December 16 (Saturday Night Continued)

Erin walked toward the bar. Bracing a soft hand on Amy shoulder, the blonde whirled around. “Oh, damn. I thought you were Billy or Lij putting more disgusting, realistic looking bugs on me. They nearly had me standing on this bar I was so scared out of my wits. So, are you alright? I thought you were struggling before. Nice backhand move, by the way.” Amy was chattering at her usual rapid pace, her cheeks flushed with a mixture of alcohol and attention from her conversational partner, Viggo.

“Everything is fine, don’t worry about me. I think we got everything worked out.” Erin nodded, reaching for the place she had left her pack of cigarettes on the bar. “Lij!” She screamed, knowing the hobbit handed culprit must have run off with them.

Sean Bean drew up behind Erin, bracing a soft hand on the small of her back. “Looking for these?” He smiled as his deep blue gaze fell into hers.

“Thank you Sean, I thought Lij had them!” Erin smiled.

“I was going to bum a fag, but saw the pack Lij was takin’ from. Thought they were his, so I pocketed them. Ever seen Lij have a nic-fit before? Quite possibly the funniest shit ever.” Seans' voice was charming, deep and soft as the hand he placed on her back. Erin laughed.

Amy wriggled her brows toward Erin. “So, guess we aren’t going to kill Orlando after all, eh? And to think, I put the shovel in the trunk of the limo.”

“Why are we killing Softie and is it too late to get involved?” Sean smiled, leaning in as he lit a cigarette from the borrowed pack, handing it to Erin.

“No reason.” Erin cocked a half grin.

The beat of a familiar and formerly popular club song deafened the crowd.

“Oh…shit.” Amy nearly doubled over, pointing toward the large screens in the front of the club. Falling back against Viggo as his face dropped, the two started to immediately laugh.

“Oh, I do not believe this!” Liv drew up beside Erin, her hand before her face. Erin and Sean turned at the same time in a state of disbelief, his hand still braced gently at the small of her back.

Billy, Lij and Dom had the dance floor cleared, the spotlight on them. “I’m Too Sexy” by Right Said Fred blared in the background as Billy pointed to Amy, shaking his head with that irrepressible smile. Billy began animatedly lip syncing the song along with Lij and Dom, all the while pointing to Amy.

“I'm too sexy for my love too sexy for my love Love’s going to leave me. I'm too sexy for my shirt, too sexy for my shirt, So sexy it hurts.”

Billy, Lij and Dom stripped off their shirts as the entourage in the club nearly fell over with laughter. All three gyrating in the most unusual and oddly fascinating ways.

“And I'm too sexy for Milan, too sexy for Milan, New York and Japan. And I'm too sexy for your party. Too sexy for your party, No way I'm disco dancing.”

All three busted out in John Travolta style disco style. Hips swinging, fingers pointed toward the sky, alternating toward the opposite hip. Viggo leaned over the bar, gasping for breath.

“I'm a model you know what I mean And I do my little turn on the catwalk. Yeah on the catwalk, on the catwalk I do my little turn on the catwalk.”

Billy and Lij started walking, hands on hips, swinging like runway models. “Holy shit, I am going to drop dead.” Amy cried out, leaning on the bar for support.

“I'm too sexy for my cat too sexy for my cat

Poor pussy, poor pussy cat. I'm too sexy for my love too sexy for my love

Love’s going to leave me. And I'm too sexy for this song.”

The spotlight went dim as the shirtless trio reclaimed their previously flung garments. Billy, Dom and Lij gave a series of shouts and hi-fives before running at full speed back to the group.

“That was fer you, lass. Don’t want this strappin’ buck of a lad to take ya from me now!” Billy, drunk as hell was laughing, indicating Viggo. Grasping Amy tightly, he could barely stand from the mirth.

Lij rejoined the group as well, posturing his arms in an attempt to impress. “I look better than these two without a shirt, any day.”

Amy held onto Billy tightly. “I can not believe you!”

“Aye lass, an’ there be more where that came from.” Billy wriggled his brow.

“Oh, god. No more!” Amy insisted.

“Did that make you Randy, baby?” Dom laughed, setting a gentle pat on Amys back. “Its my pleasure to embarrass myself for my best mate and his crazy intentions. I have to hit the loo.” Dom stepped away from the group, making his way through the crowd which slowly filtered back onto the dance floor.

“It irritated my gag reflex, that’s about it.” Amy was red with embarrassment.

“Ooooo, that was just wrong!” Lij smiled, grabbing his drink, previously abandoned on the bar. “Just wait till we kareoke.” He threatened.

“Your not dragging me up there this time.” Viggo laughed, taking a sip of his beer. Liv sipped a drink, trying not to choke at the vivid memory of Viggo on the stage, belting out a classic on that early morning in Wellington.

Erin leaned back against Sean, still giggling and her senses still swimming. Sean shook his head, clasping arms with Lij. “That was classic, mate. Classic.”

“What in the hell inspired that?” Orlando came out of the darkness looking to Amy and Billy. He turned his glance to Erin, leaning back into the all too comfortable arms of Sean Bean, his eyes instantly turning cold.

“Just wanted to keep that leech from claimin’ me lass. I might not take pretty pictures or write flowery words, but I can disco dance!” Billy, laughing, slowly dropped his easy smile. Billy watched Orlandos gaze change and linger on Erin and Sean. Looking to Viggo who had also noted the pair and the young Brits’ reaction.

Erin straightened up as Sean released the friendly hold on her with a slight snigger. “Where were you hiding?” Erin looked up at Orlando, his nostrils flaring with anger.

“What’s the deal, mate?” Orlando was staring Sean down.

“Not sure I know what your talkin’ about, softie? Is there a problem?” Sean tilted his head to the side, his eyes seeming to goad Orlando on.

“Bloody Hell. There is about to me a problem.” Orlando knitted his brows, stepping in closer to Sean.

“Don’t think you will be wantin’ to do that, mate.” Sean inhaled, impatiently. Liv came from no where, gently moving Erin out of the way. “Come with me, hon, trust me.”

Lij looked from Sean to Viggo, the air in the entourage becoming instantly tense and aggressive. “Do something!”

“Orlando. Hey, Orlando. Lets step outside.” Viggo closed the distance, placing himself between the two men. “Sean, have another drink and get me one while your at it. Orlando and I will be right back.”

“If I am stepping outside with anyone, its him.” Orlando growled, his accent deepening as his body tensed. Sean had a smile across his lips, taking none of this seriously. Amy, Erin and Liv looked to each other, faded back against the bar.

“No, your not. Your stepping outside with me, now lets go.” Viggo drew his voice more sternly, placing an arm around Orlandos’ shoulder.

“Right, lad. Take a breath with Viggo. Git him away from me lass before he steals her. Just remember Viggo, I saw her first.” Billy tried to lighten the tension with his irrepressible witty humor.

“Will do, Billy. She is all yours. Come on Orlando.” Viggo tried to make things seem funnier than they were.

“Walk it off, softie. Your piss drunk. I’ll be sure to order you a fuzzy drink, something you can handle. Might help you to take the edge off.” Sean laughed, finding the whole situation comical.

Orlando lunged, his face contorted in rage. Viggo caught him, “Bugger off, Viggo.” Orlando hissed cruelly. Sean was slowly growing agitated.

“You don’t want to do this, Orlando. Come and take some air with me. This is the last time I am asking you nicely.” Viggo had an almost feral tone replacing his normal, calm and soft spoken speech. He had Orlando by the shoulders, forcing the angry Brit to hold his gaze as he spoke.

Orlando ran his hand through his unruly mane of mahogany tendrils, the rage still evident in his eyes. “Lets go.”

Viggo and Orlando walked toward the door. Viggo turned slightly with a hand in the air, “Its alright.” He seemed to be mouthing before the two disappeared.

“What the hell?” Amy turned to Lij for an explanation.

Lij shrugged his shoulders, taking the last smoke from Erins used pack. “I think its pretty obvious. Something else going on with you and Orlando?” Lij watched Erin through the flickering lighter flame. Liv pardoned her way through the crowd, her eyes intent on finding Viggo and Orlando.

“No, we are just friends. We talked about last night and we decided to just start over. I swear, nothing is going on between us.” Erin felt her face flush as the blame was cast on her. She turned her eyes to Sean.

“Its alright, love. Don’t you worry about he an’ I. You could say we have a bit of a tense an’ competitive relationship. We can get a bit testy with each other sometimes. He’s a great chap, just a bit over anxious.” Sean smiled reassuringly. It was pretty much a given fact that if he would have stepped outside with Orlando, the victor would be the most obvious and reluctant Sean.

He knows he is powerful and could, if he wanted, hurt his friend. Takes a real man to walk away from a fight. Erin thought. But, why, after everything we said is Orlando playing the jealousy angle. Did I miss something?

Erin puckered up her lips toward Lij, who raised the cigarette to her mouth. Erin inhaled deeply. “I didn’t mean to accuse you of anything. Wouldn’t want you to sick Orli on me.” Lij smiled, making light of the situation.

Amy leaned over Erins shoulder, whispering low. “That was kinda exciting. Two really hot guys ready to draw blows over you. Must have felt pretty satisfying too. Serves him right for being a jerk last night. Instant Karma, baby.” There was a giggle in her whisper.

Erin shot her a knowing glance, nodding her head in agreement, exhaling sharply. What the hell is going on out there?

Billy interrupted the two, tapping Amy on the shoulder. She turned, still smiling.

“I have something to ask ya, an’ before I blow me nerve…” Billy grasped her into a soft, delicate kiss. Amy widened her eyes and then lowered them, parting her lips to taste him.

“Holy shit!” Erin squealed, nearly doubling over in astonishment. Lij nearly dropped the cigarette as he started to laugh. Sean shook his head with a smile. “That’s our Billy, quite the smooth one.”

Amy broke from the kiss, flushed and fanning herself. “Well, hot damn. That’s what I’m talking about! Can I get another?” She wriggled her brow as Billy caught his breath, excited that she had not slapped him silly.

“It was the dancin’. I knew it! HA! Take that Viggo, the lass is mine!” Billy grasped her by the waist, drawing her in for another.

“Oh Jesus Christ. Do we really need to see this?” Lij protested with a laugh. Erin shot him the most distasteful look. “Sorry,” he bit back his mirth. “my bad.”

Sean took a sip of his drink, taking Erin by the hand. “I have something to ask ya, love.” He smiled.

Dom returned from the bathroom, looking to Amy and Billy. “What the hell is going on here with these two? Where are Vig, OB and Liv? I was only gone for a minute. What did I miss?”

Orlando was pacing near the wall, outside of the Roxy. His eyes clouded over with anger as he inhaled his cigarette with adrenaline trembling fingers. The silence lasted several minutes. Finally, Orlando let a frustrated voice clear the night. “Bloody hell, Viggo. What the fuck is his problem?”

“I think Sean might be thinking the same thing of you, Orlando.” Viggo leaned with his back to the wall, watching his friend pace uneasily in the cold winter air. Liv came bounding out, catching sight of the two, she drew up beside Viggo. Orlando turned his eyes to her, continuing his pace like a tiger in his cage.

“What brought all that on, OB?” Liv crossed her arms against her chest.

“I don’t know, why don’t you ask him.” Orlando was referring to Sean, his tone still caustic.

“Because I am asking you.” Liv instantly became defensive. Viggo placed his hand on her arm, giving her a calming look.

“I don’t know man, I just saw them together and I lost it. For Fucks’ Sake!” Orlando growled, a distant fading look in his eyes. “I don’t know what the hell has come over me.”

“I saw you both on the dance floor. I saw you grab her and I saw Erin slap you. Then you both disappeared. What happened?” Viggo inhaled sharply, drawing in the cold night breeze.

“We talked.” Orlando let his cigarette fall to the concrete, crushing it as he paused in his pacing. “Bloody hell, even when we were talking, I just wanted to kiss her, man. You know?”

Viggo shook his head in understanding. “Yeah, I know. I’ve been there before. Did you get everything straight?”

“We both decided to forget about last night and start over, as friends, you know? She walked away to find all of you and I had a moment to think and to calm down. Bloody hell, she gets me so worked up and doesn’t even have to try, mate. Sorry Liv, I know you don’t want to hear this and all.” Orlando was calming down, his eyes on Liv.

“Its alright, Orli. You know I love you like my own. Go on…” Liv shivered as Viggo threw an arm around her, drawing her in against him to warm her from the elements.

Orlando inhaled sharply, the cold contrasting the sweat and anger he felt in the club. “She just does something to me, Vig. It took all of my will not to make the same mistakes tonight as last night. And then, when I saw her leaning against Bean, his arms bracing her, I just lost it, mate. I wanted to hit him so god damn bad.” His hand was balled into a fist.

“Well you and Sean have always had a touchy relationship. The two of you showed that during the training and filming of the Rings with your little boating incidents. Lets not forget the broken ribs you had from all the takes in Moria for the Bridge sequence with him falling back on you full weight. This tension is not an unusual one, its your anger…” Viggo was cut off mid thought by Liv.

“Your jealous, Orli. That’s the problem. Yeah, you and Sean have had your pissing fits here and there, but this is different.” Liv looked to Viggo, who seemed to approve of what she said.

“I have no right to be jealous. My fiancée will be here in a few hours. Jesus, I almost forgot about that!” Orlando shook his head. “I don’t want to think of that now. As I was saying man, she has someone too, some guy named John.”

“Lets hope its not John Rhys Davies, or OB is going to dismantle the entire fellowship tonight.” Liv could not help but comment, with a smile.

“Piss off.” Orlando shot her a nasty look.

“Fuck you, Bloom.” Liv growled, removing herself from Viggo.

“Liv, wait, love. I’m sorry. I didn’t mean that.” Orlando pleaded, sighing.

“Alright, kids, lets play nice.” Viggo interjected as Liv forgave Orlando, begrudgingly.

“Do you see what I mean, man. I just have no control over myself when it comes to her. What in the bloody hell am I going to do?” Orlando drew another cigarette to his lips, sparking it to life.

“The web you weave is growing stickier by the moment, Orli. I have no direction to give you. Your intention is to try to forget about last night and start over. But, can you do that? You are engaged and you have issues to work out with that. She is dating someone and Sean is just being friendly. But who is to say what could happen there?” Viggo bummed a cigarette from Orlando, lighting it from his friends burning embers.

“I thought you quit?” Liv looked to Viggo, then to Orlando. “Thought you were trying to quit.”

“I did quit.” Viggo stated matter-of-factly. He returned the cigarette he used to light his to Orlando.

“I’m working on it.” Orlando took a drag from his fag. “I know I have no right to be jealous and all that, but I just can’t help it.”

“Well you have to. If you are going to give a go at a friendship, you don’t have a choice. Unless, of course, you want more than that from her.” Viggo inhaled sharply, drawing Liv back into the warm comfort of his arm.

“Like infidelity? I wouldn’t do that to Erin. I wouldn’t do that to Jemma.” Orlando looked to Viggo.

“Didn’t you already do that? You kissed her. Do you think Jemma would find that favorable?” Viggo had a point.

“Bloody hell. I’m not that kind of guy, mate. I care about Erin, I wouldn’t use her like that. But I barely even know her! That’s what is so bloody irritating.” Orlando began to pace again.

“Maybe you need to get to know her and make your decisions, OB. Its obvious that Erin likes you for who you are, not because of what you do for a living. When she met you, she had no idea about the Rings. That’s a plus on her side. But she has a relationship, which she has been unfaithful to and she is looking kinda cozy with Sean. That’s a negative. Why is she playing cute with Sean, is it to get you jealous or because she is so dissatisfied with her own relationship that she will take anything that fits?” Liv added, puckering up for a taste of Viggos cigarette.

“Sean just has a way with the ladies. He is a fun chap, easy to get along with at times. No matter where we go on set, Sean just seems to draw the women. I don’t think she is trying to make me jealous. She is the one who walked away from me after we spoke when I nearly fell back into the trap of last night. Erin seems earnest about giving it a go as friends, none of that woman scorned crap.” Orlando looked to Liv.

“I didn’t think so either, I just wanted to bring that point up before you twisted it in your own thoughts.” Liv smiled. “I took psychology in college.”

“It shows.” Viggo teased with a smile, recoiling before she let her elbow fly into his side, as she was likely to do. “So, what are you going to do? We can’t stay out here all night.”

“I have to apologize to Sean. I have to apologize to everyone. I have to come clean with Jemma and sort some things out before we get back on set for the new year. Somehow, I believe that Erin is going to play a role in all of this, but I can’t tell what it will be.” Orlando sounded as though he was on the verge an epiphany.

“Well, sounds as good as any plan. We are right beside you, that’s what friends are for.” Liv smiled.

“Someone has to look out for our prissy elf here, so why not us? Its’ all in the family.” Viggo cried out with the sharp elbow to his side. Liv withdrew her infamous elbow, chastising him for yet another elf comment. “The only good thing is that you wont have to deal with Sean on the set anymore.” Viggo smiled.

“Come on filthy human, lets get back inside to the lions den. And thanks, man. If you didn’t stop me, I would have trounced Bean.” Orlando tossed his cigarette to the curb, stepping inside, ready to accept his judgement.

“I’m sure you would have, Orli.” Viggo smiled, following with Liv in tow.

Orlando stepped into the club with Viggo and Liv. Drawing up to the bar, all they could do was laugh. Dom and Lij were having a serious chat about the alcohol they were consuming. Wondering how many long island iced teas it would take before either would become incoherent. Neither realizing, they already surpassed that check point. The duo paused only for a rousing game of rock-paper-scissors and the mumble-the song-lyrics-like-a-drunk game.

“Dude, you guys are back, awesome! I’m hungry.” Lij was clearly inebriated. “Oh, don’t let Sean kill you, duck and punch, man.” Lij stumbled with a smile on his face.

“When aren’t you hungry, mate? Don’t worry, there isn’t going to be a fight tonight. Its cool.” Orlando smiled, turning his eyes to survey the bar. Amy and Billy were locked in a rather public and somewhat X-rated display of affection. Neither seemed to care that the trio had returned from outside. “Now isn’t that a pisser!” Orlando commented, patting Dom on the back. “Hope your not too hurt, mate.”

“I am trying not to look, but its killing me.” Dom laughed, not nearly as piss drunk as Lij. “They have been at it for a half hour now. Neither is coming up for air.”

Orlando found Erin and Sean together on the dance floor. He grit his teeth and closed his eyes. Play this cool. Be a man and make with the apologies. Orlando walked onto the dance floor, coming up on Sean as he gently writhed with Erin, locked in the primal beat all around them.

Erin bolted upright, her eyes lingering on Orlando. Oh god, don’t do anything stupid. Well, unless you intend to ravish me and finish what you started on the dance floor. You are so fucking beautiful, Orlando. I want you so damn bad. Why do you have to be engaged?

Orlando gave her a tortured glance. She is flushed with sweat and looking amazing. Is this what she would look like, in the dark of night, rising up from the entangled sheets below me? Don’t think this, back to the subject at hand.

“Sean, I want to talk to you, mate. No funny stuff. Join me.” Orlando took one last, tormented look to Erin before walking back to the bar.

Sean followed with Erin behind him. “I ordered you a Long Island Iced Tea at the insistence of our drunken hobbits here. I wanted something pink but they thought I shouldn’t antagonize you.” Sean leaned back against the bar with a smile. Each member of the entourage paused, eyes fixed on the two. Amy and Billy came up for air, flushed and breathing with intensive labor. Erin drew up behind Orlando, listening.

“Look, mate. I am sorry about before.” Orlando looked to Sean. “I have some confusing things going on right now. It isn’t exactly a secret. Erin is a beautiful girl and I became a bit buggered when I saw you both together. We are just friends. If you both hook up, so be it and all but…” Orlando was cut off as Sean offered his hand to him.

Orlando accepted, speechless as Sean drew him into a hug. “We are men, ya don’t need to explain yerself to me. I had it figured out from this afternoon, softie. I knew what it was about when I saw your eyes. Your right, Erin is a beautiful girl but lets not put the cart before the horse, eh?”

“Right, mate.” Orlando smiled, turning his eyes to Viggo who nodded approvingly. Lifting his long island iced tea, Orlando took a sip before turning his gaze to Erin.

Why are they talking about me like I am not here? Erin listened to everything Orlando said to Sean and felt her heart skip a beat. Oh please, forget I am here or I am going to do something to blow both of our minds. Oh shit, now what?

“Erin, would you take a walk with me?” Orlando held his hand out to her, his sable eyes steady and soft.

Erin looked to Amy, who was shaking her head in emphatic agreement. Liv was giving a soft smile as she nestled between Sean and Viggo. Dom and Billy were trying to hold Lij upright. “Alright, Orlando. Let me get my jacket.”

“We have to get Lij something to eat before he passes out.” Sean shook his head, watching the attempts to keep Lij steady on the bar stool amidst conversation with Liv. Liv was extremely animated, looking from Sean to Orlando and Erin.

“Erin and I will walk back to the hotel, meet you all there?” Orlando clasped hands with Sean.

“Right, mate.” Sean smiled as the others made ready for the retreat to another all night dinner. With a devious smile, Sean grasped Erin and kissed her softly on the mouth. “Thanks for the dances. I’ll see ya, later.”

Erin blushed instantly. “You too Sean…um, what about…” She did not get to finish her sentence, Orlando grasped her by the hand and began to lead her out of the club.

Orlando turned up the collar on his knee length wool jacket, his hand interlaced with Erins as they walked the dark city streets. The pace was slow and comfortable, even in the freezing night air. They sauntered along, together, knowing they had some distance to cover, neither seeming eager to reach the destination.

“I am really sorry about how I was back there, with Sean and all.” Orlando looked to Erin beneath the passing street lights.

“This is going to sound really wrong, but I am drunk so its okay to say. You look pretty sexy when your angry.” Erin laughed despite herself.

Orlando chuckled as they turned the avenue. “Well, I do my best, love.” He paused. “Sean is a really great guy, we have a sorta love hate thing going. Works pretty well for us.”

“Its not like your giving a blessing on our wedding or anything. We just danced and had a few drinks.” Erin smiled watching Orlandos face flush with the assault of winters chill.

“Right, love. I know that. Damn, I’m piss drunk and the winter never smelled so wonderful.” Orlando changed the subject with a charming smile.

“Does it get really nasty in England during the winters?” Erin felt him draw her hand, entwined with his, into the pocket of his coat.

“Well, I don’t suppose it is as bitter as the states, but it does get rather cold. I remember a few wicked storms blowing through when I was a tot in Canterbury.”

“Canterbury? You were born in the same place Chaucer wrote his tales?” Erin found herself a bit surprised. “It is so beautiful in Kent.”

“Your familiar with Canterbury?” Orlando quirked a brow, a bit taken back.

“I visit Kingston-Upon-Themes a few times a year. A very old friend of mine married and lives with her husband there. She had the most fabulous wedding in this old castle, just last year. I suppose I am a bit of an anglophile, or so her husband calls me. Needless to say, I have done the sight seeing bit.” She felt somewhat proud at knowing trivial bits of information about a country she had adored since childhood. A country that still held the magic and mystery of the days of yore when knights rode out along the roads, banners flagging in the breeze, preparing for battle.

“Lovely little area, there. Not far from the London scene. I am familiar with it, yes. You amaze me, Erin.” Orlando looked to her, seeing her eyes alight with wistful thoughts.

“Nothing amazing about a touch of travel here and there. So, tell me something about you. Let me get to know a bit of mystery behind the man.” Erin smiled, her tendrils blowing in the chill wind.

“Well, not much to tell, really. I have a sister, Sam. She is an actress, working on some films here and there. I graduated from Guildhall a short bit ago after about 3 years being there. Amazingly enough, I went on an audition for Lord of the Rings, for the role of Faramir, Boromirs’ brother…” Orlando paused as Erin cut him off.

“Yes, I know who Faramir is. I am a pretty affluent fan of Tolkiens work from the Simirillion, on.” Erin interjected as a smile fell over Orlandos face.

He continued. “Well, many people say that. I wasn’t really that much of a fan of the books simply because I had not read them. That all changed during my study for the movies. But they turned me down for Faramir and instead, offered me Legolas. It was pretty much a link in the chain of fate to grab such a role. I have made some of the best mates over the past near 18 months. I have had some great experiences.”

“I want to know about you, though. You sound too much like your plugging the movie. Don’t worry, I am going to see it...” Erin was cut off before she could finish.

“This is a part of me. I have spent some amazing time growing up through it all. Hmm, what can I say about me? I come from a great family, I love them so dearly. I talk to my mum pretty much every day. She is getting on in years but she is still the most amazing woman. She supported me during the worst times in my life. I broke my back a year before the filming of the first movie. The doctors thought I might never walk again.” Orlando stated it matter-of-factly.

“You broke your spine? Jesus Christ, Orlando.” Erin was in shock.

“I take it that is a medical term for pretty damn bad?” He chuckled. “Yeah, I had a few drinks one night at a mates flat. Well, I thought I could shimmy up a drain pipe, some three stories in the air. The drain pipe didn’t hold and of course, the rest is pretty much history.” Orlando drew a cigarette from the pack before offering one to Erin, who accepted. “I opted for a first time surgery while I was in hospital, when I was clear of pain medication. The surgery worked and 13 days later, I was on crutches, walking out of hospital.”

“That is fucking amazing. Do you realize that? I have seen so many people in triage that tumble from buildings, bikes, car wrecks and they are paralyzed for life. You have a kiss of fate around you. You are going to bring the world to its knees.” Erin exhaled in genuine amazement.

“Well, lets not get too dramatic. I was lucky. Stupid and lucky. After some rehabilitation services, I was good as new. Less than a year later, I was in training for the Lord of the Rings. My back still bothers me sometimes. I think of it as a reminder to take each moment and make a lifetime out of it.” Orlando took a drag.

“Sounds like a good motto to me.” Erin laughed.

“Well, let me see what else can I spill to you? After the accident, I became a bit of a daredevil, trying to confront my fears. Life is too short to be afraid. Turned myself into something of an adrenaline junkie.” Orlando laughed despite himself. “I have a beautiful dog named Maude, a pit. I am pretty involved in animal rights, Green Peace, PETA and ASPCA and all.” Orlando smiled. “Before I was so busy with the filming, I did a good deal of sculpting and a bit of photography. I fancy myself something of an artist. Viggo is really supportive of the work he has seen. Means a lot to me. Viggo is a great mate.” He paused. “One day, I would like to show at a gallery, do that more full time. But I cant complain. I am young, healthy and banking some money for the future. I have tons of scripts coming in and I am thinking I might accept Disney’s’ offer for a Pirates of the Caribbean film. Its still on the drawing board and all, but rumor has it that Johnny Depp is supposed to star and I adore his films. A real actor, that one is. Not the fake Hollywood type.” Orlando shivered in the cold, flicking his cigarette onto the street.

“You really are quite amazing, Orlando.” Erin was genuinely impressed with his goals and ambitions. “I always thought the Hollywood types were stuck up, self absorbed phonies. You and all of your friends have proved me wrong. You are all just people, each with extraordinary talents, showing the world what you do best.”

“Sorta what you do as a nurse? I have bored you with enough about me. What about you? Tell me all about Erin. You could start with a last name.” Orlando smiled softly, interestedly.

“Well, Erin Von Trichovich. That’s the given name, anyway. My family is Russian and Romanian on my mothers side, German and English on my fathers.” She smiled. “Both of my parents are passed on. Nasty car crash when I was still a little girl. I lived with my grandmother in Rockland for many years before striking out on my own. She has passed also. In the end she didn’t even remember my name, Alzeimers. I guess with all of my family gone and my being the only child, I turned to medicine to try to understand. I wanted to help people.” Erin bit back the tears threatening to sting her eyes.

“So you are all alone in this world? That is terrible. I cant imagine what I would do without my mum, my family.” Orlando felt a twinge of sadness pass over him.

“I have been all alone for many years now. But, I cant complain. That which does not kill me, makes me stronger. I really love what I do. Every so often, I get a visit from a former patient and I get to see what they are like when not in the most difficult times in their lives. I work mostly with Rehab services now, Geriatric and Developmental disabilities. I have a good deal of love in my heart to give. Everyone can use some of that.”

“That is really deep.” Orlando looked a bit taken back and yet, extremely impressed at her strength and resilience. So much has happened to her and yet, she still stands strong. How intense, how real can you get?

“Am I boring you yet?” She smiled.

“Not at all love, please, tell me more.” Orlando found himself even more amazed with her. Entwining her fingers more tightly to his, he watched the street lights play against her features.

“Well, I am a Goth. I have been for about a decade. I am sure you are familiar with all that if you visit London regularly. Something about the beautiful touch of humanity and bitter regret for the days gone past, touches me. I am not an artist, though I do fancy myself a writer and poet. But that isn’t unusual in the subculture.” She paused.

“So you paint your face white and put on all that Victorian garb? I admit the gothic culture is romantically beautiful in its way.” Orlando smiled, having been exposed to the subculture before.

“I do, on occasion. The times seem to get more and more infrequent though. So, when I cant hit the clubs, I tend to get all my angst out in the music. Lots of Type O Negative and London After Midnight. But, just to show my duality, I am also a rennie. I hit the New York Renaissance festival every year as a wench in full medieval garb. Something about the chivalry and majesty of simpler times, calls to me. Am I freaking you out yet?” Erin smiled.

“Not at all. You just keep getting more interesting.” Orlando reassured her.

“What else is there to tell? Lets see. I have a cat named Kitty Kitty. She is the bane of my existence and at the same time, I love her. I am also a member of PETA and the ASPCA. I used to be a part of the Green Peace movement, back in High School when I was vegetarian for about 3 years. But I still keep up my love for animals, even though I turned back to an omnivore.” Erin laughed.

“Wow, that’s pretty impressive. Meat is bad, veggies are good.” Orlando laughed. “Don’t stop now, your on a roll.”

“Well, I have my red belt in Tae Kwon Do and I speak a bit of Korean. I also speak French pretty fluently and I am learning Japanese. I have a love for the Asian cultures. Must be the Russian/Mongolian blood.” Erin laughed despite herself. “I am an avid fan of Criss Angel. His magick and music speak to me. I guess, even with my brash cynicism, I still believe there is something of magic and wonder left in this world.”

“So, what about your friends? You sound like you have a pretty packed schedule when you have the time off.” Orlando smiled as they turned the next street.

“Well, my best friend Samantha and I have split. That was pretty devastating for me, though I never let her know it. She is seeing this guy who I just can not stand. But, its her choice and all. I will always love her. Once someone is in my heart, they never go away. Then there is my amazing friend Jennifer, or Nif, as I call her. We have been close for nearly 17 years. I cant imagine I will ever be without her. She will be getting married in a year or so, I cant wait to be in that wedding party.” Erin gazed deep into Orlandos’ sable eyes. “Most of my friends have married and gone to the four corners of the world. Amy and I have known each other for a long time. We work together and spend time outside of work together. She has been my guidance, my support through some bad times in my life. She is less like a friend and more like a sister. So, there you have it!” Erin took a deep breath.

“You call me amazing, love. You should take a look at yourself sometime.” Orlando was admiring her openly.

“So, what about you? Do you have friends outside of the fellowship?” Erin asked, tossing her own cigarette out onto the street.

“I have a few close mates. None closer than Andre. He has been a big influence in my life as only your best mate can be. We are working on some things together, for the movies. He has quite a mind, that one. Someday, I would like for you to meet him.” Orlando thought wistfully about a meeting such as that.

“He sounds pretty cool. I would like that, Orlando.” Erin smiled. “So, tell me, if you could sum up your life in one word, what would it be?”

Orlando thought for a moment, pausing at the cross walk on their journey, the hotel just across the way from them. He turned to her, drawing her close in the freezing wind. “I think it would be, Intense. What about you?” He studied her eyes, drawn in to the depths and finding himself speechless as she returned his gaze.

“I don’t know. Painful, I suppose. But I might lean more towards, Hopeful. I know they might take away my Goth club membership for being a bit optimistic, but yeah, hopeful.” Erin smiled, drawn into the safety and warmth of his eyes.

Orlando ran his free, trembling hand along the shivering tendrils cascading the softness of Erins cheek. His fingertips grazing her flesh, softly. “There is something of magick and wonder left in this world, Erin. And you are the living, breathing proof of it.”

Erin lowered her lashes as his fingertips slipped against her cheek. “I bet you say that to all the ladies.” Her breath was soft and short with his touch.

“No. I don’t.” Orlando answered softly.

Erin opened her eyes slowly, drawn into the depth of his gaze. “You make me want to kiss you so badly, Orlando. You blow me away with your depth, your creativity and your charm. You are brilliant and amazing. And right now, you are torturing me.” She moaned her words in bitter agony.

“I want to kiss you, Erin.” Orlando held her chin between his fingers. “It feels right. Bloody hell, it feels right.”

“We can’t torture ourselves like this.” Erin could feel herself quiver. “I don’t fit into your world, Orlando. It has been a beautiful few nights, lost in this world of illusion. But that is all it is, Illusions. You will be out of New York before you know it. This will all be a memory to you. Don’t make me fall for you when I can’t, not when you are promised to someone…when you have all of your life already worked out. Please.”

Orlando drew his forehead against hers, pausing a moment with only a breath between them. “Alright, love. And if this is destined to be only a memory, then I want to linger here.” His fingertips removed a lock of her wind whipped mane.

“So do I.” Erin closed her eyes, feeling a sting of tears threatening to spill over the rim of her eyes. Don’t do this. Don’t fall for him. Its only been two days, two days! None of this is real. And yet, all I want is for this to be real. Let it go, just…let…it…go.

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