Back in the Future, Day 96

On the street outside Poppy & Vincent's apartment, West Piedmont:

Joseph (to Zoe): Hey Scout... What the hell are you doing here? Are you stalking me this time?

Zoe (to Joseph): So, that was you I saw skulking about the other night... What are you doing here? I mean, I live here. What's your excuse?

Joseph (to Zoe): Shit. Who spit in your cornflakes this morning? My dad lives here. He shares custody with my mom & she's out of town for work.

Zoe (to Joseph): Oh? Who's your dad?

Joseph (to Zoe): William Two-Crow, he's in unit 304.

Zoe (to Joseph): William Two-Crow? As in the best-selling author?

Joseph (to Zoe): Yeah, that would be the one... Can you walk a little faster? We're going to be late for school.

Zoe (to Joseph): Sorry.... I'm just surprised that's all. He wrote one of my favorite short stories.

Joseph (to Zoe): It's no big deal. Really.

Zoe (to Joseph): Sure, if you say so... I'll shut up about it.

A short time later, at the Lovelace School of the Arts, East Piedmont:

Colin (to Zoe): Hey! (to Joseph) Oh. Morning, Joseph.

Zoe (to Colin): Hey there, cutie.

Joseph (to Colin): Hey. (to Zoe & Colin) I'll see you guys around. I've got to drop something off at school newspaper before class.

Zoe (to Joseph): Thanks for walking with me!

Colin (to Joseph): Later! (to Zoe) Hey. Um, so, you know how we were gonna hang out after school today? I can't. Uh, I'm babysitting.

Zoe (to Colin): Shit. Really? Well, and that's probably going to happen a lot very soon... My mom's preggers. We'll never be able to be alone again.

Colin (to Zoe): Your mom's pregnant? Oh, wow. Holy shit! That's nuts. Heh. You guys are gonna have a ton a people in your house soon.

Zoe (to Colin): Yeah, we already kinda do. Nate's boyfriend is staying with us temporarily. Mom and Dad are home and if Victor comes home, he'll more than likely bring Yoyo with him... We should totally skip school, today. Come on, what do you say? Let's be rebels!

Colin (to Zoe): Wow, that's... wait, WHAT? I--I can't skip class. I've got a quiz in economics, and... Um, you're making it hard to object. Um, I've never skipped class...

Zoe (to Colin): I could bring us back to this very moment... I think. No one would ever know we're gone & you wouldn't miss anything. We would have spent a whole day, though... So, we'd be tired when we got back, but we could do it, if you wanted to, that is.

Colin (to Zoe): You can... You can bring us back to this moment? REALLY? Wow. That is... that is insane. Heh. In a good way, I mean. I don't care about being tired. Do you?

Zoe (to Colin): No, not at all... We need some privacy. I don't want to draw attention to us. Um, let's go over between the buildings.

Jessica (to Zoe & Colin): There you are, Colin! Come on, you promised to help me prep for the Economics quiz before class.

Zoe (to Jessica): Jess, you know that your timing kinda sucks, right?

Colin (to Jessica): Oh God... Jess. Um, yeah. Of course. Just, uh, give us a minute, OK? Zoe needs to tell me something...

Jessica (to Colin & Zoe): Oh, come on, she can tell you after school. You don't mind, do you, Zoe? I really need to pass this quiz or my parents aren't going to let me do another production this year.

Colin (to Jessica): Jess! I mind. You will pass this quiz. Calm down. Give me two minutes, OK? You won't pass or fail based on two minutes.

Jessica (to Colin): Okay, okay. Sheesh.

Zoe (to Colin): Wow. Talk about performance anxiety... Now, I'm nervous.

Colin (to Zoe): Don't worry about it. Heh. We can always be rebels tomorrow. ;-) Besides, it's not the worst thing in the world to keep Jess waiting. She can be more than a little bull-headed.

Zoe (to Colin): Heehee, only a little? I think I know bulls who are more easy going than she is. :-P Well, then rebellion tomorrow... I'll put it on my calendar... That's being rebellious, right?

Colin (to Zoe): And dangerous! We're such rebels we PLAN our rebellions. We bring punch and cookies. Someone could choke! Give me a kiss before I go and try to bash economics into Jess's brain.

Zoe (to Colin): Okay... Good luck.

Colin (to Zoe): I may need it. Love you!

Zoe (to Colin): Oh! I love you, too!

An hour or so later, at the Old Piedmont Inn, West Piedmont:

Ariadne (to Fiona): Dude! You scared me half to death! Why are you hanging around out here in the hallway?

Fiona (to Ariadne): Shhhh shhh shhh. Wait a moment for it... (to Winchester) THERE you are you great skulking brute! What business could you possibly have in the lady's wing, Chess?

Winchester (to Fiona & Ariadne): Bloody hell, Fiona! ... If you must know I was visiting Miss Genevieve & helping her hang drapery.

Ariadne (to Fiona & Winchester): Hanging drapery? Is that what they're calling it these days?

Fiona (to Winchester): God's balls! If you two are going to shag, just say it plain! Don't dodge down the hall like a sneak. And stop moving my lovely little alarms, you toll-toine.

Winchester (to Fiona): Heh. Flattery will get you everywhere, you fiery woman! I assure you, Fiona, I have no desire to shag Genevieve... Besides, she's currently in a tryst with Daniel.

Ariadne (to Fiona & Winchester): Oh god... Awkward. Is this your version of flirting? Because, it's really making me uncomfortable. I think I should really go organize something.

Fiona (to Ariadne): Ha! I'd snap him in half like a twig topped with fox fluff.

Winchester (to Fiona): But, it would be sooo fun to let you.

Fiona (to Ariadne): Don't go all awkward, Doctor. Chess is about as interested in me as he is the draperies. Aren't you, lovely? He likes his ladies as powdered and delicate as he. :-P

Winchester (to Fiona): ... Normally, I would say yes, absolutely. But, you do intrigue me, firebug.

Fiona (to Winchester): Don't tease, blaigeard. Or I'll pick you up, carry you off, and expect you to make good on your boasting.

Winchester (to Fiona): I love it when you talk all brutish to me. ;-P

Ariadne (to Fiona & Winchester): Okay, yeah... I'm totally going to go, now... And, possibly drink a bottle of wine to forget all of this. Heehee... You two have fun with your weird game of Hot Pursuit.

Fiona (to Ariadne): Enjoy your bottle, Doctor. (to Winchester) As opposed to my usual dulcet tones, no doubt. Speak plain, lad. What ARE you playing at with me? It isn't nice to dangle steak in front of a starving dog.

Winchester (to Fiona): Oh... I thought I was speaking plainly. I want to take you out, Fiona.

Fiona (to Winchester): You want to WHAT?! Oh, you're welcome to try, dandy lad, but bigger men than you have attempted it and... Oh. You weren't meaning to murder me then, I take it?

Winchester (to Fiona): No, you bloody idiot! On a date. You know, to have dinner. Possibly a little dancing, a little drinking?

Fiona (to Winchester): What? Dancing? Ha ha ha! ME? I've never gone dancing in my life! If you want to get in my knickers, lad, you could just ask.

Winchester (to Fiona): Oh well... I didn't want to be gauche.

Fiona (to Winchester): Ha ha ha! Oh yes. You might offend my delicate sensibilities. Come on! We can have ourselves a fuck in my quarters. Then if you still want your dinner and drinking afterwards, I'd be game. Provided you can still use your legs, that is. If you try to get me to get me to do something as foolish as dancing, though, Lord help you, I will put a dagger in your eye.

Winchester (to Fiona): ... Fair enough.

A couple hours later, on the Wicked Sister, somewhere over the Atlantic Ocean:

Yukiko (to Victor): Victor! What on earth did you say to those guys to get them to shoot at us!?!

Victor (to Yukiko): Something insulting, I'd imagine.

Yukiko (to Victor): ... Really? That's all you have to say?

Victor (to Yukiko): At the moment. Honestly, I have no idea! I mean, I know pirates are touchy, but... Oh! OH! I'm a bloody idiot.

Yukiko (to Victor): What is it?

Victor (to Yukiko): That wasn't Miss Druitt's usual dock crew. I should have realized... Between the trigger happy dock crew and that mercenary schooner last week, I think someone put a bloody price on us.

Yukiko (to Victor): Who would do such-- Oh... Wait... There was an article in that British paper I picked up this morning... Here it is... The Empress stated that the threat has been neutralized & that CLANNG is to leave the empire immediately, after a recent raid went awry. The entire battalion & the rebel organization known as 'Free Britannia' were in a massive explosion. There were no survivors. At the behest of the Empress, Parliament has had no choice but to consider the job done.

Victor (to Yukiko): Well, I'm sure that would give more than a couple a reason to want revenge on the family. Heh. Sounds like Mom's plan worked. We'll have to vary our deliveries and routines for a while, but I think we'll be more than alright.

Yukiko (to Victor): Yes, it does. Do you want to head to New London & check in on your cousin?

Victor (to Yukiko): Heh. And you know I'd like very much to check in on Seph. We can get dinner while we're there as well.

Yukiko (to Victor): I didn't really think you'd mind... And, a dinner that neither of us has to make sounds absolutely wonderful.

Victor (to Yukiko): We should be at the inn shortly.

Yukiko (to Victor): Wonderful... Are you okay, Victor?

Victor (to Yukiko): I'm fine. They missed us both when they started shooting. They DID miss you, didn't they?

Yukiko (to Victor): Yes, I'm fine. No holes or missing limbs. I promise.

Victor (to Yukiko): Oh thank heavens! I was a bit worried.

Yukiko (to Victor): You're very sweet... Let's get all safely docked and go see your cousin.

Victor (to Yukiko): Heh. I'm glad you think so. Here we go.

A couple hours later, at the Longfellow's Inn, New London, Britannia:

Victor (to Charles): Hello Charles! Could you go fetch Miss Longfellow and let her know that we were hoping for a nice dinner?

Charles (to Victor & Yukiko): Good afternoon, sir, miss. Miss Persephone asked me to come out and greet you.

Victor (to Charles): Thank you, Mr. Turner. We appreciate the hospitality.

Yukiko (to Charles): It's nice to finally meet you, Charles. I've heard a lot about you.

Charles (to Yukiko): The pleasure is mine, miss Kobayashi. I do hope the reports about me have been kind.

Yukiko (to Charles): Yes indeed, nothing but good words were spoken, my young gentleman.

Charles (to Yukiko): I'm very pleased to hear it. (to Victor & Yukiko) I shall go let Miss Persephone know about your dinner request.

Victor (to Yukiko): Hee hee. He's even more well mannered and stuffier than Mom said he was.

Charles (to Victor): Hush... I think he's sweet.

A short time later, in the kitchen:

Victor (to Persephone): Seph! How are you? Have any the CLANNG operatives lingered, or did Mr. Turner chase them all away? ;-)

Persephone (to Victor): Oh my god, Victor, you're alive! I was so worried when I heard the news! Get over here & give me a hug!

Victor (to Persephone): Ouch! Heh. I won't be for long if you keep hugging me like that. Everyone is alive and well despite reports to the contrary.

Persephone (to Victor): Oh... So, that's what Aunt Poppy meant. I'm so relieved. Are you hungry? We're having a roast, veggies & Yorkshire pudding.

Victor (to Persephone): I'm STARVING. Yoyo and I have been fairing for ourselves for the past couple of weeks. I never realized how spoiled I was.

Persephone (to Victor): Heehee, well go sit down & I'll get some plates for you two.

Victor (to Persephone): Um, there's something else I wanted to ask you.

Persephone (to Victor): Of course, Victor, what is it? 

Victor (to Persephone): I was going to ask Yoyo to marry me tonight. Formally. You don't think she would murder me for doing it in public, do you? Because she could, you know. Kill me in my sleep.

Persephone (to Victor): Oh my god! That's so moo, Victor! Let me make sure we have some champagne on hand. (to Charles) Charles! (to Victor) I don't think she'd murder you in your sleep, that doesn't seem her style. :-p

Victor (to Persephone): Let's hope you're right, or those rumors of my death will all become suddenly true.

Charles (to Persephone): What can I do for you, Miss Persephone?

Persephone (to Charles): Please check the icebox for some champagne. (to Victor) I'm so excited for you, Victor. Are you nervous about asking her? I mean, of course she's going to say yes. I see the way you look at each other.

Victor (to Persephone): I AM nervous. Which is silly, I know. I mean, we've already discussed it, so why the bloody hell am I so anxious?

Charles (to Persephone): It looks like we have two bottles. Shall I put one on ice?

Persephone (to Charles): Yes, please. And, could you do place settings on the slightly private corner table? My cousin may prefer the seclusion for the task at hand. (to Victor) Because, it's still a big step & it's the woman you love. If you weren't nervous, I'd tell you not to do it.

Charles (to Persephone): Yes, ma'am!

Victor (to Persephone): Heh. Thank you for your help. I knew you'd help me make it nice. Also, I knew you'd want to be involved you nosy parker!

Persephone (to Victor): Oh my god, think of the gaggle of young ladies that will be heart-broken that you're off the market. Are you really sure you want to propose to Yoyo? :-p

Victor (to Persephone): Heh. Somehow, I think they'll all survive their broken hearts...

Persephone (to Victor): Heehee, well I can't wait to rub it in the face of that Mabel Sanderson. She was going on about her fiancé & how he's sooo much a better catch than you. And, how the worst thing you ever did was kick her to the curb. The nerve of her! Strangely, I couldn't even remember you dating her...

Victor (to Persephone): Mabel Sanderson was the one who thought my name was Valentine for the first 3 hours of our date.

Persephone (to Victor): Oooh, and she kept making a joke about being her Valentine, if memory serves. Heehee.

Victor (to Persephone): I think she's just put out because I didn't find her as witty and charming as she found herself.

Persephone (to Victor): Well really, my dear Valentine, I can hardly blame her. :-p

Victor (to Persephone): Ha ha ha. You are hilarious. How are Aunt Molly and the baby. Did the boys convince her to make her Puppy?

Persephone (to Victor): I believe Penelope won out. However, the boys insist on calling her Puppy, so the poor girl may have a very unfortunate nickname for the rest of her life.

Victor (to Persephone): Hee hee. Well, if she's anything like you, she'll give them grief that's more than equal in return.

Persephone (to Victor): We can only hope. Now, go & see to your young lady before some other lad sweeps her off her feet. I'll have Charles bring your dinner out. When the champagne & dessert arrives that's when you should pop the question.

Victor (to Persephone): Good idea. Thanks, Seph!

Persephone (to Victor): You are so very welcome!

Meanwhile, out in the dining room:

Yukiko (to Charles): Charles? Are Victor & Persephone still gossiping in the kitchen? I hope I'm not too overdressed, this is was the only thing I could find appropriate to wear to dinner on the ship.

Charles (to Yukiko): You look very fetching, Miss Kobayashi. I don't think Mr. Potter will have any objections. May I show you to the table, miss?

Yukiko (to Charles): Oh yes, thank you.

Charles (to Yukiko): I'm sure he and Miss Persephone will finish up their, um, discussion shortly.

Yukiko (to Charles): Will you keep me company while they do or are you too busy?

Charles (to Yukiko): Oh. Of course, miss. If you want.

Yukiko (to Charles): I would like it very much, Charles. Please, have a seat.

Charles (to Yukiko): I--I don't think I should do that, Miss Kobayashi. I work in the kitchen. It wouldn't be proper.

Yukiko (to Charles): Oh. Well, I would hate for you to do something improper just to keep a silly girl from feeling lonely. I'm sorry for asking, Charles, please don't let me keep you.

Charles (to Yukiko): I... A gentleman would strive not to cause you any distress, miss, but I shouldn't do anything unseemly in my place of employment. I can go see if your young man is done with his conversation, and send him out to you. Is that satisfactory?

Yukiko (to Charles): That would be very nice of you, Charles.

Charles (to Yukiko): Yes, miss.

Victor (to Yukiko): I am SO sorry to keep you waiting, Yoyo. (to Charles) Thank you for keeping her company, Mr. Turner. (to Yukiko) You look... Wow. You look beautiful.

Yukiko (to Victor): Thank you, Victor. It's not too overdressed for the inn, is it? It was the only dinner wear I could find onboard. I didn't really pack a lot of that sort of thing.

Victor (to Yukiko): No. I don't think you seem overdressed in the slightest. I mean, it's no greasy coveralls, but it'll do. Besides, I run cargo in a three piece suit. I'm not one to judge, am I? :-P

Yukiko (to Victor): Heh. I can always go put on my greasy coveralls if you'd like me to. ;-)

Victor (to Yukiko): Heh heh. Don't tease!

Yukiko (to Victor): Heehee, I'm beginning to think that you like me better in the greasy coveralls than in my normal 'pirate' clothes.

Victor (to Yukiko): Heh. I like you in whatever you're wearing, honestly, but I'll admit there's something VERY intriguing about a woman who will rebuild an engine with me. Oh. Not that I wasn't intrigued from the moment I met you! Hopelessly.

Yukiko (to Victor): Heh. I guess I should be grateful that your mother didn't send me off to be a librarian, then. :-p

Charles (to Yukiko & Victor): Mr. Potter? Ms. Kobayashi? Please pardon the interruption, and I hope you don't mind the impertinence, but I chose a wine I thought would pair well with the meal. Please tell me if you would like something else.

Yukiko (to Charles): Oh, thank you, Charles.

Victor (to Charles & Yukiko): Thank you, Mr. Turner! I'm sure this will be excellent. I appreciate it.

Yukiko (to Victor): So, Victor, what are we REALLY doing here?

Victor (to Yukiko): Um, having dinner. Why?

Yukiko (to Victor): Yes, and it's delicious... Maybe, it's just my paranoia but I can't help shake the feeling there's something you're not telling me.

Victor (to Yukiko): Um, I might have wanted to make tonight a little bit special. I know you said you didn't want to do anything special for your birthday, but... I love you, and I just wanted to show you how happy I am that you're a part of my life. Your birthday makes me want to celebrate, even if it doesn't make you want to do the same.

Yukiko (to Victor): I don't know what to say, Victor... That's very kind of you.

Victor (to Yukiko): Heh. No it's not. I love you. Wanting to express that in silly, ridiculous ways is part of that. It's the least I could do.

Yukiko (to Victor): You are a wonderful & I love you.

Victor (to Yukiko): Um, just keep reminding yourself of that.

Yukiko (to Victor): Why? Are you about to do something horrible?

Charles (to Yukiko & Victor): Excuse me. If you're done with your plates, I'll get those out of the way. Desert will be out shortly.

Yukiko (to Charles): Thank you, Charles. If I could get another glass of wine I'd appreciate it.

Charles (to Yukiko): Of course, miss. There is a bottle of champagne coming with desert if you'd like to wait.

Yukiko (to Charles): Oh...

Charles (to Yukiko & Victor): Here you are, Mr. Potter, Ms. Kobayashi. Please let me know if you need anything else.

Yukiko (to Victor & Charles): Thank you. This looks delicious. (to Victor) Persephone has really outdone herself. This is by far my best birthday ever.

Victor (to Yukiko): I'm really glad to hear you say that. Um, without a doubt, you are the most amazing, wonderful woman I have ever had the good fortune of knowing. Yukiko, I am hopelessly in love with you, and if you'd consent to be my wife, I'd count myself the most fortunate man in any and ALL realities. ... Will you marry me?

Yukiko (to Victor): Oh... OH... Yes, of course... I'm sorry. You took me completely off-guard.

Victor (to Yukiko): Really?! Oh, excellent!

Yukiko (to Victor): You are fantastic. And, I look forward to spending my life with you.

Victor (to Yukiko): I am SOOOOO glad to hear you say that.

Yukiko (to Victor): And, I'd really like to show you just how much I appreciate my birthday gift.;-)

Victor (to Yukiko): Oh! Heh. I'd REALLY like that, but I think we might have to wade through more than a few family members congratulating us.

Yukiko (to Victor): Oh, wow. You're right... Should we go tell your parents?

Victor (to Yukiko): We should in a bit. 

Persephone (to Victor & Yukiko): So, is congratulations in order or should I break out the handkerchiefs?

Victor (to Persephone & Yukiko): Heh. We're drinking the champagne, Seph. Not throwing it.

Persephone (to Victor & Yukiko): Oh good! I'm so happy for you two!

Yukiko (to Victor & Persephone): Oh, so we're hugging now...

Victor (to Persephone & Yukiko): Thanks. And thank you SO MUCH for your help tonight, Seph.

Persephone (to Victor & Yukiko): It was my pleasure. Now, take Yoyo out the side door before Mam & Da get down here. :-)

Victor (to Persephone): You, madam, are one of the smartest ladies I know. (to Yukiko) Ready to make our escape?

Persephone (to Victor & Yukiko): Yes, yes... Go on get out of here!

Yukiko (to Victor): Yes, very much.

Victor (to Persephone): Thanks, Seph! Give our regards to the parental figures. We'll be sociable tomorrow.

A few moments later, outside the inn:

Victor (to Yukiko): So, um, you're not angry with me?

Yukiko (to Victor): Why would I be angry with you? You just made me extremely happy, Victor.

Victor (to Yukiko): Heh. Sorry. I thought maybe I embarrassed you with the whole "public declaration of love." I, um, I wanted to make it special.

Yukiko (to Victor): Right now? I'd strip down & make love to you in the middle of a crowded park. ;-p

Victor (to Yukiko): Oh. Um... WOW. I have NOTHING to say to that. Except, let's get the fuck back to the ship.

Yukiko (to Victor): Oh yes... 

A moment later, on the Wicked Sister:

Yukiko (to Victor): Here, hold this... And this... Oh, and maybe, this...

Victor (to Yukiko): With pleasure. You know, as gorgeous and beautiful as you looked tonight, I have to say, I like the current turn of events SO much better.

Yukiko (to Victor): Heehee... I think I'm going to steal your tie. Because it's a somewhat formal occasion.

Victor (to Yukiko): You can take whatever the fuck you want...

Yukiko (to Victor): You're kinda sexy when you're all swearing & slightly undressed...

Victor (to Yukiko): Only kinda sexy? I'll have to try fucking harder then

An hour or so later, at the Old Piedmont Inn, West Piedmont:

Fiona (to Winchester): So, still up for dinner and drinking, lad, or should I give you a few more hours to recoup?

Winchester (to Fiona): I think I could go another round or three, Fiona my girl. But, I would very much like to forego the eye stabbing.

Fiona (to Winchester): Well, if you want to be dull about it all... Heh. Seriously, Fox, if it's all a bit too much, now is the time to speak up.

Winchester (to Fiona): Oh? Did I bore you, firebug?

Fiona (to Winchester): Bore me? Ha ha ha! Oh, oh my word, lad. You are precious. If I were bored, believe you me, you would KNOW.

Winchester (to Fiona): You'd rather be all sweaty & naughty with Wilkes, right? Otherwise, I don't understand why you'd want to upset me... Unless, that's what you're into. Are you into that sort of thing?

Fiona (to Winchester): What on earth are you blathering on about, Chess? Are you... God's gonad's, Chess. Are you jealous of Wilkes?

Winchester (to Fiona): You've been mooning after Aiden for years, firebug. It's tough to compete with the right honorable Lord Wilkes... I'm a fraud, I grew up in The Tombs about a stones throw from the brothel where my mother conceived me. I may appear all puffed up & powdered but it's an act. You are a fantastic woman and you make me exceedingly tongue-tied.

Fiona (to Winchester): Well... I don't know what to say to that, Chess. I had no idea you were carrying any kind of a torch for the likes of me. Plainly, do you want to know why I tormented Wilkes so? Sure, he's a nice auld crumpet, but he's about as interested in me as a snake in an icebox. I don't have the right equipment, for one. To tell you true, the largest reason I flirted with our little lord is because it flustered him so bloody much. Come on, Chess! You can't tell me you see someone THAT uptight, and you're not filled with an overwhelming desire to shake up his safe ickle status quo.

Winchester (to Fiona): It's true, I do enjoy tormenting the little puffed up lord... So, you interested in going another round or have you lost interest due to my fanciful jealous outburst, you red hot minx?

Fiona (to Winchester): Heh. I can honestly say that I've never had a bloke get fired up because he was jealous of where my affections might lie. I'd say I'm more intrigued than before, if anything, lovely.

Winchester (to Fiona): Well then, I have a few things I'd like to show you.

Fiona (to Winchester): REALLY? Do go on.

Winchester (to Fiona): You'll have to come a little closer, firebug.

Ariadne (to Fiona): Fiona, I need to get that-- (to Winchester & Fiona) OH, damn... I'm just going to go now. High fives all around!

Fiona (to Ariadne & Winchester): Ha ha ha! God almighty! That kind of cockblocking takes talent, Doc. What do you need? May as well tell me.

Ariadne (to Fiona): Oh, I need that wrench we were using for the radiators. (to Winchester) Dude, could you put on a shirt, please?

Winchester (to Ariadne): Oh, am I making you uncomfortable?

Ariadne (to Winchester): Not at all. I just thought Fiona had better taste.

Fiona (to Ariadne): Ooch. Now there's a comment made to sting. I believe the wrench is in the galley.

Ariadne (to Fiona): Oh, thanks... Sorry about the interruption.

Fiona (to Ariadne): No worries, Doctor. I think I can figure out what we were up to before the visit. (to Winchester) Something tells me, Hari isn't your biggest fan, boyo. What did you do?

Winchester (to Fiona): I may have threatened her slightly the last time I had a doctor's visit... Or I propositioned her. I'm not quite sure which it was. I was a bit delirious.

Fiona (to Winchester): Ha ha ha! Well, you'd better work out which is was and make a proper apology tout suite. If there's one bloody bastard you want on your side, it's the person who's going to stitch you up.

Winchester (to Fiona):  I will... However, I am much more interested in the person who's at my side right at this very moment.

Fiona (to Winchester): Heh. Well, allow me to properly pique your interest, then.

Winchester (to Fiona): … You are a sexy minx.

Fiona (to Winchester): Heh. Damn straight I am, lad. I may not be pretty or delicate, but I am something else all together in between the sheets.

Winchester (to Fiona): When you put it like that how can I resist? ... I am your humble servant, my fiery pet.

Fiona (to Winchester): Well now... A girl could get used to this kind of talk.

Back in the Future, Day 40

At Poppy & Vincent's apartment, West Piedmont:

Zoe: Damn it! Where the fuck are my smokes!?! ... Oh, there you are. For a minute, I was worried that Mom had grabbed them.

An hour or so later:

Zoe (to Vincent): Good morning... Vinc-- Dad. Is that coffee I smell?

Vincent (to Zoe): It is indeed, hun. Let me get you a cup. Soooooo... How did your date go last night?

Zoe (to Vincent): Oh, um, it was okay.

Vincent (to Zoe): Oh? Is that a good OK, or bad OK?

Zoe (to Vincent): I'm not really sure, to be honest. He's handsome, smart, funny & seems to really like me... But, I just can't understand why he would be interested in me. I mean, I clearly have issues, I'm awkward and have only been living on this side for a few months, not to mention my frame of cultural references are all about twenty years out of date... I'm just suspicious of the whole thing.

Vincent (to Zoe): Oh sweetie! Come here. You are over-thinking this whole thing. Of course he has good reasons to be interested in you. You're funny, cute and interesting yourself, you know. Just relax and enjoy yourself. Weren't you the one giving your cousin a hard time about this very thing?

Zoe (to Vincent): Yes, I know... I think it's referred to as irony. :-P

Vincent (to Zoe): Hee hee. Or being a teenager.

Zoe (to Vincent): Probably... I have memories of doing this all before & I'm trying so hard to not do the same stupid things that Mouse did when she was my age, but it's like I can't help it... These dumba-- dumb things are apparently part of who I am. No wonder I was considered defective by Maladori.

Vincent (to Zoe): Sweetie, you're not defective in the slightest, and I don't want you thinking that about yourself at all. You may have all these memories, but you haven't LIVED any of those experiences. It's the difference between reading something in a book, and actually doing it. You and my sister may share a lot, but you're not the same people. Hee hee. Plus, you've got all those hormones knocking around in your unformed teenage brain. It makes you youngsters a little nuts.

Zoe (to Vincent): I'll say it does... Do you think Colin will ask me out again?

Vincent (to Zoe): Do you want him to?

Zoe (to Vincent): Oh god, YES! I mean, yes I would like that...

Vincent (to Zoe): Ha ha. Well, then if he has a brain in that cute little head of his, he will. If not, ask him out yourself. ;-)

Zoe (to Vincent): Heh. Oh, right... I forgot that I could do that.

Vincent (to Zoe): You can, and more than that, I think you should. I don't think he'll mind at all.

Zoe (to Vincent): Heehee, I may do that... How long should I wait?

Vincent (to Zoe): Heh. I'm afraid I don't have much experience with dating, hun. Or patience for that matter. I'm sure there's some "standard length of time" you're supposed to wait, but if it were me, I'd call today, tell him I had a good time, and ask if he wanted to do it again.

Zoe (to Vincent): Oh, okay... I just might do that. Thank you!

Vincent (to Zoe): Heh. Maybe you'd better run it by your mother, first. I really shouldn't encourage you to act like me in any way or form.

Zoe (to Vincent): Heehee, that's probably a good idea. Is she awake now?

Vincent (to Zoe): I'm not sure. If you're going to check, take this and this. The missus will look much more kindly upon you waking her up if you come bearing coffee and a scone.

Zoe (to Vincent): Oh, right... Thanks.

A moment later:

Zoe (to Poppy): Mom? ... Are you awake? ... I brought you coffee & a scone.

Poppy (to Zoe): It's okay, honey, I was just sitting here, reading... I was hoping your father would send me breakfast in bed. I was feeling lazy. :-P

Zoe (to Poppy): Oh... I can come back later, if you want me to go get him or something.

Poppy (to Zoe): Heehee, no I'm fine. He'll find his way back here eventually, sweetie. So, what's going on? What's happening? You look like you want to ask me something.

Zoe (to Poppy): Oh yeah... I was just trying to figure out if I should call Colin back or wait for him to call me. Dad said I should ask you.

Poppy (to Zoe): Oh, he did, did he? Typical... Honey, go with your gut. If you like him, just call. Don't be one of those insipid girls that waits for someone else to make decisions for them. You'll never get what you want that way. Besides, the worse that could happen is he simply says he's not interested, which is highly unlikely. You're a catch. Ok?

Zoe (to Poppy): Oh... I am?

Poppy (to Zoe): Yes, honey, if you stopped dressing like an extra in a cheesy vampire movie, you'd be able to see that, too... I'm not saying change your wardrobe. Just go a little lighter on the eyeliner. You're a pretty girl, but you keep making yourself look like an angry raccoon.

Zoe (to Poppy): Heehee, an angry raccoon... I'll keep that in mind. Thank you. I'll leave you to your breakfast.

At the Longfellow Inn, West Piedmont:

Persephone: Victor? ... Can you hear me? Please, respond… Well, grunt...

Aiden (to Persephone): Any luck getting a hold of Victor?

Persephone (to Aiden): No, not at all... Do you think you can take me over to see him, darling?

Aiden (to Persephone): Oh... Yes, of course. You know, I'd do anything for you. 

Persephone (to Aiden): Wonderful! This is something I'd like to tell him face to face, anyway... Oh, and we'll need to see Mars & Yoyo, too!

Aiden (to Persephone): If you'd like we can make a trip of it. I have some leave that I've never used.

Persephone (to Aiden): You are phenomenal... I'll go pack, right now.

A couple hours later, at Poppy & Vincent's apartment, West Piedmont:

Zoe (to Nathaniel): Good morning, Mister Sunshine! You're looking especially handsome, today. Is that a new t-shirt? The color looks nice on you.

Nathaniel (to Zoe): What? What the hell are you talking about? You're in a good damn mood.

Zoe (to Nathaniel): Yes, yes I am. I just got off the phone with Colin... and, he'd like to see me again.

Nathaniel (to Zoe): Oh yeah? Heh. I told you. You were worrying about being boring for nothing.

Zoe (to Nathaniel): Yeah, yeah... You were right. Thank you for talking me into going out with him for coffee. I don't think I would have done it, otherwise.

Nathaniel (to Zoe): You're welcome. I'm glad it went well. Although, if I knew it was going to make you grin like a maniac, like that, I might have rethought it. And before you ask... Yes. I'm kidding.

Zoe (to Nathaniel): Heehee... So, are you okay? You seem a little mopier than usual, which is saying a lot, Count Gloomenstein.

Nathaniel (to Zoe): Count Gloomenstein? You're the one who dresses like she's auditioning for a Hammer Film, not me. :-P I'm fine. I'm just a bit annoyed with myself, and... Shit. Honestly, I've been trying to give you space.

Zoe (to Nathaniel): Space? I don't need no stinkin' space... Seriously, you can tell me... I know, you're pining for me now that I have someone else to crush on... It's okay, I understand, I'm just that fucking wonderful... I'm kidding. Don't make that face at me. So, why are you annoyed at yourself?

Nathaniel (to Zoe): Yes. I'm mourning the love that will now never be. I was trying to keep us from getting all weird & codependent, you dick. It's nothing. I'm still all hung up on my ex, clearly, and I'm a bit more fucked up than I'd like.

Zoe (to Nathaniel): Honestly, what the hell is so special about that guy, Nate? He didn't care that you had taken off or that you were okay... Seems to me that there's no reason to be hung up on him. Was his dick made of gold or something? Under all that grump, mouthiness & despite your best efforts, you're a good guy... You deserve to have a nice relationship with someone... And yes, we are a little co-dependent on each other, but I think we both kinda needed that kind of support. Look, at what has happened to us both since we met... I know, I couldn't have done all of this without you.

Nathaniel (to Zoe): Yes, his dick was made of gold and shot diamonds. :-P Look, I know it's stupid to be pining after the a guy who dumped me for not... Well, cause I was a little fucked up just cause he was nice to me. But, it was... It's hard to explain.

Zoe (to Nathaniel): Because, it was nice to have someone like you and make you feel worthwhile? Even, if you knew it was a lie & it wouldn't last... Nope, don't know anything about that.

Nathaniel (to Zoe): Yeah. Yeah, it was. Besides, it wasn't like I was much fun to "date." We couldn't actually go anywhere, because I couldn't let anyone know I was with a guy, and it wasn't like we were having sex... Wait. What was that last bit?

Zoe (to Nathaniel): What last bit? ... I was just empathizing. We were talking about you.

Nathaniel (to Zoe): Alright. If you say so... Anyway, yeah. Like I said, I'm annoyed with myself and I don't know what to do about it.

Zoe (to Nathaniel): Well, if you didn't really go on dates & you weren't fooling around... what exactly do you miss about him?

Nathaniel (to Zoe): Hey now. It wasn't THAT boring. I didn't say that we weren't fooling around. We just weren't having sex, you know?

Zoe (to Nathaniel): Yeah well, according to you, if someone doesn't want to have sex with you, what's the fucking point?

Nathaniel (to Zoe): Yeah, well, that's kinda the conclusion he came to, isn't it? That's not entirely fair. He was pissed off about me chatting to all those guys online too. He thought there was more to it than there actually was.

Zoe (to Nathaniel): ... So, why didn't you offer to quit, if you liked him so much? Don't look at me like that... I'm just trying to help. You clearly need to talk this stuff out.

Nathaniel (to Zoe): Honestly? I was kinda pissed he didn't believe me when I told him it was nothing. I mean, I get it that it's kinda sketchy... But I wasn't prostituting myself or anything, and... I don't know. In case you haven't noticed this about me, I'm kinda a contrary dick. And I kinda resented being accused of putting out on the internet for strangers and not my boyfriend. I handled it like an ass. I'll admit it.

Zoe (to Nathaniel): Well then, why don't tell him all of that?

Nathaniel (to Zoe): I could. I could get him back if I wanted to... But I'm not. I pretended to be a lot more together than I was. I was full of bullshit when we were together. It wasn't healthy for me, and it wasn't fair to him.

Zoe (to Nathaniel): Well then, you're doing the right thing by not trying to get him back. So, why are you moping and punishing yourself? Or are you into that sort of thing?

Nathaniel (to Zoe): Yes. I'm hoping for a big, broad leather daddy to take me away.

Zoe (to Nathaniel): It figures... you perv.

Nathaniel (to Zoe): Yep. That was what broke Tim and I up. He wasn't kinky enough.

Zoe (to Nathaniel): I'm just trying to help... You can continue to be all mopey if you want.

Nathaniel (to Zoe): No, no. Don't do that. It's fine, and I appreciate it. I really do. And, I'm not trying to mope.

An hour or two later:

Poppy (to Persephone): Persephone honey, what on earth are you doing here? (to Persephone & Aiden) ... With Aiden? Is everything alright at the inn?

Aiden (to Poppy): Miss Poppy, you're looking as lovely, as usual.

Poppy (to Aiden): Flattery will get you nowhere, Aiden... (to Persephone & Aiden) Come in and have a seat, I'll go get some tea made.

Persephone (to Poppy): Everything is fine, Aunt Poppy... Mam is getting as big as house. Da has finally finished the addition on the Inn, thanks to help from Percy & Aid-- Mister Wilkes, here. I just missed all of you terribly.

Poppy (to Persephone): Well, I'm glad to hear that everything is alright at the old homestead. Honey, would you please come and give me a hand?

Persephone (to Poppy): Yes, ma'am. (to Aiden) We'll be right back.

Aiden (to Persephone): As you wish.

Poppy (to Persephone): So, honey... what's going on? Really?

Persephone (to Poppy): ... Why would you think there's anything going on?

Poppy (to Persephone): Because, I'm not an idiot, honey. You & Aiden wouldn't risk crossing over here for no reason. And, judging by the new ring you're sporting, I'm guessing this is a personal visit. So, are you engaged or did you two simply elope?

Persephone (to Poppy): ... Fine. You win. I should have known better than to try & be sneaky around you. We're just engaged... It's a long story but we're in love... and, he's getting sent on an important mission to the colonies & asked me to go with him.

Poppy (to Persephone): Oh, honey... I won't lie. I'm both happy & concerned for you.

Persephone (to Poppy): Thank you... Here, I'll grab the tray.

Aiden (to Poppy): So, judging by the look on your face, Miss Poppy. Persephone told you?

Poppy (to Aiden): Yes, she did... And, if this is some kind of trick or part of a mission, honey, I swear there won't be a place to hide where I won't find you, if you hurt my niece. Do you understand, Aiden?

Persephone (to Poppy): Aunt Poppy, really!?!

Aiden (to Poppy): I completely understand.

A few minutes later:

Victor: Hello? Mom?! I'm... (to Aiden) Oh. Hello, Aiden. What are you doing here?

Aiden (to Victor): Hello, Victor. It's nice to see you again. I brought Miss Longfellow here to visit you. She's in the kitchen with your mother getting the tea.

Victor (to Aiden): If you say so. Can I get you anything?

Aiden (to Victor): As a matter of fact, there is something... It's a bit of a request.

Victor (to Aiden): Oh? What's that?

Aiden (to Victor): I think I should wait until Seph-- I mean, Miss Longfellow tells you why we're here.

Persephone (to Aiden): Shhhh! Let me tell him. I don't want you to spoil the surprise. (to Victor) Victor, I'm... We're engaged.

Victor (to Persephone): You're what? (to Aiden) You're WHAT?

Persephone (to Victor): Aiden & I are getting married.

Victor (to Aiden & Persephone): When did that... I mean, how long have you two been dating?

Aiden (to Victor & Persephone): I'll step out onto the balcony & give you two some privacy.

Persephone (to Victor): It's been a few months... Aiden proposed when he found out he was being sent to the colonies on a mission next month. (to Aiden) Thank you, darling. Though, feel free to come back at any point. Victor & I have got a lot of catching up to do.

Victor (to Aiden): Thank you. (to Persephone) Seph, are you sure about this?

Persephone (to Victor): Yes, I'm positive, Victor. He treats me well, he respects my opinion & he's interesting. I'm never bored when I'm with him. I'm in love with him & in his own way he loves me.

Victor (to Persephone): "In his own way..." Seph, you don't have to settle for someone who loves you "in his own way." That's just... It's insane!

Persephone (to Victor): That's not what I meant & you know it! He just has a hard time expressing himself sometimes, but he loves me... I thought you would be happy for me. I wanted to tell you face to face, but it was clearly a mistake to come here.

Victor (to Persephone): I'm sorry, Seph! I really am. I just... I don't trust Aiden, and I worry about you. And, I worry about you being with anyone that isn't simply mad about you. Did... Did he tell you he works for the Imperial Guard?

Persephone (to Victor): You don't have to worry about me, Victor. Honest. I was so happy and excited about telling you. I didn't expect you to be upset. And yes, he did. He is being sent to Colorado Springs by the Empress to be the new Imperial liaison to Tesla. Something happened to the old one. The Empress is concerned and wants him to investigate. He asked me to go with him. He said that I have a good brain for this sort of thing & he couldn't think of anyone he'd rather take with him.

Victor (to Persephone): I'm sorry. I didn't mean to ruin your moment, but you can't fault me for worrying about you. You're my best friend!

Persephone (to Victor): And before you say it, I know all about the kiss with Nate. He & I don't have any secrets from each other.

Victor (to Persephone): I wasn't going to say a word about it, honestly. Ever since I learned Aiden was Yoyo's handler, I just don't know what to think about him. If you're happy, I'm happy for you. If anyone can handle Aiden, you can! I suppose we aren't going to be seeing much of each other anymore, are we?

Persephone (to Victor): Well, you've been over here for months & I've missed you terribly. We were going to stay in town for a few days, so I could visit with you, if you want... CLANNG is still heavily entrenched in New London, but rumor has it that Carver has lost access to the device he was planning to use to secure his plans of "world domination", and has stopped his search for skippers. So, you guys could come back, if you wanted to... I think.

Victor (to Persephone): Um, well, it might be a bit dodgy for my parents... Good heavens, there is SO bloody much to tell you.

Persephone (to Victor): First off, give me a hug... I have missed you so much!

A few minutes later:

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Holy fucking shit! Jesus... Sorry. I wasn't expecting to find anyone out here. I'll, uh, I'll leave you to your whatever.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): I didn't mean to startle you, Nate. I was just standing out here giving Persephone & Victor some space. You don't have to go unless you'd rather… Or I could leave. I was just going to have a smoke myself, but I seem to have misplaced my lighter.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): No, you're alright. Here. I didn't know you smoked. Course, I don't suppose I know anything about you, do I?

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Thank you... No, I don't suppose you do. I'm not very good at talking about myself. Persephone is the only person that I have ever felt comfortable enough around before to openly share things with... Well, and apparently you. Hmmm, I'm not sure why that is...

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Me? Heh. The only personal thing I can think of that you told me is that stars bore you. You're here with Seph? Huh. I should probably head out after this cigarette, then. She's not my biggest fan.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): I think she'll be fine with you being here. She's much too excited about telling Victor about our engagement. It's all she's talked about for the last few days. I'm just glad we were able to crossover when we did.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): You... You're engaged? Holy shit! That's... Um. Wow. That's fucking screwy. Congratulations are in order, I guess. Uh, I didn't mean that in a nasty way, you know. That's just kinda out of left field from, um, this side. Were you having trouble crossing?

Aiden (to Nathaniel): We've been seeing each other for months back in Britannia. I'm being sent to the colonies & I didn't want to go without her. Crossing through official portals has been severally regulated, as of late. Luckily, I was able to get the right permission for us both to crossover. I can't say that I'll be sad to see the back of CLANNG when we get to the colonies.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Yeah. They sound like they more than kinda suck. Um, I should go. Good luck with the, uh, colonies and shit. Heh. I'm gonna make my escape. I'm guessing you must be crazy about Seph, cause you know if you ever fuck her over. This whole family will hurt you in horrible ways.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Yes, Miss Poppy made that abundantly clear... It was nice seeing you again, Nate.

A couple hours later, West Piedmont:

Marlena: Grrrr... Stupid bird sit fucking still. How am I supposed to sketch you if you won't stay still!?!

Nathaniel (to Marlena): I don't think shouting at it is gonna help.

Marlena (to Nathaniel): Well, no but it makes me feel fucking better about the whole damn thing... Heh. I wasn't sure if you were going to show up. Pull up a corner of blanket & have a seat.

Nathaniel (to Marlena): I got kinda held up. First Zoe wanted to know what was so awesome about my ex, and then Aiden was there with an engagement announcement. Here. This is for you. Don't make a face. It's nothing weird. I figured if I start yammering, you can duct tape my fucking mouth into silence.

Marlena (to Nathaniel): Heh... You hand me a roll of duct tape & tell me I can tape your mouth shut... and you don't think that's weird? Wow. You have a very liberal view of the word 'weird'.

Nathaniel (to Marlena): Yeah, well... I have been living with your aunt and uncle for a while. AND it was a fucking joke.

Marlena (to Nathaniel): I know, I'm just giving you a hard time... So, wanna talk about it or do you just want to sit here & be mud while I draw?

Nathaniel (to Marlena): I think I'm gonna be mud for a while if you don't mind. I'm sick of talking about myself. I don't know what to say anymore.

Marlena (to Nathaniel): Mud it is, then... Weird question. But would you mind if I sketch you? I've got to practice my figure drawing a little more.

Nathaniel (to Marlena): I guess not. I, uh... What do I do?

Marlena (to Nathaniel): You don't have to do anything special. I just don't like to sketch people without asking first. You know, in case I end up liking it & wanting to use it for something, they're not surprised.

Nathaniel (to Marlena): Knock yourself out.

Marlena (to Nathaniel): Thanks... I will.

A short time later:

Marlena (to Nathaniel): ... Here you go. My five minute sketch of you being mud.

Nathaniel (to Marlena): Goddamn, you can draw. Is that seriously what my hair looks like? Jesus...

Marlena (to Nathaniel): Yeah... Don't worry, I exaggerated it a little for emphasis & style. You only kinda look like an owl in a hedge.

Nathaniel (to Marlena): Oh good. Kinda like an owl was the look I was going for.

Marlena (to Nathaniel): Heh... Want something to drink? Don't worry, it's just lemonade.

Nathaniel (to Marlena): Yeah. Thanks. How has rooming with Yoyo been going? Or is it too early to tell yet?

Marlena (to Nathaniel): It's been good, so far... She's been a lot more open about talking about her past. And, she seems more relaxed than she used to be... I just thought it was her strict upbringing. Heh... Silly me.

Nathaniel (to Marlena): Seriously. How could you *not* suspect she was a British spy from an alternate reality? Man. So naive...

Marlena (to Nathaniel): Fuckin' rub it in, why don't ya? :-p

Nathaniel (to Marlena): Heh. I thought that's what I was doing.

Marlena (to Nathaniel): Heh... So, feeling any better?

Nathaniel (to Marlena): Yeah. I still don't know what I'm gonna do with myself, but I guess I don't have to figure it out right this second.

Marlena (to Nathaniel): You'll figure it out when you're ready.

Nathaniel (to Marlena): Yeah. Let's fucking hope so. I can barely stand myself. I can't imagine what it's like for other people. Pure awesome I bet.

Marlena (to Nathaniel): Heh... So, you said something about an engagement, who's getting hitched?

Nathaniel (to Marlena): Victor's cousin Persephone and that Aiden guy.

Marlena (to Nathaniel): What!?! That's fuckin' insane.

Nathaniel (to Marlena): That's what he told me. Said he was getting shipped to "the colonies" and didn't wanna go without her. She's gonna be at the apartment for a couple of days if you wanna talk to her.

Marlena (to Nathaniel): Oh, that's good to know. This is just fucking crazy... Seph's getting married & going to the colonies. God, I bet Victor is beside himself.

Nathaniel (to Marlena): Oh. Yeah. That's right. He mentioned he thought of her like a sister, cause of some crazy memory thing... I was kinda out of it when he was talking about it. Couldn't he just go visit her, though? I mean, he can kinda hop around.

Marlena (to Nathaniel): Yeah... He could. I just don't think he likes that Aiden character very much.

Nathaniel (to Marlena): Yeah... He's kinda hard to get a bead on. That's for fucking sure. I figure either he really likes Persephone, or he's suicidal. I mean, he *has* to know if he dicks her over, Aunt Poppy will gut him. Actually, he does know that. She already told him as much.

Marlena (to Nathaniel): Heh... Aunt Poppy takes family very seriously. I've heard the stories. Trust me, he must like her... Though, I thought he liked boys, at least, that's what I thought the brief moment I met him. Though, it might just be the whole British thing.

Nathaniel (to Marlena): Yeah. Me too. Course, I thought the same thing about Uncle Vincent... I was pretty fucking shocked when Aunt Poppy answered the door and introduced herself.

Marlena (to Nathaniel): ... Heh. Uncle Vincent likes both. Maybe, Aiden does, too... Seph probably loves that. She's always wanted to be like Poppy.

Nathaniel (to Marlena): Yeah. He kisses like he does. Don't look fake shocked. I know everyone in the family has already heard the story.

Marlena (to Nathaniel): Heh. I'm not shocked about that. I'm just surprised you mentioned it... So, are you one of those people who think that there's only gay or straight?

Nathaniel (to Marlena): No, I'm not that fucking ignorant. It's just... Let's just say that's not the narrative I heard about my prodigal uncle growing up. Course, it's not the narrative I heard about myself either, so I shouldn't have been all that surprised.

Marlena (to Nathaniel): Heh... You should hear the stories about Uncle Vincent in Britannia. Some of them are even true.

Nathaniel (to Marlena): Yeah. Victor had Zoe and I combing through some of his mom's files one night. They were... Christ. I don't even know.

Marlena (to Nathaniel): Made you want to go over there, didn't it?

Nathaniel (to Marlena): Does it make me an idiot if I said yes? I mean, there's a whole militia over there who wants to dissect me, but still...

Marlena (to Nathaniel): Nope, just honest and not to worry, you're in good company... I've always wanted to do it, too.

Nathaniel (to Marlena): Heh. Is that why you stole that airship when you went over there? Forgot I knew about that, didn't you?

Marlena (to Nathaniel): Yeah... It was. And, I hadn't forgotten, I was just hoping that you had. :-p

Nathaniel (to Marlena): Nope. If I've got one talent, it's remembering shit people wish I wouldn't.

Marlena (to Nathaniel): Heh... So, did you tell Zoe that you were coming to hang out with me?

Nathaniel (to Marlena): No, I didn't want her to know about our illicit affair. Yeah. I did. She didn't mind. She was gonna try and get Victor to paint her nails for her follow up date with Colin.

Marlena (to Nathaniel): Heh... An illicit affair? That's laughable... Even if you liked girls, you are so not my type. But, I'm glad she was okay with it. I don't need the wraith of the mini mom. :-p

Nathaniel (to Marlena): What? You don't like scrawny, fucked up, former criminal types? :-P Yeah, told you she was gonna start opening up. Mostly.

Marlena (to Nathaniel): Mostly?

Nathaniel (to Marlena): She said something today when she was asking me about Tim that made me think she's waiting for the other shoe to drop. I don't know.

Marlena (to Nathaniel): Well, she's still adjusting. It's gotta be weird.

Nathaniel (to Marlena): Yeah. She still doesn't know what to do around Uncle Vincent. Heh. She's taken to calling Poppy Mom, no problem, though.

Marlena (to Nathaniel): Makes sense to me. She's got my mom's memories rattling around in her brain. She remembers Uncle Vincent being her little brother. Just like she remembers dating my dad, which is probably a thousand times weirder.

Nathaniel (to Marlena): Jesus... Yeah. God, I'm a dick... Anyway, not that I'm judging. I don't know how the fuck to act around Uncle Vincent either.

Marlena (to Nathaniel): Why is that? Uncle Vincent is oddly the most dedicated husband & father you will ever meet. Despite, rumors to the contrary. He wouldn't hurt you, ever. You're family.

Nathaniel (to Marlena): I know. I know he's not a dick or anything. I'm not saying it's rational. I'll get over it.

Marlena (to Nathaniel): Heh... You big weirdo. :-p

Nathaniel (to Marlena): Yeah, yeah. Most guys freak me out. This is why my dating calendar is just packed full to bursting. Yuck it up. :-P

Marlena (to Nathaniel): Heh... Too bad, you can't switch teams. There's tons of girls that would love your fucked up bad boy persona... Though, I tried dating girls & I can honestly say, I don't blame you for wanting to stay away from all that.

Nathaniel (to Marlena): God... I had a "girlfriend" if you could honestly call her that for like a week. My parents set me up with some poor sap from the church to help me stay on the straight and narrow. Emphasis on the straight. Girls didn't do it for you, huh?

Marlena (to Nathaniel): Yeah. I was willing to try, though. I thought I was desperately in love with a girl in my art history class my freshman year I quickly realized that as much as I might have been in love with her, the physical aspect of it didn't do it for me. So, I've given up on dating until after school is done.

Nathaniel (to Marlena): Heh. Yeah. Me either. Literally, all that "pray out the gay" bullshit was how to ignore the fact that the opposite sex doesn't turn you on, and how you can "learn to do God's work." Well, that and a whole shitload of drugs, bullying, rape, and suicide attempts. Which, honestly, is pretty in line with the Bible when you think about it.

Marlena (to Nathaniel): ... I think I'd rather not. The Bible's never been very big in my house. Mom & Dad have some very strong opinions on it.

Nathaniel (to Marlena): Heh. Mine too, though I think they were probably different opinions. Remember that thing I said earlier about remembering shit things that people *really* wish I didn't? That trait does NOT come in handy when it comes to Christian studies. Heh. Speaking of terrible shit the ol' Jones Family religion has caused, I should get home... Um, back to my aunt and uncle's.

Marlena (to Nathaniel): Yeah, I was just thinking that... We should get the hell out of here.

Nathaniel (to Marlena): Oh... Shit. Yeah we should. Does this place have a security guard, cause whoever that is, has a flashlight. In my experience, flashlights equal trouble. Come on, Stretch! Let's get the fuck outa here.

Marlena (to Nathaniel): Heh... You don't wanna kiss me to distract them? I'm hurt... I'm just kidding. Come on.

Nathaniel (to Marlena): Only if he's about to shoot us.

Marlena (to Nathaniel): Well, let's hope it won't come to that.