#benjamin vox

[benjaminvox]

BENJAMIN VOX : THE CAMP OUT, 24'

[msmelissalin]

Benjamin Vox’s London Awards 2024 Attire.

Location: Royal Albert Hall Accompanied by: Emily Porter. (Melissa's NPC Legal Exec.)When: 23rd of March, 2024.

[msmelissalin]

FOR: @johnnparsons WHEN: 22nd of March, 2024. WHERE: Berkeley Estate.

The night was young, alcohol coursing through his body as he excused himself from his circle. Benjamin already had the cigarette between his lips, walking through the double doors alone. However, he stopped dead, silencing the groan that was sitting on the tip of his tongue.

"Sorry Johnathan, I'll...come back -- later."

[msmelissalin]

MELISSA LIN’S MOB AWARDS OUTFIT 2023. 

Outfit: Pre-awards.

Date: 31st of March, 2023.

Accompanied by: Benjamin Vox. 

[msmelissalin]

For: @erdogan-nevra​

When: Mid December, 2022. 

Where: Limo, on route to Haringey. 

The limo rolled along the London streets, falling to a halt of a stop as they hit the traffic lights on their way to Haringey. The achromatic sky was a tell tale sign of the mood that hung heavily between Melissa and her protégé. They knew what needed to be done, the sacrifices worth it once their goal had been completed. But at what cost? There were certain innocence that should remain untouched and even Melissa felt that sickness bubbling in the pit of her stomach like a boiling cauldron.

Benjamin rolled his neck, tension sitting at the nape. For most what was coming would have brought a sheen of sweat, but he was bone dry. His mind was clear, the mission sitting at the forefront, silence sitting on his lips while the burning sensation of Melissa’s eyes could be felt. He knew this was her call, yet there seemed to be something amiss in her this day. 

‘’You sure about this?’’ He asked, voice low. 

She did not utter words in response, instead giving a curt nod. He knew that was all he was going to get out of her, flickering his gaze to Nevra. How much did she know? It was a prowling thought; he knew how Melissa liked to keep things under wraps until people needed to know. Sometimes walking in darkness was better than knowing too much. Because the truth was sometimes a lot worse than the reality humans preferred to live with. 

Benjamin was a cold hearted monster, much like the woman he adored so much. So he pressed back into his seat, chin held high, letting his eyes wander to the passing streets. His mind drifting to a different time, where his mothers laugh had lit up his day. Now there was only a dull silence of what was. 

Melissa looked to Nevra, face avoid of emotion, stoic in nature. ‘’Thank you for joining us, and sorry I’ve been so quite on the specifics.’’ She wasn’t sorry, she’d watched as the woman had thrown herself into the ring for Berat. Felt that disgust rise up her throat like bile. ‘’As you’ve probably guessed we’re on our way to Haringey.’’

[msmelissalin]

INTRODUCTION

NAME: Benjamin Vox.

AGE: 25.

PLACE OF BIRTH: West Brompton, London.

AFFILIATION: The Rutherford Family.

OCCUPATION: Loyalist.

FACE CLAIM: Finn Cole.

BIOGRAPHY:

If there was anything in his life that Benjamin Vox was certain of, it was that he wanted the French to perish.

From the beginning of Benjamin's life, being the youngest of three brothers had taken a toll upon the younger siblings' confidence. He was often forgotten, for he was never as clever or boisterous as the others and had always fallen into the background; not the favourite child. There was no end of money from his parents. Benjamin was always well dressed and finely articulated as well as pressed extremely hard into languages at his parent's request, as were the others. By the time he was thirteen years old, he was well adverse in Spanish, Korean and French.

The pushy nature regarding their education did not stop there, either. His parents would push and push to make sure their children were as well educated as they could, and if that meant sending them to a private institute, that was what they did. The money the Vox brothers were so used to was never questioned, for their parents held well-titled jobs. Their father, Jim Vox, was an accountant that had been in the position for some thirty years and their mother, Ethel Vox, was a private investigator for the government.

Now sixteen years old, when Benjamin and his older brothers returned home from their lacrosse practice that their parents had once again forced upon them, they walked in to find their house as normal, and their parents sat at the dinner table; but it was off, their heads were slumped and meals half eaten. When they called their names, there was no movement or sound.

''Mom? Dad?'' They all said at different times.

Like a scene from a horror movie; when Harry walked forward to touch their father's shoulder, he slumped forward into his dinner and the realisation seemed to hit them instantly. They were dead. Everything from there was in slow motion; they weren't sure how much time had passed before they could collect themselves enough to call the authorities.

But there was one thing they knew. It was a professional hit.  

It was like their entire worlds had been destroyed. Although they'd hated the way they'd been made to live, they loved their parents dearly. And in all honesty, none of the boys processed it well, especially Benjamin. He couldn't comprehend how this could have happened to two normal people who lived normal lives. But his brothers knew differently, when they finally sat Benjamin down and explained he'd been too young to tell him the full truth and that he was supposed to wait until he was eighteen as they had.

Waited for what?

When he found out about The French Organization. The mob life had never been something he'd been aware of, while the other siblings had been made aware on their eighteenth birthdays. It was a birthright. Their parents had been working for The French for some years, his father, Jim, running their books. But what had got them killed? It was when Harry explained Jim had been skimming off the top for some years, and that was how they'd afforded the luxuries they'd been allowed.

Finally, he understood, but he knew the atrocities that had been taken out again by his parents.

His brothers, being of age, took full custody of Benjamin and in that, quickly found a solution to their hatred for the French. And that was The Rutherfords. It'd been almost impossible to deny the offers. Even if they had money left by their parents, they knew it wouldn't last forever and they all had to forge their own path in life.

But for Benjamin, there had been nothing in his life more exhilarating --- what he'd been searching for, outside of his parents wants for his life, were finally available at his fingertips. Maybe it was the death of his parents that caused his cold exterior, or ruthlessness for fighting, but it was there and at the forefront of who he was. He was often found to be in trouble and causing more problems than it was worth, but with that came his reputation for being fearless. Just like his boss, Benjamin was somewhat of a well-dressed and finely put together monster. But what was never missed was his sheer intelligence. Although never seen by his own parents, he had a set of skills that most had never grasped.

Business.

He could fight till his knuckles were bloody, but his mind for business and how to take something to the next level was unparallel. Even though he was a lowly street gang member, that didn't mean he wouldn't turn up day in and day out, dressed to impress. Noting down in that little black notebook he carried around about ideas that he had to make sure he rose in this industry. He was made for the mob. Even his older brothers seemed impressed with how he held himself and had dealt with the death of their parents; it should have been concerning, but no one was going to question the boy on how he dealt with his grief; whether that was the extreme amounts of alcohol he consumed every evening or the fights that would break out in the establishments he attended.

The Rutherfords elite were quick to hear about the brothers. Through the grapevine it trickled down until it landed in the hands of their underboss, Melissa Lin. It was down to her to sort the situation out, and find out what the recruits were up too down in West Brompton, but when she arrived, she was extremely surprised to be greeted by Benjamin.

Melissa had half been expecting to find an underdressed street gang member who would do this until they were arrested. However, she was pleasantly surprised to see a well-dressed, young, handsome and intelligent male who stood before her with a firm handshake. It didn't take her long to see a potential in him that she hadn't seen in a very long time. He knew how to be respectful and his vocabulary showed her quickly that, just like her, he'd come from a well-educated background.

She wanted him.

Melissa was very particular in who she brought into her inner circle, especially someone so young and inexperienced; but she saw something in Benjamin and that was her young self. With the right direction she knew he could a valuable asset, and a trusted advisor--- so she offered him a mentorship, personally, by herself in return she asked for his undying loyalty and to prove every day that he wanted it, Benjamin was quick to accept. He was craving to climb higher and the queen herself was offering it to him on a silver platter.

From there on out, he was taught everything he needed to know on the corporate law and business side of things, but Melissa wanted him to be effective, so she also arranged combat, weapons and intelligence training; she wanted him to be the best of the best. If something was going wrong, he'd have the answers, and he excelled at everything that was offered; he worked hard, ruthlessly and with determination.

What no one expected was that he'd become the man he was today.

While at a Rutherford party, someone sneaked into the party--- and Benjamin, with his quick eyes and silver-sharp mind, spotted it. An attempt on the lives of the rutherfords family, he took no time to take the man down in the most brutal way; he couldn't stop and the anger seemed to show that monster that he bared inside. It was when Melissa realised that he did have the brutality of Johnathan inside of him, but the man also had the smarts to balance it out; they just needed to work on getting that balance.

However, what can next was never meant to happen. When Melissa sent Benjamin on an errand he'd never expected to meet her daughter, Zoe Parsons. He tried to remain as professional as possible, but their chemistry was always there. It was an instant friendship that only seemed to grow stronger the more they tried to stay apart. He's not sure if it's because she seems disinterested in certain things, or if she makes him think more; but Zoe makes him feel like no one else does, but he knows because of his position, he has to keep her as a friend. He cannot fall in love with his boss's daughter, right?

But now there has been an attempt on Melissa's life and everything is up in the air, Benjamin wants to make sure that he's on top of his game more than ever, and with that his hatred for the French is only growing, and thus, is his anger. Benjamin knows he'd do anything for the Rutherfords, especially Melissa. But how far will his hatred for the French take him? Will he be able to keep that anger at bay or will he become just like his boss, Johnathan, a monster?

SOCIAL CONNECTIONS:

RELATIONSHIP STATUS: Single.

FAMILY:  Jordan Vox (Older Brother) Harry Vox (Older Brother) Ethel Vox (Mother - Deceased) & Jim Vox (Father - Deceased)

CONNECTIONS:

MELISSA LIN - Mentor - Melissa plucked him off the corner of the street upon their first meeting. A gang member was never that nicely dressed and it was quickly noticed by the underboss of the organization. Much like herself, he came from money and power and had led a different way of life and now the two had plans to put into action. Their friendship was an odd one, but strong and most that knew Melissa often wondered why she'd taken someone who was inexperienced under her wing. She saw a lot of herself in him and saw the potential he could bring.

ZOE PARSONS - Best Friend - They were the most unlikely pair. Since Melissa had taken Benjamin under her wing, he'd been unable to keep away from Zoe. There was a fascination with her, the way she seemed so different from her parents and could think for herself with no validation from others. But he hoped the feelings that were rising for her wouldn't hinder his relationship with his mentor, Zoe's biological mother.

LARA RUTHERFORD - Brief Encounter - Lara had been the first woman to take his interest. Maybe it was because she was someone who took control and showed him what he could have if he really worked hard for his position. And of course, he thought she was god damn beautiful, so when the opportunity presented itself; he gave him one thing he could never get back. His virginity. The one thing he could say, once it was over and done with. It was devastating for him to find out she didn’t even remember who he was the next time she saw him.

ÉTIENNE CANET - Enemy - If there was anyone he hated, it was Etienne. But hatred didn't seem the right word. There had to be something stronger than that. Etienne had killed the two people he loved most, his parents. Ever since the day he found out who'd been responsible, he'd made a promise to himself that he'd be the one to deliver the final blow to the Frenchman.

AZRA YAVUZ - Enemy - Benjamin doesn't trust Azra. He believes that everything she does has an ulterior motive and with his complete loyalty to The Rutherford’s, and especially, Melissa; anyone that tries to impede their future and the organization is disposable and a threat.

THOMAS FONTAINE - Friend - Thomas, like Benjamin, didn't seem like they were made for this life, but yet they both had found themselves in this situation. They worked hard, making a name for themselves and in that had created a lifelong friendship. They are often found drinking and causing fights in Rutherford-owned bars.

[msmelissalin]

SELF PARA: The  Protégé LOCATION: BENJAMIN'S SECOND APARTMENT.  TIMESTAMP: 24.04.2022

About: This follows a conversation between Melissa and her protégé, Benjamin Vox (NPC). - apologies as this got very long. 

The week had been long. Almost never-ending, when she'd finally walked out of the main headquarters a little after seven pm. The evening skies were staying lighter now that the summer only waited around the corner, ready to douse the population in a typical British summer of six days of blistering sun light before it disappeared for the rest of the year. It'd always been her favorite season, not having to worry about the dresses she wore, more often than not, more vibrant and a compliment to her skin tone. And of course, with the heat brought functions, and that meant more games for her to play.

Melissa Lin loved games. The games of politics being a particular one she'd never grown bored with. Even if her parents had shoved it down her throat for her entire life before, she'd thought better to leave them in the dust. Thinking about it, that life seemed to be something so far in the past that cobwebs had formed on her mind. When her phone had buzzed, stopping her in her path, Benjamin's name lit up the screen.

Interesting. 

''Good evening Benjamin, what has you calling me?'' She stated. The edge of her business voice was still in full force, and she felt like could hear the cringe in his voice for making that call the second she'd answered.

''I was wondering if you wanted to come over and talk about those plans we discussed this morning? If you're calling it a night though, there is no need to worry,'' He responded, which instantly had Melissa checking her watch.

''I'll swing by before I head home.''

She didn't bother to give him time to answer. Silently ending the call and slipping into the car that was waiting for her outside, she offered a tight lipped nod to her driver, Fred, who knew better than to speak unless spoken to. He'd learnt the hard way, Melissa practically chewing him out one morning for interrupting her 'thinking'. 

He'd never done it again. 

Within an hour, the business discussions had sauntered to a halt, while Melissa sat with her back against the hard wall, seated on a chair, staring out into the expanse of the evening sky, the stars busy above glittering and dancing; it was a clear night. She was on the outskirts of London, sat on a balcony overlooking a small expanse of land that belonged to her protégé and friend.

The last word seemed like an oddity. 

Melissa had friends, a few names coming to mind, but a few within her work life itself. She kept most of those bonds strained and at least an arm's length away. It was easier to see who might come to stab her in the back. That way she was always ready to stab them right back, or get their first; which ever was deemed the best or most viable option. But her thoughts were cut off. 

''Can I ask you a question, Melissa?'' Benjamin countered mid conversation, cutting her a glance from where he sat beside her. He quickly returned his gaze to the night sky. There was something that was different about Melissa when she sat with him, compared to how the people in her life saw her; she was more gentle? If that was even a possibility for a woman whose heart was made of ice. Everything she did had a purpose, an accomplishment awaiting at the end of any trials she may have to endure. But Benjamin? There was something she'd always connected with from the first moment she'd set eyes upon him.

She'd known he was different. Like her. 

''Go ahead...'' She said with a raised brow, her eyes narrowed, but still not looking at him. But he seemed lost for words, fumbling. It was something she'd never seen of Benjamin before, a boy--- man, she corrected, who was as hard faced and sly as she. Looking him over with concern, she wondered if something was wrong, or if there was still a fear speaking in her presence. She understood it, because many people gave her that look.

Like she was a monster waiting for dinner. 

''You know, Benjamin---'' Melissa began, but stopped, a small smile gracing her lips. ''Life is fragile, and there are moments where we're meant to stand and observe, but sometimes we're meant to seize the moment. Stand up and take what is yours, what you rightfully deserve --- so ask me now, or don't bother asking at all'' With that it died on her lips, humming with a chuckle. 

''Why did you pick me?'' Benjamin countered with furrowed brows, as if mulling over her words and the leap he'd just taken. It was a question that had been on his mind for sometime. He was aware of his talents. The boy was no fool. But his brothers, whom were older, had been far more experienced and wiser. Yet, one of the most feared within the organization. The fucking second had decided he was worthy enough of being her protege. He needed to know, the question burning its way to the surface almost every time he was in her presence. 

As soon as he'd asked it, there was a regret. He was still learning the balance of their relationship, their working bond. He feared stepping over the line, even if the man was practically fearless in almost every other pursuit. 

''You reminded me of someone I used to know'' She said simply. He wasn't sure if he should continue the topic, but seized the moment to learn what he could. 

''Who?'' He asked with intrigue.

''Partly me, partly my ex-husband, Johnathan.'' The last name caused a grimace to appear on her face, which he clocked. He'd heard about the pair's tenuous relationship, often excusing himself without a word when Melissa seemed to be frustrated over something to do with the pair. It wasn't his place, and he would not push. 

Melissa cast him a glance finally. He looked dumbfounded, taking in the information that she'd freely shared with him. Melissa cocked her head to the side, her lips slipping into that primal feline smile. She forgot his age sometimes, how easy it was to get under his skin and something she made a note of getting him out of as soon as possible. She needed him shaped and ready should she ever decide it was time.

Time for that adventure. She could imagine him with her. Should it ever arrive? Should she ever decide she was ready? 

''I don't mean to be rude---'' He began, but Melissa quickly cut him off.

''Usually when people start with that sentence, it means they're going to be rude.'' She arched a brow, but the smile still danced upon her crimson painted lips. 

Benjamin laughed, shaking his head. 

''I was going to ask how? Why?'' He seemed confused by her answer. 

Melissa thought about it for a moment, lining each phrase before she began. She wanted him to understand his potential, and by doing so, he may open himself up to further growth, which was exactly why she'd taken him on. So she hummed under her breath, taking a slow sip of the champagne she'd brought for them to share. 

''You can be cold like me, and ruthlessly brutal, like Johnathan. You're also extremely well adverse in social manners, etiquette, politics and can flirt your way in and out of everything. I've seen you do it with such ease, I thought it almost worrying.'' Melissa Lin laughed so lightly, it would have been missed if Benjamin hadn't been looking directly at her. ''But you're chaotic, you thrive to get the job done and sometimes you make decisions that benefit what you need from the situation, and not the overall mission --- to me, that's the Johnathan in you. That brutality hasn't failed you yet, you've honed it...but there is still work to be done'' Melissa pursed her lips as worry flickered in his baby blue eyes. ''It's not a bad thing entirely. People often refer to me as emotionless, detached, the list goes on. I am all of those things, and I accept that. I live with that. Because those choices and actions I've made have kept me alive. And I have no intention of ever falling below that line.''

Or staying here. Although she didn't voice that opinion aloud.

''And the thing is Benjamin, you have to be all of those things without reprieve. Most of the time you will not be rewarded, a lot of the things you will do will be under the radar and only you and I will know of the cost and sacrifices you will have to make. But I will make sure your life is purposeful, filled with the potential to go where others can only dream.'' She felt like she was selling a dream to him, but she knew he'd make it. Like she had, so she raise her glass to him, which he mirrored instantly. 

''I'm thankful that it was me,'' Benjamin added with that sly smile, the one he reserved for work, wooing their clients into submission, and Melissa returned it right back.

''Don't worry, kid, I'm going to make you very rich. You can thank me then.''

[benjaminvox]

BENJAMIN VOX: valentine's day auction event, 2026.

Escorted by: Julia Ringwald. (NPC, 65, business associate of Melissa.)