Gavin hated it. He really fucking hated it. He sighed as he tugged the collar of his black shirt restlessly. How had Elijah done this at their father's funeral? Dozens of people had come up to him so far to offer their condolences since he was acting as chief mourner. Chloe had done more than Gavin could have ever hoped for. Within three short weeks, she'd hired the venue they'd wanted, gotten the staff to attend, called in Aaron's work colleagues, wrangled his publisher and editor, and even a few people from Aaron's apartment block. It was sort of nice that Aaron had such a big turnout. Gavin was surprised that the majority of mourners were human. Gavin had called Edward Morgan, who'd been sorry to hear the news and agreed to pass on information about the ceremony to the other papers. Gavin was touched to find that so many had turned up, including Morgan himself.
The papers were, of course, intending to run stories about Aaron and the murder, but Gavin hoped that they'd at least put in something about Aaron himself. He hoped that any articles would celebrate Aaron's life rather than focus too much on the mystery killer. Gavin was damn well going to keep the killer a mystery, too. It was too soon to let the news get out about the real Hickory Killer returning. The FBI and DPD had been as discreet as possible about the murder, doing everything imaginable to stop the news from slipping out.
Gavin forced another small smile and shook another hand. It was Aaron's boss. He only knew that because of the introduction Chloe gave. Apparently, the man was so sorry to hear about Aaron's untimely death. He'd never imagined when he'd disappeared that it had been something like this. He'd thought he'd simply found a better job. Did Aaron really seem like that sort of person? Like he'd just phcking up and leave out of the blue without notice? He was a phcking professional! That's what Gavin had wanted to say. Instead, he'd tightened his jaw and nodded his thanks. This was Aaron's day, and he wasn't going to ruin it with his temper.
Once the man had headed further into the restaurant, Gavin felt a hand close over the back of his neck. He closed his eyes with a sigh as he leaned into the firm touch. He gave Nines a small smile of thanks and reassurance. He was alright so far. He'd swallowed down every sharp retort, and every choked sob that had tried to slip out. Further inside, he'd seen Elijah and Connor working the floor, making sure their guests were all comfortable and accepting any gifts and donations on Gavin's behalf. He hadn't quite figured out what to do with anything like that just yet. Maybe some android charity or anti-AAL group could do with some extra funding…Chloe or Connor might have a good idea…
"Detective Reed," Morgan greeted solemnly as he entered, gripping Gavin's hand tightly as he held it out in greeting. "I was really sorry to hear about Aaron. He mentioned seeing you on occasion, but I had no idea you were so close! If you need anything-if there's any information you need or…I'll help!" His usually bright eyes were somewhat dimmed on this occasion. It was the first time Gavin had seen him without his notebook. That touched him more than anything. Morgan had come as a mourner, not as a reporter hunting down a hot story.
"Yeah, we were…Well…we were," Gavin said regretfully, deciding that was enough. They'd been something. Now they weren't. Morgan seemed to understand the weight of those words, giving him a sympathetic smile in return. "I'm glad you could make it," Gavin added with a nod before Chloe politely directed Morgan towards the open floor of the restaurant. That made way for the next set of guests to step forward to offer their condolences and regrets about the sweet boy who'd always helped so much around the apartment block. Apparently, the older people living in the apartments had really liked Aaron. He'd gone out of his way to pick up shopping, fix broken appliances, and even find lost cats.
The owners of the restaurant had outdone themselves. Chloe had managed the flower placements and directed the arrangement of the room. The tables had either been put away or lined the open space with platters of food. The bar was open, paid for by Elijah at his insistence, and the staff were working on rotation to man it and bring out fresh food from the kitchen every so often. There was soft music playing. Tunes that Gavin recognised from Aaron's playlist. He'd let Chloe arrange that sort of thing, thinking she would know best. He'd made the right decision. He didn't think anyone could have planned it better.
"Detective Reed, I'm so very sorry for your loss." The voice that greeted him was unexpected, pulling Gavin back to Earth with a small jerk of his head. He schooled his expression as he took Perkins' hand and gripped it. Their eyes locked. Gavin blinked his understanding as he nodded politely to Colin and took his hand, too. He didn't have to look to know that Colin's LED was flashing yellow as he spoke to his brothers privately. Gavin tried not to look around. Tried not to examine the crowd. There was only one reason Perkins would turn up. Phck! He thinks he's here! He thinks he's watching! That sick phcking phck! He'd better not-he'd better not come here and-
"Gavin, take a break with me," Nines urged softly as he appeared at his shoulder again. Gavin nodded his agreement as he excused himself. Chloe stepped into the role of hostess instantly, continuing to greet guests and assuring them they'd be able to meet Gavin later. It was understandable that the detective was feeling a little overwhelmed at the moment and had gone to rest awhile. Everyone was sympathetic and so swept along by Chloe's welcoming warmth that they had no complaints at all. Nines walked Gavin through to a private staff only area, easing him back against the corridor wall with a hand on his shoulder. "You understand why they're here." He could see it in Gavin's haunted green eyes.
"Yeah…They really think he's going to turn up here?" Gavin asked with a hint of dread in his tone. What the fuck would he do if the killer turned up? Was he intending to try something? Was he going to ruin this final tribute to Aaron's life, just like he'd snuffed it out? He felt anxious, his heart racing at the very thought of it. He wasn't sure if he was angry or scared. Maybe both…Nines' jaw tightened as he nodded his agreement. He didn't like it any more than Gavin did, but it was a fact that it could be part of the killer's plan.
"It is unclear, but it wouldn't be unheard of for the killer to turn up at an event such as this to watch the result of their actions. There is also the added bonus that he would be able to get close to you and observe your reaction first-hand." Nines watched Gavin's skin pale as he rubbed his hand on his jeans. Fuck, how many hands had he shaken that day already? What if he'd been one of them? What if he'd come in, walked right up to him, and shaken his hand while apologising for his loss? It was sick. It was absolutely fucking sick. "Colin, Connor and I will scan continuously and keeping a careful record of each face that we see. If he turns up, we will identify him. Colin is already planning to take all the names we find and run various background and security checks to ensure they are who they claim to be," Nines added assuringly as he stepped a little closer in comfort. Gavin took a breath and nodded. Having all three RKs around made him feel a lot better. Hopefully that'll be enough of a deterrent that he won't even turn up.
"Everything alright? I noticed Perkins prowling around…" Hank greeted as he slipped through the door to join them with two glasses in hand. Gavin accepted the whiskey that was offered, taking a small sip before nursing the crystal glass. It was strong. It burned his throat and chest on the way down. It wasn't exactly a cheap brand, but it lacked the luxurious smoothness that came with Elijah's collection. Despite the burn, it wasn't a bad choice. It seemed to be a regular of Hank's. He took slightly larger sips than Gavin, but was clearly pacing himself. He wasn't aiming to get drunk.
"Yeah, they just…They think the killer might turn up," Gavin replied almost nervously. Hank leaned on the wall beside him with a nod of understanding. The thought had crossed his mind, too. That's why he'd had been doing his own form of surveillance. Connor may have the eyes, but Hank had the nose. He could sniff out a scumbag a mile away. He'd worked his way through the room, greeting pretty much everyone and clearing them from his shit list. Aaron had known some really good people, especially the kids that worked in the restaurant. They were beside themselves. Aaron had been an almost permanent fixture there since the revolution. They'd been a little sad when he hadn't turned up as often over the past couple of months, but they'd understood. They'd been happy for him. He'd seemed completely stuck on Gavin during their first date.
"Well, don't you worry about it. Perkins is on it, and so are we," Hank assured gruffly, nudging Gavin's arm lightly in support. Gavin was grateful for that. It made him feel more comfortable focusing on the ceremony. It was more like a wake really. There was no body since they'd opted for the donation route. Josh had already seen that the useable parts were sent to where they were needed or placed in storage, while Simon had gathered the remaining parts and handed them off to Chloe. Elijah had made the sculpture personally and, although it had been painful for him, Gavin had looked through some of the recovered memories of their time together and chosen some appropriate images and clips. Those were private though. Only he would view them.
"Are you ready to return?" Nines asked after allowing Gavin a few moments of silent contemplation. Gavin downed the shot he was holding, much to Nines' exasperation, and handed off the empty tumbler to Hank. "I would advise against doing that again," Nines added wryly as he slapped his back. Gavin coughed his way through the burn and levelled a small glare at Nines. He wasn't planning on getting wasted. Not yet at least. He'd do that later. Near the end of the night. Probably in his own living room.
"You think?" Gavin choked as the burning passed to leave soothing heat in its wake. Nines gave him an almost teasing smirk before Gavin huffed and led the way back out to the floor. It was a little easier to plaster on that fake smile now that he had a little alcohol in his system. He also felt reassured after talking to Hank and Nines. That sicko won't ruin shit, he thought confidently as he shook yet another hand. The publisher this time. The man had read the book personally and was really pleased that Gavin wanted to continue with production. Aaron's share would, of course, be signed over to him as the holder of his estate. Gavin wasn't sure what he'd do with that either. Probably donate it to whatever charities Chloe and Connor found that seemed to vibe with Aaron's personality. He certainly had no intention of profiting from Aaron's death.
After a couple of hours, it seemed all the guests had arrived and Chloe led the way into the small room where everyone was milling about. Many of the guests knew each other or had come with a friend. There was even a little overlap. The reporters were flitting this way and that, secretly interviewing anyone they could get their claws into. The publisher and editor, people from Aaron's apartment block, and the waiting staff. Some were even brave enough to approach Hank and the RK brothers, trying to wheedle out a few details of the murder.
Gavin took a few minutes to circulate, greeting the few people he'd missed earlier as he went. Chloe walked alongside him, showing him everything she'd done. Flower arrangements had been placed on the tables and bar, and a few strings of flowers tastefully lined the walls. He didn't know where she'd gotten them, but there were framed pictures of Aaron placed on a modest table at the front. There was the one with his work colleagues he'd found before. One of him and Gavin taken in his apartment through a mirror directly from his eyes. A candid shot of him sitting in the restaurant with his laptop busy working. One of him interviewing in the street, and a few others. Gavin's only guess was that various people had sent in pictures upon Chloe's request. On a slightly raised platform behind the pictures was the sculpture Elijah had made. It was a little like a misshapen Jenga puzzle, tastefully warped and made of sleek plastic and elegant circuitry. Gavin paused and stared at it. That was it. That was all that was left of Aaron. He bit his lip as it trembled.
"Good afternoon everyone, and thank you so much for coming. I know that Detective Reed is very grateful for your attendance, and I'm sure Mr Hughes would be just as touched to see so many people gathered here today." Elijah had spoken loudly to call attention to where he stood off to the side of the room with a glass. Gavin was stunned as he turned to watch. He knew they'd planned to hire an officiator, but he'd had no idea that Elijah had volunteered for the role. "Sadly, I never met Mr Hughes myself, but he made my brother happy, and I couldn't ask for more than that. I've heard that he was a charming man. Cocky, confident, intelligent, but also warm and kind. While planning this event, we tried to delve into who he truly was, but little of his more distant past has survived. We do know that Aaron Hughes first appeared on record after the revolution. Whatever his existence was before then, Mr Hughes chose to become a journalist. He started off with a small local magazine, writing articles about mundane gossip, before he got his big break by writing an article about the murder of Angela Harris. You may remember this case. It was the first successful trial of a human for android related murder, and the killer was imprisoned for life. This article drew the attention of the Detroit Daily, where Mr Hughes remained until his untimely death. Since I didn't know Mr Hughes, it would be unfair of me to take up all the time here myself. Instead, I would like to invite a few of you to speak and share fond memories of the man you knew. With that in mind, please welcome Detroit Daily's chief editor, Charles Mason." Elijah's speech and introduction concluded so smoothly, just in time for an older greying man to step forward with his glass. Gavin smiled gratefully at Elijah as he grabbed a fresh glass of champagne and joined him and Chloe at the back of the room.
"Thanks, Eli. I had no idea you'd volunteered for this," Gavin said as Elijah gave him a brief hug and waved off his thanks. Neither of them really listened as Mason spoke about his first meeting with Aaron and how unimpressed he'd been. He'd thought Aaron was just a washed up Traci model trying to change his lot in life, which he may well have been, but he'd turned out to be so much more. His writing had been excellent. Better than a lot of the androids he'd seen who were actually designed for journalistic work. He couldn't remember Aaron writing a single bad article, and the man had had morals too. He'd refused to cover anything up or have his writing nudged in a dishonest direction. If there was a coverup, then Aaron would bring it to light with blinding accuracy. If someone was corrupt, then Aaron had no problem calling them out and putting the proof in print for all to see.
"Oh please! I'm happy to do it. Public speaking is actually one of my strengths, believe it or not," Elijah replied with a sincere smile. Gavin actually did find it surprising. He knew Elijah could be charming and that he'd taken part in many interviews over the years, but considering his almost hermit lifestyle, he was still surprised. He'd thought maybe he would have lost a little of his social charm. It definitely seemed he was mistaken, but then this isn't the first time I've seen him perform…He was sort of born into this role. "Thank you so much, Mr Mason. Next, his editor would like to say a few words. Please welcome Gregory Owens," Elijah continued as he returned to his place at the front to direct speakers and keep things moving smoothly.
The human editor was quite shy, and even had notes in his hand, but his story was no less touching. He'd gotten Aaron's manuscript in his mailbox and hadn't been able to put it down. Upon meeting him, he'd been surprised to find a Traci model working as a reporter, not to mention his eloquence in writing. Gavin huffed lightly. Owens was definitely on Aaron's level. Why didn't he start a thing with Owens? The guy was definitely into him, and they were on the same wavelength…What drew Aaron to me? This guy seems to know more about him than I do…It wasn't the first time Gavin had such thoughts throughout the day. Everyone who spoke seemed to have something new to say, shedding light on a new facet of Aaron's personality. By the end, Gavin had a clear picture of a man who was serious at work, harsh but fair, with a mischievous side, who loved to laugh, and had boundless warmth for any who needed it. He'd brightened the servers' day whenever he'd come to the restaurant, helped old ladies with their shopping, helped men move furniture, stopped kids running across the street, and a host of other things.
One of the servers was speaking now, talking about how she'd spilled Aaron's thirium on their first meeting, and that she'd been crying. She'd had a bad break up, she'd had a report overdue at school, she'd arrived late for work, and then she'd messed up while working. She'd been so down and overwhelmed, but Aaron hadn't been angry. He'd taken her hand and tugged her into the seat across from him, handed her a napkin, and told her everything was alright. It was just a little spilt thirium. It wouldn't even stain the carpet. He'd let her pour out her problems, listening without judgement. He'd been so kind. She'd never forgotten it, and she was so sad that she wouldn't see him again. Wow, you just left a string of broken hearts, didn't you?
Gavin's eyes widened as he felt it. It was the same as that day at the arboretum. A chill that sent prickles up and down his neck. Gavin swallowed the lump in his throat as his wide green eyes darted around the room. He was frantic as he scanned the crowd for anyone who looked out of place. Anyone who wasn't supposed to be there. His hand found Chloe's instinctively, tugging her closer as he moved towards the edge of the room. He didn't want anyone standing behind him. He needed his back to the wall. Safe. He didn't feel safe. Chloe followed his urging, unsure what was wrong as she watched his breaths getting faster.
"Gavin? What is it? What's wrong?" she asked softly as he leaned back against the nearest wall. He's here somewhere! Where the phck is he? Gavin wondered anxiously, searching the sea of unfamiliar faces and wondering which one it was. How could he possibly know when they all looked so fucking normal? Chloe kept a gentle hold on his hand as he continued to grip her wrist. She looked around searchingly before spying Connor and waving him over hurriedly. Connor wasted no time, quietly circling the ring of guests to reach them.
"Detective Reed…Gavin!" Connor called, slapping Gavin's cheek sharply to get his attention. Luckily, the crowd was too busy listening to the current speaker to notice. The pain was enough to get his attention. Connor blinked worriedly as they locked. Gavin's dirty green eyes were somewhat frantic as he focused on Connor. Connor…Connor is good, Connor I can work with.
"Here…He's-here-somewhere. I can phcking feel-it!" Gavin hissed, unsure whether he was furious or terrified. The fucking killer was in the room. The man who'd ruined his life. The man who'd taken Jack and Aaron from him. The man who stalked his every move and somehow managed to manipulate him every fucking time. He was sick of playing this man's game, of dancing his dance, and singing his tune. He was also afraid, and that made it worse. He was ashamed to be so fucking terrified. Connor was on it instantly. He didn't even consider doubting Gavin's intuition. His LED span yellow as he alerted both Nines and Colin to Gavin's feeling. Connor remained close, standing protectively in front of Gavin and Chloe as he scanned the room and noted down every face in his immediate vicinity.
Gavin watched from his place against the wall, seeing Hank and Nines slowly stalking around the group of people. Perkins and Colin were standing at the edge of the room nearer to the main doors, which would stop anyone leaving that way. Gavin saw movement at the swinging kitchen door and took off, Connor's voice hissing after him urgently as he followed. It's him! Gavin was certain. He burst through the swinging door and dodged his way between the metal counters of the small kitchen. The chefs were still reeling from the last person to rush through and quickly stumbled out of the way.
"Gavin!" Connor called as he watched him rush out into the rear alley. It took Gavin moments to spot the head of sandy hair as the well-built man hurried off up the narrow backstreet. He gave chase. He didn't think about anything else as his feet pounded the cement. He had to catch that man. "Detective Reed! Stop! You don't even have your sidearm!" Connor continued to shout as he sped up, unwilling to lose Gavin as he continued to lead. He was so close, and then Gavin was jumping out of reach as he scaled a wire fence and scrambled over with far more grace than he'd expected possible. Connor followed effortlessly, cursing that he'd lost so much ground.
"Stop right there, motherfucker!" Gavin yelled as he followed the bounding figure ahead of him. The man hadn't slowed down once. He was tireless. He'd barely even broken stride while scaling the fence. The man turned his head slightly, but the sunlight was too bright to get a good look at his face. "Detroit Police! Stop!" Gavin repeated breathlessly as he gained on him, desperately reaching out to snag his smart black jacket. Everything happened so fast. The man pulled forward, yanking Gavin off balance. He lost his grip on the black sleeve as he stumbled. Something hit him hard on the back of his neck, sending him to the ground in a heap. He barely heard Connor's voice shouting as a shot rang out. Something wet splattered the ground beside his face. Blue?
"Gavin? Gavin! Are you alright?" Connor cried frantically, LED spinning yellow as he stopped. The sound of pounding footsteps faded as Connor knelt beside him. Gavin groaned as he was turned over, weakly waving for Connor to follow the assailant. He was letting the fucking killer get away! "It's alright. I've sent Colin and Nines his speed and trajectory. They're already driving that way," Connor assured as he scanned Gavin's vitals and felt the back of his neck. It hurt like a bitch, but it was nothing serious. The scrapes on his palms hurt more. He accepted Connor's hand, allowing himself to be tugged to his feet.
"Phck! I can't believe he got away!" Gavin cursed in breathless frustration, his eyes dropping to the patches of blue splattering the ground. This can't be the Hickory Killer himself…That fucker's definitely human. For one thing, deviancy wasn't a thing back then. For another, it's just too…personal. That didn't mean he couldn't be working with an android, or rather, have an android working for him. It likely wasn't even a deviant. The killer wouldn't chance an equal partner getting in his way or stabbing him in the back. That made him feel a little better. The android was likely a victim in all this. Maybe we'll be able to deviate him if Nines manages to catch him…
"What were you thinking? You're not on duty today! You don't have your badge or your sidearm! You could have been killed!" Connor scolded as he checked him over. Not that Gavin wanted, or needed, his coddling. He'd been sparring with Nines regularly, and he'd been back on duty for the past two weeks. With his level of improvement and the support he was getting from his colleagues, Dr Marr had seen no reason not to sign him off. Gavin scoffed a little at Connor's concern. This wasn't his first chase. He wasn't inexperienced, though he had to admit the android had taken him off guard. If he'd had a knife or decided to snap his neck, then he would definitely be dead right now. Something he was more than a little aware of. He was also aware that it wouldn't make any sense. If the Hickory Killer wanted him dead, then he'd be dead. That sick fuck had other plans. It was what those plans entailed that worried him. What if he meant to draw Nines away? Phck!
"You got Nines and Colin? Are they alright?" he asked anxiously as he doubled over and rubbed the back of his sore neck. Connor's LED flashed yellow as he nodded. His attention was split between Gavin, the quiet area they were in, and the chatter between Nines and Colin. They'd had the android in their sights for a while, but it had dropped off the grid just like last time. Connor sighed at the news, wondering if things would have been different if he'd left Gavin and headed after the suspect. The thought had barely occurred when he felt Nines' feelings of gratitude and warmth flood through his system. That was worth it. Nines was right. Keeping their human friends and partners safe should be their top priority.
"They're fine. The android escaped, so they're heading back…Can you walk?" Connor asked in return, though he was quite certain Gavin wasn't that badly injured. Gavin straightened and nodded, trying not to feel too annoyed as he brushed the dirt from his knees. He was damned sure Connor could have caught that android since it had been injured, but he understood why he'd stayed. They were in a random back alley. There was no telling who might have come along and found him lying there. They headed back the way they came, climbing over the mesh fence and walking in through the kitchen again. It seemed their guests hadn't noticed the sudden activity, too intent on Elijah's charm and the speeches.
"You were reckless," Nines chided softly as soon as he caught sight of Gavin. Gavin sighed tiredly, something warm stirring in his chest as Nines took his hands and gently examined his slightly scraped palms. His silvery blue eyes ran over the flaked and reddened skin, dissatisfaction pinching his brow as he noted the specks of dirt and red. His hands were so large, but so fucking soft as they stroked the stinging surface.
"You can't have phcking expected me to just stand around and let that fucker go!" Gavin bit out quietly, not wanting to draw the attention of the guests that were milling around in groups again. Nines shook his head slowly. Of course not. He'd known Gavin would run the minute he'd received the message about the killer being in the room. His thirium pump had stuttered upon seeing it happen, relieved that Connor hadn't been far behind. He'd grabbed Hank and headed out to the car moments later. Connor had been sending him constant updates on their location during the chase. He'd felt…disoriented — Sick? Nauseous? Worried? — when he'd heard that Gavin had been incapacitated, however, Connor had quickly assured him it wasn't life threatening.
"You wouldn't be you if you didn't give me a thirium pump infarction," Nines replied dryly with the barest quirk of his lips. There was more than a little affection lacing his snark, and his hands still gently caressed Gavin's. Gavin snorted. He guessed that was the android term for a heart attack as he tugged his hands free. Nines' blue eyes took on a slightly more serious edge as he examined the rest of his body, scanning him for further injuries. He was displeased to note the stiffness in Gavin's neck. It made him feel…angry? — Confirmed - angry. — The back of Gavin's neck was where he would rest his hand to calm and soothe him. Gavin would close his eyes and lean back into the contact with all the trust in the world. Someone else had touched him there. Someone had hurt him there. He could see the barest touch of purple from the impact. It would be sore and stiff for days. "I am…relieved to see you're safe," Nines murmured as he reached around to rest his fingers on the bruised skin. Gavin winced, but Nines was…touched — Confirmed - touched. — as Gavin leaned back into his grip anyway.
"I wish this hadn't happened today though," Gavin sighed, feeling a little guilty as he looked at the table of photos. This day had been about Aaron, and the fucker had even taken that away. As if reading his thoughts, he felt Nines' hands rest on his shoulders, gripping lightly as he encouraged Gavin to face him. "Today was supposed to be about Aaron." Gavin felt as if he'd let him down somehow. He should have been better. He should have been faster. They could have taken that android into custody and-
"It still is…Look around. All of these people came here to celebrate Mr Hughes' life. None of them even noticed the minor interruption. Nothing has been ruined. Today is still about Mr Hughes. Colin and Agent Perkins are the ones working this case. Our current objective is to ensure the remainder of the day proceeds as planned." Nines' tone was soft and somehow comforting. Gavin gave a small smile of thanks as he nodded and joined him in looking around. Chloe and Elijah were in full swing, flitting between guests politely to see that they had everything they needed. Hank and Connor were standing off to one side in quiet discussion, likely about the earlier chase. Colin and Agent Perkins were similarly preoccupied in another corner. It was unlikely that the killer would come himself or send anyone else that day. Gavin could relax a little. It was subconscious as his hand searched for Nines'.