Poppy (to Vincent): Honey, are you alright?
Vincent (to Poppy): Hmm? Oh. Good morning Poppy plus one. I'm alright, lover. I'm jut trying to shake off a dream I had last night.
Poppy (to Vincent): Oh, I'm sorry, honey. Bad dreams can be rough. Can I get you something? Tea? Coffee? Cocoa?
Vincent (to Poppy): A cup of tea would be lovely. Thank you.
Poppy (to Vincent): Will do, lover... Um... Do you want to talk about it?
Vincent (to Poppy): Good heavens. Do I really look as forlorn as that? Heh. I know I'm being a bit ridiculous. It was just... disturbing.
Poppy (to Vincent): You just have that slightly haunted look, honey. It's alright if you don't want to talk about it.
Vincent (to Poppy): No, it's not that. I just feel a bit silly. Did you know my sister attempted suicide once? It was when she was younger, after her best friend had been killed.
Poppy (to Vincent): Oh, really? I had no idea.
Vincent (to Poppy): Mmm. She had some hard times before I knew her. Her gran had died not too long before, and then there was the car accident.
Poppy (to Vincent): So, did you have a nightmare about your sister, honey?
Vincent (to Poppy): Hmmm. Sort of. In my dream, she died. She threw herself off a bridge before I met her. So, when I made it to West Piedmont... Well, there was no one here to take me in. I had shacked up with some horrorshow of a human being to get out of the hostel. Heh. Also, I was panhandling on the streets trying to get enough money to help him support his smack habit. If I made enough I didn't have to have sex with his dealer, so that he could get a fix. Very Dickensesque.
Poppy (to Vincent): Oh god, honey, that is terrible... Why does your subconscious hate you?
Vincent (to Poppy): Ha ha ha! For that particular bit of nightmare fuel, you can send the thank you card to my parents. I grew up hearing that's what queer men did: work the streets and prostitute themselves for drugs. The part of the dream I'm having trouble shaking off is how LONELY I felt. It was like someone had scooped out my soul. I'd forgotten what it was like to feel that utterly bereft. And so damn desperate.
Poppy (to Vincent): Awww, honey... I know what will make you feel better. Why don't you go visit your sister for a few days? I'll be fine on my own... I've got Max to keep me company.
Vincent (to Poppy): Heh. I think you're right. I'm not certain, of course, but my subconscious may be delicately suggesting I miss Mouse. Still, I hate leaving you by yourself. Max or no Max.
Poppy (to Vincent): Well, I'll miss you, make no mistake but I think I can handle it for a little while, honey. I did manage on my own for quite some time before I met you. It'll be okay.
Vincent (to Poppy): Well, I know that, hun. And our past fiascoes are any indication, you keep me out of trouble more often than the reverse. I just worry. What if something happens, or you need to go to the hospital, or you need a box of hohos? Will you at least stay close to Molly and Bernard's? You don't have to stay AT the inn, but I'll feel better knowing they're nearby.
Poppy (to Vincent): Heehee... I promise that after you crossover, I'll head to the inn, if it'll ease your mind, lover.
Vincent (to Poppy): Heh. It would. Thank you. Let me see if Sister Dearest is up for a visit. (to Mouse) Good morning, sunshine! The phone didn't wake you, did it?
Mouse (to Vincent): Oh no, I was just about to call you... Where are you hiding? I seem to be completely turned around.
Vincent (to Mouse): Huh? Where are you?
Mouse (to Vincent): Oh, I'm in New London... I asked Ripper to bring me over to see you & Poppy. I thought I recognized where I was, so I sent him off to his appointment, but I got distracted & now I think I'm lost.
Vincent (to Mouse): What? Ha ha ha! Oh dear. Sometimes we think FAR too much alike, sister of mine. I was just going to come and visit you. Describe where you are. What shops are you near. Between Poppy and I, we should be able to find you. (to Poppy) Hee hee. Looks like you won't have to suffer without me, after all, hun. Mouse is in New London.
Poppy (to Vincent): Oh? How on earth did she get here, honey?
Mouse (to Vincent): I'm sitting at a tea shop on the corner of a square, there's a clock tower, iron gates & I think I see a castle behind it. Oh, there's a sign that says Old London Square.
Vincent (to Mouse): Ah! I know right where you are. We'll see you in a few, hun. (to Poppy) Heh. She hitched a ride over with the Professor, apparently. She's sitting in a tea shop in Old London Square.
Poppy (to Vincent): Heehee, are you sure you two aren't actually related?
Mouse (to Vincent): Okay, I'll stay here... Otto told me to sit here while he looked around, anyway. He's such a bossy cat.
Vincent (to Mouse): Hee hee. That he is. At least Max will be happy to see him. (to Poppy) I'm beginning to wonder.
Poppy (to Vincent): Heehee, the two of you are funny.
A short time later:
Vincent (to Mouse): There she is! Hello sister of mine! I'm SO glad to see you.
Mouse (to Vincent): I'm glad to see you, too... I've missed you.
Vincent (to Mouse): I did too. I was having very "It's a Wonderful Life" type dreams and everything.
Poppy (to Mouse): Hi there, Miss Mouse.
Mouse (to Vincent): Oh, that's never good... C'mere and give me a hug, little brother... (to Poppy) Oh my god, Poppy, you are SO pregnant... I missed you.
Poppy (to Mouse): Heehee, yes honey, that's generally what happens when you're going to have a baby.
Vincent (to Mouse): Heh. Isn't she, though? If Victor hadn't started announcing his presence by kicking, I'd think she swallowed a basketball.
Mouse (to Vincent & Poppy): Oh god, I suddenly feel incredibly old...
Poppy (to Mouse): Heehee, it's okay, honey... (to Mouse & Vincent) I'm going to go get supplies & leave the two of you to chat.
Vincent (to Poppy): See you in a few, lover.
Mouse (to Vincent): Little brother, have you gotten taller or something? You look different...
Vincent (to Mouse): Taller? I live in hope! But, no, I don't think so. The top shelf is too lofty a goal still. What do you mean?
Mouse (to Vincent): I can't put my finger on it. Maybe, it's just your impending state of fatherhood. You just seem more relaxed, at ease... I never noticed it there before.
Vincent (to Mouse): Oh. I honestly have no idea what to say to that. And this makes me look taller, does it? I won't complain then!
Mouse (to Vincent): Heehee, don't let it go to your head. You'll always be little brother to me... So, you missed me, huh?
Vincent (to Mouse): Of COURSE I'm going to let it go to my head. It's what I do. And yes, I missed you. Loads. I was even having tragic, heartbreaking dreams about being alone and panhandling in the streets.
Mouse (to Vincent): Heh. Well, I had a sad dream a couple nights ago which was why I asked Ripper for the ride across to see you.
Vincent (to Mouse): Hee hee. You too, huh? What was your dream about?
Mouse (to Vincent): Oh, it was completely stupid... You & Poppy were hurt over here. I woke up really wanting to check on you both. I'm glad to find you both in one piece.
Vincent (to Mouse): Awww! We're alright, hun. Believe it or not, I've been staying out of trouble. You know. Mostly.
Mouse (to Vincent): Well, that's good to hear. So, you had an 'it's a wonderful life' type dream?
Vincent (to Mouse): I did. I had a dream that you died before we met, and what West Piedmont was like without you. It was dreadful! Hee hee. Well, without you, I'd apparently be on the street turning tricks for my junkie boyfriend.
Mouse (to Vincent): Oh well, I'm definitely glad I'm not dead... I mean, what would happen to all of my stuff? :-p Sweetie, it was just a dream... I'm fairly certain that you would have been okay, you're smart & pretty darn capable.
Vincent (to Mouse): Heh. I know, sweetie. That wasn't the part that bothered me. It was the loneliness. And thw idea that you weren't there.
Mouse (to Vincent): But I am very glad that we found each other & I wouldn't change it for anything.
Vincent (to Mouse): Me either. :-}
Mouse (to Vincent): So, now that I'm here... What are we going to do? Or is sitting around in a cafe all you do now that you're domesticated?
Vincent (to Mouse): Heh. Not at all. Now that I'm fairly certain no one will shoot me, I can show you around properly!
Mouse (to Vincent): Wonderful! Lead the way, el Capitan!
Vincent (to Mouse): Oh. Um... Speaking of domestic. I should tell you. Uh, Poppy asked me to marry her last night.
Mouse (to Vincent): Wow, that's huge news! What did you say? Wait. Of course, you said yes, because you're here & she clearly didn't kill you.
Vincent (to Mouse): Heh. For your information, she gave me the option to say no. If the idea scared me too badly, I mean.
Mouse (to Vincent): Oh? So, you said no?
Vincent (to Mouse): I said yes. Like you had a doubt.
Mouse (to Vincent): Well, you do sometimes like to get in your own way, little brother... Everything is telling you to do one thing, so you, of course, have to do the opposite. I am very happy for you both... You're clearly good for each other.
Vincent (to Mouse): Heh. I know, I know. I always thought being contrary was one of my better traits. Thank you, sweetie. It's all a bit overwhelming if I think about it too much, but it feels... I don't know. It feels right.
Mouse (to Vincent): I'm so glad... You deserve to be happy. So, are you guys going to get married before Victor arrives?
Vincent (to Mouse): Oh. I hadn't thought about that. There's not a lot of time to get everything organized & Poppy can't cross portals right now... Which would mean I couldn't invite Wanda or Robert... Oh Lord, Wanda would never forgive me.
Mouse (to Vincent): Well, couldn't you guys just do what we did, and get married on this side before Victor's born and then, you can take your time and do it when you're ready on the other? I mean, I know that may be a scary proposition to do it right now... but it would be an incredibly romantic gesture.
Vincent (to Mouse): Heh. Much like getting married on and airship moments before going out to face a madman with a gun? :-P
Mouse (to Vincent): Well yes... You found me out. It's true! I secretly like hokey romantic crap.
Vincent (to Mouse): Secretly?! I lived with you for 5 years. I know what your favorite movie is. :-P
Mouse (to Vincent): It's not my favorite movie... It's just the movie that cheers me up when I'm in a bad mood... Don't judge me.
Vincent (to Mouse): Hee hee. I'm not judging you, sweetie. All the times you and I sat curled up on the couch and watched it? I have a soft spot for French Kiss.
Mouse (to Vincent): Heehee, I don't know if I should be proud or apologize. :-p
Vincent (to Mouse): Hee hee. Go with "proud." Wow. Look at us. Just a little while ago we were practically shut-ins. Now I'm about to be a father... You've got yourself a husband. Heh. We're like regular people now. Well, within reason.
Mouse (to Vincent): It's kind of amazing, little brother. If someone had told me this was going to happen years ago, I would have never believed them & probably thought it was a joke.
Vincent (to Mouse): Hee hee. You and me both, sister, dearest.
A few hours later:
Poppy (to Mouse & Vincent): Greetings sweeties! Did you have fun on your tour of the city? I was fixing some food, if you're hungry.
Vincent (to Poppy): We had a lovely little walking tour. What are you cooking, hun? It smells divine!
Poppy (to Vincent): Just red beans & rice, lover... (to Mouse) Are you staying for dinner, honey?
Mouse (to Vincent & Poppy): That is very tempting, as that food does smell delicious. But Otto & I should probably get back.
Vincent (to Mouse): Oh. Really? Shoot. It seems like you only just arrived. Are you rendezvousing with Jacob or do you want us to drop you off.
Mouse (to Vincent): Yeah, I told Eep I wouldn't be gone too long & I don't want him to worry. But now, that I know I can find my way around, I'll try to visit more often... If you could drop us off that would great!
Poppy (to Mouse): Well, there's plenty if you change your mind, honey. (to Vincent) Honey, do you want her stay a bit longer? I know something that will make her want to. :-)
Vincent (to Poppy): Hee hee. Should I gather from your grin that it's a wicked plan, lover?
Poppy (to Vincent): It's wicked but in a good way, honey... (to Mouse) So honey, would you like to meet your nephew? He's been kicking up a storm the last few days... Here, give me your hand.
Mouse (to Poppy): ... Um ok... Oh my goodness... I felt that...
Vincent (to Mouse): Heh. He's an opinionated one, isn't he?
Mouse (to Vincent & Poppy): You guys are really having a baby... Wow.
Poppy (to Mouse): Honey, are you going to sit there with your hand on my belly for awhile?
Mouse (to Poppy): Oh... I'm sorry. It's just fascinating.
Vincent (to Mouse): Don't let Poppy tease you, sweetie. I did the same.
Mouse (to Vincent): Heh, I'll keep that in mind...
Vincent (to Mouse): Are you OK, Aunt Mouse? You have a strange look on your face.
Mouse (to Vincent): Oh, do I? I was just thinking... Are you guys going to stay on this side?
Vincent (to Mouse): What?
Mouse (to Vincent): Well, it's a reasonable question... I mean, on this side you're a pirate Captain & back home you're a bartender. And, you're about to have a baby with a woman who on that side you already dated & broke up with... I don't want you to but I was wondering if that was something you guys had thought about.
Vincent (to Mouse): I... uh, I hadn't, actually.
Mouse (to Vincent): Oh good. I'm sorry for even bringing it up. Wanda planted the idea in my head. I want to be around for Victor growing up.
Vincent (to Mouse): Well, I want you to be there for Victor growing too, hun. You, your gloomy man, all the Drac's Daughter crew. They're good folk. Besides, as if you could get rid of us that easily.
Mouse (to Vincent): Well, that's good. I swear I'm going to slap Wanda for putting that thought in my head. That's probably why had that stupid dream the other night.
Poppy (to Vincent & Mouse): Here's some food for the Potter family... And, some wine. You both look like you could use it.
Vincent (to Poppy): THANK YOU, hun! I'm starving!
Mouse (to Poppy): Oh, thank you...
Poppy (to Mouse & Vincent): You are very welcome...
A short time later:
Vincent (to Mouse & Poppy): Ooo! I think that's all the wine I should have if I want to be getting my sister home.
Mouse (to Vincent & Poppy): Oh yeah, I should be getting home.
Poppy (to Vincent): Heehee, honey, I can fly the ship if you want to stay & chat with Mouse.
Vincent (to Mouse): Hee hee. Hun, that would divine. This way I can continue to drink! :-P
Poppy (to Vincent): I thought you'd like that suggestion, lover.
Vincent (to Mouse): Hee hee. Sorry we shanghaied you for a bit there. Eep won't be crawling the walls, will he?
Mouse (to Vincent): Only if he's finally done painting for the day... He's been on a big creative streak lately.
Vincent (to Mouse): Is he still painting like mad? Tell me that he's been eating at least.
Mouse (to Vincent): Yes, he has. I've been making sure of it. Heh. I think he's trying to get ten years worth of painting done in one go. But you saw the results, so I'm hesitant to discourage him.
Vincent (to Mouse): Wow. Well, I'm glad he's painting again, but I wish he would pace it out a bit.
Mouse (to Vincent): Yeah, me too.
A little while later:
Poppy (to Mouse & Vincent): We're coming up on the portal, sweeties.
Vincent (to Mouse): I guess this is where we say goodbye for a bit longer, hun. God, I've missed you!
Mouse (to Vincent): I've missed you, too. Make sure Poppy keeps you safe. :-p Don't be a stranger, little brother. (to Poppy) Bye Poppy! Please keep him safe... I know it's a tough job, but if anyone can do it, I know you can.
Poppy (to Mouse): I will, honey, you have my word.
Vincent (to Mouse): I won't, sweetie. I love you! Keep that big lug fed, will you?
Mouse (to Vincent): I will. (to Vincent & Poppy) I love you both.
Vincent (to Poppy): I'll be back in a tick, hun. I'm just going to get my sister across the threshold. I'll be back before you can miss me.
Poppy (to Vincent): I'll see you shortly, lover.
Ten minutes later:
Vincent (to Mouse): Whoo! That's a sensation, doing it without a portal generator, isn't it? Hee hee. Here we go, hun. Home sweet home. Give Gloomy Gus a huge hug for me, won't you?
Mouse (to Vincent): I will, little brother. Now, give me a hug, you...
Vincent (to Mouse): Ooo! As if there was a doubt! Love you, sweetie. I'll see you soon!
Moments later:
Vincent (to Poppy): I'm back from running my sister about, lover. I hope you didn't miss me too much while I was gone. :-P
Poppy (to Vincent): I tried to endure but it was just too much for me to bear, so I ate a package of cupcake thingies, honey. Did you have a nice visit with your sister?
Vincent (to Poppy): Hee hee. Well, that's why I brought them over, hun. I did have a nice visit. Apparently, she was having nightmares as well. She had a dream we had been hurt. That's why she came to see us.
Poppy (to Vincent): Wow... you two must be on the same frequency... or you've been dependent on each other for long time.
Vincent (to Poppy): Hee hee. I think a little of column A and a little of column B. Heh. She wanted to know if we would be staying in Britannia.
Poppy (to Vincent): Oh? I didn't think we were going to stay here, unless you wanted to... I like our life & friends over there. What made her ask?
Vincent (to Poppy): Heh. Apparently Wanda asked if we would be staying with your family, and that made her paranoid. Hence her dream.
Poppy (to Vincent): Well, I hope you told her that she had nothing to worry about on all accounts... Heehee, I thought she was going to die when I told her she could feel Victor kick... I always thought she was one of those people who was comfortable around pregnant women... She always seems sort of fearless to me. I guess she hasn't really had much experience though. But, it kept her here for awhile longer, which was my plan.
Vincent (to Poppy): Hee hee. Thank you, hun. I think she really wanted... No. NEEDED to ask me about whether or not we were going to stay.
Poppy (to Vincent): Well, I hope she feels better after the visit, honey. :-)
Vincent (to Poppy): I think she does, hun. Thank you.
Poppy (to Vincent): You seem distracted, honey... What's on your mind?
Vincent (to Poppy): It's nothing dramatic, lover. I'm just happy, actually.
Poppy (to Vincent): Oh, that's good, honey.
Vincent (to Poppy): Are you alright, hun?
Poppy (to Vincent): Yes, of course, lover... Just feeling a bit tired.
Vincent (to Poppy): Well then, head to bed, lover. I can take over flying duties. I should be sober enough. Hee hee. Should be.
Poppy (to Vincent): We could just anchor somewhere... Ooh, maybe somewhere near water. I wouldn't mind swimming in the morning. If you think you can handle it, I may just climb into bed & read, honey.
Vincent (to Poppy): Heh. I can handle it, lover. And I'll see what I can do about anchoring us near water.
Poppy (to Vincent): Thank you, honey. You are wonderful.
Vincent (to Poppy): Heh. Keep telling me that, and someday I may get sick of hearing it. Not today, mind you. But maybe someday.
Poppy (to Vincent): Heehee, I seriously doubt that, honey. You love having your ego stroked... among other things. ;-)
Vincent (to Poppy): Oh! Oh my. Heh. Well, I can't argue with the truth.
Poppy (to Vincent): You know... it's very lonely in the bed, honey.
Vincent (to Poppy): Mmmm. I'll bet it is. Big empty bed, all that space to yourself ... Whatever shall you do, hun?
Poppy (to Vincent): I don't know. Do you have any suggestions, lover?
Vincent (to Poppy): Well, I should really join you in bed, I think. I can't have you getting cold now, can I?
Poppy (to Vincent): It's true, honey...
Vincent (to Poppy): Hee hee. I mean, what kind of man would I be, letting you shiver alone?
Poppy (to Vincent): Well, you'd be a terribly cruel man... And, I know you're not, lover. Now, climb under these covers & cuddle up with me.
Vincent (to Poppy): Yes, ma'am.
Vincent (to Poppy): Hmm? Oh. Good morning Poppy plus one. I'm alright, lover. I'm jut trying to shake off a dream I had last night.
Poppy (to Vincent): Oh, I'm sorry, honey. Bad dreams can be rough. Can I get you something? Tea? Coffee? Cocoa?
Vincent (to Poppy): A cup of tea would be lovely. Thank you.
Poppy (to Vincent): Will do, lover... Um... Do you want to talk about it?
Vincent (to Poppy): Good heavens. Do I really look as forlorn as that? Heh. I know I'm being a bit ridiculous. It was just... disturbing.
Poppy (to Vincent): You just have that slightly haunted look, honey. It's alright if you don't want to talk about it.
Vincent (to Poppy): No, it's not that. I just feel a bit silly. Did you know my sister attempted suicide once? It was when she was younger, after her best friend had been killed.
Poppy (to Vincent): Oh, really? I had no idea.
Vincent (to Poppy): Mmm. She had some hard times before I knew her. Her gran had died not too long before, and then there was the car accident.
Poppy (to Vincent): So, did you have a nightmare about your sister, honey?
Vincent (to Poppy): Hmmm. Sort of. In my dream, she died. She threw herself off a bridge before I met her. So, when I made it to West Piedmont... Well, there was no one here to take me in. I had shacked up with some horrorshow of a human being to get out of the hostel. Heh. Also, I was panhandling on the streets trying to get enough money to help him support his smack habit. If I made enough I didn't have to have sex with his dealer, so that he could get a fix. Very Dickensesque.
Poppy (to Vincent): Oh god, honey, that is terrible... Why does your subconscious hate you?
Vincent (to Poppy): Ha ha ha! For that particular bit of nightmare fuel, you can send the thank you card to my parents. I grew up hearing that's what queer men did: work the streets and prostitute themselves for drugs. The part of the dream I'm having trouble shaking off is how LONELY I felt. It was like someone had scooped out my soul. I'd forgotten what it was like to feel that utterly bereft. And so damn desperate.
Poppy (to Vincent): Awww, honey... I know what will make you feel better. Why don't you go visit your sister for a few days? I'll be fine on my own... I've got Max to keep me company.
Vincent (to Poppy): Heh. I think you're right. I'm not certain, of course, but my subconscious may be delicately suggesting I miss Mouse. Still, I hate leaving you by yourself. Max or no Max.
Poppy (to Vincent): Well, I'll miss you, make no mistake but I think I can handle it for a little while, honey. I did manage on my own for quite some time before I met you. It'll be okay.
Vincent (to Poppy): Well, I know that, hun. And our past fiascoes are any indication, you keep me out of trouble more often than the reverse. I just worry. What if something happens, or you need to go to the hospital, or you need a box of hohos? Will you at least stay close to Molly and Bernard's? You don't have to stay AT the inn, but I'll feel better knowing they're nearby.
Poppy (to Vincent): Heehee... I promise that after you crossover, I'll head to the inn, if it'll ease your mind, lover.
Vincent (to Poppy): Heh. It would. Thank you. Let me see if Sister Dearest is up for a visit. (to Mouse) Good morning, sunshine! The phone didn't wake you, did it?
Mouse (to Vincent): Oh no, I was just about to call you... Where are you hiding? I seem to be completely turned around.
Vincent (to Mouse): Huh? Where are you?
Mouse (to Vincent): Oh, I'm in New London... I asked Ripper to bring me over to see you & Poppy. I thought I recognized where I was, so I sent him off to his appointment, but I got distracted & now I think I'm lost.
Vincent (to Mouse): What? Ha ha ha! Oh dear. Sometimes we think FAR too much alike, sister of mine. I was just going to come and visit you. Describe where you are. What shops are you near. Between Poppy and I, we should be able to find you. (to Poppy) Hee hee. Looks like you won't have to suffer without me, after all, hun. Mouse is in New London.
Poppy (to Vincent): Oh? How on earth did she get here, honey?
Mouse (to Vincent): I'm sitting at a tea shop on the corner of a square, there's a clock tower, iron gates & I think I see a castle behind it. Oh, there's a sign that says Old London Square.
Vincent (to Mouse): Ah! I know right where you are. We'll see you in a few, hun. (to Poppy) Heh. She hitched a ride over with the Professor, apparently. She's sitting in a tea shop in Old London Square.
Poppy (to Vincent): Heehee, are you sure you two aren't actually related?
Mouse (to Vincent): Okay, I'll stay here... Otto told me to sit here while he looked around, anyway. He's such a bossy cat.
Vincent (to Mouse): Hee hee. That he is. At least Max will be happy to see him. (to Poppy) I'm beginning to wonder.
Poppy (to Vincent): Heehee, the two of you are funny.
A short time later:
Vincent (to Mouse): There she is! Hello sister of mine! I'm SO glad to see you.
Mouse (to Vincent): I'm glad to see you, too... I've missed you.
Vincent (to Mouse): I did too. I was having very "It's a Wonderful Life" type dreams and everything.
Poppy (to Mouse): Hi there, Miss Mouse.
Mouse (to Vincent): Oh, that's never good... C'mere and give me a hug, little brother... (to Poppy) Oh my god, Poppy, you are SO pregnant... I missed you.
Poppy (to Mouse): Heehee, yes honey, that's generally what happens when you're going to have a baby.
Vincent (to Mouse): Heh. Isn't she, though? If Victor hadn't started announcing his presence by kicking, I'd think she swallowed a basketball.
Mouse (to Vincent & Poppy): Oh god, I suddenly feel incredibly old...
Poppy (to Mouse): Heehee, it's okay, honey... (to Mouse & Vincent) I'm going to go get supplies & leave the two of you to chat.
Vincent (to Poppy): See you in a few, lover.
Mouse (to Vincent): Little brother, have you gotten taller or something? You look different...
Vincent (to Mouse): Taller? I live in hope! But, no, I don't think so. The top shelf is too lofty a goal still. What do you mean?
Mouse (to Vincent): I can't put my finger on it. Maybe, it's just your impending state of fatherhood. You just seem more relaxed, at ease... I never noticed it there before.
Vincent (to Mouse): Oh. I honestly have no idea what to say to that. And this makes me look taller, does it? I won't complain then!
Mouse (to Vincent): Heehee, don't let it go to your head. You'll always be little brother to me... So, you missed me, huh?
Vincent (to Mouse): Of COURSE I'm going to let it go to my head. It's what I do. And yes, I missed you. Loads. I was even having tragic, heartbreaking dreams about being alone and panhandling in the streets.
Mouse (to Vincent): Heh. Well, I had a sad dream a couple nights ago which was why I asked Ripper for the ride across to see you.
Vincent (to Mouse): Hee hee. You too, huh? What was your dream about?
Mouse (to Vincent): Oh, it was completely stupid... You & Poppy were hurt over here. I woke up really wanting to check on you both. I'm glad to find you both in one piece.
Vincent (to Mouse): Awww! We're alright, hun. Believe it or not, I've been staying out of trouble. You know. Mostly.
Mouse (to Vincent): Well, that's good to hear. So, you had an 'it's a wonderful life' type dream?
Vincent (to Mouse): I did. I had a dream that you died before we met, and what West Piedmont was like without you. It was dreadful! Hee hee. Well, without you, I'd apparently be on the street turning tricks for my junkie boyfriend.
Mouse (to Vincent): Oh well, I'm definitely glad I'm not dead... I mean, what would happen to all of my stuff? :-p Sweetie, it was just a dream... I'm fairly certain that you would have been okay, you're smart & pretty darn capable.
Vincent (to Mouse): Heh. I know, sweetie. That wasn't the part that bothered me. It was the loneliness. And thw idea that you weren't there.
Mouse (to Vincent): But I am very glad that we found each other & I wouldn't change it for anything.
Vincent (to Mouse): Me either. :-}
Mouse (to Vincent): So, now that I'm here... What are we going to do? Or is sitting around in a cafe all you do now that you're domesticated?
Vincent (to Mouse): Heh. Not at all. Now that I'm fairly certain no one will shoot me, I can show you around properly!
Mouse (to Vincent): Wonderful! Lead the way, el Capitan!
Vincent (to Mouse): Oh. Um... Speaking of domestic. I should tell you. Uh, Poppy asked me to marry her last night.
Mouse (to Vincent): Wow, that's huge news! What did you say? Wait. Of course, you said yes, because you're here & she clearly didn't kill you.
Vincent (to Mouse): Heh. For your information, she gave me the option to say no. If the idea scared me too badly, I mean.
Mouse (to Vincent): Oh? So, you said no?
Vincent (to Mouse): I said yes. Like you had a doubt.
Mouse (to Vincent): Well, you do sometimes like to get in your own way, little brother... Everything is telling you to do one thing, so you, of course, have to do the opposite. I am very happy for you both... You're clearly good for each other.
Vincent (to Mouse): Heh. I know, I know. I always thought being contrary was one of my better traits. Thank you, sweetie. It's all a bit overwhelming if I think about it too much, but it feels... I don't know. It feels right.
Mouse (to Vincent): I'm so glad... You deserve to be happy. So, are you guys going to get married before Victor arrives?
Vincent (to Mouse): Oh. I hadn't thought about that. There's not a lot of time to get everything organized & Poppy can't cross portals right now... Which would mean I couldn't invite Wanda or Robert... Oh Lord, Wanda would never forgive me.
Mouse (to Vincent): Well, couldn't you guys just do what we did, and get married on this side before Victor's born and then, you can take your time and do it when you're ready on the other? I mean, I know that may be a scary proposition to do it right now... but it would be an incredibly romantic gesture.
Vincent (to Mouse): Heh. Much like getting married on and airship moments before going out to face a madman with a gun? :-P
Mouse (to Vincent): Well yes... You found me out. It's true! I secretly like hokey romantic crap.
Vincent (to Mouse): Secretly?! I lived with you for 5 years. I know what your favorite movie is. :-P
Mouse (to Vincent): It's not my favorite movie... It's just the movie that cheers me up when I'm in a bad mood... Don't judge me.
Vincent (to Mouse): Hee hee. I'm not judging you, sweetie. All the times you and I sat curled up on the couch and watched it? I have a soft spot for French Kiss.
Mouse (to Vincent): Heehee, I don't know if I should be proud or apologize. :-p
Vincent (to Mouse): Hee hee. Go with "proud." Wow. Look at us. Just a little while ago we were practically shut-ins. Now I'm about to be a father... You've got yourself a husband. Heh. We're like regular people now. Well, within reason.
Mouse (to Vincent): It's kind of amazing, little brother. If someone had told me this was going to happen years ago, I would have never believed them & probably thought it was a joke.
Vincent (to Mouse): Hee hee. You and me both, sister, dearest.
A few hours later:
Poppy (to Mouse & Vincent): Greetings sweeties! Did you have fun on your tour of the city? I was fixing some food, if you're hungry.
Vincent (to Poppy): We had a lovely little walking tour. What are you cooking, hun? It smells divine!
Poppy (to Vincent): Just red beans & rice, lover... (to Mouse) Are you staying for dinner, honey?
Mouse (to Vincent & Poppy): That is very tempting, as that food does smell delicious. But Otto & I should probably get back.
Vincent (to Mouse): Oh. Really? Shoot. It seems like you only just arrived. Are you rendezvousing with Jacob or do you want us to drop you off.
Mouse (to Vincent): Yeah, I told Eep I wouldn't be gone too long & I don't want him to worry. But now, that I know I can find my way around, I'll try to visit more often... If you could drop us off that would great!
Poppy (to Mouse): Well, there's plenty if you change your mind, honey. (to Vincent) Honey, do you want her stay a bit longer? I know something that will make her want to. :-)
Vincent (to Poppy): Hee hee. Should I gather from your grin that it's a wicked plan, lover?
Poppy (to Vincent): It's wicked but in a good way, honey... (to Mouse) So honey, would you like to meet your nephew? He's been kicking up a storm the last few days... Here, give me your hand.
Mouse (to Poppy): ... Um ok... Oh my goodness... I felt that...
Vincent (to Mouse): Heh. He's an opinionated one, isn't he?
Mouse (to Vincent & Poppy): You guys are really having a baby... Wow.
Poppy (to Mouse): Honey, are you going to sit there with your hand on my belly for awhile?
Mouse (to Poppy): Oh... I'm sorry. It's just fascinating.
Vincent (to Mouse): Don't let Poppy tease you, sweetie. I did the same.
Mouse (to Vincent): Heh, I'll keep that in mind...
Vincent (to Mouse): Are you OK, Aunt Mouse? You have a strange look on your face.
Mouse (to Vincent): Oh, do I? I was just thinking... Are you guys going to stay on this side?
Vincent (to Mouse): What?
Mouse (to Vincent): Well, it's a reasonable question... I mean, on this side you're a pirate Captain & back home you're a bartender. And, you're about to have a baby with a woman who on that side you already dated & broke up with... I don't want you to but I was wondering if that was something you guys had thought about.
Vincent (to Mouse): I... uh, I hadn't, actually.
Mouse (to Vincent): Oh good. I'm sorry for even bringing it up. Wanda planted the idea in my head. I want to be around for Victor growing up.
Vincent (to Mouse): Well, I want you to be there for Victor growing too, hun. You, your gloomy man, all the Drac's Daughter crew. They're good folk. Besides, as if you could get rid of us that easily.
Mouse (to Vincent): Well, that's good. I swear I'm going to slap Wanda for putting that thought in my head. That's probably why had that stupid dream the other night.
Poppy (to Vincent & Mouse): Here's some food for the Potter family... And, some wine. You both look like you could use it.
Vincent (to Poppy): THANK YOU, hun! I'm starving!
Mouse (to Poppy): Oh, thank you...
Poppy (to Mouse & Vincent): You are very welcome...
A short time later:
Vincent (to Mouse & Poppy): Ooo! I think that's all the wine I should have if I want to be getting my sister home.
Mouse (to Vincent & Poppy): Oh yeah, I should be getting home.
Poppy (to Vincent): Heehee, honey, I can fly the ship if you want to stay & chat with Mouse.
Vincent (to Mouse): Hee hee. Hun, that would divine. This way I can continue to drink! :-P
Poppy (to Vincent): I thought you'd like that suggestion, lover.
Vincent (to Mouse): Hee hee. Sorry we shanghaied you for a bit there. Eep won't be crawling the walls, will he?
Mouse (to Vincent): Only if he's finally done painting for the day... He's been on a big creative streak lately.
Vincent (to Mouse): Is he still painting like mad? Tell me that he's been eating at least.
Mouse (to Vincent): Yes, he has. I've been making sure of it. Heh. I think he's trying to get ten years worth of painting done in one go. But you saw the results, so I'm hesitant to discourage him.
Vincent (to Mouse): Wow. Well, I'm glad he's painting again, but I wish he would pace it out a bit.
Mouse (to Vincent): Yeah, me too.
A little while later:
Poppy (to Mouse & Vincent): We're coming up on the portal, sweeties.
Vincent (to Mouse): I guess this is where we say goodbye for a bit longer, hun. God, I've missed you!
Mouse (to Vincent): I've missed you, too. Make sure Poppy keeps you safe. :-p Don't be a stranger, little brother. (to Poppy) Bye Poppy! Please keep him safe... I know it's a tough job, but if anyone can do it, I know you can.
Poppy (to Mouse): I will, honey, you have my word.
Vincent (to Mouse): I won't, sweetie. I love you! Keep that big lug fed, will you?
Mouse (to Vincent): I will. (to Vincent & Poppy) I love you both.
Vincent (to Poppy): I'll be back in a tick, hun. I'm just going to get my sister across the threshold. I'll be back before you can miss me.
Poppy (to Vincent): I'll see you shortly, lover.
Ten minutes later:
Vincent (to Mouse): Whoo! That's a sensation, doing it without a portal generator, isn't it? Hee hee. Here we go, hun. Home sweet home. Give Gloomy Gus a huge hug for me, won't you?
Mouse (to Vincent): I will, little brother. Now, give me a hug, you...
Vincent (to Mouse): Ooo! As if there was a doubt! Love you, sweetie. I'll see you soon!
Moments later:
Vincent (to Poppy): I'm back from running my sister about, lover. I hope you didn't miss me too much while I was gone. :-P
Poppy (to Vincent): I tried to endure but it was just too much for me to bear, so I ate a package of cupcake thingies, honey. Did you have a nice visit with your sister?
Vincent (to Poppy): Hee hee. Well, that's why I brought them over, hun. I did have a nice visit. Apparently, she was having nightmares as well. She had a dream we had been hurt. That's why she came to see us.
Poppy (to Vincent): Wow... you two must be on the same frequency... or you've been dependent on each other for long time.
Vincent (to Poppy): Hee hee. I think a little of column A and a little of column B. Heh. She wanted to know if we would be staying in Britannia.
Poppy (to Vincent): Oh? I didn't think we were going to stay here, unless you wanted to... I like our life & friends over there. What made her ask?
Vincent (to Poppy): Heh. Apparently Wanda asked if we would be staying with your family, and that made her paranoid. Hence her dream.
Poppy (to Vincent): Well, I hope you told her that she had nothing to worry about on all accounts... Heehee, I thought she was going to die when I told her she could feel Victor kick... I always thought she was one of those people who was comfortable around pregnant women... She always seems sort of fearless to me. I guess she hasn't really had much experience though. But, it kept her here for awhile longer, which was my plan.
Vincent (to Poppy): Hee hee. Thank you, hun. I think she really wanted... No. NEEDED to ask me about whether or not we were going to stay.
Poppy (to Vincent): Well, I hope she feels better after the visit, honey. :-)
Vincent (to Poppy): I think she does, hun. Thank you.
Poppy (to Vincent): You seem distracted, honey... What's on your mind?
Vincent (to Poppy): It's nothing dramatic, lover. I'm just happy, actually.
Poppy (to Vincent): Oh, that's good, honey.
Vincent (to Poppy): Are you alright, hun?
Poppy (to Vincent): Yes, of course, lover... Just feeling a bit tired.
Vincent (to Poppy): Well then, head to bed, lover. I can take over flying duties. I should be sober enough. Hee hee. Should be.
Poppy (to Vincent): We could just anchor somewhere... Ooh, maybe somewhere near water. I wouldn't mind swimming in the morning. If you think you can handle it, I may just climb into bed & read, honey.
Vincent (to Poppy): Heh. I can handle it, lover. And I'll see what I can do about anchoring us near water.
Poppy (to Vincent): Thank you, honey. You are wonderful.
Vincent (to Poppy): Heh. Keep telling me that, and someday I may get sick of hearing it. Not today, mind you. But maybe someday.
Poppy (to Vincent): Heehee, I seriously doubt that, honey. You love having your ego stroked... among other things. ;-)
Vincent (to Poppy): Oh! Oh my. Heh. Well, I can't argue with the truth.
Poppy (to Vincent): You know... it's very lonely in the bed, honey.
Vincent (to Poppy): Mmmm. I'll bet it is. Big empty bed, all that space to yourself ... Whatever shall you do, hun?
Poppy (to Vincent): I don't know. Do you have any suggestions, lover?
Vincent (to Poppy): Well, I should really join you in bed, I think. I can't have you getting cold now, can I?
Poppy (to Vincent): It's true, honey...
Vincent (to Poppy): Hee hee. I mean, what kind of man would I be, letting you shiver alone?
Poppy (to Vincent): Well, you'd be a terribly cruel man... And, I know you're not, lover. Now, climb under these covers & cuddle up with me.
Vincent (to Poppy): Yes, ma'am.
