Persephone (to Aiden): Aiden dear, I brought breakfast. I know you said you were on an assignment but I missed you. Aiden?
Aiden (to Persephone): My darling, that was very kind of you, but you really shouldn't be here. How on earth did you get through the checkpoints?
Persephone (to Aiden): I've been getting into places I shouldn't since I was a kid. It was easy peasy. Here, let me get this stuff into the kitchen.
Aiden (to Persephone): If you insist.
Persephone (to Aiden): Of course, I do… You may want to throw on a robe, though. If you insist on walking around like that I may not be able to control myself. ;-) Go on.
Aiden (to Persephone): Oh… Yes, you're absolutely right. I'll be right back.
A short time later:
Nathaniel (to Persephone & Aiden): Oh. Shot. Um, sorry. I didn't mean to interrupt... It's just, um, where can I smoke this?
Aiden (to Nathaniel): It's okay, Nate. We were just having breakfast. The backyard is through that door if you prefer to smoke outside.
Persephone (to Nathaniel): Would you like anything? I made plenty.
Nathaniel (to Persephone): No thanks. I'm not a big breakfast eater. (to Aiden) Uh, through this door?
Aiden (to Nathaniel): Yes, that goes to the backyard & garden… Actually, if you don't mind the company, I'll join you.
Persephone (to Aiden): I certainly don't mind if you do… I hate it when you smoke those things inside.
Nathaniel (to Persephone & Aiden): You smoke inside? Christ. I'm keeping this shit outside. Where it belongs. I don't mind company. Sorry. Not awake yet.
Persephone (to Nathaniel & Aiden): It's fine. I'll clean up this mess before Mrs. Esterly comes back & yells at me.
Aiden (to Nathaniel): It's alright. (to Persephone) We'll be back momentarily. Mrs. Esterly is off visiting family in Oxford. She won't be back for several days. I think you're safe.
A moment later:
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Who's Mrs. Esterly?
Aiden (to Nathaniel): She's the housekeeper, been with the family for years. She practically raised me. When I took over the house I offered her the apartment downstairs.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): The housekeeper. Right. Heh. Jesus... I am so fucking outta my depth with all this shit.
Aiden (to Nathaniel): Heh. Persephone has said the same thing, though she also said she'll get used to it… Speaking of which, I'm sorry for her sudden appearance. I had no idea she was coming over. I had told her I was on an errand… she's no good at staying safe.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Heh. Yeah. That doesn't surprise me. Seems to be a fucking family trait, doesn't it? Um, look, I know this whole arrangement thing is cool with Seph and you and all, and I have NO fucking complaints about hooking up with you. Heh. Just the opposite, believe me. I like you, like a fucking lot, you're the first guy I... Never mind. Doesn't matter. It's just that, now whenever I see Persephone, I can't fucking shake the feeling I'm doing something behind her back. Christ... This sucks... I, uh, I kinda got enough hangups about sex, obviously, without adding extra guilt, you know? So, maybe we shouldn't... Maybe we should just chill out for a while.
Aiden (to Nathaniel): Oh… If that's what you want… I've gotta go. I-- I have something I need to do inside… I'll take you back home in an hour…
Nathaniel: Christ. I'm a fucking dick. (to Aiden) Yeah. Thanks. ...Sorry.
Persephone (to Nathaniel): Nate, what the bloody hell did you say to Aiden? He came into the house & stormed past upstairs without saying a word to me. I've never seen him like that.
Nathaniel (to Persephone): Oh, you've gotta be fucking kidding me... Christ. Fuck it! Just fucking fuck it. OK, newsflash to absolutely no one... You gave your fiancee permission to fool around on the side, right? So we did. But I can't hack feeling like I'm fooling around behind someone's back. I am--um-- WAS, for all intents and fucking purposes, practically a goddamn virgin, alright? I figured I had enough fucking issues with fucking, and didn't want things to get messy between you two or us, so I said we should probably cool it. I wasn't trying to fucking upset him.
Persephone (to Nathaniel): Oh… Would it make you feel any better if I told you that we weren't actually in love with each other & this is all an elaborate ruse to get me away from the inn & get him hitched to a girl to get his parents off his back? I mean, we do care about each other, but he only holds a passing interest with girls… Guys are really more his thing. I'm the first girl he's ever really liked. He's had crushes on other boys, but you're the first one he ever actually did anything with. So, what you don't seem to understand is that I'm the one on the side. Not you. It's a long complicated story, Nate… But, seriously I'm fine with you being involved.
Nathaniel (to Persephone): Wait... WHAT? I don't... What? You're the... And he... Jesus Christ. Why am I such a fucking dick?
Persephone (to Nathaniel): I'm not sure, you seem to have a knack for it, though. Look, if you don't mind that on occasion Aiden & I hook up to keep up the appearance of a married couple. I really hope you'll reconsider… He really likes you. He has from the moment you guys first met. But, if it's too weird for you, I understand & he'll get over it, eventually.
Nathaniel (to Persephone): Yeah. So far, it's the only think I seem to have displayed any talent for. I... I didn't know any of that.
Persephone (to Nathaniel): Yeah well, trust me it was a bit of shock for Aiden when I kissed him & he actually felt something. He apparently, was not expecting that. He had pretty much decided that he was going to be a "bachelor" his whole life, so imagine his surprise when I came along. And, yes I know, it's strange. But, I get to be a Lady, don't have to run the inn & have a husband that'll get me out of trouble & I get to do what I want. It's fantastic… and in a few years if need be, we'll get a divorce.
Nathaniel (to Persephone): Heh. Jesus. You really do have this whole thing figured out, don't you? Yeah. You're right; it's fucking weird. But it's not like I'm fucking normal. I'm broken as hell, for one, and look at our damn family for two.
Persephone (to Nathaniel): Do what you think is best for yourself, Nate. I know, we didn't get off on the right foot but, I don't want you to do anything that might cause you pain. You are still my distant cousin. I just wanted you to know everything. I thought we owed you that much. Aiden is absolutely terrible about talking about personal issues. It's like pulling teeth.
Nathaniel (to Persephone): Heh. Well, no offense, but he is British. Y'all aren't renowned for being big sharers. I should go talk to him...
Persephone (to Nathaniel): Alright, I'll finish up the kitchen & then head back to the inn, I suppose.
Nathaniel (to Persephone): Um, thanks. For, um, for... you know.
Persephone (to Nathaniel): Yes, yes. I'm a saint & absolutely gorgeous. I know. Go on.
Nathaniel (to Persephone): I wasn't gonna go that far. :-P I'll see you later.
A few moments later:
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Um, Aiden? Can I... Um. No, fuck it. I need to talk to you for a minute. ... Is that OK?
Aiden (to Nathaniel): Oh, yes… Of course. I was just making the bed. Are you ready to head back? The portal generator is almost fully charged.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Um. Not just yet. I spoke to Seph... No. That's not right. More like she came out to bitch me out because I upset you. She, um... God. I don't know what to say here... Alright. Um, what I said earlier, I thought the situation was, um, different than it is, and... Shit. I'm sorry. I thought Seph was your primary, you know? And I'm kinda messy... Shit. I am making NO sense here...
Aiden (to Nathaniel): I'm fine. I just needed a moment to collect myself. What are you trying to say, Nate?
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Jesus. I wish I knew... Um, I said we should, you know, not hook up anymore because I thought--I thought you and Seph... Fuck it. It doesn't matter. You're... I'm sorry. For what I said earlier. I was being stupid and insecure. And I didn't wanna get all hung up on you if I was never gonna be more than just someone you occasionally called cause you were getting a craving for cock, or something. You, um, you're the first guy I ever chose to have sex with and... Jesus. I am not making anymore sense than I was before. Shit... I'm an idiot, OK?!
Aiden (to Nathaniel): Okay… Does that mean I can kiss you now? Because, I know I would like to… And then, I should really get you home.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Um, yeah. If you still wanna, I mean. I, um, I would like that too.
A moment later:
Aiden (to Nathaniel): I'm sorry I didn't tell you the whole thing, Nate. It's a bit weird & complicated and honestly, I didn't want to scare you off with all of this. Seph came up with the whole idea & it seemed like the best way for both of us to get what we wanted. We have to appear as a married couple here, so it didn't make sense to tell you or your family the truth. Unfortunately, alternative lifestyles are not really encouraged on this side or as accepted. People know it existed & as long as no one talks about it or does it out in the open. It's just fine. And, until Seph I thought I was only attracted to men.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Heh. Yeah. Well, it's not always really all that accepted on my side of the universe either. My folks sent me to a glorified boot camp that was supposed to teach me how not to be attracted to dudes. Yeah. That worked great. Anyway... If you'll forgive me for being a fucking idiot, I won't be upset you didn't tell me everything that was going on. Um, not that I'm mad now...
Aiden (to Nathaniel): It's a deal… Thank you.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): For what?
Aiden (to Nathaniel): For changing your mind… That is what you did, right?
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Um, yeah. Sorry I upset you.
Aiden (to Nathaniel): It's alright. Now, we should really go before I ask you to stay & get us both in trouble with your aunt & uncle.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Yeah. Heh. No offense, but I can't say I'll miss the clothes.
Aiden (to Nathaniel): Heh.There are other ways of dressing. Suits are just easier to blend into this part of London. Trust me, your uncle is notorious for not being inconspicuous. But then again, he is an airship pirate. They're not known for their subtlety.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): I don't think Uncle Vincent knows the meaning of the word subtle.
Aiden (to Nathaniel): … I'm sure he's very smart. Oh wait… that was a joke. Heh.
A short time later:
Aiden (to Nathaniel): Alright, the location of the portal we need is just around this corner & then five blocks straight ahead.
Starling (to Nathaniel & Aiden): Excuse me. Can you help? I seem to be lost. I can't find my mummy.
Nathaniel (to Starling): Uhhhh... No offense, kid. You should probably find a cop or something then. We've got someplace to be...
Starling (to Nathaniel): Oh, that's a pity… (to Aiden) Mister Wilkes, Director Carver would very much like to speak to you. Tell your little colonist friend to bugger off.
Nathaniel (to Starling): How 'bout you fuck off, short stack?
Starling (to Nathaniel): Well, you see, sir. I could do that... Or I could open you up like a can of beans. I really suggest you move along. Guards!
Aiden (to Starling): No need for any of that sort of thing, Miss Starling. I'll go peacefully. (to Nathaniel) Mister Jones, it was a pleasure seeing you again. Please, give my regards to our mutual lady friend. Here's the address in case you forgot since the last time you visited our fair city.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Um, yeah. Thanks. Do you remember where we met? Like, really clearly?
Aiden (to Nathaniel): Yes? Of course.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Yeah. Me too...
Starling (to Nathaniel & Aiden): This is all very touching… Lieutenant, please take Mister Wilkes into custody.
A moment later, in West Piedmont:
Nathaniel (to Aiden): That --oh fucking hell-- tell me that fucking worked...
Aiden (to Nathaniel): …That was brilliant! You're amazing.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Don't... Don't do that. I think I'm gonna puke...
Aiden (to Nathaniel): Oh goodness. Lean up against this wall… I didn't think you could actually do that sort of thing.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): I didn't either... I panicked. I haven't heard... I--I haven't heard good things about whosawhatsit. Carver...
Aiden (to Nathaniel): Well, we're clearly going to need help getting you home. Do you have a phone, by any chance?
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Yeah. Here. Sorry... My head feels like it's gonna fucking split open.
Aiden (to Nathaniel): Alright… We'll get you some help. (to Vincent) Capt. Potter, we need your help. Nate's sick. We're in the alley behind the college campus bookstore.
Vincent (to Aiden): Aiden? Is that you? Good heavens! What happened? I'll be right there.
Aiden (to Vincent): We were on an errand for Poppy. We were on our way back & Miss Starling came to take me to see Carver… Nate skipped us here. He doesn't look too good. Please, hurry.
Vincent (to Aiden): He'll be alright, hun. Don't worry. I'll be there in a flash.
Aiden (to Nathaniel): Your uncle's on the way… Please, be okay.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Huh? I'm OK... I've only... I've done it twice before. I--I think it's gonna be...
Aiden (to Nathaniel): Damn it, Nate. Please, don't pass out on the groun-- Shit.
Meanwhile, at Poppy & Vincent's apartment, West Piedmont:
Vincent (to Poppy): Poppy? Lover? I'm going to pick up the boys. Apparently, there was some trouble with Carver & Nate opened a portal. Not surprisingly, he's not feeling too well.
Poppy (to Vincent): Oh my, I'll get things set up for when you get back, lover. He's going to need juice, aspirin & sleep.
Vincent (to Poppy): You know what this means, right? We now have three kids in the house who can do open portals willy-nilly. Good heavens...
Poppy (to Vincent): Heh… Don't look at me, honey, he's your nephew. That also means that Aiden is in serious trouble… Persephone is not going to be happy about this.
Vincent (to Poppy): I wouldn't imagine. I'll be back before you can miss me, lover.
Poppy (to Vincent): Too late. ;-)
A little while later, in West Piedmont:
Vincent (to Nathaniel & Aiden): Nate? Aiden? Where are you two?
Aiden (to Vincent): Over here. Nate's out cold. He almost gave himself a concussion when he fell. Luckily, I caught him. He is surprisingly heavy.
Vincent (to Aiden): Heh. Don't worry. He'll be fine & I brought smelling salts. (to Nathaniel) Nate? Nate! Wakey wakey. Come on. You're alright.
Nathaniel (to Vincent & Aiden): What? What happened?
Vincent (to Nathaniel): You passed out, kiddo, and scared the hell out of Aiden it sounds like. Come on. Let's get you home.
Nathaniel (to Vincent & Aiden): Oh. Sorry...
Aiden (to Nathaniel & Vincent): My apologies, I've just never actually seen anyone do that before.
Vincent (to Aiden): Mmm. I wouldn't imagine. Don't worry. We know what to do. He just needs some rest and some juice. Nate will be fine.
Aiden (to Vincent): Oh, good.
Vincent (to Nathaniel): Come on, Nate. Up and at 'um. (to Aiden) Give me a hand, Aiden. Hee hee. You boys are a little too tall for me to carry.
Aiden (to Vincent): I can get him, I think. Nate, wrap your arm around my neck.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Yeah... I'm alright. I... Shit!
A short time later, at Poppy & Vincent's apartment, West Piedmont:
Vincent (to Nathaniel): Take it easy, Nate. You've had kind of an insane day. We're home. You're alright.
Aiden (to Vincent): Should I put him on the couch or his bed, Captain Potter?
Vincent (to Aiden): Sit him on the couch for now, hun. We need to get some food into him. (to Poppy) We're home, lover!
Poppy (to Vincent): I've got orange juice for Nate & beef stew for everyone. (to Nathaniel) Oh, look at you, honey. I'm so sorry I sent you. (to Aiden) You don't look much better, honey. Here, drink this.
Aiden (to Poppy): I'm fine. What is it?
Poppy (to Aiden): A good stout. Trust me, it'll help, honey.
Vincent (to Poppy): You take care of the boys, lover. I'll dole out the stew.
Nathaniel (to Poppy): I'm OK. Jesus... I think I'm OK. H-here. File.
Poppy (to Vincent): Thank you, honey. (to Nathaniel) Thank you. I'll look at it later. In the meantime, can I get you anything?
Nathaniel (to Poppy): Painkillers, if you have them...
Poppy (to Aiden): Aiden, Am I correct in assuming you'll need a place to stay until it's safe to cross back? (to Nathaniel) Here you are, honey.
Aiden (to Poppy): Oh yes please. Normally, I'd get a hotel room somewhere but, I left my kit for this side, at my house. Sloppy, I know.
Poppy (to Aiden): Alrighty then, I'll call Yoyo & see if they can spare a spot on the couch. We're just packed to the gills here, you know. Besides, Nate's going to need his rest... And, you'll probably want to contact Seph. I know Yoyo has a communicator.
Aiden (to Poppy): Oh... But I'd like to make sure Nate is okay. He got himself hurt saving me... Um, but whatever you say. Did I do something wrong?
Vincent (to Aiden): Hee hee. What my darling wife isn't saying is that she doesn't want you two boys in the same house together. Heh. You haven't exactly been subtle about your interest in our nephew, hun. ;-P
Aiden (to Poppy & Vincent): But, it's not what you think. I haven't done anything untoward, I swear.
Vincent (to Aiden): Aiden, calm down. No one is upset. We're *parents*, and Nate is one of our kids. Whether he likes it or not. Also, you haven't done ANYTHING untoward? That's tragic!
Nathaniel (to Vincent, Poppy & Aiden): Holy shit, I wish I was still unconscious...
Poppy (to Aiden): Well I, for one, would very much like to know what's going on between you two, if anything. I mean, you are engaged to my niece & supposed to be getting married in a week & a half.
Aiden (to Poppy & Vincent): … Seph knows all about it. This whole thing was her idea in fact… Not my interest in Nate, just the arrangement we have. I mean, that she & I have… It's a long story.
Poppy (to Aiden & Vincent): Hmmm… I think I need a drink.
Vincent (to Poppy): Make that two, lover. (to Aiden) I think you'd better explain, hun. Long story or no.
Aiden (to Vincent): Oh… Alright… (to Vincent & Poppy) Up until I met Seph, I was only ever interested in men. I've never dated anyone before as it was highly discouraged at the ISS & then again, in the Guards. I thought I was going to be one of those "bachelor uncle" types for the rest of my life… I met Seph and she asked me to go on a date. We hit it off & then, she kissed me. I expected not to feel anything but I did. It freaked me out, so she hounded me until I explained and then, she came up with an idea - how to get her away from the inn & the freedom for us both to be who we wanted to be. So, we continued to date, when the mission to the colony came up, we decided to get married and go together. I know it sounds weird, but we're both fine with it. And, we do both care about each other… I just happen to care about someone else, too.
Vincent (to Poppy, Aiden & Nathaniel): Well, this is certainly something new. Within the family, at any rate. I mean, Black Bart had a similar relationship going on with... Oops. Shutting up now.
Poppy (to Nathaniel): And, Nate, how do you feel about this "arrangement"? Or is this all news to you?
Nathaniel (to Poppy): Huh? Oh... Sorry. My head still feels like shit. Um, yeah... I already knew about it. Sort of. Aiden kinda explained it to me a few days ago, and then Seph explained everything to me earlier today.
Poppy (to Nathaniel & Aiden): But, honey, are you really okay with sharing someone? No judgements here. We are the last people who would do that… I just want to make sure that you all are aware of what you're about to do… And yes, before you ask, Black Bart did have a similar arrangement with two ladies… until they ran off together when he got fat & lost a leg.
Nathaniel (to Poppy): Heh. Who are you betting will loose a leg? Sorry... I--I'm sure I could be a lot more erudite about this later, but I'm too tired right now. I don't know if it'll be OK. I don't have much experience with normal relationships, let alone unusual ones, but I'm not, you know, the most stable of bets for a boyfriend either. I figure if I found some guy who doesn't freak me right the fuck out, it's worth a shot.
Poppy (to Nathaniel & Aiden): Fine… If this is what you three want & you're all okay with it. Who am I to question? Just please, be careful. And, Aiden honey, remember that thing I told you about hurting my niece… Well, it now goes double, just so you know. (to Vincent, Aiden & Nathaniel) Now, if you'll excuse me, I think I've quite had my fill of the all queer male review, I am going to curl up with a nice bottle of wine & a book.
Nathaniel (to Poppy): Um... yeah. OK.
Aiden (to Poppy): Yes, ma'am.
Vincent (to Poppy): Oh? I'm sure I could be MUCH better company that that book, hun. I'm much better at cuddling, for one. :-P
Poppy (to Vincent): I think you need to stay out here for awhile, lover… It may not be safe for man or beast for the next hour or so. I'm feeling a bit irritated with myself.
Vincent (to Poppy): You know how much I love a hint of danger, lover, but I'll stay out here if that's what you want. I'm sure the boys are SO looking forward to my company. ;-)
Aiden (to Poppy): Good night, Miss Poppy.
Nathaniel (to Vincent): ... I'm sorry I upset Aunt Poppy. I didn't mean...
Vincent (to Nathaniel): It's alright, Nate. She's just worried about you. We know you haven't had the easiest time of it. (to Nathaniel & Aiden) She's worried about both of you, and Persephone.
Aiden (to Vincent): … Was what she said about Black Bart true? I had heard that the two women in his crew ran off with another pirate.
Vincent (to Aiden): Hee hee. It was *mostly* true. They did indeed run off with each other, but then again, they were ALWAYS more interested in one another than Black Bart. Not that I can blame them. And, yes, he did loose a foot but I rather think that's to diabetes rather than to a broken heart. :-P
Aiden (to Vincent): Oh… Do you mind if I ask you a personal question, Captain Potter?
Vincent (to Aiden): Go right ahead, hun. And you can call me Vincent, by the by.
Aiden (to Vincent): Oh okay… There's been a lot of rumors circulating about your relationship with Poppy over the years, is any of it true? I once heard tell that she was just your beard & that Victor was actually the son of prince that she seduced… And then, there was one about how you were the lover of a member of the Royal Court & that's how you managed to not get hanged when so many other pirates were getting in trouble a decade or so ago. A bunch of her students used to try and figure out if any of us could discover the truth. We had a pool going for years. It might even still be going on. There's probably a lot of money in it, by now.
Vincent (to Aiden): Ha ha ha! Oh. Oh... Good heavens... Hee hee hee. I can't believe some of those stories are still floating around! Whoever bet on the most boring of stories is the one who's going to take home the pot, I'm afraid. Neither one of us ever had a lover in the royal court. One of the crown princes used to freelance as a pirate; I was his first mate. That's how I inherited my title. Neither one of us ever had a lover in the royal court. Hee hee. The Empress has a bit of a soft spot for me, because I was the basis for a series of books of which she was a fan as a kid. Well, that and I may have been her first kiss. And, as I'm sure you've figured by now, Victor is totes biologically ours. Despite all the vastly more interesting rumors, I was a young and inexperienced young thing when I met my wife, and I've never been anything less than hopelessly in love with her. Which doesn't make for good stories, I'm afraid. ;-P
Aiden (to Vincent): So, when you two are talking about the men in, where was it, Tortuga or whatever, you're just joking?
Vincent (to Aiden): I'm married and in love with my wife, kiddo, not DEAD. Just because I admire the half-dressed scenery, doesn't mean anything. Are you asking if I'm actually bisexual?
Aiden (to Vincent): … I guess I am. This is new territory for me.
Vincent (to Aiden): Heh. You got yourself a fiancee AND a boyfriend before you were expecting either, eh? For as long as I can remember, I've always been attracted to both the lads and lasses. I was probably a bit more attracted to boys, but more comfortable with the ladies as a young 'un, if memory serves. Like Nate, I didn't come from a family that appreciated the attention I paid to the same sex. :-P
Aiden (to Vincent): Yes, that's one of the reasons I took the opportunity to transfer to the Imperial Guards. My father wasn't too keen on word getting out that I was attracted to other men… He practically set off fireworks when I introduced him to Seph. I believe he actually smiled. I can't remember the last time I saw him to do that when he was in my vicinity. Usually, it was a lot of shaking his head & looks of disappointment.
Vincent (to Aiden): Heh. I know the feeling. I left home at 15, and when my biological sister met Poppy, she thought I had bribed her to pose as my fiancee in order to extort money out of the family. I'm sure she, like your classmates, also suspects Victor isn't my son. Can I ask you a personal question now, kiddo?
Aiden (to Vincent): I guess it's only fair.
Vincent (to Aiden): Are you in love with Persephone? Honestly? I'm not going to judge, no matter what your answer, I just want to know.
Aiden (to Vincent): … Yes, I think so. But, I can't deny the fact that I have feelings for Nate, too. I know that makes me sound fickle. Seph is wild & exciting and she challenges me. Honestly, I'm not sure she's in love with me or simply the idea of me.
Vincent (to Aiden): I don't think you sound fickle, Aiden. I think you sound like someone who hasn't quite had a chance to figure out exactly what he wants. There's no crime in that. But if you want my opinion, which you most likely DON'T, I wouldn't marry someone who wasn't in love with me, personally. Not the idea of me. But, I have the advantage if being a prodigal son and a pirate who has been happily shacked up for years. If you think a marriage of convenience will make everyone happy, we'll support it. Trust me, hun. It might be awful, but it will be better to REALLY think this over right now, rather than discover in 5 years that you're not happy. You'll end up resenting the hell out of the people that you feel have trapped you there. And I'm not advising you to be conventional, just for the record. Do what makes you happy. Fuck what other people think. You deserve to be happy too, you know.
Aiden (to Vincent): … Oh. I-- Uh, thank you for your frankness. I was so wrapped up in wanting to make Seph happy that I guess I didn't really think about my own feelings. I'm so used to switching them off in my line of work. I guess I have some thinking to do... I guess I should head over to Yoyo's apartment.
Vincent (to Aiden): You're welcome. Could you do me a favor, and get Nate into his room before you go? I'm afraid I'm a bit short for the task. He's completely dead to the world, I'm afraid.
Aiden (to Vincent): Oh yes, of course… Um, Vincent, I just noticed that Poppy took that file with her.
Vincent (to Aiden): Oh. So she did. Is that a problem?
Aiden (to Vincent): No, it just means that's probably what she was reading & not a book.
Vincent (to Aiden): Heh. Of course it wasn't. I've been living with a spy for years, hun. It doesn't surprise me she wanted to read it alone. I'll find out what I need to know from her, when I need to know it. I'm not worried. Honestly, what is it with this family and spies? (to Nathaniel) Nate? Hun? Wake up. You should go to bed.
Aiden (to Vincent): Oh right, I should have known all that. Let me get Nate to his bed… I'm a bit dead on my feet, myself. (to Nathaniel) Come on, Nate. I've got you.
Nathaniel (to Vincent): Huh? What's... what's going on? (to Aiden) Oh. Hey. What're we doing?
Aiden (to Nathaniel): Nothing except getting you to bed, so you can sleep. You were passed out on the couch.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Naw. It's--it's fine. I'm gonna stay right--right here... Holy shit! Or not... You're stupid good looking, you know that?
Aiden (to Vincent): Oh… Thank you. Um, you do realize that your uncle is right here?
Nathaniel (to Aiden): What? (to Vincent) Oh shit!
Aiden (to Nathaniel & Vincent): And now, I'm dead. It was very nice knowing you.
Vincent (to Aiden & Nathaniel): Heh heh. Don't mind me, I suddenly have something to do in the kitchen. Aiden, say goodbye on your way out.
Aiden (to Vincent): Yes sir.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Sorry. Sorry! If I didn't know better, I'd swear I was frucking stoned. Ducking stoned. FUCKING stoned... Christ...
Aiden (to Nathaniel): Heh. I think I liked it better when you were flirting with me. Let's get you into bed… And then, I can go sleep on another bloody couch.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): I was flirting with you? Oh shit... Sorry. I didn't say anything fucking stupid, did I?
Aiden (to Nathaniel): Only that you thought I was stupid good looking, which I'm not quite sure what that means. But, I'm hoping it's good.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Oh. I said that? Oh good. That's not embarrassing. Um, yeah. It's good. It means I think that... Um, you know... you're really good-looking...
Aiden (to Nathaniel): I think you're stupidly good looking, too… Now, could you please stop rubbing my leg like that or are you trying to get me killed by your aunt & uncle?
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Shit! I'm sorry. I--I'm exhausted. I'm not thinking. I'm just gonna lie down and go to bed. Sorry...
Aiden (to Nathaniel): Don't be sorry… I liked it. It's just your uncle is in the kitchen waiting for me to say goodbye before I leave. And, I don't want to push my luck.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Oh. Yeah. Course. I'll see you later. Um, right?
Aiden (to Nathaniel): I certainly hope so… Fuck it. Come here for a second. Thank you for saving me today.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): ...Oh! Um, heh. You're welcome. I'm just glad it fucking worked.
Aiden (to Nathaniel): I really should go… But, I have to admit I really don't want to… which probably means I should go right now. I'll see you soon, ok?
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Yeah... Trust me. I'm too exhausted to do anything more interesting than fall asleep right now anyhow. oh god... Which I should have NOT said out loud. I'll, um, I'll see you soon.
Aiden (to Nathaniel): That was all I was expecting. I'm not some sex-crazed lunatic who only wants you for your body, you know?
Nathaniel (to Aiden): I didn't mean it like that! I just meant I wouldn't mind sleeping with you in a totally PLATONIC way tonight, cause it's been a weird fucking day, and sometimes you just want someone to--to fucking punch you in the face so you'll stop fucking talking.
Aiden (to Nathaniel): … I would have liked that, too. I've gotta go.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Please do. Maybe if you leave I'll shut the fuck up.
A few minutes later:
Aiden (to Vincent): Alright, Nate is all tucked in. Sorry that took so long. We were talking. He's feeling a little punch drunk, I think.
Vincent (to Aiden): Heh. I don't doubt it. I still can't believe he opened a portal. I'm sure he's exhausted. We can figure out what we'll do tomorrow. We'll see you then. Try to sleep well.
Aiden (to Vincent): Okay… Vincent, I know I probably shouldn't ask this, but Nate really wanted some company. You have every right to say no & I'll respect it if that's your answer but, he just looked in such rough shape. I can promise you that nothing but sleeping will happen. I swear.
Vincent (to Aiden): Alright. Go ahead. If Poppy asks, I know nothing about it. Don't make that face, I'm just kidding. You're both lucky I know *exactly* how much opening a portal takes out of a person.
Aiden (to Vincent): Thank you.
Vincent (to Aiden): Go. Get outta here before I change my mind. :-P
Aiden (to Vincent): Right.
A few minutes later:
Aiden (to Nathaniel): Scoot over or were you just kidding about wanting company?
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Huh? What... What are you doing?
Aiden (to Nathaniel): I'm going to sleep. What does it look like I'm doing? You may need to move closer. This bed might be too small for both of us.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): What? Oh. I thought you were ... Fuck it. I don't give a shit. This alright? Do you have enough room?
Aiden (to Nathaniel): It's fine. Are you okay?
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Yeah... Just tired. I--I'll be fine. Last time I did this I was fine the next day.
Aiden (to Nathaniel): Okay, I'll let you sleep then. Good night.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Night. Thanks. For staying. You--you didn't have to do...
Aiden (to Nathaniel): Shhh… Sometimes, you talk too much.
An hour or so later:
Poppy (to Vincent): Lover, you can stop skulking outside the door. It's safe to come in.
Vincent (to Poppy): Heh. Are you sure, sweetness? Or is it just that you can't stand to be away from me for a second more?
Poppy (to Vincent): You know for a fact, honey, that I can't stand being away from you for too long. Are the boys safely tucked in?
Vincent (to Poppy): Hee hee. Hush you! I like to pretend I'm not a soft touch, you know.
Poppy (to Vincent): I like your soft touch, lover.
Vincent (to Poppy): Mmm. I know you do, hun. You've never complained before. So why exactly are you trying to distract me with talk of touching you, lover? What info is it that your friend sent along?
Poppy (to Vincent): It's a file containing a very top secret mission & a request from the Empress herself, honey.
Vincent (to Poppy): Really? Can I ask what it entails, or am I not on a "need to know" basis?
Poppy (to Vincent): Technically, I shouldn't tell you, honey. But, if Yoyo & I take the mission, there's a very good chance we won't come back. So, I'll tell you because you're going to need to help me decide if I should do it or not.
Vincent (to Poppy): What?! I don't care who the mission comes from. I don't want you two taking a suicide mission!
Poppy (to Vincent): Honey, she's asking the Magpie to come out of retirement & deal with Carver… Apparently, the whole island thing was a ruse to distract everyone from the real target - the empire. Carver is now so firmly entrenched that he's setting the stage to become the next prime minister. We can't allow that to happen. He's a monster. I've been hearing the reports of what London has become since he setup shop there. It's terrifying.
Vincent (to Poppy): ... I don't know what to tell you, lover. I really don't. If Carver becomes the PM, everyone we know on the other side will be in danger, and none of the kids will ever be able to cross back over... But, you and Yoyo may not come back from this assignment, lover. And I VERY much doubt I'll be able to let you go on this mission alone... Good God...
Poppy (to Vincent): I know, honey, but how am I supposed to say no?
Vincent (to Poppy): I didn't expect you would, hun. ... Tomorrow, we'll talk to everyone, and set everything up in case we don't come back.
Poppy (to Vincent): You are not going with us, lover… We have children to think about & Victor is going to need you here. And, I don't want you to be a part of what I'm going to have to do. I'm not even sure I'm going to let Yoyo.
Vincent (to Poppy): Woman! I ... Good heavens. You're right. I hate it, but you're right as always, lover. I have one condition. If you take this assignment, you HAVE to come back. What on earth would I ever do without you?
Poppy (to Vincent): I know, lover. I will try my damnedest to come back & in one piece, too, if I take it. I have a few days to think about it. I just keep thinking of how I could have stopped Carver year's ago & I didn't.
Vincent (to Poppy): Come here, lover. A few years ago he was a kid, and there was no indication he would become what he is. This is what it is now, so let's deal with that. I love you, Poppy.
Poppy (to Vincent): I love you, too, Vincent.
