thedispatch | Secret Santa!

Secret Santa!

[ Every year, the reapers of the London branch held the more modern tradition of a secret Santa event. The branch tended to separate into smaller groups, mainly based around what departments were near one another in the office buildings, if only to give more diversity to just who your partner could possibly be. Forms were handed out to everyone interested in participating, consisting of simple questions that could help your partner figure out the perfect gift.

Not being the particularly festive type, William always declined, saying there was far too much work to be done to waste his limited free time shopping for gifts. But inevitably, Alan always persuaded him, usually with the promise of freshly baked cookies. With a huff, William would fill out yet another form and add it to the pile.

This year, when Grell comes into work on Christmas Eve, there is a large box sitting upon her desk, wrapped in shimmering red paper and topped with a glittered gold bow. With no name tag indicating who it is from, it can only be assumed her secret Santa had placed it there before she arrived to work. Inside is an array of, surprisingly well chosen, self pampering products, wonderfully fit for a woman with a fine taste for the indulgent. A book of sonnets tied with a small, but well crafted bow lays beside it. And to top it all off, two tickets to a night of fine theatre at the beautiful Canterbury Music Hall.

Certainly, the simplistic questionnaire couldn't have pinpointed her interests so well, what with inquiries about favourite foods and colours. The last was painfully obvious for her even without the form! So such a lavish - and expensive! - gift could have only come from someone who knew her quite well, and had the funds to pay for it all! Now the question was simply...who? ]

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[ When William approaches, she sits a little straighter, perky and positively beaming. Not only has she blazed through most of the paperwork she'd neglected all week, Will enjoys her gift!

Hands clasping at her chest, she swings herself up to stand! ]

So you do know who it is, do you? I-- suppose I ought to catch them, then!

[ Though, when he holds that flower out to her, she takes it as a refusal of her mere expression - and though she reaches to accept it, the heartbreak flashes across her face! ]

I'm pleased that you enjoyed the gift, Will.

[ Without further warning, she teleports off to the dining hall. ]

[ With that, she's gone and William has to wonder if there was another meaning associated with this particular flower, other than what its name implies. Sighing at his failed attempt at a small romantic gesture, he returns to his office to place the sprig of tiny flowers in a temporary cup of water.

Despite knowing who Grell's secret Santa is and why they chose what they did, there's still that slight pang of jealousy Grell was hoping she'd get from him. He reclaims his seat, huffing softly before resuming his work.

Should Jezibelle from Corrections choose to reveal some insight on Grell's gift, she'll find that, in a way, William had a part in choosing it. The girl had come to him earlier in the month, asking just what Grell would truly like. She told him that it was going to be an attempt to keep the violent reaper in good spirits during the "busy season" of Christmas thru to the New Year. In reality, it was a tactic to get the two reapers on with the relationship she, and most every other woman in the branch, knew William wanted but was too stubborn to act upon. Though she keeps that last bit from Grell, instead merely suggesting she offer that second ticket to William. ]

[ Grell feels herself cycle through a range of emotions. Confusion at the woman's intentions. Thrilled that William had been behind the gift, after all, and would therefore be her true love! Disappointment, upon recalling his gesture only moments before, and thinking to herself that he wouldn't wish to accept the ticket from her, either.

Taking Jezibelle's hand, she leaves a kiss upon the back of her palm, thanking her while parting ways. She would need to brood over a piece while deciding her next move.

Somehow, she manages to dodge William until near the end of their shifts.

She's already through his office door, before she announces herself with a clearing of the throat. ]

Will? Wouldn't you believe it, I've finished my work, and I was hoping I'd go home a bit early-- [ As though she's already anticipating that he will say no, she rushes into her next words. ] As it turns out, part of my gift was a pair of tickets for a performance tonight, and I'd hope to dress up a bit, you know?

[ Her assumption was right. He would have flat out told her no if she hadn't cut him off from doing so. But the last bit of her explanation has him frowning for a separate reason.

When she'd come into his office earlier that day, he took note of the book, but he never thought to ask on what the slips of paper were that she held along with it. Did Jezibelle really buy Grell every suggestion he made to her? Damn.

Adjusting his glasses, he rises from his chair, rounds his desk and approaches her. His gift to her is summoned and he offers it. Though he looks a bit unsure as he does. An odd look for him, certainly. ]

If that's what you have planned for the evening, then I suppose I should give this to you now.

[ His gift to her is a set of earrings and a necklace, both sporting large pendant rubies. It's the packaging that has him concerned right now, though. When helping Jezibelle with her gift, he had asked her for a suggestion on how he could wrap Grell's in a way that would make the obvious jewelry box less...well, obvious. She came up with a humorous idea to take forms Grell had filled out wrong and had to redo, shred them up and use it as filler around the smaller box. Being in Corrections, she had a drawer full of all the incorrect forms already!. William then topped the pile with a post-it note that said "Stop filling out your forms in red ink!!" While he liked the idea, the current awkward vibe between them made it seem wrong. Still he offered it to her. ]

Edited 2020-12-21 00:28 (UTC)

[ Drawing a breath, Grell's eyes just about sparkle, when he holds out the gift for her! She accepts it, to hold as though it's the most precious and fragile thing. ]

Oh, thank you, Will!

[ Carefully opening the box, face alight, that all immediately grinds to a halt, when she sees what's inside. Frowning with pursed lips, a brow dangerously quirked, she peers up at him slowly. ]

Really?

[ Plucking up the note to show him pointedly, as she prepares to tear into him, she spies something underneath the shreddings. Dropping the post-it altogether, she dusts off the jewelry box... and gasps!

Picking it up, she hands the remainders of the gag gift to William, so that she can open it up for a proper look.

Her features soften, fingers to her lips. Why, her eyes may even go a bit misty. ]

Oh. Oh, William, they're beautiful...

[ The moment the box is shoved into his hands, he drops it to her desk, thinking that he'll never do something so silly again. Obviously, comedy and creativity aren't for him. But he feels a sense of calm when her eyes alight. ]

Be careful with them. They cost quite a bit.

[ Not that he thinks she'll do anything but treasure them, but still, a reprimand is always necessary. Especially after a flopped attempt to be silly. ]

I hope you will wear them this evening, then. I'm certain they'll match whatever you choose to wear.

[ Giving him a look, albeit a good-natured one, she closes the box to hold against her chest. ]

Quite the gesture, to give me such a grand gift. I hope you'll allow me to return it.

[ Drawing one more breath of courage, she draws one of the tickets from her pocket, and holds it out to him. ]

Will you accompany me this evening?

[ He looks to the ticket, then back up to her face. The invitation isn't surprising, it would have been more so if she hadn't given him the offer. ]

You aren't going to take along your newly found true love, Miss Jezibelle?

Miss Jezibelle was quite transparent about the source of her ideas.

[ Her gaze locks on his, unwavering - and it's quite clear how she feels about that. ]

So, I'm afraid that I must insist.

Seems you were correct from the beginning, then. I do know you quite well.

[ He plucks the ticket from her hand, pocketing it. ]

Go.

[ AHe motions toward the door. A yes to both her invitation and request to clock out early! ]

[ Beaming, Grell reaches out to run her hand across his cheek and into the hair at the nape of his neck-- but, biting her lip, she nods excitedly before stepping away in haste. ]

Meet me there.

[ And she's off-- but not before blowing him a kiss!! ]

[ William still has a bit to get done before he clocks out, but the time stated on the ticket shows that he should have plenty of time to shower and ready himself. He arrives before her, waiting patiently in the theatre's main lobby. He's decided to blend in by dressing in the fashions of the time, but the scarf Grell gave him earlier that day lingers around his neck. It's quite warm and he can certainly see himself wearing it for the rest of the season.

Part of him wonders if this is all a terrible idea - exposing his emotions to someone he's been actively trying to avoid for a century. But, the mood of the evening lets him know that this is right. For as long as it took, he's feeling more at peace with knowing Grell will be clinging to his side all night than he's been before. Humming, he looks about the crowd to see if he can spot a flood of red hair. ]

That looks very handsome on you.

[ Reaching out, Grell runs her hand down the scarf tail that rests at his chest, as she steps to stand before him.

It's suddenly quite clear why Grell had wished for a substantial amount of time to prepare herself for the evening. Her hair is freshly styled, her makeup immaculate, and her skin smells divine-- yet, her fashion selection for the evening still demands attention! A smartly tailored coat with unique front panels comprised of sweeping front buttons, and a cape attached to the left shoulder with lace applique and shimmering embellishments.

Most importantly, perhaps, is that she's showcased her necklace over a high collar and complimentary necktie, and swept her hair back just a touch more than normal to show off the earrings, as well!

Despite all of this, she's still more concerned with swooning over Will! ]

[ William looks down to her hand before taking in the sight of her. The outfit is very unique, very her. Though despite how dramatic it is with its flowing cape and detailing, the jewellery stands out, reflecting glints of light from the chandeliers hanging above. ]

It is rather comfortable, as well. You, however, look stunning.

[ A compliment from William is not something easily obtained. So such a positive statement on her looks says quite a bit. ]

[ Such a thing isn’t lost on Grell, not in the slightest. Features brightening, her cheeks warm with rosiness. ]

Tonight is a special evening for us. I’ve all the reason to dress my finest.

[ All, she says, while gingerly running gloves fingers along his lapel, whilst stepping nearer. ]

We shall see what comes of it, then.

[ For once, he extends an arm to her. ]

If you are ready, I believe they will be starting shortly.

[ The couple gets a few wary glances as they proceed towards their seats, being a bit of an odd pairing. But a sense of intimidation keeps any comments at bay. They practically own the theatre tonight. ]

[ Of course, they could always make themselves unknown to the mortals, but what fun would that be? She, for one, is far too proud to finally be on William’s arm, and eager for the world to know it.

While the show is nothing short of spectacular, Grell still can’t immerse herself in it, for the simple fact that William is seated beside her. She’d expected to go home lonely this Christmas Eve, after a boring shift, like so many before. Now, the future is unpredictable and exciting again!

She keeps wondering what this means for their future, in particular. If he will address it this evening, given the romantic gift he’s offered her. That is, unless she’s misconstrued it again. Though, if he doesn’t, and she hasn’t, what will she say?

Having glanced at him for the third time that act, curious if he’s been enjoying himself, she pulls her focus away from him and glued her eyes to the stage ahead with a steeling sigh! Instead, she slips her hand into his. ]

[ Though he doesn't return her glances, it doesn't mean he's been blind to them. He's certain there are a million questions running through Grell's mind. Why he bothered helping Jezibelle get her such a wonderful gift. Why he gave her an even greater one. Why he accepted her invite for this evening's show.

He would ask himself the same, as any outsider would certainly think him mad for doing so with the firey redhead, but he's already come to terms with his thoughts on the matter.

Still keeping his eyes on the stage, he gives her offered hand a slight squeeze. ]

[ Subtly as she may, Grell pulls in her bottom lip to nibble at with a long inhale. Which is the only thing keeping the red headed reaper from squealing aloud, really.

Come intermission, however, he immediately has her attention. Pivoting towards him whilst in her seat, she drapes herself over his shoulder, arms encircling its arm. ]

How are you enjoying yourself thus far, my darling?♥

It is a classic show for the evening, but they've put it together quite well.

[ For once, he doesn't pay her overly clingy affections any mind. He simply accepts them, which for most, would appear as a them being entirely disinterested. But for the stoic reaper with a violent tendency towards his coworkers extreme affections, it gives off the air of acceptance. ]

You seem rather distracted. Have you even been paying attention to the performance?

[ While it really doesn’t, Grell puts on a show of surprise at the question. ]

Why, of course I have!

[ Looking away, she glances back to him, equal parts sheepish and flirtatious. ]

For the most part.

[ With a brief hum, he gives her a nod that lets her know he's noticed. ]

You should give it your full attention. I'm certain Miss Jezibelle paid a good amount for the tickets. ]

[ A scolding that somehow holds its own sense of flirtatiousness! ]

[ A smirk plucks at her lips. ]

From what I understand, her intentions for the gift have more or less been fulfilled.

Not entirely.

[ Vague as ever, he allows her to fill in the blank ]

Edited 2021-01-03 06:03 (UTC)

Mn, no, I suppose you’re right about that.

[ And she idly eyes his lips, contemplating kissing him right here, to be done with it! ]

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