*-*-*-*-*-*-*-Multiverse Mysteries-*-*-*-*-*-*-*
-*-*-*-*-*-*-40'sDetectiveNoir-*-*-*-*-*-*-
Chapter 10-
Requires A Soft Touch
{*~********~*~********~*} *-Simon-*-Simon-*-Simon-*-Simon-*-Simon-* {*~********~*~********~*}Crap…what the hell is he doing?!
Did something get jumbled up in his brain during the Găsește-mi prietenii mei? Some random blip from the Cinderella Spell? A bizarre side-effect of wearing Raphael's clothes (Which is something he's immediately putting out of his mind as he's a detective and working a murder investigation and getting ready to talk to/qusi cross-examine a possible murderer suspect and he really needs to NOT be a blushing mess during said talk/cross-examination).
Maybe it got scrambled from the whole random surprise bedroom pop in of a terrifyingly powerful, stupidly gorgeous half naked demon tease…that's gotta be it. Seriously that was just far too much for his flaily, flustered, hyperactive warlock brain to process, it must of overloaded something causing a kind of (hopefully) temporary demonic tease induced insanity.
Yeah, that's gotta be it.
Even so- actually ordering around Raphael Freaking Santiago?
'I'm on point, you're the backup'…
What the hell man?
Oh my stars, does he have a death wish? He must have totally lost his mind. Alright, he gets that this case is important and they have to do whatever's necessary to solve it, and true, the demons' dramatics, tormenty games and supervillianny would probably do little more than throw a monkey wrench into the whole thing but even so who the hell does he think he is?
I mean okay, so demon's baiting him left, right and center- and seriously who knew the most feared demon in existence was a huge tease and near irrepressible flirt? He SO did not see that coming. He was prepared to face a vicious, evil monster, NOT a flirty, teasing, walking fantasy. There was no heads up about this whatsoever.
Honestly this just added a whole other layer of terrifying…
Like seriously, when you're half a step away from rooting for being spelled it's j-umm…okay…yeah ignore that…Uh a-anyways his point is he needs to get himself in order. He's losing focus, relaxing far too much, forgetting just who it is he's talking to.
That's playing with fire right there (And that's not even hyperbole…there is the possibility of literal flames being involved…like a LOT of flames…). I mean yeah right now Raphael seems amused almost to the point of charmed by his sassback and snark but that could flip REAL fast…and then Simon is screwed.
Raphael may be all teasing comments, pretty smirks, playful chuckles and that stupidly dizzying growly hum type thing right now (And oh my stars he SO needs to stop that…like now. How the hell is just a sound enough to make Simon's head spin and his knees weak?) but even so the elders do not have nightmares about Raphael Santiago because of his freaking flirt game, no matter how aces it was.
Raphael Santiago is flat out one of the most dangerous, fierce, utterly terrifying demons in existence. It is not just rumors or a flair for the dramatic or really stellar PR. It is an entirely earned reputation that he has built, established and cultivated over three and a half centuries. No matter how pretty and enticing and thrilling the wrapping is underneath it all is a predator- one of the most deadly predators to ever walk this earth. A deadly predator that he- Simon Lewis, a twenty five year old nobody barely halfway through his Descoperire- was just barking orders at.
Seriously, what the hell?
He has got to get himself reined in at least a bit. Yes, stand up for yourself, don't let the demon walk all over you, don't just stand there and take it. He pushes, you push right back, by all means defend yourself but oh my stars do not actively bait a demon…
And for gods sakes do NOT snap orders at a demon.
ANY demon…
Much less THIS freaking demon.
You are not mind-numbingly stupid, full-heartily cocky or freaking suicidal so knock it the hell off before you go too far and he stops being amused by the novelty of it all and starts taking it as legitimate challenges or disrespect.
That happens and your Descoperire's gonna come to a very abrupt end.
Rein it in. Stop baiting the demon and focus on the task at hand- chatting up the potential suspect/father of the victim…ugh…
That may actually be more disturbing than the whole demon baiting/qusi browbeating thing. The idea that a parent would actually prefer their child be dead than just being who they are. The entire thing turned his stomach. With Eugene and even with Alec and Izzy…it was just so incomprehendible. So cold and needlessly cruel. I mean his relationship with his parents was far (So VERY far) from perfect but even with the detachedness and coercion and all the drama surrounding the whole Dax thing and everything else he couldn't imagine actually knowing that your parents would literally rather you be dead then not live up to their expectations.
It really is far too depressing to dwell on. Maybe that's the actual reason he keeps losing focus with the demon. Why he's finding Raphael so distracting and intoxicating, why it's so very easy to just forget everything else and instead get caught up in the pretty smirks, teasing comments, shimmering black eyes and the knee weakening velvety voice. Maybe the reason Simon finds Raphael so overwhelming is simply because a stupidly gorgeous, irrepressible flirt is a hell of a lot more appealing to contemplate than the cold, empty, depressing as hell reality at the heart of this case.
He knows they need to find the truth but he also knows there is no scenario of how this went down that isn't gonna be utterly gut-wrenching.
Eugene was just a nice, normal guy. He never did anything to hurt anyone. He was compassionate and productive and likable. He had a great job, his boss liked him, he'd made strides at work and really was on a stellar path there. He had people who cared about him… even found someone and fell in love. He was content and fulfilled. He had a good, safe, happy life- A bright, amazing future ahead.
He had everything going for him.
And simply because of one stupid insignificant little difference most people want to just sweep his murder under the rug, write off his death as nothing, deserved…even as good. As if somehow society is better off without him just because he had this one little, stupid, insignificant difference.
It's utterly sickening.
His own father is blocking the case- essentially protecting his son's murderer simply because he was different. Because he could be mildly inconvenient for his upcoming plans. Because he was like Magnus, Alec and Izzy…
Because he was like Simon.
God…how do normal humans like Alec even make themselves leave the house in the morning? Knowing what they're walking into…what they'll face every freaking day of their lives. How do they even cope? He knows he wants to protect humans but this really makes it hard. He hates having to dwell on these parts of the human experience. No wonder why he keeps getting side-tracked and overwhelmed by the damn demon flirt…
He wants the distraction.
Needs the distraction.
Probably the same reason he's been spinning and procrastinating for the last near twenty minutes since they've spotted Dawson. He's been trying to play it off with Raphael as not wanting to seem too eager, hemming and hawing about waiting for the right time, an opening, a bit of cover, or any other random excuse he can toss out to put it off for a few more minutes but in reality he's just trying to work himself up enough to actually bite the bullet and start the conversation…because he knows once he starts the conversation he can't just walk away…can't stop.
Crap…maybe he shouldn't have been so damn insistent on taking the lead. Raphael probably would have already been done. Had whatever info they needed, found out exactly how much Dawson was involved and they'd be moving onto whatever the next step is.
Well…too late now, he insisted…and so here they are- it's all on him.
Crap…
Simon took a deep, steadying breath, standing up straighter, finally making their way to where Dawson was. If there was a 'right time' this is it. He's kinda away from most of the other party goers, off on the far side of the ballroom, absently perusing a wall decorated with elaborate family portraits. Not only is it out of the way, it's a natural opening to talking about family. That should be perfect. All he has to do is-
He faltered momentarily a few feet from Dawson, feeling a rippling wave of power wash over him, radiating out. Huh…a shielding spell. Dawson won't register anything out of sorts but it'll give them a bit more privacy to talk. He paused, glancing curiously over to the side, catching the demon's eye. Raphael gave a bit of a shrug, flashing a flirty little wink and knowing smirk.
Ugh…what a show off…annoyingly useful show off, but still.
Simon sighed faintly, giving a slight nod of thanks, not totally able to cover his nerves, or his mild startling when he realized the demon has been just standing there quietly registering every flash, falter and flicker of emotions he ran through during his spiraling and procrastinating…
Stupid demon super senses.
He subtly glanced over, kind of bracing for the teasing smirk or obnoxious eye flicker. Raphael caught the look, giving a dismissive shrug as if it's nothing, flashing a weirdly warm, surprisingly encouraging smile, seemingly choosing to ignore his nerves, nodding over towards Dawson. Simon gulped, quickly glancing away. That smile was far too many kinds of confusing and he had way too much on his plate right now to add whatever the hell that was into the mix. He took another deep breath, standing up straight, forcing himself to relax, pasting on a polite smile, moving closer to Dawson before again freezing…
Crap…how does he start this? I mean what, does he just tap the guy on the shoulder? Really w-
He's startled out of the new spiral when Dawson jumps faintly, head jerking to the side, looking around for something causing him to bump into Simon. Dawson startled again, head whipping the other way, spotting Simon for the first time.
"Terribly sorry, didn't mean to catch you there." He offered, giving an apologetic shrug, glancing subtly back over to the other side.
Simon shook his head, waving him off.
"It's no problem sir." Simon tilted his head, glancing towards where Dawson was looking.
"Is everything alright?"
Dawson shook his head faintly.
"Oh…no…I thought I felt something, must of just been a draft."
Simon cast a suspicious glance at Raphael, quirking his eyebrow. Raphael smirked, quirking his eyebrow right back. Simon fought down an annoyed huff, rolling his eyes before glancing back at Dawson, nodding.
"That must be it- it is pretty drafty here…Interesting pictures."
He nodded.
"Yes, they're of the Beaumont family stretching back centuries. They have a very rich and storied history…can trace themselves clear back to the 1600's."
Simon blinked in surprise, looking over the pictures in interest.
"Wow that's something else. It's good having such strong family ties. Has to be kind of hard though…that's a lot to live up to…especially for the kids."
Dawson nodded, a cloud of emotion flitting behind his greyish green eyes before it's gone just as quick.
"It is hard, but it comes with the territory. Your family name is your most valued asset. You cannot know where you're going if you don't know where you come from. The person you are reflects who they were."
Simon glanced over curiously, tilting his head.
"That doesn't really seem right. I mean doesn't that make everything in life just luck of the draw? What if you're born into like a family of criminals or basically nothing but you do everything you can to be a good person and make something of yourself?"
Dawson shrugged.
"Then you are a very strong, determined individual willing to give everything you have to beat the odds. Pulling yourself up by your bootstraps is admirable, no question. This isn't a country of aristocracy. It's largely made up of self-made men. Some like the Beaumont's come from old money but most here had someone in their line do exactly what you described- decide they wanted more out of life and work like hell to make it happen.
They didn't do it for themselves, they did it for their families… their children and grandchildren and every generation to come. Putting in the effort to raise your family up is very admirable, one of the best things someone can do. When someone does accomplish something like that for their families it's the later generations responsibility to live up to their example, not let all their hard work and effort go to waste. To make life better for those who come after…do your part for the legacy."
Raphael settled next to them, idly perusing the paintings, taking a sip of his drink.
"A rather interesting view, does put quite a bit of underserved pressure on the person though, from both sides. Seems everything is resting on you. To me that's far too much to put on your child. Personally I'm of the mindset your life is your own. You are neither beholden to those who came before nor those who come after…takes a lot of the pressure off."
Dawson gives a disbelieving scoff, shaking his head.
"That's the route to anarchy and a life of meaningless self-indulgence. You need pressure and structure to build up your character. It acts as guide posts to help you be sure you are living up to your full potential…otherwise what are you?"
Raphael quirked his eyebrow, giving a casual shrug, tilting his glass for emphasis.
"Happy?"
Wow that's real helpful…
Simon shifted closer to Dawson, tilting his head curiously, going for vaguely surprised as if something just dawned on him.
"Oh hey, aren't you Mayor Dawson?"
He seemed to falter a bit between Raphael's challenging eyebrow quirk and Simon's politely curious expression before turning towards Simon, giving a slight nod.
"Yes…well former mayor, been retired from politics a few years now. I'm just a business man."
Raphael shrugged, slipping a bit closer.
"True…but that's about to change, is it not?"
He faltered, head shaking faintly.
"I'm not sure what you're talking about."
Raphael chuckled, quirking his eyebrow challengingly.
"Your upcoming gubernatorial bid?"
Dawson's eyes widened, looking from Simon then back over to Raphael.
"How…t-that's just hearsay…nothing's been confirmed."
Raphael smirked.
"Not yet…just a matter of time though- your people are trying to drum up financial backing and connections as we speak. Shouldn't be too difficult; from what I hear you're all but a shoe in…or at least you will be, so long as nothing unfortunate comes to light that could somehow tarnish your reputation."
Dawson stiffened, eyes going sharp and suspicious. Simon just barely fought off a groan, not even bothering hiding the eyeroll this time, shaking his head quickly, giving a slightly dismissive wave towards Raphael, flashing a nervous, reassuring half smile Dawson's way.
"He really didn't mean that the way it sounded. He's just trying to make polite conversation and sound informed and engaged-it just comes out kinda wonky. I think it's a weird voice quirk type thing- kinda like a lisp or a stutter, only instead of the words not coming out right or stumbling everything just comes out vaguely supervillianish and mildly threatening."
Raphael quirked his eyebrow, settling closer, eyes flickering.
"So you are speaking for me now, are you?"
Simon faltered for a moment before catching the impish little sparkle in those stupidly pretty deep eyes. He huffed, giving a spectacularly sarcastic look, quirking his eyebrow right back with a flippant wave in his direction.
"You literally just proved my point…that sounded like it should've been followed by a clap of thunder or maniacal laugh…or both."
Raphael's eyes brightened in amusement, giving one of those soft, dizzying little chuckles, shrugging.
"Eh…does tend to add a bit more interest to life. It's really rather fun keeping people on their toes." He flashed a playful smirk, settling closer to Simon's side.
"You weren't exactly complaining about it earlier with the Dior brothers."
Simon groaned, shaking his head.
"Ugh…that's who they were? Explains SO much. Okay fine, not saying it doesn't have its perks- and again thank you- your timing really was aces. Just saying it could be regulated a tiny bit more…like to where a simple comment on business or politely chatting about family doesn't set off immediate alarms and trigger a mad dash for the exit."
Raphael gave a falsely innocent shrug.
"Hey I can't help people's react-"
Simon outright snorted, quickly shaking his head.
"Seriously…again with the 'innocent act'? Buddy again no…just…no…like I said does NOT work for you…at all. At ALL at all… It's like the proverbial 'wolf in sheep's clothing' thing. Sits off more alarms then the supervillianish tone and overdramatic tendencies ever could. I mean you do the 'innocent' thing and I'm looking for cover to avoid the worst of the fallout…why is that?"
Raphael chuckled softly, slinking closer, head taking on that near predatory tilt, pretty black eyes sparking bright sending a dizzyingly pleasant little shiver down Simon's spine.
"Because you, Simon, have exceptional instincts." He murmured, voice slipping to that soft, velvety tone that made Simon's head spin and his knees weak.
Simon gulped, feeling himself flush. He quickly shook it off, steadying himself, giving a totally fake, overly bright, sarcastic smile.
"Oh good, we're back to the supervillianish drama tone- much less unsettling. W-"
"Ahem…"
Simon startled, eyes shifting from Raphael back over to Dawson, freezing. The man's looking them over rather suspiciously with a kind of guarded, faintly affronted expression.
Umm…oops…
Simon shrugged sheepishly, flashing a nervous smile.
"Sorry, I tend to get sidetracked. He's a lot to deal with…you really have no idea. So you're running for Governor? That's something else."
Dawson gave a false smile, shaking his head.
"As I said nothing is confirmed…you probably shouldn't put quite so much stock in the rumor mill and gossips- it's a quick way to end up looking foolish."
Simon bristled a bit at that, head tilting faintly.
"True…at least it can if you follow it blindly and take every whisper as the word of god. However every situation is unique. There's a big difference between a reliable source with a finger on the pulse of the city and an empty headed gossip chattering out every rumor and wild-eyed theory they come across just to seem like they have something interesting to say."
Dawson blinked, somewhat caught off guard at the unexpectedly pointed response, glancing rather dismissively over at Raphael, quirking his eyebrow.
"And this 'reliable source with a finger on the pulse of the city'…that's him?"
Raphael flashed a sharp smile, eyes glinting black, a bit of the flickering flames kicking up around his shoulders. Dawson faltered, subconsciously registering the threat, taking a small step back, a flicker of doubt clouding his eyes before shifting back to Simon almost nervously.
Simon shrugged, nodding towards Raphael.
"In truth I've only known him a very short while, I mainly know him by reputation but…well...going by that and the little I've seen so far he really does not strike me as the tabloid reading, idle gossip type. I'd take most everything he says seriously…honestly I think it'd be pretty foolish not to."
Dawson blinked, faltering again, gaze shifting from Simon back over to Raphael and back again clearly wondering what he was missing.
"And why would you say that?"
Simon sighed, shrugging, glancing over, catching Raphael's eye, head tilting, giving him the go ahead for the whole name drop drama thing, subtly bracing for the fallout. Raphael tilted his head, eyebrow quirking, a little hint of amusement flickering in those pretty black eyes, looking like he was going to answer before pausing, shrugging right back at Simon.
"He asked you lindo…besides I did promise…I'm just your backup…remember?"
Ugh that total jackass…
Simon glared, just barely fighting down an aggravated groan shaking his head faintly, giving a sharp, flippant wave towards Raphael.
"Because if even a quarter of what I've heard about Raphael Santiago is true then it's probably a really bad idea to underestimate him."
And cue freezing, blanching and nervous eye darting.
"Umm…a-and Raphael Santiago is keeping track of my potential gubernatorial bid…why?"
Simon sighed, giving a flippant wave towards Dawson, glancing over at Raphael.
"See? THIS is why I said avoid the name drop thing."
Raphael smirked, shrugging.
"I did, this was entirely your call…Pretty fun though, yes?"
"No. Not 'fun'…not even a little fun…can you just…" he trailed off gesturing vaguely towards Dawson.
"But you sai-"
"I know what I said alright? Forget what I said. Just ignore my babbling and blustering and chatter like near everyone else and do whatever it is we both know you already had planned on doing from the moment you got here so we can be done with it."
Raphael's eyes sparked, a slow, kind of excited smile blooming, head shaking faintly, giving one of those soft, growly hum type noises.
"Hmm…so very assertive…I like it. Interesting…I did not know that about myself…always good to learn new things."
Simon huffed, rolling his eyes, trying to cover the blush creeping up his cheeks, waving sharply towards Dawson.
"Oh just get on with it."
"G-get on with what?" Dawson asked, taking a hesitant step back, glancing between the two men.
Raphael gave an amused chuckle, shaking his head, holding his free hand up placatingly.
"Nothing as unseemly as you are thinking I assure you. I merely wanted to be one of the first to wish you luck in the race and offer a bit of support on the campaign trail…spotting issues, putting out fires and the like.'
Dawson froze, hesitating, clearly trying to figure out a way to word his response without insulting the demon crime boss.
Wow…Simon could practically SEE the gears turning trying to find a safe out.
"Oh umm…that is very generous of you Mr. Santiago and I do appreciate the offer but as I said it's not yet a sure thing. Even if I do try to make a go for it I don't know if I'd have much of a chance. Besides you'd probably be bored- there wouldn't be many issues or fires to deal with. I'm a pretty straight shooter and I expect those I employ to be as well. In any case you're a very busy man, it would probably be a waste of your time…I'm sure you have something far more interesting to focus on."
Well if there was any doubt the man was a politician…
Raphael smiled, shaking his head faintly, slipping closer, eyes flickering dangerously.
"On the contrary I think it would be a very worthwhile use of my time. Even the most moral and upright candidates can be brought down by the slightest upset, the smallest whisper of impropriety…for them or those they're closest to. The sad thing is it doesn't even have to be true, just believable…or sensational enough to have people disregard the validity for their desire for drama and seeing someone so revered brought down a few pegs. It's shallow and distasteful but…well…people do so love their little games and dramas. And politics really are a tricky business.
There's very little of importance that gets done in this town without a bit of a push, a little nudge here or there, a touch of insurance against the less scrupulous wishing to derail someone or use them to steal a few moments in the spotlight. I really do have quite the knack for smoothing out the bumps and hiccups that can oh so easily derail a campaign. Though you are right in one aspect…it will be far easier with you than most. You are leaps and bounds ahead of the other six possible candidates.
No affairs, no illegitimate children, no sneaky business practices or unfortunate addictions… not even a bit of harmless tax evasion. Quite the accomplishment for someone of such high standing. Rather impressive really…quite unexpected. In my experience the higher the level of wealth and status a person holds the lower they'll inevitably sink to keep it… or in an effort to spice up the tedium and monotony of the vapid, bland upper-class life. Seeing the hypocrisy, cattiness, drama and backbiting that goes on within the upper echelon…the utter shock and panic when faced with the chance of having their exploits and misdeeds brought to light?
Gotta admit, pretty damn entertaining…always good having a front row seat for the show."
Dawson shifted, giving a slight shrug and something vaguely resembling a non-committal nod, clearly uncomfortable, subtly moving further away from Raphael, casting a rather confused side eye towards Simon. Simon gave a faintly contrite look, shrugging, placatingly holding his hands up.
"Like I said a VERY short time…"
Raphael smirked.
"But more than enough…"
Simon scoffed, nodding animatedly.
"Could not agree more."
Raphael chuckled.
"I actually meant that in a good way."
"I didn't…" Simon muttered.
"But you will…"
"Wanna bet?"
Raphael's eyes sparked in interest, shifting black, head tilting, leaning in closer, giving yet another of those soft, growly hum type sounds, eyes flickering down to Simon's lips, lingering pointedly before slowly slipping back up, meeting his gaze, inky black eyes glittering, crimson aura glimmering bright, leaning in just a tiny bit more, voice going soft and velvety.
"Depends on what's at stake…"
Simon flushed clear to his ears, subconsciously swaying forward, just barely fighting down a rather desperate whimper, breath catching. He gasped faintly, stepping back, shaking it off, huffing, giving a totally ineffectual glare.
"You are such an ass…"
He chuckled, shrugging…
"I can be…but you kinda enjoy it."
"I really, REALLY don't."
"But you will…"
Simon scoffed again, rolling his eyes.
"What, you're psychic now?"
He grinned, eyes widening a moment pointedly, shifting to inky black, glimmering crimson, flashing a playful wink.
"Something like that."
Oh my stars…he walked right into that…
"I really don't like you…"
Raphael chuckled, shrugging.
"That's alright…I like you enough for the both of us."
"That is NOT how it works…though at least you didn't say 'but you will.'"
"But It kinda is…and you definitely will."
Simon rolled his eyes, groaning exasperatedly.
"You really don't let up, do you?"
"Only when I get bored, or find something more interesting…don't really see that happening anytime soon with you."
Simon huffed, gesturing animatedly towards Dawson.
"Well there's the whole political campaign thing right now…sounds interesting, yeah? You said so yourself; scandals, games, fires to put out, backstabbing, drama. Can't miss your front row seat to that show. Why don't you just focus on that."
Raphael chuckled, head tilting, gaze slipping over Simon once more, shaking his head.
"Not nearly as interesting…but I suppose it is of a bit more importance at the moment." Raphael shrugged faintly, gaze sliding once more over Simon before shifting his focus from Simon back over to Dawson, head tilting consideringly.
Dawson startled, quickly shaking his head.
"Uh yes well…thank you for the offer and…that…but as I said it's really not necessary. I can't speak to the other candidates or their various proclivities but that's not how I've ever done things. I don't engage in that kind of behavior and I don't employ or surround myself with anyone who does."
Raphael titled his head, eyebrow quirking.
"Well, well what do you know? A politician with a moral code they actually believe applies to them…now I've seen everything." He sighed, swirling his drink, taking a slow sip, head tilting, quirking his eyebrow.
"So that's a definite no…yes?"
Dawson nodded.
"Yes…um no…very respectfully, no thank you."
Raphael locked eyes with him for a moment, holding his gaze before giving a slight chuckle, shrugging dismissively, finally breaking eye contact, taking another sip of his drink.
"It's fine…no pressure, just a friendly offer. Besides it may well be for the best. I do tend to prefer working with people with a bit more interest and oomph. You really are quite bland. I mean you only ever had one possible issue that could have even conceivably caused any problems for you…now that he's gone, there really isn't anything standing in your way, your candidacy is all but a lock."
Dawson froze, standing up straight, hands clenching, a flash of anger lighting his grey/green eyes.
"What did you just say?"
Raphael shrugged in a deceptively casual move, head taking on that odd, predatory tilt. His deep eyes sparked sharp and dangerous, putting on a blatantly fake empathetic look.
"Yes I know, it really is a tragedy. Twenty eight is far too young for such a cruel fate. My sincerest condolences on your loss. Must admit this probably plays out in your favor though."
Dawson glared, leaning forward, hands clenching tighter, shaking his head.
"What is wrong with you? Why would you say something like that?"
Raphael waved him off, totally unconcerned, leaning in as well, eyebrow quirking in challenge.
"Because it's true? I mean by now it's probably pretty obvious I would not take issue with his lifestyle but I am in the vast minority, far more enlightened than most. I am sure Eugene had many fine, admirable qualities but…well…as I said politics are a tricky, tricky business and people do get so caught up on the most inconsequential of issues. They will latch onto the slightest difference, the slightest catch, turn it into everything.
I mean really for any politician having a rather 'obvious' family member is a bit dicey…but with you? A staunch conservative, known for being a 'straight shooter' as you say. It could bring your entire campaign down. He was your biggest issue…really your only issue. And you even said yourself'; it was his responsibility to ensure all your hard work and effort was not in vain…that he didn't damage the family reputation…your reputation."
Dawson glared, taking a step closer, leaning in, totally disregarding the flames flashing and flickering about Raphael's shoulders and down his arms, the power that was all but palpable, raising his hand, pointing not two inches from Raphael's face.
"Now you listen here, I don't give a damn who you are; you do not speak about my son like that. Eugene was not an 'issue'; he was my son. My youngest child. His life meant far more than my 'reputation'."
Raphael tilted his head.
"Then why don't you want his murder solved?"
Dawson gasped, shaking his head.
"What? How dare you! Of course I want it solved. He was my son, he was murdered, senselessly and brutally. His murderer is out there right now walking around like everything is fine and normal and my youngest child is laying in the morgue."
"Well t-"
"Raphael? J-just stop…" Simon cut him off, moving closer, slipping between the two, reaching over, hesitantly resting his hand on Dawson's shoulder lightly.
Dawson looked over, eyes shuttered and suspicious. Simon sighed, shaking his head.
"I really am sorry for your loss..."
Dawson scoffed, shaking his head, Simon shook his head once more.
"I genuinely do mean it…and despite the tone and the dramatics and all that so does Raphael. He didn't intend to be so harsh…well okay he did. But only because he was trying to find out just where you stood on all of this."
Dawson blinked, positively aghast.
"Where I stand on this? It's my son's murder. This is the worst thing I have ever experienced…I shouldn't even be here tonight, I should be at home with what is left of my family, helping them through this but I made a commitment and my people were already here and assured everyone I'd be as well and I couldn't just bow out without giving a valid explanation…and saying 'my son was murdered this morning' leads to a barrage of questions that I really do not have the strength or tact or willpower to answer right now. Or is that not enough of a reason? He said he was 'just your backup' so what are you, a reporter trying to get the first scoop? Should of known…damn vultures."
Raphael shifted over beside Simon, shaking his head.
"He's not that type of reporter. He wants t-"
Simon sighed, waving him off, shaking his head faintly at Raphael, shifting back over to Dawson.
"I'm not a reporter…I'm a detective with the SBPD."
Dawson faltered, shaking his head.
"I-but…wait…They're reopening the case? But you're not the detective that was assigned? I met him, talked to him."
Simon sighed, shaking his head.
"No…I'm not…I'm new to the precinct, haven't even been there a month. Honestly I'm not even officially on the case and quite frankly Chief Lightwood finds out I'm going off script, trying to tackle this on my own and I will be out on my ass. I just heard about it being swept under the rug and i-it did not seem right. No one deserves to be just dismissed and forgotten, written off as nothing or a statistic. Eugene deserved better than that…at least I think he does."
Dawson swallowed, blinking, eyes a bit misty, taking a deep breath, nodding.
"I…you're right, he did…he really did."
Raphael moved forward, Dawson tensed up but Raphael waved him off, expression surprisingly gentle.
"I do apologize for my abruptness. I know I was quite harsh but the reason we're asking such cold, callous questions is because for the majority of society that is how they see people like Eugene…people like me. Not as people or friends or even their own children…just as 'issues'. Things to be feared, swept under the rug, fixed or even flat out eliminated. It takes a toll after a while, makes you assume the absolute worse in everyone.
To be honest I came here assuming you were behind it…that he could have simply stood in the way of your bid and you didn't want to take the risk. Hence the abruptness. Even as bleak as this is it's rather pleasant to know I read this wrong."
Dawson blinked rapidly, head shaking.
"I-wha…H-he's my son. How could you possibly think anything so horrible?"
Raphael gave a world weary shrug and halfhearted wave.
"Because I have seen it far more times than I care to remember…probably more times than I can even count."
"What…h-"
Simon leans closer, lightly resting his hand on Dawson's arm, catching his attention, faintly shaking his head, sighing, meeting his gaze.
"With all due respect sir it's really hard to explain to someone who hasn't experienced it for themselves. We expect the worst because we see the worst. All the time. We're told that we don't belong; we're hated, feared, vilified. Someone like us being murdered is generally seen as an 'expected outcome' or even justified. And it's not subtle or low key. It is everywhere. And it is constant.
When you are bombarded with it every day, from every angle and every source; from co-workers, the media, random strangers on the street, supposed friends, your own family…you see so much of it. So much hate and fear and total disregard. It's painful and isolating and dehumanizing. You expect the worst because that's what you're most likely to get and it's far less painful to expect the worse and be pleasantly surprised to be wrong then to try convincing yourself this time is gonna be different, that it's not going to happen this time and being let down yet again.
We truly are sorry for your loss, and none of what we did- even Raphael's viciousness- was done in malice. It was the best way for us to find the truth. To get justice for Eugene. That's our only goal here. We want to bring Eugene's killer to justice. But we can't do that if we don't get the truth. In order for that to happen we have to actually look at the case. Ask questions…maybe questions that are uncomfortable or even painful to hear the answer to.
If you want the case solved why are you actively blocking the investigation? If it's not about your campaign or your family reputation or even your own ego then why?"
Dawson sighed, shaking his head.
"To protect Eugene's reputation. The way he died…where he died? If that gets out he's going to be obliterated in the press…mocked, held up as a cautionary tale or a crass punch line. He'd be belittled, made out to be nothing but a reckless, repulsive deviant. Eugene deserved more than that. He was a wonderful person, he was brilliant and sharp witted and had the best heart of near anyone I knew.
I wanted the case solved but with the circumstances- where he was found…what he was likely doing when he died? I was worried the more they investigated the more they'd turn up…the more likely the press was to get ahold of the details, every last detail of his life, his most private moments and plaster it all over the evening paper. His life would be torn apart, dissected and slapped across covers with salacious headlines and lured details for the world to see…people wouldn't see his death, his murder….they'd just see the scandal, like some tawdry soap opera.
This isn't some scandalous soap opera type radio program designed to entertain the masses- it was my son's life. He deserves his dignity.
And it's not even just about him. His wife, boss, co-workers, friends, his mom, his brother and sister…his nieces and nephews who right now think their uncle Eugene hung the moon and deserve to keep that image of him. We all deserve to keep our good memories of him as our last thoughts…not some tawdry tabloid exposé dragging every detail of his private life out for the world to see.
He did not deserve that. None of us do."
Simon swallowed, nodding.
"I get that…and honestly you're right to be concerned about it. It is entirely possible that could happen if the case is not handled exactly right. But sweeping the case under the rug? Pretending it doesn't exist in order to protect his memory? I understand why you want to…what's at stake for you…all of you…I really do. But doing that means his murderer gets off Scott free.
We can work it quietly, and quickly, try to control the press as best we can. There's even a reporter actively working with us on the investigation, wanting to control the narrative, trying to keep the story from turning into exactly what you feared. He wants to do a story praising Eugene, vilifying his murderer, exposing them for the villain they are. Ensure it doesn't happen to anyone else. He wants to make the readers care about Eugene, remember him, empathize with him, really put themselves in his shoes. See him not for 'what' he was but for who he was.
I haven't known the man long but he seems very good…his reputation- while somewhat colorful and a bit quirky- is far beyond reproach. I think this is the best chance at both solving the case and preserving Eugene's memory. I really do."
Dawson faltered a moment, giving a slight shrug, shaking his head faintly.
"But where he was found…what they said goes on up there…him dying there m-"
"He didn't die there." Raphael cut in.
Dawson froze.
"What?"
Simon shrugged, nodding.
"It's true, most of the evidence points to him being murdered at a different location. We're working under the assumption he was killed somewhere else and then dumped there to disguise the circumstances of his death, cast dispersions on him and his character in an effort to dissuade people from pursuing the case… just write it off as an 'expected outcome' from risky, deviant behavior.
Unfortunately so far the plan's working pretty damn well."
Dawson swallowed, paling slightly.
"So I'm playing right into his killers sick plan? Literally helping cover up my own son's murder. I'm helping him get away with murdering my son?"
Simon took a deep breath.
"Not if you help us from here on out. If you do I think we'd have a chance…but only with your help…otherwise yeah, Eugene's murderer will be off Scott free. Just help us, answer a few questions, then we'll get out of your hair and get to finding Eugene's murderer."
Dawson shook his head, taking a deep breath, looking up, meeting Simon's eyes.
"What do you need to know?"
Simon relaxed a bit, letting out a breath he didn't even know he was holding, giving a quick, grateful nod.
"Thank you…thank you so much. This will be a lot of help. What time did Eugene leave your meeting last night?"
Dawson startled, tilting his head in confusion.
"What…I didn't see Eugene last night…"
Simon shook his head.
"Huh…no...We have a witness that saw Eugene at a club earlier that night. Eugene told him he was going to meet his father- he was kinda agitated about it, had a pretty crappy day and wasn't really looking forward to the meeting. Even so he was insistent he didn't want to be late."
Dawson shook his head.
"Well…yes that sounds like Eugene. He hated being late- he always said if you're not at least five minutes early then you're late."
Raphael tilted his head, eyebrow quirking.
"And he left at around 9:45. He said he was meeting you at 10:30…The club's just under a half hour from your office so that should've put him there between 10:20 and 10:25, which seems perfectly in character. Did he not show up for the meeting?"
"I- there was no meeting. I wasn't even in town yesterday. I was in Sacramento working a few of the details out for the Gubernatorial bid. I got the call when I was there. I came straight from the airport to the precinct. Your witness must be lying."
Simon shook his head.
"No he wasn't lying…Raphael scared the hell out of him. The guy may not be the sharpest tool in the shed but he's not suicidal. No way he'd lie to Raphael straight to his face. There's no way he had it in him. What he said he believed it was the truth."
Dawson shook his head.
"I but…that can't be…I wasn't even here. How could he have plans to meet with me if I wasn't even in town?"
"I don't know b-"
"Did Eugene actually know you were going to be out of town?" Raphael cut in.
"W-well…no…probably not. We kept it pretty well under wraps, didn't want to risk it leaking to the press, not till everything was finalized and we were ready to make the announcement."
"Tell me…when you would set up a meeting with Eugene did you usually do it yourself or did you have others do it? Your staff, secretary, PA or something?"
Dawson faltered.
"I, well…I do tend to be pretty busy s-"
Simon shook his head, holding his hands up placatingly.
"I'm not judging…just trying to work this out. Eugene said he was meeting with you, from everything our witness said he fully believed he was meeting with you, not a member of your team or an emissary or whatever else; you specifically. You were out of town… even if you kept that under wraps I'm guessing there were plenty of people who worked with you who knew. Those helping you with your bid; Staff, aides, what have you. Maybe someone called Eugene and set up a meeting with him in your offices specifically when you would be out of town, as a means of getting him to show up."
Dawson shook his head.
"But why?"
Raphael sighed faintly, giving a near apologetic look.
"Most likely the same reason we thought you may be involved. Eugene was about your only weakness in your campaign."
He shook his head quickly.
"No…I can't believe that…there has to be some other explanation."
Simon gave a faint nod, shrugging slightly.
"Maybe there is…it might not even be connected, just some random coincidence, we don't know anything concrete right now. Whatever the case may be I think the next step is to go to your offices and have a look around. Would there be anyone at the offices right now?"
Dawson shook his head, glancing around, nodding towards the door of the ballroom.
"No they'll be empty, let's go."
Raphael nodded, him and Simon falling in next to Dawson.
"Need to make a quick stop, use the phone before we head out. We have a bit of help working with us on the case- we'll call them, let them know where to meet us. Best to have all the trusted help we can get on this."
Dawson swallowed nodding.
"Definitely…there has to be something more to this. It has to be some kind of coincidence."
Simon glanced over, catching Raphael's eye, he shook his head faintly.
Yeah…that's kinda Simon's take on it too…
He really hoped they're wrong.
But he kinda doubts it.
{*~********~*~********~*} *-Magnus-*-Magnus-*-Magnus-*-Magnus-*-Magnus-* {*~********~*~********~*}Magnus moved over to the curb as the car pulled up, opening the door before Alec even stopped all the way. Alec flashed a quick, kind of nervous smile and a bit of an unsure wave, beginning to pull away from the curb.
"Hey, you have any idea about this?"
Magnus scoffed, shaking his head faintly.
"Nope...no clue. Last I heard we were taking the night off and regrouping early tomorrow. I gave Simon a ride home and Raphael had some kind of high end event to attend later on this evening. I have no idea how in just three hours that turned into us meeting them and our most apparent- and by far most problematic- lead and the man who's been actively quashing the investigation at his offices- apparently now totally in the clear and actively working in conjunction with us. I'd assume it'd have something to do with Raph scheming and strong-arming but I really don't see how Simon fits into it."
Alec gave a slightly disbelieving huff.
"Me neither- he was real vague when he called and seemed kinda in a hurry. Guess we'll find out."
Magnus nodded, looking over Alec with concern.
"How did your dinner go?"
Alec shook his head, giving a kind of defeated shrug.
"Bad…"
Magnus set up a bit.
"You didn't s-"
He sighed, shaking his head, waving him off.
"No don't worry I didn't spill anything. I didn't confront my parents but damnit was it hard. Honestly I think the only reason I didn't was because I'd promised Izzy and I couldn't bring myself to let her down too.
It was so much worse than I was thinking though...Just being in the same room with them, knowing how they treated her? God it just turned my stomach. I couldn't eat much, and I really couldn't think of anything to say because I just kept worrying something would lead to Izzy or something that'd set me off and…I…I know I told you I wouldn't torpedo everything just to spite them…and I thought that was the absolute truth…and I thought that right up to the moment I actually saw them.
But then?
God…I just tried to say as little as possible and make it through.
I'm not really overly chatty and outgoing to begin with but it didn't take them long to notice. I just told them I thought I was coming down with something and really didn't feel up to it. They pretty much bought it but I think Jace and Max figured something more was up. They helped a lot, covered, did what they could to draw my parents attention to them, keep the focus off of me and push the meal along as fast as possible.
I actually think Max even made up a completely fictional homework assignment just to move it along even quicker. Told my dad he had to write an essay on a family member, said he needed to interview him."
Magnus chuckled, giving a gentle smile.
"He sounds wonderful."
Alec swallowed, nodding.
"He is…one of the best kid's I've ever met…probably one of the best people I know. He's kind and brave and totally selfless. He's gonna grow into an amazing person…but I do worry about him. Hell, I did before this with Izzy…now? I-I really don't know, just have to hope he's okay, make sure he knows can tell me absolutely anything and hope like hell he can keep it together until he's old enough to move out of the house.
He's the only one of us still living with them. I've always been a bit worried for him just because I know my dad's view on people like me- like us. Max isn't really 'obvious' but he's a fair bit more sensitive and expressive than me or Jace. More I guess 'stereotypical' you'd say. I kind of think my dad's image is so caught up in his son's that unless it was something blatantly obvious he wouldn't see it but there's just always a chance and it does worry me. Kid is clever as hell though and despite his age very resilient. He is more cautious around them, a bit quieter, more measured. I hate that he has to be like that but it does let me breathe a bit better.
Really Jace should be the most obvious, he's probably the most open, though I don't think that's intentional, more just well…Jace. Even so, he's so brash and puts so much effort into cultivating his image as an over the top playboy and lady killer most any mention of him being interested in men is written off as slander from a jilted ex of his latest conquest or an envious rival."
Magnus scoffed, shaking his head.
"Yeah I've met him… Don't really see any self-respecting person of any gender being taken in by that over the top showboating. I figured the biggest, most convincing cover for Jace's sexuality was his personality."
Alec gave a slight laugh, tilting his head.
"Not gonna lie…it can be at times…the man is a lot."
"A LOT a lot."
Alec shook his head, glancing over.
"Hey now…whatever else he is- and I'll admit that's a hell of a long list- he's still my little brother."
Magnus flashed a faint smile, holding his hand up placatingly.
"Fair enough…I'm sure he has plenty of positive traits. I haven't seen them, but I'm sure they're there…somewhere. Haven't really had a chance to see them. Kinda took to making a hasty exit anytime he comes around after the last time he hit on me."
Alec startled, looking over in surprise.
"The 'last' time? How many times has he hit on you?"
Magnus rolled his eyes.
"More than enough times to get the point I'm not interested…apparently not yet enough to make him realize I'm not just 'playing hard to get'."
Alec glanced over.
"I…Sorry he's-"
Magnus waved him off.
"He's harmless…obnoxious, somewhat dense and way too caught up in his own self-importance and image but harmless nonetheless. I do generally admire confidence and moxie. They are very good qualities to have...he just could maybe take them down a notch…or ten."
Alec chuckled, giving a slight nod.
"Definitely…do you want me to talk to him? I mean I can't guarantee anything but despite his actions the last thing he wants is to make someone feel uncomfortable. He really does have a good heart…it's kinda buried under a lot of self-assurance, smugness and hair gel…a pretty ridiculous amount of hair gel. But I swear it's there."
Magnus laughed, again waving him off.
"No it's quite alright. Hardly the worse I've faced. As I said he's not a threat, just a bit of an annoyance. It's fine. Thank you though."
Alec shrugged.
"Of course…" He trailed off, curiously glancing over.
Magnus caught the look, quirking his eyebrow questioningly.
"Hmm?"
Alec shook his head faintly.
"No just…gotta admit I'm kinda surprised. I mean I know he seems really overconfident- sometimes to the point of near delusionality- but quite frankly that's because generally people all but fall at his feet. He has trouble believing you're not interested and just playing hard to get because in most of his experience that's pretty much how it plays out.
You're really not interested in him…like at all?"
Magnus scoffed, shaking his head.
"Oh god no! No interest…less than no interest. I mean clearly there are people who find that appealing- I don't see it but good for him- but I am most definitely not one of them. He could not be farther from my type if he tried."
Alec glanced over, a bit of a nervously hopeful smile tugging at his lips.
"Yeah?"
Magnus animatedly nodded.
"Most definitely."
Alec nodded again, gaze shifting back to the road, both of them just setting a moment in silence lost in their thoughts. Alec swallowed, glancing over out of the corner of his eye.
"So if he's not then wha-"
"Oh! You just passed the office." Magnus interrupted, glancing back over his shoulder.
"Oh crap…sorry…" He muttered, whipping the car around, parking on the opposite side of the street, spotting Simon, Raphael and Albert Dawson standing next to Raphael's car in front of the office, waiting.
Alec shifted, beginning to turn for the door, Magnus reached over, catching his arm, squeezing lightly. Alec paused, glancing over. Magnus shrugged, feeling a bit of a sudden nervous flutter, a hint of near shyness overcoming him, glancing away faintly, brushing his hair back, fiddling with his earcuff.
"Umm…d-so after we're done with all this do you want to maybe come over for a drink? I mean only if y-"
"Sure. A drink sounds great. After everything today I could probably really use it."
Magnus blinked in surprise, glancing back up.
"Yeah?"
Alec shrugged, flashing a bit of a smile, nodding, shifting closer.
"Yeah…" He paused a moment, smiling before seemingly startling, blushing faintly.
"B-but um…first we need to…" He trailed off, gesturing towards the building.
Magnus startled as well, quickly nodding.
"Right! Of course." He rushed out, turning quickly towards the door, trying to hide the faint blush warming his cheeks, climbing out, hurrying around the car to meet Alec, heading across the street towards the other three.
Magnus slowed a bit when they approached, catching sight of Simon, gaze shifting over the very familiar midnight blue suit before moving over, meeting Raphael's gaze, eyebrow raising pointedly. Raphael seemed to waver a moment, giving a near indiscernible shrug, glancing from Magnus over to Alec, giving a slight nod in greeting.
Dawson blinked in surprise.
"Detective Lightwood?"
Alec faltered.
"Uh w-"
Simon moved forward, giving a quick, animated nod, brushing his hair back nervously.
"Yeah well…When Raphael was calling Magnus I decided to use their other line to call Detective Lightwood and bring him in on it. Figure since you're not actively blocking the case now and he's the actual detective assigned to the case it'd make the most sense. I asked him to just pick up Magnus on his way because the more cars parked in front of the closed for the evening building the more likely they are to draw attention and as we came in Raphael's car that's already gonna draw enough attention for like ten cars so really fewer cars out here the better.
By the way how crazy is that- having two lines for the same house? I mean I knew the Beaumont's were well to do but that seems pretty extreme doesn't it? It's j-"
"You're babbling…" Raphael offered helpfully.
Simon rolled his eyes, waving him off with a sarcastic look.
"Yeah I got that…I do it a lot…may not be able to control it but I still know I'm doing it. The more you ignore it the quicker it'll go away." He shifted, gaze slipping from Raphael back over to Dawson, gesturing towards Magnus.
"Albert Dawson, this is Magnus Bane; the reporter we told you about working the case. He wants to make sure the case gets solved and Eugene's story gets told. His story; not his killers twisted narrative or some tawdry tabloid gossip piece. He'll treat your son's story with the upmost respect and dignity."
Magnus blinked, surprisingly touched by the high praise before turning from Simon to Dawson, giving a quick nod and an empathetic not quite smile.
"He's right Mayor Dawson, I will. I'm very sorry for your loss. I realize nothing me or anyone else can say can really make this 'right' but I promise we will do everything we can to solve this, find out what happened and handle your son's case with the dignity and compassion that he deserves." Magnus shrugged, not really sure what else to say, hesitantly extending his hand, not really expecting reciprocity but feeling the gesture was required nonetheless.
Dawson seems to falter a moment, eyes flickering over Magnus, clearly figuring out right away exactly why Magnus would be so invested in the case. Magnus sighed faintly, beginning to drop his hand before he's surprised yet again when Dawson actually does reach forward, taking his hand, shaking firmly. He swallowed, giving a quick, sharp nod.
"It doesn't…but it is appreciated. Thank you…I actually recognize your name, I've read quite a few of your articles. You're very good. Very talented. I'd prefer not to have this all over the press but it's not just going to disappear. If it has to be brought to light it's comforting to know it will be handled by an established, respected professional who doesn't need to stoop to exploiting and twisting the details to try to make a name for themselves.
Thank you for your help and professionalism."
Magnus swallowed, giving a slight nod, squeezing his hand, meeting his eyes.
"You have my word."
Dawson nodded, taking a deep breath, nodding back, squeezing once more before releasing his hand, looking over the assembled group, giving a slight shrug.
"I really don't know what's going to come of this. I-I know you said your source said this is where he was coming the night he died…and from everything you said it sounds like it was the truth. Everything seems to point to someone with access to this office calling him, luring him here for-for god knows what…but…I just don't…I can't imagine anyone in my employ doing this. I really can't.
I know politics are a cutthroat business but I do not work like that. I don't run my campaign or business or anything else like that. I hire good people…I hire people I genuinely feel I can trust.
People I trust as much as I do my own family.
Everyone who works here has been in my home. Met my wife, my children and grandchildren…they've been over for Holiday's and Sunday dinners.
I know what this seems like…but…there has got to be another option. There has to be."
Alec sighed, stepping forward, giving a sharp nod.
"And that is still a possibility. We don't know all the facts. Until we do it doesn't help anyone to just theorize. I know this is overwhelming- I really can't imagine everything you're feeling right now- but just standing around theorizing and worrying doesn't get us anywhere. We have reason to believe Eugene was here the night he died. We do not have anything concrete. All we can do is take this one step at a time and follow the evidence as it comes. That is the only way this gets solved…the only way we get justice for Eugene.
It IS possible this is just some kind of coincidence. Maybe he wasn't here…maybe he was here for whatever reason and then he went somewhere else and the murder occurred there…maybe it has no connection to your office whatsoever, his stop here just being another part of his day. We check the office for evidence Eugene was here. If we find it, we go from there. Evidence that he was simply here is not necessarily evidence this is where he died.
We don't just jump…we take it one step at a time and see where the trail leads…We do this the right way. Okay?"
Dawson took a deep breath, nodding faintly.
"Alright…" He took a deep breath, turning from the group, beginning up the front steps of the office, getting out his keys.
The other four began moving towards the door, Magnus glanced over, gaze shifting from Simon over to Raphael, head tilting curiously.
"So what happened to the whole 'putting a pin in this for the evening?'"
He shrugged.
"We decided to take the pin out, see what we could find….turns out it was quite a lot….and unfortunately we're not done yet."
Magnus sighed, nodding slipping into the building behind the rest of the group, pulling the door closed, trying to brace himself for whatever was next.
He didn't know what they'd find…
But he doubted it'd make anything easier.
{*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*} *-*-*End Of Chapter Notes!*-*-* {*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*}Kay this went really long and kind of meander-y but I really like it. We're in the home stretch, two chapters left (And ch 12 I have 90% done so really just 1 left to write).
I really love this verse- you all have NO idea how many ideas I have for it…
Hope you all like it as much as I do.
So what do you think?
-*-*-*-*-*-*-40's Detective Noir-*-*-*-*-*-*-
* 28 *