No Bed of Roses

John and Amie Celebrating

2008-06-26T02:35:52Z

[I was supposed to post this several weeks ago, but dropped the ball. So this happened in early June. Cheers. ]

Normally, Amie catches the bus home from work. It's not far and commuting, to her, is stepping back into the real world for 15 minutes every day. But today she doesn't want John to beat her, so after she walks to the off-licence to pick up a bottle of wine, she catches a taxi the rest of the way home.

She hasn't spent much time in the flat in the past week so it's reasonably tidy. She does a quick scout around, retrieving clothes and empty coffee mugs that were set on counters or strewn across the backs of chairs and then goes for a quick shower. She's changed into jeans and a t-shirt and is sitting on the couch, towel drying her hair and half watching the news when the intercom rings. She tosses the towel over the back of the couch (which is how messes in Amie's flat tend to begin), crosses the room and picks up the handset. "Hiya, come on up," she says and buzzes John in.

John took the stairs by two, arriving at her flat in a moment's time. He has a bottle of champagne in his hand. Though he knows she has wine, John is of the opinion that no proper celebration could be done without at least a sip of champagne.

He'd gone home and changed after a particularly rough debriefing, involving both his recent escapades in Sudan as well as his "sudden" tendency to spend a lot of time with Ms. Preston. John was not much of a fan of the administrative professionals that, for some reason, outranked him, and after the meeting had needed a shower, a shave, and a scotch.

So now, at Amie's door, he is feeling much more light of heart and step as he knocks. He's wearing gray pants and a dark blue shirt, collar unbuttoned. Trying the knob, he finds it open and so steps in.

"Hello?" John looks around for a moment before he sees Amie. "You look lovely this evening, Amie. I have to say, you make me a fan of the jeans and t-shirt look."

He holds up the bottle of champagne. "I've brought proper celebratory material."

"Hi," Amie says, emerging from the kitchen. She feels her cheeks flush at his compliment and drops her gaze, embarrassed at her reaction. "Thank you." In true geek fashion, she's a lot more confident when she's at the computer than she is face-to-face. She looks up again when he holds up the champagne.

"It's a real celebration now," she says, smiling. "Come in, I'll get some glasses."

"As it should be. It's not just anyone that can bring China, with its impressive firewalls and encryption software, to its knees." He follows her in, and as she reaches for the glasses, he rests his hand against the small of her back and leans in. "You really are quite incredible."

It's only a momentary touch, and then he moves on and places the bottle on the counter before leaning against it to watch her.

Amie thinks, when he touches her, that she must be completely red in the face. "Thanks. But it really wasn't just me. It was Malcolm and I, it's been our project for between ops," she says.

She turns back holding the glasses by their stems. "But, that being said, I don't mind that you're here with the champagne, I think I appreciate the gesture more than Malcolm would," she says, smiling. She uncorks the bottle and pours the champagne into the two glasses.

John laughs and takes the champagne, clinking his glass against hers. "I certainly hope so. The last time I offered Malcolm any champagne, he threated to break my nose. I rather like my nose the way it is."

"Well, congratulations to you, Amie. Team effort or not, it was still quite the effort, and I'm very happy to share the celebration with you." He lifts his glass to take a sip.

"Thank you, again. And welcome home, it's good to have you back," she says and then pauses to take a sip. "And I'm glad that he didn't break your nose, I rather like it the way it is as well." Apparently, somewhere between pouring and drinking the champagne she'd found a bit more confidence.

He smiles briefly. "Thank you." Such a simple compliment, and yet John is surprised by his reaction it. It's as if she'd just told him he's the most handsome man on Earth. To cover his sudden discomfort, he takes a another, longer sip of champagne. It helps.

"It's good to be back. Sometimes I wish you would come out into the field so I can spend more time with you, instead of our brief encounters between missions. But I know it'd be selfish of me to deprive Her Majesty of your skills at the computer." Reaching over, he takes the bottle of champagne and tops of their glasses. "Perhaps one day I can at least convince you to go on holiday with me."

"I don't think I really want to be in the field. I'm not really the loving danger type, unless of course it's of the hacking variety of danger. And if I got trapped in a pyramid, I'd probably go crazy because there's no internet access inside."

The holiday suggestion throws Amie off slightly. She's not sure what to say to it, so she concentrates on her drink to give herself some time to think of a reply.

"Perhaps. One day," she says. "You're really one for planning ahead, aren't you?"

He watches her reaction before replying, nonchalantly: "In your case, yes. I dare say you inspire me to imagine a future." Rather than dwelling on what is obviously an uncomfortable subject for her, John changes gears. "The field isn't for everyone. Neither is hacking. You and I are imminently suited for our tasks, it'd be a shame to waste our talents elsewhere, only because I'd like to be closer to you."

Amie is a little surprised but very pleased to hear him say that. She hadn't really let herself imagine things like holidays and the future when they first started spending time together, so hearing the suggestion come from him is a pleasant surprise. She takes a sip of her champagne and smiles to herself.

"I'm glad that the closest I get to the field is the obo van. Honestly, the field terrifies me. I guess the thought of being cooped up on the Grid all day terrifies you."

"Why does the field terrify you?" John's brow furrows as he asks the question, and he takes a step towards her, then another, until they're standing side by side. "I'm not terrified of very much. Being cooped up doesn't terrify me. Being useless does. You're not useless on the Grid, I am. That's why I stay out as often as possible."

"Though," he added quietly, "I suddenly find myself considering the merits of a UK only assignment."

"Because of the things that happen. Every time I see one of you think your way out of something, I think I'd never be able to do something like that. I'd end up... well, let's just say that I'm better off as a desk agent, much better off," she says. "I don't think you're useless on the Grid, just that your talents are put to better use when you're in the field."

Amie gives him a questioning look. "I thought you liked to travel? Why would you want to just hang around here when you can go off and see the world?"

"I do like to travel." John nods in agreement before continuing. "I like meeting new... people," he meant women, "and seeing the world. But there are certain benefits to staying here. You among them."

He smiles at her. "In fact, you chief among them."

"I'm flattered." She touches her cheeks, knowing that she's gone red again. "And I'm going to end up with a big head, or at least permanently turn the colour of a beetroot, after all these compliments."

John lifts his hand, his fingertips touching her cheek briefly, mirroring her movement from a moment before. "I think you've gone too long without the proper amount of compliments. A few from me won't hurt." His hand drops. "I can control myself if you're uncomfortable."

"Not uncomfortable, just… I don’t know, I’m not used to it." She has another sip of her drink. "I didn't know that there was a proper amount of compliments. Have you had your required amount today?"

"Well, get used to it. I intend to do it a lot." John finishes his glass in one sip and sets it down on the counter. "I do fine without compliments. A side effect of my school boy years, I imagine."

"I think if you're going to be so liberal with the compliments that I should at least return the favour every once in a while. I'm pretty sure that I won't be able to get you to blush the same way that I do, but I can at least give it a try." Amie sets her glass down next to his. She reaches for the bottle and tops off both of their glasses. "Maybe we should go into the living room? If I drink too much more champagne I’m not going to be able to stand here like this for very long. Or at all."

John smiles. "That wouldn't be so bad." But instead of suggested the bedroom, he takes up both of their glasses and walks to the living room. He waits for her to sit before he sets their glasses down on the coffee table and joins her on the couch. "I'll never turn down a compliment, of course. I'd be a fool to do that."

On the way out of the kitchen, Amie grabs the bottle of wine that she bought out of the fridge. She kicks the door shut and follows John into the living room. "Okay, well," she leans forward and sets the bottle on the table next to the glasses. "You’re really quite the gentleman. And you’re clever and good at your job… and I like spending time with you," she says. "How's that for a start?"

"That's a brilliant start." John laughs and moved forward on the couch until their knees are touching. "Thank you. But most of all I'm glad that you like spending time with me. Some women think I've got only one thing on my mind." Though, to be fair, he usually did. "I appreciate you giving me the chance to show you that there's more to me than my libido, or my phenomenal skills in bed."

"I really do. I like that you're not spending all your time trying to get me to go to bed with you. " she says. "It's hard in the service, you know, hard to make friends and meet people. It's nice to have someone who I can be myself around and who I don't have to give a cover story to." She finishes off her drink. "I wouldn't be adverse to seeing your other side as well, though."

"If I can make a confession?" He leans forward. "For once in my life I'd be just as happy to remain only friends with you, if that's all you want from me. I really do like you, Amie, as more than just a companion for one night. I agree; I like being myself around you. And though myself enjoys sex with beautiful women, with you it's more than that."

"Though," he adds as he leans back, "I'm just as happy to show you that side of me, if and when you decide it's right for you."

"See, I was right when I said you're a gentleman." She lifts her hand, and hesitates for a second. Deciding it's OK, she reaches over and takes his hand in hers. "Thank you."

Amie gives his hand a little squeeze and then lets go. She reaches for her empty glass just so she's got something to occupy her hands while she speaks. "Honestly, I don't know if I just want to be your friend. But I also don't think I'm ready to jump into anything. I'm more of a slow and steady type of girl, so if you don't want to wait around... well, I don't expect you to. And I won't be mad or anything."

"You're welcome." John smiles at her, and waits a moment after the finishes before responding. "Can I ask... do you want me to not see other women while I 'wait' for you? Your answer won't affect my decision, I just want to know."

John was telling that, if she asked him to, he wouldn't sleep with any other women while she set the pace for their relationship. It was a big offer, which John knew, and he was half worried about having to keep it. The risk, he hoped, would become great reward in the end.

Once again, John has surprised her. She'd told herself going into this that it was what it was. John is a nice man who she likes, but she's smart, she didn't really expect commitment and she had been fine with that. But now...

"I..." She realises after she starts that she doesn't know what she's going to say. "Um, wow."

Amie smiles. "It would be nice. I mean, if you would wait."

"Then I'll wait. But," he pauses and offers her a small smile, "you know that was coming, didn't you? The but? I'm going to Washington this next weekend, to meet with a woman there. Rachel. I believe I've told you about her. I... she and I have developed a certain rapport over these past few months. I don't know that anything physical will happen with her, but I want to be honest with you: it might."

"She's not a threat to you," he adds softly, "in any way. You know, normally I wouldn't care about saying things that make it seem like I consider women conquests, but I do care what you think. And yet I find that I can't say what I need to say any other way... or, at least, I don't know what other way there is to say it." He looks directly into Amie's eyes. "Rachel and I have been flirting and getting to know one another for several months. I won't tell you I don't want to sleep with her. I do. But... I won't, if it would harm my chances with you."

"I think I've learned not to assume anything when it comes to you." She takes another moment to consider everything that he's had to say. "Look, I'm happy for you to go to DC and let whatever happens, happen. I don't really know what this, you and me, is yet, and I don't expect you to wait around while I make up my mind."

She sighs. "Sorry, I think that might have come out the wrong way. I don't mind what you do in DC, it's not going to change how I feel about you. Not at all."

"It's hard to explain that Rachel is different. I won't pick up any more women, I won't attempt to seduce anyone after I return from Washington. I want -" He stops, and cants his head, and smiles at her. "And how do you feel about me?"

"Well..." Amie grins. "Things have certainly been better since you've been around. And well, I like you too much to waste this on a one night thing. So all the things you've said, well they make me feel better."

It wasn't an exact answer, but it would do for John for now. He nods and pours himself some wine. "I'm glad you feel better. And I'm glad you feel that way about me. I feel... like I like you too much to waste this on a one night thing as well. Which, for me..." He laughs.

"Enough about me. This is supposed to be a celebration for you. So! What would you like for dinner. Take away from your favourite spot, even if I have to go pick it up, and it's on me."

From Aryn and Rachel both.

2008-05-08T16:47:59Z

You entered: Jonathon Elton Campion

There are 20 letters in your name.
Those 20 letters total to 90
There are 8 vowels and 12 consonants in your name.

What your first name means:

Hebrew

Male

Jehovah has given. In the bible Jonathan son of King Saul was noted for manliness; generosity and unselfishness. He saved David's life when Saul would have killed him.

Your number is: 9

The characteristics of #9 are: Humanitarian, giving nature, selflessness, obligations, creative expression.

The expression or destiny for #9:
The expression that you exhibit is represented bythe number 9. Your talents center in humanistic interests and approaches. You like to help others as you were intended to be the 'big brother or big sister' type. You operate best when you follow your feelings and sense of compassion, and allow yourself to be sensitive to the needs of others. You work well with people, and have the potential to inspire. This suggests that you could successfully teach or counsel. Creative ability, imagination and artistic talent (often latent) of the highest order are present in this expression. It's possible that you're not using or developing all of these capabilities at this time. Some of your talents may have been used at an earlier time in your life, and some may still be latent. Be aware of your capabilities, so that you can make use of them at appropriate times.

If you are able to achieve the potential of your natural expression in this life, you are capable of much human understanding and have a lot to give to others. Your personal ambitions are likely to be maintained in a very positive perspective, never losing sight of an interest in people, and a sympathetic, tolerant, broad-minded and compassionate point of view. You are quite idealistic, and disappointed at the lack of perfection in the world. You have a strong awareness of your own feeling as well as those of others. Friendships, affection, and love are extremely important.

Undeveloped or ignored, the negative side of the 9 expression can be very selfish and self-centered. If you do not actively involve yourself with work that benefits others, you may tend to express just the opposite characteristics. It is your role to be very involved with other people and their needs, but it may be difficult for you achieve this role. Aloofness, lack of involvement, and a lack of sensitivity mark the low road of this expression.

Your Soul Urge number is: 4

A Soul Urge number of 4 means:
With the Soul Urge or Motivation number of 4 you are likely to strive for a stable life. You tend to follow a rather orderly pattern and systematic approach in your endeavors. You have an inner desire to serve others in a methodical and diligent manner. You want to be in solid, conventional, and well-regulated activities, and you are somewhat disturbed by innovation and erratic or sudden changes. Excellent at organizing, systematizing, and managing, you have a way of establishing order and maintaining it. You are responsible, reliable and in the final analysis, practical. Highly analytical, you can see your way through all sorts of situations and generally have a clear understanding of the issues. You are a very honest, sincere, and conscientious individual.

The negative side of the 4 is rigid, stubborn and somewhat narrow-minded. There is a tendency to hide feelings, or to really not be aware of real feelings. Avoid being too rigid and stubborn in your thinking, and try to always see the big picture rather than becoming to involved with the detail. Don't be afraid to take a chance once in awhile.

Your Inner Dream number is: 5

An Inner Dream number of 5 means:
You dream of being totally free and unrestrained by responsibility. You see yourself conversing and mingling with the natives in many nations, living for adventure and life experiences. You imagine what you might accomplished.

The Things I Do For Gingers

2008-04-28T17:49:10Z

From Rachel. The idea is that you fill it out and then put it in your journal.

1 ) Are you currently in a serious relationship?
A.

2) What was your dream growing up?
A.

3) What talent do you wish you had?
A.

4) If I bought you a drink what would it be?
A.

5) Favorite vegetable?
A.

6) What was the last book you read?
A.

7) What zodiac sign are you?
A.

8) Any Tattoos and/or Piercings? Explain where.
A.

9) Worst Habit?
A.

10) If you saw me walking down the street would you offer me a ride?
A.

11) What is your favorite sport?
A.

12) Do you have a Negative or Optimistic attitude?
A.

13) What would you do if you were stuck in an elevator with me?
A.

14) Worst thing to ever happen to you?
A.

15) Tell me one weird fact about you.
A.

16) Do you have any pets?
A.

17) What if i showed up at your house unexpectedly?
A.

18) What was your first impression of me?
A.

19) Do you think clowns are cute or scary?
A.

20) If you could change one thing about how you look, what would it be?
A.

21) Would you be my crime partner or my conscience?
A.

22) What color eyes do you have?
A.

23) Ever been arrested?
A.

24) Bottle or can soda?
A.

25) If you won $10,000 today, what would you do with it?
A.

27) What's your favorite place to hang at?
A.

28) Do you believe in ghosts?
A.

29) Favorite thing to do in your spare time?
A.

30) Do you swear a lot?
A.

31) Biggest pet peeve?
A.

32) In one word, how would you describe yourself?
A.

33) Do you believe in/appreciate romance?
A.

35) Do you believe in God?
A.

36) Will you repost this so I can fill it out and do the same for you?
A.

Facts about John; FPK

2008-04-23T01:41:21Z

To be added as I come up with them:

1) Was raised by two mothers in Fulham. They're still together, and he calls them Mum and Mother.

2) Huge football fan, follows Chelsea FC. Also likes cricket, but only Twenty20, because the other one's "dreadfully boring". Has a guilty obsession with basketball, even though it's "a bloody colony sport."

3) Wanted to be a chef.

4) Joined the British Army to serve as a cook, but ended up in Air Defence and then the unknown Spec Ops unit.

5) Final tour was one of the first deployed to Afghanistan post 9/11.

6) Has had one fiancé, a dozen girlfriends, and too many sexual partners to count.

7) Heterosexual, but tried sex with men a couple of times, just to increase his potential partner pool. Didn't take to it.

8) Has absolutely no interest in settling down with someone, other than for a cover story, but is open to the idea that it could happen one day.

9) Once thumb wrestled Prince Harry. Lost on purpose.

10) Has a fish named Churchill.

11) Unflinchingly patriotic, and would serve Queen and Country above all else, including, sometimes, the PM and Parliament.

12) Tried to act for a few years, but couldn't get any decent roles (despite sleeping with two producers... at the same time).

13) Climbed Mt. Everest. One of the members of the party mysteriously died on the way up. John comforted the tour leader, who was shaken to lose her first ever climber. They get together whenever she's in London or he's in Nepal.

14) Has a tattoo of a Tudor rose on his right buttock, which he procured while very drunk at the urgings of a very beautiful young lady named Anne.

15) Has tested with an IQ of 131, 167, 112, 99, and 155 depending on the test, his mood, and how attractive he found the proctor.

16) Speaks twelve languages. Thirteen if you count American as a foreign language, which he does.

17) Once competed in Sasuke, just for kicks, but didn't make it past the second round (ran out of time on the last wall lift).

18) Was childhood friends with the woman who became his fiancée. They were engaged for a year before she called off the wedding (which was going to be April 27).