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Message: <blockquote data-quote="Silver Moon" data-source="post: 3892233" data-attributes="member: 8530">Chapter Two-hundred-twenty-eight, “Portraits“, Sunday, June 18th, 1:00 P.M. Ruby says, "So... what did you have in mind for the pictures? Anything specific?" She waves her hair back and forth in the breeze. "Or will I just be my fabulous self?" she teases. George Eastman replies, "Whatever you would like, I thought that Lake Ontario would make a good backdrop.  I have five dry plates with me so we can take several different shots if you would like." She exclaims, "How exciting! Of course, you surprised me so I hope what I'm wearing is acceptable for pictures. I also want to go down by the water. It's such a nice day, I feel like I could nap here all day! What should we do first?" He says, "Whatever you want is fine.  We have another six hours or so until the sun sets.  As for the portrait, what you are wearing is just fine, the picture is just for us, nobody else needs to see it." Oh, one of those pictures... I see how it is!" she teases, giving him a friendly smack in the arm. In the course of her pretending to be insulted she ends up closer to George, so she is sitting just next to him. She giggles for a bit before flopping down on the blanket next to him, gazing up at the puffy clouds in the sky. "It's such a beautiful day. I think you were right about it being our day. Everything seems totally perfect. It must have been fate, this trip. It's been almost all good since I left Promise City. And now I'm here with you. It just seems... too good to be true." He says, "I feel the same way.  After the way things ended in Arizona I wasn't sure if I would ever see you again.  I hadn't given up, but was unsure of exactly how to proceed.   I couldn't have asked for things to have worked out any better than this has." Ruby stares into his eyes for what seems like forever, the butterflies in her belly growing again, before she blushes and looks away. She wanted that kiss but was suddenly too... Shy? Nervous? Ruby didn't know what was going on, she had never really felt either of those things in this situation before. She gathers up her courage and says softly, "You know I'm not a patient girl, George, are you going to make me wait for a more perfect moment to kiss me?" He moves over to her and gives her a warm embrace, then places his hand on the side of her hand and brushes back her hair before leaning in for a soft passionate kiss. uby slides both hands onto George's face and returns his kiss with a soft passionate kiss of her own. She was nervous and excited at the same time but was enjoying every second of being near him and didn't want it to end any time soon. Time seems to slow down as they remain locked in an embrace for a while, holding one another and just being together.   George finally speaks, saying "Thank you for coming back to Rochester." "No George, thank you, for always being my friend," Ruby whispers in reply as she keeps her hand on his cheek, comfortable in his arms. As she stared into his eyes, a realization comes upon her. George was taller than Jake, and his body showed he was more active with physical pursuits, but really George and Jake looked much alike. Same medium brown hair, style and all, same twinkling chocolate brown eyes, same chin beard and mustache, the same coloring. Ruby laughed to herself, Jake slept through the mornings avoiding the sun while George stayed locked in his photography warehouse, changing the world. Still, the physical similarities were quite obvious. Her recent dreams swirled through her head, the one were she was getting married in Promise City, the one where she thought Jake was saving her from drowning, her trip to the veil of dreams. Could it be she just assumed it was Jake when it really was someone else altogether? She shivers as that thought breaks over her like a tidal wave. Perhaps Aphrodite was giving her not what she wanted but what she needed. Ruby continues, "And for always caring about me and believing in me. I've never doubted your feelings, only doubted myself, that I could still be the same person that you remember from all those years ago." He replies, "We have both changed, for the better I'd say.   I am a decade older than you, which seems less of an issue today than it did then.  You have grown up a lot in the last five years and my own perspective has changed much in that time as well.  I think the people we are today may be quite compatible." "Perhaps we are," Ruby teases, lightly pinching George's cheek. "Then in the spirit of us being compatible I have a question for you Mr. Eastman... what would you do with a young, beautiful, adventurous, insatiable wife? Would you leave her home all day alone while you toiled at your job?" He replies, "No, I would make sure that she found herself a job or hobby that she enjoyed equally and provide the infrastructure to make that happen.   That way we could both be occupied with things we each enjoy when we are apart from each other. For example, if I were to fall in love with a singer I would make sure that she had a place to sing and be appreciated." Ruby answers, "And I'm certain if that singer fell in love with you she would certainly appreciate not just being eye candy and under appreciated in her new role as someone's wife." She pauses. "It's a bit scary you know, to consider doing something that major." She blushes again. "Or so I hear." He says, "There is nothing wrong with dreaming.   I told you some of my dreams, what are your dreams Ruby?" She replies, "Well, nothing as grand as yours, that's for sure. For a long time I only concentrated on the present and didn't think about the future. But if I had to give an answer... I want to be an actress. Not some cheap floozy actress either, a real actress. This weekend, I was supposed to play Juliet in Romeo and Juliet at my Saloon. I'm, well, I'm pretty sad that I missed it. It wasn't easy for me to read and understand that book you know. I was looking forward to playing Juliet. As for other dreams? They're simple too. I want to make my Saloon and Hotel a success. I want to be known for my singing and not just for what  I look like. I want to be there for my friends when they need me. And more than anything I want to be loved and know it's true. It sounds silly, some of that stuff, but it all means a lot to me to have them come true. It means I am the person that I want to be." He says, "There is none of that which you cannot do here Ruby.  New York City has the greatest actors and actresses in the world.   We could get you a tutor to teach you all that you need to know.  And we can build you your own venue to sing at, better than that small brick saloon back in the dusty western mining town." Ruby sits up, away from George's arms. "I understand why you would feel that way. But to me, it's not just a small brick saloon in a dusty western mining town. Before it was just a small saloon, the Lone Star. Now it's much bigger and better, The Lucky Lady Dance Hall and Saloon, and hopefully at this point Hotel too. The nicest in Promise City. All because I worked hard, made fans there who like me, who look for me when I'm not there. And I did it the right way. Can't you understand George? It means a lot to me to make it work." He states, "I understand, I take similar pride in my own accomplishments.  I was proud of my first business but I outgrew it and had to go onto something bigger.  Your Lucky Lady, the first thing you ever built with your own initiative will always hold a special part in your heart.  But it that still the place for you?  Aren't you now expanding beyond those walls?  Wouldn't it be better for hundreds and thousands of people to view and appreciate your talents rather than a few dozen, most of whom are more concerned with playing cards or getting drunk?" Ruby is quiet for long moments before she looks back at George over her shoulder. "I'm not sure what to say. I'm not ready to leave my friends... but you have some really good points... I... I don't know what to say. Or what you want me to say. What are you saying George?" He replies, "I am saying that you need to consider all of the options available to you and evaluate what you truly want." Ruby pulls her knees up to her chest. "And what if I want you? And them?" He replies, "Then we can explore your friend Richard Broughton's option of expanding my business to Tucson.   Would that be close enough to Promise City to satisfy you?" She states, "I don't deserve you Mr. Eastman, that you would consider doing that for me." Ruby leans over and presses her full lips against George's for a long minute. She only pulls away slightly. "I'm not saying I want to live there forever. I'm just saying I want to live there for now." He says, "Yes.  I would still want to maintain a home here in  Rochester.   I've also considered setting up a European business operation as well, in either London or Rome, perhaps both." She says, "That sounds very exciting and romantic." She pauses again and looks off across the lake. "I just meant, hypothetical that it had something to do with me." He replies, "I am speaking hypothetically Ruby, the future is unwritten.  For now I am more concerned about the present.  Let's enjoy some of the cherry pie and then see about taking that portrait." She answers, "Good idea." Ruby prepares them two slices of pie and they enjoy them with a side of light talk. When they're done with the pie Ruby fluffs her hair. "I'm ready for my close up, what do you want me to do?" George Eastman takes an accordion-like device from the satchel, wooden sides on each end with black cloth in between.   He unfolds the device and uses metal rods to fix it into a square shape.  He then takes out a square object which slides into the end of the box.  He slides it out, removing a dark covering over the object.   He sets the box down on the grass. Next he removes a metal three-legged object which he adjusts the sides of to make it slide out larger and when he is finished has established a tripod.  He takes the box and fixes it to the top of the tripod.    He stands behind the box and screws another device to the top of the box that resembles a telescope.   He says, "This camera design is just a prototype, to see if one can be made to fold up into a small space for easy transport.   Alright Ruby, take a pose over on the grass with the lake behind you." Ruby walks slowly over to the grassy area George pointed out to her. She had so much on her mind she was distracted and no matter how hard she tried to just be in the moment thoughts of the serious discussions they had swirled around inside her. She shakes her head as if she was shaking the thoughts away. She turns towards George and sits on the ground, leaning back on her heels. She pats her hair down, smoothes her dress and grins. "How do I look?" "Ravishing" is his reply.   "Alright, hold that pose.  Using dry plates no longer requires the several minute long exposure times that wet plates did, but you still have to hold the pose for around ten to fifteen seconds to prevent the image from being blurry.  Let me know when you are ready." Ruby sets her eyes on George and lets her feelings for him, as confused as she thinks they are, overcome her. Her smile is genuine, her eyes twinkling as the gorgeous day surrounds her. "I'm ready," she calls out to him. "Alright, I'm opening the shutter now".  He counts backwards from twenty and then recovers the lens area.   He then takes a black cloth bag that he fixes over where he slid the plate in and slides it back out.  He then reloads a second plate and says, "What would you like for the next picture?  You asked for a close-up didn't you?" "Sure, I'll take a close-up next." She watches George continue to set up the camera. "Is there a way to get one with both of us?" He gives her an odd look and says, "My, what a novel idea!  A means to shoot without a photographer!  I won't be able to do that today but it gives me another innovation to work on!  Thank you for the suggestion!" He moves the camera in close and says "This will only be of your shoulders, neck and head.  Hold still." Ruby pulls some windblown hair off her face. "Ready!" she says and holds her breath for her picture. He snaps the second picture and then puts the film cartridge back in the satchel and loads in the third one.   "Okay, that's two with the lake as a backdrop.  What would you like to do for the next one?" She says, "Why don't we go down by the water? I would like to do that anyway." She taps her lips, "Or perhaps we can find some flowers in the woods. That might be pretty too. What do you think?" He says, "The water is fine, maybe a little cool still for swimming in, but I've always enjoyed wading in the water.   A photo of you by the surf might come out well." "I like cool water," she teases, "The question is how to get you to join my for a dip! Is there any way I can persuade you?" Ruby reaches to her back and starts undoing the buttons on her dress. George appears momentarily surprised but does not blush or take his eyes off of her. After undoing her buttons and the long ribbon that circles her waist the gown is loose and she lets it fall to the ground on the blanket. She undoes her pink satin corset and drops that too, leaving her white chemise and underskirt. She approaches George and takes his hand in hers. "Come on, it'll be just like we were children when we used to swim in the lake. Won't you swim with me?" she asks, gently tugging on his hand. He replies, "Er..um....well...I guess we have things to ourselves here."   She says, "Of course we do! Your man would have let you know if anyone else showed up, right?" He kicks off his shoes and begins to disrobe, leaving on his sleeveless undershirt and boxer-style shorts. he continues to gently pull him towards the water then stops. "Are we taking your world changing photographic equipment with us? I'd let you take a picture before we swim if you'd like." "We can leave the camera on the beach for now," he replies.   He takes a step into the water and says "A little cool but not too bad." "Oh come on, don't be scared of the cool water!" She grabs his hand and pulls him into the deeper water, where they both lose their footing and land in the water with a big splash. Ruby comes up for air giggling, pushing the wet hair out of her eyes and off her face. "It's not so bad," she practically shivers. No way was she going to admit it was cooler than she's like. He replies, "Yes, and calm today.  It's not the ocean, just a very large lake, but when the winds or storms get going the beaches still get hit with rather large waves."   He smiles and begins to swim around. "Calm is good." Ruby returns the smile and tries to swim and catch up. "I haven't seen the ocean in forever. Well, since whenever the last time my parents dragged me to Long Island was. Seems so long ago..." She dips her head under the cool water, her body finally getting used to the temperature. "I've been landlocked way too long it seems." She swims in closer to George. "See, I knew you'd like it," she grins. "A little excitement is good for you." He replies, "I know, I should get more physical activity than I do.  My job keeps my mind sharp but I don't spend nearly enough time out of doors." Ruby grins mischievously, "I didn't think you looked so out of shape Mr. Eastman. Besides, it's easier and more fun when you have someone to do the out of doors stuff with, don't you agree?" He says, "Certainly, and given your level of energy I would imagine that this won't be the only time you want to do something like this during your visit to Rochester." "Yes, I abhor being bored and this is way more fun than sitting around in the house." Ruby swims up behind George, wrapping her arms loosely around his neck, putting her chin on his shoulder. She whispers in his ear, "The secret is to let everyone else do the work for you. That, and long decadent naps in the afternoon." Although he can't see her face, he knows she's smiling as she teases him. He says, "Well, I've already begun on the letting other people do things for me routine.   The difference between myself and people like your parents though is that I believe in treating employees fairly as well as both recognizing and respecting them as people." "And that's why you're such a good man. And why I'm here with you and not them." Ruby pauses, then giggles, "That and you're a great kisser. You can tell you treat your employees well. I was surprised that William wouldn't give away any information on you but it shows you he respects you too." Ruby is silence again. In a more serious tone she continues, "Do you think they'll like me? Your employees? I mean, William and Rosey and.. who is the other one again?" He says, "Rosey and Al, I think they will both like you.  Your personality is a like Rosey's daughter." Ruby keeps hold of George's neck as they swim around. "Do they live in the house with you too? I really want them to like me, I'm not sure if William does or not. What's Rosey's daughter like? It must be nice to have someone to cook for you all the time. We have Maria but she works for the Saloon and she cooks a lot of Mexican food, well, being Mexican and all. I like Mexican food but sometimes you need something different, you know?" He says, "Al and Rosey are both French-Canadian, so we have a lot of French recopies.  They have a room up on the third floor, next to William's.   And I can say for a fact that William does like you.  His neutral tone is his manner when he is pleased with his environment, otherwise he would be rather surly." "Well, that's mighty good news, isn't it? I hope the others like me as well, I want them to feel comfortable if I'm going to be... visiting... for a while." Ruby laughs, "Surly, huh?" George says, "It's his way.   Rosey and Al won't be back until tomorrow, they've spending the weekend with Rosey's daughter over at Seneca Lake, one of the largest of the Finger Lakes.   They go there every-other weekend from Spring to Fall." Ruby's grin turns devilish. "Well then, we should take advantage of the mostly empty house tonight." Ruby swings herself around so her arms are still around George's neck, but now she is facing him, her face close to his. "So, this must be the height of the social season if my parents are here. There must be some huge fancy ball you could take me to, or some other silly events we could have fun at, no?" He says, “There is a garden party tomorrow afternoon that I was invited to, but I assumed that you would have no interest in attending." She asks, "Who is giving the garden party? Do you like to attend functions like that? Generally I like all kinds of parties. I thought a ball would be fun because we could dance and drink and... well, enjoy ourselves." He replies, "I will occasionally go to functions of business associates or city officials, but generally not anything on weekdays due to my job.   The garden parties are for the social set who summer here, and don't really need to be concerned about working in the afternoons.  But if you really want to go I could take some time off from work to bring you." "You forgot to mention who is giving the party... I have no burning desire to go," she shrugs, "I just thought you might like to, now that you have someone to go with. We could think about it I suppose. Do you have to work all week? What will I do while you're working?" He says, "My schedule is flexible, after all, I do run the company.   I hold a meeting each Monday morning with all of my managers, which I will especially need to be at if I am going to take some time off in order to delegate assignments.  Other than that, I can avail myself to being with you." "Oh, it must be so terrible to have to avail yourself to me," Ruby mocks being offended. "Would it be better if I used your new fangled phone and called you while you were working...," Ruby raises the tone of her voice and acts in distress, "Oh, Mr. Eastman, you must come quickly, I'm here in your house all alone and I'm having a photographic emergency... It's just awful... All my clothes fell off and there's no one here to take a picture!" The serious look on her face is then replaced by a smile and some giggles. He laughs a response of "Well, if my executive secretary took the call I dare say that message would be quite shocking to him.   I'm also not sure how well I would be able to deal with that type of photographic emergency, I've never taken any pictures of that sort before." "Perhaps you just need some practice," Ruby says, leans in the small distance and kisses him softly. "Maybe you'll find someone around who can help you with that. All for the sake of emergency preparedness of course, you never know what kind of emergency might arise."</blockquote>

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