ᴛʜᴇ ʀᴏʏᴀʟ sᴇʟᴇᴄᴛɪᴏɴ - advanced roleplay discussion

The kitchen in the palace is large, and an extremely sterile looking place. Steel appliances, gray cabinets, white granite countertops. It's almost cold whole blank it is. But then again, the royals and important visitors such as the selected are rarely ever in the kitchen, only the head chef and the maids come in here. However, there's always alcohol and delicious food to be found in this kitchen, and it is extremely well stocked.

Servants can be found working in the kitchen from 4 AM to 10 PM, unless there's an event, in which they would be in the kitchen as late as the event lasts.

Sous Chef Owen walked into the kitchen, he was running behind on a few things, but he was trying to get things going. He went straight to the fridge and grabbed some vegetables from a drawer, he took them straight to a cutting board, his cutting board, and began dicing and slicing them in preparation for the next day. He had to get prep work done, while the rest of the kitchen staff pretty much lazed around, not that he really minded all that much. Owen loved his job, lived for it really, and wouldn't trade it for anything. He finished julienning carrots, and went to dicing onions, each vegetable went in its own container, then would be put in the big fridge. The knife was sharp beneath his hand, and the sound of the chopping was like music to his ears. Owen finally finished up most of the prep and started carrying the containers from counter to fridge, getting on top of his work so that he could start in on the prepping of bread so that he was able to take a break, maybe have some fun like the other staff that were hanging out next to the kitchen.

Roma wandered her way back down to the kitchens, a smile on her face. The maids around the table noticed that she was back early and she grinned especially at them, and even stuck her tongue out, gloating that she was back so soon while they sipped their tea and spoke badly of the other staff. Roma walked right by them, since she's spotted the new eye candy that she liked so much; one of the sous chefs. He was incredibly good looking, with his dark hair and multitude of tattoos stretching across his skin; just Roma's type. He seemed very busy to her, so she treaded lightly on her way over to his area, glancing wickedly at the other kitchen staff that were watching her go. She sidled up to the vast island and pushed the cutting board away while the chef had his back turned. She hopped up onto the counter and waited for a moment. As soon as the guy turned around and saw her she grinned at him "Hey, chef. Fancy seeing you in this neck of the woods." She teased, her smile silly and devious looking.

Owen shoved about ten containers altogether into the fridge, he finished rearranging them, and made sure that everything looked okay in the fridge before closing the doors and turning around, he was planning on cleaning up when instead of finding his cutting board, he found Roma. He grinned, "Yeah fancy seeing you here princess," Owen winked, teasing each other was the newest thing he was getting used to. He was still pretty new but Roma here had made it her duty to make him comfortable and to make many advances on Owen, not that he minded in the least. "I uh dont' suppose you know where my cutting board ran off to?" He asked while standing in front of her and pretending to reach around her, more so that he could just get close to her and make her squirm some, though he wondered if she would just enjoy the close proximity. He didn't notice the other staff staring at the pair, watching as if they were a tv show or book playing out, mouths slightly open and their eyes wide.

Roma watched Owen with a silly smile on her face when he turned around and saw her. He played right along with her game, moving closer to her and asking where his cutting board was. She laughed lightly at him and slapped at his chest playfully. She actually loved the closeness, but she wanted an excuse to touch him; and this was as good a time as ever. "Watch the hands, mister!" She teased him, running her own hands down his chest in a very suggestive way "Your cutting board has been stolen by an adorable brown eyed lady. Now this lady has had a dreadful evening, and she's stealing to make up for the dreariness. And I hate to tell you this, but it's going to cost you to get it back..." She trailed off, looking up into his eyes. Roma didn't move though, she stayed right in place, daring him to try and come closer than he already was.

She was a mischievous girl, that much was sure, Owen was always intrigued with Roma, never knowing what she would do or say next, she definitely kept him on his toes. "What happened?" He asked with true concern, her eyes betrayed her, she hadn't been teasing about the dreadful evening and Owen considered himself her friend, or fast becoming one at least. Her hands played along his chest, he put his hands over hers and leaned his forehead against hers, his eyes looking deeply into Roma's. "Who hurt my damsel in distress? I'll be your knight in shining armor," The last part he said half teasing, though he would definitely be gallant for her if she needed him to be. Owen didn't like bullies, nor did he like seeing Roma with that tinge of sadness in her eyes, who had upset the one girl that seemed to be constantly happy? And why? He swore to find out and continued to stare into her eyes as he awaited her answer.

Roma looked over at Owen, he seemed to be very serious about wanting to know what had happened to her. That in itself warmed her a little bit, but maybe that was just the gentle touches of his hands over hers. "Well, it's not really a big deal." She said at first, but it didn't look like Owen would be accepting that. "The duchess, I think her name is Raven. She rang during our break and no one else would go, so I had to. And she bitched at em the second I got there, calling me lazy and things. Then she asked about some kind of gossip about the prince and while I was telling her that I wasn't supposed to gossip about the royals, Addison, the queens maid, came in and rescued me. She's honestly the best, but I feel like I have a target on my back now, the duchess didn't like me much." She told him, her bottom lip sticking out some as she finished her little speech. "But, I bet if you give me a big hug all the sad stuff will go away??" She teased Owen, her big brown eyes sparkling.
((It's fine with me!! She's supposed to be Roma's new bestie, right?))

Owen had had a smile on his face as she started speaking again, but it slowly fell away the more Roma continued, by the end of her spiel he was downright frowning and looking like he might go get a white horse and truly come to her rescue. But ad she mentioned a hug he felt himself relax,.slightly. "Of course, free hugs for you always," His tone was purposely light, he wanted to help her feel better. "Of course I have the best hugs around so it's obvious why yiu had to come to me," Owen smirked, he wrapped his arms around her and hugged her tightly, putting some friendly meaning into the hug so that she would know that despite their teasing he did really care about her and the things that went on. "Won't you be assigned to a selected soon? I mean no one can touch you after that right?" He wasn't sure of all the details, but was fairly certain that that made her pretty important and kind of in the spotlight with her girl, so no one could really harm her then right?

At that moment the door to the kitchen swung open, "Owwweeennnn! I have the best news ever-" Whoever was speaking stopped short. Standing there was the blonde, blue eyed Astrid, one of the royal advisors. She wore a short, yet professional pink dress with pink pumps, her hair loose. She had the biggest smile, blush across her cheeks, until she saw Owen with Roma in his arms. Owen was one of her best friends, they'd known each other since they both began at the palace. Somehow the two, despite being total opposites, got along really well. Astrid, in fact, had a crush on Owen when she first started but she never asked him out and had moved on to liking the middle prince. Now, seeing him with Roma was particularly daunting, but she wasn't allowed to be bothered. Even so, her cheeks reddened even more. "O-Oh. Sorry! I didn't realize you were... busy." She laughed nervously, tottering back on her heels. She recognized Roma as one of the maids, though they hadn't really talked before.

Roma saw the frown on Owen's face, he obviously didn't like the way the Duchess had treated her, and it made her feel some pride; hey weren't just teasing each other, Owen actually cared about her, the same way she cared about him. She wanted him to calm down though, since she'd been taking care of herself since she was little; she was sure she could handle a mean royal. "Of course you do, that's why I'm paying so much attention to you. I can tell by the muscles, I know you're the best." She told him in a teasing tone. As soon as his arms were around her, Roma sank into him, leaning herself against his strong form and honestly feeling more comfort than she had in a long time. "I guess so," she said, "but if she really wanted to get me in trouble, there are tons of ways for her to. I just hope someone else will answer her rings now." She told him. Roma wasn't exactly letting Owen go, he was too perfect, all that sculpted muscle and sensitivity. She did peek up, though, when one of the advisors came into to talk to them, then acted very awkward at seeing them hugging. Roma just grinned at her "Oh no, you're fine; go on, sweetie." She said, snuggling her head into him.

Owen was worried now as well, he couldn't bare the thought of Roma disappearing because of some idiot royal. At least Addison had come to Roma's rescue, she was a good woman, one that looked out for the younger staff it seemed, she had a strong back bone. Owen didn't mind the hugging at all and honestly couldn't help but enjoy the sweet scent of Roma as she laid her head against him and got comfortable in his arms, that is until he heard a familiar voice, his head swiveled to meet the eyes of his friend, Astrid. "Oh hey," He murmured and gave her a huge grin, "Whats up? You're not interrupting, Roma's right, you can definitely come in and hang," Owen straightened up some, looking over Roma's head instead of around it, but she kept snuggled up against his chest, and he didn't stop her, his arms were still loosely around the smaller girl, and his fram was relaxed. These were his two best friends at the castle, how could he ever throw one or the other out? He couldn't. "So what's the big news?" He asked her, curiosity burning in his eyes, she had piqued his interest now, and he had to know what shes'd busted in to tell him.

Astrid felt a little odd, watching them snuggle, and her awkwardness was obvious. But she wasn't a shy girl, "Oh, okay then. Well it's... kind of personal, and kind of er... dangerous subject matter." After all, she didn't know how much she could trust Roma. Still, she announced, "Today... I kissed someone." Now that announcement wasn't as special as it could have been, since she didn't say it was the prince. Still, she couldn't help the smile that came from her words, nearly bouncing in her spot. "Um, it's not really a relationship yet, but I'm seeing him again tonight." (sorry this is short)

Roma grinned at the bouncy girl, and at the fact that Owen was still holding onto her. She unwrapped her arms from around his torso, bough, and settled for just leaning against him, since the girl seemed uncomfortable. And she was Owen's friend, so she could be bad. Hell, Roma might even like her. Roma leaned her head against Owen's shoulder instead of hugging him and her brows quirked at the announcement that she had to make. "Get it girl, who's the lucky guy?" She asked with a sparkle in her eyes. Roma was practically a conductor of secrets. If she didn't know people's secrets from being told them; she found them by watching, it was what she was raised to do, sneak and steal, even secrets. It was kind of surprising to see, really; Roma making an effort to be nice to a girl that looked like vacation Barbie. But hey, she had to try, it was only right.

The words from Astrid truly surprised Owen, he had't even known she had a beau, or any guy that she had eyes on. He released Roma but stayed close, letting her lean on him. "That..." He wasn't exactly sure how he felt about, which was strange, but he pasted a smile on his face since Astrid seemed so happy about it. "That's great, is this a good man?" He might not be anyone too important to Astrid, but he was still going to look out for her. "You obviously like him very much," He grinned, a real grin this time, truly happy for his friend. Though he wasn't going to just trust this guy on Astrids word, he would find out who this guy was and make his own judgments. Owen was a light hearted guy for the most part, but he had serious sides too, sides he didn't show many people. But he'd shown it to Roma only moments ago when he had found himself truly worried for her and her well being.

Astrid tensed when Roma asked who the guy was. She glanced around to check there weren't many other people around. In fact all the other chefs seemed to have left to give the three privacy. So, what did she have to lose? Giving a light laugh, she fiddled with a lock of her hair, "Um, well I'd hope he's a good man, because it's um... It's actually the prince. Prince Xander, I mean. Yeah he um, and I... Well, yes, I do like him very much." She admitted, gazing at Owen. Yes, she was three years older than Xander. Yes, he was a boy, not a man, and she was far more mature then him. No, he was not her first kiss, though she could guess she was his. Despite the circumstances, she was tired of waiting for a guy she liked but would never be with. So instead she focused on someone she liked, would never be with, but could have a fun fling with. Was it dangerous? Definitely. If anyone important found out, she could be executed. Or worse. Yet she seemed content with telling her best friend and his... well, whatever Roma was to him, that she had kissed the prince, and she would hopefully be kissing him again.

Roma's glanced wavered to Owen when he saw the protectiveness spark in his eyes. It was something to admire, but Roma didn't often admire anyone, she was more of the flirty type, making trouble and taking names. She didn't fall for anyone. So she stopped looking at Owen and looked back to Astrid. Her mouth dropped open as soon as she said it was he prince. Roma's eyes began to sparkle "No way!! That's so insane." She said, looking at Astrid with a sort of admiration. She'd never even dreamed of landing someone like that. Of course, she didn't want to, she was more than happy with men like Owen. "Damn, I'm sorry if this is weird, but I'm super proud of you?!" She said with a bf smile, her head rested on Owen's broad chest. He was warm and comfy, and even though he was concerned with his friend, he would have to move back to get her off.

The girls started talking as soon as Astrid began talking of Xander, Prince Xander, no less. He went slack jawed, not really knowing what to say as Roma praised Astrid and her deeds, were they dangerous deeds though? What would happen if Astrid were caught? He highly doubted the prince would pay a price, but a simple girl that wasn't one of their royalty, well he could see her paying a price, a high one. Still, he wasn't her parent, nor was he her relative in any way, so he just smiled at her, and tried to pick his jaw up off the floor. "Okay yeah this is a big deal for sure," He told her and smiled, "I'm glad that you're happy, just be careful," He winked as well, returning to his much more mild nature, one that was filled with flirtation and amusement. "Two girls and only me? How did I get so lucky? A man could get used to such things," He wiggled his brows suggestively, though he was teasing.

Astrid laughed slightly, "Glad to be an object of pride!" She commented awkwardly, smiling at Roma. She saw Owen's shock at this, and wringed her hands in front of her, awaiting his answer. Though when he did answer, she couldn't help but be disappointed. Part of her wanted him to tell her she was being stupid, or to act jealous, or just... act anyway other than okay with it. Which was absurd but she wanted him to say something, anything. But he was just a friend, so of course he wouldn't say anything. It didn't stop her smile from dropping, however, and she curtly nodded, "Of course, I will." When he flirtingly teased, she rolled her eyes. "In your dreams, big O. I'm taken now, after all." She said, a little bit of smug pride in her tone. She was still trying to come to terms with the fact that she had kissed a prince. Did this mean they were a thing? She wasn't sure. Anyway she just shook her head, "I just wanted to come tell you, so I'll let you both get back to..." She studied the way they were holding each other, and slowly finished, "... snuggling." She glanced at Owen, "Talk to you later?"

((dang sorry!! Didn't realize it was my turn (/_\))
Roma watched as the girl, Astrid, was painfully awkward with her. What the heck?? Roma had tried to be very nice, and that was something that she rarely did; and this is what she got for it? The girl staring at her awkwardly and forcing a smile her way? Roma held back a sigh, she supposed it was a start, and a very dismal one at that. What happened next confused her even more, the girl looked disappointed when Owen was happy for her. That made Roma's brows furrow, and she felt a little jealous. Did this girl like him or something? That wasn't okay. Of course, Owen wasn't hers, and she knew that, but damn she wanted him to be, and so far it was looking like she had a good shot. But Owen didn't seem to notice that, and he kept on going and even started to joke, making Roma laugh and grin "Oh please Owen, you wish you had both of us." She teased with a playful wink at the both of them. The plan was to just be awfully nice until the girl liked her. But then Astrid was staring at them awkwardly...again, and rushing towards the door. "You don't have to?" She mentioned. Roma was okay with her leaving, but didn't want to kick the girl out. She was just snuggling up to Owen, so what?

(Yo its okay, happens to me more than anyone >.<)

Owen grinned unabashed, "I do wish, two pretty ladies and just me? That's like a dream come true for any guy," He wasn't one to be shy so he just flirted away with them both, not really caring. "Oh okay, well maybe you'll join us next time?" He asked teasingly, he sobered slightly though and gave her a nod, "Of course. We can stay up late and talk about all the juicy details of you and your prince charming," He winked and then went back to looking at Roma, "So what do you want to do for a few? I have an hour or so until I'm needed again," He pulled her off the counter and she fell slightly against him, he didn't mind and left her there as he looked down into her eyes, "We could go play hide and seek in the gardens, or go hang out in your room," He wiggled his eyebrows and grinned cheekily, "No really though. We could snag some cookies and escape to somewhere if you want?"

Roma watched as Astrid walked out of the room, she was an odd one, but there was nothing she could do about it, so she shrugged off the odd feeling. Then she felt Owen pulling her off of the counter, and she landed with her body up against his. Just hearing him suggest they go to her room made her want to drag him there, but she figured she should try to have more self respect than that, since she actually liked this guy. "Hmm," she hummed, pursing her lips "While I would love to steal you away to my room, I think I would need more than just one hour with you..." She said, a silly light shining in her eyes. "The gardens are beautiful at this time of day, and with such a pretty girl on your arm, I'm sure you'd have a good time there, too." Roma told him, her ego showing through in her comment. She knew that she was pretty, and so did Owen, so why not say it?

Keira Jane Hanson had just gotten dressed into her uniform, she'd slept in, not meaning to of course, and someone had come and awoken her, hitting her in the head with a broom and yelling about a job and keeping to it. Keira had chased the girl out and then gotten ready as fast as she could, she hadn't meant to sleep in, honest. Keira sighed, and tucked some of her dark hair back behind her ear, it was already falling out of her messy updo. She was still getting used to fixing her own hair, and she certainly hadn't perfected it just yet. Her assignment today was to help out in the kitchens, some Chef was supposed to be there, and she was to assist him. She honestly couldn't wait until the selected arrived, because then she could get out of this kind of thing. She would be assigned to a lady, and she would be doing things more in her comfort zone, being alone with a guy was not in her comfort zone, that was for sure, she was once a Caste 2 before she made this decision in occupation after all. IT was taking some getting used to, to say the least.

Astrid gave a smile, "Right, definitely." It wasn't that she didn't like Roma, she just was divulging some sensitive information, and if she was honest she was a little jealous. Even so, she backed up and left the kitchen, walking right past Keira. (sorry this is short, I forgot about roleplaying here!)

Christopher had been skipping merrily down the halls, checking off every food that was on the list, excitement was evident on his face. That is until it was replaced with a dreamy look in his eyes as a maid pulled him towards her and kissed his cheek. He grinned winked at her, the maid blushed and scurried off. The Chef straightened his tie and combed his fingers through his hair, and tucked the paper under one arm, while shoving his hand into his pants pocket. As he entered the kitchen, the smell of spices and herbs filled his nostrils, as well as flirtation. He glanced at the other end of the kitchen and saw Owen. An eyebrow as raised before a smirk appeared on his face. Then, his eyes fell upon a maid. "Good afternoon, my dear." He said, before flashing his signature heart warming, belly churning smile.

Owen chuckled, Roma's flirty smile and her words made him like her all the more, which was dangerous since he didn't usually commit to just one girl. It was a thought to tuck to the back of his mind and to ponder over later. He released her and nodded his head, "Sounds good to me beautiful," Owen started rummaging through containers until he found some with cookies in it, he grabbed enough for them, wrapped them in a cloth napkin and then took Roma by the hand, "To the gardens it is," He told her happily and took off down a hallway that led to the exit of the servants quarters. Maids and footmen jumped out of hteir way as they made their way out of the castle and out to the bright sunshine and warm air. Owen slowed to a walk once they were outside, then headed toward the gardens with the prettiest girl in tow.

(Post there :P)

Keira looked through some cabinets and stuff before she found something that looked like an apron, she exchanged it for the tiny one she had previously been wearing, this one covered more of her dress and would be better suited for what she would probably be doing in the kitchen. Keira promptly ignored the couple that was exiting the kitchen, she didn't know who they were, but she knew that they shouldn't have shenanigans in the kitchen. Her hands were fidgeting when she heard a voice off to the side, her eyes raised up and she looked at a man, he had an air about him that demanded authority, he was also quite nice to look at , not that she noticed, no. She was there to cook, or clean or whatever it was that some chef needed her for, not to look at a pretty man or to flirt with him. "Hello..." She said stiffly, before pretending to look for something, though what she had no idea. It was more to make herself look busy, she didn't even know who this man was that had entered the kitchen, it was only her first week after all.

A chuckle erupted from his throat. "Poor thing," He said and tapped her head affectionately and then sent her another one of his signature smiles. "Alright, I need you to sharpen the knives, since some of my sous chef's can't be bothered their jobs." He said, annoyance coating every word that left his mouth. He put his hands in the maids waist and guided her away from the cupboards gently and crouched so he could get to the last drawer. "Don't cut yourself, I would hate it a flower like yourself got hurt doing such a job." He said and glanced at the maid from the over his shoulder. "What's your name, kitten?" He asked his voice soft and deep.

((Sorry it's short, I'm now on the app, and I'm falling asleep... night!))

Keira glared at the guy, he was apparently the chef she was supposed to be paired with, the head chef. Chef... Chef.. what was his name? Chef something or another... Oh Chef Chris! Wasn't that it? She thought it was, but couldn't be sure, Keira was too distracted to ponder long since he was talking to her, touching her, and directing her to where he wanted her to be. It was all very disconcerting and she felt a pink blush creep up her cheeks and make her nibble on her lower lip as she tried to not stare at him, or stomp on his foot. She wanted to do both really, because he was irritating her, as well as intriguing her, and it was all very new emotions. "Um," She looked at him blankly for a moment, then her head seemed to come back to her, "I'm Keira, and you are...? Chef Chris? Is that right?" Her voice was soft and she hated that, maybe if she didn't sound like that he wouldn't have called her kitten, she needed to figure out how to harden herself like the other women in the palace that served there.

A smirk grew on his face and he stood up, in his hand a knife sharpener for small blades. He held it out to her and nodded. "Yes, that's what everyone calls me around here." He chuckled and took a step forward and lifted her chin with his forefinger so he could see her face. "Well then, Keira," he began his face intense as it got closer to hers. "Would you get started on the small knives?" He asked and tilted his head slightly before straightening up completely. "While you do that, I'll start cooking tonight's meal." He said and strode over to the fridge. Even though head chef's weren't supposed to cook, he did anyway. Why should he follow such simple rules?

Keira was just starting to get her bearings back when Chef Christ touched her chin, he tilted it up so that she was looking into his eyes, and he was so close to her that she could see the exact color of them. Flustered she stammered, "Y-yes, of course Chef." The blush had to of been as red as an apple, at least that's how she felt, Keira watched as he walked away. How did he do that? Act so casual about touching someone? She tried to get her mind back on track, she started by taking the knife sharpener as well as the knives over to the island, she began doing as he asked, though she wasn't sure if she was doing it right, but she did her best. "Men," She muttered, and shook her head, not really understanding men at all, especially this one. Her dark hair was falling out of its messy bun and she blew it from her face as she continued to work, she was trying to make progress, but was she sharpening them? Or just dulling them more?

Christopher pulled out another cigaret from his pants pocket and lit it with a lighter that had been on the side. Hopefully the others wouldn't mind? The thought of how smoking could give him cancer, made the chef hesitate before he brought the nicotine stick to his lips. He opened the fridge door and was met with containers, filled with today's and tomorrow's vegetables. In his mind he thanked Owen. Rolling up his sleeves to his elbows, he reached in and pulled out today's vegetables and fruit, all sliced and diced. and placed the containers onto the side. He took this chance to take a quick glance at the maid, and grimaced. "You're doing it wrong, kitten." He murmured softly and winked at her then walked towards her and grabbed her hands. "You do it, from the side." He said then moved her hands in slow motion so she could see how it was supposed to be done. "Understood?" He asked, a casual smile plastered across his face, and once again, the cigaret hanging from the corner of his mouth.

Keira put down the fourth knife she was fairly sure she'd gotten sharp, maybe? And was working on the fifth by the time she noticed Chris leaning into the fridge, her attention was completely taken with the lines of his back, and the way he looked so concentrated, what was he thinking about? She almost cut herself and yelped slightly, and went back to her task, making a mental note not to get distracted when handling sharp objects. Then he was there, beside her, his hands on hers, fully, her body temperature went up, and her thoughts were muddled as she turned to look at him, their face so close together, and although the cigarette disgusted her, she thought it looked good on him, like it fit with Chris. "Oh," She cleared her throat, "Um thank you?" She whispered, and tried to tear her eyes away from him, but it wasn't proving easy, she was just staring at him.

Chris nodded and patted the side of her cheek gently and smiled. "Very good, kitten." He said and straightened, as he had been bending downwards. He walked away and pulled the fridge door open again, since it had closed on it's own accord. He pulled out another container filled with duck breasts, and set them on the side. He closed the door and hurried to the sink where he cleaned his hands thoroughly. After that, he pulled out a big knife, because it's easier to control, took out the meat, and started cutting it into small slices. Alright, I need grapes, oil, and I need to glaze the onions... So much time and so little food. Pity. He thought and reached out and grabbed the salt, and sprinkled it lightly on the meat.

Keira was left not really understanding what had just happened, but she recovered quickly and began all over again with the knives, this time sharpening them correctly. Keira sighed softly as she worked, she was thinking about the Selection, and how her mother believed she should be in it, but Keira had given up on the finer things in life, and had made herself a Caste 2, because she felt that she should suffer since her sister died. Keira blinked back tears as she thought of her twin, she was a good person, she did things to help people, while Keira had just been a brat and didn't help a soul. Well now she was punishing herself, and nothing could be too harsh. Keira looked in surprised at all the shiny knives, she'd been so caught up in her own thoughts that she hadn't realized she'd finished the task put to her. She put them all back where they belonged and walked quietly over to Chef Chris, "Is there anything else I can help with?" She asked him, peering at him from beneath her dark lashes.

Once he had finished salting the meat, he let them 'breath' and adjust to room temperature. Then he started to pull out spices and herbs that he would need. At first he didn't hear her but then he felt her behind him. He turned around and stared at her. He smirked and stepped closer to her. "Do you know how to mix herbs and spices, kitten?" He asked. Their faces were so close, that their noses were almost touching. He stared at her intently and straightened, and took a drag from his cigaret and walked to the open window and puffed it out, then sat on the windowsill, one leg dangling at the side, while the other was bent. "Why are you eyes wet, sweetheart?" He asked, concern lacing every word.

Keira waited until Chef was finished, she was patient, mostly just wringing her hands wondering what weird thing he would do next. And yes he apparently did get weirder since he stepped close enough to her that they only had to barely close the distance and they'd be touching, she sort of held her breath until he was away from her and sitting near the window. She crossed her arms once she got her wits about her once more and raised a brow, finally getting some of usual gumption back. "Why do you insist on calling me kitten? I'm Keira," She shook her head as if he exhausted her, "I think I can mix herbs and spices... maybe," She nibbled on her bottom lip with worry, what if she couldn't? It sounded like a simple enough task, but one could never really know until they tried, right? Keira figured if she did it wrong then he would probably invade her personal space again and show her how to do it, though she had to admit that she didn't mind it all that much when he did do such things, even if it did make her all flustered.

Chris chuckled. "Because I want to call you kitten, is that a crime? To want something?" He asked and looked over his shoulder, and stood up a frown covering his forehead, for the second time that day. "Can you do anything?" He asked softly and pulled out a little bowl and a box, filled with spices. "Would you like me to teach you?" He asked and turned to stared at her a questioning expression on his face. The cigarette was now gone, as he had threw it out the window, but be missed it already.

Keira took a step back in surprise, she hadn't expected that at all. She heard his mumble and tears sprang to her eyes, "No I'm just worthless and don't know how to do anything," She turned away from him and did her best to hold back the tears that were threatening to spill over her pale cheeks. Why had she said that? Why was she letting his words gets to her?? "I can figure it out myself," She finally replied, Keira refused to look at him and kept her back to him as she waited for him to instruct her on what spices he wanted and herbs of course.

His eyes widened he had nit expected his words to affect her that much. "Oh, kitten." He murmured and wrapped his arms around her and hugged her closely, warmly. He felt bad, for once. "I apologize for my rudeness. I meant it as a joke." He said. He was usually always insulting his sous chef's but they usually just rolled their eyes and laughed.

Keira stiffened up when he first put his hands around her, she wasn't sure of how to react. He had just insulted her, though he said it was a joke. After a moment she relaxed and turned in his arms so that she could hug him back, her cheek on his chest. "Its okay," She murmured, kind of in a situation she'd never been in before. Though she had to admit, he smelled really good, and his hug was genuine, it felt good to be hugged. "Sorry for taking things so personally, I'm just kind of sensitive these days," She wished she could just bury her face in his shirt and stay there, but she knew that was illogical, they'd only just met, and he didn't need to be burdened with her problems.

Christopher chuckled and looked down at Keira with soft eyes, but there was a mischevious glint in them. He leaned down and placed his lips by her ear. "Getting comfortable, are we?" He murmured and straightened. This girl was so innocent in appearance, it was adorable. But he had a nagging feeling not to judge a book by it's cover. He kept his arms around her, actually feeling more like a knight than a flirtatious cook, for once. And he was sure it wouldn't last long it never did. The wind that had wafted into the kitchen was starting to get the room chilly and, reluctantly, he pulled away to close the window.

(lol they're adorable together)

Keira blushed, deeply, he asked if she was getting comfortable, and well she was. But she wasn't about to admit to that, it would be far too forward, and she just wasn't used to that kind of thing. He kept his arms around her for a little longer, and it felt wonderful if she was being honest. Then he was breaking away and she felt the absence of him like a bucket of cold water because of the chilly air coming in, which was the reasoning for him moving away in the first place. He shut the window and she got her emotions under control, "Chef Chris if you could show me what you want me to mix, I'm sure I can do that for you," She told him, feeling a bit more confident than before. Maybe it was his hug that had helped? She wasn't sure, but she was feeling more confident and comfortable in the kitchen than just a few moments ago.

((Yeah. how are you btw?))

Chris stared outside the window for a split second, and smiled. The bare trees were starting to turn green once more, and as was the grass. The snowdrops were popping out here and there. Spring was on it's way. Spring was Chris's favorite season, ever since he was a child. He was torn by his thoughts by Keira. His arms were crossed against his chest, his head turned towards her and a broad smile spread itself across his face. "Now that's more like it!" He said and strode towards the cupboards. "Okay... since we're going to make some curry for the feast, I need you to mix some coriander and cumin, garamasala and a touch of salt!" He said and picked up the peace of paper the Queen had written down. "Although I have no idea why she would want curry, glazed onions with duck and orange sauce. Not to talk about a variety of Italian and Chinese food- The smell! Of course! The smell would invite the Selected! The Queen is a genius! Why couldn't I see that the first time?" He muttered and leaned against the sink.

(Good, you?)
Keira was glad that her words seemed to make Chris happy, that meant that things could go smoother and maybe everything would be ready swiftly and in a timely manner. She nodded her head to the list he named off and started towards a cabinet of spices, she began sifting through the tiny glass bottles, reading each label and slowly finding the ones she needed. Chris sounded like he was very excited indeed, she hid a smile by keeping her face in the cabinet a little longer. He was definitely enthusiastic about his job, she would give him that. Would she ever be just as enthusiastic? Maybe one day... Keira swallowed, trying to push past the guilt of being content, no she wouldn't feel guilty for not being sad, not right now. Keira took a ceramic bowl and started mixing everything that Chris had told her to mix. "I think the kitchen will smell scrumptious," She murmured to herself.

((Meh, good and bad. There's a virus going around our school though >~<))

"It will indeed, my sweet kitten! Indeed it will!" He chuckled and patted her shoulder then peered into the bowl. A smile of approval appeared on his face, he nodded, "Maybe I should hire you." He winked and wrapped his arms around her waist. "Thank you! If I had more hands I would have done this by myself since, well, my sous chef's ran off." He shook his head then pulled away. "Plus, it's nice to be in the company of a lady." He said in a serious tone. He didn't usually like his other chef's leaving him, but now he didn't mind so much. But then again when there was a pretty lady involved he never really noticed.

Keira didn't know he'd heard her, and blushed slightly, had she spoken that loud? She made sure the ingredients were well blended, and was in the process adding a pinch of salt when Chris came up and wrapped his arms around her waist, her blush increased and she tried not to freak out. He was so flirty, but was that just his persona? Or did he actually have an interest in her? She smiled slightly when he said he may have to hire her, wouldnt' that be interesting?! Would that freak out his other chefs? She watched as he pulled away and leaned her hip against the counter so she could watch him while she worked. "Its nice to be in your company as well Chef Chris," She admitted, surprising herself. She had thought that the time here in the kitchen would be demeaning and terrible, but she was actually enjoying herself. "Um where would you like me to put this?" She held up the bowl that he had just inspected.

"It's always nice to have my company, I mean. I'm gorgeous." He chuckled and started to pull out pots and pans from the cupboards. He was starting to sweat in his suit jacket and puffed out his cheeks as he took it of and draped it on a nearby chair. He turned to look at her as he filled a deep soup pan with water. "Just leave it to the side, malady." He said and looked around. "Could you, get me one of those knives you managed to sharpen earlier?" He asked, a slightly teasing manner in his eyes, which travelled down her body and up again before Keating her eyes. "If you wouldn't mind that is."

Keira rolled her eyes dutifully when Chris talked highly of himself, she thought he was right, but she wasn't about to let him know that. He took off his suit jacket and she could see that he was a fit guy, not just lout that did nothing other than cook. She pushed the bowl to the side as he instructed and then went to get a knife that she'd sharpened only moments before. She turned to look over her shoulder at him to ask which one when she caught him checking her out, she quickly turned back around, flustered, and just picked a knife at random, then she carried it back to him, "Um here." She held the utensil out, handle first and tried to keep from blushing too much, though that didn't seem to be working all too well for her.

"Thank you, love." He said and took the knife then cut the duck breasts into thinner slices. He needed to hurry, the girls were coming soon. Or at least he thought so. His heart beat picked up. And he didn't know why. Was it the fact that 35 women were coming to stay. Or the fact that he had managed to make Keira blush. He shook his head and wiped his brow with his wrist. What was going on? Why was he- "Ouch! Shit!" He yelled as the knife slipped and cut his thumb. "Damn it." He mumbled and walked to the sink to quickly wash his hands.

Keira was curious so she followed Chris over to the table he was cutting things up at. Her eyes were on him as her mind wandered some, wondering about how different the castle would be with the selected girls there, and how she would fit into the mix. She was just about to ask Chris if he was nervous when he yelped and said an umentionable word before rushing to the sink, Keira's instincts kicked in. Her mom and recently deceased twin had both been nurses, she rushed over and cut up a clean linen cloth, then grabbed a bottle of bourbon that they had nearby, "Here," She took his hand from underneath he water, and had a sense of confidence to herself. "I know what I'm doing I swear," She muttered to him as she poured some bourbon on his cut to clean it from any germs, then handed him the bottle to drink because it probably stung, then she quickly bandaged him up with efficiency that would have made her mother proud. "It should be okay, but I suggest you don't over use that hand for the rest of the day, wait for a sous chef, and instruct them, that would be better." Keira looked up at him with her ocean blue eyes, hoping he didn't hate her for advising him.(one of your sous chefs will be here soon)