Heart In a Knot - PREQUEL for Stark

[specification]

As far as Arthur saw it, being home for two weeks was a week too long. He had caught up with the friends and family members he cared to see and catch up with. He ran. He slept. But now, that itch was creeping up again - wanting to get out and do something, travel somewhere.

It was with a grain of hope that Arthur picked up the phone when Mal called. He hoped she would have a job or have heard something. Besides, it was wonderful talking to her, as always. "Good evening, Mal," he smiled, looking in the fridge for something before taking out a bottle of water.

Comments

[starknaked]

"You of course have a choice. You can fly in a state of the art jet or commercial. And I will judge you for flying commercial," he said with a laugh. "Friday. Eight. Bring a flask because Pepper will likely check me for one."

Despite himself, Tony just couldn't wait to meet the man that Mallorie thought so much of.

[specification]

Arthur chuckled. "Right then, jet it is." He usually wasn't like this but in spite of himself, he was amused and couldn't wait to truly meet this man that Mal thought highly of.

"Friday at eight," he agreed. "Poison of choice?" Just because he asked didn't mean he would bring a flask. Still, it was handy to know the alcohol preference of a client's choice. "And at Stark Towers, right?"

[starknaked]

"That's a good man. Knew you'd see it my way. Of course, Pepper will be with us so no strippers. I do apologize for that, but the pole is always open if the spirit moves you," he teased, figuring he wouldn't need to worry about this man selling his silly comments to the press.

"Scotch preferably but, honestly, I don't play favourites too highly. Yep, Stark Towers, Eight. Is there a last name or is it just Arthur. Like Cher and Madonna?"

[specification]

Arthur stood there silent for a moment before he just shook his head. "No, I'll be just fine without the strippers or using the pole for my own need," he said, not able to keep the smirk from his lips. "When do you plan to return to Malibu?" This way he would have a better idea for hotel accommodations.

"Arthur Marino," he said. It was his true last name but it was an identity he hadn't used in a while so it should be cleared.

[starknaked]

"Let's call it Sunday morning, possibly late Saturday. Depends on when I get out of bed after this party. I am leaving it to you to ensure the night goes well," he said, amusing himself further.

"Your name will be at the door then."

[specification]

Arthur made a mental note to himself about the date and couldn't help but chuckle at that. "I can ensure the evening goes well but that's not taking into consideration what you may or may not do at this event." Still, Arthur was more amused by the entire conversation than he would let on.

"I will see you on Friday, Mr. Stark. Have a good evening," he said. Whether or not Arthur called Tony 'Mr. Stark' just to be contrary or professional remained to be seen. He was greatly amused though.

[starknaked]

"Now you're sounding entirely like Pepper. Completely. Are you a redhead too," he asked curiously.

"Good night, Arthur," he said, hanging up the phone.

[specification]

Once he was off the phone with Tony, Arthur sent a quick text to Mal.

He's charming, you're Anthony.

For the rest of the evening, Arthur got started on some research, learning everything he could get his hands on about Stark. It was always better to go in prepared than not. It was already going to be an unusual job.