(All jokes aside here is the final chapter of to the wolves. Enjoy!)
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You wake to the feeling of Silco’s long fingers stroking your cheek and feel your lips pull into a smile.
“Good morning darling,” he says, leaning over you as you open your eyes.
“Good morning to you too.”
“We mustn’t linger long I’m afraid. Violet has plans with to take Jinx today.”
“And you would like me to chaperone?”
“You know me so well.”
You smile again pulling yourself from the bed and getting started with your morning routine.
The last few months have been precarious to say the least.
Vander and the three kids had moved into the shop with Benzo. Keeping them close enough to satisfy the kids. Vi had practically torn down the drop when she found out the arrangement but constant visits had certainly helped cool her off to the arrangement.
It didn’t hurt that she and Silco have gotten into the habit of discussing their mutual hatred for Piltover.
Mylo and Claggor were happy to help around the shop from what you had seen, and Little man was thrilled to have the kids around.
Vander was…cold to you on the best of days but everyone needs someone to blame. But it did make watching the kids awkward. He’s said maybe five words to you in the eight months since Silco took over.
Which brings you down to the bar, watching as Jinx happily munches on her breakfast, spitting droplets of food as she explains her latest idea to you.
The door to the bar is pushed open as Vi walks in, followed by Vander. Her legs were finally healed enough that she was back to jumping off the roofs around the bar.
Jinx jumped off her seat and ran to her sister-who wrapped her up in her arms.
You smile at them and move to get your jacket.
“Well what a lovely scene this is,”Silco calls from the top of the stairs.
Jinx rolls her eyes,”Dad I told you to stop appearing from places like a ghost. It’s creepy.”
He chuckles as he saunters down the stairs. “Apologies sweetheart. Tell me Violence, what is the plan for you two today?”
Vi rolls her eyes at the nickname,”taking Pow back to the arcade.”
“What fun! I trust the two of you can make it there yourselves today? I think you’ve outgrown your chaperones.”
Vi blinked in surprise,”uh ya. Ya we have.”
“Well of course unless Vander has objections?”
Vander eyes Silco curiously but relents,”I don’t see why not. Just back before dinner.”
Jinx squeals in excitement,”yes! Quick lets go get the others too! Ekko hasn’t been with us in ages.”
And with that the girls are out the door.
Vander hasn’t moved.
“Got a reason for your sudden trust in my kids?”
“Hmmm? Oh Violence wouldn’t run off so carelessly. She’s a smart one. Besides, all the children know I’ve eyes all over Zaun. It’s never been safer for them,” he taunts, his hand slowly finding its way to your waist,”besides I have much more…pressing work for Zauns favourite barkeep today,” he pulls you into his side. Keeping his eyes on Vander.
Vander rolls his eyes,”I’m sure you do. Just don’t send out your goons if Jinx comes to ours for dinner.”
“Oh she wont,” he sneers,”but do remind your children they’re welcome here any time.”
Clearly Vander has seen enough because he turns on his heel and walks out.
“Do you really have to do that every time?” You ask pulling away and walking to the bar.
“What? Remind him of what he lost? What he could still loose? Yes. I think it’s a perfectly fair price for him to pay.”
“Oh do you?” You pick up a rag and start to wipe down the crumbs from Jinx’s breakfast. Without turning to look at him,”and what do I get out of being used as a reminder?”
Silco is behind you in an instant. Hands grabbing your waist and slamming you into the bar. His lips on your neck.
AN: hey look I’m not dead! Thank you for your patience. This will be the second last chapter for this fic!
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You step out of the office and make a mad dash to the bathroom, throwing your guts up into the toilet.
He can kill you if he wants.
He will kill you if he wants.
But now all you can do is wait or plan.
So you plan.
They are going to compromise. They will compromise or there will be blood. The only thing you care about is it being the least blood possible.
So you take a moment to wash your mouth out with the water in the sink, getting rid of much of the bitter taste as you can.
You stomp down to the lower level.
Vi is asleep on the table and Vander is next to her holding her hand.
“Get away-“ he starts.
“Oh shut the fuck up,”you bite at him.
He doesn’t flinch, he was expecting a fight.
“I’m telling you to stay alway from me and my children.”
“And I am telling you right now that I have two choices. I can problem solve between two grown men acting like fucking children,” you feel your hands curling into fists,”or leave this god forsaken city right now. I am choosing to fix your shit for you because I care about your children but you need to know something right now. If you waste one more second of my time pretending that I am not the reason all of your children are alive right now I will walk out that door and let you and Silco tear each other limb from limb.”
His nostrils flare and he says nothing.
“We are going to find another place for you to stay with Vi, Claggor, and Miles. Close enough for Jinx to see Vi every day and far enough away that you do not impede on the business here.”
“Not happening.”
“I’m fascinated by your take on this conversation. Tell me, when exactly did I tell you this was a negotiation.”
“You think I would-“
“I think I am explaining the deal I will take to Silco and then you will tell me if I’m getting the hell out of Zaun or bringing it to him.”
He is silent again.
“You will not say anything negative about this deal to any of the children. Jinx will stay with Silco as his apprentice and daughter. She will stay Vi’s sister. You will step down as the leader of Zaun.”
“Since when do you call it Zaun?”
“Since I realized you’ve done nothing but let me down.”
That shut him up, but you only let the silence hang for a moment.
“So which am I doing?”
“What will you do in this deal?” He asks in reply
“Ill watch over Jinx. Here.”
“You think he’ll let you?”
“It’s part of the deal.”
“You’ll make yourself his prisoner again?”
“I never was, neither was Jinx.”
“So you’ll just stay and be his slut then?”
You take a deep breath.
“Do we have a deal or not?”
He turns to Vi and you think in that moment that the dark light makes it seem that his eyes are shining.
“Whats another sacrifice?”
Thats all the answer you need as you turn toward the stairs.
You step out of the office and make a mad dash to the bathroom, throwing your guts up into the toilet.
He can kill you if he wants.
He will kill you if he wants.
But now all you can do is wait or plan.
So you plan.
They are going to compromise. They will compromise or there will be blood. The only thing you care about is it being the least blood possible.
So you take a moment to wash your mouth out with the water in the sink, getting rid of much of the bitter taste as you can.
You stomp down to the lower level.
Vi is asleep on the table and Vander is next to her holding her hand.
“Get away-“ he starts.
“Oh shut the fuck up,”you bite at him.
He doesn’t flinch, he was expecting a fight.
“I’m telling you to stay alway from me and my children.”
“And I am telling you right now that I have two choices. I can problem solve between two grown men acting like fucking children,” you feel your hands curling into fists,”or leave this god forsaken city right now. I am choosing to fix your shit for you because I care about your children but you need to know something right now. If you waste one more second of my time pretending that I am not the reason all of your children are alive right now I will walk out that door and let you and Silco tear each other limb from limb.”
His nostrils flare and he says nothing.
“We are going to find another place for you to stay with Vi, Claggor, and Miles. Close enough for Jinx to see Vi every day and far enough away that you do not impede on the business here.”
“Not happening.”
“I’m fascinated by your take on this conversation. Tell me, when exactly did I tell you this was a negotiation.”
“You think I would-“
“I think I am explaining the deal I will take to Silco and then you will tell me if I’m getting the hell out of Zaun or bringing it to him.”
He is silent again.
“You will not say anything negative about this deal to any of the children. Jinx will stay with Silco as his apprentice and daughter. She will stay Vi’s sister. You will step down as the leader of Zaun.”
“Since when do you call it Zaun?”
“Since I realized you’ve done nothing but let me down.”
That shut him up, but you only let the silence hang for a moment.
“So which am I doing?”
“What will you do in this deal?” He asks in reply
“Ill watch over Jinx. Here.”
“You think he’ll let you?”
“It’s part of the deal.”
“You’ll make yourself his prisoner again?”
“I never was, neither was Jinx.”
“So you’ll just stay and be his slut then?”
You take a deep breath.
“Do we have a deal or not?”
He turns to Vi and you think in that moment that the dark light makes it seem that his eyes are shining.
“Whats another sacrifice?”
Thats all the answer you need as you turn toward the stairs.
AN: Hey all! Thank you for your patience. This ones a bit short but the next chapter should be very fun. Happy reading!
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You toss your bag on the floor and pull the card out of your pocket before flopping on your couch.
You read those word one more time, considering his offer.
You know the Marcus will lose his mind if you go, he’s made that perfectly clear.
But there’s a part of you that doesn’t care.
Silco hasn’t left your mind since you met him.
Also your boss really should have no say in what you do in your personal time.
So you swallow your nerves and grab a pen and paper.
“Silco,
I have to say it was a pleasant surprise to hear from you again. Marcus was upset but I thats not a huge change from the day to day. As for your offer I have to say that I’d be delighted. I’ve included my address so you can send details right to me.
Im quite excited, it’s not every day someone offers to take me out. Let alone someone as dashing as yourself.
Looking forward to it,”
After you sign your name you read the letter over and over, hoping that your word choice wouldn’t turn him off you. But you steel your nerve and start the journey down to the post office.
No sooner then you are locking the door do you experience your first interruption.
“Quite late for a walk isn’t it?”
You nearly jump out of your skin.
Marcus is standing across the street at his door, smoking a cigarette.
Janna is he a psychic now?
You post a smile on your face,”well I’ve heard we live in a very safe neighbourhood, something about an enforcer living nearby.”
He chuckles,”I guess so,” he breathes out slowly. It looks unnatural,”where are you off to?”
“Oh you know. Just chores.”
“Late night chores,” he nods,”very interesting.”
You just notice that he’s staring at you.
You clear your throat,”is there anything you needed?”
He seems to choke a bit on his cigarette,”ah no no, just being neighbourly.”
“Ah. Alright then.”
Theres a pause.
“Well I’ll be off then,” you start to move.
“I could walk you.”
You stop dead in your tracks.
“I mean never hurts to have company.”
“Right, shouldn’t you stay near the apartment though? With your daughter?”
He blinks a few times,”ah right of course.”
“Right, well, have a good night,” you stammer out a response as you rush away.
“Good night,” he calls out behind you.
You walk as fast as you can without seeming like you’re running away.
What the hell was that?
Marcus has barely spoken to you before this evening and now he’s offering to escort you around in the middle of the night.
Either he’s far more worried about Silco than he let on, or something far more disturbing.
Marcus might have a crush on you.
The thought almost makes you recoil.
Sure he’s not a bad boss, and not awful looking, but you would never be hired by anyone again. Plus he’s not even close to your type.
Just thinking about it makes your shiver with horror.
Thankfully you arrive to the post office quickly, and handing your coin to the woman behind the til and go to find the undercity tubes.
You take one last look over your letter before folding it up into the canister.
You can’t help but think of Marcus’s warnings again as you turn the canister over in your hand.
But then you think of the flowers sitting your apartment, and the sweet smiles he threw to you.
AN: ask and you shall receive! Seriously thank you all so much for the support on part one. I think it’s safe to say that this is going to at the very least get a part three as well. No content warnings (other then getting in trouble at work) happy reading!
Part one
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You still feel giddy the next morning, even though you know nothing will likely come of it.
Still it was nice to be flirted with.
Though there is a part of you thats nervous for your next interaction with Marcus, hopefully he was rushing out the door as usual. You don’t think he was happy with you for interrupting his meeting.
As usual the door was left open for you but as you approach the kitchen you see that Ren is not sitting at the table eating her breakfast which is the norm. Instead Marcus is sitting at the table red faced.
Here you go.
You put on your best brave face,”good morning Marcus.”
“Sit down.”
You do as instructed.
“I thought I made myself very clear last night.”
You sigh,” you did, and I promise I didn’t mean to interrupt the meeting, but I didn’t feel comfortable just standing outside. Besides the woman at the door-“
“You shouldn’t have left your keys in the first place. You were careless and you made me look unprofessional.”
You remind yourself of the fact that Marcus payes almost double what other nanny’s make in Piltover and bite back the urge to remind your boss that his company is the one who invited you to join the conversation.
“You’re completely right. My apologies.”
He keeps his eyes trained on you for a moment before he sighs.
“Good. I expect that it won’t happen again.”
“Of course not.”
He stands from the table and walks out of the kitchen. You swallow your anger and walk over to Ren’s door.
When you open it she is sitting on her bed reading a book.
Any negative feelings melt away as she looks up at you and grins.
“So,” you say leaning on the doorframe,”ready for the museum?”
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Ren was excited chatting your ear off on the way home. She’s mostly a quiet kid but she always loves talking about the new things she’s learned. As you approach the building she is just getting to how the scientist at the museum demonstrated the hexgates using a toy pirate ship and two hoola hoops.
Thats when you notice a familiar face in front of the building.
She is standing in front of the doors impatiently, and fiddling with her arm.
You and Ren approach cautiously.
“Good morning! I’m sorry I didn’t realize Marcus had any meetings today. Me and Ren can make ourselves scares.”
She looks up at you, beginning to look halfway amused.
“No need.”
“Did you leave something last night? If you can tell me what-“
“I’m dropping off not picking up,” she leans down and picks something off the ground.
It was easy not to notice the bouquet of flowers next to the imposing woman.
The flowers were a mix of the white lily’s you could find in Piltover and what you assume were undercity plants. They were a deep green with tiny budding flowers so darkly purple they seemed almost black. The vase that held them was glass, with a stained glass rim, dark purple again.
“He left a card in there too.”
“Wow well thank you for delivering, I’m sorry I never got your name.”
“Sevika, and please, thank me by making him send a different messenger next time.”
You chuckle,”I’ll see what I can do.”
She begins walking down the street and Ren looks up at you smiling.
“Those are really pretty!”
“They are! I’ll have to keep them in the kitchen for a but so they get some light.”
“What do you think the card says?”
You laugh again,”right now my main concern is getting you lunch. Come on lets head in.”
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At the end of the day Ren is quietly reading in her bedroom while you do the dishes from dinner.
You haven’t read the note yet as you wanted to make sure you weren’t distracted throughout the day.
Though the anticipation was beginning to kill you, you still felt it was best to finish up your work before you indulge.
There was also a tinge of worry.
Of course you knew that Marcus wasn’t going to be happy. For whatever reason he seemed to be extremely unhappy that you’d even met Silco, you doubt that he would be thrilled that he was sending you flowers. Though it was probably nothing. Just a friendly gesture.
Drying your hands off and leaving the last plates on the rack you finally pull yourself over to the flowers and do your best to calm your nerves.
The card was written in an elegant cursive -
“Dearest,
It was such a pleasure to meet you last night. My only regret is that we met under such awkward circumstances, I do hope I haven’t caused any problems with your boss. I know he can be quite the curmudgeon. I hope I’m not overstepping but I find myself unable to stop thinking of you. I am sure that a beautiful young woman such as yourself has much better things to do with her time but if you happen to find a gap in your schedule soon please let me know. I would very much like to see you again. Ive left an address for you to write to if you would like that as well.
With affection,
Silco.”
You feel heat rising to your cheeks again just as you hear the door open.
Quickly you shove the card into the pocket of your pants as Marcus enters the room.
If you look flustered he doesn’t mention it as he puts his helmet on the counter. You can see the beads of sweat on his brow.
“Evening Marcus.”
“Hey, how’d everything go today?”
“Oh just fine. You know Ren, though don’t be surprised if she spends all of bedtime talking about Hectech.”
He smiles,”well when doesn’t she?”
“Fair point, there’s leftovers in the fridge by the way.”
“Ugh you’re a godsend,” just as he moves to grab food you can tell the vase finally moves into his line of vision.
“Trying to liven up the place?”
You can feel the heat rising again,”no they were a gift.”
He raises an eyebrow,”who is sending gifts to you here?”
“Silco,” you try to keep your voice level but you don’t think it works.
“Silco? Are you kidding me? What the hell did he want?”
The half truth falls off your tongue faster than you meant it to.
“Nothing. He was just worried that he got me in trouble. Wanted to apologize in case he overstepped.”
Marcus calms a fraction of a degree.
“Look. I can’t go into much detail but you need to be…careful. If he tries to approach you again you need to let me know.”
“I thought you worked with him?”
“He’s… he’s just, difficult ok? I know you don’t know much about it but people from the undercity are dangerous. Even the ones I …work with.”
He makes a face like he’s tasted something sour on the last words.
“Just promise me you’ll let me know if he tries to contact you. Ok?”
Normally you would be insulted that he thought he had any say what you did in your own time.
But there was something strange.
Marcus had a look in his eyes.
It wasn’t the usual rage or annoyance.
He was afraid.
Something about Silco scared him.
You feel yourself nod.
“I’ll let you know.”
He sighed again,”thank you.”
With that you pick up the vase and purse (double checking for your keys) and exit the apartment.
You feel the card burning a hole in your pocket ever step back to your own home.
AN: Hey everyone! Got an idea stuck in my head and now it’s this fic. I may do a part two if people are interested. No specific content warnings than female pronouns and terms are used for reader and an age gap is mentioned a few times. Thanks for reading!
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Ren’s focus was really incredible as she was stringing the beads.
You had tried to keep the conversation going as she created her lizard but it was easy to tell that she was just humming politely in response to your questions.
She did break into a large grin when she handed it to you to tie up.
“This looks wonderful! Is it going to be for your dad?”
“No this ones for you,” she grins.
You feel a smile creep up on your own face.
You’d been Ran’s nanny for over a year now and she was just the best kid in the world.
She was creative, sweet, and just way too smart for her age.
Honestly it was way easier than you had expected it to be.
The only bad part was her dad.
You should have expected the sheriff of Piltover to be abrupt but you’re pretty sure in your tenure as his nanny he’s said 15 words to you total, most of which were ‘I’ll be late tonight’.
But hey you’ll take a cranky parent over a cranky kid all day.
“Well thank you very much!” You grin as you reach into your pocket, “I know just where to put it.”
You pull out your keys and begin to tie the blue and yellow lizard to your key ring.
Just as you finish you hear the front door open,
Ran jumps up from her stool and runs to meet her father at the door.
“Hey Pumpkin, I’ve got some work to do tonight. Head to your room I’ll see you after ok?”
Odd, Marcus sounds out of breath.
Ren skips her way back over to you and gives you her daily goodbye hug.
You start to clean up the supplies on the table when the sheriff walks into the kitchen.
“You should really get going, it’s getting late.”
You push away the urge to remind your boss that he’s ten minutes early.
“It’s no trouble, I’ll just get this cleaned up and be out of your hair.”
“Look I hate to rush you but I really just-“ he presses a hand to his forehead,”I just really need you out of here ok.”
You’re a bit surprised but try to shake it off.
“Alright then,” you pick your bag off the floor and sling it over your shoulder, “I’ll see you in the morning.”
Marcus had you ushered out the apartment in record time.
You’re still buttoning your coat as you begin the walk home, still perplexed by the interaction.
Marcus has never been the most normal of people to work for but this definitely takes the cake.
Other than being overly quiet there were a few times when you caught him staring at you when you were with Ren, like he was waiting for you to make a mistake. A few other times you would say goodbye to him as you were leaving and he would take about a minute to respond back with a cold ‘good evening’.
But hey, you’re commute could only get shorter if one of the parents in your building offered you a job. Your apartment being just one building over.
Speaking of which you were really looking forward to a cup of tea and curling up with your new novel.
You reach into your pocket to grab your keys and-
Oh for Jana’s sake
Your keys aren’t in your pocket.
Which means they’re still on the table at Marcus’s.
Groaning you turn around to go back and collect them.
Marcus was not going to be happy you were intruding on his ‘work time’.
You start trying to think of ways you could you could make the interaction less awkward.
Maybe if you tell him about your plans for tomorrow with Ren, you had some good ones too! The museum had just opened up a new section in the children’s wing and-
There was someone standing in front of Marcus’s door.
The woman was tall, broad, and stern looking. And her arm was. Holy shit is her arm a sword?
You can see the hint of the attachment inside the rest of her prosthetic.
“Did you need something?” She sneers.
At you.
She’s talking to you.
“Uh, right hi sorry I’m Marcus’s nanny.”
“He’s never mentioned a nanny to us.”
You nod,”I guess not.”
Theres a weird pause.
“Again did you need something?”
“Oh right, my keys, I left my keys.”
She rakes her eyes over you for a moment.
“A nanny huh?”
“Yep.”
“You ever look after crazy teenagers?”
“I mostly work with ages seven to twelve.”
“Damn it. Well I think the boss is going to be interested in meeting you anyway,” she opens the door and calls in,”Silco, the sheriff has a visitor.”
She steps away from the threshold to let you in.
You walk in and ascend the few steps leading to the kitchen.
Adjacent to the kitchen, in the living room was Marcus and who you assume must be Silco.
His hair was pushed back neatly and his suit was immaculate. His eyes were particularly striking though, one blue and one red. Making you feel every time they moved to take in a different part of you. You could see that his face was covered in some makeup to hide some scarring. But despite all that (possibly because of it) he was incredibly attractive. His eyes scanned you but he seemed calm and composed about the interruption.
Marcus on the other hand was turning more red by the second.
“What the hell are you doing back here?”
Before you can even begin to respond Marcus’s guest does it for you.
“Now Marcus where have your manners gone? That is no way to speak to a lady,” he uncrosses his legs and leans forward,”please forgive my friend here, he seems to have lost all manner of respect tonight.”
You feel some heat beginning to rise to your cheeks at the way this stranger is eyeing you.
“Oh no I’m sorry for interrupting.”
“Nonsense! I just can’t believe Marcus never told me he has a girlfriend. And such a pretty one at that.”
You chuckle lightly, “oh no I’m just the nanny.”
Silco looks over at Marcus who’s mouth has set into a straight line while he seemingly avoids eye contact with Silco. Silco breaks into a grin.
“Ah well that does make more sense. Truth be told I’ve always thought he was a bit too grouchy for a relationship. Don’t you?”
“I try not to speak poorly about my bosses in front of them.”
He chuckles,” clever girl. I almost had you there.”
You find yourself giggling at his joke.
“Well I guess I should let you get back to it,” you grab your keys off the counter.
“Oh but this evening was just starting to become fun. I do get tired of our business discussions.”
“Oh I didn’t realize you worked together, I’m surprised we haven’t met before.”
“I’m not surprised, I mean first of all I would want to keep you all to myself if I were in Marcus’s position.”
You’re giggling again as he smiles at you.
“I’m from the undercity. I work with Marcus to ensure peace between us all. But it means I’m not up topside very often.”
“How noble of you.”
“I doubt anyones ever used that word to describe me before. More ‘calculating’ and ‘dangerous’ and thats just what our mutual friend calls me.”
You have no idea what had possessed you to piss off your boss this much just so you can flirt with this strange man but you can’t seem to make yourself stop, “Well I’m sure he’s just being harsh.”
Silco chuckles, “honestly Marcus where do you find a nanny thats both gorgeous and such a good liar.”
Marcus continues his silence.
Silco turns back to you, “I do hope I’m not making you uncomfortable. It’s rare that an old man like me gets any attention from a delightful young lady such as yourself.”
“Oh please you’re not old.”
Marcus is now looking at you like you’ve grown a second head.
“You’re too much darling,” he pulls himself to his feet, “now as much as I would love to spend the rest of the night questioning you about what possesses a bright thing like yourself to spend all of your time with this grouch we do have business to attend to. I suppose it was just your keys that you needed?”
“Yes thats all.”
“Wonderful my dear,” he strides toward you,” I believe that our paths will likely be crossing far more often in the future.”
“I hope so,” you hope that your nerves aren’t showing.
“Well then I’ll just make sure of it,” he grins down at you reaching out a hand.
You give your hand to him expecting him to shake it when he instead pulls it to his lips, placing a kiss on your knuckles.
This time you bite your lip in addition to the giggle.
“Walk safely now,” he calls to you as you exit the apartment. The woman from earlier holding the door for you with her eyes watching Marcus. She had an amused smile.
You found yourself skipping on the walk back to your own apartment.
AN: hey all! Theres some language in this chapter but thats about it. Thank you for your patience!
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You’re not entirely sure why you’re surprised when you exit the building and see the majority of Silco’s goons waiting to escort you all back to the drop.
The hard line that set into Vander’s jaw when he agreed to follow Silco should have been enough to tell you he wasn’t going to go willingly.
And everything you knew about Silco should have told you that he wasn’t exactly going to give him the choice.
The walk back was painful.
Jinx was chatting happily, bouncing back and forth between her two families.
You dont know what Vander or Vi or even the boys were thinking.
You couldnt bare to look back, to face the danger that you had put them in.
The second that Jinx had let go of your hand to run back to Vi so she could tell her about the new paint she had added to their bedroom, Silco grabbed your hand and clutched it like a vice.
You couldnt seem to look at him either. When he was holding your hand not to comfort you, but to punish the man walking behind you.
When you all arrive at the drop the guards disperse to the exits.
Silco, ever the gentleman invites Vander to sit while he heads upstairs to finish some business.
He pulls your hand to his lips and places a gentle kiss on your knuckles before he goes.
Vander places Vi down tenderly on one of the booths before turning to you.
“Anything to say for yourself?”
You know you could explain that you had no idea he would follow you. You hadn’t been a part of the sting. But even in your own head it sounded like bullshit.
So you stay quiet.
Vander scoffs and turns his attention to his other children.
And for the next hour you all sit in silence.
That is until the doctor walks in and begins to talk with Vander. Soon enough they’re taking her into the lower level, each of the other children follow behind.
Vander doesn’t look at you as he leaves.
You sit in an empty room for a moment before you feel your jaw clench and hot tears spring to your eyes.
Suddenly you cant tell if you’ve ever been this sad in your life.
Or more pissed off.
You finally manage to pull yourself off of the chair where you had been sulking and begin the walk up to Silco’s office.
Surprisingly no one is posted at the door today.
When you throw the door open Silco has his chair turned toward the window, watching the people below walk past.
“What the fuck was that,” is all you manage to get out.
He turns his chair towards you and raises an eyebrow.
“Well hello to you too.”
You might break a tooth if you clench your jaw any tighter.
“What. The. Fuck?”
He rolls his eyes at you,”please don’t act so naive.”
“For Janas sake Silco you said you would let us go.”
“And I did. In fact not only did I let you go, I brought Jinx her sister and brothers. Isn’t that generous of me?”
“This wasn’t what we agreed to. You know that I never would have gone there if I knew you’d follow.”
“So what am I now? The big bad wolf? Violet easily could have died in that shack. And do you think those boys were flourishing either?”
“So you were doing everyone a favour is that it?”
“In a way, yes.”
“And what exactly is the plan now?”
“I plan to use their skills accordingly. My informants have let me know that Milo is a skilled locksmith and Claggor provides solid muscle. Both of them will be strong additions to the cause. Violet as well once she’s healed.”
“You can’t be serious. They’re children.”
“Children who’ve made it clear they’re ready to fight for the nation of Zaun.”
“And what about Vander then.”
He smirks,”Vander will be given the opportunity to leave on his own accord. If he doesn’t take it, I’m sure you can put together what will happen.”
Your mouth goes dry.
“Silco. You can’t kill him.”
“And why is that, darling?”
“The kids will never forgive you. They’ll spend the rest of their lives looking for an opportunity to kill you.”
“I wasn’t planning on filling them in on the details.”
“They’ll know. Vander would never leave them.”
“But he will.”
“No Silco he-“
He slams his hands into his desk,”he will leave them. And the children will hardly even notice. I will fill his place for them.”
It takes you a moment to process what he just said.
“Is that your plan? To just take over as father?”
“I’ll be better for them. Like I am for Jinx,” he turns his gaze upward and finally looks at you,“Like I am for you.”
“Silco you can’t do this.”
“Yes I can.”
“No you cant. Because Vi will never accept that Vander left her.”
Again he rolls his eyes ,”she will learn to.”
“No, trust me you don’t know her. She doesn’t forget. And it wont just be her,” you swallow,”Jinx will start to listen to her.”
You feel his eyes narrow on you.You get the feeling that the next words you might be your last.
“Jinx loves her sister. She listens to her.”
“She listens to me too.”
“She’s her sister.”
“I am her father,” he snarls at you.
“For now,” you try to steady your breathing,” but Vi will do everything in her power to stop it. And Jinx won’t forgive you if you take Vi away.”
“You have no idea about my relationship with my daughter.”
“I know your daughter and I know her sister.”
“So what exactly is your suggestion?” He snarls at you.
“Honestly. I don’t know. But I know you cant solve any of this without Vander.”
“So I should just forgive him then?”
“I never said that.”
“Then what are you-“
“You have to make a sacrifice. Just like any other parent would do for their child.”
“That is not what Jinx needs.”
“Please don’t pretend that your wants and her needs are the same.”
“And what about you then?” He’s becoming more calculated by the second,”will you go running back to Vander? Is that all it was? You just wanted someone to pay attention to you until he got back?”
You feel the tears start to prick at your eyes again,”thats not-“
“You should have warned me you were just desperate.”
It felt like a slap in the face. But you felt a cold energy slip over you. The same kind that Silco was wearing.
“Im sorry Vander hurt you. But you cannot control his children. And you wont be able to manipulate them to hurt him.”
He opened his mouth but you cut him off.
“Im going to leave now. In the morning if you cant sit down with Vander to work something out I will help him leave with his children.”
“I’ll kill you if you try to take her from me.”
“And then you’ll have to kill Vander, and then Vi, and then you’ll loose her anyway,” you say. Finally for the first time in your life emboldened by the meaning behind your words.
“It’s your choice,” you begin to back away,”kill all of us, or find a way to make it work.”
AN: Hey all! Sorry it’s been so long. Work has been very hectic and I really appreciate your patience.
————————————————
“What the hell are you doing here?” Vander shouts at him instinctively pushing you behind him.
“Now now I couldn’t miss such a beautiful moment could I?” Silco began approaching you both, hands held behind his back.
“Silco we talked about this,” you began carefully.
“I know darling but I just couldn’t resist,” he brushed past Vander, grabbing your waist and pulling you to his side.
His eyes were trained on Vander as he held onto you. A smirk pressed on his face as he turned to you,”and how could I keep away from my girls?”
Vander clenched his teeth.
“Now where is my little Jinx?”
“She’s with her family,” Vander was cold.
“How sweet. Well we shouldn’t miss the reunion.”
“Silco I don’t know if this is a good idea,” you whisper.
He just tightens his grip on you,”nonsense darling. And besides, I have a surprise for the children.”
He begins to pull you in the direction you and Vander had come from.
His grip on you was tight.
Mylo and Claggor stumbled to their feet as you entered.
“Fuck Vander!” Claggor was shouting as Mylo picked up a baseball bat.
“It’s alright boys.”
“Vander what’s-“
“Leave it Mylo.”
Silco unbothered by this keeps marching you forward toward the children.
“Having a nice visit so far darling?”
Jinx pulls her head away from Vi and blinks, apparently only now noticing Silco. She stared at him, looking just as unsure as you felt.
“And Violet, how are your injuries coming along?”
“Badly, no thanks to you,” Vi snarls at him.
Silco simply tuts slowly,”a misunderstanding I assure you.”
Her face curls into a snarl,”I don’t know what the hell you want but-“
“Enough Vi,” Vanders voice is tight and emotionless.
“Vander what the f-“
“Enough,” he booms at her.
Silco is grinning beside you, clearly enjoying the discontent.
He finally releases you and begins approaching Jinx and Vi.
You can see Vi’s knuckles turning white as she clenches her fists. But as she instinctively moves to get up she winces.
“Oh no… you poor thing. Did you have a fall?” Silco’s raises his hand to his cheek.
“Fuck you.”
Silco just chuckles and looks at Vander,”she’s got your spirit friend.”
He slowly raises a hand and ruffles her hair,”and potty mouth.”
Vander’s breathing has grown heavy, and you can tell that he’s seething with rage. But he is still. The only indication of his rage are his flared nostrils.
Silco stands and claps his hands together,”well I think it’s high time everyone came home. What do you say Vander?”
Vander grinds his teeth.
Silco places a hand on Jinx’s shoulder and your mouth goes dry.
“Wouldn’t you like that Jinx? Our family to come home?”
She grins grabbing onto his hand.
Vi’s face changes from rage to a horrified confusion.
Silco stands back up and grins at Vander.
“What do you say old friend? You carry your daughter and I’ll carry mine.”
Vander flinches as he watches Silco pick Jinx up and hold her to his side.
Still he says nothing as he tries to pick Vi up as gingerly as possible.
Her eyes are trained on Silco and she must ignoring the incredible pain she must feel from being moved.
Vanders eyes soften as he holds his daughter close to his chest.
Mylo and Clagger fall in line behind him.
Silco looks pointedly at you.
You don’t realize that you’ve been holding your breath.
Jinx reaches out to you smiling.
“Come on slow poke!”
You force yourself to smile as you step beside Silco and take her hand.
AN: Hey all! Thank you for your patience and support as always. No major content warnings.
———————————————
When the last of the story had spilled off of your tongue a cold silence filled the room.
Silco sat with his elbows resting on the desk, his hands held together in front of his mouth balled into fists.
You had seen him angry before of course but not like this.
You could feel the rage coming off of him like waves.
You’re racking your brain for something to say but everything that comes to mind seems like it would just be a waste of breath.
Silco is the first to break the silence.
“Where is he?” his mouth twitched into a snarl as he spoke.
You take a breath, “I can’t tell you that.”
He slams his hands onto his desk rising from his chair.
“I did not ask you for your opinion.”
“He has children with him.”
He rolls his eyes, “they’re not a part of this.”
“You think they’re going to stand by and watch them kill their father?”
“I think that Vander shouldn’t use his children as cannon fodder, and you shouldn’t let him.”
“That’s not fair.”
“Vander made his choice years ago.”
“This isn’t about his choice anymore. It’s about yours.”
He scoffs again, “nothing has changed.”
You feel a twist in your heart, “nothing?”
He turns towards the window, away from you.
“Not me or Jinx?”
“I am doing this for you and Jinx.”
“Her sister needs her.”
“They abandoned her,” he narrowed his eyes, “they abandoned you too.”
“They had no choice.”
“They left the both of you to die.”
“You think I don’t understand that?”
“You don’t. That's why we’re having this conversation.”
“It’s not fair to keep this from her. She deserves to know.”
“I will decide what my daughter needs.”
“You can’t keep them apart. Jinx will find out one day. She’ll resent you for it if you don’t let her go.”
“So you suggest I just give her up.”
“I’ll bring her back.”
“And if Vander doesn’t let you go?”
“He has as much right to stop me as you do.”
“You would take her without my blessing?”
You pause thinking for a moment before you respond.
“I won't have to.”
He raises an eyebrow.
You take a cautious step toward him.
“You can be the hero,” you take one more step toward him, “She loves her sister. You could tell her you found her. And that you’re sending her with me.”
He grit his teeth.
“You could give her back her sister, she would never forget that. She’d always be grateful.”
You place a hand on his shoulder.
“I would be too.”
He finally meets your eyes.
“You would bring her right home?”
“Of course.”
“And Vander?”
“What about him?”
You didn’t think that was an answer but he takes your face into his hands and kisses you.
“You’ll both come back to me?”
You place your hands on his,”always.”
——————-
Jinx was shocked when Silco told her that her sister was still in the undercity. She burst into tears immediately.
After the initial sobbing she begged to be taken to her.
With that you and her set out on your journey.
With a nod from Silco at the top of the stairs the bouncer standing guard at the door opened it, and you and Jinx walked out hand and hand.
It wasn’t a short distance to the fishers, and you could feel Jinx becoming more tense with each step.
When you began to approach the building she froze in place.
At first you didn’t notice until you felt your hand jerk backwards.
When you look back at her, her eyes were filled with tears again.
You take a knee in front of her and squeeze her hand.
“What's up?”
“What if she’s mad at me?”
“Jinx, she won't be mad.”
“What if she thinks I abandoned her.”
“Jinx,” you take your other hand and place it on her shoulder, “Vi will understand. Things got rough for a while but she loves you.”
“What about Vander?”
“I’m sure he still cares about you-“
“Is he going to take me away from dad?”
You feel your stomach twist.
“No Jinx…I’m not sure what everything will look like. But I’m not going to let that happen. And your dad certainly isn’t going to.”
She nodded and you smiled at her.
“Now let's go see your sister.”
You hold out your hand as you stand and she grabs onto it.
The building is old and decrepit, the door barely holding onto its hinges.
You’re not completely surprised when you feel someone rush you from the side and hold a shard of broken glass to your neck.
You just raise an eyebrow,”Vander not tell you we were coming Mylo?”
The boy blinked at you for a moment,”figured we couldn’t be too careful.”
“Is that them?” You heard Claggor rushing around the corner. His eyes went right to Jinx and he ran over to pick her up.
“Oh thank gods you’re ok. Vi was so worried.”
As Jinx was trying to wriggle out of her brothers grasp it was clear that she wasn’t the only one.
“How is she?” You ask Mylo.
He looks down, “she’s ok. Pissed that it took Vander so long to contact you both.”
You smirk at that,”can we see her?”
Mylo begins to lead you through the building which you think may have been a mining refinery until you reach the back. The windows are up high so no risk of outside viewers.
Vi is propped against the wall arguing with Vander who’s kneeling over her.
Jinx finally escapes from Claggor’s grasp and sprints to her sister.
“Oh my god Powder!” Vi barely has time to react before Jinx has leap into her arms.
“Are you ok? Where have you been? I missed you so much.”
Jinx is just crying into her arms and mumbling out words you can't make out.
Vi just holds her close, pressing her face into Jinx’s hair.
“So what happened to you two anyway?” Mylo brought your attention back to him.
You shrug, “we’ve been at the drop this whole time.”
He narrows his eyes and looks over to Vander who is beginning to rise to his feet.
“I know that but how did you get out?”
“That’s enough Mylo,” Vander was approaching you now.
“What I’m just trying to-”
“I know. Go see your sisters alright. We need to have a chat.”
Mylo looks ready to argue but Claggor cups a hand on his shoulder and begins to walk away.
“Can I have a minute?”
You nod and Vander leads you back into the hallway you came from.
“How are you two doing?”
“We’re good. How are you and the kids?”
He shrugs, “we’re getting by.”
There's a moment of uncomfortable silence.
“I owe you an apology.”
You lift an eyebrow at that.
“I was…surprised about your arrangement with him. But I know you wouldn’t ever do anything to put Powder in danger.”
“No, I wouldn’t.”
“You two are…safe right?”
“He would never hurt Jinx. Not for anything.”
“And you?”
“He’s kept up your policy if that's what you mean.”
He freezes for a moment.
“Look I can explain-“
He’s interrupted by a gravelly voice coming from the entrance of the building.
AN: Hey all, no major content warnings for this chapter. Enjoy and thank you for reading!
———————————
“Thank god you’re alright,” Vander wrapped his arms around you pulling you into a hug.
You can only blink in response while your brain struggles to process the information.
By the time he lets you go your brain has finally come up with a response.
“Where are the kids? Are they ok?”
“Yes they’re fine, mostly fine.”
“Oh my god where have you been?”
“We’re holding out in an abandoned building by the fishers. That’s not important, how are you? How's Powder.”
“We’re fine. Confused but we’re fine.”
“Thank god. We’ve been planning ways to get you out. If you can get Pow outside after sundown today we think we can get you out. I don’t know how you managed to get out today but we have to get her too.”
You pause at that,”wait what? What are you talking about?”
Now he looks confused,”getting you and Powder away from Silco.”
Oh
“Vander,” you try to keep your voice level, “we’re not being held captive.”
Now he looks confused.
“What? What do you mean?”
“Silco’s not holding us captive.”
“I don’t understand why you wouldn't have left then.”
“It’s not that simple.”
He steps back from you, “simple? He tried to have me imprisoned? And when that didn’t work he tried to kill me.”
“I understand that.”
“Do you? Because you would have taken Powder away from him.”
“I understand that but things changed on that night.”
“Ya I’m aware. That's why I haven’t been home in weeks. That's why my children are either alone and scared by the fishers or being held captive by some sociopath-“
“Don’t call him that.”
“What?”
You take a breath,”Vander, you need to understand.”
“Understand what? That you’re letting Powder-“
“Jinx,” you say it louder than you meant to.
The air grows still in between you.
“What?”
“She goes by Jinx now.”
“Oh my god. What has he done to you?”
“He didn’t do anything to me.”
“What the hell is wrong with you? I’d understand if it were just you but she’s a child.”
“Stop,” you could feel anger beginning to pool in your stomach.
“Stop what? Jesus kid what are you thinking?”
“We almost died. Do you understand that?”
And he rolled his eyes at you.
You were shouting now, “enforcers didn’t stop coming after Jinx after you were gone. We were five fucking seconds from being murdered in the street.”
“It is not my fault that-“
“No Vander it’s not. But that doesn’t change the fact that Jinx and I would be dead right now if it weren’t for Silco.”
There's a moment of silence.
“How is she?”
“She’s ok. She misses Vi.”
“Vi misses her too.”
“I’m shocked she hasn’t stormed the bar herself.”
Vander cringed at that.
Your stomach dropped.
“What happened to her.”
“She’s ok but… the night everything went down we had to take a jump from one of the buildings. She landed wrong.”
You brought your hands to your mouth,”oh my god.”
He looked down.
“How bad?”
“Both of her legs.”
“Fuck,” you started feeling nauseous with the thought of Vi holed up somewhere unable to move. Unable to get to her sister.
“She needs to see Powder.”
“It’s not going to be easy.”
“Why not? If he’s not holding you captive.”
“He’s attached to Jinx.”
He narrows his eyes, “what do you mean attached.”
“They’ve bonded,” you can’t seem to meet his eyes.
You see Vanders lip twitch. You’d seen him try with Jinx but there was always a disconnect. He couldn’t reach her. You can’t imagine what he must be feeling.
Knowing Silco could.
He recomposed himself, “you have to talk to him then.”
You crossed your arms in front of your chest.
“I’m assuming that some form of. Attachment. Extends to you too.”
You pretend not to hear the ice in his voice.
“It does.”
He grit his teeth, “so you’ll do it.”
“I can’t promise anything.”
“I’m sure you’ll think of something,” he pushes a piece of paper into your chest. You assume the address of where they’re residing is on it,”she needs her.”
With that he exits the alley.
You can feel tears springing into your eyes and your breathing becomes uneven.
You pull your hood over your head and shove the paper into your pocket.
You walk back to the bar with your head swimming.
Jinx was going to lose it and you didn’t even want to think of what Silco was going to do.
There was no way he was letting Jinx go.
One of the former customers accidentally called her Powder last night and he left the bar with fewer teeth.
You could just take her, hope that she can keep a secret.
But could you?
After everything that you’d gone through.
It had started to feel like the three of you were a part of something.
It had started to feel like a family.
By the time you walked into the bar tears were pouring down your face.
You ignored Sevika’s calls as you almost ran up the stairs.
You were practically sobbing as you burst through the doors of Silco’s office.
He was seated at his desk but his eyes shot up to you as you did.
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