Dusk stole through the corrupted city's streets, bringing rain with it. The downpour drove most of the town's inhabitants indoors. Those who remained were either Zydrate junkies, too lost in the glow to notice the torrent, or their dealers, too desperate to let something as simple as rain affect their profit. All but one. The black clad figure strode purposefully through the streets, cutting through alleys and side streets that were all but invisible to someone who didn't know the city well.
His steps slowed as he turned on to a broad avenue lined with gated houses. He stopped in front of one, nearly a mansion. The only sign of life within was the soft light from an upstairs window. He rang the bell, shielding the child in his arms from the fading drizzle as he waited for a reply. He knew she was home. She had to be.
"Mag, it's Nathan." He said into the speaker. "I've brought Shilo." He added, knowing that if her goddaughter couldn't lure her out of the house, nothing would.
The silence stretched on, and he feared for a moment that she wouldn't answer. He was about to turn away when the door swung open and Mag came flying down the steps. It was obvious that she had just come from a performance. Her dark hair was still elaborately curled and the feathered corset she wore contrasted sharply with the pajama pants and slippers she had underneath. She rushed to the gate and swung it open just enough to admit them.
"Come in, come in" she murmured, glancing around warily as if she worried they would be seen. Nathan followed her up the steps and she shut the door softly behind them. She drew the curtains and locked the door before turning to him.
She sat on the couch, but he remained standing, shifting his weight uneasily. Now that they were in the light, she could see how haggard Nathan looked. His eyes were bloodshot, he had lost weight, and he now sported a beard that looked as if he hadn't shaved since Marni's death. His hands trembled as he held his daughter. Mag took her from him and he surrendered her without a fight.
"Why are you here Nathan?" Mag queried bluntly. "You know how dangerous it is to bring Shilo here."
She's in less danger here than she is with me." He said. His voice cracked, and he seemed almost in tears. "I murdered her mother! How can I keep her safe? You have to raise her and protect her from me!
A/N: Sorry it's so short. It's late and I needed to get the idea out. I'll think of a better title tomorrow. (I'm open to suggestions!). I'll update either tomorrow or Sunday. I'd love reviews!