((SCENE: Larry and Lana))
((Larry and Lana go on a date!
Yeah I started to fail at RPing Larry near the end. That's when I was getting tired and on medications and I couldn't concentrate anymore. Apologies.
Let's say this takes place on May 10th.))
Lana: *Lana finishes the drive to the address that Larry gave her, parking her car on the street and looking up at the apartment complex - it's a fairly seedy-looking place, and at first she's not she on the right street, but when she sees the sign that says "Shady Cracks Apartment Complex" she groans inwardly - looks like she made it*
Larry: *The front door to the apartment complex jerks partway open, sticks, then gets thrust open the whole way and Larry stumbles out shoulder-first. He has one of his shoes in his hand and the other is on his foot but untied.* Man, I hope that hot maintenance chick comes and fixes this door soon... *He spots Lana's car and recognizes her through the window.* P-Professor! Is that you? Hey!
Larry: *Waves enthusiastically with one hand while doing an awkward maneuver of balancing on one foot while he shoves a shoe onto the other. He leaves them untied for now, figuring he can just tie them in the car, and makes his way over to Lana's car.* Wow, you're... *he checks his watch* You're right on time! I think... *shakes his wrist and looks at the watch again*
Lana: *she stares openly for a second, one hand at her chest, shocked at his state of dress. When she brings up the time he makes her doubt herself, and she checks her own watch* Oh! Yes. I think I am. And, uhm... *she smiles for him, barely having to force it* So are you! It's nice to meet you in person, Mr. Butz.
Larry: *Lets himself into the car and drops down into the passenger seat, then looked at Lana, seeming stunned for a moment* Wow... you look even more gorgeous than I imagine! I mean, I've met chicks from the internet before, and... well... *scratches his neck* You're definitely the prettiest!
Lana: *to say that his frankness shocks her would be an understatement, and she stares for a second before mustering another, somewhat shakier grin* Thank you. Uh, please, call me Lana. *she walks back around to the driver's side and gets in, firing up the engine with a smooth thrum* And where are we going?
Larry: Well I was thinking we could go out for pizza, but you've got the wheel so you can take me anywhere that pleases you! *smirks*
Lana: *she blinks again - realizing that if she doesn't adjust this conversation is going to be an endless series of verbal punches to her frontal lobe - and puts the car into gear, pulling out into the street* Actually, I could go for some Italian food. Pizza sounds nice. What's your favorite place?
Larry: Ah... hm... *avoids saying Pizza Hut since he at least knows by now that most women get insulted when he suggests fast food* Well, there's this one bar that has really great cheese pizza called Old York's. Or we could go to Olive Garden or something.
Lana: *brightens visibly* Oh, Old York's. I remember going there - haven't been since I was in law school. I think that sounds about right. *she exits onto the highway, studiously checking her rearview mirrors* So, you never mentioned what it is you do?
Larry: Huh? I'm... I'm an artist! *flashes a grin and a thumbs up* I draw and paint people's portraits. If you want, I can do one for you later! It'll be totally free, of course.
Lana: An artist? That sounds... *she thinks on that for a minute; she's never actually gone on a date with anyone who studied the arts before* That sounds very nice, actually. Would you be willing to do a portrait after dinner, perhaps? It wouldn't need to be anything overly complex.
Larry: Yeah, I can totally do that for you! I didn't bring any of my art supplies, though... when you come back to drop me off you can come up to my apartment and get a portrait done. I cleared out this side room and turned it into a really awesome studio! There's room for a model so I can do portraits right at home! Like I did one lady's portrait just a couple weeks ago. *smiles wider and leans back in the car seat, seeming to drift off in thought all of the sudden*
Lana: A studio? That sounds... charming. *she smiles again, and when she looks over to see him in thought it piques her curiosity - what could send this guy into thoughtful repose?* "This one lady's"? Was it a special portrait?
Larry: She was really something, a real classy woman... and she gave me a lunch, too! It's a little weird not being the one to pay for lunch, but she said it was payment for the portrait. She was a real angel. *smirks in an amused way*
Lana: An angel who paid with lunch. *she takes the exit towards the street where Old York's is, thinking for a minute* What kind of portrait was it?
Larry: It was a... *cough* ...It was a charcoal portrait! Charcoals get pretty messy but they make really great tones.
Lana: *she raises an eyebrow at him, figuring from what she just heard he's apparently embarrassed to tell her, which could only mean a couple of things so far* I bet they do. Do you think my portrait would be best done in charcoal, too? *she arrives at the proper street and pulls into a pay-and-stay parking lot*
Larry: *turns in his seat to look directly at her, scratching at his goatee contemplatively* Hmm........ I don't know! I think you'd look really good in any medium.
Lana: *she rolls down her window, taking a ticket from the attendant and slipping it onto her dashboard before smiling at Larry* That's sweet of you. *she pulls into a parking spot, puts the car into park, and kills the engine* Hope you don't mind a short walk?
Larry: Hm? No, I... I walk all the time! *laughs quickly and leans down to tie his shoelaces, then sits back up when he's done* ...So you think I'm sweet? Wow! And I didn't even buy you anything yet! Usually girls don't say things like that until after I buy them dinner or gifts. *rubs his neck*
Lana: *she wonders if he's being serious, a look of earnest surprise coming over her face - and then she smiles warmly, opening her door* Come on, Larry, let's go have some pizza.
Larry: *also gets out of the car* Yeah! I can't wait, I haven't eaten all day. Some pizza would be just the thing about now.
Lana: *shuts the door and locks it with her keyring, which she slips into the pocket of her jacket* Not at all? Why didn't you have breakfast?
Larry: Well all I had in my fridge was some old Chinese takeout and it was starting to smell kinda weird so I decided to dump it. And I couldn't find my wallet until about an hour ago so I couldn't order anymore.
Lana: ....Oh. *she makes a specific note not to press further on that point as they walk to Old York's* So, do you meet many women on the internet?
Larry: Nah, I only just started talking to chicks online kinda recently. I couldn't afford internet for awhile, but it turns out the office building next door has been giving free wireless, so I've been using that.
Lana: How ...ah... fortunate. *as they come to the door to Old York's, she holds it open for him with a smile* After you.
Larry: *walks in* Man, you hold the door open for your dates, too? You're really something, Professor! I get to hold the door for you on the way out though, okay?
Lana: Sure thing... and please, call me Lana. *she takes a look around; it's actually nicer than she expected it to be* Should we sit at a table or the bar?
Larry: Hmm..! Either works okay, but the bar gets a little rowdy sometimes and I wasn't planning on drinking anyways. Whatever you'd like, Lana!
Lana: *she blinks at him; the thought of drinking hadn't occurred to her, as it isn't even one in the afternoon yet, but she keeps smiling anyway* A table, then. *she leads the way to one, still looking around, and signaling for menus as she takes her seat* You said the pizza was good?
Larry: Oh yeah! They've got the best meat pizza you can find. They put Italian sausage and Canadian bacon and pepperoni and everything on it! But... um... *looks at Lana and scratches his neck* I guess they've got good vegetarian pizza, too. I've never had it, though. Oh, and the cheese pizza is great!
Lana: (Boy, he sure does like pizza.) I think the meat pizza sounds good. That's my favorite kind. *a waitress swoops in seemingly from nowhere to take their order* I'll have a slice of the meat pizza and a glass of cranberry juice.
Larry: *stares at her for a moment, then smirks* Oh, ah, I'll have the same! *looks at the waitress... pauses, gives her a slow grin* ...And a coke.
Lana: *cocks an eyebrow at the look he gives the waitress, but doesn't say anything even as the woman is leaving* So, Larry, what do you do for fun?
Larry: Hmm. I hang out with Nick whenever I can. And I've been working on my painting a lot more recently. Plus I like going down to Peoples Park and Gourd Lake once in awhile. What do you do, besides teach?
Lana: Not a lot. I have a little sister to take care of, but she'll be leaving home soon. *she looks kind of wistful when she says this, though by no means unhappy* Once she's on her own I'll probably try to relax more often. But I don't know how much longer I'm going to be teaching, either.
Larry: If I was teaching and taking care of a sibling, I'd want to relax, too! Teaching must be hard. I don't think I could do it. Too many kids like to cause trouble, you know?
Lana: *she can't help wondering what perspective he's speaking from, there* Sometimes, yes, but most of my students are very serious - otherwise they wouldn't be trying to go into law. But that reminds me: have you ever taken classes for your at, or is it something you've taught yourself over time?
Larry: Oh, I always liked to draw along the borders of my math homework... *laughs nervously* And I took a couple art classes in high school. I graduated Junior High, you know! *beams with pride*
Lana: *her smile is a bit strained; it would be annoying if his pride in it weren't so distressingly... cute* That's certainly better than some! What kept you from finishing High School?
Larry: Well, I finished Junior High, and then I thought... Larry, it's time to get out of LA and go see the world! Senior year is just extra stuff anyways, they don't require you to take it.
Lana: See the world? That... must have been very exciting for you.
Larry: Oh, well, I didn't... *scratches his head* I couldn't afford to in the end. I got about as far as the Arizona border. It was a fun idea, though!
Lana: *realizes she's not all that surprised as the waitress swings by again, dropping off their drinks and pizza* Thank you. *turns her attention back to Larry, watching to see where his eyes wander* Is that when you began pursuing your art as a career?
Larry: *This time his eyes remained firmly on the pizza, and as it came within reach he quickly picked it up and took a big bite as quickly as a man who hasn't seen food in days. He blinks and looks up at Lana when she speaks. * Mmph... *swallows his bite* ...I wouldn't call it a career... more of a quest for creative expression! It's not really a job. I've been going from job to job... trying to find something that I can really get into that's worth my time, y'know? *sips his drink* ...What about you? What have you been doing before you became a professor? *resumes voraciously eating his pizza*
Lana: *is taken aback by how he eats his pizza - she hasn't seen anything like that since Ema was about thirteen* I, ah... I used to be a prosecutor. In the past couple of days I received my license to act as a private detective, so I think I'll be pursuing that from now on. *she lifts up her pizza and takes a bite - and it is very good, just like he said*
Larry: *stops eating and considers this* Prosecutor... *frowns* I should know what those are, I know I've heard the--... OH! I remember! Just like Edgey, then? He's one of those!
Lana: Edgey? Oh! You mean Mr. Edgeworth. Yes, he is. Is he a friend of yours, too?
Larry: Yeah! Edgey and I go way back, about as far as Nick and I do. The three of us are old grade school buddies.
Lana: *she smiles* That's very interesting. The three of you seem to keep esteemed company. *takes another bite, and washes it down with a sip of juice* You must spend a lot of time together, then.
Larry: Hm... Edgey is kind of a stick in the mud and Nick is always saying he's busy, but once in awhile we find time. I'm trying to get them to go on a guys' night out with me soon, I think they need it. They're both getting so uptight, especially Edgey. It'll loosen them up.
Lana: That sounds like a good idea; Edgeworth was always fairly stiff when I worked with him, and could stand the opportunity to relax a bit. *sips at her drink thoughtfully* Come to think of it, Angel Starr had suggested a girls' night out to me, so we could catch up.
Larry: Girls' night out? ...Hey, if you want to make it girls plus one guy, I'm your man. *points at himself with his thumb* I've met Angel, too. I think she'd like me along. *grins*
Lana: I take it you've got her in charcoal, too. *hides a small grin behind a bite of pizza*
Larry: *coughs and sucks down some of his drink* ...Er, yeah, actually! She came in and modeled for me. I think she liked it, too. How'd you know?
Lana: Detective Starr is one of the only people I know who would pay a man with lunch, Larry. *a smile* If your art's up to her standards, I look forward to how you'll draw me.
Larry: Oh. *smirks* I'll definitely do my best, then! *shows a thumbs up, then finishes off his pizza by eating the crust*
Lana: *can't stop herself from flinching at how he eats his crust before slowly beginning to eat her own* Where did you want to go when you set out to see the world?
Larry: Mm... I wanted to go to China because I had a girlfriend whose family packed up and moved her there.
Lana:To China?
Larry: Yeah, it was crazy how sudden it was! Her dad got a job over there or something a week after I started dating her and then she was GONE! Just like that. *gets a distressed look in his eyes as he gulps down more of his drink*
Lana: *she takes a long sip of her own as he does so, wrestling with whether or not she should ask this question - but curiosity overcomes propriety, in the end* Mr. Wright said that happens a lot...?
Larry: *nearly slams his cup down onto the table* It DOES!!! I've got the worst luck, don't I?! I meet a hot babe and we hit it off really well and all of the sudden she gets called off on a plane to go to charity work in Africa or a photo shoot in Italy or something!
Lana: *she winces at the outburst of emotion* Surely it can't have happened that many times, Larry. I'm sure if you stop and think about it...?
Larry: *twitches* I don't know why I bother! Every girl I ever fall for is going to fly off to some distant country! You're probably going to go, too! I should just give up!
Lana: *scowls at the assertion, though he voice is still soft* Larry, I'm not going anywhere. I have my own duties - not to mention that I don't have anywhere to go. *she can read the distress in his face, though, and it's honest enough to touch her* ...Look, don't worry about it too much, all right? Even if something happens, we'll still have tonight. Right?
Larry: Y-Yeah... y-you're right! This... this date is really special! *thumbs up*
Lana: *she frowns deeper* I'm sorry for bringing up the whole thing - how can I make it up to you? I don't want this to turn into an uncomfortable evening for you.
Larry: You don't owe me a-- I mean... *smirks* Whatever you want, professor!
Lana: Well...how about we start with another slice of pizza, my treat?
Larry: Your treat?? *looks aghast* I... I've never been treated by my date before!
Lana: *she smiles at him* That's a shame, isn't it? Everybody should be, at least once. *she flags down the same waitress from before and orders Larry another slice* I hope you don't mind me taking the liberty.
Larry: *clasps his hands together* You're the most amazing woman ever, Professor Lana!
Lana: *the hyperbole is so thick she can actually feel it hit her like a physical blow, but that idea isn't as scary as the one that says he might mean it, and her smiles is a bit more strained* Don't worry about it - really. In fact, I had been planning on asking to split the bill with you anyway.
Larry: *smiles happily* Man, if only all my teachers had been as nice as you!
Lana: You had bad experiences with your teachers? *she tries to sound like this surprises her*
Larry: I think most of them were just naturally old and cranky. Nothing at all like you.
Lana: *she smiles at that* I'm going to go out on a limb and guess you probably have some interesting stories to tell. Would you like to share?
Larry: Oh you wouldn't believe it! There was this one teacher...
Lana: *over the course of the next several minutes she hears a story that sounds like Dennis the Menace waking up in his own personal Hell, her expression frozen in a look of abject shock - she's on autopilot as the conversation continues, she splits the bill with him, and they both leave. It's only when the afternoon air hits her face and the story actually ends that she regains her composure* Wow.
Larry: Yeah, that's what I said when she gave me the second detention slip.
Lana: That...that sounds like quite the experience. *more to herself than to him* The whole computer lab... *she automatically reaches into her jacket pocket, unlocking her car as they walk towards it and cranking it after sliding in* I'm glad you suggested that place; I don't think I've ever had pizza that well-made before.
Larry: You really think so? That's great! Wow... I actually have money left... *smiles happily* Can I buy you anything, Lana? Come on, isn't there anything you want?
Lana: You treated me to a very nice lunch already, and reminded me of a good place to eat. *she pulls out, paying the attendant for the time spent, and in another minute is on the highway. She smiles at Larry* After this, I think I'd just like a drawing, and maybe to see your portfolio. Would that be all right?
Larry: Ah... maybe! *scratches his neck* Not everyone would like my drawings though... people who get offended easily, anyways... *gauges her reaction carefully*
Lana: I took a few fine art classes back in university - I've seen a lot of different kinds of art. *switches onto the interstate, hoping to avoid as much traffic as she can* And...I used to work as a crime scene investigator, Larry. Not much is going to be able to shock me.
Larry: *brightens up* Okay then! You can see my portfolio. I mean, it's not very good... but I worked pretty hard on some of them. If you're still interested, I'll draw you, too. For free. I kinda owe you for being so light on my wallet. *smirks*
Lana: Well...how about we discuss payment when it's finished?
Larry: No no. *waves a hand* I can't take money from a gorgeous woman. It's against my artistic standards! The date was payment.
Lana: All right, all right. I won't argue, if your heart's that set on it... but thank you. *it doesn't take much longer to arrive at Larry apartment complex, where she parks outside and looks up at the building with a mounting sense of foreboding*
Larry: *Leads Lana into the apartment, after a few attempts with the stubborn door. His apartment is littered with unfolded laundry, crumpled papers, and an empty pizza box or two. The first thing he does is show her to the studio, which despite the paint stains and scattered papers, seems cleaner than the other rooms.* Here it is! *nudges a box of colored pencils to the side with his foot and pulls a large cardboard portfolio from a stack of unused canvases and offers it to her... it is filled with various sizes of papers and a few filled sketchpads.*
Lana: *she takes the portfolio from him and begins to peruse its contents, piece by piece* These are....very good, actually. *looks up at him with another smile* May I ask where your sketch of Angel is? I know it's nosy, but she's a friend of mine and I'm very curious.
Larry: *looks surprised for a moment* Well, alright... if you want to. *leaves the room for a moment and comes back with a large sketchpad and flips it open to a page in the middle, handing it to Lana and looking somewhat embarrassed*
Lana: *she spends a long time looking at it* And you taught yourself to draw this way?
Larry: Er, mostly! It's not like there's a lot to know... I just draw what I see, you know? *scratches his head*
Lana: It's very... tasteful. I like it. It suits her. Why didn't she take it with her, though?
Larry: I gave her a copy. I usually hang on to originals... that's something my old high school art teacher told me to do if I could help it. *shrug*
Lana: Hm. *looks back down at it* I suppose that would make sense. One must protect what is theirs... *she hands it back to him with a small smile* Thank you for letting me see. Don't be embarrassed - you did very well with it.
Larry: Oh, heh, I'm glad you like it! *takes the sketchpad back and flips it to a clean page* ....So are you ready for your portrait now? It's been a couple weeks so I'm a little rusty!
Lana:I am. *she adjusts her scarf thoughtfully* I don't really know anything about portraits, I'm afraid - is there any particular kind or medium that would work best?
Larry: I still have some good charcoals left if that's okay with you. And they're good for model drawing because they're a lot faster than pencils. *props the sketchpad up on an easel, then picks up a sooty box, slides it open, and picks out a few black sticks*
Lana: All right! Ah...should I just stand here? ...And should I take off my jacket?
Larry: *looks at her for a moment, considering* I haven't drawn a lot of clothed models. I'm making it for you, though, so it's your call, Lana! *works at scraping the outer part off of one of the charcoal sticks until Lana is ready*
Lana: *spends a moment considering before taking off her jacket but leaving the scarf - underneath it she's wearing a white halter top, which she straightens after setting her jacket on the floor* All right. *turns to face Larry, her expression as serious as it's ever been*
Larry: *grins* You ready then? Hold still... *Sets his own expression into one of uncharacteristically intense concentration as he glances between Lana and the tablet, swiping the charcoal against the paper with controlled movement.*
Lana: *at the look on his face, seeing the goofiness melt away and be replaced by determined concentration, actually surprises her. She hopes he hasn't gotten too far for it to matter, because when he looks so intense she can't help smiling, and holding it is easy*
Yeah I started to fail at RPing Larry near the end. That's when I was getting tired and on medications and I couldn't concentrate anymore. Apologies.
Let's say this takes place on May 10th.))
Lana: *Lana finishes the drive to the address that Larry gave her, parking her car on the street and looking up at the apartment complex - it's a fairly seedy-looking place, and at first she's not she on the right street, but when she sees the sign that says "Shady Cracks Apartment Complex" she groans inwardly - looks like she made it*
Larry: *The front door to the apartment complex jerks partway open, sticks, then gets thrust open the whole way and Larry stumbles out shoulder-first. He has one of his shoes in his hand and the other is on his foot but untied.* Man, I hope that hot maintenance chick comes and fixes this door soon... *He spots Lana's car and recognizes her through the window.* P-Professor! Is that you? Hey!
Larry: *Waves enthusiastically with one hand while doing an awkward maneuver of balancing on one foot while he shoves a shoe onto the other. He leaves them untied for now, figuring he can just tie them in the car, and makes his way over to Lana's car.* Wow, you're... *he checks his watch* You're right on time! I think... *shakes his wrist and looks at the watch again*
Lana: *she stares openly for a second, one hand at her chest, shocked at his state of dress. When she brings up the time he makes her doubt herself, and she checks her own watch* Oh! Yes. I think I am. And, uhm... *she smiles for him, barely having to force it* So are you! It's nice to meet you in person, Mr. Butz.
Larry: *Lets himself into the car and drops down into the passenger seat, then looked at Lana, seeming stunned for a moment* Wow... you look even more gorgeous than I imagine! I mean, I've met chicks from the internet before, and... well... *scratches his neck* You're definitely the prettiest!
Lana: *to say that his frankness shocks her would be an understatement, and she stares for a second before mustering another, somewhat shakier grin* Thank you. Uh, please, call me Lana. *she walks back around to the driver's side and gets in, firing up the engine with a smooth thrum* And where are we going?
Larry: Well I was thinking we could go out for pizza, but you've got the wheel so you can take me anywhere that pleases you! *smirks*
Lana: *she blinks again - realizing that if she doesn't adjust this conversation is going to be an endless series of verbal punches to her frontal lobe - and puts the car into gear, pulling out into the street* Actually, I could go for some Italian food. Pizza sounds nice. What's your favorite place?
Larry: Ah... hm... *avoids saying Pizza Hut since he at least knows by now that most women get insulted when he suggests fast food* Well, there's this one bar that has really great cheese pizza called Old York's. Or we could go to Olive Garden or something.
Lana: *brightens visibly* Oh, Old York's. I remember going there - haven't been since I was in law school. I think that sounds about right. *she exits onto the highway, studiously checking her rearview mirrors* So, you never mentioned what it is you do?
Larry: Huh? I'm... I'm an artist! *flashes a grin and a thumbs up* I draw and paint people's portraits. If you want, I can do one for you later! It'll be totally free, of course.
Lana: An artist? That sounds... *she thinks on that for a minute; she's never actually gone on a date with anyone who studied the arts before* That sounds very nice, actually. Would you be willing to do a portrait after dinner, perhaps? It wouldn't need to be anything overly complex.
Larry: Yeah, I can totally do that for you! I didn't bring any of my art supplies, though... when you come back to drop me off you can come up to my apartment and get a portrait done. I cleared out this side room and turned it into a really awesome studio! There's room for a model so I can do portraits right at home! Like I did one lady's portrait just a couple weeks ago. *smiles wider and leans back in the car seat, seeming to drift off in thought all of the sudden*
Lana: A studio? That sounds... charming. *she smiles again, and when she looks over to see him in thought it piques her curiosity - what could send this guy into thoughtful repose?* "This one lady's"? Was it a special portrait?
Larry: She was really something, a real classy woman... and she gave me a lunch, too! It's a little weird not being the one to pay for lunch, but she said it was payment for the portrait. She was a real angel. *smirks in an amused way*
Lana: An angel who paid with lunch. *she takes the exit towards the street where Old York's is, thinking for a minute* What kind of portrait was it?
Larry: It was a... *cough* ...It was a charcoal portrait! Charcoals get pretty messy but they make really great tones.
Lana: *she raises an eyebrow at him, figuring from what she just heard he's apparently embarrassed to tell her, which could only mean a couple of things so far* I bet they do. Do you think my portrait would be best done in charcoal, too? *she arrives at the proper street and pulls into a pay-and-stay parking lot*
Larry: *turns in his seat to look directly at her, scratching at his goatee contemplatively* Hmm........ I don't know! I think you'd look really good in any medium.
Lana: *she rolls down her window, taking a ticket from the attendant and slipping it onto her dashboard before smiling at Larry* That's sweet of you. *she pulls into a parking spot, puts the car into park, and kills the engine* Hope you don't mind a short walk?
Larry: Hm? No, I... I walk all the time! *laughs quickly and leans down to tie his shoelaces, then sits back up when he's done* ...So you think I'm sweet? Wow! And I didn't even buy you anything yet! Usually girls don't say things like that until after I buy them dinner or gifts. *rubs his neck*
Lana: *she wonders if he's being serious, a look of earnest surprise coming over her face - and then she smiles warmly, opening her door* Come on, Larry, let's go have some pizza.
Larry: *also gets out of the car* Yeah! I can't wait, I haven't eaten all day. Some pizza would be just the thing about now.
Lana: *shuts the door and locks it with her keyring, which she slips into the pocket of her jacket* Not at all? Why didn't you have breakfast?
Larry: Well all I had in my fridge was some old Chinese takeout and it was starting to smell kinda weird so I decided to dump it. And I couldn't find my wallet until about an hour ago so I couldn't order anymore.
Lana: ....Oh. *she makes a specific note not to press further on that point as they walk to Old York's* So, do you meet many women on the internet?
Larry: Nah, I only just started talking to chicks online kinda recently. I couldn't afford internet for awhile, but it turns out the office building next door has been giving free wireless, so I've been using that.
Lana: How ...ah... fortunate. *as they come to the door to Old York's, she holds it open for him with a smile* After you.
Larry: *walks in* Man, you hold the door open for your dates, too? You're really something, Professor! I get to hold the door for you on the way out though, okay?
Lana: Sure thing... and please, call me Lana. *she takes a look around; it's actually nicer than she expected it to be* Should we sit at a table or the bar?
Larry: Hmm..! Either works okay, but the bar gets a little rowdy sometimes and I wasn't planning on drinking anyways. Whatever you'd like, Lana!
Lana: *she blinks at him; the thought of drinking hadn't occurred to her, as it isn't even one in the afternoon yet, but she keeps smiling anyway* A table, then. *she leads the way to one, still looking around, and signaling for menus as she takes her seat* You said the pizza was good?
Larry: Oh yeah! They've got the best meat pizza you can find. They put Italian sausage and Canadian bacon and pepperoni and everything on it! But... um... *looks at Lana and scratches his neck* I guess they've got good vegetarian pizza, too. I've never had it, though. Oh, and the cheese pizza is great!
Lana: (Boy, he sure does like pizza.) I think the meat pizza sounds good. That's my favorite kind. *a waitress swoops in seemingly from nowhere to take their order* I'll have a slice of the meat pizza and a glass of cranberry juice.
Larry: *stares at her for a moment, then smirks* Oh, ah, I'll have the same! *looks at the waitress... pauses, gives her a slow grin* ...And a coke.
Lana: *cocks an eyebrow at the look he gives the waitress, but doesn't say anything even as the woman is leaving* So, Larry, what do you do for fun?
Larry: Hmm. I hang out with Nick whenever I can. And I've been working on my painting a lot more recently. Plus I like going down to Peoples Park and Gourd Lake once in awhile. What do you do, besides teach?
Lana: Not a lot. I have a little sister to take care of, but she'll be leaving home soon. *she looks kind of wistful when she says this, though by no means unhappy* Once she's on her own I'll probably try to relax more often. But I don't know how much longer I'm going to be teaching, either.
Larry: If I was teaching and taking care of a sibling, I'd want to relax, too! Teaching must be hard. I don't think I could do it. Too many kids like to cause trouble, you know?
Lana: *she can't help wondering what perspective he's speaking from, there* Sometimes, yes, but most of my students are very serious - otherwise they wouldn't be trying to go into law. But that reminds me: have you ever taken classes for your at, or is it something you've taught yourself over time?
Larry: Oh, I always liked to draw along the borders of my math homework... *laughs nervously* And I took a couple art classes in high school. I graduated Junior High, you know! *beams with pride*
Lana: *her smile is a bit strained; it would be annoying if his pride in it weren't so distressingly... cute* That's certainly better than some! What kept you from finishing High School?
Larry: Well, I finished Junior High, and then I thought... Larry, it's time to get out of LA and go see the world! Senior year is just extra stuff anyways, they don't require you to take it.
Lana: See the world? That... must have been very exciting for you.
Larry: Oh, well, I didn't... *scratches his head* I couldn't afford to in the end. I got about as far as the Arizona border. It was a fun idea, though!
Lana: *realizes she's not all that surprised as the waitress swings by again, dropping off their drinks and pizza* Thank you. *turns her attention back to Larry, watching to see where his eyes wander* Is that when you began pursuing your art as a career?
Larry: *This time his eyes remained firmly on the pizza, and as it came within reach he quickly picked it up and took a big bite as quickly as a man who hasn't seen food in days. He blinks and looks up at Lana when she speaks. * Mmph... *swallows his bite* ...I wouldn't call it a career... more of a quest for creative expression! It's not really a job. I've been going from job to job... trying to find something that I can really get into that's worth my time, y'know? *sips his drink* ...What about you? What have you been doing before you became a professor? *resumes voraciously eating his pizza*
Lana: *is taken aback by how he eats his pizza - she hasn't seen anything like that since Ema was about thirteen* I, ah... I used to be a prosecutor. In the past couple of days I received my license to act as a private detective, so I think I'll be pursuing that from now on. *she lifts up her pizza and takes a bite - and it is very good, just like he said*
Larry: *stops eating and considers this* Prosecutor... *frowns* I should know what those are, I know I've heard the--... OH! I remember! Just like Edgey, then? He's one of those!
Lana: Edgey? Oh! You mean Mr. Edgeworth. Yes, he is. Is he a friend of yours, too?
Larry: Yeah! Edgey and I go way back, about as far as Nick and I do. The three of us are old grade school buddies.
Lana: *she smiles* That's very interesting. The three of you seem to keep esteemed company. *takes another bite, and washes it down with a sip of juice* You must spend a lot of time together, then.
Larry: Hm... Edgey is kind of a stick in the mud and Nick is always saying he's busy, but once in awhile we find time. I'm trying to get them to go on a guys' night out with me soon, I think they need it. They're both getting so uptight, especially Edgey. It'll loosen them up.
Lana: That sounds like a good idea; Edgeworth was always fairly stiff when I worked with him, and could stand the opportunity to relax a bit. *sips at her drink thoughtfully* Come to think of it, Angel Starr had suggested a girls' night out to me, so we could catch up.
Larry: Girls' night out? ...Hey, if you want to make it girls plus one guy, I'm your man. *points at himself with his thumb* I've met Angel, too. I think she'd like me along. *grins*
Lana: I take it you've got her in charcoal, too. *hides a small grin behind a bite of pizza*
Larry: *coughs and sucks down some of his drink* ...Er, yeah, actually! She came in and modeled for me. I think she liked it, too. How'd you know?
Lana: Detective Starr is one of the only people I know who would pay a man with lunch, Larry. *a smile* If your art's up to her standards, I look forward to how you'll draw me.
Larry: Oh. *smirks* I'll definitely do my best, then! *shows a thumbs up, then finishes off his pizza by eating the crust*
Lana: *can't stop herself from flinching at how he eats his crust before slowly beginning to eat her own* Where did you want to go when you set out to see the world?
Larry: Mm... I wanted to go to China because I had a girlfriend whose family packed up and moved her there.
Lana:To China?
Larry: Yeah, it was crazy how sudden it was! Her dad got a job over there or something a week after I started dating her and then she was GONE! Just like that. *gets a distressed look in his eyes as he gulps down more of his drink*
Lana: *she takes a long sip of her own as he does so, wrestling with whether or not she should ask this question - but curiosity overcomes propriety, in the end* Mr. Wright said that happens a lot...?
Larry: *nearly slams his cup down onto the table* It DOES!!! I've got the worst luck, don't I?! I meet a hot babe and we hit it off really well and all of the sudden she gets called off on a plane to go to charity work in Africa or a photo shoot in Italy or something!
Lana: *she winces at the outburst of emotion* Surely it can't have happened that many times, Larry. I'm sure if you stop and think about it...?
Larry: *twitches* I don't know why I bother! Every girl I ever fall for is going to fly off to some distant country! You're probably going to go, too! I should just give up!
Lana: *scowls at the assertion, though he voice is still soft* Larry, I'm not going anywhere. I have my own duties - not to mention that I don't have anywhere to go. *she can read the distress in his face, though, and it's honest enough to touch her* ...Look, don't worry about it too much, all right? Even if something happens, we'll still have tonight. Right?
Larry: Y-Yeah... y-you're right! This... this date is really special! *thumbs up*
Lana: *she frowns deeper* I'm sorry for bringing up the whole thing - how can I make it up to you? I don't want this to turn into an uncomfortable evening for you.
Larry: You don't owe me a-- I mean... *smirks* Whatever you want, professor!
Lana: Well...how about we start with another slice of pizza, my treat?
Larry: Your treat?? *looks aghast* I... I've never been treated by my date before!
Lana: *she smiles at him* That's a shame, isn't it? Everybody should be, at least once. *she flags down the same waitress from before and orders Larry another slice* I hope you don't mind me taking the liberty.
Larry: *clasps his hands together* You're the most amazing woman ever, Professor Lana!
Lana: *the hyperbole is so thick she can actually feel it hit her like a physical blow, but that idea isn't as scary as the one that says he might mean it, and her smiles is a bit more strained* Don't worry about it - really. In fact, I had been planning on asking to split the bill with you anyway.
Larry: *smiles happily* Man, if only all my teachers had been as nice as you!
Lana: You had bad experiences with your teachers? *she tries to sound like this surprises her*
Larry: I think most of them were just naturally old and cranky. Nothing at all like you.
Lana: *she smiles at that* I'm going to go out on a limb and guess you probably have some interesting stories to tell. Would you like to share?
Larry: Oh you wouldn't believe it! There was this one teacher...
Lana: *over the course of the next several minutes she hears a story that sounds like Dennis the Menace waking up in his own personal Hell, her expression frozen in a look of abject shock - she's on autopilot as the conversation continues, she splits the bill with him, and they both leave. It's only when the afternoon air hits her face and the story actually ends that she regains her composure* Wow.
Larry: Yeah, that's what I said when she gave me the second detention slip.
Lana: That...that sounds like quite the experience. *more to herself than to him* The whole computer lab... *she automatically reaches into her jacket pocket, unlocking her car as they walk towards it and cranking it after sliding in* I'm glad you suggested that place; I don't think I've ever had pizza that well-made before.
Larry: You really think so? That's great! Wow... I actually have money left... *smiles happily* Can I buy you anything, Lana? Come on, isn't there anything you want?
Lana: You treated me to a very nice lunch already, and reminded me of a good place to eat. *she pulls out, paying the attendant for the time spent, and in another minute is on the highway. She smiles at Larry* After this, I think I'd just like a drawing, and maybe to see your portfolio. Would that be all right?
Larry: Ah... maybe! *scratches his neck* Not everyone would like my drawings though... people who get offended easily, anyways... *gauges her reaction carefully*
Lana: I took a few fine art classes back in university - I've seen a lot of different kinds of art. *switches onto the interstate, hoping to avoid as much traffic as she can* And...I used to work as a crime scene investigator, Larry. Not much is going to be able to shock me.
Larry: *brightens up* Okay then! You can see my portfolio. I mean, it's not very good... but I worked pretty hard on some of them. If you're still interested, I'll draw you, too. For free. I kinda owe you for being so light on my wallet. *smirks*
Lana: Well...how about we discuss payment when it's finished?
Larry: No no. *waves a hand* I can't take money from a gorgeous woman. It's against my artistic standards! The date was payment.
Lana: All right, all right. I won't argue, if your heart's that set on it... but thank you. *it doesn't take much longer to arrive at Larry apartment complex, where she parks outside and looks up at the building with a mounting sense of foreboding*
Larry: *Leads Lana into the apartment, after a few attempts with the stubborn door. His apartment is littered with unfolded laundry, crumpled papers, and an empty pizza box or two. The first thing he does is show her to the studio, which despite the paint stains and scattered papers, seems cleaner than the other rooms.* Here it is! *nudges a box of colored pencils to the side with his foot and pulls a large cardboard portfolio from a stack of unused canvases and offers it to her... it is filled with various sizes of papers and a few filled sketchpads.*
Lana: *she takes the portfolio from him and begins to peruse its contents, piece by piece* These are....very good, actually. *looks up at him with another smile* May I ask where your sketch of Angel is? I know it's nosy, but she's a friend of mine and I'm very curious.
Larry: *looks surprised for a moment* Well, alright... if you want to. *leaves the room for a moment and comes back with a large sketchpad and flips it open to a page in the middle, handing it to Lana and looking somewhat embarrassed*
Lana: *she spends a long time looking at it* And you taught yourself to draw this way?
Larry: Er, mostly! It's not like there's a lot to know... I just draw what I see, you know? *scratches his head*
Lana: It's very... tasteful. I like it. It suits her. Why didn't she take it with her, though?
Larry: I gave her a copy. I usually hang on to originals... that's something my old high school art teacher told me to do if I could help it. *shrug*
Lana: Hm. *looks back down at it* I suppose that would make sense. One must protect what is theirs... *she hands it back to him with a small smile* Thank you for letting me see. Don't be embarrassed - you did very well with it.
Larry: Oh, heh, I'm glad you like it! *takes the sketchpad back and flips it to a clean page* ....So are you ready for your portrait now? It's been a couple weeks so I'm a little rusty!
Lana:I am. *she adjusts her scarf thoughtfully* I don't really know anything about portraits, I'm afraid - is there any particular kind or medium that would work best?
Larry: I still have some good charcoals left if that's okay with you. And they're good for model drawing because they're a lot faster than pencils. *props the sketchpad up on an easel, then picks up a sooty box, slides it open, and picks out a few black sticks*
Lana: All right! Ah...should I just stand here? ...And should I take off my jacket?
Larry: *looks at her for a moment, considering* I haven't drawn a lot of clothed models. I'm making it for you, though, so it's your call, Lana! *works at scraping the outer part off of one of the charcoal sticks until Lana is ready*
Lana: *spends a moment considering before taking off her jacket but leaving the scarf - underneath it she's wearing a white halter top, which she straightens after setting her jacket on the floor* All right. *turns to face Larry, her expression as serious as it's ever been*
Larry: *grins* You ready then? Hold still... *Sets his own expression into one of uncharacteristically intense concentration as he glances between Lana and the tablet, swiping the charcoal against the paper with controlled movement.*
Lana: *at the look on his face, seeing the goofiness melt away and be replaced by determined concentration, actually surprises her. She hopes he hasn't gotten too far for it to matter, because when he looks so intense she can't help smiling, and holding it is easy*