u n a t t a c h e d ;

Delilah was doing this for their daughter, but in a sense – she wanted to do him a favor as well. He was doing an excellent job not going against her list of do’s and don’t’s when it came to Aurora and deep down, the young mother could imagine what big of a deal this could be. He deserved to have a good birthday with his daughter, even if she didn’t think of herself as a family to him. Delilah was simply the mother of his child, nothing more, nothing less. 

He was behaving himself and the blonde was glad. She didn’t care much about the food – she was never a picky eater. The waiter approached them and Lukas placed their order in french; which was quite impressive if Delilah hadn’t think about how easy it could have been for her to learn it as well.. if she ever had the money or time for it. Shaking the thoughts away, she smiled at their daughter.

“Just water, please.” she replied softly, knowing what kind of results a glass of wine could have on her system. As soon as they were left alone, the blonde rested her hands on her lap. “Well..” she began, a small smile appearing on her face. “Rory and I had a discussion..” looking over at their kid, she smiled more. “She can spend two weekends of your choice at your place if you’d like. I’m fine with that, as long as she comes back home after school on Monday.”  

Elated would’ve been the best word to describe his mood as those string of words left her mouth. He felt his heart grow a couple sizes (curse that Grinch reference), unable to stop the forming smile. After all this time--- all he had to do was be nice? Show her how much he was willing to be a father to their kid and she handed her off so quickly. Being a dick felt right (at least according to him) but being nice felt even better. Nice got you things you wanted. Nice was smiled upon and belongings were handed over. Nice used to be a bad word but now that he knew it’s power, he briefly feared his cut-throat attitude would never return. 

“That sounds amazing,” he noted, exasperated. “Two weekends of my choice?” He resounded, gazing back over to the younger. “I mean, consecutively preferably--- but I think that should be up to her.” He gestured to the other, flitting a concerned gaze back to Delilah. “I wouldn’t want to take her away from any plans you guys might have.”

Lara took out the red lollipop stuck between her lips, making a popping sound before she pursed her lips in thought. “How bad of a person am I? –For stomping on a child’s sand castle?” The blonde actress questioned, a pair of blue eyes carefully following little Penny who was busy playing on the playground site with a bunch of other munchkins. “Hey, in my defense, the mean kid with the bowl-cut over there called her scary clown Pennywise so I had to get back at him, crushing his castle with a dramatic Pennister sends her regards.”

@cityofdreamsstarters​

“If I’m the Devil, what exactly does that make you?” He mused, eyes flitting to the aforementioned gremlin. He didn’t care about children. Oftentimes, he took to avoid them at all costs (hence his exclusion from his own daughter for a good portion of her life). They were nasty, often sticky little creatures--- but messing with them was even outside of his own moral code. “Children are fucking awful, aren’t they?”

“Please, do. Fall so hard the rest of us see stars swirling around your head,” a coy grin spread across her lips which turned into an amused smirk as the blonde let him tuck a golden curl behind her ear. Oh, this Devil was smooth. “Are you hoping for a happy ending? Because the way you describe the relationship with your father… It reminds me of a Shakespearean tragedy.” Lara explained lightly, her smirk never faltering, not even when he refused to answer her. Instead he chose to play his game so why not play along? “Is that so?” Her mouth formed an o as she feigned shock. “How do you propose I find out, then?”

“Has Shakespeare ever ended on happy?” He knew what he was in for. He’d either waste away with someone he didn’t love but were approved by his father or he’d rebel and live out his days with someone who completed him--- it was a toss-up, really. He liked having approval. Then again, he also liked having money and he knew what everyone wanted from him. It really was a tragedy. He let her question linger as he dipped her, contemplation clear on his features. “Like everybody else. At the end.”

A bubble of laughter slipped out  “aw, I truly believe he would, and I’d be sure to give him enough material,” she joked, a mischievous gleam in her eyes. “And what does your father want for you? A proper lady? Missionary for the rest of your life?” Her mother, though, would probably love Lukas. To her, it didn’t matter how Lara felt or how the man treated her– he just had to be dirty rich and with a famous last name. Enjoying herself more than she perhaps should’ve, Lara spun around, easily following his lead. As their conversation turned to Delilah, the blonde grew more careful for she genuinely cared about the precious girl. “Does the Devil ever need a reason?” Inquired Lara, arching an amused brow, boldly meeting his gaze. “What is rightfully yours?” Lara repeated, her curiosity piqued as she ran a finger down his jaw.

“You as crazy as you look ‘cause I might consider fallin’ for that statement itself,” he chuckled, sweeping a loose strand behind her ear with an oddly tender touch. “I guess he does--- but I think deep down he knows that ain’t gonna happen.” It was part of the reason why he and Delilah could never work. She was too good for him and he didn’t want his father in his ear telling him he finally did something right. It irked him even thinking about it. “I think I’ve said too much,” he feigned discontent, sighing dreamily. “Wouldn’t be that exciting to reveal my evil plan this early on, would it?”

She was trying her best considering the circumstances. Sometimes, Lukas failed to understand how hard she had been working to provide all the essentials to their kid for the past fifteen years before he re-appeared in their life again, giving Rory anything her heart desired. It should have been so easy. He shouldn’t have been dismissing her that way and then again, the two of them never had a proper discussion about it. He knew not to push her buttons much and she, on the other hand, was seeking the minimum conversation with him. Perhaps, this was the time for that to change. He was going to be there for their daughter. That’s how it was now, that’s how things were going to be for the future. Maybe she needed to make the first step. Their daughter was happy, that’s all that mattered here. 

Another smile appeared on her face as she looked at them. This wasn’t bad at all, and it was the first time the three of them were doing something. Lukas spoke again, and in all honesty, the blonde just looked at him like he was speaking Greek to her, until he explained the whole Prix Fixe. “Yeah.. that sounds actually nice.” the blonde agreed, before smiling over at their daughter. “Um, there’s something we need to talk about as well.” They could order first though, right? 

He pressed his lips together, a thin smile displayed despite biting back any comments he would’ve inevitably made about the situation. He was ecstatic, but he knew speaking his mind would only lead to more problems. He opened his mouth there was suddenly an argument and they were throwing the kitchen sink at each other. At least, for now, they could settle and have something to eat--- finally have something to talk about that didn’t feel like they had to put their head into an oven. 

Usually, he’d be snapping his fingers at whoever had the misfortune of passing his table, but Lukas was well versed in making it seem like he was the kindest person alive when it came to dining with those he was trying to impress. Their table was approached (thankfully within an appropriate amount of time) and he passed his menu off to the waitstaff, addressing them in seemingly flawless French, ordering Rory’s drink for her before turning his attention to Delilah. 

“Anything you want to drink?” He asked in English, resulting in a kind smile. “White wine pairs perfectly with almost all the courses that Eric comes up with,” he added. “Et de l'eau pour la table, s'il vous plaît.“ This was great. Getting to show off his table manners to two of his best girls. Keeping things light and airy--- but of course, they needed to talk. Despite his need to keep this from going off on some discourse, he respected Delilah’s opinions, desires, and needs. “What about?”

“Imagine how many people we’d piss off if we got married,” she voiced her ridiculous thoughts, smirking in amusement. Off the top of her head, she could think of at least five. Not to mention her fans who were (no surprise there) shipping her with, either her co-stars or her friends. Her smirk only grew as he spun her around and her gaze found their reflection in the mirror. It was no secret Lara Sawyer enjoyed attention, even if it was coming from complete, dangerous strangers. “Aw, but I already fucked someone on the balcony. Wouldn’t want to make them think it wasn’t special, you know.” Lara teased. “I gotta say, it truly is a devious plan– You outdid yourself, Mr. Devil. Using me to hurt Delilah, tsk, tsk, tsk. Not sure it’s gonna work, though.”

“I probably wouldn’t hear the end of it from my father--- he’d absolutely hate you,” he remarked, temptation all but hidden as he toyed with the thought. He wasn’t one for that ‘true love’ schtick everyone had tried shoving down each other’s throats. What was so wrong with getting laid and moving on? The animal kingdom was a prime example, then again, penguins existed. He thought about her statement, spinning her back around. “Now why would I want to hurt that delicate flower?” He mused in an almost artificial way. “No one hurts her. She’s made that abundantly clear. There’s nothing I could do that would break that darling facade she carries.” He spun her once, pulling her in closer once more, ocean hues matching hers. “I’m only interested in taking back what’s rightfully mine.”

“Maybe, but not for a role of a tedious spouse– They tried to make me one once, didn’t work. A potential crazy, thrill-seeking or hedonistic spouse, that’s more me,” she admitted teasingly and an unapologetic shrug followed. The blonde followed his lead, putting on a briliant smile as she looked at the man. “The pleasure is all mine, Lukas. Asshole, billionaire, playboy, philanthropist– impressive. Tell me more,” her gaze flickered up, then, taking a closer look to the horns he’d mentioned earlier. “Done anything assholey tonight?”

“Love that trope,” he insisted, tucking his hand above her waist, more so towards the middle of her back. He didn’t vouch much for his reputation. It preceded him, but it wasn’t what his sole focus was. He liked his job. Liked the money it brought in, but he was more than his chequebook. Did he want to come off humble, was the question. Was he tempted to spin a genuine tale like the others before him? Did it matter? Spinning her around so her back was to him, he tucked his chin into her shoulder, a wry smile forming at the possible euphemism. “Not yet--- you want to be the first?”

It wasn’t the first time she was stepping into a different world like this. Even though she liked simpler things in life, Delilah had allowed her boyfriend to take her out in a fancy place before. Lukas was probably used to this scenery, and surprisingly enough, their daughter seemed comfortable in her seat. Maybe he was keen on spoiling them more than the blonde liked, yet she couldn’t find it in her to say something now. For a day,  Lukas could have it his way. That’s what birthdays were for anyway, special treatment and all that. She had dreamed of going out like a family for years and now.. it was nice, having that wish come true. They could be civil for a few hours, he would behave around their kid. Her gut feeling was telling her so.  

Rory was over the moon. Her mother could tell, her energy, the smile on her face – everything was giving away how exciting and happy the teen was. And then, Delilah couldn’t help but think how much they looked alike. It brought her so much joy, watching them interact, having inside jokes. This was the reason why she wasn’t regretting moving an ocean away. 

“Mom says it’s not a real birthday if you don’t get presents.” the teen replied, making a face at her father and letting out a giggle. “Can I have the salmon we got last time? It was really good!” 

Gazing up, the blonde looked at her daughter curiously, before reaching for the menu. So, they had been here before. “So…” she murmured, “Do you have any suggestions?” Delilah asked, before looking at him. “No lobster. It kind of creeps me out.” He probably wouldn’t remember that, but it was worth mentioning in case Lukas decided to show off. 

Everything was perfect. This was exactly how he wanted this afternoon to go--- but he could tell Delilah was still on the rocks about the whole agreement. Often times, when it was just him and Rory, the two would chat to no end; talking about what was happening in their daily lives and what they were looking forward to. He’d offered more than enough times to send her to an elite school (having the connections and money and whatnot against her mother’s better judgment) but he was content with this. Just getting to know who Rory was and what her interests were. What person she had become from being raised by Delilah alone. He let the word linger for a moment. Alone. He left them alone. He knew it was unforgivable but all that mattered now was that he was there. Right?

“Of course, chicken,” he mused, passing the menu over to her. “You can order whatever you want. At Delilah’s words, he couldn’t help the small smile that’d formed. This couldn’t have been all new to her, but he appreciated her needing the guidance. It wasn’t Per Se or Masa but it was still pricey enough to need a fatter wallet. It was where he usually took his clients for luncheons to impress them. It didn’t quite look like Delilah cared where they ate, but he liked that. It made her human. Perhaps that’s what he liked most about her. “How about we do the Prix Fixe, then? So you can get a gist of what kind of food they serve here and what you’re interested in. It’s three courses so you’ll have plenty of time to decide.”

“So there might be a tedious spouse you’re trying to get away from?” Lara teased, she had no choice but to keep up the silly charade, really. Emma Bovary was one of the most ridiculous literary characters which was why Lara adored her. “Not as much anymore, though.” She concluded, taking a sip of her drink and watching the devil before her all the while. Eventually, she placed a hand in his, somewhat excited to pay a visit to hells, all seven of them. “Horns? They’rea perfect touch in this dayand age, considering how popular Maleficent is,” she boldly wrapped an arm around hisshoulder. “Lara Sawyer,” she introduced herself. “An actress, a mess and always excited to meet a Devil, hoping one day I’d run into one worthy of selling my soul to,” she joked.

“None in the picture so far. Who knows, you could stand a fighting chance,” he teased, whisking them off into the flurry of patrons behind them. Lukas danced like he did with probability and enticement. They all stemmed from something and the longer he danced around his actual intentions, the more humble he appeared. Maybe he could be seen right through, but it didn’t bother him much. As long as he was distracted. “Knew I’ve seen that face somewhere.” Frequenting public functions, he did his best to remain in the back like a wallflower but always observing; learning. Maybe he had seen her at some point, then again maybe not--- not that it mattered. “Well, it’s a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Lara. Lukas Carrington. Asshole. Billionaire--- playboy, philanthropist,” he rolled his eyes, tucking that last quote in at an attempt to be funny.

Of course, they were meeting in a fancy place. She had made a promise to herself to be in her best behavior today for the sake of her daughter. This was her dad’s first birthday Rory was actually going to experience, and the teen was too excited. The blonde wasn’t going to ruin that over her personal feelings. Waiting patiently for the host to find their name, Delilah half smiled as the taller man responded with a follow me. For a moment, she couldn’t help but wonder if they were properly dressed for a restaurant like this. Rory had demanded they wore dresses, and now the blonde could see why. Everyone here looked like they were coming out from a fashion magazine. 

“Dad..—” the teen said happily, snapping Delilah out of her thoughts once they made their way to the table. Watching as Rory jumped to her father’s arms, the blonde offered them a small smile. It did make her feel nice, watching how happy their kid was. Lukas was admittedly not fucking up just yet, so she considered giving him the benefit of the doubt. “Hey… happy birthday.” she said softly, giving them both their time to embrace each other. 

“I’m sorry we’re late, mom and I stopped by your place to drop your presents!” the girl beamed, before quickly moving to take a seat next to her father. 

“I’m sorry if you had to wait.. the traffic was insane.” 

@carringtxn​

Lukas had refined tastes--- to a degree. He’d been raised with a silver spoon in his mouth, kept rich friends in his circles and flaunted a lot of his wealth out of pure spite. He’d probably been around the Blackshaw’s too much if he were being honest. He felt the need to impress and be impressed with everything he did in his life. Asking large clients out to dinners to help the growth of their companies all the while keeping his wallet full. It was easy. It was second-nature--- but this was to be the first time he’d spent his birthday not only with his daughter but the woman who’d probably taken an oath to always hate him. They were civil, but this had been the first time he’d seen some form of reciprocation on her end. He didn’t need to impress them or show off. It was a nice change.

He welcomed Rory into his arms, a large, gleeful yet genuine smile pulling at his features, crinkling the corners of his eyes and pressing into his dimples. A rare smile that not everyone had the luxury of viewing. He set her down, running his hand over her hair before a dismissive shake of his head as if to say ‘no big deal’. Extending his attention to the younger, his eyes widened with mock excitement.

“Presents? For me?” Relaxing into a nonchalant gaze, a smaller smile tugged at his lips. “You really didn’t need to do that--- but I appreciate it. I’ll gladly take your macaroni art, darling,” he teased. He had a way of talking to their daughter. Always joking around with a dash of sincerity. He was charming that way, but it felt normal with her. He could never do that with Delilah. It’d overstep way too many boundaries. “You two go ahead and order. I know the guy who owns the place. He owes me one.”

Couldn’t make it. It shouldn’t have surprised him as much as those three words had. He was a big boy. Had this party planned for weeks (and very well could’ve waited until Saturday to do it) but, of course, something always happened. Something always fell through and it wasn’t like he could help it. People had responsibilities. Delilah had responsibilities and regardless of how much wealth he threw at her or how many things he offered to pay for (because money wasn’t that important when it came to spending it on her or their daughter), she never took it. Reaching out had come to a roaring halt. Never knew what he could do to connect with people other than tossing money in their direction. It was how he made friends. It was how he communicated and retained those connections.

Then there was Vi.

She never expected anything from him. Never asked for things, but also never refused his endless gifts. It wasn’t for the usual greed Lukas knew everyone held on their shoulders. She looked like she genuinely appreciated his advances towards that friendship. They could’ve talked all day, wrapped up in each other without a care in the world. He could vent to her. Ask for advice. Vivian was truly the only best friend he’d ever had. She was like a sister to him. She could make it. She always made it for him.

Sitting across from her on his large L shaped couch as the housekeepers and accompanying staff made their way around to decorate for the party later that night, he tucked his feet up, scooching closer as a laugh left his mouth. A genuine smile prevailing.

“Fuzzy handcuffs, Vi? Really?” He noted, shaking his head. “You should’ve seen my maid’s face. One word from them and I’m gonna be back in those shady gossip columns about seein’ someone on the side,” he snickered. “Besides. You know I’m a rope kind of guy.”

She laughed lightly, shoulders relaxing as soon as he pulled her closed. “It was only out of boredom. Don’t let it get on your head, I don’t spend my day googling about you. My time’s precious.” Vivian responded, turning to stick her tongue playfully at him. “Is there anyone you reject? Doesn’t sound like you.” she smiled, reaching for a drink as soon as one of the servers walked by, thanking him quickly. “Leather looks good on me. That’s what someone said. I’m going to ignore the fact he was drunk and could barely take another step.” 

“I don’t believe that for a second. I know you’re obsessed with me. It’s all that expensive jewelry I buy you, isn’t it?” He teased. “Brunettes, actually. Blondes are more my thing.” His fingers danced along her side, their proximity close but not suffocating. He liked being this comfortable with someone without having to explain himself. Like a breath of fresh air. “Give me his description, I’ll go blind him.”

“Yeah, yeah… we all know. There’s all the gossip about you.” she grinned, shrugging her shoulders. The media was ruthless, just like he could be. Sometimes, Vivian felt bad for the girls who got involved with him. On the other hand, most of them never really cared enough to get to know him, so it was all about Karma. “We can dance in five. Seriously? You want that thing? I don’t need new shoes or tiara. I think these horns suit me better.” 

“My, my--- is our dearest, untouchable flower Vivian Henrix really subjecting herself in the lowest form of journalism? And for my benefit?” He roused, pulling her in closer by her waist. “You shouldn’t believe everything in those articles. Some people just can’t take rejection,” he added nonchalantly. He admired Vivian. She didn’t take his shit. She looked like a little angel who would do as she was told, but he knew what was bubbling below that perfect exterior. “That they do.”