[ Never tell Jeff the price of the wine. Or, at least, wait until after your tenth anniversary or something, when it can just be a hilarious story to tell the family.
He totally thinks he picked a, like, $70 bottle, max.
And... Jeff's picking up on the fact that Cam seems to prefer to take the lead, even when it comes down to little things like pouring. Which, honestly, he can't complain about. Where Cam likes to take the lead, Jeff would usually rather go with the flow.
Curse his lackadaisical Californian upbringing. ]
Thanks for the whole-- inviting me. [ Because Cam's right: these opportunities are pretty few and far between. He's been on dates since the divorce, sure, but nothing that ever turned into any sort of relationship to speak of. Scheduling was one of the big issues, especially when his daughter was younger. And with a kid to think of... casual doesn't work too well. He'll always put his kid first, the same way he's sure Cam puts JJ's wellbeing first.
In any case. It feels a little validating to finally have Cameron admit that JJ can be a handful. Nice to see the man behind the stern, hyper-competent demeanor. ]
Don't worry about it. [ He waves a hand. ] Honestly, it wasn't even the worst I've been insulted by a parent. Can you believe I was once asked if I graduated top of my class at Shit-For-Brains University? I asked them if that was an accredited college, and they were not happy...
[ ANYWAY. He spoons some of the chutney onto the bread as he adds: ]
She's a bright kid. Creative. Always has some sharp insight, when she feels like participating. [ So, you know, even though JJ's something of a nightmare at times, Jeff does see her potential. It's probably what makes it extra frustrating when she terrorizes him.
But enough about work. ]
Man, I could eat this all night. You've got good taste, Cam. [ Pause. ] Mr. Waltz. [ Another pause. No, 'Mr. Waltz' sounds even more awkward now that some light flirting's been exchanged. ] I can call you Cam now, right? [ He's making it more awkward now, isn't he. QUICK, TRY TO RECOVER: ] Should we toast? Let's toast!
Yes, you can call me Cam. [Christ, it's like watching a diplomatic train-wreck in slow motion.] And let's toast.
[He lifts his glass and clinks it delicately against Jeff's.
Cam smiles. Glad he's invited Jeff too. It's been a while since he's just sat down and talked to someone without an ulterior motive, for some higher purpose.
Sometimes, Cam just wants to fucking talk with a handsome man on a Friday night.
But it's always seemingly impossible, at least in contrast to gathering tribal warlords to form a united front against a sorcerer's cabal. Forging alliances is easy. Finding a date who's the right age, who isn't turned off by a child, and has a sense of humour? That's hard.]
To Shit-For-Brains University. The alumni may be stupid, but at least they're good-looking.
[ Oh, a diplomat he definitely is not. Just imagine how badly Jeff would fumble one of your meetings, Cam.
But at least they can both appreciate what the other does bring to the table. Whatever comes of this, if anything at all, he's glad to at least have a friendly night out with someone his age, who's worldly and witty (which Jeff can appreciate a lot more now that said wit isn't being used to insult him).
Also, now that he knows this is a date, he can actually admire Cam a little more openly than before, not having to worry about masking any glances as something neutral and professional.
Hell, he can actually stare into Cam's eyes now-- no, wait, that might be weird. Whatever. He just likes the way Cam's eyes look when he smiles.
And, at the toast, Jeff laughs, something caught between a chuckle and a giggle, clinking their glasses together. ]
It was worth the student loan debt.
[ And: ]
To JJ. For making this night possible. Though I don't think she intended to play matchmaker.
[Now it's Cam's turn to giggle, because Jeff is really looking at him for what feels like the first time as another man, and seems to be starting to enjoy himself, and yes, he does giggle. It's not deep, manly, or sensible chuckle, whilst holding a cigar. It's a giggle from behind the rim of his wine glass, which he's already feeling in his face. Not buzzed. Just warm.
Or maybe he's blushing. Either way he's drinking and looking with interest at the platter of food in front of them instead of at Jeff, because that might result in another giggle, and one is more than he intended.
Also, his face looks awful flushed. He hadn't spent this morning at the barber, getting his beard and sides trimmed to perfection, to be splotchy-faced.
Cam picks up a piece of bread, worrying it between his fingers before dipping into something sweet and yellow even he doesn't know the name of.]
That said, if another parent gives you a problem, let me know.
[ He's glad that Cam just... lets himself giggle, instead of trying to mask it in a rumbling chuckle. It's cute and unexpected, which is about what can be said about everything so far tonight.
Before tonight, he would've written Cam off as somebody who was handsome in that sort of look, but never touch way. Good looking, yeah, but with a personality that would've never meshed with his own. The kind of guy he wouldn't even bother thinking about in that way, because Jeff couldn't imagine anything vulnerable about him. (And without vulnerability, what's the point, even in fantasies?)
He's glad to see the person behind all that. The little smiles, the laughter, the blushing, all coming from that polished exterior. And the giggle's infectious, anyway. Soon enough, Jeff's doing it, too, until he stops himself by focusing on the contents of his wineglass for a beat, and taking a sip.
Okay. The case of the giggles has passed. Now he can eat some more of that bread without worrying about choking. ]
Now that's a friend in a high place. [ He smiles, though it's somewhat rueful. ] Thanks. But parent troubles are just part of the job. [ Especially when you're, you know, a known dark magic user and all. His expression brightens though, smile reaching his eyes again. ] Though you're the first one I ever agreed to see outside of work.
[Jeff's doing his best to make him blush, isn't he? The cunning bastard.
He chews thoughtfully on the bread, taking his time. He never puts too much food in his mouth. Doesn't speak while eating. Dinner table or conference table, his manners don't change.
Finally, after another sip of wine. Jeff really does have a wonderful smile.]
[ That's him! Cunning like a sliiiightly stoned (silver) fox. He keeps his smile lingering for a beat as he watches Cam, then returns his attention to his food, because there's so much to sample, and he's determined to try it all before the lamb gets here.
And he only trips over his response a little bit before he can form a coherent answer to Cam's question. ]
Oh-- uh, nah, not... as such... no. [ The truth is, while he doesn't get asked out by all the parents all the time, he's definitely had to fend off his share of advances. It's kind of his policy: never date the students' family members. That he's even on this date right now, with Cam, is kind of a happy accident.
He would've said no if he'd known it was a date in the first place. Because that's just... how he does things. ]
[From what Cam's heard. Musicals aren't exactly in his realm of expertise. His musical tastes lend to the popular eighties to nineties variety. He's a man of culture. That said, his profession can be boiled down to making offers people can't refuse. Bridging gaps.]
But I hope you know I would've given you the tickets either way.
[He reaches across the table to touch Jeff's hand. He doesn't leave it there, that would be too bold, but he does let his fingers linger over the other man's knuckles. Cam smiles, hand falling away to fill their glasses again, naturally. A little more liquid courage is needed.
The truth is Cam's more nervous than he lets on. He hasn't been on a date in some time, never mind the fact Jeff is his daughter's teacher.]
[ He snorts out a laugh when Cam puts it like that, a total understatement of just how hyped the world is for Hamilton. Suppose it's hard... Damn right it's hard to say no! Something tells him he's more into the musical than Cam is.
Then again, music is just. Kind of his thing. He's always excited for it. ]
Yeah, well... [ Jeff struggles for a moment to piece together what he's trying to say, get the words in his head and out his mouth without stumbling like an idiot. His eyes flicker down when Cam's fingers brush his knuckles, an odd flutter running through his heart at the touch. And though his fingers twitch a little in surprise, he doesn't move his hand away. It's not like when the odd flirty mom or bar lush strokes his hand. There's something adorably shy and uncertain, at odds with the man he'd assumed Cam was. (The Mr. Waltz of the other teachers' hushed, fearful whispers.)
It's a surprise, but a pleasant one, because he likes this version of Cam a helluva lot more than the stern, quietly dominating man he'd taken him to be. ] I'm glad I didn't take the tickets and run. This is more fun. For me, and, uh, I hope...
[ You. YOU KNOW?
As to the question, uh. That takes him a moment. Jeff finally moves his hand, to scratch the back of his neck, at the hairline. ]
Ahh... Not... actively? I don't really put myself out there, if we're being honest. Between work and Mel-- Melody. My daughter. [ Wait, Cam already knows about Mel. WHAT AN UNNECESSARY EXPLANATION. At least he looks chagrined. ] Who you know about! So I don't know why I mentioned that!
[ HA HA. HA. Here, maybe he can put on a charming smile and salvage. ]
Not at all. Well, maybe a little. That's what the wine is for.
[There's something to be said for a little rust. Jeff's honesty, and subsequent awkwardness, are refreshing in comparison to the last handful of dates Cam's been subjected to. High-powered men with too much money and not enough class, all too aware of their own importance, all using the same lines, all looking for the same thing, and so certain they'll get it Cam can't help but take pleasure in denying them, even if he ends the night the same way he started. Alone.
He's got a reputation among the elite, gay Gifted community. Too often it feels like people are more interested in chasing the Cameron Waltz rumours than Cameron Waltz himself.
Maybe he is hard to get, and his tastes are too specific, and his standards too high, but he's forty-three, and if he's going to bring a man into his life, into his daughter's life, he'd rather have his standards set too high than too low.]
Between work and JJ, I don't have much time to fool around. As in, I'm not interested in 'keeping things casual'. I'm too busy for casual. I invest my time. I don't spend it frivolously.
Not to say I'm not enjoying myself, or that this would be a waste of time if this is our first and last date. I've enjoyed getting to know you, and I feel more confident with JJ in your hands.
[Now who's rusty? This is a date, not a statement of terms.
He rubs the back of his neck, inhales his wine, and is silently grateful when their server appears in the nick of time with their dinner. It's an artfully plated lamb-shank sitting atop a mound of braised vegetables and couscous upon a large, single platter. For sharing.
Cam shifts closer to Jeff, setting his napkin over his lap, feeling very conscious of the other man's shoulders.]
So, you can eat this on its own, or pair it with the breads and other dishes and get creative with it. But you need to try it with the mint.
[ His expression, while still pleasant, definitely shifts to one of mild bemusement when Cam starts to lay his terms out, so to speak. It's not that he's out of line, or that Jeff disagrees with the sentiment. Honestly, his own reasoning for being as rusty as he is, is pretty much identical: casual doesn't fly when you've got a kid to consider.
But it's a funny little reminder that, yes, this is in fact the same man who makes him so anxious that he has to do a hit before meeting Mr. Waltz for dinner.
At least the twinge of "deer-in-headlights" fades the more Cam descends into rambling. Ha. Now they're on equal footing. Jeff doesn't say anything just yet, but there's an amused spark in his eyes as he takes a drink and lets out an agreeable mmhm. Hopefully Cam doesn't take that as Jeff laughing at him in some way.
But now the lamb's here, and god, it looks like a feast. If he thought the bread was good, then this... is probably going to be transcend-fucking-ental. The smell of the spices alone...
The only thing that pulls his attention away from the lamb is the way Cam shifts closer to him, their shoulders nearly touching from the sudden closer proximity. It's impossible not to be mindful of the heat of another person beside him, or the smell of his cologne, spicy and a little smokey. Jeff's not sure if he finds it particularly tempting on Cam, or if he wants a bottle of the stuff for himself.
At the enthusiastic tutorial-- HOW TO EAT DELICIOUS TUNISIAN LAMB-- Jeff breathes out a short laugh through his nose, a sidelong look at Cam as he reaches for some bread to pile the lamb on.
The next words that come out of his mouth are completely the product of weed and wine driven impulse. ]
[He nearly chokes on a piece of lamb when Jeff says the word 'cute'. His eyes go large and wide, brow shooting up, and he has to fight just to swallow the meat down.
As soon as he's won that battle, he sits up and back, looking at Jeff with a disbelief that borders on suspicion.]
No. I can't say anyone has. That's-
[Cam wants to say absurd, but he can't. His face is too red already. Heat rising up from his throat and into his cheeks.
He takes another long drink of wine. Jeff Callhoun may be the first man to leave Cameron Waltz speechless.]
[ That's more of a reaction than Jeff would've expected, though he supposes it shouldn't be too surprising, considering the image Cam seems to present to the world. But, considering how different he is here, on this surprise date... Come on, Jeff can't possibly be the first guy to say it!
Knowing this, though, leaves him feeling a little more confident, sure of himself, than he usually is on a date. So he takes another drink of wine, smirking around the lip of the glass, before he sets it back down. ]
That's a shame.
[ AND SO DINNER CONTINUED, AND THEN THEY HEADED BACK TO THE THEATRE FOR HAMILTON. IT WAS EVERYTHING JEFF HEARD IT WAS. HE DUG IT, EVEN IF HE FOUND SOME OF THE FLOW TO BE A TIIIINY BIT STILTED, BUT WHAT DOES HE KNOW, HE'S A MIDDLE AGED WHITE DUDE.
Anyway.
Cut to: the walk back to the cars. Well, car. Cam's car. After the usual idle chatter about the show is over with, there's a companionable silence, which he breaks with: ]
Can I let you in on a secret? [ A BEAT. ] I never gave much of a shit about the Founding Fathers before.
[Dinner was delicious. Hamilton was... Hamilton. Cam was more interested in watching Jeff watch the musical than watching the musical itself.
It's a quiet, comfortable ten minute walk back to the car, and Cam can't help but wish it was longer. The night air is perfect. There's a slight breeze. Just enough to rustle coats and move leaves. He and Jeff share almost the same stride, which is something he likes. Someone who can keep up with him.
Cam's just a little faster. He can't help himself.]
I'm appalled. Can I let you in on a secret?
[A pause, glancing over to Jeff from over the collar of his Burberry trench.]
JJ told me you wanted to see Hamilton. That's why I bought the tickets. Theatre isn't really my forte.
To tell you the truth, American history doesn't interest me in the slightest. I'd rather learn about anywhere but here. That's why I like to travel. I always appreciate this country more when I'm somewhere else, and remember just how good we have it.
[Speaking of the first world, they're coming up on Cam's car, which he paid top dollar to park only a couple blocks away from the theatre. It's a black Porsche Mission E, new as of last year. The model isn't available for public sale yet. Cam was on a list.
He pulls his keys from his pocket, hitting the start button. The Porsche comes alive with a soft purr, the lights turning on and doors unlocking to reveal the cognac leather classic interior. Custom.]
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He totally thinks he picked a, like, $70 bottle, max.
And... Jeff's picking up on the fact that Cam seems to prefer to take the lead, even when it comes down to little things like pouring. Which, honestly, he can't complain about. Where Cam likes to take the lead, Jeff would usually rather go with the flow.
Curse his lackadaisical Californian upbringing. ]
Thanks for the whole-- inviting me. [ Because Cam's right: these opportunities are pretty few and far between. He's been on dates since the divorce, sure, but nothing that ever turned into any sort of relationship to speak of. Scheduling was one of the big issues, especially when his daughter was younger. And with a kid to think of... casual doesn't work too well. He'll always put his kid first, the same way he's sure Cam puts JJ's wellbeing first.
In any case. It feels a little validating to finally have Cameron admit that JJ can be a handful. Nice to see the man behind the stern, hyper-competent demeanor. ]
Don't worry about it. [ He waves a hand. ] Honestly, it wasn't even the worst I've been insulted by a parent. Can you believe I was once asked if I graduated top of my class at Shit-For-Brains University? I asked them if that was an accredited college, and they were not happy...
[ ANYWAY. He spoons some of the chutney onto the bread as he adds: ]
She's a bright kid. Creative. Always has some sharp insight, when she feels like participating. [ So, you know, even though JJ's something of a nightmare at times, Jeff does see her potential. It's probably what makes it extra frustrating when she terrorizes him.
But enough about work. ]
Man, I could eat this all night. You've got good taste, Cam. [ Pause. ] Mr. Waltz. [ Another pause. No, 'Mr. Waltz' sounds even more awkward now that some light flirting's been exchanged. ] I can call you Cam now, right? [ He's making it more awkward now, isn't he. QUICK, TRY TO RECOVER: ] Should we toast? Let's toast!
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[He lifts his glass and clinks it delicately against Jeff's.
Cam smiles. Glad he's invited Jeff too. It's been a while since he's just sat down and talked to someone without an ulterior motive, for some higher purpose.
Sometimes, Cam just wants to fucking talk with a handsome man on a Friday night.
But it's always seemingly impossible, at least in contrast to gathering tribal warlords to form a united front against a sorcerer's cabal. Forging alliances is easy. Finding a date who's the right age, who isn't turned off by a child, and has a sense of humour? That's hard.]
To Shit-For-Brains University. The alumni may be stupid, but at least they're good-looking.
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But at least they can both appreciate what the other does bring to the table. Whatever comes of this, if anything at all, he's glad to at least have a friendly night out with someone his age, who's worldly and witty (which Jeff can appreciate a lot more now that said wit isn't being used to insult him).
Also, now that he knows this is a date, he can actually admire Cam a little more openly than before, not having to worry about masking any glances as something neutral and professional.
Hell, he can actually stare into Cam's eyes now-- no, wait, that might be weird. Whatever. He just likes the way Cam's eyes look when he smiles.
And, at the toast, Jeff laughs, something caught between a chuckle and a giggle, clinking their glasses together. ]
It was worth the student loan debt.
[ And: ]
To JJ. For making this night possible. Though I don't think she intended to play matchmaker.
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[Now it's Cam's turn to giggle, because Jeff is really looking at him for what feels like the first time as another man, and seems to be starting to enjoy himself, and yes, he does giggle. It's not deep, manly, or sensible chuckle, whilst holding a cigar. It's a giggle from behind the rim of his wine glass, which he's already feeling in his face. Not buzzed. Just warm.
Or maybe he's blushing. Either way he's drinking and looking with interest at the platter of food in front of them instead of at Jeff, because that might result in another giggle, and one is more than he intended.
Also, his face looks awful flushed. He hadn't spent this morning at the barber, getting his beard and sides trimmed to perfection, to be splotchy-faced.
Cam picks up a piece of bread, worrying it between his fingers before dipping into something sweet and yellow even he doesn't know the name of.]
That said, if another parent gives you a problem, let me know.
The president of the PTA is a friend of mine.
[Isn't everyone.]
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Before tonight, he would've written Cam off as somebody who was handsome in that sort of look, but never touch way. Good looking, yeah, but with a personality that would've never meshed with his own. The kind of guy he wouldn't even bother thinking about in that way, because Jeff couldn't imagine anything vulnerable about him. (And without vulnerability, what's the point, even in fantasies?)
He's glad to see the person behind all that. The little smiles, the laughter, the blushing, all coming from that polished exterior. And the giggle's infectious, anyway. Soon enough, Jeff's doing it, too, until he stops himself by focusing on the contents of his wineglass for a beat, and taking a sip.
Okay. The case of the giggles has passed. Now he can eat some more of that bread without worrying about choking. ]
Now that's a friend in a high place. [ He smiles, though it's somewhat rueful. ] Thanks. But parent troubles are just part of the job. [ Especially when you're, you know, a known dark magic user and all. His expression brightens though, smile reaching his eyes again. ] Though you're the first one I ever agreed to see outside of work.
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[Jeff's doing his best to make him blush, isn't he? The cunning bastard.
He chews thoughtfully on the bread, taking his time. He never puts too much food in his mouth. Doesn't speak while eating. Dinner table or conference table, his manners don't change.
Finally, after another sip of wine. Jeff really does have a wonderful smile.]
Am I the first that asked you out?
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And he only trips over his response a little bit before he can form a coherent answer to Cam's question. ]
Oh-- uh, nah, not... as such... no. [ The truth is, while he doesn't get asked out by all the parents all the time, he's definitely had to fend off his share of advances. It's kind of his policy: never date the students' family members. That he's even on this date right now, with Cam, is kind of a happy accident.
He would've said no if he'd known it was a date in the first place. Because that's just... how he does things. ]
Just the first one I said yes to!
[ SAVED. ]
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[From what Cam's heard. Musicals aren't exactly in his realm of expertise. His musical tastes lend to the popular eighties to nineties variety. He's a man of culture. That said, his profession can be boiled down to making offers people can't refuse. Bridging gaps.]
But I hope you know I would've given you the tickets either way.
[He reaches across the table to touch Jeff's hand. He doesn't leave it there, that would be too bold, but he does let his fingers linger over the other man's knuckles. Cam smiles, hand falling away to fill their glasses again, naturally. A little more liquid courage is needed.
The truth is Cam's more nervous than he lets on. He hasn't been on a date in some time, never mind the fact Jeff is his daughter's teacher.]
Are you... currently looking?
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Then again, music is just. Kind of his thing. He's always excited for it. ]
Yeah, well... [ Jeff struggles for a moment to piece together what he's trying to say, get the words in his head and out his mouth without stumbling like an idiot. His eyes flicker down when Cam's fingers brush his knuckles, an odd flutter running through his heart at the touch. And though his fingers twitch a little in surprise, he doesn't move his hand away. It's not like when the odd flirty mom or bar lush strokes his hand. There's something adorably shy and uncertain, at odds with the man he'd assumed Cam was. (The Mr. Waltz of the other teachers' hushed, fearful whispers.)
It's a surprise, but a pleasant one, because he likes this version of Cam a helluva lot more than the stern, quietly dominating man he'd taken him to be. ] I'm glad I didn't take the tickets and run. This is more fun. For me, and, uh, I hope...
[ You. YOU KNOW?
As to the question, uh. That takes him a moment. Jeff finally moves his hand, to scratch the back of his neck, at the hairline. ]
Ahh... Not... actively? I don't really put myself out there, if we're being honest. Between work and Mel-- Melody. My daughter. [ Wait, Cam already knows about Mel. WHAT AN UNNECESSARY EXPLANATION. At least he looks chagrined. ] Who you know about! So I don't know why I mentioned that!
[ HA HA. HA. Here, maybe he can put on a charming smile and salvage. ]
I might be a little rusty, can you tell?
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[There's something to be said for a little rust. Jeff's honesty, and subsequent awkwardness, are refreshing in comparison to the last handful of dates Cam's been subjected to. High-powered men with too much money and not enough class, all too aware of their own importance, all using the same lines, all looking for the same thing, and so certain they'll get it Cam can't help but take pleasure in denying them, even if he ends the night the same way he started. Alone.
He's got a reputation among the elite, gay Gifted community. Too often it feels like people are more interested in chasing the Cameron Waltz rumours than Cameron Waltz himself.
Maybe he is hard to get, and his tastes are too specific, and his standards too high, but he's forty-three, and if he's going to bring a man into his life, into his daughter's life, he'd rather have his standards set too high than too low.]
Between work and JJ, I don't have much time to fool around. As in, I'm not interested in 'keeping things casual'. I'm too busy for casual. I invest my time. I don't spend it frivolously.
Not to say I'm not enjoying myself, or that this would be a waste of time if this is our first and last date. I've enjoyed getting to know you, and I feel more confident with JJ in your hands.
[Now who's rusty? This is a date, not a statement of terms.
He rubs the back of his neck, inhales his wine, and is silently grateful when their server appears in the nick of time with their dinner. It's an artfully plated lamb-shank sitting atop a mound of braised vegetables and couscous upon a large, single platter. For sharing.
Cam shifts closer to Jeff, setting his napkin over his lap, feeling very conscious of the other man's shoulders.]
So, you can eat this on its own, or pair it with the breads and other dishes and get creative with it. But you need to try it with the mint.
no subject
But it's a funny little reminder that, yes, this is in fact the same man who makes him so anxious that he has to do a hit before meeting Mr. Waltz for dinner.
At least the twinge of "deer-in-headlights" fades the more Cam descends into rambling. Ha. Now they're on equal footing. Jeff doesn't say anything just yet, but there's an amused spark in his eyes as he takes a drink and lets out an agreeable mmhm. Hopefully Cam doesn't take that as Jeff laughing at him in some way.
But now the lamb's here, and god, it looks like a feast. If he thought the bread was good, then this... is probably going to be transcend-fucking-ental. The smell of the spices alone...
The only thing that pulls his attention away from the lamb is the way Cam shifts closer to him, their shoulders nearly touching from the sudden closer proximity. It's impossible not to be mindful of the heat of another person beside him, or the smell of his cologne, spicy and a little smokey. Jeff's not sure if he finds it particularly tempting on Cam, or if he wants a bottle of the stuff for himself.
At the enthusiastic tutorial-- HOW TO EAT DELICIOUS TUNISIAN LAMB-- Jeff breathes out a short laugh through his nose, a sidelong look at Cam as he reaches for some bread to pile the lamb on.
The next words that come out of his mouth are completely the product of weed and wine driven impulse. ]
Anyone ever tell you you're cute?
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As soon as he's won that battle, he sits up and back, looking at Jeff with a disbelief that borders on suspicion.]
No. I can't say anyone has. That's-
[Cam wants to say absurd, but he can't. His face is too red already. Heat rising up from his throat and into his cheeks.
He takes another long drink of wine. Jeff Callhoun may be the first man to leave Cameron Waltz speechless.]
no subject
Knowing this, though, leaves him feeling a little more confident, sure of himself, than he usually is on a date. So he takes another drink of wine, smirking around the lip of the glass, before he sets it back down. ]
That's a shame.
[ AND SO DINNER CONTINUED, AND THEN THEY HEADED BACK TO THE THEATRE FOR HAMILTON. IT WAS EVERYTHING JEFF HEARD IT WAS. HE DUG IT, EVEN IF HE FOUND SOME OF THE FLOW TO BE A TIIIINY BIT STILTED, BUT WHAT DOES HE KNOW, HE'S A MIDDLE AGED WHITE DUDE.
Anyway.
Cut to: the walk back to the cars. Well, car. Cam's car. After the usual idle chatter about the show is over with, there's a companionable silence, which he breaks with: ]
Can I let you in on a secret? [ A BEAT. ] I never gave much of a shit about the Founding Fathers before.
[ BAD TEACHER. BAD. ]
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It's a quiet, comfortable ten minute walk back to the car, and Cam can't help but wish it was longer. The night air is perfect. There's a slight breeze. Just enough to rustle coats and move leaves. He and Jeff share almost the same stride, which is something he likes. Someone who can keep up with him.
Cam's just a little faster. He can't help himself.]
I'm appalled. Can I let you in on a secret?
[A pause, glancing over to Jeff from over the collar of his Burberry trench.]
JJ told me you wanted to see Hamilton. That's why I bought the tickets. Theatre isn't really my forte.
To tell you the truth, American history doesn't interest me in the slightest. I'd rather learn about anywhere but here. That's why I like to travel. I always appreciate this country more when I'm somewhere else, and remember just how good we have it.
[Speaking of the first world, they're coming up on Cam's car, which he paid top dollar to park only a couple blocks away from the theatre. It's a black Porsche Mission E, new as of last year. The model isn't available for public sale yet. Cam was on a list.
He pulls his keys from his pocket, hitting the start button. The Porsche comes alive with a soft purr, the lights turning on and doors unlocking to reveal the cognac leather classic interior. Custom.]
Where are you parked?