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.
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