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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 Jan 1, 2022 19:29:05 GMT
the heart is an arrow
IT DEMANDS AIM TO LAND TRUE Evelina loved days like these! Getting to sit outside with her governess and Gilly was one of her favorite things to do! "Oh yes please!" She exclaimed excitedly at the mention of biscuits. She took a sip of her imaginary tea, her cup having been empty a bit ago but she liked to feel like a lady so wanted to drink from it anyway!
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"Oh Sir Gilly will be so happy!" She added with a bright smile at the mention of sharing. "He loves biscuits!" She paused in dramatic thought. "He loves everything!" She giggled. "What is your favorite food Aunty Honey?" Evelina asked curiously. "Maybe we can eated that for the picnic next time." Since they were eating something Evelina and Gilly loved today, just in case Miss Honey did not like biscuits as much as them.
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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 Dec 31, 2021 17:55:39 GMT
 Tag: @pegslade never make DECISIONS OUT OF FEAR.
ONLY OUT OF SPITE. Settling down on the seat, he rested his cane so that it leaned next to him against the furniture as she commented on having another equestrian. It seemed she had misunderstood the lessons he was referring to. "No," he corrected. "Lessons with her governess," he clarified. "She is too young to ride." She was still only four and her size even smaller than that of an average child her age. Not to a concerning state but enough that he did not feel safe with her learning to ride. Not until she was older, and taller.
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It did not take long for the staff to bring in refreshments to them, setting it up on the table that was between Slade and Peggy. "I am well," he told her, answering her first question regarding how he fared. "And you?" He returned, knowing it was the polite way to respond. After all, for the sake of Evelina, he knew that it would be easiest on her and best for everyone, to remain as cordial as possible. "How have the years treated you?" He further asked, opening the subject up for her to talk about the past while and not just the today or yesterday that could be less eventful.
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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 Dec 31, 2021 17:49:39 GMT
never make DECISIONS OUT OF FEAR.
ONLY OUT OF SPITE. Her words held truth. Slade was incredibly meticulous and orderly. Everything had to have a system, everything had to have a place. Diligent and methodical in all that he did. And now . . . they had a goat. He supposed Evelina was the first exception to all his otherwise, intense organization. Children -- he had quickly learned -- required a level of flexibility. But that of course was where Clara had come in and been incredibly helpful with. The system however, was threatened to be disrupted with this creature they now adopted into their family. "Should such be the case," he began to say, turning his head to look at her as he continued to speak.
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"I shall know who to come to for explanation." An ever so slight smile touched his lips, for the words held a bit of a tease to them -- a tad bit truth though. But the latter not because he would lay blame at her. But rather, he went to her for updates and accounts of the day. Wishing to know what had happened, if there was anything of concern . . . and any milestones or behaviors that he had missed in Evelina. Turning back to look at the two playing, Slade knew that it was moments like this that warmed his heart. "She is happy." Seeing her bright smile, her jovial laughter, her affectionate actions. It was easy to tell that she was quite happy with the goat. "Everything else is secondary." Rugs, Draperies. Furniture. Anything material. It all was irrelevant compared to the happiness of his daughter.
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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 Dec 31, 2021 17:40:52 GMT
what doesn't KILL ME BETTER RUN She spoke of this being a surprise and that she had just been caught off guard . . . but something about her reaction indicated otherwise. He was unsure what, but there was something. He did not disbelieve her but there was certainly more to it. Yet, he would not pry. He trusted whatever she told him and would leave it at that. Perhaps it was just the adjustment and the changes that would inevitably come with the addition of a Lady in the household.
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"Had you believed that the day would not come?" He inquired. There was no accusation in his voice by any means. The question held genuine inquiry. He was curious as to whether she thought him to remain a widower for the rest of his days and with Evelina having no secure mother. He, certainly would not blame her for the assumption -- considering his nature. But he could not help express his wonder in what she had thought, or how she had imagined the next several years playing 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
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euphoria
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Tag me @slade
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Post by Reuben Slade on Dec 31, 2021 2:57:52 GMT
what doesn't KILL ME BETTER RUN She confirmed that she would stay for Evelina; that she had no intention of leaving until she was of age. Though, Slade knew that such ties would not be so easily severed. And that they would indeed need to find ways to remain in contact. He doubted Evelina would be so ready to let her out of her life, even at that age. Even with a mother.
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"What troubles you?" He asked, knowing there was something else. What it was, he did not know. She had told her that his decision had nothing to do with being dissatisfied with her work -- which hopefully she believed. She knew she would not be dismissed even if another woman was to step into the role of her mother. So, he wondered what was it specifically that brought her concern. Or caused her smile to falter. Or her words to be stammered. There was something, and he hoped he could bring ease to her mind should she voice it to him. He would much rather it be addressed for he had vowed long ago, that Evelina's governess would want for nothing.
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Crime Lord
"No businessman worth his salt bargains for what he can take."
Personal Text
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 Dec 31, 2021 2:23:36 GMT
what doesn't KILL ME BETTER RUN Slade watched her carefully, noticing a shift in her demeanour yet, unable to name what it was. Though he supposed it could be the threat of change. It was comfortable having her here, practically like family. For there were many, he counted as such. Found family. Family of heart and not tied by blood which, was in ways more significant for Slade. She asked what brought this on and he knew that perhaps some reassurance that it was not due to her being incapable by any means. Therefore, an honest answer was owed.
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"Evelina requires a mother," he answered. "It is a decision I have not come to lightly, but it is needed. I do not wish for her to grow up feeling the absence of a mother in her life." Clara stepped in as such a figure . . . but it was not the same. She had her own family, and would return to them at the end of the day. Evelina needed a constant around her; someone that she could freely call mother. "It is not a reflection of your capabilities," he assured her. "I should hope that you continue to remain in Evelina's life as well." For Evelina was incredibly attached to her, and the additional of a mother need not result in the dismission of Clara.
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Crime Lord
"No businessman worth his salt bargains for what he can take."
Personal Text
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 Dec 31, 2021 1:47:24 GMT
what doesn't KILL ME BETTER RUN "You are in want of a wife?" The question was not so easily answered. Though simplistically, he could say No. He was not in want of a wife. He had not been in want of a wife the first time he got married either, but circumstances had brought them together and ease of company had been found. Had Evelina not been born, and his first wife passed . . . he was unsure he would ever remarry.
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But now, his priorities had shifted. It was more about finding someone for Evelina, than himself. For the . . . physical aspect of marriage, was not one he held any interest in. The qualities he was looking for was not qualities of a wife, but of a mother. He of course, needed to get along with the woman but above all else, it was about her nature towards children; maternal qualities that would make her a perfect mother. "I am in need of a mother for Evelina," he responded, corrected, so that Clara would understand that this not about his own personal desires or need for a wife. It was need for a mother.
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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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Tag me @slade
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Post by Reuben Slade on Dec 31, 2021 1:14:44 GMT
what doesn't KILL ME BETTER RUN Slade gave a slight smile as she spoke of being fearful for the ones left to care for him. "Fortunately, will be not need to explore what could happen should he not be in our company." And Slade intended to bring his household staff as well. People who were familiar with Evelina and Gilly, as well as the management of the household. And most importantly . . . people whom Slade trusted. For that, was the absolute key: trust, loyalty, and discretion.
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He gave a small nod when she made the suggestion to research a bit about traveling with a goat. That would certainly help with Gilly's comfort and aid in accommodating him. But alas, he would leave that with Clara as she did a fine job in taking care of his daughter and her goat companion. Besides, hiding his existence in the city would not be as easy, with the walks he would require. "There is something else," he began to say, knowing that he would have to be honest with her regarding this for . . . it would eventually affect her and her charge of Evelina. "My intention of entering the Social Season, is to find a wife for Evelina." His words coming out leveled, for it was not a decision he came to lightly but now that he reached it, he would not rescind.
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Crime Lord
"No businessman worth his salt bargains for what he can take."
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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 Dec 30, 2021 4:27:41 GMT
what doesn't KILL ME BETTER RUN Slade listened as Clara asked who would throw a bigger tantrum; Sir Gilly or Evelina. "I loathe to think what Sir Gilly's tantrums would entail." Outbursts from Evelina, he could handle. But a goat who was throwing a tantrum . . . well, the limitations may be far less than that of a person. He hated to think of the destruction that would ensure should Gilberto do so. Fortunately, Slade had not yet had to discover what it involved when a goat threw a tantrum and was in such a state of upset.
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"I will speak to her about it tomorrow," he told Clara, knowing that Evelina would indeed be overjoyed by this news. Overly excited and . . . probably would be talking about continuously until they departed, and perhaps even during the journey there. "We will have to take frequent breaks." Slade knew that he could not expect Gilberto to sit in the confines of a carriage for very long. Especially when he had to relieve himself which . . . it was most fortunate they now knew the signs of. Who knew, that one could casually train a goat and familiarize oneself with its tendencies.
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Crime Lord
"No businessman worth his salt bargains for what he can take."
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Gang Leader | Father
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Tag me @slade
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Post by Reuben Slade on Dec 30, 2021 4:18:25 GMT
 Tag: @julieta NOTE: AWWWWW Pooooor Juliet!!! <3 LOVED this starter!! never make DECISIONS OUT OF FEAR.
ONLY OUT OF SPITE. Slade had concluded business late that day which meant, he was unable to see his daughter before she went to sleep. It was not terribly uncommon, but he still aimed to at least catch those few precious moments before she drifted. Now being informed by one of the household staffs that his wife had put her to bed, Slade knew better than to pay her a visit. She would wake up and grow excited and then . . . it would be a challenge to cause her to fall back asleep. After all, at least Juliet had been there to tuck her in. Things were going quite well in that regard. Evelina adored Juliet and Juliet seemed to be rather fond of her as well. While Slade knew that the relationship between that of daughter and mother was going well and stronger . . . he was not oblivious to the stagnant relationship of that between husband and wife. And still, made no efforts to alter it.
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His mannerisms unchanged when it came to physical contact. She had brought up having another child once before, and it was something he said he would consider. And, he was a man of his word. He would indeed consider it. But no answer had been given, and he had not initiated the conversation again. Entering his room, he went to where there was a bowl of water so that he could wash up before bed. Standing in front of it and a mirror, he proceeded to remove each glove from his hand . . . when he heard someone enter his room. Turning, his head he saw it was Juliet and, she was dressed in her night gown. Judging from her demeanour, and overall presence in his room . . . he could only deduce that there was urgent cause for her to be here. "Is all well?" He asked her, an underlying tone of concern though his words came out as composed as they always did.
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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 Dec 30, 2021 3:50:51 GMT
never make DECISIONS OUT OF FEAR.
ONLY OUT OF SPITE. The meeting was not meant to be intense. It had just been Slade and of course his most trusted guard and friend, Ciaran meeting with a fellow associate to discuss their business. But unfortunately, someone had other plans. It all had happened so quickly and the second that it started, Slade had been tackled to the ground as Ciaran became a human shield. Ordinarily, the action would have severely triggered Slade. The feeling of someone's weight upon him taking him back to that dreaded time where he was trapped under all those bodies; the deep trauma of it eliciting a strong, involuntary reaction. But . . . Slade trusted Ciaran. He felt, safe with him. And so despite the risk of reminder, Slade was not as triggered as he may have otherwise been, had it been someone he did had not built that level of trust around.
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This certainty, further assured when Ciaran touched his chin to inspect him. Slade did not recoil from his touch nor did his body overly react. Instead, the crime lord was able to just focus on the moment . . . the fact that he was safe, in every sense of the word. He did however still need to close his eyes for the briefest of moments to maintain his composure, Ciaran's voice filling the now silent air as Rueben opened his eyes. He reached over for his cane, his other gloved hand taking old of Ciaran's as he accepted his aid and rose to his feet. Leaning on his cane, Rueben first looked at Ciaran, to make sure he was uninjured; that no bullet had struck him or grazed him.
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Certain that he was fine, he shifted his attention to their surroundings. Every single person was dead. They, were surely meant to be too. "We must find out who informed out enemies of this meeting." There was a traitor among their midst; of one of their rival's informants. Looking back at Ciaran, the crime lord's expression stoic yet holding sincerity in his words. "Thank you." Because he would not take that for granted. "We must go." For as Ciaran said, they could not stay here.
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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 Dec 29, 2021 23:13:44 GMT
 Tag: @greggyb never make DECISIONS OUT OF FEAR.
ONLY OUT OF SPITE. random line generator selected
"How long have you been standing there?"
This was perhaps the first time in the year that they had Gilberto -- so technically the goat's entire life -- that he would be separated from Evelina. Had Slade been left with another choice, he would have kept them together. But with Rueben and only one of his guards with Evelina, and the fact that she was being looked after by his mother . . . he could not leave Gilberto. Slade was the one who would take him out for a walk and to the park, not wanting Evelina to be exposed to the ton. So in his absence, it made it impossible. Therefore, Gilberto was with him. But . . . this damned goat. He was excited about the open space and decided to run into the thick garden.
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Many of the guests were inside at this late hour, socializing amongst each other which was why Slade was out here. It was best to take him outside when there was no one else present -- as he presumed. For otherwise, the kid would create far too great a ruckus. He followed Gilberto as the creature jumped every step in excitement, his hooves flailing about. Slade just shook his head as the thrill that Gilly was experiencing, ensuring to keep a watchful eye on him. "Best exert all your energy out here," he instructed, as if the goat could even understand him.
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"For when you go back inside, you must be calm." Considering they were invited guests of the Bridgertons. Despite him having a leash for the animal, Slade could not quite bring himself to put it on him without a fair excuse. Taking him for a walk at the park -- yes indeed for he had learned his lesson when Gilberto was all over one of the noblewoman. But here, in the open space with no one around . . . there was no need for it. Or so, Slade thought . . . for he heard a sound that prompted him to turn, seeing a young boy standing there. "How long have you been standing there?" He asked, knowing that it could indeed be odd to some, to see a gentleman talking to their pet goat.
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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 Dec 29, 2021 22:51:52 GMT
Tag: @zainayadav Note: better gif coming soon! never make DECISIONS OUT OF FEAR.
ONLY OUT OF SPITE. random number generator selected:
41. My muse shows up on your muse’s doorstep after several months of being missing, with no memory of the past few years.
Slade finally felt a sense of familiarity: his estate. He had spent the last several months in the care of an elderly couple who took him in and nursed him back to health. The day they had met, he had been found beaten and bruised, left for dead. When he'd met them . . . his memory had been hazy, to say the least. He could not recall what had brought him there, the faces of those who had caused him to be on the brink of death . . . nor the several days prior. Days, that he had learned turned into years. He had no memory of the last few years. It was incredibly unsettling for the Crime Lord, but his condition had been far too weak to object to their assistance. He had been unconscious for several days, and when he did awake, his undamaged leg was broken, his ribs were cracked, and his shoulder had been dislocated. The rest of his body . . . had been covered with bruises and blood. So he was forced to remain with them, being taken care of, nurtured and eventually . . . recovered. Well enough to at least move on his own. They crafted a new cane for him, which Rueben could not deny his appreciation of. He made a mental note to one day return to this family and repay them for this debt.
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When the day came to journey to his estate, Rueben was relieved to have some semblance of recognition. The travel was long and far, but it was worth it as he stood outside his estate, taking a slow breath before entering. He hated to be so . . . uncertain. He knew not of his late wife who had passed, nor the daughter that came out of the marriage. His earliest memory was within the first few years of his empire. Which, he knew his disappearance would have caused quite an uproar these past few years. Surely, not that much had changed. So when he approached the door, he saw someone that was at least somewhat familiar to him as well and knew he could get proper answers and updates from her. "Zaina Yadav," he said, her full name coming out of her lips because . . . there was comfort in finally seeing a familiar face. Finally seeing someone he knew and trusted. Finally . . . seeing someone after so long.
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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 Dec 29, 2021 19:43:10 GMT
Tag: @pegslade never make DECISIONS OUT OF FEAR.
ONLY OUT OF SPITE. Engaging in the Social Season certainly was, different. Slade had never particularly held any desire to be among the extravagant events and social events that the season entailed. Though now, it was not desire that brought him here as much as it was necessity. He needed to find his daughter a mother, and being here was the most promising way to do that. With the years that had passed since his first wife's death, it was proper time to find another before Evelina grew up, feeling the absence of a mother in her life.
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He may have close friends and others to play with . . . but it was most certainly not the same. But coming back here for the extended period of time, also brought with him certain familial obligations. Once again, not so much for himself, but for the sake of his daughter. He knew she enjoyed spending time with her family and he would not deprive them of that. But nor did it mean he trusted them with her just yet. Discretion was of the utmost importance, for he did not want others to hold secure knowledge that he had a daughter. It would endanger her as it once had when she was just a baby. He would not place her at such risk again. And so, to accommodate his sister's desire to see her, he invited her to his estate so that she may spend time with Evelina, in a secure and safe environment.
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Slade was sitting in his study when one of his house staff informed him that his sister had arrived. Slade gave a short nod, reaching for his cane and using it's support to push him to a stand. Making his way through the hall and entering the drawing room to where she had been escorted. "Peggy," he greeted in a level tone, making his way over to the seat across from where she sat, a table between them with significant space in between. "She is just concluding her lessons for the day," he explained as to why his daughter was not currently with him, before giving a small nod to the staff to prepare some tea and snacks.
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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 Dec 29, 2021 19:28:54 GMT
never make DECISIONS OUT OF FEAR.
ONLY OUT OF SPITE. Slade kept his gaze on Evelina and Sir Gilly as they played in the grass, while Clara continued with her own inquiry. Though he was not looking at her, he could see her looking at him in his peripheral vision, a light tease in her voice. "One has," he confirmed. But he certainly had not told Evelina in a way to . . . dissuade the idea of keeping him.
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He had not told her to say no. He had merely . . . reminded her -- perhaps that was as best put as it could be. The moment he could see how attached she was to him, was the moment he knew he could not deny her of a goat -- of all things. "One is also willing to increase ones wages for the additional care that be required due to his permanent stay." Words that held truth, that he was willing to pay extra for the added responsibility of a kid. And also, his words telling what she may have already known: that Gilberto the Goat was here to stay.
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