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Crime Lord
"No businessman worth his salt bargains for what he can take."
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Rebel Nobleman
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Gang Leader | Father
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euphoria
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Tag me @slade
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Post by Reuben Slade on Jan 14, 2022 19:36:22 GMT
what doesn't KILL ME BETTER RUN Slade gave a small nod when Clara explained that she knew . . . that she understood the process of children being made. That certainly saved the part of the night where Rueben would have had to explain it to her. For, this act that they were to commit . . . was one of purpose. He was well aware that some couples, allowed the passion of the moment to drive them. Allowed themselves to lose all thought and simply, act . . . feel. But such, was not the circumstance. She wished for a child. She had made this clear prior to marriage and Rueben, had given his word that he would give her that. Which, of course brought them to this moment now.
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He looked at her, as she was . . . dressed accordingly. For in his mind, he had no intentions to undress her completely. They need only do what was necessary to create a life. And yet, the process was not so easy for the crime lord. Despite his composed appearance, his mind was racing with thoughts of how this would happen . . . of what could happen, while it was happening. The triggers of his traumas not always patterned or with warning. Some things he knew to avoid, but not everything. "Then you should lie down." On the bed. For they could certainly do this . . . traditionally. He started to make his own way to it, though kept a distance so that she could move to whatever side she felt more comfortable. Though even Slade knew that comfort, was not exactly what was foremost felt in this moment.
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Crime Lord
"No businessman worth his salt bargains for what he can take."
Personal Text
Rebel Nobleman
Rank
Gang Leader | Father
Occupation
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euphoria
Offline
Tag me @slade
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Post by Reuben Slade on Jan 14, 2022 15:30:49 GMT
Updated to include the role of a Spy! |
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Crime Lord
"No businessman worth his salt bargains for what he can take."
Personal Text
Rebel Nobleman
Rank
Gang Leader | Father
Occupation
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euphoria
Offline
Tag me @slade
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Post by Reuben Slade on Jan 13, 2022 23:51:09 GMT
Updated to include a Slade Sister! |
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Crime Lord
"No businessman worth his salt bargains for what he can take."
Personal Text
Rebel Nobleman
Rank
Gang Leader | Father
Occupation
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euphoria
Offline
Tag me @slade
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Post by Reuben Slade on Jan 8, 2022 0:58:34 GMT
what doesn't KILL ME BETTER RUN When Clara opened the door and stepped inside to allow him entrance, Slade paused only for the briefest of moments, before he entered her room. He knew his decision was made and that he had to be sure in it; a decision that was reached when he knocked on her door. He was not one to step backwards. Entering her room he took steps away from her, positioning him at a bit of a distance from her. His back facing her for . . . he did not allow his gaze to linger too long upon her in her robe and nightgown.
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She was after all, exquisitely beautiful. This was not in dispute. But desire to him, was different. It was not as simple as a man who desired a woman -- a wife -- and could merely act upon it. As Clara had learned from knowing him and in the first few days of their marriage. Knowing he should say something, he turned his head a little, before turning his body fully so that he could look at her, still keeping space between them.
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"Do you, possess the knowledge of how children are made?" It was no secret to those who were in his company for more than a few moments, that he was incredibly meticulous. Very, direct. Purposeful. And so, in her hope to have children . . . well, it was why he was here. He had given her his word and thus, needed to know how much she knew about the actual process. Was it explained to her before they wed? Or, was she left unaware of the creation of a life? Either way, Slade was about to find out.
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Crime Lord
"No businessman worth his salt bargains for what he can take."
Personal Text
Rebel Nobleman
Rank
Gang Leader | Father
Occupation
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euphoria
Offline
Tag me @slade
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Post by Reuben Slade on Jan 7, 2022 5:26:44 GMT
what doesn't KILL ME BETTER RUN Rueben had once made a silent vow, that Clara Honeyfield would want for nothing in this world. She was one of the most important people to him, having started as a Governess for his daughter. And now . . . she was more than that. She took on the role of her mother. She took on the role of his wife. The latter, was where it became more complicated. Clara had been nothing but honest regarding her thoughts on the union, having told him beforehand that she desired children. It was something he had agreed to yet, it remained unspoken between them.
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Until earlier today. She had broached the subject once more and it was all that was on Slade's mind. He had never thought to remarry nor have more children yet as time passed and he watched Evelina grow . . . he wanted her to have a mother. And now, that mother wished for Evelina to have siblings. Clara wished to have children of her own. And for Slade . . . it was a complicated subject. When Evelina was but a newborn her life had been threatened and nearly claimed at the hands of his enemies.
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More children meant, more risk of exposure. More children meant more potential for heartbreak. Yet . . . more children, could also mean more joy. More love. More, from life. It was something Clara had wanted, something she had made clear she wanted and . . . Slade had to remain a man of his word. He had to give her that, after all she had given to Evelina. After all she had given to him. She deserved this, at the very least and . . . how could he deny her of it?
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Not going to her bedroom tonight would imply that he was unwilling to honor the agreement. For if he did not do it now, he was unsure when he ever would. Taking a deep breath, he rose from his seated position on the edge of his bed, leaning on his cane for support as he exited his room and walked towards Clara's. Determination was in each step and yet . . . there was a strange sense of, nervousness. He trusted her, emphatically.
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But such intimacy was not something he regularly engaged in, nor something that was . . . easy for him. His past traumas hindering what others may deem as simple and nonintrusive. But to him, it was damaging. But . . . he had made her a promise. He had given her his word. So by the time he reached her door -- not even fully realizing that he had -- he knew he could not back away from it now. Clenching his hand in a fist, he knocked on the door to her bedroom, bracing himself for what tonight would hold.
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Crime Lord
"No businessman worth his salt bargains for what he can take."
Personal Text
Rebel Nobleman
Rank
Gang Leader | Father
Occupation
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euphoria
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Tag me @slade
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Post by Reuben Slade on Jan 2, 2022 18:07:30 GMT
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Crime Lord
"No businessman worth his salt bargains for what he can take."
Personal Text
Rebel Nobleman
Rank
Gang Leader | Father
Occupation
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euphoria
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Tag me @slade
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Post by Reuben Slade on Jan 2, 2022 4:44:33 GMT
never make DECISIONS OUT OF FEAR.
ONLY OUT OF SPITE. She called him handsome. And the words . . . it was not what she said, but how she said it. The breathless way it emerged from her lips. The way she reacted to her own words after she said them. Being called handsome was flattering for any man, but for Slade . . . flattery did nothing to him. He was often unaffected by it, for he knew that with his, condition -- with his limitations -- that nothing could go beyond that. Beyond words. Beyond flattery. Compliments though appreciated left empty because Slade could not offer the connection that one may sought when giving these words meant to flatter. And so, he often let them pass through him. He was by no means insecure so to speak, but he was not filled with foolish notions either. Physical intimacy with his wife had been an exception to it all; it had turned into something else, and created the most beautiful miracle that epitomized happiness for Rueben.
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But Clara . . . her words, did not just pass through him. He felt them. He believed her when she said them. And one expected the same in return; words of flattery. They would be well deserved in her case, for she looked far more incredible than he was capable of verbalizing. But, what would it do? What would it serve? Would it appease any doubt she may have in how beautiful she looked? He wanted to do that. The sudden longing for her to feel as beautiful as she looked, much like the way she had just caused him to feel. But he was a man of action. And where it came to such things, action . . . was challenging. Not impossible, but not easy either. Not for him. So to what end did he say anything? She thanked him for the dress, praising it and expressing appreciation for selecting it. She seemed so, excited. So genuinely appreciative of it all. He had already decided that he wanted this evening to be perfect for her, whatever that may entail. But as he previously knew . . . actions, could only take him so far.
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When they reached the door, just stepping over the threshold, he paused, ceasing their movement before they would descend the stairs. With their arms still joined, he turned a little to look at her. His blue eyes locked with her own. His expression stoic, yet should she truly be looking at him, there was an underlying softness within his gaze. A sincerity within them with a tone to match the way he now looked at her. "You look exceptionally beautiful tonight." The words composed, and certain in belief; as if they were not opinion but fact. Not meant to be argued with but meant to accept. Meant to deliver praise that exceeded the mere expectation of reciprocity.
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Allowing his gaze to linger for a few moments following his statement, he proceeded to turn once more and start to make his way down the stairs. Such simple words yet the magnitude of them. Slade's mind was always turning; always working . . . always flooded with thoughts. Meticulous plans. Detailed ploys. Organized intentions. And tonight, there was a space that opened within it. A thought, that forced its way through all other thoughts and processes. A seemingly simple yet complex one at the same time. What if, he were to make Clara Honeyfield his wife.
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Crime Lord
"No businessman worth his salt bargains for what he can take."
Personal Text
Rebel Nobleman
Rank
Gang Leader | Father
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euphoria
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Tag me @slade
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Post by Reuben Slade on Jan 2, 2022 4:18:54 GMT
never make DECISIONS OUT OF FEAR.
ONLY OUT OF SPITE. The evening of the event drew upon them rather quickly, and Slade found himself waiting in the main hallway for Clara to descend from the stairs. The carriage was ready for them outside, their guards prepared to attend and Evelina was safely with a dear friend's family. Tonight, he wished for Clara to worry about nothing and just enjoy the evening. It was as if some force had urged him to turn his head and look in that direction for just as he happened to set his gaze at the stairwell, Clara appeared. His eyes locked onto her, taking in the sight of her beauty.
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It left Rueben rather speechless, not out of his usual reserved nature but rather . . . because words were even more inadequate than ever before. He could not take his eyes off of her and yet knew, he should not stare -- not having any right to really. But, she looked beautiful beyond words. A true vision of pure perfection and exquisite beauty. It was not that Slade had not noticed before, but tonight . . . she was joining him for an event and that added another . . . layer to their dynamic. No words escaped him as she neared him and instead, he just slightly clenched his jaw, fighting back any reaction even though he was not entirely sure what it would have been. She had indeed, left him speechless. He extended his arm for her to take as he began to lead her to the carriage that awaited them outside.
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Crime Lord
"No businessman worth his salt bargains for what he can take."
Personal Text
Rebel Nobleman
Rank
Gang Leader | Father
Occupation
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euphoria
Offline
Tag me @slade
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Post by Reuben Slade on Jan 2, 2022 3:33:22 GMT
never make DECISIONS OUT OF FEAR.
ONLY OUT OF SPITE. Clara stated that she would like that, and that Evelina would be sleeping for some time. He walked alongside her, with Gilly following them as they made their way towards the stairs, making his way up with the support of the cane in one hand, and his other on the railing as it slid up with each step. The walk was quiet, but comfortable as they neared the rooms. Seeing a maid standing in the hall, Slade gave her a slight nod before turning to Clara. "In that room," he directed, pointing his finger towards it.
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Inside, she would find the gowns displayed, with a matching set of jewelry, shoes, gloves and any other accessories that she would wish to wear on that night. With those words, he made his way further along the hall towards Evelina's room. Sir Gilly paused when he stood between Clara and Slade, as if unable to decide which one to follow. "Come," Slade called, which seemed to prompt him to trot towards him. Despite Gilly's appreciated excitement in the household, no one needed him to ruin the gowns. Slade watched as Clara made her way into the room, a small smile on his lips, before opening the door to Evelina's, allowing the goat inside first before he followed as well.
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Crime Lord
"No businessman worth his salt bargains for what he can take."
Personal Text
Rebel Nobleman
Rank
Gang Leader | Father
Occupation
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euphoria
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Tag me @slade
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Post by Reuben Slade on Jan 1, 2022 22:30:42 GMT
Updated to include headcanons about: DOWRIES!
"Because Found Family is so important to Slade, he has secured dowries for any of his misfit's or close employees' siblings who may not have a high one (or even one at all) despite how uncommon/rare doing this may be within society. While he does not draw attention to it, he ensures his close friend(s) are aware of it when the time approaches for them to find a suitable husband. Slade also helps the families financially where needed (i.e if someone requires a physician, if there is an emergency, etc). Note: If any misfits disagree with this or see it differently, let me know!"
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Crime Lord
"No businessman worth his salt bargains for what he can take."
Personal Text
Rebel Nobleman
Rank
Gang Leader | Father
Occupation
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euphoria
Offline
Tag me @slade
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Post by Reuben Slade on Jan 1, 2022 21:22:16 GMT
never make DECISIONS OUT OF FEAR.
ONLY OUT OF SPITE. Clara questioned the gown selection and Slade gaged her reaction, for it seemed more . . . excited than anything else. "I approved them," he told her. While any man could get a sense of which dresses were most appealing on a woman's figure, which styles best outline the female body . . . he -- like any man -- knew not the details nor intricacies of the fashion. He approved of ones out of the majority, taking colour and all else into account. But in regards to being the one who design such a thing, this was beyond the scope of even Rueben's capabilities. And preferences. He did know which colours she favored by what she wore. The level of design based on her style.
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Personal details about her he could use when taking into account what sort of dress she would be comfortable in, but also . . . one that she would feel beautiful and confident wearing. Perhaps this, would be evidenced in her seeing them, rather than the need for him to articulate the details that went into the gowns upstairs. He was meticulous in all things; this was no exception.
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Hearing her say that she was fighting the urge to run upstairs, caused a slight, half smile upon Slade's lips. He reached for his cane and used it to aid him to rise to a stand, causing Sir Gilly to take a couple steps to the side. "I am going to check on Evelina. I will walk with you." He knew there was no urgency to check on his daughter but, it was an excuse to allow her to see the outfits, and an assurance that he could remain with Evelina in the meantime so she would not be interrupted in the process.
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Crime Lord
"No businessman worth his salt bargains for what he can take."
Personal Text
Rebel Nobleman
Rank
Gang Leader | Father
Occupation
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euphoria
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Tag me @slade
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Post by Reuben Slade on Jan 1, 2022 20:34:42 GMT
never make DECISIONS OUT OF FEAR.
ONLY OUT OF SPITE. Slade watched her reaction, fighting back a smile at her evident excitement over the invitation . . . and her acceptance of it. It brought him ease to see her happy, and knew that this, would bring her that joy. "Very good," he confirmed as the plan continued to solidify. "I have ordered a few gowns for you to select from." Ones of the more current fashions and high in expense. He obviously was not one to know a great deal about such things, but he had enlisted the help of those who did.
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Besides, with time constraints it would be easier to alter the gown if need be rather than find a modiste to create one from scratch, as well as save her the convenience of having to rush around and find a dress. Each gown also matched with the necessary accessories. The household staff would of course assist her with getting ready. "They are laid out upstairs in one of the rooms that the maid can direct you to." Truthfully, he had anticipated her to say yes so somewhat prepared ahead of time. After all, he would rather have gowns of no use rather than having Clara with nothing to wear. He wanted this evening to be all she desired, and wished for her to enjoy the process of it as well.
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Crime Lord
"No businessman worth his salt bargains for what he can take."
Personal Text
Rebel Nobleman
Rank
Gang Leader | Father
Occupation
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euphoria
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Tag me @slade
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Post by Reuben Slade on Jan 1, 2022 20:25:32 GMT
what doesn't
KILL ME BETTER RUN "She's gone."
The words made Slade's entire world stop. He was in his office working, when a frantic Clara had burst through the door. Ordinarily, he would not have been pleased for someone to just barge in, particularly in his area of business within the estate. But, ordinarily . . . Clara would never do such a thing. Her words upon her immediate entrance made Slade swear his heart stopped beating for a moment. The implications of the words and the panic with which she said them was made Slade feel something he seldom ever did: fear. Genuine, all consuming, overwhelming fear. He immediately rose to his feet, his eyes sharply fixated on Clara as she further explained. Had Slade been able to recognize his emotions right now, he would have been able to identify some relief in that she was not dead. But the fact of the matter was that she disappeared . . . and that she could be.
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What if she was hurt? What if one of his enemies had taken her? What if a wild animal had attacked her? Slade did not even need to say anything for one of his trusted guards who had been with him, was already on it, giving out instruction for the others to start the search. But Slade was not going to remain idle. He felt his heart -- still beating -- pounding rapidly in his chest, the emotion causing a slight tremble, further evidenced in his expression, physical manifestations in his veins and the tightness in which he gripped the intricately crafted bird head of his cane. "How long?" He questioned as he made his way around his desk and towards the door, exiting it and expecting Clara to follow so that she would give him any further detail. Slade was going to look for his daughter and would tear the country apart in attempt to find her.
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Crime Lord
"No businessman worth his salt bargains for what he can take."
Personal Text
Rebel Nobleman
Rank
Gang Leader | Father
Occupation
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euphoria
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Tag me @slade
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Post by Reuben Slade on Jan 1, 2022 20:14:45 GMT
what doesn't KILL ME BETTER RUN Clara said that he flattered and, Slade knew that it was not something he did with just anyone. He offered words of praise where they were due, and it was often reserved for those he worked closely with. After all, he did it not without the utmost truth, for such words that prompted a feeling of flattery . . . were well earned. "It is well deserved," he told her with continued truth in his words. And even still, words would forever remain inadequate to express his true appreciation for the woman.
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Hearing her own words about Evelina cause that small smile to reappear upon his lips. It was not the need to be guarded that made the expression keep from touching his entire face, for he knew he could be comfortable around Clara's presence. It was . . . merely the years of his past that had caused the expression to be so strained. Perhaps, time would eventually change that. Evelina's presence in his life certainly made him come a long way from the way he used to be. But then, it was the assumption -- one that Slade now believed in through his experience -- that parenthood truly changed a person. "And yet, not just anyone would be entrusted with this responsibility." Further words of praise, for he wanted her to know that he saw something within her, specifically. He trusted his instincts and his reading of people and Clara . . . was the absolute perfect fit for his daughter.
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"Perhaps I should make better attempt then," he said . . . the slightest bit of humour in his voice. There were few he reserved this tone for, this demeanour for. A woman who saw him in the presence of his daughter, was high on the list. Slade could not remain his stoic, serious self when with Evelina. This behavior was starting to seep out when with Clara as well. At least in these rare moments. "You are different with her." It was indeed true, but being acknowledged for it was not . . . common. As previously established perhaps it did indeed have to do with the fact that Clara saw both sides of him, and saw him in the company of others. "I must be," he said in a low voice, looking down at his Evelina and the lengths he would go to in order to protect her. His words seemingly simple and yet, held a great deal to them as well.
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Crime Lord
"No businessman worth his salt bargains for what he can take."
Personal Text
Rebel Nobleman
Rank
Gang Leader | Father
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euphoria
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Tag me @slade
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Post by Reuben Slade on Jan 1, 2022 19:49:53 GMT
the heart is an arrow
IT DEMANDS AIM TO LAND TRUE Evelina like any child, loved to be praised. So when Clara stated that it was good of her to plan around Gilly's birthday, and then tell her that she noticed she was practicing her letters, Evelina gave a proud smile. "A HAY CAKE!" Her bubbly laughter filled the air. "You and I can maked our own cake! Hay cake is not yummy for us, but it will be for Sir Gilly!" It was a wonderful idea! But of course, Evelina had to think of the others. She was already thinking of who all they could invite to the party!
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She listened to Clara as she spoke of crossing the road, shockingly paying attention to it before continuing. "Sir Gilly will be turned one!" Clearly, Evelina was excited. "Do you remembered when you turned one?" She asked, wondering what Clara's birthday was like. When they got to the door, Evelina nodded enthusiastically, taking this job very seriously. And in doing so, decided to make it a bit more original.
Knock--knockknocknock--knockknock
Grinning, she looked up at Aunty Honey, she lowered her voice to a whisper, as if what she was about to say was a very deep secret -- even though it was not. "I maked a pattern!" She said proudly, since Aunty Honey was teaching her about them.
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