( vi ) ( v i d e o )

[detriments]

[When she turns on the feed, she looks as composed and made up as ever - lips red, hair caught up, neck covered by silk, diamond earrings dangling from her ears. If not for her appearance, though, Christine would be anything but. And not many people would know why.

But then they may have noticed she hasn't quite been herself for a little while. She hasn't been very present in the network or offline, has she.

There isn't a trace of a smile on her expression, but she refuses to show anything like vulnerability, either. Her lips are only a neutral line, her gaze incisive.]

Renee Montoya was taken back home. By the Porter, I presume.

[Her tone is dry. Almost bored. This is no grieving girlfriend. Christine isn't playing the victim today.]

For those of you who might be worried.

[For those who ever considered themselves friendly or otherwise. She doesn't care.

And the feed clicks off.]

Comments

[motherflocker]

[ She beat him up in an alleyway for no reason!! He's being nice! ]

Of course, Christine, and if you need something further, please don't hesitate to ask.

[detriments]

I won't forget what you did for me.

[supposedly.]

[motherflocker]

It's no trouble, my dear. We all need help, every now and then, particularly when it's someone close to us.

[ He's playing so nice, because she's so hot, tbh. ]

[detriments]

That's very understanding of you. Thank you.

[And with that she exhales, clearing the air a bit.]

And how are you?

[motherflocker]

As well as can be. The lounge has seen moderate success thus far, and I expect that will continue.

[ He shook his head. ]

If you need a distraction, I'm always happy to invite you for a night out.

[detriments]

[a pause, as she considers.]

... I think I'd like that.

[motherflocker]

[ HEH HEH HEH ]

Indeed. Just tell me when, and your troubles will be away, for at least a few hours.

[detriments]

I'll do that, Oswald. And congratulations on your new business.

[motherflocker]

Thank you, Christine. I've been fortunate enough to see a great deal of success thus far.

[detriments]

I had no doubts you would.

[motherflocker]

Your faith means the world to me, Christine. Really.

[detriments]

It might mean one world too many, [False modesty doesn't quite suit her, does it,] But I'm glad to hear it.

[motherflocker]

Mm, with you? Never.

[detriments]

[A pause.]

I did miss your charm.

[motherflocker]

Really?

Well, we'll have to seize this opportunity to make sure you don't miss it again.