A Guardian Angel
Chapter 124
The Day Before
Mei walked into the building dressed in her business best. She and Lucas had talked over this thoroughly. While he wasn't in one hundred percent support of what her plans were, he didn't try and stop her as she walked out his door. She, he had told her, was free to make her own decisions.
Taking the elevator up to the top floor she walked over, spotting her fill-in at the desk.
"Oh Mei, there you are! Mr. Lich said nobody had heard from you so he needed me to cover."
"That's no problem, I was having issues with my cellphone. You can head home, I'm here and prepped for the meeting." She said with a smile. "Has Mr. Lich been brought his tea?"
"Black tea at exactly 201 degrees. I just delivered it and was about to do the morning report."
"Excellent, I'll take it from here." Mei said taking the folder and notes waving her along.
After flicking through everything, Mei walked into Lich's office knocking as she did. She watched with great satisfaction as he choked, scalding himself on his tea.
"Good morning Mr. Lich, I have the morning report. Stocks are higher than ever on the eve of the world tour grand finale." Mei said going into her spiel, keeping him in her sights as she did. The second he choked into his tea, she knew he was the one who'd tried to have her killed.
"I wasn't expecting you today." He said curtly.
"What gave you the impression I'd be missing work?" She asked innocently now playing dumb. Instead Lich just frowned.
"I assumed you'd be having your utilities reconnected."
"I had those turned on last week." She said simply.
"Is that so?"
Lich listened as she continued on giving the report. Sitting back in his chair he watched her. What was her game? Or had Feuer's man not acted yet? He continued to watch as she set up the preparations for the days meeting. These last two years on the road had changed her. Mulling over his words carefully he spoke.
"I only ask because I stopped by your apartment last night. You weren't home." He said watching as Mei paused.
"Why would you go to my apartment?" She asked cautiously, setting up the folders for Marshall and the band.
"You've been my ward for years Mei. I simply wanted to see that you were properly cared for." He took a measured sip of his tea now watching her reaction carefully. She glanced up at him, quickly looking away.
At his words she'd felt her temper flare up, but knowing this was important she kept herself in check.
'I can play the scared girl, I can play the part.'
"All you've done is hit me. For the last six months. That's not caring for someone." She said quietly turning to face him. Mei watched as again he stood from his seat, but this time he approached her. His movements were measured and cautious as he approached her.
"Mei, I do realize that during the tour, I've been harsh on you." Lich said, his hand on her shoulder. The other angled her face to look him in the eye.
Immediately she looked away from his gaze. Lich, she knew, would want her complete submission, and she was ready to play that game.
"I deserved it, I failed you I-
"Mei look at me."
Now she did, looking up at him making eye contact as she did.
"I'm hoping you can forgive my mishandled actions, and my shorter than usual temper Little Pet." He said, his thumb tracing along her jaw.
At this Mei felt utterly sick, but closing her eyes she smiled. She knew what she'd have to say.
"Of course I forgive you Mr. Lich. I'd have died on the streets if it weren't for you. You made me into the person I am today, and without you I'd be nothing."
Mei said these words with such conviction she almost felt them to be true.
Lich could do nothing but stare. Slowly though a look of amusement spread over his features. Years of conditioning it seemed, had not been washed away as easily as he thought.
"Where were you?"
"I slept outside. I didn't feel I deserved your generosity. I failed you. You gave me everything, and I failed you." She said bowing her head.
"So this was a repentance?" He asked watching as Mei nodded. "Good girl. I forgive your failure Mei. You have pleased me with your repentance."
"Thank you Mr. Lich. The meeting should be starting soon. Would you like me to prepare your things?"
"Unless there's any new information from Declan then no, I have everything already."
"Would you like my assistance for the meeting?"
"No, your assistance won't be necessary for this meeting. You stay and manage the phones, and I'll handle the Scream Kings."
"Yes Mr. Lich." She said taking a step back from him keeping her eyes glued to the floor now waiting for his dismissal.
"You're excused." He said giving her a nod and watching as Mei walked from the room as he gathered his things for the meeting. It seemed that all she needed was a reminder to whom she owed her loyalty. It was a shame that reminder had come too late. Walking from his office Lich paused at her desk.
"After you process the meeting notes, I'd like you to take the rest of the day. Go home and rest. Sleep in your bed, you've earned it." He said giving her a smile.
"I will Mr. Lich, I'll do just that." Mei said watching as he entered the elevator, straightening his tie as the doors shut.
"Sucker."
Once she was sure he was gone, Mei headed back into his office. There were some things she wanted to find out.
o0o0o
"Marceline, Sweetheart, there's nothing you can do."
"But Daddy there has to be something-
"He's had a stroke Sweetie. The afternoon nurse told me it's not looking good, all you can do is be there for him." Hunson said earnestly listening to the heartbreak in his daughter's voice.
"I just don't want this to be real."
"I know sweetheart. But right now what WE wish doesn't matter. We have to go where life brings us in this moment." He said softly. "I'm at the hospital now, but I do have to go. He's been talking about a letter, and he's been asking for you."
"I'll be there soon." Marceline said softly as she drove towards the hospital. After the phone call last night both she and Ignitus went right there.
Her grandfather had absolutely no idea what was going on and he was asking for everyone. Her mother, her grandmother, She, Marshall, and for Hunson. Seeing him so out of it had been both extremely difficult, and extremely distressing for her.
It had been one thing to watch him slowly decline, but this sudden and drastic drop in ability was too much for her to handle. He could barely speak, and eating was extremely difficult as the stroke left his entire left side paralyzed.
The only thing that had kept her focused and steady these last twelve hours had been Ignitus. His entire focus had been on her, while hers had been on her grandfather.
He was constantly in and out of the room getting status updates as Marcy requested them, bringing her cups of tea, offering snacks, and bottles of water. He'd come with her this morning, and the only reason Marceline was taking this trip solo now, was because the band had a final meeting with Lich before the concert tomorrow. One that he needed to attend.
Before she knew it, Marceline was walking down the hall towards Simon's room, and already she could hear him. He was still asking for her mother, and grandmother. His voice though, was so much weaker now. Her presence in the room seemed to calm him, as he settled to sleep.
Marcy walked around straightening up the room. There wasn't much to be done, and it took up only moments of her time, but she knew her grandpa liked orderly spaces. Pulling out her book, Marceline sat in the chair next to the bed, and began reading out loud, to him.
They stayed this way for quite awhile, Marceline reading aloud as she walked the room. It was all she could think to do, until she finished her book. Closing it Marcy looked at her Grandpa. Sitting down in the chair next to his bed she placed her hand on his.
"You know you mean everything to me. Right?" She asked softly holding his hand between hers. "That I wouldn't be who I am today without you?" She could hear him trying to speak, his words muffled and slurred.
It took Marceline only a moment to realize he wasn't taking to her. He was looking around the room smiling as much as she'd seen from him in his current condition. Finally his gaze settled on her.
"I wango dasin wid bedd."
"You want to what?" She asked softly feeling as he squeezed her hand.
"Go dansin wit Beddy."
"You want to go dancing with Betty?" Marceline whispered feeling the lump in her throat grow.
"Yeah, I wango dansin wit Betty." Simon said sounding tired now.
"Then I think you should." Marcy said as she squeezed his hand blinking the tears away.
"If you want to go dancing with Grandma, then I think you should. Just know that I love you very much, and have a good time with her. Okay?" She said as he drifted off to sleep once again, still holding her hand.
o0o0o
Marshall waved the sensor along the bookshelf listening as it began beeping. Setting it down he began pulling the books off the shelf scanning them individually until he found the right book. He scanned the spine again listening to the pinging sound. Removing the book jacket he found another small electronic bug. Pulling it from the book, Marshall tossed it into the bowl of water on the living room table.
"How're you doing over there?" Fionna asked coming from the bathroom with one of her own. Following suit she tossed it into the bowl listening to a small pop as the device shorted.
"Not too bad. I mean I figured they'd probably use the meeting as an excuse to do this again, but it's exhausting trying to find everything." Marshall said scanning the book shelf again listening to the silence before moving on to the entertainment center.
"Marsh... Have you ever thought about us moving?" Fionna asked leaning on the arm of the couch as Marshall turned to her.
"Honestly, I've thought about it a few times now."
"And?"
"And as much as I want to move, I can't see myself selling this place. It was such a source of freedom for me." He said softly looking around.
"Marsh, we don't have to sell it. Didn't you say it was completely paid off?"
"Yeah. Why?"
"So why don't we buy a home, and rent out this one? We don't have to go bananas, but we could rent it out to some nice people and live where we want. Somewhere bigger with more room. We could put that money to the girls college funds." Fionna said watching as Marshall grinned.
"Trust, their college funds are well stocked Baby. Did you already forget about the accounts Ma set up for them?"
"No, but college can be expensive and I want to be prepared for the what -if's, and the just in case moments."
"True...What if we use the money we get from renting this place out, to set up college funds for Jake and Lady's kids?" He asked watching as Fionna lit up.
"Marsh, that would be a wonderful!" Fionna exclaimed hugging him. "You're serious? Like for really real serious?"
"I wouldn't joke about that Fi, that's just mean. But I don't see why we can't add something to the accounts monthly." He said with a grin as Fionna kissed his cheek.
"You're the absolute best Marsh."
"Baby tell me something I don't already know." He said with a grin.
"I love you so much. I'm gonna start on Ari's room." Fionna said as she grabbed her scanner ascending the stairs.
"I'll be right there." Marshall watched as she vanished upstairs. After double checking the living room he followed her.
Walking in he found Fionna standing there holding a tiny onesie. She turned looking at him.
"It's a 3 to 6 month." She said softly. "Ari hasn't been here since she was less than a year old. Melly's never been here." She said casting her eyes around the room at the belongings their daughters had both outgrown.
"Our babys never been here at all. Marshall, is it even right to bring them back here? I mean, our last memories here were just so anxious and worried..." Now she held the onesie to her chest.
"How would you feel about staying at your parents, until we find a new place?" Marshall asked watching she turned to him.
"I'd genuinely like that a lot Marsh."
"Then that's what we'll do." He said with a sad smile. "You're right though. This house was what we needed before. But we've out grown it now and that's okay. It's time for us to find a new place."
o0o0o
Kate gasped for breath trying to avoid Mei's strikes. She yelped as she fell to the ground and glowered at Mo who stuck his hand out, pulling her upright.
"What're you mean mugging me for?" Mo asked with a smirk.
"Cuz of that look right there." Kate said pointing to his face. "You could have told me she was going for my ankle."
"And we've both told you BabyCakes." Mo said with a smirk "That you've gotta watch your footing."
"I'm usually withholding both praise and judgement until you get this right, but we don't have time for that." Mei said gathering her things as she checked the time.
"Your speed is great, but you have to use your surroundings to your advantage. Keep your eyes open to what you can use. Trip someone with a stick, tangle them in a rope, push them into a trash barrel." Mei said with a shrug. "You don't have to play nice in a fight."
Slinging the bag over her shoulder she pulled out her phone.
"Lucas is right on time. I've gotta go, I have plans this afternoon. Thanks for letting me know about the meeting by the way." She said as Mo flashed her a grin.
"Not a problem. Anything to piss him off really." He said waving as she walked off.
"You hear back from Dessa?" Kate asked dusting herself off
"Yeah, she says I don't have to worry about the horse stalls. But I've been back long enough and Monochromicorn is mine. So wanna come with me?"
"With you Shug? Never." Kate said, smiling as he leaned down giving her a kiss.
"Go get changed and I'll meet you outside the locker rooms." Mo said grabbing their things, handing Kate her water bottle.
She walked to the women's locker room finding her locker. The room looked empty. After a quick glance to confirm, Kate pulled off her damp shirt, pausing to look at the dark stain on the hem before tossing it into the bag. Pulling out her clean clothes she changed, packing her bag and heading back out front.
Mo was waiting out front, and grabbing her gym bag they headed to the car.
"You're sure the shower in the barn has hot water now?" Kate asked as Mo drove.
"Yeah Bubba said they had the whole barn updated last year so you shouldn't have any problems. Speaking of problems...I promise I'll do everything I can to keep you safe Kate."
"I know you mean every word of that Shug, but you know this an impossible promise to keep right?" She asked softly, watching as he focused on the road. He didn't respond to that.
The ride to Dessa's was quick, and as they pulled up Kate smiled seeing Mo's horse racing excitedly up and down the fence at the sight of his car. Once they'd parked she made her way to the fence, reaching her hand out feeling as the black stallion pressed his nose into it as he approached.
"Hi handsome boy." She said rubbing his muzzle and working her way down his neck.
Mo gave him a pat as he made his way towards the barn, passing them both by.
Kate watched as his horse followed him, nipping at his hair as he did. She smiled and followed along. Kate never minded helping Mo clean the stalls, and most of the time he waved her off when she offered.
Today was more of the same, and walking up the stairs Kate made her way to the small bathroom hopping in the shower.
It was easy work, and from the looks of things Bubba had stepped up, keeping the strict regiment Mo had put into place years ago. He'd been in the middle of putting the feed pails back when his aunt called to him from the porch. Washing his hands he headed over to her, passing by one of the gardeners with his hat pulled low who was bringing in some equipment to the barn.
"Hey Auntie."
"Hey Mo, when did you get here?" Dessa asked offering him a glass of water which he took.
"Not too long ago, I've got one of the stalls done already. Kate's in the shower, we came from the gym." He said watching as she nodded.
"I was just about to ask where she was too. How's she been? You did say on the phone you wanted to talk about something, is everything alright?"
"Honestly things are a bit of a mess Auntie. This guy at my work has been really bothering Kate when I'm on stage, and I was wondering if she could stay here tomorrow night."
"Of course! If she's not comfortable she's more than welcome to stay with us during the concert."
"Thank you Auntie, I appreciate this more than you know."
"Any time sweetheart, it's never a question." She said giving him a hug. "I've got drinks to pass out so I'll see you around, are you staying for lunch?"
"Not today, but thank you."
"Okay then. See you later." She said walking towards the back handing a cup of water to another of the gardeners. By the time Mo returned to the barn Kate was coming down the stairs dressed and drying her hair.
"Got everything done?" She asked watching as Mo grabbed the wheelbarrow.
"Not yet Love. I had to talk to Dessa real quick. Actually can we talk about this right now?" He asked turning to look at her.
"Talk about what?"
"The concert. I want you to stay here tomorrow night. I don't want you coming to the concert." Mo said watching the nervousness flood her features.
"I don't think that's a good idea." Kate said shaking her head. "I don't want to be miles away from you if something happens Shug. If I don't go he'll figure out where I am, he said he would."
"Baby we haven't seen him since the hotel. I don't think he even knows about Dessa's place."
Now Kate took his hand squeezing tightly.
"I'm afraid to take that risk Modestus. I know what could be waiting for me if I go. I learned what happens when I don't do what's expected of me. I think he's just biding his time. Honestly, the idea of being alone miles away from you, and having Declan show up? That scares me more than actually going." She said watching the look change on his face.
Reaching out he pulled Kate into a hug, holding her tightly to his chest. Closing his eyes, he sighed feeling as Kate settled into his embrace.
"Okay, we'll do this your way. I promise." Mo whispered kissing the top of her head. "Whatever you want to do, I'll follow your lead." He felt as Kate nodded and released her.
"I've still got the other stall to do. Why don't you go upstairs and wait for me? Go relax in the hammock. I'll be quick, and I'll hop in the shower too." He said giving her a look earning her smile.
"Alright, I'll be waiting for you upstairs." She said running her finger down his chest before heading up. Kate could hear Mo working and knew she'd have a solid twenty or so minutes until he was finished.
The upper level of the barn was exactly as Kate remembered it. Walking over she grabbed the blanket and settled into the hammock, using it as a pillow. She rocked gently side to side, and could feel herself growing tired as she listened to the sound of Mo working downstairs.
The time passed as she dozed, but eventually the sound of footsteps met her ears. She looked up smiling when she spotted Mo walking over, drying his hair from his shower.
Grabbing the edge of the hammock and pulling it close, Mo leaning down kissing her, Kate smiling as he did.
"So sorry for making the beautiful lady wait, but I figured it'd be best if I didn't smell like horses." Mo said with a grin.
"I greatly appreciate the thought Shug." Sitting up Kate swung her legs over the side and took the hand he offered to her.
He pulled her to her feet, feeling as her arms rested on his shoulders. Slipping his hands around her waist and holding her close, he kissed her again. Leaning over he grabbed the blanket from the hammock, spreading it onto the hay pile near the window.
Kate followed him over settling on the blanket. Kicking her shoes off she stretched out next to him in the patch of sunlight. Closing her eyes Kate smiled, feeling the warmth of the sun soaking into her skin.
Feeling a gentle touch on her cheek, she opened her eyes meeting his.
Mo's fingers trailed down her cheek plucking away a stray piece of hay from her hair. Resting his hand on her cheek, he kissed her again. Slowly he moved from her lips, to her nose, to her forehead. He continued peppering her with kisses feeling her hand slide up his chest, and into his hair.
At the sound of hay rustling from the pile across from them they both paused, looking towards it.
Feeling Kate tense beside him after another crinkling rustle came from behind the pile, Mo quickly pushed himself to his feet.
"I'll check it out."
Kate listened as he walked off. Moments later he gasped startled before he laughed. Walking back he carried a fat brown hen looking thoroughly accosted. Holding her up he grinned.
"We've got ourselves a peeping tom. I've got no idea how she got up here." Mo said with a shrug holding the affronted bird.
"Well let's bring her back home, and we can go do the same." Kate said pushing herself up.
After returning the chicken back to the coop and saying their goodbyes to Dessa the pair drove back to the house.
o0o0o
"Ashton, thank you so much for having the house repaired and updated for me." Julie said sitting on the couch with a fresh cup of tea. He and his mom had been discussing the trip, and all the things that had happened on both his end and hers.
Ash was happy to hear that his mother liked her nurses and her new doctors. He was more than happy that the repairs for the house were completed, because now he could focus solely on the medical bills. As much as he hated it, this was something he'd always be inwardly grateful to Lich for, even if it was just a ploy to keep them.
"You don't have to thank me Ma, but I do want to thank you for setting me straight before I left. I was thinking selfishly and focusing on myself. I appreciate everything you've done for me. I know now that everything you did was to try and do the best for us." He said sitting down across from her.
"I'm so glad to hear that Ash, how things are with your friends now?" She asked turning away from the television to give him her full attention.
"Honestly it's loads better. Ig and I did get into it earlier this week, but he actually apologized. Not only did he apologize, but he held himself accountable for his actions, and admitted fault. That's something I genuinely appreciate." He said shrugging his shoulders.
"Well what happened that led to this?" She asked watching as Ash sighed.
"He was taking his own issues out on me. He said he was using Marceline's issues with me as an excuse to do so rather than just dealing with his own problems because it was easier. He completely owned up to it. He apologized, and I think it was genuine. He said that this was a dead issue and that while he still wasn't okay with it, he'd never bring it up again. But Ma? I don't know if I can trust him to keep his word." Ash said softly watching as his mother nodded solemnly.
"I understand that. He probably feels the same way about you and the issues you two have." Julie said taking a sip of her tea. "A lot of the times people react out of pain, or fear. Just know that while Ignitus may feel his concern is justified, all you can do is continue to show you're the good person you've grown to become." She said reaching over and running her hand through his hair.
"There will always be echoes of your past mistakes. Some times there will be small things that friendships die over, and sometimes there are major events. You have to choose whether you allow this. You've addressed it with him, if he continues then he is the one bringing in the toxicity to your friendship. You then have to decide if that friendship is then worth keeping. Remember Ashton. You can love somebody, but it doesn't mean they're good for you. Be they friends or lovers." She said softly. They sat in silence, Ash digesting her words before he spoke up.
"Were you always this smart, or was I just a shit kid not listening to you?" He asked watching as she smiled and sipped her tea.
"A little of both sweetheart, a little of both."
o0o0o
Ignitus stirred the pot on the stove taking a bite of the chili. It tasted great, and checking the rice, he stirred it shutting off the heat.
Marceline he knew was still at the hospital, and the best thing to have on hand in moments like this, were easy quick meals that could travel on the go.
Filling a travel cup with rice and chili he set it aside grabbing the lunch box. Hearing the sound of the door opening, he walked from the kitchen spotting Marceline as she entered into the sunroom. Putting his things down and wiping his hands clean, he followed her in.
Marceline was sitting on the couch in the light of the skylight, with her eyes closed. Just by looking at her, he could tell she'd been crying.
Walking over, Ignitus sat beside her. Wrapping his arm around Marceline's shoulders, feeling as she leaned into him.
"Iggy, I'm never going to be okay, ever again." Marceline whispered her voice breaking.
At her words Ignitus simply held her tighter. He hated the thought in his mind, but her words could only mean one thing. Simon had passed away.
They stayed there for the longest time sitting in the sunroom on the couch. Marceline's head ended up in his lap, and not for the first time his fingers trailed through her dark tresses.
The sun had just begun setting when she'd returned, and now, the last bits of sunlit warmth were fading in the darkening room.
Reaching over he flicked the lamp on the side table.
"Dinners ready, I grabbed some groceries, and picked up the house-
"How was your meeting?" Marceline asked wanting desperately to be distracted from this moment.
"It was quick and uneventful." He said feeling as she nodded. "Is there anything I can do for you? Anything at all?"
"I just need you to be here with me." She said closing her eyes, feeling them burn with tears. She squeezed his hand tightly feeling as he squeezed back.
"I can do that." He said watching as a familiar car pulled up out front, Hunson walking from the car. "Your dad's here."
"He has a key." Marcy said with a sniff.
They both listened as the front door opened. A moment later Hunson entered the room.
"Hey sweetheart, I got the phone call from the hospital. They told me you went back home." He said watching as she nodded.
"After I went home, I went through Simon's office. He'd been mentioning a letter. I found it, and it's addressed to you Marceline." Hunson said holding out the sealed envelope, passing it to Ignitus.
"I'm not going to stay, because I know you'll need your time. But that's something he wanted you to have." Hunson said giving a kiss to his daughter's head.
"I love you Sweetheart. You focus on taking care of each other, and yourself right now. I'll handle the arrangements." Turning he walked from the house leaving them in silence.
"What's it say?" She asked still not moving. "The letter."
"Do you want me to read it to you?" Ig asked softly still running his fingers through her hair.
"Please." She sniffed.
With deft fingers he removed the letter from the envelope. It was clear from the smoothness of the handwriting, that it had to have been written before Simon's Alzheimer's worsened. Clearing his throat Ignitus began reading the letter aloud.
"Marceline,
I know as a little girl things had to be so confusing for you. Life suddenly became so drastically different in such a short amount of time. With the loss of your mother, the temporary loss of your father, and the very loss of your security as well, you were handed more than your fair share of difficulties. I'll never forget the day I found you all alone in that house, so small and frail.
It was just you and me in the wreckage of your world. Together, bit by bit, we worked at slowly mending and healing things. I knew you were going to need me, but never did I imagine how much I would need you.
You were the healing light in my life Marceline. You came into my life during one of my darkest moments, and you saved me from myself more times than I can count. I think we saved each other Sweetheart.
You my Marceline are beautiful, creative, loyal, caring, loving, and so very smart. Far smarter than you give yourself credit for. Knowing the woman I helped raise, I couldn't be more proud of you, and who you've become as you make your way in the world today.
As time goes on, and this disease progresses I can feel myself slipping away from you. I fear Marceline, that you'll lose me in more ways than one. I can't remember what I said to you earlier today, but I remember that I saw you frown. I knew then that the chances were I wouldn't beat this.
Sometimes I do think I should just give up, and then you cross my mind. Some days I can't even remember a single reason to keep fighting, and then my darling you come walking into the room.
Giving up is easy. You know what's hard? To believe in your own worth. To know you've got something special in you even if nobody else can see it, even when you can't. Fighting this takes everything I've got, and for you I'll do everything I can. But knowing that I'm hurting you, even unintentionally... Marceline, it's eating me up inside. All I ever wanted was to keep you safe, and now I'm hurting you too.
Please forgive me for whatever I do, when I don't remember you. Remember me at my best, and know that I'm not truly leaving you. I'll walk beside you forever on the path of life, as I walked you down the aisle the day of your wedding.
Take a break from all your worries my love, and know that I love you to the moon and back, endlessly.
Forever Yours,
Simon Petrikov
Grandpa
They sat together in silence, until finally Marcy spoke up.
"He said he wanted to go dancing with my grandma." She said in a choked voice. "So I told him that I loved him, and that he should."
At this he leaned down, and holding her tighter, he kissed her head.
"Marcy I'm so sorry." He said not letting go as she began crying.
"I'm not ready." She said sounding utterly heart broken. "I'm not ready to live in a world without him Iggy, I'm not."
"I know you're not, and I don't expect you to be. But please know that I'm here for whatever you may need." He said rubbing her back.
o0o0o
The drive was quick, and pulling into the driveway Mo paused looking curiously at something laying on the porch.
"What is that?" Kate asked as they climbed out of the car.
"I don't know." He said softly.
The first thing Mo noticed were the flies buzzing around, and the second was the dark puddle dripping down the steps.
Immediately he recognized that whatever was on the porch was dead. What was worse, was that the closer he approached, the more obvious it was that the animal was placed there. It had been gutted, and it's entrails had been pulled out onto the porch.
"Kate, I want you to get back in the car."
At the serious tone of his voice, she unquestioningly followed his order. Kate had only just climbed into the driver's seat when Mo locked the doors with the key fob.
Once he was sure she was safe, he called the police.
The police called the city's waste management to remove the animal from the porch.
The man took well over an hour to arrive. As he lifted the animal up, to Mo's surprise he stopped putting it right back down exactly as it had been found. He called the police station back immediately, and requested a crime unit be sent to the property to document a threat.
They waited for the police to show up and began photographing the animal. Once they did, the man collected it in the bag.
Now Mo could see what had caused the sudden change. Beneath the animal written in what appeared to be permanent marker on the porch, were the words 'See You Soon'. Immediately he knew this threat was for Kate and told them as such.
The police took the report, Mo filling them in on what had been happening. He also told them how he believed that Declan was the one responsible for this.
"Do you have any proof? Any witnesses that can confirm this?" The officer asked watching as Mo shook his head.
"No we don't."
"Unfortunately without any proof there's nothing we can do. For the time being, we'll file this report and add it to the other you mentioned previously. This will help establish a history. If you can find any evidence, that it is he specifically, we can issue you a harassment order." The officer said tucking his note pad into his breast pocket.
"So there's nothing else that can be done until he makes another threat? What do I tell my Fiancée? She's terrified." Mo said now looking towards Kate in the car.
"I'll put in a request for an increase in patrols. Hopefully a visible police presence will dissuade this individual from harassing either of you further." He said now walking back to the animal control truck having a conversation with the man.
While he did Kate waved Mo over, having a brief conversation with him before the officer returned.
"Before I leave is there anything else I can help you with?" The officer asked looking from Mo standing before him, to Kate who still sat in the car.
"Would you be willing to check the house for intruders? She'd feel more comfortable knowing it was empty." Mo asked watching as the officer nodded. Walking to the house he let him in, following behind. It wasn't long before they returned, Mo thanking the officer as they walked from the house.
"If there's anything else you can think of don't hesitate to reach out, and document everything that happens." The officer said getting back into his car.
Kate exited the car now walking over to Mo, but to her surprise he directed her around to the back door opening it for her.
"You stay in here, I'm gonna clean and paint the porch. We checked the whole house, and basement so you don't have to worry."
"Alright. Is there anything I can do?"
"No, I don't want you having to see that crap." He said following her inside. Grabbing a bucket of paint from the basement, and a brush he headed back upstairs. In the hall he grabbed a bucket and cleaner, filling it with water.
He rinsed the stairs scrubbing them, working the ring of dried blood off the steps. After a thorough scrub, he rinsed it with the hose, watching the bloody pink bubbles mixing into the water as they floated down the driveway. He'd scrubbed repeatedly, but the words weren't lifting from the steps. He knew he'd have to let it dry before painting it.
Putting his things aside Mo walked back in the house closing the door quietly behind him. In the kitchen he washed his hands, rinsing them clean. Walking through the house he looked for Kate. She wasn't in the living room like he'd expected, so he headed down the hall.
Hearing a soft crying he followed it to their bedroom. Opening the door he found Kate on the bed, with her face buried in the pillow. Sitting on the edge of the bed he began rubbing her back listening as she cried harder.
"That poor thing died because of me." Kate said in a watery voice as she wiped her eyes.
"Kate, this is not your fault. You're not responsible for him, for what he does, or for his messed up actions. None of this is on you Babe. Not a single bit of it is your fault. Please don't think that it is." He said softly leaning forward and kissing her forehead. He watched as she fixed him with her watery gaze.
"This is just- I feel so scared. I'm just so scared." Kate said breaking down again.
"After tomorrow you won't have to worry about seeing him again, because then it'll be over-
"This will never be over Modestus! Not as long as he's alive." Kate said burying her face back into the pillow shaking her head. "He'll never let this go. This is why I'm so scared."
"Kate..." Mo said softly wrapping her tightly in his arms. "You know I'll do everything I can to keep you safe."
"I know you will. But it's when I'm all alone that I worry." She sniffed nuzzling into his neck.
Mo stayed this way rubbing her back, Kate falling asleep in his arms. He hated feeling this useless. He hated not being able to fix this. He hated that he couldn't make her feel safe, and secure. He wanted nothing more than to have this whole situation over and done with, even if he had to end Declan's life himself.
0o0
It hadn't taken long, but once he was sure she was asleep Mo released her. Covering Kate with the blanket, he snuck out of the bedroom heading back porch he saw, was plenty dry now.
Setting up the can and brush, he began covering the words. He coated them in shallow layers of paint completely blocking it out before repainting the entire thing. He'd been working for the better part of an hour when he heard a voice calling to him. Looking over, Mo spotted a middle aged man walking a dog.
"Hi! I live up the street. Did you just move in?" He asked watching as Mo wiped his hands clean on a rag before walking over.
"Yes and no. This house has been in my family for decades at this point. My parents owned it before they passed, but I own it now. My fiancée and I have been away the last two years for work. We just got back from over seas this week." He said watching the man frown.
"Not to be intrusive, but is your fiancé man? I'm sorry to assume, but I thought the gentleman I'd seen the last few weeks was the owner."
"Would you be able to describe him?" Mo asked hesitantly watching as he nodded.
"Yeah, middle aged looking Caucasian man, with short hair. He's either a dark blonde or has light brunette colored hair."
"And you've seen him here before? On this property?"
"Yes several times in fact. I'm new to the area myself, and have been trying to get to know my neighbors."
All Mo could do was stare. They had a witness.
"Total long shot, but would you be willing to come to the police station with me and tell them this? That man's been stalking my Fiancée and she's terrified. We have no proof it's been him other than our assumption. With your word, she'd be one step closer to getting a harassment order." Mo said watching as the man nodded.
"I can absolutely do that, I'm glad to help. Let me give you my number. I'll drop this guy home and we can meet at the station now if that's okay." He said giving Mo his name and number.
"I really can't thank you enough. We'll meet you there." Mo said, shaking his hand and watching his neighbor walk down the street. After adding another coat of paint over the porch, Mo went back into the house heading for the bedroom.
Kate he could see was still sleeping. Knowing she wouldn't want to be alone, he decided to wake her. He climbed on the bed and began gently caressing her cheek.
"Baby?"
"Mhmm?
"You're gonna want to get up Love. We've gotta go to the police station. We've got ourselves a witness." He said watching as she woke.
"Huh?" She asked sleepily. "How?"
"One of our neighbors saw Declan at our place when we were gone, and they're willing to talk to the police to help you get that harassment order." Mo watched as the words registered, and Kate nodded pushing herself up sleepily.
"Okay let's go."
o0o0o
Marshall heard the ping from his cellphone. Glancing at the text from Mo he let out a sigh. All of this craziness he hoped would end now that the tour was ending. Obviously that wasn't the case.
He responded back quickly before placing the phone face down on the table and focusing back on his girls. Fionna was upstairs helping Ellen get dinner ready, and for the last twenty minutes, he'd been playing with Ari, Melody having a ball on her tummy.
Ari carefully walked over, for probably the tenth time now with a teacup filled to the brim with water. Gently she placed it down in front of him
"Drink!" She said pointing to it.
Tipping the plastic tea cup towards her Marshall downed the cup in a single gulp. He watched as Aria jumped to her feet picking his cup up and running off. She returned again with the cup full of water.
"Mmmm this is some good water." Marshall said watching Ari pout at him.
"No Daddy it tea."
"I'm sorry, this tea is delicious. Did you make it your self?"
"Uh huh." She said nodding now bringing him a plate with a plastic banana and plastic cookies.
Marshall reached for the cookie.
"Would you like this, or can I eat it?" He asked as Ari took the cookie making chewing sounds as she giggled. Once she was done she offered Marshall the cookie.
"My turn?" He asked watching as she nodded. Again Ari ran off, this time returning with a hair brush.
"I brush you hair Daddy."
"You're gonna brush my hair?" He asked watching as she nodded.
Aria climbed up Marshall's lap to climb onto the couch sitting down behind him, kicking his head in the process. He reached up to rub his head only for Ari to swat at him.
"No! No touch hair, I do it!" She said unintentionally smacking his head with the brush making Marshall wince. As gently as she could, Ari raked the brush through Marshall's hair smiling as she did.
Climbing down from the couch Ari ran from the room returning with one of Fionna's hair ties. She climbed back onto the couch, this time using his shoulder as a step up.
Grabbing a chunk of hair, Ari began bunching it as best as she could putting the tie into place looping it loosely. Now she slid down to admire her work. Giggling she stepped on his lap holding his face between her little hands.
"Daddy, you look beauful." She said smiling. Grabbing his empty tea cup Ari hurried off just as Fionna came down the stairs.
"Dinner prep's done, we'll be eating in about forty." She said flopping on the couch resting her head on his shoulder.
"I missed you Pebbles." She teased, her fingers gently tugging the pony tail Ari had put into his hair.
"You were only prepping Dinner." Marshall said looking over at her with a smile.
Closing her eyes Fionna pressed her lips to his.
"I don't care. I still missed you." She said softly watching as he grinned. "Nice hair by the way."
"Compliments to our daughter and her mad skills." He said listening as she laughed.
Ari returned carrying her cup of water. She focused solely on her task of placing it on the table. When she did, she pointed to the cup again and Marshall knew what to do.
Tossing his head back he drained the cup placing it down on the table, Ari grabbing it and running off.
"Well on the plus side she'll make sure you're never dehydrated." Fionna said with a smirk. "I'm surprised you're not wondering where she gets the water from Marsh. I mean she's only two and a half feet tall."
Fionna watched in amusement, the horror that crossed his face.
"Fi, you don't think..."
"Here more tea Daddy." Ari said placing the tea cup down in front of him waiting expectantly.
Marshall hesitated, glancing from Fionna whose face betrayed nothing, to Ari who was still waiting for him to drink, beaming at him as she did.
Grabbing the cup he downed it in a stony faced determination. Aria took the cup once again before running off, giggling as she did.
At the sight of his face Fionna couldn't help but laugh.
"Couldn't bare to break her heart huh?" She asked laughing. "Mom and dad bought a new water cooler for the office and gave us the old one. It's in the wash room. You should have seen your face Marsh, it was great." Fionna said wiping her eyes listening as he laughed.
Ari returned this time, not with another glass of water, but with her box of crayons and her coloring book. She dumped the box beside Marshall opening the book between them, and handed him a crayon. She began coloring, scribbling around the page leaving dark streaks of green around his blue ones.
Fionna reached for a crayon but Ari quickly pulled the book away.
"Mommy! No! I play with Daddy."
"Okay okay that's fine." Fionna said as Ari took the yellow crayon from her and dropped it back in the pile.
Pushing herself up Ari once again ran off now bringing one of her toys to Melody who reached for it excitedly.
Aria though dropped it out of her reach, getting distracted by Cake coming down the stairs. Running over she picked her up carrying her over to her parents, Marshall taking her.
Melody reached for the toy, but got distracted by the bright colors of the crayons. She reached for them kicking her legs as slowly she inched her way, pulling herself towards the colorful pile.
Marshall glanced over spotting Melody inching away like a little worm, and grinned.
"Fi, look." He said pointing this out to Fionna. He watched as her face lit up with adoration and pride.
"I can't believe she's trying to crawl already." She said feeling herself tearing up.
"I'm just glad I was here for it." Marshall said slipping his hand into hers and kissing it. Pushing himself up, he scooped Melody into his arms.
"Where are you going Mamas, huh? You going on an adventure?" He asked looking at her smiling face, Melody giggling as he did. "I'll bet you are."
o0o0o
Kate walked around the house smiling at the soft yellow curtains in the living room windows. They were embroidered with small black and yellow bees. She remembered watching her Grandmama take the time to do it their first spring together.
Hearing a sound in the other room Kate let the curtain slip from her fingers.
Walking down the hall she smiled at the family portrait of she, her mother, and father.
She walked on, heading into the kitchen. It was exactly as she remembered it.
The tea kettle was hot and bubbling. The kitchen table was clear and ready for guests. The counter was jam-packed with freshly made baked goods to have with tea or just to take with you when you leave. It was so good to be home.
By instinct she walked over to the tea cabinet pulling out a bag. Reaching over Kate found her Grandmama's favorite mug, and with a smile she began making herself a cup of tea.
Tap. Tap. Tap.
Kate paused looking around for the source of the sound. Finding the sink dripping, she adjusted the knobs.
Tap. Tap. Tap.
Now she walked to the windows looking out of them seeing nothing but a muted blackness as far as the eye could see. She walked checking the entirety of the first floor windows, listening as the tapping continued.
Tap. Tap. Tap.
Making her way to the front door she opened it, staring off into the darkness.
"Always watch your back BabyCakes." A familiar voice said from behind, sending a shiver down her spine, and a tear to her eye.
"Daddy?" Kate whispered turning quickly, seeing nothing but the endless darkness. "Please...
"...don't go."
The darkness faded as Kate woke up. Realization slowly dawned on her that she'd been dreaming. In her sleepy haze, Kate could tell it was still far too early to be up.
Hearing her father's words echo in her head, Kate couldn't help but feel weirdly vulnerable. The longer she waited to turn over, despite the fact that she was currently curled into Mo's chest and snug in their bed, the more uneasy she felt.
Closing her eyes Kate turned over. She smiled feeling the warmth as Mo pulled her into his chest. Slowly she began drifting back to sleep, feeling as his thumb rubbed gently along her skin.
TAP.
TAP.
TAP.
The sharp sound of metal on glass practically cut through her, as Kate's eyes snapped open. She was facing the window now, and could see the outline of someone standing there looking in. Immediately she felt her breath catch, and clamped her eyes shut.
"This is just a bad dream, this is just a bad dream, this is just a bad dream." She whispered opening her eyes just in time to watch the gleam of the knife as it pierced the screen, cutting it open as the knife scraped against the glass.
At the sound of the distorted squeal Kate screamed, feeling as Mo startled awake.
"What's wrong?! What-
"He's outside! Shug he's-
Before she had a chance to finish, Kate watched as he jumped to his feet.
Grabbing the baseball bat Mo walked from the room.
Immediately Kate raced after him, grabbing him in the hall. He, she knew, had been heading for the sliding glass door that led to the back yard.
"What're you-
"Please don't go out there Modestus. Please, I'm begging you." Kate said desperately as they passed the basement door.
"Kate I'm going out there-
Now Kate grabbed him around the waist almost knocking them both down as he reached for the door.
"Don't go, please don't leave me alone, I'm terrified to be alone. He has a knife. He kills people for fun." She said tightening her hold on him. "Please, let's just call the police."
"We can't keep letting him get away with this bullshit-
"He wants to kill me! He'll hurt you. He'll hurt you, but he won't kill you, not before me. He'll hurt you, to hurt me. Then he'll do the same thing to me, except because it's me, I'll be tortured over, and over, until he decides I should die." Kate said in a tight voice. Her eyes streaming as she stared pleadingly at him. She wished so desperately that she could stop trembling.
"You said we'd do this my way Modestus. You promised me. Please, you PROMISED ME!" She sobbed. She could feel his hesitation, but finally he sighed.
"Okay. We'll call the police. Let's go back to the room." Mo said leading the way, the bat still in his hand. Their walk to the bedroom was slow and cautious.
They passed the basement door, and Mo pushed against it as they did. It was solidly shut.
He cleared each room as he passed it. In the bedroom Mo grabbed his cellphone dialing 911. Explaining the situation to the dispatcher, he walked around the house checking through the windows with Kate following nearby.
It was only once the police showed up, that she felt comfortable letting him leave the house.
Kate though waited inside with the other two officers. One who was taking her statement, and the other who was taking photos of the window and screen in the bedroom. Outside she knew Mo was doing a perimeter sweep with the third officer.
She listened as Mo and the officer entered the house, he thanking him for his time before making his way over.
"Is there anything else you can think of that you'd like to add?" The officer asked her, Kate shaking her head.
"Nothing. Is there any way I can get a protective order or something? I don't feel safe."
"Right now we can put a call in to get a harassment order put into place." The officer said, Kate nodding in silence.
"What do we do for the mean time?"
"Your husband's requested a cruiser be stationed out front of your residence for the rest of the evening, along with a patrol presence. We're going to see what we can provide. Most likely there will be an increased patrol and police presence."
"But that didn't do anything, we were told there would be increased patrols when we left the station after our most recent report." Kate said, the nervousness in her voice more than obvious.
"The better idea I believe, would be to sleep elsewhere tonight. A hotel room if possible. You could check in as unlisted. That much should give you a better sense of security at least." He said Kate nodding in agreement
"I think we should do that." She said turning to face Mo who stood watching her.
"I didn't catch everything but it sounds like this officer and the officer over there suggested the same thing. A hotel room tonight right? I think that's a good idea." Mo said watching Kate nod.
"We'll have someone escort you there." The officer said turning to his fellow while Mo led Kate away.
"Pack a bag. Actually is our duffle unpacked yet?"
"Of course not, we haven't been home to do it."
"I'll grab that then, get socks and shoes on." Mo said tossing her a pair of his socks from the duffle bag. He watched as she she reached for her slippers.
"I want you in sneakers Baby." He said seriously. Kate nodded pulling her gym shoes out from under the bed and pulling them on.
"Anything else?" She asked watching as he shook his head.
"No. Let's get you out of here." Slipping his arm around her, Mo and Kate walked from the bedroom.
Heading down the hallway she spotted the basement door cracked open. Passing by Kate pushed it shut, listening to the resounding click of the door.
This made Mo pause as he turned to look at the door, a tingle going down his spine.
"Shug?"
"Let's go. Now." He said now hurrying her from the house and ushering her to the car.
Kate watched from the passengers seat as he rounded the front of the car grabbing the attention of the nearest officer. Whatever Mo said to him seemed to light a fire under the men, because two of the other officers re-entered the house with their weapons drawn.
The third officer motioned towards the car, and Mo climbed in as he walked to the cruiser. He pulled out of the driveway following the officer down the street.
"What happened?" Kate asked quietly.
"I made sure that the basement door was shut before we called the police. I asked just now if any of them checked the basement, and not one of them did." He said now looking away from the road and focusing on Kate.
"So if I'm the last person who touched that door, how's it possible that you closed it just now?" He asked in a hushed voice watching as Kate paled.
"I don't feel- pull over!"
Mo quickly did as he was told. Before the car could finish rolling to a stop, Kate flung the door open gagging. Parking the car, he leaned over rubbing her back, feeling as her body heaved.
They sat there, the car running while she coughed, wiping her eyes. Taking a napkin from the glove box, and the bottle of water Mo offered, Kate wiped her face clean. Rinsing her mouth out she pulled the door shut.
Flashing his headlights he started driving, the cop continuing on.
"I know it's a stupid question, but are you okay?" Mo asked watching as Kate closed her eyes shaking her head.
They continued to drive in silence while Kate replayed the nights events in her mind over and over. The one thing she just couldn't get over was her dream. She hadn't dreamt of either of her parents in years. Honestly while she could barely remember what their voices had sounded like, she knew that the voice in the dream had been her father's. This she knew without question.
"Shug?"
"Yeah?"
"Do you think, and I mean really genuinely think angels, or ghosts exist?" Kate waited, listening to the silence as Mo pondered the question. Finally though, he spoke.
"I do. Why?"
"Just a thought." She said softly as they pulled into the hotel. Kate mulled in silence as they checked into their room, Mo requesting that they be unlisted as the police suggested. They had just walked into their room when he spoke up.
"Penny for your thoughts?" He asked watching as Kate looked to him, quickly looking away.
"I just- I think my dad- I had a dream and I heard his voice, and I think it's his way of checking up on me." Kate said quickly feeling more than silly.
"You're right, it probably was. The thing I try to focus on is the fact that the people we love, never really leave us. It's because they're a part of us, and they live on through us." He said watching as Kate nodded.
"So you don't think the idea of a guardian angel or something like that would be silly?" She asked sitting on the foot of the bed.
"No, I don't. Marsh swore up and down when he was sick in the hospital, that his dad had been there. Ig talked about how he saw his Nana. I mean think about it." He said now sitting down next to her.
"With everyone we know, my parents, your parents, Marshall's dad, Ig's and your grandmas, Marcy's mom...and everything we've been through... it's a lot. While we've been through a good deal of hell, nothing's hurt us too badly yet. So maybe they're keeping us safer. Maybe without them things would have ended up worse than they did." He said softly feeling as Kate rested her head on his shoulder. Glancing at the clock he saw that it was close to three in the morning.
"I know you've got to be tired Love. Let's see if we can't get some sleep." Mo said watching as Kate climbed into the bed. Double checking the locks on the door, Mo flicked off the lights. On his way to bed he glanced out the window one last time and pulled the curtains tightly shut. Not a soul was in the parking lot.
Feeling his warmth against her back, Kate smiled holding onto his arm as she drifted off to sleep.
Enjoy the chapter!
Thank you to : MarCor3 , and Dannrez For reviewing!
Till next time xoxo H09