Chap 2. Five Hours later… (Feat. Sara Pezzini, Lara Croft, Jackie Estacado and Ivan Croft)
It had been a long night and it was now breaking into day with the British bombshell and the bombshell cop chilling in a bar. Lara was sore, hurting like hell and still -licking- her wounds from her tussle with Jackie. Round three had gone to both of them. Lara had placed her guns against Jackie's head and he had threatened to smash her ankles. In the end Lara had technically won however. She got the information she was after, namely that the Mafia wasn't in on it and it was most likely the doings of Irons. Goody-goody. The brat millionaire with a creepy manservant. The bar tender had offered Lara his first aid kit the second she walked in with Sara who found her shortly after the tussle and dragged her off for a drink. It'll help the pain said the copper. More or less she was right. So now here sat Lady Croft on the bar top applying medical provisions to her gun grazes courteousy of Jackie Estacado's lovely Golden Desert Eagles and sipping a Martini dry with a scotch chaser," The Mafia isn't in on it Sara...and for some odd reason Mr. Estacado is sticking up for Nottingham, but not his Master." Came the English accent in a hiss as she cleaned her own wounds," Any idea why Darkness himself sticks up for creepy sneaky?" Hazel orbs fell on Pez curiously.
Found himself randomly walking the street for the time being. New York was never boring but it wasn't all too exciting when the sun came up either. He had nothing planned for this day... that was of any real importance anyways, just a few errands. It was way too early but then again he was never much for sleeping, especially not after having been through something like a major tussle with Miss Croft. She was an interesting specimen indeed but he had no business doing business with her, she was too much of a hazard.... Safety wise and security wise. But nonetheless, she always owned up around his area of business.... and pleasure. Both hands slid inside of the pockets to his dress pants. The coat to his suit weaved back and forth as he walked, at a New Yorker's naturally fast pace of course. The holsters beneath the coat exposed every so and so, and he knew this but of course knowing him He would think that he was too untouchable to care for the law or anybody that might've been threatening or felt threatened by his presence. His position was just outside of the bar that Croft & Pezzini were inside coincidentally, but he would never know this unless someone told him so.
The seasoned detective sat at a barstool in her usual bar leaning over a shot and a beer looking somewhat dejected. She grasped the frosty bottle and took a long drink before leaning her arm against the bar and turning to Lara Croft. "You might want to sit in a chair; you're starting to attract a …fan club…" Sara nodded toward a booth near the pool table where three college students sat ogling the Brit. "I don't exactly trust the word of that son of a bitch Estacado, but I'm sure you're interrogation was on the level." Sara took her shot of whiskey and then chased it with another slug of beer. "I'm not sure why Jackie would cover up for Nottingham. The last time we three spent any time together I was stripped of my blade and Nottingham was for a short time taken in by its all consuming nature." Sara finished her beer and gave the bartender a nod that she wanted another round. The bartender leaned in pouring another shot for Sara. "You sure you want to start drinking at this hour Pez? Its 10 AM and you don't look like you've had a decent night of sleep in days." Sara knocked her fist against the high polished surface and gave Sean a harsh look. "I'm not playing games here Mallory now get me a beer before you get on my bad side." The tender shook his head and grabbed another beer from the cooler setting it down and twisting the lid for her. He walked off without another word and the detective shook her head. "Unbelievable..." Just as her hand brought the beer to her lips she felt a twinge from the blade.
Lara hated to -lick- wounds. She much preferred to give them. However in the case of this night's tiff, she didn't inflict a one. Even the smashing of her elbow into Jackie's nose had not done much damage, sure it caught him off guard for a moment but that was it. It really rather irked the woman to say the least. The Brit was a slight testy. That man always bugged her. Always. But then again she bugged him so all made sense in the world. However, what bugged her most is the fact they almost seemed evenly matched. No one was evenly matched to Lara Croft. It was seemingly unheard of. The brassy Surrey gal shrugged, and then winked at the college youngsters. A wicked sparkle emitted into the greenish-brown orbs as she watched their ears and cheeks turn positively six shades of red," We've got a bit of a history...I don't exactly trust him, but I trust his word." And Lady Croft did have good reason on that indeed. After all he did end up striking a deal with her last night," Though he does owe me a new pair of pants." Slender fingers felt the rips in the ankles of her once brand new pants," And he will pay me back." A hint of a grin tugged at the British gunslinger's lips, "On level? You could say that yes." Her tone was rather nonchalant," If I didn't know any better I would say the git wants my ass. In more ways then one." Saucy, saucy Lara. Indeed. A nod," You told me about that a while back darling." A brow was quirked," Easy Pez, don't need to start trouble again." Lara stood hopping off the bar top," I need air." Eyes darted to the college pricks again," Fresh. Air." She glared at the cigs in their hands and sauntered out the door, almost running into," If I did not know any better Jackie I would say you wanted something from me the way we keep -accidentally- running into each other." Her head tilted to one side, two relentless strands of auburn refusing to stay in her braid falling across her face," But since I did rather run into you. " A slender index finger pointed downward," You owe me a new bloody pair of pants." Hands haughtily came to rest at the curve of her hips as her hazel orbs practically glared at him with daggers.
Jackie closed his eyes as he came to a quick halt. He wasn't gonna walk anymore but rather stand there for a moment and wait for time to pass on by. His back pressed against the wall and his arms tightly folded at his chest. His build was quite muscular and seemed to swell, noticeable even beneath the suit. The sounds of footsteps and all the regular things that city life provided echoed into ears. But that one familiar voice had to trail and throw off his natural state of relaxation. Oh god... It was her once again. This one just wouldn't quit would she? Oh well though... life was full of challenges and adversities... This one seemed to be one of his tougher trails to get away from. He kept the same form and positioning when she spoke towards him. For a moment after she spoke. He only stood there, silent. He seemingly was in some type of deep thought. But finally he gave speech a try. With now wide open eyes, he'd look down to her, not moving anything but his head though... "Is that all you need from me? Or is there more...?"... he had a sort of impatience in the tone of his voice. She was killing his valued 'Alone' time of course.
It was Sara's turn to amuse at the Brit's comments toward the college kids, "I trust you keep you're comments about my friend's legs going all the way yup to yourselves." Arching a brow Sara downed her shot and tossed a handful of bills onto the counter. Snagging her beer with one hand Sara picked up her shredded leather jacket and walked to follow Miss Croft. As she moved toward the door Sean the bartender interjected, "Pezzini! You can't go outside with that beer." Sara turned her head back and smirked to the tender. "No? whatcha gonna do have me arrested?" Sean shook his head and waved to the door, "Go on kid get outta here before I change my mind." The Witchblade wielder walked outside, taking another drink from her beer as she spotted Estacado and Croft engaged in a conversation. The uncomfortable shift in her Witchblade shook her psyche again. "Wonderful… "she muttered tossing her beer into the street as she clenched her fists, struggling against the overwhelming desire to slice and dice.
Ivan was not a happy camper. His dear sister had packed up and left town with only a note as to her location. And the brat made it vague enough: New York City. The states were never friendly to Ivan, but you couldn't beat old-country England. Lara could not get far from Ivan, as Ivan had the search skills of all Croft descendants. In only a day and ten cups of coffee, her position was pinpointed. His plane was ready before he had time to cut the computer off. Pleasant flight, to say the least. Arriving at the Four Seasons hotel to find an empty room only resulted in a more irate Ivan. Shooting a few quick questions with his trademark English accent gave him the current location of Lara Casually swaggering down the street with dark sunglasses cloaking his emerald eyes; he easily spots Lara and two other people, "For Christ sakes, the woman could make friends with Mid-Eastern terrorists." A smirk entailed as he pulled up with a coy look resting along his visage, "Didn't think you could travel alone, did you sister?"
Arms crossed now," I don't really don't need anything from you." Her eyes scanned the dark haired man, slowly. He was quite the tall glass of water really. However, he was trouble with a capital T. And how many men had she had in her life that was like that anyhow? She had lost count a long time ago. However it always seemed to be the sort she attracted none the less," Well actually." The long lanky form leaned against a light pole," Now that I've thought a moment, I could use a place to set-up shop." Lara had a funny feeling brother dear would show up soon and the boy hated hotel rooms. Fancy ones or not. A smirk pressed across her lips," Get me a place to stay here in New York and I'll..." She moved closer to him now, a hand snaking under his coat and fingers trailed along the handle of the golden desert eagle which resided there," leave you alone about those at least." Sara's presence alerted Lara, who stepped back with a wicked grin and gazed at her, before looking back to Jackie a moment," My brother absolutely loathes hotel rooms. A penthouse would be nice, central location. I'll even pay you for it." Arms folded discretely as a cat-ate-the-canary look crossed the Brit's lovely features," Speak of the devil..." Hazel orbs shifted," It took you longer then I thought brother dear." She was amused, but not in the least bit shocked about Ivan showing up," Ivan, meet Sara Pezzini a good friend of mine and "Eyes shifted to Jackie," and Jackie Estacado...not sure what he is too me yet." She looked back at Ivan," my twin brother, Ivan Croft." A slender hand and gestured to him.
Jackie raises a brow for a moment's time. His senses were as sharp as they come even when not in the form of the Darkness wielding killer. Miss Pezzini was somewhere close by and she wasn't gonna be too happy about seeing him around her way, she never was. Maybe today she'd leave him be.... at least till the sun went down anyways. A grin crossed his face as Lara came closer, removing the thought of Sara Pezzini from his mind... "You know you play too much... You're a horrible teaser... even when we're fighting your hitting on me."... he gave her question a bit of a thought, at least a seconds worth of thought... "I don't think so, you're not exactly the most trusted of my clientele..."... his eyes burned as he gave Ivan a mean glare. The typical New Yorker's glare to those that were outsiders of the state. He wasn't too mean of a person but he didn't trust outsiders (foreigners) too much. with a weird look he brought his gaze back to Lara... "And why do you need a penthouse... Might I ask?"
A smug look rested along his face. "Lara, don't press my buttons." Removing his shades revealed a pair of stunning emerald orbs. He absently wiped a brown lock away from his view as he nodded to each of the people that Lara introduced him to, shaking both of their hands. The brooding male did not strike him as being much of a worthwhile person. "I saw the shack that you're staying in, Lara." Rolling his eyes, he was never impressed by grand hotels. Why pay thousands of dollars when all you need is a bed and a loo? He exuded 'Croft-ness'; cocky attitude, never one to be told what to do, hot tempered, and a sharp enough tongue to make every bouncer in NYC cry with only one sentence. "I'm still hurt that you left without me. Regardless of if I love England too much, I still would've tagged along. Oh, don't be alarmed at your high room service bill. It was a long flight with bad food; what's a growing boy supposed to do?" Yes. They were twins all right.
Sara's brow bent skyward as she noticed the handsome Brit calling Lara sister. "I'm starting to get the feeling that this family reunion is less than a coincidence. Did you call in for some backup Lara? Or are British emissary and you not telling me everything about who was on board with this case. If you insist on pulling aces out of your sleeve I might feel tempted to ask for help from McCarthy." The detective regarded her shredded jacket and right sleeve of her shirt. Blushing slightly as she realized just how much of her undergarments were showing Sara shifted the jacket and whatnot as best she could to conceal herself. "You two will have to excuse my attire, I didn't really expect such a tussle last night." Hazel orbs eyed up Jackie as she gave him a knowing look and then back toward Ivan. "Well I can see why you've never introduced us before Lara." The detective's eyes played over the dark haired Brit and Sara tilted her head toward the twin in greeting. The close proximity of Sara to the mafia hitman slash darkness wielder was almost unbearable for the blade. Noticeably she winced and held her hand over her abdomen. "If you three will excuse me…" she forced a smile and started to walk toward her bike.
A laugh," And you enjoy every minute of it Love." A wink was offered. Yes she was a tease, a flirt, and she liked to play," All part of the Croft charm, would you rather Ivan hit on you?" Hazel orbs drifted back to Mr. Smarty Mouth, aka her Brother, "Careful, I've had a rough night." And from the looks of her it was clearly an understatement. Ripped pants, a cut on her right cheek, and a bandage on her arm. The Brit glanced to Sara," Well, he only showed up a year ago on my door-step darling. Rather a long story I'll relay another time perhaps." She watched her friend closely. Ah, yes, the Witchblade did not like The Darkness. Lara tended to forget the hostilities between the two entities. A brow arched," Sure, drag surf boy into it." Lara licked her lips wryly," And no I did not call Ivan, he likes to follow me." Idly Lara's middle left finger itched at her nose towards Ivan," thinks I cannot possibly take care of myself or have any fun," Eyes darted to Jackie," Without him. "The finger dropped from view to rest at her side, then she addressed Jackie again, "Let's just say I like living and living large hmm?" Arms folded," Think about it, you do me this little favor and I owe you." She was striking a hard bargain at him," One of those, I scratch your back, you scratch mine deals." An auburn brow arched attentively, awaiting an answer.
Jackie gave Sara the exact same look that she gave him. Then couldn't help but laugh... "Ha! ha! ha! wow Pez... seems like your not as in control as you think you are... how's the blade doing today?... The Darkness isn't entirely a day thing so I don't feel the pain you feel right now. Too bad you have to go though; I'll most definitely miss your presence... You look cute with all that missing material on your clothes."... he gave her a devious smirk then gave his attention back to the Crofts. Her brother seemed worse than she did, only for the fact that he was a male and he was arrogant and cocky. his attitude was easily picked up off of him even with the slightest of words given off. His eyes took upon Lara's figure... "Ya know... I have my Darklings to scratch my back if I need it scratched and favors aren't what you want me to start asking for... Lemme let you in on a secret, according to the Mafia... when you end up in someone's debt then you're in their pocket and when that happens, you'll never come out. Is that what you want?"
Ivan coughed at Lara saying she can never have any fun. "Hon, if it wasn't for me, you wouldn't find any time to have fun." He refrained from telling them the numerous times he has told Lara to lighten up and get out more. Green orbs narrowed at Lara's vulgar gesture, regretting not being armed at the moment. A smirk touched his lips at Lara's bartering with Jackie. "I doubt it takes a penthouse for you to scratch his back, sis. And I bet you scratch it damn well." Ivan was not one to mess with when aggravated, and pissing of Lara was top on his list of priorities. Replacing the sunglasses back over his eyes, he absently shoved his hands into his jean pockets. He was still quite oblivious to what was going on, as Lara never did fill him in before she hopped a flight here. Ivan would remember to drill her about it when they go back to the wretched hotel. Jackie was an interesting character at that. The sexual tension between him and his sister was apparent, which only resulted in a nauseous Ivan.
The detective gave the trio a nod as she straddled her bike and kick-started it. The impressive Buell Lightning X1 was her pride and joy and although she and the powerful machine had been though quite a bit on these crowded city streets. Sara couldn't let go of the thrill that riding her baby on the streets of upper state New York offered. Wincing again at the all consuming rush the blade washed though her Sara covered the watch-like bracelet as it began to unfurl up her arm in rejection to the presence of Estacado. She let go briefly, gripping the handlebars and taking off toward her own apartment. The brunette cursed herself as she drove further away the Witchblade screaming in frustration inside her head to turn around… to kill.
Lara arched a brow," Let me let you in on a little secret." She moved forward again, one hand coming to rest on the wall behind Jackie pinning him into place for a moment as the other hand followed resting there," Chicago had a mafia once. She paused a moment, such a powerful man, she could feel it radiating off him," They don't anymore." he'd get the idea," Plus, along as we stay on each other's semi-good side we've nothing to worry about," She was willing to be a good girl. For the most part anyways, "Right?" She pushed off the wall and away from Jackie, and glared at her brother," He wishes." Then eyes drifted again to Jackie," I can give you," A slender index finger placed itself against her chin as the braided head tilted to one side rather mock thoughtfully," One grand right now." And she wasn't joking. ," I play hardball Mr. Estacado. You of all people should know this." Now she was sounding more like a business woman. Lara's forte's in business as well, had to being in the business she did. After all when you work for other people bartering is part of the game and how you get ahead," And I'll drop the new pants subject." Eyes drifted to Sara, as Lara shook her head," I'll never quite understand that weapon of hers. Even though I studied it enough to know it just as much as Irons and Sara combined." Lara felt compelled to go after the Cop, but refrained figuring she needed to cool off a bit," think about it Jackie, I could be valuable to you." wicked grin now slipped across the English Archeologists lips," After all, it's good to know you've got someone who can kick your ruddy ass in your pocket." She blew him a kiss and began to walk towards her rented silver Aston Martin, dragging Ivan with her," Better yours then someone who is against you." She'd leave him to think on that as she slipped into the driver's seat eying Ivan," Get in we've got some discussing to do and I want breakfast, and I do not count a dry martini with a scotch chaser much of a breakfast." the car was revved," I would offer you a chance to join us Jackie." She was going out of her way to be civil to a guy who merely a few hours ago the night before threatened to tear out her ankles? But of course," And Ivan doesn't bite, that much really." She pondered adding, but I do, but then thought better of it. Figuring Jackie probably already came to that conclusion a long time ago.
Jackie simply gave her a stare and just smirked... "Do you enjoy brushing up on me like this? Or is this just a real bad habit that you've come to pick up as of late?"... he thought about her games and what exactly he would be getting himself into by going along with this plan. A question popped up in his mind... just how far could he throw her? He trusted everyone just about as far as he could throw them. She was lightweight and with the help of the darkness she'd be an easy throw. A grin appeared on his face now as he brought his hands upwards from his sides, grazing against her figure little by little... "Well... Hmm... I may be pushing things but I suppose you can have one of the penthouses... but one condition... If I ask for something, I don't want an argument or even as much as a second thought. Got me?"... He already knew the answer by her desperation for the penthouse. "Oh and I hope this isn't some little game because you should know that I'm usually all business and action... not too much time left in the world for fun & games."... His grin faded and he seemed very serious now, stern features compromising his previous attitude... "I think I'll tag along "I wanna here more about the Mafia in Chicago... my stretch doesn't go that far and that's not my jurisdiction of work anyways so... you can gladly fill me in."
Lara always loved to toss her money around like it was merely nothing but pocket change. "Speak a little louder, Lara. I think the drug dealers are right down that alley." He rolled his eyes as Lara practically raped Jackie right there on the spot. To state it plainly, the only thing the girl needed was a good lay and she would be happy for at least a week. His sister doing business was truly an art. She would get her way, regardless if it required large sums of money or…other activities. Feeling a tug at his sleeve he whipped around to praise Lara's car. "Thank God. At least you have a car that's decent enough to drive." Taking his rightful seat in the passenger's side, he slung his arm out the window. The thought of Jackie tagging along with them to breakfast wasn't too appetizing, but as long as he was there, Lara wouldn't show her ass and start barking at him. Granted Ivan wouldn't sit there with a straight face; an argument between two Crofts is like a royal battle between two gladiators. It took a long time to end and was rather brutal. "I should be so lucky to work in a martini into my breakfast schedule." Even if Ivan stayed out 'til the crack of dawn, Lara always found it humorous to wake him up at God-awful hours of the morning to begin training. At least his idea of a good time involved liquor and hot female bartenders traipsing up and down the bar top.
It had been a long night and it was now breaking into day with the British bombshell and the bombshell cop chilling in a bar. Lara was sore, hurting like hell and still -licking- her wounds from her tussle with Jackie. Round three had gone to both of them. Lara had placed her guns against Jackie's head and he had threatened to smash her ankles. In the end Lara had technically won however. She got the information she was after, namely that the Mafia wasn't in on it and it was most likely the doings of Irons. Goody-goody. The brat millionaire with a creepy manservant. The bar tender had offered Lara his first aid kit the second she walked in with Sara who found her shortly after the tussle and dragged her off for a drink. It'll help the pain said the copper. More or less she was right. So now here sat Lady Croft on the bar top applying medical provisions to her gun grazes courteousy of Jackie Estacado's lovely Golden Desert Eagles and sipping a Martini dry with a scotch chaser," The Mafia isn't in on it Sara...and for some odd reason Mr. Estacado is sticking up for Nottingham, but not his Master." Came the English accent in a hiss as she cleaned her own wounds," Any idea why Darkness himself sticks up for creepy sneaky?" Hazel orbs fell on Pez curiously.
Found himself randomly walking the street for the time being. New York was never boring but it wasn't all too exciting when the sun came up either. He had nothing planned for this day... that was of any real importance anyways, just a few errands. It was way too early but then again he was never much for sleeping, especially not after having been through something like a major tussle with Miss Croft. She was an interesting specimen indeed but he had no business doing business with her, she was too much of a hazard.... Safety wise and security wise. But nonetheless, she always owned up around his area of business.... and pleasure. Both hands slid inside of the pockets to his dress pants. The coat to his suit weaved back and forth as he walked, at a New Yorker's naturally fast pace of course. The holsters beneath the coat exposed every so and so, and he knew this but of course knowing him He would think that he was too untouchable to care for the law or anybody that might've been threatening or felt threatened by his presence. His position was just outside of the bar that Croft & Pezzini were inside coincidentally, but he would never know this unless someone told him so.
The seasoned detective sat at a barstool in her usual bar leaning over a shot and a beer looking somewhat dejected. She grasped the frosty bottle and took a long drink before leaning her arm against the bar and turning to Lara Croft. "You might want to sit in a chair; you're starting to attract a …fan club…" Sara nodded toward a booth near the pool table where three college students sat ogling the Brit. "I don't exactly trust the word of that son of a bitch Estacado, but I'm sure you're interrogation was on the level." Sara took her shot of whiskey and then chased it with another slug of beer. "I'm not sure why Jackie would cover up for Nottingham. The last time we three spent any time together I was stripped of my blade and Nottingham was for a short time taken in by its all consuming nature." Sara finished her beer and gave the bartender a nod that she wanted another round. The bartender leaned in pouring another shot for Sara. "You sure you want to start drinking at this hour Pez? Its 10 AM and you don't look like you've had a decent night of sleep in days." Sara knocked her fist against the high polished surface and gave Sean a harsh look. "I'm not playing games here Mallory now get me a beer before you get on my bad side." The tender shook his head and grabbed another beer from the cooler setting it down and twisting the lid for her. He walked off without another word and the detective shook her head. "Unbelievable..." Just as her hand brought the beer to her lips she felt a twinge from the blade.
Lara hated to -lick- wounds. She much preferred to give them. However in the case of this night's tiff, she didn't inflict a one. Even the smashing of her elbow into Jackie's nose had not done much damage, sure it caught him off guard for a moment but that was it. It really rather irked the woman to say the least. The Brit was a slight testy. That man always bugged her. Always. But then again she bugged him so all made sense in the world. However, what bugged her most is the fact they almost seemed evenly matched. No one was evenly matched to Lara Croft. It was seemingly unheard of. The brassy Surrey gal shrugged, and then winked at the college youngsters. A wicked sparkle emitted into the greenish-brown orbs as she watched their ears and cheeks turn positively six shades of red," We've got a bit of a history...I don't exactly trust him, but I trust his word." And Lady Croft did have good reason on that indeed. After all he did end up striking a deal with her last night," Though he does owe me a new pair of pants." Slender fingers felt the rips in the ankles of her once brand new pants," And he will pay me back." A hint of a grin tugged at the British gunslinger's lips, "On level? You could say that yes." Her tone was rather nonchalant," If I didn't know any better I would say the git wants my ass. In more ways then one." Saucy, saucy Lara. Indeed. A nod," You told me about that a while back darling." A brow was quirked," Easy Pez, don't need to start trouble again." Lara stood hopping off the bar top," I need air." Eyes darted to the college pricks again," Fresh. Air." She glared at the cigs in their hands and sauntered out the door, almost running into," If I did not know any better Jackie I would say you wanted something from me the way we keep -accidentally- running into each other." Her head tilted to one side, two relentless strands of auburn refusing to stay in her braid falling across her face," But since I did rather run into you. " A slender index finger pointed downward," You owe me a new bloody pair of pants." Hands haughtily came to rest at the curve of her hips as her hazel orbs practically glared at him with daggers.
Jackie closed his eyes as he came to a quick halt. He wasn't gonna walk anymore but rather stand there for a moment and wait for time to pass on by. His back pressed against the wall and his arms tightly folded at his chest. His build was quite muscular and seemed to swell, noticeable even beneath the suit. The sounds of footsteps and all the regular things that city life provided echoed into ears. But that one familiar voice had to trail and throw off his natural state of relaxation. Oh god... It was her once again. This one just wouldn't quit would she? Oh well though... life was full of challenges and adversities... This one seemed to be one of his tougher trails to get away from. He kept the same form and positioning when she spoke towards him. For a moment after she spoke. He only stood there, silent. He seemingly was in some type of deep thought. But finally he gave speech a try. With now wide open eyes, he'd look down to her, not moving anything but his head though... "Is that all you need from me? Or is there more...?"... he had a sort of impatience in the tone of his voice. She was killing his valued 'Alone' time of course.
It was Sara's turn to amuse at the Brit's comments toward the college kids, "I trust you keep you're comments about my friend's legs going all the way yup to yourselves." Arching a brow Sara downed her shot and tossed a handful of bills onto the counter. Snagging her beer with one hand Sara picked up her shredded leather jacket and walked to follow Miss Croft. As she moved toward the door Sean the bartender interjected, "Pezzini! You can't go outside with that beer." Sara turned her head back and smirked to the tender. "No? whatcha gonna do have me arrested?" Sean shook his head and waved to the door, "Go on kid get outta here before I change my mind." The Witchblade wielder walked outside, taking another drink from her beer as she spotted Estacado and Croft engaged in a conversation. The uncomfortable shift in her Witchblade shook her psyche again. "Wonderful… "she muttered tossing her beer into the street as she clenched her fists, struggling against the overwhelming desire to slice and dice.
Ivan was not a happy camper. His dear sister had packed up and left town with only a note as to her location. And the brat made it vague enough: New York City. The states were never friendly to Ivan, but you couldn't beat old-country England. Lara could not get far from Ivan, as Ivan had the search skills of all Croft descendants. In only a day and ten cups of coffee, her position was pinpointed. His plane was ready before he had time to cut the computer off. Pleasant flight, to say the least. Arriving at the Four Seasons hotel to find an empty room only resulted in a more irate Ivan. Shooting a few quick questions with his trademark English accent gave him the current location of Lara Casually swaggering down the street with dark sunglasses cloaking his emerald eyes; he easily spots Lara and two other people, "For Christ sakes, the woman could make friends with Mid-Eastern terrorists." A smirk entailed as he pulled up with a coy look resting along his visage, "Didn't think you could travel alone, did you sister?"
Arms crossed now," I don't really don't need anything from you." Her eyes scanned the dark haired man, slowly. He was quite the tall glass of water really. However, he was trouble with a capital T. And how many men had she had in her life that was like that anyhow? She had lost count a long time ago. However it always seemed to be the sort she attracted none the less," Well actually." The long lanky form leaned against a light pole," Now that I've thought a moment, I could use a place to set-up shop." Lara had a funny feeling brother dear would show up soon and the boy hated hotel rooms. Fancy ones or not. A smirk pressed across her lips," Get me a place to stay here in New York and I'll..." She moved closer to him now, a hand snaking under his coat and fingers trailed along the handle of the golden desert eagle which resided there," leave you alone about those at least." Sara's presence alerted Lara, who stepped back with a wicked grin and gazed at her, before looking back to Jackie a moment," My brother absolutely loathes hotel rooms. A penthouse would be nice, central location. I'll even pay you for it." Arms folded discretely as a cat-ate-the-canary look crossed the Brit's lovely features," Speak of the devil..." Hazel orbs shifted," It took you longer then I thought brother dear." She was amused, but not in the least bit shocked about Ivan showing up," Ivan, meet Sara Pezzini a good friend of mine and "Eyes shifted to Jackie," and Jackie Estacado...not sure what he is too me yet." She looked back at Ivan," my twin brother, Ivan Croft." A slender hand and gestured to him.
Jackie raises a brow for a moment's time. His senses were as sharp as they come even when not in the form of the Darkness wielding killer. Miss Pezzini was somewhere close by and she wasn't gonna be too happy about seeing him around her way, she never was. Maybe today she'd leave him be.... at least till the sun went down anyways. A grin crossed his face as Lara came closer, removing the thought of Sara Pezzini from his mind... "You know you play too much... You're a horrible teaser... even when we're fighting your hitting on me."... he gave her question a bit of a thought, at least a seconds worth of thought... "I don't think so, you're not exactly the most trusted of my clientele..."... his eyes burned as he gave Ivan a mean glare. The typical New Yorker's glare to those that were outsiders of the state. He wasn't too mean of a person but he didn't trust outsiders (foreigners) too much. with a weird look he brought his gaze back to Lara... "And why do you need a penthouse... Might I ask?"
A smug look rested along his face. "Lara, don't press my buttons." Removing his shades revealed a pair of stunning emerald orbs. He absently wiped a brown lock away from his view as he nodded to each of the people that Lara introduced him to, shaking both of their hands. The brooding male did not strike him as being much of a worthwhile person. "I saw the shack that you're staying in, Lara." Rolling his eyes, he was never impressed by grand hotels. Why pay thousands of dollars when all you need is a bed and a loo? He exuded 'Croft-ness'; cocky attitude, never one to be told what to do, hot tempered, and a sharp enough tongue to make every bouncer in NYC cry with only one sentence. "I'm still hurt that you left without me. Regardless of if I love England too much, I still would've tagged along. Oh, don't be alarmed at your high room service bill. It was a long flight with bad food; what's a growing boy supposed to do?" Yes. They were twins all right.
Sara's brow bent skyward as she noticed the handsome Brit calling Lara sister. "I'm starting to get the feeling that this family reunion is less than a coincidence. Did you call in for some backup Lara? Or are British emissary and you not telling me everything about who was on board with this case. If you insist on pulling aces out of your sleeve I might feel tempted to ask for help from McCarthy." The detective regarded her shredded jacket and right sleeve of her shirt. Blushing slightly as she realized just how much of her undergarments were showing Sara shifted the jacket and whatnot as best she could to conceal herself. "You two will have to excuse my attire, I didn't really expect such a tussle last night." Hazel orbs eyed up Jackie as she gave him a knowing look and then back toward Ivan. "Well I can see why you've never introduced us before Lara." The detective's eyes played over the dark haired Brit and Sara tilted her head toward the twin in greeting. The close proximity of Sara to the mafia hitman slash darkness wielder was almost unbearable for the blade. Noticeably she winced and held her hand over her abdomen. "If you three will excuse me…" she forced a smile and started to walk toward her bike.
A laugh," And you enjoy every minute of it Love." A wink was offered. Yes she was a tease, a flirt, and she liked to play," All part of the Croft charm, would you rather Ivan hit on you?" Hazel orbs drifted back to Mr. Smarty Mouth, aka her Brother, "Careful, I've had a rough night." And from the looks of her it was clearly an understatement. Ripped pants, a cut on her right cheek, and a bandage on her arm. The Brit glanced to Sara," Well, he only showed up a year ago on my door-step darling. Rather a long story I'll relay another time perhaps." She watched her friend closely. Ah, yes, the Witchblade did not like The Darkness. Lara tended to forget the hostilities between the two entities. A brow arched," Sure, drag surf boy into it." Lara licked her lips wryly," And no I did not call Ivan, he likes to follow me." Idly Lara's middle left finger itched at her nose towards Ivan," thinks I cannot possibly take care of myself or have any fun," Eyes darted to Jackie," Without him. "The finger dropped from view to rest at her side, then she addressed Jackie again, "Let's just say I like living and living large hmm?" Arms folded," Think about it, you do me this little favor and I owe you." She was striking a hard bargain at him," One of those, I scratch your back, you scratch mine deals." An auburn brow arched attentively, awaiting an answer.
Jackie gave Sara the exact same look that she gave him. Then couldn't help but laugh... "Ha! ha! ha! wow Pez... seems like your not as in control as you think you are... how's the blade doing today?... The Darkness isn't entirely a day thing so I don't feel the pain you feel right now. Too bad you have to go though; I'll most definitely miss your presence... You look cute with all that missing material on your clothes."... he gave her a devious smirk then gave his attention back to the Crofts. Her brother seemed worse than she did, only for the fact that he was a male and he was arrogant and cocky. his attitude was easily picked up off of him even with the slightest of words given off. His eyes took upon Lara's figure... "Ya know... I have my Darklings to scratch my back if I need it scratched and favors aren't what you want me to start asking for... Lemme let you in on a secret, according to the Mafia... when you end up in someone's debt then you're in their pocket and when that happens, you'll never come out. Is that what you want?"
Ivan coughed at Lara saying she can never have any fun. "Hon, if it wasn't for me, you wouldn't find any time to have fun." He refrained from telling them the numerous times he has told Lara to lighten up and get out more. Green orbs narrowed at Lara's vulgar gesture, regretting not being armed at the moment. A smirk touched his lips at Lara's bartering with Jackie. "I doubt it takes a penthouse for you to scratch his back, sis. And I bet you scratch it damn well." Ivan was not one to mess with when aggravated, and pissing of Lara was top on his list of priorities. Replacing the sunglasses back over his eyes, he absently shoved his hands into his jean pockets. He was still quite oblivious to what was going on, as Lara never did fill him in before she hopped a flight here. Ivan would remember to drill her about it when they go back to the wretched hotel. Jackie was an interesting character at that. The sexual tension between him and his sister was apparent, which only resulted in a nauseous Ivan.
The detective gave the trio a nod as she straddled her bike and kick-started it. The impressive Buell Lightning X1 was her pride and joy and although she and the powerful machine had been though quite a bit on these crowded city streets. Sara couldn't let go of the thrill that riding her baby on the streets of upper state New York offered. Wincing again at the all consuming rush the blade washed though her Sara covered the watch-like bracelet as it began to unfurl up her arm in rejection to the presence of Estacado. She let go briefly, gripping the handlebars and taking off toward her own apartment. The brunette cursed herself as she drove further away the Witchblade screaming in frustration inside her head to turn around… to kill.
Lara arched a brow," Let me let you in on a little secret." She moved forward again, one hand coming to rest on the wall behind Jackie pinning him into place for a moment as the other hand followed resting there," Chicago had a mafia once. She paused a moment, such a powerful man, she could feel it radiating off him," They don't anymore." he'd get the idea," Plus, along as we stay on each other's semi-good side we've nothing to worry about," She was willing to be a good girl. For the most part anyways, "Right?" She pushed off the wall and away from Jackie, and glared at her brother," He wishes." Then eyes drifted again to Jackie," I can give you," A slender index finger placed itself against her chin as the braided head tilted to one side rather mock thoughtfully," One grand right now." And she wasn't joking. ," I play hardball Mr. Estacado. You of all people should know this." Now she was sounding more like a business woman. Lara's forte's in business as well, had to being in the business she did. After all when you work for other people bartering is part of the game and how you get ahead," And I'll drop the new pants subject." Eyes drifted to Sara, as Lara shook her head," I'll never quite understand that weapon of hers. Even though I studied it enough to know it just as much as Irons and Sara combined." Lara felt compelled to go after the Cop, but refrained figuring she needed to cool off a bit," think about it Jackie, I could be valuable to you." wicked grin now slipped across the English Archeologists lips," After all, it's good to know you've got someone who can kick your ruddy ass in your pocket." She blew him a kiss and began to walk towards her rented silver Aston Martin, dragging Ivan with her," Better yours then someone who is against you." She'd leave him to think on that as she slipped into the driver's seat eying Ivan," Get in we've got some discussing to do and I want breakfast, and I do not count a dry martini with a scotch chaser much of a breakfast." the car was revved," I would offer you a chance to join us Jackie." She was going out of her way to be civil to a guy who merely a few hours ago the night before threatened to tear out her ankles? But of course," And Ivan doesn't bite, that much really." She pondered adding, but I do, but then thought better of it. Figuring Jackie probably already came to that conclusion a long time ago.
Jackie simply gave her a stare and just smirked... "Do you enjoy brushing up on me like this? Or is this just a real bad habit that you've come to pick up as of late?"... he thought about her games and what exactly he would be getting himself into by going along with this plan. A question popped up in his mind... just how far could he throw her? He trusted everyone just about as far as he could throw them. She was lightweight and with the help of the darkness she'd be an easy throw. A grin appeared on his face now as he brought his hands upwards from his sides, grazing against her figure little by little... "Well... Hmm... I may be pushing things but I suppose you can have one of the penthouses... but one condition... If I ask for something, I don't want an argument or even as much as a second thought. Got me?"... He already knew the answer by her desperation for the penthouse. "Oh and I hope this isn't some little game because you should know that I'm usually all business and action... not too much time left in the world for fun & games."... His grin faded and he seemed very serious now, stern features compromising his previous attitude... "I think I'll tag along "I wanna here more about the Mafia in Chicago... my stretch doesn't go that far and that's not my jurisdiction of work anyways so... you can gladly fill me in."
Lara always loved to toss her money around like it was merely nothing but pocket change. "Speak a little louder, Lara. I think the drug dealers are right down that alley." He rolled his eyes as Lara practically raped Jackie right there on the spot. To state it plainly, the only thing the girl needed was a good lay and she would be happy for at least a week. His sister doing business was truly an art. She would get her way, regardless if it required large sums of money or…other activities. Feeling a tug at his sleeve he whipped around to praise Lara's car. "Thank God. At least you have a car that's decent enough to drive." Taking his rightful seat in the passenger's side, he slung his arm out the window. The thought of Jackie tagging along with them to breakfast wasn't too appetizing, but as long as he was there, Lara wouldn't show her ass and start barking at him. Granted Ivan wouldn't sit there with a straight face; an argument between two Crofts is like a royal battle between two gladiators. It took a long time to end and was rather brutal. "I should be so lucky to work in a martini into my breakfast schedule." Even if Ivan stayed out 'til the crack of dawn, Lara always found it humorous to wake him up at God-awful hours of the morning to begin training. At least his idea of a good time involved liquor and hot female bartenders traipsing up and down the bar top.
