Realistic or Modern Family Ties: 1980s Gangs - IC (Ended)

[Melanin-Gxdess]

Bad Guy's Cabin
~The Baskins, Dublin~
Leo Sullivan

Leo had been expecting to see Adam and Elena roughed up, but not to the extent to which they were. He also wasn’t expecting Elena to pull her gun’s trigger but was glad the safety hadn’t been clicked off. Something to work on in the future if she wanted to kill someone but for now her inexperience saved his life. The moment Elena threw her arms around him, Leo softly placed his hand on her lower back. “You’re okay now, alright? We took care of them,” he said reassuring her, eyes on Adam. "All of them." The older man looked worse than he and Thomas combined. Seeing the man alive gave him a moment of relief before he wondered if he would be for much longer. "We're gonna get you guys out of here. Thomas is right behind me." Elena spoke again, taking his attention off Adam. He looked down at her and opened his mouth to reassure her once more, but she’d already pulled away from him and was staring at his wound. “Elena-,"

Thomas’ voice shouting out for him to catch her startled him, Adam beating him to it. The adrenaline had begun to wind down and with the way Leo shifted to try and catch Elena, the bullet shifted just a bit but was enough for Leo to cry out in pain. “Shit, shit, shit…” He mumbled, trying to keep it together. Whilst Elena was being taken care of by Adam and Thomas, Leo moved his hand towards his wound and winced when he made contact. It stung to touch and when he finally looked at his fingers he sucked in air through his teeth. The bleeding had gotten worse and there was so much more of it now. The same went for his arm, which he was just now realizing was also bleeding. Gonna get my ass kicked, he thought to himself as Adam started talking. Their next plan of action was clear- get the hell out of dodge and the moment everyone was on the same page, they got to it.

***
Sullivan Family Home
~Sutton, Dublin~
Aliana Sullivan

Lucy’s playful outrage caused Ali to let out a laugh as she covered her face with her hands. “You’d think so, right?!” Looking up and around the room, she shrugged her shoulders. “Maybe I will now. Our love life could use a little spicing up, I suppose.” She hid her mischievous smile behind her cup. “You’ll help take them, won’t you?” She turned to Blake, who had put a finger down herself. The look and tone on her face alluded to the idea that they’d seen each other naked plenty of times… Which they had, but no one here knew that.

Her friend then went on to tell say she'd never dated a blonde, Ali rolling her eyes. "That felt like such a targeted question!" With another finger down, Ali went to drink from her cup. "Some blondes do have more fun, though." Sinead was next in the lineup and after she'd made her statement, Ali stared at her. After a few seconds, she then held a hand to her chest, feigning offense as she looked around the room. "Did- Are you guys teaming up against me, or something," she joked, putting down yet another finger. "That's the second one in a row!" Ali raised her cup only to find that it was empty now. Instead of the lemonade on the table, she got up to walk to the liquor cabinet for something a little stronger. Just as she was about to take a seat the phone started ringing in the kitchen. "I'm surprised at you, Sin. I'd have thought you'd done a little more... Experimenting in your time," she teased, excusing herself to answer the phone.

Hearing George's voice on the other end was a welcomed surprise, Ali figuring he just wanted to chat. "Why, hello George. What have I done to warrant hearing your lovely voice," she asked, followed by a brief chuckle. There was news about Leo, Adam, and Thomas- that their mission was successful and Elena was safe. She should've been bouncing up and down with joy, yet felt something was amiss. The moment George informed her the four of them had been seriously hurt Ali dropped her glass. Though she knew the risks of him going along with Thomas and Adam, she was still hoping that nothing did happen to him. She wasn't told what his injuries were or how bad but that she needed to get over to Ginn's place. Ali wasted no time hanging up the phone before running back into the conservatory. At first, she was at a loss for words, her chest heaving with each heavy breath that left her. "We have to go," she urgently said, making her way toward Lucy and Blake. "They're at Ginn's they're-," she paused, looking outside at Conor still relaxing.

With greater urgency, she made her way outside towards him. "Conor! We have to go! The boys are back and they're hurt," she said, voice breaking. She was more than scared right now and it was written all over her face. Without waiting for him to hurry inside, she went back for Lucy and Blake, grabbing their wrists, urging them to follow. Ali wasn't thinking at that point, her body shifting into autopilot. Unpleasant thoughts were ripping through her mind and she was trying to fend them off. "We have to go, we have to go." Aliana hadn't paid attention to who else had piled into her car, letting Sinead and Michelle decide for themselves whether or not they would join them.

***

The moment they arrived at their safe haven, Leo felt like he could finally breathe. They'd be in good hands from here on so there was no need to worry. The adrenaline was completely gone now and Leo was feeling every bump, scratch, and wound on his body. His forearm burned and his abdomen ached and his muscles felt tense. A few seconds after being hooked up to the IV and those symptoms went away. Finn told him that he'd gotten lucky and he let out a painful chuckle. "Wouldn't be a Sullivan if I didn't survive, right?" Leo managed to do as instructed and watched Finn switch over to Thomas. Between the two of them, it looked like Thomas was in worse condition. "Focus on him; I'll be alright."

By the time Finn reappeared by his side, the morphine's full effects had kicked in. The hazy feeling of the drug had taken over his body. Finn talked him through everything he was about to do and Leo just nodded. "Hey. You do what you gotta, m'kay? Just keep that good stuff comin'." A child-like grin grew on his face that immediately disappeared when his father was mentioned. He knew his mother had been having his aunts and sister over for some girly get-together and that Conor was still relaxing. Having to end all of that now made him feel bad. "If I'm not dyin', do we really need to call them," he asked, narrowing his eyes. Finn then informed him that he'd beaten his father in arm wrestling and that grin returned - almost as if Leo had forgotten what Finn asked of George. "Yeah? I heard Syd once punched him in the face, too! Ah, the secrets you learn about your parents when you're older!"

Leo listened as Finn asked how he felt, to which he simply replied. "Amazing. I was never into drugs or anything, but... If they all feel like this," he trailed off, laying his head back against the gurney. He didn't finish his sentence, either, forgetting where he was going with it. "Thomas? You alright over there, buddy?" Leo craned his neck to look over at his cousin, grateful that he'd survived the ordeal too. Making sure they both returned home in one piece was something Leo was going to make sure of. He didn't care that Thomas had told him to leave him behind- he wasn't ever going to do that. Leo had left him once before - though it wasn't on purpose - and he was determined to both make it up to him and make sure it never happened again. Leo opened his mouth to say something when he heard the commotion of another group of voices. It took a minute for his mind to process the sounds until Aliana was in full view, standing next to him. "Heeeey, mom."

Ali's eyes had been welling up with tears the entire drive over. The idea of losing Leo - another Leo - was enough to break her heart. But she knew and understood that he was in very capable hands. Finn had operated on and sewn her up perfectly in the past. She had no doubt that he'd do the same for her son. She hadn't even fully thrown the car in park when they arrived before throwing the car door open and running inside. The moment George told her where they all were Ali moved quickly and started wiping away the tears that were starting to fall from her eyes. Finn was still working on removing the bullet from his abdomen and his arm still needed to be sewn up. But from what she could see, he would be alright. The moment he greeted her with such a carefree tone, Ali frowned at him. "You little shit! You're lying on a gurney all shot and cut up and the first thing you say is 'Hey mom'?! You nearly gave me a heart attack, asshole! Like father like son, huh?"

Conor, George, Sinead ( Misty Gray )
Finn, Thomas, Blake, Lucy ( Bellz )
Michelle ( BasDorcha )

 

[Pyroclast]

Bournemouth Beach
~ Bournemouth ~

Shona King​

The risks posed by Jeremy and Harper’s relationship that Spencer was suggesting did seem realistic to Shona. If it did go wrong, depending on how it went wrong, it could compromise his individual relationships to both Jeremy and Harper. He also brought up the position that Jeremy might find himself in if he put himself between him and his sister, potentially having to keep secrets from the other, likely in terms of Harper’s health and also business decisions.

They had come to the beach to relax, but given how stressed Spencer had been over the past few weeks, their first chance to really relax was really the first time he had a chance to address what was on his mind. Shona watched her husband as he offloaded, further explaining how Harper would surely blame him if anything Jeremy were to die in the current conflict, much like he almost had the previous week in the restaurant. She could help but sigh at the thought - it was hard to reassure him since she believed it, too. Given how unhappy Harper had been with the family lately, Jeremy’s death would be sure to spark further hostility and blame.

His troubles clearly extended to his brothers, too, as he expressed regret that they didn’t seem as close anymore. He blamed the fact that they now seemed to trouble to open up to him on his position in the business, but Shona shook her head. “I’m sure they want to,” she suggested. “Maybe if you’re not as close anymore, you should talk to ‘em, find out if there’s anythin’ stoppin’ them from bein’ as open with ya’ as they used to. And then give ‘em some reassurance, you know? That you’re still there for ‘em, that you’re still their brother before anythin’ else. Maybe you could open up to them, too, yeah?” With an adoring smile, Shona reached over and ran her fingers through his tangled, salty waves. “You are so full of love, Spencer King. So drop that sexy, stoic façade of yours every now and then and be vulnerable with ‘em, yeah?”

Thinking back to his earlier concerns, Shona paused for a moment to reflect. “You know what, Spence,” she said softly as she stroked his thigh. “I think Jeremy’s a big boy who knows what he’s doin’. He must have had these thoughts too when he realised that he wanted to be with Harper - I mean, that his relationship to you might change. When he told you about his feelings for her, didn’t you talk about that together? ‘Cause you know, all these concerns you’re havin’ now, they all sound like the sort of thing that’d be worth talkin’ through with Jeremy himself. Maybe Harper, too, if you’re in a place to talk about that sorta’ thing with her.”

Regarding where his relationship with Harper currently stood, Spencer suggested that Shona be the one to go to her and see if she wanted to talk about anything. She was worried that Harper had been bottling up her trauma since the incident, and that that was part of the reason why she was struggling so much, why her relationship to her family seemed to be going so rapidly downhill. Someone needed to be there for her, someone neutral. Spencer explained that it was usually Billy whom she opened to most, but that overall she might appreciate talking to Shona about it instead of her brothers. She couldn’t say for sure what Harper was comfortable with, but she wanted to spend some time with her anyway, so the idea seemed like a good one. “I’ll check in on her soon, then, when we’re back,” she said with a smile.

“It would never be a good time for Trevor to be around,” she agreed. “But you’ve all made your points and your arguments and at the end of the end, Harper is a grown woman with a mind to make her own choices. If she’s heard every point you, Bruce and your brothers have had to make, and she still wants to pursue a relationship with the man, then…you might just have to sit back and let her do just that.” Shona was aware that it was probably not what Spencer wanted to hear, so she kept her voice gentle in hopes to avoid an argument. “If I were you, Spence, I would forget about tryin’ to keep Trevor away, and instead spend your energy on trying to keep Harper close. Fixin’ your relationship with her gives you a better chance at keepin’ her safe from him if things do go wrong.”

The very thought of Harper falling into a trap was awful to Shona, but she imagined far more so for Spencer, his brothers and Bruce, so even suggesting it as a possibility felt almost like a betrayal to her husband. However, she knew that Harper was fragile, and it would be far worse to drive her away and leave her with no one to turn to if Trevor ended up hurting her. “If they do strike up a bond, you’ve gotta think…would you rather see Harper but have to see Trevor, too, or never see neither of them at all?” It was yet another horrible thought, but it seemed like a possibility worth considering.

Ever since Spencer had come back from his recent visit to Trevor and told her that he was powerless to make him leave London, Shona had been curious as to what exactly had gone down. Of course, she trusted her husband enough to not have felt the need to ask, but now that he had brought it up again, she found herself wanting to know. “You know it don’t matter to me what you’ve done in the past,” she began. “But for Trevor to have somethin’ so big on you that you can’t get him to leave London…what exactly does he know? And where’d he even get the evidence from?”

Interactions
Misty Gray Spencer

Mentioned:
Bellz Harper
BasDorcha Jeremy

 

[Misty Gray]

Harper's Apartment
~ Bethnal Green, London ~

Trevor Stewart​

When Jeremy rushed to Harper, Trevor stayed back in the doorway with a view down the hallway to the bathroom door. Harper had requested the younger man's presence and Trevor didn't want to tag along or crowd her, especially as she hadn't asked for him. There was a brief moment where Trevor turned to look in the direction of the front door. Perhaps showing up at Harper's place had been a mistake and it wasn't too late to walk away. That moment of doubt was a fleeting moment and soon enough he was looking back towards the bathroom door starting to feel more concerned about what his daughter was doing.

Trevor's head snapped to Jeremy as the young man shouted for Harper to get away from the door. He took some steps towards the bathroom just as Jeremy burst in and broke the door. Trevor stopped halfway down the hallway, once again maintaining his distance in case Harper didn't want him to see or hear what was going on. However, when Jeremy soon emerged from the room with Harper in his arms, Trevor rushed to meet them and took her from him. Trevor couldn't miss the blood on her leg, nor the source being a gash on her thigh. "Jesus," he whispered as he carried her into the living room and sat her down on the couch. "How'd ya manage that?" he calmly asked her, not wanting to overwhelm her if he started panicking. Jeremy seemed to be doing enough of that for all three of them. Besides which, in the years he'd been married to Laura, Trevor had seen and done many risky things. The two of them had lived through so many close calls, injuries, and dangerous situations that the experienced man was practically desensitised enough that he didn't need to lose his cool.

With Harper on the sofa, Trevor had her stretch her leg out to prop it up on the coffee table. Kneeling down on the floor so he could get a closer look and better angle of her wound, he looked up as Jeremy returned with the medical kit. "Open it, would ya?" he asked, if only to give Jeremy something to do with his shaking hands so he didn't standing around looking as anxious as he did. He certainly wasn't going to put him in charge of a needle with such an unsteady hand. Hell, some would argue Trevor had plenty of practice with needles. Jeremy got up and said he was going to call the doc, whoever "the doc" was. Apparently the Kings had a doctor on call within their dodgy line of business. "Alright," he acknowledged Jeremy, more than anything glad the young man was going to take his visible nerves with him for a time and not put him off from focusing on Harper's wound.

After soaking up the blood with a cloth and cleaning it with an antiseptic wipe, Trevor handed Harper some clean gauze. "Hold that over the wound a minute," he told her. Whilst she did that, he prepared the suture, his bandaged hand being something of a hindrance as he did. Thankfully, he still had a healthy and steady hand. By the time Jeremy returned and said the doctor hadn't answered, Trevor was focusing on stitching Harper's wound. "Sorry in advance," he warned her before he pushed the needle through the skin. There was a brief pause as he stitched the wound, his mind suddenly casting back to one of the nights he'd returned home to find Laura on the kitchen floor having fallen and cut her knee whilst drugged up to the eyeballs. Trevor had been left with no choice but to deal with her wound then. As he glanced to Harper, who had a striking resemblance to her mother, he had to take a second before forcing himself to snap out of it and focus on the present.

As he finished stitching up the wound he listened to Jeremy ask Harper what had happened. It was clear the scissors hadn't magically ripped into her skin on their own accord. She didn't look to be high or off her head on medication in that moment, so he could blame it on a drug-fuelled accident. Once he'd covered the stitched wound with some dressing, Trevor stood up and stepped away to wash his hands, albeit still able to hear the conversation between Harper and Jeremy.

When he returned, Trevor remained standing rather than try make himself comfortable in the current situation. "Don't forget what I've said before, Harper. You can really benefit from speaking to a counsellor - someone neutral rather than family. I can get you a list of names," he offered.

Bellz (Harper)
BasDorcha (Jeremy)

 

[Bellz]

Harper King
Her Apartment
~ London ~​

Harper could only move away from the door a few inches, unable to do anything else. If she weren't so petrified about what just happened she would have been pissed over the door being almost destroyed. The smell metallic smell of blood was enough to make her sick, panic rising in her throat as she struggled to keep anything from coming up. Harper hadn't recalled a time she'd seen Jeremy so white, so fearful. Any memory of the night of the explosion was hidden by lock and key in her mind, clawing away at her psyche trying to escape. That memory didn't seem to be under the same restraint in his mind. Harper raised a bloody hand and then the other, about to tell him that she was okay, having enough foresight in her breakdown to see that if she didn't say anything he might go off the deep end.

She was sure her father would never visit her again after this. Despite normally protesting, Harper didn't do so as Jeremy carefully scooped her up. The blonde was sure the only casualty of her accidental stabbing would be her carpet as the blood dripped down her leg and foot before splashing onto the blood in the shape of little rain droplets. Jeremy suddenly handed her to Trevor. Harper didn't meet her father's eyes at all as he carried her to the couch. Once seated, her father asked how she managed to do that but she didn't answer.

Trevor was calm but Harper's eyes were on Jeremy. Who opened the kit for her father and decided to run off to call Cas. "I don't think it's me we should be worried about." The blonde said softly. Her father handed her some clean gauze, to hold over her wound and Harper pressed down on her leg with unforgiving force, letting out a slow hiss but her face remained stoic. The amount of pain she had been in over the last few weeks was more unbearable than this open wound. Besides, it seemed to be grounding her back out of her head, allowing her to focus on the feeling of something other than wanting to indulge in her addiction.

Trevor apologized in advance as he set to work stitching up the wound quickly. Jeremy stepped back into the room, focused on her now as he reached and grasped her hand. She gave it a gentle squeeze of reassurance but didn't react as the needle pricked her skin over and over again, holding back any sort of reaction for Jeremy's sake. "My mind is playing tricks on me...I thought I saw something in the bathroom...or someone I should say. I grabbed the scissors out of instinct and stabbed something that wasn't there with too much downforce." Harper tried to say as evenly as she could, the stitching causing her eyes to water.

What she wouldn't give for a pain pill right about now. Harper's teeth ground at the thought as she shook her head. "I'm fine though, just a small gash." Harper wouldn't ask on how Jeremy was doing until Trevor left. Not wanting to wound his pride any further. "I didn't mean to, it happened all so fast. I grabbed the scissors instinctually. Next thing I know they were lodged in my leg." Harper murmured. Trevor excused himself to wash his hands and when he returned, he looked directly at Harper. He told her that she could benefit from speaking to a counselor rather than family and this time, she actually agreed. "That would be good." Was all she said, "Thanks for...this" Harper pointed to her leg that was neatly bandaged. "You'd give Caspian a run for his money..." She didn't bother mentioning exactly who that was.
with: Jeremy BasDorcha ; Trevor Misty Gray

 

[BloodLightning27]

~Shinoa Bradford~

---

Dublin City Centre - On the way to the Shopping Center

Over the two or three months or so, Shinoa had settled down into a more quiet, easygoing life since welcoming her Daughter into the world. Although she was sad to have been moving out of George and Finn's as well as not being able to spend time with Lucy, life wasn't always bad. Around the beginning of this month, Shinoa had moved into an Apartment not too far away and still had support from the loving family she was now a part of. On the upside though, it was nice for her to be standing on her own two feet. Have her own place and all. For today though, since Lucy as well as George and Finn were busy, she was unable to ask them about watching Lillian, so the relatively resourceful Mother ended up dropping Lillian off at the daycare that recently opened up in the Dublin City Centre while she took care of some shopping before they go home. Straightening out her dress, she proceeded to begin making her way there. Along the way though, she was about to pass by the Sullivans' Bar. She hasn't really been there for quite a while now despite being old enough to drink, granted she has mostly stayed away from Alcohol as a whole for the sake of Lillian as she wanted to set a better example for her Daughter and still had her fair share of growing up to do. As she thought about the last time she was here, she frowned. Last time she was here, Shinoa was thirty-nine and a half weeks into her pregnancy, literally five days from her due date and she was taken to the back of the bar to recuperate after being threatened with a knife to her neck. The highlight of that night though, at least for her, was when her stomach growled during her conversation with Emery. Not to mention she would rather remember something silly and light-hearted over something that was terrifying.

As she got closer towards the bar's front door, it flung open and she saw a familiar face. One that she hasn't seen for quite some time now. Tom...Wow, it's been a while! He's been working a lot, hasn't he? Not only that, but she's been busy building her life as well as Lillian's. Domestic life wasn't so bad, but sometimes, Shinoa did want to live a little bit. This upcoming Sunday, Shinoa did want to take Lillian fishing, or at least enjoy the view of the water as she did so. Shinoa was no where near comfortable with taking her Daughter onto a boat at the moment. She chuckled at the thought of it as she decided to approach Tom. "Hello there. Long time, no see, handsome!" She smiled as she approached Tom, about right as she could hear the door click shut behind him.

---

Interactions: Tom Thatcher BasDorcha
(Honorable) Mentions: Finn Sullivan, Lucy Porter Bellz | George Sanderson, Emery Callahan Misty Gray

 

[Bellz]

Julia Avvocada
En Route to Pizza Place
~ New York ~​

Julia chuckled as Ricky asked if she'd be mad about him being curious about the King's asses himself. "I would be concerned if you didn't say that." Julia teased back before he got serious, saying that he was keen on meeting them himself. "Hope you're bringing me along for this trip. Though I must say, I'm a sucker for a British accent...might have to control myself while I'm there." She teased, never once dreaming of cheating on Ricky in any way.

She rolled her eyes as he told her to look around, saying they don't need to worry about paying for delivery, her head still on his chest. A giggle escaped her as he said that getting struck by lightning was a gateway to superpowers. "Unstoppable with an even bigger head." She hummed teasingly. He lifted her chin just as she kissed his collarbone, giving her a gentle kiss before helping her to her feet. "Superpower and pizza it is!" Julia said excitedly.

Once they were ready to go, the downpour that greeted them was comforting despite the lightning. Julia held Ricky's hand as they walked, her attention looking ahead of them, not noticing Ricky's attention was elsewhere until the last minute, spotting the two children briefly. Ricky then looked at her, asking if she ever thought about a life like that. He went on to explain he meant a normal one...with kids and a regular job.

His tone was free of that usual joking tone and Julia slowed to a stop as he explained that he kept thinking about moving out of the mansion. The words he spoke were sincere and he was serious for once. "I once had those dreams..." Julia murmured. "Who's to say you can't have all those things? Who's to say...we couldn't have those things." She asked, her cheeks warming slightly before she ushered for them to continue walking.

"If selling it is what you want to do, I support you in this decision. Do you want a family, Ricky? I mean...I know you've joked about it in the past many times before but...darling, this is the first time I've heard you be so serious about it ever since she left." Julia observed, referring to his ex-fiancee. "Your cousin is doing it...I don't see why you can't? It doesn't seem fair that she gets to have that lifestyle while you slave away doing her business for her.."

She let the silence trail off for a moment, "I've always wanted 2 kids. A boy and a girl. I'd always wanted to name the boy after my father Henry. And the girl, I always liked the name Maisie." Julia had never mentioned that before, so when she confessed her cheeks turned even pinker. "But as a little girl I never imagined I'd be in the line of work I am in now."
with: Ricky Misty Gray

 

[BasDorcha]

Harper's House
London
Jeremy Gray​

Jeremy had failed to notice Trevor hanging back and the doubt he might have seen in that moment. He also didn’t notice Harper, stone faced and acting like nothing had happened – the sound of her voice when it first happened had enough emotion in it for him to know she had been scared. Trevor also did not seem to appreciate his panic – something which Jeremy normally would not show another – but he couldn’t help it at this moment. The normally stoic guy was suddenly all emotions – more then normal even when considering how he was around the woman before him.

Once Harper squeezed his hand, something she had not done that night, the spell broke, and he started calming down, the color slowly returning to his face. He moved around, taking a seat next to Harper in a close by chair, looking up at Trevor with a thankful look. The stitch was nice and clean, better than Jeremy could have done in that moment. He had never been much of a seamstress anyways. Jeremy obviously knew that Harper had done this to herself, but he needed to hear the why, not that it comforted him once he did. Hallucinations? A deep frown settled over his face as he chided himself for letting Harper waste away her time on taking care of him. He could be so selfish sometimes. He could get up and move around freely now, even beat ugly the way he was, so he would go back to taking care of her.

As he thought for a moment about it, he mused out loud, “I knew a guy in college… I ain’t saying he did it right, and I aint saying this is the right way for you, but I figure anything has got to be better then seeing the withdraws kill you faster than the drug…” Jeremy chewed at his thumb, tasting blood in his mouth as he eye Trevor and Harper alternatingly. “Maybe get the pro… you’re... Trevor,” Jeremy couldn’t find a way to say the professional, your father, without it sounding like a dick, even though both of them were true statements. “Can tell you if it was a fluke or it really works, but the guy wiened himself down. He started by taking them just as prescribed, just enough to keep the edge off. Then after that got easier, he stretched them to half the recommended dosage a day until that killed him a little less. Total quit was still hard, but the withdraws weren’t as bad because he let it ease out of his system.”

Removing the now knicked thumb from his mouth, he rubbed the back of his head awkwardly. “Anyways, its just an idea. You know I’m here for you no matter what, and I’ll help you however you think I can until you tell me to fuck off. I uh… I use to talk to someone, professionally, after my parents died. It’s not a bad idea. Just… just do something. And I know it may mean not always liking what I hear, but whatever you need from me, I will give to you, even if its distance.”

 

[Melanin-Gxdess]

Erik's Apartment
~Hackney, London~
Ava Moretti
​

"Go out on the razz," she softly repeated. Yet another word she was going to add to her new library while in London. Based on their conversation and the way he was talking though, she concluded that it meant a night on the town. Getting to know Billy's family felt big in some way. As if it were something that should take place a few years into their relationship. Maybe she was thinking too much about it. This was Billy being friendly and trying to help her enjoy her time in London; nothing more. "That should be fun- I'd love to see how you guys party. Erik seems to enjoy it more than New York." At the mention of Shona's newborn son Ava's smile sort of wavered. Before she'd met Marcus she didn't really want children. She may have had maternal energy but that didn't mean she wanted to continue using it. However, after they tied the knot things changed. He reassured her that she'd be a great mother- that they'd be great parents. Then he went and died on her. Now she was stuck thinking about the child she may never have. Realizing that there was a longer silence than normal Ava cleared her throat. "Eddie is adorable," was all she managed to say.

Billy then went down the list of his siblings; Spencer, Alex, Harper, and even a new addition, May. Hearing that they'd just found out about her caused Ava's eyebrows to shoot up. "Oof, that sounds very fuckin' dramatic." Shaking her head, she took a sip of her tea. "Here I thought the Snowden household was complicated." There was another pause before her brain processed the name 'May'. She was sure she'd met her at the funeral- Erik bringing her along as emotional support. "I think I've met her, actually. She came to the funeral with Erik- gotta say; you guys don't look alike at all."

When offered an introduction to Bruce, Ava sat up straight in her seat - a slightly confused look on her face. She wasn't quite sure why he would offer such a thing. Maybe because she was Erik's cousin, but meeting his uncle didn't seem like something that was... Necessary. At least, not yet. But Ava wasn't going to be rude and turn him down so she just smiled and nodded. "It'll be like meetin' the parents, huh?" She let out a soft laugh at her joke. Hearing him compare his former father-in-law to his uncle, alluding to the idea that Gabriel wasn't a kind person, Ava just smirked. Billy realized his mistake and immediately faltered - Ava watching with dark and amused eyes. He recovered and instead described the man as being 'imposing', which Ava agreed with. Quietly and to herself, of course. "Yes, Gabe can be quite... Imposing, but he means well some of the time. He cares about his family immensely, which is more than I can say for my own father," she said, a scowl on her face. It quickly disappeared when Billy offered to introduce her to his family members.

The invitation, however, was soon followed by a warning about his relationship with her cousin. She assumed that they all knew already but that wasn't the case. And the fact that they didn't know worried her. Erik had been hidden away in past relationships and it never turned out well. So hearing that was still the case caused Ava to pause. "So they don't know you're together. Interesting." Ava paused again, trying to bite her tongue and prevent herself from truly letting her thoughts fly. "Don't worry, I'm not in the business of exposing people when they're not ready. I'm a bitch, not an asshole."

It didn't occur to Ava until Billy asked that the states had different laws from London. That certain things were still legal here than they were back home. "Because of health concerns. Uhh hepatitis A? B? I don't know, one of those letters. Anyway, people are gross and don't sterilize and wash their hands and fuck it up for everyone. However, I love tattoos and giving them so I still do it," Ava said, shrugging her shoulders. "Not cool enough?! You don't have to be ragged or gangster to get tatted. I tattooed a grandma the other day and she was a goddamn champ." Ava smiled, reminiscing about the little old lady and the cute dog she'd gotten on her chest. Billy stated he wished he could come see her show to which Ava simply replied, "Then come. We'll give you a tour of New York and everything. And then you can buy a painting," she joked. "What inspires me? I'm... Not sure. My emotions? I use it as an outlet- paint what I feel. I do a bunch of different style both on canvas and skin."

Billy ( Pyroclast )

 

[Melanin-Gxdess]

En Route to The Royal Taphouse
~Bethnal Green, London~
Alex King

For the past couple of days, Alex felt torn between himself and his family. It seemed like just as he was getting better and growing up his family was falling apart. Hearing that Billy had been involved in the restaurant shooting while he was on a date with Kerry had nearly crushed him. And knowing that Harper was going through her addiction and breakdowns weren't making it any better. He felt like shit for doing so well when things for his siblings weren't and struggled with what to do. He wasn't sure how to support them, so he did his best by being there and available whenever they called him.

Today, however, he'd set aside some time to call Callum. He hadn't spoken nor seen his son since Savannah strolled into the bar unannounced. Considering he was trying to be better than Trevor - who he was still pissed was still around - and not talking to his kid for so long wasn't helping. At first, Alex tried Savannah's home, and when she didn't answer called Sinead's. He wasn't all that surprised when Liam answered the phone. The adults never seemed to answer their own phones. What did surprise him, however, was hearing that Savannah wasn't around and wasn't even in Dublin. When he asked him where she was, Liam simply replied with, "Don't know," and hung up the phone. Alex stood with the receiver in his hand, listening to the dead tone of the phone. What the hell did he mean they were gone? And that he didn't know? The only conclusion that Alex could come to was that she'd skipped town.

And that's when he started freaking out.

The Royal Taphouse
~Bethnal Green, London~
Erik Snowden & Teddy Wycliff
​

Bruce went on to share his sentiment behind the failed attack. A small scoff left him while listening to his words, but he nodded his head in understanding. Not too long ago, Teddy had the opportunity to take out James Porter quickly but had opted to drag things out. It turned out to be a good thing he had considering the stakes. Bruce reassured him that he wouldn't have to go after his nephew and Teddy let out a brief chuckle. "I've got a placid nature, Bruce. I save the theatrics and dramatics for-," he paused, wanting to tease his wife but remembered that her father - and boss - was sitting right next to him. Instead, he cleared his throat and shook his head. "Other people."

Luckily the topic would shift to the police force and any King influence they'd have. He was surprised to hear that they hadn't, but then again they were a relatively young crime family- Bruce being the creator. "Well, if anything, that should be a priority. At least for now. Getting the cops on your side could prove to be beneficial in the long run- especially with run-ins like the one at the restaurant. Plus I think it'd make things easier on you, as far as your business ventures go." Though it wasn't what they'd come to London to talk about, Teddy wanted to give the man at least a small amount of advice. Whether he took it or not was up to him.

Gabriel seemed to want to give Bruce advice as well, though in his own way. It felt more like a critique than anything else which was something Teddy had grown used to. Sure, Gabe could act and sound like he cared about the little man but it was more his investment he was worried about. Understandably so, too. A lot went into forming such relationships and that included time and money. Why shouldn't he be as tough on Bruce as he was right now? Teddy glanced over to Erik to see how he was doing and noticed how ridged he was; like he was nervous about something. He sent him a curious look, to which Erik just responded with a brief smile. It felt like there was something he wasn't telling them. However, it felt like a private Moretti matter and he'd address it later in the future. Hearing Bruce reassure them that he was going to continue trying to get back at the Sullivans, though, was a relief.

Teddy was disappointed to hear Reina's name in the mix. It meant Roxie was lending assistance to the Sullivans and had completely thrown whatever support Teddy gave to her out the window. He felt foolish for wanting to see her succeed and prove Gabriel wrong. "Pity. She's not as smart as I thought she was," he said, clearly annoyed by the news. Though he thought Ricky was sometimes impulsive and rash, he was now looking like the better Biancardi to run the show. When Gabriel asked Erik whether it was by luck that he wasn't touched, Erik perked up in his seat. He wasn't sure how to answer the question- looking between the three men who now had their eyes on him. "Uh," he stuttered, wanting to get his words right. He didn't want to start a war or anything of the sort, but he also knew better than to lie or downplay what happened. "Like I said, before everything went to shit, it was made sure I didn't get hurt or anythin'." Noticing he was tip-toeing around the question, Teddy sat up in his seat and leaned forward. Gabriel then asked if Erik thought the Sullivans were holding up their end of the bargain and he started sweating.

He knew exactly what he wanted to say - what he should say - but he was so worried about the outcome that he choked. His mouth opened but no words came out. "Erik," Teddy started, "Remember that you're a Moretti. And it's your job to report back anything we ask of you. So far, you've done your job. Don't change now." Though he wasn't trying to, Teddy's words came off threatening - almost making his 'I'm a placid man' comment seem redundant. But, Erik knew he was right. "No. I- I don't think they have been. If they had, they'd have been a bit more meticulous in their plans and making sure no Moretti members were around." Teddy, now sliding back in his seat, nodded his head and looked at Gabriel. "There you have it," he said. "All the more reason."

Teddy had been curious as to why the King and Sullivan family had bad blood. It was something he wanted to ask but never did because it wasn't any of his business. However, Bruce had offered up the information on his own. The moment he heard a child had been in the mix Teddy perked up. He knew what it felt like to have your kid dangled by the enemy; a Sullivan one, no doubt. It only made his desire to help them take down stronger. "Ah, the Irish love kids so much that they'd subject them to a war between men," he scowled. "They're not above-,"

Before Teddy could get into how they'd kidnapped his own daughter, Alex burst into the room. He was out of breath and sweating- worry in his eyes as he tried to catch his breath. "Bruce-," he panted, "She took him. That little Sullivan bitch took Callum."

Bruce ( Pyroclast )
Gabriel ( Misty Gray )

 

[Misty Gray]

Harper's Apartment
~ Bethnal Green, London ~

Trevor Stewart​

Trevor had heard how Harper said her mind had been playing tricks on her. Apparently it was the hallucination that had caused her to stabbed herself. He'd had many hallucinations of his own in the past, but those are been fuelled by his intentional used of drugs. As far as he could tell with Harper right now, she wasn't on the same kind of drugs he and Laura had chased. Still, that didn't mean it wasn't drugs-related, even if withdrawals was the culprit. Whatever the cause, when hallucinations were leading to her stabbing herself in the leg, anyone could see she needed help. The problem, as he knew all too well, was not pushing her into it and leading to her closing herself off from those trying to help.

When Trevor had returned to Harper and Jeremy after washing his hands, his daughter thanked him for tending to her wound. When he first returned to London, he never imagined any of his kids to genuinely thank him for anything, at least not so soon. Whilst he was aware his sons would be the biggest challenge, he still hadn't expected Harper to give him the time of day at all. "It's alright. Couldn't leave you in the hands of Florence Nightingale here, could I?" he remarked, sending Jeremy an amused smirk. His smile soon dropped and he shook his head to show he understood. Clearly seeing Harper bleeding and the way she was had disturbed Jeremy, so Trevor decided not to make him feel worse about it than he perhaps already had.

Trevor listened as Jeremy began speaking about someone he'd known in college and how withdrawals could be dangerous if done too fast. "Yeah, you've gotta do it gradually if you want to succeed and reduce your unpleasantness. And what I said about the counsellor still stands. I've got a few numbers back at my place from when I came back to London. I can ring you tomorrow with their details," he suggested.

Deciding things seemed to have calmed down and Jeremy had got back in control of himself after the shock of finding Harper the way he had, Trevor pointed to the front. "Alright, I'ma head home," he told the two. "Regardless of what the lads say," he began, referring to Bruce and the King brothers, "you can get in touch with me if you need to. I'm not here to mess you about," he assured Harper. He motioned for the pair to stay where they were and he let himself out of the house.

Bellz (Harper)
BasDorcha (Jeremy)

 

[Bellz]

Harper King
Harper's Apartment
~ Bethnal Green, London ~​

Harper herself hadn't expected to be particularly thankful toward her father in any capacity. But he stepped up in a moment when she needed someone. That in itself was impressive to her. He deserved her gratitude at that moment because she could see he was really trying. But she wouldn't speak ill of Jeremy, who still looked extremely pale despite the fact that she was taken care of now. The blonde cracked the slightest smile at her father's teasing remark towards Jeremy but wouldn't allow anymore to be made. Trevor also seemed to understand that clearly, the man was more troubled than he'd like to be so neither of them drew any more attention to it.

Jeremy rarely talked about his college days with her much beyond his studies, seeming to paint the picture of a responsible young man as if he was trying to be a good influence. But when he mentioned a guy he knew in college who also had a drug problem, it was the first time she'd been hearing about him having any sort of connection...not matter how small...with someone like that. That was now laughable considering she was exactly the person she thought he'd never be caught dead with. An addict. The word made her tense. Focusing on what Jeremy was saying, she could see just how much he was struggling to get the words out, how much this all was all really affecting him. He was being careful, attempting to be sensitive in a moment where Harper truly needed him to be.

The withdraws killing you faster than the drug... Was that what this was? Death slowly gripped her in its fist, squeezing the life at her until every last drop was expelled from her body. Jeremy chewed on his thumb in his usual way and if Harper had it in her to bark at him to stop, to put the habit to rest for the time being, she would. But she allowed him to do what he needed to in order to soothe himself, for she could not focus on doing it for him at that moment. Hardly able to soothe herself as the gravity of the situation really started to kick in. Weening herself off of the pills? That felt counterproductive as he said the words...but perhaps it did stand to reason that it would help her slowly come off of them.

She wasn't sure how much more of the withdrawals she could take, the shaking, the sweating, not being able to drink or eat anything without feeling like she was going to vomit before actually doing so. Jeremy put the idea on the table before awkwardly rubbing the back of his head. The way he offered to help her in any way he could, while he'd said it a million times before...struck her in such a way that it hadn't before. And the sudden vulnerability of him admitting that he also saw someone professionally...after his parents died. Harper felt like such a bitch. He was urging her to do something as if he wouldn't be able to take watching her do this to herself any longer. There in that moment of desperation, Harper could see the actual Jeremy that on some level she too had fallen in love with when she was younger. As she grew, she convinced herself it was just a crush...merely a product of her hormones telling her that she was attracted to the man standing before her. But as she looked at him, looking far beyond shit with the bruises and the black eye, she felt like she was seeing him through a whole new lens.

I will give it to you...even if it's distance. No one had offered her that before. No one had openly said they would give her distance if she needed it. Her brows furrowed in confusion, wondering if she heard him right. Harper pulled her gaze momentarily from Jeremy as her father spoke, suddenly remembering he was still in the room. He confirmed that what Jeremy was saying was correct. She could try it, she should try it. If not for her sake but for her family's. The blonde swallowed hard and she nodded at her father offering to call her tomorrow with the details to a counselor. "I would like that." She said before he pointed towards the door.

"Thanks, dad." Harper said, not realizing the word slipped past her lips for the first time. "Talk to you soon." Then he was gone, the front door clicking shut. Harper looked back up to Jeremy and they stared at each other in heavy silence. Finally, Harper pushed herself to her feet off the couch, letting out a slow hiss but signaling to the man that she was fine as she stood. Limping over to him was a little difficult, but when she did make it to him, she stood in front of him, looking up at him openly. Her eyes searched his, knowing he most likely couldn't see well with one eye.

Maybe it was her who was making this complicated. She didn't want to let anyone in. "I don't want to hurt you..." Harper said dejectedly, her eyes continuing to search his as they watered. "But...I think I realize now that I'm hurting you more this way...like...this." Her hands motioned to her in a downward motion as she shook her head. "You meant it...when you said you loved me. I know you did...but I don't think I'm deserving of that love." Harper placed her hands on his chest, they were shaking as they made their way towards him but relaxed as they pressed against his shirt.

"And...and...I've been denying it...for ages...but...I think that...I love you too." Harper's voice was thick with emotion, her hands making their way up his chest to his cheeks, holding them as she gently swiped her thumbs underneath his eyes. She was careful of his bruises. Pulling him down gently, she leaned in and placed a kiss against his lips. This time with no intent other than to feel what it was like, to kiss someone without knowing that at some time...it would all be over, that the person would move on from her and she would be stuck pining over what could have been. After the kiss, Harper pulled away before burying herself into his arms, a sniffle escaping her as she kissed his chest once, twice before closing her eyes as her head leaned against it. "I'm so sorry." She said simply.
with: Jeremy BasDorcha
mentions: Trevor Misty Gray

 

[BasDorcha]

Harper's House
London
Jeremy Gray​

Trevor’s joke did not go amiss, and he gave an awkward smile in regards to it, matching his currently overall awkward appearance. Fear had opened him up in a new way that he wasn’t expecting and apparently it hit home in the right way because both of them were looking at him a little different now then they were a few moments ago. It was a relief to hear that Trevor had heard of the method he had suggested. He relaxed a degree more to know he wasn’t completely nuts for saying it, and that it could actually work. Did he want to help Harper get high? No. Did he want to feed her addiction? Definitely not, but he would do anything to alleviate her pain, and right now, that pain was withdrawal. Maybe if she could have some faith and give him the control of the drugs, she wouldn’t feel like he was trying to control her whole life – a delicate line given her current mental state.

He remained quiet while Trevor said his goodbye’s and left them without a second to waste leaving Jeremy to wonder why he had decided it was time to leave. Had he missed something? Surely his wasn’t going deaf as well as blind. They hadn’t talked or signaled or anything. Chalking it up to Trevor just being an odd man that he knew very little about, Jeremy had stood, ready to see him out, only to be waved off and left standing a few feet away from where Harper was propped on the couch. Grateful to hear that Harper would be taking the contact details of someone professionally trained to help, his shoulder’s slumped into a finally relieved state. Harper’s goodbye surprised him though, his eyes flying to her as she called Trevor dad. Oh no. Jeremy suddenly realized that things were progressing with those two in a way that was going to cause serious issues for the King’s on opposing sides.

Their eyes met and Jeremy watched her with his quiet intensity, trying to read her mind as she for once, stared right back at him. As she pushed up off the low furniture, he made a move – again – to help and was waved off. Like father like daughter… A small smile tugged at the corner of his lips as the idea crossed his mind, only to be distracted when she came to stand so close their clothes brushed together. Unafraid to be open with Harper, the way she was with so many, he let her look, let her study him, showing her that if she wanted to stand there forever looking for the answer to the universe in his eyes, he'd let her. Harper needed unconditional support right now, and she wasn’t getting a lot of it, so he was trying to fill in for everyone who was slacking.

Although his vision was not back to normal in his left eye, it was clear enough that he could see her this close, just blurry enough she seemed like a vision. It wasn’t until she started talking that the lump in his throat suddenly became suffocating. I don’t want to hurt you. Did she now realize that no matter what route she took, with him, without him, together or separated, he would feel for her both good and bad? The next words broke his heart, his eyes gentling and watering, hands craving to pull her close but he dared not move in case it scared her. When she placed her hands on his chest and steadied, he reached a single hand up and cupped them together, his other hand resting a safe space between her elbow and shoulder with his thumb lightly rubbing her.

“Harper…” His voice trailed off, ready to tell her how deserving she was, but she continued so he let her, not wanting to stop whatever was going on in this moment. As the words he had been dying to hear escaped her lips he wasn’t sure if wanted to hold her gentle like a flower, or wrap her up so tight she’d shatter in his arms. The conflict in his head cause him to freeze on the spot, not completely but enough that it allowed her time to caress his face, him leaning into it wanting to absorb as much of it as possible. When she pulled, he came without hesitation. His strong arms moved immediately to wrap his left around her waist, his right pushing past her cheek and into her hair, tangling in the blonde curls and pulling her deeper. He wished for a moment it would never end, and it took a second for reality to kick in as she finally, slowly, pulled away. The fog in his head made everything bad or painful disappear, he could have run a mile, boxed ten men, and still had energy to spare. It was the sniffling and the realization of her tears on his shirt that helped steady him back.

Realizing he did know what to do, he wrapped her tightly, holding her against him for as long as she needed in silence, just stroking her hair and back. “I have already forgiven everything you ever done, and anything you could ever do.” As the moments passed and she settled down more and more into his touch and warmth, he finally leaned down and scooped her into his arms, carrying her back to his bed and sitting down, settling her crosswise with her left leg facing away from him so that she wouldn’t be in extra pain from it. At first, he just sat and rocked her, holding her tight, a sense of fulfillment growing in his chest that expanded and threatened to lift him off the earth.

Sometime later, in the depth of the night when she started to stir, other things did as well. Nervous, he spent what felt like hours but was likely only moments letting his hands explore her in ways he hadn’t before. When he caught her eyes looking at him through the moon lit room, he ran his fingers down her cheek, asking her softly, “Are you sure…?” Harper nodded, sending thrills through Jeremy. Ten years or more he had waited, had denied himself, distanced himself, tried to understand, and finally it made sense. It just was. There didn’t need to be an explanation.

Kissing her, he lost himself in her, and in the night.

*Fade out*

Mentions Bellz - Destroyer of Virginity
Misty Gray - Trevor Cockblock didn't work Stuart

 

[Misty Gray]

The Royal Taphouse
~ Bethnal Green, London ~

Gabriel Moretti​

Gabriel listened to Bruce give Teddy the explanation as to why Spencer had failed to kill Conor. The Londoner explained how the temptation to draw out killing the Irish boss had been what stopped Spencer from finishing the job. Gabriel understood how it felt to be in that position - to finally get the opportunity to torture and slaughter those who had wronged him in the past. He'd got to do that the day he, Teddy and Marcus killed Steve - the man responsible for raping Valentina. More recently, Gabriel and Teddy had James Porter in their clutches. Had it not been for Cristina's kidnapping, the former Irish boss would no doubt have had a drawn out and painful death in return for killing Gabriel's family all those years ago. Still, Gabriel wouldn't be himself if he didn't still display an hypocritical disappointed expression. "Your nephew must take the experience as a lesson and ensure he does not let his feelings get in the way of finishing the job next time. He seems like a smart man, but perhaps hot-headed. Conor himself had a similar short fuse at one time... but I believe your nephew has intelligence and discipline on his side. Something the Sullivans as a whole lack. And I trust you are capable of keeping your family in line," he commented, though his tone made it seem more like a suggestion.

Gabriel was curious to hear the Kings had a former detective working with them. "That's a start. He must have some insight and useful knowledge to help you. I'd say it also helps if you have something over him to keep him in line - make him stay loyal, so to speak," the Italian explained. "But I would certainly work on getting the cops on side. It'll cement your control over this city even further." Gabriel was pleased to hear Teddy backing up his sentiment, spelling about how important it was to have the police on side in their line of business.

Bruce spoke of how members of his family had been hurt and their businesses destroyed by the Sullivans. For those reasons, the Englishman didn't seem too concerned about the monetary cost of getting revenge on the Irish. Though they were on one hand very different men, Gabriel and Bruce still managed to be in agreement or on the same wavelength in many cases. This was one such instance. "Absolutely. Failure to act can have worse consequences than initiating an attack. I would not back down, and the longer action is delayed, the harder it will be."

Gabriel listened as Erik answered him about his experiences during the Sullivans' attacks in London. Whilst it came as little surprise Roxie would side with the Irish, he was still irritated to hear that Reina had being involved in the attack on the Kings. He may be a pain at times, but at least Ricky knew not to get involved in fights that don't concern him. Erik hesitated before giving Gabriel a straight answer, with Teddy stepping in to push the man to speak up. Gabriel studied Erik's features as Teddy reminded him of his place - that of a Moretti. He didn't think much of his son-in-law's words or tone, as he was more interested in getting a straight answer out of Erik. Finally, the man confirmed the Sullivans hadn't be careful enough to ensure no Morettis were caught up in their sloppy attacks, which Gabriel in turn could only take as them not abiding to the terms of their peace deal. "Then it would appear we'll need to have words with the Sullivans.."

Bruce spoke about his own plan of action, pointing out it would be done with consideration, prompting Gabriel to nod in agreement. The Londoner spoke of how a peace treaty would be what he wanted in an ideal world, to which the Italian scoffed. "Well, we've just heard how seriously the Sullivans take peace deals," he remarked. He listened as Bruce explained how his nephew was stuck in the middle of the fight. "Whilst I would say part of their survival is down to pure luck, you are correct about the Irish being more powerful than your family." He nodded along as Bruce listed the three men at the top of the Sullivan hierarchy. "Not to mention the cockroach, James Porter," he was quick to add, wondering how much it would take to draw the man out of his retirement.

It came as no surprise when Bruce pointed out Gabriel's own experience of being in a war with the Irish before. "As I've previously mentioned, my victory over the Irish was years in the making;, time spent chipping away at them and weakening them from the inside. Emotional and psychological warfare," he explained. "Other than Callum and his mother, do you have any other familial and emotional connection to the Irish? Anything you can take advantage of?" he asked. "If not, then you may need to be willing to accept a great cost - put it into a plan that will not fail to finish the war in one go. There are plenty of areas where you can expand your business here in London to boost your profits. I would expect Erik, Damian and Tatiana have been able to identify expansion opportunities whilst they've been in London."

Before Gabriel had chance to think about a way he could help the Kings defeat the Sullivans in a way that would benefit his own business, Alex rushed into the room. He did not appreciate anyone bursting into his private meetings and causing a disruption. It was bad manners. The stern glare he directed in Alex's direct soon softened as he heard him announce that Savannah had taken Callum. Gabriel stood up and turned to look at Bruce. "First my granddaughter and now your nephew's boy?" he pointed out to Bruce. "Evidently, there isn't a boundary they're not willing to cross." As keen as he was to hear the details and probe Alex for more information, Gabriel knew it was Bruce's place to do so.

Pyroclast (Bruce)
Melanin-Gxdess (Erik, Teddy, Alex)

 

[Misty Gray]

Biancardi Residence
~ Queens, New York City ~

Riccardo Biancardi​

Standing facing Julia as he still held the umbrella over their heads, Ricky faintly smile as she asked why he couldn't have everything he mentioned. Why they couldn't. Before he could say anything, she motioned for them to continue walking, to which he did. "We don't need a house that big. Even when he's got a house full of family and guests, I don't think Gabriel needs to be living in a mansion either. It's like he just needs all of that space to house his giant ego," he pointed out.

"I think I am being serious about it," he told her. "Claudia, she... She didn't understand. I don't even think she believed what little I could open up about and tell her about my childhood. When she left, she told me I was dangerous and unpredictable. Said she didn't feel safe with me, never mind wanting to have kids with me. Don't you think she was right?" he curiously asked Julia. It had only been recently that he'd being to accept that he wasn't the only person occupying his mind. That the was a reason for the memory loss and blackouts. So he had to wonder what he'd put Claudia through to make her speak so frankly."

Ricky shrugged his shoulders when Julia mentioned how Roxie was getting to have the perfect lifestyle. "Some people get everything handed to them," he commented, particularly bitter about his own father's betrayal in handing Roxie the business he'd slaved over to inherit.

He managed another smile when Julia spoke of wanting two children. "Those are both perfectly sweet and normal names. But hear me out here... Would there be anything to be said for you naming one and me naming the other? I have a whole list of outrageous names in my head that I'd love to inflict on some poor kid for their whole life," he joked. "But in the end, Henry and Maisie would be the better name choices." When she spoke about not imagining ending up in her line of work, Ricky nodded in understanding. "This is all I've known. Primed to do this messy work for my family since I could talk," he said, recalling the lessons and horrible experiences his elders had forced him to go through as a kid. "Could you ever do anything else though? Would you want to leave this business behind and have a normal family, or would you try make it work like Roxie is?"

Bellz (Julia)

 

[Bellz]

Julia Avvocada
En Route to Pizza
~ Queens, New York City ~ ​

Julia had simply chuckled at Ricky's words about Gabe's ego. It wasn't unknown that the man had an overly large ego, perhaps compensating for other insecurities he had. Julia glanced at Ricky briefly before continuing to look forward as they walked, listening as he said that he thought he might be serious about what he wanted. Julia knew that he still had a hard time talking about Claudia and while it did make her jealous to hear the woman's name, Julia had a handle on it. Nodding softly at his words. She guessed that was why this relationship was so different for him...she had seen a lot of the things Ricky went through as a child, knowing that it wasn't his fault that he was the way he was.

Claudia was privileged enough to not have to be exposed to such a lifestyle. Hearing that she didn't feel safe around him and never wanted kids with him broke her heart. Everyone in this damned world was a little bit mad. Ricky had his moments, but she knew he'd never hurt a child at least not intentionally, regardless of what he'd done to Gabe's granddaughter...or to Roxie's kids.

His bitter comment didn't go unnoticed and Julia squeezed his hand gently. It certainly felt like Roxie had everything handed to her on a silver platter these days, even though only 10 years ago or so she had been dealing with the same bullshit Ricky did to a lesser extent. Ricky had done everything he could to shield that woman from the horrors of this life, sacrificing his own sanity in the process and this was how she thanked him? Julia's free hand balled up in a fist as she exhaled deeply, forcing herself to remain calm.

The man managed a smile, Julia knowing him well enough to know when he was forcing it. "I think I'd need to have a screening of these names...but I wouldn't see any reason why I wouldn't let you name one. These were just names I came up with as a kid...before I knew if I would actually end up with someone or not, ya know?" Julia asked a real smile showing as he joked about naming a kid some outrageous name. "It's not Seven is it? Because I think that is the most ridiculous name on the planet...like...no one likes math. Why name your kid after a number?" The woman joked back as she shook her head.

When posed with the question of being able to do something else with her life...Julia didn't know what to say at first. She had judged Roxie harshly for exposing her children to the life they were all living now. "I don't have an education...nor do I have any other skills that would be useful in the real world. I don't think I could do anything else. Maybe I'd make a good stay-at-home mother. Could always make believe everything is normal. Like those shows in the 50s and 60s." Julia said with a smirk, knowing that sounded ridiculous.

"I could be the good little housewife with dinner ready to go on the table, kids waiting at the table for you when you finally got home. The difference between your cousin and I...is that I'm not ridiculously stubborn like you two are. I'd give up this life to just take care of my children if it made a difference in their lives." Julia said softly. "They need someone to keep things stable at least in the sense that they aren't constantly having to be watched by a nanny or wonder if either of their parents will make it home. I could see myself doing that. Though I haven't really been known for being the domestic type...I do it for you." Julia turned her head to meet his eyes, a sheepish smile on her face.

"Unless you want to be the housewife...I am not opposed to that either." She teased before becoming serious as she finally backtracked to address his question about whether she thought Claudia was right. "That woman didn't know what a good-hearted man she lost. I don't think she's right, Ricky. I've seen you with kids...you would be an amazing father. I mean...Syd Porter is a father...though I think you and I know he shouldn't be. I know you'd do right by your kids and not make the same mistakes your family did."
with: Ricky Misty Gray

 

[Bellz]

Harper King
Her Apartment
~ London ~​

Harper couldn't explain what she was feeling now as she lay next to Jeremy in his bed. Relief? Well, that was one of the things she was most definitely feeling...in more ways than one. But...maybe it was cheesy, it was like she was finally able to see in color after living in a world only consisting of black and white hues. Like her senses had been betraying her for years and now, she finally could use them all. Curled up in his arms didn't feel as odd as she thought it would be, it felt right. Not that she'd ever let him know it, he was right about them...and she felt like a cynical fool. Harper thought she knew what love was...how much it was all take and no give. How all the people in her life had lost the love they had...and if they did have a new love, how she thought it would be only a matter of time before something happened.

The young woman stared up at the ceiling now, her heart despite having been light as a feather before grew heavy. The moments of ecstasy and love couldn't completely shield her mind from remembering the conversation she had earlier...what she had done to herself. Turning her head, Harper faced Jeremy and kissed the tip of his nose. Harper understood what they were both getting into now, despite her fierce opposition she needed someone to tether her to earth, and while her family was that tether...Jeremy was more than that. Maybe he didn't know it, but he represented the future she could have. The one that she wanted despite having been cynical about it for years. Harper had never been the one to dream about being the perfect housewife, being the one to stay home with lots of kids in the home. If the man laying next to her knew her well enough, he knew that was never her plan. But Harper could see that changing...at least the starting a family part. But that could only happen if she got clean.

The argument with Billy replayed in her mind. She'd shamed her mother for not quitting before becoming a mother, blaming Laura just as much for what happened as her brothers blamed Trevor. They would never understand the amount of hurt Harper held in her heart over that woman, the woman she never got to know. Who seemed to not want to know her because her lust for drugs came first. While Harper had never been a drug addict before recently...she had vowed that she would never have kids. For fear of her fucking them up more than anything else. Knew that if she did, her children would feel the same way she did about her parents. Trevor was trying to make up for it and Harper respected him greatly for it...but forgiving him was only half the battle.

"I hope you know what you're getting yourself into with me, Jere." Harper whispered, her eyes searching his in the dim moonlight as she grabbed one of his hands. "And I'm not talking about my stubborn ass...I know you can deal with that...well, sorta." The blonde cracked a smile despite the heaviness in her voice. "You talked about forgiving me for things I have done and have yet to do. I hope that will stick...because..." She let out a deep sigh, her eyes watering. "I don't know how I'm going to do this." Harper admitted.

"My mum had all the help she could possibly need, all the love...and yet it still wasn't enough. Could you forgive me if your love wasn't enough to save me?" Harper asked honestly, her voice growing smaller as her throat tightened. "Perhaps I'm selfish for even asking you...for even allowing you into this mess like this. But...I don't think I could stay away much longer, the denial was there but I still loved you. These last few weeks I've seen no future for myself. With you...I see it. But it's so fleeting, getting farther and farther out of my reach and I don't know how to grab it."
with: Jeremy BasDorcha

 

[Misty Gray]

On the Beach
~ Bournemouth, England ~

Spencer King​

Spencer looked Shona in the eyes when she said she was sure his brothers still wanted to open up to him, mostly to see if she believed that or was just trying to reassure him. He let out a sigh and slowly nodded when she suggested he talk to them to find out if anything was stopping them. He looked away and towards the sea as he thought about it. Even before Trevor had left, Spencer had tried to look out for his brothers and care for them when Laura couldn't. And when they were all then being cared for by Bruce, Spencer still felt like it was his responsibility to look after his brothers and Harper. For much of his life, he thought they looked up to him and understood why he was the way he was. Lately, he felt like there was a distance.

He turned back to Shona and raised a curious eyebrow when she said he could open up to his brothers. He briefly lowered his eyes as he thought about her suggestion. Since he was a kid, growing up in such an unstable household, he'd adopted a persona of being strong in front of his siblings. Even now, he had to display a mask and inhibit his own emotions to prove himself a worthy, capable heir to Bruce's business. He'd rarely felt like he was permitted to let his guard down and show his own vulnerabilities. He managed a boyish laugh when she tagged the word 'sexy' onto her description of his stoic façade. "Maybe... It's just with everything that's going on with the attacks and the business, it feels like now is the worst time for me to let my guard down and show weakness," he told her. Studying her beautiful face a little more, he was reminded of how much more perceptive she was when it came to the subject. "Though I know you're smarter than I am when it comes to all this," he reasoned.

On the subject of Jeremy's feelings for Harper, Spencer shrugged his shoulders. "When he told me about his feelings for her?" he repeated Shona's words, lightly shaking his head. "No, I didn't talk about our friendship or anything like that. After eventually realising he wasn't windin' me up or playing some kind of joke on me, well then I warned him it could get weird for him being stuck in the middle. I was just a bit weirded out to start talking about how it'll affect our friendship. As for Harper. She wont want to talk to me about any of that, not when she's pissed off at me right now and for shit she's clearly been bottling up for a long time."

Spencer stayed quiet as Shona told him that Harper pursuing a relationship with Trevor was in her own hands now. Spencer, Bruce, and others had warned her about her father but it was her choice what to do now. Whilst he appreciated that Harper was old enough to make her own decisions, he couldn't help but think Laura was too. To Spencer, Trevor was a parasite who sucked the life out of others to keep for himself. He was unable to believe that anything the man did was for the benefit of anyone but himself. With that, the only way he could see things ending was with Harper much worse off for ever letting Trevor use her for whatever it was he was now trying to achieve. Still, when Shona said he needed to focus on keeping Harper close rather than trying keep Trevor away, he nodding in understanding. It was clear to see that she was already distant from him, especially over recent weeks. He pinched the bridge of his nose as he thought it all over. "I get where you're coming from. I'm just... It feels wrong to sit back and let him get close enough to strike up a bond with Harper. He'll just let her down," he maintained.

As they spoke about what Trevor was holding over him to secure his safety and place in London, it was evident Shona would want to know the details about what Trevor knew. It was no secret to his wife that Spencer was tangled in all kinds of illegal activity. In additional to the illegal drugs trade, there was the violence, extortion, intimidation... murder. Even though she was aware of it, Spencer generally tried not to go into detail about the darker things he did for the business. He laid back on the towel and used his hand to shield the sun from his eyes as he tilted his head to look in Shona's direction. "Trevor knows I killed a bloke," he admitted. "Nearly four years ago, I beat up and stabbed a guy. He'd attempted to blackmail me an' Bruce, so I had to deal with him. Silence him for good... At the same time, Trevor had some guy tailing me so he could get some dirt to blackmail me with. He wasn't expecting to get something so incriminating, but here we are now and Trevor has photographs and knows where the body is buried. Enough dirt to have me sent away for life," he admitted. He let out a deep sigh. "He claims he's getting no pleasure out of hanging this over me; reckons he's only brought it up to secure his own safety. The bastard has basically made himself untouchable and free to fuck up Harper's life without me and Bruce being able to do a thing to stop him."

Spencer quickly sat up and reached out to take Shona's hand. "And now he's ruining our holiday. I'm here worrying and complaining about that bastard when I'm meant to be focusing on you and Eddie. Sometimes it's just so hard to switch off," he admitted. "Hottest woman around is right beside me and my mind is distracted. Any normal bloke would only be thinking about his smokn' hot wife right now," he told her. "I need to make it up to ya, babe," he softly told her, doing everything in his will to push out all of his negative thoughts so he could live only in the exact present.

Pyroclast (Shona)

 

[BasDorcha]

Sullivan Family Home
Dublin
Michelle Romano​

Listening to the ladies play the game of ‘Never Have I ever’ brought a grin to Michelle’s face. This was what a girl’s night should be like. They all had a bunch of stressful drama filled things going on in their life, and many of them if not all of them, had very little time to relax. Michelle put her fingers up, instantly losing one as soon as her turn was up. Blushing a little to have so many of the women that had mother like position in her life, she had to acknowledge she had taken pictures in college for a boyfriend she had been trying to impress. It had been more of the Boudoir type pictures, a friend of hers that was taking photography being the one who shot and developed the images privately for her.

“I did a boudoir shoot in college; we should all do one together!” Michelle laughed, glad for the distraction when the next lady went. She enjoyed the gentle ribbing from Lucy, winking at her comment about the game being rigged. Another finger down since her ex-husband was blonde. Laughing, she watched Aunt Sinead struggling to come up with her turn, loosing her third finger to her response. “You ladies thought this was a set up, but here I am three down already, jeeze.”

The shattering of glass stopped all the laughing and good-natured ribbing. Michelle jumped up, rushing to Aliana’s side, waiting to see what she said. When her mom said they were on their way, she knew it was bad. Michelle immediately picked the phone back up, calling her sitter and informing them that she would pay extra but she needed them to stay as there had been a family emergency. The sitter didn’t mind, as she had intended to stay later anyways knowing the woman was having a lady’s night. Michelle then moved back to meet Aliana and Conor, all of them looking equally grim.

Michelle joined her mother and father for the ride over, having never been to Finn and George’s place to know where to drive herself. The whole way she remained quiet and fidgeting. Was Leo going to be okay? She hadn’t been back very long and had not had much of a chance to really get to know him the way she wanted too – sure they knew each other but living near enough to someone to see them daily was different then holidays and weekends. The time between the car ride and arriving in the makeshift hospital room seemed an infinity, but the sound of a drugged-out Leo greeting Ali immediately relaxed some of the harder tension out of her shoulders.

Seeing Leo and Aliana interacting made her heart ache a bit, missing her own mother and knowing her relationship with Aliana would never be like that. They were getting better, but she’d never really be one of Aliana’s kids. Walking to the end of his bed, she gave Leo a smile, “Look’s like someone was partying without us, here we were thinking we’d be the ones all messed up and hung over, but Leo’s got the good stuff. Hey brother, tell me something you’ve never told anyone.” She teased, insinuating that his lips were good and loose in this state. Her hand reached out and gripped Aliana’s, trying to comfort her and looking for her dad. She was sure he'd be in work mode, but as this was the first time she'd ever been involved with something of his work nature, she was curious how different he might be.

"What can I do to help? I took a nursing course in college before I decided to get into politics, I'm no doctor but I can be an extra set of hands." Michelle offered up in an attempt to be useful and not feel out of place.

MentionsSullivan Family Party Troupe, Bloody Men, Spicy Tamale, Sexy Doctors
Bellz , Pyroclast , Misty Gray , Melanin-Gxdess

 

[BasDorcha]

Harper's House
London
Jeremy Gray
​

As they lay there, drifting in and out of the post-coitus glow, Jeremy stroked Harper’s back in contentment. Sure, at first he had been worried she would be unsatisfied with him, regretting it, but he had made sure to make up for it with a second and third attempt before they had falling into a laze. Holding her now felt right, like for the first time in the world he had a place that was really his. It had been so long since he first started having feelings Harper that he couldn’t even remember when it had started shifting from friends to more. He knew the moment he realized it completely though, never forgetting that night of the party. It had been a number of years since then, but it felt like a lifetime. Now that he had her in his arms, his heart was surer than ever before, he would never stop feeling this way, and he would never stop loving her. She was the only woman for him, and he could not imagine his life without her.

As if he could feel her heart shifting in weight, he squeezed her tight to him, leaning over to kiss her head. When she turned up and kissed his nose, he smiled at her, his hand lifting to brush her hair away from her face. He couldn’t help but admire her from this new angle, and angle he had never quite seen her at before – laying on his chest, looking at him with love in her eyes. When she did speak, he could hear the fear in her voice. His free hand played with her fingers as she grasped it, grinning back at her joke. No one could ‘handle’ Harper, just like a raging river, you floated along, and just enjoyed the ride. His hand moved to wipe her eyes, swiping away the tears as they built up on her lids.

“I meant it, and it will always be true. I could never be so mad at you, I could not forgive you. That’s what love means. Love is both selfish and giving, controllable and uncontrollable.” He gave her a gentle smiled tipping her head up so he could give her a light kiss. “But it’s never meant to be tamed. So be selfish, because I will be. From this point forward Harper, you are mine, and that is as selfish as it comes.” Jeremy’s voice had a fierceness to it, and a tone that brooked no argument, as if he stated a law of the world, and not a simple union between them. “I will not share your heart with another, I will not share your touches with another, I may not have been your first, but I will do everything in my power to be your last. In return, you are my first and last, you have my heart, my soul, and my body for anything you need. I will protect you from the things in this world that I can, but you have to trust me completely and be open with me. The future will come, there’s no need to stress about it – one way or another, tomorrow always arrives. All you have to do is let it come to you. Don’t worry about it until it arrives, and just focus on doing what you need to for that day and that day alone. Grabbing something that has not come within reach is impossible, so hold on to the things that are here with you, right now, in this day. Your family, your friends, us…”

He let his words sink in, still watching her. Sometimes he forgot she was so much younger than him as he often felt she was more grown up for her age then should be, but moments like this reminded him she was still young, less experienced than him, and still very scared of the unknown and being out of control. He hoped he could help guide her across these rifts, like a ferryman guiding a ship through the fog. He couldn’t promise he’d always have the answers, but together, they could figure it out.

Mentions Bellz - Harper the Conqueror

 

[Misty Gray]

Christian's House
~ Hackney, London ~

Christian Brooks​

When May took his hand and pulled it back to gently hold her cheek, Christian didn't resist or pull away. Instead, he remained still as his face began to glow and his heart rate increased. The scent of honey didn't go amiss, but in the present situation it wasn't enough to register with him as he was too focused on the beautiful face of the woman before him. Although he'd given the signals that it was okay to do so, May didn't move away from him and back into her spot on the sofa. Instead, she leaned in closer to him. She lifted her hand so she should run her fingers over his hair and then stroke his face.

Christian looked into her eyes as he continued to hold his hand to her cheek. In that moment, he leaned in closer and didn't waste any more time before pressing his lips to hers. Although his heart and unconscious mind were propelling him forward to finally do what he'd been holding back on for weeks, something else was tugging at him. Christian suddenly pulled away, his face moving back from hers, but his hand lingering against her soft cheek still. Slowly, he moved his hand down and let May sit back in her spot on the sofa next to him, creating a little distance. "Sorry..." he quietly apologised, quickly shaking his head.

He was aware she needed an explanation for his behaviour because he was confused about his actions too. Now he was no longer keeping the secret about Trevor from her, what was holding him back? Then it hit him and he didn't need to be a detective to figure it out. Regardless of how new the revelation was, May's news meant she was now one of the Kings. She was Spencer's sister - the second man after Bruce who he worked for and had no intentions of betraying. He valued his life too much to cross either of them. He had to wonder how they would feel about him being with May and if it would compromise his employment with them. Though he allowed his concerns to briefly overcome him, he looked back into May's eyes and was already longing to feel her lips against his again. In the grand scheme of things, how could it possibly affect the Kings' business? And what valid reason could they even have for it being an issue?

Throwing caution to the wind and for once doing what he wanted to do, Christian placed his hand on May's lower back and pulled her closer to him. Resting his hand on the side of her head, he moved in to passionately kiss her...

BasDorcha (May)

 

[Bellz]

Harper King
Her Apartment
~ London ~​

Harper let her eyes close as his thumbs wiped at the tears that started to spill over. The guilt she was feeling was starting to overwhelm her, despite the moments they had just shared together. Instead of freaking out, she just pushed herself closer into Jeremy's arms, reminding her that the warmth she felt was real and not some sort of dream. Or worse, a hallucination. His words were relieving to hear because he seemed to be the only person left in the world who would forgive her for her actions.

Jeremy gently tilted her head up to stare into her eyes and Harper searched for any chance that he might be lying, that he too would leave her like the rest. The intensity burning in them, followed by the lightest of kisses was enough to tell her that he would be with her until the bitter end. If it ever came to that. His voice hummed with such certainty, that she was his, that it surprised Harper that she didn't feel like she needed to run in the other direction.

Harper understood the difference, at least now that it was presented to her in such a form. He told her to be selfish and encouraged it even. Her eyes continued to look at him as he spoke, in silent awe of all the things he was vowing to her at that moment. It was really starting to dawn on her just how long this man in her arms had been waiting for her to accept him, to be open to his advances. The amount of love he already had for her and the amount of love she had been denying herself for him for years. It was something that she didn't have with anyone else because she never let them in long enough to form that connection. For all the years she made fun of Alex, the constant sleeping around, the different relationships...was that not what she had been doing?

She had been denying her any sort of connection like this because she felt in her heart she didn't deserve it. But in a desperate attempt to not be like her brother, Harper had kept most of her affairs under wraps, went to school, and tried to make another name for herself. Jeremy spoke about not worrying about the future, that it would come one way or another, with tomorrow always arriving. He was so wrapped up in all of this, and Harper would let him...she didn't need to fill his head with any fears for the future. The fear of tomorrow coming and ending all too soon, being the final tomorrow in her life. The more she thought about it, the more she craved to use her pills to forget.

So, she hung onto his words. They both stared into each other's eyes as they sunk in between them. "Have you always been this articulate?" She asked being serious this time around, finally breaking the silence with a breathless teasing smile before leaning forward and giving him another kiss. Harper had once again forgotten about the things she had been previously worried about as she looked into his eyes. "That night at your party...I remember...feeling..." Harper couldn't quite place it as a small smile formed on her face.

But then she remember something, turning towards her bedside table, wincing slightly as she turned completely around. Shuffling through the drawer a moment, she found a small box and pulled it out before turning back around with some effort. Harper looked into his eyes, a smile playing on her lips. "You might hate me for this...not because of it but because I was such a stubborn ass but..." She opened the box to reveal the paper flower he had made for her the night of his party.

“The fountains mingle with the river, And the rivers with the ocean, The winds of heaven mix forever With a sweet emotion; Nothing in the world is single; All things by a law divine, In one spirit, meet and mingle. Why not I with thine?—"

The words flowed with ease, having replayed those words over and over again in her head. Only this time, he could actually finish it for her. "I think...that was the day...I knew. Something. Was too stupid and young to call it love. But I see now that's what this is. Annoying as you are not to mention a complete asshole. I look at you...and I see something I didn't. That change used to scare the hell out of me...but now I know what I can have. What we could have. I do love you...and I know you have loved me for a long time...but I hope I can make up for the years we missed and then some."
with: Jeremy BasDorcha

 

[Misty Gray]

Finn & George Sullivans House
~ Sutton, Dublin ~

Conor Sullivan
Dermot Murphy​

It had been over two weeks since the Kings had attacked and hospitalised Conor. Since then, the Irish boss hadn't been involved in the majority of the business, both through his own choice and through Aliana's efforts. Although he hadn't been overly happy about it, one thing Conor had given the final say on was his approval for Savannah to leave Dublin with Danny and Callum. He'd much rather have them at home where he knew what was going on, but he couldn't exactly say Dublin was safe for them given his own present physical condition confirming otherwise. He knew Sinead would hate him for it, but she'd been blaming him for everything lately, so what was another addition to the list? He loved his little sister to bits, but she simply didn't understand the sacrifices he had to make and how much of an impossible position it was for him given his role in the family business

With the women over today for drinks, Conor had every intention of avoiding them. The last thing he wanted was to be listening to them gossiping and cackling over a few cocktails. In the past, he'd have been all for trying to gate-crash the party and winding them up. Right now, he was happy to just have some peace and quiet. The place for him to relax that evening turned out to be outside by the swimming pool. Having been a warm summer's day, the pleasant weather had continued into the evening so it was a perfect temperature to lounge around.

With his eyes closed, Conor heard someone step outside and he was about to reach for his empty glass to ask for a refill. He didn't get chance to ask as Aliana called out to him to say the boys were back and hurt. "Who? Back from where?" he grumbled as he removed his sunglasses. One of the matters Aliana hadn't told him about, in order to keep his stress levels down, was that Elena had been kidnapped. His wife looked to be in a panic, so much so that she soon rushed back inside without waiting for him. "Alright, I'll just get up off my arse and..." he trailed off in a grumble with nobody around to hear. He felt the blood rush to his head when his stood up and took a moment to compose himself from another dizzy spell before walking back towards the house.

As they approached the car, Conor took the front passenger seat, not yet feeling well enough to get behind the wheel. He sucked in a breath as he tried to block out the throbbing pain in his head, hoping it would settle during the car ride. "Hopefully someone's going to explain to me what the fuck's going on before we get there," he complained. With everyone piling into one car, Dermot, who had been working security at the Sullivan mansion, had muttered an exasperated grumble under his breath. He'd then got one of the other security guards to join him in a second car which tailed the vehicle Conor and the women were in all the way to Ginn's house.

When they all got to the house, Conor took some time to look in on Adam, Thomas and Elena, deciding now wasn't the time to press them for a debrief. Instead, he stuck close to Aliana and Michelle as they made their way to Leo's side. As his wife berated their injured son and wasted no time in comparing the two men, Conor raised an eyebrow. "Hey now!" he defensively protested. Still, as he folded his arms, he looked over Leo's injuries and could see how much worse things could be for him right now. "You're meant to dodge the bullets, son," Conor lightly teased Leo. When Finn was done stitching Leo's wounds, Conor gave his cousin a firm pat on the shoulder. "Thanks, mate," he spoke sincerely. Though the once inseparable pair didn't speak much as of late, Conor was always grateful for Finn's help and appreciated how good a man he was.

Whilst Michelle offered up her help in treating the patients, Conor stood at Aliana's side and rested his arm around her waist. "What the hell happened out there, Leo?" he asked his son. "Sounds like you rushed into a dangerous situation."

With: Melanin-Gxdess (Aliana, Leo) BasDorcha (Michelle)
Mentioned: Bellz (Finn)

 

[Melanin-Gxdess]

Ginn Family Home
~Sutton, Dublin~
Leo & Aliana Sullivan

Behind Aliana walked in Michelle, who'd asked him to tell her something he never told anyone. With the drugs having loosened his tongue and curbed his common sense he chuckled. "When I was 16, mom and dad left for a weekend and I got wasted on their good bourbon. Had to mix some other liquors together to pour back in." He nodded his head as if so proud of what he had just confessed- Aliana shaking her head. "I knew it tasted different," she said, walking closer to his gurney. Seeing him in such a state broke her heart and she was using banter as a way to not show it. No mother wanted to see their child in a hospital bed and no mother should have to. Aliana's children were her entire world and she didn't know what she'd do if they were taken from her.

Conor then started to protest her comment and Ali frowned at him. "He's your son through and through." She then turned her attention back to Leo, softly stroking his hair as he responded to his father. Any other time Leo probably would have tensed up. The last thing he wanted was for his parents to see him in such a state but even more so for his father. For reasons he still didn't quite understand, Leo wanted to prove himself to Conor. Prove what, he wasn't entirely sure. Maybe it was that he had nothing to worry about when he eventually retired. Or it could be that Leo was capable or that he should be proud of the man he'd raised. Whatever it was Leo didn't want the man he looked up to for years to see him so vulnerable. Fortunately, the morphine had gotten rid of that subconscious thought for now. "I think I dodged a good amount of them," he paused, craning his neck toward where Thomas was. "Ain't that right, Thomas?!" He wasn't even sure he'd heard Conor's statement, to begin with, but he went with it. Turning back to his parents and tried raising his arm. It felt too heavy for him to hold, so he let it remain at his side. "I'm fine, alright?" He specifically said to Ali. "I'm not dyin'." Something about hearing him say it the way he had and the boyish grin made Ali tear up.

He reminded her of when Leonard was attacked and ended up in the hospital. "I'm not dyin' anytime soon," he'd told her before being killed a few months later.

For a moment - in an attempt to steel her nerves and emotions - she pressed her forehead against Leo's chest. With his good arm, Leo softly rubbed the back of her head and kissed the top. He knew she felt bad and may start to blame herself for allowing him to go on this mission. It's why he was trying so damn hard to reassure her that everything was okay. He was safe and alive and that's what mattered right then. This Leo wasn't going to be taken from her like Thomas Dempsey nor Leonard McGrath. This Leo was alive and well and going to survive. He heard her sniffle before she stood back up, wiping away the tears that'd escaped, and took a deep breath. As if knowing Ali needed a moment, Michelle asked how she could help and Leo shook his head. "Nah, Finn's the best," he said, gesturing with his good arm to his injuries. "Stitched me up and gave me drugs to go with it." Ali let out a scoff. Before she could reprimand him Conor joined her side with his hand on her lower back. Just feeling the warmth from her husband was enough to help her start calming down.

He then asked Leo what happened - something Ali wanted to know as well. She knew that he'd been out with Adam and Thomas searching for Elena but she didn't know about them finding her; not until the phone call. Glancing around the room, she saw the woman in question with her wounds tended to by Adam's side. The mission had been successful, sure, but at what cost, she wondered? With her attention back to Leo she waited for him to explain. "Uh," he said, looking to Ali for permission. He'd been strictly told not to tell him anything about the Elena situation. "For starters," Ali turned to Conor, "Elena was kidnapped a few days ago. Adam, Thomas, Leo, and a few others have been looking for her this entire time. They didn't have anything to go on, so I saw no reason to stress you with it at the moment." Her tone - though confident, and matter-of-fact - also held worry. Worry that he wouldn't understand why she kept it from him and that he'd want to immediately return to business. Though she knew he would have to eventually, he should be resting as much as he could now.

"But Leo," she continued, turning to him. "How did you guys find out where to go?" Leo just stared at her for a moment trying to get his thoughts together. The moment his train of thought was up and running again he snapped his fingers. "Right! We were at the gym and fuckin' Phelan called! Had info about Elena. We knew it was a trap- Adam knew it was a trap but he didn't care. Me and Thomas went in a bit after him; killed a few blokes-," he said, pausing. The realization of his first kill was starting to bubble up. He looked down at his hands and he could swear there was still blood on them. He subtly wiped them against his pants before he continued talking- tripping over his words. "Er, uh... And we found them. Adam was in pretty bad shape and Elena too. Thomas too. And me. But we got outta there alive, so."

Conor ( Misty Gray )
Michelle ( BasDorcha )

 

[BasDorcha]

The Sullivans Pub
~ Dublin City Centre, Dublin ~
Thomas Thatcher​

Tom wondered how he was going to go about figuring out what his sister was up too, and just exactly how close she had gotten with the Londoners. He hoped it turned out to be something that wouldn’t affect his relationship with her, that wouldn’t result in him having to choose sides. He loved his sister, she was the only person in the world he was ever close with on a deeper level, plus she had practically raised him. He would have to call her tomorrow and see if he could catch her, find out what he could about what she was doing in London and maybe try to nose around and find out what she knew about the King’s. It wasn’t something he could just come out and ask, was it? Hey sis, I don’t suppose you’re working for the mob there in London, are you? It would be an awkward conversation. Worse, what if she said yes?

Tom decided right then and there he was going to try to get his sister home. He would never allow any harm to come to her, and if she was hanging around those in London, she couldn’t possibly be safe. He knew she was never happy in Dublin, but maybe they could move out of town, somewhere close in the countryside until she got on her feet, then he could move out. After all, he was still staying in an efficiency style hotel room, it was time for him to find a real place to stay. Stuffing his hands into his pockets, he tried to come up with a few backup plans. Maybe an unaffiliated Sullivan partner could do some snooping, even if it meant sending them to London, he’d be willing to pay.

He pushed his way out of the bar, not paying much attention to what was going on around him or the people passing by, just letting his instinct and subconscious be responsible for alerting him to anything he needed to know. Right now he was lost in thought.

So when Shinoa called out to him, at first he didn’t respond. His mind had been distracted by thoughts and was slow to process her since she did not register as a threat to his brain. “Oh hey Shinoa, how are you?” Tom was also feeling a bit drunk at this point, having had several double shots of whiskey while talking to James and getting ready to play pool. Lifting his arm, he threw it around her shoulders, pulling her up against his side. “What wonderful timing. I was just leaving here. So tell me, what’s a girl like you doing around a place like this. Some young guy might try to pick you up.” He winked teasingly, though he did give her a good look up and down, as if insinuating something more.

“I was just headed around the corner to my flat, where are you off too?” As they walked, he looked up at the sky. Tom didn’t process emotions like most people, but he could fake it well enough. When he was drunk, he became a bit more… just more. The word his ex had used on him was sociopathic – always said he never cared about her feelings – not that he did. When she found out he had stayed with another girl after a drunk night at the bar, she had lost it, asking how could he do it, why, didn’t he care about her. I guess. It didn’t mean anything. Sex is meaningless, it is just something to do. I came back didn’t I? The last words he said to her played through his mind. Since then he had made a mental note that normal people didn’t like it when their spouses did things like that, so he had made the change, acting more concerned and it had worked well. Some days he did it without thought now, almost as if it wasn’t him acting.

At this moment, he was wondering what her reaction would have been if she had come in and seen him flirting with the girl in the bar. Sure they weren’t together, but women acted like that. “How are you doing? Where’s little Lily? Are you baby free for a while?” There was a devious look in his eyes, but he quickly looked away, he wouldn’t want her to think that at this moment all he wanted was to resolve the fantasies in his mind, he had already learned that was a bad thing. Instead, he let himself play the goofy drunk, playfully leaning into her but not putting enough weight to cause her to fall. It would be a few minutes to his place, but he’d walk with her longer and walk back, it was not a big deal.

Mentions BloodLightning27 - Shinoa

 

[BasDorcha]

Christian's House
London
May Thatcher

​

May was mystified by the sensation she felt when he kissed her. A jolt like a shot of lightning lifted every hair on her body in anticipation. Just as she moved to deepen the kiss, her hands starting to slide up around his neck, he pulled away, leaving her feeling cold after the heat between them. Blushing furiously, she moved back to her spot reluctantly. “No, it’s okay. I didn’t mean to make you uncomfortable…” She felt foolish, but also confused. It seemed like he was sending mixed signals. One moment, he was as lost in whatever crazy feeling that they had just shared, then he was pulling away and acting distant the next. Had she done something wrong? Maybe she was a bad kisser?

He seemed to be thinking, and May felt terribly foolish. She felt like the silence stretched and was about to stand to leave when his hand touched her back. She looked up quickly at him, her eyes shinning with the starting of tears that had stopped in their path at his light touch. As he pulled her back to him, she moved under his lead, wrapping her hands around his neck and returning the passionate kiss. In seconds she was lost in the feeling that was over powering her chest, over powering her senses, and ransacking any thought of anything else existing in the universe except the two of them. Maybe it was something with pheromones or chemistry, but May felt like she was on the best drugs. Sure she’d been with other guys, but something felt different.

Without anymore waiting, May moved into his lap with a leg on each side, and the world faded out…

***

May and Christian had at some point ended up in his bed, and the night was some hour in the pre-dawn, still dark outside, the moonlight peeping in the windows. Their night had been like something a dream, and as she lay there, her eyes waking from a short nap, everything had a hazy feeling to it. For a moment, she thought it was still part of her dream, humming as she nuzzled in closer to him, enjoying the warmth in his arms.

With her brain not registering that this was real, she began to mumble under her breath. At first, she was quiet, unable to be made out. She took a deep breath and spoke a second time. “Thank you… I’ve never felt wanted before.” She closed her eyes lazily, not asleep as she was stroking his chest, but sort of in a doze. “I’ve been lonely for so long.” After a few minutes, she came fully awake, blushing as she realized she had been speaking out loud. Without thinking, she sat up quickly, turning her head down to search his face, waiting to see if his eyes were open.

Mentions Misty Gray - Sexy PI