Speech is Silver

David Hall || 33 years old || Politician and Client at the Haus of Perses

[mreynoldsx]

Hearing Dave's statement, Mike softly chewed on the corner of his lip and he flicked his brows, "I mean...yeah." He admitted softly, "I never really...asked her about it, I guess. It was just how it was." Now he felt bad for not thinking about his mother more in that situation but there was really no changing it now. "My mom is tough. She's been married to my dad for over forty years. She's used to it." He mentioned with a nod. His mom was a great lady. It was a shame that over the past decade, Mike rarely got to see her. And now that he was retired, he was spending all his time on some island in the middle of the ocean. What a shitty fucking son he was.

He nodded in understanding as the other spoke of his father situation. While their lives were different, they seemed to be able to understand what it was like growing with a father expecting something so big of you, "I feel like... a lot of politician families don't." He mentioned with a frown, "It's just something that runs in the family. I imagine it's difficult to separate the two aspects of your life." Mike really had no idea, but it seemed like it would be hard. At least his mother accepted his job. That was one, small win.

His brow raised at David's next question before they immediately furrowed as well as his lips pressing together into a tight line. Mike had never thought about it. He just knew that the FBI was his future. The next question seemed to be tougher for Dave, especially after he accidentally brushed his leg against his own. It was obvious that the other got nervous about those types of things, but it was really nothing. Reaching out, Mike softly patted Dave on the hand, his way of saying 'everything is fine' before he looked down to his menu again, "Well, I think I want a burger and some onion rings. I can't recommend those more." He mentioned, then dropped his menu and folded his hands, "The job question though...that's hard." He admitted and sighed, shaking his head, "It never occurred to me want to be anything else..." How stupid was that? "It's all I've known." Mike frowned a bit, suddenly feeling like he missed out on something important, "What's yours?" Maybe that would trigger something in his mind.

[davidxhall]

David could easily tell how much admiration Mike had for his mom after that short exchange – and honestly, he could understand exactly why he felt that way. Moms were tough. A lot of kids should give them more credit than they did nowadays but that was how things were. They would always want what was best for their own children – while at the same time allowing them to pursuit their dreams and aspirations. “Moms are tough. We might view them as fragile beings because they are our moms and we only know that soft side of theirs but…” They could be really damn tough. Having to accept their son’s career choice even if they didn’t probably wasn’t the easiest thing in the world to do… but they always succeeded in seeing the long run. Whatever made their kids happy, would make them happy. David chuckled and nodded at Mike’s words, giving the other man a quick smile as he admired the strength he mentioned from his mom. “I have no doubts in my mind that your mom is an incredible woman. I mean, she raised you.” And as long as their kids were happy… so would they. It was just that easy. At the mention of running in the family – the politician genes that is – David could only nod in silent response, considering the weight of Mike’s words. Maybe it was something genetic or maybe the concept of following their father or mother’s footsteps had been ingrained into them since an early age. Honestly, David didn’t know if he followed politics because he wanted to or because it was a way to connect to his father. His mother… she was a stay at home mom. Typical politician wife with her well trained smiles and waves – knowledgeable enough to organize fundraisers and other public events that would further boost her husband’s career. Like the saying went – behind every powerful man there was an even more powerful woman. “I think deep down… she just wanted for me to live my life. And while she accepted my own choice to follow in his footsteps, she knew better than me at the time of the price to pay for it.” No actual freedom to say or do whatever he wanted. To have his life dictated and controlled by a very precise schedule that he needed to maintain. Public opinion was in the end… everything for a politician. Clearing his throat, David could feel his cheeks burn even more once Mike’s hand covered his own, almost as if reassuring him that it was ok to brush his leg against his own under the table. No harm done – not like he had kicked him in the balls or something. To be like that with another man – to be able to speak freely and not having to second guess his ever choice of words or actions was something that would take David some time to get used to. It was ok to touch a man at the Haus. To touch their hand or walk with their arms linked or even smile at one. No one would judge him there. No one would point a finger and gasp in a rather audible way. He needed to make sure to remember that. To remember that at the Haus… he could be who he wanted to be. “T think I’ll ask for the same as you. Burger and onion rings. It has been a long time since I ate a burger, honestly. I barely remember what those taste like.” And as the question about what he would do if he had a choice, David could only lower his eyes to the menu and feel that faint smile creeping on his own lips. He had thought about it. What he would do if he had a choice or even if things had been different.

“Promise you won’t laugh? I…. I always wanted to like… be a teacher. Maybe highschool or college level. I… don’t know exactly why but… y-yeah.. That’s what I would do if things worked differently, I guess.”

[mreynoldsx]

Mike immediately felt better about calling him Dave when the other agreed it was what he preferred for his friends to call him. That was nice. They were certainly becoming fast friends, in his opinion. The ease of conversation and the somehow familiarity that David brought made everything easier for them, he felt. He smiled a bit as the man questioned about how he found the tile, clearly intrigued by it and Mike shrugged his shoulders, "It's just something I picked up on. Here, you'll see." As the other offered his arm, Mike smiled and softly grabbed it, moving along with Dave to the entrance to the Calypso's.

Turning them both around, the retired agent pointed ahead, "You can't miss it now that I pointed it out, right?" He asked, his brow raising. That was one thing that he always noticed when he walked to the restaurant, "Don't tell the King's. They'll have it fixed in a heartbeat and then I'll have to find a new trick." He joked before he nodded his head, "C'mon." Mike turned back around and guided them inside the restaurant, picking out a booth in the corner. Sliding inside, he grabbed the menus from the back of the table and passed one over to his new friend.

"I wasn't blowing off your question." Mike mentioned as he opened up his menu, "Just thought we could sit." He chuckled, "My father and grandfather were both agents, so my mom just assumed it was the path I was going to take. She wasn't happy about it but--" He shrugged, "Not much she could do about it. My dad primed me for it my whole life." Looking back, it explained a lot about Mike. He really was just a product of his father. Perhaps his whole life he didn't know much about his own identity. How sad was that? Almost forty-years-old and just now figuring out himself? "Did your mother eventually come to terms with your job then?" He asked, genuinely curious, "It's hard when parents don't exactly see eye to eye with you on such a big part of your life."

[davidxhall]

Oh, he had absolute no intention to tell anyone about the slightly wronged tile since he would be using that little tidbit of information to guide his sorry ass inside the Haus – even more so when coming out to eat to Mike’s election of a dinner. The name alone was intriguing. Calypso . A sea nymph often mentioned to be the one representing platonic love and unrequited love. What an odd choice for a name to a restaurant… but Dave could understand the whole concept around the name considering they were in a tropical island. All he could do now was wonder if there were other parts of the island that were also named after Greek myths. That would be a cool concept. And he could always ask Mike or venture for himself around the island… once he had gotten more experience with the whole landmark thing. That… was probably for the best. As Mike accepted his arm, Dave could feel his cheeks burning as they entered the restaurant, a polite smile to the waiters as he merely followed Mike to one of the booths in the corner and once Mike had slid to his own seat – David shortly followed and sat across the table from the other man, quickly thanking him for the menu. “Just because she was used to that and knew that there was a very large chance that you’d follow in their footsteps… doesn’t mean it was easy to hear.” It was already hard to have one son or daughter in the army… let alone joining the ranks in Quantico and being sent lord knew where in the world. “I get the whole dad thing. My dad always wanted for me to follow in his footsteps since I was a kid. I don’t remember wanting to be anything else other than a politician. I was never really… given a choice.” Maybe he could have been a doctor or a teacher or… something else. But now, he would never know.

“She accepted it, eventually. I mean – like your own mother, not much she could do about it. All my father always cared about was politics and I grew up in that world. It was as much part of me as anything else.” And being a politician did allow him to be closer to his father. Follow in his footsteps, make him proud… too bad Jonah would never have the chance to prove himself in the eyes of their parental unit. “Ok, I have two questions!” David was all smiles and he could feel such a carefree vibe coming from Mike that it was impossible not to be sucked in that same relaxed mood. “First, have you ever wanted to be something else other than what you ended up being? And second…?” His eyes moved to the menu and David stretched his legs under the table, nearly yelping the moment he felt his leg brush against Mike’s. “Uh… S-Sorry. I didn’t mean to uh…. T-That! I … w-w-what are you having?!” The best thing he could do now was quickly change the subject before he would dig himself deeper into an already open grave. “Any… recommendations?”

[mreynoldsx]

It wasn't very often that Mike met someone similar to David. Working on the police force, people didn't often wear their heart on their sleeve, so to speak, and he could tell that the man beside was much like that. It was different, but nice. It intrigued Mike. Someone like David could be good for him. It could open him up to new things that he hadn't felt in a long time. He was curious if it was going to happen. He smiled a bit at the others comment before he quickly took it back. That tracked for the man beside him, from what Mike knew. He nodded at his comment, "It is easy." He mentioned, "I need something like that." The easier it was to talk to someone, the more open Mike was.

He listened as the other spoke of his family and he chuckled softly at the mention of another secret family, "That would be a lot to deal with." Which most definitely wasn't fun. He was glad that Jonah was the only one. It would be very fair if there was another long lost sibling out there for David. Mike shook his head at the man's question, "Nah, just me." He mentioned, "I'm a rainbow baby. My mom wasn't supposed to be able to have kids and somehow, here I am." He was fairly certain him being their miracle baby was one of the reasons why his mom was so concerned with Mike following his father and grandfather's footsteps. She didn't want to lose her only son.

His gaze shifted slowly towards the man as he dug himself a hole deeper and deeper with each sentence. And it wasn't even with Mike. Mike understood what he meant the first time and really didn't think anything of it. It was definitely David overthinking it. It was sweet, "You're fine, Dave." Pause, "Can I...call you Dave?" He asked then spoke again, "I understand what you mean. It was a fine assessment of me." The case that caused his retirement, Mike acted like the big brother to all those poor people trapped with him there. He was there to protect them, one way or another,

Clearing his throat, he pointed ahead, "Calypso's is right ahead. You can tell it's coming up because--" He paused their walk and pointed a tile that was right before them. It was placed over to the right too much. It was the only tile in the whole Haus of Perses that Mike had noticed was like that, "--of this tile. See how it's placed wrong? When you see that, Calypso's is coming up." He then proceeded to move and within a minute or so, there was the casual restaurant, "Make sense? Any questions?"

[davidxhall]

David was relieved that he wasn’t digging himself a much deeper grave than needed – for Mike appeared to read between the lines of his chaotic rant that seemed to become a lot more common right there at the island. It had something to do with the fact that he didn’t usually talked to guys so openly outside the Haus. Always having to keep himself professional, knowing that there was always some paparazzi following him and waiting for some monumental scandal that they could use to destroy his political career. But… nerves aside, it was really easy to talk to Mike. Words were coming up with nothing but honesty and genuine interest and the fact that Dave didn’t have to pretend to be someone that he was not was… it felt so damn good. Not only his mental health was thankful for that but David had the chance to remember the man he was deep down rather than the imagine he had to pass onto the world. “Well, I am always available whenever you need someone to talk. Or not. We can just sit in quiet contemplation of the mysteries of the universe or something.” Hearing Mike mention that he was a rainbow baby made David chuckle – for in a way, he understood that a little bit. Sure, his father had two kids but his mother only had him as far he was aware and she was already over protective of him. He couldn’t imagine how it was for Mike’s mother, having a child so late in life. That must have made her triple concerned about everything he did and didn’t do. “Do you mind if I ask how did she react when you decided what to do with your life? I mean – it’s not exactly a nine to five secure desk job or anything. My mom used to freak over the slightest little thing, so I can’t imagine how yours digested your career choice. My mother never wanted for me to follow politics. She was married to one and she knew what the cost of that was… she often mentioned I was selling my soul and wasn’t that much different from a lawyer.” His mom HATED lawyers. “Did yours… accept it well or took some convincing?” At the little question of if Mike could call him Dave, all David could do at that point was smile and nod toward his friend as he gently nudged Mike yet again as they appeared to come closer to the chosen restaurant for the night. “I’d like that. My friends call me Dave. And… I’d like to believe that we are already becoming friends.” Shit – such a corny thing to say but it did warm David’s heart to hear Mike call him that. It meant that even despite his rambling and tendency for getting lost – Mike was ok with being close to him and spend time together. However, the most fascinating thing was yet to happen. As David was still coming down from the little high of being called Dave, his eyes followed Mike’s indications to the tile that was different from the others. It was placed a little bit too much to the right and it was one of those landmarks that Mike had mentioned before. One not as obvious as a palm tree but still – a landmark.

“Do I even want to ask how you noticed this?” David leaned closer to the tile and poked it with one finger, giving Mike a rather curious look. “I mean, I’m sure you have to be very observant considering your occupation but… this?” Who would noticed a tile being a bit too much to the right and being different from all others? Well, a very trained eye. Mike did. “When I think you can’t impress me even more, you prove me wrong.” Dave chuckled and after a second of pondering about something, he playfully offered Mike his arm to take if he wanted to. “I’m sure I’ll have a lot more questions to drop on your lap during dinner. You intrigue me, Mike. In the good way, I mean. Not in the bad. You just… are unlike anyone I have ever met.”

[mreynoldsx]

Turning his blue eyes towards David, his head tilted a bit when the other apologized, almost like a confused puppy. He was apologizing for being shit at directions? That was odd. Mike immediately shrugged his shoulders, "It's really not a problem. I'm happy to help." Mike would never admit it out loud, but he liked feeling like he had a reason to get up in the morning. Ever since he retired, he had found it difficult to find a reason. Most of the time, he wanted to just lay around and hermit. But if he knew there was a, potentially, lost David wandering around the Haus, that would probably give him incentive to get up and make sure he wasn't lost in the forest somewhere. He smiled a bit at the others comment, "Even if you weren't, I'd stick around." Mike mentioned with a small smile.

Mike wasn't quite sure what he was expecting to hear when he asked about the man's brother. He was a surprised to hear that he was going to make his presence known so soon. And he was even more surprised to hear that he was going to request his services as a way to get him alone. It took just about every ounce of willpower in Mike's body not to make a face at that. Mike had zero room to judge a situation like David's. He certainly didn't have a long lost brother wandering around those halls. And if he did, he wouldn't know how he'd go about breaking the news to him.

"I mean...yeah." Mike mumbled a bit and shrugged his shoulder, "That sounds like as good of a plan as any." He didn't really know what kind of advice he could give the man beside him. Nothing would really help the situation, would it? "Do you have any other siblings?" Mike asked. He was pretty sure he didn't, unless they just weren't worth mentioning, which could very well be the case, "Or are they all MIA like Jonah?" Mike then asked with a small smile. The longer Mike stayed at the house, the more he was able to find his humor again. It was nice. He missed it.

[davidxhall]

It felt kind of refreshing to actually spend time with a guy that wouldn’t… judge him to harshly over his tendency to get lost in the most casual of environments. Ever since he could remember, David had a knack to get lost. And after a while – he learned how to turn that into some sort of joke because he was a tad tired of the curious looks that people gave him when he shared that bit of information with them. Most people didn’t believe him at all but after hanging out with him a little bit, they eventually learned that he wasn’t exaggerating at all. If he had a business dinner or something, if it wasn’t for his car GPS, chances were that he would need to leave his place almost two hours early just to account on the wrong turns he would make along the way. And Mike seemed ok with that side of him… which was pretty much the first individual that had no qualms with his tendency to get lost. Most people just… didn’t exactly care for that was not their problem.

“You’d stick around even if I wasn’t interesting?” God damn – David could feel his cheeks burning as he tried to swallow a laugh at Mike’s words, feeling like a little teenage boy all over again that didn’t quite know how to handle compliments. That was a compliment, right? That even if he wasn’t interesting enough, a guy like Mike would still hang out with him. “Is it my charming personality or my dashing good looks?” Not that David was trying to flirt but those words just slipped past his lips in a way of a joke with the politician quickly withdrawing his hands from his jeans to wave them in front of Mike. “I’m joking! I’m joking! Please don’t answer that question. I’m mortified enough for having said that in the first place.” Again, talking with attractive guys never failed to make a mess out of him and even when he tried to be confident, David would still find a way to trip on his own words. “I’ll stick around too. Not just since you’re my impromptu knight in shining armor but… I like talking to you. It’s… easy.” David’s attention was now further ahead. Thinking about the meeting with Jonah and already feeling the palms of his hands getting all sweaty due to anxiety. “I need to get alone with him somehow, you know? I can’t approach him in public for I don’t want to make a spectacle out of it.” It was no one else’s problem but his own. “By calling him to my cabin under the pretext of wanting a massage or something, I’ll have the necessary time to introduce myself and explain why I’m there and… hope for the best.” After a moment of deep contemplation, David shook his head as he was brought back to the present by Mike’s words, which easily made a laugh roll from his lips. “As far as I am aware, I don’t have any more siblings. One secret brother is already too much to handle, let alone discovering my dad – or mom – had a whole entire family out there. That’s… scary.” He wouldn’t put it past his father who already succeeded in getting ONE son outside of marriage. “What about you?” David nudged Mike playfully on his shoulder as they walked. “Do you have any siblings? You have this big brother vibe but maybe I’m saying that cause you’re helping me around. N-Not that I uh… see you as a brother. Hell no. That would… uh… be sooooo wrong for so many reasons! Not that you wouldn’t be a nice big brother but there… things… uh…” Shit. David was burning now. “I’m going to just shut the hell up.”

[mreynoldsx]

His hands slipped into his pockets as he walked beside David, listening to the answer of his question. The fact that David was truly hopeless at directions was quite perplexing to Mike. He wondered why that was. He had heard of people being bad at them but, wow, he really seemed to take the cake. Mike was a pretty good teacher at a bunch of different things so he was hoping that he would be able to help his new friend as much as he could. However, it did seem that large spaces were the issue, which was understandable to some extent. There was a part of Mike that wondered if David's directional issues were a form of agoraphobia that was just manifesting differently.

Mike was no psychologist though. So, he didn't even bring it up. But it was something to think about.

The man gave him the permission to laugh but honestly, Mike didn't find it all that funny. Not anymore. He couldn't imagine feeling so lost in so many situations all the time. Mike released a huff and he looked over towards David, "Well, let's see if there's something we can do about that. I would hate for you to be lost all the time on the island. Wandering and adventuring around this place is half the fun but only if you can find your way back." Mike was determined to get David to find his way back.

Stepping onto the beach, towards the resort, he pointed off towards the tree line, "Remember that palm tree?" He asked, "Means we're on the way to resort." Hopefully David did. Mike had just shown him it a couple hours ago. If he didn't, then they might have a case of short term memory loss on their hands. And that was far beyond anything that Mike could do. As they continued to move towards the resort, they soon found themselves back at reception, which then would lead them to several different avenues, "From there, there are plenty of paths. Straight ahead will take us to the restaurants." He began to move in that direction with David, "When do you plan on seeing your brother?" He asked, genuinely curious.

[davidxhall]

It was a good thing that he was accompanied to do such a simple task as go to a restaurant. Or maybe it was a bad thing? While David did joke about being completely beyond help when it came to directions, he did feel every now and then that he was just like a damn three-year old that required guidance from his mommy or daddy. There was really not that much of a difference. He would make his way to where he wanted to go but he would usually take a wrong turn somewhere because he was either distracted or had too many things on his mind to stop him from focusing on where he was supposed to go. Or maybe… he was just helpless when it came to directions. And he had wondered more often than not once he discovered he had a brother if Jonah was like him. If getting lost was some sort of family trait or it was just an issue that bothered him and him alone. But it did feel good to walk around with Mike. Not only for the pleasure of his company but David knew the other client would point him towards potential landmarks that would facilitate his way around the island. David was not saying that he wouldn’t end up lost again but learning about that sort of thing would definitely decrease his chance of doing so. “I remember the palm tree.” As they passed by it, David halted his step for a moment to look at the palm tree Mike had pointed out earlier on his way to his cabin. He remembered that one. It meant he was on his way to the reception desk if he was coming from his cabin or on the way to his cabin if he came from the reception desk. At least on that route… he wouldn’t end up lost. “I think the landmark suggestion you presented earlier is going to help me a lot. I never… stopped to just find one thing that will help me navigate in a place.” David usually had too many things crossing his mind at the same time to focus on his surroundings. That’s why a GPS was his best friend.

With his hands tucked on the pockets of his jeans, David followed Mike to the reception area yet again – proud of himself from recognizing the path that had brought him to the first place he had ever visited since arriving. Ok – he could do the cabin-reception path without getting lost. That was definitely an improvement. His head turned toward Mike as he heard the next explanation – straight ahead from reception meant restaurants. “Ok. Straight ahead is simple enough to memorize. I’m sorry…” David chuckled and scratched the back of his neck in a clear and obvious embarrassment. “Bet you never thought you’d have dinner with a guy that is borderline helpless with directions. I promise I am more interesting than this. I hope.” Because being known as the dude that always got lost was not necessarily a good thing. When the question regarding Jonah came, David took a deep breath and could only respond with a light shrug. “I want to do it as fast as I can but not fast enough that I am unprepared. He deserves to know that he has a brother here for him… but I don’t want to meet him while being so damn anxious that I will end up making him feel anxious. Maybe after tomorrow? Gives me tomorrow to process what I will say to him. Then… My idea is to call him for his services because that will give us the privacy we need for me to talk to Jonah… and then go from there?”

[mreynoldsx]

It really was nice to know that Mike wasn't doing as horrendously as he thought he was when it came to talking and putting himself out there a bit more. He knew that he had just met David but for some reason, he did take the man for his word. Plus, what would he really have to gain for lying about something like that? He smiled just a bit, "Thanks." He spoke softly, "That...means more than you know." He chuckled a bit awkwardly before he cleared his throat and focused back on David. It was always easier for Mike to focus on someone else rather than himself. He frowned a bit at the others words, "You can get that here." He told his new friend with a nod, "No need to hide anymore." He didn't much like that David had to do it in the first place but he could understand why he had to, considering his position.

His blue eyes shifted towards the other when he felt his hand on his shoulder and he cleared his throat quietly and nodded, "Right." One step at a time. That was exactly what Mike was doing. Every day, he felt like he was moving forward. He was finding more about who he was. Something he should have known years ago but...he just lost it over the years. When he came to the Haus, he didn't really expect much to come from it. It was more of an experiment but honestly, he was getting quite a bit from it. Mike was content with himself, for once, in quite a while.

At the mention of food, Mike knocked back the rest of his glass of bourbon before he nodded his head, licking at his lips, "Yeah. Let's get going." The male placed the glass down and slipped his hands into his pockets, "Are you ready to learn your way around this island?" He asked, his brow slightly cocking. Mike wanted to help David feel more confident about walking around the Haus. And while it was his first day there, it was never too early to learn. And if there was one thing Mike realized he was pretty good at, it was teaching.

Stepping towards the door once David was ready, Mike then stepped out and his gaze settled upon the water once again. He agreed, the water was relaxing. After a few moments of just watching the waves, he cleared his throat and slipped his hands into his pockets, beginning to walk towards Calypso's, "So, are you bad with directions inside establishments too? Like...say you were in a convention center and had to find a specific room. Do you struggle with that?"

[davidxhall]

David was more aware than most of the power that words had on other people. After all, he did speak for a living. Others didn’t really see the importance that words truly had or the impact that they could cause on someone. Hurtful words could indeed injure someone deep in their core and nice words could really lift someone’s spirit. That was why he always tried to act with kindness and respect toward other people. He had no idea what they were going through. He had no clue what sort of issues – if there was any – that could exist behind a smile. So why did other people bring others down to make themselves feel good? Why not be kind? Even the most simplest of words, the most innocent of comments could make someone’s day and shine some light in the darkness. The power of words was indeed… fascinating. And right now, as Mike smiled just a little bit after being praised for being able to socialize, David knew that he had made a difference. Such a small thing for him but so impactful for Mike.

“No more hiding.” He repeated Mike’s words with a nod – perhaps he too needed some positive reinforcement from someone else. And as funny as it was, it was indeed easier to talk to someone whom you barely knew about your problems rather than dump everything on the lap of someone whom you’ve known for years. “We are both works in progress. I mean, Rome wasn’t built in a day and neither one of us is in any rush.” Mike had his own issues to deal with and he was clearly making an effort to put one foot in front of the other and David was doing the same. Discovering themselves, their limitations, aspirations and dreams. And … it was nice to know that he was not alone in that journey. Whatever the future had in store, David had that inkling that if needed be, he could have Mike’s ear on his side just as much as Mike could have his if he wanted. With them finishing their drinks so that they could get some food, David collected his wallet and his phone – there were several notifications from work that he ignored completely for he didn’t want to ruin what was becoming quite an enjoyable night – before jogging outside to meet Mike and mentally prepare himself to memorize any landmarks from his cabin to whatever restaurant Mike was going to take him. However the question that followed did make David chuckle, his cheeks turning a bit red as he scratched the back of his neck – clearly embarrassed over what he was going to say. “If it’s a large space – even if closed one? Something with many rooms? Trust me, I will find a way to get lost. I… I don’t know why. I mean, I can go to a restaurant and know my way around because it’s a small space and the areas you can walk into are either the kitchen or the bathroom… and one is usually identified.” How dreadful it would be for him to get lost inside a restaurant like a three-year old toddler. “In a convention center? Oh – I will get lost. I do all my shopping online so that I don’t end up getting lost at a mall.” It was truly a tragic thing. David never understood why he was so terrible with directions. “It’s ok. You can laugh. I mean – I laugh at this all the time.”

[renanxcarvalho]

“Do you consider this a loss?” He asked, another soft moan escaping as he just couldn’t help himself, he was a total slut when it came to getting himself off (though it was always so much more fun when others were the ones doing it). “Truth or dare, actually,” at least so the other knew that he hadn’t lost a bet, not that he even considered this to be that much of a loss. He was getting off, enjoying the grotto, and now he had a gorgeous man sitting beside him just out of arms reach. That was definitely a win as far as Renan was concerned. He found it adorable though, the way this man so casually worked up a conversation while Renan was mid jerking off, but if that’s what he wanted then of course Renan would oblige and answer. “Never really got the logistics of it,” he breathed out slowly, “was just told to put on a show, figured the rest was left up to me.” Whether it was just putting on a show personally, or inviting someone else to go all the way, or whatever would come - quite literally - as long as he entertained those around him he would feel he did well.

When the other introduced himself Renan couldn’t help but grin, “Dave,” Renan would jump right towards the friendlier of the two names, considering he was watching him jerk off right now he figured it was only right. “It’s a pleasure,” he smirked, quite literally at this point, “I’d shake your hand but I’m kind of busy,” he teased, unable to keep from chuckling as he figured he might as well introduce himself since he’d very soon have his cock on full display infront of the other man. “Renan, but I do love a good pet name,” obviously they were not at that point to give each other pet names, but Renan would coo like a damn dove no matter what he was called so long as it wasn’t derogatory. As the other weighed his options, being that he could join him, or perhaps even…well did he just put the ball into Renan’s court? “Oh, darling, I always want co-stars,” he smirked as he motioned with his free hand for the man to come closer, “you’re far too distant,” he told him, hoping that the other would move freely without Renan having to beg for it.

“Want to know what gets me off the most David, er, Dave-“ he smirked as he leaned a little closer to the other, “having someone’s hands all over me, I’m a slut for touches, so the fact that you’re sitting there, gorgeous as all get out, and your hands aren’t on me yet? What’s a guy got to do to get some attention?” He pouted, though the briefs became too much for him as he gave them a simple tug to free his erection, able to stroke it to the best of his abilities now. He did so slowly though, cock now on full display for not just Dave, but also everyone around the Grotto that looked over. “Don’t be shy,” he whispered, “I don’t bite…unless you’re into that sort of thing,” he flashed his teeth with a teasing little chomp, “god you’re gorgeous…”. Renan couldn’t help himself, no longer needing a fantasy as he had one sitting here beside him now. “Forget about those guys, keep your focus on me, and only me…right now we’re all that matter, so what’ll it be, Dave?”

[davidxhall]

A game of truth and dare that ended with a rather entertaining – and honestly expected – dare in a place like that. David should be surprised at it but frankly? Considering where they were, the only shocking thing was that the dare didn’t involve the other man dropping on his knees to suck someone off or grab the first stranger he came across and took him to his bedroom. Again, he wasn’t exactly innocent when it came to having sex with men and he definitely had a little kinky side of his own but that didn’t mean he would openly pursue something along those lines without having a reason to do so. Everyone could fuck everyone there. All they needed was opportunity and a partner. And right now, with both of them sitting at the center of the Grotto and one of them playing with himself… it would appear that all that was needed was indeed a partner. “I suppose I can get behind the whole scenario here. The little show you’re putting on – whatever the endgame may be.” A gentle laugh rolled from David’s lips at the little comment regarding the whole hand-shaking thing and all he could do was nod – completely understanding why they wouldn’t do that just yet. Also, it would be kind of awkward to just shake hands with a guy that he was watching jerk off. There were plenty of other options for them to properly introduce themselves. And as far as first introductions and impressions went? This one would surely be one for the ages. How many times has he stroked a conversation with a guy that was just casually masturbating by his side? Stuff like that usually happened in saunas and there was usually no talking involved. Just a head between someone’s legs and the rest was absolute history. “It’s a tad early to come up with a nickname to stroke your ego a little bit more but I’ll be sure to come up with something in due time. I mean, I do have your permission to come up with a nickname that would please you.”

At Renan’s mention to scoot closer, David considered his options for a moment or two, deciding to slide closer to the other man just in time to see him pull down his underwear and finally reveal what he was keeping hidden underneath it all. Boy… that was quite a stunning view. David’s eyes lingered for a moment, admiring the size and shape of Renan’s erection while hearing all the things that he wish they could be doing right now. To be touched, to have hands all over him, to feel some degree of contact with someone else. All things that David knew too well how they felt – and how badly one could crave for them. “Oh, I’m not worried about your friends. Not one bit.” Co-star or just a random viewer. That was the decision Dave had to do and he opted for the first as he moved one hand to cover Renan’s, slowly assisting the other man in his pursuit for pleasure. “Since I wasn’t playing the game, I might limit my interactions a little bit.” Yes, he did love sex as much as the next guy but he wasn’t going to just go for it for the sake of getting his rocks off. “You wanted to be touched, right?” He leaned closer, his lips curling into the most innocent smile he could bring out – one actually without ill intentions. “Then I can touch you. Offer you a helping hand at the very least. I mean… like you said, you don’t really know the logistics of the whole dare, so maybe a hand would do the trick.”

[mreynoldsx]

He shrugged, "Sometimes it's just easier to be alone." Mike mentioned, "I've been...working on getting better at...socializing. It's just taking me a minute." He admitted with a shrug. He was sure he would get there one day. Having a golden retriever friend like David was surely to help, he was sure. He smiled at the others comment about getting lost in the vegetation before he laughed and nodded, "Exactly. I can't have that so you stay put and I'll come to you." It was just easier that way. One day, he was sure that he would help David find his cabin, but being so new to the island, it seemed like a lot to show him at the moment. Mike wanted to focus on the big things to help David navigate. Again, he nodded, "That would be... nice. Thank you."

Lifting his bourbon back to his lips, Mike took another swig from the drink, listening to the other, noting how his cheeks suddenly flushed red. Mike's brow raised a bit, clearly curious about that, allowing the man to continue to speak. He clearly wanted to explain himself a bit and why he was on the island. It seemed like David was almost shy to admit that he wanted to use the services of the expensive brothel island they were on, which was odd, "That's what it's there for." He mentioned, "I would be surprised if you said you weren't here for that." Mike didn't know anyone else on the island that was there for a reason like his own. And that was fine. It didn't bother him. And he expected everyone to want to use the services provided there.

Mike couldn't help but frown a bit at David's comment about pretending and he glanced down at the ground, "Yeah...I get that." He sighed out. Mike was pretending to be someone he wasn't for a decade. It altered himself so much that he didn't even know who he was. Being a politician was similar. He had to be the what the people wanted him to be, "It is exhausting." Mike mentioned softly as he reached his hand out and patted David on the back of his shoulder, "You deserve the chance to be you." He told the other with a nod, "Don't be...embarrassed about that."

[davidxhall]

Mike mentioned that he was trying to get better at the whole socializing aspect of the thing but honestly? David didn’t exactly see an issue on that front since the two of them have been talking and sharing tidbits about themselves ever since Mike rescued him from getting utterly and completely lost out there. As far as the whole process of being social went? “I don’t think you need to work on socializing. I mean, look at us.” The politician chuckled and gave the other man a playful nudge before his eyes returned to the sea. “We talked when you found me earlier today and we are sharing a drink while cracking jokes about my inability to locate myself in any given space. THAT is socializing, my friend. I think you are doing one hell of a job with it. There may still be hope for you yet.” A sigh of partial relief rolled from David’s lips as he listened to Mike comment that it was perfectly ok for him to want to do that around the island. They were at a brothel, after all. It facilitated the process of him being with a man a hundred times easier than he would out there. And if for those few hours where he would be comfortable in his own skin meant having to pay for it or something along those lines, it was indeed a very short price to pay.”It’s not just about the sex, you know? I mean… don’t get me wrong. I like sex as much as the next guy but… it’s the act of being intimate with another man that really does it for me. A lot of people take crap for granted and they didn’t give it the right importance. But when you’re all alone and all you wished for was to hold someone’s hand or have them holding you?” He couldn’t do any of that. Not when someone could see it and blab it to the media, having his entire career absolutely destroyed in a matter of seconds. That was why his father was always so secretive about that.

His lips curled into a smile and David nodded at the kindness that oozed from Mike’s words, giving the other man a gentle nod before mimicking his actions and giving his new friend a kind squeeze on his shoulder. “And you’ll find whatever you are looking for as well. I always heard that good things come to those who wait. Neither one of us need to rush to the finishing line. All we need to do is… take one step at a time and one day we will wake up and be ready to welcome whatever life has to offer.” No one would ever be a lost cause. There was hope to everyone assuming that they could keep a positive attitude. “So – maybe we should uh… go have this dinner? I … I don’t know about you but…” Dave giggled as he tapped his abs over his shirt. “I am starting to get a little bit hungry.” And drinking without eating was never the wisest choice.

[davidxhall]

[mreynoldsx]

Grabbing the glass from David, he softly returned the clink of the glass then swirled the liquid around in the glass for a moment before he took a small sip. He released a quiet sigh at the familiar burn and his blue eyes shifted up towards the man at his question. His brows raised a bit before he shrugged his shoulders, "I don't know." He admitted, "I...like company. But I like company when I'm ready for it." He doubted that made any sense, but it did to him, "Living on the water, I feel like you're prone to more...staff knocking on the door, and I'd rather not have that." Mike felt bad enough shooting them all down day after day when he was walking around. The last thing he wanted was to have to shoot them down after they spent all the time finding him.

"I mean I can...show you where I live. I don't mind." He really didn't, "Or you can...yeah, call me or whatever. I'm never really doing anything." After his daily workout, he spent a lot of his time in his bungalow or wandering around, trying to find something interesting to do. He recognized that a lot of his time would be preoccupied if he actually used the Haus for what it was there for but...one step at a time. Mike was still trying to sort out who he was. Adding sex on top of that would just complicate things, in his opinion.

His thumb idly rubbed along the glass, listening to the others words and he couldn't help but chuckle a bit at his comment, "That's why they're doing that?" He asked, clearly joking. David was right though. Being there was proof of enough of money. And he was certain the other was right. Money couldn't buy everything. He wasn't sure if the rest of the clients knew that or not, but he supposed that wasn't really any of his business, now was it? He shrugged a bit, "I wouldn't say it makes me a good guy. It just...makes me a guy." From their conversation, he was gathering that David was the same way as him, "You're a much better guy anyway. You're here to build a relationship with your long lost brother. That is something."

[davidxhall]

“I get you.” Hell, David understood that a lot more than he wanted to admit. It’s not that he didn’t like the company of others but it had to be at his own time. There were moments when being alone was just perfect. “People can be tiresome. It’s not that I consider myself anti-social… for that is the furthest thing from the truth but there are moments when you just want to be alone. Where you don’t want to hear other people talking or making conversation with someone when all you really want is to be by yourself. Trust me… I get that.” Being surrounded by people who loved to talk and who definitely loved the sound of their own voices was exhausting. To just shut everything away and be alone with his thoughts and some “me time” was just as good. “Sometimes you just want to be alone to recharge. Trust me, I get it. I’ve been doing that since I remember how exhausting people can be.” Bringing his glass to his lips, the politician kept his gaze on the ocean, enjoying the faint sound of the waves rolling against the sand – possibly one of the most calming sounds he had ever had the privilege to listen to. It truly did relax him. A cabin by the water while being easy to be spotted by others was also a great location to when he needed silence. “As much as I’d love to say that I would like to visit you and be the one taking you somewhere, chances are the lush vegetation would eat me alive before I even came close to your cabin.” David laughed at his own joke, for he was more than used to making himself look like a fool over how easily he happened to get himself lost. Might as well make that negative side of him into a more positive thing. Like a joke. “But – I wouldn’t mind if you also called me when you want to do something. Even if it’s just dropping by and staring at the sea in silence while sipping beers. I can also do that.”

Hearing that he was a good guy because he had gone all the way to the Haus in order to find his missing brother did bring a smile to David’s face but he had to quickly shake his head, politely disagreeing with Mike’s logic. Sure, going there to find Jonah and welcome him into his family was David’s priority. That was the main reason why he was there and he wouldn’t leave until he had secured his brother’s future within his family. “I admit that coming here for my brother is the main reason why I’m here. Once I heard he was working here, I simply had to come and make the amends our father never had a chance to do. But…” David shook his head and he could feel his cheeks burning, meaning that he was turning crimson in a matter of seconds. “I can’t lie and say that I won’t use the services provided either. I miss the company of men. I-I mean… out there? In the real world? I’m as deep in Narnia as one can possibly get. I even have tea parties with Aslan and Prince Caspian in my spare time.” How pathetic was that, uh? “Coming here also… it also lets me be who I am? Does that make sense? I feel like… I don’t know. I feel like I can be myself when I’m here. Without the fear of being caught or judged by others. It’s… It’s so exhausting to pretend to be someone you’re not.”

[renanxcarvalho]

It was so easy getting worked up in a place like this, thoughts of past experiences, certain people he'd met on the island, all painting the most vivid of fantasies in his mind the more he touched himself. He was doing his part for this bet, he certainly was putting on a show, each soft moan slicing through the air causing heads to turn (and mouths to water). Renan knew he looked good, he never had any doubts that he couldn't get people to watch him, and honestly if it was making those around him happy what was a little jerking off poolside? It's not like he was huge into exhibition, but it still held some excitement (and surprisingly helped break the ice).

Case in point this beauty of a man who began to talk, Renan opening his eyes because he hadn't recognized the voice, and damn was he surprised by the gorgeousness that he had seen before him. He was stammering, spitting and sputtering, could this perhaps be making him nervous? "You're not disturbing at all, only adding fuel to the fire, love," because looking like that made it easy to pull Renan from the world of fantasy to want what was right infront of him. He of course made a quick glance in the direction he'd came from, the boys snickering and watching the scene unfold, certainly entertained (which meant he was fulfilling his dare).

"If you wanted to leave you would have already," he mused, another soft moan escaping as his eyes never once strayed from this newfound man in his visions. "How about you sit down, love?" He asked, patting the spot beside him, "i'm supposed to be putting on a show, and what's a show without an audience?" He smirked, "or even a guest star..." Of course offering for the other to get involved if he wanted, Renan exuding confidence the more he stroked himself, close to ridding his erection from the restraining fabric.

[davidxhall]

David’s eyes were focused on the scene playing before his eyes. Yes, it was a hot sight that would be more than enough to leave everyone hot under their collar. What was there not to enjoy in watching a handsome man touch himself in such a public place? And not like the Haus didn’t facilitate such moments – for in fact – it encouraged it. It was a safe haven for guys that simply wanted to walk around naked and with their erection in a full display or just sit down by the pool and get themselves off with the prospect of an audience. In a way, David appreciated the freedom that this place provided. No need to think too much about things. Just do whatever one wanted to do and go with the flow. Whatever it was, no one would cast judgment in there, for everyone was there for the exact same thing. His gaze turned to the group of guys not that far from where they were and David hummed before he took a sit – not right next to the guy that was jerking off but on the side, offering his back to the little group of giggling idiots that appeared to be looking their way. “Let me guess, you lost a bet?” Either that or some other game. And even losing in that place meant winning in some other way. David couldn’t see a flaw in that plan. “Are you supposed to just put on a show or go all the way?” He reclined against the seat and his eyes moved from the man’s face all the way down to the hand that continued to rub himself off – movements so deliberate that it was hard not to be mesmerized by it. Again, David was far from innocent. Just because he didn’t strut around like he was king of the damn world didn’t mean he lacked a certain… darker side when it came to his own selfish desires.

“I’m David. Or Dave, for friends. I’m introducing myself because it feels cheap to just have a random stranger creep out to watch you do that.” Or maybe the anonymity was what turned the other guy on. Who knows? Nevertheless, David looked over his shoulder towards the group of guys still glancing their way. “If you want an audience – I might join you.” Why the fuck not? You only lived once, right? Why not risk a little bit? “If you want a guest star?” Now that… would depend on what would be the ultimate goal. “I guess that depends on what you feel like doing. What would shock your friends over there the most?”

[mreynoldsx]

His gaze shifted around the others home for a bit more, just taking in his surroundings and everything about it. It was just a habit of Mike's and he didn't think he'd ever stop doing it. He turned his attention back to David when he spoke about what to drink and he shrugged, "Oh...I mean, whiskey is good if you have that. Or bourbon. Whatever, really." He wasn't picky when it came to alcohol. They had all had the same end result, really. And if they were just there to have a quick drink, a nice glass of whiskey or bourbon would really hit the spot.

Hearing his new friends question, Mike shook his head, "No. Mine if away from the water. It's hidden away, really. That's why I didn't want you to come to me." He chuckled. The seclusion was exactly what he wanted. The less people that knew where his cabin was, the better really. Most of the clients had the water bungalows, he was gathering. They were nice, he had to admit. Maybe one day he would move but right now? He was happy with his hidden sanctuary. He smiled a bit as David spoke of the sea and he nodded his head, "I've never thought of people that way." Mike admitted. It wasn't a bad idea, really. While David didn't want to think of people and their destructive natures, that was all Mike had really ever seen. He hoped the other wouldn't have to.

He nodded his head as the other mentioned a casual place, "There's only a couple here. The vegan place and Calypso's. I like Calypso's, so we can go there." He nodded. The vegan place was fine but he felt odd talking to people in there. It was always so quiet. Calypso's had the best energy out of all the restaurants, in his opinion. He nodded his head a bit at the others comment about flaunting his wealth, "Most of the clients don't agree with that notion." Mike threw out there, "I suppose it's hard not to when this place just promotes it." There was a small pause, "I agree with you though... I don't... I don't like to flaunt it or anything... I forget I have this money a lot of the time. It's still pretty new to me..." He admitted with a huff.

[davidxhall]

If the choice was between whiskey and bourbon, David knew exactly which one he would pick since he was a bourbon man himself. Not that he made a habit of drinking or anything – sociably he could have a glass of wine or beer if he was with friends – but he only went to the strong stuff after a particularly rough day at work. There was a lot of stress involved when it came to politics and every now and then, David just needed one glass to keep him floating on the surface and not be dragged under into the depths. It was very easy for one to lose their goals in the long run. Like they were swimming against the tide and every now and then – a wave would make them drown and push back several miles. Maybe that was why his father never said anything about Jonah. Because the moment that would see the light of day… everything he had accomplished in his career would be back to square one. “Hidden away? So you really don’t want any company whatsoever?” Approaching Mike with his drink, David gently hit their glasses in a quick cheer before his attention returned to the calm sea and translucid waters. Honestly, falling asleep and hearing the sound of the waves in the background was every bit of relaxing as people made it out to be. “Either you are a loner or you just don’t like people to drop unannounced. Which in my case – you’re safe.” The politician chuckled and brought his glass to his lips, taking in the rich taste of the bourbon as it went down his throat. It… it did feel good to actually have a normal conversation without having to watch out for what he was saying or trying to read between the lines. It wasn’t as exhausting as he was used to. “But… what happens if I sort of want to visit you or hang out with you? I mean… I’m sure you have other people to hang out with around here.” Clients and staff alike. That place tended to their every need. “Should I like… call you and see if you want to drop by?”

It was refreshing to know that Mike wasn’t one of those guys that liked to flaunt their wealth like they were trying to overcompensate for their tiny dick. Usually, guys with shit loads of money liked to pretend that they were bigger than they actually were. Definitely an ego sort of issue. “You didn’t strike me as a guy that throws his money around to compensate for the fact that he has a tiny penis.” David shrugged and brought his glass to his lips once more. Most politicians he knew did just that. Flaunt it. “You’re already paying to be here – that alone should be enough to say you have money. And just because you have it… it doesn’t mean it gives you the right to do whatever you want with it. Money… money doesn’t buy everything.” It could buy friendships and allies and loyalties but… “I’m glad you don’t let your money define who you are. That makes you a good guy.”

[renanxcarvalho]

Status || Sinful Sunday Starter for ALL Location || The Grotto

Renan had been enjoying himself, maybe a little bit too much, because he soon found himself deep in a game of truth or dare alongside a small group of men. Their truths were shallow, mostly who he'd want to fuck, or what position was his favorite, but the dares - well let's just say the dares stood true behind the nature of the word itself. They definitely got his heart racing, blood pumping, but he never once backed down no matter how involved they became. They'd made a general rule of no fucking through means of a dare, but there were other fun things that could be done, like the dare Renan had just found himself taking. He walked from his companions for the evening, tight black boxer briefs leaving little to the imagination, as he walked to the center of the Grotto where the comfortable seating was practically calling his name. The dare, a simple one, jack off for all to see, put on a show for whoever dare walk by. He started small, rubbing himself over his underwear, but soon got into it a little more as he slipped his hands beneath his briefs to start working himself up even more. A moan escaped his lips as he let his head rest back against the seat, closing his eyes to pull himself into a fantasy to get the ball rolling.

[davidxhall]

The Haus of Perses had never truly failed to impress David – for no matter how many times he would find himself in the resort with the possibility to be who he was rather than who he was meant to be – there was something fascinating happening around every little corner. And in the island… it wasn’t all that different. As per usual, David found himself lost on his way to his cabin. He definitely took a wrong turn somewhere and ended up in the Grotto, the translucid waters of the pool looking even more vibrant under the dim lights of the exterior. “I took a wrong turn.” A sigh rolled from his lips as he shook his head, cursing himself for not paying attention to where he was going, definitely distracted by something that was no longer relevant. The only option he had now was either to find a charitable soul that could point him in the right direction or make his way to the front desk and ask for assistance. One granted him fewer chances for getting lost than the other. And so David walked around in the Grotto – his shoes in one hand as he dipped his toe on the pool water to check the temperature – hoping that he would cross paths with someone who could guide him toward the right path to his cabin. He knew his cabin was near the beach but there were so many paths around the island that his chances of getting utterly and completely lost were astronomical. It took him a bit of time walking around and getting more distracted than not with the sights around him until the faint sound of what appeared to be a moan caught his attention. If that was a moan, then that meant someone was around. Someone who could help him. But if it was indeed a moan, the last thing he wanted was to walk into guys having sex and minding their own business. But it was not a couple of guys going at it. It was just the one. A single man sitting at the center of the Grotto with his hand inside his underwear and working himself up to a hardened state.

David was far from innocent – even if he looked like it – and he absolutely knew that staring was rude but at the same time… why not watch for a little bit? It must feel so good to be so free of concerns and doubts to just jerk off in such a public place. In a way… David envied the guy touching himself. How carefree he was about his own body and needs, not really giving a damn about where he was or who was watching. And that was when their eyes met. Enough to make David feel a slight burn on his cheeks as he quickly looked elsewhere but the hand moved inside the black underwear and the show that was being provided. “Sorry. I didn’t mean to… d-disturb.” Disturb was the right word, right? “I can leave.” Or stay and watch a bit more – it was actually a rather nice sight… not like he was going to ask a man getting off which way to the beach cabins. “I should uh… just… like go.”

[davidxhall]

[mreynoldsx]

Hearing the door open, Mike immediately turned around with his hands tucked into his pockets and he smiled a bit at the sight of David, "Yeah, sure." He answered simply, "I'm a man of my word." The very last thing he needed was David trying to find a restaurant and get then getting ghosted because he couldn't find it. How embarrassing would that be? For both parties, really. His head tilted a bit when the other began to stammer out some questions about drinks or just heading out to get the food and he wondered if he was always this nervous. Mostly likely, right?

"Yeah, we got time for a drink." Mike answered cooly with a smile, "It'll save some money too, technically. The drinks are always overpriced." It was just how it was at every restaurant in the world. It was how they made their money, really. Stepping inside David's cabin, Mike took the time to take his shoes off, not wanting to drag sand all throughout his new home the first day he was there. How annoying would that be? His blue eyes then shifted around, nodding a bit, "The ocean cabins are nice." He mentioned, really just making small talk. However, every client cabin was nice. It was the Haus of Perses.

"What are you in the mood to eat?" Mike then asked, "Or...what...vibe are you leaning towards? There are a couple casual dining places, some more upscale ones..." He shrugged, "They're all good." Again, not a surprise. Knowing Thomas as well as he did now, he knew the Kings wouldn't settle for anything but perfection.

[davidxhall]

David was honestly relieved that Mike accepted the whole drink before dinner thing – especially since he needed something to keep his own anxiety in check and don’t embarrass himself any more than he had already done. For a politician with the gift of the word and the power of argumentation, he definitely seemed like all those things had disappeared from his mind the moment he stepped foot on that island. David knew how good he was with words and arguments. He could charm the pants off anyone if he wanted to… or in most cases the money out of someone’s wallet – but for some reason, he never found himself to be as eloquent as he could be in the presence of guys that he considered attractive. That had always been a weakness for him since his teenage years. He would meet an interesting and hot guy and suddenly he would forget how words were supposed to work and how a conversation was supposed to go. Between that and his tendency to get lost? He truly was a lost cause.

“What are you in the mood for drinking?” David brushed his hair away and made a quick straight line to the bar, already picking glasses and ice, only to stop and look over his shoulder toward his guest as Mike commented on the cabins by the sea. “Yours is not by the sea?” He did love the sea. He had always loved how soothing the sound of the waves against the sand made him feel and that salty aroma hitting him in the face whenever he would open a window. “I asked for one here since the silence helps me think. Sometimes it’s hard to find your own voice inside your own head.” Too many things troubling them – too many things that needed to be solved. No wonder he was anxious all the damn time. “I always loved the sea. It’s calm and soothing when quiet but can become rebellious and an unstoppable force as well. Like everyone should be really. Calm in the surface but capable of doing everything deep within. Minus… you know… the d-destructive capacities. No one should destroy anything.” Not unless it was a last option. Inquired about what he was in the mood to eat, all David could do was give Mike a little shrug, leaning against his own bar while he contemplated what sort of dinner he would like to have. Something too posh could feel like too much – not to mention give Mike the impression that he was a damn snob. “How about something casual? Like uh… your everyday restaurant? We are going out to dinner and getting to know each other better, have some fun? I feel your everyday setting suits best than your over-the-top choice. I only go to those for business meetings.” Not even on dates since he didn’t exactly have those. “Those posh ones make me feel like I’m flaunting my wealth and… n-no. That’s definitely not the impression I want to uh… pass.”

[davidxhall]

[mreynoldsx]

Special Delivery for @davidxhall

From meeting a random man at the reception desk, he didn't really expect it to turn into hanging out and getting dinner, but he wasn't upset at that. It was just kind of random. However, David was a very friendly, earnest guy and Mike couldn't possibly say no. Luckily, they had a few hours of relaxation time before they had to meet up. First thing Mike did was hop into the shower and wash off the sweat and build up from his morning workout with Patrick. The man had said he was going to make him sweat and, damn, he did not lie. But it was fun. Mike liked to workout and things like that. It kept his mind off everything else in the world.

After the shower, he stepped out and walked over towards his sink and he stared into the mirror for a few moments, pursing his lips a bit. He had been thinking about shaving off the five o'clock shadow he tended to keep lately. It was a lot of work. Then again, so was shaving. After his internal debate, he just stepped out of his bathroom and went to get dressed. He'd shave another day. Mike thumbed through his closet for a few moments, pulling out a pair of casual slacks and a light green button up shirt. That would suffice for the day.

Hours passed and soon enough, Mike had brought himself over towards the client's cabins on the water and he easily found cabin seven. For just a moment, he rubbed his hands together a bit awkwardly before he cleared his throat and knocked on the door. He would assume that David knew that was him, so he didn't say anything. He just stepped back a few steps and he turned his back to stare off at the water.

[davidxhall]

From the eminence of getting utterly and completely lost… to end up being “saved” by a knight in shining armor. That was definitely not the way David was expecting his arrival at the island to be yet at the same time, he was definitely grateful for the assistance. The whole prospect of getting lost trying to find his way around the place was enough to put him into a state of perpetual anxiety. It was not something he could control. For some reason, he was bollocks at directions, and more often than not, he would find himself in an empty hallway and trying to remember if he was supposed to go left or right. For a man used to dealing with politics and swimming with all those big ass sharks… no one would ever guess that he was such a menace when it came to finding his way around a place. But thanks to Mike, he had found his cabin and learned of a couple of landmarks that would most definitely be useful in his future endeavors on the island. He couldn’t just keep waiting to be saved by a passerby, right? How humiliating would that be? However, in the comfort of his cabin, David was finally able to relax. He unpacked his suitcase first and foremost before preparing a congratulatory drink for him to have. Nearby, the flyer with the staff member roster called out his attention. He saw Jonah’s picture there. And… that would be something he would need to do in the very near future. Maybe call for him and have him join him at his cabin? It would be for the best to have a secluded place where they could talk and not have to worry about prying eyes and ears, right? Nevertheless, David shook all of his worries and went straight to the bathroom where he took his time showering – he really hated long flights – feeling some of the anxiety that had been building inside him dissipating into nothingness. The fact that he was about to have dinner with Mike did bring a smile to his lips. He was making a friend, learning more about the island, and keeping his mind away from the real reason why he was there. Yes, Jonah was important but the more he thought about their reunion, the more David could feel his own anxiety growing to a damn breaching point.

After the shower, he stared into the mirror for a while. His fingers brushed his wet hair away from his face and after some internal pep-talk ( casual dinners were not something he usually had time for ), David paraded himself naked all the way to his closet in order to pick what to dress. He didn’t want to look like a bum but he also didn’t want to go over the top. He wanted to look… good. Not in a “wish you’d fuck me “ kind of way but he still needed to look slightly presentable. He had no idea how the restaurants on the island were. And by the time the knock on the door came, David was all set and ready ( nothing wrong with a tight shirt and jeans and a trimmed beard, right? ) which made him almost bolt toward the door in order to greet Mike with the best smile he could possibly pull off. “Hey! Thank you so much for picking me up.” And spare him the embarrassment of getting lost. “Do you uh… hmmm… want to come in for a drink before we go or… shall we just skip that and go?” Again, he really had no idea how the restaurants worked. Mike knew better than him. “I’m ok to go if you want or, or… if we have time f-for a uh… hmm… quick drink? “