Realistic or Modern A Family Affair: The Irish Mob - IC (Ended)

He'd been overlooking the floor when he noticed the commotion at the center table. Ryan's first thought was that the mayor had shovelled the food too quickly into his maw that he was choking and this being followed shortly by one of the man's entourage performing the heimlich maneuver seemed to confirm this. Attracting the attention of the security personnel positioned near him to send the man to check on the table. It while Ryan was addressing the guard when the screams started.

"What the hell?" Returning his gaze to the floor, he could immediately see where the panic was rippling from. Even from the distance that Ryan stood from, he could see the red curtain the table cloth. "Damn it all." He cursed under his breath as he turned to the shocked guard that now stood next to him. He snapped his fingers in front of the man's face to break his focus on the frenzy that was beginning below them. "Oi! I need you to go to the Main Office, order a lockdown of the Casino over the PA and call emergency services. Go! NOW!" He had shouted the last word as Ryan felt as though time was being wasted as he turned to scanned the floor again before deciding his next action.

With Ryan's mind racing for options, he decided that he'd have to make his way to the center table to figure out what was going on. Shit. What route is quickest? Which stairs? No. Those are probably stuffed with people. Realizing that the quickest way there was the straight shot, Ryan unbuttoned his jacket for some more flexibility as he put one leg over the half wall in front and of him and prepared to drop to the floor below. Positioning himself to hang from the edge before letting go, he tried prepare himself to roll once he hit the ground. While not as graceful as he would of liked, as he clipped person mid-roll, but he managed the transition between floors relatively unharmed. Not stopping to apologizing to the person he'd clipped, Ryan quickly made his way to where James and his family had converged.

The scene wasn't the ugliest he'd seen but it was by no means pleasant as he saw the copious amounts of blood that covered the unmoving Mayor and if hadn't been for Sinead retching blood, he would thought that the man had been gutted. The panic that he'd seen from his post just a minute ago could be felt in the air and it was starting to affect him as Ryan's heart hurt at the sight of the woman, until he steeled himself and a colder version of himself took over. Looks like poison. Something that acts quickly. What to do? Antidotes, cures, treatments. Something to stop or delay this. Donahue racked his brain for anything that could be helpful. He had been trained to deal with possible chemical attacks when in the Marines, but it mostly for aerial dispersion not ingestion. Not coming up with any helpful information, Donahue switched focus. Approaching Peter and Sinead, he firmly clasped his hand on the desperate looking man's shoulder. "Mr. Callahan, time is of the essence. We need to move her to the front doors so the medics can begin treating her and take her to the hospital sooner." Seeing as Sinead was obviously fading fast and not completely sure if Peter could physically handle carrying his dying wife, Donahue signalled for James' assistance.

Bellz [Peter, Lucy] Misty Gray [Sinead, James, Conor] Shireling [Rudolph]

Sinead felt the weight of Lucy lift from on top of her, followed by that of the hold James had on her legs. She let out a deep gasp as the warmth they'd being giving to her was taken away, leaving her feel more exposed to any danger around them. She heard Peter asking her to talk to him. When he pulled her in close and cradled her, she managed to lift her head so her eyes could search for his face. Her vision was still clouded but she could make out the shape of her husband's face and the way his mouth was contorted into sadness. She tried to focus on the way he was rocking her, trying to provide her with comfort. She heard him pleading with her to stay with them, that they couldn't lose her. She wanted to speak, but all of her energy was being taken up trying to keep breathing and fighting to gasp for air. She wanted to tell him how much she loved and adored him. She wanted him to tell the children how perfect they were, that she would always be proud of them and loved them to bits. Being unable to get the words out was frustrating, causing more tears to stream down her face. She wondered if this was finally it. Like the attack back at the club had just been a warning and she'd been given just a few more weeks to spend with her family. She was sure she'd spent that time showing every one of them how much she cared. She hoped she had.

After letting go of Sinead, James stood up and took a step back, allowing himself a moment to survey the area and the damage around them. His eyes caught the Mayor who had now been laid out across the floor, dead and covered in his own blood. James knew Sinead's suffering had been intended for him. Whilst he knew he couldn't blame himself for her current state, it didn't stop him from wishing he'd just forced himself to have the drink so he was in her place right now. He knew he had plenty of his men around tonight to survey the area and keep close watch on everything, so for now his place was to be supporting his family. As seemed to come naturally, his eyes found Lucy as she stood in shock, with her eyes tightly closed. James walked over to her and wrapped his arms around her from behind, resting the side of his head against the side of hers. All the while, his eyes were watching Peter comforting Sinead, no doubt not alone in hoping she would fight this. "Remember, Tinkerbell's a fighter," he whispered into Lucy's ear.

James released Lucy so he could rush to assist Donahue who suggested it was best they move her to the front doors so she could be rushed to hospital faster. "You're right, mate, I'll--" James was cut off when Conor stepped in and scooped his sister up in his arms, her small frame easy for a man of Conor's build to lift without trouble. James bit his lip and quickly nodded his head before focusing back to Donahue. "Mate, will you help Pete? Stay with him until the ambulance gets here?" he asked. James turned to Lucy and placed his arm around her, pulling her close. His eyes briefly met Alex's, willing her to follow them, as they needed as he knew she may be needed to support Conor in this situation. "Come on, Luce," he said, walking with her to the main doors of the casino to wait with the others.

Conor walked to the front doors, as he'd heard Donahue suggest. He held Sinead close to his chest as he carried her. "Come on, Tinkerbell. No need to be a drama queen, now," he softly told her, the tears rolling down his cheeks. "You've still got to find Emmy that rainbow-coloured cat she dreams of." Conor let out a deep breath, having almost forgotten to breathe. "And I haven't spent nearly enough time with you lately. Give me chance to change that, will ya? We can all take the kids out to the park or it can be just us two. We can both go to the theatre and you can tell me what the bloody 'ell Shakespeare was trying to say that time!!"

Detective Donnelly noticed Rudolph telling people to clear out of the way and sent him a nod in agreement before turning away. "You all heard the man!" he shouted. "Out of the way," he ordered. By now, more cops had arrived and they were directing the bystanders to a side exist not far from the main one. Donnelly took his position by the door, carefully watching and inspecting everyone who left the building, checking for anyone who might look suspicious. His colleagues would have attended to the emergency exits, but the Detective was sure the culprit will have made his exit before the Mayor even began to show his symptoms.

The family hadn't been at the main entrance for long when the ambulance sped into view and stopped directly outside. The paramedics and doctor rushed out of the vehicle, wasting no time in taking over, asking everyone to step back from Sinead a little. As they rushed to tend to her on the scene, Sinead's eyes searched for Peter. She weakly held her arm up, wanting to grab his hand. Before she managed to reach out to him, she was lifted onto the stretcher and wheeled into the back of the ambulance. Having been pre-warned by the Detective about what he'd suspected to be cyanide poisoning, the doctor was able to intravenously administer an antidote, but he still needed to get Sinead to the hospital for proper treatment, especially in the chance Donnelly's assumption was wrong.

Only two people were permitted to accompany Sinead in the ambulance, so James took the obvious decision and helped both Peter and Lucy into the back of the vehicle with her. He could see how hard Conor was taking not being able to join them. He beckoned Alex over to Conor's side. "Alex, I need to you drive Conor to the hospital Can you do that?" he asked her. He knew she'd only just been through her own loss, but he felt she was the best person to go with Conor right now. He rushed off to retrieve his keys from the valet's office and then passed them to Alex. Letting someone use his car would usually come with a warning about not scratching it, but none of that mattered in this moment. "I'll be over as soon as I can," he assured her.

With Peter, Lucy, Conor and Alex (perhaps more?) all heading to the hospital, James knew he needed to stay at the casino right now until things calmed down. He looked around to see who was left inside to regroup with him...

Phew! Sorry for the big post - was trying to cover everyone.
I think this leaves: Rudolph, Donahue, Jackson, Aliana, Leo, and Tommy inside the casino. But, it's perfectly reasonable that some of these may also go to the hospital if they're close to Sinead and the others. It's completely your choice.

Bellz neverbackdown Enzyme Melanin-Gxdess Shireling Fletchawk

Blake had been expecting it. The hit that Carter gave her immediately after she said what she felt she needed to. Her head whipped to the side with the force the whole right side of her face was now burning and going numb, the familiar taste and smell of iron led her to believe that he had even drawn blood. But before she had anytime to react to him, his hands were on her again, this time squeezing her cheeks so hard that she couldn't speak. He harshly pressed her against the brick wall behind them and Blake's eyes teared up again from all the pain he was inflicting. Her heart raced rapidly in her chest and she struggled to breathe as she had no choice but to listen to the words he spoke. She could see the intensity in his eyes, the urge to slit her throat right then and there and be done with it. Blake knew she was at the end of her rope with the man, Jared was the only thing keeping Carter from killing her.

She had to play her cards right. Blake sucked in air through her nose as Carter squeezed her face tighter and tighter, so much so that she thought he would break her jaw. She squeezed her eyes shut quickly as a small noise of pain escaped her. The switchblade tickled the skin at her neck as she swallowed roughly, causing her to wiggle away from it. Carter had finished his monologue, of which Blake took seriously despite not wanting to. The blonde was thrown from the wall and to the ground quickly, landing on her hands and knees as she hit the concrete below hard. She coughed and sputtered, moving her aching jaw around as she began to curse Carter again. She didn't say anything more though, reminding herself that he could just as easily kill her and explain to Jared later.

Forcing herself to stand up, Blake grabbed the wall for support. Blood dripped from her lips as her nose bled and she wiped at it quickly with her forearm before making her way out of the alleyway through the side door. Not bothering to leave Carter with any parting words, she shut the door behind her and headed down the dimly lit hall again. The tears and sobs that built in her chest were painful as she held her nose to keep it from bleeding anymore. Blake scrambled for a cover story, she was sure she looked like a shit show and she couldn't have herself found out...not after what just happened in the alley. Stumbling back into the main part of the casino, Blake looked around frantically, dazed almost.
with: Carter Enzyme ; Open for interaction
Mentions:

Everything felt as if it was moving in some sort of slow motion. Like the whole casino had been flooded with water and everyone was still trying to exist under it. Peter blinked slowly once before his eyes shot back down to look at his wife, who was now in silent tears in his arms. Peter pulled her closer to him and whimpered out desperately. His breathing was heavy and was becoming uncontrollable as all he wanted to do was sob. He hadn't even noticed when Conor had lifted her tiny frame from him, staring blankly at the blood stained carpet below him now. He stood silent for a moment before his mind snapped back into focus, it was odd, not being able to think of several things at once. Everything was still slow. He somehow managed to pull himself to his feet however, wobbling slightly from being in the position he was in for so long. He quickly stumbled towards the door, refusing o let his wife go by herself to the hospital knowing that was the one place she absolute hated.

Biting his lip as he finally made his way to his wife, he thought he was almost too late when she was reaching out to him as they loaded her up inside the vehicle. "No!" Peter cried out, trying to shove his way to get to her. He was relieved when he was informed that he would be going with her, along with Lucy in the ambulance. He climbed in almost immediately, not waiting for anyone to tell him different as he took his wife's hand and kissed it gently. "Its gonna be okay." He murmured again, though this time, the confidence was not there. He knew his wife was strong than anyone, being the mother of three beautiful kids while still pursuing her own career. But even the strongest fall, he had to learn this the hard way..."I'm so sorry, I'm so sorry." He whispered to her again and again.


The ambulance ride wasn't long and soon both himself and Lucy were being rushed out of the ambulance as Sinead was pushed inside ER of the hospital. They both followed the stretcher as far as was allowed before two nurses stopped them just outside doors that read, authorized personnel only Despite knowing rationally that these doctors were only doing their jobs, Peter still cursed them out as they restrained him from going in side. Lucy gently came up behind him, placing a hand on his shoulder. Peter stopped immediately and looked to Luce who was in tears now, having seemed to snap out of the shock she had been in and was now pleading Peter to stop.

Following his sister in laws request, he let his wife battle this alone, not that he had much of a choice. Instead, he turned to Lucy and wrapped his arm around her shoulder, letting her cry as they slowly walked to the waiting room, now having to sit through these agonizing moments until someone would come out and tell them Sinead was gonna be okay.

with:Sinead+ James Misty Gray

Alex was frozen in place as she stared at blood speckled vomit where Sinead had been lying. Her smile gone and instead a haunting frown played on her lips. She saw Conor pass her and pick up Sinead out of her side vision but her eyes remained glued on the patch of discolourment on the floor. She broke out of her haze when James turned to look at her and she looked him in the eyes before walking alongside them, knowing what he was trying to say to her. Conor needed her right now and so she had to pull herself together.

When Sinead was loaded into the ambulance, Alex grabbed onto Conor s arm and looked at him, a passive look played on her face but there a more sinister vibe emmiting from her being. “We’ll get them sick bastards” she hissed as her eyes flickered back towards the ambulance as the doors shut. When James handed her the keys, Alex took them and gave him a nod before climbing into the drivers seat, waiting for Conor to climb in before she set off towards the hospital. A trait which Alex had lost since having Michelle was a trait she was well known for: her recklessness. But being in the car right now was almost like the old Alex had made an appearance. She followed tightly behind the ambulance, breaking all red lights in her way, she turned Corners violently without slowing down and don’t even mention the speed limits. When they pulled up to the hospital it was a surprise they had made it the whole way in the car and not in an ambulance themselves.

They arrived shortly and Alex climbed out , waiting for Conor before locking the car behind them. She lopped her arm through Conor’s hoping it would give him some comfort as they walked in through the hospital doors

Misty Gray

Conor stood frozen on the spot as he watched the ambulance being driven away. He'd wanted to punch the paramedic who said there was only space for two family members, but he knew that kind of reaction wouldn't help Sinead. He was snapped out of his gaze when Alex grabbed his arm and told him they'd get the bastards. He slowly nodded his head in agreement. "She's the last one of us who deserved this... Whoever's responsible. I want them to suffer..." Conor's words were said in a calm and controlled manner, not quite reflective of his usual bursts of anger nor the fury that was currently burning inside of him. The thought of not being able to see his little sister's bright smile or hear her sweet voice again was weighing heavy on him. Having seen the state of the Mayor and then Sinead's condition, he was certain they were going to lose her.

Alex's dangerous speeding to get to the hospital had barely registered with Conor. As long as they go there fast, the risk of it all never crossed his mind. When Alex had parked up, Conor rushed out of the passenger side and sped into the hospital, linking arms with Alex in the process. When they reached the waiting room, Conor glanced through the window to see Lucy and Peter consoling each other. He stepped to one side, leading Alex out of the way with him. He couldn't join his sister and brother-in-law yet, knowing he wouldn't be able to comfort them without letting go of his own feelings first. With his back against the wall, he looked to Alex, biting his lip as he tried to stop it from trembling. Suddenly he wrapped his arms tightly around Alex and burst out into a sob. "Oh, fuck. Alex... what do I do? She can't die. I don't think I can cope if we lose her. What about Pete?! Savvy, Brady, Emmy... They can't lose Sinny. None of us can." He took a deep breath as he tried to overcome his upset. "Why did it have to be her? She's the best of us all and she never realises how she keeps us grounded. Always reminding us to be the good guys and not to stoop to the levels of... the levels of the bastards who did this." He let go of Alex and stood straight and took a series of deep breaths, wiping his tears on his shirt sleeve as he recovered himself. He hesitated a little before deciding it was time they joined the other two. He took hold of Alex's hand and led her to the room.

As soon as he stepped into the waiting room, he was already feeling agitated and impatient about not knowing what was happening. He let go of Alex's hand and rushed to Lucy, helping her to her feet so he could give her a tight hug. "Have they said anything?" his muffled voice was heard as his face was pressed into her shoulder. He rubbed the top of her back before breaking away from the hug, allowing her to sit back down and offering Alex a seat beside Lucy. Conor then sat next to Peter and placed a firm arm around his shoulder. He knew how much Peter loved and adored Sinead in a different way, so could imagine how much pain he was going through right now. "Come here, mate," he said, finding a confidence in himself to reflect in his voice. "Tinkerbell is going to put up a big fight. We both know how stubborn she can be. We'll all battle through this one together."

Bellz (Peter, Lucy) neverbackdown (Alex)

Carter's steel eyes watched Blake drag herself to her feet. He seemed to have gotten his point across, as she immediately moved back into the casino. Dabbing the side of his mouth once more to asses the damage, it appeared that small amount of blood had dried already. He moved for the inside of his waiter vest, producing a pack. The milky smoke was barely visible in the dark alley, burning from the tip of his cigarette. The whole situation frustrated him beyond belief. He was tired of incompetent workers getting the way of the IWU's vision, which was why he was more than happy to finish Henry off.

As he drew closer the side walk, the street light revealed the silhouette of a man. He couldn't quite make out who it was from this distance, leading him to slowly walk closer. Once he was able to make out the figure's features, he was certain he had never seen the man before. The loaded revolver aimed at him, however, would say otherwise. Pulling the cigarette from his lips, he let out an exasperated sigh. "Can I help you with something, mate?" He walked closer to the figure, keeping his eyes locked on the man. It was obvious that the mysterious man wouldn't lower his aim, leading Carter to flick the cigarette aside and rest his hands behind his back. "Go on, if you're gonna point that, you better be ready to shoot me then."

Shireling (Kieran)

Jackson was anticipating Conor's turn, until the earsplitting scream erupted throughout the casino. Quickly snapping his head in the direction the noise came from, he recognized the crowd forming around the Porter table. Conor was one step ahead of him, bolting down to the table. His rapid thoughts landed on 'gunmen', causing him to brandish the Walther PPK from the inside of his tuxedo coat. Following close behind Conor, he kept the pistol by his side. Once they arrived at the table, his fears had been confirmed. The mayor was doubled over, unresponsive with blood pouring out of his mouth.

Despite the obvious corpse in front of him, he couldn't help, but feel relieved. None of his friends had been hurt. That thought was quickly slapped from his mind as his eyes locked on a vomiting Sinead. That's when it suddenly clicked; They had been poisoned. Jackson felt the room spin around him as variables ran through his head like a looping freight train. How many drinks were poisoned? Were the rest of them just not feeling the effects yet? If it were only Sinead, would she be strong enough to make it to the hospital? The mayor hadn't lasted two minutes, how could she possibly survive this? He bit down on his knuckles as he saw the tears streaming down her face. It truly broke his heart to see the innocent woman in such a helpless state of pain and misery. He could only imagine how his good friend Peter felt. Once everyone had started barking orders, including Ryan, the pair dragged her off to the door.

Suddenly, he realized that Blake was out of sight. "Shit," was all that could escape his lips as he snapped around. He quickly sprinted to the edges of the casino, horrified that he was going to find her crawled up in a corner, slowly dying from the poison. Once he made it to the bar, he was beyond relieved to see her walking in from the alley way. He had no idea where she had gone or why she was out there in the first place, but he was just glad she was okay. At least, so he thought. Once he got closer, he could see the blood running down her lip and nose. He quickly picked up his pace, catching her once she was at arm's length. "Fuckin' aye. Are you alright?" He nervously asked, inspecting her face.

Misty Gray (Conor) Bellz (Blake)

Mention(s): Misty Gray (Sinead) Bellz (Peter) Fletchawk (Ryan)

The heavy tires of the black Mopar crushed the gravel below as it made it's way up the Porter driveway. Nikolai was aware that the Porters wouldn't be home tonight, instead returning to the house to retrieve a briefcase he had left there. Once the car came to a full stop, he let one of his men get the door for him. His intimidating, tall figure was evident once he stepped out to his full height. He smoothly adjusted the edges of his coat over his shoulders, before stepping to the front.

He pushed open the unlocked door and he and his men made their way inside. As per usual, his men made themselves comfortable once they were in. "Мы не останемся здесь. Найди мой чемодан," Nikolai muttered to his men, having no intentions of being on their property longer than he needed to. Before he turned back to his car, he was informed by one of his men that someone was presently in the house. His eyes slowly traced to where the man was pointing, looking down to Emery.

A sincere smile formed on his lips once he spotted her. He stood upright and walked closer to the little girl. Once he was towering directly over her, he bent down on one knee so their eye-line was parallel. "Hello, Ms. Emery. I didn't realize anyone was home." He thought it was strange that she was here all by herself, or perhaps her guardian wasn't currently in the room. After thinking for a second, he looked back down to the girl. "Would you like to take a walk with me?" He asked her, delicately offering her his hand.

Misty Gray (Emery)

"Stop right there, hands up." Kieran commanded, lifting the gun and pointing it squarely at Carter's heart. His finger rested lightly against the trigger. He motioned with the revolver, "Step into the light," he ordered, wanting him to step out into the circle of light around the street light.

"Don't get in your pockets or come an inch closer or I'll shoot," he warned.

Here the problem arose. Now that he had captured his man, he had no idea how to transport him or even what he would do with him. He needed to talk to James.

Enzyme

Blake had been in a daze until she saw Jackson rushing towards her, that was when someone turned on the water works because she let out a heavy sob as he held her. She threw her arms around around Jackson quickly and buried her face into his shoulder, her blood now staining his suit. "They came after me Jackson." She gasped into the crook of his shoulder, her eyes were blurry as she looked back towards the side door, wondering if Carter was going to come for her. He never did, to her relief. She shook horribly, which helped her nail the part of a victim almost perfectly. She kept telling herself that this wasn't an act, that she was afraid of Carter...and although she truly was...she was laying on the extra theatrics just for the sake of keeping her cover. Blake was coming to close to screwing everything up, screwing her own life...this was what happened when she got involved. She was investing too much into Jackson. Her wet eyes blinked a few times before she pulled away to look at his face, her features reflecting fear and confusion.

She was confused, but not about what she was about to tell Jackson. "The same guys from the IWU...they dragged me out into the alleyway and tried to finish me off! He had a switchblade to my throat--" Her voice cracked as a real sob took over her. She once again leaned into him, his warmth inviting and reminding her that she didn't deserve his comfort. Playing the part was hard to do when you weren't invested in it anymore, but she was left with no choice now. It was made clear to her that she was disposable. Ciara wasn't around to protect her and if she did something that Mr. Armstrong didn't like... She needed to protect herself, there was no way out now. Blake's tears turned into tears of sadness, realizing that she couldn't have what she wanted to have with Jackson. It had only been three weeks and yet, she felt like they had doing this for a lifetime. She continued to cry, holding him tightly, knowing that soon she would have to let him go and keep him at a distance. For her safety, and his.
with: Jackson Enzyme
Mentions:

Lucy and Peter consoled each other for god knows how long. But it felt like that if either of them let go, they were both going to fall apart. It was only after Conor arrived and was their to help comfort that they broke away and allowed him to join in. Standing with the help of her brother, Lucy fell into his arms for a weak hug, crying harshly. She had no words for the moment to comfort him and to tell him that it would be alright. She was failing them as the oldest sibling and she couldn't feel more guilty about it. But when Conor asked if they had heard anything, the blonde numbly shook her head, her eyes looking up at her brother, tears brimming them. "Nothing yet, it feels like she's been through the doors for ages and nobody's said anything. We've just filled out some paperwork for her, but nothing besides that." She murmured to her brother before he turned to Peter and Lucy sat down besides Alex. Lucy hadn't felt this way in a long time. If she recalled, the last time she felt like the breath could leave her right then and there was when James was in surgery after there wedding, not knowing if he would make it.

Looking towards Alex, Lucy took the woman's hand and squeezed it lightly. "Thank you so much." She whispered to her, though she wasn't sure what exactly for. Part of her thanked her for being there for her brother and the other part just thanked her for not being like the others in her life. Her family that caused so much pain and destruction. "Why can't these people just leave us alone?" She questioned to her, wondering if she would have the answer, but knowing she most likely wouldn't. Lucy was just desperate for some sort of explanation.

Peter jumped slightly as Conor placed an arm around his shoulder, he hadn't even noticed he had arrived. His eyes slowly looked up, having looked down at the ground for so long, shadowed slightly, his eyes squinted as the adjusted to the fluorescent lighting in the hospital. Peter was in shock. He was already wondering what would happen if his wife didn't make it, if she didn't come back to him again. What would he do? The kids....THE KIDS. How was he going to take care of 3 kids on his own? Their children loved Sinead so much, begged her to cuddle and read stories. Peter wasn't fit to be a mother and a father to his kids. And imagining a world without his wife, he wondered if he was even fit to be a father in the first place. Sinead had given him that confidence...

"What if she doesn't Conor, what if she never fucking comes back to me!" Peter said, his voice panicked as he looked to him with wide eyes. "Savvy, Braden, Emery...they can't be without a mother...I can't be without her..." His voice broke and he bowed his head again, his back shaking with sobs as they came in waves.

with:Sinead+ James Misty Gray

Alex felt herself being pulled to the side and followed Conor’s movements, not that she had the choice. She held him back as he gripped onto her and had to fight her own tears back as he told her all his worries. When he pulled back Alex grabbed him by the shoulders and made him look her in the eye “listen” she said with a surprising amount of strength in her voice “Sinead is stronger than any of you have given her credit for , she will fight this and she will survive” Alex told him “she loves her children and Sinead would not leave them without a mother so pull yourself together and go in there and console your sister and brother in law” she told him fiercely as she pulled together as much of her rage as she could without seeming heartless.

Once in the waiting room, Alex watched as Conor ran to Lucy. She walked over to Peter and pulled him into a hug “I’m so sorry Peter but she’s going to be okay, please keep believing that, your wife is impressively strong” she told him. While her and Peter weren’t close at all, she did really like him and Alex had wanted to get to know him.

Alex took a seat beside Lucy and gave her a side hug hoping to give some comfort towards her. “Because people are evil pricks and they can’t deal with their own lives” Alex told her bitterly Out of everyone in their and even her family, sinead did not deserve this. Alex always thought of Sinead as too pure for this world and so seeing her in this state hurt Alex. As they sat in the hospital and time passed on, Alex began to think of her own sister ripped from life and prayed that Sinead would not also be a casualty in someone else world. Tears stung her eyes as she looped her arms through Lucy “she’ll make it through” Alex said with a sob clear in her voice as she leaned into Lucy.

Misty Gray
Bellz

Emery was sat on the sofa picking sweets out of her hand, one-by-one, and placing them into her mouth. As soon as she heard the front door open, she shoved the remaining candy into her pocket and sat up straight, not wanting to be caught eating sweets when she wasn't supposed to be. The first man she saw was unfamiliar, so she hopped off the couch and took a few steps towards the lounge doorway to look into the hallway.

"Oi, Mister!" she began, until she saw a face she recognised from his various visits to the house. Nikolai was by all accounts an intimidating man and one even grown adults seemed to tip-toe around. Much to her family's surprise, the Russian didn't appear to scare the youngest family member. He approached her, only stopping when he was towering over her. Emery dropped her head back to look up at him, in an almost comical fashion. "Hi... Mr. Nickle-eye." She flashed a brief, bright smile. She let out an exasperated sigh when he said he didn't realise anyone was home. "Most people are not home, but some people are. Granny Shannon is upstairs," she informed him. The Russian would be familiar with the woman in question. "Brady and Savvy were yelling 'bout stuff. So Granny went to 'give them a piece of her mind'. I can call her down, but I think it's safer to let her finish."

When he asked if she would like to take a walk with him, she quickly nodded her head and accepted his hand. She didn't feel he counted as a stranger, seeing as she'd seen him with the grown-ups enough times and he'd been let into the the house right now. "You can't walk fast, y'know. I've only got little legs so it makes me seem slower!" she bossily told him.

Enzyme (Nikolai)

Jackson had a hard time keeping up with Blake's words. Everything had happened so fast, he wasn't prepared for what she had to say. His face, however, twisted into anger and shock, mirroring the severity of the situation. Once she latched onto him, he felt his hand drift to her back to instinctively comfort her. Her streaming tears only made his blood boil hotter. Blake was such a sweet, innocent woman; just like Sinead. Only the IWU fuckers could be sick enough to want to hurt them."In the alley?" He looked up to the door. He slowly released her, pressing a kiss upon her head. He then gripped her hand and pulled her behind him. "Stay behind me. They're not getting away that easy," He said, raising up the Walther PPK.

As he opened up the door, they were immediately met with the harsh November breeze. His eyes immediately spotted Carter in the middle of the alley, suspecting that was the man who attacked her. Gripping Blake's hand tightly, he snapped up his handgun up to the man. "Hey!" He shouted, pulling back the hammer on his pistol and stepping closer. The man didn't look at him right away, instead aiming at someone else. He looked to see who it was, his vision partially distorted from the dark. To his surprise, it was the soon-to-be priest. "Kieran?" He called out, evidently confused.

Bellz (Blake) Shireling (Kieran)
A small smile formed on Carter's lips. "Citizen's arrest, aye?" He remained still, his sinister glow shimmering in the moonlight and his hands kept behind his back. "It appears we've reached an impasse, because you're not gonna' lower your aim and I'm not gonna' put my hands up." He gave a sarcastic shrug, cartoon-ishly frowning. "Let me broaden the possibilities, though." He quickly shifted to the side of the man's aim. In one swift movement, the hand behind his back brandished the loaded .38 snub nose from his back waistband and aimed up to Kieran. "Here we are. Officially deadlocked. Just you and me... Well, except I have an escort arriving in," He lifted the watch on his left wrist into sight, "Well, any minute now." His eyes shot back up to Kieran, smiling wider.

As the two emerged from behind the alley door, he stepped back into the street to keep them all in view. At the sight of Blake, the thought of permanently ridding the pest popped into his head. "Ah, Blake, how kind of you to join us." His aim now snapping to Jackson. Despite two guns being aimed at him, he was confident that he could fire off a fatal round if fired upon. "As you've probably put together, I'm not Blake's cousin. I do know the snake, though. Entered your life so perfectly; a damsel in distress." He raised his eyebrow, squinting "Almost a little too perfectly, right?" He chuckled, slowly moving further back onto the road. "One of Ciara's whores that got passed on down to us. I'm afraid you've been deceived, lad." He winked down to the man.

As if right on time, a large black van pulled onto the murky road. Stopping right behind Carter, an Uzi protruded from the driver's door, aiming down to Kieran. "Well, I'd love to stay and chat - truly." He shrugged once more. As he moved for the back of the van, he made it a point to keep his aim on Jackson until he climbed inside. After disappearing into the back, the black van sped off into the night.

Bellz (Blake) Shireling (Kieran)

Though he hadn't been in the frame of mind to show it, Conor had appreciated Alex's firm words to him. She reassured him of Sinead's strength and there was a chance she could pull through. It was the kind of talk he needed to snap him out of his own upset so he could help the others. Whilst he'd known Sinead for just about all of his life, he knew the kind of upset Peter was going through was different. She was the love of his life and the mother of his children, so in a way, there was much more at stake for him. Much more to lose for Peter if Sinead didn't pull through.

Conor's thoughts were only confirmed when Peter questioned what if Sinead didn't pull through. He expressed that he and the kids couldn't be without her. Conor knew they would always have the help of the Sullivans and Porters, but that wasn't relevant now and certainly wouldn't provide any comfort right now. All he could do was keep his hand firmly on his brother-in-law's shoulder, to hopefully provide him with some strength during a wait that started to feel like an eternity.

It was another hour before the doctor finally stepped into the waiting room to address the four of them. His focus was mostly placed on Peter as he spoke to them. "Mrs. Callahan is in a stable condition and I'm confident she will pull through," he informed them. That alone allowed Conor to exhale deeply with relieved. She was alive, so that was the most important thing for him to hear in that moment. "The antidote was given to her in good time and prevented the poison from being absorbed any further into her blood. There's some burning to her throat and upper esophagus, which can be treated. The toxicology tests show only a low level of poison remaining in her blood, but there is likely minor damage to her liver, which we will need to monitor over the the next few days." The doctor looked to Peter, knowing she was lucky but understanding it might not seem that way right now. "Due to her recently diagnosed heart arrhythmia, we will also monitor her heart-rate more frequently, but that's a minor condition which shouldn't present much of a problem." He explained, unaware that Sinead had never returned to the hospital for the results of her recent tests, out of fear they'd tell her she was dying, or even the opposite, that they'd just tell her she was wasting time and the symptoms were anxiety.


Bellz (Peter, Lucy) neverbackdown (Alex)

Kieran sighed as he walked out from behind the truck he had been taking cover behind. The seminarian slowly pushed the hammer back into place and lowered his revolver. The light from the nearby streetlight hit the side of his face like a dramatic shot in a movie. The adrenaline of holding a man at gunpoint, then being held at gunpoint, was beginning to wear off and he was coming down from his elevated state of danger. He could have pulled the trigger, and maybe he should have. He looked towards Jackson, then Blake.

"She's dirty, Jack. She's been in bed with the IWU this whole time." He remarked sadly. He kept his eyes on Blake, as if he expected her to pull a gun in turn.

Enzyme Bellz

Blake's eye widened slightly as Jackson told her to stay behind him and that they weren't getting away that easy. She wanted to pull him back, to beg him to stay inside. Carter wasn't going to appreciate her sending Jackson on him, especially now that he knew they had something between them. She looked terrified as he hastily head towards the side door, "Jackson wait--" But it was too late, he was already out the door, ready to defend her. Blake stayed back a ways as Jackson boldly raised his gun, pointing it at Carter. Blake eyed the scene quickly and was confused as to why Kieran was present. She then realized that he had most likely followed her. The blonde's head pounded and she felt ill as she watched Carter turn his attention to Jackson, aiming the gun at him now. Blake grimaced at Carter as he addressed her. "Don't you fucking--" He was already confessing her sins to the two men. Blake froze in shock, wondering if the asshole had really just sealed her fate for her. Her eyes looked to Kieran before looking to Jackson as his back faced her.

All was silent as Carter made his get away. She watched the man depart before her eyes once again found Jackson's back. Her hands trembled, her head ached...the blood from her nose was dried now. She held her head down as she looked towards the concrete, she knew she was in for it now. "Jackson, I..." She was lost for words, knowing anything she could possibly say to the man would be useless. Her feeling for him were already deep, despite only knowing him for three weeks and now that was all going to be thrown away. "I didn't mean to hurt you." She whispered softly was all she could say, knowing nothing would be good enough for him at this point.
with: Jackson Enzyme ; Kieran Shireling
Mentions:

Lucy accepted the embrace that Alex offered her graciously and was just glad to have someone to hold on to. Lucy didn't want to lose her sister and she wondered if this was why Alex was comforting her so much. The blonde cried a little harder at the thought and felt terrible for Alex in that moment. She was so emotional about it all and it was so overwhelming that she hadn't even noticed when the doctor came to speak with them about Sinead's condition until a few sentences in. Peter was out of his seat almost immediately as as the doctor arrived almost an hour later, he was anxious to know what was happening with his wife, and it was hard to keep so patient and calm in the waiting room. He listened intently but didn't sigh in the same way that Conor had upon learning that she would live. Peter was always prepared for the 'but' that normally followed and as he nodded his head along with the testing they would be doing, he understand that this wasn't over yet.

Peter's brows furrowed together as the Doctor mention a heart condition and he wondered if Sinead had ever gotten the results back from the tests she had done. "Thank you so much doctor...really...." He murmured to him before turning towards the others momentarily. He knew that they might not be able to see her yet, but it was worth a shot. "Am I allowed to see her?" He asked lightly to which fortunately the doctor said yes. Turning back to Conor, Alex and Lucy he wanted to reassure them before stepping in to see Sinead. "Thank you all." He said to them gently before giving Conor a hug, holding him tightly and patting his back a moment before moving onto Alex. He hugged her as well, knowing that they weren't really familiar with one another, but thankful that she was in Conor's life and here support Sinead. Finally he hugged Lucy, who was still hysterical over the whole thing, he rubbed her back a few moment before letting her go. "I'll come get you all when we get the clear." He murmured to them all before heading back with a nurse to see Sinead


His heart raced with each step he took towards her room, his eyes darted between each room, looking at the sick and dying desperately wanting to get his wife out. As the nurse opened the door, Peter held his breath and stared at his wife silently as she laid in bed. He stepped inside and smiled to the nurse weakly as she shut the door behind him, offering them privacy. "Sinny, Baby?" He asked in almost a whisper, he slowly walked to stand by her side before kneeling beside her and taking her hand.


with:Sinead +Conor Misty Gray ; Alex neverbackdown

Each word out of Carter's mouth was a knife to Jackson's chest. It wasn't true, what he was saying. How could it be? He watched as the mad man made his escape. He wanted to adjust his aim and kill the bastard right then and there, but his mind was on a whole different page. As the car sped off, he stood in silence and stared at the spot Carter had once stood. The alley was quiet for quite some time, silent enough that if a drop of a penny, it would shatter the sound barrier.

Jackson slowly turned to Blake, his lips desperately wanting to curl into a smile. He waited for Blake to pounce on him and laugh, tell him it was all a joke, but that moment never came. The slight smile on his face slowly withered away. He looked off to the ground, trying desperately to process this. Kieran's words were the final nail in the coffin, causing his eyes to trail back up to Blake. Once she started speaking, trying to assure Jackson she didn't mean to hurt him, he slowly shook his head "No..." A layer of water coated his eyes, but his face remained dry. "Come on..." After the attraction, the countless days spent together, how could she do this to him? She was the enemy, a danger to his family. The right thing would have been to aim his gun up and empty three shots into her chest. He knew that was the right thing to do, but he couldn't find the strength to raise his gun at her.

Keeping the gun by his side, he slowly backed away. He kept his devastated eyes on her until he reached Kieran. Stopping for a moment, he turned his head to the man. "Come on, Kieran. Let's get back inside. We have a mess to clean up." He bitterly spoke, still somewhat in shock. Jackson refused to look back at her, instead walking off to the front entrance of the casino - assuming Kieran was behind him.

Shireling (Kieran) Bellz (Blake)

Sinead hated hospitals and after the last hour or so, she hated them even more. She'd been awake throughout it all, barely sedated as her stomach was pumped, various blood samples taken, injections given and repeatedly having to sit back as different doctors assessed her. She tried to tell them to just put her to sleep whilst they did it all, but she might as well have been invisible as her pleas were ignored. They couldn't let her sleep when there was a risk of choking and they needed her conscious as they continued to rid her insides of any poison.

When she was finally taken to a room where she could hopefully begin to rest and recover, she was relived to not have everyone prodding at her and sticking needles into her skin. She knew the staff were trying to help, but it didn't make it any easier. And even though it wasn't the same kind of place, the bare walls just made her think of when she was forced to spend time in the psychiatric hospital back in Chicago. The whole atmosphere just freaked her out a little as she recalled how horrible that place was. The nurse wasn't helping her agitation, forcing her to drink some fluids to ease the soreness at the back of her throat. Even though they were all trying to help her, she still didn't like feeling a loss of freedom. The nurse left the room and another person entered. Sinead felt the urge to tell them to leave her alone for five darn minutes, but then she heard Peter's soft voice speaking to her.

As she laid beneath the covers, she turned her head to face Peter, the nasal cannula pulling slightly as she managed a smile. Sinead felt Peter's touch as he held her free hand. Her other hand and arm had various IV needles connected to it, so she was afraid to move that arm too drastically. "You're here..." she whispered, fixing her sore, watery eyes onto him. "Petey..." she quietly said, feeling the dry and sore sensation at the back of her throat. "I thought I was going to die... The kids... Please don't leave me alone here..." she quietly asked, her voice faltering before she started to cry. She squeezed his hand tighter. No matter how chaotic and desperate the situation had been, she had been aware of everything around her. Peter, Lucy, Conor... they'd all been so scared back at the casino and she'd been convinced those moments of panic were the last she would experience. "I'm sorry..." she cried. She wasn't even sure what she was apologising for, other than causing everyone so much worry.

Bellz (Peter)

After evading the scene, Carter ditched the blazer for something more comfortable. Sliding on the sports coat, he moved up to the passenger seat and buckled up. "Let's hope that got rid of her," He mumbled to the driver, shoving the snub nose back in it's holster. If he had truly gotten her killed, it would be easy to play it off. If she survived, however, there was no telling how angry Jared would get. He had already expressed his interest in the woman. Shoving a fresh cigarette between his lips, he pushed the thought from his head. Another issue was the fact that Porter had survived. While he wasn't the most important target, any civilian casualties would be taken with a grain of salt, despite his feelings towards the family. No matter the complications, the mayor was dead and that's what truly mattered. As he looked up, he saw the red sign of the restaurant, ready to face the music if there was any.

Carter was escorted inside by some of the IWU goons. As he walked in through the doors, he locked eyes with Jared's. Nodding his head in respect, he allowed the goons to pull the jacket off his shoulders and rest it up on the coat rack. After officially stepping inside, he moved for the prearranged seat across the room. Carter knew how much Jared liked to separate family and work, respecting the boundaries. He sat upon the booth and picked up the menu. While he wasn't entirely hungry, especially after night, he wanted to blend in with the crowd around him.

Misty Gray (Jared)

Nikolai smiled as Emery's small fingers wrapped around his large hand. "Don't worry, young one. I'll follow your pace." After standing up on his feet, he looked over to his relaxed men. "Я провожу девушку на прогулку. Найди мой гребаный портфель," He barked at his men. Softly gripping the small girls hand, he led her outside. Nikolai decided to take her into the extravagant garden, where he and James would spend most of their time discussing issues. Reaching into his coat pocket with his free hand, he produced a thick cigar from his pocket. "Never smoke, it's a filthy habit," He informed Emery as his teeth bit down on the butt of the cigar. His eyes scanned around the bright garden, illuminated by the beautiful pattern of lights. "You're a lucky girl to live in a neighborhood like this," He looked down to her, raising an eyebrow.

"Your uncle and I discuss a lot of business here. One day, when you're all grown up, we can discuss business as well." As he spoke, he kept his eyes on the narrow path in front of them. "If you want to be successful, it starts now. That means taking pride in everything you do, from your school work to cleaning your room." He squeezed Emery's hand and looked down to her with one eye open. "When it comes to controlling people, though, it looks like you have already been gifted with that," He let out a raspy chuckle, before taking a deep inhale of the fumes.

Misty Gray (Emery)

Emery was glad to hear Nikolai would match her pace. When he spoke to one of the other men in Russian, she cocked her head to the side as she curiously listened. The language was unfamiliar to her and she grinned at how different it sounded. When they walked into the garden, the man took a cigar out of his pocket before telling her never to smoke. "Yeah. My mummy says the same. She tells people not to smoke too. Yuck!" she said, mimicking Sinead. She let out a little sigh as he said she was lucky to live where she did. "Oh. I knowwww. Some children live on the street."

When he mentioned using the same location to discuss business with James, she nodded along. She grinned when he said they would both discuss business here too. "This is a good place to talk," she agreed. She could hear him and he could hear her, what more could she want from a discussion location? "I do really good schoolwork and cleaning. Mummy showed my how to tidy everything away and I do it like that every time. And... And I'm proud of my work. Brady once said my rainbow cat pictures were stupid, so I punched him in the back." She laughed and whispered her next words. "I think he cried... shhh."

Emery smiled when he squeezed her hand and then chuckled along with him as he made his comment about her controlling people. "Oh yeah. You've just gotta show people who's boss. Uncle Conor told me to always stick up for myself." She scratched the back of her neck as she thought about things she'd seen in the past. "Do you stick up for yourself, mate?"

Enzyme (Nikolai)

Ryan wasn't sure what he felt as he watched the ambulance's lights flash across the buildings as it made its way from the casino. Sinead could of died before the ambulance arrived but she didn't and now it was a possibility that they would all see her innocent yet bewitching smile again. He and James stood out there on the asphalt of the casino's drive through in silence as until they could no longer hear the sirens echoing in the night. The police or 'the Guards' as they were called in Ireland, had arrived and were now securing the scene. Not really wanting to deal with any authorities at the moment, Donahue addressed his boss that was now lighting a cigarette. "I ordered a lockdown of the casino, so all the staff and most of the guests should be still inside." He turned as he was about to walk away, but stopped and found himself clasping James' shoulder. "She going to make it. I know it. I haven't seen her in over a decade and..." He paused to make sure he could handle saying the next part. "...She is so much stronger than she was back then. Time for us to be strong too." Ryan's voice warbled a bit with the last sentence, especially since he knew that he could be speaking empty words. But he felt like it needed to be said not just for James' benefit but to try and assure himself as well.

Ryan could feel the mental dam in his head cracking under the emotions that he'd left unaddressed. He had been able to hold it in over the last couple of days, but with the image of the young naive Sinead being replaced with that of the one covered in blood had been the last straw and he was only containing it through physical effort. Not wanting to attract unnecessary attention, he started walking towards the side of the casino. "I'm going to do a perimeter check. I'll see you inside when I'm done." He raised his voice as he tried desperately tried to control his tone, letting James know where'd he be. He barely made it around the corner of the casino when the tears started flowing. The mix of emotions whipped around in his head so fast that it overwhelmed him and he was unable even identify them. It wasn't long before he was barely coherent of the world around him and was sliding down a wall, giving in to a state of uninhibited weeping.

Misty Gray [James] Bellz [Blake, perhaps]

"...In a nutshell. I was thinking I might head to the coast on Saturday and take some photos there. Weather permitting, of course," Grace trailed off. She figured talking about her photography interests might distract from her journalism studies and how she'd skipped college again today. "Hattie will be driving us there," she was quick to add.

Jared was about to respond to his daughter when he noticed Carter enter the restaurant and send an acknowledging nod to him. The man brought his attention back to his family, making sure his daughter had finished speaking rather than abruptly leaving mid conversation. Carter could wait. "Hattie? I like that girl, but what were her parents thinking when they named her?" he asked, with a playful chuckle. "I'm pretty sure you're already working at the bakery on Saturday afternoon, so you won't have time to head to the coast. Perhaps you should utilise the rest of the weekend to finish up your coursework." He cleared his throat and stood up. "Now..." he began, gently squeezing Faye's shoulder as he spoke, "I just need to speak with Carter. We've got plenty of time before they bring out the next course."

Jared made his way to the booth his right-hand man was seated at, seating himself in a position where he still had sight of his family's table. The last thing he wanted was for any of them to sneak up on this conversation. He ordered himself a whisky from the passing waiter before focusing on Carter. He noticed the cut on the man's lip, but wouldn't directly question it to begin with. He expected it would be explained with the rest of the man's response to the coming question. "You look like you've had an eventful evening. Please, enlighten me. How did everything go?" he calmly asked, inviting Carter to speak.


Enzyme (Carter)
Mentions: Bellz (Faye) Fletchawk (Quinn)

Kieran dropped his head dejectedly and moved to follow him, but as he did so he looked towards Blake. He felt a pang of sympathy for the poor girl, but then again she was also a spy and an accomplice to murder. He had heard her with his own ears talk about how she was going to screw over the Porters, and that hardened his heart. Even pretty girls weren't exempt from the consequences of their actions. Part of him, still, with all that said, felt awful leaving her here on the street---likely to be picked off by Jared's thugs now that she served no purpose and had blown her cover. Pity won out in the end. As Jackson disappeared into the door, he turned towards Blake.

"You knew I was with the Porters still, and you never sold me out." He said, putting his gun in his coat. He fished in his pocket and took out a key, "I was going to disappear tonight, head across town by the ocean to lay low. I think you need it more than me now."

He tossed the key, "It's 458 West Nelson Street, suite #4."

Tipping his hat, he spoke in parting, "Scouts honor."

With that, he turned and followed Jackson with his coat billowing out behind him.

Bellz Enzyme

Blake stood there numbly as she watched Jackson turn around. The smile she had grown use to seeing everyday was only slightly there and as their eyes locked, Blake watched as all traces of her sunlight become blacked out. The warmth in her life was lost as he shook his head towards her simply saying the word,no. Blake couldn’t believe her eyes as the man she was so sure she could spend the rest of her life with was turning his back to her once more, for what seemed like the final time. “No...No! Please!” her voice broke harshly as she watched him ignore her. She stood in the alleyway and watched him hastily round the corner with Kieran following quickly behind. But the man paused, surprising Blake. She listened to him and her brows furrowed as he tossed keys her way. She stared at them in her hands a moment as she processed his words. She needed to get out of here.


The blonde stumbled back as soon as she realized what was happening to her. What would Jared say? Carter had fucked up an entire mission!!! Blake growled out as she pressed her back against the brick wall and held her nose, which she was sure was going to bruise on the right side. She checked for anymore bleeding as the tears streamed heavily down her face. It was only three weeks, quit crying her thoughts demanded of her, to which she ignored. Blake certainly wasn’t getting any younger. Most friends she had were married and had children. Here she was getting the shit kicked out of her and now she’s all alone...

Her brows furrowed as she thought about her priorities. She hadn’t seen her father in years, not after he stopped talking to her, she hadn’t been home to visit her mother. She had lost track of her whole life from working like this...and was it worth it? Unless a black eye and being heartbroken was worth it, there was no point for her to continue. She know what she had to do.

Her steps were determined as she quickly hurried out of the alleyway. She was weak and tired and quite frankly over this night, but she wasn’t going to let this slip from her fingers. She wasn’t going to let him go. The police activity outside only momentarily stopped her, but the scene she made about getting inside quickly caused the police to let her go. She shoved past the pigs before opening the doors to the entrance and stepping inside.

Seeing it empty and trashed...it was eerie compared to the good time everyone had been having before. Her eyes scanned the casino, looking for Jackson. His head could be seen as he popped up from behind the bar. Clearly looking for something. Blake didn’t say a word at first as she walked towards the bar. Only a few feet away, she cleared her throat letting him turn to her first.

She held up a hand before he could speak. Rounding the corner of the bar, she stepped inside before moving over to the far end. Her eyes scanned the various shelving until she found the one she had been looking for. Grabbing what looked to be antique liquor bottle. Blake flipped it over and unscrewed the bottom of it. Inside was a little vial of strychnine and cyanide mixed into a deadly cocktail. Picking it up delicately. Blake set it on the counter, simply staring at Jackson a long moment.

”You know...I never really thought of ever settling down.” she said softly as she looked to the vial now. When your loyalties are tied to the highest bidder...it’s hard to imagine bringing anyone else into the life I’ve chosen.” Her blue eyes continued to stare at the vial bottle.

No one could understand, I couldn’t tell anyone...it was no different with you at first but...” Blake looked up at Jackson’s face before taking a step towards him. these last three weeks...I’ve gotten a taste of what I’m missing out on. And you understand me like no one else could. If you decide you don’t want me, I understand. But I have to hear it come from your lips.” Blake’s heart races at the fear of rejection, not sure if she would be able to take it again. She stared wide eyed, waiting for any sort of response.
with: Jackson Enzyme ; Kieran Shireling
Mentions:

Peter stood still as he watched his wife a moment, she turned to look around at him and even in her state that smile took his breath away like it was the first time. His lip trembled as he offered a weak smile. Pulling a chair to the side of the bed, he sat beside her. Of course I came, why wouldn’t I?” he asked and his heart shattered as she spoke about dying...her cries caused tears to reappear as they flowed down his cheeks.

Shhhh shhh...it’s okay my love. You are safe. The doctors said you are going to make a great recovery.” Peter held her hand lightly, wishing he could crawl into the small hospital bed beside her and hold her tightly. He wished the wires were gone, there was no needles in her arm...he wished it would have been him instead of her.

A sob escaped him as he just couldn’t handle it any longer, the apology she gave caused him to sob again harshly and shake his head. you have nothing to be sorry for Sinead. Please. I’m so sorry, I’m suppose to protect you.” he told her as he squeezed her hand a little tighter. Peter bowed his head and leaned it lightly against her belly. His back shook from the sobs that were slowly starting to subside.

At the moment, he couldn’t speak anymore about what he thought would happen. In the hours waiting for results, Peter was going through millions of possibilities...of how he could survive without her. How their children could ever survive without her. Only one thing was for sure. They simply couldn’t be without her. He swallowed hard, allowing his sobs to subside before he chose to speak again.

They are all here. Conor, Alex and Lucy....whenever you are ready, I can have a nurse get them. But don’t feel obligated love, they understand you need rest and so do I....that’s why I’m not leaving you here alone. I’ll stay until you are discharged. We can arrange for James and Lucy to watch the kids until you’re better.” Peter looked to his wife, making it clear that she would have no room for arguing with him about it. Peter could see the uncomfortable look in her eyes, knowing how much she hated being in a hospital. Maybe we can see if they can send you home earlier...Finn is a licensed doctor...I’m sure you’d much rather have him around then all these white coats.” his hand reached out and gently stroked her hair before he stood and kissed her forehead lightly. Sitting back down once more, Peter watched his wife a moment. ”I love you so much Sinead.”

with:Sinead Misty Gray

Jackson walked back into the train-wreck of the casino. His eyes looked on to the blood stained carpet, left behind by both the mayor and Sinead. The fact the Blake had been involved in something like this made his stomach wrench. He quickly shook the thoughts from his head, stopping himself from wallowing into a melancholy state. He had learned his lesson from Fallon, grief served no purpose. Sinead was in the hospital, The mayor was beyond dead, and Jackson had a job to do. He let out one more pent up sigh before he moved over to the bar. He had no doubt in his mind that the IWU was involved in the attack. Seeing as the casino's catering staff had most likely presented the poison in it's rawest form, the IWU would try and frame them for the mayor's murder.

Tampering with evidence wasn't the most illegal thing he'd ever done, but he still knew how severe the consequences were. Unsure if Donnelly was still around, he ducked down and scurried over to the back of the bar. The poison capsules had to be somewhere right? He was certain that if he couldn't find the vials before the detectives could, they'd be as good as locked up. A tap on the table caused Jackson to look up. There, he locked his sights on the vial. Expecting to see Kieran holding the poison, he was shocked, to say the least, to see Blake standing there.

Before Jackson could say a word, she presented him with everything he had wanted to hear since the beginning. It felt so obvious, that was what she was doing, telling him exactly what he wanted to hear. She had used him, lied to him, he had no reason to believe her; yet, he did. Perhaps it was the lump in her throat or her tear-stung cheeks, or maybe it was because he had spent so many countless hours looking into her eyes, studying every unique curve and feature on her face. Maybe it was because of all the talks they had, all the rough days on the range, or the late nights at the bar. No person could act that well - there was no way she could've faked her flushed cheeks, or the dilation of her eyes whenever they locked. "Why didn't you tell me?" He cared so much about her, he still did. It was evident by the defeated look on his face. "It would've been okay. After everything we've been through, you know I would've stuck with you through thick and thin." His eyes resembled those of a stray dog - miserable, but above all, hopeful.

Bellz (Blake)