The streets of London were beginning to become empty as the setting sun cast shadows over the city. Night would soon be approaching and many chose not to be out and about after dark. William and Grell had had an extremely long day, only taking a break for lunch. The two reapers trudged through an alley, making their way to their final reap. The souls on this day had been an immense challenge for some odd reason, all of them fighting endlessly.

After what seemed like an eternity, they arrived at their destination. It was a desolate road, now covered in a light sheet of snow. Before them lay a small, fragile looking body, one that belonged to... "Amanda James," Grell said a little winded from the long walk.

William glanced at his watch, it was nearing 6 p.m. and he had no time to waste. He grabbed his scythe, approaching the girl swiftly and looked down at her. She was young, only a mere twenty years old. Her skin was pale and perfect, not an imperfection in sight. It was said that she would die of an opium overdose, how very cruel. William raised his scythe, bringing it down into her chest unleashing the woman's cinematic records. Grell followed lead, reeving up his chainsaw and fought for control.

A small battle between reaper and record ensued, but the red reaper won out. Grell collected the records and turned to William, nodding his head. Exchanging looks of exhaustion, the two set on their way back to the portal.


William and Grell walked in silence down the abandoned streets of London. Of course, they were reapers and could fly if they pleased, but the two were so drained they didn't even attempt the act. All the little shops that lined the streets were closed, all but one. William was approaching the building ever so slowly, knowing what he had to do.

"Sutcliff…I need to go speak with The Undertaker. I'll meet you back at the office." William looked at Grell, trying to not show any emotion. "I won't be long. And please…Do be careful. I have no time for trouble tonight." With that, William pushed up his glasses and parted with Grell. Although he didn't want to be left alone, Grell nodded and made his way down the street to the portal. Once he was there, he crossed into the Shinigami realm and continued on to the Dispatch office.

William made his way to the door, taking in the buildings dirty exterior. The sign was hanging once again, probably caused by the unruly laughs of The Undertaker. William sighed and pushed the door open, entering the shop. It was warm and cozy. Well, as cozy as a place filled with coffins could be. Dust covered everything and candles were placed at random throughout the room. Suddenly, a small rustling was heard and William directed his attention in the direction of the sound.

"Undertaker?" William asked a little unsure of himself. Another sound filled the room, the sound of laughter.

A coffin flew open, revealing the elder reaper. He slowly lifted himself from the dusty old box and giggled, making his way over to William. "Ohh! Look who we have here! How may I help you, Mr. Spears?" Undertaker continued to giggle, coming closer and enveloping his close friend in a hug.

William stood awkwardly, returning the hug with a sigh. The Undertaker knew damn well that William hated the showing of affection, but he would never be one to disrespect not only The Undertaker, but his very close friend.

Moments passed and finally the reapers pulled back. They made their way into the back of the shop and planted themselves on a black leather couch. It was deathly quiet for a while until The Undertaker decided to break the silence.

"So Will, there must be a reason for your visit. Not saying I don't enjoy, oh I do love having a visit from you, my friend, but you seem quite troubled. Care to share your pain?~" The Undertaker was now serious, a rarity in the least.

William sighed and let himself go, something he only did around The Undertaker. "I just..I can't take it anymore, Undertaker! I can't be around him without my feelings threatening to show themselves. You know how much work means to me. Work is my life, but Grell..He just..I don't know. I need him. I want him in my life. I want him to be my life. I want him with me all the time. I just don't want to risk everything I've worked so hard for…" Head now in his hands, William now felt a wave of relief wash over him. His need to expel his feelings and thoughts had been built up for so long, but he never had time to discuss them.

"Well dearie, it seems to me that you love him, don't you?" Undertaker asked with a small smile.

"Yes..I do love him. I have loved him for almost fifty years now, but I don't know what to do." William raised his head and realized that a few tears had managed to escape his eyes and snake their way down his cheek.

The Undertaker's smile faded and he pulled his fellow friend close. "Don't cry, William. I understand that you are a man who has devoted his whole life to his job. You're someone who has given up everything, friends, time, even emotion, to be the very best at your work. Although it may be okay for a while, you must realize one day you will yearn for more. Work will become a routine and those things that you have given up for so long will slowly make their way back into your mind. William you love him. I believe he is what you need. He is the person you want to be but can't due to work. William? May I ask you one question?" Undertaker looked down at the man in his arms.

William looked up returning the elder's gaze and nodded his head. He was entranced at that moment in the words coming from this man, he was a crazy hoot, but when need be, he became a serious and wise individual.

Undertaker leaned down and whispered into Williams's ear, "You say you don't want to risk everything you're worked for, right? Well, think real hard about this…Who is going to stop you?"