Family Business

[Lovely]

December 20, 2008
evening
Veinna Estate - Dining room & Sitting room

The family was gathered for dinner, wine was poured into glasses and platters heaped with delicious food, a few members were absent but that was not unusual. Chris Malloy had arrived earlier in the day and sat at the table with Chip, but Florica was not with them. She'd gone to speak with Aberto after Chris arrived, Aberto was also absent from the table, though not for long. He kept Flo from the dinner table and casually strolled in to take a sample from Chip and Biff. His face was bruised, his shirt torn and bloody (some his and some not) yet he was smiling. "Excuse me." He politely apologised for the interuption. "I'll just be a minute. Chip, young man, we need to do a little test, are you up to that?" He was warm and kind to the young boy, he the looked over at Biff with a shit eating grin. "Roll up your sleeve. I got some for you too.." He all but ignored Chris, not asking permission to take a sample from Chip, knowing full well Chris was watching. Sometimes Aberto could be such a bastard, but his actions were done purposely to make his point very clear.

Chris was watching and getting pissed, his hair temper about to blow and it showed in the clench of his jaw. "What the hell do you think you're doing with -MY- son? ..And where the hell is -MY- wife?" He suddenly demanded.

Biff meanwhile was quiet and cooperattive. "... um... what?... yeah... yeah sure..." He eyed the man carefully.

Aberto just chuckled and turns to give Chris a sly grin. "Well now that's a good question.. only he's not your son and she's not your wife... anymore."

Chris snapped and started to swear, rising as if to go for Chip and demanding to know where Flo is. "What the f*ck is this shit? Where the hell is Florica? I'll teach her to run that mouth of hers.."

Biff asked calmly, rolling down his sleeve when the test is done. "You want me to see him out?" Mitchell crimson flares in his eyes behind the grin.

Aberto placed a hand gently on Marcus 'the bad puppy's', shoulder. "Would you mind helping disposing of the trash? We only allow family at this table." He nodded to Biff and allowed Marcus a chance to slightly redeem himself for his misjudgement.

The dark sheep pushed his chair back silently, head held in a defiant pose, proud and sinister at once, eyeing the now-trespasser and giving only the slightest of nods, followed by a predatory grin. The toothpick he'd been toying with was tossed down to his plate, precisely and symbolically spearing the wilted remains on his plate before he rises to accommodate the request.

Biff follows a few steps behind. "Sorry about that folks... have some more wine. We'll be right back. You okay there, Chopper? Have some more steak.. it's good for you," he winked to the boy.

Lily glanced up from her plate, long enough to take in the form of the man she so needed and adored, but looked back down hoping her father didn't see and get even more angry with her. Her hand brushed a tear from her cheek and she pushed at the food on her plate hardly anything eaten. Her wound was bandaged tightly where it was still healing. Aberto had explained that part of why it was taking longer to heal and why she was so intensely emotional was due to the pregnancy and the feral traits she did possess. She knew that her emotional state also had to do with her genuine feelings for the dark and moody man who had won her heart.

[Lovely]

Chip watched with wide inquisitive eyes and though he initially shrank away from 'his father' he did brighten when Biff called him by his nickname. Chopper nodded his head and played with his fork. "You're not going to be gone long are you Biff?" He seemed not to care at all that 'his father' was being escorted out.

Chris for his part stared darkly at Aberto and at Biff.. Marcus was last to get the look before his gaze leveled back to Biff in silent challenge. It was almost as if he knew and was asking about the connection between -his- wife and this man. "I'll f*cking kill you both.." He muttered quietly still staring at Biff, though his hand swiped to the side to knock into Chip's head. "What do you care how long he's gonna be gone? Huh you little shit.. what about your father?.. just like your f*cking mother.. " He growled a little and his hand swung back intending a harder blow this time.

Marcus' reflexes were perhaps faster than the man had anticipated since he'd moved so slowly and deliberately a moment before. He grasped at Chris' hand to keep it far from its intended target. Behind the intense glare, Marcus offered the boy a gentle smile and a nod... any part of this family was under his protection, some more than others. His glance strayed to Lily only briefly before the cold determination turned back on the man in his grasp. "Get the door," he rasped out nearly silently to Biff, the icey chill of his tone flowing over the man he held and pulled from the table.

Biff nearly clocked him, himself, but he'd clear out of the room first. He checked on Chip, making sure he was okay first from the cold-cock that was already delivered. "Stay tough... yeah.. I'll be right back, you can count on it," he said quietly to the boy, ruffling his pin-feathers with a gentle pat on the head. Time to get down to business, he seemed to say, shrugging into his jacket, though it would be off in a moment once they stepped outside.

Mitch's own lip curled, watching the men, but moreso watching Marcus, twitching to go and take care of other matters himself. The glances weren't ignored by him, but by god Scott better have missed them. He started to rise from his chair, watching Aberto and looking back to the door.

"Sit down, son and finish your plate." The voice was the calm and mellow tremor of Scott's from the head of the table. He'd sat back and was watching the play by play. "Aberto... you mind telling me what just happened here?"

Chris wasn't willing to go quietly and would struggle with both men and his anger grew more as he watched Biff interact with Chip and how the boy reacted to him.

Aberto kind of gave his brother a sheepish grin and winked, chuckling somewhat like a crazy man. "Biff and Marcus are just taking out the trash.." He moved back over to the boy in question and patted him on the head gently. "It seems as though an error was made.. which is now being corrected."

Scott watched Aberto a long moment, reaching for his napkin and wiping away the snarl he felt forming. "Whose... error, Aberto? And why is it interrupting my dinner? Lindsay... nevermind. Follow them out, make sure they don't leave a mess." He worked at something seemingly stuck in his tooth as he picked up his glass, waiting for answers.

Aberto smoothed the boy's hair and stepped away, circling the table to stop beside Jaime and whisper. "Young lady.. I need to see you first thing in the morning." Aberto noted Lily's plate and was slowly working his way to her. "Life's error.. your error for sending Florica so far away with that.. trash.. my error for not knowing to test someone else before he was decided upon.. Florica's for not telling us sooner.. and it interupts dinner.. because it needed to. I needed to know if what she said was true.. and you saw him hit the kid.. I'd not have her or the boy subject to another minute with him... not when someone else who was at this table is responsible.."

[Lovely]

Lindsay was out of chair quickly, a reassuring brush of his hand over Bronwyn's shoulder as he passed. "Back soon," she'd hear him say on his way past and out of the room.

"Responsible?" Scott looked from Aberto to Chip then back as the man skirted the table, stopping at his girls each in turn. "Those better be sweet nothings you're whispering over there... in fact come on over here and whisper in my ear while you're at it. I'm feeling really lonely right now, Aberto..," he shifted, folding his hands in his lap and offering a slightly angered twist to his grin.

He kissed Lily's cheek and patted her hand, garnering a nod of her head and for the first time all evening a soft smile touched her face briefly. His eyes moved to his brother again as he shifted to the servant closest to him. "Please bring Lily one of the shakes I've had the cook making for her.. her appetite is not very good." He continued his journey to take a seat beside Scott, his eyes dancing with an amused sparkle and his lips slightly upturned. "With this brood of yours.. how could you possibly be lonely?.. it grows bigger each passing day.."

Bronwyn reached her fingers to clasp Mitch's for the moment before he slipped away, giving him a soft reassurance as he went out the door.

"Yes, I know. Josie's expecting... or there is something.. you're... obviously not telling me?"

He chuckled, hiding his mouth behind his hand. "At this rate every female in this house is going to be expecting by the end of the month.." His hand dropped down to strum on the table lightly. "Why not be more positive brother dear? Lily has gained back two whole pounds of the ten she lost.. not where she should be yet but it's progress and she's at least drinking the shakes, even if she's not eating well. Josie, well she already told you and if i'm not mistaken, I think Mitch and Bron have been fruitfully busy." His voice was low enough that it was not disturbing the room and in direct conversation with Scott now. "And.. well Biff and Flo are going to need some time to work a few things out."

Scott looked at the man and his own placement and chair, looking beneath it a moment and inspecting the arms and the arrangement of his own glass in front of him. "Aberto... this is the head of the table, right? And you're not sitting at it.. at least not that I can tell. How is it that I'm just now hearing about this? My daughters... my beautiful little sweetpeas... and you know and I didn't? Does that seem a little strange to you?"

He grinned and leaned closer. "You're little sweatpeas are growing up quickly into beautiful women who certainly take after you as much as they do their mother in spirit, beauty, strength, and stubborness. Your lovely girls are scared to talk to you, they think you'll just be angry and they'll be in trouble and in this family trouble.. is trouble.. as for me, I'm just the crazy doctor who is locked up in the basement. They don't get much choice in talking to me. I saw Lily this afternoon and this is the first time I have seen you since. Florica and I had a little heart to heart this evening." He motioned to the mess of his shirt and shrugged as if it was all easily explained.

Scott picked up his glass again to wash the words away he thought of saying. "Looks good on you," he nodded to the marks. "You're lucky that's all she did to you. So... babies have fathers... usually... or is the crazy doctor in the basement using my girls for experiments, hm? I don't see these 'gentlemen'... at my table? Where are these 'sons' of mine, hm?"

"I told you Biff and Marcus are taking the trash out. You sent Mitch with them yourself and as for Jaime's beau.. I don't know where he is and she was just told to see me in the morning.. nothing more."

[Lovely]

"Marcus..?" His voice sounded dry and distant and his face became pale. "But Jaime's... you're not denying... so she is. Explains why she's been nice... although I suspect I know. Consultants.. damn him. But Marcus? My little angel...?" He looked sadly down the table at the 'younger' Veinna princess and took the last of his glass in a harsh gulp.

Aberto sighed and nodded his head, his hands motioned to his wrists to indicate the bandages on Lily's. "That is why she did it. She didn't think you'd understand. She's in love with the boy.. and she's very scared.. and very upset that her father will be so angry and upset with her." His voice was soft and his eyes stayed with Scott, no longer acting the asshole part he so often played, Aberto loved his brother and his children very deeply.

Lily's head lifted from where she looked down at her plate, feeling the eyes on her. Her face washed of color and she pushed away from the table, feeling like she needed to run.. feeling tears once again sting her eyes though they did not flow. Damn the shake and everything else, she had to get out of there before her father's sad look killed her.

"Damn right I'm upset," he said softly to his brother, more angry that he'd not seen it happening or even suspected. He'd been too tied up in his own concerns to notice his girls were really growing up. He glanced back as Lily's motion caught his eye. "Lilian, you're not excused yet," he said a little louder as he stood to come down the table beside her. "Jaime, you either."

Jai looked up at him as she was reaching for her second glass of milk and raised an eyebrow. "I wasn't done anyway.." She lingered on the glass and then decided against the drink she was craving as she stared up at her father.

Lily jumped a little at his tone and shrank away from him as he came closer, looking very frightened and a little ill. She shifted, glancing to the door feeling even more like she just needed to go. She sank into the chair again, her eyes looking down at her lap.

He came up beside Lily's chair, hands brushing over his cheeks a moment, trying to think of what to say. After a moment, he squatted down beside her to sink below her downcast gaze and reached for her hands she rested in her lap. "Sweetpea... Daddy's sorry, okay? He's a sonuvab*tch, but he loves you and doesn't want you to be afaid. I think he wants you to come talk to him. Can you do that for me please? Go and sit down with him a little while. You know what... I.. I don't think he's mad. He's just worried about his little girl."

Biff was the first to return to the room. He wasn't as intent on getting his hands or paws dirty when he really didn't need to. He was rolling down the second sleeve, his jacket hanging loosely in his hand as he came back to his chair and noted the shift. "Whoa, we leave for a few minutes and you all are playing musical chairs? Where's Flo? Did she come down yet?"

Her hands were shaking in his and for a moment she couldn't speak at all. Slowly her head nodded and she managed a very small. "okay." Her eyes closed to try and blink the tears away. "okay.." She repeated again and if he was wise enough to tell he would know that now was his opprotunity, if he waited too long the small opening would close back up again. Though he did have a small window of time.

Jaime was watching with an odd expression on her face, her hand kept reaching for her glass but pulling away.

[Lovely]

Aberto looked over at Biff with a slight grin and pointed up. "She's probably getting cleaned up.. unlike me she won't show up in here all a mess. If the kid is done, I don't think she'd mind you bringing him up."

Biff scowled, partly teasing. "The 'kid' has a name... dontcha?" He smiled, all part of threat gone now that Chris had been dealt with. "C'mon, Chopper. I think your mom wants to have a talk with us both."

Scott turned only a moment to acknowledge that whatever needed to be done was done effectively. Turning back to Lily, his voice was quiet, though shaking a hint enough to notice. He kissed her knuckles and let go of her hands to brush her cheek. "C'mon. Give Daddy a chance to make it better, okay?" He nodded to the door.

Marcus came in still drying off his hands and apparently not intending to stay long in the room. He was reporting back and waiting to be excused, himself, until he realized Scott was next to Lily. The color left his own face a moment as he leaned in the doorway to watch.

Lily nodded again, not saying anything else, but lifting her gaze for a fleeting moment to timidly meet her father's. It was brief but it was a small connection and perhaps a glimmer of hope for them both. She turned to stand and make her way to the door, stopping before taking a step as she saw Marcus standing there. The fear and worry rushed back in on her as she didn't think her father would understand. Her eyes locked on the 'rogue' wolf for that moment and the shades of green reflected a genuine warmth and love, though the fear shimmered in them and she tried not to make it obvious as she started to move slowly again, lingering near Scott and waiting for him to escort her out or tell her to go wait for him someplace.

Chopper was full of giggles and a bright smile as he lept from his chair to attach onto Biff. landing however he might his mouth already biting playfully at the man. He was happy at being able to spend some time with his favorite adult and also with his mother.. added bonus he didn't have to finish his peas. "Are you gonna teach me some more poker?" He asked, his bright eyes shining up at Biff.

"Poker? No, no not tonight," Biff smiled, caught off guard by burst of energy and the question. "Gonna be a little quieter than that. Maybe your mom might teach ya a few things, though." He caught the glances between the others, and patted Chip on the backside to scoot along quickly before the 'quiet' wasn't so quiet anymore, and followed him out past Marc. "Hope you've got your steel ones on," he muttered past Marcus.

Biff & Chopper continue here: Happily Ever After

Marcus straightened a little at the door, still waiting for his instructions for the night. "What's going on?" He seemed to mouth silently, his nod seeming to ask her if she was okay, if she was able to read the subtle ball-park type signals.

Scott stood a few feet from his girl, waiting patiently for her to come with him now. His gaze followed hers as her expression changed, seeing Marc at the door. "Everything's taken care of?" He asked the black sheep, perhaps asking more in that question than it seemed as he summed up the man. He hadn't given Marcus much more than the time of day and now it appeared he'd be giving the man his daughter if he stacked up to full expectations. "Once Lindsay's back, I want you at the booth and him on patrol. No more surprises tonight."

"Back... and guess I'm gone again," Mitch said, hearing the instructions and patting Marc on the back with a triumphant chuckle as he came back. "And you've got the booth. Great! Yeah, everything's fine. Checked out." He finished the report as detailed as necessary... checked out... Chris was done and the matter settled between the brothers and Marc. Mitch came back to finish his glass and give Bronwyn a kiss on the cheek. "Wait up for me... won't be long," he whispered, alive with energy that would have him through with patrol in no time to come back to her and play.

[Lovely]

Bron's eyes lit up and her teeth lightly grazed his neck before he could pull away from kissing her cheek, her lips brushing his ear softly. "I'll be sure to keep... something warm for you." She whispered, hugging him quickly to let him be off and back to her sooner.

Her eyes stayed on Marcus a moment longer but she really wasn't in the position to send much back for signals. She gave a slight smile and shrugged, hugging her arms around her middle and glancing at her father again, she really wasn't sure what was going to happen. Lily took a few steps to come beside Scott and follow him out, still looking frightened, timid, and worried.

Jaime gently tried to get her father's attention and spoke softly after tugging on his sleeve. "Do I still have to sit here.. or can I get up when I'm done?" He'd told her she wasn't excused but it appeared he needed to give Lily his attention at the moment.

"When you're done, I want you to have Aberto call that 'consultant' of yours. There's a long term assignment I need to discuss with him," he said, letting her work out the details on her own. He turned to Marcus on the way past, "And you, don't leave the booth until I call for you. I want to know where you are."

Marcus was in the throes of flinches, his glance first following Biff as he left and the other Mitchell took his place, thumping his back as he was told to man the box of doom. Lily's expression and her father's did nothing to reassure him especially when told he was to stay until called for. " 'Sir...," he said nodding obediently, not looking the man in the eye.

Jaime's mouth opened to ask why but closed and she simply stared at her father confused and then her sharp gaze cut to Aberto.. what were these two on about? And which one was she going to have to be angry with? She said nothing and quietly sipped her milk, waiting for the room to clear a bit before she pounced on Aberto.

Lily walked a couple steps behind Scott and she heard his quiet order to Marcus, her eyes watching the two. As she moved to step past him, her gaze lifted from under Marc's and her eyes once again spoke volumes of affection despite her fearfulness. Silently she told him she'd not said a word to her father and that she loved him.. the moment was brief as she didn't linger but was long enough for him to read her and for her scent to fill the space between them.

The intensity of the past few moments made the room pitch on him, his knees nearly buckling as he searched the remaining faces in the room. He didn't expect Richie would speak in his defense... and Aberto had said nothing since he'd come back. What did he miss in those few minutes that had his head now swimming in confusion and worry along with scent carried from Lily that compounded it? He leaned heavily against the doorframe, trying to feel the floor that seemed to turn to water beneath him as he watched Lily follow her father down the hall.

Aberto watched Jaime watching him and winked, stepping to her and holding his hand out for her cell phone so he could make the call. Once she relinquished it he nodded, letting her know he would speak with her later as well. He strode to the door and paused next to Marcus, offering a softly spoken. "Chin up young man.. remember you took the trash out. You were not the one taken out." It was not much in the way of comfort but coming from this source... Aberto lifted a hand and placed it gently on Marc's shoulder. "I can not speak for her father but the test results are in your favor. This may not be pretty with her father but that girl needs you to be strong or else she's not going to make it through and I think maybe you care enough about her to want to see her faring well."

[Lovely]

He was at a loss, finding fewer words than normal, his mouth agape, but silent, in search of questions to ask or favors or some mercifully swift blow to knock him out before he passed out. He nodded to Aberto's query... yes, he cared a great deal and perhaps too much. If Scott took her from him... or him from her, he didn't know what he would really do.

"Good.." He nodded once and shifted away to give Marcus a moment to compose himself, the scent of his 'devotion' to Lily was taken in by Aberto and duly noted.

Scott led his daughter to the nearest sitting room, not intending this to take very long. He was usually direct and concise. He offered her a seat if she's take one, just the same, waiting to close the door until she was settled.

Marcus sighed and half-growled, looking back to the room, neither with expectation of condolence nor with apologies for what had transpired as he glanced over faces again. Yeah, he was loyal to each and every one of them whether they remembered that or not, god love them and damn them all if Lily was taken from him. He turned away without another word and headed to the door to go down to the booth.

Lily paced a little around the couch in the sitting room, glancing to Scott and then to the floor, not sure if she should sit down or stand. She paused long enough to let him close the door and come into the room with her.

Once the door was shut, Scott tapped his bridged fingers over his nose a moment before turning to her. "Lily... am I really such a bastard not to have seen what's been happening under my nose? Cuz... I'm at a loss here. When did you grow into such a beautiful young lady, sweetpea?" He appeared small and lost, far from angry.

She stood there regarding him, she was confused, he looked a bit like she felt and it was so strange to her to see him like that. "B.. bast.. daddy! I don't think you're a bastard.." She whispered the word, like a good girl who wasn't supposed to say such things. She chewed her lip and thought about the second part of what he'd said, shrugging gently, her arms wrapping around her middle. "I don't know.. I just did.. it happens. I'm not that pretty, just getting older is all, growing up kinda happens when you do that."

His arm reached out to her. "Well damnit, stop it. I'm losing track," he seemed to pout. "Aberto tells me... you've got a little special something going on. What I just saw back there confirms it, huh? H... he's not hurting you... is he? I want you to be honest."

She started towards him but felt her cheeks burning with a deep blush. "Hurting me??" She seemed shocked that he would even think that. "Honest? Like totally honest? Not at all in the way I think you mean.. never.. he wouldn't ever hurt me.." She shook her head, telling him honestly how she felt and with a much more steady voice now.

"You're sure, now," he tested, looking at her eyes for any hint of doubt or a lie or cover for the black sheep. "He does that, because he's hired to, Lily. I won't have you hurt or threatened into anything in this house. But it's not like that, right?"

[Lovely]

She looked a little angry, offended, her eyes darkening a bit. "He feels and does because he cares about me beyond what you pay him to do. And no, it's not like that. Not at all.. it's absolutely consentual.. wanted and mutual."

He nodded. "I meant he's hired to hurt people, not win my daughter's heart. Seems he's done that in his free time... wanted? Oh, Lily... Lily, Lily... are you sure? You're young... he's... Marcus?"

She sighed softly, closing her eyes for a moment, they opened again and a bare smile floated to her face and away. "I know I'm young but yes I'm sure. He's Marcus." She kind of chuckled at that. "I know.. and he's so much more than anyone around here bothers to see. I'm a better person for having become closer with him.. and.. I am very much in love with him. Like it or not.. that's the truth." Her voice wasn't sharp or harsh, it was soft but firm in stating the matters of her heart.

"I swear in all my life I will never understand women," he shook his head, offering a defeated sigh and grin. "I guess this conversation is over, but you know what I have to do. I'm sorry, Lily, but it has to be done. Don't you worry, though. He is a man of surprises, but this is one I never expected."

Her eyes widened with a sudden panic and fear. "Wait.. what do you mean what you have to do? That could mean several things.. daddy.. what are you going to do?"

"Just a talk, sweetpea... and a few tests. You know the rules of this house. I've heard your side of the story and now he has to live up to it. I'm sorry... let me rephrase that. He has to meet my expectations .. and yours," he said gently, offering to reassure her with a hug if she'd accept it.

"That's just your nice way of saying you're going to go scare the crap out of him.." She offered him a small smile and moved to slip into his arms and accept the embrace, hugging him tightly in return.

"Well that's my expectation, yes," he nodded, teasing only a little as he kissed her cheek. "I don't want you to be afraid to talk to me and I want you to do whatever Aberto says you need to to stay strong and well. Starting with food, young lady. You go back and finish your plate, at least tonight. Everything will be fine."

"I can't.. can't eat I mean.. my stomach and food have not been agreeing very well. I know it's part nerves and all but I still can't eat... I'll have the shake, if that's acceptable to you?" She tilted her head back to look up at him, much more settled then she had been but still afraid and unsure.

"Alright... but go give Agnes a hug. You know she takes it personally when you girls don't eat her cooking. Put some ice cream in it or... I dunno... blend up a pizza... something... you don't have anything on you I can squidge anymore," he said, putting his hand to her smooth cheek that left nothing to pinch.

She nodded about the hug, she'd definately go give Agnes one. "I'm sorry... about everything.. I wasn't trying to make trouble for you or anything.."

He shook his head and shushed her worry, seeming to beg gently. "Trouble me... please. Just don't hate me so much when I try to keep you safe, alright? Not that it works... you -are- a Veinna... I should have known you'd beat me someday. Women... seems your sister's one of them, too. Just.. save some of those hugs and kisses for your Daddy, alright Sweetpea? Now go back in there and act like you had the snot slapped out of you...," he chuckled, though his eyes were strangely damp. "Baby girl's all grown up..."

She didn't 'obey' him this time, but swept back to give him another hug, wrapping around his waist tightly and resting her head on his chest. "I love you daddy."

[Lovely]

December 20, 2008
evening
Veinna Estate
Follows: Family Business

Marcus had been called from the booth, but once there, he wasn't sure he wanted to come out this time. There was no telling what Mister Veinna had in store for him. He was quick to discover upon meeting with the man which was entirely the wrong end of his ire to be on. At first, he was in fear for his position, but before long in fear for his very life, threatened with severe consequences and a happy home overlooking the birdbath in the garden rows where he had first met with the youngest princess. Amid yes-sirs and no-sirs, agreements and denials and honesty, Marcus felt he could no longer stand. The final determination was left to genetics and the final word would be just that... final. Scott had allowed him the seat in this guest room, away from the bunkhouse and away from the others to let the man sort out what he'd done and what he might do if this were his last hour. Scott's parting comment on the way out the door floored him perhaps most, the hint of near-pride and acceptance in the man's tone... "You'll be a fine father... just watch your step, son." And there Marc sat, waiting and unable to move, but feeling nearly giddy in his relief, if only he could go to her.. tell her... hold her.. was it really true?

Lily though tired and worn from worry nearly skipped up the stairs, finding the guest room that had been used and knocking gently on the door as she opened it. "Any body home?" She called softly, trying to be calm and composed, but the moment she saw her man in the chair, she let out a slight laugh and rushed toward him. The door swinging closed behind her as she pounced into his lap. "Marcus.." She was at a loss for words, her eyes shining as she searched his face.

He half chuckled, dazed and at his usual loss for words, though the relief smelled thickly on him enough that she'd be able to sense it herself. "Hey baby," he smiled, taking a moment to realize he was awake and still able to move, reaching around her snugly just to feel her warmth and breath against him. "Oh...my god. Your father.... he's insane, you know that, right?"

She giggled softly. "hi baby.. " Her fingers sifted back into his hair and she smiled softly. "He really is... and we're really.." She bit her lip and leaned to kiss him. "We get to keep each other.. I'm really yours.." Her voice was an awed whisper.

He shook his head and kissed her whisper away with a light, sweet kiss, tapping his forehead to hers. "I'm really yours... you have to keep me in line, yank my chain, take me out for walkies and if I do you wrong, he's got a galvanized railroad spike with my name on it waiting for a little bloodletting from my brain... apparently... did I tell you he's insane?" He chuckled again. "Mine... and so, very, very yours. Baby, you have no idea what hell I've been through and back tonight. Is it really over?"

"Oh.. I think I have an idea. I was so scared.." She admitted in a small whisper. "It's really over.. well I think there is this one small thing they might make us do to make it official but if daddy says we can be together and he did, that means we can." She couldn't help the smile that was curling her lips up. "I'll yank your leash anytime you want me to baby." She giggled softly.

"Hmm... I'm really hoping that was an offer," he sighed, lighting up as she smiled. "Now what's not to love about that? Love you, Lily," he whispered.

Her mouth came to claim his softly and deeply, her kiss filled with love. "Love you, too.." She murmured, her arms snaking around his shoulders more tightly.

[Lovely]

***************

Scott found a small, triumphant grin on his way down the stairs, feeling he still had some handhold on the reins and balls in this family, though there was still one young buck to deal with who was much more difficult to manage. He sighed quietly and would deal with that when it arrived. For now, the concern was his littlest sweetpea he came to find and ensure she'd finished her shake. He looked around for Aberto as well, wondering where he was lurking and what other secrets his brother was tucking away in the walls. Another matter to manage at another time. Now it was her hour. "Lily...?!"

The young woman was tucked in a chair in the corner with her sister, the two curled for comfort and Lily's legs draped over her sister's lap. Jai could be a horrid b*tch at times, but then again was the best of sisters at others. It all depended on her mood which changed just like a cat's. Lilian jumped at the sound of her father's voice and sat up straight. "Yes daddy?" She asked softly, shifting to rise from where she sat.

"Go clean up that mess upstairs. I don't want you to come down here until it's finished, do you understand me?" He offered her the wink, though the tone carried solidly through the room and was likely not lost on Jaime as his attention turned to her. "And you, young lady... we need to have a talk."

Lily tipped her head giving him a confused look at first, but then his wink and she slowly came to realize. "Oh.. alright.. thank you." She tried to hide the smile as she darted to kiss his cheek and then rushed out of the room.

Lily & Marcus continue here: Wonderful

Jaime watched her sister with an almost amused smirk which faded away as Scott's attention turned on her. "So is anyone planning to tell me what I'm in trouble for.. now?" She was clueless and the expression in her eyes showed that she truly had no idea what all the fuss was about. She'd thought that her father was 'sort of okay' with her and Patrick's relationship.. she knew he wasn't overly thrilled, but wondered what had happened or what she'd done to displease him.

He waited a long moment, ensuring that Lily had reached the top of the stairs and that her mildly feral ears didn't grasp the crux of the conversation that would unfold, or likely remain one sided in the next few minutes. It was not a secret, Scott's dislike for the young man that Jaime had been spending her time with, but this? He'd hoped that Aberto was laying down a hope or conjecture, but Scotty knew better that his brother was not one to jest about the heirs and pairings. Damn the man's sincerity, he sighed. "Well, sweetpea... it's not what you've done wrong, really, but what you managed to do right. So right, in fact, that your daddy's a little amazed right now."

She was quiet for a minute while that statement absorbed, her expression was mildly confused and disbelieving, as if she thought he was teasing her. Jai half smiled and arched a brow. "I did something right? Are you sure.. aren't I the bad kid?"

He had to laugh. The chuckle was hidden behind a fisted hand and clearing of his throat before he looked skyward again for guidance... any hope of a suggestion for this not to be happening as it had. "Something else you're apparently very skilled at," he murmured under his breath, trying to find the words he really wanted..needed... for his girl. Was she as afraid to be honest as her sister? "Jaime... you're good at being bad and busting my balls on a good day. Thank you, I've taught you well... maybe too well. But, you're not a bad girl. You.. you don't feel sick... or maybe strange, do you?"

Now the look she gave was as if to say what the f*ck? She regarded him a moment and then licked her lips lightly. "Well.. I have.. kinda.. not sick really, a little funny in my tummy but yes, just kinda off.. strange. How.. how did you know?" She asked him softly, inching a little closer to him. "Daddy.. have I done something really awful or something? This.. feels strange." She motioned between them as if to indicate something there was not quite right.

[Lovely]

"You have no idea," he said gently, realizing she truly didn't know and Aberto was a shit and didn't prime her for the conversation. He pulled up the ottoman and slowly sat down, watching her intently. "It's going to feel more than funny, sweetheart. It's going to feel really special and really scary. Aberto really didn't say a word, did he?"

A tiny glimmer of fright jumped into the usually cool girl's eyes, but she hid it well and swallowed hard. "I.. Aberto just asked me to see him first thing in the morning. Daddy, whatever I did.. I'm sorry.." A tremor of panic ran through her voice and her eyes seemed almost wild for a moment. "W.. what is he going to do to me? What did I do?"

"Apparently... you did a lot of things that daddy didn't know about until tonight, Sweetpea. That's why I've asked that Aberto give your ... consultant... a call. I need to have a little talk with him." He turned the phrase in such a way that he obviously had another word in mind to call the lad.

She paled a little and stared at him wide eyed. "D.. daddy.. you.. know?" Her voice lowered to a whisper and she seemed a bit distressed. "You know I wanted.. I was willing.. when we did all that stuff right? You don't think he.. you don't do you? Cause if that's what this is, I can tell you now it was all willing. I mean it, as much as you might not like to know it.. " She chewed on her lower lip watching him, looking a bit worried and wondering how he knew what they had been doing.

"I know, honey. That's not what this is about... not exactly. Willing or not willing, he's got a few answers to come up with and if he doesn't tell me the right ones, well... we'll have a little problem on our hands... in a few months possibly a bigger problem. Do you understand?"

She shook her head and said the word. "No." at the same time, looking at him even more confused. "Daddy.. what.. do you need to talk to him about.. are you going try to scare him away?" Her eyes seemed misted and pleaded him not to. "Please don't Daddy.." Her voice was very soft, when she spoke the last. She didn't know how to tell him how much her consultant meant to her.

"That's going to be up to him, Jaime. He's done something very, very serious and he needs to understand how serious I am that he takes care of it. If I scare him, I'm sorry, honey, but it's got to be done."

"What.. did he do.. we?" She questioned quietly, her eyes searching her father's face. "I did it too.. whatever it is that made you so mad.. didn't i?"

He nodded slowly, reaching for her hands. He rubbed them in his own a moment, then gripped gently. "Daddy's not mad, sweetpea. He's a little overwhelmed at the moment. What you two did is something...," his own eyes seemed heavily misted, though not enough to well. The piercing grey focused on her, gently demanding honesty. "It's Patrick, right? Tell me how you feel about him, honey."

Her mouth opened as if to answer but nothing came out at first, her eyes sparkled with the tears that welled gently. "I love him... more than than I ever imagine loving anyone.. more than I could possibly express. Without him.. I'm missing.. I'm not whole." She answered him honestly, blushing a little as she did.

[Lovely]

"That funny feeling... is because of him, Sweetpea. That's what happens when... well, let's just hope he says the right things, too, Jaime. I believe you. Now I want you to go upstairs, stay in your room and get some rest. You're going to have a very big day tomorrow, starting with seeing Aberto very first thing, okay?"

"The funny feeling is because of him?" Her brow furrowed slightly and her eyes narrowed a hair. Her fingers curling more tightly around his and she braved to ask once more. "What.. daddy please.. tell me what's going on.. please?"

"If Aberto's tests are right, honey... Daddy's baby girl... is having a baby," he said directly, but quietly, slowly to let it sink in. "But Daddy needs to know a few things first. You've said all you needed to say and I don't want you to interfere in what that boy has to tell me, alright? Or, Daddy will get mad. It's got to come from him and come out right, or Daddy has to make him go away. That's just the way it is, Sweetpea. I'm sorry. Now... go on. He should be here soon."

Her color washed away a bit and she stared silently at him, not blinking or speaking or moving. Her hands went limp in his though she did not pull away, her eyed widened slightly and her breath barely making a sound.

"C'mon, honey. You can stew over this upstairs. Daddy's not mad, but he is a little unpredictable at the moment. You can think about all the things we taught you about boys... and this family... and what he'll have to do to make daddy happy. Now, if you really love him, then you know he'll do just fine, won't he?" His reassurance was as chaotic as the warning beneath, but the wink was sincere and a show of his faith in her choice and her feelings. A small curl of a smile started to return as he stood up slowly, offering to help her from her chair as well.

She wanted to ask so many things but nothing came from her lips as she moved slowly to pull herself up, though the effort was weak. She was just so shocked, numbed, stunned. She moved slowly, mechanically, her head whirring with thoughts but no words came to her. She nodded to him, moving as directed, off to do what he'd told her to and to get over the shock of the news.

****************

Scarlatto Veinna... a man not known for patience and pandering. He paced silently for several minutes, listening to the droning, lightly accented pleas and explanations, all the while hearing the sarcastic edge. The man had balls to come into his house and have his way. Scotty kept that in mind in conjunction with the sheer knowledge of the workings of the household the boy... the man... father of his oldest daughter's child. He'd better be. If Jaime had managed to muddle that factor worse with her games and teases, her day would be more than long and certainly more than miserable when Scott was done with her. He occasionally looked up at Patrick, key words, carefully placed. The boy... man... had wits and seemed wiser than he appeared. Good act. Very good act... befitting a Veinna, he nodded to himself, finally putting up his hand to shut him up. Enough. They'd reached an understanding, but the gun wasn't lowered. Cocked and aimed the shot rang out.

Jaime had been pacing her room, a ball of nervous energy and anxious excitment. She was still quite a bit in shock and awed at the thought that she was.. Her lower lip took a semi permanent place between her teeth and she was close to losing it and bawling her eyes out. She was scared of what was transpiring with her father and Patrick but even more terrified of how Patrick would react to the knowledge that she was pregnant with his child. She wondered if he would be angry with her, would he want the child? She was unsure as this was a first for her, despite being in a family where babies were coveted and adored.

The sound rattled more than her already raw nerves as it echoed through the house. She made a small sound as she flinched and was heading out the door of her room before she even realized that she'd moved. Her heart was pounding in fear and worry and her legs carried her swiftly to the landing. She tripped on the stairs and caught herself, vaulting over the railing and landing in a crouch on the floor of the main level of the vast house.

[Lovely]

"Oh no... no you don't...," Rory called out, doing his best to get between her and the door, having only the benefit of longer reaching legs and little fear of heights to his advantage, following her over the railing. He'd managed only a half a step ahead, but reached to grab her. "Shots fired... you don't go in. Let me check this out, Jaime... Damn, are you okay?"

She barely heard him, knowing his voice was there but his words didn't make sense to her though they were clearly spoken. Her growl was low and warning, she didn't even realize it was coming from her as she stepped toward the door, swiping at the hands that grabbed at her. Her feral traits showing themselves more in the glint of her amber eyes.

"Whoa... Jaime... okay, I'll take that as a 'no', but you can't go in there," he said, watching his extremities and minding the shine of her eyes that reminded him much of Josephine when she was in a snit she wasn't getting out of soon. He reached again, mindful of the reaction speed and ready to knock her out if necessary to keep her from getting hurt or worse. "Listen to me... you... can't ... go... in... there. Kapishe? Out... you stay here, let me make sure of what's happening." It was only one shot and no one had left. That was the usual M.O. for Scotty, waiting for the maid and the mop, but Rory knew who was on the other side of the door... more of a reason for Jaime not to go in just yet.

The growl was more insistant and a bit ferocious this time. Her eyes shifting to very feline slits and her arm swinging with claws out as she tried to step back and avoid him getting ahold of her. She was determined to get to that door, the panic driving her need to get to Patrick -now.

"Jaime Veinna... listen to me. Listen... either person in that room ... if shot... is something you don't want to or need to see right now. No one's come out. That can mean any number of things, but you're not going in there." He'd never seen her like this and his own gun was being drawn slowly from his belt. "Call Mitch and get Henry down here."

Her head snapped in his direction again, her eyes and even her face looking very feline. She barred her teeth, hissing at him and growling. She lunged at him suddenly her intent to tackle him to the floor and get him out of her way.

Thinking she was going for the gun, herself, his arm swung out of the way, only to allow himself to get pushed aside. What was with her? She'd never done this before. Josie would be proud of her girl, but now was not a good time to have that kind of spunk. Rory didn't fall, being that much taller and balanced against the onslaught of catgirl that growled and more or less bounced, but it was enough to clear the door. "Jaime! You don't know what's going on in there...," he tried to lunge back and stop her before she bolted through the door.

She had the handle in her grasp and yanked it open at the same time she spun to claw and hiss at Rory again for trying to stop her. Her eyes were ablaze in amber with dark slits in the center. She was a not at all rational and her intent was to tear him apart for keeping her from the door and those that were beyond it.

The door was opened to whatever scene lay beyond. Scotty leaned on the desk, cigar smoking gently and poised in deep thought as he looked over the man that sat still in the chair before him. The gun stayed in the fingers of the hand folded under his elbow, twitching only a moment as he realized the bolt of blonde that flowed rapidly in the door. He checked his watch and raised an eyebrow. "Thought I taught you better than to come in until announced or called for... besides... you're too late."

She spun agin, hearing the voice and realizing that she'd managed to make it into the room despite Rory's efforts against it. Her nose twitched slightly as she tested the air, her feline gaze shifting to Scott as he leaned on the desk The growl rolled from her, a curious and cautious sound, as for the moment she could not form words to speak with the man.

[Lovely]

"Oh, that's nice. Jo will like that," he grinned, turning to the sound of the feral growl that was the sweetest lullaby he'd heard in ages. His eyes, fixed on the visage of his wild girl were adoring and appreciative. "Come on over here, Sweetpea and give Daddy a hug."

Rory was a moment behind her and not quite as cautious. He stood down, guaging the scene instantly as settled and calm, his own gun slid away as he stood in the door. "Do you want me to wait outside?"

Her eyes narrowed a moment, gauging and trying to bring herself to a more logical state of reacting and thinking as she slowly calmed. She started towards her father, tipping her head curiously as she approached. She was not yet relaxed enough for words, her eyes swept back to Rory a slight apology in them, she'd have to formally apologise later.

"I'll... just be out here," he nodded, acknowledging the glance and motioning to the door, Scott's slight nod confirming the instruction. Rory slid out, quietly shutting the door, but remaining on the other side at the ready.

"I meant... you're too late... he's already agreed to everything and I won't hear a word of protest. He meets with Aberto tomorrow with you, paternity testing... just to be sure... ehhht... just a precaution, Jaime. It goes in your chart... and his... in his file... that will go with the rest of the family files.... don't try to talk and don't you talk me out of it. If he tests well, you're getting married, whether you like it or not, pumpkin."

Patrick sat, dazed, but watching. His eyes were piercingly dark, focused on the man and equally focused on his bride-to-be, as appreciative if not more of the wild grace and beauty as she stalked forth.

Her chin lifted defiantly and her face showed the offence taken at the mention of paternity tests 'just to be sure'. Did her father really think that little of her? The hurt registered behind the feral gaze that slowly shifted away to 'normal' looking eyes. She halted before she reached her father, not taking the last step to hug him after he'd insulted her. She glanced to Patrick as he sat there, wondering what he was thinking as his dark eyes beheld her in her wild display.

"Jaime... oh, don't be like that, sweetpea. It's for his official record," Scotty shook his head, not liking the sad expression and pout behind her sharp gaze. His hand motioned again for her to come to his side. "I didn't mean it like that. Well, alright, maybe a little. I just don't want any more surprises tonight, okay? You already answered my question, but it does need to be recorded just the same. Compatability...," he found the means to chuckle a little. "Well, that shouldn't pose a problem, but you do understand, don't you... that remains to be passed. He's been made aware. More than aware... of the circumstances."

Patrick listened to the man's words, equally insulted and partly wary, but reassured by Jaime's own reaction that there was no doubt in her mind. Teasing and games aside, she was truly his kitten alone. "Dar...Jaime, he's right," the quiet, soft and slick flow of Patrick's voice lofted to her absent of sarcasm and the usual edge. Sincerity from him was as intricately woven as his teasing, and equally sharp and distinct. "And he's been made more than aware of my love for you and that I will do what needs to be done to keep you."

She wavered between turning to Patrick and diving into his arms to seek his comfort and the beckon from her father, the entire circumstance being very overwhelming. "I understand." She spoke softly, taking the step needed to reach her father and wrap into his arms for a moment. Her eyes casting from her turned head to gaze at Patrick, searching his face for more 'answers'.

[Lovely]

The log in the fireplace popped in reply, the bark of it falling more into the flames and sparking where the bullet had lodged into the hard wood. Scotty seemed pleased by the results of the shot that had shifted the fire and hummed softly his approval as Jaime snuggled next to him. He whispered and kissed the top of her head. "I'm sure everything will be fine, honey. Now get him upstairs and give him a proper tour. He'll have the guest room on the South side set up as his own for tonight. Please behave yourselves until the tests are done tomorrow, alright?"

She smiled at Patrick from where she snuggled and slowly lifted her head to share some of that smile with Scotty. "Behave.. are we allowed to have some time alone.. to talk?.. I think there may be some things we want to discuss. You did say married.. if the tests are favorable?"

"There's going to be plenty of time for that, young lady," he said, giving his teasingly scolding tone another test-run. The wink would reassure her somewhat. "If favorable, the room becomes his as part of this family. The wedding will be arranged and you can talk all you want... or don't want. Can't exactly cause any more issues. Tonight, however, you need your rest and so does he. Rory will see you two upstairs and help you help him get settled."

"I.. really meant talk." She said softly, her eyes casting down as she started to step away from him. "You tell me I'm having a baby.. I'll be getting married if he passes.. but I can't talk to him tonight.. and yet you expect me to rest? Unless you're intending to have me drugged, don't expect me to be calm or rested in the morning." She folded her arms and waited to see if he would dismiss her or if she would be walking out of the room without getting that.

Scotty gave her a look that almost appeared hurt, that she was disobeying him, but her expression and words sparked compassion enough. He glanced at Patrick whose eyes held the same questions and concerns. "Alright. A couple hours, but that's it. Lights out at 11 and in your own rooms," he conceded, standing away from the desk to wrap around his girl a little, offering another kiss to her cheek before leading the way to the door. "You're free to go," he said softly to Patrick as he slid the gun away to his slightly concealed holster beneath his coat. "Go upstairs and get comfortable. We'll have your things sent for in the morning."

Movement was slow to return, but once the gun was safely out of the man's hand, Patrick stood as he was told and moved toward the wickedly wild girl that held his attention fully. He lacked the words to express his admiration of her at the moment, the realization of the unfolding events overwhelming him as well. He slid beside Jaime, clasping his hand around her still-tiny waist.

"Thank you for understanding, daddy." She whispered to him as he lead the way to the door. She didn't mean to disobey him but very much needed to talk to Patrick, she was overwhelmed and unsure despite what her father said 'would be'. It was all alot for her to try and handle at once and alone without being sure of how Patrick felt about everything.

The feel of his hand sliding around her waist was some reassurance and she gently curled away from her father and towards Patrick. "Hi." She whispered, with the softest tiny smile as she started turned her face towards him.

~Hello lovely~ he murmured somewhere from the deep fog, calling out to her where physical words failed. The grin was soft and loving as he held her gently. He nodded to Scott's instruction, though he watched Jaime, longing, apologetic for the turn of events and the fear it caused her. His ear still rang from the shot that had flown past and his nerves were nearly settled. He leaned down for the sweet taste of her kiss, offering further reassurance to her and to himself that this was all real.

Scott rapped on the door twice before opening it, letting Rory step aside. He murmured the instructions he'd already given the other two, hoping that Ror would have sense enough to interrupt them if their discussion was running long. He cleared his throat at the tiny display that Patrick was bold enough to put on and thumbed toward the door. "Let's go, you two... "

The moment he leaned down to her, she forgot her manners and everything melted away as she let the sweetness of her kiss flow to him. It wasn't long lasting but was enough to taste him and him to taste her - to assure them both for the moment. ~I'm sorry..~ She murmured back, letting her arm drift around him. "We're going." She spoke to her father, giving him a slight smile as they slipped past him.

[Lovely]

********************************
10pm
Scott & Josie's room

"Aww.." Josie greeted him as he finally pulled himself into their room after dealing with their daughters and the respective men in their lives. Scotty looked a bit worn out and Jo understood how dealing with the situation and the news might affect him in such a way.

"quick ... give me scotch.." He half grinned at Jo. "I'm surprised they didn't hit me up for houses of their own while I was being such a softie."

She laughed softly and poured him the drink, setting it down on the table for him. "Naah.. they'll wait till you see your grand kids and get really soft with the widdle babies.." She teased him and smiled, imagining his face when he finally got to meet them.

"Yeah.. jellodad.." He teased back, laughing faintly. He looked at Josie with a bigger smile. "Okay... you first... c'mon... out with him..."

"Him?" She asked with a bright smile of her own, her eyebrow arched up.

"Her.. them... I can get the catcher's mitt from Richie's room."

That really made her laugh, she grabbed his arm and 'tossed' him on the bed. "We have some time... I think you need a little tlc first."

"Shoulda thought of that sooner... oh look... hmmm... a home run.." He chuckled and tackled her back.

She growled playfully and pulled him into a lingering kiss.

"Mrs Veinna... we... are getting old."

"We are not!" She bit him and set about proving it.

"We're getting old," Scott protested, even though she nipped as hard as she started to play. "Alright... I'm getting old.. and you're going to make a gorgeous grandmother."

"Shut up!" She laughed, holding onto him and shaking her head. "You're not getting old.. and you are going to make one damn fine grandfather.."

He sighed and groaned, falling back into the pillow, pulling her down with him. Despite the news, they were both still young, and he was still quite spry, strong and muscular as a man half his age would be. "Hopefully a damn fine something... seems I didn't get the father part right yet."

"Stop it.." She scolded him, coming over him with a gentle kiss to shush him. "You are a wonderful father. Your kids are just growing up.. and now they have to make some choices of their own, whether we like it or the choice is a good one. It's inevitable but you're doing just fine, honey."