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

[Misty Gray]

Skye McKendrick
​

Skye smiled fondly at Syd as he blushed while telling her how nervous he was upon meeting the Porters. Whilst she didn't doubt it was an awkward time for him, she couldn't help but feel happy for him, knowing he now had a loving family. She let out a small laugh when he reminded her of how difficult it was to break the Porters' rules out of fear of disappointing them rather than worrying about their punishment. In a way, she understood that. When she'd been caught after encouraging Delilah and Mallory to sneak out to the club, she genuinely felt awful for breaking James and Lucy's trust. "I'm so glad they adopted you, Syd. Not just because it set things up for me to eventually meet you, but just because I think you deserve to have such a nice family.

Skye grinned when Syd pointed out her adventurous nature. But it didn't take long before Syd was crashed into and sent stumbling to the ground, taking Skye down with him. For a moment, she froze in place as she looked down at Syd and met his gaze. Then he got out from under her and knelt up as he asked her if she was okay. She quickly nodded, having barely felt anything thanks to Syd breaking her fall for the most part. She couldn't help but blush when he used his thumb to wipe the ice from her cheek. "It's okay," she gently reassured him when he apologised for his cold hands. She quickly looked around for a potential injured child. "No, I think you're good. No crying children around," she confirmed. Skye sat on the floor, her coat long enough to get between her trousers and the ice. "You didn't hurt me, I promise. It'll take more than that to hurt me." She'd learned back in the orphanage to toughen up as there had been nobody in there to console her when she was in pain.

Skye allowed Syd to help her to her feet and smiled contently when he pulled her in close to kiss the top of her head. "Hugs and kisses never fail," she agreed before placing a soft kiss on his lips. Skye pulled back and took hold of his hands when asked for her first impressions of the family. Facing him directly, she sent him a soft smile.

"Well, I'd already become familiar with the Callahans from working at Ali's restaurant. The family were regulars there. The children were so adorable and I loved seeing their little faces when I was working. I'd worked there for about a year before I learned they were part of the Porter Family. I'd heard things about the mob and their involvement in criminal activities. I suppose I felt quite afraid and intimidated at first," she explained, briefly looking away as she recalled it. "I then saw Conor around the restaurant and sometimes your parents too. They just seemed like nice, normal people. So when Peter offered me a job earlier this year, I couldn't say no. I was already very fond of the Callahans and it felt good to know they wanted me around their family. Your dad gave me a bit of a third degree and for a while I was kind of scared of him, but I soon understood why he was so cautious and protective. He needed to be able to trust me so he knew I wasn't a danger to his family. It just took me a few weeks to stop being cocky towards him," she admitted.

Skye let out a short, embarrassed laugh as she recalled when she'd first met Syd. "Oh yeah, I remember. How could I forget? My hair was a mess and I looked like a clown after Savvy and Emmy tried to make me into a princess. We'd then gone on to play hide and seek but I couldn't find Brady anywhere, which made me secretly start to panic. I remember you asked me if something was wrong and I tried to make out I had it all in hand, that I hadn't lost one of your cousins and I wasn't going to get fired. I think you saw through that because you let me in on the secret that was Brady's special hiding place. I'm not going to lie, I kind of developed a crush on you that day. Not only were you looking good, but you helped me out too!"

Pyroclast (Syd)

 

[Pyroclast]

Adam Morgan

Adam watched his old man as he reminisced about becoming a father and what it had meant to him then. Life had hardened him in many ways, turned him irritable and at times bitter. But then there was this other side to him, this sweet, sentimental side, that seemed less easily provoked. To see him show his love so willingly and so openly warmed Adam. He blew lightly on his cup of coffee to mask his smile, his gaze drifting back to the table of photographs. In moments like these, rare as they may have come, Adam felt the deep connection between the two of them rise to the surface, that seemed so often buried in their differences. He, however, wasn't quite as emotional as his father. Perhaps it was due to his having lead a comparatively sheltered life, which was, in a way, what he preferred. While Oliver set out to involve himself in the military and in politics, Adam had rather set himself up to lead as much a harmless and ordinary life as he could. Little of his past haunted him and he had few regrets, and in this way he was happy. Now, he supposed his father was one of the few people that added unpredictability to his life - just as he had to his father's when he was born.

"You sound like you're trying to convince me to have one of my own," he lightly joked, taking a sip of his coffee. "After all, it might be the only thing I follow you in."
Even though he appreciated his father's openness and much preferred his calm, gentle side than his sharp, argumentative side, Adam did regret being unable to return the sentiment. It wasn't that he didn't feel the same way, because of course he loved him dearly, he just didn't have the words to express it without sounding...overly soft. Maybe he would have told him he loved him, that in many ways he was a great dad, that he was glad they could have these talks. Instead, he just moved his hand across the table and turned over his parents' wedding photo to observe his father's smile. That must have been the happiness he was trying to describe, the same look in his eyes when he had held Adam for the first time.

"Dad," he said quietly, then almost immediately wishing he hadn't. There was a pause before he pushed himself forward. "Did I tell you I'm seeing a girl?"

Interactions
ReverseTex Oliver

 

[Misty Gray]

Thomas Dempsey
~ Savannah and Braden Callahan ~​

Savannah grinned when Aliana asked her if she was staying mischievous. "Not me, Ali. I'm an angel, don't you know?" she rhetorically asked, with an exaggerated wink. She listened intently as the woman explained about visiting her own mother and being with Leo. She then smiled when Aliana said she came to see her. "You did? I'm glad." Not having very many friends her own age, Savannah loved it when her grown-up 'friends' chose to spend time with her. She sighed when Aliana mentioned Sinead was stressed out and they could try to make it better together. "I hope so, because whenever I'm stressed and upset, Mum and Dad always make things good again. I want to do the same for them now, but I don't know what else to try," she said, finishing with a frown.

Savannah shrugged her shoulders when Aliana pointed out she was full of questions. "I have to ask questions else nobody tells me anything. Plus, I'm a kid, so I'm allowed to be inquisitive," she said, putting her hands on her hips. She then looked to Tommy who was trying to explain to Braden how getting arrested wasn't cool whilst also trying not to make the boy worry about Peter being in jail. Savannah rolled her eyes, having already tried to tell her brother the same thing. She turned back to Aliana, her hands still firmly on her hips and cementing that 'sassy' name. "I've got another question! Is Tommy your boyfriend?" she asked. Tommy suddenly stopped talking, unable to hide his embarrassment at the girl's question, and Braden groaned, finding that kind of questioning to be boring.

Melanin-Gxdess (Aliana)

 

[Fletchawk]

Alexander Quinn Armstrong​

Quinn stared at the somewhat recent addition to his room, a wall board filled with newspaper clippings, photos, and various other papers. It was all neatly ordered and easily allowed him to scan across the displayed information to familiarize himself with it, again. This had become his ritual over the past week, going over whatever little information that he could collect. It had been easier over the past few days as his usual chaperone, Carter, had been increasingly busy and he'd not present today at all. Which he found a little odd, given that he and Grace had accidentally run into Lucy Porter and finding out about Arlene's affiliation with them. Their father's reaction was understandably of concern but Quinn noted that it had only been a week and their 'protection' had been transferred elsewhere. Still, the fact didn't bother him much as it gave him more freedom, even though he was now tasked with escorting his sister from their mother's bakery. Quinn absentmindedly reached for his pocket watch as he continued to survey the board in hopes that something new would pop out to him but to no avail. "Damn. Already?" He murmured to himself as a quick glance at his timepiece revealed that he'd been staring at the pinned documents longer than he intended and would be running a little late to pick up his sister. Quinn started to quickly unpin items from the wall and put them away in a folder labeled Callahan in his regular organized fashion. Once the board was cleared, Quinn put the folder away with the others in the box that sat beneath the setup. Checking his watch again, Quinn pushed the web of information that he'd been building to the back of his mind and made his way out of the house.

* * *​

The bakery front was dark when he arrived and even though he had no intention of using the front door, Quinn leaned in close to the window to help combat the glare of the waning sunlight. A light shone from underneath the door that lead to the back area of the bakery, giving away that his sibling had not yet wandered off on her own yet. Pulling back from window, he caught a faint reflection of himself that gave him pause. Quinn had forgone shaving the past few days and was starting to look a little scruffy. He also noted that he was looking more like his father recently but there was something different, other than the few features that he shared with his mother. No, not different, missing. However, the shadows of some birds passing overhead distracted Quinn from his thoughts and he pulled away from his ethereal image.

The smells of sweet goodness had been wafting through the air well before the store was in sight but it was especially strong as he turned down the alleyway that led to the back door of the bakery. His mouth watered a little as sweet rolls came to mind and the craving increased as he approached the thick wood door banded with iron that was the final barrier between him and the scent's origin. Quinn's knuckles impacted the door in a dulled rhythmic pattern before he called out loudly to his sister. "O' thine sibling has arrived and he beseeches thou to open the barricades." A gay smirk appeared at the image of his sister's expected exasperated response.

Misty Gray [Grace]

 

[Misty Gray]

Grace Armstrong​

Grace had been in a world of her own as she gazed at the framed photograph of her family that hung on the wall behind the counter. She had to have been only ten when that photograph had been taken and times had certainly seemed simpler for her family back then. She hoped Christmas would still hold some familiarity for her. At the very least, she hoped Grandma Armstrong would spend the day with them. She was snapped out of her thoughts as she heard the knocking at the back door. She glanced down to the sealed envelope she was holding, which contained a Christmas card from one of the bakery's older customers, Herbert. She placed it down on the counter before heading to the back door, telling Jenny not to worry as she was dealing with their apparent visitor.

Grace was about to peer through the spy-hole to see who was at the door, but she didn't need to as she heard her brother's voice calling to her from outside in the dorkiest of manners. She shook her head in amusement as she unbolted the door at the top and the centre. She pulled open the door and made a point of rolling her eyes at Quinn. "You're such an idiot," she lightly told him, but flashed a smile to show she was joking. She waited for him to step inside before closing and locking the door again. "Dad was here earlier and I told him I didn't need a babysitter to walk me home. He's still worried about us bumping into the Porters again," she explained. "I'm so bored of this election already. I asked him to come to the Christmas Fair, but he's more interested in meetings. He said he was catching up with Adam's dad today," she pointed out, with a kind of spark in her eyes that briefly lingered upon mentioning Oliver Morgan's son. "I guess Adam is in the same boat as us, huh? Losing our fathers to politics and all that," she remarked.

Grace briefly checked Jenny was all set for closing up the shop, before she focused back on Quinn. "So, what have you been doing with yourself today? Please tell me it was more interesting than my afternoon! I had hoped to go to the fair and take some photographs..."

Fletchawk (Quinn)

 

[ElectricDandellion]

Knowing that Delilah was so worried about him made him feel good and bad at the same time. Good that his girlfriend cared about him and the pain, bad that she was so worried. Watching her get into the bed with him, he bit his lip and stroked her arm gently. Until he started stroking, he didn't realize how comforting it was to actually feel something. Being stuck in the dream-like state was very strange and everything felt weird. Well, he was going to take advantage of feeling his girlfriend's arm. "I don't want you to beat yourself up about it. I was still in and out of sleep, but I'm sure Ali would've called you when I got better and you know. Awake awake." He was doing her best to ease her nerves and calm her down.

As she began to explain what happened to him, he rest his head on hers and took everything in. Obviously there was more to the story but he wasn't going to ask her that; he'd ask Tommy. He didn't want her to think about this anymore than she needed to, seeing how upset it was making her. In an attempt to make her feel better, he softly chuckled and returned her kiss. "You and your mouth." He was definitely going to have to inquire about he situation, mostly the after at a different time. For now, he was enjoying his girlfriend's company; enjoying having the girl who seems to have stolen his heart. "I'm that would be a great night out. I think I have another week in here and we can get back to normal." At the thought of her staying with him, he started stuttering; he thought of James coming to his mind and it was not pretty. "Er... I mean I am fine with it. Ali is going out with Tommy so I would love if you could stay... BUT, I want your parents to be okay with it too, Del. No more trouble."

DELILAH PORTER

Feeling Leo’s fingers on her arm made her suddenly exhale, shocked at first by the action though felt immediately soothed by it. Seeing him bite his lip, she smirked and put her thumb to his bottom lip, gently entangling it from his teeth. “Don’t want to ruin those pretty lips of yours, do we Leonard?” She joked, eyes fixated on his for a few moments before she tore it away. Cuddling closer to him, she nestled her head under his with a pout as he spoke. She could only wish it was as easy at that, to just stop worrying. But now that Leo was dragged into the big mess commonly known as the mafia, she wasn’t likely to ever stop worrying. Even just as an accountant for her father he had got himself into dire danger. For not helping the situation and instead fuelling the argument that had occurred that night, she wouldn’t be able to forgive herself easily if ever. Instead, she listened to the soothing sound of his heartbeat, a sound she was extremely grateful to have the pleasure of hearing. After all, it wasn’t clear after the shooting whether he’d survive. For a few seconds, she had ignored what he said, too blissful sat with her boyfriend after a fortnight of not seeing him and him being in a coma. “I’m happy that you’re awake awake anyhow. At least I get to see you,” the damage of beating herself was already done, and the thought of him being awake reassured her but she didn’t want to imagine how many more times the same situation would occur. The same paranoia, stress, fear and guilt dripping through her body in a wildly and nauseating state, clotting her blood with worry. Lifting a hand, she gently caressed his cheek, moving her hand in a soft and slow motion. “It smells like bleach.” She mumbled, pretending to pinch her nose with her fingers.

When he leaned his head against hers, she turned to kiss the side of his head. “It will be the death of me,” Grinning, she pretending to shrug nonchalantly, being mindful not to push her shoulders against his wounds. But, at her suggestion and his reply, she pouted sourly like a child. “Another week? A week?” Her eyes drifted to the ceiling. “That’s so long! I wish you could come home now,” her voice was slightly bitter, as if annoyed at the doctors though she understood Leo would have to be under observation. Clasping his hand in hers, she lifted it to her mouth, kissing the back of it before intertwining her fingers with his and letting their hands fall to her side. Closing her eyes, she rested lightly against him, comforted by his presence and the knowledge that he was fine so far. Hearing him stutter brought a wild and cheeky grin to her face. “Well, I guess if you’re that nervous I shouldn’t...” She teased, though stopped to listen to what he had to say. “They’ll be fine with it, Leo. They’ll get it, I’m sure. Besides, I’m too comfy lying here with you to call them anyway- but I’m sure Tommy or Ali will see one of them and report back. No trouble, see?”​

 

[Enzyme]

Eli Porter​

Eli's gaze had been locked on the table, his expression void of emotion. "Mayor, soon is he'? Is that right? Well, that's quite interestin', in'it? He speaks like one of 'em, he does." Jared as mayor, he could see it. His wealth, his beautiful family, the way he held himself. Eli was excited that he shook the new mayor's hand before he was incarcerated. The thought tangent led him to the question, 'What if Eli had never physically left the IWU?' The IWU had begun to evolve from something less amateur. Eli could only imagine how scary it was starting to look, now having the proper resources to act on their dream. He couldn't help but wonder if anyone would come back for him once it all started. He'd hate to miss the party, seeing how long he'd been affiliated with the bunch.

Eli's attention was drawn to James when he asked who would want to take his spot. "Yech," Eli began, as he recounted all those he'd come across. "Well, the role of the leader isn't for everyone back der'. Even for those that want it desperately." Eli looked up to James, tilting his head as if he'd said something clever. "While someone might be a great leader for one group, he certainly wouldn't be right at leading this one." He opened his palms as he shrugged lightly. "This lot is rowdy, they are. They want to be treated fairly, not necessarily stepped on." Eli stopped and looked up at the ceiling briefly. "Well, actually, they like that sometimes." Whether he meant that metaphorically or physically was uncertain, as nothing could be with Eli. "As for the next in line, there's the propa' Mr. Morgan. He's all butta'ed up and smart, could lead them, but not for long. If Mr. Armstrong was thrown out, then Mr. Morgan would be cast aside for the same reason." He leaned back now in the chair, clearly thinking now more then he had in the past week. "Then there's Carter, but I don't think he'd bite. He seems to enjoy doin' the work more than constructin' it. Maybe, Gideon, but I don't know much about that shady figure more than he likes to quote a lot of dead philosophers."

Misty Gray (James)
Mention(s): ReverseTex (Oliver)

____________________________________​

Carter Dresden​

Carter suppressed the urge to grow a devious smirk, instead, he held his sincere, acknowledging smile. He was right; she was far more than a friend of the Porters. While the history she had built around significant figures of the family had constructed her allegiance, she was born for the IWU. Everything about her; her tragic backstory, her unhinged aggression, and her ability to act with precise lethality. While Alrene admitted that she owed her triumph over poverty to the Porter's, solidifying her loyalty to the powerful family, it was still a card that Carter could play. "I do not doubt that Jack Sullivan will forever be in your debt, as well he should. While I can't say for the rest of them, Mr. Sullivan certainly did an hornoable thing, by helping a small child who had nowhere else to go." He leaned back in his chair, allowing his words to sink in to reveal how genuine they were. "Now, what about the countless children who couldn't find their own 'Jack Sullivan'? They are the reason we continue to push for liberation."

Carter slowly stood up from the wooden chair. Placing his hands behind his back, he sauntered over to the windows of the apartment. The vast cityscape reflected off of Carter's deep, blue eyes, which still held the mystery of his intentions. "We all share this dream, where families aren't torn apart by debt. It seems as if now, the rich get richer and the poor stay poor." He glanced over his shoulder to Arlene, sure she could attest to that.

He turned back to Arlene, his hands held behind his back. "In an ideal world, a revolution wouldn't be fought with firearms and explosives, but with knowledge and unity." He moved back for his chair, resting in it in order to stay level with Arlene. "Well, in an ideal world, there wouldn't be a call for a revolution in the first place. People's discernment of humanity for their fellow man would prevail over their greed."

Misty Gray (Arlene)

 

[ReverseTex]

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Oliver studied his son’s reaction to his words. He knew he had said the right things, seeing as Adam had little response but a smile... Adam was like him in his youth, unable to properly word true emotion seeing as experiencing them was rare. Luckily his sister had helped him with that, however Adam has no one. He’d have to do it on his own.

“You’re to young for a kid Adam, you haven’t even seen the world yet.” Chuckling lightly, he continued, “Besides, if I was going to convince you I would’ve already. It’s my job to convince as advise powerful men, you’d be a walk in the park.” Clasping his son’s shoulder lightly, still amazed at the sheer gurth of his boy, he retrieved his cane with the other hand. “My good leg can only stand for so long, and it’s getting tired.” Limping slowly into the kitchen, he took rest in one of the breakfast nook chairs.

Hearing Adam in the other room call his name in a much softer tone, his ears perked as he watched him enter. “Dad, did I tell you I was seeing a girl..?” Oliver’s eyes peeked with interest as his son built the courage to speak. It was amusing really, the minute nature of the conversation yet it was so serious to his son. But, he had to parent when situations like this came up...

“Oh! Well that’s lovely..! What’s her name? What’s she like?” He probably sounded like Adam’s bloody mother, but he didn’t care. He was curious about this girl he hadn’t met. Plus, love usually ended rotten, but he wouldn’t tell Adam that seeing as he knew.

[/div][/div][/div][div class=credit]credits RI.a [/div][div class=overlay]Oliver Morgan[/div][div class=tags]Location: Oliver’s Home
Pyroclast [/div]

 

[Misty Gray]

Arlene Sullivan​

Arlene caught the sincere smile Carter sent her and whilst it was the kind of reaction she would expect from someone who had just heard the sad tale of her childhood, it kind of frustrated her that it was an IWU member showing her such empathy. The man had drugged and abducted her, not to mention hurt her family, yet now he was being respectful towards what she had told him and contradicting the man she had believed Carter Dresden to be. Whilst it could all be a mind game, she believed in her own abilities as a judge of character. Still, as he spoke, it made it clear to her he had found her story echoed those of himself and his fellow IWU members. Like she was meant to be working with them rather than supporting her family.

When asked about all of the other children who weren't as lucky as she had been, she remained silent and instead bit her bottom lip as she watched Carter as he walked to the window. She nodded her head at his observations about only the rich getting richer.

"Oh, I'm sure many revolutions were fought with guns and bombs, so why should we expect that detail to change?" she drily remarked. Arlene let out a sigh as she acknowledged Carter's words. There was still a stubborn part of her that wasn't happy with the situation she'd been placed into. "I get it. You have a noble cause and I can't begrudge you of fighting for those who need it the most. I applaud the sentiment, even if not the method. But I fail to see how bringing me here helps you to do that? Why am I here, Carter?" she seriously asked him. "It can't be to sway my family's view of the IWU, because a lot of damage has already been done. As frustrating as that is from where I'm sitting."

Enzyme (Carter)

Jared Armstrong
~ Evan Shaw ~​

In his factory office, Jared casually sat back in his chair as she watched the attractive young raven-haired woman at the other side of his desk quickly take down notes of the answer he'd just given her. She appeared to be thirty-years old at the most and the lack of ring on any of her fingers suggested she wasn't taken, not officially. What was most useful to him was the way she'd appeared flustered when he'd first greeted her and shown her to his office. Whilst he didn't care about the journalist's beauty, it was clear she was attracted to him and he knew that would only work in his favour during their interview. Faye was the only woman Jared wanted in his arms, but that didn't mean he couldn't use the present situation to his advantage.

"Everyone sees it, but those in power barely acknowledge it. This city is broken, Miss Parker. I'm not referring to the criminals and the gangsters, though they're obviously doing nothing to help the situation. It's the fact there are people living on the streets and people struggling to make ends meet. I'm not defending this city's crooks, but is it any surprise those living in poverty turn to crime?" Jared asked, pausing as Miss Parker rushed to take notes.

"You have a very nice office, Mr. Armstrong," the journalist pointed out, looking around to confirm her words. "Some could argue you fall into the same category of wealth as those figureheads you criticise."

"Whilst I don't believe you can judge my income based on a room as small as this one and one that should be decorated to appear professional for its business purposes, I will still address your point," he said, sitting forward and flashing his charming smile. "I'm a businessman and I'm only human to keep some of my profits for personal use. However, I bought this factory with the money I inherited from my father and it was my desire to ensure employment was available to those who needed it most. My father worked hard for his wealth because he'd grown up with very little. My grandparents struggled to make ends meet in London and this gave my old man the drive to give his own family a better life." Jared pointed towards the ceiling to reference the apartments above the factory. "I'm sure you're more than aware I had apartments built on the upper floors of this factory. They are offered to my employees at affordable rent. In contrast," he began, pointing out of the window to signify the city as a whole, "nothing is being done out there for those who can't afford to live. I recently put in an offer for the closed down boarding school in the city centre and it was my intention to have more apartments built and made available to the working classes. Yet, the council and government - the very people who should be funding this kind of project in the first place - they went back on the deal to sell to a private buyer. Soon there will be more fancy studios and penthouses built to house those deemed as more important than the people I'm trying to help. They will bring in more wealth to those already rich." Jared opened out his arms. "So, I would ask those people who criticise me why they are not aiming their judgement at the government or anyone else who has an obligation to help. If I am elected as the Mayor of Dublin, I will make sure the working classes are no longer overlooked. I'm not afraid to go against the grain and challenge the politicians who have for so long been allowed to serve only the wealthy."

Once the interview was over with, Jared shook Miss. Parker's hand but also sent her a woman, personable smile. "Thank you for your time, Mr. Armstrong. I have to admit, I was quite surprised when you requested I conducted this interview rather than Mr. Jeffers. Especially considering the importance of your election campaign"

"Jeffers has had more than enough of the spotlight and I believe in giving everyone a fair chance. I've read your articles and I see great potential which is wasted on the content your editor assigns to you, so I'd like you to be the one to conduct any interviews with me in the future."

****************​

A short time after Miss Parker had left, there was another knock at the door and when told to enter, in walked Evan Shaw. He was a well-built man with a friendly kind of smile that often masked his darker and more cunning intentions. Whilst not as high up on the chain of command as the likes of Carter, Minnie and Gideon, he wasn't a man to be overlooked and he always put his all into the jobs he was assigned to.

"Ah, you got my message," Jared greeted the younger man. He got up from his seat and unlocked the top drawer of his desk, sliding it open and retrieving a sealed envelope. He handed it to Evan and the recipient could tell by the weight that there were multiple documents or sheets of paper contained inside the envelope. Carter was busy with Arlene, so Jared had elected to hand the next Porter-related job to Gideon.

"Your source came good about poor Mrs. Dempsey, then?" Evan asked, raising a mischievious and curious eyebrow.

"Yes, he did, and now I need you to personally delivery this file to Gideon and tell him to get straight to work on it." Jared grinned as he placed a firm hand on the man's shoulder as if there were others in the room and his next words were being kept secret. "I wouldn't mind the Porters so much if they'd just keep out from under our feet. Carter's working on his project, so now it's time for Gideon to get to work on this one and create some more cracks in Porter's ranks."

Enzyme (Gideon)

 

[Enzyme]

Carter Dresden​

Carter gave Arlene an assured nod when she told him they had a just cause. He wasn't surprised to see that she supported their movement. Most stood behind their intentions if it didn't threaten their wallets. "Well, I'm sure the mob wouldn't be above these methods if put in the same position, although, I think we both can agree that their motives wouldn't be so noble," He smiled to her. Carter had heard a lot about the Porters' past endeavors in Chicago. It hadn't surprised him that the streets ran red for almost decade. "Civilized people have a funny way about them. They're so quick to justify what's right and wrong, to appear above the filth. Sure, it's easy to point a finger down from a throne. It isn't until a 'righteous community' gets squeezed, will they throw their rules in the fireplace. These once 'civilized' people will eat each other like feral dogs."

Carter stood up from his chair, moving back to the kitchen. The beer's flavor may have seemed off, but a life of drinking cheap beer made you easily accustom to the sour taste. Pulling the bottle out, he moved back into the living room. Arlene took no time at all bringing the conversation full-circle. Carter could hardly argue, for he would feel similar in her situation. "We didn't bring you here to make a point to anyone," he calmly spoke as he placed the beer on the counter. "Armstrong felt threatened by your presence around his family; he assumed you were sent to do exactly what you had brought up earlier."

Carter moved back to his chair after opening the cold beer. He took a sharp swing, before forcing the liquid down his throat. "He wanted me to take you out of the equation until he could ensure his family's safety. Dangerous times." He moved the beer beside him, shrugging lightly. "As soon as I'm told, I will let you know when you'll be set free. Until then," He opened his palm, looking around the room.

Misty Gray (Arlene)

__________________________________________________________

Gideon Burnell

​

The black Cadillac Fleetwood crept down the well-kept neighborhood. The heavy vehicle revealed little to bystanders, holding only their reflection in the dark, tinted windows. The nose of the car pulled into the driveway of Porter's estate, where it stopped just short of the barred gate. Brian, the guard, moved to the side of the car, where the driver slowly rolled down his window. "Tommy here?" The man asked the guard. Brian kept his eyes locked on the driver, unsure if he was able to disclose that sort of information with the alert being set to red. "What's that to yous?" Brian responded, keeping his hand with his holstered weapon. "What are you, his bloody babysitter? Get 'im down here and stop wasting our time." Brian hesitated momentarily before calling Tommy down from the top of the driveway. The vehicle idled patiently as Tommy made his way down to the gate. Once Tommy walked out onto the front entrance, Brian stepped back to his post but watched intently for suspicious behavior. The driver motioned Tommy to the back of the vehicle with the point of his thumb, before rolling up his tinted window.

The back window rolled down, revealing an IWU thug in the back seat, with Gideon beside him. The thug closest to Tommy subtly pressed the barrel of a handgun into the door's cushion, his finger hovering over the trigger. "Thomas," Gideon greeted him. "I have information that will no doubt interest you." Brian stepped closer behind Tommy to inspect the inside of the car, causing the armed thug to tense up. Gideon, noticing this, kept his eyes locked on Tommy. "It would save Brian a great deal of pain if you got in the car." The thug on the opposite side of the group stepped out of the car and held the door open for Tommy to walk around. Gideon leaned back in his seat and kept his gaze on Tommy, with a suppressed, friendly smile. Even though it was unclear how Tommy would respond, Gideon appeared overly confident that there wouldn't be a moment of hesitation.

Misty Gray (Tommy)

 

[Pyroclast]

Adam Morgan

The response from his father was good. There was interest, maybe even excitement in his voice. Adam's eyes lingered on the photographs one last time, a subdued guilt tugging at his conscience. He wasn't sure why he had brought it up, for now the weeks he had managed to keep his love life a secret may have been for nothing. However, Adam knew that if there was any chance of this conversation going at all well, it would have to be had at a time when his father was in a good mood. Unfortunately, now appeared to be one of those times, and so he would just have to get it over with. He put his hands in his pockets and moved into the room where his father was waiting for him.

"Oh...she's bold, spontaneous, unstoppable and unpredictable in the best kind of way," he began. His gaze seemed to land on anything but the man sitting in the chair before him. ""She's beautiful, too. I mean, truly stunning, dad - you just couldn't dream up a face like hers. There's just some divinely unique quality about her. The most innocent eyes, yet...she's profoundly fearless." The large window on the far side of the room was casting a wide beam of sunlight across the floorboard. Adam perched on the edge of an ottoman not far from where his father sat, and leaned into the light. "Her name is Mallory," he continued, twisting his knuckles with mild apprehension. "But you won't meet her for a while, because...she doesn't know our affiliation with the IWU." Adam looked up to meet his father's eye for the first time since he had entered the room. "She's a Porter, dad."

Interactions/Mentions
ReverseTex Oliver
neverbackdown Mallory

 

[Misty Gray]

Thomas Dempsey and Conor Sullivan​

Tommy was in the state of being flustered following the child's question about his and Aliana's relationship. Sure, Tommy would love to say he and Aliana were a thing as he was more than aware of how much he liked the woman. But if she didn't feel the same, he risked making things awkward for her. Likewise, if he denied it too quickly to the kids, he risked offending her or hurting her feelings. Thankfully, he didn't get time to answer the question as Brian had called out to him demanding his presence at the gates. Tommy jump at the chance to avoid the question, so apologetically excused himself, sending Aliana a playful smile.

Tommy walked quickly towards the gates, wondering what it was that Brian couldn't deal with himself. He was about to ask the guard what the problem was but his attention was drawn to the unknown vehicle and the men inside it. He approached the car and focused on the rear window that had just been opened and then Gideon as the man addressed him. "Information?" he asked, about to make a remark about not getting into cars with strangers. However, it was made clear his lack of cooperation would lead to pain for Brian. Tommy glanced to the gun one of the thugs was holding, seeing proof the threat could be carried out. He was also aware of Aliana and the two children being nearby. The kids definitely didn't need to be exposed to any kind of violence or gunfire. After being cocky with Carter the day Leo and Delilah were hurt, he knew the safer option to ensure everyone else's safety right now was to comply. He turned to Brian and sent him a reassuring nod. "Tell Ali I'm sorry, but something's come up, and I haven't forgotten I owe her a date."

Tommy hid his apprehension from Brian as he rounded the car to climb into the back via the door one of the thugs was holding open. He wasn't sure what he'd just got himself into, but he only hoped he'd made the right choice - the one that caused no harm to those he cared about. It had dawned on him that he was unarmed and outnumbered, so right now he would have to play along. He sat in the back seat before eventually turning to look at Gideon. "What's this information you think is going to interest me?"

***********​

Brian watched Tommy get into the car, feeling unsettled about the situation but having little choice in the matter. Once the car had been driven away, he headed over to inform Aliana of Tommy's sudden departure and the young man's apology and promise to still have their overdue date.

Not long after Brian had spoken to Aliana, Conor returned from his walk with Duke. Shannon had told him to make himself scarce whilst she spoke privately with Alex. As Conor walked up the driveway, his eyes fixed on Aliana as she was seemingly entertaining Braden and Savannah. He hadn't spoken to her in a while and despite the barrier Alex's arrival had presented, he still missed talking with Aliana. "Afternoon, brats," he greeted his niece and nephew. "Do me a favour and take Duke inside. Let the fella have a treat or something," he suggested. The kids didn't hesitate to agree and Savannah took hold of Duke's lead, walking the animal inside.

Having successfully bought at least a few minutes with Aliana alone, he sent her a warm smile. "Haven't spoken in a while, have we?" he sheepishly asked. "How are you, Ali? And Leo. Has your brother made any progress yet?" he asked, the sincerity evident in his voice. "Sorry I haven't been around while you've been worrying about Leo. Alex ended up in the hospital at the same time and Michelle needed me... I've been distracted, but it's still no excuse for me not showing my face to help you and Leo."

Melanin-Gxdess (Aliana) Enzyme (Gideon)

 

[Misty Gray]

James Porter
​

James nodded his head when Elijah spoke of Jared and how the man spoke like a mayor. He couldn't deny that was true. Although James and Jared had never sat down to speak directly to each each, Porter had encountered the man during his visits to the factory, when he was on better terms with Ciara. The Englishman spoke in a proper fashion, always sounding to James like a member of royalty or something as fancy. Though the factory owner had come across as friendly, James had crossed paths with too many snakes to not be fooled by the man, even back then. Still, he didn't expect Jared to grow in power so quickly and set his sights so high. Perhaps if he had known, he might have made attempts to subdue Armstrong before he could occupy Ciara's old spot. At least Ciara's weaknesses hadn't been so difficult to expose.

Elijah then answered his brother's question about who might be itching to take Jared's place if they had opportunity to, once again offering deep insight that the incarcerated man was often not given enough credit for. He first mentioned Oliver Morgan, someone James had yet to get a full picture of but understood he worked closely with Jared and was perhaps aiding the man in his election campaign. But Elijah pointed out that Morgan's position may be dependent upon Jared's ongoing position in the IWU. He then mentioned Carter, a man who had been involved in the assassination of the former mayor and the attempted killing of the Commissioner. Mostly, James' dislike for that man was down to his actions against Delilah, Leo and Sinead. The man was willing to harm innocent members of the family and James could never respect a man who would do that. He'd seen enough of that with the Romanos and their attacks on the Sullivans.

"Gideon, eh?" James curiosly asked. "I haven't heard much of him." Admittedly, he knew little of that man and Elijah's mentioning of him made it clear he needed to change that. If this shady figure was a possiblity to replace Jared, then James knew it was in his best interests to know more of the man. He was about to dig deeper when one of the guards told them visiting was over and to wind things down, much to his frustration. "Fucking hell..." he grumbled. "Oh wait, I've got something for you."

James got up from his seat and approached the guard, who briefly left the room before returning with a thick book which he handed to James. "I didn't get chance to give you it when I last visited, but it's a gift from the Callahans. It was wrapped up until the guards here got excited and expected to unwrap it to find those escape plans I keep threatening," he remarked. He handed the book to Elijah. It was a book about bird identification and behaviours. One of the few things Sinead could think of that Elijah would both like and be permitted to keep. "You probably already know most of what's in that book, but it's the thought that counts, right?" On the inside of the cover was a hand-drawn love heart and the names of the five Callahans, all written by Sinead. "Sinead doesn't support violence and all that, but Grant caused her a quite a few problems in the lead up to what you did. She knew first-hand how much of a prick that guy was and said she felt bad he "said hurtful things" to you too," James explained, quoting his sister-in-law's words. "She wanted to send you a gift..."


Enzyme (Elijah)

 

[Enzyme]

Gideon Burnell

​

Once Tommy had gotten in the car, one of the thugs reached across him and slammed the door shut. The Cadillac then pulled out of the driveway and proceeded down the street. Gideon remained quiet at first, moving for the burning cigar in the center console's ashtray. The withered cigar had burned more than halfway down its length, its thin paper beginning to unravel. "You trust the Porters an awful lot for someone with no relations," Gideon began, turning to face the man now. He moved his arm over the seats, stretching over the thug separating the two and resting on Tommy's headrest. "A man is only a tool if he allows himself to be." His eyes looked to the thug between them, nodding to the man. The thug reached into his coat, producing a manila envelope. The man then shoved the files towards Tommy, with no discretion in mind. Meanwhile, the Cadillac drove aimlessly around the block, as if it were avoiding staying in one place for too long.

"Every file sent through the Gardai's database has been read over by a Porter." Gideon pressed the burned out cigar against his thick purlicue, causing a sharp hissing sound to emit from the sizzling flesh. The sight was sickening, yet Gideon's facial expression appeared unscathed. "It was collected off of one of the many moles who works for you. Like most records he'd come across, he was ordered by James to file it and put it aside." Even if Tommy hadn't returned his eye contact, Gideon hadn't broken his gaze off of the young man, studying his reactions upon reading the document. The Callidac had gone in a full circle, arriving back at the Porters' main gate. "Do you feel lied to?" Gideon curiously asked, tilting his head. The thug in the passenger seat stepped out onto the driveway, staring Brian down. Keeping his hand on the holster of his firearm, he stepped back to Tommy's door and opened it up for him. Even as the lad was setting out to leave, Gideon continued to stare him down, as if telepathically demanding an answer.

Misty Gray (Tommy)

 

[Fletchawk]

Alexander Quinn Armstrong​

The sound of the door's bolts being unfastened was a faint series of dull thunks, followed by a small groan as the heavy door was moved from it's frame. Unsurprisingly, the face that greeted him was that of his sister although her greeting held no ill intent, Quinn acted as though the mild insult had severely wounded him in an over the top manner. "O' dear blood of mine! How you injure my heart with such sharp and piercing words! Quinn made a small show of it with exaggerated arm movements and mischievous grin that broke down into a jovial chuckle as he stepped inside. The delicious smells of the bakery weren't as fresh and potent they would've been earlier in the day but it was still more than enough to bring flashes of memories of when she and he were younger. Grace would be in kitchen with their mother, learning to bake various items and he would be in the lounge, reading and occasionally testing his sister's progress. "Good afternoon, Miss Walsh." He greeted the young woman that was also there with his sibling in a polite tone before turning his attention to his sister and her current vexations.

Quinn's mood became more placid after listening to his sister talk. He hadn't really thought too much about their father's campaign recently although he did worry about his well being from time to time. "Lily. I know you're worried about father but he's going to do what he thinks is right and while we may not like it, he's not perfect. So he can't always give us the attention we want but he still tries. Besides, we're adults now, Lily. We can do whatever we want, even if our father doesn't like it." Quinn's thoughts cycled back to the box of files in his room. Something that he doubted Jared would be very fond of. The mischievous grin started to make its way back. "So how about we go to the Christmas Fair and afterwards we stop by Adam's place and kick his door down." Kicking the door down was a bit of an exaggeration but Quinn hadn't seen Adam in some time as life kept calling them away.

His thoughts about Adam were interrupted when Grace asked him what his latest activities consisted of. Quinn's thought, again, came back to the box and he wondered if he should included his sister in his investigation of sorts. "Just doing my usual thing of late, sticking my nose into things I probably shouldn't and doing things that our father would likely disapprove of." This was followed by a quick wink as Quinn made his way slowly back towards the door he came from. "I trust you are about ready to go? I believe we have a Fair to go to."

Misty Gray [Grace]

 

[Misty Gray]

Thomas Dempsey​

Tommy sat in the car, not speaking above the silence as he'd left it to Gideon or one of the thugs to speak the next words. As the car began moving, he observed Gideon as the man set about smoking the a cigar he'd apparently already started on. Then the man spoke of the Porters and how much Tommy trusted them. Any doubts that he was in the presence of the IWU were now washed away and the young man was certain these men were part of Armstrong's group.

The Porters protected him and his father when the cops had tried to silence them. After his father was killed, Tommy wanted nothing more than to help the Porters and help to keep their family safe the way they'd looked out of him. The firm nod of his head would confirm to Gideon that he trusted his employers and friends. He eyed the man curiously as one of the thugs stuck a file out in front of him. Tommy looked down and accepted the envelope, removing the police file from inside. He hadn't opened it when he watched Gideon put the cigar out against his own skin. Tommy's shocked expression was enough to show he found it quite disturbing, especially as Gideon hadn't even flinched as he burned his own flesh. Tommy's mind switched back to the words that suggested all of the Gardai files were screened by the Porters at some point. He didn't believe such a claim, especially given the issues they'd all had with the cops over the years and especially presently. However, as he opened the file titled "Julia Dempsey", he found himself questioning how it could fall into Gideon's hands and not James', who had been supposedly trying to get hold of the truth for some time now.

Pinned to the first page of the file were half a dozen black & white crime scene photographs. The photographs the Gardai had denied his father access to for the entire time they demanded the truth about the poor woman's death. It had been eight years since he lost his mother and over that time he'd managed to build up quite an image in his mind of his mother's death. It was only a few weeks ago that he himself had killed for the first time and he was under no illusion of how messy the aftermath could be. Still, as he looked at the images of his innocent mother as she lay on the floor in a pool of her own blood, the sight shocked him. Two bullets to the chest had robbed him of his mother, eventually his father and an honest, decent future he'd studied for himself in school. He managed to break his eyes away from the pictures to turn to the next pages and quickly read the words that were written out before him. This was not the story the public were told, but Tommy knew it was the truth and the real account that his father had thrown everything away to try unearth. Tommy had always believed in his father's fight for justice and now his faith had been confirmed. Officer Patrick Higgins had been the one who killed Julia, not the armed robber they claimed had shot her before being taken out himself. "Higgins is a fucking sergeant now..." he muttered, loud enough to the others in the car to hear.

Tommy could feel Gideon's eyes still fixed on him, but his own gaze remained on the file as his thoughts were on Sergeant Higgins and how it wasn't right a murderer was still working for the Garda and able to even climb the ranks. He heard the male voice ask him if he felt lied to, causing him to close the file but hold it firmly in his hand. He looked to Gideon and nodded his head. "Of course I do. I've been demanding these answers for some time and nobody had been able to produce them, except you..." When the car stopped and the door was opened for him to get out, Tommy was about to, but hesitated as he felt Gideon's eyes still on him. He remained in his seat and looked to the man directly. "I'll be keeping this file, if you don't mind," he coldly informed the man. "I appreciate you bringing this to me. I expect helping me wasn't your main concern, but I'm still grateful I now have the name of the bastard responsible."


Enzyme (Gideon)

 

[Misty Gray]

Arlene Sullivan​

Arlene sighed as she sat back in her chair. "I don't believe you're being entirely fair on my family," she spoke up. "Perhaps they have carried out questionable actions, but they are civilised and humane. I'm not sure what you think you know of them from back in Chicago, but the Sullivans had to survive, time and time again. Up until the day the Romanos were taken down, my family in Chicago were practically always on the defensive. The attacks back then were relentless," she pointed out. "So, when the like of Delilah and Sinead are harmed in Dublin, my family won't just take it and sit back until the next person is targeted."

Arlene smirked upon hearing Jared had felt threatened by her being near his kids. It wasn't the thought of the youths being in danger that amused her, but the thought of Armstrong being rattled by it. "And what? He's too busy to take me out of the picture himself? Or afraid to get his own hands dirty... Shame, I'd like to give the prick a piece of my mind." She scoffed as Carter said she could only go when he was given the instruction by Jared. "Well, if Jared isn't going to show his face here, you'd best let him know I have errands to run this evening."


Enzyme (Carter)

 

[Enzyme]

Carter Dresden​

Carter leaned back in his chair, shaking his head with a quiet, "No." He looked back up, looking to her as if she'd missed the point. "We don't want to kill you. That wouldn't solve anything." Carter crossed his arms, briefly thinking to himself. "That wouldn't stop Porter from getting to his kids. Well," He started, shrugging lightly, "Frankly, I think keeping you here is just as much a waste of time." Now that the thought had come up, Carter couldn't help but wonder why Jared didn't want him to kill her. Before taking her captive, he was sure Jared would want to use her as leverage against the Porters, show them the brutality they were capable of. It seemed as if they were just taking her out of the race, complete with free housing and food. Now that the door had been officially opened, one couldn't help, but wonder if Jared was truly afraid to harm her.

Excluding Jared's true intentions, Arlene had fascinated Carter beyond his expectations. He had come in to speak to her with the purpose of reasoning with a mob assassin, but her ideologies seemed entirely out of place with the Porters'. The parallels between her and his associates were uncanny. "Harmed," Carter started, reiterating back to her point of Delilah. "Harmed is a such a" Carter looked around the room as if he were searching for the end of his sentence, "shapeless word." He leaned in closer to her, pointing between the two. "Delilah grew up in a castle, protected from the outside world by metal gates. People like us were harmed." He shook his head lightly, leaning back in his chair. "We never got to experience a leisurely childhood because we've always had a duty to provide for our families. Wasn't there something you've always wanted back then, to feel like a normal kid?"

Misty Gray (Arlene)

 

[Misty Gray]

Arlene Sullivan​

Arlene smirked when Carter said he thought keeping her there was a waste of time. "Well, there we go, then. I also happen to think it's a waste of time, so how about you open the door and let me walk on out of here?" she remarked.

"Delilah had a bad start to her life, just as I did. In my opinion, she deserved to spend the years after that in a 'castle'. Why must those who have suffered do so for their entire life? Why must we begrudge them of a happy ending? I'm sure she will never forget her roots, but at least she was taken from that hell and brought into a loving home. Not everyone must spend their lives as bitter and as hard done by as you and I sound," she noted.

Arlene looked past Carter when he asked her if there was something she'd wanted as a kid. "Other than parents who cared about me? I just wanted some toys of my own to play with. Not some discarded, dirty old teddy bear some rich kid had dropped in a puddle at some point." She let out a short, dry laugh before making eye-contact with Carter. "When I was seven, I remember standing outside a toy shop and looking through the window to see this small wooden music box. I could hear the customers' voices coming from inside but then they fell silent as the box was wound up before being left to play the most entrancing music. I remember getting lost in my thoughts as I continued to listen. But then it was snapped shut, boxed up and sold to the family who had shown interest. The kid didn't even seem overly impressed and left the shop demanding the next toy on her list. But every Christmas from that day, i wished for a music box, as if by some miracle my parents would have enough money and kindness to get one for me." Arlene closed her eyes as she thought back to visiting the Sullivans in Chicago some years later. "It took me over ten years to find the name of the music that was often playing in my head. I heard Sinny playing the same song on the piano and she told me it was 'Für Elise' by Beethoven." Arlene cleared her throat as she suddenly snapped back to reality. "So yeah, that was the one tangible thing I craved for since I was a kid. How about you?"

Enzyme (Carter)

 

[neverbackdown]

Alexandra and Michelle Romano​

Alexandra was beyond relieved that the tension between herself and Shannon was now put to bed even though she herself remembered nothing of this tension she was just glad that after so many years it seemed the two would get along, or at least that Shannon wouldn’t despise her anymore. Before either could get a word in again, Michelle ran into the room with a look on her face “Mam I remembered something that might help your memory” she claimed but the cheeky glint in her eyes made it known that there was something else up the little girls sleeve. “And what is that dear?” Alexandra asked curiously.

“Well you used to love the milkshakes out of the diner down town so maybe if we got one of them...” she trailed off using her best encouraging voice that she could muster. Alex shook her head lightly and laughed having already been told by Conor of Michelle’s fascination with milkshakes and the impressive ways that the girl had to get her way. “Michelle, I mightn’t remember a lot but I’m pretty sure milkshakes are you thing but if you really want one you just had to ask” Alexandra said with a laugh to which a huge grin overtook Michelle’s face.

“Granny did you hear that we’re getting milkshakes” she beamed in glee “do you want to come?” She asked. “And should I ask dad?” Michelle asked on a second thought “maybe we can bring Shelly, Braden and Emery aswell”

..............

Mallory porter​

Mallory had spend most of the day up in her room studying for a test although her mind had been elsewhere especially with everything that had happened recently, Delilah, Alex, Sinead and Peter had all been messed up in someway and it was all down to the IWU’s hand in someway or at least it could be connected back to them.

Eventually deciding she could no longer study, Mallory made her way into the kitchen and saw that her granny and Alex were talking to one another and it seemed to be civil “hi gran and good to see you Alex, I’m glad your home and doing better” she said sweetly as she made her way over to the press to get a glass of water “and I’m surprised you’re not harmed” she muttered to herself finding the situation in front of her to be very confusing.

Mallory turned when a small voice called her name “yes kid” she asked Michelle with a smile “we’re getting milkshakes do you want to come?” She asked her, the excitement evident on the child’s face “I uh maybe” she said with a shrug but returned the child’s smile, It’s not like she had any plans at the moment

Misty Gray

 

[Melanin-Gxdess]

It always amused her at how witty and smart Savannah was for her age. She never skipped a beat when it came to giving a retort to Ali's own questions and statements. With a smile she nodded her head, "Oh sure. An angel." Shooting her a wink back she listened as she explained that she too got stressed and upset just as her parents did. Her face twisted into one of confusion at the thought of the young girl being stressed out. She opened her mouth to ask her what she could possibly be stressed about until she though about it more. Her mother was practically depressed and her father was in jail. Even though she was young, she had all the right to be stressed out. Therefore, Ali left it alone.

"Hey, I'm sure if we work together we can figure something out." She reassured the young girl. Aliana didn't want to see the younger girl upset and was going to try her best at making her feel better. IT was only right in her eyes, as she also felt it was her responsibility. Everything the young girl was saying was catching her off-guard; mostly her use of the word 'inquisitive'. Yet before she could respond, she asked if Tommy was her boyfriend. It caught the older woman totally off-guard and she didn't know how to respond. She looked to Tommy for help, but he left her to go with Brian. She was throwing daggers with her eyes, upset he had left her in this predicament.

"Uh... Well, I like Tommy and I like hanging out with him. But..." She paused to give Savannah a dramatic effect before shaking her head with a smile. "You'll have to find out on next week's episode!" Before she could even hear any protest from the two of them, up walked Conor with the dog. Ali never really liked the dog, but she would much rather have him around at the moment than Conor. She hadn't spoken to him about her unresolved feelings and much more, even though she knew she would have to. Could tonight be it? He then got the kids to go inside, to which she internally screamed. Now she was alone with him and her thoughts. Perfect.

"I'm fine, Leo's fine. We're fine." She said rather coldly and abruptly. It came out differently than she meant it to as she just stared right ahead. To say she was still hurt would be an understatement. When he apologized, Ali just shook her head and chuckled to herself. IT wasn't an 'oh this situation is funny' type of chuckle but a 'of course you were too busy to make time for me' type of chuckle. "It's fine. Tommy was there when I needed someone for once so don't worry about it."

Conor ( Misty Gray )

Even though this particular situation wasn't ideal, it was the perfect moment. All he truly wanted, half the time, was to lay down with his girlfriend in his arms. But between work and other activities, he never really got the time. Let's not forget that he was also in a coma and lost a few weeks. So the time he was spending with her he was going to cherish. The true reasoning behind it, he didn't even want to think about. He never knew, especially now, how much time he was going to have left on this planet and how much time he was going to have to spend with Delilah.

While he wasn't immediately responding to her words, he was still listening, sending her small words that he was paying attention. He just wanted to enjoy her. "Smells like bleach?" He gave a slight chuckle and slightly shook his head. "I'd prefer that over anything else..." He said, hinting at what other disgusting things you could possibly smell in a hospital had they never cleaned it. His eyes closed, feeling them get heavy but he was awake. "I know, Del I know." He told her with a smile on is face. Hearing her so exasperated was quite adorable to him. She was always overly-dramatic which was one of the any things that drew him to her.

"Then stay. Al and Tommy boy will be okay. There's people outside the door anyway, right?" There was a pause. He had something to say and he wasn't sure if it was because of the drugs or because he had this new sense of life. That things needed to be said before it was too late. "Del..." He mumbled, after taking a deep breath. His heart was beating fast, it being evident on the monitor. "Del..." He started again. Why couldn't he just spit it out already? I think you're the love of my life."

Delilah ( ElectricDandellion )​

 

[Enzyme]

Carter Dresden​

Carter shrugged lightly, pressing the butt of the cigarette to his lips. "I won't deny it, I sound bitter sometimes, but when you dedicate your life to a movement, it's hard not to get passionate about it when the subject comes up." Carter tapped the side of the cigarette, causing the accumulative ash to sprinkle onto the armrest of the chair. When he asked her if she had wanted anything in particular as a child, he could see the child-like wonder sparkle in her eyes. The way she recounted her experience with the music box was touching, even to the most hardened. There was something heartwarming about a seemingly emotionless killer peeling off the outer-walls of their shell, to reveal a sweet and vulnerable core. With the way she went on in a nostalgic haze, it was clear how much the small music box meant to her.

Carter shifted up in his seat when she turned to question towards him. He looked to the ceiling briefly, searching through his repressed childhood memories. It was clear Carter had found it once the faint smile appeared on his lips. "Well," he began, leaning closer to her. Before he could continue, the sound of the metal door's handle sliding echoed throughout the small apartment. Two thugs entered the room, visibly armed by the exposed holder sticking out of their waistband. "You're needed downstairs, Carter." One of the thugs announced, leaning his weight against the heavy door. Carter looked back over his shoulder at them. "I'm in the middle of a conversation, what could possibly be so important?" The two IWU men looked to each other, unsure if they should disclose information around the captive. Before one of them could make the brass decision, Carter put his hand up. "Forget it; I'll be right down."

The two men stepped into the hallway once they received confirmation. Carter took his time getting up from his chair, before looking at Arlene. "I'm sorry," he apologized for his abrupt exit. "We'll continue another time." He flashed her one more smile, before leaving out the metal door.

Misty Gray (Arlene)

 

[Misty Gray]

Conor Sullivan​

Before Aliana even spoke, Conor could see she wasn't happy with him and he had some idea of how their conversation was going to go down. When she replied to him in an abrupt fashion, his suspicions were confirmed. He awkwardly bit his lip as she said she and Leo were both fine. "Well, that's good to hear, I think..." he said. He hoped Leo really was doing okay as the last he'd heard the younger man was still in a coma and he knew how it felt to watch someone in that position having been by Alex's bedside. He awkwardly nodded at her cutting chuckle but waited for her to say more, if she needed to. When she mentioned Tommy had been there for her and not to worry, a smirk crossed his lips as he shrugged his shoulders.

"Ahh, of course Tommy was there," he said, but quickly straightened himself out. He knew deep down Tommy's motivations were more noble than simply trying to impress the woman he had the hots for. "He's a good guy and he cares a lot about you, me... and about this whole family," he noted. Conor put his hands in his pockets as he let the awkwardness envelope him for a moment. Then he quickly snapped his head forward again to look to Aliana, deciding he had no reason to simply take her response on the chin. "You know, I already acknowledged I haven't been there for you and that I should have been. I get it, I'm a dick and I'm always fucking up. But are you really going to be like this now? I do care about you and Leo. And it's not like I've been out partying for all of this time. For once, I had a good reason for not being there and I don't know how else I can make you understand."

Melanin-Gxdess (Ali)

 

[Misty Gray]

Arlene Sullivan​

Arlene observed Carter as he looked upwards whilst he pondered the answer to her question. She eyed him curiously as he began to speak and appeared about to answer in the same honest way she had just done. She tilted her head slightly as he leaned forward but she soon sat up straight again when the door was opened and interrupted their conversation. Arlene looked to the two thugs and folded her arms in irritation. They were nothing more than dirt, as far as she was concerned. Carter gave in to their request for him to head downstairs, presumably for another job. She only hoped this one didn't involve any other members of her family. She watched the man as he got up from his seat to leave. She was about to make a remark about him going out to terrorise her young relatives when he caught her a little off-guard by saying he was sorry for having to leave. She was surprised he felt the need to apologise to her. "Well... don't do anything I wouldn't do. Seriously..." she half-joked.

Once Carter and the two thugs were gone, Arlene walked to the door and pressed her ear against it, but was disappointed to find she couldn't hear anyone on the other side. She then sauntered towards the window and looked out over the city. As she played back the conversations in her mind, she started to wonder if she'd been played. Perhaps she'd played straight into Carter's hands by revealing personal details about herself. At the time, it had just seemed like the best way to gain his trust and maybe appeal to any part of him that might let her leave. As much as she wanted to believe their conversation had been genuine and her captor hadn't been using it to get information out of her, she still needed to consider escape options. She wasn't sure how long she would be locked up and what kind of opportunities would arise, but if there was a way to get out, she needed to find it. She was kicking herself for being so stubborn and not telling her family where she was going, but she'd needed to get away from the drama for a short time. Considering where she was now, she couldn't help but wonder if James had been right in wanting her to stay out of the family's IWU troubles. She sure as hell wouldn't admit that to man though.

Enzyme (Carter)

Shannon Sullivan​

Shannon brought her coffee mug to her mouth to hide the smirk from her face as Michelle began to try it on with Alex to get milkshakes out of the situation. Despite her lack of memory, the kid's mother was wise to Michelle's attempts but offered to go ahead with getting milkshake nonetheless. "Oh, I heard, alright," Shannon answered Michelle, placing the mug down on the table and quirking her eyebrow. "You're a cheeky one, aren't you? With a few more lessons, I'm sure you'll pull the wool over most of our eyes," she remarked. "I'm afraid I'll have to pass on the offer, kid. My metabolism doesn't work as well as you young ones and I'm determined to keep this figure for as long as nature will allow it. But I'm sure the other kids and the big kid, Conor, will take you up on the offer of milkshake. Savvy's obsessed with them, just like you are."

Shannon sat back in her seat as Mallory arrived in the kitchen, briefly observed the teenager as she too was invited for milkshake. "There's no maybe about it, Mal. As much as I'd love an academic in this family, you need to get out of that room for a bit and spend time with your family. All you do is study and go off out with your mates. Are we too embarrassing for you now?" she teased. In a split second, her tone turned serious. "Spend some time with your cousins, Madam. I think they'd all appreciate the extra company, under the circumstances..."

neverbackdown (Michelle, Alex, Mallory)

 

[Pyroclast]

Syd Porter

Though it was cool out, Syd felt instantly warmed when Skye's lips met his. He couldn't help a boyish smile escape him, which he had to bite back in order to properly listen to how she had first felt upon entering his family's life.
"Yeah, dad's definitely the least trusting one," he said, rubbing at his jaw that now ached from smiling. "Guess that makes him the wisest, too. I can't believe how bold you were around him! Not many people can talk back to him like you. But he loves you; everyone does."

It had surprised him at the time to see Skye challenge his father, but now knowing what and where she had come from, he understood why she had dared to speak back to him. Of course she was brave, of course she was bold. You couldn't go through life in an orphanage without learning how to stick up for yourself. It was either that or be beaten down to nothing. Maybe she had come across as cocky but he knew her outspokenness was just a survival instinct, for he had the same one in him. Syd let go of one of her hands and as she went on to talk about how they had first met, he encouraged her to skate alongside him slowly. The smile was still present on his face, but he kept his eyes on the ground in front of them so as to keep it buried in his scarf.

"Oh, Sav and Emmy did that? I thought you were just trying to impress me," he teased. In truth, his memory had left that detail out. "You can always rely on me for house secrets though - I know where everyone and everything hides!" Syd was quiet for a moment, as he played through his version of their meeting in his mind. Taken aback by the beautiful stranger running towards him in his own back garden, he had helped her because she was clearly in distress. But in the rush of the moment, he had then forgotten to ask her name. He took his hand from hers to readjust his scarf, still skating slowly forwards. Then, instead of taking her hand again, he put his away in his pockets. "Thinking about it, you must've had me right from the start," he continued. "I remember trying to hold off talking to you again so you wouldn't think me too eager, but it was just 'cause I wanted to get to know you more than anything. I know it doesn't really make sense. I just wanted you to like me. And even though we're together now, don't think I'm going to stop trying!"

Then, in a few quick, graceless movements, Syd overtook her and turned back to her with a roguish smile. "See, you don't need my help anymore," he pointed out, taking his hands out from his pockets and waving at her. Glancing at the elegant couple on the rink to make sure they were out of earshot, he leaned in and whispered to her, "We're professional skaters now! So why don't you come and catch me, huh?" Syd winked at her playfully. If she had the guts to challenge his dad, he was sure she didn't need him to hold her hand now. Knees bent and leaning forward slightly, he started skating away from her, pretending to have mistakenly left her behind.

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