Villian Mycroft
You, A roleplayer, are connected to A roleplayer Your partner doesn't mind all ages or 18+ roleplay
Your common tags are mystrade
A roleplayer: [Est. Greg has a daughter Tabitha (6) from his past marriage, she met Mycroft for the first time and it went bad. Like hiding behind Greg and crying when Mycroft tried to talk to her bad. Next day.] Hey. Got a minute? GL
A roleplayer: Hello, Gregory. Is Tabitha alright?-M
A roleplayer: (..) Yeah. She is. GL Are you? GL
A roleplayer: I'm fine.-M
A roleplayer: You sure? GL
A roleplayer: Did you need something?-M
A roleplayer: Yeah. GL To know if you're actually okay. GL
A roleplayer: I was not the one terrorized by a stranger yesterday. I am fine, Gregory.-M
A roleplayer: You think it was that bad? GL
A roleplayer: You do not?-M
A roleplayer: I mean it wasn't great. But it's not a catastrophe either. GL
A roleplayer: She hid behind you the entire evening, Gregory, and wailed every time I attempted to speak to her. I would classify that as a catastrophe.-M
A roleplayer: (...) Well, she thinks you're something like a cartoon supervillain that's gonna ban fun. GL I should've known better. GL
A roleplayer: Wait. That sounds bad. GL I didn't set you guys up for success. GL
A roleplayer: I suppose that is a decent way to describe myself.-M
A roleplayer: It is fine, Gregory, truly. Please apologize to her for me.-M
A roleplayer: I mean... I couldn't really argue with her on that. GL I'd rather we give it another try. GL If you're willing. GL
A roleplayer: Are you certain that is wise?-M
A roleplayer: Yeah. She'll warm up to you once she realises you don't want to ban fun, just don't know how to have fun. GL
A roleplayer: So she'll be more comfortable with me when? A few years from now?-M
A roleplayer: Depends on how far you're willing to go, really. GL Realistically? Few months? GL
A roleplayer: I do not know what that means.-M
A roleplayer: Are you gonna try and actively win her over or will you just let her warm up by being a consistent variable? GL
A roleplayer: I do not wish to traumatize her further.-M Whatever you believe is best, I will do, up to and including the termination of our relationship.-M
A roleplayer: Mycroft. You did not traumatize my child. GL Don't break up with you for me, silly. GL I'm just asking if you're willing to try and be fun or if you'd rather just be... you, I guess. GL Because you is just fine. You're not dangerous to her, she'll figure that out if you give her the chance. GL
A roleplayer: The data paints a very different picture, Gregory, but I appreciate the sentiment.-M I will attempt to 'be fun' and less supervillian.-M
A roleplayer: I think you're data is incomplete. GL Great. That's what I was hoping for, it'll be incredibly entertaining. GL
A roleplayer: Mm. Happy to provide you entertainment.-M
A roleplayer: You know I'm just teasing. GL If you need help with being fun let me know. GL
A roleplayer: This is me letting you know.-M
A roleplayer: Well, she's six. Fun to her means silly jokes and playing games. If that's a bit much sugar will do. GL You're allowed a bit of bribery. GL
A roleplayer: This may be doomed from the start.-M
A roleplayer: Though I am skilled at bribery.-M
A roleplayer: Just let her talk about penguins and princesses for hours and try to remember some. She'll love that. GL
A roleplayer: And laugh at her jokes. Even if they are not really funny. GL
A roleplayer: I can easily manage those things.-M
A roleplayer: I think then you've already won. GL
A roleplayer: Yesterday was not a success. I have won nothing.-M
A roleplayer: Well, do you want to come round for dinner? We can just try again. GL
A roleplayer: So soon? Have you consulted Tabitha on this?-M
A roleplayer: Stop panicking, Myc. GL
A roleplayer: It is a legitimate question. You should warn her.-M
A roleplayer: To confirm her believe you're a supervillain she needs to be warned about? GL
A roleplayer: No. Warn her that I am coming over.-M
A roleplayer: She doesn't need to be warned, Myc. GL I'll let her know. GL
A roleplayer: Thank you.-M
A roleplayer: Does she have a favorite penguin or princess?-M
A roleplayer: (...) Don't bribe her with an actual penguin. GL I'm sure she'll be happy to tell you all about it if you bring some jelly beans for dessert. GL
A roleplayer: It is not legal for private citizens to own penguins, Gregory.-M
A roleplayer: I'm not sure that would stop you. GL
A roleplayer: I am unsure if I should take that as a compliment or an insult.-M
A roleplayer: Bit of both, maybe. GL Mostly a compliment, though. GL
A roleplayer: Yes, alright.-M Jelly beans for dessert. Anything else?-M
A roleplayer: Do you want a manual? GL
A roleplayer: That would be incredibly useful, yes.-M
A roleplayer: (..) That's a joke. There is no manual. GL Though I'm sure you'd read it. GL Maybe try for a tad less formal than your usual suit? GL
A roleplayer: I know it was a joke, Gregory, I am not that dense.-M Less formal than my normal attire?-M
A roleplayer: Well, I wasn't sure if you'd expect me to write one. GL Just a bit? Might help with the supervillain accusations. Supervillains wear suits. GL
A roleplayer: I see. I will find something more suitable.-M
A roleplayer: Hey, just.. maybe lose the jacket and the waistcoat? GL Rolled up sleeves are very casual. GL And sexy. GL
A roleplayer: I will do my best to appear less....evil.-M
A roleplayer: I personally appreciate the evil look. GL Just maybe not around Tabs. At least not in the beginning. GL
A roleplayer: Do you?-M
A roleplayer: Hah. Course I do, Myc. GL I'm sure I can prove it next time we're alone. GL
A roleplayer: Let us first ensure your daughter is not permanently scarred by my presence, hm?-M
A roleplayer: Myc, I know that under that supervillain exterior is a big softie. She'll love you once she finds out. GL
A roleplayer: One can only hope.-M
A roleplayer: Trust me. She will. GL
A roleplayer: Just like I do. GL Well... not exactly like that but you know. GL
A roleplayer: I understand your meaning.-M
A roleplayer: See you for dinner? GL
A roleplayer: Yes. I look forward to seeing you.-M
A roleplayer: So do I. GL
A roleplayer: Mycroft left the office later that afternoon to return home in hopes of finding something less terrifying to wear for dinner. He was still hesitant to force Greg's daughter to be around him so soon after their first catastrophic encounter, but he trusted Greg knew best for the girl. He remained in his button-down, trousers, and shoes from earlier in the day but paired it with a cream colored cashmere jumper. He hoped the softness of the jumper would round out his sharp edges. On his way to Greg's home, he made a few stops, ending up with a child-sized bouquet of flowers and a small stuffed penguin for Tabitha along with the requested jelly beans and a bottle of wine for Greg. It was just after five when Mycroft knocked on the door.
A roleplayer: The flowers were pretty, but Mycroft was cut off by Greg jumping in to steer attention away from the fact that Mycroft had no earthly idea how to respond. Instead, Mycroft nodded and picked up his fork to eat, or simply push the food around the plate; he hadn't entirely decided which would be preferable. When he heard the lite clink of metal in front of him, he glanced up to see Greg and Tabitha hitting their forks together. Curious, he thought to himself. Then Greg was turning to him to participate. "Oh, uh..." Mycroft held his fork up and mimicked their actions. He wasn't about to destroy a family dinner tradition.
A roleplayer: Tabitha watched them carefully, if Pa was inviting him to do dinner swords he was maybe coming more often. While she was sure he was distracted she glanced at him. He was wearing a jumper that looked really soft, a bit like a bunny, she decided. Did he kill the bunnies to get it? She frowned, no Pa wouldn't be friends with someone who did that to cute little bunnies. His face was so serious, though, maybe less villain more... headmaster. She could imagine him lecturing kids about not running through the hallways. How he would sit in a big imposing leather chair while the kids that got in trouble sat on a tiny one on the other side of the desk. She glanced at the flowers. After last time she probably should be in trouble. She didn't even say hello... when he and Pa were done she quickly held out her fork toward the strange man without quite looking at him.
A roleplayer: The corner of Mycroft's mouth lifted in a small half smile. It was absolutely ridiculous to be banging their forks together over the dinner table, but even Mycroft had to admit it was fun. Tradition and all. He could see the little girl in his peripheral vision. She was studying him so intensely and clearly working through her feelings toward the villain in her home. He couldn't quite see the feelings and thoughts that made their way to her face, but he could only assume she was sizing him up and attempting to determine exactly which bits of fun he had banned that day. He saw Tabitha move just as Greg pulled his fork away, thrusting her own fork in his direction. She wasn't looking at him but in his direction. Good enough, he thought to himself, holding his own fork out and gently tapping against hers. A smile then. A genuine smile, he hoped, would appear soft and gentle for the girl. "I like this tradition." he told her.
A roleplayer: Tabitha pulled her fork back just as quickly as she'd extended it, still without properly looking at him. When he spoke she quickly glanced at his face. Why does his smile look like she's in trouble and he'll let her know only at the end of dinner? She just nodded and started eating her magic pasta. Greg had watched them both with a smile, reaching his free hand under the table to gently squeeze Mycroft's leg. He was doing good. Better than Greg had expected, actually. Sure Tabitha wasn't exactly his fangirl, but she wasn't crying and hiding for now which he counted as massive progress. "My dad did it with my siblings and I when we were younger. I always liked it as well." he said realising that his daughter was not going to talk. He took a bite from his pasta. "Do you want to stay after dinner? We could watch a movie or play something.."
A roleplayer: Mycroft was grateful for Greg's reassurance because Tabitha was giving him absolutely none. "That sounds better than my family dinners," he chuckled. "We spoke about schooling and current events..." he began. "Or we were lectured for getting in trouble with our teachers..." He spoke to both of them, though he was careful not to point himself fully in Tabitha's direction. He glanced at Greg when the man asked if he wanted to stay after dinner. Greg was purposely trying to force Tabitha to spend more time than she wanted with him, wasn't he? Mycroft nodded. "I'd like that..." he nodded. "If it's alright with Tabitha, that is."
A roleplayer: Getting in trouble at school? Tabitha peeked up at him for a second at that comment. Did he really? She couldn't really imagine it, she imagined him like Jeff... he was annoying and always told the teachers they had homework that he obviously did and about who sneaked some playing cards into class. Greg closed his eyes for a moment, trying his best to keep the exasperated sigh from escaping him. "Very considerate, Myc," he muttered and turned toward his daughter. "Is it okay if he stays a bit longer, Tabs?" She looked at her Dad and shrugged then leaning in to whisper something at him. "I don't want to play with him," she said and Greg almost laughed. "You don't have to, monkey. How about a movie?" She glanced over at Mycroft before looking back at Greg. He probably only watched boring movies. "What movie?" Now it was Greg's time to shrug. "I think I found the Barbie DVD that went missing last month." Tabs eyes grew big and she nodded eagerly. It was her favourite movie and if Greg was honest the DVD didn't went missing, but he needed a break before he could watch the 500th rerun. He looked over at Mycroft. "Movie it is." he said, not letting him run now that he'd have to sit through one and a half hours of pink torture.
A roleplayer: Mycroft chuckled as Tabitha whispered to Greg. No, he couldn't imagine the little girl would want to play anything with him, but he was hardly offended by it. His games of choice were simple: Chess, mostly, and the occasional game of Operation that Sherlock always insisted on, given that Mycroft was terrible at it. He nodded at the decided movie. "I take it you are a fan of Barbie?" he asked the little girl. "Do you have a favorite?" he hoped his tone was soft and curious and gentle enough to help Tabitha feel comfortable in opening up a bit to him. If not, Mycroft was certain the rest of the evening would be doomed.
A roleplayer: Tabitha just nodded at the question. Yes, she was a fan of Barbie, yes she had a favourite and yes she knew he probably thought all of that was stupid. But Pa had already decided on the movie, her movie, so she didn't try to think to much about the stranger staying, instead focussing on finishing her pasta quickly. Greg looked over at Myc and offered a one sided shrug and a smile. "How's the pasta?" he asked, noticing that Mycroft hadn't even tried it yet. God, had he known he'd need to distract both of them from this interaction he'd have just had dinner in front of the telly.
A roleplayer: (Thanks!)
A roleplayer: Well, at least the girl nodded a response in his direction. Mycroft would consider that a win in this situation. "If you're willing...I might need a lesson in the Barbie universe. I know a bit but I have a feeling you know far more than your father or I." Mycroft looked over when Greg asked what he thought of the food. "Good. Thank you, Gregory..." he take a few bites. "Delicious, actually. Pasta's one of my favorite foods..." he said to no one in particular. "Is it your favorite?" he asked Tabitha cautiously. Testing the waters to see if she would at least nod or shake her head in his direction.
A roleplayer: Tabitha looked at him not even trying to hide her the suspicion. He wants to be friends with Pa so he tries to be friends with me so Pa will like him more. She didn't want to give him a lesson about Barbie, if he wanted to know he'd just have to watch the movies and learn. She focussed back on her food when he turned his attention back to her father. Greg saw the catastrophy coming before it happened but too late to intervene. Mycroft turned his attention back to Tabitha, trying to make conversation, with a six year old that was clearly not in a talking mood. She ignored him and turned to Greg. "Can I get up? Pleeeeease? I'm full." Greg sighed and nodded. "Yeah," he agreed and she basically sprinted out of the kitchen. He shook his head an turned toward Mycroft. "Don't take it personally, Myc... I mean, it's already going way better than last time."
A roleplayer: Mycroft's face fell when the little girl completely ignored him and instead spoke only to her father. The way she ran away told him all he needed to know. He took another bite or two of food and then set his fork down, humming at Greg. "Yes, I think so." he lied but smiled in Greg's direction. Mycroft didn't exactly take it personally as nearly every child he'd come in contact with had hated him from the start. Sherlock had been the only exception until he grew up and decided Mycroft was satan incarnate. Mycroft wanted to press Greg to let it go and come to terms with the fact that Tabitha did not and was not ever going to like him. He knew it would start an argument and he didn't want that so instead he kept his thoughts to himself. "Can I help clean up?" he asked instead, standing to take his bowl to the counter. "We don't want to keep Tabitha waiting on her movie..."
A roleplayer: Greg followed Mycroft with his eyes as he moved to the counter. "I haven't even finished eating yet.." he said and looked down at his plate. "Sit down, Myc, please?" he asked while spooning some more pasta onto his plate. He could sense in the sudden shift of topic that Mycroft wasn't agreeing with him, but since he wasn't say anything Greg didn't want to bring it up either. He didn't want to accuse him of lying, if he was only scared. "Tabs will be fine. I think it'll be good if she has a bit of buffer time, right now. It's a lot for her..." he said, looking over at Mycroft. "For you too, isn't it?" He softened a little, knowing how hard Mycroft was trying and just starting to realize how critical he was with himself. "But you're doing good, both of you." he reassured, though he had a feeling it would only fall on deaf ears. He took another bite of pasta, leaning back in his chair.
A roleplayer: Mycroft squeezed his eyes shut and took a shallow, steadying breath with his back toward Greg. When he turned again, he smiled. "Apologies...." he returned to the table without his plate and sat down next to Greg. "A bit of time is good, yes. I can imagine having a strange man you're terrified of in your space is probably too much for a little girl..." It was nearly too much for him as a grown man. He nodded at the man. "Thank you for saying so...and for being so patient." He knew Greg would be terribly optimistic about the whole situation and give him more credit than he believed he was due, but he was grateful for the faith his partner had in him.
A roleplayer: Greg finished his pasta, one hand resting on Mycroft's knee under the table. He couldn't say much, well he could but he knew that Mycroft wasn't listening. Not really. He wanted to argue with Mycroft's premise, but he could only lose, he felt like. Once he was done he leant back in his chair and looked at his partner. "Hey, love," he said, voice soft, before getting up. "C'mere..." he pulled Mycroft out of his chair and into a tight hug. He draw calming circles onto his back with his palm. "I know you don't agree... but this is good. You're doing so good."
A roleplayer: Mycroft opened his mouth to protest, but Greg wasted no time in pulling him up and into his chest. He was worried that Tabitha would walk in on them hugging and be even more put out than she already was. He was certain any sort of affection shared between him and Greg would lead to more tears and terror. Mycroft, however, needed that comfort from Greg. He always needed it. Greg was one of two people in the world who could manage to calm him down or draw him out of his mind when he began spiraling. Mycroft wrapped his arms around Greg and laid his head on the man's shoulder. He let his eyes close and his breath regulate as Greg rubbed his back. "It's not that I don't agree..." he began. "It's that You mean a great deal to me and I want Tabitha to feel...cared for too."
A roleplayer: "I know, love," Greg muttered, smiling a bit as Mycroft relaxed into him. He kept his arms wrapped tightly around him, circles slowing a little as he noticed Mycroft calming down. "You're doing good," he repeated softly, "She loves the flowers and she already interacted with you. I know it's not as much as you'd like... try and be patient with her, okay? It may take her a few meetings to properly warm up to you," he turned his head to press a gentle kiss to Mycroft's hair. "I'm so proud of you."
A roleplayer: Mycroft leaned into the kiss. "I do not care how long it takes....as long as you don't end up having to send her to therapy because she has nightmares about the super villian her father is dating...." he teased though it was completely true. Mycroft would be patient with the little girl, but the number of meetings she needed was not the most worrying part. For him it was the idea that Tabitha would never warm up to him or trust him or speak to him in more than a shake of the head. If that happened he knew there would be no way Greg would continue their relationship and he would not expect the man to. He would want nothing but the best for them both, but that didn't make the fear, however unrational it may be at this point, any less real. He pulled back slightly and looked over Greg's face. "I do not deserve you."
A roleplayer: "Oh shush," Greg muttered, when Mycroft said he didn't deserve him. Who knew what either of them deserved. He stayed there a moment longer, just holding Mycroft when he heard footsteps. He lifted his head to find Tabitha in the door staring at them. Greg instinctively thightened his arms around Mycroft. "You okay, Tabs?" he asked as he slowly released Mycroft from the embrace, god he already missed his warm body against his own. Tabitha nodded and Greg actually laughed. "What is it, monkey? You came here for a reason?" She nodded again and Greg rolled his eyes. "Suddenly lost your ability to speak, yeah?" She frowned at him and shook his head. "Not very convincing," he teased, glancing over at Mycroft. "Is it movie time?" She nodded and Greg smiled. "Once the table is cleared we can watch a movie, you wanna help?" She glanced at Mycroft before nodding and walking over to the table to get her plate.
A roleplayer: Mycroft felt the eyes before he felt the shift in the room. He would have immediately pulled away from Greg, but the man was having no part in it. A tightened hug. A warning not to panic. A warning not to run away. Mycroft turned to stand beside Greg as he spoke with his daughter. He looked in Tabitha's direction but did not make eye contact. He knew he was intimidating even when dressed down and speaking softly. He did not push or interrupt their one-sided conversation. When Tabitha stopped in front of them at the counter, Mycroft reached out for her plate. "Thank you for helping," he said.
A roleplayer: She nodded at Mycroft before quickly going back to the table to clear the next piece. Greg helped her and quickly loaded the dishwasher, before turning to her. "Alright, you go and wait on the sofa, we'll be right there, okay Tabs?" he asked and she nodded but didn't leave immediately. Instead her eyes wandered from Greg to Mycroft and back. Like she was trying to figure something out that didn't make sense in her head. "Okay," she muttered after a moment and turned to leave for the living room. He looked at Mycroft with a soft smile. "You okay?"
A roleplayer: Mycroft helped the pair clean up. He could see the cogs turning in her head trying to explain the embrace. Ah, yes. Greg hadn't told Tabitha they were dating. There was no reason to do so. Their relationship was incredibly fresh, and she was still so young. Mycroft was happy to be Greg's friend for the time being, but that did not stop Tabitha from seeing something. Children were quite perceptive, after all. She left them alone again, this time walking instead of fleeing. Another small victory. Mycroft chuckled, "No, but I will be." he promised, pressing a kiss to Greg's temple. "We should not keep her waiting any longer. She's liable to come marching in here again with her hands on her hips fussing....just like you do."
A roleplayer: "Oi! Rude..." Greg said, though there was no conviction behind it. He was glad that Mycroft seemed relaxed enough to tease again. He was glad that apparently Mycroft had seen all the little things Greg had just seen. How she came back, how she helped and nodded at Mycroft. How she's trying to explain why her Pa is liking this super villain. "But you're probably right, we shouldn't keep her waiting." He grabbed two small bowl from a cupboard and put some of the jelly beans Mycroft had brought into them. He held both of them out for him. "Can you bring them over? I'll bring some water."
A roleplayer: "Only the truth, darling..." Mycroft chuckled and took the bowls to the sitting room. He placed the gently on the small coffee table in front of the sofa. The next hurdle they would face would be seating arrangements. Mycroft did not know if there was a certain place Tabitha liked to sit and watch a movie from. If she was anything like him, which he assumed she was not, there was a particular spot he did everything from. A specific spot on the sofa, a specific chair in my study, a specific spot to lounge in where he kept his films. A particular side of the bed and side of the double sinks in his bathroom. There was always a spot he had to be in. He considered his options before choosing to sit on one side of the sofa, a corner so he could rest his arm and keep his back supported properly.
A roleplayer: Tabitha came bouncing into the living room, teddy bear in one arm, a Barbie doll in the other but stopped when she saw Mycroft sitting on the sofa. She quickly looked around for Greg before carefully approaching and climbing onto the far side of the sofa, teddy clutched close to her chest. She spotted the bowls on the side table and her eyes widened a little. "Can I have some?" she asked quietly and glanced at Mycroft. Greg was meanwhile busy filling the water into the caraffe as slowly as possible. Carrying it and some cups over also very slowly, to give them a chance to meet. He stopped in the doorframe, watching them quietly.
A roleplayer: Mycroft had been fiddling with a loose thread on the arm of his jumper when Tabitha entered and stopped. He glanced up and smiled at her. She, however, did nothing more than frantically look around for her father, who had abandoned her with the villain. She settled clear across the sofa away from him, having her teddy bear act as a shield within her grip. She looked so little, so scared, but also not, Mycroft thought to himself. He returned to the thread as she got herself settled. What Mycroft hadn't expected was for the little girl to ask him a direct question. Was it desperation? Was it the fact that he was certain Tabitha already knew he was the weak one who would never refuse her a thing? Perhaps a bit of both, if Mycroft really allowed himself to think on it. He followed her eyes to the bowls. He nodded, "Of course..." he leaned forward and picked up one of the bowls. He carefully handed it over, making sure she had a good grip on it before he left go.
A roleplayer: Tabitha realised she'd have to let go of her teddy to grab the bowl and hesitated only a moment before putting it down. She grabbed the bowl with both hands and for a moment she was worried he tricked her and wouldn't let go, but then she was sitting there with a bowl of jelly beans and a big grin on her face. "I love jelly beans" she muttered and picked out a blue one. Her favourite. She fished another out of the bowl and held it out toward Mycroft. "The blue ones are the best," she said, her free hand already searching for another in the bowl. Greg had to bite the inside of his cheek so he wouldn't chuckle. He was quite proud of her for getting onto the sofa with Mycroft instead of coming to look for him. He'd only give them a little moment longer, the water slowly getting heavy in his hands.
A roleplayer: The grin on her face when Mycroft let go of the bowl made him chuckle softly. Then the little girl spoke to him. Then Mycroft's chest tightened and his eyes widened with her next move. She held out one for him. She was giving Mycroft a blue jelly bean like some sort of piece offering. He held out his hand so Tabitha could set it in his palm. "Your favorite. Thank you for sharing..." he popped it into his mouth. "You're quite right. These are delicious...my favorite has always been the orange ones," he shared with her. "But the blue one may be a close second, I think." he hesitated a beat and decided to ask another question. "Do you like any other candies?"
A roleplayer: Tabitha hummed, he was wrong the blue one's were the best. Nevertheless she picked an orange one out of the bowl and held it out for him. "Mhh, I like all candy, that's a stupid question." she declared, before realising who she was talking to and quickly offering him another orange jelly bean. "Do you have an evil villain plan?" she asked, making sure not to look at him and sound as casual as a very curious, slightly scared six year old could. And poor Greg was just standing there, not ready to interrupt their little moment. He wondered if any of them would soon realize that he was still missing from the scene.
A roleplayer: Mycroft thanked her for the orange jelly bean. "I can see where that is a stupid question, you're quite right." He took the next one and popped them both in his mouth. He nearly choked on them when she asked if he had an evil plan. Instead, he chuckled. "An evil villain plan..." he repeated and shook his head. "Not for you or your father and certainly not to outlaw fun...." he promised. "I'm only an evil villain at work when I have to deal with less than nice people...like your father does. I help put bad people in jail." An extremely sanitized explanation of his career, but appropriate for the child. "Outside of work, I try my best to be kind...to be a good person...."
A roleplayer: You're right. Tabitha tilts her head a little at that. Grown ups usually didn't say she was right, especially not when she said rude things. His chuckle didn't sound like a villain, either... and evil villains didn't do things like her Pa. They didn't put bad guys in jail because they are bad guys. Something didn't make sense about him. Villain was probably ruled out by now. Headmaster... still kind of legitimate. Maybe like a someone who makes sure the people in jail don't get out? She shrugged and ate another jelly bean before leaning her head back. "Paaaaaa~ I wanna watch a movie," she called and Greg chuckled from the doorframe, finally entering the room. He put the water down and kissed her on the head. "Sorry to make you wait, monkey, did you get along?" he asked picking a jelly bean out of her bowl. She nodded and looked over at Mycroft. "I don't think he's evil... just weird and scary," she said quietly and Greg chuckled. "Yeah... he is a bit, but he's actually kinda nice." He sat in the middle between them and grabbed the remote from the table. "Ready for a Barbie movie?" he asked in Mycroft's direction, though Tabitha answered first. "Yes. The BEST Barbie movie!"
A roleplayer: Mycroft thought she was going to counter, but instead, all Tabitha did was yell for her father. "He makes me wait too, Tabitha...it's frustrating, isn't it? Shame on you, Gregory...." Mycroft shifted back to his spot to give Greg room on the sofa. He didn't want to be too close to the man given that Tabitha was there and all. Mycroft couldn't help but laugh at the declaration Tabitha made. "Weird and scary. I'll have to work on that..." Mycroft nodded his head at Greg's question. "Must you make us wait for the best movie, Gregory, honestly. What are we going to do with you..."
A roleplayer: "Oi! You're supposed to be on my side," Greg said in mock exasperation and poked Mycroft in the side, simply because he can and apparently they were turning childish now. Tabitha watched the interaction, trying to figure out if the man was being mean to her Pa, but Greg didn't seem actually offended so she let it slide. She scooted over and curled up into Greg's side, who instinctively wrapped an arm around her as he navigated through the menu of Barbie as The Princess and The Pauper, mentally preparing himself while Tabs excitedly wiggled in his arm. "Everyone ready? There will be no pee breaks." he declared. "Wait!" Tabitha called "I will be right back." Greg sighed but let her go "And I'm the one making you wait, yeah?" he muttered though didn't mind the little break where he could lean back against the cushion, reaching out to squeeze Mycroft's hand. "So the orange jelly beans are your favourite, why didn't I know that?" he teased softly.
A roleplayer: "Well, when you start sharing your jelly beans with me, I'll consider taking your side, darling." Mycroft scrunched his nose as Greg poked him playfully. He watched as Tabitha made Greg wait for something and left the room again. He let Greg slip his hand into theirs. He hummed at the man's question. "You never asked...." he reminded the man. "I also do not allow myself candy except on rare occasions, diet and all...." he explained. "I also usually enjoy chocolate or gummy bears to any other candies but that's neither here nor there. " he squeezed Greg's hand. "She shared her jelly beans with me, Gregory, she...no longer believes I'm a villian...did you hear that?"
A roleplayer: Greg scooted closer and leaned his head on Mycroft's shoulder. "Never asked... well I guess that's true." he conceded with a smile and closed his eyes for a moment, this was nice. After spending the entire evening worrying and mediating between the two this was actual progress. "You and your diet.." he muttered, knowing it was a lost cause. And as long as Mycroft was just his usual pedantic self about it and not actually stopped eating Greg had decided to simply let him. When Mycroft talked about Tabitha Greg opened his eyes again and turned his head. "Yeah, I did... told you it's not a lost cause, love. She'll need time, but it's going well. No tears, no hiding."
A roleplayer: Mycroft nodded. "She spoke to me... " Mycroft couldn't believe the turn of events. He didn't understand them and he didn't want to disect them. He would not allow himself to read too far into the short conversation he'd had with Tabitha. He would continue to try. "I'm eternally grateful you have not taught her how to sense panic in me yet like you do far more than you should....my heart was hammering so loudly in my ears I thought you might hear it from your spot in the doorway. Thank you for...being there but not....interrupting." he appreciated Greg's all-knowing and gentle nature. Mycroft pressed a quick kiss to Greg's lips while they were still alone. Not wanting Tabitha to see.
A roleplayer: Greg chuckled softly at the disbelieving tone. "Of course she spoke to you, Myc. She had a whole evening to collect evidence you're not actually a supervillain. She gotta test that hypothesis." he said, remembering all the small moments he'd noticed that Mycroft had simply dismissed for the simpler narrative of Tabitha is still scared. It's not wrong, she was, but it wasn't the whole picture anymore and Greg knew that. "You're welcome, love. I knew you'd do well with her," he reassured softly. He enjoyed the closeness for a moment longer before his fatherly instincts came through again. "Tabs, you're coming?" he called and got a muffled "Yeah" in return and a moment later Tabitha was standing in the living room with the stuffed penguin Mycroft had brought. "You forget it in the kitchen," she said and handed it over to Mycroft before taking in their position with a frown. She wanted to cuddle with Pa.
A roleplayer: Mycroft couldn't stop the small smile that spread across his face. First, she'd brought her flowers back to the table at dinner and now she was bringing the small stuffed penguin Mycroft had brought as a gift. "Ah, good catch..." he praised her. "Thank you for remembering. I'm certain he appreciates being included in movie night..." Mycrfot took the stuffed toy and settled it between Greg and himself as Tabitha climbed back into her spot on the sofa. He saw the frown and knew that she did not appreciate Mycroft being so close to her father. He shifted away just slightly hoping to show the little girl that he wasn't trying to steal her father's attention or affection from her.
A roleplayer: Greg looked at the penguin Mycroft placed between them and noticed how he shifted away. He sighed and realised that his five minutes of calm and quiet might just be over now. He took the remote back into his hand and looked from Mycroft to Tabitha. "Everyone ready now?" When they both agreed he started the movie. Tabitha basically climbed into Greg's lap and he wrapped his arms around her, placing a kiss on top of her hair. "You're getting too tall, monkey, I can barely look over your head," he said and she turned to him with a pout, though was quickly distracted by the opening scene. When the first song started he let her go knowing she'd get up to dance and sing, only that she didn't. Greg looked at Mycroft for a moment before turning his attention back to the little girl in his lap. "You don't wanna sing along, monkey?" he asked and she shook her head. "You're getting sick?" she shook her head again. "Want me to do it with you?" That got her to turn around and look at him. "No you're a terrible singer." Ouch.
A roleplayer: Mycroft chuckled. "I tell him the same thing," Mycroft told the little girl. "What if he just dances and let's you do all the singing?" Mycroft offered. He would love to see Greg dancing and laughing, and enjoying himself with Tabitha. "Go on..." Mycroft nudged Greg to get up with his daughter. She would feel so much more comfortable with Mycroft seeing them if Greg were with her, almost like a teddy bear shield.
A roleplayer: Oh no. Greg can't tell what happened exactly but the wobbling lip was a sure sign of what was to come. He shot Mycroft an apologetic look and handed him the remote, while simultaneously rubbing calming circles on her back. "You can pause... or keep watching. Whatever you prefer. Just... don't leave, okay?" he asked while already getting up gathering her teddy from the sofa, gently bouncing her as she cried at his shoulder. "It's okay, Tabs... do want to tell me what happened?" he asked as he moved her over into her room to calm her down.
A roleplayer: Mycroft's head spun as a remote control was pushed into his hand and Tabitha began to cry. Wait, what? He thought to himself. It was going so well and then all of a sudden it wasn't and Mycroft had absolutely no idea what was wrong. He paused the movie and set the remote next to him by the penguin. He sighed. Things had been going so well. They were all on the sofa and happy and content. There were jelly beans and cuddles and stuffed animals and Tabitha's favorite movie on the television. Now he was right back to square one. Greg had had to separate them while Tabitha panicked and became increasingly more upset and Mycroft was meant to simply sit with his thoughts. He closed his eyes and pinched the bridge of his nose. He really should learn to tell Greg no more often.
A roleplayer: It took a few minutes for Tabitha to calm down enough to talk to Greg, he simply carried her around, rubbing her back, mumbling sweet nothings. When her crying finally went down into tiny sniffles he sat down on her bed, so he could look at her. "Hey, monkey..." he said softly and pressed a kiss to her forehead. "Was that a bit much?" he asked and she nodded. "Does he stay?" she asked suddenly and Greg blinked. "For the movie? Yeah..." She shook his head and gave him a stern glare. "No. Does he.. stay with us?" Greg gently caressed her head and considered his answer for a moment. "I like him very much and I'd like him to stay every now and then, yes." Her sniffles got a bit more irregular again. "But you'll always come first, Tabs, you know that, right?" She rubbed at her eyes and nodded slowly. "I... what if he doesn't like it?" Greg blinked confused "Liked what?" Tabitha shrugged and looked away. Greg sighed. "I don't know the future, Tabs." he simply said and she nodded. "Would be better if you did," she answered and Greg laughed. "Yeah, agreed." Greg leaned back against the wall and wiped a tear of her face. "You know... he is probably really worry that he did something wrong and upset you," he said and Tabitha frowned. "He did," she answered plainly and Greg huffed a laugh. "Did he?" She nods "I... didn't want to and then he wanted to make me and.." The little wobble came back and Greg quickly nodded. "I know, I know... that wasn't nice, was it?" he asked and she shook her head. "Do you think we can go back anyways? No one has to sing or dance we can just see the movie and eat jelly beans?" She thought about that for a moment before nodding and taking his hand. Together they entered the living room again, she a little bit behind Greg.
A roleplayer: Mycroft was sitting on the sofa in the silence, staring down at his hands in his lap. He was pulling with the loose thread again, worrying over what was taking the pair so long. Mycroft feared the worst. Maybe Tabitha had changed her mind about him. Maybe this was the moment Greg realized it was a fruitless endeavour to get the little girl to like him. He really should leave. He really should not come by for a few days...or weeks, really. To give the poor girl a chance to relax. Instead, he found himself terrified to do much more than sit there alone quietly beratting himself for saying anything. He heard the shuffling of their feet and looked up. His heart dropped. the girl was behind Greg once again hiding from Mycroft. Then his chest tightened because he noticed Tabitha had been crying. A lot if her puffy eyes and tear-stained cheeks were to be believed. Maybe Mycroft was evil. Maybe he'd been wrong about himself the entire time. He tried to smile over at both of them before letting his eyes drop back to his hands.
A roleplayer: Greg wasn't sure how much more of this evening he could handle. Having to calm and reassure Tabitha was one thing, but having to do it for Mycroft as well as different story. He sighed and dropped onto the sofa, grabbing a handful of jelly beans. Sugar. Maybe all he needed was some sugar. He handed the bowl to Tabitha once she sat next to him and wrapped his arm around her. "We're gonna watch the movie and eat jelly beans," he revealed to Mycroft, before taking the penguin and moving it to the far end of the sofa so he could lay his head in Mycroft's lap. Tabitha forwned a bit but took her place half curled up on top of Greg and he tightly wrapped his arms around her. "Press play?" he asked up at Mycroft.
A roleplayer: Mycroft nodded and pressed play. He was surprised when Greg laid down with Tabitha and put his head in Mycroft's lap. He saw the little girl's frown and noticed she didn't protest. Mycroft set the remote back down before moving his hand to play with Greg's hair. It was as much to comfort his partner as it was to comfort him. Mycroft loved touching Greg in all sorts of ways but his favorite, by far, was ways like this. Sweet, innocent and domestic. He'd never had this sort of relationship so he found himself selfishly stealing as much as he could from Greg. With one hand on Greg's shoulder and the other in his hair Mycroft turned his attention to the movie. He wanted to pay attention so that he had something to talk to Tabitha about that she enjoyed. He wanted her to know that he was interested in things that she loved and that he wanted to get to know her better.
A roleplayer: With Tabitha curled on top of him and Mycroft's fingers runnning through his hair it actually didn't take long for Greg to fall asleep on the sofa. He already knew the movie by heart anyway even though that wasn't entirely his decision. Tabitha was paying the intense attention only a child could pay to their favourite movie even though it was the 500th time it was watching it. Tabitha was snacking jelly beans noticing her father had fallen asleep snacked way more than she probably should. And it definitely wasn't a coincidence that she didn't eat the orange ones, handing the bowl with only oranges over to Mycroft and pointing at the second one on the table.
A roleplayer: Mycroft turned to look at the little nudge on his arm. Tabitha was holding out the bowl of jelly beans to him. He smiled at her as he noticed she'd left all the orange ones for him. He shifted carefully to put down the half-empty bowl and pick up the other one. He handed it over, making sure she had a good grip on it before letting it go. "Thank you..." he whispered, picking up the other one and balancing it on the arm of the sofa so that he could eat a few of the beans she'd given him. He made a mental note to find a bag of only blue jelly beans to bring to the little girl as a peace offering the next time they were able to see each other.
A roleplayer: With the second bowl Tabitha had less restraint and finished it all by herself. Greg only realized because she was basically vibrating on top of him from all the sugar and the clolourful stains around her mouth. He yawned and looked at the TV, the movie was almost over. He smiled up at Mycroft and nuzzled his face against the other man's leg. This wasn't too bad, he thought, though he wasn't sure how he was supposed to get Tabs to sleep anytime soon. Not that that was ever an easy task. He carefully shoved her off and sat up to stretch before he handed her a cup with water and taking one for himself, finishing it almost in one go.
A roleplayer: Mycroft instantly missed the comforting weight of Greg's head in his lap. It had been so pleasant in the stillness. Mycroft could pretend that the evening had been pleasant and that Tabitha didn't hate him and that Greg wasn't upset with him. It had been so cozy and warm and domestic. Mycroft wanted all of his evenings to be like that. He'd finished his jelly beans, the empty bowl still balanced on the arm of the sofa. He watched Greg get water for himself and Tabitha. Mycroft remained quiet as they finished the movie. "That was lovely..." he offered to the silence. "Thank you for letting me stay to watch with you, Tabitha. Maybe we could watch it again soon?"
A roleplayer: "Greg groaned and gave Mycroft a dirty look. Such a suck-up. Of course he knew he was just being nice and tried to be likeable... but still. Tabitha grinned a little at that and nodded. "Maybe." she agreed and Greg smiled. That was more than he'd been hoping for, though the empty bowls of jelly beans did paint a picture of maybe unintentional bribery. He looked at the clock. She needed to go to bed soon... unrealistic. "Do you want to go and play something Tabs?" he asked, dropping his head back into Mycroft's lap with a yawn. "I just... need to lay here a little longer," he added eyes already half closed. Tabitha pouted for a second before nodding and jumping off the sofa. She grabbed her teddy and went off to her room. "Hopefully she doesn't set anything on fire..." he muttered half as a joke. "How was the movie?"
A roleplayer: When Greg returned to his stretched-out position, Mycroft relaxed once more. His hand immediately found Greg's hair to play with. "She could burn the entire building down, and I would replace it for you, Gregory. Though she does not strike me as the type to be that mischievous. Sherlock used to set things on fire all the time as a child. He would also take things apart to see how they worked and never bother to put them back together...." Mycroft hummed. "It was adorable. I was surprised that it followed the novel by Twain. I'd happily watch it again just to see her so happy and mesmerized by it. " he said quietly. "I'm sorry for letting her eat so much candy but I didn't want to say anything to her about possibly getting a stomachache. She was having so much fun...she looked so...content." he explained. "I hope you do not expect me to deny her anything she wants because I doubt I'll be able to resist."
A roleplayer: Greg instantly relaxed into the touch and fully closed his eyes. This he could get used to, being able to cuddle with his two favourite people while a movie played, just lying here with Mycroft playing with his hair. Greg rolled his eyes even though they were closed when Mycroft commented on replacing the building and chuckled a bit at the mention of Sherlock, that did sound like him. "Well, I'm looking forward to you regretting that choice when you saw it for the 500th time. I'm glad you didn't suffer too much, yet, though." When Mycroft mentioned the candy Greg just shrugged. "Happens," he said simply and glanced up at Mycroft. "You'll spoil her rotten, love. And I can't always be the bad parent that denies things. Just... try and be responsible okay?"
A roleplayer: "Impossible to regret because seeing it for the 500th time implies I have been fully welcomed by her and that I have not scared her too terribly much. It implies more time spent together on the sofa, more conversations and the like...." he reminded the man. "I will spoil her rotten, yes, but I promise not to do anything that would cause her great harm. Those things I will certainly deny her but I can not promise that I will not find an alternative solution to whatever she is requesting. It seems only fair."
A roleplayer: It was actually quite adorable to hear that Mycroft allowed himself to be hopeful now. It made something inside Greg's chest ease. But then Mycroft continued talking and Greg let out a long exhausted sigh. "God... I made a terrible mistake," he muttered. He wasn't serious, he loved introducing Mycroft to her life and he knew Mycroft would enrich it, he just wasn't sure if he'd make a great parental figure. He'd just called Sherlock's attempts at arson adorable. "Please try to not spoil my child rotten, Myc..."
A roleplayer: "I promise, Gregory. Do give me more credit than that..." he leaned down and pressed a kiss to Greg's forehead. "Are you suddenly regretting letting me into your little life? You knew good and well that I spoil you at every available opportunity. I do not know what made you think your daughter would be any different...." he reminded the man. "You were also the one who mentioned bribery would work on her, so really....this is all your fault."
A roleplayer: Greg looked up at him for a moment considering that. He was right. "No. I don't regret it... not until you become the fun parent and I'm the one who makes her eat vegetables." he said, reaching up to caress Mycroft's cheek. "Well... I'm not a six year old, I'm giving you something in return for being spoiled rotten," he said before chuckling. But it was true, Mycroft was taking him to a lot of fancy places and bought him expensive gifts, though Greg always pointed out he didn't need that. "But yeah... just don't go overboard with the bribery. I don't want her to get too used to it."
A roleplayer: Mycroft leaned into Greg's touch as he smiled down at the man. "I promise to make sure she eats her vegetables and brushes her teeth at night." Mycroft rolled his eyes at Greg's sly little response. "Honestly, you're impossible sometimes....." Mycroft nodded. "She won't get used to those sorts of things because she's got you to learn how to be a kind, genuine person...a good person with a strong work ethic and a good head on her shoulders. There won't be ponies or show horses or anything of that nature."
A roleplayer: "Just needed to make sure..." Greg said and let his hand fall back down, smiling up at the other man. It sometimes was hard to read Mycroft, even now. "I'd love to invite you to stay the night, but I fear that's actually a bit too much for today. Another time?" he asked, not moving his head from Mycroft's lap. He didn't want the other to leave yet, though he did have in mind that he had to prepare for one last fight tonight. "You could come back soon. She said she wants to go to the zoo... I'm sure you know a lot of interesting animal facts... or you will by the time we go."
A roleplayer: Mycroft let Greg sit up. "No, no. I would decline even if you had asked me to stay, Gregory, one step at a time, hm? I'm certain there will be plenty of time for sleepovers in the future." It was his turn to raise a hand to brush his thumb across Greg's cheek. "I'm happy to join you both any time, no matter the place, as long as Tabitha is in agreement that it's alright if I join. She still needs plenty of one-on-one time with you, yes?" he asked carefully. "I promise to brush up on my animal facts to impress her."
A roleplayer: Greg leaned into the touch and closed his eyes again. God, he wanted him to stay. Instead he opened his eyes and leaned in for a quick kiss. "Thank you, love," he said quitely and looked down at his hands for a moment, letting the events of the day replay in his head. "It's.. been a long day. Thank you for coming back and for staying. I know it hasn't been easy for you... probably still isn't completely. But it really means a lot to me that you're willing to do this." He looked back up at him with a smile. "And I'm really glad you can see your effort paying off..." he added and leaned in for another kiss. "Don't worry, I'll make sure she gets as much time with me as she needs. Just as I do with you."
A roleplayer: Mycroft nodded. "Rome was not built in a day and neither will Tabitha's trust in me." Mycroft kissed Greg quickly. "Should I go and say good night to Tabitha before you have to wrangle her into bed? We can discuss our next date later. You shouldn't stay up too late tonight. Long day of work tomorrow, hm?" Mycroft wanted to stay but he knew staying would make leaving in a few hours even harder. At least at home he could relax and calm down and consider how he was going to be less scary for the young girl.
A roleplayer: "I'm glad you got out of your head a little," Greg said and wrapping his arm around Mycroft to stop him from leaving. "Just.. a little longer?" he asked. The day had drained him, being the mediator and taking care of both of them, reassuring Mycroft and comforting Tabitha. "But yeah, you can definitely say goodnight before you leave." A yawn escaped him but he didn't want to let go just yet. "Yeah, long day. I assume for you as well?"
A roleplayer: Mycroft chuckled and settled against Greg. "If anyone was going to be able to pull me out of my head it was you. He sighed happily and closed his eyes. He absolutely loved being with Greg like this. Just sitting together in the quiet and holding each other. "A full schedule of meetings and conference calls. A stack of analytic reports to review and approve. Animal facts to study and memorize. Not sure when I'll be able to sleep tomorrow...." he chuckled. "Sometimes I hate having to leave you...."
A roleplayer: Greg rolled his eyes but the fond smile was giving him away. "You're impossible." he muttered and kissed his temple. This was nice, just a moment of peace and quiet and warmth. After a moment he sighed and pulled back, pressing a quick kiss to Mycroft's lips before letting go of him. "I hate that you have to leave... but we'll work on getting you sleepover priviledges." He got up and held out his hand for Mycroft. "Say bye to Tabs?"
A roleplayer: Mycroft nodded and took Greg's hand to follow him to Tabitha's room. He stayed behind Greg so that he didn't overwhelm the little girl and let Greg begin the conversation. "Thank you for having me over tonight and for sharing your jelly beans and your favorite movie with me, Tabitha. I had fun tonight...." he said. "I just wanted to say goodnight before I left." He stayed in the doorway of the girl's room leaning against the doorframe with his hands in his pockets. "I hope we can do it again some time."
A roleplayer: Tabitha looked up from the floor where she was playing with her doll. She looked at Greg first, before glancing at Mycroft. He sounded like he meant it and she nodded. "Goodnight," she said and gave him a small wave before turning back to her doll. Greg shrugged and walked with Mycroft to the front door. "Well, that wasn't too bad... text me when you get home, okay?" he said, lifting his hand to caress Mycroft's cheek. "And... thank you again... for doing this."
A roleplayer: Mycroft returned her wave before turning and heading toward the front door. "That was probably the best interaction of the entire evening. "He chuckled. When Greg caressed his cheek Mycroft closed his eyes and leaned into the touch. "Thank you for being patient with me." Mycroft closed the distance between them, wrapping his arms around Greg's waist and leaning in to kiss the man good night. "Good night, darling."
A roleplayer: Greg wrapped his arms around Mycroft in return and leaned against him for a moment, inhaling his scent one last time before letting him go. "Good night, love." he said, reluctantly letting go of him to open the door. Once Mycroft was gone he sighed and made his way back into the bedroom, to start round one of the bed time fight, because he was sure there would be multiple. And he'd lose most.
A roleplayer: Mycroft returned home from his evening at Greg's absolutely exhausted. He had not realized how on edge he had been and it all seemed to hit him at once as he stepped through his front door. He knew it would take time, but how much time was too much? How long would Greg be optimistic that his darling little, sassy six year old would actually come around to liking Mycroft. That little voice in the back of Mycroft's head refused to be silenced. A few weeks later, Mycroft had rearranged his schedule to be able to join Tabitha and Greg at the zoo. He'd painstakingly picked his outfit and even got Anthea's input on what would be most appropriate for the excursion. Which was exactly how he found himself walking beside Greg dressing in a pair of jeans and a polo shirt. He hadn't worn either one of those things since his school days and even then it was a rarity. "Where to first?" he asked Tabitha.
A roleplayer: Greg had let out a quiet whistle when he saw Mycroft approaching in this for him very unusual attire. "I don't think I've ever seen you in a jeans," he said with a smirk and hugged Mycroft to welcome him. "Looks good on you," he whispered before letting go of him again. He grabbed Tabithas hand who was silently looking up at Mycroft, teddy tightly clutched to her chest and they started their excursion. Greg glanced down at his daughter when Mycroft asked her before taking over the answer. "Playground. I promised ice cream. Then penguins." he explained simply and Tabitha nodded, skipping next to him. "How was your day.. Myc?" he asked, love almost slipping out before he stopped himself.
A roleplayer: "Well, as what I'm sure will be another surprise, I took the day off," he looked over at Greg as they headed toward the playground. "I wanted to make sure there would be no interruptions today...I even left my work phone at home...can you imagine? Me?" he chuckled. "How are you two? Been enjoying your day so far?" he asked them both though he knew Tabitha wouldn't answer him from her spot on the other side of Greg. She was, as usual, using Greg and her teddy bear as a shield to protect her from the weird and scary man her father insisted on making her see.
A roleplayer: Greg stopped dead in his tracks, Tabitha how missed the moment pulling on his arm before coming to a stop as well confused. Greg shook his head, the smile that appreared on his face speaking of pure fondness. "You're impossible..." he muttered, before he picked up the pace again. "We're fine. Tabs brought back a great maths test today. Work was... well... lots and lots of paperwork. Sometimes I miss doing more fieldwork." he said before glancing at his daughter, he had a great reason to focus more on the desk bound duties though.
A roleplayer: Mycroft panicked slightly as Greg stopped. What could he have possibly done wrong this soon into their afternoon. His heart nearly dropped to his feet when Greg just smiled at him and continued walking. Mycroft rolled his eyes at Greg's teasing. "Honestly, Gregory, it's not that earth shattering". When Greg mentioned Tabitha's accomplishment Mycroft peer over to her. "Well done, Tabitha. You should be very proud of yourself." he tried his hand at some praise having absolutely no idea if it would land the way he intended it to or if it would just make the little girl ignore him even more.
A roleplayer: "It is..." Greg said quietly, but didn't intend on making a bigger thing out of it. Though it felt gigantic. When Mycroft praised his daughter he gently squeezed her hand. "Yeah, she studied really hard for it," he said and she nodded in agreement, glancing over at Mycroft for a second. Soon after they reached the playground and Greg let go of her had so she could run off and join some other kids on the climbing jungle. He sat down on a bench and patted the place next to him for Mycroft. "You really want me to fall ever harder for you, don't you?" he said in a slightly teasing tone, though he was entirely serious. Seeing the man he loved put so much effort into building a relationship with his daughter, especially after their difficult start...
A roleplayer: Mycroft joined Greg on the bench so they could watch Tabitha play for a bit. "No, no. I am not trying to trick you into caring for me..." he chuckled. "I just wasn't certain when you and Tabitha would be ready and I did not want to be distracted," he tried to explain to his partner. "Tabitha deserves to have our undivided attention when we're with her. I was hoping by...dressing in this ridiculous outfit and limiting my distractions she might see that I'm serious about wanting to make her comfortable...get to know her...that sort of thing."
A roleplayer: Greg placed his arm on the backrest of the bench behind Mycroft, tracing small patterns on his back. "That's really sweet of you, love," he said, watching his daughter laugh about something one of the other kids said. "I don't want you to change who you are for her, though. I love the effort you put in, don't get me wrong..." he said and leaned a little closer, so no bystanders would overhear his next words "I also love the outfit, you're arse looks great in jeans" He smirked and leaned back into a more casual position. "She'll get there. I think it'll help her to see us interact... I think it's not yet time for big conversations"
A roleplayer: The touch as small as it was comforted Mycroft. He wasn't sure he'd ever truly figure out how Greg was able to comfort and calm him so easily. No one else had ever been successful. "Not changing myself, Gregory, just being slightly...less me." When Greg leaned in closer and whispered in his ear he immediately blushed and looked down then away from Greg. "Honestly...." he couldn't help but smile to himself at the compliment. "You say I'm the impossible one...." Turning back to Greg Mycroft allowed himself a few minutes to observe the man. "I know she will. I am a patient man. For the most part."
A roleplayer: Greg chuckled softly as he saw Mycroft blush but decided not to comment on it. He leaned his head against Mycroft's shoulder and closed his eyes for a moment. "You are an incredibly patient man.." he muttered softly, before smirking "For the most part." He watched his daughter interact so easily with the other kids and smiled. He was looking forward to the time she was interacting so easily with Mycroft. Hoping that time would actually arrive soon. "Look after her for a second? I need to use the loo." he said after a moment and got up. "I'll be right back." Almost as on command of destiny as soon as Greg was gone Tabitha was maybe accidently shoved by another kid and fell. She sat up, tears already pooling in her eyes as she looked around for her dad.
A roleplayer: Mycroft wanted to stammer out a 'don't you dare leave me alone with your daughter who is terrified of me' but Greg was gone before Mycroft's brain caught up. He sighed but turned his attention back to the little girl just in time to see Tabitha be pushed and fall back into the sand of the playground. Mycroft was up and hurrying over to Tabitha before he knew what he was doing. He knelt down beside her. "Tabitha..." he was worried she'd been seriously injuried. "Are you okay? Did you hurt anything?" Mycroft started to reach out for the girl when he noticed she had tears in her eyes. Mycroft's chest tightened uncomfortably. That was not a sight he ever wanted to see again. "You father just went to the loo. He'll be back in a moment. Do you want to...come sit with me on the bench to wait for him?"
A roleplayer: Tabitha sniffled and wiped at her eyes. She didn't know if she was okay, everything hurt, maybe? She was scared, not exactly because of the man in front of her, because her dad wouldn't leaver her alone with someone who was actually scary, but he was not the one she wanted and he was not helping. And his question just made her more upset. Her lip wobbled as she tried to hold her sobs back but quickly failed. She wanted her Pa and her teddy and she wanted to be okay. This didn't feel okay. She wiped her face with her sleeve. "I... I... I..." she tried but was always stopped by another sob.
A roleplayer: Mycroft's heart absolutely shattered when the little girl began to cry in earnest. Without a second thought, Mycroft scooped her up and held her against his chest and rubbed her back. "It's okay, darling....I've got you..." He cooed, turning to head back to the bench. He leaned down, grabbed her teddy bear, and passed it over to the little girl. He sat down and shifted the girl in her lap. He held on to her but not too tightly. He wanted her to know she had the freedom to choose where to sit and wait for her father.
A roleplayer: Tabitha stiffened when she was lifted from the sand, hands clutching into the fabric of her own shirt. She stopped sobbing, the tears running quietly down her cheeks and as soon as her teddy was handed over she buried her face in it. "I want my Pa.." she sobbed quietly, looking over Mycroft's shoulder to the path, searching for Greg. When Mycroft sat down with her she stay stiffly perched on his lap for a moment before wiggling enough to slid down sitting next to him, shoulders still shaking with silent sobs, glancing up at him through tear filled eyes every few seconds, teddy still pressed tightly against her face before looking around for her dad. "I want Pa.." she sniffles again.
A roleplayer: Mycroft let her move to sit beside him. "He'll be right back..." Mycroft said softly. "I promise," he brushed a hand over her hair and down her back. "I know I'm not your pa but I do care about you," he continued to speak softly to her. He rubbed her back even though she was still stiffly sitting beside him. Mycroft was at a complete loss of what to do to make her feel better or what to say to her to actually comfort her. It was a hopeless situation and Mycroft hated that the little girl was a complete mystery to him.
A roleplayer: Tabitha took all the courage she was holding in her little body to move away a little from him. "D-don't touch me... please," she said, voice wobbly not able to look at him. It wasn't that it was... bad. But she barely knew him and she didn't want him to touch her. And he was not her dad. At least by now she noticed that nothing was hurting. Though that was only a small comfort. She rubbed at her eyes again and looked around. Where was Pa? Then a new thought hit her, Pa liked this man. He let him touch him. Maybe he'd be mad because she told him not to. Maybe... she felt the sobs coming back to shake her shoulders and curled up into herself, sobbing quietly into her teddy. Greg wasn't suspecting any of this as he made his way back.
A roleplayer: Mycroft immediately took his hand away and sat quietly next to her after he whispered an apology. A fresh set of tears and tiny sobs fell from the little girl and the way she kept hurriedly looking around for her father did nothing to help Mycroft. Maybe this was how it ended. Greg trusting Mycroft with his daughter for less than five minutes, and the little girl ending up in tears. Seemed a fitting end to what had been nothing sort of an explosive beginning.
A roleplayer: When Greg entered the playground again and saw them sitting on the bench he paused only for a second before jogging over. "Hey, Tabs, what happened?" he asked before he even reached them, glancing over at Mycroft for a second before turning his attention back to the little girl. She jumped off the bench and ran toward him "Pa..." she sobbed, now holding back less. Greg picked her up and held her tightly. "It's okay, monkey... are you hurt?" he asked softly and rubbed her back, sitting back down with her. She shook her head and he sighed in relief. "Good... it's all gonna be okay," he muttered as he rocked with her. He looked over at Mycroft, mouthing "What happened?"
A roleplayer: Mycroft had never been so relieved to see Greg. "Just after you left, she was shoved by one of the other children. She fell and I went to check on her. I brought her back here so that we could wait for you..." he explained quickly. "I'm sorry..." There was a great deal more he wanted to say. 'I'm sorry for not watching her closer.' 'I'm sorry for not being able to see what was about to happen.' 'I'm sorry for disappointing you both.' 'I'm sorry for not being able to comfort her'. But nothing else joined his apology.
A roleplayer: Greg placed a kiss on Tabithas hair, she was still quietly sniffling into his shirt and he could feel the wet heat of her tears through his shirt. He kept rocking her, but freed one of his arms to place a hand on Mycroft's shoulder. For an amused second he wondered it'd be like this to have more than one child, attention constantly split. "Well... you didn't shove her, so there's nothing you need to apologize for, Mycroft. Thank you for looking after her," he said, leaving his hand on the other mans shoulder while turning his attention back to his daughter. "That was scary, huh?" he asked her softly and she nodded against his chest. "Yeah... sorry, I wasn't there, Tabs. I just went to the loo... what do you say. Shall we get ice cream now?" She sniffled some more but nodded. "I want extra ice cream," she muttered and he chuckled. "Two scoops and sprinkles, how does that sound?" She grumbled a little before sniffling again. "I want extra!" He squeezed her a bit more and rolled his eyes. "Okay, okay... we'll talk about it once we're there." He looked over at Mycroft and smiled before tending to his next concern, mouthing quietly. "You okay?"
A roleplayer: Mycroft was far from okay, but he nodded to Gregory. "Ice cream sounds wonderful." Nothing sounded wonderful at that particular moment except maybe going home and coming up with a way to amicably break things off with Greg once the patience wore off. Or perhaps he would not need to worry about that and Tabitha would simply do it for him. Announce one day soon that she hated Mycroft and never wanted to see him again. Greg would have no choice but to listen to her. It could work out in both their favors. He stood and followed the pair over to the ice cream stand. He ordered and paid for them after Greg was done. "Should we sit?" he asked pointing at the few small tables around the stand.
A roleplayer: Greg carried Tabitha over to the ice cream stand and placed her on the ground before it to let her pick the flavours she wanted. He thanked Mycroft for paying as he handed Tabitha her ice cream, whose other hand was still tightly clutching her teddy, tear streaks still visible on her cheeks. He brushed a hand over her hair and kept it on her back, guiding her to one of the tables. She happily lapped at her ice cream, ignoring the adults entirely. Greg placed his hand on Mycroft's leg under the table and leaned in to speak quietly to him. "You're tense... where's your head, love?"
A roleplayer: Mycroft ate his ice cream silently until he felt Greg's hand on his knee. He hummed as if he hadn't heard the man, but answered quickly when his brain processed the question. "No, no. I'm fine," he smiled to reassure the man. "Just enjoying my ice cream...." There was not much more to say on the matter. Greg knew exactly what was wrong. Greg would stubbornly ignore it. "Are you enjoying your snack?" he asked Tabitha across the table, wanting to redirect the attention to her.
A roleplayer: "It's not a snack it's ice cream!" Tabitha said and licked some off the melting ice cream off the cone. Greg smiled, well, at least she was fine. He squeezed Mycroft's leg once more and ate his ice cream silently. When he finished he looked over at him again. "You're catastrophizing." he said simply and Tabitha looked up. "What's castro- catsto- what?" she asked and tilted her head, ice cream forgotton for a second. "Ca-ta-stro-phi-zing" Greg helped and she nodded. "Yeah that." He chuckled and looked over at Mycroft, "I'll let you explain that, I'm sure you've got the oxford definition memorized... I'll get napkins."
A roleplayer: Mycroft nodded at the little girl's correction but remained quiet as Greg admonished him for his behavior. Mycroft paled when Greg got up and left them again. Curse that man for being intentionally cruel. He swallowed thickly as he turned his attention back to Tabitha. He did not hold her eyes; however, keeping them fixed on his cup of ice cream. "It means that I am thinking about the worst-case scenario..." he began. "I tend to...overthink situations when I am worried."
A roleplayer: Tabitha hummed and licked at her ice cream again. "What's a worst-case scenario?" she asked before immediately adding. "Why are you worried? Is it because I said-" she stopped suddenly when Greg came back and was very focussed on her ice cream. He placed a few napkins in front of her and frowned. "Said what?" he asked, looking first at Tabitha who was very much ignoring him right now and then at Mycroft. "Myc... what kind of secret do you guys have?" he asked, though keeping his voice soft.
A roleplayer: Mycroft immediately shook his head. "No, darling, it's not because you asked me to stop touching you. You were well within your right and I am not upset with you at all. I'm proud you stood up for yourself and asked for what you wanted...what you needed." he explained. "I picked her up and brought her to the bench. When we first sat down I had her in my lap. She moved to sit beside me and I was...trying to comfort her...by rubbing her back."
A roleplayer: Greg almost melted like the ice cream that was running over Tabithas hand. Then he saw her hunched shoulders and the worried eyes resting on him. He frowned a little, trying to figure out what was happening. He couldn't quite grasp it, though. "He's right, you know." he said simply. "You did very well telling him to stop when you didn't want him touching you." She smiled a little before licking the ice cream off of her hand. Greg wondered why she'd think he didn't like she enforced her boundaries like he tried to teach her. And knowing Mycroft he will have listened to her. He wasn't touching her when Greg arrived, just sitting by her side. He smiled at Mycroft. "So, you figured out what's catastrophizing, Tabs?" he asked and she shook her head. "No... but I think it means something bad making you worry a lot"
A roleplayer: "That's right, Tabitha." Mycroft nodded. "Sorry. Worst-case scenarios are...imagining the worst possible thing you think will happen and sort of...replaying them in your head," he began to explain, hoping he was being clear enough for her to understand without scaring her. "For me, it is a way to attempt to control or predict the outcome in the future. It does not always work, but it is something I often...can not control. It is a form of anxiety....feeling worried all the time whether or not their is a reason for it."
A roleplayer: "Oh..." she said and looked at Mycroft for a long moment, trying to process his words. She knew her Pa also worried sometimes about the future and she knew that she worried and her Ma worried but Mycroft seemed to worry extra much. She didn't like worrying it was unpleasant and no fun. "So... you worry even when you don't want to worry? And when there is nothing to be worried about?" She had been worried about her math test and it ended up good so she understood it a little. "What are you worrying about?"
A roleplayer: Mycroft nodded again. He swirled his spoon in the cup, pushing around the last of his melted ice cream around. "That's exactly right. " When she asked what he was worrying about he glanced up to her and then to Greg. Should he tell her? Would it upset her or scare or? Would it upset Greg to hear Mycroft be honest with his six year old? Did Mycroft care? He watch Greg for another second before his eyes went back to Tabitha. He lowered them to his cup before he answered her. "I am worried that you will never...like me. Which is absolutely fine, by the way. I would never be upset by it. I am also worried that..." he stopped and shook his head. "It's ridiculous things to think about."
A roleplayer: Greg watched Mycroft cautiously. This was a major point, explaining his worries honestly without putting too much on the shoulders of a child was an extremely difficult task. He also watched Tabitha's reaction. She frowned and nibbled at the cone of her ice cream. She didn't like him.. but she also didn't dislike him. He brought her flowers and watched Barbie and told her she was right and stopped when she said no. She didn't answer for a long while before looking up again. "Does worrying make your tummy hurt?" she asked, her tummy always hurt when she was worried.
A roleplayer: "Sometimes, yes," he said. "Mostly, it makes my chest hurt. Like someone is squeezing me too tightly in a hug. Sometimes, when things are really bad, it causes me to feel like I can't take a deep breath." He did not often have panic attacks these days because he could sense them a little better and work to calm himself down. He glanced up again to the little girl and then to Gregory.
A roleplayer: Greg placed his hand back on Mycroft's leg and squeezed gently, trying to simultaneously tell him 'I'm here' and 'You're doing good'. Tabitha nodded as if she understood. She didn't, not really. But she knew worrying could affect the body and apparently that was what it did to Mycroft. "Like when you ran really really fast and then you can't breathe?" she asked, some melting ice cream dropping onto her shirt. "Oh..." she muttered and tried to wipe it off with her hand, which was also slightly ice cream covered. "Oh. Pa..." she said and looked over to him. Greg chuckled and shrugged. "It's alright monkey, we'll put it in the laundry later." She nodded. "Can we go see the penguins?"
A roleplayer: "Just like that, yes." Mycroft answered. He was incredibly grateful that the little girl seemed to immediately not care what they'd been discussing and turned her attention to what was next on the list. He gathered their trash and tossed it away before joining the pair of them and heading in the direction of the penguin enclosure. "If you ever leave me alone with her again, Gregory, I will never join you on another outing...." he murmered in the man's ear as Tabitha walked slightly ahead of them. "You are liable to give me a heart attack at this rate."
A roleplayer: Tabitha was skipping a bit in front of them, teddy in one hand a stick she had found on the ground in the other and was trying to whistle some tune. Greg watched her fondly but stayed close to Mycroft. "I think you're missing an incredibly point here, love," Greg said softly and glanced over at his partner "She was okay alone with you. I know, I know, you disagree because she was crying. But she wasn't crying because of you, she didn't yell or try to run away, did she?" He looked back at her daughter who was a bit ahead and had turned around to wait for them. "You're sooooooo slow," she complained and Greg chuckled. "See... she's fine."
A roleplayer: "She was sobbing, Gregory, sobbing." Mycroft quieted as Tabitha turned around. He couldn't help but chuckle at the over-exaggerated and dramatic way she drew out the words. She reminded him a lot of Sherlock at that age. Curious, sassy, dramatic, but also quiet and nervous in her own way. "I know she's fine now." he agreed. "Let's not keep her waiting too long, hm?"
A roleplayer: Greg placed a hand at the small of Mycroft's back as they picked up their pace a little to follow the little girl who'd started skipping again. "Look over there are the penguins!" she called excitedly and swirled around once, almost tripping over her own feet. "Amazing, we'll catch up to you there, Tabs," Greg said and she grinning sprinting over to the enclosure. Greg slowed to his normal pace again and looked over at Mycroft. "Children sob, love, a lot. If you use that as your metric for success you can only lose." he said, picking their conversation back up.
A roleplayer: "I would say it is a good metric to weigh myself against after attempting to comfort a child who wanted nothing to do with me," he said. "I had no idea what to do and what I chose to do was wrong....but more than that...I was wrong. I am not a person she wants, Gregory..." he held up his hand. "I know that it will take time for her to warm to me. I am willing to wait, but I do not think you have considered the possibility that she never warms to me. She may simply be indifferent to me."
A roleplayer: "Mycroft. She met you twice. Of course she wanted me to comfort her not some bloke her dad had brought home twice and she only just downgraded from supervillain to weird adult." he said seriously, stopping Mycroft when they were close enough that he could see Tabitha but not close enough that she would hear them. "You did well. You checked if she was hurt, you tried to comfort her, when she named a boundary you accepted it. It's not your job to be her dad... that's my job. And while I was gone you were a safe adult for her to be around until her dad came back."
A roleplayer: "I'm not trying to be her father, Gregory. I am trying to be..." he sighed. "I don't know what I'm trying to be. I appreciate you. Really," he promised, smiling at Greg. "But please...never do that again." he reached forward and squeezed Greg's arm. "Now, I believe we have some adorable little penguins to watch as they waddle around, hm?"