Blood is thicker than water ( Part 8 )

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Blood is thicker than water ( Part 8 )

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The Fox

The Fox

@disqus\_eqavLvmRDA 2 years ago

Sweet baby jesus Richard, You don't just push a seventy-two year old man down. FUCKING WHY????? You;re free to be an ass but please don't hurt your elders!

\*Clears throat\*

anyways, let's get back to business and scrub him down!

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Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago • edited

"The sun's out today--blue would look flattering," opined Lewis, his own waistcoat the vibrant color of lapis lazuli.

He turned his attention to Richard.

"And for your information, Enfield, I am a friend of Gabriel's. I'm also a physician and a veteran. Your little fit of temper could have broken his hip. Whereas pinning you has prevented further injury while harming nothing but your pride."

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

"Blue it is then. Now let's see if I can find a shirt and vest. "

Utterson went back into the pile, searching for the rest of the necessary clothing. Meanwhile, Richard worked harder to escape Lewis's grip. He started to kicked with his legs, trying to dislodge him.

" `Physician? Veteran? Veteran to what war if I may be so bold?` "

" I wouldn't go poking a bear Richard. "

" `What? It's a valid question. I simply want to know! Clearly I would respect him more if I were to understand where he fought.` "

It was clear that he didn't believe Lewis had fought any war. Utterson just rolled his eyes and kept at his task.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago • edited

"The Second Afghan War. Kandahar," Weir answered bluntly. The look that settled on his countenance spoke volumes. His were eyes that had seen fellow countrymen die. His were hands that had meted out death in turn. His was a body that knew exactly how it felt to take a bullet...and survive. For a moment, he almost thought he caught the distant sound of gunfire.

Richard's kicking distracted him and he shook his head, shaking off the expression with it.

He glanced from Enfield's face to his legs and back again.

"That's not going to work," he stated with a skeptical raise of his eyebrows.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

" `Shit.` "

Enfield took a moment to breathe as he mentally began crafting another plan of escape. He was genuinely surprised. He was surprised that Weir had actually served time. That made his friendship with Gabriel all the more confusing.

Why spend time with someone who barely stepped outside of his shell when you could find company among more worldly minds?

Behind them, Utterson finally found the last piece of clothing he needed. He came up to their side with clothes in arm.

" Thank you for keeping hold of him Lewis. Now let's find the washroom.

Richard. "

With a wave, he lead the way out of the room and back into the hallway, making his way to the doorway across the hall. He pushed the door open and clapped his hands, pleased to find a lavatory with a tub with a shower head.

" Here we go! Have at it Richard. "

Folding the clothes into a neat pile, he set them on top of the toilet and stepped back, letting them have space to enter.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago • edited

Richard found his hands put behind his back, both wrists in a firm hold as Lewis rose. Weir used his free hand to grasp Enfield around the abdomen, then hoisted him up into a standing position and walked him to the bathroom.

Lewis was disappointed to see that the bathroom had a window. One large enough for Richard to potentially fit through.

Enfield still grasped in front of him, he made his way to the glass.

He saw nothing that would be of use in climbing down aside from some rose vines that would likely not support Richard's weight and would prove decidedly painful.

"Right, then," said Weir, backing up toward the door once Utterson had exited.

Of a sudden, he let go of Enfield, took a large step back, and swiftly shut the door, holding it closed for good measure.

"Have at it."

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Enfield stood there in silence, contemplating his next move in small space. He considered his options.

The first option was to slip out the window and make his way to The Silver Line to wait till the afternoon came. That would give him some peace and let him run his errand without any interference. Then again, He wasn't exactly fond of the idea of potentially falling breaking his both his legs. Not to mention the fact that the rose vines weren't the strongest of grips.

The second option was to simply do what he was asked and take a bath, but f\*ck that noise. He wasn't going to bend over for his fuddy duddy cousin and do that. That would just lead to having him nag and nag all over again.

The third option...Was there a third option? He could've sworn there was.

He took a seat of the toilet and racked his brain for another way out.

Richard tapped his foot as he took a peek at the clothing Utterson had chosen. It was nice and well coordinated. A nice blue Sunday suit with a canary vest and fern cravat tie...

He had to give it to Utterson. The fossil knew how to match his colors for someone who's entire palette were greys and browns.

Richard chewed one his nails with raised eyebrows.

They had to leave at some point. Maybe, though he hate to do it, he ought to simply bear their presence till Desirae came around, then he could run off with her and spend the night in good company.

He got up took a towel hesitantly.

Yeah...That's a good plan...

Peering out the window, he guessed that they were entering mid-morning. With a smirk, he went about getting ready to shower.

Utterson listened closely as he and Lewis waited outside. He smiled when he heard the sound of running water. Taking a seat on the ground, he rubbed his hip. His firm demeanor sank into an weary one.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago

"While we're waiting, would you mind if I examined that hip?" asked Lewis. "Best to make assurance doubly sure."

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

" Not at all. "

He stood up and turned to let Lewis see his side.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago

"I...will need to palpate the area," explained Weir, "though I'm confident I can do so through the fabric of your clothing."

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

" Do what you need to do. I won't mind at all. "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago

Lewis set to work. The palpation of Gabriel's hip revealed no obvious injury aside from the expected external bruising.

His own unique sense for the soul, however, told him all was not as well as it appeared. A slight pinching and pooling of Utterson's energy along certain meridians indicated a hairline fracture.

Weir unthinkingly turned his gaze to the door as he contemplated paying Richard back tit for tat for the harm he'd caused Gabriel.

But he discarded the idea nearly as soon as it sprang to consciousness; it would upset Utterson.

"Well," pronounced Lewis, "I've good news and bad news."

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

There was the occasional wince as Lewis examined the tender area. Utterson said nothing, merely bearing the pain with complaint.

Once Lewis had finished, he looked up to him.

" I take it's more than a bruise? "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago • edited

He lowered his voice to ensure there was no chance Enfield might overhear.

"The bone isn't outright broken...that's the good news."

He regarded Utterson sympathetically.

"The bad news is that you do have a hairline fracture. Additional pressure could cause a true break. You'll need to stay off that leg for a good six weeks at least--possibly eight. It should heal itself naturally by then.

"You'll need crutches--I'll ask Desiree if she wouldn't mind going out to get some when she stops by next. In the meantime, let me help you to Richard's bed while he's in the shower. I also have medication for the pain, if you need it."

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Utterson took a moment to soak in the unfortunate news. He shut his eyes and leaned against the wall.

" That means I won't be able to help you here. "

He shook his head and offered his arm to Lewis.

" God in Heaven. It's the first day and already I'm out for the count. "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago

"In all fairness, Gabriel, 'tis through no fault of yours," said Lewis as he supported Utterson to Enfield's bedroom. "Your cousin has quite the temper."

He helped settle Gabriel onto the bed.

"How old is he, by the by?"

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

" Well, he was fifty-two three years ago. And he hasn't had his birthday yet, so he ought to be fifty-four. "

Utterson kept from putting his hands on the bed, not wanting to really touch the unwashed sheets.

" Come December, he'll turn fifty-five. "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago • edited

"That's next month," remarked Lewis, unable to keep from raising an eyebrow.

Enfield is so portly, I thought him at least a decade younger than that.

...

What the bloody Hell is wrong with him?! Bastard ought to act his age!

If he's this way at nearly fifty-five, there's likely little hope for him...

He sighed.

"I'll do my best with Richard," he vowed. "Perhaps Miss Charbonneau can be of aid as well," he suggested hopefully.

"In the meantime, let me fetch you some fresh towels, or linens, or..." his upper lip rose slightly as his gaze wandered over the filthy sheets, "anything else, really."

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

" I'd much appreciate a towel, thank you. "

He gave a polite smile as he shifted his leg to keep himself comfortable.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago

After a quick search, Lewis found clean towels in the guest bathroom.

He returned with as many as he could carry and got Utterson situated.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

" That's so much better. "

Utterson sat back on the bed, this time with a clean towels to rest on. He rubbed his side as he looked around the crowded room.

" Lewis, do you think I can stay here? In his house that is? "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago

"I don't see why not--presuming you don't mind it."

Weir placed a sizable towel over the pillows so Utterson could lie down if he wished.

"It would certainly save us money on the hotel," he quipped, lips quirked.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

" A-ah, true. Very true. "

He took a moment to gather his words.

" I ask because I don't want to leave him alone.

I could be here, helping him the best I can. And with my hip like it is, it would be advantageous to simply stay here. Even with crutches, I don't think going back and forth would be that good for healing.

And...

God, why am i trying to justify this? "

Utterson flopped onto the pillows.

" I just don't want to have leave right when we just got here. I don't want to stuck watching you do what I ought to be doing. "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago • edited

"Perfectly understandable," sympathized Lewis. "And, to be honest, it would be easier to keep an eye on Richard and track your progress if we all stayed in the same place."

Lewis heard the shower cut off. Presuming Enfield didn't bolt, sopping wet, for the exit, they had a few minutes yet.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

" Was the guest bedroom big enough for two? If so, we can both stay there. "

He looked up to Lewis.

" How long would it take to check out of the hotel? "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago

"Aye, I'd say so. It had a bed and a chaise lounge."

He paused a handful of seconds as realization struck.

I'm a bloody moron, he thought, looking rather chagrined.

"Damn, we should've just settled you there. Would've saved you the walk."

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Utterson chuckled quietly.

" It's alright. Not like we knew about it till you went back there. A little more walking won't do any harm.

I'm just worried about how much we'll have to clean up on there. How clean was it? Or rather, the better question is how dirty was it? "

In the hallway, the click of a doorway signaled Richard's exit from the bathroom. Utterson pushed himself back into a sitting position.

" If we get the chance, I'd like to ask Ms. Charbonneau if she'd like to stay with us too. I suspect not but still, It wouldn't hurt to ask. "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago • edited

Still, I could have checked the rooms before taking you back to this den of filth, thought Weir, though he chose not to pursue the subject further.

"It looked clean enough," he answered Utterson. "Certainly better than this," he said with a quick glance about the room.

He heard the door open and looked toward the hallway.

"Good idea about her," he said with a hushed voice and a quick nod.

"Enfield's finished, by the by."

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

" Mmm. "

Utterson looked to the doorway and called out.

" In here Richard. "

A moment later, Enfield came in, strutting like a cat with cream. Maybe it was the shower that calmed him down or maybe it was the hemp finally kicking in. No matter, what was clear that he was more civil and levelheaded than he was earlier. He leaned against the door frame with a smile too satisfied to be trustworthy.

He looked much better now that he finally changed clothes. He even bothered to wash his hair and brush it.

Enfield looked at the both of them and struck a pose as though he had a book in his hand.

" `So how do I look?` "

" Better. Come closer. "

Richard entered the center of the room and doffed an unseen hat.

" `Fine for a day like this I think.` "

" Well, yes. I did pick it out for you. "

" `I am more than aware. I'm just showing off your handy work.` "

He made a dramatic bow and looked to Lewis with narrowed eyes.

" `Now if you can keep your friend here from getting handsy with me, I'd be quite content.` "

Utterson sighed and changed the subject.

" Anyways, now that you're washed and ready, we can talk further about my being here. "

" `We don't need to--` "

" No no. We are. "

The older cousin gave him a firm look.

" Now then, first things first is your treatment. "

He glanced between Richard and Lewis.

" Lewis and I are going to be keeping you in your home. We thought that house arrest would be the best solution for the time being while we get you off of your smoking habit and help you get some solid ground.

And in order to do that, he and I will be staying here in the house. I hope you don't mind. "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago

"There would have been no need to 'get handsy' if you'd kept yours to yourself instead of shoving a senior," muttered Weir as he raised an unamused eyebrow at Enfield.

Utterson spoke further.

Lewis regarded Richard, scrutinizing every aspect of his reaction.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Richard immediately went to rebuke Utterson's point before catching himself and putting a fist to his chin. He squeezed his eyes shut and tapped his foot, obviously trying not start another quarrel.

Without looking up, he spoke up.

" `And where are going to stay?` "

" In your guest room. "

" `What makes you think I have one?` "

" Where do you think we got these towels? "

Utterson threw him a pleading look, begging him to be more observant. Richard caught his look through one eye and tired again.

" `Ok, so you're going to try and reorganize my life. Sure, alright. I'll believe you for the moment.

What the hell are you even going to do? You're friend here said you weren't going to come in and run my life, so forgive me if I can't really imagine you doing anything other.

You're a nag and the good doctor here is a f\*cking gun trigger. That's not the most encouraging combination.

And who's to stop me from kicking you both out? I am the king of this castle after all, and you can only stay if I let you.` "

He smirked with arched eyebrows.

" `And don't tell me you'll sic you're dog here on me. I'm quite big in the underground and I can get a dog of my own if need be.` "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago • edited

"Gabriel has to stay here," asserted Lewis. "I'd hoped to leave after only a week or two, but thanks to your little spurt of temper, that's no longer possible. Your shove fractured his hip. He can't make the journey back to London for at least six weeks, possibly eight."

An unnerving cast shaded his eyes as he looked down at Enfield.

"As for your 'dog', save it. You've done more than enough already."

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago • edited

" `H-his hip is fractured?` "

For a brief second, Enfield sounded genuinely concerned. Utterson looked away from his cousin with the sense of avoidance he'd shone earlier. Enfield swallowed and took a step forward, a fretful air hanging around him.

" `He didn't fall that hard! It can't be broken.

I don't believe it...I won't believe it!` "

" Richard, I'm not keen on it either, but it's true. Lewis checked my side and it is broken. "

Enfield grit his teeth.

" `I didn't push you that hard, it shouldn't have broken!` "

Utterson went to stand up but wince and sat back down.

" It's not your fault you were upset. I should've given you space to breathe and calm down, so don't worry. It's only six weeks. Besides, that gives us more time to help you and for us to reconnect. "

Richard's seriousness fell back into cocky defiance.

" `We won't be spending anytime together unless we're in a cell.` "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago • edited

"He's seventy-two, Enfield--and very, very lucky the fracture wasn't worse than it is. That's why he can't walk on it. Why he has to rest until it's healed. If it breaks further," he turned to Utterson apologetically, serious as a funeral, "it could endanger not just your leg, but potentially your life."

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Enfield threw a sharp look at Lewis, distant worry and disquiet hidden under disbelief and anger.

" `Y-you don't know what you're talking about! This is Gabriel we're talking about.` "

He looked over to Utterson and lost track of what he was saying. It suddenly struck him how tired Utterson looked. Seventy-two...It was only three years ago when he was on the cusp of seventy. No matter how old his cousin got, he always had a spry air about him. It was an energy that never seemed to end, even in the worst of times.

Something like a fracture couldn't possibly take that away.

But the current situation seemed to be proving otherwise. His age was finally catching up to him and Enfield had revealed it unintentionally.

" `Sh\*t...` "

Richard smiled miserably.

" `Forget this.` "

Avoiding looking either of them in the eye, he turned and walked out of the room went down the stairs. Utterson went to go after him.

" Richard? Where are you going?

Richard! "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago • edited

"Gabriel," reminded Lewis as he rose to support his friend, "your hip!"

Weir gingerly maneuvered Utterson to the door, assiduously careful to keep the latter's left side high enough there'd be no weight put on that leg.

"Enfield's obviously not capable of a rational conversation at this point," Lewis continued. "Give him a moment to process things while we get you settled in the guest room, eh? If he leaves, I'll track him down--I give you my word."

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Utterson didn't know what to say. He just looked down the stairway desperately as his cousin vanished from sight. Below them, the front door was slammed shut.

Enfield had abandoned ship.

An uneasy silence came over the house once again, it's unhappy aura more prominent than before.

Utterson took a moment to breathe, leaning on the door frame in troubled thought. Was this how everything was going to go? A fight, an argument, then an escape? How was anything to be done with Richard when he's got drugs on top of drugs hidden away? Why was it that with each step forward, he was pushed back three?

He put a hand to his hip with a flinch.

This fracture was going to be the death of him, whether by his means or its own.

A dull headache began to form, breaking his focus. Offering his arm, he got up from the door way.

" I think I need a moment to take it all in as well. Once you help me, you're free to chase after him. I'd like to have some time to myself to think. "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago

"Naturally," sympathized Weir.

He helped Gabriel to the guest bedroom, got him settled, and quickly fetched a few things for his potential needs.

"Desirae may drop in before I'm able to wrangle Richard back here," Lewis conjectured. "I should think it wise to let her know what's transpired. I'll return as soon as I can."

Weir grabbed his walking stick and headed after Enfield, grateful he'd honed his talents over the years to sense and distinguish beings' particular energies, each person's as signature and unique as a fingerprint.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago • edited

" Good luck Lewis. "

Utterson bid him farewell and laid on the bed, closing his eyes and letting himself drift away to sleep.

Enfield had already put some distance between him and the house. He pushed through the daytime crowds, murmuring polite apologies to the occasional stranger.

Nothing was going to pull him back, nothing was going to make him turn around. He had to keep moving. No stopping till he got as far as he could get. F\*ck Gabriel, f\*ck his friend, f\*ck everything right now. All he wanted to do right now is drown himself in the finest wine and let his troubles wash away in the tide.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago

Nevertheless, Lewis followed, undeterred. Having grown up in Edinburgh and lived for decades in London and other large cities, he was an old hand at weaving through crowds.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago • edited

Richard went down street after street, slipping down a backstreet and navigating the web of alleyways with ease. He stepped over drunk bodies as he came up to the back of a large bar.

With a loud knock, a large mustached guard poked his head out. Richard gave him a swift nod before stepping inside.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago

Eventually, Weir found the bar in question.

Entering through the front door, he looked about for Enfield, certain he was here somewhere.

Toward the rear, perhaps?

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

The bar itself was nice enough. It's patrons were mostly middle class folks looking to relax with the odd aristocrat here and there reading a newspaper or smoking a cigar. Waitresses went between tables, dropping off orders and giving flirtatious looks to those who tipped them.

In the back was a little stage for one person with a couple chairs to its side for musicians. To the right was a short stairway that ended at a door that a little Bichon Frise lay against.

A lurid looking woman waved Lewis over.

" ~Good afternoon sir! Do please come in!~ "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago • edited

As the woman had spoken to him in French, he replied in kind.

"[Good afternoon, madam, and thank you. I'd like to sit at the bar, please.]"

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

" { Right over here~! } "

The older woman stepped up to him and took his hand. Now that she was closer, it was easier to see that she was decorated in gaudy jewelry, makeup applied generously with orchid perfume choking the air around her. It was clear that she was the owner of this particular bar, or at least a very considerate benefactor.

With a flutter of her eyes, she sashayed her way to the bar and knocked to get the bartender attention. A sweaty looking man with a handlebar mustache came over and smiled.

" { Do get this man some drink will you dear? } "

" ] Of coarse madame! [ "

He turned to Lewis with a grin and wiped his forehead.

" ] What can I interest you in? [ "

In between all of the soul signatures in the bar, Enfield's signature was tucked away in the back of the behind the door.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago

"[I'd like a glass of cognac, please. Which labels do you carry?]"

He looked over the list the barman handed him and selected one.

It turned out to be a good choice.

As Lewis sat there sipping his drink, he focused more intently on Enfield's energy, trying to discern exactly how far behind the door it was.

He pondered how to deal with the dog lying in front of it.

Settling on a plan of action, he ordered some pâté.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Enfield's energy was little ways behind the door, little over a hallway's length past it. He was with other people, about three at most, not counting any staff. The touch of alcohol began to bleed through like a pen dripping ink on paper.

Soon after Weir's order, a plate of baked

Enfield's energy was little ways behind the door, little over a

hallway's length past it. He was with other people, about three at

most, not counting any staff. The touch of alcohol began to bleed

through like a pen dripping ink on paper.

Soon after Weir's order, a plate of baked pâté, a loaf about the size of his fist, along with a few slices of bread to put it on.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago • edited

Lewis ate some of the pâté and bread. It was good, and he hated the thought of wasting it.

Still, necessity was what it was.

He spread the last of the pâté on the only remaining slice. Then he unobtrusively tore the piece of bread in half and folded it over on itself. Surreptitiously, he slipped it into one of his waistcoat pockets.

He finished his cognac, paid his tab, and asked the man behind the bar where the loo was.

After availing himself of the facilities, he took the liberty of smearing pate very thinly between his hands so that the scent coated his palms and fingers.

He then returned to the main room, pretended to only just notice the little dog, and made his way over to it. He channeled the fondness he had for Gabriel and his own family into his demeanor as he approached with an adoring smile.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago • edited

The Bichon sat up at his appearance, its perked ears impossible to tell apart from its head due to sheer fluffiness. On its neck was a soft, velvety collar. Its nose twitched, sniffing Lewis from afar.

It growled softly, uncertain of whether Weir's approach was playful or not.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago

"[Oh, what a sweet little one you are]," Weir cooed softly, avoiding eye contact with the Bichon so as to avoid appearing a threat.

He did have to admit the fluffy dog was rather cute.

He made certain to approach it sidelong, movements conveying the easy grace of a mother approaching her beloved child.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

The little dog stood up and leaned forward. On its collar, a little name tag caught a nearby light, revealing the name to be Oscar.

Oscar gave a cute snort and padded up to his hand and began licking it.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago

An airy chuckle, like the tinkling of bells.

"[What a good boy you are. Such a darling.]"

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

The little fluffy dog kept at his fingers, putting his paws on his knees to get at the tops of his fingers. His little tail wagged from side to side happily.

To Weir's side, the Madame from earlier came walking up. She blinked and smiled with a titter.

" { Oh~ I see you met Oscar. } "

She came up and swept the white pooch into her arms.

" { Isn't he such sweetheart? He's an absolute doll with strangers, though he's usually more playful~ } "

The hostess pet Oscar affectionately, using her nails to play with the fluff at the top of his head.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago • edited

"[He's quite the handsome little gentleman]," returned Lewis with a fond smile. "[I hope it was alright to pet him]," he said apologetically. "[My sister and I had a Bichon Frise growing up, you see, and I when I saw him, I just couldn't resist...]" he explained, looking at the dog adoringly.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago • edited

" { Go ahead, He's not going to complain if you do. } "

Oscar barked as if to cut in. The lovely lady came close and offered him to Lewis.

" { Here, you can hold him~ He likes being held close. } "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago • edited

"[Ah, you're too kind]," said Lewis, accepting the dog with a grateful smile. "[Thank you.]" He regarded Oscar lovingly, happily stroking a hand through his fur.

This day gets better by the moment, he thought in all honesty. It had been some time since he'd had a dog to pet. He'd missed it.

"[You're such a good boy, aren't you, Oscar? Oh, yes, you are. Good boy]," he cooed with an irrepressible smile.

"[Would it be alright to give him a treat? I confess, I saved a little something in the hopes he'd let me pet him.]"

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

" { Go ahead! I was just going to feed him anyways. } "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago • edited

"[Thanks.]"

He slipped the hand that wasn't supporting Oscar into his waistcoat pocket and tore off a little bit of the makeshift pâté sandwich.

He drew it out and offered it to the Bichon.

"[Here you are, Oscar. Such a good little fellow.]"

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Oscar nibbled at the snack before shyly taking it from him and munching loudly. The hostess came up and scritched his ear before stepping up to the door.

" { I'll be right. Just getting a little something for him.

You can come if you like. It's a private lounge but you can hold him while I get his food. } "

The woman held the door open for Lewis.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago • edited

"[Certainly]," agreed Lewis.

He stepped through the portal and out of the way, Oscar in his arms. He continued to pet the little dog.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Oscar squirmed in his arms excitedly, the sight of other little dogs making him want to play.

But first, to even get through, they had to get past a Great Dane that had come to sniff the both of them. The brindle dog looked up at Lewis with sad looking eyes as he licked his fingers like Oscar had. The lady waded through a pack of Papillons and Pekingese pat the Dane's backside lovingly.

" { Caesar, heel! Let our guest in } "

The tall dog gave a whimper as he sat down and looked between her and Lewis. The hostess reached past them and shut the door.

" { Now you can sniff him Caesar. } "

The Dane needed no other prompting. With a happy pant, he bumped up against Weir's leg, sniffing down his leg then licking his shoes.

The lady smiled before wading back into the sea of ears and fluff and down a beautiful hallway.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago • edited

A merry laugh escaped Lewis at the Great Dane's forwardness.

"[Aren't you a charmer?]" he asked rhetorically as he rubbed Caesar's chest.

Weir picked his way through the ebb and flow of the canine tide, careful not to step on anyone as he followed the lady.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago • edited

The Papillons weaved around the crowd, occasionally stopping to investigate Lewis, while the Pekingese waddled along, snuffling happily after the Madame as she lead them down the corridor. Caesar followed after them, getting a lick or two in with each step they took.

Around them, the decor began to morph into luxury. At the corner, the Madame turned and entered a large lounge. A couple sat in a pair of armchairs holding hands while a bachelor sat in another dozing off. A few waiters moved about, dropping off orders and taking away empty bottles. In the middle of the room was an incense holder burning Frankincense.

Richard sat in a plush chair with a Japanese Chin in his lap and a glass in his hand. At his feet, two empty bottles of Pinot Noir lay on the ground. A drunken blush colored his face as he tried to get to lapdog to howl with him.

" `OOooOOo...

OOoooOOO...

Come now, I'm all alone here. `"

His voice was bordering on slurring but wasn't quite there yet. Beau, the dog his was petting, pawed at his chest, trying to get up and snuggle beneath his chin.

The Madame passed the room and kept moving right, pushing open a door that lead into the kitchen pantry.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago • edited

What a lovely place, thought Weir as they turned the corner.

His gaze flicked ever so briefly to Richard and the Japanese Chin, Lewis careful to be discreet about it.

He continued to follow the woman, bringing Oscar into the kitchen pantry.

"[What a lovely place we passed]," he remarked as he stroked the Bichon. "[Whoever selected the decor has outdone themselves.]"

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

" { Well thank you sir. I tried my best to make it as nice as possible. } "

She winked over her shoulder as she reached up and took a jar of oatmeal from the shelves. After that, she went over to the other side and pulled out a little paper sack filled with leftovers from the kitchen. Pulling a spoon and a bowl from a drawer, she took a scoop of oatmeal and spread it on the bottom then took some shredded chicken and lamb to lay on top.

Oscar watched intently, licking his lips and wagging his tail in anticipation.

The Madame put the bowl down and bid Lewis to let Oscar down.

" { Sweetheart~ Oscar~ you're lucky! We have some left over lamb today. } "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago

"[Well, you certainly succeeded]," he returned with a smile.

He watched her prepare Oscar's food, and did as she instructed.

"[There's a good boy]," Weir said as he set him down.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

" { Now Oscar, what do we do before we eat? } "

Oscar twirled then sat down. The woman smiled and clapped.

" { Good boy! Now go and eat~ } "

The Bichon sprang on his food with earnest. The woman offered her hand to Lewis.

" { I'm Madame Agathe, skilled practitioner of late greetings. Pleased to meet you. } "

Agathe fluttered her eyes coyly.

" { Hopefully you can forgive me for waiting so long to introduce myself. I wanted to get an impression of you before I did. You're a new face after all. } "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago • edited

Lewis gave a light, merry laugh at the dog's antics.

"[Doctor Louis de Vere]," he returned as he bowed to kiss her hand. "[The pleasure is mine.]"

He stood again.

"[No forgiveness needed]," he assured her. "[Especially since I did the same]," he admitted with a chortle. "[Can't be too careful in a big metropolis like this.]"

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

" { Well, It's good to know you do the same. } "

Agathe tucked her hand beneath her chin.

" { One never knows with people nowadays. Especially former husbands. } "

She laughed with good humor.

" { Anyways~ I'm curious to know what exactly brought you here. If it's the lounge you wanted to see, all you had to do was ask and pay about fifty francs. } "

A smile.

" { Steep, I know, but necessary. I'd have cut the price down for you since you were so good to 'Fo Fi' over here. } "

She looked fondly at the Bichon.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago

"[He's a darling]," put in Lewis, looking at the dog with a fond smile.

"[In truth, I was trying to find someone for a good friend of mine--a family member of his--but lost sight of him in the street. I searched and searched, but he'd gone.]

"[So, I decided to come in for a drink and perhaps a light snack. Gather my thoughts. Decide how to tell my friend I couldn't find his cousin.]"

More to himself, he remarked, "[He's worried sick.]"

A sigh.

"[In any case, you have a marvelous cognac selection]," he complemented genuinely. "[The pâté was excellent as well. I was just about to finish it when I caught sight of Oscar, so I saved him some]," he explained, glancing with a fond smile to the Bichon and back to Madame Agathe.

"[He and you have really brightened my day.]"

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

" { Oh, Dr. De Vere, that's so nice of you to say! I'm sorry to hear that you couldn't find your friend's cousin. } "

She put on hand on his shoulder.

" { Is there any way I can help you? Maybe I can lend you one of my guards and he can search with you? } "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago

He considered for a moment, as if torn between taking advantage of her generous offer and thinking it too much an imposition on her hospitality.

"[That's very kind of you]," he said at last. "[I certainly don't want to impose, but I've little recourse on my own. Thank you so very much]," he said, genuinely moved by Madame Agathe's generosity of spirit. "[I'm afraid I'm quite at a loss otherwise.]"

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Agathe clapped her together.

" { Wonderful! We'll find your friend's relative in no time! } "

With a farewell stroke to Oscar, she stepped past him and went back into lounge.

" { Follow me! } "

She speed down the hall and went back the way they came, the herd of dogs following after her curiously, save for Caesar and a Papillon.

The Dane stood there whining as he waited for Lewis to come out while the brave Papillon bounced on its paws, eager to follow the rest.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago • edited

Before leaving the pantry, Lewis gave each of them a pinch of the pâté sandwich and a pat on the head.

He then exited, shutting the pantry door behind him.

As he walked past the lounge, he glanced over his shoulder, as if taking one last look at the beautiful room...

...and stopped in his tracks, as if in utter surprise.

"Sacre--!" he exclaimed. "Richard?!"

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

The little dog sniffed the snack suspiciously before gentle nibbled on it. Caesar licked his up easily and followed Lewis as he left.

Lewis shouted, catching Agathe off guard. Richard flinched at the sound of his name, leaning forward to throw a weak glare Weir's way. The couple looked up to see what the fuss was about and the man woke suddenly.

" { Richard?

You're looking for him? } "

Agathe came back around the corner and glanced Richard's way.

" { I didn't know he had any family! He's never mentioned any when I've talked with him. } "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago • edited

"[Sorry, sorry]," Weir apologized to the couple and the napper. "[Don't mind me.]"

He looked from Enfield to Madame Agathe.

"[He does]," Lewis confided. "[A cousin, Gabriel, who helped raise him. Though I'm not surprised Richard failed to mention him--they parted on bad terms. Gabriel's getting on in years and came here to make things right. They were talking and then Richard ran; I'm not entirely certain why. Gabriel couldn't follow because his hip's injured, so I went in his stead.]"

He turned his gaze back to Enfield.

"[I'm so glad to find you]," Weir said with relief, a hand over his chest.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago • edited

" `No you're not...` "

Richard leaned back with a bitter look and turned his focus back to Beau. He muttered under his breathe as he played with the dog's paws.

" `He doesn't give a rat's \*ss about me. F\*cking pin me down and suddenly you're here looking for me. What a liar...` "

As Lewis explained the situation, Agathe grew teary eyed. Her heart couldn't stand the idea of a split family, let alone one split by turmoil. With a few weepy huffs, she pulled out a handkerchief from her bosom and wiped away any budding tears.

" { Oh bless his heart, I wish I had known. That's absolutely dreadful. I can't imagine living with that pain. } "

She went up to Richard and took his hand suddenly.

" { You must have your cousin worried sick! } "

Enfield didn't reply. He just pulled his hand away and kept playing with Beau.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago

"[Believe it or not, I do care, Richard]," Weir asserted as he approached. "[I regret having to say I didn't, but with you shouting at Gabriel, it was the only way to get him to find his nerve, look you in the eye, and talk to you instead of acting like a beaten dog as you berated him.]"

He knelt on one knee in front of Enfield.

"[I confess I don't know what exactly passed between you two, but I do know he's a good man, and that you're hurting. Surely you both want to move forward. Why not talk it out? Where's the harm?]"

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

" ][ I just don't want to talk with him. It's just that simple. ][ "

Richard looked the side, unwilling to say more on the topic. He was hiding something certainly but at the very least he wasn't lying outright.

Agathe took Beau into her arms and stroked him.

" { Would you at least consider going back? Just so the he sees that you're alright? } "

There was a quiet as Richard considered his options. He rubbed his nose as he leaned forward.

" ][ Can I take another wine home? ][ "

" { Honey, you're already drunk as it is. } "

" ][ I'll be fine once I get home. ][ "

" { I think... } "

She looked to Lewis.

" { If you promise to share it with Dr. De Ver here, I'll let you have it. } "

Enfield put his head in his palms.

" ][ Sure, why not. So long as I can take one. ][ "

Agathe looked unconvinced but left for the pantry anyways. Enfield reached into his pockets and went about sorting his francs to pay. He glanced up at Lewis with a drunken scowl.

" `I hope your happy.` "

see more

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago • edited

Lewis regarded Richard impassively as the latter spoke of not wanting to talk.

Weir rose.

He nodded to Madame Agathe as she spoke of Enfield sharing the wine with him, and watched her as she left for the pantry.

To Richard's last comment, he truthfully replied, "My happiness is irrelevant here. I'm simply doing what is necessary."

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Richard scoffed.

" `Alright, sure. I'll take your word for it.` "

It took Agathe an surprising amount of time to come back with a bottle. She had it wrapped in paper so it could be more easily carried.

" { Here you are Richard. Please get home safely. } "

She gave him a sympathetic smile before taking his francs and handing them to a nearby waiter.

With sluggish feet, Enfield pulled himself up and made his way to the backdoor with a moderate effort. He wasn't so unsteady that he coudln't walk but he did look in need of someone to hold onto.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago • edited

Blighter's just determined to think the worst of me... Weir silently observed.

That's one constant from my dimension to this. For a fraction of a second, the left corner of his mouth lifted ever so slightly.

He quickly stifled the smirk.

Sod it--I'll do what's needful anyway.

"I'll see him home," Lewis reassured Madame Agathe. "Thank you."

He moved next to Richard and offered his arm.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago • edited

Enfield squinted at him suspiciously before, very reluctantly, took his arm and leaned on him. He turned and waved goodbye to Madame and the dogs.

" ][ Another day, another time. Farewell Madame. ][ "

" { Farewell! Hopefully things get better for you and your cousin! } "

He stepped out of the lounge and managed to make it down the little staircase, placing them back into the alleyway.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago • edited

Weir gave a warm wave goodbye, and walked with Richard down the steps.

"Sorry to be so intrusive," Lewis apologized. "Things just...escalated so quickly--and you know how Gabriel worries..." he offered sympathetically.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

" `No. I don't.` "

Enfield sniffed and went about investigating his wine bottle. Its seal had already been open, but its cork was still in place. With his teeth, he bit down on the cork and popped it out.

" `Oh.` "

He sipped it and made a face.

" `She just to water it down didn't she.` "

He offered the bottle to Lewis. A impish smile crossed his face.

" `Want some?` "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago • edited

"I had cognac already, thanks."

And I don't care to drink after you.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

" `Your loss.` "

He shrugged and took a long swig from the bottle. When he finished, he lay his head of Weir's shoulder, eyes shut.

" `Christ, that's awful.` "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago

"I should imagine. Can you believe the ancient Romans drank their wine that way? What a waste!"

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

" `Christ, don't even get me started!` "

He gave a surprisingly genuine chuckle.

" `I refuse to believe that the world's greatest empire filled with the world's greatest minds would ruin their drinks willingly. It must have been a law or something, otherwise why would you?!` "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago

"That or they must have been a bunch of lightweights!" agreed Lewis with a chortle. "Conquer the known world? Certainly. Drink wine straight? Oh, perish the thought!" He shook his head with a smile.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

" `And let's not forget that their wine was probably weaker than wine nowadays! So they were drink weak wine made weaker!! Like Sweet Christ, that's not wine. That's not even grape juice!` "

Enfield took another swig.

" `It's just grape water!` "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago • edited

Lewis laughed.

"Precisely--it's like the grapes just walked through the water without so much as a 'How do you do'! Those Romans must have held their drink worse than church ladies!"

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

Richard pushed against Lewis playfully.

" `That's because church ladies are all twisted stiff in their corsets and bonnets. No room for drink to roll around! All they need to do is loosen a string or two, and maybe they can get half a sip in.` "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago

This drew a guffaw from Lewis.

"Maybe if they'd bothered to loosen a thing or two in their youth," he suggested with a sly smile, "they'd have learned there's much more to life than church."

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

" `Ohoho! Now there's a thought.` "

Richard arched his eyebrows knowingly, his smile full of unspoken mischief.

" `They'd learn a whole lot more indeed, though someone would need to help them. Poor creatures like them need a good set of hands and a gentle voice to guide them through.`"

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago

"Aheheh," came the unbidden laugh, along with a lascivious grin. "Too true.

"Rather a pity so many only learn such on their wedding night."

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago • edited

" `Oh yes. You'd think that waiting would at least make for an interesting experience but now all you get are skittish lambs calling for their mothers.` "

He gulped down more of his wine.

" `On the opposite end, you don't want them too loose. Can't have them drooling over every person they see, otherwise they'll bring home all a late night's diseases.

That's why I like Desirae. She's as perfect as they get.` "

A lovey dovey smile spread from cheek to cheek.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago

"'Tis the rare woman who strikes just the right balance," Weir concurred. "To find one is a great happiness. To keep one, even greater."

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

" `I wish you could see her. She's heaven in heels.` "

He giggled like a schoolboy with a crush.

" `She's so lovely, and she never takes any guff. She's as strong as an ox, horns and all.

And to think she chose someone like me. What a blessing~` "

Enfield's blush grew a shade darker as he giggled helplessly.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago • edited

Lewis laughed good-naturedly at the ox comment.

"She sounds like quite a woman," he said with a genuine smile.

So there's a true romantic under those outer layers of surly sass, he thought of Richard. And a sense of humor, he reflected, recalling their conversation about Romans and church ladies.

He might not be a lost cause after all.

Weir was glad of it.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

" `Mhmm~ She is a one of a kind. I wouldn't trade her for any other...` "

Richard sighed dreamily, his grip on his bottle loosening just a bit. He leaned further on Lewis.

" `I can't wait to see her again.` "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 2 years ago

"I once had someone I felt that way about--who returned my affections," Weir said wistfully.

"If we find one once in a lifetime, we're lucky. See Desirae every chance you get," he asserted with a firm nod, lips forming a thin line so they'd not quiver as he gave Richard an affirming pat on the shoulder.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 2 years ago

" `Will do, De Ver, will do!` "

He raised his bottle with an enthusiastic holler, throwing back his drink with vigor. Once the bottle was empty, he let it drop to the ground, hiccuping violently and leaning back.

" `Hehe! HeheheheEEEEHHh!` "

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