A Strange & Winding Road: Day 53

Mouse (to Poppy & Vincent): Hey there, I just wanted to let you know that Wanda wants to see you guys and the baby.

Poppy (to Mouse): I'm sure she does, honey... How mad was she when you guys got back?

Mouse (to Poppy): Apparently, she read Eep the riot act & demanded a dinner at her place. Luckily, it's not a far walk. :-)

Poppy (to Mouse): Well, that doesn't sound too painful. I'll let Vincent know. I'm sure we can arrange a visit to get her off your backs.

Mouse (to Poppy): Thanks! I'll talk to you later.

Poppy (to Mouse): Bye, honey.

Vincent (to Mouse): Hold on a second there, missy... Are you OK, hun?

Mouse (to Vincent): Huh? Yeah, I'm fine... Why do you ask?

Vincent (to Mouse): Because you haven't looked at me once while you've been here. Are you mad at me? What did I do this time?

Mouse (to Vincent): Heehee, it's not you... It's your son. I was debating whether or not I should mention it to you...  I don't want to get him into trouble, because it was an accident.

Vincent (to Mouse): Oh good heavens! I'm guessing you mean the more chronologically challenged version of our son, and not the baby. Unless he was especially horrid while you were watching him. (to Victor) What did you do when your auntie was watching you, Little Man? Huh?

Mouse (to Vincent): No, it was older Victor... He & Persephone were crossing over to visit future us and they ended up in the wrong time, he was trying to cheer up Persephone. Baby Victor was just fine… He's a good kid.

Vincent (to Mouse): Heh. He does seem like it, doesn't he? It's good to know we don't screw him up too badly.

Mouse (to Vincent): Well, just look at him... Is that the face of a monster child? I don't think so. He was very good while he stayed with us.

Vincent (to Mouse): Hee hee. Oh, I have no doubt he's going to gray my hair once he gets older, sweet little gob or no. Look at his heritage!

Mouse (to Vincent): You should have seen Eep. He was frighteningly good with the baby.

Vincent (to Mouse): Was he, really? I suppose I shouldn't be too shocked. He didn't panic AT ALL when I handed him Victor after he was born. It was not nearly as much fun as I was hoping. So, did your ovaries go into overdrive when you saw him with a baby? Yes or yes?

Mouse (to Vincent): Hush you... and yes. But, I'm fighting the urge.

Vincent (to Mouse): Hee hee. Well, don't let Poppy hear you say that. She already wants you and Eep to give Little Man some cousins.

Mouse (to Vincent): Oh... Well, according to Victor, she gets her wish. He accidentally let it slip. So, she can relax.

Vincent (to Mouse): WHAT? You two are going to be parents? Not right now, of course, but... someday. Hee hee hee! Heh. To tell you the truth, I was a bit worried putting up with me through my teen years put you off the idea of kids.

Mouse (to Vincent): Heh... To be honest, I thought it did too. :-P

Vincent (to Mouse): Good gracious! I was quite the handful, wasn't I? Heh. I say that as if that's changed... Can I tell you something, sweetie? Even after seeing how Victor turns out, I still worry sometimes that Poppy and I are nowhere near suitable parents. Isn't that ridiculous? It doesn't stop me from worrying, though.

Mouse (to Vincent): I think that's normal, little brother. Just do the best you can & Victor will sort it out for himself as he grows up. Try not to put too much pressure on yourselves to be perfect parents or have a perfect kid and love each other. And if he tells you one day that he wants to be a dentist & not a pirate, be proud & happy for him. I mean, granted that would be weird, but if it makes him happy. Support him.

Vincent (to Mouse): Hee hee. Part of me kind of hopes he'll be a dentist, hun. It will be a far more stable life than either of us can provide. In fact, he'll probably start wearing polo shirts and khakis to rebel. Or sensible shoes! (to Victor) You won't do that to your poor old man, will you? (to Mouse) Take a look, hun. This is the future president of a homeowners association.

Mouse (to Vincent): Heehee... I seriously doubt that. So, what's going on with you? Is everything alright? You & Poppy seem a bit off today.

Vincent (to Mouse): Do we? I suppose we probably do. We're... Oh good heavens, where do I start? Achilles Smith, the man who took Persephone... He's a nasty bit of work from Poppy's past. He wanted to ransom Persephone for Poppy. She ran off to face him on her own.

Mouse (to Vincent): Oh shit... Sorry. So, it worked out?

Vincent (to Mouse): Yes. In the end. Thank God. I was just livid that Poppy tried to do this on her own, and scared... And I think she's a bit annoyed that I found out as much about her past as I did.

Mouse (to Vincent): Oh... but you knew where she grew up before. I mean, you told me about the Tombs & how horrible it was. Or was there more to it?

Vincent (to Mouse): There's more to it than that. Let's just say that her upbringing makes mine look happy and idyllic. Poppy's father... He... (to Victor) Hey, little guy. Settle down. It's alright. Daddy's alright. We're alright. 

Mouse (to Vincent): What, little brother? It's okay, I'm not going to say anything, but you seem like you need to get it off your chest.

Vincent (to Mouse): Let's just say, her father made some agreements with some less than reputable individuals. He had an odd definition of "providing" for his children.

Mouse (to Vincent): So, he sent them all to workhouses? What? Don't look at me like that? I was prisoner over there for 4 months, I picked up stuff.

Vincent (to Mouse): Heh. Do not underestimate my sister. Duly noted. Yes, he sold her brothers off to workhouses. Some of them were lucky. Others... not so much. Poppy was too little to be sent off, so she stayed with him until she was 10, but not because he wanted her there.

Mouse (to Vincent): Oh... The poor little moppet.

Vincent (to Mouse): I can't even imagine. He sold her off to some horrible woman, before he died. She ended up on the streets when she ran away.

Mouse (to Vincent): Well, that certainly explains a lot... And, she's been hiding out since you guys got back?

Vincent (to Mouse): More or less. Both of us are very pointedly not bringing it up. I'm not sure if she wants to talk about it or not.

Mouse (to Vincent): How about I take the little man for a stroll in the park for a bit & you go talk to your wife, little brother? Sound good?

Vincent (to Mouse): That sounds more than slightly terrifying, honestly... But you're right. Here's Victor. Let me go get his diaper bag.

Mouse (to Vincent): You both can't avoid the subject forever. It'll be okay.

Vincent (to Mouse): I know. Here you go, hun. I'll see you later. Wish me luck!

Mouse (to Vincent): I'll be back with Victor in two hours. Text me if you need more time. Good luck!

Thirty minutes later:

Vincent (to Poppy): Hey, hun. Mouse has borrowed our son for a little bit.

Poppy (to Vincent): Oh? Is she trying to soften up Eep for babies?

Vincent (to Poppy): Hee hee hee. Apparently, she doesn't need to. He was quite adept with the little man while they were watching him.

Poppy (to Vincent): For some reason that doesn't surprise me as much as it should... Eep is a big softie underneath all that grump. I've just got a few short lines to finish writing in this letter, honey and then you can tell me whatever else you wanted to tell me.

Vincent (to Poppy): I'm that obvious, am I?

Poppy (to Vincent): Only because I know you so well, honey... I'm done with the letter. So... what's on your mind?

Vincent (to Poppy): I wanted to talk to you. We've been studiously avoiding each other since we returned.

Poppy (to Vincent): I wouldn't call it avoiding, honey, I was just trying to give you some space. You were very upset with me... and I didn't know what else to do.

Vincent (to Poppy): I was scared, hun. Really, really scared. I thought you were avoiding me, because of the, uh, whole situation with Achilles.

Poppy (to Vincent): Oh... I don't know what you mean.

Vincent (to Poppy): Do you want me to take me boot off, or can you pull my leg just fine with it on?

Poppy (to Vincent): Hmmm, I must be losing my touch... I really don't want to talk about it.

Vincent (to Poppy): Alright. Fair enough. I know neither of us is going to win any awards about how open we are about our pasts... But, I wish you would talk to me.

Poppy (to Vincent): What do you want me to say, honey? That I feel embarrassed about you finding out just how truly terrible my family was? Or that I was so angry about Achilles kidnapping not only my niece but several other children for his own selfish needs that I almost killed him and I'm a bit sorry that you & Percy stopped me?

Vincent (to Poppy): Well that would be a start, hun. You know I don't care. About any of it, don't you?

Poppy (to Vincent): That's sweet, honey, but I care. I don't want Victor growing up with a mom who will behave like that... I'm ashamed of myself. I acted like a crazy half-cocked monster. I just couldn't believe that Achilles would separate those kids from their families & I started thinking that if he wasn't stopped, Victor could be next... those kids were innocent, they didn't deserve that. No one deserves that.

Vincent (to Poppy): Honestly, sweetie, I can't say I wouldn't have done the same if I was alone, and I found him first. It's not as though I've reacted in all that level-headed a manner when someone has come after my family. If he hadn't dislocated my shoulder before I could hurt him, I would have killed Smythe for what he did to my sister.

Poppy (to Vincent): I know, honey... I guess there's one nice thing Hiiri did for us, taking care of that maniac.

Vincent (to Poppy): I'd really like to say that not even Smythe deserved what Hiiri did to him, but not all of me believes that...

Poppy (to Vincent): And, I'm glad you didn't kill him, honey... I wouldn't want you to live with that kind of guilt. You have a good heart. Doing that kind of stuff changes you... not always for the better, even if you're doing it for a good reason.

Vincent (to Poppy): Anyway, I've got you now to keep me in line, and you've got me. Heh, and we both have Victor.

Poppy (to Vincent): Yes, our little family... I'm sorry I've been acting like an idiot, honey.

Vincent (to Poppy): You haven't been an idiot, hun. Come here.

Poppy (to Vincent): Heehee... So, how much time do we have before your sister comes back with Victor, honey?

Vincent (to Poppy): We've got about 30 minutes, I think. However will we pass the time?

Poppy (to Vincent): Race you to the bedroom, honey. ;-)

A short time later:

Mouse (to Vincent & Poppy): Hey! It was going to rain, so we came back a little early... Hello? Anyone home? (to Victor) Uh oh... Well, little man, it looks like, we may have to just keep ourselves entertained for a little while.

Vincent (to Mouse): Oh! Uh, hey, hun. We were just... Oh hell. Clearly, we weren't expecting you back just yet.

Mouse (to Vincent): Yeah, so I figured when I saw your shirt on the floor... You got some lipstick on your neck, little brother. :-P

Poppy (to Mouse): Heehee, that was totally my fault, honey.

Mouse (to Poppy & Vincent): I'm really sorry to interrupt. It was starting to rain and I thought it would be bad to get soaking wet.

Poppy (to Mouse): It's alright, honey. I've resigned myself to never having alone time with Vincent again. (to Victor) Hey, my little man, did you miss Mommy? (to Vincent & Mouse) Ewww, it looks like he needs a change & he's probably hungry... I'll take care of him, you guys chat.

Vincent (to Poppy): Thanks, hun. (to Mouse) How was the walk?

Mouse (to Vincent): It was fine. We sat under a tree & I read out loud to him for a little while... I really am sorry for interrupting you guys. So, I take it your talk went well? :-P

Vincent (to Mouse): Hee hee. You could say that.

Mouse (to Vincent): Well, I'm glad... I should be heading home. Oh, I couldn't get Victor to take a nap while we were out, so you may be able to sneak in some alone time with Poppy, if you want. :-P

Vincent (to Mouse): Ha ha ha! Well, now. I may do just that. Thank you, sweetie. Give me a hug!

Mouse (to Vincent): You're welcome! I'll see you all later.

Vincent (to Mouse): See you later, sweet sister o' mine. Thank you again. We needed to talk.

Poppy (to Vincent): Oh... Did we miss Mouse leaving? That's too bad. I wanted to say goodbye before I put down Victor for his nap.

Vincent (to Poppy): Heh. She felt bad for interrupting, so I think she wanted to give us some alone time. So... shall we pick up where we left off?

Poppy (to Vincent): Oh my... that would be nice. Heehee, I think we should go put Victor down first, honey.

Vincent (to Poppy): Mmm? Oh, yes. (to Victor) Come on, Little Man. Let's get you to bed.

Poppy (to Vincent): Have I ever told you how handsome you look holding your son, honey?

Vincent (to Poppy): Heh. No, but feel free to start. Hee hee. But, quietly. He's down and out for the count.

Poppy (to Vincent): Heh... I think you're handsome when you're holding our son, honey. And, I'd like to show you just how much I love you.

Vincent (to Poppy): Hee hee. Well, I'd like you to show me how much you love me. Come on, hun. I'd like to show you exactly how much I love you as well.

Poppy (to Vincent): Ooh, that sounds lovely, honey... C'mere you.

An hour or so later:

Eep (to Mouse): Hey. You hungry? I'm making, uh... Let's just call it, um, stir fry. Sure. Why the fuck not?

Mouse (to Eep): Heh... Sounds good. How was your day, sexy man?

Eep (to Mouse): Not too bad. It was quiet at the bookstore. Probably cause it was a thousand degrees outside. How was your day?

Mouse (to Eep): It was a good, normal day. I went & babysat Victor while Vincent & Poppy talked about a few things... And, I slept well & didn't have any nightmares last night.

Eep (to Mouse): Oh yeah? That's good news! I mean, the nightmare part. I was, uh, kinda worried that because of what I asked last night...

Mouse (to Eep): I think it did me a lot of good to talk about it. I hope it didn't freak you out too much.

Eep (to Mouse): No! Um, no. It wasn't. I'm just... I'm glad you're talking about it. I... I'm, um, I'm worried about you.

Mouse (to Eep): I promise I'll keep talking to you about it. I don't want you to worry.

Eep (to Mouse): Oh. Good. I, um, I worry more when you don't talk to me. Um, whatever the fuck I'm making for dinner is ready.

Mouse (to Eep): So... Um, since we're talking... I uh, want to talk a little more about uh, something.

Eep (to Mouse): Oh? Yeah. Sure. What's up? Is everything OK?

Mouse (to Eep): Oh yeah, nothing's wrong. It's probably just from hanging out with the Victor today... But I'd like to try to have a baby.

Eep (to Mouse): Oh! Um, right now?

Mouse (to Eep): Not right this second… maybe, after dinner? Heehee. I'm just kidding, but sometime soon if you're interested, that is.

Eep (to Mouse): Oh, uh... Wow. Um, yeah. I mean, I thought about it. I, um, I thought you said you wanted to wait. What changed your mind?

Mouse (to Eep): It was actually you that changed my mind, watching you with Victor... It just looked right to me.

Eep (to Mouse): Oh... I...uh, I what? Are you sure? I mean, like, now? You don't wanna wait to see if you don't, um... I mean, are you sure?

Mouse (to Eep): I'm sure, but if you want to wait, I'm fine with that, too. I just wanted you to know that I'd like to have children with you.

Eep (to Mouse): Oh. Wow. I... Heh. Guess, I'm always half expecting you to have second thoughts about, um, us. I know. Dumb.

Mouse (to Eep): Nope, sorry to disappoint you, but you're stuck with me, for good.

Eep (to Mouse): Heh. Well, yeah. You need a court order to get rid of me now. You already know I wanna have kids with you. Maybe not right this second, but, um, soon. Soonish. If you don't mind waiting a little bit, I mean.

Mouse (to Eep): I don't mind waiting. We should probably just enjoy being a couple for a little bit.

Eep (to Mouse): Heh. Yeah. Call me selfish, but I wouldn't mind having you all to myself for a while.

Mouse (to Eep): And, you think you're not good with this sort of stuff. :-)

Eep (to Mouse): I'm not. You just have a really low threshold.

Mouse (to Eep): That's probably true. :-P And, here I was going to suggest we could um, practice.

Eep (to Mouse): Practice for what? Oh. OH! You mean, practice for, um... That kinda practice. ... That is what you meant, isn't it?

Mouse (to Eep): Yeah, that's what I meant. Unless, you had other plans for the evening. ;-)

Eep (to Mouse): I think I could be persuaded to ignore the dishes.

Mouse (to Eep): Good... Come with me.

A Strange & Winding Road: Day 52

Victor (to Persephone): Alright... Alright. Let's... Let's not panic just yet. Um, I can figure out where we are in one minute. Maybe two...

Persephone (to Victor): Ummm... there appears to be a smoking man scowling at us... Victor, he's heading over this way... uh oh...

Eep (to Victor): What the fuck are you doing here, kid? (to Persephone) And who the hell are you?

Victor (to Eep): Huh? Oh. Shit. Um, hi, Uncle Eddie. I mean, oh, um, Eep, right?

Persephone (to Eep): Oh, hi there... I'm, um, his cousin on his mom's side. Please, don't be mad at us. It was a total accident! We had permission & everything... Don't be mad at us! I mean, not for being here now, but for here in our time... Ummm, this is confusing.

Eep (to Victor): Is something wrong? Something's not wrong, is it?

Victor (to Eep): No, no! What she said! We were supposed to be visiting you and Aunt Mouse, and... um... I wasn't concentrating hard enough to get the crossing right. Right place, wrong time. (to Persephone) Seph, this is my Uncle Eddie, Aunt Mouse's husband... um, about 17 years too early. This is Persephone.

Eep (to Persephone): Yeah. Tell me about it. Christ. Calm down, I'm not mad. Mouse is inside if you wanna say hi before you go. (to Victor)  And you call me "Uncle Eddie?" Fat Christ!

Persephone (to Eep): That's what Uncle Vincent always calls you... Of course, he's usually grinning when he says it. It's nice to meet you... again or is it for the first time? This time traveling stuff is confusing.

Eep (to Persephone & Victor): Yeah. That sounds like fu... I mean, uh, Vincent. And, yeah, this is the first time you and I have met. Anyway, come inside. (to Mouse) Hey, we've got visitors!

Persephone (to Victor & Eep): Ummm, does Mouse have short blue hair now? Because there's a lady with sunglasses & groceries coming this way...

Eep (to Persephone & Victor): Oh shit...

Wanda (to Eep): You! YOU! You are in SO much trouble! What's the idea of running off and getting hitched without inviting us? Huh? I am SO mad! I can't believe you did that! Actually, I CAN believe you did that! I know you and Mouse aren't the traditional type... Come give me a hug, you huge giant jerk! You two SO owe me!

Persephone (to Victor): Should we just sit here & watch? This is fascinating.

Victor (to Persephone): I'm definitely not getting involved.

Persephone (to Victor): She's amazing! Who the hell is she? Is she related to us?

Wanda (to Eep): Oh! Who's the itty bitty teen league over here? (to Victor & Persephone) Hi! I'm Wanda. Who are you guys?

Eep (to Wanda): Ah, they're, um, visiting... from... um...

Persephone (to Wanda): Oh... Hi. Can I be you when I grow up?  I'm Seph and this is um, Harry... we're friends of Poppy's. (to Victor) Don't look at me like that... I panicked.

Victor (to Wanda): We're cousins of Poppy's. And my name is Victor. Not Harry. Seph thinks she's funny.

Wanda (to Persephone): Oh. Em. Gee. I'm adopting you, is what I'm doing! Come on. You're leaving with me right this second.

Persephone (to Wanda): I wish I could but the fuddy duddies will probably say no.

Eep (to Wanda): Uh, Wanda? I think you smashed some eggs when you hugged me. Your bag looks like it's leaking.

Wanda (to Eep): What? Oh shit! I've gotta go. YOU! Remember. You. Owe. Me. Big time. Dinner at our place big time. (to Persephone):That's what fuddy duddies do best. I've got to go, kiddies! It was nice meeting you. You two are just too cute! Those are some good genes on Poppy's side. (to Eep) And YOU! Tell your new brother-in-law to stop in with that baby when he gets back! He's probably too adorbz as well.

Persephone (to Wanda): Nice to meet you, too. (to Eep) So, who is she? She seems cool.

Eep (to Persephone): She's... uh... Wanda is more a force of nature than a person sometimes. She's my former roommate.

Persephone (to Eep): Heehee, force of nature is right.

Mouse (to Eep):  Hey! Did you say something about visitors? I was in the middle of my workout. I... (to Victor) Oh Victor, what are you doing here?

Eep (to Mouse): You missed Wanda, by the way. Apparently, we're having dinner at their house at some point. She was...vague.

Victor (to Mouse): Hi, Aunt Mouse. Persephone and I were trying to visit you, in our time, I mean, and I, um... I kinda screwed up.

Mouse (to Victor): Give me a hug, you little time-traveling nuisance! (to Eep) Heh, I had a feeling she was going to do that.

Eep (to Mouse): Yeah. She was in pretty rare form.

Victor (to Mouse): Heh. Hey! I'm not a nuisance! I mean, I'm not am I?

Mouse (to Victor): No, you're not. I meant it affectionately. (to Persephone & Victor) So, are you two going to tell us what brings you this way?

Victor (to Mouse): Oh. Heh heh. Sorry. It's been a weird couple of days. We were trying to visit you guys, just not this early. We needed a break, and Seph wanted to meet my cousins on Dad's side. ... Which, I SO should not have mentioned.

Mouse (to Victor): Cousins? As in more than one? Wow... I'm sorry that isn't important right now. Are you guys okay?

Persephone (to Victor): We should go... We don't want to get you in trouble. (to Mouse) Victor was feeling bad about telling me something that happened when I was a baby...

Victor (to Persephone): We'll be alright. Don't worry. (to Mouse) What she said. We're fine. I, um... I just... I've got a big mouth.

Mouse (to Victor & Persephone): Oh... Come into the kitchen... I'll fix you guys some lunch while you figure out how to get back.

Victor (to Mouse): Oh. Thank you very much. We'll be alright. I should be able to get us back. I wasn't concentrating properly when we crossed over.

Eep (to Persephone): Was it about you getting kidnapped when you were a baby? Oh. Shit. Sorry. Didn't mean to freak you out, but it kinda just happened, so... Sorry.

Persephone (to Eep): Oh... I uh, how did you... Of course, you know about that. God, I must seem pitiful.

Mouse (to Persephone): Come with me, sweetie. Let's get you cleaned up...(to Eep & Victor) We'll be right back.

Persephone (to Mouse): Oh, thank you...

Eep (to Mouse): Oh. Yeah. Course. We'll see you in a few. (to Victor) Shit... See? Even so-called adults are goddamn idiots sometimes.

Victor (to Eep): Oh. Heh. Yeah, I guess so. I shouldn't have said anything to her.

Eep (to Victor): Well, better you told her than someone else, Don't worry. She'll be OK. Hey. Don't look so freaked. She'll be OK. Honest. You guys are made of pretty strong shit in this family.

A little while later:

Mouse (to Eep & Victor): Alright, we're all cleaned up.

Persephone (to Eep & Victor): Sorry for the freak out.

Eep (to Persephone): Hey, it's no problem. 'Sides, if that's what you look like when you freak out, you do better than me. Sorry for the foot in mouth, there. I should've thought before I spoke.

Persephone (to Eep): It's okay. (to Victor) Have you worked out how to get back, yet?

Victor (to Persephone): Yes, I think so. I should be able to just move us along this timeline, and we should be where we need to be. (to Eep & Mouse)  Sorry we popped in at the wrong time.

Mouse (to Victor & Persephone): It's okay. It was nice seeing you both.

Victor (to Eep & Mouse): It was very nice seeing you as well, Please give my regards to my parents when you see them. (to Persephone) Ready to go?

Persephone (to Victor): I'm ready.

Victor (to Persephone): Right. Grab hold. (to Eep & Mouse) Good bye. Thank you again.

Eep (to Mouse): Huh. Think we'll ever have a normal life?

Mouse (to Eep):  I don't know. Would we know what a normal life looks like?

Eep (to Mouse): Heh. Probably not. Um, was Persephone OK? I really didn't mean to upset her.

Mouse (to Eep): She'll be okay. We talked for a little while. She's a lot like Poppy.

Eep (to Mouse): Shit. I really am an idiot sometimes. She IS a lot like Poppy, isn't she? And Victor turns out a lot like Vincent, doesn't he?

Mouse (to Eep): Heh. I think he's a little more grounded than Vincent was at that age... How about a drink? I could use one.

Eep (to Mouse): Yes, please. That would be great. Heh. I think Victor might be more grounded than Vincent is now.

Mouse (to Eep): Here you go... Um, I think I'd like to talk to you now.

Eep (to Mouse): Talk to me? Oh. Right. Um, about what?

Mouse (to Eep): Um, about everything... Talking to Persephone made me realize that I needed to do it.

Eep (to Mouse): Oh! Right. Sorry. I'm kinda slow on the uptake today, it seems like. For a minute, I thought... Nevermind. It's not important. So...

Mouse (to Eep): Wait... What did you think I was going to say?

Eep (to Mouse): Oh. Um... about the, uh, cousins Victor mentioned. Like I said... not important.

Mouse (to Eep): Oh, right... We should probably talk about that first. How do you feel about, um, that?

Eep (to Mouse): Oh. Um, I'm... OK with it. I, uh... You, um, you looked kinda sweet with Victor, you know. But, you already knew that. So, I'm gonna get you another drink, and you're gonna quit stalling.

Mouse (to Eep): Heh. That wasn't the response I was expecting. But, you're right... I am stalling a little bit.

Eep (to Mouse): Yeah, well, I'm an expert at avoidance. Here you go. Look, whatever you say, or however you felt, oh, uh, still feel... It's not gonna change how I feel about you, you know. I mean, I know you probably know, but... I just thought I'd tell you.

Mouse (to Eep): Thank you... I'm not really sure what to say or how to begin. Now, that I've said I want to talk about it, I feel a bit tongue-tied.

Eep (to Mouse): OK. Um, do you want me to ask you about it, or do you just want to start rambling?

Mouse (to Eep): You could ask me something & then I'll probably ramble...

Eep (to Mouse): Right. OK... Um, do you remember all the stuff Hiiri did or said while she was in your head... Or, were unconscious when she was awake?

Mouse (to Eep): Sometimes I was aware of what she was doing. I'd be screaming at her & there was nothing I could do... I could almost pretend that everything was okay when she was knocked out, but then she'd wake up & start babbling at me.

Eep (to Mouse): Shit. I was afraid of that. I know me saying this helps with fuck all, but you know none of what she did was your fault.

Mouse (to Eep): Part of me knows that but... She was made out of pieces of me, like Percy is made from Poppy.

Eep (to Mouse): Yeah. Christ. I don't know what to tell you. I mean, I don't think Percy and Poppy are anything alike, and that's NOT helping... Is that why you didn't want to crossover?

Mouse (to Eep): Yeah, I feel more myself over here. I'm sure I'll be able to crossover eventually, just not yet.

Eep (to Mouse): That makes sense. I mean, I always feel off-balance there. Course, I feel kinda off balance here, too. That, uh, that was supposed to be a joke.

Mouse (to Eep): Heh... Thank you for being so understanding about all of this stuff.

Eep (to Mouse): It's alright. That's what I'm here for, you know? Um, I don't wanna ask you about anything you don't wanna talk about... Or can't, I mean, but, um, you and Hiiri both mentioned something about being put in a windowless cell... And you've mentioned it in your sleep a couple of times. You don't have to talk about it if you don't want to, so, you know...

Mouse (to Eep): No, it's okay... You deserve to know whatever you want.

Eep (to Mouse): Hey. You don't have to say shit. If you can't talk about it, you can't, OK? It's alright. You don't owe me anything.

Mouse (to Eep): I don't want to be afraid, anymore. I don't want to talk about it, but I think I need to, in order to get over all of this... There was a windowless cell that Smythe put me & Otto in when we got caught escaping. It was my punishment. God, it was cold, damp & smelled like death.

Eep (to Mouse): Christ... How long were you in there?

Mouse (to Eep): Otto would tell me when the days passed, because I couldn't tell how much time went by when we were in there. Two weeks, the first time... A month, the second time. I was only let out to go to my "sessions" with Smythe.

Eep (to Mouse): I... Jesus. I wish I knew what to say... How many times did you try to escape?

Mouse (to Eep): When you & Vincent came to rescue me, that was the third time...  I think I need another drink.

Eep (to Mouse): God... I am so sorry we didn't get there sooner.

Mouse (to Eep): I'm just glad you came when you did... I thought Otto & I were on our own. I was so happy when I saw you both.

Eep (to Mouse): Yeah. Well, I still think we shoulda got there sooner. Here's your drink.

Mouse (to Eep): Thank you. Come here & give me a hug.

Eep (to Mouse): I'm alright. How you holding up?

Mouse (to Eep): Glad that you're sitting next to me.

Eep (to Mouse): Well, that's something I can do at least. God damn, I wish I knew what to say...

Mouse (to Eep): I'm sorry...

Eep (to Mouse): Um... What are you sorry for?

Mouse (to Eep): For making you worry about me.

Eep (to Mouse): You're... You're not making me worry about you. I... OK. I'm shitty at this, but you're not forcing me to worry. I love you, so I worry about your well being. God... That came out all wrong.

Mouse (to Eep): I love you, Eep.

Eep (to Mouse): I love you too. Sorry, I'm not better at this shit.

Mouse (to Eep): I think you do just fine. Can we curl up in bed & watch a movie?

Eep (to Mouse): Fuck yeah. That sounds good. Come on. Let's go curl up.

A Strange & Winding Road: Day 52a

Victor (to Persephone): So, are you just going to avoid me for the rest of our lives, or are you going to talk to me at some point again?

Persephone (to Victor): I haven't been avoiding you... I've been busy... with stuff.

Victor (to Persephone): Oh? What stuff? You look terrible, and don't tell me you haven't been avoiding me. I know you too well to believe that.

Persephone (to Victor): Ummm, you know... stuff... okay, okay, you win. I haven't been sleeping very well & I didn't want to talk about it.

Victor (to Persephone): It's because of what I told you about Achilles Smith, isn't it? I'm sorry, Seph! If I had known that it would have bothered you that much, I never would have told you.

Persephone (to Victor): It's okay... Really. I think learning about this on top of finding out about the timeline where my parents were dead has just made my brain go into bad dream overdrive. I'll be fine.

Victor (to Persephone): Damn it. I should have thought about that... I'm sorry. I forget all this "alternative timeline" stuff can be kind of... Uh... Well, insane, I suppose. I really am very sorry.

Persephone (to Victor): I know you are. And, it's not your fault. I should have known that eventually my nosiness was going to uncover something I didn't want to know about... It probably serves me right.

Victor (to Persephone): So, stop stewing and talk to me. If anyone understands how nuts all this stuff can make you feel it's me.

Persephone (to Victor): I know you do, but I'm not even sure what it is about all of this stuff that bothers me the most... The fact that it happened or the fact that no one bothered to tell me about it.

Victor (to Persephone): I think part of the problem is our parents live in constant fear because we are WAY too much like them for their tastes. I mean, I get a lot of it now. They wanted to give us better lives than they had. Heh. I'll bet they thought that would keep us out of trouble.

Persephone (to Victor): Heh... I bet they were more concerned about you & didn't know I'd be the one that talks you into stuff. :-P

Victor (to Persephone): Heh. What else are best friends for? Hey. Do you want to take a trip off world? I'll bet I can even get our folks to agree.

Persephone (to Victor): Really? That would be absolutely moo! Wow... You must feel really bad. Come here, you big silly... I'll be fine. Really.

Victor (to Persephone): I know you'll be fine. You're tougher than I am. Come on. Let's go talk to the folks. We can go visit my Aunt Mouse. If Mr. Smith really is snooping around, they'll probably be happy to have us out of the way.

Persephone (to Victor): This is so exciting... So, have you seen my counterpart over there? I've got to have one, right?

Victor (to Persephone): Oh. Uh, no. I've never her. Or him. Most people do have a counterpart, but they're not always similar, you know. I've met my uncle's counterpart, and he's kind of a jerk. I mean, my uncle pretends to be grumpy, but he's not a jerk.

Persephone (to Victor): Oh, well that's a little disappointing... I kinda wanted to see what my counterpart was like.

Victor (to Persephone): Heh. Sorry to disappoint you. Maybe it's for the best I've never met your counterpart. I mean, can you imagine TWO of you? Ooo. OK, looks like all the parents are in the same place. I'll go talk to them, Be back in a few.

Persephone (to Victor): Okay... Good luck!

A short time later:

Victor (to Persephone): So, who wants to go visit my aunt and uncle? The answer had better be you, by the way.

Persephone (to Victor): Really? They said yes? That's wonderful! When do we go? What do I need to know? Do I need to wear something different? I think this may be the first time I've crossed over... I mean, with actual permission. This is so exciting!

Victor (to Persephone):  Heh. Yes, MUCH more exciting than ANY of the other times we've done it. You know what to wear.

Persephone (to Victor): Hush you! You certainly know how to suck all the fun out of something. Are you sure you're related to me?

Victor (to Persephone): Yes. No one else would put up with you. Or me for that matter. Let me know when you're ready.

Persephone (to Victor): Ummm, thanks, Victor... I know I don't say it very often, but I'm glad you're my best friend... I'm ready to go.

Victor (to Persephone): Oh. Right. I am too. Hey, are you sure you're feeling up to snuff?

Persephone (to Victor): Well, I'm not feeling 100% but I think a good ole fashioned distraction is just what I need at the moment. Besides, I've only met your aunt & uncle a couple times & I've never met your cousins, so this'll be fun.

Victor (to Persephone): Well, alright! Hang on, and remember to keep your mind blank.

Persephone (to Victor): Okay...

A Strange & Winding Road: Day 51

Poppy (to Mouse): Hey honey, thank you so much for watching the little man for us.

Mouse (to Poppy): He was no problem at all. Did you get back your niece? Is everything okay?

Poppy (to Mouse): Yes... it's a long story, honey & I'm exhausted. Vincent came home & immediately crashed. He'll probably sleep for awhile. I just really wanted to get Victor home. Tell Eep, I said thank you... Oh, and we'd love to have you over for dinner sometime this week if you're both up for it.

Mouse (to Poppy): I'll pass the word onto Eep & see what night might work. Give Vincent a hug for me. So long, Victor.

Poppy (to Mouse): Will do, honey. Take care.

A few hours later:

Poppy (to Vincent): Honey, are you going to let me into the bedroom any time soon? I'm guessing you're still mad at me. I totally understand... Dinner will be ready in a little bit, if you want any.

Vincent (to Poppy): If I had pulled something like that, you would have shot me.

Poppy (to Vincent): I know, honey... I don't know how many more times I can say I'm sorry. I just didn't want anyone to get hurt because of me.

Vincent (to Poppy): Poppy, you're my wife! I... Good heavens, I don't even know what to say to that.

Poppy (to Vincent): Just say what you have to say, honey. I know you've been quietly stewing for hours. I don't think you've ever gone this long without saying anything to me before.

Vincent (to Poppy): We can't keep doing things the way we're used to, hun. We're a family now. I know you didn't want anyone else to get hurt... I know we're both used to operating with some impunity, but what happens to you or me happens to Victor now.

Poppy (to Vincent): I know, honey... I don't know what else to say.

Vincent (to Poppy): Come here, hun. Just, never, EVER do that again. Please? I thought my heart was going to stop before Percy and I found you...

Poppy (to Vincent): I'll do my best, honey.

A Strange & Winding Road: Day 50

Mouse (to Poppy): Hey Poppy! ... Oooo, and the little man. What brings you over at this hour? Want some coffee?

Poppy (to Mouse): I would love some coffee, honey. Victor was being fussy, so I thought we'd go for a walk. And, your porch swing called to me. When did you guys get back in from your honeymoon? Did you have a good time?

Mouse (to Poppy): Late last night... It was wonderful. Vegas is so surreal. But, I'm glad to be home. So, what really brings you over?

Poppy (to Mouse): What makes you think there's another reason, honey?

Mouse (to Poppy): Because I know you. Clearly something is troubling you or you wouldn't have walked over here to sit in the swing. What's up?

Poppy (to Mouse): I'm just worried about your brother & my family, honey. Someone took my niece & Vincent crossed over to help find her. He asked me to stay here with Victor, so I'm a bit anxious & I haven't heard from anyone, yet.

Mouse (to Poppy): Oh, I'm so sorry... That's terrible.

Poppy (to Mouse): I have faith that Vincent will find her, honey, but it's just a tad frustrating to be on the sidelines. I'm not used to it.

An hour or so later:

Eep (to Mouse): Morning. Is there any coffee... Um, what's happening? Are you OK?

Mouse (to Eep): Shhhh... Poppy & Victor are curled up on the couch sleeping. Come into the kitchen with me.

Eep (to Mouse): Is everything OK?

Mouse (to Eep): No. Apparently, someone took Poppy's niece, Persephone. Vincent went over to help find her & Poppy's a bit freaked... She can't seem to get a hold of anyone over there & she hasn't heard anything.

Eep (to Mouse): Shit. No wonder she's freaking out.

Mouse (to Eep): Yeah... I wish there was something I could do for her.

Eep (to Mouse): Um... If you two wanna cross over and help, I can watch the baby.

Mouse (to Eep): That's sweet of you to offer... I was actually going to ask if we could offer to watch the baby... I'm not ready to crossover so soon after all of that stuff with Hiiri. I want to help, but I think I'd be in the way... and I'm still a little shaky about being there.

Eep (to Mouse): Oh thank God... Oh, um, I mean, every time we go there, something horrible seems to happen, but I know it's your brother...

Mouse (to Eep): Yes, it's my brother, who is much better at this whole pirate in an alternative dimension than he lets on.

Eep (to Mouse): OK, so we'll babysit. Hey. You alright?

Mouse (to Eep): I think so... Just my usual bad dream.

Eep (to Mouse): Christ. I thought so. You looked kinda rough. Come here.

Mouse (to Eep): Thank you... It's why I can't go back over there right now... I want to help, but yeah... here is good.

Poppy (to Mouse & Eep): Oh... Am I interrupting? The smell of coffee lured me in here. Victor finally settled down, he should be out for a bit.

Mouse (to Poppy): Let me get you a cup. Are you sure you don't want to sleep some more? You can take the guest room.

Poppy (to Mouse): Thank you honey, but I'm good for now.

Eep (to Poppy): How you doing?

Poppy (to Eep): To be honest, I'm worried, honey. I promised Vincent that I'd keep Victor over on this side where he'd be safe. And, that's the only reason I'm still here. I just wish someone would tell me what was going on.

Eep (to Poppy): Um, Mouse and I were talking about it, and if you want us to watch the kid, so you can find out what's happening...  it's no problem.

Poppy (to Eep & Mouse): Oh my goodness! Really? You would do that for me? You guys are brilliant! Thank you!

Mouse (to Poppy & Eep): Oh... Now, we're hugging.

Eep (to Mouse & Poppy): Oh. Hey. Uh... Yeah. Hugging. Christ, Poppy! It's not that big a deal. We're family, right? Calm down.

Poppy (to Eep & Mouse): It is a big deal... I'll be back as quick as I can. There's everything you need in his diaper bag, but if he gets fussy, here's the spare key to the apartment. Thank you both!

Mouse (to Poppy): It'll be fine. We'll be fine. Get out of here, you crazy woman!

Eep (to Poppy): And, uh, be careful, OK?

Poppy (to Mouse & Eep): Of course!

Eep (to Mouse): So, looks like we're babysitting.

Mouse (to Eep): Certainly, looks like it... Um, I hope you know what you're doing as I've never actually babysat a baby before.

Eep (to Mouse): Uh... I was the youngest in my family, remember?

Mouse (to Eep): So, what you're saying is... we're screwed?

Eep (to Mouse): Heh. I'm kidding! Kidding! Don't worry! I used to babysit a lot when I was in high school. One of my coworkers used to always come in with her kids, and I used to watch them when I didn't want to go back to Pop's place.

Mouse (to Eep): Oh good, I'm glad one of us knows what we're doing. My only experience with watching kids was Vincent, and he was out of diapers.

Eep (to Mouse): Heh. Well, now you get to see what you missed out on. It's a lot of bodily fluids. Fair warning.

Mouse (to Eep): Well, I suppose I have to learn this stuff at some point.

Eep (to Mouse): Babies aren't that hard. Most of watching them involves feeding, cleaning and holding them.

Mouse (to Eep): You're awfully cute when you're being all take charge & caretake-y. :-p

Eep (to Mouse): I'm, um, what?

Mouse (to Eep): Sorry, not cute... Um, manly? Sexy? ... I'll shut up now.

Eep (to Mouse): Heh. Who am I to argue with my wife, huh? I... Oh. Shit. That's the baby. Be right back… Looks like he's awake, He's his father's son, alright.

Mouse (to Eep): Heehee, what did he do?

Eep (to Mouse): Well, I was about to give you a kiss before he started fussing. He's fine, but he really wants to seem to be held.

Mouse (to Eep): Heehee, do you want me to hold him? I think I can handle that.

Eep (to Mouse): Heh heh. Sure. Here you go.

A couple hours later:

Poppy (to Percy):  There you are! Where's my husband, honey?

Percy (to Poppy):  He's out at the pond, honey. He needed to think.

Poppy (to Percy): That doesn't sound good. (to Vincent) So, are the clouds imparting some secret wisdom to you, honey?

Vincent (to Poppy): Huh? POPPY? What are you... Where's Victor?!

Poppy (to Vincent): He's safe, honey. Mouse & Eep are watching him at their place.

Vincent (to Poppy): Oh. Right. Of course. I should have realized...

Poppy (to Vincent): Uh oh... Are you alright, honey? I mean, besides the obvious.

Vincent (to Poppy): We got a ransom demand for Persephone, hun.

Poppy (to Vincent): Oh... Is that why you & Percy haven't been answering my calls or texts? Because, you've been busy gathering up the money. How much do they want? I'm sure we can come up with something.

Vincent (to Poppy): He doesn't want money.

Poppy (to Vincent): Oh... What does he want, honey?

Vincent (to Poppy): Come here... He wants you, lover.

Poppy (to Vincent): What!?!

Vincent (to Poppy): Here. Here's the note.

Poppy (to Vincent): Oh… Well, then tomorrow I'll go meet him, honey. Simple as that. Of course, I won't be staying once we get Persephone back.

Vincent (to Poppy):  I can't say I like this plan, hun. He won't be keen to let you leave, of course.

Poppy (to Vincent): He won't have much of a choice, honey, trust me.

Vincent (to Poppy): Well, I'm coming with you.

Poppy (to Vincent): I actually need you to do me a favor, honey...

Vincent (to Poppy): What's that?

Poppy (to Vincent): I need you to find Thaddeus & let him know what's going on...

Vincent (to Poppy): .... Alright, hun. I take it you don't want me getting anywhere near Achilles.

Poppy (to Vincent): That's right, honey... He will hurt you.

Vincent (to Poppy): Right. And you want me to believe he won't do the same to you? I don't like this, hun. I don't like this one bloody bit!

Poppy (to Vincent): Honey, remember when you went to Drake's? How unhappy I was about it?

Vincent (to Poppy): I... Good God, Poppy! That's not... OK, it's exactly the same, but I still don't like it! And I wasn't alone.

Poppy (to Vincent): And, I won't be alone. You, Percy and Thaddeus will be my backup, honey. But, you can't ask me to not do whatever necessary to get Persephone back to her parents. You know, Bernard or Molly would do the same, if it was Victor.

Vincent (to Poppy): I know, hun. I'm not even suggesting that, I just... I don't like it. Your brother and sister-in-law won't either. You know we'll all do whatever it takes.

Poppy (to Vincent): Honey, Achilles has no idea who and what I became after I left the gang. He has no clue as to who he's dealing with, not to mention that fact that no one hurts a member of my family & gets away with it.

Vincent (to Poppy): Damn fucking straight. OK, let me go find your brother, hun. Give me a kiss.

Poppy (to Vincent): Mmmm. I love you, honey.

Vincent (to Poppy): I love you too. I'll be back soon, hun.

A short time later:

Vincent (to Carver): What the hell happened to you?

Carver (to Vincent): What ever do you mean, sir? Oh! The injuries! Of course, sir. We ran into a street gang of children, sir. We were rather outnumbered. They used this to their advantage, sir.

Vincent (to Carver): Uhhhhh... Right. Look, I don't have time to fuck with you, Carver. Go get your boss. I have information for CLANNG.

Carver (to Vincent): Of course, sir. Right away, sir. We assume this has to do with the stolen baby, sir. We'll return with Mr. Clegg. (to Thaddeus von Clegg) Mr. Clegg, sir? Captain Potter is here about the stolen baby, sir. He would like to talk to you.

Thaddeus von Clegg (to Carver): What? Stolen baby? I didn't steal any baby... Oh right... Yes, lead the way, Mister Carver. (to Vincent) So, Captain Potter, what can we do for you?

Vincent (to Thaddeus von Clegg): It's about your niece, Mr. Clegg. Persephone has been kidnapped.

Thaddeus von Clegg (to Vincent): That's who the baby was that Carver saw? (to Carver) Why didn't you say that? Go to class... I'll deal with you later.

Carver (to Thaddeus von Clegg): We're very sorry, sir. We will go to class. We do hope we didn't disappoint you too badly. We didn't know who the baby was, sir.

Vincent (to Thaddeus von Clegg): It's Achilles Smith, Thaddeus. He wants Poppy to rejoin his gang and is using Persephone as a bargaining chip. She's going to meet him tomorrow. You, Bernard and I are going to act as backup.

Thaddeus von Clegg (to Vincent): Where is she supposed to meet him, Potter?

Vincent (to Thaddeus von Clegg): The Tombs Garden. Meet us at the Inn tomorrow morning, if you want to help. ... Poppy is livid.

Thaddeus von Clegg (to Vincent): Ah yes, the Tomb Gardens... Not really much of a garden, it's a graveyard. Plenty of good coverage. Hmmm, are you sure that Poppy wants me to just hang about with you lot and not stick snipers around the place? I mean, it would be no trouble. I'm not too keen on that Smith fellow taking members of my family hostage. Nor do I like the rumors I've been hearing...

Vincent (to Thaddeus von Clegg):  The rumors about him trying to wrangle leadership of all the gangs in the Tombs? No. I wouldn't imagine you would like that news. Poppy knows Achilles the best, so personally, I'm going to follow her lead on this. I'd advise you to do the same.

Thaddeus von Clegg (to Vincent): Oh, fine... I am not used to having other people order me around, especially Stinkblossom... You can tell her I'll be there.

Vincent (to Thaddeus von Clegg): Will do. For the record, personally, I'd like to shove a sword down his throat the hilt hits his teeth, but it's not my call.

Thaddeus von Clegg (to Vincent): Well, maybe if we're lucky we'll all get that chance, Potter. See you tomorrow.

Vincent (to Thaddeus von Clegg): Heh. I doubt Poppy will give us the chance. She's most likely to beat us to the punch. We'll see you tomorrow.

Meanwhile:

Poppy (to Reggie Arbuckle): Reggie, you old parasite... Come out from there, right now!

Reggie Arbuckle (to Poppy): Oh, hello there, Miss Poppy. It's been a long time. You're looking well.

Poppy (to Reggie Arbuckle): Don't give me that, Reggie. I don't have much time. Where's Achilles keeping the children?

Reggie Arbuckle (to Poppy): Children, Miss Poppy?

Poppy (to Reggie Arbuckle): Yes, I've heard tell that he's been kidnapping children from their families. That's not how we used to do things, Reg... It's a bit despicable. I know, you're a good man... Where are they?

Reggie Arbuckle (to Poppy): I'm not at liberty to say, Miss. The boss would kill me, but I, um, could tell you that Tilly would love to see you & you know how she loves children... ever since she lost her own to the sickness.

Poppy (to Reggie Arbuckle): Oh yes, I remember, honey... Is she still staying at the house on Beech Street?

Reggie Arbuckle (to Poppy): Yeah, that would be the one... Be careful, Miss.

Poppy (to Reggie Arbuckle): Oh, I will. Thank you, Reggie.

Percy (to Poppy): Honey, what do you think you're doing?

Poppy (to Percy): Damn it, Percy! What the hell were you thinking following me around? You were supposed to be keeping an eye on Vincent.

Percy (to Poppy): I think he'll be just fine on his errand to your brother... I had a feeling you were doing that to get him out of the way. Clearly, I was right. So, what's the plan?

Poppy (to Percy): The plan is, that you're going to go back to the Inn and keep an eye on everyone, while I go and visit Tilly... You remember Tilly, don't you?

Percy (to Poppy): Yes, she always gave us the creeps. But, what does the gang's "house mother" have to do with anything?

Poppy (to Percy): Brain the size of a planet & you can't figure that out? ... That's probably where they're keeping the kidnapped children.

Percy (to Poppy): No need to be rude, honey... Look, how about I go back & get Vincent and then, we do this as a group?

Poppy (to Percy): Fine... I'll wait right here. Be quick about it!

A short time later:

Percy (to Vincent): Honey, come quick!

Vincent (to Percy):  Percy? What's wrong?

Percy (to Vincent): Poppy... She's figured out where the children are & she's waiting for us to go get them... And, she totally tricked me... She's probably not waiting, at all... I'm an idiot.

Vincent (to Percy): Oh that... Shit! Where did you leave her?

Percy (to Vincent): On the corner of Beech & Umbrage, honey... I'm so sorry. I think there's something glitchy with my programming. I can't believe I fell for that stupid stunt.

Vincent (to Percy): Oh that... Do you know where she went? Think, Percy!

Percy (to Vincent): She said she was going to see Tilly. She thinks that's where Smith is keeping the children. Tilly was like the nanny to all of the children that weren't quite old enough to be on the streets alone.

Vincent (to Percy): Do you know where we can find this Tilly?

Percy (to Vincent): Well, she used to live in a ratty blue house on Beech Street, but I don't know if she still lives there, honey. But, that's as good as place as any to look.

Vincent (to Percy): Then what the hell are we still standing here for? Come on. What the hell is she thinking doing this alone? Fat Christ!

Percy (to Vincent): I think she's really angry & feels like this is all her fault, honey... I'm just guessing, of course.

Several hours later:

Vincent: Well... I just shook down an old lady. Jesus.