milliways_bar | (no subject)

The man who walks in -- no, strides in, moving with confidence and self-assurance -- looks much, much different from the man who came in last night. It's amazing what couture can manage. In addition to much more upscale attire (names such as Armani, Cardin, and Bruno Magli come to mind for the observant), his hair has been properly styled, complete with product and arranged with artfully careless perfection. There's not a bead or a braid in sight.

Jack seems much more pleased with life today as he strolls up to Bar and says, "Darling, it's been too long. You know what I like, don't you? Venti, triple-shot, organic soy, extra-hot latte, and of course I know you won't forget the rum."

The drink appears instantly, and he runs a casual hand down the wood, almost absently, as he picks it up. "Merci. Be a dear, would you, and give me the latest journals? The Times -- Financial, New York, and London all three, I suppose, plus the Wall Street Journal and the Economist. I know the holidays are coming, but--"

Here there's a bit of a smirk.

"--business never stops. Especially in trade, and you know I'm not one to miss the opportune moment."

He takes the papers as well and settles at the nearest table, then begins to read the shipping news.

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

James strolls downstairs, Blackberry in one hand with his briefcase and laptop under his other arm. He stops at the Bar to get a coffee, nodding to the other man.

"Morning, Jack."

"Hello, James."

He folds the paper over and glances assessingly up at the other man.

"The firm keeping you busy?"

"Always does", he says with a casual half-shrug. "But more now than ever - I made junior counsel on the Sheringham case."

"Junior counsel." That smile is slightly superior, just for a second.

"Small steps, I suppose. There's no question you're very effective i your work, after all."

"One of the senior partners is leading the case", James continues, utterly ignoring the smile. "It's possibly the best opportunity I've ever had."

"I'm sure it won't be the last such."

He nods toward a seat at the table, adding,

"Care to join me for coffee?"

"Why not." He settles at the table, outwardly relaxed. "How have you been?"

"Oh, I'm quite well." He takes a sip of his coffee, then adds,

"The restoration's gone rather well -- it should be very effective for the gala. You are attending, of course?"

"Oh, I wouldn't miss it."

For the networking opportunities alone.

"I'm glad to hear it."

Jack's smile is only slightly sharp.

"And dear William?"

"I don't speak for dear William", Norrington drawls. "But I'd imagine he'll be there as well, yes."

"Of course not."

There's something amused in his drawl, but it has the feel of falsehood.

"That's what he's got Elizabeth for."

"Among other things", is the sardonic response.

"Well."

He examines his fingernails, studiously.

"It remains to be seen if he can satisfy her, of course."

"So it does", James answers, with a touch of amusement. "And if he can't... well, she's a very attractive woman."

"With very particular tastes," Jack observes. "And excellent family connections."

"The lady knows what she wants", James agrees. "And I have to wonder... how much of this business with our dear William is because Daddy doesn't approve?"

The corner of his mouth quirks upward in a knowing half-smile.

"It would be rude for me to speculate, of course."

... that's actually a very knowing half-smile, all things considered.

James smirks.

"Naturally."