Title: Second Son 8/?
Author: Kim Riley a.k.a. MYSTIC
Disclaimer: The characters belong to James D. Parriot. Again since they are
no longer using them I've decided to take our boys out of the 'closet' and
let them play and be happy. Enjoy.
Summary: Vachon, whether or not he wants too gets in between Nick and his
Father LaCroix and finds he is jealous...of Nick, wanting what the other
vampire does not...a loving, doting Father who would truly want him...even if
it's only by placing himself in the role of substitute.
Note: It has been a long time since I've watched a Forever Knight episode,
but since this is an AU...it shouldn't matter too much. Also...I don't speak,
read, or write French or Spanish...so if any appears here it'll be minimum
and don't flame me if I get it wrong, please.
Rating: R (M/M heavily implied and language)
Pairing: Vachon/LaCroix, Vachon/Nick, Vachon/Nick/LaCroix
Archive: at the Chakotay Forever Archive.
If you wish to post it, please just let me know where.
Feedback: Please! Mysticmcknight@hotmail.com
"Second Son"
Vachon woke once more, snuggled deep into a comfortable embrace that was tender and protective. It took him a moment to realize he was in Nick's arms; that he had come to him after he had heard his outburst to LaCroix. He thought back a little and heard Nick's soft words of love, which touched him, but seeing him turn off his cell and pager...those actions spoke volumes to him. Nick did love him and cared for him, but now what? He slowly turned and his motions woke his resting lover, who now looked down at him, and Vachon saw Nick's blue eyes spring into life as he smiled at him.
"Feeling better," Nick asked softly, shifting so he was on his side and Javier on his back, but still his arms around his lover.
"Yes, thank you," Vachon replied, still unsure what to say.
Nick could see the hesitation and believed he understood, "In case you didn't hear me the first time," he smiled warmly, "I happen to love you too, Javier Vachon, and would like us to be together for as long as our hearts and souls wish to be so," he stated, for there was no such thing as forever among Vampires...too many things changed; though for a rare some, they had spent hundreds of years together. He didn't know how long his time with Vachon would last, but he wanted that chance and that love in his life for however long possible.
"I would like that too," Vachon admitted in a soft still hesitant voice. "Though I tell you now, I have never been in a long term relationship, I may make mistakes..."
Nick saw the desire to make this work burn brightly in Vachon's dark eyes and understood the words; Javier wanted this, but knew things would not be perfect. "No one is perfect, mon coeur (my hear), not even me," he teased, glad to see the smile cross his lover's face. "But we must be willing to talk about what is in our hearts, good and bad, if we are to have a chance of longevity," he added, as it was the only way he could see it possible. "Agreed?"
Vachon nodded his agreement, though he knew that total honesty was never a vampire's best trait. They learned to lie quickly and often to cover their tracks and to hide things they would not wish to deal with, be it with others or themselves, but he was willing to try with Nick and hoped Nick was just as wiling with him. "Alright, but lets just take it one day...er night," he smiled softly, "at a time, okay?"
Nick understood the comment; Vachon did not want to push things, still giving him his freedom and loved him even more for it. "Agreed," he replied and kissed his love tenderly.
Vachon, still a bit shaky got up and noticed how late it was, "aren't you going to be late for work?"
"No, I decided to take a sick day, said I had a family emergency," he smiled warmly, his eyes loving as he caressed his beloved's face. "And I did...you needed me," he added honestly.
"Oh Nick," Vachon replied, feeling totally sentimental and mushy, a feeling he normally would avoid, but found it not only fitting, but right at present, as he leaned in and once more claimed his love's lips. "Make love to me," he whispered between soul searing kisses. They had been with each other dozens of times and the sex was awesome, but he wanted Nick to love him, to show him just how he really felt about him outside of the carnal desire and passion they both shared for each other.
Nick leaned back and drank in the soft unique beauty of his dark lover and his heart pounded at his request. He had cared deeply for many people in his long life, but only loved a few, but even that love for Jeanette, LaCroix, and even his wife, had not felt like this. There were no words he could say to express his desire to fulfill Javier's request, so he would show it; he would make love to his precious heart, and do what he should have done before now; demonstrate just how much he did love him, not only in body, but their vampire embrace; he would let it flow in his blood and not block it or be afraid for Vachon to experience it, and in return he would ask for nothing, as that was not what love was about. It was about giving and it was high time he started doing it.
***********
Due the fact that Vachon was still upset with LaCroix and was sure the older vampire was upset with him, Nick eventually persuaded his lover to accompany him back to his loft, where they spent the rest of the evening in each others arms, be it in the bath or bed, talking, sharing stories of their past until sleep came over them with the rising of the sun.
Nick opened his eyes at the sensation of the approaching presence; it was human and coming up in the elevator. He looked to see Vachon was awake also, having sensed the person's arrival.
"It's Dr. Lambert," Javier muttered, trying to keep the disgust from his voice. He would offer to leave, but it was day, so he was trapped in the loft with 'that' woman.
Nick understood what his lover was feeling; Vachon's blood still pumping through his veins so the bound between them was still strong. "It'll be okay," Nick assured him as he got up and placed on his blue Kimono and tied it around himself as he headed downstairs in time to see Natalie open the elevator door.
"You could have called," Nick stated as his greeting.
"I have called, dozens of times, and I get your answering machine, your cell just rings and you don't answer my page. Tracy said you called out sick....damn it, Nick, I was worried...."
"I'm fine, Natalie, I had something important and 'personal' to take care of..."
"Oh, so its okay to make your friends worry," she snapped back, her eyes scrutinizing him, knowing something was different about her friend; had been for over six months.
"Look, I'm sorry, Nat, but there is no reason to get so bent out of shape, I'm fine..."
"What's going on, Nick? You haven't been yourself for awhile now," she asked moving closer to him, trying to gauge what was different with him.
Nick raised a brow, "I haven't been acting 'myself'? Nat, you're staking out my loft..."
"I was not," she denied somewhat poorly, "I was simply waiting to check on you and I got off early..." she tried to defend.
"Once I might buy that, but every night for over a week..."
"I was 'not' staking out your loft, don't be ridiculous. I...admit, I've been waiting for you from time to time, but....only because I'm worried about you. You've changed...you've stopped the treatment, that much I'm sure of...but it makes me concerned what else you've changed..."
"I haven't killed anyone, Nat," Nick growled, his temper a bit edgy.
"Okay," she nodded wanting to believe him, "then what's up with you? You vanish all the time, distracted..."
"Nat, I care for you as a friend very much, so please don't take this wrong, but mind your own business. I have 'my' life and you have yours," he retorted firmly.
"Oh, that's gratitude for you. I've been busting my butt for years and this is the thanks I get..."
"Then stop," Nick snapped, moving to the kitchen to get something to drink to squelch the feeling inside him, that she was causing. He grabbed out a green bottle of bolvine bloodwine and bit the cork and spit it into the sink, and drank from it, his back to her as she continued on.
"What, you've given up suddenly? After all these years? Nick, we were so close," she said, her plea clear in her voice.
"No we were not," Nick spun around, his anger building. "We were 'not' close, Natalie and I'm 'tried' of pretending otherwise. I am what I am, and I'm just going to just have to accept that..."
"A vampire," she sneered. "You're just going to revert back to...that beast..."
"No," a second voice floated inward to the conversation.
Natalie turned to see Vachon was there, dressed in blue jeans and a raggedy grey T-shrit...barefoot, leaning on the kitchen archway.
"Vachon..." Nick warned, wanting his lover to stay out of it.
"No, Nick, I will not stay out of this. She is downing part of who you are," he stated firmly, then looked at her. "The key word there, 'Doctor', is part. Nick is 'not' just a vampire nor is he human, he is both. Many of our kind dismiss the human half as it causes pain and guilt, but not 'all' of us do; Nick didn't. His guilt may have driven him to want redemption and his pursuit of being mortal again, but its also allowed him to see that he is 'two' halves of one whole; why do you deny him his peace?"
While Natalie stared stunned, Nick placed the bottle down on the counter and moved passed her and embraced Vachon tightly; for no one had ever understood him as his love did and just now proved. "Thank you," he whispered as kissed his love's cheek and hugged him tightly again and welcomed his embrace in return.
"My pleasure, mi Tesoro," Vachon replied in a hushed voice and then leaned back to look at Natalie that had observed a bit more than perhaps was intended as she glared at him. He had a few more things to say to this woman, but would refrain and let Nick handle the rest; he just couldn't remain quiet and let her down him or make him feel guilty for being who he was. He turned and placed a quick kiss on Nick's forehead and whispered in Spanish he'd be upstairs and left.
"He did this," she growled. "He manipulated you somehow to give up..."
"Stop it, Natalie," Nick warned. "Stop it now while we still remain friends. Yes, Vachon is behind my change, but because 'I' wanted it, not because he did anything but love me..."
"Love...?"
"Yes, Nat. I love Vachon and he loves me," he stated firmly feeling a weight lift from his soul at the declaration
"But...but...he's....he's a guy?"
Nick snickers, "I am far too old to be held back from love because of gender or foolish notions." He then sobered, "I tried to tell you, Nat, that 'nothing' could happen between us. I'm sorry you didn't listen, but I was not going to put my life on hold for fantasies..."
"It wasn't a fantasy; you stood in the sun..."
"It was a fluke, Nat, nothing more. It didn't work again...its not meant to work again. I have a chance to be happy, Natalie, with someone who understands me...'all' of me. Not someone who wants me solely for the vampire or someone who wants me solely for being human," he states, looking at Natalie, knowing she understood; whether or not she would admit it or not was another issue.
"What of Tracy, she cares..."
"Nat, stop. She's not an issue here," he stated firmly. "Look, you can either accept this or not, but that is your choice, your 'only' choice. I love Vachon and will be with him. Tracy doesn't know of me and it would be 'best' if it remained that way. Now, it's late, you should go home," he suggested, gathering his bottle from the counter and grabbed a second and moved to the bottom of the stairwell, waiting for Natalie to leave.
"So...that's it," she asked moving to the elevator, stunned. "All these years wasted..."
"They were not wasted," Nick replied firmly. "They helped me find 'me', that was not wasted and I'm sorry if you feel that way."
"Nick..." she tried once more.
"Good day, Natalie," he bid, wanting her to leave. He watched as she moved dejectedly into the elevator and left.
"You okay," Vachon asked, suddenly by his side, his arms gently wrapping around him.
Nick turned and rested his head on Vachon's shoulders, snuggling into his embrace, "I will be," he smiled softly, savoring his lover's presence. "I will be."
*************
Over the next two weeks, Vachon was very surprised indeed, not only by the lavish attention his lover gave him, be it with little gestures like calls on the cell phone Nick bought him, but stopping by the club a couple times a night if working, and then to pick him up before dawn, since the second surprise was his work 'at' the Raven had increased not decreased as he would have thought. It seemed that LaCroix for his part had decided to keep a low profile, but with LaCroix grace...he was needed elsewhere was his announcement to the staff, who knew nothing of the incident between Vachon, Nick and himself. He also announced that while away, Vachon would be overseeing the Raven and to follow his instructions; this came as quiet a surprise to Javier who knew nothing of this until Rene contacted him to tell him and for a few decisions on some already building issues.
Nick told Vachon he could turn it down, but Javier replied, "Only if I wish to die a slow painful death," he chuckled with little humor, "that would be the biggest slap in the face ever, and even 'I'm' not 'that' stupid," he replied, slightly annoyed that Nick thought that just 'anyone' could say no to Lucien LaCroix. Didn't Nick realize that had he been anyone else, he'd have been dead centuries ago for half the stunts he's pulled much less some of the attitudes and actions he's carried out with LaCroix; obviously not, he concluded or Nick wouldn't have suggested what he did. Vachon loved the tender heart and the strength of the hunter within, but still that bit of jealousy reared its ugly head at how Nick scoffed at his Father as if he were something to be dismissed.
Vachon tactfully informed Nick it would be a bad idea, and so gathered up his courage and returned to the Raven the next night and had been almost as busy as Nick, with handling the band, the restocking, and many other issues that come from running a night club/vampire hangout. Thankfully he didn't have to concern himself with the 'Nightcrawler' as Rene placed in the prerecorded tapes at the correct times.
"You know, outside the grunge ware, you're quiet the business man," Urs remarked as she just came off duty from her shift and sat with him in a booth, thankful that nepotism still had its rewards, as Vachon gave her a better shift, allowing her some free time each night. "You not only kept things going, you've increased business with the live band, but do you think LaCroix will care for the...new...décor," she asked, for though minor, Javier had hated the chains and morbid motif, not that he didn't like the 'dead' thing at times, he just thought it was getting a bit over done, plus clubs needed to have a few changes to keep people coming back, not that the Raven needed too much, as it had a steady supply of customers just 'dying' to get in, as there was no other place in town to get a steady supply of 'blood' safely in Toronto, unless you wanted to face LaCroix, who by law as eldest in Toronto classified him as leader. In the old days it would have made him Prince and that would have made Nick his princeling, but it did seem over the centuries, that even for Vampires, some traditions faded, though slowly. The laws were still there even if the titles were not. LaCroix held a strict reign on hunting in his territory and those who crossed it rarely survived to do it again, which none never did.
"I remember telling you once that I 'did' know what I was talking about," Vachon laughed as he sat back sipping his drink, waiting for Nick to arrive, glad that Rene was reliable and would lock up the club and give him a full report the next evening. Of course, Vachon verified that report personally and hand checked a few things; he was no fool, and found a few of the staff thought otherwise, though not Rene. Vachon simply humiliated them verbally, as he didn't care for physical violence or conflict unless necessary.
"I still think it's either luck or your getting it out of a book," teased Urs. "that or Screed, is helping you," she laughed. "You live in an abandoned church for goodness sake, and with the exception of the last few months, forgot what a new set of clothes were."
"So I decided to simplify my life," Vachon grinned, use to the teasing and welcomed it from his daughter, which slowly was taking on a whole new meaning for him. He was beginning to see more of what being a family was and was trying to relay that to his child, his responsibility. He leaned forward and caressed her golden locks, similar to his Nick's and then caressed her cheek, "I may cut out non-essentials, Urs, but you will always be one of the treasures of my heart, and with that, I am a rich man indeed," he smiled lovingly.
Urs felt the honesty in her creator's words and blinked back tears as she was touched. "Man, you've been drinking too much again," she replied to cover her reaction to his words. She was not use to him being so tender and honest, though she never doubted he cared for her, he just wasn't so open as he was at this moment. Then again, he had become more...attuned to her lately, becoming more of the 'father' he was considered to be by the community, than merely the friend he's always simply been, and a part of her was nervous about the change, but welcomed it, as she'd seen others with their 'parent' and wanted the same...seemed like she was going to get it and was secretly overjoyed; yes, Nick Knight was a great influence on Vachon, and whether Javier knew it or not, so was LaCroix.
Urs saw Vachon's eyes light up and knew Nick had arrived and turned to see the Toronto Detective move through the crowd toward their back table, his look indicating things at work did not go well. "Nick," she greeted warmly, though a bit more reserved sensing his mood.
"Hey Urs," he replied and slid into the back booth and scooted as close to his lover as he could, welcoming the shadows and kissed his lover tenderly, not caring who was looking; he needed the connection to his lover, his heart at present. "Missed you," he whispered, then sat up and took the rest of Vachon's drink and gulped it down, uncaring what was in it.
"That bad, huh," Vachon asked, as he was able to read his lover a lot better then ever as their bound grew as the more times they shared blood and love.
Before Nick could say more Rene was at the table, not only with a fresh bottle but with concern on his face as well. "Sorry to disturb you, but there is an Enforcer here to see you," he stated in a 'very' low voice that only those at the table could hear, though he looked directly at Vachon.
Vachon paled, and Nick placed a protective hand on his, "Whatever for," he demanded.
"She wouldn't tell me," Rene replied honestly. "But it is not wise to keep them waiting," he offered. "She's in the office," he added before leaving.
"I don't recall doing anything wrong," Vachon stuttered slightly.
"I'll go..." Nick started to offer.
"No, she wanted to see me," Vachon interjected, finding his courage.
"At lest let me come with you," Nick asked, though he was going regardless, he hoped he wouldn't have to force the matter. He was glad to see Vachon nod yes.
"Urs, stay here," Vachon ordered quietly but indicated she needed to let him out.
Nick and Vachon walked quietly, taking comfort in the bond between them, as they approached the door to LaCrox's office. Vachon opened the door and saw the tall slim woman, her smooth mocha skin, and pulled back dark hair, giving off the impression of a young executive, as she stood in a dark blue power suit. "Can I help you," Vachon effected 'very' properly, almost sounding a touch 'English' as a gentlemen would in the old days.
If the matter was not so serious, Nick would have smirked at hearing this, his lover sounding so 'proper' who normally slummed not only his clothes but his language from time to time; seemed there was a lot to his lover he still needed to discover and Nick knew he would enjoy the journey. He then looked at the woman and recalled her face and name from time gone by, "I would say it was a pleasure to see you again, Na'isha, but as you are here on business, I'm sure you'll understand why I do not," he greeted.
The Enforcer only arched a well groomed brow, "Nicholas," was all she said then looked at Vachon and her eyes scanned him, and held some contempt. "So, 'you' are Javier Vachon," she stated as she was highly disappointed.
"Yes I am, and again good woman, how is it I can help you," Vachon replied, again effecting the perfect gentlemen, which seemed to catch the Enforcer a bit off her guard as well as Nick.
Deciding to put personal thoughts aside, Na'isha cleared her throat. "There was been a violation of the laws here in the City..."
"The killings," Nick interjected as that was why his evening was so upsetting. He was going to discuss it with Vachon, but did not have time as they were interrupted. He also would have to get word to LaCroix as to what his master would want to do about it. He was surprised to see an Enforcer here discussing this with Vachon.
"You are 'aware' of the violation," Na'isha asked, her suspicion clear in her dark ebony eyes.
"As you know I'm a detective, homicide is my department. I learned of them only recently tonight just prior to coming here," Nick replied evenly.
Na'isha's suspicions eased as she nodded her head; "Very well," she said then looked back at Vachon. "Though many do not hold to the old titles, LaCroix is considered 'Prince' of this area and is responsible for justice and retribution within his domain. Since he his not available, by law he must chose either his Minister or one of his children to oversee all while he is not available or remain available.
"According to tradition, a 'Minister' is announced in a formal setting so 'all' knew who they were, and over saw some of the Prince's affairs. To my knowledge, this has 'not' occurred," Vachon replied, his manner's impeccable, as he turned to Nick. "Are you aware of anyone baring such title?"
Nick shook his head, not only surprised that Vachon knew of ways older then himself and rarely put into practice since the new world, but his manner; it was like the laid back Vachon he knew had vanished at the door and this 'diplomat' entered with him instead. "No, LaCroix said he didn't need one."
"That is correct," Na'isha replied, her tone annoyed as she knew this already. "LaCroix left word with us, as is proper, that should anything occur, we were to contact his son..."
Nick was about to speak up, but Na'ish continued.
"...Javier Vachon, here at the Raven." She looked at Nick, "he added that his first son was too busy for the job and that his second would be more then sufficient to handle any problems that may arise."
****End of Part Eight****
"Second Son"
Vachon woke once more, snuggled deep into a comfortable embrace that was tender and protective. It took him a moment to realize he was in Nick's arms; that he had come to him after he had heard his outburst to LaCroix. He thought back a little and heard Nick's soft words of love, which touched him, but seeing him turn off his cell and pager...those actions spoke volumes to him. Nick did love him and cared for him, but now what? He slowly turned and his motions woke his resting lover, who now looked down at him, and Vachon saw Nick's blue eyes spring into life as he smiled at him.
"Feeling better," Nick asked softly, shifting so he was on his side and Javier on his back, but still his arms around his lover.
"Yes, thank you," Vachon replied, still unsure what to say.
Nick could see the hesitation and believed he understood, "In case you didn't hear me the first time," he smiled warmly, "I happen to love you too, Javier Vachon, and would like us to be together for as long as our hearts and souls wish to be so," he stated, for there was no such thing as forever among Vampires...too many things changed; though for a rare some, they had spent hundreds of years together. He didn't know how long his time with Vachon would last, but he wanted that chance and that love in his life for however long possible.
"I would like that too," Vachon admitted in a soft still hesitant voice. "Though I tell you now, I have never been in a long term relationship, I may make mistakes..."
Nick saw the desire to make this work burn brightly in Vachon's dark eyes and understood the words; Javier wanted this, but knew things would not be perfect. "No one is perfect, mon coeur (my hear), not even me," he teased, glad to see the smile cross his lover's face. "But we must be willing to talk about what is in our hearts, good and bad, if we are to have a chance of longevity," he added, as it was the only way he could see it possible. "Agreed?"
Vachon nodded his agreement, though he knew that total honesty was never a vampire's best trait. They learned to lie quickly and often to cover their tracks and to hide things they would not wish to deal with, be it with others or themselves, but he was willing to try with Nick and hoped Nick was just as wiling with him. "Alright, but lets just take it one day...er night," he smiled softly, "at a time, okay?"
Nick understood the comment; Vachon did not want to push things, still giving him his freedom and loved him even more for it. "Agreed," he replied and kissed his love tenderly.
Vachon, still a bit shaky got up and noticed how late it was, "aren't you going to be late for work?"
"No, I decided to take a sick day, said I had a family emergency," he smiled warmly, his eyes loving as he caressed his beloved's face. "And I did...you needed me," he added honestly.
"Oh Nick," Vachon replied, feeling totally sentimental and mushy, a feeling he normally would avoid, but found it not only fitting, but right at present, as he leaned in and once more claimed his love's lips. "Make love to me," he whispered between soul searing kisses. They had been with each other dozens of times and the sex was awesome, but he wanted Nick to love him, to show him just how he really felt about him outside of the carnal desire and passion they both shared for each other.
Nick leaned back and drank in the soft unique beauty of his dark lover and his heart pounded at his request. He had cared deeply for many people in his long life, but only loved a few, but even that love for Jeanette, LaCroix, and even his wife, had not felt like this. There were no words he could say to express his desire to fulfill Javier's request, so he would show it; he would make love to his precious heart, and do what he should have done before now; demonstrate just how much he did love him, not only in body, but their vampire embrace; he would let it flow in his blood and not block it or be afraid for Vachon to experience it, and in return he would ask for nothing, as that was not what love was about. It was about giving and it was high time he started doing it.
***********
Due the fact that Vachon was still upset with LaCroix and was sure the older vampire was upset with him, Nick eventually persuaded his lover to accompany him back to his loft, where they spent the rest of the evening in each others arms, be it in the bath or bed, talking, sharing stories of their past until sleep came over them with the rising of the sun.
Nick opened his eyes at the sensation of the approaching presence; it was human and coming up in the elevator. He looked to see Vachon was awake also, having sensed the person's arrival.
"It's Dr. Lambert," Javier muttered, trying to keep the disgust from his voice. He would offer to leave, but it was day, so he was trapped in the loft with 'that' woman.
Nick understood what his lover was feeling; Vachon's blood still pumping through his veins so the bound between them was still strong. "It'll be okay," Nick assured him as he got up and placed on his blue Kimono and tied it around himself as he headed downstairs in time to see Natalie open the elevator door.
"You could have called," Nick stated as his greeting.
"I have called, dozens of times, and I get your answering machine, your cell just rings and you don't answer my page. Tracy said you called out sick....damn it, Nick, I was worried...."
"I'm fine, Natalie, I had something important and 'personal' to take care of..."
"Oh, so its okay to make your friends worry," she snapped back, her eyes scrutinizing him, knowing something was different about her friend; had been for over six months.
"Look, I'm sorry, Nat, but there is no reason to get so bent out of shape, I'm fine..."
"What's going on, Nick? You haven't been yourself for awhile now," she asked moving closer to him, trying to gauge what was different with him.
Nick raised a brow, "I haven't been acting 'myself'? Nat, you're staking out my loft..."
"I was not," she denied somewhat poorly, "I was simply waiting to check on you and I got off early..." she tried to defend.
"Once I might buy that, but every night for over a week..."
"I was 'not' staking out your loft, don't be ridiculous. I...admit, I've been waiting for you from time to time, but....only because I'm worried about you. You've changed...you've stopped the treatment, that much I'm sure of...but it makes me concerned what else you've changed..."
"I haven't killed anyone, Nat," Nick growled, his temper a bit edgy.
"Okay," she nodded wanting to believe him, "then what's up with you? You vanish all the time, distracted..."
"Nat, I care for you as a friend very much, so please don't take this wrong, but mind your own business. I have 'my' life and you have yours," he retorted firmly.
"Oh, that's gratitude for you. I've been busting my butt for years and this is the thanks I get..."
"Then stop," Nick snapped, moving to the kitchen to get something to drink to squelch the feeling inside him, that she was causing. He grabbed out a green bottle of bolvine bloodwine and bit the cork and spit it into the sink, and drank from it, his back to her as she continued on.
"What, you've given up suddenly? After all these years? Nick, we were so close," she said, her plea clear in her voice.
"No we were not," Nick spun around, his anger building. "We were 'not' close, Natalie and I'm 'tried' of pretending otherwise. I am what I am, and I'm just going to just have to accept that..."
"A vampire," she sneered. "You're just going to revert back to...that beast..."
"No," a second voice floated inward to the conversation.
Natalie turned to see Vachon was there, dressed in blue jeans and a raggedy grey T-shrit...barefoot, leaning on the kitchen archway.
"Vachon..." Nick warned, wanting his lover to stay out of it.
"No, Nick, I will not stay out of this. She is downing part of who you are," he stated firmly, then looked at her. "The key word there, 'Doctor', is part. Nick is 'not' just a vampire nor is he human, he is both. Many of our kind dismiss the human half as it causes pain and guilt, but not 'all' of us do; Nick didn't. His guilt may have driven him to want redemption and his pursuit of being mortal again, but its also allowed him to see that he is 'two' halves of one whole; why do you deny him his peace?"
While Natalie stared stunned, Nick placed the bottle down on the counter and moved passed her and embraced Vachon tightly; for no one had ever understood him as his love did and just now proved. "Thank you," he whispered as kissed his love's cheek and hugged him tightly again and welcomed his embrace in return.
"My pleasure, mi Tesoro," Vachon replied in a hushed voice and then leaned back to look at Natalie that had observed a bit more than perhaps was intended as she glared at him. He had a few more things to say to this woman, but would refrain and let Nick handle the rest; he just couldn't remain quiet and let her down him or make him feel guilty for being who he was. He turned and placed a quick kiss on Nick's forehead and whispered in Spanish he'd be upstairs and left.
"He did this," she growled. "He manipulated you somehow to give up..."
"Stop it, Natalie," Nick warned. "Stop it now while we still remain friends. Yes, Vachon is behind my change, but because 'I' wanted it, not because he did anything but love me..."
"Love...?"
"Yes, Nat. I love Vachon and he loves me," he stated firmly feeling a weight lift from his soul at the declaration
"But...but...he's....he's a guy?"
Nick snickers, "I am far too old to be held back from love because of gender or foolish notions." He then sobered, "I tried to tell you, Nat, that 'nothing' could happen between us. I'm sorry you didn't listen, but I was not going to put my life on hold for fantasies..."
"It wasn't a fantasy; you stood in the sun..."
"It was a fluke, Nat, nothing more. It didn't work again...its not meant to work again. I have a chance to be happy, Natalie, with someone who understands me...'all' of me. Not someone who wants me solely for the vampire or someone who wants me solely for being human," he states, looking at Natalie, knowing she understood; whether or not she would admit it or not was another issue.
"What of Tracy, she cares..."
"Nat, stop. She's not an issue here," he stated firmly. "Look, you can either accept this or not, but that is your choice, your 'only' choice. I love Vachon and will be with him. Tracy doesn't know of me and it would be 'best' if it remained that way. Now, it's late, you should go home," he suggested, gathering his bottle from the counter and grabbed a second and moved to the bottom of the stairwell, waiting for Natalie to leave.
"So...that's it," she asked moving to the elevator, stunned. "All these years wasted..."
"They were not wasted," Nick replied firmly. "They helped me find 'me', that was not wasted and I'm sorry if you feel that way."
"Nick..." she tried once more.
"Good day, Natalie," he bid, wanting her to leave. He watched as she moved dejectedly into the elevator and left.
"You okay," Vachon asked, suddenly by his side, his arms gently wrapping around him.
Nick turned and rested his head on Vachon's shoulders, snuggling into his embrace, "I will be," he smiled softly, savoring his lover's presence. "I will be."
*************
Over the next two weeks, Vachon was very surprised indeed, not only by the lavish attention his lover gave him, be it with little gestures like calls on the cell phone Nick bought him, but stopping by the club a couple times a night if working, and then to pick him up before dawn, since the second surprise was his work 'at' the Raven had increased not decreased as he would have thought. It seemed that LaCroix for his part had decided to keep a low profile, but with LaCroix grace...he was needed elsewhere was his announcement to the staff, who knew nothing of the incident between Vachon, Nick and himself. He also announced that while away, Vachon would be overseeing the Raven and to follow his instructions; this came as quiet a surprise to Javier who knew nothing of this until Rene contacted him to tell him and for a few decisions on some already building issues.
Nick told Vachon he could turn it down, but Javier replied, "Only if I wish to die a slow painful death," he chuckled with little humor, "that would be the biggest slap in the face ever, and even 'I'm' not 'that' stupid," he replied, slightly annoyed that Nick thought that just 'anyone' could say no to Lucien LaCroix. Didn't Nick realize that had he been anyone else, he'd have been dead centuries ago for half the stunts he's pulled much less some of the attitudes and actions he's carried out with LaCroix; obviously not, he concluded or Nick wouldn't have suggested what he did. Vachon loved the tender heart and the strength of the hunter within, but still that bit of jealousy reared its ugly head at how Nick scoffed at his Father as if he were something to be dismissed.
Vachon tactfully informed Nick it would be a bad idea, and so gathered up his courage and returned to the Raven the next night and had been almost as busy as Nick, with handling the band, the restocking, and many other issues that come from running a night club/vampire hangout. Thankfully he didn't have to concern himself with the 'Nightcrawler' as Rene placed in the prerecorded tapes at the correct times.
"You know, outside the grunge ware, you're quiet the business man," Urs remarked as she just came off duty from her shift and sat with him in a booth, thankful that nepotism still had its rewards, as Vachon gave her a better shift, allowing her some free time each night. "You not only kept things going, you've increased business with the live band, but do you think LaCroix will care for the...new...décor," she asked, for though minor, Javier had hated the chains and morbid motif, not that he didn't like the 'dead' thing at times, he just thought it was getting a bit over done, plus clubs needed to have a few changes to keep people coming back, not that the Raven needed too much, as it had a steady supply of customers just 'dying' to get in, as there was no other place in town to get a steady supply of 'blood' safely in Toronto, unless you wanted to face LaCroix, who by law as eldest in Toronto classified him as leader. In the old days it would have made him Prince and that would have made Nick his princeling, but it did seem over the centuries, that even for Vampires, some traditions faded, though slowly. The laws were still there even if the titles were not. LaCroix held a strict reign on hunting in his territory and those who crossed it rarely survived to do it again, which none never did.
"I remember telling you once that I 'did' know what I was talking about," Vachon laughed as he sat back sipping his drink, waiting for Nick to arrive, glad that Rene was reliable and would lock up the club and give him a full report the next evening. Of course, Vachon verified that report personally and hand checked a few things; he was no fool, and found a few of the staff thought otherwise, though not Rene. Vachon simply humiliated them verbally, as he didn't care for physical violence or conflict unless necessary.
"I still think it's either luck or your getting it out of a book," teased Urs. "that or Screed, is helping you," she laughed. "You live in an abandoned church for goodness sake, and with the exception of the last few months, forgot what a new set of clothes were."
"So I decided to simplify my life," Vachon grinned, use to the teasing and welcomed it from his daughter, which slowly was taking on a whole new meaning for him. He was beginning to see more of what being a family was and was trying to relay that to his child, his responsibility. He leaned forward and caressed her golden locks, similar to his Nick's and then caressed her cheek, "I may cut out non-essentials, Urs, but you will always be one of the treasures of my heart, and with that, I am a rich man indeed," he smiled lovingly.
Urs felt the honesty in her creator's words and blinked back tears as she was touched. "Man, you've been drinking too much again," she replied to cover her reaction to his words. She was not use to him being so tender and honest, though she never doubted he cared for her, he just wasn't so open as he was at this moment. Then again, he had become more...attuned to her lately, becoming more of the 'father' he was considered to be by the community, than merely the friend he's always simply been, and a part of her was nervous about the change, but welcomed it, as she'd seen others with their 'parent' and wanted the same...seemed like she was going to get it and was secretly overjoyed; yes, Nick Knight was a great influence on Vachon, and whether Javier knew it or not, so was LaCroix.
Urs saw Vachon's eyes light up and knew Nick had arrived and turned to see the Toronto Detective move through the crowd toward their back table, his look indicating things at work did not go well. "Nick," she greeted warmly, though a bit more reserved sensing his mood.
"Hey Urs," he replied and slid into the back booth and scooted as close to his lover as he could, welcoming the shadows and kissed his lover tenderly, not caring who was looking; he needed the connection to his lover, his heart at present. "Missed you," he whispered, then sat up and took the rest of Vachon's drink and gulped it down, uncaring what was in it.
"That bad, huh," Vachon asked, as he was able to read his lover a lot better then ever as their bound grew as the more times they shared blood and love.
Before Nick could say more Rene was at the table, not only with a fresh bottle but with concern on his face as well. "Sorry to disturb you, but there is an Enforcer here to see you," he stated in a 'very' low voice that only those at the table could hear, though he looked directly at Vachon.
Vachon paled, and Nick placed a protective hand on his, "Whatever for," he demanded.
"She wouldn't tell me," Rene replied honestly. "But it is not wise to keep them waiting," he offered. "She's in the office," he added before leaving.
"I don't recall doing anything wrong," Vachon stuttered slightly.
"I'll go..." Nick started to offer.
"No, she wanted to see me," Vachon interjected, finding his courage.
"At lest let me come with you," Nick asked, though he was going regardless, he hoped he wouldn't have to force the matter. He was glad to see Vachon nod yes.
"Urs, stay here," Vachon ordered quietly but indicated she needed to let him out.
Nick and Vachon walked quietly, taking comfort in the bond between them, as they approached the door to LaCrox's office. Vachon opened the door and saw the tall slim woman, her smooth mocha skin, and pulled back dark hair, giving off the impression of a young executive, as she stood in a dark blue power suit. "Can I help you," Vachon effected 'very' properly, almost sounding a touch 'English' as a gentlemen would in the old days.
If the matter was not so serious, Nick would have smirked at hearing this, his lover sounding so 'proper' who normally slummed not only his clothes but his language from time to time; seemed there was a lot to his lover he still needed to discover and Nick knew he would enjoy the journey. He then looked at the woman and recalled her face and name from time gone by, "I would say it was a pleasure to see you again, Na'isha, but as you are here on business, I'm sure you'll understand why I do not," he greeted.
The Enforcer only arched a well groomed brow, "Nicholas," was all she said then looked at Vachon and her eyes scanned him, and held some contempt. "So, 'you' are Javier Vachon," she stated as she was highly disappointed.
"Yes I am, and again good woman, how is it I can help you," Vachon replied, again effecting the perfect gentlemen, which seemed to catch the Enforcer a bit off her guard as well as Nick.
Deciding to put personal thoughts aside, Na'isha cleared her throat. "There was been a violation of the laws here in the City..."
"The killings," Nick interjected as that was why his evening was so upsetting. He was going to discuss it with Vachon, but did not have time as they were interrupted. He also would have to get word to LaCroix as to what his master would want to do about it. He was surprised to see an Enforcer here discussing this with Vachon.
"You are 'aware' of the violation," Na'isha asked, her suspicion clear in her dark ebony eyes.
"As you know I'm a detective, homicide is my department. I learned of them only recently tonight just prior to coming here," Nick replied evenly.
Na'isha's suspicions eased as she nodded her head; "Very well," she said then looked back at Vachon. "Though many do not hold to the old titles, LaCroix is considered 'Prince' of this area and is responsible for justice and retribution within his domain. Since he his not available, by law he must chose either his Minister or one of his children to oversee all while he is not available or remain available.
"According to tradition, a 'Minister' is announced in a formal setting so 'all' knew who they were, and over saw some of the Prince's affairs. To my knowledge, this has 'not' occurred," Vachon replied, his manner's impeccable, as he turned to Nick. "Are you aware of anyone baring such title?"
Nick shook his head, not only surprised that Vachon knew of ways older then himself and rarely put into practice since the new world, but his manner; it was like the laid back Vachon he knew had vanished at the door and this 'diplomat' entered with him instead. "No, LaCroix said he didn't need one."
"That is correct," Na'isha replied, her tone annoyed as she knew this already. "LaCroix left word with us, as is proper, that should anything occur, we were to contact his son..."
Nick was about to speak up, but Na'ish continued.
"...Javier Vachon, here at the Raven." She looked at Nick, "he added that his first son was too busy for the job and that his second would be more then sufficient to handle any problems that may arise."
****End of Part Eight****