Jennifer entered the apartment, half curious and half apprehensive in regards to meeting Dana's infamous brother. She would need to keep a tight reign of her emotions over the course of the evening to prevent a shift to her green-skinned alter ego. She steeled herself, mentally preparing for the worst of horrors.

"Alex, this is Jennifer - we roomed together in college," Dana introduced as her brother snatched the box she had been carrying. He nodded in her direction, and Jen could barely make out a low grunt of acknowledgment.

Prior information had set her up to believe that Alex Mercer would be raving, violent, and horrific in both demeanor and appearance. The truth was just as shocking in its own way. In person it seemed that Alex Mercer was inexperienced with normal social interactions, preferring to observe rather than speak, giving him the appearance of being shy or introverted. He held an obvious affection for his sister, his expression transforming to an innocent wondering whenever he laid eyes on her. Overall he seemed like a large pet wolf. Dangerous, yes, but also doting and protective.

"Hello, earth to Jennifer. Miss Walters, are you there," Dana giggled as she waved her hands in front of Jennifer Walters' face.

Realizing she had been staring, she turned to her friend, blushing and smiling sheepishly. Grabbing onto the first excuse that came to mind she blurted out, "you didn't tell me your brother was such a hottie!"

Dana let an "eep!" at this unexpected proclamation.

A crash sounded from the next room, followed by a series of gruffly muttered expletives. Dana giggled suddenly, before leaning in with a stage whisper, "I think he heard you."

Jennifer face-palmed. Of all the things - !

This was going to make dinner awkward.

This was supposed to be a Jen and Alex interaction scene as per Lalzuli's request, but them darn characters wouldn't do what I wanted them to.