Realistic or Modern Empire City: The Irish Mob - IC (Closed)

[Bellz]

Gwen Bryant ​

Jolting awake, Gwen gripped her sheets as she woke up in her bed alone. Stretching out her limbs slowly, the redhead shifted before slowly pushing herself up from her tummy onto her knees. Groaning, she looked to the time and saw that it was the middle of the afternoon. She had gotten high the night before, so it wasn't unusual for he to sleep till this time...but she had plans with Jason and needed to be out of the house in the next 15 minutes.

Hopping out of bed quickly, Gwen looked around her room for a clean change of clothes before finding a long sleeved dress. Pulling it on along with her undergarments, Gwen rolled the sleeves up to her elbow before moving to brush her hair. Lorelei was most likely up and about already going about her day without her mother like the young independent girl she was.

Once Gwen was ready to go, she headed down the stairs to find Lorelei with Thomas, playing with the many toys that the two children owned. "Hello munchkins." Gwen greeted the pair, to which Lorelei immediately got up and ran to her mother. "Mom! Good morning!" Lulu greeted her with a tight hug to which Gwen returned the gesture.

"Good afternoon, luv." She smiled before her attention was turned to Finn who walked into the room. "Lunch is ready, hi Gwen." The redhead's lips curled into a smile as she nodded to Finn. "I'm off to Jason's ...I'll be back later this evening. Thank you for watching my baby." Gwen murmured to which the doctor smiled in return. "She's a sweetheart."

Gwen managed to get out of the house and into her car on time before driving the distance needed to get to Jason's apartment. Parking was tricky to find but she eventually found a spot. Walking up the stairs, she stopped at his front door before lifting her hand to knock gently against it.

As she waited for the door to open, Gwen thought about the moment he caught her in the dressing room. It was a low point in her life, something she wasn't able to get over...and he was there, for her. Biting her lip lightly, she fumbled nervously with her outfit, straightening it out as she waited for him to answer the door.
with: Jason Pyroclast

Peter Callahan​

The meeting that Peter and Sinead had at the club with the Durante family had left a bad taste in Peter's mouth. He wasn't sure what the hold up was but he knew he had to keep an eye on the family as much as he could, if they were to be in business together.

Things seemed to slow down throughout the week, however, and Peter was able to catch up on himself and his family like he had been wanting to do for a while. Today, Peter was accompanying James on business in the city, and Peter was looking forward to the distraction that the business would offer. "Afternoon, boss." Peter greeted James as he hopped into the back seat with him.

The familiar landscape of their hometown passed them by as they headed into the city, Peter got lost in his thoughts. He knew that James was having a hard time with his family at the moment and Peter was going to make sure that he could put all of the man's other business at ease.

Pulling up to Harris' Motor Repairs, Peter stepped out of the car with his brother-in-law and listened closely "I don't believe I've had the pleasure." Peter spoke slowly as James explained who Jonah was. "Well that sounds reassuring." Peter added as they entered the garage.

James found his car and took a closer look at it, nodding with satisfaction that made Peter smile slightly. "Fixed her up well I'm assuming?" Peter asked before the two of them headed towards the back office. Peter had felt something odd as they stood at the door, hearing what must have been Jonah's voice behind the door.

James opened it and they were immediately met by armed men. Peter reached to put his hand on his gun in his coat, his eyes finding the same man he had met with only a week prior. "I thought I smelled a snake." Peter hissed out lowly before looking to James. Reaching into his pocket, he grabbed the gun and threw it to the ground before looking to Mr. Durante. "Well well well, its a small world after all.." Peter growled gruffly before crossing his arms.
with: James + Gabriel Misty Gray ; Teddy Melanin-Gxdess

 

[RayPurchase]

Tony Harris

​

Well it was a shithole that was for sure. That wasnt exactly a negative however. For weeks he had been traipsing around fancy restaurants, escorting property contracts and twiddling his thumbs. The East Harlem lot were on the opposite side of the spectrum, and Tony couldn't have felt more alongside his own people. They were rough and ready, but they'd managed some scalps already, and Alistair had come across as a man who got shit done during the hour or two they had spent together going through the plan. Convoy duty, it was like being back in the Sinai all over again. As such he was expecting trouble. This was no ordinary shipment, this was stolen goods, and not just any goods, Narcotics recently liberated from the Porters. As such he was ready for any sort of trouble. His cannon of a handgun was holstered under his left armpit with another 2 magazines in his jacket, and if things got real close, there was a flick knife tucked into his right sock. Of course if things got really out of control… his black leather glove clad hand gripped the handles of the duffel bag tighter… then there was always the contingency plan.

Having had a cursory glance over the shipment, there would be a proper count at the Moretti warehouse, but for now he didn't want any surprises or slip ups. Approaching the truck his eyes were already scanning over the frame. Closed back, obvious drawback being that they'd be blind and it was hardly going to bulletproof back there. However it did have a positive, element of surprise, if anyone hit them they'd have no idea about the additional 2 in the back. He didn't even give Steve a glance as he circled the truck, giving each of the tyres a kick, even getting prone on the ground and looking underneath the vehicle. Finally with a nod he was satisfied that the truck would do the job. Tony jumped up to the driver cabin, looking at the pair in the front.

"Right you've got the directions, follow them to the letter. No speedin', no cracy drivin', nothin' that will make us stick out. If anythin' does go down, keep drivin' until it becomes impossible. If that happens then we start shootin'. Stick with me and there won't be any barney, alright?"

He gave Alistair a slap on the shoulder.

“Been a pleasure mate, should have your boys back safe and sound by this evenin’.”

He clambered up into the truck, settling down among the boxes, the duffle bag secure between his knees. With a bang on the door they were on their way, wedged between a number of crates, Tony was able to get relatively comfortable, relaxing himself against the bumps and allowing the van’s suspension to ride out the worst of it. Fucking hell this kid seemed exciteable. He looked at the offered hand and then back at Steve, making no movement to go and shake it.

“Well first of all just call me Tony, otherwise we’re going to be wasting hours talkin’ to each other. And for gods sake sit down will you, you’re goin’ to end up arse over tits, and there’s no soft landin’ in here. This the first time Alistair has let you out and about or somethin?”

(Interaction: Misty Gray Alistair, Pyroclast Steve)

 

[Misty Gray]

Maddox Parker​

After so many years of grieving and vowing to get revenge on the Porters, it had come as a surprise to Maddox that he'd been apprehensive about finally being given the go ahead to finish what he'd started with Syd four years ago. He knew the one person causing him to doubt his desire for revenge was the same person motivating him to get the job done. Ani. She'd brought out of him the conscience he'd been doing well to inhibit, yet Moretti had as good as threatened to harm her if the plan wasn't executed effectively. Maddox couldn't risk Ani's safety over a few last minutes nerves.

When it came down to it, Maddox knew that he wanted to watch James Porter suffer and then fall. Breaking Syd was the most important step towards achieving Porter's anguish. He wanted to watch James suffer as his loved ones are taken away from him. Then, the Porters would lose their power over the city and no longer have the ability to bully people into lining their pockets.

Today was the day and Syd was due in the counsellor's office at any minute. Maddox paced in the corner of the room as he slid the small photograph of his father out of his wallet. He remembered it all so vividly. How could he ever forget seeing the corpses of his own father and two of his uncles? How could he forget having to break the news to his sister and watching her break down before his own eyes? Syd and Conor were not the only ones plagued with nightmares and flashbacks. Yet, they had invited their traumas the minute they consciously chose to carry out the mob's work. Maddox had done no wrong when he was dragged into the mob's brutal world.

Upon hearing Laura's kind voice from somewhere at the other side of the door, Maddox snapped out of his thoughts and put the photograph away before placing the wallet into his desk drawer. He straightened himself out and rolled his shoulders as he mentally prepared himself for the task ahead.

By the time Syd entered the room, Maddox had switched his demeanour to that his patient was used to: the friendly and approachable therapist. "Good afternoon, Syd," Maddox replied, sending him a friendly and reassuring smile. It was clear from the start that Syd was troubled and from what he knew, Maddox wasn't at all surprised. He figured his task would be easier given the man's present frame of mind. "Things have been going well, Syd," he answered, returning the handshake. Maddox took a seat opposite Syd and nodded when he asked to have some water. "Of course. Have as much as you need," he permitted him, his voice as relaxed as ever.

"It feels like a while since we last spoke, Syd. How have things been for you since then?" he prompted him. "You know you can share any of your concerns with me," he gently encouraged him.

Pyroclast (Syd)

 

[Pyroclast]

Danny Vaughan

Danny's relationship with Savannah had, through his eyes at least, been going well considering their decision to keep it a secret. It had been two months since the two had first met and Danny's feelings for her were only growing stronger; it wasn't long before he found himself on the phone to her every day. Even though he wished he could be more open about their relationship, the risk that they were taking did add a certain thrill to it.

In the past week, however, Danny felt that something was off between them. They didn't manage to see each other even once, and on the phone Savannah seemed more distant than usual, without giving him an explanation. At first he wondered whether something bad had happened, if perhaps her previous trauma had come back to haunt her and had made her withdrawn or sent her into a bad mood. He wished that there was something he could do, but he was too hesistant to risk showing up at her apartment unannounced. If her family were there, it would undoubtedly lead to trouble.

When she finally agreed to meet up with him, Danny cancelled all his other plans including his shifts to make sure he wouldn't miss her. He even got to their meeting point early, which was unlike him - punctuality was never something he had got the hang of. When Savannah didn't show up on time, Danny started to worry that she was purposefully dragging her feet. The longer he stood waiting, the more the thought began to eat away at him.

Eventually, he spotted her walking towards him and was glad to see the smile on her face. It looked genuine. Danny pushed himself away from the railing he had been leaning against and approached her with a warm smile of his own. She began to hastily apologise for being late; even though he had started to believe she might not show up, Danny didn't want to make her feel guilty. "Hey, don't sweat it," he assured her. "I'm just happy to see you, Savvy. You look beautiful as always." The smile remained stuck on his face as she moved in to embrace him, and his worries about her growing distant from him instantly fell away. Holding her securely in his arms for several seconds, Danny felt a warmth spread through his chest that he hadn't felt in some time. When she spoke up to suggest a restaurant, Danny drew away to look her in the eye, still smiling. "Sure, baby, I'll let you take the lead."

Savannah's troubled aura was glaringly obvious to Danny despite her usual glamorous appearance. It was something in her eyes, in her voice, in the way she carried herself. Something so minute, yet he could feel her negative energy radiating from her. He slipped his hand into hers. "So, how've you been, Sav?" he asked, in a light-hearted tone. "Tell me about your week. Feels like it's been a while since we got to hang out like this, huh?"

Interactions
Misty Gray Savannah

 

[Bellz]

Lucy Porter ​

Lucy stared vacantly at the phone next to her as she sat in the lounge. She was dressed for the day, styled to perfection as if she was perfectly fine. Her fingernails lightly scratched at the cushion under her hand, her jaw tightening as she sat in anticipation. A whole week... and nothing. Well others called the house, but not a single call from Syd. Lucy had found herself crying for what seemed like forever, taking the opportunity with James' support to just fall into herself. She could see her husband was exhausted and though she wished to help him, her heart was broken.

Now, she sat by the phone, wanting to desperately call but being terrified of rejection. He would call if he needed her. She had to have that much faith in him, despite the way he has been behaving. Someone cleared their throat, Finn standing only a few feet away from her, "You don't want to be late, Luce." The doctor gently reminded. The blonde didn't look away from the phone, but nodded her head. "If the phone rings b-"

"I'll answer it." Finn reassured with a smile. Lucy turned her head around to look at Finn, a slight smirk forming on her lips. "Keep a close eye on Thomas...he's taking this fight harder than anyone." Nodding his head, Finn held out a hand to help Lucy to her feet.

"Like a hawk." Finn said before giving Lucy's hand a squeeze before letting it go. "Have fun."

***​

Pulling her cherry red mustang into the lot, Lucy had convinced herself that she was going to have a good time with her sister and Ali, Finn was going to hold down the fort at home and if Syd did call Finn would know where to find her. A part of her felt horrible that she was about to enjoy herself, not feeling very deserving of a nice outing. But she had to pull it together for the family she still had.

Getting out and locking up her car, Lucy walked towards the club and smiled at the bouncers at the door. "Good afternoon, boys." Taking in the clubs calming atmosphere, Lucy found herself able to breathe deeply for what felt like the first time. Things were tense at home, so being somewhere else was more than refreshing. Seeing the bar manager, Scott, he directed her to where Sinead was after she ordered herself a drink. "Hi Sinny," Lucy greeted her little sister with a smile. "Thank you so much for inviting me out, I really think this is just what I needed." She confessed before sitting next to her in the booth, giving her a kiss on the cheek.

"Looks like things are going well here, how is Pete and the kids? I miss having you over for dinner."
with: Sinead Misty Gray ; Ali Melanin-Gxdess

 

[Pyroclast]

Jason Costello

It was getting harder and harder to watch Gwen deteriorate at the hands of heroin. It held her in a deathly grip, slowly draining the life from her, and Jason had begun to notice it in her appearance. After catching her shooting up in the dressing room of the theatre, he realised how out of control it was getting. She needed help. His concern for her had gone so far as to affect his interest in the Broadway show; to an extent, he was even beginning to grow doubtful that Gwen would be able to keep on top of it for much longer. Performing on Broadway as one of the lead roles would be a dream come true for him, yet it now fell second place to Gwen's well-being. She was all he thought about. Jason wanted to do everything he could for her, to provide her the stability that he couldn't offer her when he was younger, but even though he had acted as his Nana's full-time carer back in Kilkenny, he felt a little out of his depth with Gwen's situation.

Still, he had faith that she would continue to do her best. That's why he had to keep putting in the effort. Today, for instance, Jason had spent his waking hours cleaning and tidying his apartment in order to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere for her when she arrived. Part of him couldn't help but believe that she might not turn up, but he reminded himself that it was worth putting the effort in just in case. He lived in a apartment tucked away down a side street, above a flower shop run by a sweet old couple. Their cat, an overfed Scottish Fold named Ruben, often found his way into his apartment, not discouraged by Jason who had always loved cats. Ruben currently sat on top of his record cabinet, watching him as he fussed about the place. He doubted that Gwen would have a problem with him, however, and so didn't make any effort to get rid of him. He remembered Gwen's ginger tabby, Alto, from her apartment back in Ireland. Appropriately named, considering her talent for singing - perhaps that's why he never forgot the cat's name.

Just as Jason was assessing the place for the fifth time, he heard a knock on the door and instantly smiled. She had made it after all. Catching himself in the mirror on his way to the front door, he made sure his appearance was in order. Then, opening the front door with enthusiasm, he swept her into a passionate embrace before she could even say hello. After picking her up and spinning her in through the threshold of his apartment, he closed the door behind her and moved his hands to her face, looking into her eyes with a warm smile. "Gwen," he lovingly greeted her. "I've missed you. How're ye doing today?" Ruben jumped down from the cabinet and padded over to rub his face against her legs, causing Jason to take a step back from her and sigh. "That's Ruben, from downstairs... Don't mind him. I'm after feeding him twice today already so wit' any luck he won't bother us when we sit down to eat." He smiled at Gwen. Despite the effect that the heroin was having on her appearance, she still looked beautiful to him. "I've bought us a chicken to roast... Does that sound good to you?"

Interactions
Bellz Gwen

 

[Inb4Cloaker]

Farrid Al-Assad​

Folded clothes littered the medics bed, and an assortment of gear was assembled throughout various spots in his room, trailing out to the common area. Assad was searching for something he packed before ending his short lived journey overseas; something he didn’t even expect to return with. It wasn’t until nearly a week after his arrival that he received a separate bag containing items he left in the hands of his allies in the east by mistake, along with a unique gift. The medic was already grateful that he was able to retrieve the odds and ends he hastily abandoned, but the sight of a few metal and wood parts that were individually wrapped and separated intrigued the Syrian native. It didn’t take long for him to neatly lay out all the pieces, and when he did, his curious expression turned to one of pained joy.

“Wow. This is uh... probably illegal.” He said quietly to himself, aware of the irony when it came to circumventing the law. If he could run a makeshift treatment area and avoid legal ramifications, he could probably assemble a relatively uncommon gun and get away with it too.

The weapon that sat in pieces before him did not resemble his traditional preference of a shotgun. Instead, his allies had gifted him with a foreign, recently manufactured rifle. During his stay, he heard how some armed forces were starting to adopt the unusual looking weapon after its first appearance in the late forties. What he had was not an original, by any means, but its origin mattered little to Assad. What mattered the most to him was it’s usefulness, and if it would be a reliable weapon. The medic wasn’t exceptionally keen at identifying weapons that were from a common pattern, but he had enough knowledge and notes along with the rifle to identify it as a Type 56. Everything about the weapon seemed to be fairly new, with the exception of the fact that the spike bayonet had been removed, and the locking mechanism for it was smoothed over. Carefully running his hand over the stock, the medic glanced at the cracked stock of his own shotgun. He could’ve fixed the scattergun, but he didn’t have the inclination to do so yet, and he figured that a good first step away from that part of his past would be a different firearm. Despite his preference for pump action, he was willing to give the gift he received a try. Utilizing a small tool kit that came with the equipment, Farrid delicately assembled the rifle and assigned the pieces to their designated spots, one by one. The final product was a lighter, fairly maneuverable and well maintained firearm. Loading in one of the empty magazines, he racked the slide and tested the action, shouldering the weapon as he inspected the safety, semi, and auto notches. Farrid didn’t expect the auto function to do anything, but if it did-

“Oh man, that’d be badass.” He said with a broad smile, attaching the leather sling to the underside of the weapon and tightening it down. He’d have to make time to privately shoot a few rounds later and test himself against the recoil. His expectations were that it would be less than his normal twelve-gauge, and manageable with a controlled grip, but it wouldn’t hurt to try it out regardless.

Time went by faster than Assad was able to keep track of, and between tidying his living area and taking time to, understandably, mess with his new gun, he eventually found himself behind schedule. The previously destroyed living room had been cleared of destruction days prior, and returned to its former well kept state. Since his outburst and own way of coming to terms with his issues, the medic had gotten better, not completely fixed, but day by day, he was starting to see on the brighter side of things. His own thoughts of everything that transpired, along with his cleaning, were almost enough to make him forget about the meeting he agreed to earlier. After a casual glance at the clock, the medic froze in place and widened his eyes before doing a double take. If he didn’t set off on his way soon, he’d be late even if Friday traffic didn’t extend his trip beyond normal means. Wearing a pair of black shorts, a white tank top, and having a rifle slung across his chest, the medic figured it was time to stop cleaning and get ready to depart. Although leaving for the pub in the manner he was in at that moment would be humorous for Farrid, it would probably startle any bystanders.

Within minutes, the medic was dressed in a grey button up that was tucked into a pair of black slacks, along with a pair of clean leather dress shoes. He didn’t know too much about Conor, and didn’t want to make a poor impression by first appearing in bloused boots and cargo pants. The majority of his time getting ready was spent finding a place to stow his new rifle, and attempting to locate his sidearm of choice for concealed carry; a Browning Hi-Power. The last thing he did before leaving his residence and beginning the trip to the pub was look back at his clean apartment with a sense of accomplishment. He was doing well, he just had to maintain himself.

Not long after his departure, Farrids truck pulled into the parking lot of the Emerald Pub. While stepping out of his car and approaching the front door, he slipped his sunglasses on and wondered what Conor would inform him of. He was certainly out of the loop when it came to what had occurred in the last month, and if Conor wasn’t able to update him, perhaps Mitch could when he arrived.

بداية جديدة

Mentions: Conor Misty Gray Mitch RayPurchase
Interactions: None.​

 

[Melanin-Gxdess]

Aliana Cartwright-Sullivan​

The following week after their dinner was nothing short of fantastic. Having her family back and under the same roof sent her mind at ease, especially with all of the shit going on. Waking up for the first three nights with Leo jumping into their bed wasn't as annoying as it had been when it was just her alone. Now, she had someone to help her squish her son and teach him a lesson. She had never seen him so happy, practically pushing her out of the picture just so it'd be him and Conor. She wasn't against the idea at all, considering this was a pivotal time in his life to be around his father. Seeing the two of them and their relationship blossoming made her heart warm and got her thinking. Maybe it was time she had done the same thing with her own. She knew she had been thinking about it and talking about it a lot and decided maybe she should just do it. The first three times she attempted to see him, she would either stop her car and go home or sit for a while in the parking lot. Each time, she got closer to actually walking inside and saying and doing everything she needed to do. After speaking to her mother and Conor, she got the courage she needed to step foot in the prison she was just in months ago. After waiting for what seemed like an eternity, she got to see the man she had only talked to in letters. And let's just say, it was even better than she could have ever expected.

The next day, she was getting ready to meet Lucy and Sinead at the latter's restaurant. She couldn't wait to see the two of them and tell them all about the things that had been going on the past few weeks. Everyone's lives had been hectic and going downhill and for the moment it was going better than ever. Granted, she couldn't shake the feeling that something awful was coming. Despite having Conor and Alan back in her life, she couldn't just ignore the things that were happening around them. Someone was trying to kill people in her family. She didn't know if certain members were being targeted for something greater or if it were really all just random. But, she did know something had to be done about all of this for sure. She had Leo to worry about protecting and she wasn't going to let anyone hurt him or anyone else for that matter. But today wasn't about that; no, today was about catching up with her friends.

Walking into the restaurant, she was escorted to a booth where she saw Lucy and Sinead already chatting. With a warm smile, Ali sat across from the two and placed her hands on the table. "Hello ladies, how are we?" She asked. It was quite visible that she was in a better mood these days. There were no longer dark circles under her eyes and her movements weren't sluggish. It was like she actually wanted to be around people and out of the house. She had resorted to drinking wine instead of the hard stuff and she was sure her liver was thanking her for the small break. "A day without the husbands. How bittersweet, hm?"


​

Sinead ( Misty Gray ) Lucy ( Bellz )

 

[Melanin-Gxdess]

Theodore Wycliff​

Doing the few jobs here and there Gabriel had for him was sufficient enough whilst he was working on his own ventures. Before he moved to Miami, he had a few things going on of his own. He just had to get back into the swing of those things but once he did, things would be back on track. But for today, those plans had to be put on pause as there was something more important for him to be doing. It seemed like there was a part two to his boss' elaborate plan in getting payback against the Porter's. They were finally going to make themselves know; the whole city would soon know about the Moretti's vs. the Porter's. To say he wasn't excited about it all would definitely be nothing but a lie. He looked forward to it ever since his boss told him they were all moving up to New York. Just because he hadn't shown much excitement about it all meant nothing. He was simply keeping his composure and trying to remain composed.

After making a promise to Elv about keeping her old man safe, Teddy headed out to meet Gabriel at their newly acquired garage. Sitting next to him, watching Jonah cower on the other side, Teddy rubbed his finger across his lip in thought. He wasn't thinking of anything in particular when he heard Gabriel speaking to him, asking how he was becoming acquainted with New York since their big move. He didn't have much to complain about nor anything to really report. "Ah, well..." He said taking a deep breath, running his hand through his hair. "Nothing to complain about, boss. I got a fish tank. Yeah, it's really something actually. It's like a coffee table, but it's also a fish tank. When we're not uh, handling the business you and the missus should come over for dinner." He shot him a sly grin before rubbing his hands together. "Speaking of, how's the labradoodle your wife picked up?" He asked with a slight chuckle.

Before there was even some sort of response, it seemed like their guests had arrived. Once the two men stepped inside, Teddy kept both eyes on them. He didn't at all miss the comment that was made by Peter and couldn't help but chuckle at it. He was prepared for whatever backlash or glare he was going to get so he put up a hand defensively and immediately apologized to Gabe, still with that boyish grin on his face. "Ah, I don't think it's that small of a world... It's pretty big, you just have to know the right people."

​

Gabriel, James ( Misty Gray ) Peter ( Bellz )

 

[Bellz]

Gwen Bryant ​

The door opened and Gwen was just about to greet the familiar blonde man when he wrapped his arms around her, lifting her up off the ground, spinning her. Gwen couldn't keep the smile off her face as she laughed, the laughter dying down once they were inside and the door was closed. He said her name so lovingly but Gwen wasn't sure she deserved such affection.

"I've missed you too." She confessed before shrugging her shoulders, "Day seems to be almost over, I slept through most of it." Her eyes looked into his a moment before something soft brushed against her legs, causing her to look down. "Oh hello," She cooed to Ruben as he looped through her legs, whiskers pressed against them as he passed. Crouching down, Gwen picked up the cat with a little bit of effort, "Wow, twice a day?" Turning Ruben so that he faced her, Gwen smiled fondly, "I think someone gets fed a little too often, huh Ruben?" Kissing the cat on the top of its head, she set him down easily before looking to Jason once more.

"Chicken sounds incredible." She told him, her stomach was already growling. She hadn't grabbed anything on her way out and now she was starting to think that she should have. Dinner time was still a while from now. Looking around the apartment, Gwen took in all of Jason's belongings and his style of decor.

It was cozy. "Its so lovely in here." She murmured before taking his hand in hers. It was very clean inside the apartment, which made Gwen wonder if he had straightened up for her, "Pretty domesticated if you ask me," She said with a teasing tone before taking a few steps closer to give him a gentle kiss.

Once she pulled away, she was reminded of what she carried in her bag. "I have something for you." Gwen took a step back and reached inside of her bag before pulling out a record that she had only played a few times before, 11 long years ago.

"Do you remember giving this to me?" She wondered, seeing as he hadn't remember him saying anything about the stars before.
with: Jason Pyroclast

 

[Pyroclast]

Spoiler: Trigger Warning

Suicidal ideation

Syd Porter

It was difficult to have to engage in conversation when he felt so withdrawn. There was somebody waiting for him to speak, yet he could barely form a coherent thought in his head, let alone verbalise his feelings. Syd took the time to pour himself a glass of water and gazed at it for a few seconds as if summoning the energy to bring it to his lips. It was refreshing, at least, when he did finally manage to drink it.

Maddox began with his usual question, encouraging him to open up. His gentle, calming voice reminded Syd that he was safe, that this office was the best place to start unpacking what it was that had got him so down. Unfortunately, it had all been stowed so deeply inside him that he couldn't even figure out how to begin answering the question. His body felt tense like it did when he was about to cry and at first he could only shake his head in response, face twisting into a frown as he gripped his hands together. "Dr Parker... Something's not right with me," he finally admitted, voice already wavering. Syd looked across at the man, sitting forward with his elbows on his knees and a hand idly toying with his wedding ring. For him, that ring was more than a symbol of marriage - it was a reminder that he had once known happiness, a source of hope that he could one day feel it again.

"Have you ever wondered if all the memories in your head belong to somebody else?" he asked. "They're there, but you don't... It's like they're a completely different person. And then you're left thinking, well, if that person isn't me, then who the hell am I?" A small, melancholy chuckle escaped him and his eyes began to sting from the pressure of holding back tears. The smile fell from his face and he shook his head again, eyes growing distant as he allowed himself to explore the darkest depths of his mind that he had been too afraid to explore on his own. "I don't think I'm whole. I can't think, I can't remember... I can't remember who I am anymore." Syd bit down on his lip and gazed into the space between his feet. "My parents are gone. I think they've forgotten me, too. And I want them to. I've had all this guilt too long, doc - nothing's getting better. Everything's just standing still."

His eyes glazed over and he brought his hands up to support his head. A sickening anxiety had formed in the pit of his stomach and he was finding it hard to breathe normally. A familiar feeling washed over him then, but this was the first time the words had taken form in his mind and once they were there, he couldn't shake them. Syd knew he ought to confess them to Maddox, but he didn't know how to say it. He brought his hands together and took a deep, unsteady breath. "Dr Parker, I-I don't think it's worth it anymore," he quietly admitted, voice weakening under the emotional strain. "I've been holding on too long - all I do is make people's lives worse. I want to just let go, so that everyone can let go of me."

Interactions
Misty Gray Maddox

 

[Misty Gray]

Maddox Parker​

Maddox sat back in his armchair, interlacing the fingers of both hands as he rested them on his lap. It was was easy to identify how broken and troubled Syd was. The counsellor's automatic response In those situations would be to put his full effort into reassuring the patient and providing them with all of the help he could to ease their minds. It was not only his duty but also a natural response to want to help whoever was sat on the couch opposite him. He cared for those who sought his help and he worked tirelessly to try preventing their mental health from deteriorating. So even with James Porter's son seated across from him, it was a conscious effort for Maddox to switch off that part of him. His objective was to push Syd to the brink and allow him to break. Not only for Gabriel and Stefano, but for himself and the loved ones who had been taken from him by the Porters. After the initial doubt, Maddox was back into the frame of mind he needed to be in and it was concerning how easily it was to want to manipulate Syd's mind.

Maddox observed as the other man fidgeted with the wedding ring, oblivious to how much his unconscious action provided further fuel to his own ruin. The counsellor knew how important Skye was in helping to tear Syd apart. She was one of the deeper set roots in the man's psychological issues and Maddox intended to uproot it, to reverse the work he'd done in helping Syd to move on with his life after her death. Maddox nodded along when questioned about memories and how they didn't feel like they belonged to him. He too remembered a better life - a life before the Porters marched into it and ripped out its foundations. Whilst Syd grieved over a wife lost to natural causes, others had to grieve of loved ones murdered and stolen away by the Mob.

Syd mentioned his parents were gone, setting the cogs ticking in Maddox's head, masked expertly by the encouraging and soft features on the counsellor's face. Syd was lost and carrying immense guilt. Then he threw more bait to the calculating counsellor. Or, bait was an understatement. Syd was handing the fire's fuel to Maddox on a silver platter, to suggest everyone would be better off without him.

Having allowed Syd to offload, Maddox sat forward in his seat and took a drink of his own water as he prepared to speak up. He carefully placed set the glass back down on the table. "Those kind of memories will undoubtedly feel alien when you've lost so much since the days when things were happier. Simpler. Your life was practically heaven for those years when you had Skye in your life and you had a close relationship with your parents. It's difficult to accept those memories are yours when what is lost can't be taken back. It's unsurprising that you don't feel whole, when the brightest light in your life has already passed away."

Maddox's heart raced in his chest as he was reminded of Moretti's orders to finish the job today. The objective was to remove Syd from the equation, whether that was having him carted off to an asylum or removing him for good, Maddox knew it had to be done. He had to flip that switch in Syd's mind. Maddox knew he would be protected from any fallout. "Why do you think your parents are gone? Is it possible they might consider you a burden in their already busy lives. Is it possible they feel like you've betrayed them?" Syd might think the suggested betrayal was his relationship with Roxie, but Maddox meant much more than that. Syd and Conor had betrayed their family every time they gave Maddox invaluable information that had then been used against them. "Tell me, Syd. If you did let go, who would be better off for it? Whose lives would be improved were you no longer with them?"


Pyroclast (Syd)

 

[Misty Gray]

James Porter and Gabriel Moretti​

Gabriel raised a curious eyebrow as he listened to Teddy talk about his fancy new fish tank. He slowly nodded at the suggestion he and Elvira should go to the younger man's place for dinner at some point. "You already had me at the coffee table fish tank," he drily remarked. "We'll arrange a suitable day," he added. Out of the corner of his eye, he could see Jonah still shifting awkwardly, which he found subtly amusing as he prolonged the conversation about fish tanks and dinner. A question followed about the dog, a new addition to the house which Gabriel had yet to pay much attention at all to. He'd been too busy to give time to the animal, but he was grateful his family hadn't gone for one of those yappy purse dogs. Gabriel was spared from continuing the small talk when the main event arrived at the office.

James had no time to react before he found himself staring at a gun that was pointed at his head. He tightened his jaw upon hearing the order to surrender his weapons. Before complying, his attention was drawn towards the older of the two men seated at the desk. Recognising Gabriel was pretty much like seeing a ghost. Peter's voice snapped him out of his stare and James reached into the inside of his jacket to retrieve the handgun, which he proceeded to toss onto the ground. Glaring at the man still aiming the gun at him, James practically growled as he reached to his hip and removed a second gun from its holster, lazily holding his hand out and dropping it at his feet. After briefly looking to Peter, James reached into his back pocket and tossed the closed hunters knife onto the floor. He then held his hands out in front to show he'd given up all of his weapons. The job he'd been anticipating after picking up the repaired car had involved tracking down those who had intercepted Savannah the previous week. James hadn't expected that to be a clean job so had left the house prepared.

"Pleasure to meet you again, Mr. Callahan," Gabriel responded, with an almost smug smirk on his lips. The Italian shot Teddy a glance as the man chuckled, but he chose not to react to it.

"You have your brother's looks," James told Gabriel, immediately pegging his identity and knowing him to be a younger brother of Francesco Moretti. "Pete, this is Gabriel Moretti," he informed his brother-in-law before the Italian could do the honours. Although it was partly for Peter's benefit, James wanted to deprive Gabriel of introducing himself. After the two guards had kicked the Irishmen's weapons out of the way, James and Peter were commanded to sit at the table opposite Gabriel and Teddy. Facing Gabriel directly, James sat back in his seat as he studied the man's cold, stern features. Considering he'd had the Italian's family wiped out a few years ago, James was surprised he wasn't on the floor riddled with bullets and dying in a pool of his own blood by now.

"I may share his looks, but clearly I was graced with better fortune," Gabriel pointed out. He sat up straight and rested his hands on the table. "I survived my brother's party, after all," he added, his voice eerily calm. "I've been waiting a long time to sit face-to-face with you Irish rats and already I can see you're blinded by the power. You carry a belief that you're invincible and untouchable. I would admire that were you a man I had an ounce of respect for."

James glanced to Teddy before fixing his eyes on Gabriel and maintaining a neutral expression on his face. Regardless of the odds presently stacked against him and the fact he'd seen to it that most of Moretti's family had been killed, James had by now learned how to maintain a calm and neutral attitude. "Let's skip the pleasantries and get to the point, shall we?" he suggested.

"Ah! I take it back. You clearly have no time for small talk and that I can respect," he remarked. He too wished to get to the point, so intended to do precisely that. "I lost most of my family because of you, Mr. Porter and I take that very personally. But, I don't intend for this encounter to be bloody. I wish for a civilised business meeting before resorting to other options. I have a proposition which I know is in your best interest to accept." He paused but the look in James' eyes made it clear he was to continue. "You're going to step down and hand this city over to me. You will sign over your businesses to me and you will be financially compensated for them in return." He turned to Teddy and sent the man a nod, gauging how his loyal associate was taking the bold proposition. "Your reign over this city is at the end."

"Are you fucking insane?" James asked, letting out a dry laugh. "Who are you to waltz in here and make such a threat?" He then looked to his brother-in-law, shaking his head. "Am I hearing this right, Pete?"

Gabriel sat up straight and allowed a crooked smirk to show on his lips. The meeting was going as he expected, but he was at least confident in the insight he would gain from it. "You would be wise not to underestimate who I am and what I am capable of. You look tired, Mr. Porter and I know of the stresses you are carrying because I have allowed it all to escalate around you. What I am offering now I will only offer this once. You will hand this empire over to me, through contracts and financial compensation. The alternative will be more bloody, more painful, and you'd be begging me to take it off of your hands for free." Gabriel diverted his attention directly to Peter. "Mr Callahan. I have a genuine interest in your wife's Jazz Club. You could encourage her to sign it over to me, or you could watch me rip it from those dainty little hands of hers. Hasn't your wife already suffered through enough bloodshed lately?" he asked, referring to the night Sinead, Lucy and Syd were tortured. "I know I'd go for the civilised option, wouldn't you?" he posed the question to all three men at the table.

Bellz (Peter) Melanin-Gxdess (Teddy)

 

[Pyroclast]

Spoiler: Trigger Warning

Self-harm, suicidal ideation

Syd Porter

The anxiety was beginning to spread through his body, intensifying with every word that fell from Maddox's lips. Syd nodded along, moving his hand away from his wedding ring and up to the scar on his chest. The counsellor seemed to understand exactly what he meant, and he was relieved that he had managed to successfully express how he had been feeling. Still, it was hard to hear his deeper feelings reflected back at him. In some ways it felt like a lifetime ago when he had had everything: Skye, his sisters, Jackson... Freshly recruited into the mob, a beacon of youthful optimism and untouched by trauma. His parents, on the other hand...he couldn't tell how much time had passed since they had been in his life. The pain of losing them was still fresh, and combined with the miserable reminder that the brightest light in his life passed away 9 years ago, it was fast becoming too much for Syd to take. His implicit confession of wanting to end his life had already brought his raw emotions to the surface, but now Maddox's words had coaxed them out of him altogether. Syd clawed deeply at the healing wound through his shirt, but the physical discomfort wasn't enough to distract himself from the overwhelming anguish. By now, his nodding had turned into a rocking motion and he let out a sob. His inability to speak in that moment didn't seem to matter, for his counsellor gave off the impression that he understood Syd without need for further explanation.

His words rang so true in Syd's mind that he didn't even notice what the man was beginning to do. Of course he was a burden to his parents; of course they would feel betrayed by him. To Syd, that would be true regardless of what his parents might say. He was growing more agitated by the second and could feel a rising panic in his chest as Maddox added more weight to his fears. They were no longer just in his head, now, they were out in the open - and yet, his own counsellor wasn't even challenging them. In fact, he was feeding them. Syd grimaced as more tears rolled down his face. The weight on his shoulders grew so heavy that he could barely sit up, and he continued to anxiously scratch at the scar until it became hot to the touch and wet with freshly drawn blood. Still, he couldn't stop. He couldn't stop anything, now.

Maddox's questions confused him and he went back to shaking his head as he thought of just some of the people he had burdened or hurt recently: his mother, his father, Thomas, Roxie... To him, that was more than enough. "Everyone," he wept, bringing his hands up to his head in despair as he rocked in his seat. Speaking to Maddox usually helped to clear his head, but somehow he wasn't doing that this time. While the counsellor's words seemed to validate all the despairing thoughts that had made Syd feel suicidal, it only ended up making him feel worse. Syd couldn't work out why, but part of him knew things were going down the wrong path. His counsellor was usually trying to pull him out of his negative thoughts by now, not pushing him deeper inside them. "What are you doing?" he groaned, grabbing fistfuls of hair and pulling on them until his scalp burned. "What's happening? What are you doing?"

Interactions
Misty Gray Maddox

 

[Misty Gray]

Maddox Parker​

Maddox sat back and watched as the anxiety in Syd intensified. Although he knew he hadn't had to say too much or speak so explicitly yet, he knew the reaction he was getting out of Syd was made possible through years of trust. Maddox had gained Syd's trust and the man had grown comfortable enough with him to share everything that was on his mind. The counsellor's guilt and shame were kept away by the constant reminder of what the Porters had taken from him. All of the people the Porters had taken from the Morettis. This was their punishment.

When Syd began scratching at his scar, Maddox sat forward and hesitated before leaning forward to reach for the box of tissues. Holding it in his hand, he froze as Syd spoke up to say "everyone" would be better without him. The man was rocking in his seat and the sight ensured Maddox idly held the box in his hand as his attention was focused on studying his patient's behaviour. He was so close to the edge that Maddox had to remind himself not to become too confident, but to instead make sure his task was completed successfully.

"What am I doing?" Maddox soothingly repeated, defensively shaking his head. "I'm trying to help you. You're bleeding," he said, holding out the box of tissues as he pointed to the now bleeding scar on his chest. "Syd, you need to calm down. You're hurting yourself," Maddox spoke firmly and through gritted teeth as Syd proceeded to pull at his own hair.

Once again, the patient asked Maddox what he was doing. Maddox stood up and set the tissues down on the table in front of Syd. The counsellor moved so he was standing beside him and placed a gentle hand on his shoulder. "Syd, I'm not doing anything," he spoke calmly, as if completely oblivious to the way he was manipulating the man. "This is all you, Syd. I haven't put these thoughts into your head, I've merely helped you to talk about them. The facts are that Skye is dead and your parents are too busy with their business to cope with your difficulties. Is it really fair to burden Roxie with this too?" he asked, referring to Syd's apparent breakdown. "I've been trying to help you for years, but you remain resistant to the medication and to my interventions." Maddox lowered his voice as he moved closer to Syd. "You're a danger to yourself," he said, glancing down to Syd's wound. "And potentially a danger to others... You're beyond anyone's help," he said, bringing his last words to a whisper.

Pyroclast (Syd)

 

[Misty Gray]

Sinead Callahan​

Sinead was in the process of using her straw to fish the cherry out from the bottom of her cocktail glass when she heard Lucy greet her. She dropped the straw back into her drink and abandoned her mission to rescue the piece of fruit. She looked up to her sister and returned her smile with a bright one of her own. "Hey, honey," she called out in a melodic fashion. She returned the kiss with one of her own on the blonde's cheek. "That's okay, Luce. I just felt you need to get out of the house for a bit and have a lively change of scenery." Having suffered many low points where she didn't leave the house for days or weeks on end, Sinead knew all too well the importance of getting out into the real world.

"Things are going great. There's so much lined up from now until New Year," she excitedly told her. "Petey is doing well, as far as I can see. We've been really close again lately," she happily told her. She paused when Aliana joined them. "Hey, darling," she greeted her, standing to give her a tight hug. She then returned to answering about the kids. "I'm worried about Savvy after what those awful people have done to her. I just want her to come home so I can make her feel better, but she won't and I know I can't force her to hide from her life. I just really miss her, y'know? As for Brady - good luck getting him over for dinner. He was always out with his friends before, so now he's moved in with Savvy his poor Momma is forgetting what he looks like." She let out a sigh. Whilst Savvy was a gentle and peaceful person, Emery was confrontational and usually willing to fight. As it stood, Sinead wished Savannah had some of that fight in her to deal with her attackers. "Emmy's only been back in school a couple of weeks and she's already been in bother for arguing with her apparently sexist teacher," she said, rolling her eyes. "But yeah. Pete, Emmy and I will make it over for dinner, for sure."

When Aliana mentioned having a day without their husbands, Sinead faintly smiled. "Yeah... I hope Petey is home at a decent time. I miss him already... and my shoulders are achey so I need a massage!" She then pointed to Aliana and grinned. "As for you, missus. Conor has been out of my hair for a week now. I take it things are going well? Please tell me you and Conor are back on track?" she excitedly asked.

Knowing Lucy had a lot of her plate with Syd, Sinead turned a little more serious. "Luce, how are things with Syd? Have you guys spoken yet?" she asked her. Sinead knew she was an idealist and perhaps too forgiving, but she didn't understand why things had escalated so much. She thought Lucy and James would be excited about becoming grandparents but instead the news had caused big arguments. "I wish you'd all make up with each other. Family is too precious, no matter what's happened. If there's any way I can help..."

Bellz (Lucy) Melanin-Gxdess (Aliana)

 

[RayPurchase]

Mitchell Van Gerwen


​

Mitch stepped out of the cab. He'd once again taken the opportunity to dress down, he was making that same mistake, Larry would have had an absolute field day. Blue jeans, white polo shirt, and his leather jacket. Jackets had become a staple of his wardrobe now, that or a blazer when working. He'd taken to carrying his sidearm permanently now, and given his preferred holder being an armpit holster, the jacket was a necessity, he didn't exactly want to advertise the fact that he was carrying. Not that he thought that it would have reached this point. But as much as he had tried to previously ignore it they were at war now. Family members kidnapped, people turning up dead, shipments and supplies going missing. He had ignored the warning signs, and now they were in the thick of it. He'd upped his lessons down the range, and he was down there most nights now in his spare time. Shooting at targets was all well and good, and he told himself that if it ever came to it, he'd be more than ready because of it. Unfortunately the critical part of his mind was one judge he couldn't win over.


He glanced at the red pick up truck, a grin appearing on his face as he recognised it. Farrid. He hadn't seen the man since James' party, and that seemed like a lifetime ago. From what he had heard Bailey's death had hit him quite hard. One of the first of many as it turned out, taken long before her time, a waste of possibility and potential. He sighed and shook his head. No point dwelling on the ghosts of the past, there was little comfort to be found there. Conor had invited the pair of them, on the basis of a catch up. He was more than happy to oblige, besides the weekly and monthly reports he had been filing with the probation service he hadn't had the chance to catch up with Conor in the flesh. Besides it meant seeing Rachel again, and outside of business hours this time. Good lord he'd made a prat of himself, shaking her goddamn hand. Why he didn't just buckle up the courage and… he shook himself out of the train of thought once more. Focus on the now.


He approached the entrance finding Farrid already there and about to enter.


"So you managed to find the place without any trouble then?"


He yelled out to Farrid as he approached. Giving him a friendly pat on the shoulder.


"It's been too long. It's good to see you again, first round is in me and I won't hear a word about it, if Conor allows me to pay for it that is. Come on let's get ourselves inside and off the street,"


With a guiding hand on his shoulder he pushed open the doors. Didn't do well to linger, seemed like they were all targets these days, and Mitch didn't plan on them getting jumped. Even with the cool headed medic with him, who he would happily bet could handle himself, he didn't want to chance anything.

(Interaction Inb4Cloaker Farrid, Mention: Misty Gray Conor, Rachel)

 

[Misty Gray]

Savannah Callahan​

Savannah was glad when Danny seemed okay about her being late, reassuring her that he wasn't annoyed with her. She blushed and bashfully smiled when he complimented her appearance. It felt good to be treated with respect and for a man's words not to be said with sinister purpose. The way Danny held her reaffirmed how secure she felt in his presence, like nobody could get to her when she was with him. It always felt good to let go and be natural in his presence.

As they turned to set off walking to the restaurant, Savannah felt Danny's hand brush against hers and she took hold of his hand in return, giving it a gentle squeeze for good measure. He then asked her how she'd been and what she'd done since they last saw each other. "It feels like forever ago since we hung out," she echoed his thoughts, trying to buy some time as she prepared herself to answer his questions. She looked out onto the road for a moment, observing the cars driving by alongside them. Danny would feel a slight dragging as Savannah's walking slowed and her face appeared to lose it's colour. "Something happened again," she said, her words only coming out as a whisper as she hesitated to speak. She then cleared her throat and consciously made sure to speak at a normal level. "I was in the city and I bumped into that man again. The one who kidnapped me from the theatre." As her hands began to tremble, she tightened her grip on Danny's hand. "He... he..." Savannah stopped still and let go of Danny as she brought her hands up to her forehead to cover her eyes. Steve's face was in her mind and she wanted to rip those thoughts out of her head.

The blonde pulled her hands away and began to take shallow breaths, struggling to breathe. She placed one hand to her chest and held onto the nearby railing as she felt unsteady on her feet. She quickly turned her head, eyes darting around as she checked around them to make sure they were safe - to make sure Steve wasn't there. "I'm sc..." she began, struggling to get her word out as she fought to control her breathing. "I can't be out here," she managed to tell him. She turned to Danny and fixed her eyes on him despite the faintness she was feeling. Her tearful eyes were practically pleading with him as she struggled to form her words. "Please can you take me home? Please can we go home?" she desperately asked. "That man's still out here somewhere and I don't want to get hurt again. I'm sorry, I... please?" she asked, trembling as she stood helplessly on the spot.


Pyroclast (Danny)

 

[Bellz]

Peter Callahan ​

Peter had a vague understanding of who this man was but when James informed him of Moretti's identity, everything became crystal clear. Clenching his teeth together tightly, they were forced to sit at the table opposite of the two men. Peter took a seat and leaned back just as James had.

Silently, Peter looked to Teddy with a serious look, jaw ticking as he listened to Gabriel speak. Being called Irish rats was a new one and Peter rolled his eyes at the dramatics of it. James suggested that Gabriel get right to the point and Peter nodded. If this was the man that was responsible for Sinny being injured, Peter wanted to make sure they walked out of here with a few bullets in the Italian's head but the odds were against them at the moment.

Turning his head, he saw their weapons were still on the ground...Civilized business? Peter turned his head back around with eyebrows raised as he wondered what the proposition was. He wanted James to step down and this news caused Peter to look at his brother-in-law, his face was neutral as always but he knew the cogs were turning.

James let out a dry laugh and turned to Peter asking if him if he was hearing what was said right. Peter let out a short chuckle, "Sounds crazy enough to be locked up in the looney bin." Peter commented before looking between Gabriel and Teddy. Mr. Moretti was different from the men they had dealt with before...he definitely wasn't crazy like the rest. At the mention of James looking tired, Peter found himself looking to his boss again.

As well as James did hide it, age was simply something that couldn't be hidden. With all of the attacks and the argument with his son, it was pretty clear to see that James was tired. Gabriel revealed that he was behind the stresses that James was experiencing and the alternative would not be as easy going if they decided not to make a deal with the prick.

Gabriel turned to Peter suddenly and the man sat straighter in his seat. He was interested in Sinny's club. His threat caused Peter to actually smile deviously. His eyes narrowed as he confessed to knowing about what happened Sinead and Peter slammed his hands down on the table before lifting one to point at the man. "You're a fucking fool if you think we are going to hand anything over to you." His voice was deep and rough as he placed his hand back down on the table. "My wife stays out of this, unless you'd like to make this a family affair. Us Irish rats love to meet the family. As I'm sure you are already aware, Gabriel. Guess we weren't clear enough." He hissed before leaning back in his seat again.
with: James + Gabriel Misty Gray ; Teddy Melanin-Gxdess

 

[Pyroclast]

Jason Costello

It warmed Jason's heart to hear Gwen admit that she had missed him, too. Sometimes he found himself wondering where he fell on her current list of priorities. Between the heroin, Lorelei and the musical, he didn't imagine she had much time to think about him. He, on the other hand, barely thought about anything else. The comment about sleeping through the day was made in passing, but he still caught onto it and hoped that it wasn't because she had been high. Although he didn't always verbalise it, Jason was constantly concerned for her and that came up as a red flag in his mind. Still, she had only been there for 5 seconds and he was so pleased to welcome her into his apartment that it didn't take much effort for him to simply smile. "Let me tell ye, day's only just beginnin'," he assured her. At least, his day was. His day never truly started until he saw Gwen's face.

Jason watched her interact with Ruben with a look of adoration in his eyes and stepped close to tickle the cat's belly. "Doesn't count as stealin' if the fatty chooses to live here wit' me," he playfully remarked. He was pleased that Gwen liked his home, and looked around with her. It wasn't usually so clean or tidy, but now that he had made the effort for Gwen, he thought he might make a habit of it. "You think I'm domestic now, just wait 'til we get cooking," he teased her with a wink. Jason couldn't keep the smile off his face when Gwen reached up to kiss him.

With his hands loosely resting in hers, Jason let them rise and then fall naturally when she pulled away from him to reach her bag. His brows knitted together, curious as to what she could have brought for him. Out of the bag she pulled a record, and immediately Jason knew it was the kind of gift that could bring the two even closer together. Both lovers of jazz, with a chemistry that could transport them to another world through one dance alone.

But then she asked him if he remembered it. Apparently, he had once given that same record to her. Reaching to take it from her, he read the song title from the sleeve: "When You're Smiling (The Whole World Smiles With You), Louis Armstrong...1956." Jason continued to stare at the record, his face turning serious. Of course he remembered. He remembered the first time he heard that version of the song on the radio 11 years ago and how it seemed to be singing about Gwen. He remembered going out and buying it for her as a surprise gift; meeting her at All That Jazz back in Dublin and handing it to her; going back to her apartment, taking her in his arms and dancing along to it... And then everything had gone wrong. That night, she had asked him to be her plus one to James Porter's wedding renewal; Jason had panicked and waited until she had fallen asleep before abandoning her. Just like his family had abandoned him.

Eventually, Jason looked up at Gwen. He couldn't believe she still had it after what he had done to her. "You kept this?" he asked her, his voice softening. "After all this time? Even movin' to New York, getting married, you...you took it wit' you?" Looking back down to the record, he traced the title with his fingertips and a bittersweet smile formed on his lips. "I thought you'd never want to hear it again."

Interactions
Bellz Gwen

 

[Bellz]

Lucy Porter ​

"Someone looks fantastic." Lucy commented as Ali greeted them. Sinny got up to give her a hug but Luce couldn't muster up the strength. Once both were seated, Lucy offered a sad smile as Sinead went on to talk about the kids. Hearing about Sinead's worries about Savannah were understandable. As for Braden, Lucy could only relate recently, feeling as though she was starting to forget what Syd looked like already and it had only been a week.

At the mention of having a day without the husbands, Lucy could only sigh. James was her biggest support system but she carried a lot of guilt knowing that he was taking the brunt of everything lately, she hoped having some time away from her sorry self would lift his own spirits.

Hearing that Ali had managed to get Conor out of Sinead's hair caused Lucy to smile a little brighter. Their brother was certainly a handful and if Ali had good news to tell then Lucy was very happy for the two of them.

Sinny's face turned serious as she looked to Lucy. Lifting her drink to her lips, Lucy listened as her sister wished for something that Lucy also wished for. But she wasn't ready to take that step, it was clear that Syd needed his space...

Polishing off the drink in one go, Lucy set her glass down on the table before shaking her head. "Right now, Syd needs his space. He's made it perfectly clear that we are not his parents and he doesn't have to accept anything we say." Lucy said flatly.

"My door is always open, he knows that. I'm not going to force anything because I just keep getting turned away. I've thought about it and I do feel happy for my son...I just needed some time to process the whole thing, ya know?" The blonde looked between the women briefly before looking down at her empty glass.

"I am worried about him though. I don't think that psychologist he's seeing is doing any good. Syd says he's trying to change and maybe he is...perhaps he's not getting the proper guidance?" Her thoughts were laid out on the table for the women to pick through, she wasn't sure what to do with Syd anymore but a week had gone by without any contact and she was over it.
with: Sinny Misty Gray ; Ali Melanin-Gxdess

 

[Bugsy]

KEEGAN LYNCH​

The last few days had been tiring, running all over the city trying to pin down the bastards who were injecting a dose of misery into everyone's lives.

In between that, he had managed to pay a swift visit to his mother and his sisters who were living in with her. The conversations were tense, the atmosphere heavy as he had sat around the same family dinner table he used to be a small boy at - the death of his brother had taken a huge toll on his mother and there was nothing he could have done to alleviate it; his mother made comments about him running about with the Porters and about him dragging his brothers (who she had said were trying to make a life for himself) into the mess. Even with all of that, Keegan nodded; he could never get mad at his mother, he could understand. It had been his fault that Kevin had got caught up in the fight, his fault for wanting a better life for his family and at the cost of his brother.

"It was good seein' you, ma."

With that, he had left her and his sisters just as quickly as he had arrived, the door closing gently back on its lock as it shut.

Returning to the present, Keegan had Warren by his side, scoping out the EHHQ and jotting down notable patterns that they went through and vehicles that would be of importance. In between his legs, he had an imported AK-47 simply for this particular situation. If the East Harlem gang wanted to play with fire, Keegan was more than happy to rain it down upon their heads. The Irishman made glances in the rear mirror at their back up; Declan and Quinn.

His lips pressed into a thin line around the cigarette clenched between his teeth as he considered what his mother had said to him, the words coming to float and haunt him. His conscious getting the better of him before he pushed back, pushing the words to the back of his mind as he watched the chevvy came into view. Keegan's blue eyes tore off the car and onto the face of Warren, lingering there before he had decided to speak. "With pleasure."

With that, he racked the AK-47.

"Just get close enough and I'll take the fucker out of action." Keegan said, his voice even as he glanced out the side of his window.

Tag: Misty Gray (Warren)
Mentions: Pyroclast (Steve) and RayPurchase (Tony)

 

[Pyroclast]

Spoiler: Trigger Warning

Suicidal ideation

Syd Porter

Syd could tell that something in the atmosphere of the room wasn't right. After several weeks of gradual deterioration, his ability to think clearly was now considerably lacking, leaving him unable to comprehend the reasons behind his moods. Once his depression took the reins, there was little he could do besides wait for it to lift; except that, in his current situation, it didn't seem to be showing any signs of doing that. Now, as he fell into the grip of an intensifying panic attack, it had become extremely difficult to identify whether something really was wrong, or whether it was just the panic taking over his body. Maddox's words reinforced his low self-worth and all the reasons why he wanted to bring an early end to his life. He made him feel understood, yet was also hurting him, making the temptation to commit suicide harder to resist. But Maddox would never hurt him or try to make him feel worse; it didn't make sense to him.

The rapid pounding of his heart, the blurring motion of the floor as he rocked back and forth, the piercing headache - even Maddox's soothing voice wasn't enough to bring him back from the frenzy he had worked himself into. Spots of blood had begun to appear on his shirt where the wound had been reopened, but Syd didn't see them. He only shook his head when Maddox told him he was hurting himself. To him, it didn't matter - he didn't know how to gain enough control over his emotions to stop himself from causing more pain, anyway.

The sound of a box of tissues being set down on the table in front of him caught Syd's attention and he stopped tugging so hard at his hair, suddenly fixated on the box instead. The feeling of a hand on his shoulder made him jump and he gasped out in terror. The rocking stopped and instead he froze, quivering under the counsellor's touch. Having spent the last several minutes with his head down, Syd hadn't noticed that Maddox had got up out of his seat and approached him. He wanted desperately to tell the man to stop touching him, but he couldn't get any words out.

Maddox continued to speak, reminding him of the facts: Skye was dead and his parents were too busy to deal with him. On top of that, he was burdening Roxie with his mental health problems. More tears filled his eyes as Roxie's face came to mind, thinking of how much she must have suffered since he entered her life. "She's too good to me..." he quietly sobbed, wrapping his arms tightly around himself as he surrendered to the counsellor's control. The man pointed out how he hadn't responded well to any of his interventions or medications, and Syd began to believe he was simply a broken man, destined to die young and alone. He then began to inch closer, causing Syd to tense up and shake even more. To be told that he was a danger to himself and to others sent him back to the fight with his parents, and he realised he had heard his mother say those words to him to warn him against having a baby. It was the first time a clear memory of the fight had returned to him and it made Maddox's argument all the more convincing; if he believed it, too, then it really must be true. Syd couldn't raise the child. He simply wasn't well enough.

"I don't...deserve anyone's help," he whispered back, struggling to speak for the trembling that had spread through his whole body. "I don't want to h-hurt anyone anymore..." By now, it seemed to him that suicide was the only option left. No medication had worked, nor had his counsellor's intervention - for if they had, he wouldn't be in such a state. Still all too conscious of Maddox's uncomfortably close presence and the hand on his shoulder, Syd leaned forward and buried his head in his hands. He wanted to be invisible to the whole world. He wanted to disappear for good.

Interactions
Misty Gray Maddox

 

[Misty Gray]

Maddox Parker​

Syd's behaviour was that of a broken man on the verge of a breakdown. All that was left was one final nudge and Maddox was confident his work would be done. Seeing how Syd practically hugged himself and submitted to the doctor's will was all the confirmation Maddox needed to know he was in control. He listened to the troubled man's whispers and quickly nodded his head. "I know, Syd. I know..." his soothing voice sympathetically assured him when he said he didn't want to hurt people anymore. It was at that point that Maddox knew there would be no turning back from his next action. Either he would give the final push or he wouldn't, but both paths would lead to significant consequences. Either Syd would suffer or Maddox feared Ani would.

Maddox moved his hand from Syd's shoulder and walked away from him to stand by the locked balcony window. He looked outside for a moment as he deliberated over what to say and do. What he was doing to Syd went against everything he believed in. He liked helping his patients and it was a failure when they didn't recover from their issues. He once again reminded himself that the likes of Syd and Conor were exceptions; that they didn't deserve his mercy on account of the people who had been killed and harmed at the hands of the Porters. Maddox had to fulfil his duty and the time to do it was now.

Maddox turned back to face Syd and slowly approached him, but stopped a few feet away from him rather than getting close again. "You seem like a nice person, so it's a shame it has to come to this..." he quietly began, but allowed his words to trail of in a lowering volume. Thinking of his own family and how much he despised the Porters easily brought the confidence back to Maddox. The hate he felt towards the Mob for the devastation they'd caused him. "Do you really think your parents will want to help you after what you've done?" he asked Syd. There was a slight venom to the counsellor's tone that Syd would never have heard before from the man. "Your family is what's wrong with this city. They're cruel, selfish, crooks. They crave power and money, stepping over anyone to get it. Everything they've suffered and everything they have coming to them is deserved." A smirk crossed Maddox's lips as he held his hand out in Syd's direction. "What do you think your family will think of you when they realise you betrayed them? You've given me so much information that my friends and I could use, and have used against your family. For instance, how important the likes of your mother and aunt are at keeping your family held together. You've given me and your family's enemies so much valuable, personal information. You've told me details of their business without even realising. Hell, you even helped me to get to Conor and earn his trust." Maddox shook his head before looking Syd in the eyes. "Do you think your family could forgive you for betraying them so deeply?"

Pyroclast (Syd)

 

[Bellz]

Gwen Bryant ​

Gwen grinned as Jason recognized the record that was in his hands. It took a few moments for him to look up at her but when he did, the softness in his eyes made her smile even wider. Nodding her head slowly at his questions, she reached up to touch the sleeve of the record, wiping a bit of dust off of it. "Well..." She started, "I haven't listened to it since that night." Her smile faded slightly, "I've come to realize that there are worst things you could have done and I wanted this to be a sign of forgiveness." Gwen murmured softly before taking the record from him slowly.

"Its been 11 years since I've played this thing, so I hope it still works well. But let's pop it into the player and see, shall we?" She asked before moving towards his player, Ruben still rubbing against her legs as she tried not to trip over him getting to the other side of the room.

Ruben hopped up onto the space next to the player and Gwen let out a small laugh, "Apparently he doesn't get enough attention from you." She teased before lifting the needle and placing the record down on the player, dropping the needle down slowly before pressing the on button.

Music filled the room and Gwen turned to face Jason with her arms held out wide, beckoning him over to her. Once he crossed the room to her, Gwen wrapped her arms around his neck and placed her head on his shoulder.

"I've learned something in my years without you." She murmured softly in his ear. "Marriage was just a piece of paper. It didn't mean anything to me. The only good thing that came out of my marriage was Lorelei and I love her to pieces. But I was never happy, like I should have been...like I was with you."

Moving in a slow circle, Gwen closed her eyes, feeling like she could just be herself for the first time in a long time. Everything about Jason's apartment was soothing to her, made her feel safe. She had imagined being in his arms again for years but she never knew that it would feel quite like this.
with: Jason Pyroclast