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

[Melanin-Gxdess]

Thea Ryan
The Windsor Hotel Ballroom (Balcony #4)
~ Dublin City Center, Dublin ~
​

“I can barely breathe in this,” Thea muttered to herself, tugging at the neck gaiter covering her face's lower half. Just a few hours ago she had no need for it. She and Tom were at the Halloween party one of his cousins had thrown and she didn’t need to hide her face. Things changed the moment she stepped into the Windsor Hotel. It was necessary. Her undercover job wasn't finished yet and she still had to be around these people for a little while longer. If they caught her everything would be a bust and she couldn't have that. Unfortunately, she hadn’t had time to change out of her Baroness costume, the spandex nearly suffocating her as she got her nerves under control. This was technically her first time in the field. Her first time doing something of this caliber and though she had a more experienced partner alongside her she didn’t want to screw anything up. The moment things popped off her nerves were steeled enough to do what she had come to. Wesley moved first - trying to apprehend Julia. She figured because he looked like he knew what he was doing that she didn’t need to intervene. Instead, she peeked around the corner where she had come from to make sure no one had followed.

When she bumped into a Moretti guard, her eyes grew wide in shock, mouth agape like a fish. “You’re not-,” she started, cutting herself off when he swung a fist at her. She squealed and ducked, her fight or flight responses kicking in before throwing her fist into his abdomen. He keeled over, but it wasn't enough to subdue him - his arms immediately reaching around her waist before she had a chance to book it. Thea threw her head back into his nose, hearing a snap as he dropped her to the ground. While he groaned through the pain, her hand immediately reached for the stun gun attached to her costume. The moment he advanced for her again she pulled the trigger, shooting the guard right between the eyes. His body convulsed for a few seconds before he hit the ground with a thud. Thea took a second to herself to breathe, glad that she had such quick reaction times. After making sure no one else was around she headed back to Wesley, just in time to see Julia kick the man between his legs. The woman stood up and without hesitation, she pulled the trigger again hitting Julia in her chest. Thea could hear Wesley muttering and let out an annoyed sigh. "I had my own shit to deal with okay?! Be glad I came when I did." Thea then knelt down to Julia's side, checking her for any weapons they may have missed. "Get it together and come help, please?"

Lucky Charms ( Bellz )

Windsor Hotel Charity Gala
~Dublin~
Aliana Sullivan

Blake's embrace had been doing it's job in getting Ali to calm down. She wasn't able to discern whether the shaking she was feeling came from herself, Blake, or a combination of both but the more Blake spoke soothing words to her the calmer she could feel herself getting. The sound of the sirens in the distance lent her some ease as it meant the shooting was bound to stop any moment now. But, she still worried for those in her family she hadn't seen outside yet. The moment Blake suggested they do a headcount she readily agreed. Anything to get her to focus and stop being such a mess. She was supposed to be calm too, helping those around her and instead she was losing her mind. "Okay, yeah," she whispered, nodding her head. Blake then looked at her in the eyes and while Ali was so sure the woman was also trying to convince herself of her own words, Ali found herself believing them. This wasn't the Sullivan's first rodeo and they made it out alive every time. Even if they had new bruises and scars to show.

Ali could hear Sinead's voice nearby, turning her head to see her in a conversation with Conor. How she'd heard about the commotion was anyone's guess, but her attention was no longer focused on her. Her eyes had trailed to watch Conor go back inside and when he disappeared they grew wide. "D-Did he just go back inside?" She whispered. It took everything in her not to follow suit, knowing that if anyone would be able to help it was probably him. She didn't want to keep getting in the way; keep making things harder. But after nearly losing her life and he his it was hard for her not to. Feeling her eyes welling up with tears once more she turned to Blake again and took a deep breath. "I'm okay. It's gonna be okay. We're Sullivans, right? We're like- like fucking cockroaches. We're hard to kill and we're gonna be alright?" She didn't mean for it to sound like a question as she reminded herself thinks were going to work out. "God, this would be the perfect time to start smoking. Blake, do you smoke? I need to start," she half-heartedly joked.

Conor ( Misty Gray ) Blake ( Bellz )

 

[BasDorcha]

Home

~Bethnal Green, London​

Jeremy Gray

Jeremy watched the scene before him carefully. Billy was definitely in a fragile state, he knew the man well enough and had seen him once or twice before feeling similarly. When Spencer went to the kitchen to make a bottle, Jeremy nodded and followed, putting on a pot of coffee to help sober up the new father. "Spencer… Something's up, I think, and I don't just mean with the babe, Charlie. Come back quick like, yeah?" Once the pot was done, he took it on a tray with some biscuits, bread and jam to the lounge and sat it all out, Harper on one side and him on the other of Billy. He let them talk, while he quietly watched, just physically being there for his friend.

The idea that Erik might not accept his son was absurd and Jeremy knew it. Erik loved Billy deeply, he could see it in his eyes, one romantic gesture away from being some cheesy guy in a romance novel, how much so. That's why when Billy said what he said, Jeremy was shook to the core. It blew his mind to hear that Erik had done such a thing. It also pissed him off instantly. Looking up at Harper, his face grew stony and his hands clenched into fist. Hadn't he been warned not to harm Billy? He was fairly certain he had told him once before that if he ever hurt his friend, he'd return the favor.

For a split second, Jeremy almost forgot the most important thing there - that Billy was going to need them. He shook with anger, looking up at Harper to calm himself, taking a deep breath as if she was the air he needed before he leaned in and hugged the man in a criss-cross hug with Harper's arm. His was short, tight but not lingering, before he stood and began pacing the floor. This wasn't good news. On top of the fact that Billy was hurt, Bruce had trusted him as had the rest of them, to take care of the youngest King boy. Could this be something Moretti related as well? Or just a lovers spat? Jeremy's brain was already working overtime.

"Billy…" Jeremy patted his back gently as he laid in Harper's lap, knowing the kind of pain he would feel if it were him in this situation with the woman he loved more than life itself. "Here… I brought coffee…" He didn't want to blatantly deny him alcohol but he certainly wouldn't be getting any here - Jeremy had cleaned out the house before Harper came home to remove the temptation if she had a bad relapse it would be one less thing for her to have easy access too. He looked up, seeking Spencer's guidance. This was a spot that he had hoped they wouldn't be in, had hoped that Erik was smarter than this. What would Spencer say? Jeremy made Billy a cup of strong coffee and handed it to him, familiar with how he took it, silent because what he wanted to say would not be the right words right now.

Misty Gray - Spencer
Bellz - Harper
Pyroclast - Billy
Melanin-Gxdess - The Dead Man

 

[BasDorcha]

The Windors Hotel

~Dublin City Center, Dublin​

Michelle Romano

Michelle watched as Aliana ran to Blake, leaving her alone with her father for a moment who was visibly torn between going to her and the sounds of gunshots from inside. So lost in thought was she, that when Conor picked up her fun and motioned her forward, she moved without thinking, falling into his arms like a child who had been scared of a shadow in their room. The shock was setting in quickly and she was shaking from head to toe, realizing just what she had done - she had killed someone. She. Had. Killed. Someone. "Oh god…" She mumbled, taking deeper and deeper breathes to try and calm herself before it became a full freakout. His kiss on her head brought the tremors back into barely controlled reign, and she simply stood there, letting him comfort her.

The screeching of tires had her looking up, instantly back on guard and the shakes dying back out, ready to fight again if need be. She couldn't see it herself, but in that moment she had a look much like Conor did on her face, making them look more alike than ever. Sinead came shouting up to them, asking about Savannah and Braden. As Conor released her, she steadied herself, feeling the strength he loaned her flooding back into her system. She could do this, it wasn't over, the panic could come later when they were through this. One last deep breath had her feeling as normal as she could, given the situation.

"Spencer… who-?" She stopped, questions later, problems now. "Aunt Sinny, there they are…"She pointed as Savannah, Danny, Braden, Syd, Amy and Braden came out of the hotel, Syd and Braden supporting a limp Danny and Amy holding a pistol much like Michelle had. Hearing her dad threaten Dermot, she looked up, finding him in the crowd. She wanted to go to him, but something stopped her - maybe because he wasn't looking for her in return. Mentally, Michelle knew something had to change, and again, it would likely be on her to do it. Looking for anything to grasp on to that wasn't the possible pile of dead bodies inside, she realized that she was growing much more attached to the man than she should be, and instantly decided it would be best to keep the distance between them - physically and emotionally. It already made her want to cry, but maybe that was the stress of the entire night, not just the decision to end what fun she had been having.

In the back of her mind, she knew rash decisions made in high intensity moments were not always the best, but she had to focus on something and even if it was just to herself, it gave her a point to stabilize herself. "Common, let's go them."

 

[neverbackdown]

The Windsor Hotel Ballroom
Dublin City Centre, Dublin

VIOLET MURPHY
(Sandy Leather outfit from Grease)
​

Violet smirked at Olivia's comment "Im sure you'll have another chance at some point" she laughed, "We'll just come to the next party armed" a joking tone was present in Violet's voice but she quickly stopped laughed as she looked around at the chaos happening outside, people injured, people scared from what had just happened and worst of all people calling out for loved ones that were potentially still in the hotel.

Violet always found it amazing how an atmosphere or a mood can change so quickly, how horror can take only a second to hit, Violet watched as Sinead came running towards Conor shouting for her kids, all eyes seemed to scan the area as they hoped to spot one of her boys but when Sinead then asked for Luce, everything seemed to change for the worst.

Violet's breath almost caught in her throat as her father who was ghastly pale and she noted looking worse every second announced he was going to go back into the Hotel, she was ready to scream at him that he was not going back, try and hold him back hell she was even ready to dig her finger into his wound if that stopped him but thankfully his boss ordered him to stay put and she knew that he would never disobey an order from Conor.

Olivia's broken voice tugged at Violets heartstrings and when she turned to see her friends frightened composure and tears prickling the corner of her eyes, Violets heart broke for her. She could only imagine the fear and pain Olivia was going through right now, not knowing where they were and if they were ok. Violet stepped to stand beside Olivia as she threw an arm around her "Conor is going to find them, they're strong, they'll make it out they always do from what I've been told" Violet reassured her friend, she honestly didn't know what to think and found it hard to ignore the thought that they were both dead within the hotel but she had to feigh optimism and hope, at least for Olivia's sake.

Her father swayed on his feet, an unusual movement from the man with usually impeccable posture and Violets eyes darted towards him, fear flashing in her eyes for a second as she saw his eyes close. "Dad, are you ok?" a stupid question she knew but she reached out her arm all the same to try and support him "Is there a medic" she shouted loudly as she looked around the crowd, the ambulance was taking too long to arrive and the blood continuously staining her father's shirt was getting to a dangerous level.

Her eyes fell on the ribbon wrapped around his wound, a good idea maybe in a panicked situation but it was obvious that something that small was not keeping enough pressure on the wound to keep it from bleeding so rapidly. Muttering to herself Violet let go of her father and grabbed onto the bottom of her black top and ripped it, following the seams around the bottom of the shirt until it had made a full line of cloth in her hand. She tied the cloth tightly around her fathers injury as best as she could before stepping back to look at her handiwork. She was disappointed about ruining her top, the black tshirt now coming to just above her bellybutton but she quickly shook that thought from her head, considering her hands were not stained with her father's blood and Olivia didn't know where her parents were, it was not really the time to worry about something so materialistic as clothing

Misty Gray - Dermot & Olivia

 

[Misty Gray]

The Windsor Hotel Ballroom
~ Dublin City Centre, Dublin ~

Savannah Callahan​

Savannah heard Amy's voice as the woman asked her to let her look at Danny. Her voice seemed to draw her back to the present and her surroundings, prompting her to let out a gasp as she once again became consciously aware of the chaos around them. The blonde moved a little to allow Amy space to get to Danny, all the while unable to tear her eyes away from the love of her life. She felt the cloth being place in her hand and was directed to place it against the wound on his head. She was hesitant to put pressure on in case she hurt him, but relented as she knew she had to stem the bleeding. When Amy tried to reassure her Danny was going to be okay, Savannah couldn't help but stare blankly at her for a time before more tears began streaming down her cheeks. She looked back to focus on Danny, almost falling deaf to the words around her as Amy said they needed to make a run for the door. Savannah didn't want to leave Danny. She didn't want to let go of him. If she wasn't there to hold him, she might lose him forever.

She was once again pulled out of her daze as she heard her brother try to repeat Amy's plan, telling her she needed to help him move Danny. "He's in pain," she spoke in a tearful whisper. She couldn't imagine how they would move him without hurting him more or without putting him in the line of fire again. As Braden changed his plan and began moving to pick Danny up, Savannah rushed to her feet, not wanting to leave Danny's side. "Brady!" she gasped her her brother was struggling, prompting her to fumble as she attempted to help but was too shaky to be of real use. As he told them to move forward and not look back, Savannah was going to do exactly as she was told, not wanting to put them at more risk than they were all already in.

Soon enough, Syd arrived on the scene and was able to assist Braden with Danny better than she could in the present moment. There was something reassuring about her cousin's presence and him being able to support Braden that motivated her further to press forward. As soon as they were outside, Savannah was almost caught off-guard by the fresh air and the feeling of stepping into safety. She folded her arms tightly around herself as she watched Syd check on Danny. Her cousin confirmed Danny was still alive, but it was barely a reassurance. Savannah wasn't sure anyone could survive a gunshot to the head and if he was still alive right now, would he be soon? Was he suffering?

When Syd got Danny into the back of his car, Savannah rushed to climb in with them, along with Amy sitting in the back to help treat him. The world around her was still an overwhelming blur and once the car doors were shut, the only people she consciously acknowledged were those in the car with her, including Roxie in the front passenger seat. She visibly trembled as she held Danny as close as she could whilst allowing his wound to continue being tended to. She heard Syd repeatedly tell her Danny was going to be okay, but he sounded just as anxious as she felt. "I love him," she desperately replied, tears streaming down her cheeks. "But when does this family ever get a happy ending?" she quietly added.

Bellz (Roxie)
BasDorcha (Amy)
Pyroclast (Syd, Danny)

Sinead Callahan and Jasmine Zegarra​

Sinead had to catch her breath back before answering Michelle's question about who Spencer was. "Spencer King. The Kings," she said, assuming her niece would have heard of their surname since returning to Dublin. Her attention was soon drawn to Savannah and the others as Michelle pointed them to her. "Oh my..." she began, putting her hand to her mouth. As if the sight of sweet Danny in the state he was in wasn't shocking and worrying enough, the hollow look in her eldest daughter's eyes was instantly concerning too. Once again her family had been through a traumatic experience and Sinead was beyond done with it by now. Syd and Savannah looked practically traumatised, and Danny was clearly physically affected by the whole ordeal too.

No matter how much Sinead tried to talk to her daughter, it was like she wasn't even there - not mentally - and that was deeply concerning, especially given how withdrawn Savannah had been after the shooting in Corfu. As Syd had some of them pile into his car, Sinead knew she couldn't get in with them, but she was sure as hell going to follow them to the hospital. She couldn't let her daughter suffer without her.

"Jasmine, make sure Brady doesn't go back in that hotel," Sinead pleaded with her friend, knowing he'd want to stay behind and help. "Michelle, you can wait here or join your old aunt, but I need to get in that car and follow Syd and the others, right away," she explained.

"Of course. I'll keep him out of trouble," Jasmine confidently reassured her.

BasDorcha (Michelle)

Dermot Murphy and Olivia Sullivan​

As she felt Violet's arm around her, Olivia reciprocated, able to take warmth from her friend. Having never known her biological father who died in prison before was born and her biological mother being murdered when she was still a child, Olivia was no stranger to losing parents due to violence. After losing her mother, Lucy and James were the ones who stepped in to make her feel safe, and over time she come to view them as her parents. No matter how thick a skin she'd developed over the years, the thought of now losing both of her adopted parents was difficult to stomach. She couldn't take the thought of losing them too. Still, she quickly nodded her head when Violet reassured her they'd make it out - that they always did. Lucy and James were two of the strongest people she knew, so she had to believe there was a chance they would both be okay.

Olivia followed her friend's focus towards Dermot and studied him as Violet asked him if he was okay. She was so used to the likes of Dermot taking hits and carrying on that it hadn't worried her that the man had been wounded. However, see him looking paler and less sturdy than he tended to appear, she could see why Violet sounded concerned. She quickly looked around to see if anyone was responding to the request for a medic. The flashing blue lights suggested the police and possibly ambulances were approaching, but in the meantime the man needed attention.

"Never better, kid," Dermot drily told Violet when she asked if he was okay. Following her gaze down to his wounded arm, he let out a scoff of sorts. "Had better days, mind you," he played down the blood loss. As his daughter set about wrapping his wound with some fresh material from her own top, he glanced around as he tried to take a head count of who had made it out. When Violet was finished, he glanced down to his freshly wrapped wound and nodded. "Thanks, love," he told her, his vision once again blurring slightly before he pointed to her torn shirt. "Do your parents really let you go out dressed like that?" he teased, though still clearly groggy.

"Dermot, ya doofus," Olivia began, his wound providing some distraction from worrying about her parents. "You'd feel better if you sat down and kept your arm elevated. That blood pressure has enough trouble keeping up with skyscrapers like you, so sit down."

neverbackdown (Violet)

 

[Misty Gray]

Jeremy Gray's Place
~ Bethnal Green, London ~

Spencer King
​

Spencer had always been confident with looking after young children and babies since for as long as he could remember. Whether it was helping his mother look after his young siblings when he was a kid, or babysitting Callum and more recently becoming a father himself, responsible for Eddie, he was a natural with kids despite his usual tough, aggressive exterior. After the day he'd had so far, holding little Charlie brought him some peace - perhaps he was a gift in that moment giving he had calmed Spencer. After his spat with Alex, having to see Trevor, and still reeling from his falling out with Bruce some weeks ago, his newest nephew was a breath of fresh air. "Let me tell you about your daddy," Spencer began as he held Charlie in one arm and proceeded to make up a bottle for him with one free hand. He fell silent as Jeremy entered the kitchen and voiced his concerns that there was more weighing on Billy than just Charlie. "You think?" Spencer asked, figuring there was always a black cloud following their family but perhaps something else was specifically eating at his youngest brother. "Gimme a minute," he said when told to hurry back to the lounge.

Once the bottle was made, Spencer readjusted Charlie in his arms and proceeded to place the bottle in the baby's mouth so he could drink the milk. With his nephew no longer crying and now content, Spencer made his way to the lounge, stopping in his tracks for a moment as he heard Billy's voice. Hearing his brother say he'd found Erik in bed with another man caught him off-guard. Spencer remained in the hallway, his back pressed against the wall as he urged himself to stay calm and composed. Having been cheated on by Letitia, Spencer knew first-hand how such a betrayal hurt. That, and having been fully aware as a child of his own father repeatedly cheating on his mother, Spencer had a great intolerance towards cheats. It was why he'd been so disappointed in Alex for betraying Savannah, but him being his brother was enough for him to see past it. Erik was not his brother and Bruce had done a lot to ensure Gabriel would let him stay in London. Hell, it was partly Bruce continuing the partnership with the Morettis that was to blame for Spencer's rift with his uncle. But it had been worth it to know Billy would be happy with Erik able to stay in London permanently. Now, it all seemed like a waste. Spencer gently rubbed Charlie's back, the baby having a similar effect as Eddie often did in keeping Spencer's temper locked away. Still, he was about to re-enter the lounge and assure his brother that he was going to beat the shit out of Erik and send the man packing back to New York, until he heard Billy's next words. His little brother didn't want them to tell Bruce yet out of fear of exactly that - that Erik would be sent away. Billy continued to say he didn't want to lose Erik and that he loved him.

Spencer calmed his breathing before walking back into the lounge and sitting on the sofa across from Billy, Harper and Jeremy. Still holding Charlie close as the baby continued to drink from the bottle, Spencer looked to Billy's face, watching him as Harper and Jeremy responded to the revelation. He soon saw his best friend's eyes were on him, seeming to be willing him to speak up and give his thoughts on the matter. "Well, obviously Erik's a prime wanker," Spencer spoke up, still diluting how annoyed he really was. "Billy..." he began. Lately, he'd been in disagreements with Alex and Harper for telling them what to do, for stepping in when they didn't want him to. Added to being in a bad place with Bruce, Spencer didn't want to add Billy to the list of people who were upset with him. He knew he had to step a back unless requested otherwise. "Billy, you just tell us what you want, or what you don't want from us. No matter what, we're all here for you," he reassured him.

Bellz (Harper)
BasDorcha (Jeremy)
Pyroclast (Billy)

 

[Bellz]

Harper King
Jeremy's Place
~ London ~ ​

Harper knew she found the answer she was looking for in her brother when Billy's face changed. He told her that he was busy, causing Harper's brows to furrow in confusion. Busy? Surely not too busy to deal with something as serious as this. Then he continued and it all suddenly became clear. Harper looked to Jeremy who had a darker expression on his face, mimicking the feeling she was currently trying to sort out. The blonde's jaw clenched together at his words, the familiar sting of what he was feeling a distant memory yet still very present. Billy collapsed onto her lap, causing her to gasp, lifting her hands to keep them from getting crushed under his weight.

"I'm so sorry, Billy, it's-" Harper wasn't sure if she should promise him that it would be okay. While she had faith in the two of them to work things out, Harper wasn't sure that's what either of them would want. If Billy didn't want to forgive Erik, then it was over. But they were set up a lot more for success than her own past relationship. No lies, no secrecy...they both could love each other the way they were meant to, freely. Maybe that's why she was struggling for the words now, Erik's betrayal stretched a lot further well beyond Billy. She had trusted him when he said he'd take care of her brother. Trust that she struggled to give, to begin with, and always seemed to foolishly give.

Billy sobbed on her lap, his cries shaking the both of them as she leaned down to touch his head with hers. He reeked of vodka and the smell was enough to make her sick but she tried to fight it as she pressed a kiss to his temple. When she sat up straighter, Harper was gentle, rubbing her hand on Billy's cheek, wiping away the tears she could reach with her fingers. Jeremy hugged Billy with her in between them both, but quickly stood to his feet and paced in a way that made her a bit nervous. Billy then begged them all in a louder volume to not tell Bruce and Harper raised her brows. Why would he say that? Billy quickly answered her silent questions. Send him back to New York? Surely even Bruce wouldn't be that cruel.

When Billy said he loved Erik so much, telling both Jeremy and her that he didn't want to feel any of it, to go back to the way things were, Harper's heart ached. Then he said he just wanted a drink before begging her...for what, she couldn't tell. Was it a drink? Was it to take the feeling away? Was it to help him with her words?

The visible pain he was feeling was enough to bring her to tears if she wasn't so focused on making him feel better. She herself had been a bit emotional earlier in the day but when it came to Billy, Harper was always going to put him first. "Drinking isn't going to help, Billy. It's not going to make any of this just go away. It might temporarily but you can't just drink it all away." Harper told her brother gently, looking at Jeremy as he said he'd brought coffee. That would probably be the best thing for him right now, that and some water. "It feels like just the thing to blur all of these feelings but you and I both know that's not the way to deal with this." Harper took the coffee mug from Jeremy when he handed it to Billy, wanting to make sure to get her brother stable enough to properly sit back off her lap. Setting it down on the coffee table for just a moment, Harper rubbed her brother's shoulders gently as Spencer spoke up. She prayed to god that he wouldn't say something along the lines of kicking Erik's ass or sending him back to New York.

Fortunately for them all, Spencer only spoke ill of Erik briefly before moving on. He hesitated, causing Harper to look at him directly. He surprised her by telling Billy to tell them what he wanted and what he didn't want from them, reassuring him that they were there for him. Harper's lips twitched in a small smile, thoroughly impressed with the change. The effort Spencer was putting in was there, after all, they had been through. Sometimes, the best way to help someone was to let them tell you what they need, not the other way around.

"Spence is right, Billy. We, unfortunately, can't tell you what you want...and how you're going to work this out with Erik if you ever decide to again. But we will be here for you and support you in whatever decisions you make." Harper rubbed his cheek gently, looking down at him. "And even if you decide that you can't fix things, we will take it one day at a time. Each day is different than the last. Until you are ready for whatever else lies ahead for Charlie and you." Harper looked to Spencer and Jeremy then, hoping they both would continue in not saying anything about kicking Erik's ass. She felt the same way, wanting to punch that man as hard as she could. But she knew that her brother needed to make these decisions for himself, otherwise he might push away from them. "We'll be with you every step of the way."

with: Billy Pyroclast ; Spencer Misty Gray ; Jeremy BasDorcha

- END OF SCENE - ​

 

[Melanin-Gxdess]

Alex King's House
~ Bethnal Green, London ~

The smile on Alex's face only grew wider when she started teasing him. He wasn't sure when the last time he genuinely smiled this much was. The once-foreign feeling in his chest seemed to last forever as long as she was around. It'd taken him a while to discern that the feeling wasn't scary and to just embrace it for once. He didn't need to pretend like it wasn't there anymore. Kerry loved him back. She cared for him the same he did for her. There was no reason for him to be worried or afraid of her hurting him or vice versa. He trusted her and while he was working on trusting himself, he was determined to be a better man than he used to be. And that determination was going to get him through anything. She returned his words and he found himself to be at a loss for them - nodding his head excitedly.

At the mention of Callum, Kerry informed him she thought the world of his son. That was another thing he worried about when he entered a relationship with her. There were very few people in the world his son didn't like. Though Callum had interacted with the woman before, that was before Alex was in a relationship with her. Callum seeing the two of them together in an intimate setting was completely different. Then there was the question of whether Kerry would want this. Would she want to be with someone with a kid? He never made it obvious that he worried about it from time to time but seeing the two of them interact and together on more than one occasion, things seemed to be okay. "He thinks the world of you too. I'm really glad you two get on otherwise," he jokingly sighed. "I'd have to get rid of the kid, ya know? And he's pretty cool." She accepted his offer and Alex winked at her. "He'll be out for the count soon and then," he smiled, giving her a suggestive look. After placing another kiss on the top of her head he went into the kitchen to get the drinks.

Erik returned to the living room passing out drinks before getting settled on the other side of Callum so the boy was in the middle. He placed his hand on Callum's head, bringing him in so he could kiss the top of his head before letting go. Things felt so... Right, just then and he wanted to savor it. Hearing Kerry mention she hoped the movie wouldn't scare her too much, Alex couldn't help himself. "Oh, that's okay. You can sleep in my bed if you get scared. That booger monster is preeeeetty scary."

Kerry, Callum ( Misty Gray )

~End of Scene~​

 

[Misty Gray]

The Windsor Hotel - Upper Level
~ Dublin City Centre, Dublin ~

James Porter and Adam Harper​

James had closed his eyes when Lucy kissed him, taking in the moment as it could be his last. When she pulled away and began speaking of their younger days and of Conor and Sinead, he managed a weak smile. "They'll never stop bickering and she'll always be a motormouth," he fondly spoke, his voice sounding hoarse as he kept his eyes closed. Knowing he needed to save as much energy as he could in the hopes help would reach them, James kept his eyes closed and stayed quiet as Lucy continued to speak, urging him to get through it. The thought of seeing his kids and grandkids was certainly worth surviving for and even if his body wasn't winning the battle, his mind was fighting to find the strength to survive. He managed another weak smile when she pointed out that he'd ended up a great father and grandfather despite his reservations all of those years ago. Back then, James didn't think he'd make a good job of anything other than what he was employed to do. Contract kills and chauffeuring had been all he'd known before getting close to Lucy. Before then, he'd been a lone wolf who lived knowing every day was likely his last. To have lived to reached this moment still seemed a miracle in itself.

The mention of Chicago and the burger drive-through brought back fond memories of one of the moments that led to them first getting close. "It's a date," he spoke up to her request for a them to go out for a burger the following month. He'd always made a joke that if he were to choose his last meal, it would be a burger. If he didn't have more pressing concerns on his mind, he'd probably say he wanted one in that very moment.

Hearing someone else enter the room, he opened his eyes. Mentally, he felt the need to step into action to protect Lucy, but physically he could do nothing of the sort. Thankfully, it was Reina who had entered and she was quick to step in and help Lucy tend to him. There was something about knowing Lucy wasn't alone anymore that permitted him to close his eyes again and mentally stand down from trying to stay strong. He heard Reina reassure him and some of the words that followed, but for the most part he began to zone in and out of consciousness.

*****​

Adam covered Chase while the man moved to take out another gunman from the next balcony. When he came back out, Adam nodded his head and cued for them to switch roles, with Chase covering him as he moved to the next balcony to check for more attackers. Chase drew his attention to the office door where they heard voices. Once the balconies were clear, that would be their next target.

As expected, Adam saw another gunman as he peered through the curtains. Without hesitation, he pointed his gun through the gap in the curtains and fired two bullets into the back of the man's skull. When the man fell down in a heap, Adam cautiously stepped onto the balcony, taking a quick look to the other balconies to see nobody was left standing. He stepped forward to take a look at the ballroom from his higher vantage point. All of the attackers seemed to have either been gunned down or had made their escape. All that was left was an eery silence, with bodies of the dead and injured on the floor whilst some more able were attempting to assist. He sighted Conor near the dancefloor as the boss was tending to an injured woman who needed helping standing up. Content Conor was being covered by guards on the lower level, he stepped away to continue dealing with any threats on the upper level.

"Alright," he said as he rejoined Chase. "All balconies and the ballroom look to be clear," he confirmed. He then pointed to the office door. The fact the voices were behind closed doors meant they needed to be open-minded. It could be the enemy hiding out, but it could also be allies or innocents taking cover. He would act as if it was the former but knew he would need to make a very fast decision before deciding whether or not to pull the trigger. He pointed to Chase for the man to position himself against the wall at the handle side of the door so he could push it open but stay out of any line of fire. Adam meanwhile stood in a position where he could see inside the room as soon as the door was open and fire if needed. "Now," he mouthed to his friend. As the door was pushed open, Adam's finger rested on the trigger, but in a split second he recognised Reina and Lucy knelt on the floor. "It's clear," he confirmed to Chase as he lowered his gun.

As they stepped into the room, it soon became clear James was unconscious on the floor and given all of the blood surrounding him, it didn't take a genius to see he'd been shot. "Is he still alive?" he asked the women, but still crouched down to check the man's pulse regardless. There was a heartbeat and James was still breathing. "Alright..." he began, briefly assessing the locations of the wounds and quickly determining the severity of the situation. "I can hear ambulances outside but we're not waiting for the paramedics to come in here," he explained, knowing the cops and paramedics would be hesitant to enter the scene of a shooting. "Me and Chase will carry him out to them. We need you ladies to keep us covered," he said, offering his gun to whoever needed it. "There's still time," he firmly reassured Lucy as he looked her in the eyes.

Bellz (Lucy)
Melanin-Gxdess (Reina)
Pyroclast (Chase)

 

[BasDorcha]

The Strangers Keep

~Bethnal Green, London
A Few days later....
Jeremy Gray and Kelvin Hawk​

Kelvin stood outside the book shop, leaning up against the wall with one foot, a cigarette in hand as he watched the passing crowd. He needed to lift a wallet or he wouldn't be eating today. People around book shops tended to be more… unsuspecting, then if you waited at a place with high traffic and shady characters. He'd been casing the street for a while, and every Sunday a nice dressed, and dare he say handsome, guy would come about and purchase a stack of books. He'd seen him for weeks now but something about him had scared Kelvin enough to holdoff on making him a target yet. Hunger drove him to it now. It had been several days since the kid had a real meal and he was ready for one as he ever had been.

This past few days had been a nightmare. The Morretti's had attacked the Sullivan's, Spencer got the call dealing with it. Moretti had also died in his own attack, leaving a vacuum in the New York world. Harper had been home but she was missing much of who she had been before the incident that lead to the changes happened. Billy… Well Billy had blown the roof off with his news. Billy a dad, it made Jeremy smile. He couldn't picture a more deserving person of having his own little mini to love and cherish. Billy had punished himself for years doing things he didn't want to cover who he really was, and out of it came one good thing that he could claim made it worth it the rest of his life, even if he wasn't ready to proclaim it just yet.

With the stress, Jeremy found solitude and routine keeping his mind clear. He had been building the nursery library, buying books to keep Harper entertained, and building his own library at home for a while now. Every Sunday, he came to The Stranger's Keep to find new books for the collection, and after leaving Harper alone with the guards, he stepped out to complete his normal Sunday escapade. He'd ordered a few special books for the baby, and a first edition of one of Harper's all-time favorites - Little Women. It would be a surprise for her tonight. The owner had found a found the signed copy for sale in a private collection and procured it for him at the highest possible rate, he was sure.

As he stepped up to the door, a man beside him pushed off the wall, bumping into him. Jeremy felt his hand slide under his jacket, reaching for the wallet in the inner pocket. Quick as lightning, Jeremy grabbed the kids wrist and twisted, his hand shooting out to close line the boy at the neck before using the brief moment of confusion and gasping to pin him back against the wall, the smile on his face gone and a dark, moody, clouded view now filling it. Tisking at the kid, Jeremy kept one hand on the wall, the other going to his hip as he leaned over the would be thief close enough to kiss him.

"Big mistake. Huge. Do you even know who you are trying to rob there, kid?" Jeremy looked unimpressed and angry. Kelvin looked as if he gave no fucks, even though inside his chest is heart was pounding at the beat of a thousand horses galloping.

"Some square ass who got lucky and thinks he's a badass?" Kelvin smarted back.

Jeremy's hand hit the wall, the kabedon echoing between them. Jeremy's face hardened. Kelvin, looking up at him, felt a sudden urge to close the space and kiss him, but instinct told him to ignore the good looks currently pinning him against the wall and focus on his fuck up.

"You've certainly got guts, I'll give you that. How old are you, are you even out of your teens yet?" The boy's face flushed red. At barely eighteen, technically, he still qualified as 'in his teens'. Jeremy laughed, stepping back some. "That's what I thought. You know, I bet you've run that move a dozen times, but today was not your day. Why are you trying to pick pocket me anyways? You got a name?"

Kelvin couldn't help it, when he was nervous, his mouth ran away with him.

"I was hungry… Seen you coming here every Sunday for weeks now, so I memorized your schedule, figured out when you'd be here, and the rest was easy. You're too routine. A five year old could have figured it out. And yeah, I got one, but you don't need to know its Kelvin." Kelvin stopped, turning a deeper shade red. He hadn't meant to still say his name.

"Kelvin, you're not the brightest are you?"

"Hey, fuck you ya I'm uncultured. I'm plenty smart! I-I just get nervous, people don't normally catch me." Kelvin shifted, looking down and too the sides. He couldn't remember the last time he got caught.

"Well, today, not your day bud… here, take this though." Jeremy withdrew a wad of notes from his wallet and handed it to the kid. "This will buy you a meal or two if you don't spend it all in one place. Work on your skills, train harder, I might be able to offer you some work sometime." He handed the kid a business card. It had the number for pub, the legit businesses and Jeremy's pager number. "Once you're ready, we'll see about getting you on under me… I think with the right training, you might have some hidden potential under all this." He waved a hand up and down, as if measuring up the boy.

Klvin clenched his hands straightening his back, raising himself an inch or two. "I don't need your handouts, asshole."

"Good, I don't need a charity case. You work for me, you get paid. Plain and simple. But there must be loyalty, or no amount of work will save you." Jeremy didn't appear to be joking, or even fucking with him. Was he really offering him a job? He took the card, examining it. Very plain card, no real info just a series of numbers and who it reached. "Try the bar or my pager. Bar will need legit work, I might need other… not so legit work. If it interest you, consider it. Otherwise, don't let me catch you here when I come out."

Jeremy went on into the store while Kelvin considered his options. He was tired of running petty theft to get by. Maybe it was time to give someone else a chance, see what they could offer. The Kings, who obviously this guy at least worked for, were not some quiet unknown name on the street. This could be a real chance into a job he could make some real money at. Biting his lip and chewing away the dead skin, he spent the entire time Jeremy was in the store considering, still lost in thought when the man reappeared with his normal stack of books.

"Well, you're still here." Jeremy eyed the boy carefully, still weighing him in his mind.

"Truth? You're a gangster, and you're trying to make me one." Kelvin's mouth popped off before a more civil response could be formed. Jeremy shook his head.

"There's no such thing as gangsters, and you certainly wouldn't be one even if there was. You're a petty thief, I'm offering you a job, are you taking it or not?" Jeremy was ready to leave, he hated leaving Harper alone. The faster he got back the better.

Kelvin shifted from foot to foot, thinking. Finally, he squared his shoulders and met Jeremy's gaze. "Fine, I'm in. now what?" Kevlin waited with anticipation, wanting to know what this meant for him.

"Good, Contact Spencer King at the club, tell him Jeremy sent you and ask for a job as whatever the hell he needs. In the meantime, you'd better be practicing on someone else, but perfect those skills. If you want to become something out of nothing, you have to make it happen." Kelvin nodded, listening. In other words, if he wanted more than a legit day job, he'd better prove he was up for it. "You got it, boss man. Thank you. I won't waste this chance, I promise."

"You won't be thanking me once Spencer has you working for him, man's a damn slave driver but we need good employees so I think it'll be a nice starting place for you to get your head out of your arse and do something with your particular skill set. I'll have a chat with Spencer as well and give him a heads up that you're coming. He'll find something for you."

 

[Pyroclast]

i like pickles

 

[Misty Gray]

Spencer King's House
~ Bethnal Green, London ~
Saturday 2nd November 1985

Spencer King
Bruce King Pyroclast and Alex King Melanin-Gxdess ​

Too much had been happening recently, a lot of which in the last 48 hours. Although he'd called the Sullivans to warn them of Moretti's attack, it hadn't been soon enough to stop the Irish from being attacked. Whilst a great good had come out of it, in the form of Gabriel being killed, it didn't outweigh the Sullivans who were hurt. Along with innocent casualties, James was seriously injured and hospitalised, and Danny was in a coma following a gunshot wound to the head. Spencer didn't know the man too well, but the effects of his injury had impacted on Savannah, leading to her having a mental breakdown having witnessed the man she loved be severely injured - presuming him to be dead.

Whilst much of what was happening around him was out of his control, Spencer knew there were matters weighing him down that he could take control over. Billy turning up with a baby son may have been out of Spencer's control, but he'd immediately took steps to reassure his brother and help him to adapt to the shock, to support him wherever he needed it. His broken relationships with Bruce and Alex were matters he could have prevented from being an issue to begin with, and were certainly things he had the power to try resolving. He'd also come to realise his destructive hatred towards Trevor was now in his own hands too. His father had reached out, in the day following their last altercation, wishing to speak to him. Of course, Spencer had told the man to go to hell, but in the back of his mind, he knew holding onto his hate for the man was becoming draining. Still, Trevor would have to join the queue and if they were going to speak, it would be on Spencer's terms - he was the one calling the shots with his father nowadays.

First things first, Spencer knew he had to reach out to Bruce and Alex so he could try put things right. It wasn't simply that they needed to work together in the wake of Gabriel's death and in the face of their upcoming meeting with the Sullivans. It was more that he hated being in a bad place with them when he cared so much about them. Having encouraged Shona to go out and socialise for the evening, Spencer invited his uncle and brother over to the house for a talk. He made sure to settle Eddie in his cot for the night before the men arrived at the house that evening.

When he heard the knocking, Spencer got up from the sofa to unlock the door and let the two men in. "Evening. Thanks for coming over," he greeted the two, stepping aside to let them both inside. "What do you want to drink? Tea or booze?" he asked as he locked the door behind them.

Once the drinks were sorted Spencer sat across from Bruce and Alex in the lounge as he let a brief silence hang in the air. He soon looked to the two men before beginning to speak. "I've asked you both here so I can apologise for my recent behaviour towards you. I've let my own anger and hate get in the way of being reasonable towards those I care most about. Somehow, in trying to avoid my fear of Trevor getting between us all, I managed to let it happen all by myself. You've all got the right to make your own decisions about him and I don't have any place telling you how to act or how to feel." He looked each of them in the eyes before speaking again. "I'm sorry for kicking off and for trying to make you feel bad about wanting to speak with him. Especially after he helped Harper and helped with getting Callum back... I had no right and I should never have taken my own issues out on your guys. I'm sorry."

Alex wasn’t exactly sure what to expect when his brother invited him over. Things between them had been tense after Trevor’s visit with neither of them talking to the other. Alex understood why Spencer felt the way he did and while he didn’t fault him for it, he was still annoyed. Mostly because he was understanding more and more how Harper felt when he and Spencer initially told her and Billy to stay away from him. “Oh, how tables turn,” he muttered, walking up to Spencer’s door. His Uncle had seemed to be present already and just before Alex could say anything, Spencer appeared.

Spencer seemed to be in… Friendlier spirits, Alex cautiously taking a step inside. It was a strange sight to see considering how they left things not too long ago. “Yeah, of course.” Spencer then asked if they wanted anything to drink and Alex glanced at Bruce before going back to Spencer. “Booze,” he said, nodding his head at his decision. “Definitely booze. Whiskey?”

A few moments later Alex found himself sitting next to Bruce across from Spencer. He’d already started taking a few small sips of his drink to ease how tense he felt. The way the air felt wasn’t helping any. He knew that his issues with Bruce were far different and maybe even more important than his own. “Alright, Spence, don’t keep us waiting,” Alex said lightly, trying to lighten the mood. The forced smile on his face soon slowly dropped as Spencer began to apologize. Alex sat up straight in his seat looking at his brother in the eyes.

The apology was genuine, no doubt, and Alex knew how hard it must have been for him to even do so. But he was glad he did. “Thanks, Spence. Really.” Alex let out a relieved sigh, shaking his head. “You got every right to be angry at him, but I want to make this clear before we go any further. Any of our decisions to talk to him or anything else doesn’t mean we’ve turned our backs on you. Understand?”

There was something of a relieved sigh from Alex when he acknowledged the apology, which was a positive sign to Spencer. When his brother then went on to say he wanted to make something clear, Spencer raised a curious eyebrow, before nodding in agreement with his brother's assurance his family talking to Trevor didn’t mean they were turning their backs on him. “I understand. I get that now. I know I fly off the handle, especially where he’s concerned, but I shouldn’t take it out on you.” As he finished speaking, his eyes naturally shifted to Bruce to gauge how his uncle was feeling. He was fully aware he’d dragged it out for weeks with the older man and it wasn’t their only disagreement in recent months.

As he listened to Spencer’s apology, Bruce couldn’t help but feel guilty for their six weeks of silence. He had busied himself working with Gabriel to sign Erik over to the UK permanently, and after his conversation with Erik that morning, he realised that the effort had all been for nothing. The reason Spencer had been upset with him had mainly to do with his expression of gratitude towards Trevor, but also to do with his continued business with Gabriel after the Italian boss had injured Savannah to bring Callum home, all without their permission. Bruce had agreed to move past Gabriel’s wrongdoing in exchange for Erik, and since Erik had betrayed Billy, Bruce couldn’t help but feel he ought to be the one apologising, not Spencer. The problem was that both Bruce and Spencer were stubborn, and so when they clashed, there was little point in trying to reason with each other. The best thing to do was to let themselves both cool off for a while - but six weeks was just inexcusably long, and he just wanted to clear the air, now.

He saw real maturity in Spencer’s apology. What Trevor had done to him was deeply traumatic and he could understand his deep-rooted hatred of the man, because Bruce shared it, too. It made sense that he would struggle to accept his closest, most trusted family members treating Trevor with anything other than pure disdain. It had caused a riff between him and Harper once, and now between him and Alex and Bruce. So, to hear him make progress in moving on from it made Bruce proud.

“Listen, son,” Bruce sighed, gently swilling the whiskey in his tumbler. “What you went through when you was young - what Trevor did to ya’ - that kinda’ thing stays with ya’ for life. I’ve seen the way you’ve managed yourself over the years, and I couldn’t be prouder. So, this is easy for me to look past, Spence - Trevor comin’ back into our lives was bound to stir up some past feelings. Just, I hope you can still come to me with this stuff. I want to help ya’ through anything, you know that, right? I just have my own way of dealin’ with it, too. And with him savin’ Harper’s life and all…I had to say somethin’ to him. Like Alex said, it don’t mean I’ve in any way forgotten what he did to you lot and to your mum.”

He held a gentle look in his eyes as he looked across the table at his eldest nephew. “As for this business with Moretti…” Bruce gave a sigh and rubbed at his forehead. “Well, I’m sorry for our disagreement there, too. As it turns out, I think you was right after all. What he did over in Dublin…I mean, I know it was his war with them that time, but I can’t help but be concerned for Savannah’s safety. I was hasty to repair our ties with the Morettis for the sake of empowering our family with soldiers and weapons and the like. Much as I hate to say it, even Erik turned out to be a mistake.” His voice was low and remorseful, now. “Keepin’ our family safe is still my number one priority, but after what’s happened, I think it’ll take a little more thinkin’ to work out the best option. And I’d like your input this time. Not just me makin’ rash decisions without consultin’ you first. What do you think, Spence? Will you give this old codger another chance?”

Spencer couldn’t help but lower his head as his uncle first started to address him, but he soon looked up when the man said he was proud of how he’d managed himself over the years. Spencer didn’t much like authority figures and there wasn’t anyone he was willing to take orders from, except for Bruce. As a child, Trevor had set the worst example and led him to question any authority figures. Although things were troubled at first following Laura’s death, Spencer came to trust and respect Bruce, the man becoming a role model and one Spencer was more open to taking orders from. So even now, it meant a lot to hear his uncle say he was proud of him and to know the man still cared. “Thanks, Bruce. I will,” he said, nodding his head when told he could still go to him when he needed help.

“Trevor made contact with me after our last altercation,” he said, glancing at Alex as his brother had front row seats to that one. “I won’t ever forget what he did either, but I’m tired of holding on to all of this hate for him. He’s taking up more of my energy than he deserves while I have all of these shitty feelings about him, that I just want to be able to put it to rest now. I will talk to him, but not before I’ve let him stew a little longer,” he reasoned.

With Bruce bringing up the subject of the Morettis, Spencer was grateful to hear him admit they were better off without the Italians. “It’s alright. I get why you did it – to protect our family, like we always set out to do. The smug prick just proved himself to be a snake and frankly whoever killed Gabriel deserves a fuckin’ medal,” he pointed out. He briefly looked away at the mention of Erik, still disappointed and holding himself back from doing anything about the man betraying Billy. It wasn’t just Billy who he’d betrayed, but the Kings as a whole had trusted and grown fond of him.

Bruce moved on to emphasise that keeping their family safe was the priority and he wanted Spencer’s input on how to protect them this time. He looked at his uncle and couldn’t help the broad smile. Part of it was relief that his uncle hadn’t washed his hands of him this time, and part grateful the man was now willing to consult more with him. “Course I will Bruce. I’m glad we’re back on the same page this time. That we’re all back in each other’s good books,” he said, sending Alex a smile. “I’ve got nothing but love for you lads.”

Sitting up straight, Spencer cleared his throat before pointing to Alex. “My first suggestion is we push ahead with Alex’s input this time and have that meeting with the Sullivans. They must understand now more than ever after what the Morettis did that there is nothing good to come from this war. It’s the ones who aren’t involved that are getting hurt the most. Harper, Sav, Callum… I want us to get back to our business in London and the Morettis can just fuck off.”

It was strange that what caused them to fall out was the very same thing that made it so easy to make up again: how similar Bruce and Spencer were. Stubborn, assertive and opinionated, their personality and natural leadership had them butting heads more often than either of them would like. Yet, it was explained how they understood each other so well. Bruce was pleased to hear that Spencer was growing tired of carrying so much hatred towards Trevor, because he had been feeling the same. While he lived with constant reminders of his sister, such thoughts were far more positive than negative; they didn’t stir up his hatred of Trevor nearly as much as they brought about feelings of pride for the four children she had brought into the world.

“A meeting with the Sullivans sounds like a good idea,” Bruce agreed, nodding at his two nephews. “With the Morettis gone, I’ll bet they’re in a place to re-evaluate where they want to go from ‘ere, just like we are. And, after an attack like that, I’m sure they’d agree with ya’ that it’s time for all this sufferin’ to end and just get back to business. We’ve all got kids, loved ones who don’t deserve to get caught up in any of this, and if there’s anythin’ we and the other families ought to agree on, it’s that family comes first.”

Bruce patted Alex on the back as he took a sip of his whiskey, and then sent the two men each a smile. “I’ll give Conor a call and get this meetin’ set up, and we can work on bringin’ all this shit to an end,” he said. “You just leave this to me.”

 

[Misty Gray]

Blackrock Hall
~ Blackrock, Dublin ~
Wednesday 6th November 1985

Savannah Callahan​

In the immediate days that followed the attack at the Halloween party, Savannah had been staying at her parents' house. No matter how many times she was told that Danny wasn't dead and that he was in a coma, it didn't seem to properly register. She would nod and express what relief she could considering his condition was critical, yet, barely a minute later she would be overcome with a deep grief, her heart and mind tricking her into still believing Danny was gone. She hadn't eaten or slept in those two days, nor had she spoken more than a few simple words to anyone who tried to talk to her. She'd barely been able to move at times, being overcome with an overall numb feeling. At times, she didn't even feel like she was in her own body. At others, she felt like she wanted out of it, perhaps even out of the grim, painful world that surrounded her.

Then she would think of Callum and how even though her boy shouldn't see her in this state, she could never leave him completely. It was in the fleeting moments of clarity that she knew she had to get help. If Danny truly was going to wake up and if she would ever be able to look her son in the eyes again, she had to get help before she lost her mind completely.

Savannah had voluntarily admitted herself into a psychiatric hospital on Sunday, despite her mother's protests. The fact she had willingly checked in meant she was afforded privileges, such as visits and some freedoms, rather than being locked away and treated like a prisoner. Despite this, there were times when she did feel like the staff looked at her as if she were truly crazy. When she was given pills to help her sleep, there was always a brief paranoia that they could be slipping other drugs into her system too. She knew she was being irrational, but there were moments when she worried she could be one assessment away from being sectioned against her will. She knew it was just her mind playing more tricks on her and so was trying her hardest to cling on to herself, to remember she'd chosen to be here and she would recover soon.

Permitted to have visitors, Savannah had seen her family over the last few days and when she was informed she had a visitor this evening, she figured it would be her parents again. Sitting in an armchair directly opposite an empty one, Savannah looked to the window beside her. As it was dark outside, all she was faced with was her own reflection staring back at her. She barely recognised herself and lifted her hand to her cheek, almost to check if the moment was real. Catching the reflection of the familiar man being led towards her by one of the nurses caused her to question reality even more. Quickly turning away from the window, she looked up to see Alex there in the flesh. Once he'd been directed to sit in the armchair opposite her, she waited for the nurse to walk away before speaking. "Alex?" she asked in a loud whisper, clearly surprised to see him. "What... What are you doing here? In Dublin?" she asked. She was pretty certain she was in Dublin, so she was more confused that Alex was there considering the war between their families. "Is Callum here?" she asked. Whilst she would have loved to have seen her son in that moment, she wasn't sure she could bear for him to see her in such a mess. "I had to come here. My head was... I'm a mess," she admitted.

Melanin-Gxdess (Alex)

 

[Melanin-Gxdess]

Blackrock Hall
~ Blackrock, Dublin ~
Wednesday 6th November 1985

Alexander King​

When Alex found out about what happened in Dublin during Halloween, he was pissed. Considering he had just gotten his brother and uncle to come to an understanding with the Irish, it was warranted. However, when he found out how close Savannah had been - yet again - to death at the hands of the Italians he saw red. Alex thought it was made clear that whatever issue the Italians had with the Sullivans they kept Savannah out of it; apparently not. She'd been close to death on one too many occasions and Alex had had enough of it. The idea that Callum could have potentially lost his mom was too heavy to bear. It didn't matter that she hadn't gotten hurt or that she was still alive; it was the principle behind it. He was more than happy that she was alive, of course, but how many times was this going to happen to her?

However, when news of Gabriel's death was finally told to him he was able to relax a bit. It was a shock that he'd been taken out considering the attack was his idea; considering he was the boss of a criminal enterprise. But it was true and it had happened. While he didn't know exactly what it meant for the King-Moretti alliance, he did know he was happy to longer be dealing with Gabriel. His mind was more at ease knowing someone like that, someone who didn't care about his partners or their wishes. The man's grudges against the Sullivans was probably going to get the mother of his child killed one day and he was glad he no longer had to worry about it.

What he was worried about, however, was how she was feeling. He'd been told about Danny's condition and it had Savannah shaken up. She'd gone and checked herself into a mental hospital, Alex feeling hit with deja vu. Having just gone through something similar with his sister, it was a strange feeling to see Savannah going through it too. She was different, however, as she had checked herself in before things got bad; Harper hadn't. He couldn't help but wonder how things would work with Callum and her being in the hospital, but that wasn't something he was going to bring up. Checking to make sure she was okay was more important and such a conversation could come later.

Arriving in Dublin the first thing he set about doing was visiting her. He was led to where she had been sitting, looking out the window. When she turned around to face him it seemed like she didn't believe it was him. "Yeah, Sav, it's me," he said with a friendly smile. "I-," he started, clearing his throat. "I'm uh... Here to talk to Conor. Well, Spence and Bruce are here to talk to Conor. And Syd and Roxie, I guess. But I'm also here for that." He paused. Clearly, he was nervous but it was the building he was in. Harper had been in a similar place and it gave him the creeps then too. "Remember that conversation we said we wanted to have? It's happening. Tomorrow. But I heard you weren't... Yourself and I just wanted to check on you." Shoving his hands in his pockets, he immediately shook his head when asked if Callum was with him. "No, he's not. Should I have brought him? I- I didn't think... Well, I didn't you'd want 'im to see you like this is all."

Alex understood what Savannah was saying, nodding his head. "I get it. Couldn't have been easy, but. I think you did the right thing. You feeling any better," he asked, finally moving to sit in the chair across from him. "Any idea how long you'll be here? I can bring Callum by if that's what you want, Sav, that's not a problem."

 

[Misty Gray]

Blackrock Hall
~ Blackrock, Dublin ~
Wednesday 6th November 1985

Savannah Callahan​

When Alex told her he was in Dublin with Bruce and Spencer for a meeting with the Sullivans, it took a moment before it clicked in her head. So much had happened since she last spoke to her ex that it had been pushed to the back of her mind. "Oh, of course," she distantly said, with a single nod. "I'm glad that's finally happening. I was meant to be there, wasn't I?" she asked, in a tone that reflected she was disappointed in herself for not being in a state to attend. Considering she and Alex had been the ones pushing for the meeting, she couldn't help but feel annoyed with herself. "I'm grateful Roxie is going to be there. Someone's got to keep those hot heads under control, huh?" she softly joked. Not that it wasn't the truth. Putting four of those men in a room together was bound to be heated, given their personalities.

With the focus on his reason for visiting her, she let out a sigh. Hearing him say he'd heard she wasn't herself was something she had to agree with. She was struggling to feel not only attached to reality and the present around her, but also to her own mind. She quickly shook her head when Alex asked if he should have brought Callum. "No... It's not that I don't want to see him. It breaks my heart being away from him for so long, but... I can't let him see me like this. He's been through enough without having to see me in this state."

Savannah chewed her bottom lip when Alex agreed that she'd done the right thing. As he sat down across from her, she made a point of sitting up straighter, realising she'd been slouching in a lethargic manner. "I feel like I'm letting everyone down. I know I should have stayed strong so I wouldn't to be apart from Callum. I should be out there at Danny's side - he needs more help and support than I do. I dread what they might both think of me, but I'm in no state of mind to be the person they need. Every time me or someone I love has been hurt, I've always been able to keep going. I've been surviving since the day I was born, but seeing Danny..." she stopped herself as she covered her mouth with her hand and shook her head, eyes brimming with tears. "Something just snapped - I feel mentally and emotionally weak. There are moments where my head plays tricks and my heart breaks with grief, forgetting that Danny is still alive, still fighting."

Savannah let out a heavy breath. "That's why I know I need help. I need to get my head straight so I can be strong. I have to be the person Danny and Callum need," she explained. "I don't think I should be here too long. I came on my own accord, whilst I still had some clarity, right?" she reasoned. She paused before looking to Alex, tears now trickling down her cheeks. "I feel awful and it makes me feel sick to say this, but I... I need Callum to stay with you for as long as I'm in here. Throughout everything, I've never had any doubts about myself as a mother to our son and I would never have let us fall out over custody if I didn't believe I could look after him. But in this moment right now... I don't even know if I'm what's best for myself, never mind being able to care for Callum."

 

[Melanin-Gxdess]

Blackrock Hall
~ Blackrock, Dublin ~
Wednesday 6th November 1985

Alexander King​

Alex picked up on the disappointment in her voice. The meeting was something the two of them had gotten going; convincing both sides of their families to come together for their sake and the sake of their child. He knew she wanted to be there as well and being in such a predicament prevented that. "Hey, it's alright. It's happening, right? That's the important part of it." She mentioned she was at least grateful to Roxie being there and Alex nodded. "A voice of reason," he joked along with her. "And a good one at that, ain't she?"

The smile on his face faltered as she explained her reasoning for not wanting Callum there. It made complete sense to him, but he still felt bad about it. "That's... Big of you." His words were genuine, scratching the back of his neck. Both he and Savannah tried to keep Callum's world as innocent as they possibly could. They knew what it was like to grow up in such a chaotic world with such a chaotic family. Neither one wanted it for their son. Whatever sacrifices they needed to make they would - Alex more now than ever to try and make up for his past.

Hearing Savannah begin to blame herself he immediately shook his head. It felt like deja vu, Harper saying something similar to him when she was in the hospital. "Sav, don't do that," he shook his head. "You can't blame yourself for wanting to- to get better. You're allowed to go through what you need to and not be strong for everyone." Alex looked down at his hands fiddling with his fingers. He couldn't help but feel... Sorry, in a way, for her. While things seemed to be looking up for him they weren't so much for Savannah and it didn't seem right. She was one of the people he considered innocent in all of this mess. Just born into the wrong family and forced to live a life she didn't deserve. "No one blames you, you know that right? What happened to Danny is shit and it would worry anyone. No one is looking to you to be strong right now. You're allowed to feel what you feel, Savannah. No one thinks less of you."

The moment custody was brought up Alex didn't know what to say. He'd been fighting for Callum for what seemed like forever because he thought the kid would be safer with him... Or so he thought. Alex realized that he had his own ulterior motives for wanting Callum to live with him. While it was true he wanted to protect him and believed London to be the safest place he also wanted to hurt Savannah and her family. But hearing her now say she wanted their son to be with him until she got it together, he felt horrible. He wasn't sure how to respond to her and nodded his head. It was quiet for a few minutes before he finally found his words. "I can do that, Sav. For you. And when you're ready to see him you just let me know and we'll be here the very next day."

 

[Misty Gray]

Chapter 20: Endings, Beginnings
Thursday 7th November 1985
...One week later...
Dublin: Afternoon - Sunny, Clear Skies, Cold
London: Afternoon - Sunny, Cloudy, Cold
New York:: Late Morning- Sunny, Cloudy, Cold

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The Sullivan Family Home
~ Sutton, Dublin ~
​

Conor Sullivan and Spencer King

The last week had been heavy and stressful since the attack at the Halloween party. With Danny in a coma, James in a serious condition at the hospital, along with countless other injured and killed, Conor had been taking it hard knowing it all happened at a party he'd allowed to go ahead. It wasn't only the physical wounds that were concerning. Savannah had admitted herself to a mental health hospital and it was clear to see Syd had been affected on a psychological level too, both through him murdering Ricky - Roxie's own cousin - and his concerns over James' condition. With Lucy, Thomas and Olivia also worried for James, along with Sinead's deep concerns for Savannah and Danny, it was safe to say there was a heavy cloud hanging over the Sullivans at present. The only silver lining in all of it was knowing that Gabriel Moretti was finally dead and gone.

Prior to the attack, steps had been taken to set in motion a meeting between the Sullivans and the Kings, one which had been pushed to happen by Savannah and Alex. Despite the uncertainty hanging in the air regarding the health of their loved ones, Conor knew business had to go on and he couldn't lose sight of the bigger picture. The Kings had still been on board with the meeting even after news of the attack reached them and they even went as far as to suggest they came to Dublin, given the stress they expected the Sullivans were under. Hearing that Spencer had called Sinead to warn them about the attack worked in the the Kings' favour. The warning may have been too late to stop the attack, but it had meant backup arrived on the scene much faster than it would have had the Irish not been warned.

Savannah had been meant to attend the meeting given that she was fighting for it to find a peaceful childhood for Callum, but given her present situation, Roxie agreed to step in on her behalf. With Syd's state of mind and Conor's own short temper, he knew it was a good idea to have someone as reasonable as Roxie present to counteract any potential tensions.

Rather than hold the meeting in his office, which Conor found suffocating in already heavy times, he'd cleared the rectangular dining room table and set up the chairs at either side, spaces for the Sullivans and Kings to sit facing each other, with Conor and Bruce taking the respected central places opposite each other. Whilst they waited for the Kings to arrive, Conor sat with Syd to his right and Roxie to his left. "How are you both holding up?" he asked, given Syd was concerned for his father and Roxie had just lost her cousin.

When Adam opened the door to dining room from the adjoining lounge, Conor looked to see the man give the signal that the Kings had arrived. Getting up from his seat, Conor told Syd and Roxie to wait in the dining room. "Remember, we're here to try put an end to all this. I know Spencer grates on us at times and Alex cheated on Sav, but... We need to try get past this. Granted, I know it's going to be hard," he said, letting out a chuckle having not had the best relationship with Spencer especially, even before the war began. He then pointed to Adam and Marco. "That goes for you lads too. No winding up their entourage!" he said, a knowing smirk on his face.

"Wouldn't dream of it, Boss," Adam remarked. He then slapped Marco on the shoulder before they followed Conor out of the house.

Having stayed overnight in a Dublin hotel, the Kings were more than ready for their meeting by the time the afternoon came. Bruce, Spencer and Alex were all in a good place with each other since they'd cleared the air a few days earlier. Now it was time to try make progress with the Sullivans and put a stop to the war so their families could get back to focusing on business. Spencer was glad Alex had been able to visit Savannah the previous evening and it was clear to see progress was already being made on that front, with her asking Alex to take care of Callum until she was feeling mentally able to return home.

The Kings travelled to the Sullivan mansion in two separate vehicles. The giant of a man Kane sat in the passenger seat of one car whilst a guard drove, with Bruce and Alex in the back. In the other car Spencer and Jeremy sat in the back with a guard driving the vehicle. "You and Kane will be fine waiting outside the room, Jeremy," Spencer assured him during the journey. "I've got the hardest job having to sit at a table with both Conor and Syd. But, if it brings us all peace, I'll not cause any bother," he said with a smirk. "Besides, Harper will kill us if we return home having made shit worse," he remarked.

Both cars were granted entry into the driveway of the Sullivan house with Bruce's car parking up first, followed by Spencer's alongside it. Kane was quick to get out first and quickly scan the area around them before opening the rear doors for Bruce and Alex to step out. Spencer didn't give his driver time to attempt getting out before him and opened the door for himself. With the drivers instructed to stay inside the cars throughout the meeting, Bruce, Spencer, Alex and Jeremy, along with Kane, were all greeted by Conor. Adam and Marco stayed at the front door as instructed by Conor who wanted to greet the men on his own, without guards flanking him.

"Bruce. I'm glad you could make it," Conor greeted his London counterpart, giving the man a firm handshake. "Spencer," he said, giving the younger man a similarly firm handshake.

"Thanks for the hospitality. I'm sorry we couldn't get that warning out to you all sooner," he said, returning the Irishman's handshake. He thought it would be more difficult to look Conor head on, especially given the last time they'd been so close Spencer, Alex and Jeremy had been laying into Conor violently enough to hospitalise him.

"It was better late than never," Conor reasoned, letting out a heavy sigh as he tried not to dwell on the loved ones he was concerned about. With Alex and Jeremy also standing there, it was impossible not to remember the three of them attacking him, along with Billy who had gone on to kill Aidan. Clearing his throat, Conor shook Alex's hand. Their relationship had been a rocky one since the guy had decided to cheat on Savannah, but he knew he had to move past that now, especially if his niece had. "Savvy appreciate you visiting her yesterday and looking after Callum whilst she can't. I miss seeing the kid, mind you." Conor then turned to Jeremy and shook the man's hand. "How's it going?" he asked. Though Jeremy wasn't related to the Kings, he was as good as their family and Conor had known the man since even before Alex cheated on Savannah. Finally, Conor looked to Kane, simply sending the serious-looking guy a nod. "I swear he gets bigger every time I see him. Unless I'm getting smaller..." Conor trailed off. "Alright gents. How about getting inside out of the cold? I've set up a table in the dining room, so plenty of refreshments on hand if needed."

Once they were in the dining room, Jeremy and Kane were asked to wait in the adjoining lounge with Adam and Marco, closing the doors behind them. Conor allowed Syd and Roxie to greet the three King men as he prepared some teas and coffees for them.


Pyroclast (Bruce, Syd)
Melanin-Gxdess (Alex)
Bellz (Roxie)

***********​

Adam Harper and Kane Stenberg

When the meeting began, Adam and Marco were told to wait in the adjoining lounge along with Jeremy and Kane. Kane opted to stand by the window, both listening out for any commotion from the meeting and keeping a close eye on the Kings' parked cars out in the driveway. Even if the drivers were still inside the vehicles, he wanted to keep watch himself. Far be it for him to generalise, but the Sullivans had form with explosions and dramatic attacks. He was going to watch those cars like a hawk when he could. It wasn't the first time Adam had been in the same room as Bruce's beast of a bodyguard, so by now he knew it was pointless trying to drag conversation out of the big guy.

"How's Dermot doing?" Adam casually asked Marco. Last time he'd spoken with Dermot he'd assured him his arm was perfectly fine, but for all he knew the man was just acting the tough guy to his superior. "About time the lazy bastard took a hit," he joked.

Remembering Conor's words about aiming for peace and not winding up the Kings, Adam was fully aware of what happened the last time he was in the same place as Jeremy. It had been the evening the Sullivans stormed the restaurant and demanded to know who had killed Aidan. Adam had directly targeted Jeremy to try drag out the truth. Clearing his throat, he approached Jeremy and looked the man head on. "How's is going? Have you met Marco before?" he casually asked.

After a brief pause, Adam pointed to the trays of hot and cold drinks. "Help yourself, lads," he suggested to the all three other men. "Alright, Jeremy... Last time we met I might have smacked you around and choked you out a bit, but that was business. I mean, a guess some of it was personal as I was quite fond of Aidan. But whatever. I think by this point we all want to come to some kind of agreement and put this shit to rest."


BasDorcha (Jeremy)
Melanin-Gxdess (Marco)

Burrow Beach to Baily Lighthouse
~ Howth Head, Dublin ~
​

Benjamin Reznik

Benjamin had arranged a special date for himself and Lorelei. Having checked the weather to make sure it would stay clear and dry, he was glad to finally be able to put his plans for the day into action. He'd asked Lorelei to put on some warm clothes as even though it was a clear and sunny day, there was certainly a November chill in the air. After driving to Howth, Benjamin had parked his car for the day and the two of them had set about going for a walk all along the coast towards Baily Lighthouse. With the beaches and cliffs and many other beautiful landmarks, Benjamin had of course taken his camera and spare rolls of film with him. The walk, as expected, took longer given all of the sights that distracted and drew them in, not to mention him wanting to savour as many moments with Lorelei as he could. He loved being able to capture so many memories in his pictures, but even more than those, he wanted to commit everything about their day to his memory and to let it settle deep within his heart. Not that he thought it was possible to love Lorelei more than he already did.

After a few hours of casual walking and exploring, Benjamin had them stop by the cliffs about 10 minutes from his intended destination. "We're almost there," he told her as he pointed towards the lighthouse in the distance. "I've been to Baily Lighthouse a few times. There's a great view straight out across the sea and the little cafe on the ground floor of the lighthouse is perfect for an afternoon treat," he explained to her. He placed his arm around her and held her close as they looked out onto the open water, observing a passing ship. "Are you warm enough?" he asked, looking down to her. "The views out here are beautiful. Still no match for you though," he softly told her. "I'm the luckiest guy in the world to have found you. I love you, so much," he said, gently kissing her head. "Don't you just wish moments like these could last forever?"

Bellz (Lorelei)

Tower Bridge
~ City of London, London ~
​

Alice Carroll

Alice hadn't had the best of days at college, nor had she had a good day yesterday. Things at home had been rough with her mother having one of her episodes which had stressed her father out who in turn had made a point of blaming Alice for spending too much time away from home in the evenings recently. So when Alice had attended college the morning after, she was unprepared for her rehearsals which had meant she'd struggled to remember many of her lines. Although her tutor was understanding, a group of teenage girls who already thought she was weird had found it quite amusing that she'd been messing up in her work for once. That had carried through to today. Even though Alice was prepared and remembered all of her lines, the group of students had been visibly mocking her, which in turn put her off her completely. So along with being taunted by her peers and then lectured by her tutor for not being focused, she felt altogether deflated and useless.

On the plus side, she had arranged to meet Abel after their classes were finished. She'd at least been looking forward to that all day. Only, having been kept behind after class to be spoken to by her tutor, she had found herself running late. As she rushed across the city to Tower Bridge where they'd arranged to meet, she couldn't help but berate herself. Messing up at home, messing up at college, and now letting Abel down after he'd been so sweet to her on their date. He was nice and he was attractive, not to mention his parents were great. As she continued making her way to him, she had to wonder what Abel really saw in her. She was far from cool or popular and the lack of support from those in her class showed it. Now, she felt like she was even failing at what she usually excelled in. Whilst she generally knew it was just a couple of off days, it wasn't easy to ignore the intrusive thoughts when they surfaced.

When she finally reached Abel, she subtly smoothed her hair before making her presence known. "Hey, Abel," she sweetly greeted him. "I'm sorry I'm late. I'm not usually late, but I've had a rough day and I was late out of class and..." She stopped herself, pausing for air. "But I'm here now, and you're here, so that's what matters in the end," she reasoned, trying her hardest not to dwell on the thought she'd disappointed him. "I hope your day was better. Was it?" she asked, suddenly overcome with a nervous, self-conscious feeling.

BasDorcha (Abel)

Christian Brooks' House
~ Bethnal Green, London ~
​

Christian Brooks

It had been weeks since May's kidnap, since Christian intentionally murdered Josh, and since May told Christian she was pregnant. Given the woman had been through a traumatic experience and needed all of the support she could get, the former detective had to force back his own struggles to ensure she was being put first. As time went on, it was becoming more difficult to ignore. It might have been easy for some to justify killing another man and he'd even received gratitude for it, but that didn't make it right. Christian had the opportunity to disarm Josh without killing him, but he made the conscious decision to commit murder. He used to be able to justify working for the Kings because they seemed to have a better code of justice than his employers and colleagues on the police force. The work he did for the Kings over the years was easy to live with and he enjoyed doing what he could to help the family. He still did. But for all the snooping and spying he did, he never really got his hands dirty. Now, he realised he was no better than the criminals he'd helped put in prison during his career, no better than the corrupt cops. Now he wondered if he really was a fully pledged member of an organised crime family. He'd committed murder, covered his tracks, and was in a relationship with a literal member of the Kings. The facts were hard to ignore.

This wasn't the path he'd ever set out for himself and it certainly wasn't what his parents had imagined their son would grow up to do. They'd already been disappointed when he chose to be a detective instead of a lawyer. They were even more unhappy with his later choice to work for the Kings as a private investigator. So when he called his parents a week ago to tell them his was going to become a father, the conversation took a rapid downward spiral. Not only was it an unplanned pregnancy but the mother was related to the Kings. His parents had always made clear they hoped their kids would grow up to have highly professional careers and to marry a partner of a equally respectable professions. Doctors, lawyers, anything of that sort. To say they were angry with him was an understatement. Somehow, by the end of the call Christian's relationship with his parents seemed completely destroyed. It might have been partly due to him telling them to go to hell.

Christian had been busying himself with work, taking on any job he could and even doing some chauffeuring for the Kings. He needed to clear his mind and have some space, never wanting to create a bad atmosphere at home when May was already going through a lot. He hadn't told her about the argument with his parents yet. Despite telling his family to go to hell, he was regretting that action. How could he blame them for being disappointed in his life choices when he was laying awake at night questioning them himself? He never intended to become a killer tied to a criminal organisation.

Christian returned home that afternoon, having not many jobs on with the Kings going to Dublin. When he entered the house, he began unpacking some groceries before eventually calling out. "May? Are you home?"

BasDorcha (May)

Currently Active Cast: Misty Gray Bellz Pyroclast Melanin-Gxdess BasDorcha neverbackdown​

​

 

[Bellz]

Chapter 20: Endings, Beginnings
Thursday 7th November 1985
...One week later...
Dublin: Afternoon - Sunny, Clear Skies, Cold
London: Afternoon - Sunny, Cloudy, Cold
New York:: Late Morning- Sunny, Cloudy, Cold

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Harper King
Erik's Place
~ London ~ ​

After Billy had broken down at the house, Harper hadn't been able to get what he had told her off of her mind. She called to check in on him daily, making sure he was doing alright. While she wanted to be over helping him with whatever he needed, she knew that distance was good too. She still had her own issues to figure out. But those issues seemed to be a day-by-day thing, not wanting to focus on it some days, and other days, she was trying to figure out how to fix herself. Her sessions continued shortly after she got out of the mental hospital with Dr. Parker and they did help to center her mind. She was to go twice a week now rather than just once, taking extra precautions and giving her more of an opportunity to talk about how she was feeling. She just finished her last session and was meant to go home, but after the long conversation she had with Dr. Parker about the situation with Erik and Billy, she decided to go to Erik's place. With the other boys, including Jeremy in Dublin, she figured now was as good a time as any to confront the man on her own. Harper knew she might not get another chance to do so otherwise.

This conversation felt like something she needed to have alone. Her newfound understanding of Erik felt strained by what he had done to her brother. She had no tolerance for cheating, especially with Billy. Her favorite brother was already trying to navigate his way through coming out recently and now he might try to ignore who he really is all over again because of this. On top of the fact that he just had a kid dropped on him as well. In all of her feelings, Harper did begin to feel a little more like herself this week. She didn't feel as sluggish as she had when she first arrived home, and she was not feeling nearly as sick as she had been. Crazy what a week could bring.

When the driver stopped the car, Harper turned to stare at Erik's place for a long moment, hesitating. Harper hated when people interfered in her personal life. Especially her brothers. Isn't that what she was about to do? Interfere in business that wasn't necessarily hers? This was different. She decided. After what Erik had said to her in the hospital, Harper felt a sudden connection to him. Sure she had liked him enough before but the more they had talked in the hospital the more she realized just how much alike they were. How much he understood what she was currently going through and had yet to go through. Something that everyone else really couldn't understand.

Opening the door, she stepped out delicately, watching as the driver, one of the guards responsible for taking her to and from her therapy appointments got out as well to escort her to the door. Normally she would fuss, but recently she's been finding comfort in the extra protection. Especially after hearing what happened to the Sullivans last week. The walk to the door felt like an eternity and when she finally got there, she hesitated again. The anger she felt shortly after Billy had left the house last week started to bubble in her chest again, burning her throat as it tightened, trying to force herself not to tear up.

She would handle this differently than how her brothers would have. Violence was not always the answer. Harper felt like she had to practice what she preached and when she knocked on the door, she held her breath, hoping to god that she could at least keep it together even to get the words she wanted to say. The blonde kept telling herself that just as the door opened and a woman stood in front of her. Tall, dark-haired, and looking like a million bucks. Harper opened her mouth to speak but found no words came out, her cheeks turning bright pink as she realized she was just staring so openly at the mysterious woman. Clearing her throat, Harper managed to place a shy smile on her face, "Uh, hello, My name is Harper King...I was just stopping by to talk with Erik..."
with: Ava + Erik Melanin-Gxdess
mentions: Jeremy BasDorcha ; Billy Pyroclast ; Spencer Misty Gray

Natasha McCarthy
Thomas Porter
Thomas & Elena's Apartment
~ Dublin City Centre, Dublin ~​

The week after the Halloween party had been crawling at a snail's pace. Most likely due to Natasha's nerves. Things in her life were flipping and flopping all over the place and on top of it all, people close to her and her family were hurting. Fortunately for her, her mother and Adam had managed to get out of the party unhurt, but Thomas hadn't been so lucky. After she found out that James wasn't doing well in the hospital, she was quick to put a care package together for her friend and bring it over to his apartment. It broke her heart when Elena opened the door and filled her in on how he was doing, the man could barely make it out of bed most days and wasn't talking much. It was good to see Elena doing better, however, and Nat had managed to stop by twice that week to make sure everything was okay. The second time around Leo wanted to combine the trips as he was checking in on Elena regularly, in an attempt to get Thomas out of his room and to talk to them all...but it hadn't worked out. Thomas politely declined to speak with them and accepted the care items with a thank you before shutting the door in their face.

Finally, after setting it up with Elena, Natasha, and Leo were once again at the other couple's doorstep. Natasha had brought a few sweets she'd baked as well as games that she had in her backpack. She left Leo in charge of the drinks to bringing. Shifting from foot to foot, Natasha let Leo knock on the door with her hands full and she looked at her boyfriend nervously. "I just hope this will cheer him up. I understand what he's going through, but he shouldn't isolate himself. It's the last thing he should be doing." The young blonde bit down on her bottom lip as she waited, which felt like forever.

Thomas had finally managed to pull himself out of bed the day before. Something had changed, he wasn't sure what it was...but he was finally able to get his head straight. He showered, combed his hair, put on a fresh set of clothes, and asked Elena if he would accompany him to run some errands around town. Two of those errands were stopping by the hospital to check on his mother, who had barely left the hospital, and visit his father. And then checking in on Syd, Roxie, and the kids. While he had spent more than half of the week after the party in bed, he was looking to make up for it tenfold after he was done feeling sorry for himself and the moments he'd lost with his father.

Today, he felt less energized than the day before...but he was making it through. He even managed to get in a workout at home and went on a walk with Elena and Lucky. She revealed that she'd planned a little get-together with Natasha and Leo, which shocked him considering the last time they were together she had a panic attack. With a kiss on her forehead, he said thank you for planning it and was actually looking forward to it. He had just finished getting dinner in the oven when there was a knock on the door. Elena was still getting ready in the other room, so he decided to get the door watching as Lucky sniffed the bottom of it quietly to see who it was. "I'll get it!" He called out to his girlfriend, allowing her to finish getting ready as he strode to the door. Taking a deep breath, he composed himself and reminded himself that tonight was going to be good for him before opening the door with a soft smile on his face.

"Hey you two, how are you? Come on in." Thomas opened the door wide enough to let them through before shutting and locking the door behind them. Lucky followed the newcomers into the kitchen, lightly trying to sniff their legs out of curiosity before her focus went to the food in Natasha's hands. Nat looked down at the dog with a smile, "Not for you sweet girl, chocolates are not good for dogs." The blonde said before setting down the food on the counter and moving to hug Thomas. The man accepted her hug and they held each other for a long moment, "Thanks for the care packages, you two. I'm sorry I wasn't...able to thank you in person." He murmured and Natasha pulled away to look at him, "Don't apologize for wanting to take time to process things, Thomas. We are just happy you're doing okay again, you and Elena both." She pulled away completely to allow Thomas and Leo to greet each other before asking, "Where's Elena? Can't get this party started without her!"
with: Leo Melanin-Gxdess ; Elena Pyroclast
mentions: James Misty Gray

Lucy Porter
Dr. Finn Sullivan
Le Hospital
~ Dublin City Centre, Dublin ~​

It felt like she hadn't slept in a week. The feeling was partially true, she hadn't left her husband's side since he was taken to the hospital and refused to do so. Thomas and Syd along with the rest were kind enough to bring her the things she needed when she requested them but other than that, she couldn't bring herself to focus on anything else or anyone else other than James. He'd gone to hell and back and she knew all the medical work being done was draining his energy as well. But all she could do was watch him when he was resting, speak to him when he was wanting company, and continue to pretend like nothing was going to change...that he was going to be fine. She had excused herself from the room for only a moment to get some air, needing yet another cigarette. The habit she had once again picked up in all the stress this last week brought. When she was in the smoking area just down the hall from James' hospital room, she expected to just smoke alone...like she usually did. But the door opened and the sound of her cousin's voice sounded disapproving, "Those things have been proven to kill people, Luce." He said simply and Lucy let out a short and tired laugh as she lit her cigarette.

"Who can say if these things really shorten your life or not? Perhaps we are meant to die and the cigarettes were just a coincidence." She said before taking a drag. "May I?" Finn asked, motioning to the space next to her on the bench. Lucy nodded silently as she blew out the smoke, watching as Finn waved it away from his own face. "How are you doing, Lucy?" He asked and the blonde turned to look at him more directly, "I'm fine." She said softly and Finn's face softened as he shook his head. "You don't have to pretend with me, Luce. I'm not your kids, or Sinead and Conor." Lucy shook her head in return, moving to take another drag from her cigarette. "I'm fine, and so is James. I'm not pretending to be something that just is." The blonde crossed her legs, wrapping her coat around herself tightly. Finn watched her do that, knowing full well that everything was not fine. "I am the only person besides your husband that you can't fool, Luce. I've seen his results and helped monitor him. You and I both know that he's not fin-" Lucy raised a hand to Finn, her jaw clenching. "Don't. Finn. Just. Don't...please." The woman's lower lip trembled as her eyes burned.

She turned away, not wanting her cousin to see her so upset. Composing herself, Finn just let her as he sat in silence, not wanting to push her more than he already had. When Lucy did eventually turn back to him, she seemed more ready to talk about what information he had for her. "Test results...how? How are they looking today?" She asked, her voice hushed. Finn's face looked solemn as he met Lucy's eyes. "No improvement, a slight decline in some areas." The woman's teeth clenched as she held her burning cigarette between her fingers, not noticing how quickly it was burning and the ash stem growing longer.

"His chances of survival are slowly starting to look less and less... But there is still time if only a little. But I will exhaust all of my options for treatment with the other doctors treating him before it's over." Finn promised, moving to place his hands on Lucy's shoulders. Her eyes burned again, nodding her head to acknowledge everything he had just said. "I just...don't know what I'm going to do." Lucy said, her voice breaking as the tears fell down her cheeks finally, she dropped her cigarette, stepping on it with her foot before putting her head in her hands. Finn wrapped his arms around his cousin, holding her as her shoulders shook, letting out tears that she had been doing her best to hold all week. She had to be strong for her children, for her siblings...set an example. Let James know that she was going to be okay without him, just as he told her she would be. Even though this entire time, she didn't believe in that sentiment for a second. "I thought we'd have more time." Lucy sobbed into Finn's chest and the man rubbed her back soothingly, "It doesn't matter the time you had with him, whether it was long enough or short enough, Luce. It's what you did with that time, that's what matters. And you two made the most of your time together and loved one another with everything you had and it shows. I know that doesn't sound like it would be enough right now, Lucy...but it will when you're ready to let your heart accept it. For now, just enjoy the time you do have with him." Lucy pulled away after a few moments, wiping at her eyes as she nodded her head in understanding.

"Thank you, for letting me get that out. I needed it, clearly." She whispered. "I should get back to him." Lucy murmured, moving to give Finn a kiss on the cheek before they both headed inside. Silently, she headed back down the hall to the hospital room, quietly opening and closing the door in hopes of not disturbing James if he were still asleep as he was when she left.
with: James (WHO IS UNALIVING HIMSELF FOR WHAT!?) Misty Gray

 

[Pyroclast]

Chapter 20: Endings, Beginnings
Thursday 7th November 1985
...One week later...
Dublin: Afternoon - Sunny, Clear Skies, Cold
London: Afternoon - Sunny, Cloudy, Cold
New York:: Late Morning- Sunny, Cloudy, Cold

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Billy's House
~ Bethnal Green, London ~

Billy King​

With the support of his family, Billy had grown more confident about the situation he now found himself in. Sure, he was barely sleeping, but everything was working out far better than he could have expected. Once the initial shock had worn off, Billy found himself falling in love with his baby boy; when thoughts of Erik put an ache in his chest and threatened to make him cry, it was Charlie who eased his pain and made him smile again. Whenever Billy was faced with some unbearable pain, he either fell off the wagon and drowned himself in alcohol, or he threw himself into work or a project. His family had managed to keep him from drinking, and he had instead managed to focus all his energy on Charlie instead.

In only one week, he had transformed one of his guest rooms into a nursery. The walls were painted in colourful geometric patterns and he had even started building new shelving units and a chest to store all the new toys and supplies. Despite barely sleeping or seeing the light of day, parenthood was so far the best endeavour he had ever made.

It was when family came over to help him that the tiredness always kicked in. This time, Darcey was paying him and Charlie a visit, and Billy was wired on coffee in preparation. He sat with Charlie on the living room rug with a collection of small multicoloured blocks. The boy held a block in each tiny hand, idly tapping them together as he watched Billy stack some more. It seemed to fascinate him up until the third or fourth block, and then Charlie would reach out and knock it over, squealing with glee. Billy enjoyed watching his son laugh so much that it was equally entertaining for him as it was for the 7 month old.

When he heard the doorbell, he picked Charlie up and came to the door to greet her. “‘Ey, look who’s come to visit!” he said with a beaming smile on his face. Charlie leaned forward to grab at Darcey’s nose and Billy stepped with him so that the boy wouldn’t fall right out of his arms. “Come on in, Darcey, I’ve put some fresh coffee on,” he said, moving aside to let Darcey pass. “I was just teachin’ him how to build block towers. He’s gonna be my little architect assistant - ain’t ya’, Charlie boy?”

Interactions
Melanin-Gxdess Darcey

 

[Melanin-Gxdess]

Chapter 20: Endings, Beginnings
Thursday 7th November 1985
...One week later...
Dublin: Afternoon - Sunny, Clear Skies, Cold
London: Afternoon - Sunny, Cloudy, Cold
New York:: Late Morning- Sunny, Cloudy, Cold


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Dún Laoghaire Harbour - Boardwalk
~Dublin, Ireland~
Thea Ryan​

For the past few days, Thea was losing her mind. She felt... Torn between herself and her job. She'd gone and made things intimate between herself and Tom; a man who was supposed to be her mark and only her mark. The thought of having to betray him soon had been eating her alive, but she wouldn't dare say anything. The last time she'd gone and did something because of an emotional response she'd gotten someone killed. No, she could live with Tom being in prison but not dead. At least in prison, she could write letters begging for him to forgive her. She couldn't speak to the dead. In her correspondence with Klaus, she made sure to leave out the part where she had fallen in love with him. She feared he'd pull her out of the field and then her time with Tom would be over. She was careful not to add too many incriminating details; how he'd been involved with the mob as a solider. Probably killed a few people. Whatever she could do to lessen his punishment she would do for him.

In order to make up for her disappearing act Thea asked Tom out for once. It had always been him asking to see her but this time she wanted to make an effort. Standing in front of a full-length mirror, she was trying on different outfits. Each one seemed to be worse than the last. Either it was too short or too long. Made her look huge, made her look bumpy. Majority of her clothes now lay strewn about her room, her dog Digger on top of them. "Digger, what would you wear to the boardwalk, huh? Something comfy, right?" The small dog just tilted his head at her and Thea nodded. "Something comfy sounds like the right way to go." She scratched the back of her head before turning around to find just that; something comfy. Mom jeans, a white crop top, and an oversized plaid button-down was the comfiest thing she could think of. Looking herself over in the mirror she groaned. "Digger I hate it," she whined. Really, it wasn't the clothes she hated; she actually liked the outfit she put together. She was just incredibly nervous. Things had a funny way of going bad when she was involved and the last thing she wanted was her evening to be ruined. But maybe, she thought to herself, things would be fine. She just needed to stop thinking about it.

By the time she and Tom arrived at the boardwalk, Thea had forgotten all about how nervous she'd been feeling. The lights and music and different smells had her complete attention; as did the man whose hand she'd been holding. The first thing they tried was a shooting game - Thea nearly forgetting to pretend as if she were a bad shot. In reality, Thea's skill with a gun lies in her amazing sharpshooter abilities. She may have been a small, blonde woman but damned if she wasn't a good shot with a sniper rifle. They'd only been there for half an hour when Thea spotted Sam, Olivia, and another young woman she didn't know. Although, she had seen her during the Halloween party when she and Wesley slipped out with Julia. "Oh, isn't that your cousin?" Thea gestured towards the three of them before looking at him. "Should we invite them to join us?"

Tom, Sam ( BasDorcha ) Olivia ( Misty Gray ) Violet ( neverbackdown )

O'Neill's Restaurant
~Hackney, London~
Ava Snowden​

Ava once again found herself hopping on a plane to London. If she didn't love him so much she'd have made him pay for all of her plane tickets himself. But alas, she cared deeply for her dear cousin as he had long since determined she was the only family he had left. Roger didn't exist to him, even if he were still alive. "I may as well move here," she joked in an attempt to make him feel better. But it did little to nothing at all. When he'd called her, he was frantic and apologetic. None of his words made sense and that's when she realized he'd fallen off the wagon once more. She was disappointed, to say the least, but she didn't express it to him. He'd worked hard, she acknowledged it, but she didn't know how much more of it she could take. The day after she arrived in London, however, and he explained everything she understood why he had. He was never good at managing his emotions when they got to be too overwhelming and she figured that wasn't going to change all of a sudden. "Oh Erik," she sighed, rubbing her cousin's head as he laid in her lap. "What am I going to do with you?" Erik didn't seem to be doing much better. He was still heartbroken and stuck on what he could and should do to make up with Billy. The only thing Ava could really do was be there for him when he needed her.

When she was finally able to, Ava managed to get ahold of Klaus and let him know she was back in London. She needed some sort of distraction to help her with the stress her cousin was causing her. And what better distraction than him? Ever since they'd seen each other at her art show she only thought about him more. It was the kind of gesture she never thought someone would make for her - flying across the Atlantic Ocean just to see her. And it only made her like him more. Dare she admit, fall for him more. While a big portion of her felt it was so wrong to move on from Marcus as quickly as she was, she figured he would want her to, right? Even if her former in-laws didn't think the same. The night of the art show was the last time she'd really talked to any of them. She had come to the conclusion that they'd written her off and so didn't feel the need to try and appeal to them. However, hearing about Gabriel's passing did make her feel horrible. She wasn't a monster, even if she knew the man didn't like her. A brief phone call to Elvian whilst she was in London was the most she could do for now. As much as she had loved Marcus, Erik was her main concern.

Leaving Erik alone to have dinner with Klaus felt icky, but the man confirmed to her that it was okay. "I'm the one who said you should remember," he told her, leaning against the door frame. "You've been dealing with my shit for a week now - I know you need a break. And before you say, 'Meh, Erik, you're not a bother' shut up," he joked. Ava shook her head with her hands on her hips. "Jokes on you, ya putz, I was gonna mention how much of a bother you actually are." Erik gave her a smirk and shook his head. "Knew it." He walked over to her suitcase, digging around and trying to find something for her to wear. "Ava, Jesus. You don't have a lick o' color in here!" Ava immediately walked to his closet and threw the door open, pointing to his clothes. "Fair enough," he said, holding up a dress. "Nope." Ava immediately shook her head, instead reaching for pants and a shirt. "Last time I wore a dress around him I let him bend me over in a pub bathroom," she reminded. "So no easy access tonight." It wasn't the first time he heard about the story, so his shock was in jest. "My favorite cousin is a whore. What would your Uncle Roger think?" She threw a pillow at him and shooed him out so she could change.

Erik started laughing when she opened the door, dressed in black leather pants and a black mesh corset. "Oh, so no easy access down south but plenty up north, eh?" Ava smacked his arm and pushed him out of the way. "Bite me. You're just angry you wouldn't be able to pull it off." Erik disagreed, naturally, but did end up complimenting her. She told him she wasn't leaving right away and Erik went to take a shower in the meantime. She contemplated canceling on Klaus, not wanting to leave Erik alone, but maybe he needed it? A knock at the door caught her attention and when she opened it she raised an eyebrow. "Who are you?" With her hand on her hip, she observed the small blonde, waiting for her to say something. A small smirk stretched across her lips as the woman in front of her seemed to be in awe. When she'd finally spoke up again, the smirk on Ava's face slowly disappeared. "King," she repeated, putting two and two together. "Oh, you're that one. The youngest," she said, unaware of May's relation. " 'M Ava, his cousin." She stepped to the side, allowing her to enter before closing the door.

It was interesting, to say the least, seeing Harper here. She figured the woman would want to wipe her hands clean of Erik after hearing about what he did. "He's in the shower." For a moment Ava was silent. The scrutinizing look on her face hadn't meant anything - she was just lost in thought. Trying to decide what she should say and if she even should say it. "I'm about to head out," she suddenly said. "There's... Something you should know and understand." Because she'd been there a week now and he hadn't had visitors, she figured a quick update on Erik would be beneficial. "You know what happened, yeah? Kids been beatin' himself up. He shouldn'ta done it to begin with - he knows it. He's fragile, alright? And if you're here to make him feel more like shit about it you can forget it." Her accent was heavy as it often got when she was... Threatening someone. "But if youse here as a friend then you can stay. So which is it?"

Harper ( Bellz )

Moretti Family Home
~Brooklyn Heights, Brooklyn~
Elvian Moretti & Theodore Wycliff​

The first time Elvian met Gabriel had been in a club in Sicily in 1943. She had asked him to pretend to be her boyfriend, wanting to deter a creep that had been bothering her. "Lubirea mea, my love. You spent a long time away, did you get lost?" To which he played along, replying, "You know me, darling, I always end up getting distracted by familiar faces." And when the creep finally disappeared she found herself sticking around. But, so did he. Their mutual interest in each other is what led to them continuing their conversation. Whilst you're here in Palermo, you should visit my favourite spot. Just a fifteen-minute walk up from here, there's a beautiful small beach that's surrounded by two cliffs. The tourists tend to miss it because of the lack of bars and restaurants up there, which means it's always relatively quiet and peaceful. You and your friends should try it out. Only it wasn't her friends she went to this beach with it was him. "Take me there," she said, I'm sure it's completely different during the day, but I'd like to see it regardless." And he did, happily. Their walk to this hidden oasis had been filled with laughter and honest conversation. "If I may be so bold," he began, pausing as he debated on whether to continue. "I think you are a beautiful and interesting woman. I feel quite honoured to be spending my evening with you. But I must ask. With all of the other men in the club, what compelled you to wish to come out here with me?" Elvian had never had someone ask such a question so eloquently; so honestly. "If I'm honest, I have no idea. You're not bad to stare at, you seem to have the purest intentions, and you're a gentleman. I normally don't even go this far with most men... But you, Mr. Gabriel, are quite intriguing."

Elvian didn't know just how much her life was going to change when she met Gabe in Palermo that summer. Quite arguably, the best summer of her life. In just a few words and moments together she had found herself falling in love with the man. Elvian Montanari was had made up her mind that she was going to marry Gabriel Moretti before she even knew what he truly did for a living. It didn't matter to her that her parents hated him and wanted more for her. She loved him for who he was and who she knew him to be and that's what mattered. And though she had to remind herself of this when he finally disclosed the nature of his business with her, her feelings about him never changed. The love she carried for him outweighed anything he could ever do; anything he could ever say. She would always remain by his side even if she didn't agree with him. "You are the light of my life, draga mea. Ești parte din mine," she reminded him every time he told her something he thought she wouldn't care for. "And I am here by your side no matter what."

The news about Gabriel wasn't shared until Teddy got back to New York. A guard had been instructed to have his wife and children brought to the family home along with Tatiana. He knew that if he made that call himself he was liable to break down at any given moment. Theodore had been sent to Dublin with two instructions. "You make sure the both of you come home, understood? I don't care if you're missing an arm! You come home to us." Elvian had already been nervous about them going to Dublin. Nothing good ever came from that place and knowing her husband and son-in-law were going into it was unsettling. And Teddy knew that. "Don't worry, Elvie, I'll take care of your old man. Then he can come back and drive your blood pressure through the roof and not mine." Such a light-hearted exchange had been tainted. A promise broken so quickly that it hadn't even had time to settle. It was hard enough to admit to his failure and face his mistakes. But now, he had to admit it to his wife, children, and in-laws.

Elvian could see it on Teddy's face before he even opened his mouth. He hadn't even walked completely inside the home. "Theodore," she mumbled, her hand pressed against her stomach. A knot had formed days ago and now? Now she felt she knew why. Teddy walked towards her and with each step he took forward, Elvian took one back. She outstretched her free hand willing him to stop but he knew he couldn't. He needed to say it. "Elvie," he said, grateful the others hadn't arrived just yet. "Theodore, no." Her voice cracked and the tears pooling in her eyes began to fall. Teddy could tell her legs were about to give out from under her, Teddy immediately moved to catch her. Elvian's wails were difficult to listen to in the big house. Her heart was broken and he could hear it in every plea - Gabriel Moretti was that woman's entire life. She'd built a family with him - a legacy. And now they would never be able to retire together and live out the rest of their days in peace.

***
​

The funeral a week later had been difficult. Elvian had been trying to keep herself busy - providing the floral arrangements for her husband's funeral and planning it all herself. Of course, her daughters tried to lend a hand but really she needed the distraction. Sleeping was difficult to do when her bed had gone cold. In her dreams, all she saw was Gabriel and him saying how sorry he was. She figured it was her mind doing whatever it needed to do to help her grieve. Really she wanted it to stop. Losing her husband just months after losing her son was enough to send her down a spiraling path but she wasn't allowed. Her family needed her which meant she needed to be strong. But the day of she couldn't seem to muster up the strength she needed to make it through. The tears didn't stop at the church or the cemetery or even the car ride home. They'd been constantly falling and Teddy worried she'd get a headache. He'd been torn between his mother-in-law and his wife before asking Tatiana to keep an eye on the former. Teddy was aware that Valentina and Gabe had their fair share of issues but his death seemed to hit her just as hard.

Teddy didn't think they needed to do the will reading the same day as the funeral, but Elvian had insisted. She wanted to be done with it; get all the hard stuff out of the way so she could grieve properly and in private. Elvian didn't want to be interrupted when she did. "Teddy," she said, voice hoarse from all the sobbing. "Go into the kitchen and get the lemonade, won't you?" Teddy nodded his head and did as told. When he returned they'd moved into the atrium for the will reading. It was the only way they were going to get some sun. Taking an opportunity to check on the three women before the lawyer arrived, Teddy hesitantly looked around the table. "How... Are you all holding up?"

Valentina ( Misty Gray ) Tatiana ( Pyroclast )

 

[BasDorcha]

Chapter 20: Endings, Beginnings
Thursday 7th November 1985
...One week later...
Dublin: Afternoon - Sunny, Clear Skies, Cold
London: Afternoon - Sunny, Cloudy, Cold
New York:: Late Morning- Sunny, Cloudy, Cold


******



******​

The past week had been a rough one. Finn had put Amy to work for the last week helping anywhere and everywhere he could, and she had barely seen Braden or anyone else. When Braden had called to check in on her that morning, she had asked him over for dinner, wanting a nice night at home, relaxed, without the drama that was surrounding the city at that time. Finn had relieved her from hospital duty a few hours earlier, and after a brief nap and shower, Amy felt fresh and renewed. The party had been traumatizing, and if it hadn't been for her hard past, she probably would have been a lot more damaged from gun shots everywhere, death all around, and the vicious nature of the attack on the Sullivan's. That's not to say she wasn't scared - it had been terrifying. She had never thought she would be in the middle of a shootout, or something so intense and brutal.

Life in the orphanage had seen its share of bad. The vivid flashbacks had filled her mind in the past week, reminding her how she got her start on this path of the world.

"Amy, it hurt's, can you please look at it?" Little Robert Tully had asked.

"Yes, let me see," Amy sat down with a box of sewing string, a basic needle she had bend herself, and a book thicker than her pillow looking at instructions for how to stitch a cut. She'd practiced on fruit, but it was far and few between that they had any so it wasn't the best practice for her. Robbie had run in with one of the nuns, caught sneaking food from the kitchen because he was trying to feed his sick sister. The nuns, Mother Mayhew, had beat him something fierce for it and separated him from his sister as punishment. The bleeding had slowed, but the gash on his forehead was hanging open and needed more than just pressure and a temporary bandage.

Laying the boy down with his head in her lap, two older kids helped hold him still. "Don't let him move, or I could do a lot more damage than Mother Mayhew did." She warned them. They nodded, John and Philip pressing on his arms while straddling his legs. Amy then carefully began to stitch the wound closed. Robbie held as still as he could, doing a much better job than Amy had thought he would, as she pulled the skin together. When she was done, she looked over her handy work and cleaned it carefully for the kid, letting him up finally. "It's still going to hurt, but at least now it'll be a much smaller scar."

"Thank you, Amy. I'm sorry I was trouble, but Sally…" Amy shushed him with a kiss on the forehead. A few days later though, Robbie had died from fever in his sleep, Amy's first death on her hands. She had tended to him day and night, but with no extra food, no medicine, and the nuns rejecting any request for assistance, there was little she could do. The infection had been too close to his brain, and seeped in with the onset of fever, and before she knew it, he was gone.

Amy brushed a few tears away as she prepped for dinner - a brisket and chocolate pie for dessert. There was potatoes and carrots and salad as well but that would come later. The small apartment was basic, not extra decorated or extravagant, and didn't speak to someone who might have the kind of money that came with being in the medical field. Amy wasn't use to things like that, and a lot of her money went back into the community - tending to those at the homeless shelter, money for orphanages that won her seal of approval, and eventually, children of her own. The money she had put back for them was well more than she would ever need but she knew one day, when she had her own, that she would be able to provide anything they needed.

Nervously, she dressed for the night in something comfy but nice, having decided that tonight, she was going to ask Braden a question he might not be ready for, but since he hadn't asked her, she was going to ask him. He had a limited number of hours to step up and ask first, or she was going to do it. They had been seeing each other for a while now, and Amy had never had an official boyfriend, and damnit it all if it wasn't time for that to change. He'd give her an answer, so at least she knew where they stood - what his thoughts were and where they might be going in the future.

What would he think, what would he say? These things were eating her, but she brushed them away, instead preparing the movie area - popcorn ready to be made, candy piled in to bowls, and a selection of VHS's for them to pick from. She wasn't sure what Braden would want to watch so she had rented way more than they would need from different categories. Now, she only had to wait.


Bellz - Braden

​

 

[BasDorcha]

Christian Brooks' House

~ Bethnal Green, London ~​

Maeve Thatcher

May had been increasingly worried about Christian, but he spent enough time away that she never felt right bringing it up. She knew Christian was a good man, and would never treat her the way that Trevor had done the King kids, but that didn't mean he was ready for all of this, to make something so permanent out of the two of them, or that he was handling his recent choices all that well. She had mostly kept it to herself, keeping it quiet that for as much as she was suffering from the backlash of being kidnapped, raped, and held hostage for days, he didn't need the extra on him either. She internalized a lot of it out of pure necessity, just trying to find a way forward as she dealt with the new developments of her body in pregnancy.

A small pooch had formed on the front of her body, and her nausea came frequently. She wasn't sure, but it felt very much like having a circus inside of her - one moment laughing, another moment crying, and all the while trying to decide if she should eat something like a supreme pizza - which she hated - or peanut butter and jam with eggs because suddenly it sounded delicious. Darcey came to see her from time to time, as well as Billy, Alex, Bruce, and Spencer all calling in at least once, and she'd received a few calls from the family checking in on her, but for the most part she had been alone during the day while everyone was at work, and maybe because she was sleeping a lot or because he was finding times and ways to stay busy, she'd seen only a little of Christian himself. She tried to remember the man wasn't use to a woman in his space, and to give him whatever he needed.

She had told Darcey at their last visit she wanted to return to work, but realized how foolish it was to want to return when she had panic attacks at the end of the driveway, so each day she pushed herself to spend more time outside the door, going on a quick jot to the store, or walking to the park, so she could try to find a way past the panic that still wore itself around her neck like a shawl of death. She'd taken to calling the baby Peanut, something neutral and unbiased until she found out the sex, and that's what she had been doing when Christian came home, with her sitting on the balcony chatting away with no one.

"Someday, you'll be here and I'll read you stories, and tell you about Dublin, and make sure I leave out all the bad things that happened. Thankfully, you will have plenty of uncles and an aunt to keep you company outside of us, so you don't need to know Tommy and Kathleen. Maybe someday you can know Uncle Alfie, but mum hasn't talked to him since coming to London, so we'll see. Uncle Alfie is to close to the rest-" She stopped, hearing Christian call out for her. She stood and headed inside, following the sound of his voice to the kitchen. "Hey stranger… Yeah, I'm still about, waiting for you to tell me I have to go back home to my place." She attempted to tease lightly, though it had been a big worry in her mind. "How are you? How was work?"

Misty Gray - Christian

 

[BasDorcha]

Tower Bridge

~City of London, London~​

Abel Stewart

The past week had been fairly normal for Abel. He had gone to school, gone to work, gone to school and gone to work. A pretty normal series of events for the man. There was many things Abel was, and routine was one of them. You could set the clock by the man and his responsibilities. Dad made sure to keep him busy at work, always moving from one job location to the next to make sure all the crews were on point and not behind, or to make sure supplies were still in stock and not needed. As his Crew Manager he had a lot of things to do for his father, while the old man worked on keeping the jobs coming and keeping the companies name in the front of the public.

When he had set up to meet Alice today, he had been excited and over eager, but a test that morning had spent a lot of the energy and he had calmed down quite a bit before he actually made it to their meeting spot. He got there a few minutes before her, bringing coffee and tea to the table - which ever she wanted he'd take the other - and looked up as she made her presence aware to him. Smiling, he reached out and pulled her to him, tipping his feet under hers just enough to fall her into his lap. Hugging her tight, he placed a kiss on her temple, before letting her go to her own seat. A blush crushed his cheeks but his grin stated he regretted nothing. "Hey there, Ms. Alice. I'm sorry you're having a rough day… What can I do to make it better?" His hand never released hers, thumb stroking over the palm.

He handed her whichever cup she wanted and leaned close. "Want to tell me what's going on? I'm a good listener, and something of a problem solver, maybe I can help? My day has been pretty normal. Math test this morning, business class next. Should be fairly easy rest of the day. I do have to go check on some job sites after work, so I'll unfortunately not be free this afternoon."

Misty Gray - Alice

 

[Melanin-Gxdess]

Thelena Residence
~Dublin City Centre, Dublin~
Leo Sullivan​

When Leo was younger, he never really understood how one-second life was going well and the next it wasn't. He couldn't wrap his mind around the inconsistencies life seemed to offer. But as he got older, he started to. Last week's attack on his family had been a reminder of that. An enjoyable night had turned sour and the moment the news reached them, Leo was at the hospital. There were far too many casualties on the Sullivan side of things for anyone to feel comfortable. He was more than relieved when he saw that Ali and Conor were safe; his nerves rattling about and thoughts of what could've been coursing through his brain. But his relief was short-lived when he heard about James' injuries. The first person that popped into his mind had been Thomas. He was just getting on better terms with his father and now there was a chance it would've been too late. Leo knew what it felt like to have to visit his father in the hospital, waiting for any sign that he was going to make it. It was agony. Leo did as much as Thomas would allow him to be there for him, but he could only do so much without pushing him.

Natasha and Elena had managed to set up a nice game night; something to lift Thomas' spirits and get his mind off things. After knocking on the door he waited anxiously, prepared for Elena to tell them Thomas was no longer in the mood. He looked down at Natasha as she addressed him and nodded. As someone who had done something similar in the past couple of months, he knew where Natasha was going with it. "I know," he said, "I mean, it's hard to want to do anything under these sorta circumstances, but you're right." He paused for a moment before letting out a brief chuckle. "Let him win a couple games. See if that helps." A few seconds later and the door finally swung open, Thomas on the other side of it. He looked better than he had a few days ago, but Leo could tell he was still struggling. "Finally," Leo teased, "For a sec I thought you guys moved and didn't tell us. I mean, I'd have understood not telling Nat but me?" After walking fully inside he watched as Thomas and Natasha embraced each other. A smile small was present on his lips, feeling happy that the three of them were able to remain as close as they had. And now with the addition of Elena, it felt even better.

Thomas apologized for not seeing them directly, Natasha immediately reassuring him he didn't have to. "Yeah man, we totally understand, alright? You do what you need to to keep yourself sane." Leo gave the man a small smile before setting a gentle hand on his shoulder. "We're here if you wanna talk it out. I-..." He suddenly hesitated. Talking about things like this was always hard for him but he wanted Thomas to know he could lean on him if need be. "I know how it is, you know?" Leo nervously scratched the back of his neck suddenly feeling a bit awkward. He was grateful Natasha had asked about Elena, changing the subject. "Yeah, where is she? Wouldn't want to have you third wheeling," he said to Natasha, insinuating she would be third-wheeling himself and Thomas.

Thomas, Natasha ( Bellz ) Elena ( Pyroclast )

Billy's Residence
~Bethnal Green, London~
Darcey Hargraves​

Out of all the children Darcey had found herself raising, Billy King had always worried her the most. It was a different sort of worrying from the rest that went beyond getting into trouble. She always felt in her heart of hearts that the boy was... Different. He was more sensitive than the rest. Into things the others weren't, which wasn't why she thought he was different. It was the way he saw the world and retreated within himself when he saw how cruel it was. Like he was trying to hide something from it. She always worried that he would never learn to be himself and truly enjoy his life unapologetically as she had. It was all she really wanted for him and the rest of his siblings. So when Erik came around and she started to see changes in him, she felt relieved. Even though the road ahead of them was going to be one of the hardest they'd ever traveled, they had each other. Darcey trusted that Erik would be by his side through it all and help him achieve what he wanted. So when the news was broken to her that he'd cheated, she felt that worry settle within her once more.

To make matters worse, a baby had been dumped on him at the most inopportune of times! She was happy for him, of course, but she was still worried about how he was handling it. Being a single father wasn't easy - she could see the toll it had taken on Bruce. Even though the King family made it known they would all help him she was sure Billy still wanted to try not to lean on them too much. But regardless, Darcey was going to make herself available. The past week she had spent one on one time with Harper and May and decided Billy would be next on her list. While she'd met Charlie already, she had met him with Alex. Darcey wanted both Charlie and Billy all to herself; one so she didn't have to share the baby and two so she could get Billy to be honest with her. She didn't want him to feel as if he needed to be strong from them when it wasn't necessary.

The second Billy answered his door a big smile spread across Darcey's face. "Oh, my little dumpling!" He reached for her and Darcey immediately did the same, gesturing for Billy to hand him over. After moving inside his apartment she lifted him over her head with a smile and watched as he giggled. Billy updated her on their activities, Darcey never tearing her eyes off Charlie as she walked further into his home. "Building blocks," she repeated, her voice going up a few octaves. "You gonna be the next Eric Lyons and usher us into modernism? I'll have you build my house first then," she joked before turning to Billy. "The resemblance is uncanny! He looks just like you did when you were first born; I'll never get over it." Shifting Charlie so she could hug Billy, she placed gentle kisses on both of his cheeks. "How are you, darling? You look tired."

Billy & Dumpling Baby! ( Pyroclast )

 

[BasDorcha]

Dún Laoghaire Harbour - Boardwalk

~Dublin, Ireland~​

Tommy Tatcher and Samuel McKinsley

Time had gotten away from Tom over the last few months. Without the worry of his sister - the one who had once meant so much to him - he focused on other things like rebuilding his car and spending time with Thea when he wasn't in the shop. Things had also gotten ugly here recently and he was constantly putting in to do extra work for Syd and the family when they needed it. He'd had a few guard shifts and had helped with the cleanup of the shootout that happened. When he finally got to see Thea after the Halloween party, things had progressed rapidly. He hadn't meant to ask her to be his girlfriend then and there, but he had and she had said yes. He'd given her a small, simple silver ring as his promise to be a good boyfriend - a first for him. Now he was nervous every time he thought about her, wondering when he was going to slip up and cause her to see the real him, the side that others didn't like unless it was a war zone ready for him to jump into action.

After picking up Thea in the car they had rebuilt together, they headed to the boardwalk for a night out of the house. He enjoyed the atmosphere, even if it did make him a little on edge because of how many people were there and how easy it would be to attack them in a place like this. He tried to remember he wasn't in the center of the drama and the chances of them getting in trouble were minor, no one came after lower ladder soldiers just because. Instead he took her to play some shooting games, winning her a stuffed animal which he carried for her. When Thea mentioned his cousin, he looked up, seeing Olivia with Sam, and a girl he wasn't familiar with but could only assume was Dermot's daughter who Olivia had been with the night of the Halloween party.

"Yeah, let's do that." He smiled, wrapping an arm around her shoulders as they headed towards the group. "Hey, Livvy! Sam!" Tom called out. That practiced smile was on his face, but these days it looked a bit more natural with Thea by his side. Some of the darkness that always crowded his head eased back and he felt more… normal. "Fancy seeing you all here, you guy's want to come hang out with us? We're just exploring, barely got here a few minutes ago. Maybe we can find something for us all to do?" He clapped Olivia gently on the arm, shaking Sam's hand.

Sam had picked up the girls and headed to the boardwalk as a means of keeping Olivia's mind off James and Lucy, and to show Violet around some and introduce her to some local places. It was unexpected to run into Tom, someone he'd seen around a few jobs with the heightened security lately, but he didn't realize he knew Olivia. "Sound's good to me, ladies, how do you feel? Want to go get into some trouble?" He eyed Olivia playfully, knowing she was always - almost always - up for a good time. In fact, he had wanted to ask Olivia a pretty serious question tonight, but with more people joining, he wasn't sure he'd get the chance. They had been spending a lot of time together and for the most part, everyone assumed they were dating, but Sam was sort of old fashioned and wanted to ask her for her permission as well.

"Whatcha think, we make a pretty good looking crew! Let's go have some fun!"