Make A Choice (Estaban) - Frederico's Haven

He made the call, sitting in the living room of his home. A drink in one hand, he sat, staring at a painting that he had bought in Belize... or was it Barcelona? He didn't even remember anymore. He frowned. Something would need to be done about that soon.

Estaban got the call and drove to the man's house. He rang the bell. No Jazz this time just him.

A young woman he had never met before answered the door. She was Cuban, of course, and smiled pleasantly at him.

"Good evening, can I help you?" she asked in heavily-accented English.

He riased an eyebrow but smiled charmingly.

"Yes, Estaban Fortunato for Frederico. I am expected."

The woman nodded and stepped aside to let him in the door.

"He is in the sitting room. Please make yourself comfortable."

He nodded, heading in as he was bid. He looked around, looking at hte woman with a critical eye and then looking for his sire.

He was still sitting, drink in hand, and staring at his painting. He didn't even look up when Estaban entered the room.

"Good evening father."

He still didn't look in Estaban's direction.

"Good evening, Estaban."

Not 'my son' as he usually used.

Estaban sighed and sat down. He still was unsure why he was getting such a cold shoulder lately.. but it was only proper to wait.

He nodded.

"Yes father."

He moved up and went to his fathers feet, kneeling there.

He still didn't look at the other Toreador.

"And?"

He looked up at his father.

"I thought quite hard and for a long time. First I wish to apologize for my emotional reaction last time. I love you and I love Ra'idah and I love my clan I don't wish to loose any of them. My answer to you is No. I love you father and you must do what you must do, but I will not leave Ra'idah. I will not leave my clan and I will not stop loving you. Do what you must but I will still follow my heart for all three. I will always love you no matter if you disown me or hate me or announce to the world you no longer see me as Toreador. I will always be here for my clan, for you. And I will love Ra'idah as long as she lets me."

He nodded.

"Very well. Get out of my house."

No emotion at all from the Elder Toreador.

"As you wish my love. Will you tell me what you were going to say.. for Jazzes sake?"

His eyes were downcast but he stood and slowly started to back away.

"And...may I have one last kiss...father."

He nodded.

"I figured out she was not Toreador recently. As you wish. I will not bother you again. But I still love you father. I would die for you."

He got up and walked to the door. He looked back.

"Try me. I would die for you.. I just will not live without her."

And he was gone.

He still hadn't moved from where he sat, never once taking his eyes from his painting.

(scene)