Myshawolf walks out with Angelina 809. Behind them stands Thunder,
Nightmare, Lucky *a guy in a dress*, and Death patiently waiting. MW waves
to the audience: Hello Everyone! I'm all better now!
Nightmare: And we use the term better very loosely.
Angelina: Anyways here is chapter 3 of our fic. But first notes!!
MW: First, Angie *to Angelina* Not you. *back to the readers* Angie, Atlantis is currently being worked on slowly but surely. My notebook for that fic is currently AWOL so I have to do everything from memory.
A: Thank you to everyone who reviewed. And Northstar, don't worry reinforcements are coming.
MW* pulls out a general's hat that she borrowed for the GI Joe section*: A- Tent-Hutt! *The muses snap into a straight stance* Your mission, whether you like it or not, is to teach Haldir a lesson and have him back off of Northstar. Is that clear?
A: *rolls around laughing*
Muses: Yes ma'am.
Lucky: Are we allowed to use any means necessary?
MW: *thinks about it* What do you think, Angelina?
A: Hell yeah! *Lucky mentions something about dresses and what Haldir's color*
MW: *nods* You have your assignments now go and make me proud! *The muses head over to Northstar's page*
A: We are evil.
MW: And you say that like it's a bad thing * to the readers* On with the show everyone!
A: *hold up a sign that says*
Wandering Children
Chapter 3- Or Am I Standing Still?
Aidan broke away from Buquet just as he spotted Michael coming down from the flies with Christine. He was going to get to the bottom of what was wrong with his brother. Michael smiled as Aidan approached them. That smile faded when Michael saw that look on Aidan's face. Christine left Michael's side to greet her other brother. Aidan smiled widely as he hugged his little sister.
"Aidan, I'm so glad your home." Christine smiled.
"Glad to be home, little sister." Aidan smiled sweetly, "Still keeping the suitors at bay?"
"I seem to disappear when I mention that I'm looking for a new sparring partner since neither of you are home anymore." Christine pouted.
"We'll be around for a while." Michael promised her, "Won't we, Aidan?"
"We'll see, brother. I want to talk with you." Aidan stated neutrally to Michael. Michael gulped and nodded. Christine looked between the two confused but began to follow them to their mother's dressing room. Aidan checked to be sure the coast was clear Neither of their parents in sight. Aidan pulled Michael in and came face to face with a curious Christine.
"Sorry little sister." Aidan smiled sweetly at her, "Boy talk."
Before Christine could protest, Aidan slammed the door in her face. Christine frowned at the door, but remembered that there was other ways into the room. She ran to the cellars.
Michael stood with his back to the mirror that hung on the wall. Aidan listened until he was sure Christine had walked away, before turning to face his brother. Michael stood there waiting for the other shoe to drop.
"What is wrong with you?" Aidan asked softly.
"I have no idea what you are talking about." Michael stated strongly.
"Oh come off it, Michael. I was listening to what you were saying this morning. Dad may not have caught it but Mum and I did."
"Mum?"
"Yes, Mum heard you. I'm surprise she didn't call you on it. Does this have to do with that female detective?"
"What female detective?"
"God damn it, Michael. I'm going to kill you. Drop the act. You know exactly who I am talking about." Michael glanced over his shoulder at the mirror, "Fine, Aidan. It is about the detective. She is here."
"You like her don't you?" Aidan accused fiercely.
"What does that have to do with anything?"
"Everything, considering she is a Yardie and we are criminals. She wouldn't hesitate to arrest you. You are only going to get hurt and take the rest of us with you."
"I know that!" Michael lashed out, "You think I don't know that! I'm no happier than you are that she is a Yardie or that she is here."
"You have been out of it lately. Making mistakes. Dad will flip when he finds out."
"You are going to tell him?"
"I should. You are putting everyone in danger. Is she worth it?"
"I don't know. But I know that right now she is here, poking around. I won't actively seek her out if that's what you are afraid of, dear brother. But we can't hide from her either. I'm going to face her when she asks questions."
"You are a fool, Michael. I know what you are up to." Aidan growled, "Don't do it. Don't make her fall in love with someone who doesn't exist. You'll both regret it."
"Don't preach to me. You did the same thing or did you forget about Cosette?"
When Aidan didn't answer, Michael slammed out of the dressing room. Aidan bit back the wave of regret as it tried to break free from the waves of time. He moved and sat on the cot. His mind tried to figure out the right thing to do.
~*~*~*~*~*~**~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~**~*~*~*~*~*~**~*~*~*~*~**~*~*~*~*
Mirielle walked outside the Opera House and sat on the steps. She rested her elbows on her knees and her head in her hands; she looked like a child that had just dropped their ice cream cone on a hot summer's day. Her brow furrowed in deep thought.
She sat there thinking about everything that had been said, The Phantom, the lasso, it all confused her. Generally she was never confused but this was a different story. Her head began to pulse with all these new thoughts and ideas that popped in her head as she sat there. "Ugh," she murmured, "if Dad were here he would have it figured out already."
Burying her head in her hands she sat there for several minutes and did not notice Dante walking down the street. He strolled confidently with a smirk on his thin lips. He saw the sandy haired angel he had seen earlier and smirked mischievously and sat next to her.
"What's the matter chère?" he asked in a silky voice.
She looked up and a frustrated sigh escaped her lips, "It's too confusing to explain."
She grumbled something and then went back to her original position. She gently massaged her temples with her pointer finger as Dante scouted closer to her. His brown eyes twinkled in the sunlight as he looked at the very confused Mirielle.
"I'm sorry to hear that," he smirked putting his hand on her knee, "If it would make you feel any better I have a reservation for two for dinner tonight, however it seems that I don't have someone else to go with."
He had her right where he wanted her, too upset to turn anything down then someone else's footsteps could be heard from behind them.
Dante!" yelled a young woman's voice, "What are you doing? You have rehearsal! Go, go, go!"
She pulled him up by his shirt collar and pushed him towards the door. Mirielle looked at her and took in the young woman's appearance. She had blue jeans on with a black sweatshirt. There was a pair of lightly tinted sunglasses perched on her nose. A pen was neatly tucked behind her ear and poked out of her long brown spiral curls. In her hand she carried a spiral notebook which was open to a crisp piece of white paper.
"Bonne après-midi," she smiled as she offered a hand to help Mirielle up, "My name's Jessamine. I'm sorry for Dante's behavior; he's always screwing up someone's life."
"Thanks," sighed Mirielle as she stood up. "My name's Mirielle. What exactly are you doing here? You're a writer, not an actress?"
"Well, I came here for some inspiration," she laughed politely, "Where better to go for drama than an opera house?"
Mirielle chuckled at the comment and sighed, "I've met so many strange people today in there. You could write a novel on them alone. I mean that old man with the stories, Buquet was his name, and the guy with him. Gah."
"Oh, that must have been Aidan," Jessamine smiled, "He's constantly around. Did you meet his brother Michael? You must have, but they're related to that prima donna, Erika Noir. No one really sees much of her anymore, they say she became a recluse, but who knows. Well I better get in there, I may miss something, au revoir!"
As Jessamine entered the building Mirielle looked around the outside one more time and then reentered the opera house, maybe she could sort things out in there.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~~**~~**~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~**~~*~*~*
Mirielle finally found John in the lobby. He was poking his head into the rehearsal silently watching as everything was going on. Mirielle pulled the collar of his polo shirt and took him outside.
"We need to get back to the hotel, Mum and Dad will be expecting a call," she said taking the responsible role for moment.
"Well we found slim to nil," said John in a flat tone. "But we know that the perp is here somewhere."
"Yes," agreed Mirielle, "I bet Dad and Mum will tell us something when we get back anyway."
Climbing into the driver's seat she buckled her seat belt and then smirked at her brother who was clutching onto the seat and winked revving up the engine. The drive to the hotel was only five minutes long but John looked green by the time they got there. He unsteadily climbed out of the car and grabbed his stomach.
"Next time I drive." his voice slightly wavering.
"Whatever," Mirielle chuckled as she entered the revolving door.
John slowly followed behind as they got into the elevator and went up to the 21st floor. They entered their room, 221, and John sat on the bed. "Still feeling sick John?" Mirielle teased as she dialed home.
"Hello?" answered their father on the screen. "Oh, hello Mirielle, John."
"Hi Daddy," smiled Mirielle, "We have some good news and some bad news."
"And what is that?" asked Beth as she walked up behind Sherlock and sat beside him on the chair.
John stood up and made his way over to the screen to say something, "Well, we found a footprint that had dirt consistent with dirt from Downing Street in the lobby, however we found out little else. Everything here seems to be normal."
"Don't forget children," smirked Sherlock, "Minutiae is what we depend on, check everything you can, and everyone you can."
John snickered and then made his way back over to his bed. He laid back and sighed placing his hands on his stomach, "Gor some odd reason I'm hungry, Mir."
Beth laughed and then whispered something into Sherlock ear. He nodded and then Beth said, "Well, there's always de'l Harmonie."
"Where now?" asked Mirielle and John at the same time.
"De'l Harmonie," Sherlock repeated, "It's owned by an old friend. The food is excellent. Your mother and I highly recommend it."
The two children looked at each other and shrugged. "Okay," Mirielle smiled, "
What's the dress code?"
"Nothing specific," said Beth, "Just make sure you have clothes on," she laughed when Mirielle rolled her eyes at her mother, "Well you two go get something to eat and we'll talk tomorrow."
With that the screen turned off and Mirielle turned to her brother, "Let's go get some food."
"I'm driving," he retorted quickly dashing for the keys. He clutched them in his hand and Mirielle laughed shutting the door behind her.
~*~*~*~*~*~**~~**~*~*~*~*~*~**~*~*~**~*~*~*~**~*~*~*~*~*~**~*~**~*~*~
Mirielle looked around the exquisitely decorated restaurant in surprise. She worried that she might be under dressed in a simple yellow sundress. She began to relax once she saw some people walking around in jeans and t shirts. They must be with the opera troupe. Looking around, she stepped down the stairs.
"Mirielle? Is that you?" A very British female voice called out.
Mirielle turned to the voice and smiled brightly at the sight of her old babysitter, Deidre. Deidre was sitting over at a table by where the Opera Company was sitting. As she walked to her old friend, Mirielle noticed Dante trying to flirt with one of the dancers. Mirielle thanked Jessamine for her interference.
"Mirielle," Deidre smiled as she hugged the younger woman, "I didn't know you were in Paris."
"Yeah." Mirielle grinned, "I'm working on a case."
"Really? On what?" Deidre asked interested.
"Off the record?" Mirielle laughed when Deidre sighed heavily but nodded, "There was a robbery at 10 Downing Street yesterday morning."
"That's why I can't find Wiggins or Tennyson anywhere." Deidre realized, "They must be working over time. So what does that have to do with Paris?"
"Well, we tracked one or both of thieves here. More specifically the Opera House, but we have been having trouble finding any clues. The Company seems to close up." Mirielle sighed.
"It takes time. I'm the local music critic and I still get shut out. At least Madam Noir tells me what is going on when the rest are being fussy." Deidre smiled at Mirielle shocked look, "Your mother and father know her as well."
John walked into the Restaurant quickly. He hoped his sister didn't start without him. He was moving so fast that he didn't see the person coming his way until they ran into each other. John reacted by grabbing them to steady them and himself.
"I'm so sorry." John stammered as so as he had his balance back and let go.
"You really need to watch where you are going, Monsieur." Christine snapped as she stepped away.
John blushed when he realized what an impression he must have made on her. Glancing over to the side where he had heard his sister's voice, he could see she was already distracted. Making up his mind, he decided to do it. Gently he took her hand. When she went to tug it away, John tightened his grip.
"Please Mademoiselle, I want to apologize for anything I did earlier that offended you." John said sincerely as he gave a slight bow.
"You should." Christine sniffed at him but relented, "I forgive you. Michael explained to me that you were doing your job."
While John was suspicious of Michael still, he couldn't help but thank him for telling his sister the truth. John smiled at her. Christine smiled back at him. Inside John's chest felt tight as he gazed at her smiling at him. Unsure of himself, he took a step away from her. He didn't need a distraction while working on a case like this.
"Would you like to join me and my friends for dinner?" Christine offered.
Feeling his heart trying to jump out of his throat, John shook his head, "No thanks, mademoiselle. I have a sudden need for air."
Before Christine could say anymore, John bolted from the restaurant. Christine watched him go confused at first, then slowly her anger began to build. He obviously couldn't stand to be near her. Heaving a heavy sigh, Christine began to head back to her table.
Danesh was talking with some of the waiters when he saw Christine walking along like she just been told she lost a role. Excusing himself, Danesh jogged up to his goddaughter. Christine gave him a weak smile as he hugged her.
"Now why the long face?" Danesh smiled.
"No reason, Uncle Danesh." Christine shrugged.
Danesh quickly deduced the trouble in one word, "A man?"
Christine nodded. Danesh smiled and laid an arm across Christine's shoulder. Gently he directed their walk to the kitchen area.
With a sympathetic grin Danesh cooed, "Let's get some food and you tell me all about it."
Jessamine sat at a table all alone. She grumbled as she looked around for the clock, Her eyes settled on the broken one across the room.
"They still didn't fix it?" she said in an exasperated voice.
Then, she spotted Buquet's watch chain hanging out of his back pocket. She smirked as she quietly made her way over to him. He was engaged in a deep conversation with Aidan so it made it better on her part.
She gently tugged the chain and pulled it out of his pocket without him noticing. Aidan saw her do it, but didn't say anything because he didn't want to interrupt Buquet. She checked the time and then expertly pretended to pick it up off the ground. Tapping him on the shoulder, Buquet turned around surprised,
"Pardon moi M'sieur Buquet, but I think you dropped this." she smiled sweetly and held up the golden chain with the watch dangling at the bottom.
Buquet patted her on the head and turned to Aidan, "Isn't she a princess?"
He motioned towards Jessamine and she snickered pulling her pen from behind her ear and jotting something down. Then Buquet pulled out his watch and muttered something and walked away.
"Did I do well?" smirked Jessamine as Buquet walked away. "Pretty good for a beginner eh?"
"You're a sly one that's for sure," he said in an icy voice. "But I'd watch it Jess, not many people are as gullible or eccentric enough to believe you as Buquet."
Jessamine's smile faded from her face and she looked down to the ground shuffling her feet, "Merci for the advice," she muttered and then headed back towards her table, resting her head on her hand which was propped up on the table. She sighed and then pushed her sunglasses up the bridge of her nose looking around again.
'Impressive,' he thought to himself, 'She really isn't that bad, but I shouldn't encourage it in Buquet's little princess,' he almost smirked but then decided against it, still remaining stone faced.
Mirielle was looking around for her brother as she walked. Then, suddenly she tipped forward and into someone. She looked up and noticed those electric green eyes staring at her with a small smile on his lips.
"Fancy that," she said blushing as she stood up straight.
"It's not a problem," Michael said. "I guess it's just that we fell for each other." They both laughed at the comment and then he bent over and picked up her magnifying glass, "This little digit doesn't seem to want to stay with you."
"Merci," she smiled placing it back into its holster. "I was just wondering, where were you the other night?"
"I was in Perros on some family business, but I can't prove or disprove it," he smirked, "But, now I have a question for you."
"And what is that?" Mirielle said a little apprehensively.
Michael smiled at her nervousness. He was glad that he affected her as much as she affected him. Putting on his most gracious smile, he held out his hand to her. Mirielle looked at it trying to figure out what he was up to.
"Will you give me the pleasure of this dance?" Michael asked her.
Mirielle wasn't sure of what to do. Looking around, she couldn't see her brother anywhere. Taking a deep breathe, she placed her hand into his. Michael tenderly took it and led her out to the slowly filling dance floor as the band began to play. Michael placed one hand on her waist while he took her other hand into his. A smile touched his lips as he spotted his mother standing by the band leader.
Erika smiled as she watched Michael walk a young lady onto the dance floor. It was nice seeing him enjoy himself. Glancing around, she also spotted Aidan talking with another young woman. Her smile turned sad. They were growing up so quickly. Erika glanced up at the second level where James was watching her. He winked at her. Erika beamed brightly at her beloved husband.
The band leader nodded at her. Erika took a breath and began to sing a bluesy slow song. She hoped Aidan would finally ask another young lady to dance. It's been so long since she had seen him dancing the night away.
It's time to hold my hand
And take a chance
It's time to pay the band
And start the dance
We hear the melody
We know the song
It's time, I think
We're on the brink
Of waiting too long
Erika smiled as more dancers came out on to the dance floor. She looked up as James leaned on the railing. They smiled at each other. Erika felt her cheeks begin toget warm. After all these years he could still get her to blush.
Why not believe our eyes
And cross our hearts
Dispense with alibis
Enough false starts
It's time to put away
Our childish things
And time to trust
In us...and what tomorrow brings
Michael felt the music begin to take over as he danced with Mirielle. She fit in his arms just so perfectly. It saddened him that he would never have a chance with her. For the first time, he cursed the fact that he decided to be what he now was.
It's time to risk it all
And shoot the moon
So just let go and fall
It's not too soon
Before the clock strikes one more chime
Let's see if we can move love off this dime
'Cause when we kiss we both can see
It's time It's getting too late
For a lengthy debate
So let's go for the win
Let's give forever a shove
So that love can begin
Mirielle felt a little lightheaded as she gazed in Michael's green eyes. They seem to take on a sad quality as they stared at each other. She like how gentle he was with her despite his size and possible strength. Mentally, she slapped herself. Come on, Mirielle, she thought to herself, you are here on a case.
It's time to let it ride
'Cause time won't wait
If luck is on our side
It's not too late
Before we stumble past our prime
I know together we can make this climb
'Cause I believe for you and me...
It's time
Erika bowed as the patrons applauded her. Michael removed his hand from Mirielle's waist. Following an impulse, he brought her other hand to his mouth and he kissed it while holding her violet gaze. Mirielle felt her heart stop.
"Merci," Michael whispered, "That was an amazing experience."
Mirielle mutely nodded and watched as Michael walked away. She shook herself out of it when she spotted her brother walking back in. Determine to cover up the unrest inside, she put on a smile and walked towards him.
Jessamine let out a bored sigh and then saw Nadir roaming around the restaurant a handkerchief poking out of his pocket. She snickered and laid her notebook on the table. She casually strolled over behind him and went to take the handkerchief when his hand shot out at her and grabbed her wrist.
"What do you think you're doing?" he asked, his eyes narrowing.
"I was um, I was just uh, I was trying to um, I wanted to." she trailed off not able to come up with a good excuse.
She quickly looked around wondering if someone was going to help her, Nadir's hand tightly gripping her wrist, his hand getting tighter and tighter by the second. She winced and tried to pull free.Nadir's glare made her squirm as she stood there then a sigh of relief passed her lips as Aidan walked up.
"Uncle Nadir, what are you doing?" he asked laying his hand on his shoulder.
"The little thief tried to steal my silk handkerchief," he glared at Jessamine again, "If I were her father or any relative for that matter she would be-"
Aidan cut him off as he gaze Jessamine a convincing that made her want to shrink, "Uncle Nadir, I was just testing her abilities, she was going to give it back I assure you. Her tutoring shall be continued accordingly."
Nadir sneered and let go of her wrist and stormed off. "Thanks," she smiled shyly to Aidan, "you saved my skin. I didn't think he was so perceptive like that."
Aidan frowned, "Jessamine, you must remember what I told you before at all time, not all targets are easy. You must never think they won't explode or do something worse than that. You could get hurt, and we wouldn't want that would we?"
"I guess not," she looked to the ground as she hung her head. She looked up with her big blue eyes and made a puppy face, "Could you help me become better at pick pocketing? I need a way to make money other than writing my somber poems."
"What's your most recent creation anyway?" he asked, "The last one was quite good, I'd like to see a new one soon."
Jessamine flipped through some pages and then found a small poem. She smiled holding her notebook triumphantly in her hands. Aidan felt his heart speed up, but quickly ignored it.
"Here," she smirked handing him the paper. "Keep it; I know it by heart anyway."
"Alone," he mumbled the title. "So, we have another angst poem do we Jess? I'm glad to see that you are keeping theme."
Jessamine smiled and returned to her table alone. Aidan turned over the conversation they just had in his mind. She was in need of work, he figured that much. Recently, Krissy's old partner Shawn left for New York and Broadway so there was an opening. Aidan leaned back as he watched the young thief-writer looking around the dining area. Buquet would hire her in an instant since he liked the girl. However, Krissy would be harder to win over since it would be her partner.
Aidan stood up and looked around for the older stage hand. He smiled as she was walking towards him talking with Michael. Michael was frowning which meant they were arguing over bringing computers into the running of the backstage. Krissy grinned as they reached Aidan's table.
"Brother, can you talk some sense into her?" Michael pleaded.
Krissy rolled her eyes and took a seat, "He wants me to put in computers to help with the limes. That's breaking tradition."
"No it isn't. Not if you are short handed. Buquet still hasn't hired anyone to replace Shawn." Michael pointed out as he sat as well.
Aidan found his perfect opportunity and seized it, "Why hasn't Buquet hired anyone?"
Krissy sighed wistfully, "He is still hoping Shawn will return and we will be one happy family again. I can't convince him that Shawn isn't coming back. He just eloped with a dancer."
"Shawn did?" Michael gaped.
"Shut your mouth, Michael." Aidan joked getting a smile out of Krissy, "Will you be willing to hire anyone new?"
"Sure, we need the help." Krissy shrugged, "I would probably want someone fresh yet can understand the grind of the job."
"That's perfect." Aidan grinned.
Michael looked up at his brother in confusion while Krissy merely raised a brow and remarked, "Are you volunteering to help out? Thinking of changing careers on your old man?"
Aidan put his hands up, "Not me. I'll help out but I was thinking of someone with more time on their hands."
"Like?" Krissy prompted.
Aidan leaned forward so Jessamine couldn't hear, "Jessamine. She knows the theater and the basics."
Krissy ponder this and smiled, "She would be good. Buquet could hardly refuse to give her a job."
Michael nodded his agreement then gained a sly smile as he realized the implications, "Keeping her close, brother?"
Aidan glared at Michael, "Nonsense, She has some talents that I admire and think she should refine a little."
Krissy stood up and grinned down at them, "I don't want to know. I've learned that much from dealing with your father. Just remember Aidan, if I'm missing any thing you are the first person on my list to question and kill. Now I'm going to interview my potential employee."
With that Krissy walked over to Jessamine's table. Aidan watched with a faint smile as Krissy talked to her. Jessamine looked in Aidan's direction questioningly. Aidan nodded to her trying to wordlessly trying to get her to agree. Jessamine finally did. Aidan had a small smile on his face as he watched a look of joy sweep over Jessamine's face.
"So," Michael grinned now that he had some dirt on Aidan, "Heard from Cosette lately?"
"Who?" Aidan asked absently as he looked at Jessamine's face.
"Exactly what I was thinking." Michael grinned even wider.
As Mirielle walked off the dance floor she made her way to John and dragged him over to Deidre. "Who was that singing?" Mirielle abruptly asked as she finished dragging her brother to the table.
"That was Erika Noir, brilliant isn't she?" smiled Deidre. "Her voice is impeccable. I saw her sing twenty years ago and she's just as good as she was then, if not better."
John nodded but his attention was on Erika as she walked off the stage. She met a mysterious man in the shadows and after sharing a brief kiss they walked up the stairs. Tugging on Mirielle's dress John got her attention and whispered what he saw into her ear.
She nodded and then turned to Deidre, "Do you know if she's married or not?"
Deidre shrugged, "I have no idea. I don't usually tamper with my subject's private lives, only their stage life."
John burst into the conversation, "Well, then I suppose we'll have to find out for ourselves then won't we Mir?"
He smiled and then looked around. His heart wrenched when he saw Christine. He looked away and then back to the stairs. The two people were gone, however John was starving. "C'mon Mir, I'm sorry but my stomach can't wait anymore, I need some food."
"Danesh is a wonderful cook," Deidre interjected, "I think you two should join me, I was just about to eat anyway, sit," she motioned towards two empty chairs.
John took the one facing the stairs while Mirielle took the one closest to her. Deidre ordered for them, as she saw fit and the continued to talk about the music business and reminiscing about the past.
John looked around distractedly. He saw Christine head for the stairs and then disappeared up them. Noting that in his mind, he chuckled as Deidre mentioned an old babysitting job where peas managed to fling themselves across the room without any explanation.
John had the courtesy to blush when Mirielle agreed about how much of a brat he was. Looking for an escape, he watched as Michael and his look- alike head up the stairs, chatting about something. Michael's look-alike was blushing brightly as they climbed up and disappeared on to the upper landing. John definitely noted that and looked at his sister. Mirielle was listening to Deidre telling her stories about their father before he married their mother. John half listened to his old baby sitter, deciding to tell Mirielle about it later.
Nightmare: And we use the term better very loosely.
Angelina: Anyways here is chapter 3 of our fic. But first notes!!
MW: First, Angie *to Angelina* Not you. *back to the readers* Angie, Atlantis is currently being worked on slowly but surely. My notebook for that fic is currently AWOL so I have to do everything from memory.
A: Thank you to everyone who reviewed. And Northstar, don't worry reinforcements are coming.
MW* pulls out a general's hat that she borrowed for the GI Joe section*: A- Tent-Hutt! *The muses snap into a straight stance* Your mission, whether you like it or not, is to teach Haldir a lesson and have him back off of Northstar. Is that clear?
A: *rolls around laughing*
Muses: Yes ma'am.
Lucky: Are we allowed to use any means necessary?
MW: *thinks about it* What do you think, Angelina?
A: Hell yeah! *Lucky mentions something about dresses and what Haldir's color*
MW: *nods* You have your assignments now go and make me proud! *The muses head over to Northstar's page*
A: We are evil.
MW: And you say that like it's a bad thing * to the readers* On with the show everyone!
A: *hold up a sign that says*
Wandering Children
Chapter 3- Or Am I Standing Still?
Aidan broke away from Buquet just as he spotted Michael coming down from the flies with Christine. He was going to get to the bottom of what was wrong with his brother. Michael smiled as Aidan approached them. That smile faded when Michael saw that look on Aidan's face. Christine left Michael's side to greet her other brother. Aidan smiled widely as he hugged his little sister.
"Aidan, I'm so glad your home." Christine smiled.
"Glad to be home, little sister." Aidan smiled sweetly, "Still keeping the suitors at bay?"
"I seem to disappear when I mention that I'm looking for a new sparring partner since neither of you are home anymore." Christine pouted.
"We'll be around for a while." Michael promised her, "Won't we, Aidan?"
"We'll see, brother. I want to talk with you." Aidan stated neutrally to Michael. Michael gulped and nodded. Christine looked between the two confused but began to follow them to their mother's dressing room. Aidan checked to be sure the coast was clear Neither of their parents in sight. Aidan pulled Michael in and came face to face with a curious Christine.
"Sorry little sister." Aidan smiled sweetly at her, "Boy talk."
Before Christine could protest, Aidan slammed the door in her face. Christine frowned at the door, but remembered that there was other ways into the room. She ran to the cellars.
Michael stood with his back to the mirror that hung on the wall. Aidan listened until he was sure Christine had walked away, before turning to face his brother. Michael stood there waiting for the other shoe to drop.
"What is wrong with you?" Aidan asked softly.
"I have no idea what you are talking about." Michael stated strongly.
"Oh come off it, Michael. I was listening to what you were saying this morning. Dad may not have caught it but Mum and I did."
"Mum?"
"Yes, Mum heard you. I'm surprise she didn't call you on it. Does this have to do with that female detective?"
"What female detective?"
"God damn it, Michael. I'm going to kill you. Drop the act. You know exactly who I am talking about." Michael glanced over his shoulder at the mirror, "Fine, Aidan. It is about the detective. She is here."
"You like her don't you?" Aidan accused fiercely.
"What does that have to do with anything?"
"Everything, considering she is a Yardie and we are criminals. She wouldn't hesitate to arrest you. You are only going to get hurt and take the rest of us with you."
"I know that!" Michael lashed out, "You think I don't know that! I'm no happier than you are that she is a Yardie or that she is here."
"You have been out of it lately. Making mistakes. Dad will flip when he finds out."
"You are going to tell him?"
"I should. You are putting everyone in danger. Is she worth it?"
"I don't know. But I know that right now she is here, poking around. I won't actively seek her out if that's what you are afraid of, dear brother. But we can't hide from her either. I'm going to face her when she asks questions."
"You are a fool, Michael. I know what you are up to." Aidan growled, "Don't do it. Don't make her fall in love with someone who doesn't exist. You'll both regret it."
"Don't preach to me. You did the same thing or did you forget about Cosette?"
When Aidan didn't answer, Michael slammed out of the dressing room. Aidan bit back the wave of regret as it tried to break free from the waves of time. He moved and sat on the cot. His mind tried to figure out the right thing to do.
~*~*~*~*~*~**~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~**~*~*~*~*~*~**~*~*~*~*~**~*~*~*~*
Mirielle walked outside the Opera House and sat on the steps. She rested her elbows on her knees and her head in her hands; she looked like a child that had just dropped their ice cream cone on a hot summer's day. Her brow furrowed in deep thought.
She sat there thinking about everything that had been said, The Phantom, the lasso, it all confused her. Generally she was never confused but this was a different story. Her head began to pulse with all these new thoughts and ideas that popped in her head as she sat there. "Ugh," she murmured, "if Dad were here he would have it figured out already."
Burying her head in her hands she sat there for several minutes and did not notice Dante walking down the street. He strolled confidently with a smirk on his thin lips. He saw the sandy haired angel he had seen earlier and smirked mischievously and sat next to her.
"What's the matter chère?" he asked in a silky voice.
She looked up and a frustrated sigh escaped her lips, "It's too confusing to explain."
She grumbled something and then went back to her original position. She gently massaged her temples with her pointer finger as Dante scouted closer to her. His brown eyes twinkled in the sunlight as he looked at the very confused Mirielle.
"I'm sorry to hear that," he smirked putting his hand on her knee, "If it would make you feel any better I have a reservation for two for dinner tonight, however it seems that I don't have someone else to go with."
He had her right where he wanted her, too upset to turn anything down then someone else's footsteps could be heard from behind them.
Dante!" yelled a young woman's voice, "What are you doing? You have rehearsal! Go, go, go!"
She pulled him up by his shirt collar and pushed him towards the door. Mirielle looked at her and took in the young woman's appearance. She had blue jeans on with a black sweatshirt. There was a pair of lightly tinted sunglasses perched on her nose. A pen was neatly tucked behind her ear and poked out of her long brown spiral curls. In her hand she carried a spiral notebook which was open to a crisp piece of white paper.
"Bonne après-midi," she smiled as she offered a hand to help Mirielle up, "My name's Jessamine. I'm sorry for Dante's behavior; he's always screwing up someone's life."
"Thanks," sighed Mirielle as she stood up. "My name's Mirielle. What exactly are you doing here? You're a writer, not an actress?"
"Well, I came here for some inspiration," she laughed politely, "Where better to go for drama than an opera house?"
Mirielle chuckled at the comment and sighed, "I've met so many strange people today in there. You could write a novel on them alone. I mean that old man with the stories, Buquet was his name, and the guy with him. Gah."
"Oh, that must have been Aidan," Jessamine smiled, "He's constantly around. Did you meet his brother Michael? You must have, but they're related to that prima donna, Erika Noir. No one really sees much of her anymore, they say she became a recluse, but who knows. Well I better get in there, I may miss something, au revoir!"
As Jessamine entered the building Mirielle looked around the outside one more time and then reentered the opera house, maybe she could sort things out in there.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~~**~~**~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~**~~*~*~*
Mirielle finally found John in the lobby. He was poking his head into the rehearsal silently watching as everything was going on. Mirielle pulled the collar of his polo shirt and took him outside.
"We need to get back to the hotel, Mum and Dad will be expecting a call," she said taking the responsible role for moment.
"Well we found slim to nil," said John in a flat tone. "But we know that the perp is here somewhere."
"Yes," agreed Mirielle, "I bet Dad and Mum will tell us something when we get back anyway."
Climbing into the driver's seat she buckled her seat belt and then smirked at her brother who was clutching onto the seat and winked revving up the engine. The drive to the hotel was only five minutes long but John looked green by the time they got there. He unsteadily climbed out of the car and grabbed his stomach.
"Next time I drive." his voice slightly wavering.
"Whatever," Mirielle chuckled as she entered the revolving door.
John slowly followed behind as they got into the elevator and went up to the 21st floor. They entered their room, 221, and John sat on the bed. "Still feeling sick John?" Mirielle teased as she dialed home.
"Hello?" answered their father on the screen. "Oh, hello Mirielle, John."
"Hi Daddy," smiled Mirielle, "We have some good news and some bad news."
"And what is that?" asked Beth as she walked up behind Sherlock and sat beside him on the chair.
John stood up and made his way over to the screen to say something, "Well, we found a footprint that had dirt consistent with dirt from Downing Street in the lobby, however we found out little else. Everything here seems to be normal."
"Don't forget children," smirked Sherlock, "Minutiae is what we depend on, check everything you can, and everyone you can."
John snickered and then made his way back over to his bed. He laid back and sighed placing his hands on his stomach, "Gor some odd reason I'm hungry, Mir."
Beth laughed and then whispered something into Sherlock ear. He nodded and then Beth said, "Well, there's always de'l Harmonie."
"Where now?" asked Mirielle and John at the same time.
"De'l Harmonie," Sherlock repeated, "It's owned by an old friend. The food is excellent. Your mother and I highly recommend it."
The two children looked at each other and shrugged. "Okay," Mirielle smiled, "
What's the dress code?"
"Nothing specific," said Beth, "Just make sure you have clothes on," she laughed when Mirielle rolled her eyes at her mother, "Well you two go get something to eat and we'll talk tomorrow."
With that the screen turned off and Mirielle turned to her brother, "Let's go get some food."
"I'm driving," he retorted quickly dashing for the keys. He clutched them in his hand and Mirielle laughed shutting the door behind her.
~*~*~*~*~*~**~~**~*~*~*~*~*~**~*~*~**~*~*~*~**~*~*~*~*~*~**~*~**~*~*~
Mirielle looked around the exquisitely decorated restaurant in surprise. She worried that she might be under dressed in a simple yellow sundress. She began to relax once she saw some people walking around in jeans and t shirts. They must be with the opera troupe. Looking around, she stepped down the stairs.
"Mirielle? Is that you?" A very British female voice called out.
Mirielle turned to the voice and smiled brightly at the sight of her old babysitter, Deidre. Deidre was sitting over at a table by where the Opera Company was sitting. As she walked to her old friend, Mirielle noticed Dante trying to flirt with one of the dancers. Mirielle thanked Jessamine for her interference.
"Mirielle," Deidre smiled as she hugged the younger woman, "I didn't know you were in Paris."
"Yeah." Mirielle grinned, "I'm working on a case."
"Really? On what?" Deidre asked interested.
"Off the record?" Mirielle laughed when Deidre sighed heavily but nodded, "There was a robbery at 10 Downing Street yesterday morning."
"That's why I can't find Wiggins or Tennyson anywhere." Deidre realized, "They must be working over time. So what does that have to do with Paris?"
"Well, we tracked one or both of thieves here. More specifically the Opera House, but we have been having trouble finding any clues. The Company seems to close up." Mirielle sighed.
"It takes time. I'm the local music critic and I still get shut out. At least Madam Noir tells me what is going on when the rest are being fussy." Deidre smiled at Mirielle shocked look, "Your mother and father know her as well."
John walked into the Restaurant quickly. He hoped his sister didn't start without him. He was moving so fast that he didn't see the person coming his way until they ran into each other. John reacted by grabbing them to steady them and himself.
"I'm so sorry." John stammered as so as he had his balance back and let go.
"You really need to watch where you are going, Monsieur." Christine snapped as she stepped away.
John blushed when he realized what an impression he must have made on her. Glancing over to the side where he had heard his sister's voice, he could see she was already distracted. Making up his mind, he decided to do it. Gently he took her hand. When she went to tug it away, John tightened his grip.
"Please Mademoiselle, I want to apologize for anything I did earlier that offended you." John said sincerely as he gave a slight bow.
"You should." Christine sniffed at him but relented, "I forgive you. Michael explained to me that you were doing your job."
While John was suspicious of Michael still, he couldn't help but thank him for telling his sister the truth. John smiled at her. Christine smiled back at him. Inside John's chest felt tight as he gazed at her smiling at him. Unsure of himself, he took a step away from her. He didn't need a distraction while working on a case like this.
"Would you like to join me and my friends for dinner?" Christine offered.
Feeling his heart trying to jump out of his throat, John shook his head, "No thanks, mademoiselle. I have a sudden need for air."
Before Christine could say anymore, John bolted from the restaurant. Christine watched him go confused at first, then slowly her anger began to build. He obviously couldn't stand to be near her. Heaving a heavy sigh, Christine began to head back to her table.
Danesh was talking with some of the waiters when he saw Christine walking along like she just been told she lost a role. Excusing himself, Danesh jogged up to his goddaughter. Christine gave him a weak smile as he hugged her.
"Now why the long face?" Danesh smiled.
"No reason, Uncle Danesh." Christine shrugged.
Danesh quickly deduced the trouble in one word, "A man?"
Christine nodded. Danesh smiled and laid an arm across Christine's shoulder. Gently he directed their walk to the kitchen area.
With a sympathetic grin Danesh cooed, "Let's get some food and you tell me all about it."
Jessamine sat at a table all alone. She grumbled as she looked around for the clock, Her eyes settled on the broken one across the room.
"They still didn't fix it?" she said in an exasperated voice.
Then, she spotted Buquet's watch chain hanging out of his back pocket. She smirked as she quietly made her way over to him. He was engaged in a deep conversation with Aidan so it made it better on her part.
She gently tugged the chain and pulled it out of his pocket without him noticing. Aidan saw her do it, but didn't say anything because he didn't want to interrupt Buquet. She checked the time and then expertly pretended to pick it up off the ground. Tapping him on the shoulder, Buquet turned around surprised,
"Pardon moi M'sieur Buquet, but I think you dropped this." she smiled sweetly and held up the golden chain with the watch dangling at the bottom.
Buquet patted her on the head and turned to Aidan, "Isn't she a princess?"
He motioned towards Jessamine and she snickered pulling her pen from behind her ear and jotting something down. Then Buquet pulled out his watch and muttered something and walked away.
"Did I do well?" smirked Jessamine as Buquet walked away. "Pretty good for a beginner eh?"
"You're a sly one that's for sure," he said in an icy voice. "But I'd watch it Jess, not many people are as gullible or eccentric enough to believe you as Buquet."
Jessamine's smile faded from her face and she looked down to the ground shuffling her feet, "Merci for the advice," she muttered and then headed back towards her table, resting her head on her hand which was propped up on the table. She sighed and then pushed her sunglasses up the bridge of her nose looking around again.
'Impressive,' he thought to himself, 'She really isn't that bad, but I shouldn't encourage it in Buquet's little princess,' he almost smirked but then decided against it, still remaining stone faced.
Mirielle was looking around for her brother as she walked. Then, suddenly she tipped forward and into someone. She looked up and noticed those electric green eyes staring at her with a small smile on his lips.
"Fancy that," she said blushing as she stood up straight.
"It's not a problem," Michael said. "I guess it's just that we fell for each other." They both laughed at the comment and then he bent over and picked up her magnifying glass, "This little digit doesn't seem to want to stay with you."
"Merci," she smiled placing it back into its holster. "I was just wondering, where were you the other night?"
"I was in Perros on some family business, but I can't prove or disprove it," he smirked, "But, now I have a question for you."
"And what is that?" Mirielle said a little apprehensively.
Michael smiled at her nervousness. He was glad that he affected her as much as she affected him. Putting on his most gracious smile, he held out his hand to her. Mirielle looked at it trying to figure out what he was up to.
"Will you give me the pleasure of this dance?" Michael asked her.
Mirielle wasn't sure of what to do. Looking around, she couldn't see her brother anywhere. Taking a deep breathe, she placed her hand into his. Michael tenderly took it and led her out to the slowly filling dance floor as the band began to play. Michael placed one hand on her waist while he took her other hand into his. A smile touched his lips as he spotted his mother standing by the band leader.
Erika smiled as she watched Michael walk a young lady onto the dance floor. It was nice seeing him enjoy himself. Glancing around, she also spotted Aidan talking with another young woman. Her smile turned sad. They were growing up so quickly. Erika glanced up at the second level where James was watching her. He winked at her. Erika beamed brightly at her beloved husband.
The band leader nodded at her. Erika took a breath and began to sing a bluesy slow song. She hoped Aidan would finally ask another young lady to dance. It's been so long since she had seen him dancing the night away.
It's time to hold my hand
And take a chance
It's time to pay the band
And start the dance
We hear the melody
We know the song
It's time, I think
We're on the brink
Of waiting too long
Erika smiled as more dancers came out on to the dance floor. She looked up as James leaned on the railing. They smiled at each other. Erika felt her cheeks begin toget warm. After all these years he could still get her to blush.
Why not believe our eyes
And cross our hearts
Dispense with alibis
Enough false starts
It's time to put away
Our childish things
And time to trust
In us...and what tomorrow brings
Michael felt the music begin to take over as he danced with Mirielle. She fit in his arms just so perfectly. It saddened him that he would never have a chance with her. For the first time, he cursed the fact that he decided to be what he now was.
It's time to risk it all
And shoot the moon
So just let go and fall
It's not too soon
Before the clock strikes one more chime
Let's see if we can move love off this dime
'Cause when we kiss we both can see
It's time It's getting too late
For a lengthy debate
So let's go for the win
Let's give forever a shove
So that love can begin
Mirielle felt a little lightheaded as she gazed in Michael's green eyes. They seem to take on a sad quality as they stared at each other. She like how gentle he was with her despite his size and possible strength. Mentally, she slapped herself. Come on, Mirielle, she thought to herself, you are here on a case.
It's time to let it ride
'Cause time won't wait
If luck is on our side
It's not too late
Before we stumble past our prime
I know together we can make this climb
'Cause I believe for you and me...
It's time
Erika bowed as the patrons applauded her. Michael removed his hand from Mirielle's waist. Following an impulse, he brought her other hand to his mouth and he kissed it while holding her violet gaze. Mirielle felt her heart stop.
"Merci," Michael whispered, "That was an amazing experience."
Mirielle mutely nodded and watched as Michael walked away. She shook herself out of it when she spotted her brother walking back in. Determine to cover up the unrest inside, she put on a smile and walked towards him.
Jessamine let out a bored sigh and then saw Nadir roaming around the restaurant a handkerchief poking out of his pocket. She snickered and laid her notebook on the table. She casually strolled over behind him and went to take the handkerchief when his hand shot out at her and grabbed her wrist.
"What do you think you're doing?" he asked, his eyes narrowing.
"I was um, I was just uh, I was trying to um, I wanted to." she trailed off not able to come up with a good excuse.
She quickly looked around wondering if someone was going to help her, Nadir's hand tightly gripping her wrist, his hand getting tighter and tighter by the second. She winced and tried to pull free.Nadir's glare made her squirm as she stood there then a sigh of relief passed her lips as Aidan walked up.
"Uncle Nadir, what are you doing?" he asked laying his hand on his shoulder.
"The little thief tried to steal my silk handkerchief," he glared at Jessamine again, "If I were her father or any relative for that matter she would be-"
Aidan cut him off as he gaze Jessamine a convincing that made her want to shrink, "Uncle Nadir, I was just testing her abilities, she was going to give it back I assure you. Her tutoring shall be continued accordingly."
Nadir sneered and let go of her wrist and stormed off. "Thanks," she smiled shyly to Aidan, "you saved my skin. I didn't think he was so perceptive like that."
Aidan frowned, "Jessamine, you must remember what I told you before at all time, not all targets are easy. You must never think they won't explode or do something worse than that. You could get hurt, and we wouldn't want that would we?"
"I guess not," she looked to the ground as she hung her head. She looked up with her big blue eyes and made a puppy face, "Could you help me become better at pick pocketing? I need a way to make money other than writing my somber poems."
"What's your most recent creation anyway?" he asked, "The last one was quite good, I'd like to see a new one soon."
Jessamine flipped through some pages and then found a small poem. She smiled holding her notebook triumphantly in her hands. Aidan felt his heart speed up, but quickly ignored it.
"Here," she smirked handing him the paper. "Keep it; I know it by heart anyway."
"Alone," he mumbled the title. "So, we have another angst poem do we Jess? I'm glad to see that you are keeping theme."
Jessamine smiled and returned to her table alone. Aidan turned over the conversation they just had in his mind. She was in need of work, he figured that much. Recently, Krissy's old partner Shawn left for New York and Broadway so there was an opening. Aidan leaned back as he watched the young thief-writer looking around the dining area. Buquet would hire her in an instant since he liked the girl. However, Krissy would be harder to win over since it would be her partner.
Aidan stood up and looked around for the older stage hand. He smiled as she was walking towards him talking with Michael. Michael was frowning which meant they were arguing over bringing computers into the running of the backstage. Krissy grinned as they reached Aidan's table.
"Brother, can you talk some sense into her?" Michael pleaded.
Krissy rolled her eyes and took a seat, "He wants me to put in computers to help with the limes. That's breaking tradition."
"No it isn't. Not if you are short handed. Buquet still hasn't hired anyone to replace Shawn." Michael pointed out as he sat as well.
Aidan found his perfect opportunity and seized it, "Why hasn't Buquet hired anyone?"
Krissy sighed wistfully, "He is still hoping Shawn will return and we will be one happy family again. I can't convince him that Shawn isn't coming back. He just eloped with a dancer."
"Shawn did?" Michael gaped.
"Shut your mouth, Michael." Aidan joked getting a smile out of Krissy, "Will you be willing to hire anyone new?"
"Sure, we need the help." Krissy shrugged, "I would probably want someone fresh yet can understand the grind of the job."
"That's perfect." Aidan grinned.
Michael looked up at his brother in confusion while Krissy merely raised a brow and remarked, "Are you volunteering to help out? Thinking of changing careers on your old man?"
Aidan put his hands up, "Not me. I'll help out but I was thinking of someone with more time on their hands."
"Like?" Krissy prompted.
Aidan leaned forward so Jessamine couldn't hear, "Jessamine. She knows the theater and the basics."
Krissy ponder this and smiled, "She would be good. Buquet could hardly refuse to give her a job."
Michael nodded his agreement then gained a sly smile as he realized the implications, "Keeping her close, brother?"
Aidan glared at Michael, "Nonsense, She has some talents that I admire and think she should refine a little."
Krissy stood up and grinned down at them, "I don't want to know. I've learned that much from dealing with your father. Just remember Aidan, if I'm missing any thing you are the first person on my list to question and kill. Now I'm going to interview my potential employee."
With that Krissy walked over to Jessamine's table. Aidan watched with a faint smile as Krissy talked to her. Jessamine looked in Aidan's direction questioningly. Aidan nodded to her trying to wordlessly trying to get her to agree. Jessamine finally did. Aidan had a small smile on his face as he watched a look of joy sweep over Jessamine's face.
"So," Michael grinned now that he had some dirt on Aidan, "Heard from Cosette lately?"
"Who?" Aidan asked absently as he looked at Jessamine's face.
"Exactly what I was thinking." Michael grinned even wider.
As Mirielle walked off the dance floor she made her way to John and dragged him over to Deidre. "Who was that singing?" Mirielle abruptly asked as she finished dragging her brother to the table.
"That was Erika Noir, brilliant isn't she?" smiled Deidre. "Her voice is impeccable. I saw her sing twenty years ago and she's just as good as she was then, if not better."
John nodded but his attention was on Erika as she walked off the stage. She met a mysterious man in the shadows and after sharing a brief kiss they walked up the stairs. Tugging on Mirielle's dress John got her attention and whispered what he saw into her ear.
She nodded and then turned to Deidre, "Do you know if she's married or not?"
Deidre shrugged, "I have no idea. I don't usually tamper with my subject's private lives, only their stage life."
John burst into the conversation, "Well, then I suppose we'll have to find out for ourselves then won't we Mir?"
He smiled and then looked around. His heart wrenched when he saw Christine. He looked away and then back to the stairs. The two people were gone, however John was starving. "C'mon Mir, I'm sorry but my stomach can't wait anymore, I need some food."
"Danesh is a wonderful cook," Deidre interjected, "I think you two should join me, I was just about to eat anyway, sit," she motioned towards two empty chairs.
John took the one facing the stairs while Mirielle took the one closest to her. Deidre ordered for them, as she saw fit and the continued to talk about the music business and reminiscing about the past.
John looked around distractedly. He saw Christine head for the stairs and then disappeared up them. Noting that in his mind, he chuckled as Deidre mentioned an old babysitting job where peas managed to fling themselves across the room without any explanation.
John had the courtesy to blush when Mirielle agreed about how much of a brat he was. Looking for an escape, he watched as Michael and his look- alike head up the stairs, chatting about something. Michael's look-alike was blushing brightly as they climbed up and disappeared on to the upper landing. John definitely noted that and looked at his sister. Mirielle was listening to Deidre telling her stories about their father before he married their mother. John half listened to his old baby sitter, deciding to tell Mirielle about it later.