From Hell to Rehab RP ( Formerly Blood is Thicker than Water )( Part Three )

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From Hell to Rehab RP ( Formerly Blood is Thicker than Water )( Part Three )

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The Fox

The Fox

@disqus_eqavLvmRDA a year ago

Disqus why you do this to me

WHy you gotta time out when I go to reply

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Why

( Back to the roleplay while I contemplate Disqus's near comedic timing with these things )

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The Fox • a year ago

( Here we are Jekyll1886 )

"[No trouble at all]," answered the server--in truth, the owner's wife--in French more typical of Provence than Paris, though a faint Italian accent underlay it. She handed the group the bills of fare for them to look over--they were in English, Italian, French, and German.

Lewis smiled, the multilingual staff having been the primary reason he'd chosen this particular establishment.

"Buonasera, Signora Sutton. Mille grazie per essere stato così accomodante, come sempre."

The two had a brief, friendly exchange before Mrs. Sutton asked--in French and in English--what each person would like to drink.

--

The two parisian women were happy, almost relieved, to hear their familiar language was not yet completely absent in their new country, chiming in with their orders more than happily. For Desirae, a wine, and Florine, coffee with cream.

Desirae looked at the wife curiously.

" [ How long have you been here? Did it take long to get used to? ] "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

"[I came to London when I was twenty. It was very, very foreign at first, and is far too cold and rainy,]" she recounted, animated gestures punctuating her words, "[but thankfully I met my husband not long afterward, and he gave me warm welcome enough.]" She said this last with a grin at once fond and knowing.

"[You are newly arrived?]" she asked.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" [ Oh yes! Me and Florine just got here today. ] "

Desirae and Florine looked to each other then back to Mrs. Sutton.

" [ We were looking to get out of Paris since there's been nothing but trouble as of recently. I'm sure you've already heard; people getting beat in the streets, break ins on businesses...

Anyways, we were looking for jobs and someone said we could get some here. I took the chance since I knew my partner would be here to help me through any sort of trouble. ] "

She tucked her arm round Enfield's and pecked his cheek before continuing.

" [ And now we're here.

Hopefully everything works out and London isn't so different from Paris. I figure at some point a city is just a city once you scratch off the cultural difference. ] "

She looked down with a brief look of nervousness. Richard let his finger intertwine with hers.

" ][ And if not, you still have me. I'll be sure to guide you if you ever get lost in all the rain and stuffiness. ][ "

Her eyes met his with hint of doubt but it wasn't discernible under her relief. They pulled close and shared the space like doves in nest and Florine took the opportunity to get a word in.

" They're like a needle and thread; always close together.

How are apartments right now? Would you know anything about people renting or selling? "

She looked to Enfield and Utterson.

" His cousin is going to pay for temporary lodging while we get settled in or if we find an apartment we can afford.  "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago • edited

"[You are looking for jobs?]" echoed Mrs. Sutton.

"[Doctor Weir, are these the people you spoke of previously?]" she asked, a look of realization on her face.

"[Yes]," answered Lewis. "[The very same.]"

She broke into a broad smile.

"[Florine]," she said, looking at the woman in question. "[Your job is here]," she explained, gesturing about her with a broad sweep of her hand. "[We are in great need of a waitress. I can show you around the place after you have finished your meal.]"

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" Oh! Really?  "

She took a moment to look around before smiling at Lewis.

" You know, if I didn't know better I'd say you planned this.  "

" [] Not surprising it that were true. [] "

A chuckle and then back to Mrs. Sutton.

" Thank you very much for having me. I'm sure Dr. Weir's given you his word, but I'll give you mine as well and promise I won't be any trouble, and if trouble comes I'll knock it back out the door.  "

She turned and found that Desirae had heard as well. Her companion was all ears as she offered a curious glance to Lewis.

" [ I don't suppose I'm so lucky to work here as well? ] "

" [] Perhaps we ought to continue this after we've eaten? [] "

Utterson gave a polite nod to the wife.

" [] Just so we don't keep you from your work? [] "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago • edited

Lewis returned Florine's smile, his own expression a catlike mixture of pleased and self-satisfied.

Mrs. Sutton listened to Florine give her word, and nodded in approval.

"[Very good!]"

Desirae and Gabriel spoke.

"[Much appreciated, Mister Utterson]," Mrs. Sutton replied, Lewis previously having told her of his friend. "[We are very busy tonight. I will get your drinks.]"

She moved to another table to take their order and checked on a third before heading back to the kitchen.

"[You're quite a magnificent chanteuse]," Weir answered Desirae. "[When I brought this to my acquaintance's attention, he thought you might start work at an establishment he owns. He is, however, a rather discerning fellow, and insists he must hear you sing a range of pieces before he decides. I've arranged for a meeting in four days' time, if that's amenable.]"

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" [ Oh sure, I can do that. It's not like I have anything to really do till I settle down anyways.

I'm surprised he wants to sing though. I was mostly a dancing act. ] "

" ][ Why not? You've got a very lovely voice. Besides, he might already have a dancer. ][ "

" [ True, but still, you have to admit it's still a big change. I'll go from working my body every other day to working my voice every other day. ] "

" It's not that big a change really. All you'd need is to practice more often and maybe go see a teacher every once and awhile.

Besides, if you can through a fit and talk like you haven't screamed your heart out, then singing won't bother you too much. "

This comment earned Florine a friendly bat her hand. She pulled back in faux pain, playing her part as wounded and shocked.

" OFFf! How could you! I thought you weren't allowed hit your elders.  "

" [ And I'm was told I couldn't have a partner and look where I am.

Sitting with you and the whole damn crew with him sitting next to me. ] "

A question from Utterson.

" [] I didn't know you weren't allowed to have a partner. Is this common for cabarets or was Bourdin the only one who had that rule? [] "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

"[To my knowledge, it's not a general rule]," put in Lewis.

He turned to Desirae.

"[From what I understand, you'd be free to dance if you really wanted to, but what he has the greatest need for at the moment is a talented female singer. It's a new venture, the music hall newly acquired, and he wants to attract a certain class of clientele.]"

Mrs. Sutton returned then with their drinks, her gait swift but her posture giving away her building fatigue.

"[May I take your order?]" she asked.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

Concern flashed across Utterson's eyes but he knew there was little he could do to help. Swiftly, he rethought his order, if only to make her work somewhat easier.

" [] I'll have a Shepard's Pie if you don't mind. [] "

" ][ Pot-au-feu if you will. ][ "

He looked to the dancer.

" ][ What about you? ][ "

" [ I'll have what you're having. ] "

" ][ You sure? ][ "

" [ Yes, very. ] "

" Just Fish and Chips for me.  "

Florine couldn't help but feel bad for not being able to help Mrs. Sutton with the work but it was merely a matter of circumstance. Soon enough, she would be in here taking the load with her. With that in mind, she perked up and offered the woman a smile, eager and sympathetic.

" I could help fetch our orders if you like. It's not much but I figured it's one bit of help I can offer at the moment. You look due for a break anyways.  "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

"[I'll have the penne alla arrabbiata]," said Lewis.

Mrs. Sutton wrote down their orders.

At Florine's offer, she looked conflicted for a moment, but practicality won out.

"[Oh, thank you, dear!]" she exclaimed with a relieved and somewhat apologetic smile. "[I'd be lying if I said I couldn't use the help.]"

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" It's no problem at all ma'am.  "

She smiled and offered her seat to the worn out wife.

" Might as well start now since I'm here.  "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

"[Just follow me to the kitchen]," Mrs. Sutton demurred. "[I need to show you where things are, at least.]"

She led Florine away.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" Ah, thank you.  "

She followed after her.

" I'll be back soon enough. Just keep talking in the meantime.  "

" [] Good luck! [] "

Once the two waded to the back, Utterson sat back with a breathe, much happier knowing their host was getting help.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago • edited

When they got to the kitchen, it became apparent just why Mrs. Sutton was so tired, as well as why there would've been a delay in customers getting their food, had Florine not stepped in to help: Mrs. Sutton was not only waiting tables, but also cooking the food!

She asked if Florine wouldn't mind being her impromptu sou chef for the moment, just to speed things along.

Back at their table, Lewis commented, "[They seemed to get on well.]"

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

Florine rolled up her sleeves and washed her hands, getting to work where she was asked to. It was soon revealed that she was a quick learner and very dedicated, despite having to be coached on certain recipes as she helped out. She showed herself to be reasonable too, going ahead and doing things that needed doing; removing baking pans, putting things in bowls, etc.

--

" I wouldn't have imagined otherwise. "

Utterson smiled.

" She's a good, honest woman.

When you and Desirae went to fetch Richard, she offered to help me sort through everything and pack the essentials. I took the help gladly since we were on a time frame. "

He looked to Enfield.

" You should thank her and Desirae sometime. They pulled their weight and more for you. "

" I don't have to thank them. They know I'm grateful enough. "

" [ Hmph... ] "

His lover sat back and crossed her arms.

" [ What if I wanted a thank you despite that? ] "

" ][ What then? ][ "

He arched his eyebrows at her, a smirk playing at his lips. This was met with a heel to his foot and a pinch on the nose. They were tame enough for the public setting but there was still the warmth of pain to them.

Desirae pointed a finger at him with her own smirk, a soft laugh shared between them, Richard's fresh with a nasal sound.

" [ That's what mister! ] "

see more

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

Between the two of them, Mrs. Sutton and Florine got the meals ready in record time, serving another table before they came back to set down the dishes Lewis, Gabriel, Richard, Desirae, and Florine had ordered.

"[Please sit with your friends and enjoy the meal]," Mrs. Sutton told Florine. "[I'm going to have a rest myself, unless anyone needs anything else right now.]"

"[I'm perfectly fine]," replied Lewis. "[This smells delicious!]"

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" [] I think everyone's fine. [] "

Utterson beamed as the others were in agreement, The lovebirds already starting on their meal.

Florine sat back down with a huff, her face warm with the left over effort, sweat still wet on her brow. She took a few moments to breath before shaking her head and fixing her hair. Despite how she looked, she was very happy and thrilled to have helped so much just after meeting her new employer.

So with that, they all dug in with earnest, The lovers sharing spoonfuls of broth, Florine pounding down her food with both vigor and interest, and Utterson munching on his Shepard's Pie with decided interest. At some point though, he used his fork to cut a part of his pie off and gave it to Florine.

To her confused look, he merely replied kindly.

" [] You did a good job and a good job entails a good meal. [] "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

"Bon appétit," Mrs. Sutton bade them, then left to rest.

Lewis practically got lost in the spicy pasta, so intent was his focus and so great his enjoyment of it.

When he heard Gabriel giving Florine some of the shepherd's pie, though, he came back to reality and offered, "Anyone who likes is welcome to try this penne, too, by the way."

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" Oh! Well if you don't mind, I think I'll take you're offer. "

Utterson chuckled as he scooted close, flipped his fork over, and gently took a sample of the dish. He cleaned the back of the fork before tasting it himself.

He blinked and took a moment to soak in the taste before swallowing.

" Very, very good! That's a fantastic selection you have there. "

To his side, Florine spooned a few a tried it herself, struggling for a moment with the spice. She managed to get it down before coughing.

" Well it certainly has a good kick to it!  "

She sipped her coffee is a attempt to clear her palette.

" A little more than I'm used to though...  "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

"[Ah, apologies]," said Lewis a touch sheepishly to Florine. "[I should've warned you about the spice. 'Arrabbiata' means 'angry' in Italian.]"

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" No, no! It's fine!  "

She coughed again with a smile.

" I've never had anything really spicy is all.

I'm sure Desirae can handle it better than I can though. "

" [ Oh no, I won't try any. Thank you for the offer though. ] "

The dancer eyed the penne cautiously.

" [ I don't feel like burning a hole in my stomach today. ] "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

Weir chuckled at Charbonneau's comment and shrugged.

"Suit yourself," he said and began eating again.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

Enfield stifled a laugh of his own.

" ][ You have enough venom to melt make someone melt away! I highly doubt that a mere dish will tear through your body. ][ "

" [ And then you would have to deal with fire and by then you'd be nothing but ashes. ] "

" ][ And I wouldn't mind it at all. Especially with how cold it gets sometimes. ][ "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago • edited

After the group had finished and paid for dinner, they returned to their carriages.

Once everyone had unpacked and settled in, the days passed fairly uneventfully. Desirae practiced her singing, Richard battled his addiction, and Florine helped out at Sutton's restaurant.

It was soon the day of the audition, and Dr. Weir conducted Miss Charbonneau to Chez Pierre in Soho for her make-or-break performance. The restaurant was temporarily closed, so that she might be evaluated privately.

"[Roland, this is Desirae--Desirae, Roland]," Lewis introduced them.

"[A pleasure]," greeted Roland, a trim, winsome, dark-haired man of middling age, well dressed and impeccably mannered.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

She went into a slight curtsy, her best dress swishing softly.

" [ It's good to finally meet you. I'm thankful to have this opportunity. ] "

Her tone was open but neutral. She was turning him over in her mind, taking in his tone and manner with care. Like always though, this wasn't shown. She kept her manner reserved for the time being.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

"[I am hopeful it proves advantageous for us both]," Roland returned with a graceful dip of his head.

"[If you would please stand over there]," he requested, gesturing to a middle-of-the-restaurant spot that had been cleared of tables and chairs, "[we may begin your audition.]"

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

She nodded and went over to the spot, standing straight and looking forward at her potential employer.

He didn't look that terrible necessarily speaking. Then again, no one does on the first meeting. It's only a true fool who makes themselves known so readily.

At the very least though, he seemed much better than Bourdin right off the bat. None of the apparent greediness was patent in his features.

For a moment, she retraced her journey from Paris to London, blinking and taking a deep breathe before bringing her attention back to her current situation.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

Roland suggested a popular French song for her to sing, placed his hands together behind his back, and waited for her to begin.

Lewis gave her a look of encouragement.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

To Weir's look was slight apprehensive smile and she began her song.

She started out strong but not overbearing, her voice being guided by a solid, professional control. It rose and fell according to the rhythm, not missing a single note. It's only fault was that it perhaps came off a little too firm, not quite as free flowing as she was usually.

Desirae finished and closed her eyes, gathering herself for her next number.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

Lewis smiled, having liked the number.

Roland was more difficult to read, keeping his expression mildly pleasant but still somehow neutral as he suggested another song.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

Alright then, one more go.

She cleared her throat before starting the next song. Her performance was better than her first in regard to her grip. There wasn't quite so much stiffness as there was more natural flow between each chord. More emotion was present as well, adding to her voice more vibrance.

Internally, a thread of unease pulled at her thoughts. What would she do if she didn't get this job? Florine's already working so hard and getting what she can out of it...What would she tell her?

In her concentration, she began to sway from on foot to the other, her mind unconsciously moving her to dance. Her feet went through a few easy steps, their movements easy with years of practice.

She reached the end of her tune with a faint exhale and looked up.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago • edited

Desirae was rewarded with three claps of applause and a nod of approval from Roland when she finished.

"[You have the job. Welcome aboard, Desirae]," he said, at last breaking into a genuine smile.

"[You will need to learn some English songs, too, of course, but we will start you with just the French. They do, after all, possess a certain] je ne sais quoi."

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" [ Ah! Thank you! ] "

Her words seemed to tumble out of her as she leaned down on her knees with a relieved laugh.

" [ For a moment there you had me worried! I just about thought I'd be thrown to the dogs; no offense to you of course. ] "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

At this Roland laughed.

"[Not with a voice like that, you wouldn't. Come, we have much to discuss.]"

He turned to Weir.

"[Thank you for your assistance, Lewis. That will be all.]"

Weir nodded.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" [ Could he wait here? Just till we're finished? ] "

She looked between to Lewis and Roland.

" [ I'm still getting used to London and I've no proper money to use yet, though I'm sure you gathered that already. ] "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

"[Of course--presuming you do not mind, Lewis]," Roland answered, turning his gaze to Weir.

"[I'll stay until the two of you have finished, then]," Lewis replied.

Everyone in agreement, Sartre led Charbonneau down a back hall and to a little office, where a middle-aged woman sat at a desk.

"[Marguerite, this is Desirae, the new singer. Desirae, this is my sister, Marguerite.]"

The introductions made, the three of them set about negotiating the terms of Charbonneau's contract. Everything about it was formal, legal, completely on the up-and-up. It was even in French and English both.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

The performer listened well, taking note of everything said and agreed to, privately thinking on how unbelievable terrible her previous contract was beyond the obvious, how it was probably going to be a whole lot nicer under this roof...

She smiled to herself.

Maybe if things went well enough, she even think to settle down...

She packed the thought away in its tender dream.

Not yet...She still had this to finish. Desirae looked back to Roland anxious look.

" [ So now that it's all settled, I just have one thing to ask...

Could I...Have my partner come and watch my first show? It's a silly thing to ask but I figure it would behoove me to ask anyways. ] "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago • edited

"[Naturally,]" agreed Roland, "[though I am glad you asked nonetheless.]"

Marguerite nodded her assent as well.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" [ Thank you very much!

He's recovering from a affliction and I thought it would do him some good seeing that I'm settling in with a job finally. That, and it'll be moral encouragement for the both of us. ] "

She brush her hair back with a soft laugh.

" [ Not to mention it makes for a great night out. ] "

Her look took on a more somber direction.

" [ Also, did Lewis tell what happened back in Paris? I ask only out of curiosity... ] "

It was more than curiosity, it was also worry and fear. There was no guarantee that Peverell didn't have men in London, and there was even less of a guarantee that if he did, he would simply keep them out of the loop of what had happened.

And now that things are just beginning to go well for everyone, she didn't any more trouble to follow them. If Lewis had told Roland about what had happened, then she was safe in knowing that he may have a plan of action should any of his creeps come crawling in.

Her fingers curled into her dress in a unseen sign of her disquiet.

" [ It's not that important to know, but It's something that would help me be at ease if that's understandable. ] "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago • edited

"[He did]," answered Roland.

"[Of course we understand]," put in Marguerite. "[Rest assured, you are safe with us.]"

"[Please know the way that cur, Shepard, does things in Paris is not at all the way we do things here in London]," added Roland.

"[Though any details about him or his operation you might add could prove helpful]," chipped in Marguerite.

"[You have a point, good sister]," replied Roland. "[The best way to ensure the weed that is Peverell Shepard does not spread to our English garden is to pull it out by its roots.]"

He addressed Desirae, "[Any information you could provide would help us in this--and would, naturally, make you doubly safe, should it be enough to act on.]"

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago • edited

For the a beat, a vulnerable feeling of reassurance washed over Desirae. Her look shifted into a conflicted display between trusting this new face and wanting to keep from showing to much weakness.

In the end, reason won out and she let herself relax in front of the siblings. Her eyes grew slightly wet as a warmth played at her cheeks.

" [ Thank you...

Th-thank you... ] "

A breathe as she wiped her eyes.

" [ I can tell what I know, though most of the proof went up in flames twice now, so you only have my words to go on unfortunately. I know who some of Peverell's men are and I know a great deal on how he networks with the aristocrats and gets people to work for him... ] "

A mischievous smile, if somewhat faint.

" [ I don't suppose that would be of any use? ] "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago • edited

Marguerite patted Desirae lightly on the back to comfort her.

"[It would be of great use]," Roland assured Charbonneau.

* * *

When they'd finished their discussion, Marguerite walked Desirae back to Lewis while Roland tended to some pressing business.

"[Good day, Marguerite]," Weir greeted her.

"[Goody day, Lewis]," she returned.

She smiled at Desirae, then looked to him again.

"[This one is a treasure. Take care, the both of you]," she bade them.

Lewis gave a dip of his head in accord.

"[You and Roland as well]," he replied.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" [ Have a good day too Marguerite. ] "

A recently teary Desirae smiled back and took the sister's hand into hers.

" [ Thank you again...You and your brother are godsends and I'm so glad there's someone out there who can fight on Peverell's ground. You wouldn't believe how long I've been digging up dirt on him. ] "

A laugh.

" [ You'd think I was a regular fox with how much snooping I did! ] "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

"[A good thing, then, that foxes are survivors]," said Marguerite with a little laugh. "[You've been a godsend to us as well. We'll pop that weasel, Shepard, soon enough.]"

Lewis waited patiently, glad to see them getting on so well.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" [ And I'll be there to help skin him when you do! ] "

Another laugh.

" [ Ah, anyways we have to leave.

Have a good rest of your day. ] "

Desirae gave a slight bow then joined Lewis.

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

Lewis dipped his head as a goodbye to Marguerite, then he and Desirae exited the restaurant.

"[It seems things went well]," he remarked as they turned the corner and walked up Soho Street, passing the pub where he and Hawley had once sought information on Edward Hyde.

So much has happened since then, Weir reflected.

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago • edited

" [ Yeah, there were really kind for a couple of mob heads. Though anyone who would take you in is smart enough to know that kindness is the best policy. ] "

She arched her eyebrows with a smile between coy and unsurprised.

" [ Don't think it went over my head. I can see as clear as day. ] "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

He chuckled.

"[I had hoped you would]," he admitted with a pleased smile as they turned left onto Oxford Street. "[I trust you and they came to an accord regarding Peverell.]"

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" [ Well between you and Ned, how you knew where I was, and the convenient job opening, it's hard not to see. And that's not including what Richard has told me about you. ] "

She smirked, shaking her head.

" [ To think that the person to save him from a gang was part of another. ] "

Lewis asked about their conversation.

" [ Yes we did, more or less. They said that we'd be safe with them should Peverell ever rear his ugly face in London. I told them what I know; who some of his goons are, how he get around, how he gets people to work for him...

Hopefully it'll help them when the time comes. I don't know how much has changed, especially since he's been on the look out for Richard. ] "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago • edited

"[What did Richard tell you about me?]" asked Lewis, genuinely curious how Enfield thought of him.

"[And, by the by, I'm not part of Roland's organization, though I have earned his trust. I'm simply the on-call physician for the establishment next door to Chez Pierre. It helps pay the rent]," he said with a shrug.

"[As for Ned...he's a freelancer who found himself in Paris at the time. I asked a favor, since I had to run by the chemist's. He was supposed to help you, not bollox things up so.]"

A sigh.

"[You do have my apologies for that; I should have known better. He's...not exactly the most genial person.]"

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago • edited

" [ It's alright Lewis. There's no reason to apologize for surly relatives. I should apologize as well since I nearly bite his head off as well! ] "

She laughed bitterly, the image of his criminal mug still prime for a bite to the nose and a good black eye. And that's being incredibly tame...

There's was stabbing with her heels to be had and taking her nails into his neck and...

A thin bead of anger passed through her like a shudder before she came back to the conversation.

" [ A-ah, sorry! Lapsed into a thought for a moment.

Anyways! Richard said a lot, but it can all be boiled down to suspicions and even a little bit of jealousy. He thinks you might have had at least some criminal work in the past, considering how you pinned him down and how you tracked him down to Madame Agathe's place.

He also mentioned how you reacted when you were with them in the morning.

Overall though, he seems quite put off with you in a friendly sense. I don't know if that makes any sense, but that just means that he'd rather be your friend and go around the town just as much as he wants nothing but to chew you out. ] "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago

No one ever likes me as 'Edward'... he thought with no small amount of chagrin and a slim wisp of anger.

Yet even as the feelings surfaced, he knew they were fruitless--potentially counterproductive, too. He had a conversation to attend to, and it wouldn't do to let them show on his face. More to the point, he could understand Charbonneau's reaction, even if he didn't feel stellar about it.

Desirae came back to herself and spoke further.

"[I was, as I told Richard, in a war on foreign soil]," reiterated Lewis. "[I saw combat enough to last me several lifetimes.]

"[I stayed in India afterwards, having lost my taste for...certain aspects of life. I got addicted to opium. So he is right in that I knew people who sold it, if he wants to count them as criminals. But smoking opium is not uncommon in India, and not nearly as stigmatized as it is here. It's a cultural difference.]

"[I'll admit I got into my fair share of scrapes, many of them unwise, but the same could be said of my youth in Scotland. I said and did things that were imprudent. Get any man drunk, and his pride's easily wounded--Hell, some are like that sober. Once it is, there's bound to be a fight. It's foolish, I know, but it did happen, and I cannot change that.]

"[Eventually, I came to see the kind of life I was leading--to reflect upon it in the harsh, unflinching light of day. I resolved to make a change.]

"[I came back to London, desirous of a fresh start. But my papers had been lost somewhere along the way, in that haze of war and opium. I was a physician with no medical degree in hand--only the skills I knew by heart. I took what work I could.]

"[That's how I met Marguerite. I was, naturally, unaware of her criminal ties at the time. I did know she ran a house of ill repute. But demimondaines need medical care as much as the next person, and who was I to turn down the job?]" he said with a shrug. "[I had few options for employment, and the workers would likely have gotten inferior medical care, had Marguerite been forced to draw a doctor from the criminal classes as so many madams do.]"

Weir realized he'd run on a bit at the mouth.

"[Sorry to make a long story so very long]," he said with a sheepish chortle. "[I just wanted to clear up any misunderstandings or suspicions about my 'criminal past'. And Richard needn't be jealous of me--he has Gabriel and you, who love him dearly. What more could a man want?]"

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

Desirae listened closely, surprise rising to her face occasionally, and simply shook her head when the doctor apologized.

" [ It's no bother to me. I'm actually glad to hear all that.

Clears up a lot about you. ] "

She tittered, casting a good natured smirk to him. To his last comment, it faded into a thoughtful scowl.

" [ I don't know...

He's always been a proud one but I always see that he shows off to someone he thinks less off. I'm not so stunned by his envy but I can't see what he sees in you that would make him so. ] "

She sighed.

" [ Maybe you remind him of someone he always wanted to one up? I can't really imagine anything and I'm the closest person to him, aside from family. ] "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago • edited

"[Perhaps you're right. I simply don't know why he's bound and determined to think the worst of me.]

"[Moreover, every time I cut the flowery language and tell him the unvarnished truth, he concludes I'm lying, that everything I've just said is a ruse.]"

Weir shook his head.

"[It's positively baffling.]"

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • a year ago

" [ You and him talked in Paris alone didn't you? Did it seem like that when he spoke to you then? I recall him saying you two were having a drink so he might've been more honest then, if not unimaginably moody. ] "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • a year ago • edited

"[Ah, you're right.]

"[Forgive me--I spoke in absolutes. I was thinking of an exchange we had more recently, here in London, when I said that.]

"[In point fact, he was more honest with me that time in Paris, when we drank together. More apt to believe what I said, too, though I did have to convince him by laying out a long explanation.]"

Lewis thought back to that conversation.

"[Though he covers it over with his typical bravado, he's unhappy. Not with you, mind--he loves you, that much is plain to see. But I'm afraid his choleric or sanguine excesses merely serve to mask a deeper melancholy. It's my hope that, in the absence of substances with which to numb his feelings, he'll have the chance to not only experience but also reflect upon them, to at last address the root cause. I don't know what precisely precipitated the initial rift between Gabriel and him, but I do know Richard hates feeling judged, and that he fears abandonment. I imagine the latter is directly tied to his childhood, but at some point one has to take responsibility for one's own life.]"

Weir shook his head.

"[I only pray he can climb his way out of the pit of despair and realize he has choices--he has agency. That the past may have made him who he is, but he needn't be bound by it.]"

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