*London: London Bridge*
It is a busy day as many tourists came to visit London Bridge with a mixture of disappointment or joy when they finally see it. Unfortunately, Agong is disappointed.
"Alright… Now I thought THAT is the bridge" he shouted as he pointed at the Tower Bridge, causing many to stare as he slurps on a bread pudding while sitting on a chair that looks too small for him.
People would've pointed and laughed if it were not for the 10 very formally dressed men who surrounded him.
"What would you have us do?" the Tigers asked.
"Bah… You… Just get me another one of those hotdogs from the market"
"Yes my lord" the man said, bowing as he walked backwards before heading off to the nearby market.
Agong sat back, his chair threatening to break as he waits for the call.
"Where is my one true love?!" he lamented as he stares at the communicator.
"My lord… Give us the word and we can get her for you"
With surprising speed, Agong smacked him on the side of the head, knocking him to the ground before he knew that he was hit.
"Don't you ever say that again… She is not worthy to be mentioned by you, let alone touched" he said angrily.
"Y-yes… Sorry my lord…"
"I'm sorry my child… But she is truly above all of you, only I can touch her, understand?" Agong said, his anger vanished just as it came.
Though he addressed it to the fallen Tiger, the rest nodded as if it is said to all of them.
So they waited, ignoring the cold air as they guard the Agong. Some brave tourists tried to take pictures but were rudely pushed away.
Finally, after what seemed to be hours, a call came.
"My love?" he asked loudly.
"Can we at least try to be adults here?" Sigma's voice came from the other side of the call.
"How dare you call me? I made it clear that only she can talk to me!" Agong shouted and cut off the call.
"Useless people, I thought I already made myself clear, they better not be ordering her around…" he mumbled.
After another hour, the communicator rang again and the call ended as quickly as it came with a single word.
"Proceed"
The men seethed with anger, how dare anyone hang up on their beloved master? But to their surprise, Agong was not only laughing, he was ecstatic.
"She called! My love finally called! Proceed with the mission! We start tonight!" he announced.
*London: Talon Hideout*
"Do you think he got the message?" SS28 asked.
"That was a good imitation and the man is an idiot, so he should" Widowmaker said from the sofa.
"Good… So where's the gift you all promised?" she asked, looking around.
"All in good time" Sigma said as he looks through their notes.
They had called every café and restaurant in England throughout the night and morning but they could not pin point a location as there are just too many or their identities are behind 'privacy laws'.
"Run the plan by me again?" SS28 requested.
"When the unpleasant man blows the bridge, we will look for them coming to the rescue, then we trace where they are coming from, we go eliminate the target while they are distracted, then we go back to base"
"If they don't come?"
"Unlikely, Overwatch agents are usually, predictably heroic"
"But lets say they don't"
"Shh! Do you hear that?"
She looked at him annoyingly as he floats up to the air to listen to… Something…
"You all seem pretty confident that you can find them" she said to Moira and Widowmaker watching the holovid.
"And that is why people fail" Widowmaker replied.
"What do you mean?"
"If you begin with the possibility of defeat, you will never achieve victory"
"Is that true Doctor?"
"I will just say I disagree with that concept completely and I would like to avoid another argument about it" Moira sighed.
"Because you know I am right" Widowmaker said snarkily.
"Science will disagree!"
*London: Whitechapel*
According to Lena, Emily usually visits Whitechapel Market before going to the station. Looking around, Quillion decided to wait in a nearby library overlooking the street and sketched the market below.
"Please do overtime" he thought, not wanting to spend more time than needed.
But he saw her 5 minutes after 5pm and he quickly went down to meet her.
"Hey there" he said, making her jump.
"Blimey you almost gave me a heart attack... What are you doing here?!" she said when she saw it is him, a hand over her heart.
"I've gotten myself into a bit of a problem and I need your help"
"Go find another bloke to help you" she said and walked away.
"Hey wait now, I didn't come all this way just because I needed someone else's help"
"Look... It's been a long day, why don't you just sod off?"
"Wow she is in a bad mood today, something must've happened at work" he thought.
"Common! I just need someone to help me find some new clothes and I don't know this place very well"
"What? You on the piss?
"What?"
"Sloshed? Wasted?" she asked impatiently.
"Oh! You mean drunk? No no no! Look, I really do need your help here"
Looking at him with disgust she continued her walk towards the station.
"Hey I apologize alright? I didn't mean to scare you like that in public"
With that she turned around and faced him, her anger evident.
"You think this is about scaring me in public?"
He looked at her with confusion as his mind raced.
Why is she so mad?
"Is this because of yesterday? I destroyed that camera to stop the broadcast!" he whispered, making sure there are no eavesdroppers.
"You really think I am a fool don't you?"
His stood there with his mouth agape.
"Is this about Lena's gift? She did want ideas and I'm just helping her!"
When he said her name, Emily couldn't take it anymore.
"Stay away from her..." she said with clenched teeth.
"What? What do yo-"
"I saw you both last night in the alleyway, who do you think you are?" she continued.
Quillion's heart raced. She saw them?
"We… Were just talking"
"You two looked like you are doing more than just talking! Well? What do you have to say now?!" her voice rising as emotions began taking hold.
"Sh-She's always been a hugger!" he protested.
"And you two just so happen to hug in secret in an alleyway?!"
Curious onlookers pretended not to listen as they lean on the wall, clearly interested in the conversation.
"If you are accusing me on having a relationship with her, you are mistaken" he said.
Crossing her arms together she waited for him to make his case.
"Well? What's really going on?" she demanded.
"I... Was trying to ask for an early leave but work denied it and I needed someone to talk to"
Emily rolled her eyes.
"And what is so important that you need to talk to her about in secret?"
Quillion desperately tried to make up a story but he could not think of anything until he saw someone reading about Russia.
"I... Just learned that my boyfriend was shot in Russia, I... I can't find what happened to him..." he said, using the pencil in his jacket to stab himself in the hand.
She blinked at those words and observe the tears in his eyes.
"Wait... You have a boyfriend?" she asked, her tone softening.
"Yeah... He's... Visiting Russia for the holidays and... The last I've heard from him was on his way to Moscow when he was shot... I couldn't... Find anything..."
"So… You're not… Interested in girls at all?"
"No… Not really no…" he lied.
"What's his name? Maybe I can help you check the system?" she asked.
"Ahmad, last name is classified I'm sorry... But thanks for your offer..."
Finally seeing a slight glint of pity in her eyes he wiped the tears off his.
"Ahh look at me, I'm a mess... Sorry for bothering ya, I'll let you go home..."
As he walked away slowly, he heard her sigh and walked up to him.
"Maybe... Just for an hour..."
Holding back a smile he nodded.
"So... Why shopping?" she asked.
He froze. Though he planned a story, this is one he absolutely did not plan for.
"Err... I... Just wanted to have a gift ready when I find him..."
She looked at him and seem to be weighing his words. He pressed the pencil deeper into the palm of his hand until he felt the tip snapped.
"Alright, what do you have in mind?"
"Maybe some jeans"
*40 minutes later*
Surprisingly the time he spent with her is not unpleasant, especially once she calmed down, even if he needed to try to understand the British slangs, though he has notice she tried to cut them down.
He learned that apart from her nursing duties, she is still a very active track and field athlete and it was there where she met Lena years back.
He is also surprised to learn that they were both into punk bands before their relationship became more serious and, though he burned with curiosity to see Lena in a punk outfit, he decided to let that remain as a mystery.
"How about this one?" Emily said, passing another set of jeans to him, this time with an elaborate pattern that is hideous.
"Err, let me try it on" he said as he stepped into the dressing room for what must've been 60th time, wondering how much longer would it take for Lena to be ready.
They have visited 5 different stores and he can feel that Emily is beginning to feel suspicious.
Finally, his communicator beeped.
Lena is ready.
"Yes I'll take this one" he said loudly as he stepped out.
"Really? This is an odd… Pattern" Emily said with an eyebrow raised but relieved that their shopping spree can end.
"Well… He has a particular fashion you see"
"Then why didn't you tell me sooner? I know a few places with patterns like these"
"R-right... Anyway, I'm starving, let's go to this café" he said, showing her the address, which surprised her.
"I know that this is your first Christmas in a while, but this place is pricey, I doubt that you can even afford a coffee there!"
"Great! You know where it is. I managed to save enough and this place has pretty good reviews, so I thought it'll be good if I check it out before we go back to work. But I'll need a guide"
Sighing loudly, Emily said "Alright then... One more stop and that's it"
"Great!" Quillion said, pressing a button on his communicator behind his back. They paid for the jeans and make their way to the station.
Snow has begun to fall and the cold winds blew when they reached the station.
"Hey, I'd just like to apologize how I've acted towards you, I was being a tosser" Emily said as she adjusts her jacket.
"If that means that you have been mean, don't mention it, I would've taken the fight to the streets if I suspect anyone trying to take my gi-boyfriend away"
"Would you?" she asked.
He looked at her with curiosity. What does she mean by that?
"You may try to act as a hardhead, but you're really a softy inside aren't you?"
"Don't mistaken being soft with being… Tame…" he said after thinking for the right word.
"What's the difference then?"
"Ever seen a dangerous animal with absolute certainty they will never attack?"
Emily laughed that that.
"I highly doubt you are a dangerous man"
"Don't tempt me now, there is a reason I'm chosen to be a bodyguard ya know"
"Dangerous or not, I highly doubt you would be able to beat her"
"Oh, I'm sure I could take her on no problem" he said confidently.
"Really now? You guys sparred before?"
"Err… No… But…"
"Then your claim is invalid" she said simply.
"I've fought with her many times, I know what she is capable of"
"But it is always easier to say you can beat someone you never fought"
"Well… Guess you're not wrong about that" he said as he sent a message to Lena when the train begin to move.
The train ride is uneventful as she took out a pad to read and Quillion just spent his time eavesdropping on various passengers, which most of the conversation revolved around Christmas or the war in Russia.
As they got out, night has fallen and a thin layer of snow has covered the landscape, a perfect proposal setting.
"Why don't we just eat here? The pie here is absolutely scrummy" Emily said when they pass through another café.
"Err… Nah I'll try that tomorrow"
"But where we are going is 4 blocks away! Can't I just pass you an interactive map?" she complained.
"It's dark so even with a map I might not be able to find it, I'll make it worth your while"
"Fine… But this is the last stop"
They picked up the pace as the temperature seemed to drop and, before they know it, they found the café with the sign Fully Booked hanging on the door.
"Please tell me you made reservations?" she asked him.
"Yup" he said, striding in confidently, Emily following close behind.
"Phew... That was cold, I'll warm up before I g-" Emily stopped mid-sentence when she saw a sign bearing the words.
Emily my love, come in. LO.
She looked at Quillion who smiled and encouraged her to go in with a nod.
Emily walked in and was met with one of the most beautiful sights she has ever seen. Along the narrow walkway, rose petals were lined up towards the stage under an arch, all the tables and chairs have been pushed to the side neatly, saved for a table for two in the middle.
On the stage sat Lena Oxton, dressed in a plain but beautiful yellow dress and holding a guitar, smiling nervously.
"Lena... What is all this?" Emily choked.
Without answering, Lena took a deep breath and began playing the song that she practiced for so many months.
Wise man say only fools rush in
But I can't help, falling in love with you
As Lena continued her song, Emily stood stunned, entranced by what she is seeing as she slowly walks towards her.
Allowing Emily to walk in alone, Quillion carefully lean against the arch and closed his eyes as he listen, allowing himself to feel Lena's passion through the song.
She sang it very differently from their practice sessions. Before it was like a seed, getting the tunes and pacing right and now… Her hard work bloomed into a beautiful rendition as each word was sung with purpose and passion.
First emotion he felt is trust, a deep trust that drove the song, complimented by happiness and joy from the memories that they must've shared. This was quickly followed by the purity of their relationship, one built by time and understanding, things that only they are privy to.
However, the one that moved him the most, the deep and powerful emotion that brought it all together, if missing would render the song useless, if non-existent, the song will be bland regardless who sang it.
Love.
He no longer feels any jealousy. In fact, he felt peace, a peace that can only be found by embracing the sadness. Sadness born from the fact that though he does love her, it was not meant to be. But now, instead of fighting it, he has helped her secure the love of her life.
What more could he ask from himself, a man from a different age, to do for his friend?
Halfway through the song, Quillion felt that he should not have the luxury to listen to the whole song.
It is for Emily and her alone.
He gave them one final look and walked into the kitchen where a waiter and a waitress are also waiting, food ready on the tray.
"She sings so beautifully" the waiter said as Quillion inspects the food.
"Yes she does..." agreed the waitress "Oh! Here" she added, holding out a handkerchief, which confused Quillion.
"What's this?" he asked.
She motioned on one side of her face, indicating tears. Confused, he touched his face and realized he has tears rolling down his face.
"Ahh... Thank you" he said, accepting the handkerchief, wondering why he would even have tears.
"You're welcome dear" she said sweetly "When do you think it's your turn?"
Quillion laughed softly at that question "I don't think I'll ever find her"
"Oh don't be such a drab, you're still young! You'll find her soon" she retorted.
Quillion could only smile sadly at those words.
"Shh... I think she is done" the waiter said. Quillion listened and indeed Lena has finished the song.
With a nod, he opened the door for the waiter and waitress to bring the food to the table.
Once the food is set, the wine poured and the candle lit did Lena invite the stunned Emily to sit down with her.
"Lena... What's going on?" Emily asked quietly.
"Emily..." Lena said, holding her girlfriend's hand "For once in my life, I don't have to try to be happy when I'm with you and that was the most beautiful gift anyone could've gave me"
"Oh god..." Emily choked as she saw Lena pulling out a small box.
"Give me the chance to give you the same gift you gave me. I love you Emily, will you marry me?" Lena asked, revealing the ring as she opens the box carefully.
Everyone in the room held its breath as they await Emily's answer.
"Yes!" she said after what felt like an eternity.
The couple embraced each other tightly as they began whispering something into each other's ear as every attendant applause for the happy couple.
Everyone except Quillion, who raised his hands to clap but couldn't bring them together when a realization hit him.
He has never seen anyone so happy in his life, especially Lena. She has always been the life of the party but this look is different, it is a look of pure joy.
And he is ashamed that he thought he could ever make someone that happy, but out of his unfounded love, he made a decision.
As Lena and Emily danced in the middle of the dining hall, looking like angels, he made a promise.
"Lena… Since Emily has become your family, I will keep you both safe from harm, this I promise…" he muttered under his breath.
It was then they heard it.
At first it came as a low rumble, the sounds can be easily mistaken as a car driving by, but soon it grew into a loud crackle as distant sounds of multiple explosives are set off.
Quillion and Lena looked out the window and saw a crowd of people are running away from something as police cars race towards the explosion.
Lena looked at Quillion who has already pulled out his pistol.
"The Pub. Now."
Dear Readers!
I just want to add a note that I hope everyone is doing well during these difficult times and I have faith that it will pass soon and we can all go back to our normal lives.
Until then, stay safe. Keep calm and Tracer on!
If you are curious how I envision Lena singing, please look for the following in Youtube.
"Can't Help Falling In Love" by Elvis Presley Alyssa Baker Cover