Bυввℓєѕ had realized she had no way of contacting Nick. he'd smashed all his previous cells phones and after he had been called away earlier, she'd realized just too late that she didn't have a new number for him after she'd been rushed away so quickly a week ago. After wandering the town for a little while, she spotted his car in the motel parking lot. She'd walk up to the car, looking in through the drivers window, not even sure what she was looking for but not really knowing what else to do, having no clue where he could be or why he would be at the seedy motel. It was a quiet evening and for this reason, she was able to hear voices from the upstairs floor. The motel was cheap, and cheaply made. The walls were thin and as she looked towards the voices, she saw sillhouettes at the window. Walking slowly up the stairs, she approached the door and knocked gently, hearing a womans voice on the other side making her frown as she leaned in towards the door and speaking, "Nick?? Baby, you in there?"
Nick had come to speak business with the woman, yet when she got a call, he quietly waited as she took the call. After five minutes he decided he wasn't that patient and he made a motion with his fingers, twirling it,indicating for her to wrap it up but as he eavesdropped he realized it was business she needed to take care of so he chose to leave. Approaching the door, he was ready to open it, when he heard Bubbles on the other side. His hand instinctively drew back from the door handle as if he had been caught doing something he wasn't suppose to be doing. After a second he realized he hadn't been doing shit, so he opened the door and quickly stepped out, his body nearly pressing up to hers on the narrow walkway. "Hey babe..."
Bυввℓєѕ cocked her head a little and looked at him inquisitively. "What were you doing in there baby? Who's in there?" Even as she spoke, she scolded herself. She hated sounding like a jealous girlfriend, especially as she wasn't officially his girlfriend. She wasn't officially his anything. That's the part she hated the most. Not being able to proudly say she was his. Having to just smile and deal whenever he was keeping up appearances with another woman. Even though she KNEW, she was the one he loved. Had always loved. She never had any cause to doubt that, and she still didn't. But that didn't stop her wanting to drag him away every time he was near another woman. She took his hand, pulling him a little closer as she leaned back against the balcony, forcing a soft smile at him in attempt to seem less like she was being a jealous nag and more like just friendly curiosity.
Nick allowed her to pull him towards her and he smiled. He knew what she was thinking and could tell she was trying to contain herself. He'd seen the look on her before and had heard that tone. She'd found him in situation with other women before and her reaction was always the same. She wasn't one to go off like some crazy jealous chick but she wasn't one to turn a blind eye to other women. Of course he'd never involve himself with another woman, she was all he'd ever wanted but it always amused him when she did the jealous girlfriend thing. "Ava's in there, you know the woman you saw me with at the club yesterday. We were discussing business but she got tied up. He glanced over the balcony then looked at her, his pale eyes glinting wickedly, "And you, what are you doing? You planning on staying in the hotel or were you looking for something?"
Bυввℓєѕ nodded when he explained about Ava. Not entirely happy about him hanging out with a whore, or whatever it is that she does, but more comfortable with it than him hanging out with other chicks, for the pure fact that whores don't give it away, and she knew Nick wouldn't pay for it. Hell, he'd never have to, women would throw themselves at him all the time. He was good looking, strong and the son - now the head - of a very powerful family. As well as being all cheek and charm, but with a dark mysterious side. he was the epitome of everything that made chicks drop their panties in the blink of an eye - And he knew it. But she had always been secure in his love for her. Flashing a grin at him as she pulled him to her even more, leaning her elbows back on the banister and looking up at him, her lips just inches from his, "I found what I was looking for baby."
Nick was tempted to pick her up and, after throwing the hooker out of the room, carrying her to bed and keeping her occupied for hours, but he had a better idea. Still smiling down at her, he leaned in further so their lips were nearly touching, "I think we should get a place together. Somewhere where we can do whatever we want without having to worry about anyone interrupting us. We've fucked on nearly every surface in this neighborhood, why not get our own place?" His ego played into the decision. He would've never considered such a thing while his father was alive, but who was going to tell him no now?
Bυввℓєѕ felt a broad smile spread across her lips at his suggestion, an excited squeak escaping from her lips as she slipped an arm around his waist and yanked him against her. It was true, they'd fucked all over town, in every alley, every abandoned of empty building, some buildings not even abandoned, they'd just broken in after dark. Sometimes they'd never even made it to any where quiet or private and had just fucked against a wall in the basketball court or wherever they were at the time as long as no one was around. They'd never been able to keep their hands off each other. Only when they had to, and even then it was torture. Looking around to see if anyone was watching before she brushed her lips against hers, "You wanna do that baby? Get a place with me?" She could barely speak through her grin as more excited noises escaped her.
Friday, February 20, 2015
Gravesend Bay Part 3. The Pub / Theater
Bυввℓєѕ stepped into the dingy bar, the stench of stale beer and cigarettes filled her nostrils. Hesitating for a moment as she took in her surroundings. thankful that it was mostly quiet apart from a few straggly looking people sitting at the tables looking shifty. She straightened up her dress and tried to not look them in the eye, but lifting her chin so that she appeared confident, even if she wasn't. Letting the door go to swing shut behind her, she walked to the bar and waited to catch the barkeeps attention as he engaged in what seemed to be like some secret conversation with some guys at the other end of the bar. She hadn't wanted to come here, but she needed a job, singing was all she knew how to do and after seeing Nick in the club, and with another woman, she wasn't sure she'd be able to handle performing there and not being able to run into his arms. Especially if he were with some other chick. As scary a place as it might be, this bar was the last resort. She knew it's reputation, she knew it was rough, and she knew the kinds of people that frequented the place. But it was her only choice.
Nick had left the club with only one intention and that was finding Bubbles. Getting in his car he ignored his men, knowing they would follow him. He dismissed the confrontation he had had with the whore, she was after all a whore, she behaved just as he hoped she would. She was tough and he knew she'd be able to handle herself. Her reputation hadn't been exaggerated and he was glad, last thing he needed was some damsel he'd have to pull out of trouble all the time. Cruising down the road, he considered heading to the Italian restaurant but he wasn't in the mood to confront any Morella's who would no doubt be hanging there. Passing the Lady Luck, he opted for some liquid courage, so he pulled up along side the curb and got out. The typical stragglers were loitering about and he ignored them as he made his way to the doors of the club and entered the building. It took him a second to let his eyes adjust and he didn't remove his shades, but simply stood there until he could see clearly. He went for the bar and tapped on the counter, "Give me a scotch on the rocks, something top shelf, if you have it." He said "if" as if he didn't expect them to have anything decent. He didn't expect much from the place. It was a dive and they rarely carried anything decent.
Bυввℓєѕ leaned against the bar, waiting until the barkeep turned his attention toward her rather than calling out for him, not wanting to draw too much attention to herself. She twiddled a curl of red hair at the side of her head, out of habit, as she heard the door open behind her. She didn't turn around. Not that there would be any point, she didn't know anyone that would come in this type of bar and she'd only appear to be being nosy. And these people will give you hell if you so much as look at them wrong, and that's not something she wanted to deal with right now. But as a familiar scent drifted towards her, her heart began to quicken, it was an aftershave she knew well. No sooner had she caught the scent, she heard his voice. She lifted her head and saw him stood there ordering a drink as if he'd not noticed her. Breath caught in her throat as she attempted to speak, in a quiet, timid voice, "Nick?"
Nick heard his name and, glancing at his side, he saw who he'd been looking for. He scowled before he blurted, "What the hell are you doing here?" He looked around the bar, checking out the company to see if he recognized anyone she might have been there with and paying closer attention to who was around him. His thoughts had been so consumed on her he realized he was being very observant and that could be dangerous. He forgot about the drink as he attempted to reach out and grab her upper arm. His intention was to lead her to a place where they could have some privacy. He was familiar enough with the building to know there was a stairwell at the back and he would attempt to lead her there if she allowed him to grab her and lead her there.
Bυввℓєѕ looked up at him and stammered an answer. "I.... I came for a job." Pausing for a second as she searched his eyes. "I need a job." Standing upright as he grabbed her arm, taking a step back from the bar. "What are YOU doing here?" She allowed him to guide her wherever he wanted her to go, hoping it was somewhere they could be alone. Where they could talk.... Where she could hold him. All she wanted was to be in his arms and being this close to him after a week or not seeing him at all, was making that feeling grow stronger. Keeping her eyes to the ground as he led her, trying not to catch the attention of anyone else in the bar, she stayed as close to him as possible.
Nick plucked the cigarette from his mouth and crushed it out in the ashtray that was on the bar as he guided her through the bar to the stairwell. When they were alone, he released her then jumped right into scolding her, "You shouldn't be here, this place isn't safe - hell do you know what kinda people hangout here? You don't think they wouldn't like to hurt you just to get back at your family? I'm sure you're father is responsible for most of their job losses or arrests or, shit, even if he hasn't affected them personally I'm sure someone wouldn't mind just offing a Morella." He glanced up the stairs, then looked back at her. "Is that why you were at the club, to get a job?" He ran a hand over his face, trying to figure out why he was so upset and why she always managed to get to him.
Bυввℓєѕ trembled as he scolded her. She hated when he was mad at her. It was the worst feeling in the world. That she'd disappointed him or made him angry. Fixing her eyes to the floor before she answered, her voice as shaky as her body. "Yes I came to the club for a job. I guess with new owners I thought........ Hell, I don't know." She sighed deeply, before continuing, never lifting her gaze from the grubby wooden floor. "I guess I just didn't expect to see you there. And it made me realize, I don't think I could sing there. I couldn't be there, watching you and your new girl cozy it up. It would break my heart, knowing you used to be mine." She squeezed her eyes shut, in attempt to stop a tear from falling, lowing her face even further as she fidgeted on the spot. "I know this place is bad. But I have no choice."
Nick watched her as she stared at the floor and he had trouble making out what she was saying but when she mentioned a new girl he frowned, then tipped his head, attempting to catch her gaze as he bent to make that possible. "Wait, what? New girl...you mean that chick at the bar? That ain't my new girl, she's not even a girl - hell she's not even 'new'," he laughed some at that comment but didn't explain the insult. "Ava is the new madame, she's going to be running her ring out of Violet's place. I was just there to make sure the deal went through. Why would you think that I would...I mean, really? It's been a week. I probably shoulda attempted to reach out to you sooner, but I've been kinda busy with setting shit up and, well, I was..." He straightened up and raked his fingers through his hair before removing his shades. "I didn't know how you felt after all that went down with Frankie." He lowered his voice. "I thought you might be angry or hurt or, shit, I don't know...Are you?"
Bυввℓєѕ felt her body relax as he explained about the girl. She hadn't realized she had tensed up so much until now. She was still shaking, maybe it was her need to be in his arms. She lifted her head to meet his gaze, glad when he took his shades off. She had always loved looking into those pale beautiful eyes. She remembered when they were 16, they'd sneak off to steal some time together, usually in the old train station where no one else would ever go. The guard would always let Nick past the gate cos of who his father was. And she could sit for hours, just staring into his eyes. Seeing the real Nick. Her Nick. He face turned to a frown as she took in his last sentence. "No baby... No. I'm not mad, or upset or anything like that. Frankie was an asshole. You saw me baby, you saw me there.... If you hadn't done it, I would have." She stepped a little closer to him, wanting, needing, to be near him. "I know the rules, I know how it works... Family comes first.... " Reaching up to place her hand on his cheek, never leaving his gaze. "But, you're my family Nick. Just you."
Nick felt relief wash over him at her words and he forgot about all the shit he had been dealing with and it was just him and her again. He smiled, then reached out to touch her hair. "I don't want you to work here. Later, we can go by Violet's and talk to her about setting you up gigs there, okay? In fact, we'll be taking over the VIP room, I can make sure that's where you'll be. So I can keep an eye on you, though not sure how that's going to go over with you father." He chuckled, then stepped closer to her. "How does that sound?"
Bυввℓєѕ managed a smile, the first in a week it seemed. She nodded as he spoke and tilted her head toward his hand as he reached for her hair. "I'd like that. I didn't want to work here.... These people scare me" She chuckled softly before she turned to look up the stairwell, making sure no one was there, she reached for his hand and slipped her fingers between his, moving closer and bring her mouth to his ear. "I've missed you so much.... This week has been hell." Closing her eyes and keeping her lips by his neck, she inhaled his scent, letting it fill her nose. Wishing there were no one else in the bar at all.
Nick briefly closed his eyes as she leaned into him but he didn't allow himself to stay in the moment for too, knowing it wasn't a good idea to linger in the stairwell for too long. He wasn't sure of who actually ran the bar now, but he had heard rumors of it being some new leader, a guy who liked to stay 'faceless' and kept his identity under the radar. Couldn't be anyone who was going to bring anything good to the neighborhood, not running it out of the Lady Luck. Opening his eyes, he glanced up the stairs, then considered actually climbing them. If Bubbles hadn't been with him he woulda paid the guy a visit, just for the hell of it, but at that moment all he could think of was keeping her safe. "I've missed you too, but we should probably get out of here. Are you expected to be anywhere soon?"
Bυввℓєѕ took a step back before the urge to kiss him overcame her. Clearing her throat and smiling at the knowledge that he had missed her too. She nodded in agreement that they should leave. She didn't want to spend another second in this place, and more to the point, she wanted to be alone with him. "I don't have to be anywhere. I moved back into my own house. Not my fathers place... he didn't like it but I didn't give him a choice.. Guess he was too upset about Frankie to give a shit what I do anymore. Only reason he ever did was cos he liked controlling me." She took a breath before she started to get worked up. She hated thinking about the way her father treated her, which was probably only going to get worse now golden boy was in the ground. "Let's get out of here baby.". She waited for him to make a move toward the door before she would follow him.
Nick nodded then headed for the front door and his car. The bartender called out to him about the scotch, but Nick ignored him. Knowing she was close behind him, he headed to the passengers side of the vehicle and opened the door for her. His mean, who were fucking around in the parking lot of the near by townhomes quickly reacted, ready to follow him, but he shook his head. "Stay, I'll be back in a few." Holding the door open, he waited for Bubbles to sit.
Bυввℓєѕ followed him from the bar, keeping close behind him, turning and waving her hand at the bartender apologetically as he called to Nick about his scotch. Stepping out into the crisp air she stood as he held the passenger door open for her, and sat in the cool leather seat, swinging her legs inside the car. As he closed her door and walked around the car, she reached over and unlocked the drivers door for him and sat back against the seat, checking he hair in the wing mirror.
Nick got behind the wheel and, checking the street briefly, he turned the car on and threw it in to gear. Racing down the streets he headed for the old theater and some much needed privacy.
Bυввℓєѕ reached across to hold his as he drove, running her thumb accross his knuckles. As they came to a stop outside the theatre, she opened the door and stepped out of the car. The cold air hitting her bare legs as she shivered. Following him into the abandoned, derelict building, it smelled musty and was old and worn, but it was empty, and private. Finally she could be alone with him
Nick parked then watched her get out. He always found himself staring after her and he grinned, glad for the privacy. Getting out of the car, he moved tot he front of the vehicle, the held out his hand, waiting her her to take it. The theater shoulda been knocked down, hell it was practically already there, but his father had refused to broker any land deals that were offered on the place, no doubt out of spite, after all it was a prime piece of real estate/ Nick loved the place. He visited it often, either alone or with Bubbles during the times they'd run off and hide. Leading her into the building, he told her to be careful as he made his way to the main room.
Bυввℓєѕ gladly took his hand and followed closely as he led her into the building and into the main room. She looked around, treading carefully as the floor creaked beneath her. Waving a hand in front of her face to clear the dust before it made her cough. memories of their teen years would come flooding back to her of the times when they would come here to hide from prying eyes. Sitting behind the curtains, laughing and making out, without a care in the world. Just her and him. That's all she ever wanted. After taking a few steps into the room, she tugged on his hand, turning him to face her, letting go of his grasp and taking his face in her hands, "I've fuckin' missed you baby." Stepping close to him, she would attempt to kiss him.
Nick didn't waste any time as he grabbed her hips and lifted her so he could kiss her. It was like coming home for him and he pulled her close as his mouth claimed hers, his tongue seeking out the warm sweetness of her mouth. There in the dark theater they were allowed to shed the rules and forget about family and simply be. It was times he relished and he wondered why he didn't just marry her. Forget about those things that had separated them, after all, his father was dead and he was the boss now. What was holding them back? Nothing, he thought. Nothing but the consequences of marrying a Morella. Things were still shaky and the Gianni's were in a sketchy place. People were coming out of the woodwork and he and his family needed to put on a united front and show no weakness. Marrying Bubbles would make it appear as if Nick was careless and acted on whims. A child still caught up in the ideas of love and grand dreams. His family was waiting for such a move and he wasn't going to give it to them. Kissing his girl, he set her down so his hands could wander over her familiar curves and he inhaled the scent of her, trying to take in every detail. It would have to sustain him.
Bυввℓєѕ lost all sens of everything around her as he lifted her off her feet and returned her kiss. Lost in his scent, his taste, the feel of his body pressing against hers. Nothing else ever seemed to matter when she was in his arms. She held him tightly, with her arms warpped around his neck and as he set her down, she didn't loosen her hold. Leaning her head back to once again look into his eyes. The emotion of being back in the arms of her love... Of knowing everything was okay with them, knowing he still loved her.. Of the whole week alone washing away from her, sent a tear rolling down her cheek as she brought a hand to his face, tracing his cheek and his lips with her finger tip. Speaking in a whisper, "I love you so much." Burying her face in his shoulder as she repeated her words, muffled against his jacket, "I love you so so much."
Nick pressed his face to her hair and held her. He was in no hurry to release her and was content just standing in the empty theater, hiding from the world and responsibilities. In the past week he had wondered about her often, though most of his thoughts centered around whether she hated him or not. His other thoughts were consumed by watching his back. After Frankie's death he had anticipated a retaliation from the Morella's, something bold and violent, but it seemed that the Don had been too busy trying to over come his grief than to plan something for Nick. Yet, Nick knew little about Don Morella and it wasn't like he could ask his own father what to expect. He knew the guy was ruthless but he also knew he wasn't wild. no if there was something coming Nick's way at the hand of the Don he could expect it to be calculated and precise. "I love you too baby. I was worried about you."
Bυввℓєѕ stroked his hair as they stood there. it felt like a lifetime had passed since they were together, but at the same time, it felt like only yesterday she'd fallen asleep in his arms at his appartment. She didn't know what had happened after Nick had ordered his men to take her home, what he'd done with the bodies or anything that had gone down since then. She had locked herself away in her house behind closed drapes and done what felt like nothing but cry and sleep. her father, of course, was distraught over Frankies death. And furious. She didn't know if he knew who was responsible but she had heard him mention The Gianni's. But not Nick specifically. She was hoping, as Don Gianni had been killed the same night, that her father would assume it to be connected to that and not Nick. She feared for him. "Worried about what, baby? My Father doesn't have a clue I had anything to do with that pigs death, or Frankies. He would have made it clear if he did." She leaned back a little and rested her finger under his chin, lifting his face to hers to look at him. "I'm okay baby. I'm with you now.. Of course I'm okay."
Nick nodded. He knew Bubbles was in the dark when it came to the details of the past few events and he preferred it that way. A part of him wondered if he should lay everything out for her, the part that liked confiding in her and taking comfort in her support, but the other part, the part that seemed to be ingrained in him said to keep his mouth shut and let her stay in the dark. What good would it do her to lay out specifics of her husband's death or that of the others? When she met his gaze, he stiffly nodded in a reassuring fashion, "Right, that's all that matters. You're safe."
Bυввℓєѕ stepped back and moved toward the stage, Pushing up on her hands so she could perch herself on the edge of it. She looked at him and then looked around the theater, a smile spreading across her lips. "Do you remember all the times we came here baby? All the things we used to do here?" She bit her lip and grinned at him, remember all the times they'd passionately made love behind the stage, and the times they'd furiously fucked against the wall, ravenous like animals for each other, stealing every secret moment they could. She motioned for him to come over to her. "You remember the time you tried to play all romantic and fill the place with candles?" she chuckled softly, reminiscing back to that particular night. He'd blindfolded her and bought her into the theater. The whole stage full of candles and a picnic in the middle. They'd got so caught up in making love, they didn't even realize one of the candles had set light to the curtain. No one ever knew how the fire was started, and they were lucky they smelled the smoke. it still made her laugh to think how Nick had to drag her out the back door, both of them half naked. Just so no one would see.
Nick moved to stand in front of her, parting her knees so he could be between her legs. When she asked about the candles, he looked around then let his pale eyes dart along the ceiling that was charred and collapsing. He didn't remember much from the night because he'd been a horny kid eager to get her undressed and on the floor, but he did remember how quickly the place caught on fire and how he had cursed his bad luck when the night went without the fucking he'd been looking for. She had handled the night as she had handled everything in their lives and he wondered if she'd ever get tired of the wild unpredictability of their love. He wondered if she'd ever desire a quiet life without him and the thought caused his expression to darken some and he slipped his arms around her and pulled her to him as if that would work to chase away the unwanted possibilities. "I remember. I had to steal those damn candles and from that restaurant and when my dad linked it to me he gave me a nice beating."
Nick had left the club with only one intention and that was finding Bubbles. Getting in his car he ignored his men, knowing they would follow him. He dismissed the confrontation he had had with the whore, she was after all a whore, she behaved just as he hoped she would. She was tough and he knew she'd be able to handle herself. Her reputation hadn't been exaggerated and he was glad, last thing he needed was some damsel he'd have to pull out of trouble all the time. Cruising down the road, he considered heading to the Italian restaurant but he wasn't in the mood to confront any Morella's who would no doubt be hanging there. Passing the Lady Luck, he opted for some liquid courage, so he pulled up along side the curb and got out. The typical stragglers were loitering about and he ignored them as he made his way to the doors of the club and entered the building. It took him a second to let his eyes adjust and he didn't remove his shades, but simply stood there until he could see clearly. He went for the bar and tapped on the counter, "Give me a scotch on the rocks, something top shelf, if you have it." He said "if" as if he didn't expect them to have anything decent. He didn't expect much from the place. It was a dive and they rarely carried anything decent.
Bυввℓєѕ leaned against the bar, waiting until the barkeep turned his attention toward her rather than calling out for him, not wanting to draw too much attention to herself. She twiddled a curl of red hair at the side of her head, out of habit, as she heard the door open behind her. She didn't turn around. Not that there would be any point, she didn't know anyone that would come in this type of bar and she'd only appear to be being nosy. And these people will give you hell if you so much as look at them wrong, and that's not something she wanted to deal with right now. But as a familiar scent drifted towards her, her heart began to quicken, it was an aftershave she knew well. No sooner had she caught the scent, she heard his voice. She lifted her head and saw him stood there ordering a drink as if he'd not noticed her. Breath caught in her throat as she attempted to speak, in a quiet, timid voice, "Nick?"
Nick heard his name and, glancing at his side, he saw who he'd been looking for. He scowled before he blurted, "What the hell are you doing here?" He looked around the bar, checking out the company to see if he recognized anyone she might have been there with and paying closer attention to who was around him. His thoughts had been so consumed on her he realized he was being very observant and that could be dangerous. He forgot about the drink as he attempted to reach out and grab her upper arm. His intention was to lead her to a place where they could have some privacy. He was familiar enough with the building to know there was a stairwell at the back and he would attempt to lead her there if she allowed him to grab her and lead her there.
Bυввℓєѕ looked up at him and stammered an answer. "I.... I came for a job." Pausing for a second as she searched his eyes. "I need a job." Standing upright as he grabbed her arm, taking a step back from the bar. "What are YOU doing here?" She allowed him to guide her wherever he wanted her to go, hoping it was somewhere they could be alone. Where they could talk.... Where she could hold him. All she wanted was to be in his arms and being this close to him after a week or not seeing him at all, was making that feeling grow stronger. Keeping her eyes to the ground as he led her, trying not to catch the attention of anyone else in the bar, she stayed as close to him as possible.
Nick plucked the cigarette from his mouth and crushed it out in the ashtray that was on the bar as he guided her through the bar to the stairwell. When they were alone, he released her then jumped right into scolding her, "You shouldn't be here, this place isn't safe - hell do you know what kinda people hangout here? You don't think they wouldn't like to hurt you just to get back at your family? I'm sure you're father is responsible for most of their job losses or arrests or, shit, even if he hasn't affected them personally I'm sure someone wouldn't mind just offing a Morella." He glanced up the stairs, then looked back at her. "Is that why you were at the club, to get a job?" He ran a hand over his face, trying to figure out why he was so upset and why she always managed to get to him.
Bυввℓєѕ trembled as he scolded her. She hated when he was mad at her. It was the worst feeling in the world. That she'd disappointed him or made him angry. Fixing her eyes to the floor before she answered, her voice as shaky as her body. "Yes I came to the club for a job. I guess with new owners I thought........ Hell, I don't know." She sighed deeply, before continuing, never lifting her gaze from the grubby wooden floor. "I guess I just didn't expect to see you there. And it made me realize, I don't think I could sing there. I couldn't be there, watching you and your new girl cozy it up. It would break my heart, knowing you used to be mine." She squeezed her eyes shut, in attempt to stop a tear from falling, lowing her face even further as she fidgeted on the spot. "I know this place is bad. But I have no choice."
Nick watched her as she stared at the floor and he had trouble making out what she was saying but when she mentioned a new girl he frowned, then tipped his head, attempting to catch her gaze as he bent to make that possible. "Wait, what? New girl...you mean that chick at the bar? That ain't my new girl, she's not even a girl - hell she's not even 'new'," he laughed some at that comment but didn't explain the insult. "Ava is the new madame, she's going to be running her ring out of Violet's place. I was just there to make sure the deal went through. Why would you think that I would...I mean, really? It's been a week. I probably shoulda attempted to reach out to you sooner, but I've been kinda busy with setting shit up and, well, I was..." He straightened up and raked his fingers through his hair before removing his shades. "I didn't know how you felt after all that went down with Frankie." He lowered his voice. "I thought you might be angry or hurt or, shit, I don't know...Are you?"
Bυввℓєѕ felt her body relax as he explained about the girl. She hadn't realized she had tensed up so much until now. She was still shaking, maybe it was her need to be in his arms. She lifted her head to meet his gaze, glad when he took his shades off. She had always loved looking into those pale beautiful eyes. She remembered when they were 16, they'd sneak off to steal some time together, usually in the old train station where no one else would ever go. The guard would always let Nick past the gate cos of who his father was. And she could sit for hours, just staring into his eyes. Seeing the real Nick. Her Nick. He face turned to a frown as she took in his last sentence. "No baby... No. I'm not mad, or upset or anything like that. Frankie was an asshole. You saw me baby, you saw me there.... If you hadn't done it, I would have." She stepped a little closer to him, wanting, needing, to be near him. "I know the rules, I know how it works... Family comes first.... " Reaching up to place her hand on his cheek, never leaving his gaze. "But, you're my family Nick. Just you."
Nick felt relief wash over him at her words and he forgot about all the shit he had been dealing with and it was just him and her again. He smiled, then reached out to touch her hair. "I don't want you to work here. Later, we can go by Violet's and talk to her about setting you up gigs there, okay? In fact, we'll be taking over the VIP room, I can make sure that's where you'll be. So I can keep an eye on you, though not sure how that's going to go over with you father." He chuckled, then stepped closer to her. "How does that sound?"
Bυввℓєѕ managed a smile, the first in a week it seemed. She nodded as he spoke and tilted her head toward his hand as he reached for her hair. "I'd like that. I didn't want to work here.... These people scare me" She chuckled softly before she turned to look up the stairwell, making sure no one was there, she reached for his hand and slipped her fingers between his, moving closer and bring her mouth to his ear. "I've missed you so much.... This week has been hell." Closing her eyes and keeping her lips by his neck, she inhaled his scent, letting it fill her nose. Wishing there were no one else in the bar at all.
Nick briefly closed his eyes as she leaned into him but he didn't allow himself to stay in the moment for too, knowing it wasn't a good idea to linger in the stairwell for too long. He wasn't sure of who actually ran the bar now, but he had heard rumors of it being some new leader, a guy who liked to stay 'faceless' and kept his identity under the radar. Couldn't be anyone who was going to bring anything good to the neighborhood, not running it out of the Lady Luck. Opening his eyes, he glanced up the stairs, then considered actually climbing them. If Bubbles hadn't been with him he woulda paid the guy a visit, just for the hell of it, but at that moment all he could think of was keeping her safe. "I've missed you too, but we should probably get out of here. Are you expected to be anywhere soon?"
Bυввℓєѕ took a step back before the urge to kiss him overcame her. Clearing her throat and smiling at the knowledge that he had missed her too. She nodded in agreement that they should leave. She didn't want to spend another second in this place, and more to the point, she wanted to be alone with him. "I don't have to be anywhere. I moved back into my own house. Not my fathers place... he didn't like it but I didn't give him a choice.. Guess he was too upset about Frankie to give a shit what I do anymore. Only reason he ever did was cos he liked controlling me." She took a breath before she started to get worked up. She hated thinking about the way her father treated her, which was probably only going to get worse now golden boy was in the ground. "Let's get out of here baby.". She waited for him to make a move toward the door before she would follow him.
Nick nodded then headed for the front door and his car. The bartender called out to him about the scotch, but Nick ignored him. Knowing she was close behind him, he headed to the passengers side of the vehicle and opened the door for her. His mean, who were fucking around in the parking lot of the near by townhomes quickly reacted, ready to follow him, but he shook his head. "Stay, I'll be back in a few." Holding the door open, he waited for Bubbles to sit.
Bυввℓєѕ followed him from the bar, keeping close behind him, turning and waving her hand at the bartender apologetically as he called to Nick about his scotch. Stepping out into the crisp air she stood as he held the passenger door open for her, and sat in the cool leather seat, swinging her legs inside the car. As he closed her door and walked around the car, she reached over and unlocked the drivers door for him and sat back against the seat, checking he hair in the wing mirror.
Nick got behind the wheel and, checking the street briefly, he turned the car on and threw it in to gear. Racing down the streets he headed for the old theater and some much needed privacy.
Bυввℓєѕ reached across to hold his as he drove, running her thumb accross his knuckles. As they came to a stop outside the theatre, she opened the door and stepped out of the car. The cold air hitting her bare legs as she shivered. Following him into the abandoned, derelict building, it smelled musty and was old and worn, but it was empty, and private. Finally she could be alone with him
Nick parked then watched her get out. He always found himself staring after her and he grinned, glad for the privacy. Getting out of the car, he moved tot he front of the vehicle, the held out his hand, waiting her her to take it. The theater shoulda been knocked down, hell it was practically already there, but his father had refused to broker any land deals that were offered on the place, no doubt out of spite, after all it was a prime piece of real estate/ Nick loved the place. He visited it often, either alone or with Bubbles during the times they'd run off and hide. Leading her into the building, he told her to be careful as he made his way to the main room.
Bυввℓєѕ gladly took his hand and followed closely as he led her into the building and into the main room. She looked around, treading carefully as the floor creaked beneath her. Waving a hand in front of her face to clear the dust before it made her cough. memories of their teen years would come flooding back to her of the times when they would come here to hide from prying eyes. Sitting behind the curtains, laughing and making out, without a care in the world. Just her and him. That's all she ever wanted. After taking a few steps into the room, she tugged on his hand, turning him to face her, letting go of his grasp and taking his face in her hands, "I've fuckin' missed you baby." Stepping close to him, she would attempt to kiss him.
Nick didn't waste any time as he grabbed her hips and lifted her so he could kiss her. It was like coming home for him and he pulled her close as his mouth claimed hers, his tongue seeking out the warm sweetness of her mouth. There in the dark theater they were allowed to shed the rules and forget about family and simply be. It was times he relished and he wondered why he didn't just marry her. Forget about those things that had separated them, after all, his father was dead and he was the boss now. What was holding them back? Nothing, he thought. Nothing but the consequences of marrying a Morella. Things were still shaky and the Gianni's were in a sketchy place. People were coming out of the woodwork and he and his family needed to put on a united front and show no weakness. Marrying Bubbles would make it appear as if Nick was careless and acted on whims. A child still caught up in the ideas of love and grand dreams. His family was waiting for such a move and he wasn't going to give it to them. Kissing his girl, he set her down so his hands could wander over her familiar curves and he inhaled the scent of her, trying to take in every detail. It would have to sustain him.
Bυввℓєѕ lost all sens of everything around her as he lifted her off her feet and returned her kiss. Lost in his scent, his taste, the feel of his body pressing against hers. Nothing else ever seemed to matter when she was in his arms. She held him tightly, with her arms warpped around his neck and as he set her down, she didn't loosen her hold. Leaning her head back to once again look into his eyes. The emotion of being back in the arms of her love... Of knowing everything was okay with them, knowing he still loved her.. Of the whole week alone washing away from her, sent a tear rolling down her cheek as she brought a hand to his face, tracing his cheek and his lips with her finger tip. Speaking in a whisper, "I love you so much." Burying her face in his shoulder as she repeated her words, muffled against his jacket, "I love you so so much."
Nick pressed his face to her hair and held her. He was in no hurry to release her and was content just standing in the empty theater, hiding from the world and responsibilities. In the past week he had wondered about her often, though most of his thoughts centered around whether she hated him or not. His other thoughts were consumed by watching his back. After Frankie's death he had anticipated a retaliation from the Morella's, something bold and violent, but it seemed that the Don had been too busy trying to over come his grief than to plan something for Nick. Yet, Nick knew little about Don Morella and it wasn't like he could ask his own father what to expect. He knew the guy was ruthless but he also knew he wasn't wild. no if there was something coming Nick's way at the hand of the Don he could expect it to be calculated and precise. "I love you too baby. I was worried about you."
Bυввℓєѕ stroked his hair as they stood there. it felt like a lifetime had passed since they were together, but at the same time, it felt like only yesterday she'd fallen asleep in his arms at his appartment. She didn't know what had happened after Nick had ordered his men to take her home, what he'd done with the bodies or anything that had gone down since then. She had locked herself away in her house behind closed drapes and done what felt like nothing but cry and sleep. her father, of course, was distraught over Frankies death. And furious. She didn't know if he knew who was responsible but she had heard him mention The Gianni's. But not Nick specifically. She was hoping, as Don Gianni had been killed the same night, that her father would assume it to be connected to that and not Nick. She feared for him. "Worried about what, baby? My Father doesn't have a clue I had anything to do with that pigs death, or Frankies. He would have made it clear if he did." She leaned back a little and rested her finger under his chin, lifting his face to hers to look at him. "I'm okay baby. I'm with you now.. Of course I'm okay."
Nick nodded. He knew Bubbles was in the dark when it came to the details of the past few events and he preferred it that way. A part of him wondered if he should lay everything out for her, the part that liked confiding in her and taking comfort in her support, but the other part, the part that seemed to be ingrained in him said to keep his mouth shut and let her stay in the dark. What good would it do her to lay out specifics of her husband's death or that of the others? When she met his gaze, he stiffly nodded in a reassuring fashion, "Right, that's all that matters. You're safe."
Bυввℓєѕ stepped back and moved toward the stage, Pushing up on her hands so she could perch herself on the edge of it. She looked at him and then looked around the theater, a smile spreading across her lips. "Do you remember all the times we came here baby? All the things we used to do here?" She bit her lip and grinned at him, remember all the times they'd passionately made love behind the stage, and the times they'd furiously fucked against the wall, ravenous like animals for each other, stealing every secret moment they could. She motioned for him to come over to her. "You remember the time you tried to play all romantic and fill the place with candles?" she chuckled softly, reminiscing back to that particular night. He'd blindfolded her and bought her into the theater. The whole stage full of candles and a picnic in the middle. They'd got so caught up in making love, they didn't even realize one of the candles had set light to the curtain. No one ever knew how the fire was started, and they were lucky they smelled the smoke. it still made her laugh to think how Nick had to drag her out the back door, both of them half naked. Just so no one would see.
Nick moved to stand in front of her, parting her knees so he could be between her legs. When she asked about the candles, he looked around then let his pale eyes dart along the ceiling that was charred and collapsing. He didn't remember much from the night because he'd been a horny kid eager to get her undressed and on the floor, but he did remember how quickly the place caught on fire and how he had cursed his bad luck when the night went without the fucking he'd been looking for. She had handled the night as she had handled everything in their lives and he wondered if she'd ever get tired of the wild unpredictability of their love. He wondered if she'd ever desire a quiet life without him and the thought caused his expression to darken some and he slipped his arms around her and pulled her to him as if that would work to chase away the unwanted possibilities. "I remember. I had to steal those damn candles and from that restaurant and when my dad linked it to me he gave me a nice beating."
Gravesend Bay Part 2. The Club
Bυввℓєѕ walked into the club, having been let in by the doorman, who she recognized to be one of the Gianni men. He had recognized her from her previous job singing at the club and didn't have a problem letting her enter. it had been a week since Frankie had died and Nick had made ordered one of his men to take her back to her father. Although he wanted her to live back at the house she refused and moved back into the house she had shared with her ex husband. It had felt like a year, not a week and she knew she would eventually have to go out and find herself a job again, she didn't want to be reliant on her father for everything. She had decided to visit the club where she had previously performed and see if the new owner would be willing to try her out. But as she walked to where she saw people were sat, her heart jumped into her throat. Stopped in her tracks just a few feet away from the bar. It was Nick. She hadn't seen him since he killed her brother. her face turned to a scowl as she noticed him stood near another woman. Looking her up and down she hoped it wasn't Jessica. She wanted nothing more than to run into his arms and tell him how much she'd missed him. she couldn't bring herself to speak, her mouth was dry, and she didn't know if he'd noticed her or not. She coughed quietly and took a step forward.
Avangeline Darkrose taps her pink fingernail against the glass as she smiled at Violet then let Nick go into the details as she sat there nicely swinging her leg out of habit. "I would love it if my girls could work here Miss Violet, of course they'll be ladies...not ruining the image of the lounge..or they're gone." She bowed her head to her to know she meant what she spoke. Sipping more of her wine she felt the alcohol start to make her buzzed and her cheeks flush pink against her pale complexion. Blinking at what Nick said, then noticing the cough she turned to were his attention was to the pretty girl in red that had just walked in.
Violet sighed as the woman approached seeming to miss how tense she was acting, either that or it didn't bother her. "Yeah? I'm already back here, want something?" she asked looking ready to make yet another drink. she nodded at what nick and Ava said "Nick, As i was telling your friend, before you came in. People can use my club for whatever, as long as I'm getting paid and they're subtle about it, i don't care" she explained flatly "Hell you and your family sound like high rollers, you could probably rent out the extra area upstairs if you like" she offered "Says VIP, but might as well just say Gianni" she offered, it seemed like all she cared about was money and her club running smoothly.
Bυввℓєѕ stood, still in shock at seeing her love stood there. She'd cried herself to sleep every night picturing his face and now she was stood in front of him in the flesh, she didn't know what to say to him, or how to act. Especially as she knew nothing of the Lady beside him or how much anyone knew about what had gone down the week before. She took a deep breath and another step forward, hoping she could find some words, But she couldn't, She needed time to prepare for seeing him.... Seeing him somewhere that she couldn't be in his arms. She was used to sneaking around with him, stealing kisses where they could but after the incidents that had happened, everything was different. Everything had changed. She attempted to speak, her voice shaky and cracked. "I.... I'm so sorry. You're busy. I didn't mean to intrude." Taking a few steps back before turning to head for the door. "I'll come back later. I'm so sorry." She turned and walked back across the pub, almost running to get out of there but wanting to maintain her composure in front of other people.
Nick was still frowning when he turned to the woman behind the bar and nodded absently, his thoughts now on Bubbles. When she took off just as quickly as she had appeared he was tempted to follow her and talk to her. She didn't seem pleased to see him and that worried him. Well, riddling someone's brother with bullets will do that, he thought snidely. He quickly recovered from her appearance, "Uh, yeah, right well, that will work out fine. I will have the vip room checked out, standard, before we hang our hats there." He sounded like an idiot but he was still fumbling. "I don't see our present causing an issue, in fact I plan on meeting with our fine chief of police soon to make sure he knows the drill. So, I am assuming it's a deal, yeah?"
Avangeline Darkrose taps her pink fingernail against the glass as she smiled at Violet then let Nick go into the details as she sat there nicely swinging her leg out of habit. "I would love it if my girls could work here Miss Violet, of course they'll be ladies...not ruining the image of the lounge..or they're gone." She bowed her head to her to know she meant what she spoke. Sipping more of her wine she felt the alcohol start to make her buzzed and her cheeks flush pink against her pale complexion. Blinking at what Nick said, then noticing the cough she turned to were his attention was to the pretty girl in red that had just walked in.
Violet sighed as the woman approached seeming to miss how tense she was acting, either that or it didn't bother her. "Yeah? I'm already back here, want something?" she asked looking ready to make yet another drink. she nodded at what nick and Ava said "Nick, As i was telling your friend, before you came in. People can use my club for whatever, as long as I'm getting paid and they're subtle about it, i don't care" she explained flatly "Hell you and your family sound like high rollers, you could probably rent out the extra area upstairs if you like" she offered "Says VIP, but might as well just say Gianni" she offered, it seemed like all she cared about was money and her club running smoothly.
Bυввℓєѕ stood, still in shock at seeing her love stood there. She'd cried herself to sleep every night picturing his face and now she was stood in front of him in the flesh, she didn't know what to say to him, or how to act. Especially as she knew nothing of the Lady beside him or how much anyone knew about what had gone down the week before. She took a deep breath and another step forward, hoping she could find some words, But she couldn't, She needed time to prepare for seeing him.... Seeing him somewhere that she couldn't be in his arms. She was used to sneaking around with him, stealing kisses where they could but after the incidents that had happened, everything was different. Everything had changed. She attempted to speak, her voice shaky and cracked. "I.... I'm so sorry. You're busy. I didn't mean to intrude." Taking a few steps back before turning to head for the door. "I'll come back later. I'm so sorry." She turned and walked back across the pub, almost running to get out of there but wanting to maintain her composure in front of other people.
Nick was still frowning when he turned to the woman behind the bar and nodded absently, his thoughts now on Bubbles. When she took off just as quickly as she had appeared he was tempted to follow her and talk to her. She didn't seem pleased to see him and that worried him. Well, riddling someone's brother with bullets will do that, he thought snidely. He quickly recovered from her appearance, "Uh, yeah, right well, that will work out fine. I will have the vip room checked out, standard, before we hang our hats there." He sounded like an idiot but he was still fumbling. "I don't see our present causing an issue, in fact I plan on meeting with our fine chief of police soon to make sure he knows the drill. So, I am assuming it's a deal, yeah?"
Wednesday, February 18, 2015
Gravesend Bay Part 1. The Apartment
Bυввℓєѕ gingerly stepped into the apartment, nodding politely at the doorman in thanks for letting her in, as he stepped back out into the hall and closed the door behind him. She stood for a second, straightening out her clothes and looking around nervously, taking in the surroundings of the large, bright entrance hall where she stood. Nick's father hadn't said much during her call to him. He'd barely let her explain what was happening before barking at her to meet him at his home within the hour. She'd gotten over here as fast as she could, everything still a blur, unable to think of much but where Nick could be and if anything had happened to him. She stepped forward towards the stairs her footsteps echoing off the marble floors but she stopped at the first step. Unsure if she should just walk straight into Don Gianni's home. The place was silent, it seemed like nobody was around, so she took a step back and decided to wait.
Nick sat sprawled on one of the over stuffed loungers a glass of scotch in his hand. There was a single sphere of ice in the glass and Nick held the drink to his forehead, trying to absorb the residual chill. Of course the glass was crystal, it was typical of his father to purchase only the best, though Nick was sure his father probably drank out of the bottle. Scowling slightly, he lowered the glass and peered at it, admiring the color of the dark liquor and wondering who spent the time to shape the damn ice into a ball. When he heard footsteps in the entry hall, his head snapped up, his pale eyes narrowing. Licking his bottom lip, he drug his tongue across his lip, tasting the dried blood of the jagged cut that flared with pain and he winced slightly. It had been a rough night. At the bar he had hoped Frankie would've just killed him and put him out of his misery. Instead he was taken to a warehouse where his father's men waited for him. He was told to get out of the town car and left there. It was bewildering and Nick had yet to recover from the shock. Now he sat in his father's home, left to absorb the news that his father was dead.
Bυввℓєѕ stood in the entrance hall shifting on her feet, nervous and starting to wonder what she was doing here. She hadn't stopped to consider the possibilities, after hanging up the call to Don Gianni. All she could think about was Nick, so she'd rushed to his father thinking - hoping - he could help. But now, as she was left with time to ponder, it started to cross her mind that maybe he had alterior motives. Maybe he'd seen her panic and desperation as a good excuse to get her onto his territory and dispose of her. She jumped a little as she heard the front door open again, as the doorman poked his head around to inform her that Don Gianni would be arriving home from the club very shortly and she should take a seat and wait for him. She smiled nervously at the man and nodded again as he backed out, closing the door quietly behind him. Panic and paranoia began to wash over her and she decide to make an exit, heading toward the door, stopping in her tracks as she heard what sounded like a glass clinking. She listened for a second and heard it again. She knew it wasn't Nick's father and it couldn't be any of his men as they would've been at the club with him. She stepped lightly back toward the stairs, placing her hand on the banister as she tried to peer around the corner, calling out nervously, in a shaky voice. "H..... Hello?"
Nick heard the voice and he practically jumped off the sofa and, setting the glass on the coffee table, he crossed the room with long strides. He hoped his mind wasn't playing tricks on him and that the voice belong to Bubbles. But why would she be here? The stupid suit he wore felt stiff even though it was made of the best material, fitting his form perfectly. He'd been told to change and "relax" though he had a hard time with the last part. His thoughts, though scattered and whirling with confusing always returned to Bubbles. He wondered if leaving her had been the smartest thing to do. Frankie had asked where she was and he had told her, even gave him the key to the room. Frankie had made a comment when he heard what hotel she had been left in. "Always the best, huh Gianni?" Sarcastic bastard. Nick had managed to keep his mouth shut though. Last thing he wanted was a full out brawl with the idiot. Making his way across the room, he stepped into the study and came to a halt.
Bυввℓєѕ heard movement from the other room, and started to panic, backing down the steps slowly and wondering if she should bolt. Until she saw him. Her whole body shook as her legs almost gave way under. Almost immediately, her eyes welled up with tears and she was sure she felt her heart stop beating. Moving her lips to try and speak, but with no words coming out, she realized she hadn't been breathing for a few second and as she exhaled, it released the rest of her emotions simultaneously. She began to sob, his name being the only sound to escape her lips as she dropped the bag of his that she'd brought from the hotel room. Stumbling towards him, blinded by tears and with legs like jelly, she flung her arms around him, clinging as tightly to him as she could. She buried her face against his shoulder and sobbed loudly against the material of his suit. She thought she'd lost him again, but now here he was, the panic and pain of losing him and now the sheer relief of being with him again all flooding out of her as she cried.
Nick grabbed her as she stumbled towards him and when she began to cry he held her tightly. He was surprised and would've struggled for a reaction except he was suddenly concerned for her and wanted to comfort her. Holding her, he ran his hands down her back, then stroked her hair as she cried. "Shhhh," he pressed his face to her hair and kissed her where he could, before he stepped back some and attempted to claim her face in his hands, "It's okay, you're okay...Are you okay?" He glanced over her head to see if anyone had entered with her, but thy were alone and he returned his attentions to her. "You're not hurt are you? Shit baby, I'm so sorry. I left you alone, it was stupid, I'm sorry. How'd you get here? What are you doing here?" He had been certain it would be awhile since he'd lay eyes on her again, especially after giving Frankie the hotel key. It practically had to be pried from his fingers. Peering at her, he wiped at her cheeks with his thumbs. "What are you doing here?" Despite himself, he laughed in a shaky manner.
Bυввℓєѕ began to calm a little as he held her in his arms. His nearness and his embrace and his familiar scent making her feel safe as it always did. She looked up at him as he held her face, nuzzling into his palm as she placed her hand over his on her cheek. her lip still shaking and her breathing still jittery as she nodded in response to his questions. tears still rolling down her cheeks as she spoke quietly. "I'm okay, I'm not hurt." She stopped to take a deep breath, trying to calm herself further before she spoke again. "I called your father. He told me to come here. I'm so sorry baby. I didn't know what else to do. I woke up and you were gone.... I thought - I don't know what I thought... You were just gone." She remembered the pain that had ripped through her when she had realized he was gone and it made tears well in her eyes again, her lip shaking even more as she tried to fight back the tears. as she took his hand from her face and pressed the lighter into his palm that she'd been clutching in her other hand since she arrived.
Nick knew the object she had placed in his hand. It was one he was very familiar with, after having memorized it's feel during the years they'd been separated. Slipping it back into his pocket, he gave it a pat as if reassuring her it would always be with him then managed a smile, before he took her back into his arms. It had been painful leaving her, but hiding out went against his personality and he had only been able to handle it so long. Even as a kid he'd be okay with taking a beating from wrongs, he never had an issue with consequences or "taking his medicine" but this time he had her to worry about so his thought had been conflicted. It also helped that his buzz had yet to wear off and the scotch he'd been downing gave him the boldness he sought. "Come, sit down."
Bυввℓєѕ wiped her tear stained cheeks as he slipped the lighter into his pocket. She followed him into the living area and sat with him. the relief she felt being back in his arms was indescribable. Looking up at him she had so many questions but wanted nothing more than to kiss him, to taste him. She was worried his father might walk in any moment and was too scared of how he would react if he caught them kissing. She felt like a teenager again. Sneaking around and stealing kisses when she could. Her face was solemn and her eyes were puffy and red as she brushed her fingers against his cheek. "What happened to you ?" She ran her thumb across the cut on his lip, her brow furrowing with worry. "Who did this to you? Where did you go?" She hesitated for a second, her voice growing quiet and sad, "Why did you leave me?" She clenched her jaw as she looked at him, waiting for a response.
Nick he knew the questions were coming and he hadn't been eager for them. It wasn't that he didn't feel his actions had been the right ones but putting his thoughts at the time into words was something he knew he'd struggle with. When she touched his lip he licked it again, then chuckled, "Oh that, yeah well let's just call it a lucky punch." Actually, what had happened was Frankie had clocked him for his smart mouth when they were still in the bar. Nick was just grateful that he didn't shoot him and had recovered from the punch quickly and with another smart ass remark. He knew how to get under Frankie's skin, the guy was insecure and had a quick temper. Nick hoped the guy never became Morella Boss because shit would surely heat up then. "Your brother always gets ballsy when he has the advantage in numbers." When he looked at her and saw she was waiting for an answer to her final question, he sighed then raked his fingers through his hair, "I left because I thought it would be the best thing for you. I wanted you out of danger. I figured if you were back with your family that you'd be out of the fire. The further from me seemed like the best idea, yet here you are," he laughed.
Bυввℓєѕ chuckled softly at his last comment. "I guess we're just meant to be together, huh baby?" But her face soon turned serious when she responded to the rest of his answers. "My brother?? When did you see Frankie? Where the hell did you go, Nick?!" She took another deep breath, and spoke again softly, "Being without you is never what's best for me. I can't survive without you, Nick. You need to know that." Reaching up to remove his shades so she could look into his eyes, hoping he could see just how serious she was. The thought of losing him again tore her up inside. Wrenched at her heart as if it would physically break. Another tear ran down her cheek as she rested her forehead against his, speaking again in a whisper. "I need you."
Nick saw how mentioning her brother rattled her and he wiped at her tear before he nodded. He had no clue why he was nodding but it just seemed appropriate. It was something he did often, almost like a gesture to buy him some time. It was actually something his own father did and he frowned when his thoughts flashed back to his dead parent. "I went to find your brother and I found him," he laughed. "It wasn't hard since he was looking for me. And baby, you know it's not all that simple, us being together. I know I was painting you a pretty picture of our future, but you have to know there are obstacles that aren't going to be easy to over come, right? And hell, it seems like things are getting a bit more complicated." He glanced up at the entryway, making sure they were still alone before his voice dropped, "My father is dead."
Bυввℓєѕ sat bolt upright, in shock at what she thought she'd heard. "What?!" Her thought became scattered, hoping she'd misheard, but knowing deep down that she hadn't. She stood up and walked toward the coffee table, her legs still unstable as she stepped lightly. Picking up the glass of scotch that had obviously been Nick's before she had come in, she bought it to her lips and sunk the remaining cool liquid in one go. Screwing her face up as it burned a path down her throat to her stomach. She turned back to Nick, watching his face. "How ? When ? Who.... Did you......" trailing off the last 2 questions as she paused for a moment. "Baby where is Frankie ? Did he do this ?" She reached for the bottle of scotch that sat on the table, and refilled the glass. Perching cautiously on the edge of the sofa, staring wide eyed into the fire place. "What the fuck happened Nick?"
Nick watched her closely as she went for the drink. His pale eyes stayed on her, measuring her every reaction. It wasn't that he suspected her of anything devious but it was simply smart to always be mindful of who was in the room and if they posed any type of threat. It was in his blood, the lifestyle and it came like second nature. Watching her refill her drink he settled back on the couch and shrugged. Tugging on the front of his jacket, he brushed it off thoughtlessly. "I sent Frankie to get you at the hotel. I gave him the room key. Like I said, I thought it would be best for you to be with your family so they could protect you. From what I know my father was gunned down while coming home. It coulda been Frankie, though whoever it was, they'd have to have knowledge of my father's whereabouts." He said the last comment as casually as possible.
Bυввℓєѕ downed the second glass off scotch, the burn was more expected this time and a warm fuzz started to creep into her head. She filled the glass one more time and rose from the couch. Making her way back over to her love and offering him the glass. She sat herself on the edge of the sofa and turned her body to face him, resting her hand on his knee. She wanted to ask if he had anything to do with it, or knew who had done it. He MUST know something seeing as she only spoke to his Father not so long ago, at the club and could have only just been on his way home. But she didn't want to know the answer. She didn't even care. The fact was, Don Gianni was dead. "So what now ? What does this mean for you? For us?" She hung her head and gritted her teeth, trying not to let her emotions overwhelm her again. Looking down at her hands and she fiddled with his pant leg. "Am I going to lose you again?"
Nick took the glass from her and drank deeply from it. He was sporting a pretty good buzz now and he definitely wasn't feeling any pain. When she settled beside him, he sat back again, his arm casually draping over the back of the sofa. Flicking his wrist, he swirled the melting sphere of ice in the glass and watched as it spun. "I don't know...honestly, I was told to wait here." When she began to tug at his pants, he looked down at his knee. "Whatever is going down you know it can't be good. First your husband and now my father? There's a major power grab going down right now and if the Gianni's are going to pull out of this one we're going to have to do something quick." He looked at her then back at the door and suddenly it made sense as to why she was there, in the Gianni home and he frowned.
Bυввℓєѕ looked up at him in confusion. "My husband?" She questioned him. "but my husband was my fault? I'm the one that shot him?" She shifted on the sofa, unsure what to make of all this new information. The only thing she knew for certain was that she couldn't lose him again, not now she got him back. Noticing him glancing at the door, she looked over her shoulder, and then back at him. "What are you looking at? Are you waiting for someone?" Distress and worry filled her voice as her brow furrowed into a frown. "I don't know what's going on. I don't know what to do anymore." She was become more and more upset and was no longer able to think straight at all as a million thoughts swam through her head.
Nick sat sprawled on one of the over stuffed loungers a glass of scotch in his hand. There was a single sphere of ice in the glass and Nick held the drink to his forehead, trying to absorb the residual chill. Of course the glass was crystal, it was typical of his father to purchase only the best, though Nick was sure his father probably drank out of the bottle. Scowling slightly, he lowered the glass and peered at it, admiring the color of the dark liquor and wondering who spent the time to shape the damn ice into a ball. When he heard footsteps in the entry hall, his head snapped up, his pale eyes narrowing. Licking his bottom lip, he drug his tongue across his lip, tasting the dried blood of the jagged cut that flared with pain and he winced slightly. It had been a rough night. At the bar he had hoped Frankie would've just killed him and put him out of his misery. Instead he was taken to a warehouse where his father's men waited for him. He was told to get out of the town car and left there. It was bewildering and Nick had yet to recover from the shock. Now he sat in his father's home, left to absorb the news that his father was dead.
Bυввℓєѕ stood in the entrance hall shifting on her feet, nervous and starting to wonder what she was doing here. She hadn't stopped to consider the possibilities, after hanging up the call to Don Gianni. All she could think about was Nick, so she'd rushed to his father thinking - hoping - he could help. But now, as she was left with time to ponder, it started to cross her mind that maybe he had alterior motives. Maybe he'd seen her panic and desperation as a good excuse to get her onto his territory and dispose of her. She jumped a little as she heard the front door open again, as the doorman poked his head around to inform her that Don Gianni would be arriving home from the club very shortly and she should take a seat and wait for him. She smiled nervously at the man and nodded again as he backed out, closing the door quietly behind him. Panic and paranoia began to wash over her and she decide to make an exit, heading toward the door, stopping in her tracks as she heard what sounded like a glass clinking. She listened for a second and heard it again. She knew it wasn't Nick's father and it couldn't be any of his men as they would've been at the club with him. She stepped lightly back toward the stairs, placing her hand on the banister as she tried to peer around the corner, calling out nervously, in a shaky voice. "H..... Hello?"
Nick heard the voice and he practically jumped off the sofa and, setting the glass on the coffee table, he crossed the room with long strides. He hoped his mind wasn't playing tricks on him and that the voice belong to Bubbles. But why would she be here? The stupid suit he wore felt stiff even though it was made of the best material, fitting his form perfectly. He'd been told to change and "relax" though he had a hard time with the last part. His thoughts, though scattered and whirling with confusing always returned to Bubbles. He wondered if leaving her had been the smartest thing to do. Frankie had asked where she was and he had told her, even gave him the key to the room. Frankie had made a comment when he heard what hotel she had been left in. "Always the best, huh Gianni?" Sarcastic bastard. Nick had managed to keep his mouth shut though. Last thing he wanted was a full out brawl with the idiot. Making his way across the room, he stepped into the study and came to a halt.
Bυввℓєѕ heard movement from the other room, and started to panic, backing down the steps slowly and wondering if she should bolt. Until she saw him. Her whole body shook as her legs almost gave way under. Almost immediately, her eyes welled up with tears and she was sure she felt her heart stop beating. Moving her lips to try and speak, but with no words coming out, she realized she hadn't been breathing for a few second and as she exhaled, it released the rest of her emotions simultaneously. She began to sob, his name being the only sound to escape her lips as she dropped the bag of his that she'd brought from the hotel room. Stumbling towards him, blinded by tears and with legs like jelly, she flung her arms around him, clinging as tightly to him as she could. She buried her face against his shoulder and sobbed loudly against the material of his suit. She thought she'd lost him again, but now here he was, the panic and pain of losing him and now the sheer relief of being with him again all flooding out of her as she cried.
Nick grabbed her as she stumbled towards him and when she began to cry he held her tightly. He was surprised and would've struggled for a reaction except he was suddenly concerned for her and wanted to comfort her. Holding her, he ran his hands down her back, then stroked her hair as she cried. "Shhhh," he pressed his face to her hair and kissed her where he could, before he stepped back some and attempted to claim her face in his hands, "It's okay, you're okay...Are you okay?" He glanced over her head to see if anyone had entered with her, but thy were alone and he returned his attentions to her. "You're not hurt are you? Shit baby, I'm so sorry. I left you alone, it was stupid, I'm sorry. How'd you get here? What are you doing here?" He had been certain it would be awhile since he'd lay eyes on her again, especially after giving Frankie the hotel key. It practically had to be pried from his fingers. Peering at her, he wiped at her cheeks with his thumbs. "What are you doing here?" Despite himself, he laughed in a shaky manner.
Bυввℓєѕ began to calm a little as he held her in his arms. His nearness and his embrace and his familiar scent making her feel safe as it always did. She looked up at him as he held her face, nuzzling into his palm as she placed her hand over his on her cheek. her lip still shaking and her breathing still jittery as she nodded in response to his questions. tears still rolling down her cheeks as she spoke quietly. "I'm okay, I'm not hurt." She stopped to take a deep breath, trying to calm herself further before she spoke again. "I called your father. He told me to come here. I'm so sorry baby. I didn't know what else to do. I woke up and you were gone.... I thought - I don't know what I thought... You were just gone." She remembered the pain that had ripped through her when she had realized he was gone and it made tears well in her eyes again, her lip shaking even more as she tried to fight back the tears. as she took his hand from her face and pressed the lighter into his palm that she'd been clutching in her other hand since she arrived.
Nick knew the object she had placed in his hand. It was one he was very familiar with, after having memorized it's feel during the years they'd been separated. Slipping it back into his pocket, he gave it a pat as if reassuring her it would always be with him then managed a smile, before he took her back into his arms. It had been painful leaving her, but hiding out went against his personality and he had only been able to handle it so long. Even as a kid he'd be okay with taking a beating from wrongs, he never had an issue with consequences or "taking his medicine" but this time he had her to worry about so his thought had been conflicted. It also helped that his buzz had yet to wear off and the scotch he'd been downing gave him the boldness he sought. "Come, sit down."
Bυввℓєѕ wiped her tear stained cheeks as he slipped the lighter into his pocket. She followed him into the living area and sat with him. the relief she felt being back in his arms was indescribable. Looking up at him she had so many questions but wanted nothing more than to kiss him, to taste him. She was worried his father might walk in any moment and was too scared of how he would react if he caught them kissing. She felt like a teenager again. Sneaking around and stealing kisses when she could. Her face was solemn and her eyes were puffy and red as she brushed her fingers against his cheek. "What happened to you ?" She ran her thumb across the cut on his lip, her brow furrowing with worry. "Who did this to you? Where did you go?" She hesitated for a second, her voice growing quiet and sad, "Why did you leave me?" She clenched her jaw as she looked at him, waiting for a response.
Nick he knew the questions were coming and he hadn't been eager for them. It wasn't that he didn't feel his actions had been the right ones but putting his thoughts at the time into words was something he knew he'd struggle with. When she touched his lip he licked it again, then chuckled, "Oh that, yeah well let's just call it a lucky punch." Actually, what had happened was Frankie had clocked him for his smart mouth when they were still in the bar. Nick was just grateful that he didn't shoot him and had recovered from the punch quickly and with another smart ass remark. He knew how to get under Frankie's skin, the guy was insecure and had a quick temper. Nick hoped the guy never became Morella Boss because shit would surely heat up then. "Your brother always gets ballsy when he has the advantage in numbers." When he looked at her and saw she was waiting for an answer to her final question, he sighed then raked his fingers through his hair, "I left because I thought it would be the best thing for you. I wanted you out of danger. I figured if you were back with your family that you'd be out of the fire. The further from me seemed like the best idea, yet here you are," he laughed.
Bυввℓєѕ chuckled softly at his last comment. "I guess we're just meant to be together, huh baby?" But her face soon turned serious when she responded to the rest of his answers. "My brother?? When did you see Frankie? Where the hell did you go, Nick?!" She took another deep breath, and spoke again softly, "Being without you is never what's best for me. I can't survive without you, Nick. You need to know that." Reaching up to remove his shades so she could look into his eyes, hoping he could see just how serious she was. The thought of losing him again tore her up inside. Wrenched at her heart as if it would physically break. Another tear ran down her cheek as she rested her forehead against his, speaking again in a whisper. "I need you."
Nick saw how mentioning her brother rattled her and he wiped at her tear before he nodded. He had no clue why he was nodding but it just seemed appropriate. It was something he did often, almost like a gesture to buy him some time. It was actually something his own father did and he frowned when his thoughts flashed back to his dead parent. "I went to find your brother and I found him," he laughed. "It wasn't hard since he was looking for me. And baby, you know it's not all that simple, us being together. I know I was painting you a pretty picture of our future, but you have to know there are obstacles that aren't going to be easy to over come, right? And hell, it seems like things are getting a bit more complicated." He glanced up at the entryway, making sure they were still alone before his voice dropped, "My father is dead."
Bυввℓєѕ sat bolt upright, in shock at what she thought she'd heard. "What?!" Her thought became scattered, hoping she'd misheard, but knowing deep down that she hadn't. She stood up and walked toward the coffee table, her legs still unstable as she stepped lightly. Picking up the glass of scotch that had obviously been Nick's before she had come in, she bought it to her lips and sunk the remaining cool liquid in one go. Screwing her face up as it burned a path down her throat to her stomach. She turned back to Nick, watching his face. "How ? When ? Who.... Did you......" trailing off the last 2 questions as she paused for a moment. "Baby where is Frankie ? Did he do this ?" She reached for the bottle of scotch that sat on the table, and refilled the glass. Perching cautiously on the edge of the sofa, staring wide eyed into the fire place. "What the fuck happened Nick?"
Nick watched her closely as she went for the drink. His pale eyes stayed on her, measuring her every reaction. It wasn't that he suspected her of anything devious but it was simply smart to always be mindful of who was in the room and if they posed any type of threat. It was in his blood, the lifestyle and it came like second nature. Watching her refill her drink he settled back on the couch and shrugged. Tugging on the front of his jacket, he brushed it off thoughtlessly. "I sent Frankie to get you at the hotel. I gave him the room key. Like I said, I thought it would be best for you to be with your family so they could protect you. From what I know my father was gunned down while coming home. It coulda been Frankie, though whoever it was, they'd have to have knowledge of my father's whereabouts." He said the last comment as casually as possible.
Bυввℓєѕ downed the second glass off scotch, the burn was more expected this time and a warm fuzz started to creep into her head. She filled the glass one more time and rose from the couch. Making her way back over to her love and offering him the glass. She sat herself on the edge of the sofa and turned her body to face him, resting her hand on his knee. She wanted to ask if he had anything to do with it, or knew who had done it. He MUST know something seeing as she only spoke to his Father not so long ago, at the club and could have only just been on his way home. But she didn't want to know the answer. She didn't even care. The fact was, Don Gianni was dead. "So what now ? What does this mean for you? For us?" She hung her head and gritted her teeth, trying not to let her emotions overwhelm her again. Looking down at her hands and she fiddled with his pant leg. "Am I going to lose you again?"
Nick took the glass from her and drank deeply from it. He was sporting a pretty good buzz now and he definitely wasn't feeling any pain. When she settled beside him, he sat back again, his arm casually draping over the back of the sofa. Flicking his wrist, he swirled the melting sphere of ice in the glass and watched as it spun. "I don't know...honestly, I was told to wait here." When she began to tug at his pants, he looked down at his knee. "Whatever is going down you know it can't be good. First your husband and now my father? There's a major power grab going down right now and if the Gianni's are going to pull out of this one we're going to have to do something quick." He looked at her then back at the door and suddenly it made sense as to why she was there, in the Gianni home and he frowned.
Bυввℓєѕ looked up at him in confusion. "My husband?" She questioned him. "but my husband was my fault? I'm the one that shot him?" She shifted on the sofa, unsure what to make of all this new information. The only thing she knew for certain was that she couldn't lose him again, not now she got him back. Noticing him glancing at the door, she looked over her shoulder, and then back at him. "What are you looking at? Are you waiting for someone?" Distress and worry filled her voice as her brow furrowed into a frown. "I don't know what's going on. I don't know what to do anymore." She was become more and more upset and was no longer able to think straight at all as a million thoughts swam through her head.
Nick noticed her tension rise and he stood, "We got to get you out of here." Setting the glass down, he walked out into the study and glanced at the entry hall, then turned and motioned to her with a flick of his fingers before he put a finger to his lips, motioning her to be quiet.
Bυввℓєѕ looked at him with alarm, not knowing why he had all of a sudden decided she wasn't safe there. Speaking in a low whispering tone, "Baby what's happening? Why do I need to go?" She stood and followed him obediently. But stopped when she realized her footsteps were loud against the pine floor. She reached down and slipped off her shoes, carrying them both in one hand as she made her way towards him, reaching her empty hand out for his.
Nick took her hand and, pulling her close he put his lips near her ear, "Think about it baby, my father's dead, you know who my family is blaming for this. Why bring you here if you were s'pose to meet my father? Surely they knew he was dead when they brought you here. But I don't see Frankie letting me go if he was responsible, doesn't make much sense. Why not just put a bullet in my head and be done with it?" He dropped his voice even further, "Everyone is going to be scrambling to take my father's spot, what better way to show you aren't fucking around by killing or holding Morella's kids?"
Bυввℓєѕ felt her breathing begin to quicken, in panic as his words hit her like a brick. The plan never was to help her, it was to kill her. Her instinct had been right. But if she had listened to her gut and made a run for it.. If she hadn't come, she wouldn't have seen Nick again. She wouldn't be with him now. She gripped his hand tightly, trying desperately stay quiet as she spoke, "What are we going to do? Where can we go?" She began to panic a little more. "How are we even going to get out of here, baby?!"
Nick moved to stand with his back at the wall and tugged her with him. "We're not getting out of here...you are. I can't go, I have to make sure the Gianni's don't crumble with this blow. I need you to return to your family where you'll be safe, don't worry, I'll get this all figure out, but it might take some time. Do you understand?" He searched her eyes, hoping she did understand. It was going to crush him to let her go once more but he knew it was what was best for her.
Bυввℓєѕ she stood close to him, but was unable to speak. Unsure of what to say. She didn't want to put him in any more danger by being with him when they came for her. But she didn't want to leave him again. her face fell and she hung her head. Just a couple of days ago she was a singer in a club, in love with a man she could not be with, married to a man she hated, daughter to Don Morella one of the most feared men in Gravesend. And then she was free of her ogre of a husband, she was in the arms of the man she loved talking about how they were going to have a future together. And now she was an emotional wreck, conflicted about having to leave her one true love again, terrified about the men wanting to take her and kill her or both. Everything was a mess and she couldn't see a way through it. Suddenly she was jerked upright by loud crashes and commotion outside the front door. She could hear men out there and the voice of the doorman telling them they couldn't come in. Then she heard a shot, sounded like a gun with a suppressor, then a loud thud that sounded like what she assumed was a body - the body of the doorman - hitting the floor. She looked at Nick in panic. No words being spoken But with terror in her eyes. Was it too late?
Nick heard the commotion at the door and he moved tot he table where he knew his father kept a gun clipped on it's underside. Who the hell was shooting in their home?! It couldn't be his father's men, after all, Nick had accepted to take his father's spot as Gianni Boss, there was no way they'd be defying him. He was the one in control now, at least until his uncle could be found and established as the new Boss. There was no way Nick was going to allow their family's grip to slip. Family always came first. With that thought he looked at Bubbles. Or did it? "It has to be your fuckin brother! Fuckin idiot!" There was more gun fire and Nick knew his men were retaliating to the invasion of their home. Pushing Bubbles to the side where she'd be out of the line of fire, Nick shouted, "Frankie you dumb fuck, you must of lost your fuckin mind!" Nick stepped around the corner then and shot of a few rounds, letting those outside the door that they had opposition on the other side.
Bυввℓєѕ squatted to the ground, shaking like a leaf. Bullets were flying through the door, splintering the wood before the double doors burst open as someone came kicking through them. She could see bodies of men - her brothers men - laying lifeless on the ground outside the door, as well as that of the doorman and some that she recognized to be Gianni foot soldiers. She looked up and saw Frankie came bursting through the doors, knocking one clean off it's hinges. He made a beeline for her as the other 2 men went for Nick. Frankie tried to grab her, she kicked and screamed for him to let her go but he wouldn't. As he pulled her to her feet, she swing her arm, still clutching her shoes, as she sunk one of the heels deep into his bicep, the thin spiky heel piercing his skin easily. he dropped his grip on her as he yelled out in pain, dropping his gun and grabbing his arm where she had made the hole. She scrambled around on the floor, panic washing over her and tears blurring her vision, grabbing Frankie's gun from the ground before he had a chance to, she spun around toward him and held the barrel to his face as he tried to get up from the ground where he had fallen in pain. Her breathing was labored and through tears, clicking the safety off with her thumb as she looked to Nick, terrified and not knowing what to do next.
Nick reacted instinctively, his body turning towards the two that approached him and with control he let out two shots, then stepped back behind the wall. He knew he hit his marks, but before he could check he turned his attention to the confrontation between Frankie and Bubbles. Seeing Bubbles take control of the situation, he timed it his next actions perfectly. He knew she'd look to him, she always had and no doubt always will. Her loyalty was strong and he felt a twinge of something when he thought on how there had been a shadow of doubt concerning her and her loyalty. When she looked at him he fired his weapon, shooting Frankie in the head twice. As he fired, he strode forward and would attempt to grab Bubbles and turn her from the scene. Aiming at the body on the floor, he unloaded the clip into her brother, then tossed the gun to the side. "It's clear!" He shouted, "We're good!"
Gravesend Bay Urban / Mafia RP Sim
Nick and I decided to open our own RP sim in Second Life. We called it Gravesend Bay.
Please feel free to come visit and check it out if you are an RPer in Second Life.
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Purple%20Sky/193/52/29
Here is the info.
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---Gravesend Bay history---
Gravesend Bay is an U.S. town located in the northeast with a large population of Italian-American. The location made it a preferred destinations for Italian immigrants. The Mafia, an Italian-American organized-crime network with operations in cities across the United States, rose to power through its success in the illicit liquor trade during the 1920s Prohibition era. After Prohibition, the Mafia moved into other criminal ventures, from drug trafficking to illegal gambling, while also infiltrating labor unions and legitimate businesses such as construction and Gravesend Bay was no exception when it came to power grabs. The area, controlled by the Carollo Family, was broke down into four regions, each headed by four separate families. The Morella's were given the South end and the Gianni's were given the North.
Each Family has separate business dealings and tend to stay out of each other's way. But during the past century their business enterprises have been intermingling with each other to a very large extent and tensions are building as lines are being crossed.
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--- The Morella Family---
The Morella Family is one of four regional families headed by the Carollo Family. Armand Morella served as his father's Underboss until his father fell ill and died of a heart attack. Armand's first act as Boss was to order the assassination of Joseph Maranzano in order to gain control of the southern region, but he hadn't anticipated the ambitions of Anthony Gianni and was quickly put in his place after a bloody retaliation that left the Morella Family licking their wounds for years. It wasn't until the disappearance of Anthony Gianni that Armand Morella saw his chance. With the Gianni's battling each other, Armand played his hand, managing to gain the trust of two of the Gianni sons. The Gianni's were tough and fearless but a little light on wit and Morella took advantage of it and in the end managed to obtain land rights, loyalties and the backing of powerful acquaintances, which included politicians and land developers. With the death of Armand, which is rumored to have been murder, the only Morella son (name unknown), gained control of the family. Morella quickly took advantage of the land holdings and began selling off land that was once the Gianni's. The Morella's gain power, prestige and wealth quickly and continue to use their political connections to push the Gianni's further north. If they prevail, they plan on finally gaining control of the region and wiping the Gianni's off the map.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Please feel free to come visit and check it out if you are an RPer in Second Life.
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Purple%20Sky/193/52/29
Here is the info.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---Gravesend Bay history---
Gravesend Bay is an U.S. town located in the northeast with a large population of Italian-American. The location made it a preferred destinations for Italian immigrants. The Mafia, an Italian-American organized-crime network with operations in cities across the United States, rose to power through its success in the illicit liquor trade during the 1920s Prohibition era. After Prohibition, the Mafia moved into other criminal ventures, from drug trafficking to illegal gambling, while also infiltrating labor unions and legitimate businesses such as construction and Gravesend Bay was no exception when it came to power grabs. The area, controlled by the Carollo Family, was broke down into four regions, each headed by four separate families. The Morella's were given the South end and the Gianni's were given the North.
Each Family has separate business dealings and tend to stay out of each other's way. But during the past century their business enterprises have been intermingling with each other to a very large extent and tensions are building as lines are being crossed.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--- The Morella Family---
The Morella Family is one of four regional families headed by the Carollo Family. Armand Morella served as his father's Underboss until his father fell ill and died of a heart attack. Armand's first act as Boss was to order the assassination of Joseph Maranzano in order to gain control of the southern region, but he hadn't anticipated the ambitions of Anthony Gianni and was quickly put in his place after a bloody retaliation that left the Morella Family licking their wounds for years. It wasn't until the disappearance of Anthony Gianni that Armand Morella saw his chance. With the Gianni's battling each other, Armand played his hand, managing to gain the trust of two of the Gianni sons. The Gianni's were tough and fearless but a little light on wit and Morella took advantage of it and in the end managed to obtain land rights, loyalties and the backing of powerful acquaintances, which included politicians and land developers. With the death of Armand, which is rumored to have been murder, the only Morella son (name unknown), gained control of the family. Morella quickly took advantage of the land holdings and began selling off land that was once the Gianni's. The Morella's gain power, prestige and wealth quickly and continue to use their political connections to push the Gianni's further north. If they prevail, they plan on finally gaining control of the region and wiping the Gianni's off the map.
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---The Gianni Family---
The Gianni Family is one of four regional families headed by the Carollo Family. Anthony Gianni gained control of Gravesend Bay's north side in 1930 after the murder of Joseph Maranzano, who he served as Underboss. Joseph Maranzano was found shot to death by an unknown assassin and it was rumored that his death came under the order of Armand Morella who struggled to gain control of the liquor flow during the Prohibition. Anthony Gianni, who was involved in waterfront racketeering, quickly gained a tight hold on the community, thwarting Morella's plans of expanding his control. Anthony Gianni sired five sons who were known for their ruthlessness and branched out their business to involve illegal gambling, prostitution, blackmailing, loan sharking, money laundering, fraud and contract killing. Their strong grip was eventually loosened due to internal bickering and land and power was split between the five after their father's disappearance. With the power struggle shaking the foundations, the Gianni's were infiltrated by betrayal and soon the community was split by the family's feuding. In the end the youngest Gianni, (name unknown) was the last man standing among the five and he was left with the task of regaining control of what was left of their neighborhood. Large portions of land, countless businesses and strong loyalties had been claimed during the warring by the eldest of the two Morella brothers (name unknown). Gianni continued the family business of illegal gambling, prostitution, fraud and contract killing while struggling to regain what once was Gianni strength. Left with a dilapidated neighborhood, the Gianni Family feels the pressure for the Morella's to the south and is at the point where they're willing to do whatever it takes to not only keep what they have but to reclaim what the considered theirs.
Saturday, January 17, 2015
Where It All Began
So, Nick and I decided to expand a little on our previous mafia RP and go back to the roots of the story to when the characters first met.
The Setting: The same smoky, mafia run, Lounge bar that began our other story.
Nick left his father's smoke filled office that was located in the back of the club and closed the door behind him. The conversation between the small collection of adults was muffled and Nick scowled heavily as he carried out a few glasses of scotch and a dirty ashtray. When his father had offered to get him a job at the club Nick had thought it was going to be something exciting, a club full of made men gambling and doing deals along with sexy women eager to please in their tight gowns and heavily applied perfume, exotic and intoxicating...he had been sure he'd be involved in someway that would add some sort of thrill to his mundane teenage life, instead it turned out he was simply a glorified busser. Taking the glasses to the bar, he emptied the ashtray. The bartender called to him from the end of the bar, "Refills?" Nick jerked his chin at the guy. "Yeah," he muttered, "plus another double." The guy assured him it was coming right up and Nick leaned up against the bar and waited with a bored sulky expression. His father had found a way to keep him close and out of trouble and Nick was pissed he had been suckered into it. His buddies were no doubt having more fun than he was, they had been recruited to a life of street hustling, doing the fun stuff that was risky, while Nick got stuck in the club with a bunch of old fuckers and woman with too much make-up on. There was a woman singing on the stage and Nick watched her with passing interested. She was a blond beauty with lush red lips and a decent voice. Her tits appeared to be close to busting from the tight dress she wore and Nick became intrigued, his pale eyes hopefully watching as she sauntered around the stage. It took the bartender a couple of tries to get his attention and when he snapped back to reality, he thanked the guy, then waited for him to go back to tending to the other patrons before he grabbed the double and downed it quickly. A buzz was the only thing that was gonna keep him from slipping into a coma out of sheer boredom.
Bυввℓєѕ fidgeted on the leather couch, trying to get comfortable as she bought her legs up and hugged her knees. Huffing a little as she prepared herself for another long night sat alone in the smoky bar watching her father play poker with the rest of his monkeys. The only solace she had was that while she was in the club, she could watch and listen to the singer. She'd close her eyes and let the sultry tones wash over her, drowning out all the other sounds. Picturing herself up there on the stage, doing what she loved. She would sing to herself at home sometimes, but mostly her father would shoot her a glare letting her know he did not want to hear her and that she was irritating him, so she would contain it mostly to when she was in her room. The housekeeper would often times smile and tell her what a beautiful voice she had, and Bubbles dreamed of one day being up there in front of everyone, singing for them. As she shuffled around on the sofa, trying to get comfortable in her usual spot, she noticed a kid stood at the bar gawping at the woman on stage. She scoffed to herself, pretty sure it wasn't her voice that had captured his attention. She vaguely recognized the boy. although this was the first time she'd seen him at the club. He was the only other person in the bar who looked close to her age. She watched him for a minute, admiring his moody face. Giggling to herself as she noticed how long it took the barman to pry the boys attention away from the singers "assets". Chucking again as she watched him knock back the shot, thinking no one had noticed.
Nick licked his lips and set the glass in a bus tub before he collected the drinks and started back to the office. He wasn't eager to get back to standing around listening to the boring conversation his father was having with the two other men so he lingered a bit longer at the bar. The liquor warmed him and settled him into a comfortable haze, making his situation tolerable. He and his buddies often got their hands on liquor, either sneaking it from their parents stash or stealing it from the stores. Pleased with themselves, they'd find a stoop to sit on where they could watch the girls pass while smoking cigarettes. Nick wished he was there now, hell he wished he was anywhere but stuck in the damn club. Looking around the small crowd he noticed someone he hadn't seen. A girl, sitting on the sofa by the wall. She was laughing to herself and he briefly caught her gaze. Was she laughing at him? He didn't recognize her and he thought it was strange since he knew nearly all the pretty girls in the neighborhood. And this girl...well she was better than pretty. His interest was immediately caught up in the girl and his lips twisted in a fashion he knew most girls found charming. Turning, he tapped on the bar, getting the bartender's attention. "Uh hey, can you get theses drinks to my father, I'm gonna go on break." He didn't wait for an answer but made his way across the club with a casual swagger. He made it half way to the girl when someone halted him with a firm hold on his arm. Annoyed, Nick cut his eyes to the man while pulling his arm away. They guy called him kid and asked for a light. Nick scowled, "What? Your legs broke? Get up and get it one yourself."
Bυввℓєѕ panicked as the boy looked towards her and caught her giggling at him. Her eyes darted around the room, looking to settle anywhere but on him. "Shit..." She cursed herself under her breath. She knew he'd seen her and that she'd look even more of an idiot if she tried to pretend like she'd been laughing at something else, so she glanced back at him, her face tilted downwards as she shot him a shy, nervous smile. When she caught him smiling at her she was sure her heart skipped a beat. There was just something about him. "Wow, he's pretty cute." She thought to herself, looking away from him before it became awkward. She didn't have much experience with boys. Her father made sure of that. Practically locked her away. Although most guys were too scared to come near her anyway because of her family and her father. Her best friend, Kay, had a boyfriend, and the three of them hung out sometimes, but she was usually playing gooseberry while they made out behind a tree. From the corner of her eye, Bubbles noticed the boy making his way toward where she was sat. Straightening herself out, she tucked a leg underneath her and leaned coolly against the arm of the sofa, pretending to watch her father win hand after hand of poker while his monkeys folded their winning cards just so he wouldn't shoot them for taking his money.
Nick was defensive and continued to be a smartass to the man, until the bartender came over and soothed things over with a laugh. He told Nick to go on his break, then tended to the man. Nick heard him say to the man in a low voice, "He's the boss's kid." Nick tugged at the sleeve of his shirt, putting himself back in order, before he returned his attention to the girl on the couch. She tucked a leg beneath her and he admired the graceful way she moved. As he got closer he realized she was even more beautiful than he thought and he found himself taking in small details he missed from the bar. Hell, what was he doing? He couldn't just walk up to her. What the hell was he going to say? Suddenly he was seized with uncertainty - something he wasn't use to and at the last minute he changed course and moved to sit in an empty chair, so his back was facing her. Sinking into the chair, he hunched a bit and cursed. Smart move you dumb ass, he thought to himself. It was a stupid move, clearly she had seen him coming. Why had he hesitated? Normally he didn't think twice about approaching a girl, so why had he this time. Trying to play it cool, he attempted to appear to casually turn and look at the girl. She was still there and damn if she hadn't gotten more attractive. Quit being stupid! He turned back around and considered his next move.
Bυввℓєѕ tried desperately to play cool and keep her eyes on her fathers poker game as she leaned her elbow against the arm of the sofa and twirled a tousle of thick, red hair around her finger. She glanced toward the boy again and noticed he'd sat down instead of coming over to her and suddenly she felt a wave of disappointment. "Maybe he wasn't heading for me at all... Or maybe he was and changed his mind when he saw me up close." She thought to herself before finally settling on the fact that he must have realized who she was, or more to the point, realized who her father was, and decided against talking to her... just like everyone else did. She was used to this by now, but it didn't usually disappoint her as much as it did in this instance. She wanted to meet him. She contemplated for a second and sipped delicately on her lime soda as she realized she'd seen him bussing drinks and maybe this could be the excuse she needed. She tipped her head back and downed the rest of her drink, screwing her face up as the bubbles tickled her nose, before placing the empty glass down on the glass top table in front of her, as loudly as she could, hoping he would hear.
Nick turned once more to look at the girl. She was playing with her hair and he smiled slightly. He suddenly wondered what her hair smelled like. It was long and wavy and he the color intrigued him. Resting his arm on the back of the chair, he sank down a bit further. He watched her sip at her drink and he forgot about her hair and focused his attention on her lips. When she set the drink down he continued to watch her, his smile involuntarily broadening. He wondered what she'd been drinking and suddenly had a thought. Darting his eyes to the glass he realized it was empty and he stood. Making his way back to the bar he tapped impatiently on the counter, "Hey, can I get a drink?" The bartender responded quickly, "Sure Nichollas, what can I get you?" Nick briefly scowled hated the name. His father insisted on everyone addressing him by his full name and it bugged him. "Yeah get me a sprite... oh and put some of that red stuff in it. And toss in some cherries." The guy hesitated a moment then went to work while repeating the word cherries. When Nick had the drink he turned and made his way towards the girl, thinking he was pretty smart for coming up with the idea of refilling her drink. When he was close he stopped. What if she didn't like cherries? Hesitating, he considered darting into one of the near by alcoves, then cursed. No, he'd take her the drink. He couldn't risk looking like an idiot again. He didn't notice who was around her as he made his way to the couch. When he reached her, he stopped, wondering what the hell to say. When he couldn't think of nothing he simply extended his hand, offering her the glass.
Bυввℓєѕ noticed the boy standing and moving back toward the bar. She sunk down into the sofa in disappointment. And muttered under her breath, "Dammit!" She sighed heavily and looked back towards her father, puffing on a cigar and pouring himself another shot of crown from the bottle the bartender had left beside him. Her face hardened into a hateful scowl without her realizing, as she wondered what it would be like to be part of a normal family. Have normal, loving parents, and be able to talk to boys without the fear of them "disappearing". Snapping back to reality with a start as all of a sudden she noticed the boy was stood right next to her, offering he a glass filled with pink fizzy liquid and some cherries. Her face softened and her lips curled into a shy smile as she sat up straight, looking up at him as she reached for the drink. "I.. err... Thanks!" She spoke nervously as she lifted the glass to her lips and sipped at the cool refreshing drink. She was thankful of the liquid as she realized her mouth had become suddenly dry. She looked up at him again as she stirred her drink, "You know.. Cherries are part of the Rose family. So, you just bought me roses." She grinned at him whilst scolding herself in her head for sounding like such an idiot. Of all the conversations starters and she goes and blurts out a fun fruity fact. She chuckled nervously and shook her head, focusing her attention on the glass out of embarrassment.
The Setting: The same smoky, mafia run, Lounge bar that began our other story.
Nick left his father's smoke filled office that was located in the back of the club and closed the door behind him. The conversation between the small collection of adults was muffled and Nick scowled heavily as he carried out a few glasses of scotch and a dirty ashtray. When his father had offered to get him a job at the club Nick had thought it was going to be something exciting, a club full of made men gambling and doing deals along with sexy women eager to please in their tight gowns and heavily applied perfume, exotic and intoxicating...he had been sure he'd be involved in someway that would add some sort of thrill to his mundane teenage life, instead it turned out he was simply a glorified busser. Taking the glasses to the bar, he emptied the ashtray. The bartender called to him from the end of the bar, "Refills?" Nick jerked his chin at the guy. "Yeah," he muttered, "plus another double." The guy assured him it was coming right up and Nick leaned up against the bar and waited with a bored sulky expression. His father had found a way to keep him close and out of trouble and Nick was pissed he had been suckered into it. His buddies were no doubt having more fun than he was, they had been recruited to a life of street hustling, doing the fun stuff that was risky, while Nick got stuck in the club with a bunch of old fuckers and woman with too much make-up on. There was a woman singing on the stage and Nick watched her with passing interested. She was a blond beauty with lush red lips and a decent voice. Her tits appeared to be close to busting from the tight dress she wore and Nick became intrigued, his pale eyes hopefully watching as she sauntered around the stage. It took the bartender a couple of tries to get his attention and when he snapped back to reality, he thanked the guy, then waited for him to go back to tending to the other patrons before he grabbed the double and downed it quickly. A buzz was the only thing that was gonna keep him from slipping into a coma out of sheer boredom.
Bυввℓєѕ fidgeted on the leather couch, trying to get comfortable as she bought her legs up and hugged her knees. Huffing a little as she prepared herself for another long night sat alone in the smoky bar watching her father play poker with the rest of his monkeys. The only solace she had was that while she was in the club, she could watch and listen to the singer. She'd close her eyes and let the sultry tones wash over her, drowning out all the other sounds. Picturing herself up there on the stage, doing what she loved. She would sing to herself at home sometimes, but mostly her father would shoot her a glare letting her know he did not want to hear her and that she was irritating him, so she would contain it mostly to when she was in her room. The housekeeper would often times smile and tell her what a beautiful voice she had, and Bubbles dreamed of one day being up there in front of everyone, singing for them. As she shuffled around on the sofa, trying to get comfortable in her usual spot, she noticed a kid stood at the bar gawping at the woman on stage. She scoffed to herself, pretty sure it wasn't her voice that had captured his attention. She vaguely recognized the boy. although this was the first time she'd seen him at the club. He was the only other person in the bar who looked close to her age. She watched him for a minute, admiring his moody face. Giggling to herself as she noticed how long it took the barman to pry the boys attention away from the singers "assets". Chucking again as she watched him knock back the shot, thinking no one had noticed.
Nick licked his lips and set the glass in a bus tub before he collected the drinks and started back to the office. He wasn't eager to get back to standing around listening to the boring conversation his father was having with the two other men so he lingered a bit longer at the bar. The liquor warmed him and settled him into a comfortable haze, making his situation tolerable. He and his buddies often got their hands on liquor, either sneaking it from their parents stash or stealing it from the stores. Pleased with themselves, they'd find a stoop to sit on where they could watch the girls pass while smoking cigarettes. Nick wished he was there now, hell he wished he was anywhere but stuck in the damn club. Looking around the small crowd he noticed someone he hadn't seen. A girl, sitting on the sofa by the wall. She was laughing to herself and he briefly caught her gaze. Was she laughing at him? He didn't recognize her and he thought it was strange since he knew nearly all the pretty girls in the neighborhood. And this girl...well she was better than pretty. His interest was immediately caught up in the girl and his lips twisted in a fashion he knew most girls found charming. Turning, he tapped on the bar, getting the bartender's attention. "Uh hey, can you get theses drinks to my father, I'm gonna go on break." He didn't wait for an answer but made his way across the club with a casual swagger. He made it half way to the girl when someone halted him with a firm hold on his arm. Annoyed, Nick cut his eyes to the man while pulling his arm away. They guy called him kid and asked for a light. Nick scowled, "What? Your legs broke? Get up and get it one yourself."
Bυввℓєѕ panicked as the boy looked towards her and caught her giggling at him. Her eyes darted around the room, looking to settle anywhere but on him. "Shit..." She cursed herself under her breath. She knew he'd seen her and that she'd look even more of an idiot if she tried to pretend like she'd been laughing at something else, so she glanced back at him, her face tilted downwards as she shot him a shy, nervous smile. When she caught him smiling at her she was sure her heart skipped a beat. There was just something about him. "Wow, he's pretty cute." She thought to herself, looking away from him before it became awkward. She didn't have much experience with boys. Her father made sure of that. Practically locked her away. Although most guys were too scared to come near her anyway because of her family and her father. Her best friend, Kay, had a boyfriend, and the three of them hung out sometimes, but she was usually playing gooseberry while they made out behind a tree. From the corner of her eye, Bubbles noticed the boy making his way toward where she was sat. Straightening herself out, she tucked a leg underneath her and leaned coolly against the arm of the sofa, pretending to watch her father win hand after hand of poker while his monkeys folded their winning cards just so he wouldn't shoot them for taking his money.
Nick was defensive and continued to be a smartass to the man, until the bartender came over and soothed things over with a laugh. He told Nick to go on his break, then tended to the man. Nick heard him say to the man in a low voice, "He's the boss's kid." Nick tugged at the sleeve of his shirt, putting himself back in order, before he returned his attention to the girl on the couch. She tucked a leg beneath her and he admired the graceful way she moved. As he got closer he realized she was even more beautiful than he thought and he found himself taking in small details he missed from the bar. Hell, what was he doing? He couldn't just walk up to her. What the hell was he going to say? Suddenly he was seized with uncertainty - something he wasn't use to and at the last minute he changed course and moved to sit in an empty chair, so his back was facing her. Sinking into the chair, he hunched a bit and cursed. Smart move you dumb ass, he thought to himself. It was a stupid move, clearly she had seen him coming. Why had he hesitated? Normally he didn't think twice about approaching a girl, so why had he this time. Trying to play it cool, he attempted to appear to casually turn and look at the girl. She was still there and damn if she hadn't gotten more attractive. Quit being stupid! He turned back around and considered his next move.
Bυввℓєѕ tried desperately to play cool and keep her eyes on her fathers poker game as she leaned her elbow against the arm of the sofa and twirled a tousle of thick, red hair around her finger. She glanced toward the boy again and noticed he'd sat down instead of coming over to her and suddenly she felt a wave of disappointment. "Maybe he wasn't heading for me at all... Or maybe he was and changed his mind when he saw me up close." She thought to herself before finally settling on the fact that he must have realized who she was, or more to the point, realized who her father was, and decided against talking to her... just like everyone else did. She was used to this by now, but it didn't usually disappoint her as much as it did in this instance. She wanted to meet him. She contemplated for a second and sipped delicately on her lime soda as she realized she'd seen him bussing drinks and maybe this could be the excuse she needed. She tipped her head back and downed the rest of her drink, screwing her face up as the bubbles tickled her nose, before placing the empty glass down on the glass top table in front of her, as loudly as she could, hoping he would hear.
Nick turned once more to look at the girl. She was playing with her hair and he smiled slightly. He suddenly wondered what her hair smelled like. It was long and wavy and he the color intrigued him. Resting his arm on the back of the chair, he sank down a bit further. He watched her sip at her drink and he forgot about her hair and focused his attention on her lips. When she set the drink down he continued to watch her, his smile involuntarily broadening. He wondered what she'd been drinking and suddenly had a thought. Darting his eyes to the glass he realized it was empty and he stood. Making his way back to the bar he tapped impatiently on the counter, "Hey, can I get a drink?" The bartender responded quickly, "Sure Nichollas, what can I get you?" Nick briefly scowled hated the name. His father insisted on everyone addressing him by his full name and it bugged him. "Yeah get me a sprite... oh and put some of that red stuff in it. And toss in some cherries." The guy hesitated a moment then went to work while repeating the word cherries. When Nick had the drink he turned and made his way towards the girl, thinking he was pretty smart for coming up with the idea of refilling her drink. When he was close he stopped. What if she didn't like cherries? Hesitating, he considered darting into one of the near by alcoves, then cursed. No, he'd take her the drink. He couldn't risk looking like an idiot again. He didn't notice who was around her as he made his way to the couch. When he reached her, he stopped, wondering what the hell to say. When he couldn't think of nothing he simply extended his hand, offering her the glass.
Bυввℓєѕ noticed the boy standing and moving back toward the bar. She sunk down into the sofa in disappointment. And muttered under her breath, "Dammit!" She sighed heavily and looked back towards her father, puffing on a cigar and pouring himself another shot of crown from the bottle the bartender had left beside him. Her face hardened into a hateful scowl without her realizing, as she wondered what it would be like to be part of a normal family. Have normal, loving parents, and be able to talk to boys without the fear of them "disappearing". Snapping back to reality with a start as all of a sudden she noticed the boy was stood right next to her, offering he a glass filled with pink fizzy liquid and some cherries. Her face softened and her lips curled into a shy smile as she sat up straight, looking up at him as she reached for the drink. "I.. err... Thanks!" She spoke nervously as she lifted the glass to her lips and sipped at the cool refreshing drink. She was thankful of the liquid as she realized her mouth had become suddenly dry. She looked up at him again as she stirred her drink, "You know.. Cherries are part of the Rose family. So, you just bought me roses." She grinned at him whilst scolding herself in her head for sounding like such an idiot. Of all the conversations starters and she goes and blurts out a fun fruity fact. She chuckled nervously and shook her head, focusing her attention on the glass out of embarrassment.
Nick blinked. Had he heard her right? He wasn't sure since he seemed to have slip into some weird fog that had him acting like a moron. Crouching down, he crossed his arms then set them on the arm rest. "Amazing..." he murmured, then grinned. He didn't think about how stupid he must of appeared or if he was acting appropriately and he knew is he wanted to see her smile again. When his senses managed to return to him he realized he'd have to explain why he blurted the word amazing. "Uh, I didn't know that, about cherries. I thought they were just berries - I mean, they are berries but I thought they, well I mean I didn't know they were roses. Well, they aren't roses, but you know...what you said. I didn't know that." He wanted to touch her hair and his fingers twitched at the idea. To hide the reaction he curled his fingers and kept them balled. "Your hair..." he stopped himself from saying it was pretty. Idiot!
Bυввℓєѕ giggled a little as he stumbled over his words. She realized he seemed to be as nervous as she was and it relaxed her a little. Taking another sip of her drink to once again moisten her dry mouth, she admired his physique as he crouched beside the sofa. Licking her lips as she shifted on the cushion, turning her body to face him, she was captivated by his eyes. So pale but so deep. She could barely look away from them but she didn't want him to catch her staring so she leaned over to place the glass on the table next to her empty one from before, resting one arm across her stomach as she moved the other to once again curl a thick, red lock of hair around her finger. It was a habit she'd had since she could remember, even as a child, when her mother would take her for a haircut, she would make them leave a long lock at the front for her to twiddle or she would never get to sleep at night. She looked at him again, tilting her head and cocking an eyebrow, "What about my hair?"
Nick decided to change the subject, "How's the drink?" He didn't get an answer because someone put a hand on his shoulder and he turned to look up. A muscular, heavy set man was standing above him, looking down at him with an expression of disapproval. Nick didn't move but turned his attention back to the girl only to have the man tug him rough and Nick lost his balance and fell back on his ass. Confused but angry, Nick scrambled up off the floor and stood facing the guy defiantly, "What the hell did you do that for?" He wasn't afraid, never afraid, he knew who had his back and it gave him a boost of confidence that he carried with him like a weapon. The man didn't seem intimidated and informed him that he should move on, saying the girl didn't want to be disturbed. A cocky grin slid across Nick's lips, "What makes you think I'm disturbing her and what business is it of yours anyways, huh? Back off you fuck or you'll be dead in the next hour."
Bυввℓєѕ expression changed as one of her fathers men grabbed the boys shoulder. She got to her feet just as the kid got up in the mans face. Panicking at what might happen she stepped towards them, "Carlos, leave him alone for God's sake." She moved herself between them, with her back pressed against the boy, "he's the bus boy for fucks sake. Now back off!" She stood her ground as Carlos glared down at her, she returned his look with a petulant stare. "And you know what, if my father can be bothered to look up from his damn poker game, you can tell him I've gone home." She heard Carlos mutter something under his breath as he skulked away, but couldn't make out what it was. He hated it when she stood up to him, but he couldn't do anything about it for fear of her fathers wrath. her father didn't much care for her, he never wanted a girl, he was happy with just her brother, but he had a reputation to uphold, and that meant showing who's boss when anyone disrespected his daughter.
Nick watched as the guy walked away. Once the guy was gone, Nick realized the girl was standing close to him and he peered down at the top of her head. He caught her scent and it was enough to drag him back into the strange fog he'd felt before. Without thinking he touched her hair, letting his fingers move through the fiery mane as he admired the way the dim light of the club managed to affect the color. Her father...Reality started to come back to him and her words registered in his mind. The man who had shoved him on his ass was a bodyguard, that meant she was somebody and his eyes shifted to the table of men who were playing cards. There were five of them and Nick could pick out the boss quickly, he held the same imposing stature his own father commanded. Knowing who was who was an important thing and Nick had been so distracted by the girl he hadn't realized he'd just stepped into the Morella family. He realized now why he didn't know the girl. Their families, though cordial with each other, made it a point to avoid one another. Nick wasn't sure of why but he knew his father wasn't gonna be pleased. Before he could think about it Nick spoke, "Can I walk you home?"
Bυввℓєѕ felt his fingers touch to her hair and for some reason, she didn't stop him or knock his hand away like she would have had it been anyone else. A slight frown furrowed her face as she tried to understand why she was this comfortable with someone whose name she didn't even know, whom she'd barely said more than a few words to. Distracted from her own thoughts by the feel of his fingers running through her wavy locks, she let her head tilt back slightly into his palm, without even realizing. Lingering for a second before turning to face him, still as close as she was before, she looked into those pale eyes that she was so drawn to and smiled at his words, with a gentle nod she replied, "Yes. I'd like that."
Nick wanted to kiss her. She wasn't the first girl he'd wanted to kiss, hell he wanted to kiss plenty of girls and usually did but he knew doing it would have more than one guy on him in an instant, more than likely to drag him to the alley and kick his ass. "Aight, well," he lowered his voice, "I have to go let them know I'm leaving work...I mean, my shift is over and I gotta go...you know, check out." He never had a job, least not a legit one, so he wasn't sure what the process was, but he figured what he said was enough to sound like he was just a bus boy. "Do you mind meeting me outback but the employee entrance? I gotta grab some stuff and then I can take you home. Does that sound okay?"
Bυввℓєѕ took a step back, she was nervous being this close to him, not because she was scared or wary of him. Quite the opposite. She was tempted by him, drawn in by him, and it felt dangerous. She shifted on the spot and straightened out her loose fitting dress, looking at the floor nervously. "Uh... Sure. I'll just finish up my drink and I'll see you out there." Her hand brushed against his as she moved past him back to her table, and it sent a shiver through her whole body. She inhaled deeply and perched herself on the edge of the sofa once again, retrieving her glass from the table, using the stirrer to impale a cherry, bringing it to her mouth to catch it between her teeth and pull it from the make shift spear. She sipped at the last of her drink and kept a watchful eye on her father, hoping he didn't notice her getting ready to leave.
Nick didn't bother telling anyone he was leaving, instead he went to the back of the club and changed out of the stupid looking uniform his father had insisted he wore. When he was ready he stopped by his dad's office and, not bothering to knock, he stuck his head in. He'd meant to simply say bye and was surprised when someone grabbed his shoulder and yanked him into the room. Shoving him up against the wall, his father smacked him, like one would do with an insolent five year old before grabbed his shirt and gave him a shake. Nick knew better than to react like he wanted to, instead he stood silent, his jaw set and his pale eyes blazing. His father started in about the incident in the main room then asked about the girl. Before Nick could respond his father smacked him again, letting him know he wanted the truth. Nick gave his father the answer he was looking for, "She's just a girl, how was I suppose to know who her father was?" When he was warned to stay away from her, Nick nodded, "Okay, it's done." His father looked at him skeptically, then released him, giving him one last warning and telling him to stay out of trouble. It was the same shit Nick had heard all his life. Nick always had a hard time taking his father seriously, after all he knew his father's reputation and knew how he got to where he was. It was all bullshit but Nick knew how to appease the man and,straightening out his shirt, he left, biting his tongue so hard he was sure he could taste the metallic tang of blood. Making his way to the employee exit, he raked his fingers through his dark hair, getting himself in order before he stepped outside into the alley. searching for the one he was warned to stay away from. Nick was unaware of the small cut at the corner of his mouth and the blood that was smeared there.
Bυввℓєѕ downed the last of her drink, letting the second cherry fall into her mouth as she tipped the glass. She grabbed her small leather purse that she'd left on the floor beside the couch, and stood up to leave, she noticed her father glance up at her as she rose from the couch and she looked at him, nodding toward the bathroom as she started to walk in the same direction. As always, her father's attention was never on her for long and when she was content he was fully focused back on his poker game, she switched course and headed for the exit. There was a chill in the air as she stepped outside, it had been a warm summer evening when they'd first arrived at the bar so she never thought to bring a jacket but they'd been there for hours and it was now night time and the air had turned cold. She shivered a little and rubbed at her arms as she quickened her pace heading for the alley at the side of the club, checking over her shoulder to make sure none her fathers men had been ordered to follow her. As she turned the corner, she saw the boy stood there waiting for her, and her lips had curled into a smile before she'd even noticed. She faced down at the ground so he didn't catch her idiotic grin and think she was some kinda crazy, and continued to walk straight ahead.
Nick saw the girl appear at the end of the alley and he grinned despite himself. Making his way to her, he would grab her hand, eager to get away from the club. Last thing he wanted was another encounter with one of her father's men. "You ready?" He noticed she wasn't wearing a jacket and he quickly shrugged off his coat, "Here, wear this." Holding it open for her, he flashed her a smile. He normally didn't work so hard to charm a girl, in fact any girl he'd been involved with was simply someone to fuck and later ignore, but this girl was someone he wanted to know and to impress. He didn't stop to wonder if his attraction to the girl was motivated by the fact that she was forbidden to him, though anything his father disapproved of in the past was something that he surely got involved in.
Bυввℓєѕ felt her grin grow wider as he approached her, and when he took her hand, slipping her fingers between his felt as natural as breathing itself. She had always been nervous around guys, having not had much experience with them, but with this one, everything felt like it was just right. She smiled broadly at him as he offered her his coat, slipping her arms into the sleeves as he held it out for her. The lining was warm from him, and she pulled it around her as if she were pulling his arms around her. She noticed the smear of blood from his lip and her face turned to worry as she touched her finger to it. "Shit, what happened?? Are you okay?" She used her thumb to wipe away the trail of blood and let her palm linger on his cheek as she looked at him, lost for words for a second and with no clue why. When she finally regained her ability to speak she questioned him, "Did Carlos do this to you ?? Or one of my fathers other monkeys? Jesus, I'm so sorry!"
Nick licked his lips, then wiped at them, unaware of what she spoke of. When he saw the blood, he poked his tongue at the corner of his mouth, "Nah, no, I was messing around with one of my buddies. He musta just got in a luck hit." He laughed in an attempt to back up his little tale, then adjusted the coat that she wore, before he stepped back, "Looks good on you." He took her hand once more then stepped out of the alley with her in tow. He glanced quickly up and down the street before he guided her across the road, "You like movies? There's one playing down at the drive-in, I forget the name but I can get us some good seats. If you like popcorn you'll have to let me know so I can pick some up before we get to the spot. You like popcorn?" He led her down the sidewalk and when he felt they were at a safe distance from the club he released her hand then turned towards her, walking backward as he talked. He paid little attention to anyone else on the sidewalk and he walked as if he expected them to move for him. Seeing a friend of his, he waved, then looked back at the girl. "You know, I don't even know your name...Come to think of it, you don't even know mine. I bet I can guess what yours is. You wanna bet?" He was more animate and energetic than he normally was.
Bυввℓєѕ looked at him skeptically as he blamed the bloody lip on his buddy. There had been barely any time between him leaving her in the bar to them meeting in the alley and she sure as hell didn't see anyone that was likely to be his "buddy" in the bar. But she figured boys did like to put on a brave face and act the tough guy, and if he wanted to tell her, he would. She slipped her fingers between his again as he took her hand, and closed them snugly around his knuckles. She followed his lead as he stepped out on to the road, and quickened her step to keep up with him. She nodded at his question, "yeah I love movies. I guess I don't get to go much though. My father's usually too busy to take me and my best friend spends all her time with her boyfriend." She smiled and chuckled slightly as he weaved, backwards, through the people on the sidewalk, his demeanor reminded her of a young child on a sugar rush. "Sure, I like popcorn." Speaking through her giggles as she watched him, and looking to see if she recognized the person he was waving too. She reached forward and grabbed both his hands, pulling him to a stop before he tripped over a trash can on the sidewalk. "You're gonna hurt yourself you know.... Or someone else" She grinned at him and squeezed his hands gently. "I bet you can't guess my name. I'll bet you... " she trailed off for a second to pull a dramatically thoughtful face, "I'll bet you a hot dog and a soda that you can't guess my name!"
Nick stops when she takes his hand and he glances behind him, before he looks back at her, ready to take on the challenge. Briefly he forgets about the the movie or the episode at the club. "Aight, you're on, but mind you, I'm kinda hungry so if I win I'm not going to let you off the hook." Nearby is a stoop and he moves to hop up on it so he can casually perch. He didn't let on that he knew a little about her family and since she referred to the boss as her father he had already figured out who she was. He knew her brother from a run in that ended with a few bloody noses and black eye. His buddies had fun antagonizing the Morella crew and the confrontation had been one of the many brawls he and friends his age got themselves into. It all started when one of Nick's friends offered to fuck Frankie's sister. Nick had never met the girl, but he recalled his friends later talking about the beauty with the red hair and the funny name. Pretending to think long and hard, Nick looked the girl over, taking advantage of the game to openly stare at her. "I know it's nothing typical 'cause you are far from typical. I bet it's something exotic, you know like those chicks you see in the movies. Those names that sound made up but fit..." He reached out and attempted to take hold of her chin, making an exaggerated show of inspecting her. He narrowed his eyes, then brought his face in close to her, so his lips were inches from hers. "Nah, I'm gonna go in another direction and say it has something to do with your personality. You seem like a sweet girl...innocent, maybe even someone who needs someone else to care for you. To protect you. Delicate but free...like maybe..." He grinned, "Bubbles?"
Bυввℓєѕ grinned at him, sure that he would never guess her name. She'd never heard of anyone else with the name "Bubbles". Her father had never liked it from the start but her Mother used to tell her the story of her name. That her mother's favorite singer was Don Ho whose most famous song was "Tiny Bubbles", and when she was born, Bubbles had been so very tiny, that her mother would sing that song to her and when it came to naming her, her mother wanted to call her nothing else but Bubbles. She smiled softly as she recalled her mothers tale, and the sweet gentle voice she would tell it in. She was brought back to the present as the boys face was inches from hers, she could feel his breath on her lips and it made her catch her breath. She could feel her heart pounding in her throat and did all she could not to start shaking at his nearness. As he spoke her name, it rang in her ears like no one had ever said it before. For a moment she didn't even wonder at how he might have known it, but just let herself get caught up by the sound of her name on his lips, sending a shiver through her. After a second she took a step back and cocked an eyebrow at him, "Now how the heck could you have known that, you cheater!" She tried to frown at him but couldn't help but flash him a grin as he stood there grinning back at her.
Nick laughed, then settled back. "Aight now it's your turn for you to guess my name." Of course he was named after his father, but because his mother wasn't a big fan of his father she had added an extra L. Later she would tell him he was nothing like his father and that the extra L was to remind him that he was different, or as his mother put it, "a better man". It was a private jab that only his parents knew about but it was one Nichollas took pride in. His mother unfortunately had gone missing when he was nine. His father never spoke of it but the rumor was she ran off with a lover. Nick knew something like that would never go unpunished and he assumed his mother was dead. Secretly he hoped his mother had managed to find a place on the world to hide and that she was happy and loved. It didn't please his father any that he looked just like his mother, with pale eyes that were relatively uncommon. "So go ahead, guess what my name is, but remember, you only get one guess so the first name you speak counts as your first guess." He was enjoying the game and his amusement showed clearly on his face as he turned and watched those who passed on the street.
Bυввℓєѕ perched herself on the edge of the stood and rested her chin on her finger, as if in deep contemplation. "Hmm.." She looked him up and down, taking in his physique. He was well built for someone their age. Either he worked out a lot, or he got into a lot of fights. His eyes, were pale, and beautiful, and so deep. He looked as if he had a cocky grin permanently on his face, and she knew by the way he'd acted since they met that he was confident. The cold wind hit her again and she pulled his coat tight around herself to stop from shivering. She knew she'd never guess his name, and she'd never seen him around before so had no clue who he might be, so she decided to make a joke of it instead. "Well, you know, you look a look like an Archibald" Grinning to herself as she stood up from the cold stoop she'd sat on. "Yes, I think you're an Archie." She nodded and tried to fake a serious expression and hide her grin.
Nick frowned. He didn't stop to think that maybe she was messing with him and he looked down at her, "No, it's not, it's Nichollas." He made it a point to leave out his last name, figuring she might recognize that and leave. He wasn't sure what he reaction would be to his last name but he wasn't eager to find out, least not yet. "So you lost, I won, you owe me a hot dog and a soda." Jumping off the stoop, he against attempted to take her hand so he could continue to lead her to their destination. When he stepped back onto the sidewalk a car pulled up next to the curb and the back window rolled down. It was his aunt and she didn't look pleased. Releasing the girl's hand, Nick turned to her, "Hold on one moment, will you, I have to talk to this lady." Without waiting for a response, he approached the car and jerked his chin at the woman, as if giving her permission to speak. In Italian she spoke quietly but her mood was clear, she wasn't happy. She wanted to know the usually stuff- where he was going, where his father was, who he was with and why he wasn't at the club. Nick noticed the woman looking over his shoulder and eyeing his company and he took a step to the side to block her view. "I'm going to go grab a movie and I'm not at the club 'cause Dad's at the club and he's in a mood. Thought I'd just keep my distance." the woman looked at him, then reached out and briefly touched his chin, examining the slight bruising by his lip. She nodded then before she leaned out of the window and kissed his cheek. She left but not before telling him to stay out of trouble.
Bυввℓєѕ stepped to the side as he jumped down, and willingly let him take her hand. Something else that felt so natural, her hand in his. "Nichollas." She repeated his named to herself, admiring how it sounded on her lips. As they were about to set off down the street, a car pulled up and he quickly dropped her hand. She frowned a little as he stepped toward the car, wondering who it was and why he had been so eager to hide her from them. She could see a woman's face as the window rolled down, but she didn't have a clear view, and she couldn't hear anything that was being said. She took a step back and leaned against the wall, shoving her hands into the pockets of his coat she was wearing. Looking up and down the street pretending not to be interested in who he was talking to. It was a nice town car, obviously somebody important, or from an important family, which made her wonder why they would be stopping to talk to a young boy on the street. As the car pulled away and he turned back to her, she smiled at him, "Everything okay?"
Nick nodded at the question then held out his hand, "Come on, we got a movie to make." He would lead her quietly down the street while occasionally watching those they passed or who passed them. He assumed her father didn't allow his daughter to just wander off with anyone or by herself and he kept an eye out for anyone who might be watching them. When he was sure they were in the clear he darted into an alley and led her quickly to a side door of an abandoned building. The door was boarded shut, or at least appeared to be but he had made it a point to leave it easy to open. Pulling away the boards, he pushed the door open, the rusty hinges protesting and he motioned for her to enter. There was broken boards, glass and liter scattered about the first floor and he assumed she wouldn't be eager to enter so he would smile reassuringly. "Hurry up before someone sees us."
Bυввℓєѕ reached out and slipped her hand into his again and let him lead her. She didn't come to this part of town much and didn't know her way around. She had no idea why , as she'd only just met him, but she felt safe with Nichollas, protected. And somehow she knew, he wouldn't let anything happen to her. She held his hand tight as he led her into an alley and frowned inquisitively as he pried open the door to a derelict building. She hesitated for a moment until he smiled at her. For some reason, she trusted him and so she stepped through the door into the building. The smell was dank and musty, dust filled the air and the place was full of litter. The walls were covered in graffiti and it had obviously been used as a squat or a shelter for some homeless people... maybe even still was on occasion, but from what she could make out, it was completely empty now. She turned to him, wondering what they were doing there. "This doesn't look like the movies or a hot dog stand?!"
Nick shut the door and gave it a strong yank so it would be difficult to open from the outside. The place was one of the many hangouts he and his friends had around the neighborhood where they could screw around and not be bothered. He was impressed that the girl didn't have an issue with entering the run down building with a practical stranger. She was fearless and he liked that. He wondered what things she had been exposed to in her life that would make her so bold. Surely she had the protection of her father and her family that she instinctively felt behind her, it was the same for him. Kicking aside a empty bottle, he held out his hand once more for her to take, "You might want to watch your step." He had planned to take her to buy some popcorn and something to drink but all the eyes on the street changed his mind. The last thing he wanted was for their time together to be interrupted. He wanted to get to know this girl and the only way to do that was to get time alone, truly alone. "Where do you go to school? I would know if I had seen you around my school." He started up the small talk as he led her to the stairwell. The door was missing and the place was dark, but he knew his way around. Starting up the stairs, he could hear his voice echo back to him and he glanced up, making sure none of his buddies were there. He whistled, waited for a response, then continued on his way with the girl in tow.
Bυввℓєѕ stepped over a few empty cartons and papers that scattered the floor, waving her hand in front of her face to clear the dust from her eyes. She jumped a little as he slammed the door hard behind her and the whole place became almost pitch black apart from a few rays of moonlight that shone through the cracks between the boards on the windows and doors. As he reached his hand out to her, she pulled up the sleeve on the over-sized jacket that was almost covering her hand, and without a second thought, slipped her fingers between his and let him lead her through the darkness. Treading carefully as they made their way through the building, she answered his questions. "My mother home schooled me until she died a few years ago." Her voice became low and solemn as she spoke of her mother, "But after that my father didn't want to take on the hassle, so he sent me to the all girls school across town." Her lips curled into a grin as she added, "I guess he didn't want me mingling with boys like you, huh?" She smirked at him as he began to lead her up the stairs, squeezing his hand tighter as it became darker, there were no windows on the stair well and she now couldn't see a thing. She gripped his arm with her other hand and pushed herself close behind him so she wouldn't lose her stepping. "What is this place, anyways?"
Nick liked how she clung to him and he smiled to himself. It wasn't the first time he brought a girl here and it was a typical reaction. When she mentioned her father's concerns about 'boys like him', he huffed out a laugh, "I'm sure I'm the very guy he wanted to keep you from." It amused him that he knew things she didn't and he wondered what her reaction would be when she found out about him and his family. The continued to ascend and when they reached the very top he shoved the heavy metal door open and exposed them to the view of a evening sky and a cool breeze. Leading her to the opposite side of the roof, he extended a hand towards a spot where there was a couch and a few chairs. They kept a radio, an ice chest and a few blankets up at the hang out and when seated a person got a clear view to the drive in screen in the distance. "We can't hear the movie but it's kinda nice that way...so what do you think?"
Bυввℓєѕ followed him out on to the roof, clinging closer to him as the cold air hit her once again. When he mentioned being "THE" guy her father wanted to keep her away from, she smiled crookedly, not really understanding what he meant by it, but figuring it was just his cocky sense of humor. As they reached the other side of the rooftop, she saw the set up they had up there, "oh wow... this is... Well it's pretty awesome.... Brings lots of girls up here, huh ?" She smirked at him as she teased, but inwardly wondering if it were the truth. She let go of his hand and folded her arms across her chest, shivering. "Well I guess it's not the coziest of hang outs, but I like it." She stepped toward the sofa and perched herself on the edge, still shivering as she leaned down to hug her bare knees and rubbing her legs to try warm them up.
Nick sat himself down on the old sofa - it had taken them forever to drag it to the roof. He grabbed one of the blankets then patted the spot beside him, "Come on, sit down, we can keep each other warm." He was ready to settle in then remembered the bourbon bottle he had stashed under the couch. Leaning over, he reached blindly under the piece of furniture until he found the bottle. Bringing it out, he unscrewed the cap and took a quick swig. "Want some, it will help warm you up too. I think we probably got other stuff to drink." He glanced at the drive in screen trying to see if he recognized the movie. They played a lot of old classics and he immediately recognized the flick playing. It was the Wizard of Oz. "Want some music?" He purposely ignored the comment about other girls. Turning on the radio the sounds of Sinatra filled the air and he leaned back and smiled, "very nice."
Bυввℓєѕ watched him as he made himself comfortable and pulled out the bottle from beneath the couch, nodding as he offered her some. She took the bottle from him and took a swig, screwing her face up as it burned a trail down her throat. She, too, smiled when she heard Sinatra from the radio, Her mother had always liked him and she can remember hearing his music a lot when she was younger. It always calmed her. She took another swig from the bottle as he settled himself on the couch, and she moved herself back, next to him, tucking both her legs up on to the sofa as she leaned against his shoulder, huddling close to try and keep warm. "I love this movie." She smiled as she watched the screen, pulling the blanket over her bare legs as she sang quietly along with the radio.
Nick was pleased when she sank down on the couch next to him then took the bottle and drank one last time before slipping it back under the sofa. These were moves he had played out countless times on other girls, but this time he knew he wasn't going to get a quick fuck from this girl and move on. Not because he felt she'd resist his charms but because he knew the risks and knew he was playing with fire. It was part of what drew him to the girl, though the strong attraction was there also. Pulling her to him, he held her close, trying to help her warm up while wondering if he should kiss her. "This sofa smells weird..." He muttered, while lifting his knees and turning towards her so she could settle between his legs and lean back against his chest. "So what were you doing at the club? I've never seen you there before."
Bυввℓєѕ smiled as he pulled her into him. Knowing she should have been more hesitant and more wary about being so comfortable with a complete stranger, she couldn't help but feel totally at ease with him, like they'd spent every night together like this for their whole lives. She knew nothing about him, yet she knew she wanted to be close to him. And she felt safe with him. Giggling a little as he sniffed at the sofa, she shifted and settled between his legs, bringing her knees up and leaning back against him. He was warm and she fit perfectly into his arms. "Usually I stay home with the housekeeper, but her brother passed away and she needed to be with her family... And Daddy doesn't trust me at home on my own. I guess he figured I couldn't get into any trouble if I was under his watchful eye at the club." She scoffed. "Boy is he in for a shock." She muttered this last sentence, to herself more than to Nichollas, but it did make her chuckle. She pulled her knees closer to her chest trying her hardest to stop shaking from the cold, as she added, "I don't think I've ever seen you around before either. What's your story?"
Nick shrugged, "I don't have much of a story...Just started the whole busboy thing." He felt her shivering and he wrapped his arms around her, then tucked his face in her neck, his warm breath spreading through her hair and across the skin of her neck. Her nearness was distracting and he forgot about the movie and the music as the liquor warmed him and brought on a comfortable haze. "Is there a reason your father keeps a close eye on you?" He was genuinely interested in her answer because, though he knew about her family, he knew next to nothing about her. In fact, he was completely forgetting about her family ties as they huddled there on the couch.
Bυввℓєѕ closed her eyes as his breath warmed her, and tickled the skin on her neck. As he wrapped his arms around her, she found herself slipping her fingers between his, their hands fitting perfectly together. She shrugged at his question, "I don't know really. I guess since my mother died, I'm all he has left of her. Frankie is more like him but I am every bit my mother." She paused for a second before continuing, "Although, I'm pretty sure he resents me, for being a constant reminder of losing the one and only person he truly loved. Everyone else is just a possession to him." She leaned her head back, turning it to the side and tucking her nose snugly under his chin. inhaling his scent, feeling the alcohol engulf her in a warm haze.
Nick, lost in moment, could keep tabs on the conversation and where it had led. Everything she was saying wasn't making much sense to him but he managed to mutter a "mhm" before he tilted his head down nudging her in away that made it clear he wanted to kiss her. Maybe it was the girl, the alcohol or his own cockiness, but he became unaware of his surroundings and that might have been a good thing if he hadn't been in the wrong place with the wrong girl. He barely registered what was happening when two hands grabbed him under his arms and forcefully drug him from the sofa, yanking him over the armrest and dropping him on his back. A breath exploded from him as his back hit the tarred roof and he hardly had a chance to react, let alone scramble up from the awkward position. He recognized the guy from the club, the man was sneering at him with some amusement and Nick managed to mutter, "Oh shit," before the man punched him squarely in the face. A light exploded and he instinctively threw up his arms. Pain flared through his sinuses and he cursed, before attempting to roll over in a protective ball. The man kicked him in the gut and Nick gasped before coughing, though his breath wouldn't return so he laid gasping for a moment. Someone was laughing and he felt hands catch his arm pits again and he was drug up on his knees.
Bυввℓєѕ felt his nose nudge at her, and knowing what he wanted, she knew she wanted it too. She lifted her head to meet his but in the same moment was jerked forward as Nichollas was ripped out from behind her. She sat stunned for a second, with no clue what had happened, before turning towards the noise and commotion behind her, to find Carlos and her brother stood over Nichollas, kicking him and beating him. As Frankie grabbed hold of Nichollas, dragging him up off the ground, she stood and screamed at him, "Frankie, get the hell off of him? What the fuck are you doing??" She lurched toward them but Carlos swung his muscular arm up to stop her, hitting her square in the chest and sending her flying, winding her completely. She stumbled backwards over the sofa and ended up hitting the ground with a thud, winding her even more. She sat, coughing and spluttering, unable to move as she watched the men kick and hit Nichollas until his face and shirt were smeared with blood. She tried calling out but she could barely breathe from the huge arm that had impacted her tiny frame.
Nick was held firmly as he was beaten,his face and torso plummeted with hits and kicks, so many he couldn't distinguish which was which all he knew was he close to blacking out. With his head hanging, he could taste the blood and feel the sticky heat running down his face and dripping from his chin. He heard Bubbles briefly, but his head started to spin and he closed his eyes, waiting for the beating to end. When he was sure he was done he was shoved onto his face and was left gasping, his cheek pressed to the roof. He'd taken a beating before but this one was by far the worst. Laying still, he closed his eyes, missing the moment before when he was close to the girl, warm and comfortable. Despite the pain that coursed through him and the lack of breath he managed to expel a laugh. The two who beat him were circling around him and when he managed to open his eyes he could see the leather from their shoes near his face second before someone grabbed his hair and pulled his head up. "You know Gianni, you really are a pain in the ass. First, you and you friends steal from us then you have the balls to bring my sister up here and attempt to what? What were you gonna do, huh? Yeah, I know what you were gonna do, you little shit. Guess we ruined your plans huh? Well, I got to admit, I admire your...what is it? Stupidity? Ballsiness? Nah, I think it's more of a lack of respect. So take this as your warning. Stay away from my sister. If I see you even looking at her I will make sure you're never found, got that?" Nick peered up, while squinting one eye and he smiled, "You're funny." His response earned him another kick. Grunting, Nick curled back up into a ball.
Bυввℓєѕ laid helpless while the 2 men beat Nichollas within an inch of consciousness. Gasping for breath and wincing at the pain in her chest. BY the time she was able to breathe and stand again, they'd all but finished with him. She got to her feet and ran toward them just in time to hear her brother snarl the name "Gianni". The name above the club door, the name above many of the businesses in town.. And the name that made her father grimace in disgust and hatred whenever he heard it. She was stopped in her tracks, trying to process what she had heard. He was one of them? She knew this should bother her but it didn't. She was shocked, yes. She couldn't even understand why he didn't tell her. But it didn't stop her from wanting to run to him and make sure he was okay. She screamed at the men again, weaker this time, he voice gravely from coughing for breath. "Get away from him Frankie. He didn't do anything wrong!" She rushed toward him, Frankie tried to stop her but she used her heel to dig into his foot, making him yell out in pain and drop his arms, allowing her to rush to kneel beside Nichollas. Attempting to wipe the blood from his face, her brow furrowed in concern, "Jesus, are you okay?!"
Nick felt her hands on his face and he winced, not even sure where the pain was coming from, at that point it seemed all consuming but he managed to open his eyes, though one stung badly and his vision was blurred by the blood that had seep into his eyes. He noted the worry and concern on her face and he tried to smile, though he was sure it looked ghastly and nowhere near charming or attractive. "Hey, yeah...Imma be fine. Sorry 'bout not mentioning the whole family shit..." He heard someone move around them and he flinched, anticipating more violence and he found himself taking shelter against the girl. Behind him the guy Bubbles referred to as Carlos spoke, "You're luck we didn't toss him off this roof. Come on girl, your father is waiting for you." Nick frowned slightly, then looked up at Bubbles, "Don't worry, I'll be aight." Quietly he added, "I'll find you." He didn't even know if the girl wanted to see him again, but it didn't matter, he wanted to see her. He wanted that kiss and more importantly he wanted to see her smile again. It seemed kinda stupid, but the urge was strong enough that he knew he wouldn't be able to ignore it. He didn't want her to leave but he doubted they were going to let her stay.
Bυввℓєѕ felt her lips start to shake. She barely knew this kid but already, seeing him in this state made her hurt. She wanted to stay but Carlos started to lift her off the ground. She tried to fight back but he was a huge guy and with Frankie's help they lifted her clear off the floor and dragged her toward the rooftop door. The whole while she was looking back over her shoulder at Nichollas, still on the ground. As they dragged her down the stairs, she was screaming at them, "Get off my Frankie, you're hurting me!" Fighting against their grip and kicking her legs, until eventually they let her go. but walked side by side behind her so she couldn't turn around. They reached the ground floor and made their way back through the heavy door they had obviously kicked open, to find her fathers car parked in the alley outside, waiting for her to get in. The ride home was silent and it wasn't until she had run to her room and was sobbing on her bed that she realized she was still wearing his coat.
Bυввℓєѕ downed the last of her drink, letting the second cherry fall into her mouth as she tipped the glass. She grabbed her small leather purse that she'd left on the floor beside the couch, and stood up to leave, she noticed her father glance up at her as she rose from the couch and she looked at him, nodding toward the bathroom as she started to walk in the same direction. As always, her father's attention was never on her for long and when she was content he was fully focused back on his poker game, she switched course and headed for the exit. There was a chill in the air as she stepped outside, it had been a warm summer evening when they'd first arrived at the bar so she never thought to bring a jacket but they'd been there for hours and it was now night time and the air had turned cold. She shivered a little and rubbed at her arms as she quickened her pace heading for the alley at the side of the club, checking over her shoulder to make sure none her fathers men had been ordered to follow her. As she turned the corner, she saw the boy stood there waiting for her, and her lips had curled into a smile before she'd even noticed. She faced down at the ground so he didn't catch her idiotic grin and think she was some kinda crazy, and continued to walk straight ahead.
Nick saw the girl appear at the end of the alley and he grinned despite himself. Making his way to her, he would grab her hand, eager to get away from the club. Last thing he wanted was another encounter with one of her father's men. "You ready?" He noticed she wasn't wearing a jacket and he quickly shrugged off his coat, "Here, wear this." Holding it open for her, he flashed her a smile. He normally didn't work so hard to charm a girl, in fact any girl he'd been involved with was simply someone to fuck and later ignore, but this girl was someone he wanted to know and to impress. He didn't stop to wonder if his attraction to the girl was motivated by the fact that she was forbidden to him, though anything his father disapproved of in the past was something that he surely got involved in.
Bυввℓєѕ felt her grin grow wider as he approached her, and when he took her hand, slipping her fingers between his felt as natural as breathing itself. She had always been nervous around guys, having not had much experience with them, but with this one, everything felt like it was just right. She smiled broadly at him as he offered her his coat, slipping her arms into the sleeves as he held it out for her. The lining was warm from him, and she pulled it around her as if she were pulling his arms around her. She noticed the smear of blood from his lip and her face turned to worry as she touched her finger to it. "Shit, what happened?? Are you okay?" She used her thumb to wipe away the trail of blood and let her palm linger on his cheek as she looked at him, lost for words for a second and with no clue why. When she finally regained her ability to speak she questioned him, "Did Carlos do this to you ?? Or one of my fathers other monkeys? Jesus, I'm so sorry!"
Nick licked his lips, then wiped at them, unaware of what she spoke of. When he saw the blood, he poked his tongue at the corner of his mouth, "Nah, no, I was messing around with one of my buddies. He musta just got in a luck hit." He laughed in an attempt to back up his little tale, then adjusted the coat that she wore, before he stepped back, "Looks good on you." He took her hand once more then stepped out of the alley with her in tow. He glanced quickly up and down the street before he guided her across the road, "You like movies? There's one playing down at the drive-in, I forget the name but I can get us some good seats. If you like popcorn you'll have to let me know so I can pick some up before we get to the spot. You like popcorn?" He led her down the sidewalk and when he felt they were at a safe distance from the club he released her hand then turned towards her, walking backward as he talked. He paid little attention to anyone else on the sidewalk and he walked as if he expected them to move for him. Seeing a friend of his, he waved, then looked back at the girl. "You know, I don't even know your name...Come to think of it, you don't even know mine. I bet I can guess what yours is. You wanna bet?" He was more animate and energetic than he normally was.
Bυввℓєѕ looked at him skeptically as he blamed the bloody lip on his buddy. There had been barely any time between him leaving her in the bar to them meeting in the alley and she sure as hell didn't see anyone that was likely to be his "buddy" in the bar. But she figured boys did like to put on a brave face and act the tough guy, and if he wanted to tell her, he would. She slipped her fingers between his again as he took her hand, and closed them snugly around his knuckles. She followed his lead as he stepped out on to the road, and quickened her step to keep up with him. She nodded at his question, "yeah I love movies. I guess I don't get to go much though. My father's usually too busy to take me and my best friend spends all her time with her boyfriend." She smiled and chuckled slightly as he weaved, backwards, through the people on the sidewalk, his demeanor reminded her of a young child on a sugar rush. "Sure, I like popcorn." Speaking through her giggles as she watched him, and looking to see if she recognized the person he was waving too. She reached forward and grabbed both his hands, pulling him to a stop before he tripped over a trash can on the sidewalk. "You're gonna hurt yourself you know.... Or someone else" She grinned at him and squeezed his hands gently. "I bet you can't guess my name. I'll bet you... " she trailed off for a second to pull a dramatically thoughtful face, "I'll bet you a hot dog and a soda that you can't guess my name!"
Nick stops when she takes his hand and he glances behind him, before he looks back at her, ready to take on the challenge. Briefly he forgets about the the movie or the episode at the club. "Aight, you're on, but mind you, I'm kinda hungry so if I win I'm not going to let you off the hook." Nearby is a stoop and he moves to hop up on it so he can casually perch. He didn't let on that he knew a little about her family and since she referred to the boss as her father he had already figured out who she was. He knew her brother from a run in that ended with a few bloody noses and black eye. His buddies had fun antagonizing the Morella crew and the confrontation had been one of the many brawls he and friends his age got themselves into. It all started when one of Nick's friends offered to fuck Frankie's sister. Nick had never met the girl, but he recalled his friends later talking about the beauty with the red hair and the funny name. Pretending to think long and hard, Nick looked the girl over, taking advantage of the game to openly stare at her. "I know it's nothing typical 'cause you are far from typical. I bet it's something exotic, you know like those chicks you see in the movies. Those names that sound made up but fit..." He reached out and attempted to take hold of her chin, making an exaggerated show of inspecting her. He narrowed his eyes, then brought his face in close to her, so his lips were inches from hers. "Nah, I'm gonna go in another direction and say it has something to do with your personality. You seem like a sweet girl...innocent, maybe even someone who needs someone else to care for you. To protect you. Delicate but free...like maybe..." He grinned, "Bubbles?"
Bυввℓєѕ grinned at him, sure that he would never guess her name. She'd never heard of anyone else with the name "Bubbles". Her father had never liked it from the start but her Mother used to tell her the story of her name. That her mother's favorite singer was Don Ho whose most famous song was "Tiny Bubbles", and when she was born, Bubbles had been so very tiny, that her mother would sing that song to her and when it came to naming her, her mother wanted to call her nothing else but Bubbles. She smiled softly as she recalled her mothers tale, and the sweet gentle voice she would tell it in. She was brought back to the present as the boys face was inches from hers, she could feel his breath on her lips and it made her catch her breath. She could feel her heart pounding in her throat and did all she could not to start shaking at his nearness. As he spoke her name, it rang in her ears like no one had ever said it before. For a moment she didn't even wonder at how he might have known it, but just let herself get caught up by the sound of her name on his lips, sending a shiver through her. After a second she took a step back and cocked an eyebrow at him, "Now how the heck could you have known that, you cheater!" She tried to frown at him but couldn't help but flash him a grin as he stood there grinning back at her.
Nick laughed, then settled back. "Aight now it's your turn for you to guess my name." Of course he was named after his father, but because his mother wasn't a big fan of his father she had added an extra L. Later she would tell him he was nothing like his father and that the extra L was to remind him that he was different, or as his mother put it, "a better man". It was a private jab that only his parents knew about but it was one Nichollas took pride in. His mother unfortunately had gone missing when he was nine. His father never spoke of it but the rumor was she ran off with a lover. Nick knew something like that would never go unpunished and he assumed his mother was dead. Secretly he hoped his mother had managed to find a place on the world to hide and that she was happy and loved. It didn't please his father any that he looked just like his mother, with pale eyes that were relatively uncommon. "So go ahead, guess what my name is, but remember, you only get one guess so the first name you speak counts as your first guess." He was enjoying the game and his amusement showed clearly on his face as he turned and watched those who passed on the street.
Bυввℓєѕ perched herself on the edge of the stood and rested her chin on her finger, as if in deep contemplation. "Hmm.." She looked him up and down, taking in his physique. He was well built for someone their age. Either he worked out a lot, or he got into a lot of fights. His eyes, were pale, and beautiful, and so deep. He looked as if he had a cocky grin permanently on his face, and she knew by the way he'd acted since they met that he was confident. The cold wind hit her again and she pulled his coat tight around herself to stop from shivering. She knew she'd never guess his name, and she'd never seen him around before so had no clue who he might be, so she decided to make a joke of it instead. "Well, you know, you look a look like an Archibald" Grinning to herself as she stood up from the cold stoop she'd sat on. "Yes, I think you're an Archie." She nodded and tried to fake a serious expression and hide her grin.
Nick frowned. He didn't stop to think that maybe she was messing with him and he looked down at her, "No, it's not, it's Nichollas." He made it a point to leave out his last name, figuring she might recognize that and leave. He wasn't sure what he reaction would be to his last name but he wasn't eager to find out, least not yet. "So you lost, I won, you owe me a hot dog and a soda." Jumping off the stoop, he against attempted to take her hand so he could continue to lead her to their destination. When he stepped back onto the sidewalk a car pulled up next to the curb and the back window rolled down. It was his aunt and she didn't look pleased. Releasing the girl's hand, Nick turned to her, "Hold on one moment, will you, I have to talk to this lady." Without waiting for a response, he approached the car and jerked his chin at the woman, as if giving her permission to speak. In Italian she spoke quietly but her mood was clear, she wasn't happy. She wanted to know the usually stuff- where he was going, where his father was, who he was with and why he wasn't at the club. Nick noticed the woman looking over his shoulder and eyeing his company and he took a step to the side to block her view. "I'm going to go grab a movie and I'm not at the club 'cause Dad's at the club and he's in a mood. Thought I'd just keep my distance." the woman looked at him, then reached out and briefly touched his chin, examining the slight bruising by his lip. She nodded then before she leaned out of the window and kissed his cheek. She left but not before telling him to stay out of trouble.
Bυввℓєѕ stepped to the side as he jumped down, and willingly let him take her hand. Something else that felt so natural, her hand in his. "Nichollas." She repeated his named to herself, admiring how it sounded on her lips. As they were about to set off down the street, a car pulled up and he quickly dropped her hand. She frowned a little as he stepped toward the car, wondering who it was and why he had been so eager to hide her from them. She could see a woman's face as the window rolled down, but she didn't have a clear view, and she couldn't hear anything that was being said. She took a step back and leaned against the wall, shoving her hands into the pockets of his coat she was wearing. Looking up and down the street pretending not to be interested in who he was talking to. It was a nice town car, obviously somebody important, or from an important family, which made her wonder why they would be stopping to talk to a young boy on the street. As the car pulled away and he turned back to her, she smiled at him, "Everything okay?"
Nick nodded at the question then held out his hand, "Come on, we got a movie to make." He would lead her quietly down the street while occasionally watching those they passed or who passed them. He assumed her father didn't allow his daughter to just wander off with anyone or by herself and he kept an eye out for anyone who might be watching them. When he was sure they were in the clear he darted into an alley and led her quickly to a side door of an abandoned building. The door was boarded shut, or at least appeared to be but he had made it a point to leave it easy to open. Pulling away the boards, he pushed the door open, the rusty hinges protesting and he motioned for her to enter. There was broken boards, glass and liter scattered about the first floor and he assumed she wouldn't be eager to enter so he would smile reassuringly. "Hurry up before someone sees us."
Bυввℓєѕ reached out and slipped her hand into his again and let him lead her. She didn't come to this part of town much and didn't know her way around. She had no idea why , as she'd only just met him, but she felt safe with Nichollas, protected. And somehow she knew, he wouldn't let anything happen to her. She held his hand tight as he led her into an alley and frowned inquisitively as he pried open the door to a derelict building. She hesitated for a moment until he smiled at her. For some reason, she trusted him and so she stepped through the door into the building. The smell was dank and musty, dust filled the air and the place was full of litter. The walls were covered in graffiti and it had obviously been used as a squat or a shelter for some homeless people... maybe even still was on occasion, but from what she could make out, it was completely empty now. She turned to him, wondering what they were doing there. "This doesn't look like the movies or a hot dog stand?!"
Nick shut the door and gave it a strong yank so it would be difficult to open from the outside. The place was one of the many hangouts he and his friends had around the neighborhood where they could screw around and not be bothered. He was impressed that the girl didn't have an issue with entering the run down building with a practical stranger. She was fearless and he liked that. He wondered what things she had been exposed to in her life that would make her so bold. Surely she had the protection of her father and her family that she instinctively felt behind her, it was the same for him. Kicking aside a empty bottle, he held out his hand once more for her to take, "You might want to watch your step." He had planned to take her to buy some popcorn and something to drink but all the eyes on the street changed his mind. The last thing he wanted was for their time together to be interrupted. He wanted to get to know this girl and the only way to do that was to get time alone, truly alone. "Where do you go to school? I would know if I had seen you around my school." He started up the small talk as he led her to the stairwell. The door was missing and the place was dark, but he knew his way around. Starting up the stairs, he could hear his voice echo back to him and he glanced up, making sure none of his buddies were there. He whistled, waited for a response, then continued on his way with the girl in tow.
Bυввℓєѕ stepped over a few empty cartons and papers that scattered the floor, waving her hand in front of her face to clear the dust from her eyes. She jumped a little as he slammed the door hard behind her and the whole place became almost pitch black apart from a few rays of moonlight that shone through the cracks between the boards on the windows and doors. As he reached his hand out to her, she pulled up the sleeve on the over-sized jacket that was almost covering her hand, and without a second thought, slipped her fingers between his and let him lead her through the darkness. Treading carefully as they made their way through the building, she answered his questions. "My mother home schooled me until she died a few years ago." Her voice became low and solemn as she spoke of her mother, "But after that my father didn't want to take on the hassle, so he sent me to the all girls school across town." Her lips curled into a grin as she added, "I guess he didn't want me mingling with boys like you, huh?" She smirked at him as he began to lead her up the stairs, squeezing his hand tighter as it became darker, there were no windows on the stair well and she now couldn't see a thing. She gripped his arm with her other hand and pushed herself close behind him so she wouldn't lose her stepping. "What is this place, anyways?"
Nick liked how she clung to him and he smiled to himself. It wasn't the first time he brought a girl here and it was a typical reaction. When she mentioned her father's concerns about 'boys like him', he huffed out a laugh, "I'm sure I'm the very guy he wanted to keep you from." It amused him that he knew things she didn't and he wondered what her reaction would be when she found out about him and his family. The continued to ascend and when they reached the very top he shoved the heavy metal door open and exposed them to the view of a evening sky and a cool breeze. Leading her to the opposite side of the roof, he extended a hand towards a spot where there was a couch and a few chairs. They kept a radio, an ice chest and a few blankets up at the hang out and when seated a person got a clear view to the drive in screen in the distance. "We can't hear the movie but it's kinda nice that way...so what do you think?"
Bυввℓєѕ followed him out on to the roof, clinging closer to him as the cold air hit her once again. When he mentioned being "THE" guy her father wanted to keep her away from, she smiled crookedly, not really understanding what he meant by it, but figuring it was just his cocky sense of humor. As they reached the other side of the rooftop, she saw the set up they had up there, "oh wow... this is... Well it's pretty awesome.... Brings lots of girls up here, huh ?" She smirked at him as she teased, but inwardly wondering if it were the truth. She let go of his hand and folded her arms across her chest, shivering. "Well I guess it's not the coziest of hang outs, but I like it." She stepped toward the sofa and perched herself on the edge, still shivering as she leaned down to hug her bare knees and rubbing her legs to try warm them up.
Nick sat himself down on the old sofa - it had taken them forever to drag it to the roof. He grabbed one of the blankets then patted the spot beside him, "Come on, sit down, we can keep each other warm." He was ready to settle in then remembered the bourbon bottle he had stashed under the couch. Leaning over, he reached blindly under the piece of furniture until he found the bottle. Bringing it out, he unscrewed the cap and took a quick swig. "Want some, it will help warm you up too. I think we probably got other stuff to drink." He glanced at the drive in screen trying to see if he recognized the movie. They played a lot of old classics and he immediately recognized the flick playing. It was the Wizard of Oz. "Want some music?" He purposely ignored the comment about other girls. Turning on the radio the sounds of Sinatra filled the air and he leaned back and smiled, "very nice."
Bυввℓєѕ watched him as he made himself comfortable and pulled out the bottle from beneath the couch, nodding as he offered her some. She took the bottle from him and took a swig, screwing her face up as it burned a trail down her throat. She, too, smiled when she heard Sinatra from the radio, Her mother had always liked him and she can remember hearing his music a lot when she was younger. It always calmed her. She took another swig from the bottle as he settled himself on the couch, and she moved herself back, next to him, tucking both her legs up on to the sofa as she leaned against his shoulder, huddling close to try and keep warm. "I love this movie." She smiled as she watched the screen, pulling the blanket over her bare legs as she sang quietly along with the radio.
Nick was pleased when she sank down on the couch next to him then took the bottle and drank one last time before slipping it back under the sofa. These were moves he had played out countless times on other girls, but this time he knew he wasn't going to get a quick fuck from this girl and move on. Not because he felt she'd resist his charms but because he knew the risks and knew he was playing with fire. It was part of what drew him to the girl, though the strong attraction was there also. Pulling her to him, he held her close, trying to help her warm up while wondering if he should kiss her. "This sofa smells weird..." He muttered, while lifting his knees and turning towards her so she could settle between his legs and lean back against his chest. "So what were you doing at the club? I've never seen you there before."
Bυввℓєѕ smiled as he pulled her into him. Knowing she should have been more hesitant and more wary about being so comfortable with a complete stranger, she couldn't help but feel totally at ease with him, like they'd spent every night together like this for their whole lives. She knew nothing about him, yet she knew she wanted to be close to him. And she felt safe with him. Giggling a little as he sniffed at the sofa, she shifted and settled between his legs, bringing her knees up and leaning back against him. He was warm and she fit perfectly into his arms. "Usually I stay home with the housekeeper, but her brother passed away and she needed to be with her family... And Daddy doesn't trust me at home on my own. I guess he figured I couldn't get into any trouble if I was under his watchful eye at the club." She scoffed. "Boy is he in for a shock." She muttered this last sentence, to herself more than to Nichollas, but it did make her chuckle. She pulled her knees closer to her chest trying her hardest to stop shaking from the cold, as she added, "I don't think I've ever seen you around before either. What's your story?"
Nick shrugged, "I don't have much of a story...Just started the whole busboy thing." He felt her shivering and he wrapped his arms around her, then tucked his face in her neck, his warm breath spreading through her hair and across the skin of her neck. Her nearness was distracting and he forgot about the movie and the music as the liquor warmed him and brought on a comfortable haze. "Is there a reason your father keeps a close eye on you?" He was genuinely interested in her answer because, though he knew about her family, he knew next to nothing about her. In fact, he was completely forgetting about her family ties as they huddled there on the couch.
Bυввℓєѕ closed her eyes as his breath warmed her, and tickled the skin on her neck. As he wrapped his arms around her, she found herself slipping her fingers between his, their hands fitting perfectly together. She shrugged at his question, "I don't know really. I guess since my mother died, I'm all he has left of her. Frankie is more like him but I am every bit my mother." She paused for a second before continuing, "Although, I'm pretty sure he resents me, for being a constant reminder of losing the one and only person he truly loved. Everyone else is just a possession to him." She leaned her head back, turning it to the side and tucking her nose snugly under his chin. inhaling his scent, feeling the alcohol engulf her in a warm haze.
Nick, lost in moment, could keep tabs on the conversation and where it had led. Everything she was saying wasn't making much sense to him but he managed to mutter a "mhm" before he tilted his head down nudging her in away that made it clear he wanted to kiss her. Maybe it was the girl, the alcohol or his own cockiness, but he became unaware of his surroundings and that might have been a good thing if he hadn't been in the wrong place with the wrong girl. He barely registered what was happening when two hands grabbed him under his arms and forcefully drug him from the sofa, yanking him over the armrest and dropping him on his back. A breath exploded from him as his back hit the tarred roof and he hardly had a chance to react, let alone scramble up from the awkward position. He recognized the guy from the club, the man was sneering at him with some amusement and Nick managed to mutter, "Oh shit," before the man punched him squarely in the face. A light exploded and he instinctively threw up his arms. Pain flared through his sinuses and he cursed, before attempting to roll over in a protective ball. The man kicked him in the gut and Nick gasped before coughing, though his breath wouldn't return so he laid gasping for a moment. Someone was laughing and he felt hands catch his arm pits again and he was drug up on his knees.
Bυввℓєѕ felt his nose nudge at her, and knowing what he wanted, she knew she wanted it too. She lifted her head to meet his but in the same moment was jerked forward as Nichollas was ripped out from behind her. She sat stunned for a second, with no clue what had happened, before turning towards the noise and commotion behind her, to find Carlos and her brother stood over Nichollas, kicking him and beating him. As Frankie grabbed hold of Nichollas, dragging him up off the ground, she stood and screamed at him, "Frankie, get the hell off of him? What the fuck are you doing??" She lurched toward them but Carlos swung his muscular arm up to stop her, hitting her square in the chest and sending her flying, winding her completely. She stumbled backwards over the sofa and ended up hitting the ground with a thud, winding her even more. She sat, coughing and spluttering, unable to move as she watched the men kick and hit Nichollas until his face and shirt were smeared with blood. She tried calling out but she could barely breathe from the huge arm that had impacted her tiny frame.
Nick was held firmly as he was beaten,his face and torso plummeted with hits and kicks, so many he couldn't distinguish which was which all he knew was he close to blacking out. With his head hanging, he could taste the blood and feel the sticky heat running down his face and dripping from his chin. He heard Bubbles briefly, but his head started to spin and he closed his eyes, waiting for the beating to end. When he was sure he was done he was shoved onto his face and was left gasping, his cheek pressed to the roof. He'd taken a beating before but this one was by far the worst. Laying still, he closed his eyes, missing the moment before when he was close to the girl, warm and comfortable. Despite the pain that coursed through him and the lack of breath he managed to expel a laugh. The two who beat him were circling around him and when he managed to open his eyes he could see the leather from their shoes near his face second before someone grabbed his hair and pulled his head up. "You know Gianni, you really are a pain in the ass. First, you and you friends steal from us then you have the balls to bring my sister up here and attempt to what? What were you gonna do, huh? Yeah, I know what you were gonna do, you little shit. Guess we ruined your plans huh? Well, I got to admit, I admire your...what is it? Stupidity? Ballsiness? Nah, I think it's more of a lack of respect. So take this as your warning. Stay away from my sister. If I see you even looking at her I will make sure you're never found, got that?" Nick peered up, while squinting one eye and he smiled, "You're funny." His response earned him another kick. Grunting, Nick curled back up into a ball.
Bυввℓєѕ laid helpless while the 2 men beat Nichollas within an inch of consciousness. Gasping for breath and wincing at the pain in her chest. BY the time she was able to breathe and stand again, they'd all but finished with him. She got to her feet and ran toward them just in time to hear her brother snarl the name "Gianni". The name above the club door, the name above many of the businesses in town.. And the name that made her father grimace in disgust and hatred whenever he heard it. She was stopped in her tracks, trying to process what she had heard. He was one of them? She knew this should bother her but it didn't. She was shocked, yes. She couldn't even understand why he didn't tell her. But it didn't stop her from wanting to run to him and make sure he was okay. She screamed at the men again, weaker this time, he voice gravely from coughing for breath. "Get away from him Frankie. He didn't do anything wrong!" She rushed toward him, Frankie tried to stop her but she used her heel to dig into his foot, making him yell out in pain and drop his arms, allowing her to rush to kneel beside Nichollas. Attempting to wipe the blood from his face, her brow furrowed in concern, "Jesus, are you okay?!"
Nick felt her hands on his face and he winced, not even sure where the pain was coming from, at that point it seemed all consuming but he managed to open his eyes, though one stung badly and his vision was blurred by the blood that had seep into his eyes. He noted the worry and concern on her face and he tried to smile, though he was sure it looked ghastly and nowhere near charming or attractive. "Hey, yeah...Imma be fine. Sorry 'bout not mentioning the whole family shit..." He heard someone move around them and he flinched, anticipating more violence and he found himself taking shelter against the girl. Behind him the guy Bubbles referred to as Carlos spoke, "You're luck we didn't toss him off this roof. Come on girl, your father is waiting for you." Nick frowned slightly, then looked up at Bubbles, "Don't worry, I'll be aight." Quietly he added, "I'll find you." He didn't even know if the girl wanted to see him again, but it didn't matter, he wanted to see her. He wanted that kiss and more importantly he wanted to see her smile again. It seemed kinda stupid, but the urge was strong enough that he knew he wouldn't be able to ignore it. He didn't want her to leave but he doubted they were going to let her stay.
Bυввℓєѕ felt her lips start to shake. She barely knew this kid but already, seeing him in this state made her hurt. She wanted to stay but Carlos started to lift her off the ground. She tried to fight back but he was a huge guy and with Frankie's help they lifted her clear off the floor and dragged her toward the rooftop door. The whole while she was looking back over her shoulder at Nichollas, still on the ground. As they dragged her down the stairs, she was screaming at them, "Get off my Frankie, you're hurting me!" Fighting against their grip and kicking her legs, until eventually they let her go. but walked side by side behind her so she couldn't turn around. They reached the ground floor and made their way back through the heavy door they had obviously kicked open, to find her fathers car parked in the alley outside, waiting for her to get in. The ride home was silent and it wasn't until she had run to her room and was sobbing on her bed that she realized she was still wearing his coat.
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