It was late afternoon by the time she arrived home. The house appeared quiet as stepped up to the door. Taking a moment to scan the area for trouble as the key slipped into the lock. Turning the handle and entering the somewhat dark room. Slate and Red were near by and would alert her if needed so she took her time in gathering things for Jace. A sketch book and pencils lay in her bedside table drawer, along with a switchblade and brass knuckles. All were packed away in an overnight bag before she made her way back down. Once in the kitchen she packed extra food and a bottle of bourbon knowing it would be needed. She headed to the coat rack to grab a warmer sweater and headed back out the door, once again looking over her shoulder as she locked back up.
As she walked through the district she thought about what she would say to her father. What sort of excuse would she use to get him to leave. If she was honest he would stay but she couldn't bare it if he was hurt. She had better think of something the shop was not far now and the sun would be setting soon. Already the cobblestone streets were becoming alive as the Mad King celebrations were taking place. Little ones running rampant with masks as they try to out scare each other. There at the end of the street was the shop. Wasn't big but wasn't small either.
The bell chimed as she entered the shop. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming. The displayed gems and handmade jewelry sparkled from the setting sun in the window. The front counter was empty but she could hear a gruff voice call from the back room.
"I'll be with you in just a moment."
Leaning against the counter, she waited patiently for her father. Her smile grew as he stepped from the back. Looking professional and handsome as always. His smile grew just as big as his daughter's once he realise she was waiting on him. His beard hand gotten longer and his hair was finally showing his age with shades of grey and white running through it. It made him look more distinguished.
"Larka my dear! My sweet darling come here and hug this old man."
His laughter and warm embrace soothed her. The man's great embrace could make you feel as though nothing is wrong. Though she could barely get her arms around his belly she squeezed with all her might. They stood together as he rubbed her back and pressed a kiss to the top of her raven head.
"Ahh, my sweet child what brings you in so late in the day. I thought you and Jacqueline would be off to take part in the Mad King celebrations hm?"
She was reluctant to leave his embrace but she pulled away from her father, offering him a gentle smile. He was so fond of Jace, probably loved her just as his own child. It would worry him to know she was hurt laying up in a bed and hiding out.
"Jace and I have a surprise for you. I'm here to close up shop and send you off on a little vacation to Southsun Cove. Where you will spend a few well deserved days soaking in the sun and laying on the beach."
He roared with laughter as he walked around her to the shop window where he watched the last bit of sun slip behind the wall that surrounded the city.
"Larka I can't go. Who would watch the shop? I haven't been away from here for years lass. I just can't go."
She made her way to his side and slipped her hand into his. She knew he was a bit scared but pushed him on it.
"Please papa. It's a gift from me and Jacqueline. For allowing us to take time away from here and being so supportive. Besides, Jace has told me you haven't been away from this shop since mama passed. Also, I know about Miss Higglesworth from the bakery that you have been spending time with. You should ask her to go with you."
He sighed deeply as he gave thought to the whole thing, folding his arms he turned to look around the shop as he came to a decision.
"Fine lass I will go. I appreciate the gift and I'm sure Miss Higglesworth would love to join me in the sun...Well, I hope so."
He looked giddy as he moved around to gather his things. He took the keys to the shop and safe and handed them off to her. One quick kiss to his daughter's cheek and he was heading out the door to the bakery. Quickly she called out to him.
"Everything is arranged just let them know you have arrived."
Once he was out of sight she quickly moved to lock up the safe and pull the shades to the windows before locking up the front door and heading to the back entrance. There she glanced around one last time and closed the door, locking it up tight. The alleyway had become dark now that the sun was gone. She walked towards the end of the alley where Slate appeared with Red, giving her a nod as they both made their way to the carriage that was nearby. Once settle inside and on the road did she allow herself to somewhat relax but she knew it wouldn't be for long.














