Christmas night (open) - Darius and Crew

He laughed.

"I'll think of something. I always do."

She nodded, her hand touching the jewel that now hung from her neck.

"You are full of surprises."

He smiled.

"Why?"

She smiled.

"I was not expecting to be claimed this way by you."

He laughed.

"Why not?"

She leaned her head into his chest.

"Every decision up to now has been mine. And yes, you asked if I wanted this, but it was your choice to offer this to me."

He laughed.

"This decision is yours as well. You could always say no."

She nodded.

"True. But you intitiated. And that means much to me."

He smiled at that.

"Ah. So my desire means much to you."

She nodded.

"I need to be wanted. I don't need love. I thought I did, but that is weakness. But to be wanted....is much."

He nodded.

"That is one way to look at it. Love is not a weakness, however."

She nodded.

"Love is not. The need for it, however, no matter who it comes from, is."

He nodded.

"Yes. At least you recognize it."

She rested a hand against his cheek.

"I need you. I know I do. I need you more than I have any other. But in needing you, I gain strength. And that is something that has been missing."

He smiled, his hand covering hers.

"You're very sweet to say so, Elizabeth."

She smiled and kissed him.

"I speak only truth."

He smiled and took the kiss.

"That doesn't make you less sweet for it."

She lay her head against his shoulder, her fingers caressing the leather around her neck.

"What shall we do with the rest of the night?"

He smiled.

"What would you like to do for the rest of the night?"

She smiled.

"Could we walk?"

He smiled and rose to his feet.

"Of course."

She smiled and took his hand in hers as she rose, leaning against him.

"I'll get our jackets."

He smiled and nodded.

"All right."

He didn't stop her, letting her do whatever she needed.

She kissed his cheek and went to go get the jackets, meeting him at the door.

"Walks are good."

He smiled.

"Yes, they are. Where would you like to walk tonight?"