Chapter Ten
Bobby got home as the sun was rising, almost five thirty in the morning, and stumbled into his house. He was weary from breaking up several idiot drunken fights, shooing troublemakers out of the Noose, and having to stay later than expected to help clean up. He'd stopped by Joey's to grab some more parts for Jack's Mustang, even found some tires (though he had to have Joey hold them, seeing as how he didn't drive that day), and set the bag of parts on the counter with the card he'd bought for his brother. He trudged heavily upstairs, exhausted beyond belief, and stopped to check on the couple sleeping in Jack's room.
Jesus, they sure went to town on the wine, he smirked, sneaking in and grabbing the more than half empty bottle. At least Jack had a good birthday, he sighed, noting some marks on his baby brother's neck and stomach.
Something seemed different about Jack, he almost had a glow to him, but Bobby just blamed his exhaustion for making him see shit. Kissing Lock's forehead, he left them to their sleep. He took care of the wine and their glasses, decided to forgo a shower, and happily went and collapsed into his bed. He slept hard, but not long--at least it felt that way; he felt like he'd merely blinked--when loud music pouring up from downstairs woke him. Groaning loudly, he covered his head with his pillow, and made a valiant attempt to get more rest. After twenty minutes of Skid Row, he gave up, and rolled out of his cozy bed to get a shower.
Five hours, he thought, glancing at his clock. Better than no sleep, I guess. . .
He climbed into a warm shower, letting the water pound his sore muscles, and scrubbed sweat and alcohol stink off his body. He dried off, pulling on worn jeans and a wife beater, and jogged downstairs. Music pounded in from the garage, along with laughter, and he couldn't be pissed off at them for waking him up when they sounded so happy. Grabbing a mug of straight black coffee, he stood in the door to the garage, and watched Lock and Jack, smiling.
"Dammit, Jack!" she giggled, pushing at him when he wrapped himself around her. "C'mon! Off!"
"NO!" his little brother pouted playfully, pulling her back from the car.
"JACK!" she shrieked as he slung her over his shoulder.
His brother spun her around, making her cling to him and scream joyously, and finally set her feet back on the ground, grinning like a fool. God, his brother sill had some sort of glow to him; something Bobby knew, but he just couldn't get it off the tip of his tongue. He rolled his eyes as Jack backed Stray to the hood of the Mustang, hands on her hips, and mercilessly attacked her with soft kisses.
"I thought you hated them being so affectionate, Bobby," Ma laughed, startling him.
"I dunno," he chuckled. "Might as well get used to it, right? Not like she's goin' anywhere."
"Let's hope you're right," she said gently, kissing his cheek. "My, those two certainly make an attractive couple. . ."
"Mmm," he grunted, finishing off his coffee. "Goin' out for a smoke."
"All right," she smiled, making herself some tea.
Bobby stretched, putting a cigarette between his lips, and went into the garage. He lit up, taking a deep breath, and slowly exhaled a plume of smoke. Jack murmured a good morning, nuzzling Stray's neck, and he saw the girl suddenly blush and squirm away from her boyfriend. Jack gave her a confused look, shook his head, and went back to tinkering under the hood of his car. Bobby watched the teen's back, studying her posture, and tried to piece together the puzzle she seemed to pose today.
She's embarrassed, he realized. But about what exactly?
Jack whistled with the music, wiping his grime-covered hands on his jeans, and went over to the tool table that Lock was currently pretending to be rearranging. His younger brother reached around her, grabbing a wrench, and gave her a big kiss on the cheek. The more Bobby stared at her back, the more she fidgeted, and pieces started fitting together.
Something happened last night! he thought, almost choking on his hit from his smoke. That's why the little fairy seems so damn cheery and glowing! He got something a little more than cuddling last night. . .Oh shit. . .Please don't let them tell me they had sex, please, please, please!
Steeling himself for a couple of awkward conversations, he went to his brother first, who still had that damn smile, and made sure to speak low enough that Stray wouldn't hear.
"Ok, Cracker Jack. . .I know something happened last night," he muttered. Jack almost dropped the wrench, blushing a furious color, and swallowed loudly. Bobby went on quickly before his brother passed out on him, "Look, I ain't pissed or nothin'. . .Just worried. . .Go inside so I can talk to Baby girl alone. . .Then it'll be your turn."
"Fuck. . .We didn't. . .We didn't have sex," Jack whispered, hazel eyes wide. "I swear, Bobby. . ."
"Good," he sighed in obvious relief. "Now, go."
Jack skittered off to the house, Lock immediately tensed up, as if she knew what Bobby was thinking, and he felt his heart ache for her. He took a drag off his smoke, trying to figure out how to go about this, and she dropped her head, going after Jack.
"Ah-ah," he scolded, gently catching her elbow. She flinched as if struck, making him feel worse, and he kept his hold on her gentle. "Car, sweetheart," he said, steering her back to the Mustang and opening her door.
She climbed into the car, he shut the door, and sat in the driver's seat. The girl stared at her hands, body trembling, and when he put a comforting hand on her shoulder, she jumped, whimpering softly.
"I'll leave," she whimpered. "I'm sorry, Bobby. . .I broke your rules and ruined the trust we had. . .Give me a few minutes to pack and I'll be gone." She had tears in her eyes, but refused to let them fall, and reached for the door handle.
"Stray," he said softly, grabbing her wrist and pulling her back to his chest. "You're not leaving."
"I broke the rules!" she cried. "Your number one rule! You're pissed off at me!"
"No, no," he soothed, stroking her hair. "Baby girl, I'm not mad at you. I know that you two did something last night, not sex, and I'm more worried than anything else. . .I didn't expect a step like that for quite a while. . .You're not gonna leave because of it, I won't let you."
"Y-you're not mad at me?" she whispered into his chest.
"Nope," he said, rubbing her trembling back. "Worried."
"I'm. . .ok," she murmured shyly.
"Good," he laughed, kissing her hair. "But. . .we still gotta have an awkward conversation, sweetheart. . .I'm sorry, but we just have to."
"I figured," she sighed, staying close to him.
"Ok," he took a breath. "Well, first off. . .Promise me that you two will stick with the same slow pace you've set with everything else. . .Please."
"Promise," she said very seriously. "Jackie told me last night that. . .it's not like he'll expect stuff from me now."
"That's real good," he smiled, proud of his brother. "Now. . .I want you to know that I trust you two will take the time to make smart choices, you're both adults and it's time I accepted that. . .No matter how much I don't want to." She giggled softly, wiping her face, and lay her head on his shoulder. "Nothing you two do will make me love either of you any less or make me tell you to get out. . .Ready for the awkward part?"
"Not really," she laughed. "But go for it."
"Ok," he so wasn't ready either. "Lock, you'll find out that anything more intimate than cuddling or making out isn't scary when it's with someone you love and loves you back. . .It won't feel 'bad' or 'dirty'. . .Honestly, it'll blow your fucking mind."
"Bobby!" she squeaked in embarrassment, blushing furiously.
"Hey," he chuckled, "I'm gonna be straight with you on this shit. . .It wouldn't be fair of me to lie to you about it. Whenever you guys take that last step, it'll be so unbelievably special feeling. . ."
"BOBBY!" she whined. "I get it! But that's a long way off. . ."
"Glad to hear that," he snickered, hugging her. "We good, baby girl? You know I'm not mad about whatever you two did last night and I still 'wuvs my Stray.'"
"Yeah," she laughed, kissing him smack dab in the center of his forehead. "I still wuvs my Bobby."
"Thanks for listening and putting up with me and my protectiveness of you two," he smiled, pecking her cheek. "Suppose I should go give Jackie another 'Talk'. . .This should be fun. . .Will you do me a favor and stay scarce for a bit?"
"Sure," she smiled. "I was plannin' on fixing the radio up anyway. . .That doesn't even work."
He chuckled, leaving her to the radio, and went inside to have his talk with Jack. His brother sat at the kitchen table, looking guilty as sin, and Bobby gestured upstairs. They went to Jack's room, his brother immediately sat in the window to smoke, and Bobby sat on his dresser.
"Don't suppose you'll tell me what happened?" he asked gently, wanting to know just how far they'd stepped. "I don't need details. . ."
"Touching," Jack said, staring out the window. "No more, no less. . ."
"Ok," he let out a small sigh--that was better than he was thinking. "Look, I'm gonna tell you what I told her. . .I ain't pissed at either of you, but this is a shock. . .I wasn't expecting a step in this direction for a long time. . ."
"Like I was?" his brother murmured, blushing.
Bobby snorted a laugh. No, Jack probably hadn't been expecting things to go the way they had last night either, none of them had.
"I still trust the both of you," he said seriously, looking into Jack's hazel eyes. "And I'll always trust you both to make the best choices. . .You are adults after all. . ." he saw Jack smirk as he took a drag off his smoke. "She told me that you aren't gonna push this new step. . ."
"Nope. . ." his brother was very serious. "I won't lie. . .Last night was absolutely phenomenal, but it's not like I'm gonna just expect her to start doing that on a regular basis. . .Still no rush."
"God, Cracker Jack, I'm so fucking proud of you," he grinned. "You guys are still gonna take things nice and slow."
"No reason not to," he smirked. "Got our whole lives to figure shit out. . ."
"Listen to you!" he chuckled. "Looks like I did something right to make you a man after all, fairy."
Jack just smiled, finishing his smoke, and slid back in from the window. Bobby messed up his hair, dodging a swipe from Jack, and went back downstairs. His brother cuffed him gently upside the head, darting past him, and vanished into the garage. Shaking his head, Bobby got some left over Chinese out, and made up a plate for himself.
"You're handling it well," Ma grinned.
"What?" he asked, putting his food in the microwave.
"Lock and Jack's relationship step," she smirked.
How does she know? he thought, almost dropping his fork.
"How do you-?" he started, looking to her in wonder.
"A mother can always tell," she chuckled. "Plus, Jackie spilled to me while you were talking with Lock. . .But I had my assumptions the second I saw them this morning."
"Well. . .They're adults," he murmured. "I trust 'em to make the right choices."
"As do I," she said. "They're good kids, Bobby. . .Most people would have had sex of some sort multiple times by now. . .especially hormone driven teens. . .But they're taking it slow."
He nodded, waiting for his food, and suddenly the phone rang. Bobby grabbed it quickly, staying in the living room, and spoke.
"Hello?"
"May I talk with Uncle Cracker Jack please?" a sweet little voice asked.
"Cassy, is that you?" he smirked.
"Uh-huh," she said. "Can I talk to Uncle Jack an' Lock?"
"You don't wanna talk with your Uncle Bobby?" he asked, sounding hurt.
"Uncle Bobby!" she giggled. "I need to ask them a question."
"Uh-huh. I get it," he sniffled. "You love Uncle Jack more than Uncle Bobby. . ."
"No!" she laughed. "But Uncle Cracker Jack told me to call him."
"I know, Cassy-doll," he chuckled. "I'm only teasing. . .Wanna talk with Gramma Evie while I got get Lock and Jack?"
"Ok," she chirped.
"Ma, it's Cassy," he said softly. "Here she is, Cassy-doll. . .I love you."
"Love you too, Uncle Bobby!" she giggled. "Kisses!" she made a kissing noise on her end and he did the same, giving his mother the phone.
"Hi, Cassondra," Ma said lovingly. "Yes, that's right. . .Today is Halloween."
Smirking at his niece, he went to the garage, and suddenly heard loud music followed by a whoop from Stray.
Must have the radio fixed, he thought.
"Hey!" he bellowed over the music. The radio shut off and Lock shot him a proud grin.
"Got music now!"
"Noticed," he laughed, ears still ringing. "Fairy, our niece is on the phone. . .She wants to talk with you two."
"Must be Cassy," Jack smiled, coming out from under the hood. "Few more parts and I think she'll be ready for the road. . .Come on, babs."
"Coming," she said, grabbing the keys and trailing after him.
"Wash your hands 'fore you touch the phone," Bobby reminded.
"Mmm hmm," they nodded.
They scrubbed the grease and car grime off their hands, he got his food, and started eating. Ma was still chatting away with Cassy and Jack finally managed to get the phone.
"Oh, here they are Cassondra. . .Yes, I love you too. . ." his mother said, making a kissing noise.
"Hey, Cassy-doll!" Jack chirped. "Yup, Lock's right here. . .Hang on and I'll put it on speaker so you can talk with both of us. . ." he hit a button and Cassy's voice could now be heard. "There we go. . ."
"Lock?" Cassy asked shyly.
"Hey, Cassy!" she said with a grin.
"Hi!" she giggled. "Can you an' Uncle Jack take me and sissy trick-or-treating? It's Halloween!"
"I know it's Halloween," Stray giggled, looking to Jack. "What do you think, Jackie?"
"Well, we have that party tonight," he said.
"That don't start until eight and I'm sure Jerry will want us to take the girls early. . ." she shot him a look. "And we do have costumes already."
"Please, Uncle Jack?" Cassy begged cutely. "Me an' sissy really want you and Aunt Lock to take us!"
Lock got surprised when she heard 'Aunt Lock', she blushed, and sort of stared at the phone in shock. Another step towards becoming true family. Bobby laughed at her expression and got a light slap from his mother.
"Can we get some of your candy?" Jack asked playfully.
"Uh-huh! Just not the taffy, that's my favorite," she said.
"Sure. . .I guess we can take you both trick-or-treating," he smiled. "Lemme talk to your daddy."
"Daddy! Daddy!" Cassy cheered, the sound of her running floating over the phone. "Uncle Jack will take us trick-or-treating! Here, he wants to talk to you."
"Whoa!" Jerry was on the other end of the line now. "Careful, honey."
"Bridget!" Cassy called in the background, running yet again.
"So, you two will really take them?" Jer said.
"Sure, it's no problem," Jack smiled. "Anything for my nieces. . .What time?"
"I'll bring them over about five. . .Have them back to your house by seven?"
"Sounds good," Jack laughed as Cassy's voice showed up again.
"Daddy, I wanna tell them 'bout our costumes!" she said loudly.
"Just a second, honey," Jerry said calmly. "I'm talking to them right now."
"If they're takin' the girls, they need to have child appropriate costumes," Camille snorted in the background. "I don't want the girls coming home tonight thinking it's ok to dress like s-l-u-t-s."
Bobby's jaw about hit the floor at that comment. Stray did not dress like a slut ever! Ma was just as stunned that her son's wife would say something like that and spoke up.
"Jeremiah, you may want to inform your wife that you're on speaker and the so-called 'slut' just heard that. . .As well as the rest of us," she growled.
"I. . .Lock, I'm so sorry she said that," Jerry said softly.
"Maybe Jack and Bobby should just take them then," Stray muttered, wiping her cheeks free of tears, and heading to the living room.
"Baby girl!" Bobby called, darting after her.
"I know Camille doesn't really like me, but she doesn't have to call me a fucking slut!" she whimpered.
That bitch couldn't have picked a worse time to have done this, he mused, thinking of what happened last night.
"Sweetheart, you're not a slut," he soothed, hugging her tightly. "Camille is just a jealous bitch. . .She hates my guts too."
"Has she ever called you a slut?" she growled into him.
"Actually, yes," he snickered. "Plus a few. . .more colorful phrases."
"Really? She called you a slut?" she giggled, looking at him.
"Yup. . .a 'cock-sucking gutter slut piece of white trash'. . .If I remember correctly."
She laughed, he wiped her face, and Jack came storming in, phone to his ear. Ma was behind him, a very stern look on her face, and she gave Lock a soothing hug.
"No! Camille, you need to shut the fuck up a second and listen to me!" Jack snapped into the receiver. "I don't care what you think of my girlfriend, but if I ever hear you make a remark like that again, things will not be pretty between us! Do you fucking understand that?! You have no right to say anything like that to her!" Jack hung up, seething anger, but softened when he saw Lock. "Aww. . .C'mere, babs."
"Thank you, demon boy," she giggled, hugging him. "Sticking up for me like that. . ."
"Hey, it comes in the title of boyfriend," he smirked, kissing her head. "I'm sorry she did that to you. . ."
"I just feel bad 'cuz we told the girls we'd take them trick-or-treating and now we won't be," she sighed. "And you heard how excited Cassy was."
"Don't be so sure," Ma smiled as the phone rang. She was quick to pick it up and put it on speaker. "Hello?"
"Ma?" it was Jerry again. "Look, I'd like to speak with Lock. . ."
"Then talk," Stray grumbled. "You're on speaker again."
"Lock," Jer sighed. "I don't know what possessed Camille to ever even imply that you were a. . .ummm. . .Well, anyway, I'm very sorry she did that and I truly hope you and Jack will still take the girls tonight. . .They've got their hearts set on it."
A tear-filled voice filtered in from the background and Bobby recognized it to be Cassy.
"Daddy, are L-Lock an' Un-Uncle Jack not taking me an' s-sissy trick-or-treating anymore?" she asked, sniffling. The look of pure heart ache on Lock's face was answer enough.
"Jerry, give her the phone," Lock said, taking the phone from Ma and turning off speaker. "Hi, Cassy-girl. . .No, we're still gonna take you. . .Yes, me and Jackie. . .I know your mom called me a mean name. . .Oh, sweetie. . .You don't have to apologize. . .Hey, why don't you tell everyone what you and Bridget are dressing up as. . ." she said, putting the phone back on speaker.
"Everyone can hear me?" Cassy asked.
"Yup," they all said. Jack sat next to Lock on the couch, arm around her shoulders, and gave her neck a kiss.
"We're goin' as fairy princesses!" she giggled. "We're gonna wear what Uncle Bobby got us on Bridget's birthday. . .An' we got punkin shaped candy holder and new wands that light up an'. . .we're gonna have glitter and wings. . ."
"Wow, sounds pretty," Stray smiled.
"Yeah!" Cassy agreed. "What are you an' Uncle Cracker Jack goin' as?"
"Mine's gonna be a surprise," she laughed. "Uncle Jack's gonna be The Crow."
"A crow?" she giggled. "That's silly!"
"No," Jack chuckled. "The Crow, Cassy-doll. . .A person from a movie."
"A scary movie?" she whispered.
"No, not scary," Jack said. "I promise."
"Ok! When are we gonna go?"
"Not until later, sweetie," Lock grinned.
"Baby, let Daddy have the phone. . .Say goodbye," Jerry said gently in the background.
"Bye, everyone!" Cassy sang. "Kisses!" she made the noise and so did everyone else.
"So. . .Are you still taking them?" Jerry asked.
"Yes. . .No reason to punish them for their mother's ill behavior," Stray said. "And no, I won't be dressed like a slut."
"I know that, Lock," his brother sighed.
"Jerry, I'd like to speak with Camille," Ma said. "I'm not very pleased with the way she's been treating Lock. . ."
"Evelyn, it's all right," Stray murmured.
"Oh? So it's ok with you that the woman treat you like shit?" Ma asked, making Lock's jaw fall when she swore. "No, I didn't think so. . ."
"Umm. . .Ok, Ma. . .Hold on," Jerry said, going to find his wife.
"Kids, I suggest you go make yourselves busy elsewhere," Ma said, her light blue eyes storming up.
Lock gave Ma the phone, then the three of them went to the garage, and Jack resumed tinkering under the hood of his car. Stray sat on a table, playing with tools, and Bobby could still see the hurt on her face.
"Sweetheart," he said gently, touching her knee.
"I know, Bobby," she sighed. "I'm no slut, but it still hurts to know she thinks so low of me."
"Surprising that she can think," Jack growled from under the hood. "With as far up her ass as her head is. . ."
"Jackie!" she scolded, giggling. "Be nice!"
"Why?" he smirked, putting grease on her nose.
"Kill her with kindness," she blushed. "My mom told me that when I had a bully in kindergarten. . ."
"Sounds like a wise woman. . .Just like our Ma," Bobby smiled, smoothing her hair.
"Did you actually listen?" Jack chuckled. "Seems like you just beat up bullies anymore."
"Jack!" she growled, slipping down to smack him.
"OW! See?" he laughed as they got into a play fight.
Her mood improved as the day went on, Bobby and Jack saw to that, and Evelyn even made her some chocolate-caramel swirl brownies to help.
Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Jack spent most of the afternoon creating his costume; he found his favorite pair of leather pants, his tightest black tee shirt, combat style boots, a trench coat he bought, and then went about using black duct tape around his waist and on his hands (making sure the double it over so he didn't hurt himself taking it off later). He had temporary black hair dye and Lock had pouted so cutely when his hair was dyed. At a quarter to five, he did his make up, and then sat in the living room with Bobby while he waited for Jerry and the girls.
"Where's Stray?" his brother asked, looking over Jack's costume.
"With Ma still. . ." he sighed. "She still won't say what she's dressin' up as. . ."
"Prolly something scary if I know my baby girl," his brother chuckled. A knock at the door got Bobby's attention, he went to answer it, grabbing a bowl of candy just in case, and was immediately mauled upon opening the door.
"Uncle Bobby!" Cassy and Bridget screeched.
"They're here!" he laughed, carrying them into the living room. "And aren't they just gorgeous?"
"My word!" Jack beamed. "Are those my nieces?"
"Uh-huh!" Cassy nodded, worming from Bobby's arms to crawl into Jack's lap. "Look at my wand!"
"I see. . ." he smiled. He faltered a little when he saw Camille walk in with Jerry, bristling with anger, but stayed composed. "Wow. . .It changes colors."
"Cool, huh?" Cassy grinned, shutting it off. "Gotta save the batteries. . ."
"Where's Lock?" Bridget asked, still in Bobby's arms.
"Still getting ready," Jack said. "Hey, Jer."
"Hi, fairy," his brother said uncomfortably. "Umm. . ."
"I'm here to apologize," Camille said shortly. "And we would like some pictures of you two and the girls."
Jack saw Bobby open his mouth, he kicked him, and his brother shut his big mouth again. Cassy started playing with Jack's hair, asking why it was a different color and why it was in his face, and he patiently explained everything.
"Jeremiah, is that you I hear down there?" Ma called.
"Yeah," he said, sitting next to Jack on the couch.
Their mother came down the steps, casting Camille a very sharp look, and stood at the foot of the stairs.
"Lock, come on down here," she called gently.
Jack held his breath, hoping a fight wouldn't happen when Lock saw Camille, and heard Lock descending the steps. His jaw came unhinged when he saw his girlfriend in her costume and he felt like the luckiest man alive.
"Holy shit. . .She's beautiful," Jerry whispered.
Jack nodded, taking the sight of his girlfriend into his soul, and noticed Camille's stunned look as well. Lock's gorgeous red hair was a mass of soft curls and braids piled on her head, with glitter in it, and some sort of fake gems Ma had clipped here and there. She had glitter on her eyes and by her temple and even had some on her exposed collar. Beautiful wings jutted from her back, ballerina type lace up shoes were on her feet (laced up all the way over her glitter tights), and she had on one of the most stunning fairy outfits he'd ever seen.
"Babs," he exhaled, smiling at her. "I think my heart just stopped. . ."
"Lock's the Fairy Queen!" Cassy giggled, clapping. "And she's wearing the necklace!"
"For the record," she smiled. "This wasn't planned. . .I bought this before I even knew we were taking the girls tonight."
"Well, it definitely works," Bobby laughed. "Jesus, baby girl. . .My heart stopped."
"You mean that you actually have one?" she teased gently. "Hope this is up to your standards, Camille. I woulda bought a burka, but the store was fresh out."
Jack saw his mother cover a laugh, Bobby let out a short snicker, and Camille was still too stunned to speak. Jerry was still staring at her, until Jack elbowed him, and he stammered out that she looked very nice.
"Well, come on. . .We're burning candy," Lock giggled.
"Wait, Lock, I need to speak to you," Camille finally spoke.
"Camille," she said smoothly, facing the woman. "I know what you're going to say and I really don't want to hear it. Don't even bother apologizing to me unless you actually mean it."
"I. . ." she started and trailed, looking like an animal with its leg in a trap.
"Mmm," Lock nodded. "Thought so. . .Back by seven, Jerry."
"I'll be here," Jer smirked. "Girls, you do as Lock and Jack say and don't put up a fight when they say it's time to be done."
"We'll be good!" the girls chirped, each taking a hand.
Jack helped get them buckled into the Bronco, then climbed in, and started laughing. Lock had sure stuck it to Camille and she never even drew blood. When Lock was in and buckled, he leaned over, and caught her in a deep kiss.
"Ooooh! Uncle Jack's kissing Lock!" Bridget sang.
"Jack, there are young eyes present," Lock blushed. "Tone it down. . ."
"Sorry. . .Just had to. . ." he grinned. "Oh shit! Jerry never got pictures of us!"
"Covered," she smirked, showing a camera. "We'll take some for them."
"Uncle Cracker Jack said a bad word," Cassy tattled, earning him a light tap on the lips from Lock.
He growled, nipping her fingers playfully, and listened as the girls chattered crazily about everything under the sun. He'd have to keep a close eye on Lock at that party, he knew it. With as fantastic as she looked, guys would be hitting on her like there was no tomorrow, and he didn't like that idea very much at all.
Lock went to a local subdivision in a decent part of town and parked off on the side. The girls were quickly unbuckled and scrambling from the Bronco. Jack caught them, preventing them from tearing off alone, and waited for his girlfriend.
"Let me take some pictures, girls," she laughed. "Smile and look cute!"
The girls gave huge grins, Jack smirked for the picture, and Lock snapped one off. Cassy grabbed her hand, swinging it back and forth, and led Lock to the first house with her.
"Trick or treat!" the girls cheered when a woman came to the door.
"My!" the lady smiled. "We've got three fairies and. . .The Crow," she winked at Jack as she gave the girls a handful of candy. "You all look very nice."
"Thanks," Lock smiled. "Girls, what do you say?"
"Thank you!" they beamed before tugging them on to the next house.
The girls were well behaved, even staying still long enough for a kind old lady to get several pictures of the four of them using Lock's camera, and Lock kept getting all sorts of compliments on how pretty she was. At the end, they were paid in candy (mostly stuff the girls didn't like), quickly fixed up their costumes, and were heading for the door.
"What time will you be home?" Ma called just as they reached the door.
"Ummm. . .Not sure. . . 'Fore two?" he called back.
"No later than that please," she said. "And if there's booze, limit yourselves. . ."
"We will, Ma!" he laughed. "Promise."
"Have fun!"
"She's worse than Bobby," Lock smirked, starting the Bronco.
"She's a mom," he chuckled. "Damn, babs. . .You really make one gorgeous fairy."
"Queen Fairy, thank you," she giggled. "You make one hot Crow, know that?"
"Mmm," he growled, stroking her neck.
She gently brushed his hand away, he put it on her thigh instead, and silver eyes rolled, a soft smile on her pretty lips. He read her the directions to the house of one of Blaine's friends, she parked, and he grabbed her hand as they walked in. A vampire Blaine popped up, exclaiming loudly about Lock's costume, and then about Jack's.
"Where's your man?" Lock snickered, letting Jack pull her back into him.
"My victim, you mean," Blaine chuckled evilly. "He's. . .Right there."
"You're here as vampire and the victim?" she laughed.
"Mmm hmm," he nodded. "Hayden! Look who finally showed up!"
"Hey!" Hayden smiled, walking over. "Wow. . .Lock. . .You're adorable!"
"Thanks," she blushed lightly. "You two had a cute idea to come as vamp and vic."
"It was his idea," Blaine purred, kissing Hayden deeply. "And I loved it."
"Obviously," Jack smirked.
"Hey, hot stuff!" Seth cheered, appearing out of thin air and clearly checking Lock out. "Mmm. . .Nice."
"Go away," Lock growled darkly. "I didn't know the old mob boys allowed gays, Seth."
"Purple? Really?" Jack snorted, allowing Lock to lead him away by the hand.
"He is such a dink," Hayden grumbled, sitting on a huge couch.
"Mmmm," Jack nodded, pulling Lock onto his lap. "He prolly won't let up tonight either. . ."
"Great," Blaine sighed, snuggling his boyfriend.
"Fuck 'em," Lock smiled, toying with Jack's hair. "Demon boy, do me a favor and never dye your hair."
"I think black looks nice," Hayden said with a grin.
"I know. . .But I love his natural color," she pouted.
"Now you know how I felt when you put purple in your hair, babs," he smirked, kissing her.
"That was only my bangs!" she argued. "Not all of it!"
"This washes out," he laughed. "So, relax."
"You're washing it out tonight," she said with a small pout.
"Oh am I?" he taunted.
"If I have to pin you down and do it myself, the black is getting washed out," she growled.
"Wow," Blaine chuckled. "All this over a little temporary hair dye."
"I'll wash it out," he promised, kissing her innocently. "Promise."
"Thank you," she purred, teasing the nape of his neck.
Jack saw Seth strut by in his purple mobster outfit, the blonde gave Lock a lustful look, and Jack growled in the back of his throat. Lock heard him, glanced at Seth, and pulled Jack's arms around hr middle securely.
"Ignore that ass," Lock murmured in his ear. "We're here to have fun."
"So, let's have fun," he grinned, scooping her up and spinning.
She squeaked adorably, he set her down, and pulled her back to his chest. Music was pounding some techno beat and he wanted to dance. He put his hands on her hips, swaying gently, trying to see if she'd actually dance, and his heart leapt when she was all for it. She laced her fingers in his, he purred, and rested his chin on her shoulder.
She's been. . .More relaxed with me since last night, he thought, smiling.
Well, duh! desire laughed at him. She realized that being very close to you isn't as scary as it seemed before. . .
Mmmm. . .he growled happily.
"Jackie?" Lock breathed.
"Hmmmm?"
She turned around in his arms, the glitter on her face shimmering in the lights, and gave him a knockout smile. Silver eyes locked on his, her hands running up and down his sides, and she stood up on tip toes to give him one hell of a kiss. He could feel Blaine staring, as well as everyone else in the house, and he felt her pulling him even closer by his leather jacket.
"Really?" he smirked when they broke for air. "Is that so?"
Lock blushed a little, he smiled, and pulled her to him. Blaine gave him a look, as if he knew something, and the song changed to a slow one. He draped his arms around her waist, she nuzzled into his chest, arms up around his neck, and they actually slow danced to a whole song. After the song, they went back to the couch, and sat with Blaine and Hayden. Blaine started toying with Lock's hair, asking if Evelyn had done it, and then griped that he could have done the job just as well--or better.
"Evelyn was there and you weren't," she giggled, batting his hands away from her hair. "Quit! You'll mess it up!"
"It does look nice, but next time I get to play with your hair," Blaine pouted. "It's beautiful and I've been dying to play with it."
"I promise that I'll let you do my hair some time, Blaine," she laughed.
"Hey, do you want a caramel apple?" Hayden asked his boyfriend softly. "They have them in the kitchen. . ."
"Mmmm," he nodded.
"I'll go with you," Lock said. "Baby, you want one?"
"I'll just have some of yours," he smiled, tapping her nose. "If that's all right with you. . ."
"Ok, we'll be back," she smiled, letting Hayden lead her to the kitchen.
"She seems more relaxed around you lately," Blaine said.
"What do you mean?" he asked. Was it really that obvious that something had happened?
"Hun, I've known you for a long ass time. . .I even dated you. . .You're practically glowing. . ." he smirked. "You two did something last night."
"Jesus, is it like tattooed to my forehead?" he sighed.
"Jackness, I can read you like a book," he chuckled.
"Yeah. . .Right," he smirked.
"Ok, fine. . .I'll prove it," Blaine said, making Jack look at him. "Mmmm. . .It. . .just. . .happened. No pushing. . .The moment was just right. . .it wasn't anything extreme."
"Fuck," he gaped at his ex. "I get it. . .You know."
"Told you," he grinned. "I'm happy for you two. . ."
"Don't tell Lock you know any of this," he begged.
"Secret's safe with me," he promised.
"Thanks," he blushed a little.
His friend just smiled, patting his knee, and Jack let himself relax. Blaine wouldn't tell Lock anything, he'd promised, and he was a man of his word. Lock came back, caramel apple in hand, and unexpectedly straddled his thighs. She put the apple to his mouth, he took a bite, savoring the flavor, and she took a bite as well. Blaine munched his own apple, situating Hayden on his lap, and gave Jack a sly nod. He rolled his eyes, Lock gave him a cute curious look, and he just took another big bite of the apple.
"Hey!" Lock laughed, pulling it away from him. "Easy on it, moose! I said I'd share, not let you have the whole thing!"
"Mm," he smirked, licking caramel from his lips. "So have some."
She narrowed her silver eyes playfully, taking a bite of the apple, and he rubbed her sides. Jack took a few minutes to look at people's costumes, seeing: a classic witch, slutty nurse, black cat, an undead ghoul, a "cereal killer" (a guy with a cereal box that had a knife stabbed through it), and even a bondage slave. That last costume threw him off a little, it was just really out of the ordinary, but he didn't think too much of it. His girlfriend slipped from his lap, saying she was thirsty, and he watched her walk off.
"Now, Jack," Seth sneered, coming over as soon as Lock was gone. "I'm confused. . .Did Lock find your costume by mistake? Don't get me wrong, she is one smokin' fairy! But I think we all know who the real fairy is here tonight."
Jack just shook his head, looking at the blonde, and stayed cool.
"Look, I'll ask nicely, Seth," he said, staring into his eyes. "Quit runnin' your mouth about my girlfriend."
The blonde growled, stalking off, and Jack sighed, closing his eyes. Some Halloween party this was.
Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Lock was making her way to the kitchen, hearing people compliment her costume, and failed to see two men in the doorway of the kitchen until she ran into them.
"Shit!" she squeaked, blushing. "I'm really sorry!"
"That's all right," the one in a top hat said.
"Yeah, no big deal," the other, a bondage slave, smiled.
"Should watch where I'm going," she murmured, trying to figure out the first guy's costume. "I'm sorry, but who exactly are you supposed to be?"
"Jack the Ripper, at your service," he chuckled, bowing. "But you can just call me Kieran."
She flinched a little at his name, but there was no way this was the same Kieran from her past--he'd be much older than this.
"Luke," the slave said, extending his hand.
"Lock," she smiled, shaking his hand. "So. . .Jack the Ripper and a bondage slave. . .That's an odd combo."
"He insisted," Luke mumbled. "He's the kinky one."
"Mildly," Kieran laughed, tugging playfully on the leash. "Not to this extreme. . .Besides, he's the only person I've dated to actually do this. . .My last boyfriend would never do this, even when I begged him to."
"I expect some sort of reward," Luke pouted.
"Isn't this reward enough?" his boyfriend smirked. "Our costumes have sparked a conversation with this beautiful fairy-girl."
"You're right," Luke grinned. "Your costume is gorgeous, Lock. ..Too bad there's no contest for prettiest costume."
"Oh. . .Thanks," she blushed, going to the fridge to get herself a bottle of soda.
"So. . .Here with anyone?" Kieran asked. "Boyfriend? Girlfriends?"
"The Crow," she smirked playfully. "My boyfriend. . .And two other friends."
"Damn. . .All the smart, pretty ones are always taken," Kieran snapped his fingers, smiling.
"Ummm. . .I thought you two were. . ." she trailed shyly.
"Oh, we are," Luke chuckled. "But Kieran's a ladies man as well as a man's man."
"Is your boyfriend The Crow or is that another friend?" the other male asked casually, sipping some punch.
"Boyfriend," she murmured. He was awfully curious about her, maybe she was just being paranoid. Asking questions is how you get to know someone.
"He's attractive," Luke commented. "And of course. . .Taken."
"Yes, he's taken," she giggled, leaning on the counter.
Kieran laughed, patting Luke's cheek, and leaned on the counter beside her. Something about him struck her as familiar, as if she knew him from before, but she wasn't sure. His top hat covered some of his face and his eyes were a neat color--brown with an underlying green tint.
"Have we met somewhere before, Kieran?" she asked, studying him.
"I don't believe so," he smiled. "Unless you were a Ripper victim in a past life."
"I hope not," she giggled, though the comment made a shiver creep up her spine.
"Would it be too bold of me if I asked you to dance?" he whispered, leaning over to breathe the question in her ear.
The question caught her off guard, she didn't know how to answer, and pulled back to look at him. His interesting eyes looked at her gently, she went to politely decline, but was saved the trouble.
"You fuck!" a voice yelled. "You hit me!"
"Told you to quit runnin' your mouth, Seth!" Jack snapped.
"Oh fuck," she exhaled, darting off.
Her boyfriend and the blonde stood toe to toe in front of the couch, Seth's hat was knocked to the floor, and his lip was split open. She watched as the blonde swung on Jack, went to intervene, and someone pulled her back.
"Let them sort this out, honey," Blaine murmured.
Seth's blow landed in Jack's face, but didn't seem to really affect him. The youngest Mercer boy threw his shoulder into Seth's middle, knocking him off balance, and they toppled to the floor. Her boyfriend got flipped over, two quick punches from Seth making good contact, and Jack managed to worm out from under him and get back to his feet.
"Ain't as bad as you thou--," Seth growled, but Jack's fist cut him short.
The blonde stumbled back, stunned, and then lashed out with wild swings. Lock watched as Jack dodged and swung, nailing Seth in the stomach. The boy doubled over, Jack murmured something in his ear, and let him collapse to the floor. People started whistling and cheering, she broke free from Blaine, and made her way to Jackie.
"You ok?" she asked, eyeing his wounds. The make up made it impossible to see any of the damage to his face.
"Fine. . .We should split, babs," he mumbled, eyes still full of pent up anger.
"All right," she said, feeling him take her hand.
"Hits like a woman," Seth snorted, pulling himself to his feet.
"Really?" Lock growled, turning to him.
"Yeah," he laughed.
"So, he hits like this?" she asked, nailing him square in the face and knocking him to his ass.
"Lock!" Jack scolded. "Come on! 'Fore someone decides to call the cops."
People burst into laughter at the look on Seth's face, she flipped him off, and followed Jack outside. He leaned on the Bronco, fists clenching and unclenching furiously, and she gingerly took his hands. His knuckled were red, going to bruise, and one was open and bleeding.
"Sorry," he sighed. "I didn't mean to ruin our night. . ."
"You didn't, demon boy," she smiled. "Let's go home so I can take care of my bad ass boyfriend."
He laughed, getting in the car, and she went around to her side. On the ride home, Jack fell silent, staring out his window, and it made her uncomfortable.
"Never knew you could fight," she murmured softly.
"Never really had to," he muttered. "Bobby insisted on teaching me how so I could defend myself."
"He did a good job," she snickered, turning into their driveway. "You kicked Seth's ass."
He smirked, they went inside, and she went to change. She pulled off her costume, yanked on pajamas, and worked on taking her hair down. After she was done, she went to find Jack, and found him in the bathroom. He was in pj bottoms, in the bathroom, and was busy taking off his Crow make up.
"Fairy? Stray?" Bobby mumbled sleepily. "That you?"
"Yeah," she sighed.
"You're home early," he said, coming into the bathroom. "Shit, Cracker Jack, what happened?"
"Fight," he murmured, hissing as he wiped off a cheek, revealing a bruise.
"Ya win?" his brother asked.
"Guess so," he smirked.
"What was that fight even about, Jackie?" Lock asked, watching him.
"Seth runnin' his fucking mouth," he growled.
"Seth? That ass from college?" Bobby asked. "What'd he say?"
"That. . .That Lock was the best piece of ass he's ever had," Jack ground out, jaw clenched in anger. "Then he said I wouldn't know 'cuz I've only got enough cash the pay her to 'date' me. . .and even if I did have the money, Lock would never fuck me 'cuz I'm gay."
"He. . .said that?" Lock asked tearfully. "He actually said that shit about me?" Jack nodded sullenly, cleaning more make up off his face. "What the fuck?! Does everyone assume that I'm some sort of fucking slut or something!?" she yelled.
"Babe," Jack said gently, looking at her. "He only said it to piss me off. . .And ended up with more than he bargained for."
"I'll kill him," she said darkly. "I'll tear him limb from fucking limb."
"Stray, no," Bobby said firmly, kneeling in front of her. "Jackie boy beat his ass. . .You don't need to."
"I want to," she whimpered. "Seth's a creep!"
"I know, baby girl," he soothed, hugging her. "But you let Jack handle this one. . ."
"Mm," she pouted, nodding. "Fine."
"You gonna doctor him up, sweetheart?" he yawned.
"Yeah. . .Then I figure we'll go to bed. . .It's been a night," she sighed.
"Mmmm. . .G'night. . .Love you both," he yawned again, gently kissing her forehead.
"Love you too, Bobby," they said softly.
Jack wiped the last bit of make up from his cheek, sighing, and tossed the stuff into the trash. There was a bruise on his left cheek, his lip was split, and his knuckles were bruising, but that was the extent of his battle wounds.
"Why not let me shower 'for you fix me up?" he smiled. "I promised to wash this dye out of my hair. . .Should be quick."
"All right," she smirked, kissing his busted lip. "My little hero. . ."
"Gotta protect my princess," he purred, kissing her.
She giggled, tingling warmly from head to toe, and left him to his shower. Ten minutes later, she was back in the bathroom, watching him towel his sandy hair, and she looked at the muscles of his body. Jack had been a little sexy during the fight, ok, more than a little sexy, and she couldn't help but take his hands and kiss each wounded knuckle.
"The best cure," he snickered, pulling her to him.
"Jack, let me clean these up," she laughed as he lapped her neck.
"Mmm. . .Cleaned them in the shower," he growled playfully.
"With antiseptic, Jack," she smirked, pushing at him. "C'mon. . .I'm serious."
"Fine," he pouted, giving up.
Lock turned in his arms, telling him to hold his hands over the sink, and got some disinfectant on a cotton ball. She gently dabbed his knuckles, trying to ignore his breath on the back of her neck, an cleaned him up. A gasp escaped her when he nipped the nape of her neck, she shivered, and he smiled.
"Quit," she shuddered. "Time for bed. . ."
"Tummy rub?" he asked cutely, nuzzling her neck.
"I guess," she giggled.
Jack darted to the bedroom, she laughed, and trailed after, shutting off the bathroom light. He was all spread out on the bed, tummy just begging to be rubbed, and she snuggled up to him, slowly rubbing her hand over his muscled abdomen. A content sigh passed his lips, he squirmed a bit, and then went completely limp.
"Hey, babe?"
"Hmm?" she looked at him.
"Who were those guys you were talking to in the kitchen? They looked really familiar," he said gently.
"Oh. . .Kieran and Luke," she said. "I ran right into them and it sorta sparked our conversation."
"Kieran?" he growled protectively.
"Not the same one," she assured him. "Believe me, I found it strange too."
"Who was who?" he asked.
"Kieran was Jack the Ripper and Luke was. . .a bondage slave," she blushed. "Odd combination."
Jack suddenly sat up, ending his tummy rub, and put his back to her. Lock felt like she'd done something wrong, and gently touched his back.
"Jackie?" she whispered. "Did I do something wrong?"
"What did they say to you?" he growled.
"Ummm. . .That they liked my costume. . .Asked who I was there with. . ." she murmured. "And Kieran asked if I'd dance with him."
"What did you say?"
"I was gonna tell him no, but your fight saved me the trouble. . .Jack, what's wrong?" she was getting nervous.
"Maybe it's just a coincidence," he muttered. "But Kett had this obsession about wanting to go to a Halloween party dressed as Jack the Ripper. . .And he wanted me to be a bondage slave. . .I refused to do it."
'My last boyfriend would never do this, even when I begged him to.'
The words floated back, making Lock feel sick, and she started trembling uncontrollably.
"It was them," she whimpered. "Oh my god. . .It was Kett and Zane. . ."
"Babe?" Jack looked at her. "Shit, c'mere. . ."
"I. . .I fucking talked to them!" she cried. "Kett whispered into my ear! Asked me to dance, told me I was pretty. . .I ran into them, touched them!"
"Easy," he soothed. "You're ok. . .They didn't try nothin', did they?"
"N-no. . ." she stammered. "God, I feel so disgusting! I can't believe I didn't recognize them!"
"Babs, I didn't recognize them either," he murmured into her ear.
She shrank into him, shaking all over, and her skin felt like it was crawling. She'd actually shaken Zane's hand, touched him voluntarily, and she felt extremely dirty.
I need to clean my hands, she thought, heading for the bathroom.
She turned on straight hot water, found some rubbing alcohol, and poured it all over her hands. She scrubbed them with soap, tears running down her face, and didn't notice the burn of the water. She screamed when Jack made her stop, fighting him, and he held her tightly.
"Shh shh shh," he soothed.
"I shook Zane's hand!" she whimpered. "I feel so fucking gross!"
"Believe me, your hands are clean," he said, leading her to their room. "You're safe, I'm right here."
She let out a sob, turning, and clung desperately to him. He scooped her up, sitting on the bed, and slowly rocked back and forth, hands rubbing her back. Lock slowed down, face buried in her boyfriend's neck, yet still clung to him. His hands slid under her shirt, fingers dancing her spine, and she arched into his touch. She panicked when he moved her off his lap, trying to crawl back, and he stopped her.
"It's ok, Lock," he murmured, crawling over her.
"Stay like this?" she begged when he was settled on her.
"Long as I can. . .Promise," he said, kissing her neck.
She closed her eyes, breathing in slowly, and he gently inched her shirt up. Lips met her ear, he kissed and nibbled, and settled his bare middle on hers. She sighed at the feeling of his warm skin pressed to hers, relaxing her body, and let him chase the monsters away. Jack kissed every inch of her throat, his fingertips dragging lightly down her sides, and she shivered pleasantly.
"Feelin' better yet?" he breathed.
"Yeah," she whispered, kissing his jaw. "Sorry I freaked. . ."
"It's fine, gorgeous," he said, finding her lips with his.
The kiss was slow, passionate, and deep. He hummed, shifting teasingly, and she ran her hands up and down the strong back. That feeling of utter disgust melted into oblivion as Jack moved from her lips to her neck, down her left arm, and to her exposed stomach. Warm breath ghosted her flesh, she bit her lip, squirming under him, and he chuckled softly.
"Can I?" he asked seriously.
She nodded, glancing to him, and he smirked, tracing the tribal marking.
"Whole thing?"
Again, she nodded, really biting her lip, and heard him purr. Gentle, loving hands moved the band of her sleep pants, exposing her tattooed pelvis to him, and when he placed the first soft kiss, she couldn't help but jolt. It had been a while since the last time, so every nibble, kiss, and lick felt electric, and Lock just let go, losing herself in the haze of pleasant feelings coursing her veins. A gentle bite to her hip made her whine, arching into him, Jack smirked, and traced the rest of the ink with lips and tongue. When he was done, she felt like goo, and saw the very proud smile on his face.
"I can so tell you're all better," he snickered, settling on her once more.
"Mmm. . .Thank you," she sighed contently, kissing his hair.
"My pleasure," he grinned against her neck. "Trust me."
He squirmed around, getting comfortable, and nuzzled into her. She pulled the covers up, then slowly traced his neck, feeling her eyes grow heavy, and yawned.
"Night, my beauty," Jack breathed. "I love you."
"Love you too, handsome moose," she whispered. "Good night."
Sleep swirled around her like a mist, gentle tendrils wrapping her up in an embrace, and she went peacefully, the steady breathing of the man she loved helping send her off.
God! Finally! Feels like forever!! I kept having issues with this chapter, my brain just didn't wanna work with me….that and I've got a stuffy nose (hello another sickness) and haven't been feeling up to my full Shoe-ness lately…..
Well, hope you enjoy it! Drop me a review if you please! Forgot to mention to check the profile for links to Lock's, Seth's, and Kett and Zane's costumes!!