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Daily Life with Oliver and Loth
Takes place around when Ettore has been with Oliver and Loth for a few months. Mostly to explore during the time Dario was boss and when Assai was in power. I believe this also maybe takes place when Donna first starts working at the strip club?
Stretching, Loth padded out of the bathroom rubbing his hair with a ratty towel. He just got done touching up the tangerine colored dye to his hair, unable to handle seeing his black roots anymore. Next time he'd have to get it professionally done, he needed a haircut badly.
He smirked when he smelled coffee wafting through the hallway, and tossed the towel into the laundry room to go investigate the kitchen. It was too early for Oliver to be up, so it had to be Ettore, the new kid Dar plunked down on them. He'd been living here for a couple of months now, and took no time learning how to brew coffee for the Oli-monster within the first couple of weeks.
Getting to the kitchen he saw Ettore was making breakfast, having a skillet warm up on the stove and had a cutting board out as he was dicing potatoes.
Watching how he did it, he went over to him. "Hold it like this." He instructed, taking his one hand to have him make a fist and then how to hold the knife. "Yeah like that, this way if you cut yourself it isn't a finger that'll go missing."
"Thank you sir." Ettore said, moving his hands around to get the feel of it before continuing with his chopping.
"Man kid you're spoiling us, you don't have to get up early every morning to make coffee and breakfast." Loth slid his ass up on the counter as he watched him cook.
Ettore gave him a sheepish shrug, "I'm just not use to waking up later I guess? I had to wake up earlier than this at the warehouse."
"Still can't believe they hired you to begin with, they must've been desperate. Bet you gave them your best pouty face." He chuckled, trying not to look sad at him.
Poor kiddo, he shouldn't have had to be already acting like an adult already. Course that was why Oliver could tolerate him, being the mini grandpa faced adult he was. Ugh, well at least Oliver stopped fussing about having Ettore live with them.
"I don't think they were opposed to hiring teenagers honestly." Ettore said after thinking on it, remembering there was a decent amount of kids older than he was that was working there. After cutting up enough for the three of them he slid the potatoes off the cutting board and into the pan.
"If you're interested I bet your Uncle Izzy won't mind teaching you how to cook. Gave me a good few pointers." It'd give a good excuse for Oliver's family to interact with him. They were still wary about the kid, thinking that he could be playing for the Allirana on the sly.
Ettore gave him a look, "I... don't know, last time I spent time with them they... weren't thrilled." The only one that seemed delighted he was there was Nina.
Laughing Loth got off the counter, and fished around in the fridge for juice. "Aw don't let them scare you off kid, they'll warm up to the idea of you being Oli and mine's love child. They're just still upset we haven't gotten married first before having kids." He gave a wistful sigh, propping his arms over the door.
"Your otter Papa doesn't think me pretty enough to marry, he keeps denying me. Sexy minx keeps rubbing that in my face." He let out a dramatic noise and slunk back into the fridge, moving old milk cartons to find his prize. "Don't you worry though! I am never one to give up!"
Standing up he put the juice and coffee creamer on the counter and pointed to the coffee maker. "If it's done pour me a cup, I gotta do some wooing."
Ettore silently obeyed, not sure how he felt about all this teasing about him being their adopted child. There was no way Loth was going to stop, and Oliver just played along. The boss wasn't much better, he just thought it was hilarious.
"Such a good boy." Loth cooed taking the filled coffee cup from him and adding in the creamer and sugar to how Oliver liked it.
"If you don't mind, go ahead and crack into that sausage we bought the other day." He pulled it out for him before heading to the bedrooms, planning on waking up his coffee beast.
"Olllllliiiiii, sweeeeettieeeeeee! Wakeey waaaakeeeyyyy!" He sang, waving a hand over the cup to get the smell to fill the room. "Your sweet siren of the morning calls to you!"
"Go to hell." Came a muffled grumbly reply as Oliver turned over and pulled the covers over his head.
Stifling his giggles he set the coffee down on the dresser, not wanting it to spill if Oliver decided to throw stuff at him next.
"Awww you're adorable when your like this, c'mere and gimmie those cheeks." He jumped onto the bed, reaching under the covers to pinch at his face. "Where's my good morning kiss huh? Don't deny me!"
"Fuck you Loth." Oliver grumbled uncharitably. He sat up though, smelling the coffee.
"Saucy, I'd have my way with you right now if it wasn't for work." Grinning in victory he left Oliver alone to bring the coffee closer to him.
"Our grandpa faced love child is making breakfast again." He informed him, giving his forehead a kiss as he gave him the cup.
Oliver accepted the kiss, but only becasue it came with coffee. He didn't respond untill he got a good sniff and a sip. He exhailed and looked up at Loth.
"Oh? What is he making this time?"
"Fried potatoes and I threw at him those sausages we got recently." He sat next to him on the bed, enjoying watching Oliver turn from his morning monster to his usual self.
"Makes me feel bad when he gets up earlier than us, like we are... a couple of gadabouts." He pretended to look ashamed.
"You'll forget about that as soon as you start eating." Oliver chuckled and gave him a pat on the arm.
"It's bad, but I don't mind having food I didn't have to work for." Now that he wouldn't fear his face getting ripped off he went in for a proper smooch from him. "Especially now that the title of coffee slave has moved on to someone else." He grinned against his mouth.
Oliver smooched back, but gave Loth's gut a poke. He didn't want to be kept from his coffee by too much affection, not yet.
He jerked at the poke and smirked, giving his nose a lick as payback as he leaned away. "Just can't keep your hands off me can you? You're going to need more than me for breakfast you know."
"Skipping breakfast hasn't killed me yet." Oliver took another loving sip of coffee. Had to hand it to that kid, he'd learned fast how to make it decent. "Don't tell the Ettore that though, he may stop making it."
"Oh I won't, I still want to be able to get something myself. So this mean you're cool with keeping him around for the long term?"
"Despite my initial thoughts, he's grown on me. He at least isn't a complainer or a brat." Oliver admitted, though it had taken a while to get to this point, even with how good a kid Ettore was.
"Unlike me right?" He stuck his tounge out playfully. Leaving him on the bed he went to the closet, figuring if he was going to harass Oliver he may as well get dressed.
"I know we have a meeting, but I can't remember who it's with." He shook off his pj pants off, going bareass as he bent over to look for his work pants.
Oliver sighed and took another sip, watching Loth as he got dressed. "Boss Velliara. Come on Loth, at least don't forget the important meetings. I know Dar doesn't treat it that way, but you can. For my sake."
"Hey at least I remembered there was a meeting." He pouted over his shoulder, tossing a clean shirt onto the bed. "That's gotta count for something right?" Finally finding a pair of pants he wiggled into them.
Thinking he then flinched, "Uh oh... Enzo isn't in town is he?" Meant they were going to have to really pay attention this time to keep Dar out of trouble, puuuuu.
Oliver nodded and gave a long suffering sigh and rubbed his temples with one hand. "Sometimes I think making me his advisor was Dar's idea of punishment for never saving him from swirlies."
"Haha that would explain so much huh? Especially since I'm the one that usually gave him the swirlies." Loth shrugged on his shirt next, buttoning it up.
"Too bad I can't give him those anymore lest I want him to carve out a kidney for treason."
"I don't know who misses it more, You or Ino." Oliver took another sip, refusing to get out of bed until he'd had every last drop.
"Oh Ino definitely. You can see it in his eyes." He pointed to his own. "That far off stare, the bored look, the stiff posture. It's all done to keep himself in check, lest he give into his passions and find the nearest park bathroom or roadside stop to dunk him in. It's his passion, his calling, his meaning to life!"
"You might be right about that. Hopefully little Selto's new biting phase will keep him just alive enough." He made a face, he didn't really hang out with Ino and Zeta outside of work as much as he used to. Being parents kept them busy and he just couldn't stand being around their kid for more than a few seconds. Two year olds were not what he'd call enjoyable.
"It's the only thing that keeps him sane!" He put on his tie next, flipping up his collar. "Oh man Oli, the kid is fucking adorable when he laughs. So much like Zeta, I'm really jealous he gets to hear that everyday."
"I'll pass on that. Much as I love Zeta, I think I'm better off not near any wild laughing children." He finally finished his cup with a satisfied sigh and set it down on the bedside table, ready to start the day.
"Yeah, you already get nervous twitches around regular children. That's okay too, means more for me!" He gleed, his arms in the air. "I get all his munches too! I'm due for another one since this one's almost all healed up." He pointed to his arm, the indention of toddler teeth was almost gone now.
"We should try hanging out with them sometime soon, it's been awhile. Think Ettore would be cool if we made him babysitter?"
Oliver pondered on that. "You know, that might be a good idea. We could be free to enjoy Zeta and Ino's company." Nannies didn't last long in that house. The only time they had to hang out was when Zeta's brothers wanted to watch him, and they were often very busy. Maybe Ino's aunt, but her husband wasn't much into the biting. "It would be a good test for him."
"Hahaha, yeah will build some character too!" He laughed, getting his vest next. "If they like the idea we can make him take one of those first aid classes before we set Selto loose on him." Ettore was going to need it.
"Yeah, the kid is going to need that eventually anyway, considering how much Dar wants to use him on the force in some capacity." Oliver removed the covers and swung his feet out onto the nice heated floor, stretching. "A whole course."
"Oh! Speaking of courses." He tugged down his vest to straighten it out. "You think we should also get him into some homeschooling? I don't think Dar is going to let the kid have enough time to make him go back like a normal kid."
Oliver nodded grimly, he felt education was extreamly important. And if the kid was going to be with them for any amount of time he didn't want to be responsible for stunting his educational growth by not providing for it.
"Yes, I'll handle that." He got up and headed to the closet to get himself dressed as well. "I think getting him some self defence classes wouldn't be a bad move either."
Loth wiggled his fingers at Oliver, seeing his naked booty when he came out. He was nice to warn him before grabbing his ass before dancing away.
"I can handle that if you like. I bet Zeta's brothers know some good places or may offer some themselves."
Oliver retaliated with a flat look, as if he wasn't amused. "Would you? Maybe if he proves to be good with Ino and Zeta's spawn they'll help us train him. I don't know what Dar has planed for him, or if he's even thinking of a plan beyond 'lol badger'."
Loth sighed, giving hint to Oliver what he thought on it. He loved his friend, but he didn't always think these things through. It was probably why Dario gave Ettore over to Oliver, since he was always known to having to fix or clean up messy situations for him.
"At least the kid is with us, hate to think if Dar made him Browny's scoop poop boy instead." He gave a snicker.
"Sometimes I wonder what goes through his head." Oliver said as he got himself dressed. "And sometimes I'm glad that I can't know."
"It's a scary place! Full of old timey reruns and conspiracy theories about Alien Cake men! OoooooOoooo!" He said in a creepy voice, then cackled. "Man that'd be an awesome mission, have to go to bakeries to taste test to make sure it isn't filled with mind controlling alien goo."
"That sounds like gruntwork to me." Oliver checked himself in the mirror as he got dressed, to make sure everything was in place. "It also sounds like just the sort of thing he did last month when he had that dream about haunted beer. Speaking of which, the Velliara are still a bit miffed by what he tried to do regarding that. So try not to bring it up, but keep it in mind."
"Oh so today's meeting is going to be EXTRA fun, fantastic." He rubbed his hands together gleefully, as if he was looking forward to it.
There was a light knock on the hallway wall before Ettore spoke up, "Sirs? Breakfast is ready if you're interested." Ettore learned that just because the door was open it didn't mean it was safe to look, so he stayed far from the room.
Oliver looked much less pleased. Any time Dario pissed off the Velliara he got an earful not only from Enzo, but also his uncle. He had some connections with the Mongoose advisor that seemed important to him. And then his papa would be an ass about it and get on his case too. Dar was damn lucky Oliver didn't take it out on him more than he did, that was for sure.
"We'll be in there in a minute, gotta finish admiring your Papa's fine ankles." Loth called back to him. Looking back at Oliver he glanced down at his naked feet and gave a whistle.
"So sexy, gonna flash them a little more at me?"
"Thank you Ettore, we'll be there in a moment." Oliver ignored Loth for now, at least verbally. Physically he took his time putting on his socks as sentually as possible. It helped take his mind off what could go wrong during the meeting, at least for a moment.
Shaking his head, Ettore went back to the kitchen and got himself a plate out.
"Gah, Oliver, you tease you went for the full length today. You know that gets me so hot." He fanned himself like it was just too much for him. "Good thing you didn't go for the ankle socks this time, or poor Boss Velliara would have to watch me eat you up in front of him."
"Moons forbid." Oliver put his shoes on and gave himself another once over before heading out of the room, patting Loth on the arm as he went.
"I know it saddens you too my dainty feet lover, but I would just get too jealous if anyone but me saw them." He sighed, following after Oliver.
When they got to the kitchen Ettore was already sitting at the table eating his portion of breakfast. He had that morning's newspaper out and was reading through it.
"Hey kiddo? Can you pull out the classifieds out for me?" Loth asked as he passed by, thinking to himself if it was worth getting punched to mess with Oliver's hair.
"Did they mention anything about The Stardale company in there?" Oliver asked, going for another cup of coffee before going to get himself some of the food.
Frowning as he thought back he flipped through the paper, then nodded. He pulled that section out for him to read over in his spot, "Can't say what it's about I haven't read it yet myself."
"Hunting them down again Detective Oli?" Loth teased.
"If all went well not any more." Oliver nodded a thanks for the paper and took it after he sat his food on the table. He got himself a chair and read about it while he ate.
"Ettore, are there any subjects you're interested in, school wise?" He asked while he read.
He looked up at him questioningly, his brows knitted together as he thought back on it.
"Um, I think I liked Language and Literature class the best? Though I preferred PE, but I don't think that's along the lines of what you're asking me."
"Thats a fine answer." Oliver lowered the paper. "If you could do anything, what would you choose to do for a living?"
Loth tried to keep quiet and not giggle at all the sudden questions that he was throwing at Ettore. If he felt the need he'd step in if he got too intense, for now he had some sausages to devour.
Ettore continued to look confused as he thought about it then shrugged, "I... don't know? I never gave it much thought before." He tried again to think back on if he ever had. Well maybe once when he was in 1st grade, but he doubted he could make a living on being the best jellybean counter.
"I always thought more on how I would immediately get out of my current situation. This is honestly the first time I was in a situation that I could think on what I wanted to do, not what was needed. If that makes sense?"
"Nothing coming to mind then?" Oliver frowned to himself in thought. Well at least he had a place to start. "How do you feel about toddlers?"
Okay now this was getting odd, "Toddlers sir? I'm... abit confused as to where this is going."
Laughing, Loth piped in. "Haha nothing too sinister kid. Oli is curious if you'd be up for babysitting our friend's kid. He's only 2 so he's still very young."
"Oh! Uh... I wouldn't know how I feel about them? Neutral? I never had to babysit before." Ettore relaxed, glad it wasn't something he was suspecting it would be.
"Didn't have any siblings?" Loth asked, chewing on a sausage.
"Luckily no." He shook his head.
"Haha like being any only child?"
"No, it's not that." Ettore poked at one of his potatoes then finally ate it. "Just glad no one else had to deal with my Uncle."
"No, it's not that." Ettore poked at one of his potatoes then finally ate it. "Just glad no one else had to deal with my Uncle."
"I'm going to be hiring some people to get you home schooled. If you want to live with us you need an education." Oliver said curtly. It wasn't as if Ettore had chosen to live with them, or ever seemed adverse to learning. But it was the only way Oliver seemed to be able to talk to him.
"I'm not opposed to that sir." Ettore answered, not too put off by Oliver's stern demenor towards him. It was nothing new, and he doubted Oliver would ever soften up to him.
It bothered Loth though, it was obvious because he was giving him the big sad pouts complete with a trembling lower lip.
Oliver raised his paper again and coughed, avoiding Loth's sad pouts. "Good to hear."
"If you don't mind me asking sir, I was wondering how the home schooling would work?" Ettore asked in curiosity. "Since I'm always at the Capital."
"Some things can be learned while on the job, others will have to wait untill you're home. You won't have much free time throughout the week, but you'll have the weekned to yourself if you want it, atleast with the homeschooling. I can't really say when Dar's going to want you around."
"The weekend would be the better bet." Loth commented, "Be easy enough to tell Dar that those days are off limits. He hates working on those days himself." He picked up the newspaper section he asked for and glanced through it.
Oliver thought on it a bit. "I'm worried he'll get bored and find an excuse to make us all go out. I don't think that will include Ettore, but you never know. Do you think you could focus on studies while me and Loth are out of the house?"
Ettore nodded without hesitation, "Of course, sir." He was warming up to the idea more of being homeschooled if it meant he didn't have to go to actual school. It would cut out all the crap he hated about it and he'd be able to ask the questions he wanted without the snide comments.
"I'd tease not to throw any house parties while we are gone, but I have a feeling you take after too much after your Otter papa." Loth fake sniffled, as if saddened by that.
He looked at him in puzzlement, "Its... not my house though sir, it'd be rude to be throwing any event without asking you two first."
"Olliiiii! Lookit what you did to our son! You...You made him responsible!" Loth covered his face and pretended to weep.
"Good, no son of mine would be any less than respectful." Oliver said curtly, but he lowered his paper again to give Loth a smile. "Besides, one of you is enough."
"Can't handle two of me getting all up in your baked goods?" He stopped weeping to give him a grin and a eyebrow wiggle. "That's fine though, I don't think I could handle the competition from myself."
Biting back a sigh, Ettore finished the last of his breakfast and got up to put away his dishes. If he was going to have time to clean up before going to work he needed to start now.
"Hey don't worry about the dishes kiddo, I'll take care of them." Loth said. "The cook doesn't have to clean up." He really didn't plan on doing the dishes before work, he could take care of them later, but he didn't want Ettore to feel like he had to do everything.
Oliver shook his head at them and went back to his paper. He was usualy ahead on news related thing for work, but he wasn't reading it for the information itself. More for what the paper thought was important and how they spun it. That usually made a difference in how he needed to handle things. The press in Groo was not a free press, but it wasn't wholey government controlled either. A mixed bag that Oliver sort of enjoyed, in his own way.
He waited until Ettore was gone before he looked at Oliver with an impish grin, "If I'm lucky your clean-a-holic older brother should be back soon to do it for me. Which should be...." He looked at the clock. "A few hours after we leave for work, how convienent!"
"I wasn't aware he was going to be in today." Oliver lied, as if surprised by Loth's sneakiness. If Loth wasn't a crafty son of a bitch Oliver doubted he'd like him as much as he did. "How convenient indeed."
"How sad that you don't keep up with your big brother, he's going to cry over your carelessness over his well being." He sniffled as he got up from his seat, giving Oliver's cheek a gentle pinch.
"That's what I'm known for, carelessness and lack of attention to detail." Oli batted Loth's hand away goodnaturedly and closed his paper.
"Awww don't beat yourself up so much sweetie, its two of the things I like about you." Loth was nice enough to put the dirty dishes into the sink and store away the extra food, but that was the extent of his 'cleaning up'.
"Did you manage to tell Apu about our new roommate or are we going to be surprising him when we get home tonight?"
"He knows." Oliver leaned back slightly and rubbed his temples. "Or he should know, I've left him enough messages." Apu's schedual didn't often line up in a way that let them talk much, not with how busy Oliver always was keeping up with Dar and running the country.
"So up in the air if he actually had a chance to listen to them." It would probably be fine, long as they didn't let Ettore come into the house all by himself later today.
"Man when was the last time we got to hang out with him?" He rubbed his chin, "Pretty bad when he lives here half the year." Best he could remember of them really hanging out was at Oliver's Papa's birthday. Apu always did his best to at least be home for his parent's birthdays.
"It's been too long. We need to make some time for it for sure." Oliver agreed. He got up and placed his paper on the table, he streached and headed to the coffee maker for another cup.
"If I pick up the slack for abit for you maybe we can get Dar to let you take a week off to hang out with him?" He offered, pinching his rump as he passed.
"Oh don't forget, don't use the cologne today. Assai's advisor told me it gave Assai a migraine last time."
Oliver sighed, the last time it was Dar's fault for dumping cologne on him. But of course he was going to get teased about it.. "Yes.. thank you Loth. I'll keep that in mind." He had half a mind to pinch him for that, but refrained for the time being. Chances were high it was a tease right from said advisor instead of Loth anyway. Hard to be sure.
"No problem." He leaned down and gave his cheek a kiss. Poor Oli, he always did have it rough with his family knowing everybody and it eventually coming back to his parents who'd either tease or scold him over things that went on in meetings.
Loth headed to the bathroom to finish getting ready, calling out to Ettore he had 15 minutes before they headed out.
Some time later...
Loth sat back and crossed his arms after the car started up. They barely had time to get into the front door of the Capital before Dario shoved them all back out and to the limo with Ettore in tow. Ino and Zeta were already in the car when they all piled in. After sitting in silence he piped up, "You that afraid of your Papa coming back early?" He was sorta hoping Enzo would come back early so the meeting would be less headache inducing. Out of the corner of his eye he could already see Oliver smoothing out his hair out of exasperation.
Loth sat back and crossed his arms after the car started up. They barely had time to get into the front door of the Capital before Dario shoved them all back out and to the limo with Ettore in tow. Ino and Zeta were already in the car when they all piled in. After sitting in silence he piped up, "You that afraid of your Papa coming back early?" He was sorta hoping Enzo would come back early so the meeting would be less headache inducing. Out of the corner of his eye he could already see Oliver smoothing out his hair out of exasperation.
"What? Why.. should I be?" Dar scoffed, too pleased with himself and his plans to worry about that. "Come on Loth, don't be an Oli about it. This is going to be fun!"
Oliver smoothed his hair out again and pulled an ant-acid from his pocket. He may need it sooner than he was expecting.
Zeta and Ino were sitting up front. Although they had a driver, Ino liked to be the one to drive for Dar when they were all together.
"It's not exactly fun when you're the one dealing with Boss Velliara's Advisor's overly sexy glaring." He hung out with Oliver enough to know the man personally as well, but it meant nothing when they were at work. That man knew how to look super intimidating and not in the fun way.
"Also why is Ettore going with us? He's not exactly in the best age range for this."
"Ah stop being a baby, this'll be fun!" Dar didn't seem phased. "Why not bring him? He looks old enough to me. Haha! I would have loved to been in his shoes at that age."
"Insulting our allies shouldn't be on your list of fun things Dar.." Oliver wished he'd brought a coffee to go...
Ettore sat in silence since he wasn't being addressed directly. He sat with his own thoughts, midly wondering where they were going that everyone seemed upset about.
"I think you tried, though it was in the girl's lockerroom wasn't it?" Loth scratched his chin trying to remember. "You also ended up getting almost pom pomed to death too."
"They should have been honored! I'm the boss now!"
Oliver bearly resisted the urge to elbow Dar in the ribs for being such a.. Dar. "I don't feel honored any time you look at me Dar, hard to think they should either."
"You're an Oli, you don't count." Dar waved him off, not at all chastized.
"Do I count? Or am I also in the Oli category?" He rummaged into his pockets, looking for some gum. He found it, though he took his hand back out remembering that it wasn't a good look to be chewing gum during the meeting, even if it was in a very unprofessional setting.
"Oh! Hey!" He turned around his seat, poking his head through the partian window to bother Ino and Zeta. "How you two feel about trying out a new babysitter?"
"No, you don't count. None of you count. You all suck." Dar laughed.
"You know I love fresh meat. And so does Selto!" Zeta grinned at him. "Aaaahahahaha!"
Ino gave a solemn nod in agreement.
Loth wiggled his butt as he delighted in hearing her sultry wild laugh. Hearing it always got him excited, it was hard not to just start making out with her.
"Awww that mean he's getting tired of biting me? I was looking forward to it." He sighed sadly. "I was thinking of having the kid here look after him so you two would be free to go panty raiding again with us. I heard the grannies at the old folks home just came back from the clothing store."
"Subjecting him to Oli's kid grump, and now wanna feed him to Selto? What did that poor kid do to piss you off so bad?" Zeta poked his cheek. "Gotta get my little biter on a well balance diet Loth, can't just feed him sweets all the time."
"Loth isn't sweet..." Ino grumbled.
"Aww big biter is being a grump again. Aaaahahaa!" Zeta mocked Ino's jelousy and poked his cheek next. "He could use some more sweets."
"I consider it part of his training. If you can't handle a toddler eating your insides then whats the point of being on the force right?"
He grinned when Ino spoke up, "Oh he would huh?" Waiting until he came to a stop at a light he pulled Ino's face close to his and gave him a big smooch, daring to give him a little tounge action to 'sweeten' it.
It was a good thing he didn't think of it, he might've gotten bit on said tounge.
"Hey now, you had your chance Loth, that biter is mine now." Zeta grabbed Loth's ear and gave it a twist. "You've got Oli, leave some for the rest of us."
"Ooooowww! But he was looking delicious! I couldn't help it!" He let her pull his head away. "If you're feeling left out you could've said something." He added, bracing himself for Ino retriubtion.
"Try it and you'll never get to babysit again scruffy." Zeta warned.
Ino calmly got his eyes back on the road and reached over to hit the automatic open/close button of the devider, feeling trapping Loth's head would be a good revenge for the time being. But Zeta caught him and smacked his hadn away from it.
Loth looked ready to cry at that threat, "Noooooo don't do that! I'll be good! Don't take away the one good thing in my life!" His bottom lip trembled. "My life thrives under the abuse of little toddler teeth! To hear his little cackles of glee that are just as sweet to my ears as yours does my dear Zeta. Please forgive my transgressions upon your family, you with the genrious heart."
Dar thinking it would be funny, kicked Loth in the ass while he was distracted. "Stop crying about babies and sit down, granny." He laughed, he was right, it was funny.
Loth gave a loud estacit moan yelling, "Ohhh Daaar." When he got kicked in the ass. "Oh please don't stop." He pulled out of the window to bat his lashes at him wantoningly.
"Eww no way man I want a hot chick not some old granny. I don't want to smell like mothballs and potpourri."
"Already went through your granny phase huh?" Chuckling he went back down into his seat, rubbing his ass pretending it hurt. "The arthritis foot rubs didn't do it for you?"
"There's no such thing as a granny phase Loth, and if there is I'm outlawing it." Dar laughed.
Oliver wasn't sure what the better option in this case was, should he let Dar get all his sillyness out now before the meeting? Or would that only encurage him to be a dick to up the antics level? It really was a no win seario, he was Dar either way. Oliver jsut couldn't help but try to plan for the unplanable.
"You know there are easier ways of breaking up with a woman than telling her you suddenly made it illegal to do so." Loth was of the mind of trying to get Dario's pent up energy out now with the bantering. It was hard though to gauge if it was helpful or hindersome, he was like a Mun puppy that when you think you've worn them out they'd do a crash nap then spring back only a minute later.
"I'm too cool for normal break ups Loth, sorry for your loss, but grannyes are illigal." Dar tapped leaned forward and blounced his leg. "Unless its like a super hot granny."
"Hotness is rather subjective, anyone can claim any grandma is hot. Moons I'll admit Boss Allirana's grandma gives me the happy shivers just looking at her when she gives me death glares." He shivered like it was affecting him even now just thinking about it.
"I'm the boss I get to decid. Badgers are now illigal too." He laughed then had a very breif moment of realization and ruffled Ettore's hair. "I'm just joking kid, you're like.. an honarary otter now anyway."
Even when he was trying to be sinsitive Dar was the worst. Oliver kept his eyes out the window, best let Ettore get used to it now, cause it was goign to be a running theme for sure. Then again the kid was likly used to it already. "Are we there yet?" He sighed.
"Thank you sir." Ettore said, mostly to appease Dario to show he wasn't affected by his words. He knew well enough how people viewed badgers like him.
"Didn't bring a book?" Loth teased, crossing his leg over the other and relaxing. "That eager to see your sweetie Romeo?"
Oliver sighed heavily, Romeo was like... Assai's Dar. No maybe that was harsh.. maybe he was more a Loth...
"How he sighs wistfully, nearly swooning at the idea of embraceing his love once again. It's okay Oli, we're almost there, you can hold out just a little longer right?" He sympathetically patted Oliver's knee.
"Pfft you must have a thing for old people Loth." Dar made gagging sounds.
"I'm attracted to experience, what can I say?" He chuckled, "It's hard to resist." Loth gave a flirty wink to Oliver.
"Everyone is, anyone who says otherwise is lieing." Oliver played this time, mostly to take a dig at Dar, as he was feeling the night was going to require some revenge. Might as well get it in early.
"Now you know why bingo night is so popular." He chuckled, looking out the window as he felt the car come to a stop.
"Yeah right, no one cares about your big brain Oli, its your your body that gets the attention." Dar argued. "Loth's just trying to hide his granny fetish by calling you old."
"Well we know now who really values Oliver for his personality over his looks." Loth smirked, waiting until Zeta opened up the door.
"You'll see it my way one day Dar, one day."
"Yeah right." Dar's leg bounced even more as he waited for the people flanking him to get out of the car and out of his way. "Cooome ooooon Loth, move it or loose it."
"Dar, Boss Velliara might already be here. Lets not give him the idea you're undignified. We want to fool him in that reagard." Oli poked Dar to get his attention.
"Yeah yeah but I can't sit in this car anymore, lets goo come oooon."
Smirking up at Zeta, Loth got out of the car, going slow at first just to annoy Dario. Once out he quickly fixed his tie when he noticed it was crooked in the window's reflection.
"Wouldn't that be something? Impressing them with your professionalism?"
Ettore waited until everyone else was out of the car before he got out. His eyes squinted against the brightness.
Oliver smoothed his hair out and looked around as casually as he could. They had guards stationed in all the locations had asked, atleast the ones he could see when they signaled him. He nodded at the signals and turned to Ettore as he came out, resting a hand on his shoulder.
"Are you alright?" He asked quietly.
"Hrm? Yes sir, I just need to adjust to the light." He rubbed at his eyes, blinking as he got used to it. Now that he was able to see more clearly he looked around, curious as to where they were at.
Looking up at the sign he actually gave a weary sigh as he glanced at Oliver, "Ah I see why now."
"Fix your tie." Loth whispered to Dar. He would've done it himself, but it wouldn't have been a good look with him fussing at him.
"Yes granny." Dar fixed his tie, then check himself in the reflection on the window and Zeta and Ino took up thier positions.
Oliver shared a moment of resigned solidarity with Ettore and gave his sholder a pat before leading the both of them to join the rest on Dar's side of the car. He tried to ignored the glaring neon sign and what it promised inside.
Across the parking lot Assai and his team were standing by thier own car and looking displeased. Well Assai and his advisor looked displeased, his second seemed in a good mood.
Loth braced himself, putting on his best friendly smile for them as he strode over to greet them. Not much he could do about their sour moods.
"Good morning Boss Velliara, Second Ricci, and Advisor Genevia. Hope you weren't waiting too long?"
"Good morning to you as well Second Ercole." Romeo repled with a smile. "You know its funny, I thought we had an agreement we'd not meet at place like this again. I must be miss remebering."
Forrez cocked an eyebrow up at Loth. "If we're going to be so informal perhaps we should meet at a real dance club."
Assai looked away and covered his face as if he was coughing, but it was mostly just to hide his expresion. His Second and Advisor had things handled and he couldn't help but be amused by thier different approches.
Moons strike me now... "I apologise, it must've slipped our minds. So much went on last meeting, I'll make sure in the future it doesn't happen again." Knowing Dar he'd probably twist it to seem like they meant this place, not all places like it.
"If you have one to recommend I can pass it along to Boss Dontai to consider for next time we meet." He wasn't really sure if Assai would like that better or not, but he'd leave that up to Forrez.
"Before we head inside I hope you don't mind that we have someone new accompanying us today." Looking behind him he gestured to Ettore to come on over.
Looking a little confused he looked to Oliver first then went over to them once he got a confirmation.
"Ettore this is Boss Assai Velliara, Second Romeo Ricci, and Advisor Forrez Genevia. Boss Velliara this is Ettore IIlario, one of the new under vest that Boss Dontai picked up."
The three of them went quiet, taking Ettore in. There were so many qestions and thoughts, that it seemed they were having trouble findign the words to address them. Well all but Romeo.
"Why is he here?" Romeo asked, crossing his arms incredulusly.
If he had been Oliver or even possibly a man of lower rank he might've gone the diplomatic route, spouting off logical reasons other than the truth that Dario just wanted to flaunt the kid around. Luckily he was neither of those things and he could get away with just about anything.
"This is Oliver and mine's love child! Poor Oliver he just couldn't stand to be away from our little grandpa face badger baby so we have him tagging along with us today." He made a cooing face at Ettore as he pinched his cheek, trying not to laugh at the shocked look on the kid's face.
"Hope you don't mind too much if he just sits to the side during the meeting today do you? He's a very quiet shy kid, won't make a peep."
Romeo blinked, then laughed and smacked Loth on the shoulder. "Nono really why is he here."
"Romeo." Assai warned. He was sure Loth wouldn't mind the joking back and forth, but he minded. It was already unformal enough already, no sense encouraging it and lettign it get out of hand.
"How old is he?" Forrez asked, he was the only one still keeping thier eyes on Ettore.
"I'm telling the truth, truely." Loth laughed along with Romeo.
"Hrm....What was it....fifteen right?" Loth asked Ettore, scratching his head.
"I'm twelve sir." Ettore sighed, realising that Loth was asking to play around some more.
"Right! Twelve!"
"Twelve? And Oliver insisted on him being here?" Forrez raised his eyebrow again, calling bullshit on that.
Assai was unable to hide his displeasure.
Loth winced, he wasn't expecting them to really buy it, especially Forrez. The man knew Oliver just as if not more than he did due to his relation with his Papa Izzy.
"Aw can't fool you. Boss Dontai has taken a shine to him, so he's been having him shadow around with us."
"I'd like to express that I'm uncomftorable with a child being here as a novlety." Assai spoke his peace, knowing that putting up too much of a fuss would make thier reason for coming here would be jeperdized.
Forrez nodded, that sounded about right.
"Whoa seriously? There's no way he's 12." Romeo seemed to be caught up on that part. He just couldn't belive it.
"Hogging our guests all to yourself Loth?" Oliver said, coming over to greet them. "Good day Sir's. A pleasure to see you all again, and I do apologize it isn't in better... conditions."
"Can't help it, I just get so jealous when I have to share their attention with anyone else." He took a mental note to talk with Oliver about Assai's concerns. They really did try to accomidate him, he was just in that unfortunate position of being friend's with Enzo. Dario really loved teasing and harassing his father's acquaintances.
"Haha yeah it was hard for me to believe too at first." He agreed with Romeo. "He sighs like an old man." Loth ruffled Ettore's hair, whom tolerated it with a bored look.
Oliver put a hand on Ettore's shoulder and gestured to the building with his other hand. "I've arranged a private booth for us."
Oh darn, poor Dario he wouldn't be able to see anything at all. How terrible, just aweful! Loth did his best not to giggle at his thoughts.
"Ah! Sounds great, why don't we head on in then?"
"No point in putting it off." Assia sighed and headed toward the building. His second moved to walk next to him but more to the front while his advisor lagged slightly behind. This wasn't anything out of the ordinary for a causious boss really.
"Maybe next time we can have the meeting at a playground." Forrez muttered, making Romeo struggle not to laugh.
Luckily Loth didn't hear it, since he moved on ahead with Oliver and Ettore to meet back up with Dario. As they got close he mouthed to his boss 'please behave'.
Seeing them all start to move in the bouncer at the door opened it up for them. He fit the role well with how big and beefy he was, his shirt looking like it could split anytime over his biceps.
As Ettore got close the bouncer couldn't help but get a sour look as he passed, looking like he wanted to stop the kid and make him wait outside.
Dar rolled his eyes at Loth. He was the boss, he could do whatever he wanted. But he on some level he knew there was a limit to riling up an ally and still have them as such. His papa's reputation wouldn't save him forever. But moons was it cathartic to take out his frustrations with his papa on the mongoose boss.
Oliver didn't hear the slight about the playground either, but he knew he was going to be getting an earfull from his papa's, and Enzo later. He knew it going in, and had been dreading it for two weeks strait.
He noticed the look the bouncer was giving Ettore and gave him a nod, putting a hand on Ettore's shoulder. He could understand the sentiment, but Ettore was his underling and he wasn't going to tolerate anyone harassing him.
He waited until everyone had joined them inside before leading them to the private area he'd had set up for the meeting. Well technically Zeta was leading, as was her job.
As he strode in and gave a friendly wave over to the receptionist as they past, luckily she was one of the few people that Dar hadn't groped yet so they were still on friendly terms. If they were very lucky they wouldn't have to deescalate another butt pinching incident after the meeting. Oliver was wise to make sure that if they had to come here they had other meetings to go to give them a good reason to leave immediately afterwards.
Instinctively his hand went for his pack of gum in his pocket, which he caught himself in time before pulling a stick out. Patting his leg he kept his hand in his pocket, mentally promising himself he could have one once the meeting was over. Him having one would be seen as acting too casual for their meeting and they needed to keep what little professionalism they had.
He jerked a little in surprise at Oliver's hand on his shoulder. Oliver wasn't as touchy as Loth was so the protective hand was unexpected.
Once they got through the door he felt Oliver's hand lift as he left him over by the entrance. As per quickly instructed to him earlier that morning he waited until Ino brought up the rear and followed. Ettore winced as his ears got bombarded with the loud music and blinked to adjust his eyes to the low light. Once he could see properly and they were further into the building that he noticed the skimpily dressed waitresses and a few topless strippers that was talking with the other patrons. He only gave them a curious glance, shook his head, and kept his eyes forward until they got to their room.
Assai couldn't hide his displeasure behind a fake cough, it enveloped his whole face. The amount of disrespect Dario gave him and his family was on full display in a place like this. These sort of places weren't really his cup of tea, even in a casual sense, and being forced to indulge in them in a professional one was. Calling what they did up on stage dancing was an insult to his people's culture. It was sideways gymnastics at best.
He let himself be lead to the 'meeting area', wondering how they would even hear each other over the music. His only solace in this situation was that he was sure Dario's dealing with the Allirana were twice as disrespectful. Small comfort, but comfort just the same.
He went on in and choose his seating, as was customary for the visiting party these days. Too many visits ending in assassinations these for anyone's comfort.
Although it was clear that the Velliara boss had positioned himself to the side, so that it would be Forrez and Oliver sitting between them, Dar went over and sat right next to Assia. Not waiting for his people to choose thier locations like he really should. He didn't want to have to get everything filtered through two sexy nerds. Ug. Gross. How boring and typical.
"Lets get some drinks first, everyone's too uptight."
Oh no he fucking didn't. Well two could play that game. Romeo didn't care if he was the bigboss, it didn't exclude him from the rules of engagement. So, even though it would make his own boss cringe in discomfort and chew him out later, Romeo sat on Dario's other side. Blocking him from his entourage and any assists he might have gotten from his advisor.
Maybe he wasn't thinking too clearly...
Luckily Forrez, despite wanting to punch that smug little shit in the back of the head, was thinking clearly. He used his foot to physically scoot Romeo's chair down and slip another one between him and Dario. The night was going to be rough enough as it was, if Dario wasn't being harassed by Oliver or Lothario the whole time they may not make it out as allies. They couldn't really afford that.
He sat himself on Assai's other side, ready to hand him drinks and food as needed to help him not give away his moods so easily.
Silently he thanked Forrez in his head, knowing that if he didn't make that opening that Oliver was going to keel over from a hernia worrying about filtering Dario's silly mouth. While he should be a good boyfriend and take up the responsibility of babysitting their leader for the meeting, he chose the free spot on the other side of Romeo. Oliver was abit of a control freak and would be stressing out even more if he thought that he wasn't advising him right.
Dragging a chair over he twirled it around and sat in it, giving Romeo a big friendly grin. "How's Mrs.Ricci by the way? I managed to swing by that bakery of her's recently and I have to say her Berry Swirl loafs are to die for."
Oliver watched all this unfold with dread, they hadn't even started and things were already going up the mountain wrongways. He smoothed his hair a few times, despite nothing being out of place, and took the seat next to Dario that was so thoughtfully placed there for him.
"Would you prefer wine or beer, Boss Velliara?" He asked, trying to insert some formality and respect back into the clusterfuck of a meeting. "I do believe they carry some of your preferred brands."
He very gently and descreatly pinched Dario's arm as he opened his mouth, likely to try and order for everyone.
Being the last person, other than Ino, he glanced around trying to see where he could sit. He couldn't really sit next to Loth since there was no more room on that side and it'd be abit awkward since he'd be blocking the door if he did. So he went to the only open space next to Forrez where he sat a seat away from him, feeling it'd be rude to sit so close. He didn't want to seem like he may be being nosey and listening in on Boss Velliara's conversation with his Advisor. Also he doubted that the Advisor would be keen on sitting so close to a badger to begin with. Even though he was just a kid many people still treated him like a threat.
Forrez watched what Ettore did the best he could while trying to listen to Izzy's kid.. er.. Avisor Violli.. was saying. "Would you do me the honors of letting me order for everyone?" He asked, caching what was happening and refusing to let Enzo's brat do any more damage just yet.
He got an affirmative from Oliver and was handed a menu. Taking his time to really give it a good look, Forrez pretended to ignore the the badger's presence for now, since he seemed like a shy and polite kid. At least Dario wasn't the one teaching him manners.
Romeo gave Forrez a look somewhere between contempt and 'aww maaan', he wasn't going to fuss though about it though. Forrez was like a big brother to him and he was sure to get an ear full for 'stooping to Dario's level'. Bluh no fun.
Velliara's second turned his attention to Loth as he sat down, and gave the wolverine a smug look. "miss them that much do you? Sad you can't have them any time you want like I can. She's trying out a new recipe, maybe you'll get to taste it one day. Its really good."
Romeo liked getting to hold something over the younger second. Honestly he liked competing on all manner of meaningless things.
"You are a blessed man to have such a wonderful wife and baker at your side." He sighed wistfully. He wasn't lying about that, he was always envious of anyone that had a partner with good cooking skills. He would have to temper his flattery lest Assai's Advisor give him a shin kick over his obvious buttering up.
"Hopefully I will be there when she decides to allow the public to try her latest masterpeice."
He mostly kept his gaze to the table or the wall, not wanting to bring attention to himself by making eye contact and being dragged into the conversation and to not come off as being rude for staring. He did, however, listened in on the conversation around him, figuring he'd at least learn about how these interactions with families worked. Though he was sure this wasn't how it usually was with how much Boss Velliara and his men were subtly complaining. It was a little difficult trying not to roll his eyes at Loth as he buttered up Assai's Second. So even in meetings he was still a ham?
When the waitress came in to take their orders he looked over out of curiosity then calmly went back to staring off into nothingness. While he understood that her skimpy outfit was made to make people oogle at her he felt it would be incredibly rude to be staring at someone while they were at work. He knew for himself he didn't particularly care to be the center of attention.
Oliver smoothed his hair out again, hopping getting to order would appease Forrez somewhat. He did his best to keep Dario distracted while the waitress took their orders. There wasn't much he could do if Dar felt he wanted to add something or veto Forrez's order, so best to keep his mind on something else. As much as he' like to be updating his boss on the meeting again, just to keep the reason for being here fresh in his mind, he knew it would loose his attention faster than a kremok swarm could strip bones clean.
"I know, right? One day, when you grow up, you can find a baker who will love you too." Romeo gave Loth's shoulder a pat. "I have faith in you."
Luckily for Loth, Forrez simply rolled his eyes at the display. Honestly if it kept Romeo from causing a scene he was all for it. If trouble was going to start he' much rather it be Dario's fault than Romeo's. Though having no drama would be a much better outcome, there weren't going to sit and take disrespect.
"Aw thanks, I'm glad you have such faith in me. Nice to know someone is rooting for me." He glanced at Oliver pointedly, as if he was trying to make him feel guilty.
As far as the drink orders went he didn't dispute Forrez's order, he trusted the man's taste in drinks and he tended to like showing off his knowledge of the finer things. Well that was if he wasn't pissed, then he'd just either order you water or apple juice with meatballs on a skewer.
The waitress nodded as she took the orders, then with a nervous looked asked, "Is there...um...any extras you are wanting?" It was something she had to ask, but had been warned it could cause a fight if they disagreed on wanting entertainment. Normally they wouldn't even have to ask, but the girls complained about being turned away and loosing out on tips.
"Perhaps later." Oliver gave her a warm smile, ignoring Loth's look. "For now we're fine with the appetizers."
Assai set his elbows on the table and lowered his head into his hands. All that struggle and fight to get his people recognition and status, and this was the result. It was really too much some times. If he didn't respect Enzo so much he'd be complaining daily about his friend's decision to step down and let his son take over.
Dario gave Oliver a dirty look. Who was he to think he was calling the shots here? What was the point of coming to a strip club if they weren't going to be seeing a stripper? Really Oli you have your priorities all mix up. What was he going to do with stick in the mud friends like that? Sigh. It was up to him to keep things lively. What a burden.
"Ignore him, a dancer is just what this boring meeting needs."
And with that the final blow was struck, this meeting was going to be a painful one for all involved.
-----After the Meeting----
He took a sip of his water as he took note that everything seemed to be winding down. At least he assumed so with how exhausted everyone, except the Big Boss, was looking. It made him glad he was just an observer, not having to worry about juggling between everyone's feelings like Oliver and Loth were doing. He was curious now how much the meeting's atmosphere would've changed if the previous Boss Enzo was here participating. That was the impression he got from eavesdropping on the conversations at home.
At least he would've been nicer to the poor Stripper that had to deal with the awkwardness of sitting in Dario's lap as everyone else was silently willing her to leave. Had to give it to her, she did her best to give Dario the attention he wanted while not getting in the way of the negotiations.
He wanted to melt in his chair and down a bottle of pain medication. He was getting a nasty ass headache and his jaw hurt from clenching it so much. Ugh, he wanted this to be over, but they still had the Post-Meeting chit chat to get through. Seventh Moon help Dar, he was going to give him a fucking wedgie for bringing up the 'Barrel Contract' again when they told him before it was off the table. It almost made Assai walk out of the meeting with how much he was caterwauling about it.
"Hey hon, can I get a refill on my beer please?" He smiled sweetly at the waitress as she passed. Ah Blessed Moon Angel.
Now that that joke of a meeting was over Forrez focused in on Ettore, who he'd ignored until then.
"Are you alright there sport?"
"And a coffee." Oliver added, feeling he needed it after all that. He wouldn't be surprised of Assai and his men excused themselves early.
He was uncomfortable with Forrez suddenly taking interest in Ettore, not sure what his intentions might be. He felt oddly overprotective of the kid all of the sudden. He really must be tired.
Assai sighed, taking a sip from his beer. Usually he just pretended to drink a lot to avoid giving away his expressions, but now that the meeting was over he indulged in an actual drink. He loosened his collar and tie, finally at his breaking point with them being properly tight. His sipping his his smile at how exasperated Dario's men looked. Those poor kids had such a long road ahead of them.
He jerked in his seat in surprise, snapping his attention back to reality when he was being addressed. Honestly he thought that Boss Velliara's men were going to just ignore him.
"Ah, y-yes sir I'm fine." Ettore snuck a glance at Oliver then back at Forrez. He wasn't sure what to think of the very informal calling him 'Sport'. Of course he was way below him in rank, though it felt more...hrmmm....friendly? Usually people would refer to him as boy or kid along that line.
He gave a smirk hearing Oliver treat himself. Well he deserved it, and it was better than wine in terms of helping him mellow back out. There was one other thing, but it would be HIGHLY inappropriate to do here. Hrmm maybe when they got back to the capital he'd sneak them both into his office for a 'private' meeting. Had to of course discuss today's meeting together and document everything, yeah that would work as an excuse. Long as you mentioned paperwork Dar disappeared faster than an Allirana at a fun party.
Alright alright, needed to stop fantasizing about Oliver without any pants on, he still needed to get through the obligatory socializing. "So Boss Velliara think your wife will allow me to attend the Wheat festival this year or is she going to chase me out again?" If it wasn't for the fact he knew that Loua was very devout to her husband he'd think she was flirting with him with how much she loved pretending to hold a grudge against him for winning the raffle three years ago. Course he didn't help matters when he playfully rubbed it in her face, so she had to retaliate in kind.
The stripper leaned forward and whispered something into Dario's ear, giggling afterward as she leaned back and gave his forehead a peck.
"This isn't really the place or situation for a kid, wouldnt you rather go see a ball game or something? You know, I may have been invited to a game in Terren for the world leage. My nephews are getting too old to want to hang out with me at the ballpark, think you'd be interested?"
Assai gave a heavy sigh, though he was still smiling. "If you dont go Forrez will have to keep her entertained, I'm not sure I'll make it through the event."
He glanced at Oliver again as he pondered on Forrez's question, unsure if in this situation he should be gently refusing or accepting the invitation. This was certainly something for him to ask about later in case this came back up again.
The other question was...well...was he interested? He enjoyed playing the sport when he was still in school, but he wasn't sure if he was as interested to watch it or not. There wasn't really much opportunity for him in the past to go watch games or even go to the movies. His Uncle liked watching Boxing, but he never felt safe or comfortable enough to stick around to watch it with him in the same room.
"Possibly Sir? I am interested in your kind offer, though I think it'd be up to Mr- er Advisor Violli if I'm able to accept?" Hopefully that sounded alright, he felt it was right in thinking that anything regarding him would have to go through his approval first.
Forrez smirked and ruffled Ettore's hair. "Good answer, I guess I won't have to scold lil Oli too hard. He didn't leave you to figure it all out on your own." Hopefully he wasn't giving Izzy's kid too much credit. For all he knew the little guy already knew how to act before meeting him. Forrez wasn't sure why but he liked the kid. He was pretty confident in his ability to read people.