newtralize | The End Of Love

I have found that I'm not so good at fitting in at times. There's always a first time for everything, after all and I do like how Percival rolls off the tongue. [He laughs a little though..] Graves it is.

[Newt's head is a jumble of thoughts. It's hard for him to actually concentrate on the setting around him. Not when the other was so close to him and the comfortable feeling it brings to him. How sometimes their arms brush against each other when they walk just a little too close. Almost like they're magnetized to each other. It leaves him feeling warm despite how nippy it had been when they arrived on the shores of New York.

He was rather good at observing others. He doesn't miss any subtle shifts in the other, although he doesn't say anything either. He smiles easily enough.] I think most would find you and your bunch exceptional.

We're good at adapting, so finding our bearings should be no issue. Our group was chosen with the idea that we're a bunch who can adapt into new settings and situations well. While we hadn't made trips to America, I can say that all of us has some experience with traveling to foreign lands. We'll be sure to be a good asset to MACUSA while here. I assure you of that. [His tone was confident. Firm.

The group of Brits murmur to each other excitedly. The aurors seem more excited about the recreational parts at the moment. Of course they are. It's probably expected of a group of people who had just spent some time traveling and don't want to quite think about work right away. They were all human of course and they all seemed more excited about a more enjoyable evening before jumping into work in the bright morning than anything.] You got them riled up at the word, recreational. I don't think any of them are thinking about work at all. Catch them getting into trouble at a speakeasy, immediately. [One of them shoves Newt's shoulder and he laughs in response.] I'm not wrong! A few of you do love your drink and things are a tad different here from what I know.

I have a difficult time believing that, [ It’s a half squint accompanied by a flash of a grin. How could he have a hard time fitting in when he was so charismatic? Especially insisting on a first name basis, minutes after meeting. And insisting a proper title made him feel older—maybe it’s a British thing. Percival can’t say he minds, though the tingling sensation in his belly is a little distracting still.

It doesn’t make sense to him. The jolt, the connection and warmth. And what an absurd thought it would have been to say he wasn’t his type; tall, handsome. But this certainly wasn’t the time, not at the height of these crimes. Percival tells himself instead it’s his demeanor he’s taking a shine to—that smile, the kindness. Something he hasn’t seen from many people recently. Yes, that had to be it.

Maybe it was the constant flow of compliments. He finds himself chuckling at it, giving a glance over the other. ] And a silver-tongue. I’m happy to say the same of your lot. [ In more than one way. Maybe this group would help invigorate his staff. Breathe a new life into them and their work. He could only hope.

Percival is keen to the new information, things largely left off his debriefing files, dots connecting from the bits he did have. The strong delivery builds a good base for their newly formed relationship, as does the unfaltering look of Newt’s group when he casts a glance back. ] We appreciate it. For the record, I had no doubt you would. Everyone’s record is... impressive, to say the least. [ It was something they didn’t exactly have at MACUSA.

The smile that finds him at the murmuring is practiced, but not unkind. He understands, wholeheartedly, the desire to relax after something so prolonged and taxing. ] We’re only human, after all, it’s why we offered. The last thing we want is anyone to be overworked on this. [ Despite the looming threat. At least he and his team would be working this still while their guests found their feet. Even if they were more interested in losing their footing at bars. ] Prohibition is alive and kicking, and unfortunately those are no-maj laws that apply to us as well. [ Being so secretly intwined into society it was inevitable, but they were magical folk. ] There are, however, many excellent jazz clubs. [ The head of Magical Law Enforcement condoning illegal consumption? They’ll have to take that as they may. He really can’t say any more or less. ] Again, should anyone like a guide we’re more than happy to oblige.

Oh? A man who has a good judge of character are we? [A bit of a grin.] I'm not much of a liar though. Perhaps you'll one day see it yourself. [Well, he certainly wasn't lying, but Newt has had plenty of time to form this persona. Newton Scamander, the auror, was a very likable man.

Not at all like the more awkward and quiet him in reality.]

Of course. How else would I get out of trouble otherwise? [He gives Percival a bit of a cheeky grin.] Scamanders are very good at slipping out of trouble, you know. It's a talent that my brother and I both share, actually. [Newt, however, is far superior at getting out of trouble than the other. Of course, that might just be because Newt gets into far more trouble than Theseus.]

Impressive is one word to call it, I suppose. You can say that Europe merely has many more problems though. [America was also very young as a nation in comparison. While there was surely plenty of issues within the states; it was a large united body under one government versus the many nations of Europe.

Politics were always messy and information didn't sometimes move fast enough when there was many issues afoot that plagued them.]

Oh, no. Don't tell them that. [They all laughed a little.] I won't be the one at fault if you find and capture any of them. They're their own people and adults and I am not responsible if they get into trouble. [Although he gives the other a look.] Even if I'm fond of dancing.

Perhaps you wouldn't mind letting them wander a bit though. I'm sure they know better than to cause any disruptions or get in the way. We're a curious sort though and I'll be honest if we aren't a bit sick and tired of seeing each other. The rooms on the boat aren't what I would call roomy. [While he would prefer to separate from his group for a bit, he isn't saying it purely for himself. There's only so much small talk that could be made before they ran out of things to talk about. Weeks on a boat meant that weeks without having much for news. It was too risky to receive mail through owl while boarded.]

I'd like to think it was something other than my good looks that got me where I am today, [ He can't help the tease. Even at the realization of it, Percival bites the inside of his cheek, puts on a polite smile and moves on. ] As you say; everyone lies a little bit. So yes, time will tell, I suppose. [ Though truthfully he doesn't see his opinion on the man changing much.

He laughs, the sound a little bubbling at the sight of Newt's grin. ] A good asset to MACUSA but well versed in talking your way out of trouble? Is that why you have a difficult time fitting in—are we a rebel? [ The tease can't be helped, the blanketed connection to them falling to the wayside in favor of it. ] Why, it might be what we need to shake things up and get this case on track.

[ More problems or not, regardless of politics and how things broke down, this was a threat to everyone. There was nothing wrong calling for help with people who have more experience under their belts with strange occurrences.

It's small glances between Newt and the aurors, that stiff smile lingering but intrigued. It sounded like quite the ragtag team they had. What was that about working hard and playing hard? He never quite understood it. Percival locks eyes when Newt turns to him and something twists in his belly at it. The breath is nearly inaudible before he speaks. ] They are adults, after all. You can let them be and still dance. [ The two things weren't exclusive—he could be his own being without his team. Now was a perfect time for it if he wanted.

But the request to let them go on their own works its way though his mind and Percival has to fight the way he so easily wanted to agree to the terms. Why the hell was that? What was so smooth about the other man he nearly folded? He buckles down emotionally, lets out an apologetic chuckle to that troublesome grin and gives a small shake of his head. ] It's less about catching disruption than it is safety. Wizards and witches have been disappearing. We don't know why or by who, and while I trust in your team's ability, I won't let them be part of that statistic.

[ The last thing he wanted was or anyone to end up like he did, or worse, no matter their length missing. He sucks in a quick breath. ] I don't mind if everyone splits up, I understand that, it's why I offered everyone the day. Besides, you're our guests. It would be a shame for you to miss all the good spots while exploring the city. [ Walking over to the balcony Percival whistles and immediately seven aurors stop what they're doing and make for the stairs to join them.

From blonds to brunettes and everything in between, an almost even mix of men and women join them on the landing. ] MACUSA's finest. This is our entire task force. But today isn't about work. [ As much as it pains him to say. He turns to his team, hands clasped. ] Take the day and escort our friends around; they'd like to get to know the city. Go on.

[ There's surprised smiles and laughter from his team, who all too happily walk past Percival to mingle with their Ministry counterparts, discussing points of interest and must-see places, asking where they'd like to go first. A small sigh falls from Percival as he crosses his arms at his waist, the faintest smile tugging at his lips. ] And what about you? [ He speaks up, turning to the man beside him. ] Where would you like to wander, Newton?

I'm sure the good looks helped though. [His reply is as cheeky as his grin. This is a bit of a dangerous game to play, honestly. He really shouldn't get himself attached and he isn't one to get so attached so easily. Yet, he's magnetized to Percival.

There's something rather ironic about Percival's words. If only the other knew what kind of trouble he's in...] Darling, more than you could ever fathom. I'm an absolute menace. [He's quite genuine about that.

A little too genuine and he's sure it'll be completely lost to the other. Like a little joke for himself.

He raises an eyebrow at that.] While I have no qualms about letting my colleagues loose onto the streets of New York to terrorize the wonderful wizardkind of America; I find that dancing alone isn't exactly fun. It's usually much more enjoyable with a partner. [Is he being coy or being too forward? Is it a joke? It's really hard to tell.

These are questions that Newt isn't sure what the answer is himself.] An answer that is rather expecting of head security. We'll be sure to stop whatever is causing the disappearances and everyone will be able to rest easy again. That, I promise. [And he didn't like to break promises. Work didn't seem to be on the agenda though as Percival's aurors start to mix with his own.]

I hope you don't spoil them too often. They'll start expecting days off. [The group looks rather lively though, and that was nice. He watches them interact for a bit before turning his attention back to Percival.] The park. I've heard quite a few wonderful things about it, actually. I'd like to see it for myself.

Is this your silver tongue at work? [ While a deal sharp the words are just as playful, matching the other's cheek. So much so it seems to throw him off that he said it at all, and leaning in slightly he quietly sucks in a breath. ] Don't worry, you're not in trouble. [ Yet. And then—

Darling. For the disbelief that fills his face it's soft—surprised—and all at once Percival feels like a teenager again, laughing some refined, light and bubbly thing. Of course he only thinks Newt's words as more quips, not thinking in a thousand years this man could be any sort of menace. Perhaps a menace to his constitution, since he's stolen his words with a mere pet name.

His eyebrows knit and a hand comes up to his mouth, poorly wiping away the grin that's taken it. Never before had he such an issue keeping business from pleasure, and certainly not in such a whirlwind fashion. They've barely known each other for 10 minutes and yet here they are in the middle of MACUSA bantering like they're at a club.

Be that as it may he can't help but cooly reply when Newt comments of dancing alone: ] What a shame it must be to be personally escorted with no one to dance with.

[ What. The. Hell. Seraphina was going to have his head on a silver platter. It's a good thing, he supposes, that their teams were already well on their way to their own adventures leaving the pair by themselves. Percival clears his throat and takes a step or two away, as much as it leaves him wanting. ] I'll hold you to it, [ His voice this time much more gentle. ] That promise.

[ Looking over the railing and to the group making their way out of the offices and to the elevators, he takes a deep breath and shakes his head. ] They're soon to find out I'm not one for spoiling. [ The shrug he gives is with his brow and roll of his eyes. ] I'm sure my aurors will warn yours.

[ At his mentioning of where he'd like to go, Percival perks up, eyeing Newt over with a tugging grin. ] It is quite fine. Central Park it is. [ A beat and then: ] Are you a coffee or tea sort of fellow? I know some good shops along the way.

[He has to bite back a lot of comments when the other asks that particular question. There was a lot he could say and a lot of those things were definitely not work appropriate. Especially appropriate to say to your boss. Newt doesn't consider himself someone who would normally say anything crude at all, so he's surprised such words threatened to leave his mouth.] Well, that depends. Is it working?

[He chuckles a little.] Are you going to punish me if I was? [Definitely playing with fire at this point. He finds that he can't help himself with Percival. Ah well.]

Personally escorted? Really know how to make a man feel like royalty, do you? [He has to keep himself from scooting himself closer to the other. The want to be as close to Percival as he can is certainly a feeling he's having trouble to shake.] I don't like breaking promises, so you don't have to worry. That's why we're here.

Trust me, we're far from getting to be spoiled. Europe is never lacking crimes. [Percival's grin makes his heart flutter and he can't help but grin back.] I'm more for tea, which probably is far from surprising. I don't mind a cup of coffee, but I might offend your American sensibilities with how sweet I typically take my cups.

[ When there's a slight pause to his question, which was really only meant to be teasing and largely rhetorical, Percival feels a small current run up his spine as if to fill in the blanks. He holds his breath, fighting the urge to get closer and look the man over again. ] I can't answer that while on grounds.

[ Which, as it stood, was a telling enough answer. But when he's pushed further with the gag, that tingle spills from his nape over his shoulders and down the length of his body. He can't help getting closer now, the strides easy as he keeps his gaze on him. ] I definitely... cannot answer that while on grounds.

[ Forget fire—this was an inferno.

Because now it was his turn to bite back a comment or two, and he clears his throat gently while trying to think of something mild to replace it with. ] Oh, just a small bit. [ ...Subtle. Being close again isn't making anything easy but Percival finds himself unable to step away this time, like a force is keeping him planted there. ] Good. That's a relief.

[ The returning grin make Percival's mind stumble over itself and he drops his jaw to speak, only to have his tongue click in acknowledgement. He laughs airily before twisting his stance to be beside Newt, motioning them forward. ] Well then, let's get going; this time is precious. [ Even if the workload would be easier unwinding was important. ]

I think you would be surprised at the number of Americans who drink tea instead, [ Percival starts as he makes his way to the stairs. ] To each their own. Coffee isn't everyone's cup of tea. [ There's a half hidden proving he knows what unforgivable pun he's made, but it's true. ] I haven't found one I like, but that doesn't make it unpalatable overall. The cafe I have in mind does each side justice. So I'm told.

[That just earns the other a brilliant little laugh from the Brit. It makes his chest feel light and flutter and it sends tingles from his toes to his fingertips. It's a feeling he hasn't felt before and he can't help but find it rather addicting.] Well then, you can surely answer them once we're far from here then.

[He easily loops his arm around one of Percival's own.] Lead the way then. I can't say I have the faintest clue as to where we're going, after all. [He flashes the other a smile.]

Terrible. I thought Americans would have more class than making such a terrible play on words! [The small chuckle from the other says otherwise. It was still pretty terrible though.] Does that make you one who takes his coffee tall and dark? [A raised eyebrow.]

[ To hear Newt's bright laugh fill his ears lets waves cascade through him; a warm, sparking sensation throughout his entire body. Percival doesn't quite know what to do with himself. He can't quite recall a time he felt to twitterpated for someone. Or for someone so quickly. ] Then surely I will.

[ Their locking arms is unexpected, some fleeting surprise brushing over Percival's face, though more from their contact—shielded as it was. Still, he smiles, raising his arm to hold Newt's properly. ] Only the best cafe in Manhattan. [ Newt feels instantly warm where he's curled around him, a faint tingling as they made their through the lobby and down more stairs to the entrance. It's difficult to ignore. ]

I'm afraid you'll hear much worse from those less charming. [ If he manages to get to a club sometime during all this he's sure to find out. But there's a relief in the chuckle Newt gives. ] A little sweet, sometimes. [ Percival turns to look at Newt briefly, a knowing smile on his lips and glimmer in his eye. ] Depends on the day.

I would absolutely adore to hear the answer. I'm dying to know what it is if it isn't work appropriate. [Like he can't guess, but he's also being cheeky at the moment.

He lets the other lead him back out into the streets of New York. The city was fascinating to Newt, who was used to the narrow and winding cobblestone paths of Diagon Alley. There was just so much that was different (yet the same).]

Well, it's a good thing that you're so charming. [A playful wink.] Then what about today?

It's unfortunately less about the wording than anything else. [ Newt must be taking a deal of enjoyment from being so saucy, not that Percival minds from the way tries to hide his smile as they leave the Woolworth and make their way to the streets, already bustling. Once they've reached the corner, crossing the street, the answer finally comes: ] Which is, it is—and I would. To add, I'm growing fond of the idea of doing so privately.

[ Absolutely damning, and there's a flare of heat that spreads under his skin at the admission as he clears his throat gently. Percival certainly wasn't going to apologize for the answer; they could have been taken any way, without context, which is why he'd waited to speak.

It was absolutely damning and though his heart flutters at the wink and can't fight the grin he faintly wonders if it's too sudden or too crass. ] The present company is undeniably helping in that. [ He was never so forward like this after all. ] Yes, I think so. My sweet tooth is quite active today. [ How could it not be?

Just another half block down is the cafe: outside is a small area fenced off with wrought iron and lined with foliage, a few matching tables set within it as burgundy umbrellas shaded them. Percival points to it with his free hand, looking ahead. ] They have a seated courtyard in back, if you'd like to rest a moment before we head to Central Park.

[Newt is absolutely living for it and he doesn't know why. The way that the other makes his heart flutter and hammer in his chest and how he feels like a teen in some whirlwind romance.

One couldn't just fall for someone like this. Love at first sight? Sure, he loves the concept, but he never think it could happen to him at least.] Well, it's a good thing that we have all day to ourselves now don't we? I don't see why we can't find more private accommodations. [Merlin, he knows better, but it's like being punch drunk and he can't help himself.] We're not on the clock and I do want to enjoy my day. It doesn't matter how.

[He laughs a little as they head down the block to the cafe. He gets the feeling that they may possibly have to go to Central Park another time. Perhaps that's presumptuous of him, but he can't really find himself wanting to detach his own being from the other.] Let's enjoy a drink first and then decide what we want to do from there. I rather not want us to get ahead of ourselves.

[Perhaps he's being too forward, but he adds it anyways.] I feel like we may be considering other things than Central Park at the moment as is.

[ Percival tries rationalizing this all in his head. Trying to think of some reason as to why he would suddenly be so enveloped in the idea os someone like this. For all his effort, nothing comes to mind—he's so distracted by the other man's voice, the warm radiating against his arm and side.

It surely can't be anything but a sudden infatuation. And what's so wrong with it for now? Surely it was better to get it out of their systems before it got all tangled up in their work. To indulge all this tongue-in-cheek flirtation while they could, even if for the briefest of moments he thinks he doesn't want it to end. ] I'm sure, then, we could find something to occupy the time.

[ He sounds confident, certain, as if he already has a place in mind beyond an afternoon drink. He doesn't, not entirely, but he's thankful for the brisk air to distract him from all his heated thoughts. ] Yes, a drink would do us well, I think. [ In fact there's no denying it; they need a small breather.

Because hearing that from the other just makes Percival want to skip straight to somewhere private. A small bit of color finds his ears and the man keeps his head forward as he fights a smile. ] You're not wrong, [ Is the soft admittance as he casts a glance over to Newt. ] And if that's the case, it sounds like things have already been decided.

[ Central park wasn't going anywhere. ]

[Newt just laughs a little as they make their way down the street.] What we had while sailing was far from enjoyable. I'm looking forward to something that's far more pleasing to the senses. [He does actually mean that.

Sailing from England to the States was far from the most enjoyable thing.

Of course, he had been able to keep busy, but it was a bit of an affair to get things done without his fellow aurors possibly knocking and asking for his company for whatever reason.]

Well, that really depends. Where were you thinking of going after our little date? [Oh, he's really just going for it at this point.] You're the one who knows the best places, right? [He glances at the other with a knowing look.] I'm leaving it to you to show me a wondrous time.

[ A heat rises up under Percival's collar at all the implication being thrown around. It's all so naturally enticing but at the same time quite scandalous, speaking of such things so freely in public. People might only pick up pieces, but still. ] A few things more enjoyable than a voyage certainly come to mind.

[ Things that required nothing but each other and time, which they had an abundance of today. Quite an undertaking, a whole day spent on nothing but indulgence, though there's little worry in Percival about it all. With how well they've hit it off he's sure they'll keep busy.

A date. So long has it been since he's been on one the idea brings out another wave of sensation through his limbs, especially with all their talk of after. ] I was thinking somewhere more quiet, [ His smile is confident as they reach the cafe. ] High up, where there won't be any distractions to bother us.

[ He angles their stance once they get to the door to open it for Newt, and though it takes their arms unlocking to do so Percival keeps their hands together—guiding Newt inside before following after. As they take a few steps in, headed towards a side hall leading back outside into the courtyard, a barista perks up from behind the bar.

'Mr. Graves, good afternoon! What will it be today?' ]

My usual, please, [ He starts before glancing over to Newt, a small grin still tugging at his lips. ] And a selection of tea for my partner.

[ 'Of course, we'll bring it right out!'

Though he's loathe to so do again, as they approach the hall Percival lets Newt on head, motioning for him to go through. ] After you; it's a bit narrow for two. [ He's been here often enough with Seraphina to know better than try. Thankfully now he doesn't have to worry about stepping on any of Newt's clothing. ]

With you, I can't imagine a dull time in anyway. [He gives the other a little, cheeky grin. He can't help but feel a bit excited at what's to come. Just something about the other brings a certain excitement he hasn't ever felt. To be so attracted to someone. He should worry more about it, but he's much too drunk on the feeling.

And Percival has all but probably implied his place, and if that doesn't make his body tingle-] That sounds simply wonderful.

[Newt unravels the Hufflepuff scarf around his neck as they step in and stuffs it into his coat pocket before shuffling through the hall ahead of the other. Percival can see the freckles that dust the back of his neck and disappears under his shirt collar.] A regular here, are you? They seemed rather happy to see your face. Aren't we popular? [He teases a bit.

Even if their fingers were laced together as though it were natural.]

[ A chortle hums out from Percival in response to that teasing. ] I’m not sure what they would do without my patronage, truth be told. [ It wasn’t the only place he frequented but it was certainly one of his favorites, and being so close to the Woolworth certainly didn’t help. But he can’t think of work now.

Not when Newt’s freckles stick out against his skin so vividly, and Percival can’t help himself in admiring them—how they dip down under his collar. A flaring desire to know just how far those speckles are peppered over him hits the poor man like a train. With little thought to it, his hand squeezes Newt’s as they walk in an attempt to temper himself. This date was going to be quite difficult.

And short, with any luck.

The heat of their hands between entwined fingers both grounds and drives him up a wall. He feels like an absolute fool. Percival can’t even compare himself to a teenager; he’s never felt so twitter-patted in all his years—it’s taking everything in him not to take Newt around the corner, hold him against the wall and kiss him. But they’re at a table before he knows it, and he’s almost loathe to let go of Newt so that he can pull a chair out for the Brit. ]

I apologize for rushing us through the cafe, and I hope it isn’t too forward, [ He starts with a gentle smile, thankful for the quiet surrounding them. ] But I wanted you all to myself.

It sounds like you should tone down your caffeine intake with that statement. [He laughs brightly at that.

Newt thanks the other as he takes a seat in the chair offered to him. Such a gentleman. He does miss the warmth of Percival's hand in his own, but he does guess they can't hold hands forever. Not when they're getting settled for a nice cup.] I don't think anything is too forward at the moment, you know.

[He gives him a wry little grin.] Have we not been rather forward with our words this entire time?

Though, I didn't suspect you to be possessive. [A low chuckle.] Don't worry, Graves. You'll have all day to have me to yourself if that's what you wish.

[ The laughter does well to cause the butterflies in his stomach to flutter. ] Well, when you put it like that. [ Percival knows he goes there too much; he has a usual. At the same time, you’d be hard pressed to find a better, friendlier cafe. But that’s neither here or there.

Percival sits across from Newt at the small table, pushing down the way he wants to reach out for the other’s hand. ] No, you’re quite right. We have been candid. [ How refreshing that was, truthfully, for all the looking-over-the-edge worry it brought. There was no dancing around so to speak. A date like this hardly qualified for that.

That grin lingering on Newt’s face combined with the low sound that follows gives Percival gooseflesh, a lopsided smile of his own curling one side of his lips. There was something to be said about the way his name sounded on Newt’s tongue. ] There’s a first time for everything, I suppose. [ Who would have guessed him to be so inclined? Who could have blamed him, with the company it regarded? ]

Quite an undertaking, a whole day. [ He speaks softly, tone dipping down to something salacious. ] I can hardly wait. [ As if the way he leaned forward in his seat wasn’t a tell, or the way he so keenly kept his eyes on the other man. ]

First time for everything? I'm charmed that you would feel this way with me then. I best not squander it. [He leans forward a tad and the table is just small enough that Percival can feel Newt's hand move to rest on his knee. It's innocent enough. For now. Nothing scandalous. Just a hand on the knee. What could possibly be wrong about that?

He laughs softly.] Perhaps we should have thought against drinks. I'd hate to make you wait. [They're probably not going to make it through finishing their drinks at this rate.] We'll just have to make up for lost time somehow.

[He'd honestly be mortified with his words, but he's really just too busy thinking about the other to think about being embarrassed. He's never pursued a man so fervently and so quickly even.]

I don't believe anything could be squandered with you. [ Percival wants to leap across this table. He wants to grab Newt's collar and pull him across it and kiss him until they see stars—walls be damned; he'll have him however. A thought he doesn't dare question. It's what he wanted. What they both wanted. When he feels slender fingers feather over his knee it's enough to make him feel electrified.

He sucks in a breath. ] Respectfully, I disagree. We need to get you on the right foot. [ Speaking of, he repositions his legs, shifting in a way that allowed his legs closer to the other, and just enough to brush the tip of his shoe up along the back of Newt's heel. ] Waiting will be all the sweeter.

[ As heavy as the words are, he means it, the glimmer in his eye steadfast. If ever there were a poster boy for smitten, Percival Graves was it. He reaches out, fingertips skimming across Newt's hand as if to find the best place to hold it. ] We have all day to ourselves, as you so kindly put.

[ He feels himself giving in to the sparks under his skin telling him to just take Newt's hand, holding it securely as he leans in a hair. ] We're sure to find a few ways to make up for it. [ Subtlety was still preferred, but there's no reason to be shy. Percival hasn't felt himself so drawn to someone like this in... ever. He found himself emboldened. ]

I would hate for someone to think I don't appreciate what's being given to me. [Newt lets out a soft laugh at that. A little shiver when he feels the other rub the back of his heel. Not something too obvious, but probably wouldn't be missed by the other.

He rests his chin on his hand as he looks at the other in such a fond manner.] I think you of all people will make sure of that. I have my utmost trust in you to get me on the right foot so to speak.

[He idly runs his thumb over the back of Percival's hand. No one would know seeing the two men as they speak. How close they really were sitting. How much closer they wanted to be to each other.] I do love trying new things. Discovering something new is always exciting. [A grin and a look in his eyes, though they're disrupted for a moment as their order is placed on the table before them.]

[ Percival relishes in the way Newt shivers at his touch, and his smile might just give that away. ] Then you have nothing to worry about. They already know you do. [ He doesn’t mind taking their time here, as much as he wants to push forward with things—he wants to enjoy every minute he can with the other, even if that meant not immediately jumping home.

He finds such a moment as he stares into Newt’s eyes, hanging on every word he speaks and Percival laughs something faint and amused at the implication. ] I do strive to see that others are well taken care of. [ And, oh, how he planned on doing so.

A shiver of his own shoots up his arm at Newt’s touch, making him forget where they are for a moment as he gently squeezes their hands again and lets more of their legs mingle. But the soft clatter of cups and silverware breaks his concentration, though he can’t manage to let go of Newt in spite of their brief company. Percival clears his throat gently and smiles to the waiter. ] Thank you, Simon.

[ Once they’re left alone again, he eyes over the tray and all that came with it. A thumb rubs over Newt’s finger as the brunet looks up to regard him. ] And how do we like our tea?

Well, it's a good thing that I am in your hands then. Good ones at that. [Perhaps that was a said a bit cheekily.

But, for a moment, Newt is distracted by their drinks. He pours some tea into his cup before adding some milk and honey and stirring the contents of his cup for a moment. A little more than what people would say is reasonable. He had always liked his tea on the sweeter side of things though. He places the spoon on the saucer before taking it and giving it an inquisitive little sip.]

I must say, Americans are not completely lost causes when it comes to the finesse of tea. [He laughs softly. He wasn't actually really that much of a snob.] It's quite good, thank you.

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