Marshmallow

Xavier Xander. 34. CEO and Director of XX Hotel & Casino. Client at Haus of Perses. 

[xavier-xander-blog]

vanderbuiltscaststones:

“You’ve never even thought about it?” Valerie couldn’t help but laugh as he stared at the other man. Xavier would have been one of a very select group of people who hadn’t thought about killing, or at least that was the thought that was in the back of his mind. “Yeah- well, if you’re looking for my throat to close up, then that would be the exact thing you would need to bring.” He laughed as he rested himself back into the bed. Part of him worried that perhaps this was just the inbetween stages of himself and Xavier, the stage where everything was fine before the man disappeared again on him. His head tilted to the side so he could look at the man, the hand on his leg - everything felt so genuine, like Xavier meant his words. It felt foolish to think the man wouldn’t, but trust wasn’t easily given by the youngest Vanderbuilt, not to people who had pulled back and away from him before. “Even when I’m too much? Do you still enjoy it then?” He asked softly, his hand reaching down to take the man’s hand that was on his leg, carefully pulling him forward, trying to avoid the cheese plate.

Xavier let Valerie pull him forward so they could be on the same level over he bed. The man hovered over Valerie, not wanting to overstep and lie on top of him immediately. With both arms holding him up, Xavier hummed. “I don’t know what you mean by being too much. Like, when you hated me? I obviously didn’t enjoy it and it made me feel awful... but once again it made it real.” Because despite everything, if Valerie was hurt then it meant he actually cared once. If not, then he wouldn’t have cared at all if Xavier stopped talking to him or not. “I wouldn’t want to change you, not even how you behave... because it is not my call.” He understood now that it was better to no try to change people. It was impossible. 

[xavier-xander-blog]

nicholaskarlov:

“Sidekicks might not have the recognition they deserve but they possess the element of surprise. They are usually underestimated. People often assume they are weak mostly due to their role as a sidekick. When they prove everyone wrong…? Now that is the beauty of the whole thing, Mr. Xander. Being a sidekick allows people to play possum and then turn the tables when no one is watching and all without having a monumental target on their back.” That was how things worked. How he operated. Allowing others to underestimate him and then strike them for the kill whenever they least expected. Playing the weak link was an ability that he had learned to master. To blend in and to be invisible – unless he wanted to be seen. To pretend to be a quiet single dad when the dagger that was ready to be used was waiting behind the back. “I am all for talking, Mr. Xander.” The assassin unlocked the door to his room, stepping forward and waiting for Xavier to get inside before closing the door behind him. “You know where the bar is – do you not? Feel free to drink whatever you want while I shower.” Walking to his closet, Nicholas collected a pair of tight boxer briefs and a robe before casting a smile towards the other man. “I admit that I have used that excuse. What happens in Vegas – stays in Vegas. I do believe everyone had used that excuse once or twice in their life. Even you, I’m sure.” The assassin walked to the bathroom and turned the hot water on, returning to the bedroom while keeping a close watch on his fellow client. “I had promised to take my daughter to Vegas before – but she is a bit too young to engage in the addiction of gambling.”

Xavier was already inspecting the bar when Nicholas mentioned how anyone who’s ever been to Vegas has used the famous excuse to get away with anything. “I have used it, that’s true but I was born there. I guess that the things that bother me is that people go there already knowing that they will cheat, they will do drugs, they will go completely crazy and get away with it. You know what I mean? Like, I see groups of friends coming over to the Hotel all the time, male and female. I am not complaining that they pick Vegas and my hotel, but if they wanted to hang out and spend some time together they could have picked any other destination, but they chose Vegas because they want to get away with whatever they already want to do but can’t do it back home.” Xavier explained, knowing that his explanation maybe didn’t make sense, maybe he shouldn’t complain about that and care that much about people’s lives and their choices, but his brain always went there. “I don’t know how old she is, but there are some shows that people from all ages can enjoy.” He suggested, thinking it was rather honorable that the man had the promised he’d made of his daughter in mind. 

[xavier-xander-blog]

vanderbuiltscaststones:

There was a strange twist in his stomach at the sweetness- as if it would eventually take a sharp turn and end. His eyes rolled, but Valerie couldn’t help but keep a smile on his face as he sat back slightly, staring at Xavier in that moment. He had been so content pushing the other away, shoving him far back as he had done when they first met- and then after Xavier left for the first time, but here they were now and Valerie had no control over his emotions or his body as he tilted forward once again to listen to him. “Well if you don’t want me to die, then never bring anything with peanut butter over. That’s a good suggestion.” The teasing would never end if Xavier had brought a treat with the offending food inside of it. “Everyone typically has a reason.” The truth, Valerie knew how people worked, what most men wanted when they came to his room. “You’re too good to me,” He whispered with a sigh, letting his body fall back as he stared at the ceiling to collect his thoughts.

“I’d never attempt to kill you.” Xavier cleared up with a warm smile. He obviously didn’t need to assure Valerie that, but just the mere thought of Xavier taking someone’s life was terrifying. He didn’t have the courage. He didn’t have the cold heart to do such a thing. “There goes my next idea of bringing over peanut butter brownies.” He sighed. Xavier understood why Valerie assumed everyone always had a reason to see him in this house and the man tried really hard to go against that pattern, to show Valerie that he wasn’t there for the same reasons that the rest of the men were. “I am not.” He said with a sigh, reaching over to squeeze Valerie’s leg as the other lied down. “If you need a reason, I have one. I really appreciate your company, specially right now.” He confessed,  shoulders slumping down a little bit. “I feel like our interactions are real and I like that.” 

[xavier-xander-blog]

dontlookforangels:

Gabriel was pleased. When he had asked Xavier to come out with him he wasn’t sure if the other would accept or think it was a joke. Theirs was a strange relationship with the way they would bicker from time to time and yet it was always fun. He had also learned a good deal about the other, finding that he was more than just a pretty face that had gotten lucky with an older man. Instead, Xavier had a good head on his shoulders and stood up for himself and others. All in all, Gabriel was impressed and found more and more he liked the guy. Hence is why he asked the other out. He dressed in a find gray suit paired with a light blue shirt but left the tie in the wardrobe. He wanted to impress but not look too stuffy. When he reached the other lobby he found the other waiting for him, looking incredible and he silently approved. Walking up to Xavier, He smiled as the other fussed with his hair. “it’s so nice to see you trying so hard to look your best for me,” he said, his eye bright. “I half expected to see you had climbed out of a trash can but nope.” He reached up toying with one strand of hair. “I will say I like the hair. It suits you. You should wear it like more often.” Lower his arm to took the other shoulder and led him toward the door. “I you mind if I drive?”

Xavier groaned and rolled his eyes. “We’re going to this new restaurant and there’s probably going to be a lot of people there, cameras and I wanted to look presentable. It’s not for you!” He said, nudging Gabriel’d ribs as they walked out of the main building. “I knew you would have cancelled out plans if I showed up in a t shirt and jeans, given how much you hate it when I don’t wear button ups and slacks.” Not that he often worse those clothes to annoy Gabriel, but it amused him how much it bothered the other hotel owner when Xavier dressed more relaxed. “It’s not intentional.” He huffed, annoyed with his hair still. “It didn’t want to cooperate today. I also feel like I might need a hair cut. I’ve been rogue more often these last days.” Xavier looked at Gabriel with a curious look. “I don’t mind. I just expected a car to drive us there.” He shrugged, thinking it was actually better if Gabriel drove them. More casual. More private that way. “I will just make sure to control your alcohol intake, because I don’t want us getting in an accident on our way back.” He warned. 

[xavier-xander-blog]

michaelxholzter:

Michael was pleased. Xavier looked amazing and the fact he had a small hand in that was gratifying. “You’re welcome,” he said as they danced. He laughed ducking his head for just a second at the compliment. “You think?” He was giddy a the praise. “Thanks for saying so. Ordered this at the last minute and was worried that it would come into time for the party. Not that I couldn’t wear it some other time but where is the fun in that?”

“Exactly my point. You just wanted to show it off tonight.” Xavier commented again, but it made sense to show off something nice and pretty in an event like this one, where most people would definitely be able to see you wearing it. The man made Michael twirl on the spot, making the skirt of the dress fly around and laughed. “Now I know what to give you as a thank you gift for helping me improve my style.”

[xavier-xander-blog]

nicholaskarlov:

It was a valid point on saying that Alfred was indeed the real hero in the tale of the Dark Knight. Still proved his point – heroes were nothing without help. Being a villain was so much more entertaining and with such a wide array of things to do. More fun. “You still support my theory that a hero isn’t anything without a sidekick. Who would want to be a hero, anyway? The whole martyr stage? Having your friends and loved ones targeted by some insane power-hungry villain? Sidekicks have it best. They help but they never remain in the spotlight for long.” Nicholas’ lips curled into a ghost of a smile, not moving away from the proximity he had acquired next to Xavier, his blue eyes looking down to his sweaty torso – dismissing the idea of waiting with a shrug of his shoulders. “You almost make it sound like you never saw a man naked. Don’t worry, Mr. Xander. I’ll be quick with the shower. All you need to do is keep talking, I’ll reply from under it and then we can both share a drink while sharing your thoughts with me regarding what sort of activities we can do while together in Vegas. Just don’t say slot machines. They have a tendency to drive me utterly crazy. So…” The Russian smirked once more, offering his muscled arm to Xavier to take. “Shall we?”

“Sidekicks have it best, yeah, but unfortunately they don’t get the recognition they deserve that often.” Most of his life, Xavier had really felt like a sidekick, but constantly tried to prove himself to be more than that. He knew that they were just talking about how sidekicks were great on their own, but he was sure that almost every side kick wanted to break the mold and become the superhero. Just look at Dick Grayson going from Robin to Nightwing. Xavier had accomplished so much and was glad that people were finally recognizing that. The hotel owned laughed and shook his head. “I have no problem talking. I just can’t assure you that everything that will come out of my mouth will be intelligent, specially if we hold a conversation while you’re taking a shower.” He admitted. “I get that most people go there for the slots and to go crazy and then be able to use the ‘what happens in Vegas...’ excuse. But there is so much more to do.” Xavier walked along with Nicholas, feeling a bit odd waling right next to a half naked men towards his room. They were just going to talk, so nothing to panic about. “The array of shows available to watch is incredible. You have one one every night of the week and each one will blow your mind. And I am not talking Britney Spears or whatever almost retired performer decides it’s a great idea to have a residency there.” 

[xoxxoxxox-blog1]

[xavier-xander-blog]

vanderbuiltscaststones:

“You’re a gentleman? In what world? Gentlemen don’t ask to hop into bed with another person when they bring them wine and cheese.” Valerie was just teasing, merely to see the reaction on the other’s face, tossing him a scoff of his own before laughing and pulling his legs to sit in a crisscross style on top of his bed. Carefully, he leaned forward, staring at the selection on the charcuterie board that Xavier gifted him. “That would be a kick, wouldn’t it? You bringing the one thing that I can’t have for one reason or another.” He almost hesitated on leaning forward, not sure what they were really doing on the bed- some strange honeymoon stage of a relationship that wasn’t even existent. Sighing, he pushed those thoughts to the side and found himself leaning forward anyway, opening his mouth to let the other feed him, giving a slight groan of approval, “That one is good.” He laughed, before taking one of the flutes of wine to sip on a moment later. “There a reason why you’re spoiling me?” he questioned softly, putting the glass to rest on his nightstand.

“I just got lucky in picking something that you actually like.” Xavier said, happily feeding Valerie the piece of cheese and poking the tip of his nose sweetly. “But for future reference, what are things you do not like at all? Just so I know I should never bring those when I show up with food at your door.” And Xavier really wanted to know because he planned on doing these sort of surprise visits quite often. “Do I need a reason?” He turned around the question, not really having a good answer other than wanting to be near Valerie, to talk to him and hang out with him. “I’m just making up for all the lost time between us. I wanna do nice things for you.” And it had always been like that, since day one that he met Valerie he’s had a soft spot for the young man. 

[xavier-xander-blog]

vanderbuiltscaststones:

It was nice to feel so carefree with another person again, something he didn’t think he would be able to feel after Carter and him had parted ways. It was hard, the thought of the two no longer being together stinging at his mind, but it was something he tried not to dwell on for too long- Carter was hopefully happy, and if things were meant to fix themselves, then they would. This was strange though, the ease he felt in the other’s arms, pressing his lips to Xavier’s own. “Oh- well if it’s your favorite Rose, then shouldn’t you just want to give this to me as a gift so I can have it all to myself.” He said taking the other completely into his room, before letting out a mocking gasp. “Are you inviting yourself into my bed? Here I thought you were a gentleman!” His head ducked with a laugh, thinking things over before making a head movement to motion the other closer to his bed, sitting himself down ontop of it as he watched Xavier.

“I am a gentleman!” Xavier tried to excuse himself and he was sure that Valerie knew that he did not mean his suggestion of using the bed as a sexual thing. It was a genuine question that the man asked. Plus, just a couple days ago they shared a bed, under Valerie’s suggestions. He did not bring it up, but it did not feel like that big of a deal. Xavier could keep his hands to himself if he was in bed with someone. He poured wine on two glasses and then walked back to the bed, sitting across from Valerie and reaching over to grab a cube of cheese. “Do you even like cheese and charcuterie? I feel like you have to like these things.” He grabbed a piece of cheese and offered it to Valerie’s lips. “Please don’t tell me you’re in a lactose free diet.” 

[xavier-xander-blog]

nicholaskarlov:

“Do not discredit sidekicks so easily, Mr. Xander.” The Russian smiled more to himself than the other man, approaching him slowly – just enough to allow his lips to brush against Xavier’s earlobe. “Where would Batman be without Robin? Would Peter Pan be the hero he was without Wendy? Every great hero requires a sidekick. They wouldn’t be able to succeed without one.” And being away from the target line and have the chance to occasionally toss a good joke would also be an entertaining feature. Nicholas pulled away from the other, wetting his lips as he gave Xavier a head to toes look although not in a feral way or like he was looking at a piece of meat. Those gazes were so vulgar altogether. “I have stayed there more than once in… business.” Plenty of high class clients on Vegas and double the marks to be eliminated. Vegas was the Sin City for a reason. “Will I get the pleasure of your company the next time I am staying at your hotel, Mr. Xander? Perhaps a dinner or… drinks? Although – I could just as easily invite you for a drink in my room if you are… available? I do not look my best right now.” Shirtless and covered in sweat. “I would be happy if I had the pleasure of your company even for a couple of minutes. You do look more fascinating live.”

Xavier did not move when the man moved closer to him, unsure about Nicholas’ intention but when he felt the lips brush softly against his earlobe it made Xavier shivered and shyly blush and laugh. “Honestly, Batman’s real backbone has always been Alfred.” He supplied. “Bruce Wayne would be no one without his guardian.” He could not help but share his feelings about the superhero and his story. “Just let me know when your next trip to Vegas is and I’ll check my schedule, see if I can be there to hang out with you.” He was always open and ready to make friends, so making some time to hang out with Nicholas while in Vegas was something he would definitely consider. “You look like you’re just back from working out...? I can give you some time to shower and then I’ll go knock at your door in half an hour or so?” He offered as a second option. 

[xavier-xander-blog]

vanderbuiltscaststones:

A bottle of wine and a plate of food? How in the world did Valerie end up so lucky? The gesture had him smiling, suddenly forgetting about how long and stressful his day had been and focusing on the man in front of him. He hadn’t stopped thinking about the night of the Spring Fling, laying on Xavier’s chest and just resting, nothing was pushed forward as they grew comfortable with each other again. He hadn’t wanted the night to end, even if admitting that he had missed Xavier pulled at some unwanted feelings inside his system. The man would grow bored as he had before and find someone else to distract him when the time came. “I have to share? I don’t know…” He whispered with a bit of a grin as he leaned against his room door, staring at the man with a smile before reaching behind himself to open it, “I guess I can oblige and let you come in.” He laughed, not being able to help himself as he put his hand around the back of Xavier’s neck, pressing his lips to the other’s with a laugh as he pulled him inside.

The kiss caught him completely off guard. It had been ages since the last time his lips and Valerie’s touched and it definitely made it clear to Xavier that the spark was still there. It hadn’t died, but it just lost intensity and got forgotten. He still couldn’t believe how he let himself simply push Valerie aside, but now he was truly happy that the young man was cautiously welcoming back into his life. “I was kind of hoping that, because this is my favorite rosé.” He commented with a chuckle and looked around Valerie’s room. “Couch or bed?” He asked, wanting to get more comfortable and able to spend some good time with Valerie. “Actually, sit down wherever you want and I will pop this bottle open and get us some glasses!” 

[xavier-xander-blog]

nicholaskarlov:

“You were attacked here?” The Russian arched one eyebrow, but concealed his surprise just nicely as he approached the other man, not really paying much mind to the sweat running down his torso. If there was an attack at the Haus, that would mean that their security system was flawed. And if there was a window of opportunity, he could easily take it to perform his duty. His clients were already getting restless as of late. “You are far too handsome to be the final girl. Unless we are talking on a Scream sequel and in that case, the girl survives all the attacks, terminates the killer and lives to tell the tale.” Nicholas curled his lips in a faint smile, his gaze turning to the end of the hall. “By the end of the hall. So you are free to drop by to visit anytime. I wouldn’t say no to some company.” The assassin shook the man’s hand and tried to pull out of his mind where he had read that name. Xavier Xander… “Aren’t you the owner of the XX Casino in Vegas? I stayed at that hotel a couple of times in the past. Quite the lovely establishment, Mr. Xander. I was pleasantly surprised.”

With a simple nod, Xavier answered to his newest acquaintance question. He did not want to open that box of memories because apart from the fact that a crazy man attacked him and threatened him with a knife, it marked the start of the fallout of his and Joshua’s relationship. There was just too many bad emotions and memories and it was best to keep them aside. “I’ve embraced the role of the sidekick who ends around the second act of the movie in an almost comical way.” Xavier perked up, changing his demeanor completely when Nicholas recognized his name and mentioned his baby the XX. “Yes! That’s my baby. I’m really happy to hear that. We try our best to make everyone’s stay with us the best one.” He knew it sounded like out of a pamphlet but it was really true. “You’re more than welcome to stay at the hotel any other time!” 

[xavier-xander-blog]

michaelxholzter:

Michael smiled as he was led out on the dance floor. “It’s a reason, but not the only reason.” He placed his free hand on the other’s shoulder as they began to move to the music. “Another reason was you were looking too good in that suit to not ask for one dance. It’s so nice when people take my advice.”

Xavier looked down at his suit, glad that Michael approved of his choice of outfit. He had to admit that he picked tonight’s clothes thinking about the tips and advice that the dark haired man had given him the other day. “I have to thank you. I’ve actually gotten various compliments about my clothes tonight and it is mostly due to you.” He smiled. “And you look really good. Only you could pull it off, honestly.” 

[xavier-xander-blog]

It was really time for Xavier to reconnect with some people that he really needed to, men he’d met thanks to the Haus but for one reason or another or someone stopped spending time with them. The relationship with Gabriel hadn’t always been the best one from the beginning, but it had developed into one that Xavier really treasured. He considered it tough love of sorts, knowing damn well that Gabriel would always be blatantly honest with him no matter what. Xavier got dressed properly for a night out, knowing that the other man would give him hell if he showed up in too casual clothes. Plus, it was the opening of this new classy restaurant, so Xavier had to dress accordingly. He waited at the lobby, fixing a couple rogue strands of his hair that just did not want to stay on place tonight, making his hair look messier than he’d intended it to. 

@dontlookforangels

[gyllenhaaalicious-deactivated20]

[xavier-xander-blog]

nicholaskarlov:

“Do you have a stalker problem?” Nicholas approached the other man, gazing towards him from top to bottom. He had never met someone who seemed as paranoid as this man in front of him – and that came from someone who killed people for a living. “Maybe you are. Maybe there is someone lurking in the shadows, waiting for the perfect moment to strike. You know… wait until you are most vulnerable? Waiting for the moment when you least expect?” The Russian chuckled and offered his hand to the other man, nodding his head once more. “Or perhaps you are just imagining things. My name is Nicholas. Nicholas Karlov. Now that you know my name – you won’t see me as a random stranger approaching. Not to mention that there’s plenty of security cameras around. You shouldn’t be nervous.”

“No! Absolutely not... At least I don’t think so and if I do have a stalker... then they must be doing a pretty great job because I am not sure if there’s someone following me around...” Even though he felt like it at times, but assumed it was all due to the recent attack. “That’s not helping! I just... I am not making excuses for my paranoia, but I recently got attacked here in the Haus so I am not sure I feel entirely safe all the time. Specially when it is dark and I am alone and things feel like I am in the middle of a horror movie and I am the next one that should die, because I am never going to be the final girl, let’s face it.” Xavier relaxed some more when the man introduced himself, connecting the accent with the name. It made sense. “Xavier Xander. Good meeting you, Nicholas.” He nodded and shook his limbs, trying to get rid of the nervous energy he was carrying. “Are we neighbors? You live in this hallway also?” 

[xavier-xander-blog]

kingsleycamden:

Camden tried to think about it but couldn’t come up with any, as unfortunate as that was, “i’m sure a basic internet search would surprise the both of us when it comes to popular names beginning with X.”  When Xavier was actually complimenting the Blackwell’s though all Camden could do was groan, his stomach fucking turning at the thought that the client actually appreciated them.  "Not what i’d be going for but to each their own,“ he shrugged his shoulders as he listened to the other.  "Not that I was hired though, not in the usual sense,” more like his brother and him were used to pay a debt, here as slaves because their father was a fucking idiot to think he could get away with dipping into the Blackwell accounts without their help.  “If you even knew half the story I doubt you would be commending them…”

Xavier scrunched up his face and sat down next to Camden, feeling like their talk was going to last a little much longer than actually expected as they were sort of saying their goodbyes already. “I have good and bad things to comment about them, both of them, but when it comes to the Haus and how they run everything here... I believe they do an incredible job.” He shrugged, trying to keep his opinion on the matter as unbiased as possible given all his history with the Blackwells. Specially one.