"I've never seen you here before." I asked as I sit down next to him.

"Not where I would prefer spending my time. I just need to talk to you again. The council knows something but they are tight lip. Very tight lip." he said taking my hand. "I don't like it so I think its best to talk."

It was taking me everything to not pull my hand back. He had this effect on me no one had ever had before. He made me feel alive and that scare me.

"You could have called?" I said looking over the menu even if I knew I wanted burger and fries.

"I heard from Beth that you may be able to supply me with certain items. Its Finex birthday and I liked to get her something unique. Word is that your inventory is rather impressive." He said as he ate a big bite of his double cheese burger. "And that's it all up for sale,"

"Sure, the odder stuff I have them lying in a locker at home. You can come see some time, never got around to selling them." I answered looking down at my hands.

"How does doing it tonight sound?" he asked smiling showing off his white teeth.

He was doing it again, even if it wasn't his fault that I melted. He could not help but be his charming self.

My late dinner arrives in a late but timely manner. Today Beth served me the papers and the salad if I didn't know better I thought she was trying to help me make a good impression but I was more interested in the six thousand dollars I made. It was a little less than my goal but a reasonable price in this economy. I sign the papers and she took it back.

"The basin is lot One Five Six." Beth said winking.

"Thanks. I mumble embarra.s.sed.

Vanity is a female thing. Some say a woman would do anything for beauty. Most people that have met me wouldn't think I would be considered in that category but I have to admit I am no better than any other woman.

I know I am not beauty. When you look like me, you see plain and boring. If you ask why I don't use magic like most beings. My answer is my tattoos, I had them done before I was old enough to know that I need spells to make me look attractive. The basin was my last hope if there was no divine interference or I could try drinking potions. But I didn't want to go down that road. It's tricky business, there are ten of thousand ways that it could go wrong.

"Tonight sounds good," I said as I ate my salad, "But don't get used to it, usually I have very strict business policy. I don't invite people into my home. This is a onetime thing only."

"Thanks. Gene, you won't regret this. I'll make sure of it." He said in a soft tone reaching out placing my hand over his. I was putty in his hands. At the moment I'd almost do anything for him to give me a kiss.

"I regret it already," I mumbled feeling very out of my element.

"No, you don't," He said scowling.

I couldn't meet his eyes so I divert my attention elsewhere. Looking around, most people were more interested in staring at Knight than bidding.