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Crime Lord
"No businessman worth his salt bargains for what he can take."
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Post by Reuben Slade on Nov 14, 2021 4:07:05 GMT
 Tag: @francescab never make DECISIONS OUT OF FEAR.
ONLY OUT OF SPITE. Slade remained composed as the young woman questioned whether he always looked harshly at strangers. She was evidently upset. It made his curious as to whether this happened to her frequently. Whether she was triggered from a past experience. Or, perhaps because she was surrounded by so many others who smiled in her direction and exuded a friendly nature. But a smile was not an expression Rueben wore lightly or freely. A genuine smile, was to be earned and often received for very specific people and very specific circumstances.
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"You mistake harshness for indifference," he told her. He had no issue with her, hence, his indifference towards her. Perhaps she would quickly realize that it was merely the expression he wore. Far more honest than many of the men here who planted zealous smiles and falsities to gain favour from . . . well, probably women such as herself. With the support of his cane he took a couple of steps closer towards her so that they would not have to communicate at a far distance, while he still maintained suitable space between them.
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"I do not believe we have been formally introduced," he answered. But when she introduced herself, seeming to calm herself down and relax her body from it's defensive stance of her folded arms . . . he instantly recognized the name. He made it a point to know the families in the ton and while he had no close ties to the Bridgertons, they were indeed a notable family. "Rueben Slade," he introduced, not bothering with a bow or nod of acknowledgement.
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She seemed to be rectifying her earlier words with apology as well. "Is there a reason you are so, disturbed by my lack of -- as you may put it -- friendly expression? I assume you are quite accustomed to otherwise." Other than his straight forward expression, she -- as he previously thought -- was perhaps more used to smiles from afar, even from a stranger. His inquiry was calm, the question not meant to offend but to learn of what it was that caused her response. For every reaction, no matter how big or small, there was a deeper reason for.
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Crime Lord
"No businessman worth his salt bargains for what he can take."
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Tag me @slade
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Post by Reuben Slade on Nov 14, 2021 3:54:00 GMT
Tag: @julieta never make DECISIONS OUT OF FEAR.
ONLY OUT OF SPITE. Damn it. If Rueben rejected her invitation he knew it would only arouse further suspicion to this entire scene. If they truly had nothing to hide, then they would not deny the offer from a noblewoman to help them clean up. "Rueben Slade, yes," he confirmed. His words of this not being a sight for a lady was meant to dismiss her and yet, it seemed to have the opposite effect. She did not appear to be the slightest bit phased. It made him curious as to what sort of dealings she had lay witness to, but not enough for him to care to ask. It was not his business after all. He looked at his driver and his friend. "Stay with the carriage," he instructed to them in a low voice so that it would not be overheard. Hopefully the other that had gone after the escaped assailant would return soon and they could find way to clear the scene. Rueben turned back to the young woman who introduced herself as Juliet.
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"It is coincidence that we meet now. I was on my way home from meeting an acquaintance," he told her, wanting to further eliminate suspicions as to why he may be out at this hour, and did not wish her to think it was typical of him to visit women's houses at this time. Not because he cared what he thought of her . . . but because there was a good chance this may get reported. He gave a nod to his men and started to walk towards her. "It is not my blood," he further explained. "But it would be most helpful to have the opportunity to clean myself." Rueben suddenly wondered if he was bleeding anywhere else. From his head? A cut somewhere? The kick in his stomach would leave a bruise but nothing worth fussing over. He right now, needed to play the part of accepting her help and ensuring his story was believable to a woman who may be questioned as a witness -- should it come to that.
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Crime Lord
"No businessman worth his salt bargains for what he can take."
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Tag me @slade
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Post by Reuben Slade on Nov 14, 2021 3:42:42 GMT
Tag: @julieta never make DECISIONS OUT OF FEAR.
ONLY OUT OF SPITE. She told him that she had never been kissed, never having found a man that she wanted to kiss. With her consent to his proposal . . . perhaps that had changed. He knew that a man, a gentleman would perhaps express flattery and pride in being chosen. But for him, he was only reminded of not being able to give i to a seemingly simple task. Something that most men yearned for. Rueben wanted to do all within his capabilities to ensure the happiness of Evelina's mother . . . yet such things, tended to be materialistic. The more, sentimental, emotional . . . physical things, were further beyond his capabilities. Perhaps with time, since he had clearly been able to each that point with his first wife.
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He felt her eyes on him and he turned his head to meet her gaze, keeping his expression controlled and even so not to give way to his thoughts. "I see," he responded pensively. Letting his eyes remain upon her for a few more moments, he turned his head back to the forward path. He was not oblivious to what a moment such as this one should lead to. It was perfectly set up, and could have transitioned with ease and excellent timing, to kiss a exquisitely beautiful woman who one would marry . . . yet Rueben did not take advantage of it. He did not lean in nor seal the distance between them. He did not give Juliet her first kiss.
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"Before we marry, there is something I must speak to you about." Instead, he changed the subject. At this point, he did stop walking and properly turned to face her. "It is something that may change your mind about marrying and if so, speak your mind to it." Though he had a strong feeling she would make a good mother, based on his observations and what he noticed about her . . . he would still give her an out. A chance to end this before it solidified to marriage. For not everyone woman wanted the responsibility of raising a child that was not their own.
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Crime Lord
"No businessman worth his salt bargains for what he can take."
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Post by Reuben Slade on Nov 14, 2021 2:57:31 GMT
Tag: @julieta never make DECISIONS OUT OF FEAR.
ONLY OUT OF SPITE. Slade listened as she explained that she had indeed prepared this; and that they should get to know each other. She was right. If they were to be successful in this union, then they did need to get to know one another. In his first marriage, it had not been entirely necessary. But now . . . it was for the sake of Evelina. He did not want any tension between him and Juliet, for his daughter was sharp enough to pick up on it.
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"Indeed," he agreed with a small, half smile. He began to make his way to the chair, setting his cane to lean against the table as he pulled out his chair and took a seat. "Perhaps we can start by you telling me what motivated you to learn to cook," he asked, setting the tone for this . . . getting to know each other. For, it was not common for noblewomen to know such things and so, it was a surprise indeed. Not an entirely unpleasant one. If she was willing to cook for him, then it further demonstrated her nurturing side. Her desire to take care of another despite having a staff to do it. It brought Rueben's mind to further ease, that she was in fact, the right mother for Evelina.
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Crime Lord
"No businessman worth his salt bargains for what he can take."
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Post by Reuben Slade on Nov 14, 2021 1:10:36 GMT
Tag: @julieta never make DECISIONS OUT OF FEAR.
ONLY OUT OF SPITE. Slade had achieved his purpose for attending the social season: he had found a wife. More importantly, he had found a mother for Evelina. The latter role was more significant than the former. The qualities that Juliet possessed were indicative that she would be a good mother indeed. And Evelina had taken an instant liking to her. Though their marriage was not . . . a conventional one. He had assured Juliet on their wedding night that there would be no expectation of marital relations between them.
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It was not foremost on Slade's mind nor the reason he wished for a wife. But as social construct dictated, they were to embark on their honeymoon anyway. Slade's sister was far too excited about her brother getting married and offered to watch Evelina so that they may have alone time. Being apart from his daughter was not something Rueben enjoyed but he had left a dear friend to watch over her.
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He and Juliet had come to one of his country estates. He ensured she was given all she desired: an extravagant room, whichever maids she liked, any luxuries she desired . . . anything that would make her feel comfortable to maintain this marriage. For all intents and purposes that was what it was . . . even though there had been nothing intimate between them. This, was how Slade had always envisioned it to be. Once they remained here for an adequate amount of time, suitable to define the honeymoon of their marriage, they could return to Mayfair.
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He was returning home from a meeting, dismissing his friend to rest. Slade was rather selective about his household staff so when he did not see anyone immediately upon entry, it was a curious thing. Not yet suspicious, but curious. He saw light coming from the dining room and made his way towards it to see Juliet standing by dinner laid out there. But, he saw no cook nor server. Pausing at the threshold of the door, leaning on his cane he looked at her. "Did you prepare all this?" He inquired.
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Crime Lord
"No businessman worth his salt bargains for what he can take."
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Post by Reuben Slade on Nov 13, 2021 20:05:25 GMT
 Tag: @polinshipper82 never make DECISIONS OUT OF FEAR.
ONLY OUT OF SPITE. Slade did not take well to such threats or ultimatums. Should the physician refuse to help, Slade would find someone else. An inconvenience? Indeed. One that would displease the nobleman. But it was more about the principle of making such a threat. Rather bold of a man to do so towards another of higher rank. Though Slade made no show of his displeasure over the remark. His expression remained unchanged as he remained seated in the carriage. He knew now, that the father did indeed care quite a great deal for his daughter. Some parents did not but it was always a valuable piece of information when Slade discovered those who did. For it was indeed, most excellent leverage to use again them should the occasion ever arise for it.
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Helena spoke of them being there for a while and Slade remained quiet at the thought. He knew his own bodyguards were some distance away, on horseback though so it would not be of help to them. A broken carriage could of course be merely an accident and coincidence. But Slade was cautious. Being in London exposed him more than he was used to, so he would not put anything past his foolish rivals. "Do you always accompany your father when he conducts business?" Meaning, when he sees to patience. He wondered how used to Helena was when it came to travelling with her father; if it was the norm between them or if this was one of the few exceptions that she joined the physician.
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Crime Lord
"No businessman worth his salt bargains for what he can take."
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Post by Reuben Slade on Nov 13, 2021 18:04:20 GMT
Updated to include an Inej inspired his best Spy and close friend!
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Crime Lord
"No businessman worth his salt bargains for what he can take."
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Post by Reuben Slade on Nov 13, 2021 17:22:29 GMT
wife&mother
| THE FUTURE LADY SLADE
DETAILS so in Slade's search to find a wife, I thought it would be fun to start actually exploring this scenario. What if . . . Slade did indeed find someone he deemed suitable to be a mother to his daughter. Since the existence of his daughter is unknown/unconfirmed, he would most likely introduce Evelina to his future wife after he is engaged to see if they get along well.VERSE to ensure that this does not conflict with anyone's canon, we can keep this au for the time being. If things develop well and we can see this being part of both character's canon, then we can always change it from an AU plot to a Canon plot. PERSONALITY so I figure that in order for Slade to be engaged to someone, he would have to see qualities in her that he would consider fitting ones for a mother (caring, compassionate, nurturing, patient, kind, etc). Slade is not argumentative and would not be with someone who's personality drastically clashed with his as he would not want to expose Eveline to that tension. That being said, I don't expect her to be totally compliant or always accepting of his nature, because I mean . . . where's the fun in that?! We can always delve further into the details of this if anyone is interested.EVELINA I have Evelina set to be around 5 years old. She is his daughter from his first marriage but does not remember much about her mother. She is a sweet, affectionate, sharp, observant, intelligent and kind little girl. She speaks her mind and is rather bold. She loves chatting with people, quite sociable, and would most probablylike your lady almost instantly. Slade becomes a different person when he is around his daughter, deeply caring for her and striving to be a good father. Because of that, the two of them are quite close. I would likely write for Evelina in my posts just to make it easier.DYNAMIC now here's the interesting part. Slade does not like physical touch due to past traumas. It takes him a great deal of time to be comfortable enough around someone to touch them with an ungloved hand and with ease. So with that in mind, he would have no expectations of marital relations, especially on the first night. It is not something foremost on his mind. So, the reason as to why your girl may want to marry him can always be explored and complex. He is extremely wealthy so that is always incentive. Maybe she was trying to escape her home life? Maybe she decided to settle? Maybe she wanted security? Maybe she actually does cares for him? Maybe her decision was solidified after she met his daughter and developed a quick affection for her? The possibilities are endless! I am all for affection developing between them over time as that would also be super fun to explore. But the initial reasons of her marrying Slade can be totally up to you and something we can plot out.NOTES let me know if you're interested in playing out this dynamic with one of your girls. Or if you are thinking of a new character and want to jump right into some plots. Like I said, I am all for delving into the complexities of this marriage and I already have SO many thread ideas in mind: engagement, meeting Evelina, meeting Gilly, wedding, post wedding life, potentially her finding out about Slade's shady dealings and real business, her becoming a target of one of Slade's rivals, etc! It would just be really fun to explore different points of their relationship.BONUS your lady would also get to be Gilly the Goat's mother. FEEL FREE TO REPLY HERE OR PM ME! |
jellyfish princess @ adox |
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Crime Lord
"No businessman worth his salt bargains for what he can take."
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Post by Reuben Slade on Nov 13, 2021 4:41:02 GMT
Tag: @misspenf never make DECISIONS OUT OF FEAR.
ONLY OUT OF SPITE. She asked him the expected question: when will she be going home. The answer however, was not up to him. And there was no sense in lying to her about it. Her admittance of fear was . . . well, rather honest. He would most certainly give her that. An understandable reaction of course. But Slade was not an overly compassionate individual when it came to dealings such as this. He supposed it was why he remained composed and stoic in all that he did. So that people could make no read of him: good or bad. "Your return home is dependent on two factors," he told her, keeping eye contact so that she would know he meant what he said.
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"The first is of course, your father's arrival." And however long it took him to scrounge up the money he owed Rueben for all this trouble. The start of it anyway. "The second and more important one, being when we have with all certainty, apprehended those who concocted this scheme. To ensure you are no longer in danger." Because her remaining alive, benefited him as well but he need not go into detail about that. She only needed to know the surface of all this. And with that said, knew he would have to explain something else. "Those," he began, dropping his gaze for a moment to the bindings around her wrist, before looking back up at her face. "Were to ensure that you did not struggle nor run away." Depending on what assurance -- if any -- Penelope could give that she would not do either of those things, perhaps Slade would consider their removal.
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Crime Lord
"No businessman worth his salt bargains for what he can take."
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Post by Reuben Slade on Nov 13, 2021 3:17:30 GMT
Tag: @julieta never make DECISIONS OUT OF FEAR.
ONLY OUT OF SPITE. The fact that they were engaged afforded them certain, liberties that they may not have otherwise had. A simple kiss, being one of them. The very words she had asked for. Rueben had finally seemed to find a mother for his daughter. Juliet seemed to be caring and kind; qualities that could lead to a nurturing individual -- if she did not already possess this as well. His thoughts if ever spoken, were not ones meant to flatter. They were fact. Based on his observations of her and the time they spent together.
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Rueben would not take this decision lightly and he knew that before they were wed, he would need to introduce her to Evelina and reveal the existence of his daughter which was not yet known to the ton. These thoughts were foremost on his mind when she asked him for a kiss. He was quite aware that he was not . . . affectionate. Most everyone passed it off as him a perfect gentleman. He did not confirm this nor dispute it. As always, he allowed those to make such assumptions and think what they will. The truth of the matter, was that Rueben struggled with physical touch. It had taken him some time with his first wife to even touch her in such intimate ways. It was indeed why he always kept his hands gloved in public or in the company of anyone but his daughter.
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But hearing her ask this question now . . . he knew it a fair one. He knew women enjoyed affection, and touch and all such things that would flatter them and make them feel beautiful. And Rueben had to appease her and maintain her interest for the duration of the engagement, until they were wed. He turned to look at her as they walked through the garden of her estate, leaning on his cane with every step. Another fortunate liberty of being engaged, was that no chaperone was currently required. "Have you ever been kissed before?" He inquired. He was not necessarily stalling but rather, was asking to determine whether she had experienced any sort of intimacy with another man and thus, what her expectations would be of one.
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Crime Lord
"No businessman worth his salt bargains for what he can take."
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Post by Reuben Slade on Nov 13, 2021 2:47:23 GMT
 Tag: @polinshipper82 never make DECISIONS OUT OF FEAR.
ONLY OUT OF SPITE. Slade was taking Gilly out for a walk and fortunately -- shockingly -- the damn goat was behaving. After his episode at the park, Slade knew that he had to be careful with Gilberto. He could not bare even the thought of his daughter in distress over losing who she called, her best friend. And with Evelina's existence still unknown, Slade had to think of reason that he even brought a goat to the city and not left him in one of his country homes. That, was the more difficult thing to explain but he supposed . . . deep, deep, deep down, even Slade was attached to this creature. Today, as he was walking along the road, he held Gilly in his arm for they had just returned from the park. And Gilberto had actually acted much better. Still excitable but not reckless. Perhaps the kid was getting used to the city now, after being so accustomed to the country and all its openness that it offered.
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As Slade pressed on, suffering the occasion lick of Gilly's tongue along the nobleman's cheek -- the goat was far too affectionate -- he took notice to a familiar woman walking by, who seemed to have issue with her leg. Slade paused from his walking, not wishing to admit it but the extra weight of the goat in his arm, and walking with the limp, strained him more than he cared to divulge. So instead, making no show of any tiredness, he used the excuse of the familiar woman -- Bishop's daughter -- to stop. It was after all the 'polite' thing to do though Slade knew that for him it had nothing to do with politeness and everything to do with convenience and timing. "You may require one of these," he said, tapping the top of his cane with his index finger. "At least, on a temporary basis," he added before Gilly licked Slade's face again and bleated with excitement over seeing a new face. It was a good thing indeed that Slade was holding him securely in his arms.
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Crime Lord
"No businessman worth his salt bargains for what he can take."
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Post by Reuben Slade on Nov 13, 2021 2:35:03 GMT
 Tag: @edwinasharma1 Note: I wasn't sure how you wanted her to be assaulted or what injuries she had so I left it general for you -- plus I didn't want to godmod haha! Let me know if you'd like me to edit anything! never make DECISIONS OUT OF FEAR.
ONLY OUT OF SPITE.
The random number generator picked . . .
48. Your muse comes to mine
after being assaulted.
Slade was standing outside one of the many establishments he owned in Mayfair. Whether it was complete ownership, or one in which the owner paid him a fee. Slade did not engage in the activities of any such clubs, whether it be gambling or even drinking excessively. He would much prefer remaining sharp and having all his wits about him. His associate had gone indoors for a moment while Slade remained outside, his bodyguards and dear friends at a distance but watchful of him. Rueben remained outside to take in the fresh air, preferring it to the boisterous crowd inside which smelled of drink and cigars.
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It was at this moment, that his peaceful moment was disrupted when a woman came hurrying towards him. He looked at her, remaining still in his position, leaning his weight of one side against his cane as he always did. She looked distressed and as she came closer, noticed that she held some injuries. She noted him which meant . . . Slade had to help her. Otherwise, should she recognize him at a later date and accuse him of not coming to her aid, then that would warrant unwanted attention upon him. Thus making it more difficult to find a mother for his daughter . Damn obligations of etiquette and the like. He continued to stand still as she drew closer, letting her come to him rather than the other way around of him making any movements towards her.
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His eyes shifted to gazing behind her, to see if anyone was following her. Anyone being who he presumed to be the one -- or ones -- to have assaulted her in some way it would seem. When she was close enough, Slade made eye contact with her again. His expression was stoic, unaffected by her distress but his words would compensate. "What happened?" Despite the composed and even tone of them. Perhaps another would be far more expressive of compassion and concern. But as Slade was now expected to help her, he would require the full story so to know how best to proceed.
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Crime Lord
"No businessman worth his salt bargains for what he can take."
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Post by Reuben Slade on Nov 13, 2021 2:07:11 GMT
Tag: @polinshipper82 never make DECISIONS OUT OF FEAR.
ONLY OUT OF SPITE. There were not many that Slade would count among his closest friends but those that he did consider as such, he was completely devoted to . . . as they were to him. One of his friends had gotten injured and fortunately for them, it was not the kind that would arouse suspicion. It had been an accident but one that required immediate assistance.
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Though Slade supposed that it perhaps was easier to blame someone . . . for then he could avenge them. But on the other hand, it spared his friend from the risk of an investigation so for that, they could be grateful and his dear friend could recover in peace. Slade had quickly learned that Bishop was a popular choice of physicians among the ton, having heard positive feedback about him. After all, Rueben would not hire just anyone to heal someone he cared about. He wanted nothing but the best.
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Rueben listened and easily committed to memory the names that Bishop had offered to him in the way of skilled surgeons. Slade would have to do his quick research to find out which was the best. At that moment, a woman entered the room and seated herself next to her father. Raised a gentleman, Slade of course knew the expectation to rise when a woman entered their presence. However, he did not. And many did not question it for all it took was a single glance of his cane for them to immediately understand, and silently assure him that he need not trouble himself.
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Rueben loathed sympathy gained for his permanent limp . . . but in situations such as these where he could not be bothered to stand, it worked well in his favour. He did give a short nod of acknowledgement to her, looking at her as she questioned the package. "Payment," he explained. "For your father's services." It was far more than the expected amount, but Rueben spared no expense when it came to the care of his dearest friends. And he did presume that this was Bishop's daughter. In Slade's research of the man he had learned that Bishop had but one daughter . . . she must be it.
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Crime Lord
"No businessman worth his salt bargains for what he can take."
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Post by Reuben Slade on Nov 13, 2021 1:55:56 GMT
Tag: @misspenf never make DECISIONS OUT OF FEAR.
ONLY OUT OF SPITE. Slade continued to watch her as she cried from . . . what he presumed was pain. Or the shock of taking a tumble. If it were anyone else, perhaps they could give her further comfort and ease; words of reassurance and ones that would help dry her tears. But of course, it had to be Rueben and apparently, Rueben only to witness such an accident. He lowered his hand to his side when she seated herself on the step, thanking him. He heard no approaching footsteps so it did not seem that there was any servant nor other familial member nearby. And Slade was already suspecting that Archibald would use this accident as an excuse to postpone their meeting. Which meant, all of this would be for nothing.
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The nobleman reached into his pocket and pulled out a handkerchief, passing it to the young woman. "Then it would be best to remain still until proper assistance arrives." He knew he could not exactly go wandering around her home looking for household staff or a family member. And, surely there was no need to. He had no plans on leaving the residence until he spoke to her father so . . . it would seem that he would remain in her company until then. "It is fortunate, that your injury is not more serious." After all, she could have broken her neck falling down the stairs.
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Crime Lord
"No businessman worth his salt bargains for what he can take."
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Post by Reuben Slade on Nov 13, 2021 1:06:33 GMT
Tag: @julieta never make DECISIONS OUT OF FEAR.
ONLY OUT OF SPITE. Random number generator selected . . . 18. covered in blood
Slade knew he was more susceptible in the city to being targeted by his rivals. One main gang that were quite foolish to make such attempts. But because of it -- like back home -- he always had his most trusted friends and skilled bodyguards at his side. It was late at night and they were returning from a business meeting. Rueben sat in the carriage with two of his people with him as they both conversed with one another, though Slade's own mind was distracted with thoughts of tomorrow and the work he had to complete. These, evening events certainly took up more time than he was used to. But, he need just remind himself that it was for Evelina. That his very reason for being here, was so that he could find her a mother that she deserved.
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At that moment, the carriage stilled to a halt, but Rueben knew that they were still far from home. His friends instantly took notice, hands instinctively going to their pistols and the other touching their daggers. Silence filled the air for a few moments that felt much longer. "Lord Slade!" Came the driver's voice and at that precise moment, it happened. An ambush. The carriage abruptly leaned to one side, as Rueben was grabbed from the door of his side of the carriage, thrown out onto the pavement with his cane a couple feet away from him. He moved his hands so that he was on his hands and knees before feeling a kick to the stomach, causing him to fall onto his back.
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His two guards were taking care of the rest as Slade hurriedly moved towards his cane, swinging it at the attacked just before he was on him again. His assailant spit out a mouthful of blood from the impact of his cane against his jaw, and proceeded to pull out a dagger. He climbed on top of Slade who was still on the ground, readying himself to stab him when his guard got to him first. The familiar sound of the dagger piercing the attacker's clothing, penetrating his chest, was all that filled the air as the others in the ambush had been taken care of. The stabbing killed the man as Rueben pushed the corpse off of him and accepted the hand of his friend as he pulled him to a stand, while the other retrieved his cane and passed it to him. Words of assurance that he was ok need not be spoken.
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They all knew each other well enough to simply read one another's eyes and expressions. "Who's there?!" Someone called out. It was at that moment that they realized the carriage had broken down, and the ambush had taken place not far from someone's residence. "Put the bodies in the carriage," Rueben quickly instructed, the other two already anticipating his order as they complied. "My Lord, one of them escaped." Rueben looked to one of his friends who started bounding after the runner. When Rueben turned back, he saw a maid as well as a young woman approach the scene. A woman who looked to be of nobility no doubt.
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"Forgive the disruption," Rueben stated, knowing that he best explain this. Because he had blood all over his coat and gloves. He remained composed and stoic as he continued. "My men and I were ambushed by robbers." The driver and his friend nodded along, concealing their weapons. "We managed to injure one but they escaped." If they said they killed anyone then it would be far more complicated if the Bow Street Runners were called. Best to say that it was merely an injury and that the attackers therefore could not be identified. Rueben did not want any links to his . . . less than legal activities of his business. "This sight is not suited for a lady," he told them both, knowing the sight of blood could be rather traumatic.
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