She slides her hand down over his bicep and squeezes it tenderly.
Warren Worthington	Warren's breath catches when Jessica touches him. His wings twitch and he feels hot again as he turns the wheel and steers them through traffic. He laughs. "Humbled? I'm just Warren, not an angel or something," he teases. "Besides, I couldn't take my eyes off you. How could I leave with anyone else?" he says with a lopsided grin.
Jessica Drew	"I knowww," Jessica replies with a laugh. "It's just you...you're so /charismatic/ and just..." She gestures vaguely. "I don't know what it is. But I feel like I'm floating on a cloud right now." So much for being coy or subtle. "I can't even explain it. I wish I could."
Warren Worthington	"At least I'm not the only one," Warren says with a grin. They arrive at the Four Seasons and pull up to the curb. Warren tosses the keys to the valet and offers Jessica his arm again. It is easily one of the four most expensive hotels in New York. Its restaurant and bar are often booked up or filled. They walk into the lobby and Warren excuses himself for a moment. He goes over to the desk and the manager comes out to meet him. They talk for a moment, laugh, and then Warren comes back. "Got us a table," he says with a wink. Sure enough, when they get up to The Garden on the second floor, they are taken right inside and given a table by the windows. The tables seem to be intertwined with the enormous trunks of Acacia trees, and everything is lit by candle light. The candles twinkle and reflect off the windows as the city lights do on the outside. Warren is fascinated by Jessica, asking questions about where she is from and what she does. It seems like the rest of the world hardly exists to him.
Jessica Drew	Jessica sighs deeply, as she looks around their table. They are rather isolated, and there is really no one within earshot. Her cheeks colour deeply, and she shakes her head. "Warren...now that we're alone, I might as well tell you. My name is Jessica, not Briana. Jessica Drew...I was on a bit of a covert mission this evening. I'm sure it's no secret to you that there seem to be a lot of secrets hiding behind Donald Pierce. I know about some of the run-ins his...merchandise...has had with not only the public, but also Xavier's. I was trying to intercept him there tonight..."
Warren Worthington	Warren leans back in his chair, clearly surprised. He studies Jessica for a moment after she mentions Xavier's. Alarm bells ring in the back of his head, but they are distant and drowned out by the swirl that surrounds everything to do with this woman. "Jessica... You aren't joking, are you?" he says and shakes his head wonderingly. "You aren't going to believe this, but I was there for the same reason. Who on Earth are you with?"
Jessica Drew	Jessica shakes her head. "No, I'm not joking. I know it's a lot to take in. I was there on orders from SHIELD tonight, but I work a great deal with Tony Stark's Avengers as well." She averts her eyes at the admission and lifts a glass of water with its bobbing wedge of lemon and takes a sip, almost nervously. Okay, very nervously.
Warren Worthington	Both of Warren's wings open a few degrees reflexively, startling their server who was just arriving with their drinks. Warren flashes her a smile and apologizes, then compliments the young woman on her earrings. She grins, thanks him and leaves their drinks. "I knew you were too fit to be a reporter, but you're in a whole other league than I guessed," he says with a shake of his head. When Jessica puts her water down, Warren leans forward again. He reaches across the table to brush her hand lightly with his fingers. "Thank you for telling me. You could have stayed Briana, I would never have known.... Jessica suits you better though," says with a smile.
Jessica Drew	Jessica shivers at the touch and her fingers instinctively lift just enough to brush against his. "Well, I couldn't stay Briana Jameson forever, no. Because then I'd have to become a porn star to wear a name like that." She crinkles her nose a little and then laughs. " I swear whenever I get ahold of whoever came up with that name..." "But...I sort of hope you would have someday known. Because I hope...that maybe there'll be something beyond this night. This here and now." She swirls her water slowly in the glass, then sets it down and takes a sip from her drink. "All I knew was...there was something there. A spark. And I wasn't willing to walk away from it, and never know."
Warren Worthington	Warren laughs at Jessica's comment about her cover. "It is pretty bad," he agrees. His fingers play slowly across hers and then he slides his hand back when Jessica reaches for her drink. When she talks about a spark, he reaches for his own glass. How many times had he heard something similar in bars and restaurants just like this? How many times had he brushed past it, walking that line between tease and denial? More than he cared to admit. But how many times had he been thoroughly drunk on the woman across from him? He could remember one. "I'm glad you didn't walk away tonight," he says with a smile as he puts down his drink. "I would have always been wondering who that mysterious woman was, and where she went."
Jessica Drew	"Well at least /that/ question won't be a mystery." She grins and shakes her head. "And you were there for the same reason I was...Those are some odds I wouldn't have taken on a halfpenny bet. Seems like we may be working together on this, after all."
Warren Worthington	"God, I hope so," Warren says with a grin, drinking in her face, the way she talks. "I don't know if I will be able to stay focused on the work though," he says and reaches back across the table, holding his hand out for hers. "You are... intoxicating."
Jessica Drew	Jessica reaches out, sliding her hand into his and squeezing it gently. "I know that feeling, Warren," Jessica says with a blissful sigh. After all, who knows if attraction that draws two people together is just a chemical reaction in the first place? Still, it's unfair. He needs to see her for who she is...not have his head clouded with lofty, intoxicating pheromones. "I do need to nip into the ladies room for just a moment..." She hesitantly withdraws her hand and excuses herself...once inside, she withdraws the vial of perfume that can neutralize her pheromones, and...with a monumental sigh, she spritzes herself with the concoction. When that loathsome deed is done, she returns to the table, and stirs her drink with its thin black straw. "I suppose even with your reasons for being there, you attend the annual gala regularly. From what I know, you are an amazing philanthropist," she says, her wide green eyes glancing back up to search his.
Warren Worthington	Warren nods and watches Jessica walk away. Once she is out of sight, he stares out the window and takes a slow breath trying to clear his head. "Easy, Warren," he says to himself and sips his drink. He glances at his phone and sees there are a few text messages and calls from Tara, among others. Warren slips the device back into his pocket. He smiles brightly when Jessica sits down again, feeling a bit more in control of himself, more at ease. He waves off the compliment and meets her eyes easily now, more intrigued and less... greedy. "Not amazing, just fortunate. I have the means to do some good, so I do what I can. I spent the last couple of years in Africa, working with some NGOs helping mutants travelling the smuggling routes trying to make it to Europe. The people on the ground there, they are amazing. Have you ever been to Ethiopia? Beautiful, beautiful country."
Jessica Drew	"I haven't, in fact. Though I would love to. I have a few more restrictions, I'm sure. I don't always have the means by which to travel. Someday, though..." She smiles softly and takes a sip from her drink. "It's amazing how much good someone can do if he's 'lucky' as you say. But it isn't the luck that took you there. And it isn't the luck that makes you benevolent with what you've been given. So many people are so absorbed in themselves, no matter what they have or don't. It's part of why I have always admired you."
Warren Worthington	Warren smiles. "Credit my parents," he says and cocks his head curiously. "Speaking of benevolent, what about you? You're.... beautiful, obviously intelligent, magnetic... There are so many things you could have done. Stark, sure, I can see the draw," he chuckles and winks. "But why SHIELD?"
Jessica Drew	"You might be surprised," Jessica replies with a laugh. "Stark recruited me relatively recently. But SHIELD...well, I'm with them as a result of my upbringing." She again looks around cautiously before continuing. "I was taken by Hydra when I was young in an attempt to weaponize me. As they do..." She considers a moment before continuing. "I joined SHIELD to fight against them. Retribution, maybe. But also an opportunity to keep them from doing the same to others. Especially children. But overall...I suppose an effort to stop them entirely."
Warren Worthington	The alarm bells, ignored until now, start to breach his awareness. Whoever Jessica was, there were deep waters here. Warren leans forward with a curious half-smile, that does not quite reach his eyes. They are more alert, weighing. "Hydra wanted to weaponize you, I don't understand."
Jessica Drew	"Well you'll probably read it sooner than later, anyway, especially in light of recent events," Jess replies. "Tony Stark did not recruit Jessica Drew to his group. He recruited the Spider-Woman..." She sighs. Least romantic superhero name EVER. "I gave up my secret identity to fight with the Avengers, against this fungus infestation. Not /just/ the Avengers, obviously. There are a good many heroes fighting the good fight there."
Warren Worthington	Warren blinks. A slow smile creeps across his face until he is beaming. He laughs and shakes his head, then takes a sip of his drink. "I'm sorry, I... To think I almost wasted an evening listening to Tara go /on/ when I could have been here with you." He reaches across the table once more, eyes dancing. "My God, if this is a first date, what do you do for a second?"
Jessica Drew	Jessica laughs with him, with intense relief. "For my second trick, I save you from a date with someone even MORE beautiful with even bigger uh...endowment." She smiles and takes his hand, giving it a squeeze.
Warren Worthington	Warren chuckles. "Oh good, I wouldn't want to make that mistake," he says. He catches Jessica's eyes for a moment. "You will have to forgive me, I /completely/ misread you. I haven't been quite so struck by someone in a long time, but I still thought you were just another... I actually booked the penthouse suite when I got us the table," he admits with a shake of his head, highly amused.
Jessica Drew	Jessica's face blushes a full pink before she remembers to breathe. "Well...I..." She isn't sure whether to respond with her defense mechanisms or her heart. "I've never even SEEN the penthouse suite at the Four Seasons...I should probably at least mark that off my bucket list, right?"
Warren Worthington	Warren smiles. "Might be your only chance," he chuckles. "Costs $75,000 a night." He stands up from the table and offers Jessica his hand. They walk across the restaurant and down to the lobby. There is an elevator set aside exclusively for the penthouse and they ride it up. The doors open to a suite that takes up the entire top floor of the hotel. From the elevator you can see straight through to a huge bank of windows. There is a floor to ceiling waterfall falling down LED tubes, making a shimmering curtain. Behind that is a grand piano. There is a sitting room, formal dining room with an enormous table, and hallways leading beyond. Warren smiles to Jessica and walks into the sitting room where there is a bottle champagne chilling. He pops the cork and pours them each a glass, then motions for Jessica to follow him. He leads her out onto the balcony with its view of Central Park and hands Jessica her drink. "Not bad," he comments then raises his glass to Jessica. "To chance encounters."
Jessica Drew	"There is a shocking lack of Velvet Elvis paintings," Jessica quips as she explores the suite with Warren. "For a place that costs $75,000 a night, it seems like they could have spared enough for at least a couple." With a wink, Jessica joins him on the balcony, and takes her glass. And with a nod, she agrees. "To chance encounters."
Warren Worthington	Warren laughs. "They spent the art budget on the complimentary car and driver that comes with the package." He clinks glasses with Jessica and sips his drink. Then he leans against the railing. He considers Jessica, looking amused. "I have no script for you at all," he grins. "You come out of nowhere, enthrall half of New York's best, and have layer upon layer of surprises waiting for me when I get you alone... And you have the most amazing green eyes... Could you be more intriguing?"
Jessica Drew	Jessica shakes her head. "Nope, I'm afraid I blew all my intrigue already. All that's left is what you see." But she's blushing from the compliment and cradles her chin in her hand as she leans against the railing. "You're just...too kind. Thank you. For that..and for everything. For being who you are." She sips her champagne again, looking out over Central Park. "It is just so beautiful up here..."
Warren Worthington	Warren watches Jessica blush and smiles a bit, then he turns to stand beside her, close but not quite touching, looking out at the view. "Hmm," he agrees. "I love the city at night, the night air." He breathes deeply. "It's even better from above."
Jessica Drew	Jessica nods thoughtfully. "I can imagine. I have seen it from the tops of the tallest buildings. I can imagine you've seen views that mine can't compare to." She leans her head against his shoulder and sighs with contentment.
Warren Worthington	"I don't know, your views are pretty impressive," he teases, then goes quiet, enjoying the moment. A light breeze blows across the balcony, playing with his feathers and both of their hair.
Jessica Drew	Looking up at Warren, Jessica finds her attention caught up in the mesmerizing sight of his white feathers ruffling in the night breeze. She lifts a hand, a little hesitantly, and runs her fingertips lightly along his wing, admiring the strong and delicate structure. She fingers a feather gently here and there, quite obviously just taking him all in. "So exquisite," she says softly.
Warren Worthington	Warren extends the wing she reaches for just slightly, revealing its layered plumage. He watches Jessica as she explores the feathers, still trying to make sense of this woman and what he felt. He looks away to scan the night sky, chewing ever so slightly on his bottom lip. Then he stands up straight and gently takes Jessica's glass from her and sets both drinks down on a patio table a couple of steps away. He comes back to Jessica. "Can I..." he pauses, uncharacteristically uncertain. "Can I show you something? Will you trust me?"
Jessica Drew	"Of course, Warren," Jessica replies. "I trust you completely." And her gaze into his eyes only serves to reinforce that. Clear and sure, her eyes reflect an innocence and trust that isn't commonly found in the world these two inhabit.
Warren Worthington	Warren smiles, a touch wonderingly. He moves close to Jessica and puts his arms around her waist. "Put your arms around my neck... And slip out of your heels," he says with grin. Once she does he stretches his wings out to their full reach. They reach up, then with a powerful sweep downwards, Warren and Jessica are lifted off the deck. He pumps his wings, carrying them up and out over Central Park. The warm summer night air pulls at them as they rise higher and gain speed. Once they are moving fast enough, Jessica feels Warren turning her body, always keeping a firm grip on her, until her back is to his chest. Warren's arms and the wind press Jessica tight against him. They circle and the city falls slowly and quietly away below them, spread out like some rich black fabric dotted with twinkling lights. The moon glints off Warren's wings, pearly and irridescent.
Jessica Drew	Jessica is breathless, watching in wonder as the earth falls away from them. She's swung from many a web, but never has she been so dizzy and drunk on the world. Intoxicated by Warren and those beautiful wings which bear them up into the sky. And those hands and arms that hold her so securely. She has never felt at once such freedom, and such belonging.
Warren Worthington	Warren swings out over the ocean in a long, slow arc. The waves dance below them in the weak light, moving to a rhythm all their own. He brings them lower, gently weaving around the superstructure of a tanker underway to the harbour. Two men on the deck point up towards them as they glide by. Then they start to climb again, passing close enough to a black glass tower that their reflection races them back toward Central Park. Warren turns Jessica to face him again and his eyes meet hers. Without looking away from her, he flutters his wings and sets the down gently on their balcony. Once they are back on the ground, Warren's cheeks colour. "I don't usually do that, ever," he admits quietly, sounding embarassed. "I just... Wanted you to see."
Jessica Drew	Jessica is speechless for a moment, still clinging breathlessly to him like a wild vine in midsummer. "It's...it's beautiful. Like you. So amazing..." She is at a loss for words, but her cheeks are flushed pink, and she nearly loses her balance. "So perfect..."
Warren Worthington	Warren holds Jessica tighter to him to steady her. He looks over her face in the dim light and reaches up to sweep a few strands of her hair behind her ear. "Like you," he says, suddenly afraid of ruining a beautiful moment with something crass. "It's getting late," he says quietly, reluctantly. "Will you come save me again from wasting other evenings?"
Jessica Drew	"I would love nothing more,"Jessica responds, watching his eyes for a moment, then laying her head against his chest, and listening to his heartbeat. "I can scarcely believe this is real..." Jessica lifts a hand to caress his cheek affectionately, and whispers a thumb across his bottom lip. "I guess /somebody/ has to save you from all those horrible, beautiful women."
Warren Worthington	Warren gives Jessica a lop-side smile. He leans forward and gently presses his lips to hers, lingering for a moment before he pulls back. "But who will save me from you?"
Jessica Drew	Jessica lingers in that kiss and steals one more, entwining her fingers with his. "If I play my cards right, you won't want to be saved. All I have to do is make you endlessly happy. What could possibly go wrong?"
Warren Worthington	Warren laughs and steps back toward the balcony door, gently pulling Jessica after him. "You know, we haven't explored the rest of the suite," he says, leading her to the hallway and the rooms beyond.