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*
It's Saturday at Hell's Kitchen High School, meaning that the campus should be quiet. While the halls are empty, a makeshift stage has been set up just outside the entrance, complete with a podium and a microphone. The announcement was expected to be one to change the school and see it finally receive a much-needed uplift following decades of disarray. New school philosophy seems to suggest that environments matter to the way students feel about their education.
Chairs have been set up in front of the entrance — an open invitation for both civilians and reporters alike — with the front mostly reserved for honoured guests. As it stands, the large businessman, expected to make the announcement lingers to the far side of the front row. His grey, nearly silver suit, perfectly tailored to his form, his pressed shirt, and his salmon-hued tie all demonstrate an acknowledged authority. He manages a tight-lipped smile and looks towards those that have gathered, prompting his demeanour to mild exponentially, "Hmmm. A good turnout, it seems."
*
Sinjin is a little early, eager to get a feel for the mood of the room. He leans on his cane as he crosses to Fisk, wanting a moment to express his gratitude for a favour from earlier in the week as well as tonight's invitation. He still looks battered and thin but, in spite of the cane, he moves well. His demeanor around Fisk is much less deferential than most, though it's certainly friendly.
"Mr. Fisk," he says, his voice still a little quiet from his injuries. "Good to see you."
*
Wesley looks over at Fisk as he's addressed, adjusting his tie for a moment as he turns and glances over the assembled. "The free refreshments helped, I think. People in this neighborhood take free food and drink when they can get it," he says. His suit is dark with a charcoal pinstripe, his tie blue. "They have reason enough to be grateful, given your investment. I don't expect any disruptions - but this is Hell's Kitchen."
He almost hushes Sinjin, almost flinching when his employer's name is spoken aloud. He is used to hushing such indiscretions, but this is a public forum. To those assembled, Wilson Fisk is merely a businessman and a generous one at that.
*
Danny has her own interests in Hell's Kitchen - rumor has it Rand-Meachum has been in negotiations over a tenement building and a run-down gym for a few weeks now - which at least partly explains why Danielle Rand is in attendance at an event for a high school in the area. Of course, she's made her own moves with fashion, wearing wide-legged pants with a sleeveless blouse, her hair piled on top of her head and eyes heavily lined. It's very…British. But more appropriate than one can usually hope for her, so. Progress.
She's arm in arm with a short, stubby lawyer in a very expensive suit that nonetheless still looks rumpled - Jeryn Hogarth. "So what was the donation like?" she murmurs to him, looking around. "Good place to put it."
*
This.. was odd. Well, not so much as odd, but it felt that way since Claire actually took a day off of work to attend this meeting. Another odd point, was her posing as arm candy for a certain someone who is up front on the job. With a slight glance up towards the front, she offers a grand smile and a wave, Claire one of the residents who grazes the free refreshment, pouring herself a bit of punch, a small plate of goodies that were piled a little too high.
It was a shame, everyone came dressed to the nines and yet Claire was simple. A nice, dark red blouse and a black skirt. Dark red which would possibly catch the crumbs and black to at least make her appear slightly slimming.
*
Fisk's eyebrows lift at Wesley's assertion about the free food. "Indeed. We want bellies full and people interested in the project." Amusement colours his expression at Wesley's reaction to Sinjin, but having encountered the reporter before, and knowing full-well who he is, Wilson wears the humble businessman with ease. The greeting automatically has Wilson Fisk reaching out a hand towards Sinjin. "Mister Allerdyce. I trust my table at La Caravelle was suitable." While his posture remains nearly titled, a familiar gleam in his eye speaks to something unspoken. "And Miss Walker," yes, he does have people everywhere, "enjoyed herself?"
But the questions are interrupted by Principal Harper standing up to the podium, "Thank you all for making it out today, he begins. "As you all know, we here at the High School have been operating on a tight budget and our fine institution is in need of repair. Here to announce sponsorship, is renowned businessman, Wilson Fisk. Please join me in welcoming Mister Fisk — " he begins to applaud. "I would like to invite Mister Fisk up to give us a few words about the plans for the school."
Standing next to John, Wilson shrugs, and murmurs quietly: "Of course, we can discuss it in a few moments." After the official announcement is made.
After most of the seats have been occupied, and the attendees have settled, Fisk treads up the steps to stand behind the podium. He manages a small smile for those gathered, and quietly clears his throat. "Good afternoon," his eyes tick between those here in an official capacity thanks to their roles as reporters.
"
*
Sinjin lets Fisk go when Harper begins speaking. "I'll be here," he says, taking a seat near an elegant woman who gives him a slight smile and nod — permission to be seated granted. Maybe it's the cane, that seems to get people's sympathy if it doesn't get their scorn. Wesley gets a quick once-over, mostly out of curiosity, but then Sinjin's interest is elsewhere. He's taking notes even though he's not here to report on the exact event. They're not a transcript, just observations.
The woman takes a look at his paper, not making any secret of it, then her eyes flick to his face with a little more interest this time. The writing is illegible to almost anyone, a mash of Korean and Vietnamese and shorthand.
She glances over her shoulder at Wesley and gives him a bit of a more genuine smile, since she's certain he will be somewhat agitated by the newcomer in their midst. No worries, Wesley. He's welcome to sit next to Vanessa. If Wilson wants her to be friendly, then friendly she will be.
*
Wesley catches Claire's glance his way, having had to leave her amidst the hoi polloi whilst he attended Fisk. He throws her a wink, but then makes sure to tick his attention back to the boss. Wouldn't due to seem inattentive.
He does note the seat taken next to Vanessa and stifles a frown. People he hasn't vetted shouldn't be getting that close, but Mr. Fisk has always had a mind of his own about such matters. All Wesley can do is advise. Given that, he steps back a few rows to sit down next to Claire.
*
Danny's brows rise at however Jeryn answers her, nodding once. "All right then." As the principal takes the stand, though, the pair moves closer to the front of the crowd where they can get a better view of things. It's the trade-off for not wearing heels. Danny can stand all day long, she's just…short. So she needs to find a place near the front to stand. Jeryn, meanwhile, breaks off to go press some flesh with various members of the press and other people's lawyers.
*
The wink was met with a smile, and a quick lift of her tiny punch glass to take a sip. No, it wasn't a sip, it was a few healthy gulps that drowned the glass almost immediately. Though, once the announcement was called to have seats, Claire immediately finds an open space, settling in and getting comfortable, her hands lifting almost immediately to issue a few claps in greeting.
Once Wesley takes a seat next to her, she reaches over to grasp his hand, tugging it into her lap as she leans over to murmur quietly. "One of your clients?" She leans away, her chin lifting so that she could spy the man upon the stage. "Pretty impressive.."
*
Fisk's hands rest on the podium as his eyes scan the crowd in front of him. The slight drop of his chin has his gaze moving down to the cards his staff had prepared for him. And for a few beats, his expression turns nearly pained. His eyebrows draw together, and he inhales a long breath before sliding the cards off the podium. Evidently he intends to go off-book.
His tongue rolls over his lips. "Ladies and gentleman," he can feel a frown tug the edges of his lips downwards, only to twitch with a strange, very ambivalent smile. "It's been a challenging few days in our fair city." His lips press into a thin line as uncertainty seems to enter his expression. "In the last twenty-four hours alone, we've had word of at least a dozen attacks. I know all of our thoughts are with those who were at City Hall yesterday and with those who have…" his eyebrows draw together even tighter, "…endured hatred for being who they are. Before refocusing on important, future-thinking things, I believe we should all reflect on the present. I hope you'll join me in a moment of silent for all those living in fear today because of some genetic lottery…"
*
Sinjin is listening, curious to see where this is going. Fisk is right. It's a shit storm out there. He's writing so he can't take out his lighter, but, for some reason, he'd like to.
Vanessa looks calm, approving of everything her husband says. Fisk, going off the beaten path? Yes, she likes that part. She turns a little, scanning the crowd for reactions, noting anything out of place. Hard expressions. Cynical smiles. Murmuring. None of that will do if she catches it.
*
Wesley waits until the moment of silence is completed before murmuring an answer to Claire, "Yes, one of my best," he says softly. "He's really doing a lot of good here. He cares very much about this community," he says. All of which, of course, is absolutely true.
*
Danny tilts her head slightly at the moment of silence, but she does dip her chin. Even if she's not much of one for silence. Score one for public events, it seems. That, or Danny Rand actually does have a soft spot for powered people. Still, she looks a little bit distracted, half listening and half looking over the gathered crowd.
*
Moment of silence held, Claire closes her eyes, ideas forming through and though of setting another station in Mutant Town to help those who couldn't travel.. all ideas so far. Nothing sticks. She makes the sign of the cross, bringing her hand up to her lip to kiss the side of her finger at the end of it all.
*
With the moment of silence having passed, Fisk nods once. His eyes lid lightly and he inhales a deep breath. "While our city struggles, we need to sow hope back into our children — back into the future of our city. Which is why Fisk Industries, at the behest of my lovely Vanessa," he shoots her a faint smile, "have agreed to fund a $100, 000 rejuvenation project for the school. We aim to see it restored back to its former glory, and become resourced as the most advanced state-of-the-art high school in the city."
He scans the crowd again. "Now. I'm not one for speeches, so I suggest," he motions towards the table set to the side, "each of you indulge in some refreshments, and, should you have questions, come address me personally while we celebrate the future for each of us."
He steps away from the podium, and begins to descend the steps. Evidently, he intended to keep this short and sweet.
*
Short and sweet, indeed. Sinjin tucks away his notebook, then stands, leaning on his cane, to offer his hand to Vanessa to help her up. "I'm sure many people want to thank you this evening, so I'll get our of your way, Mrs. Fisk," he says. For a man who lived most of his adult life on the street or in the jungle, he manages to seem civilized.
"Mr. Allerdyce." Of course she knows his name. "Thank you." She allows him to help her up and then she heads for her husband at a refined pace.
"Wilson," she chides gently. "You shouldn't give me so much credit." She's pleased, in spite of the chiding. "But it is going to be fun to see this happen."
*
Wesley seems almost bemused by Claire's religious gesture - he's an empiricist himself without much use for superstition. But he stays respectful, not outright laughing at the gesture, keeping his face somber and still.
As things settle down, he offers his hand, "Would you like to meet him?" he asks.
*
That…is a very big number. Danny's brows rise when she hears it, taking another look around the gathering to see everyone else's reactions. But there are refreshments, which means there are drinks somewhere, and there's bound to be a rush to talk with Fisk first. So she steps to the side, going in search of a drink first while she thinks things over.
*
Claire reaches up to take Wesley's hand, standing from her seat with a tug down of her skirt. "I.. I'm not too terribly sure.." She mumbles, "..he looks awfully busy." She smacks her lips briefly, finally taking a chance to glance along the room and the denizens there. Most of them, she doesn't know. The very few she does, from the news. "I wouldn't want to impose. Come, lets get you something to eat."
*
"Darling," Wilson replies towards Vanessa as he leans towards her to press a light kiss to her cheek, "inspiration begets credit, and you," his smile takes on a saccharine edge, "my dear, are the source of all my inspiration." Genuine warmth reflects in his gaze. He emits a soft sigh, "It was good though?" he murmurs softly. A couple of reporters ask some inane questions about the building to which Wilson easily replies, "We trust the architects to know what needs to be fixed. As they should. And from there crews will be hired. It will bring an influx of jobs to this community. Something needed very much right now." As the reporters step away he reaches for Vanessa's hand.
*
Wesley leads Claire forward, "It's quite all right, I assure you, he's the most civilized man I know," he says. Of course, Roman emperors were the height of civilization once upon a time, even as they fed men to the lions.
"Sir, I'd like to introduce you to my companion for this evening, Miss Claire Temple. She runs a clinic to help the people in Hell's Kitchen, especially those who live on the rougher side. Free of charge. Truly, one of the best people I know," he says.
*
Once she's acquired a drink, Danny weaves her way toward the man of the hour, just in time to overhear Claire's introduction. Interesting. Free clinic, this school improvement. It looks like things are looking up for Hell's Kitchen, at least in a few small ways.
*
"Well, I understand that Wesley but.." Claire was hesitant, even as she was being pulled along, she pulled a few tugs back.. only to go forward again right into the lions den of introductions which forces her to smile. And smile just a little big. "He's being generous." Claire pops out, giving a slight look towards Wesley with a cant of her head, her hand releasing his finally to carefully strike out towards Mr. Fisk first, and Vanessa afterwards in introductions. "But really, it's an honor to meet you, and I think it's wonderful what your wife and you are doing for the children."
*
Fisk straightens as Wesley and Claire stride up towards him and Vanessa. There's a short pause as he assesses the woman, fully considering Wesley's introduction. "Well, thank you Wesley. Miss Temple, it is an honour to meet you. The work you do sounds important to this community and its continued development." He frowns slightly, "Tell me more about your clinic, please." His gaze shifts towards Vanessa and he nods once. "We just want to do our part to help the community. I'm glad we're not alone."
*
"Your companion, Wesley? How lovely." Vanessa positively sparkles at Claire, though there is a hint of evaluation under that smile. "This clinic sounds like an excellent idea, Ms. Temple. Wilson is right, we need to hear more but I insist on visiting, to see how I can help out." Her enthusiasm does seem genuine, at least.
Sinjin hangs back, takes a few more notes. He's curious as to how much pressure it will take to smooth things out in the city, the way things are going. And how long will Fisk's altruism last if life sours on him. It's dangerous for a city to depend too much on the charity of one man, even a good man.
*
Wesley smiles, taking a little pride that his chosen companion is of interest to the Fisks. He's more than content to let her speak for herself - he's Fisk's advocate, after all, not hers, and she's more than capable of speaking for herself. Still, there's a protective air to the way he hangs around her, showing he's more invested than merely a night's companionship.
*
"It's funny, I was just thinking the same," Danny chimes in when Fisk mentions not being alone. "It's good to hear there are more people looking into ways to help out in this part of the city." She flashes a smile, offering a hand to Claire before anyone else. "Sorry to interrupt. Danny Rand. And that free clinic thing is great."
*
Her slightly tan cheeks do carry a blush that rouge couldn't compete with, Claire takes on the greetings with a genuine smile, even if she felt like she was caught within the headlights she didn't want to be in. "Yes. There are others that try to do their part. I'm just sad that they're not present right now." Though, those people have questionable habits. And dealings. But nevermind that.
Even as Danny makes her well timed introduction, her hand reaches out to grasp ahold of the young womans, shaking briskly. "Well, Ms. Rand, Mr and Mrs. Fisk, it all started out as an idea. After a young mother and her child visited the hospital, we heard her fretting over a bill that she knew that she wouldn't be able to afford." Claire frowns then, and lets out a sigh. Though it was clear that she was passionate about her own works.
"My college roommates and I got together, pooled what ever bit we had in savings and our accounts and opened up the clinic in the heart of Harlem. I put her right on the cusp and border of Hell's Kitchen so that anyone who could come from those two cities, would." She smiles. "No payment. No questions. If you need help, you're going to get it. Even if we all have to pay out of pocket for it." Which they do. Claire is broke as hell!
*
Approvingly Wilson nods at Vanessa, "And you think you get too much credit," his tone reflects obvious fondness. He grants her hand a squeeze. "Please," he allows his gaze to land on Claire, "allow my darling Vanessa a tour. Whatever efforts she sees important, I will whole-heartedly stand behind." A tight smile follows the thoughts.
"Wesley, could you coordinate with your companion, and allow Vanessa a tour? I'm sure we can find resources for you to tap into, Ms. Temple." It's only now that he turns to face Danny, "I'm not sure we've met, Ms. Rand. But it's a pleasure. Perhaps you and Vanessa should tour together?" There's a pause. "I would join, but I've been told," his gaze shifts towards Vanessa, "that sometimes spouses need to have projects that are all their own."
*
"How will we surprise you if you come with me?" Vanessa gives Fisk a fond look. "We will all have to take our turn pitching in and then, when we're done, you can enjoy the fruits of our efforts. I can rely on Wesley to help, if necessary. Surely you can spare him for me once in a while, for a good cause."
Vanessa gives Wesley just the hint of a smile and her gaze lights, ever so briefly, on Claire. Certainly, Wesley might enjoy playing the white knight for the lady's cause. Chivalry, at least the best part of it, is not dead in the Fisk empire.
*
Wesley considers, "I wouldn't be so bold as to speak for her, but I'm sure something can be arranged, one way or another," he says, putting a hand on the small of Claire's back. Obviously, he wants her to be attentive to his client's request, not to mention the fact that it might be quite lucrative for Claire herself. She's already experienced a little thrill of sudden cash from when he took her to bet on that (fixed unknown to her) boxing match.
"What say you, Claire?"
*
"Rand-Meachum Enterprises, Mr. Fisk," Danny clarifies with a flash of a smile. "And I may not be married to the board, but they do know well enough to leave me my projects. We've been in negotiations over a few properties in the neighborhood for the last few weeks. Jeryn usually handles the business part of things, though. But I'd love to pick your brain some time, Claire. One of the properties we're looking at, we were thinking of turning into a sort of community center. Health resources ought to be a part of that."
*
It was all, so sudden! And a little bit much! But Claire was a champ under pressure, and yet she does manage to seek a slight lean against the side of Wesley. Someone, was going to get a right chewing out tonight. And maybe a movie, to top it off with a homemade dinner. Her hand reaches to rest upon her face as she glances to the three of them, then offers up her shoulders in a right bit of a shrug. She was all for it! Even as she looked so nonchalant about it, though her eyes practically glitter with an idea before she speaks it!
"I say we shall!" She grins then. "There's a shipment due to the clinic next week for measles and smallpox vaccinations for those who don't have it yet. I'm sure we're going to need the extra help… if.. that's not too much to ask?" Her eyes look hopeful towards Vanessa and Danny. "I'll be there, no less, and I'll show you how to give a shot. I promise, it'll go smooth and easy. And no messes!"
Though to Danny, Claire nods almost immediately. "Just say when. I'll be glad to be there, I know a few other nurses who may have some input as well, if you're agreeable to that."
*
"Ah," Wilson replies to Danny. "Well, it's good that you have a vested interest in the community, Ms. Rand. Clearly we should be coordinating our efforts to ensure what's best for Hell's Kitchen." His hands clasp lightly in front of him, and a pleased smile draws over his lips at the notion of another project for his beloved Vanessa. "Excellent," he states emphatically. "It seems we can all work together. I suggest — "
But even as Fisk is about to make a suggestion, one of his assistants trails over to him and whispers something in his ear, prompting his expression to falter. "I.. apologize," his eyebrows draw together, "I have some business that must be attended to immediately. Please, enjoy the refreshments." He casts a long look towards Vanessa, "Darling, you're welcome to stay or come with me should you desire. It's about the Norbert account," a glance is cast towards the others gathered, "it's a real estate deal we are currently working out."
*
"I should go," Vanessa says with an apologetic smile. "I try to keep up with the real estate especially. Wesley, do make some arrangements with Claire for me. You know my schedule. Danny, it was good to meet you as well. Good luck with your properties." She waves her fingers at Sinjin. "Say hello to Miss Walker for me, Mr. Allerdyce." With that, she's off in Fisk's wake.
Sinjin watches them go with some bemusement. "I'll have to come by some time, myself, Miss Temple," he says to Claire. "I'd love to interview you. I'm afraid I should get myself home, however. Have a good evening."
*
Wesley frowns, "Do you need my assistance, sir?" he asks Fisk as the deal discussed comes up, looking back towards Claire apologetically. He's told her he sometimes works strange hours, after all, and he's not the only one, but he did still bring her along and doesn't want to just abandon her to her fate.
When it seems as though they'll manage without him, though, he takes Claire's arm and goes to lead her away, "Of course. I'll be in touch, about this and the other…" he says.
*
"I'd love it," Danny grins to Claire. "Whole point of a community center's to get the community together, right? The more the merrier. Pleasure meeting you, Mr. and Mrs. Fisk," she nods to the others as they take their leave. "And really, this is a great thing you're doing here. Glad to see it underway."
*
Claire could understand the need to rush along, Mr. Allerdyce was given a brief nod and a smile. "You know where to find me! Border of Harlem and Hell's Kitchen!" She wasn't too keen on the interviewing prospect, but if it was meant to get the word out, then so be it. With everyone making their pleasantries and promises, Claire keeps a mental note of who and when. To send her number to Rand-Meachum Enterprises, and to allow Wesley to coordinate the little gathering. Yes. Everything was going smoothly.
As she's lead away, Claire leans in to murmur quietly into his ear. "You.. are in big fucking trouble, Mister."
*
Fisk is already walking towards the town car that has come for him as he notes with a smile and slight glimmer of mischief in his eyes, "Wesley, feel free to spend the rest of the day with your company. You did a wonderful job. Keep up the good work." The smile extends and he glances towards the others, "It was lovely meeting you Ms. Temple, Ms. Rand. I hope we can coordinate our efforts into the future." His throat clears and he directs his attention to Sinjin, "And Mr. Allerdyce, you and I should have lunch next week. I intended to — " he lifts his hand and washes away the thought. "Regardless," he nods as his hand trails to the small of his wife's back, leading her towards the vehicle. "Thank you all for coming. It's always a pleasure to meet caring citizens who mean well."
And with that, Fisk opens the door for Vanessa, and trails to his side of the car.
*