'Are you a gambling man?'

“Hello I’m Dory. You are so squishy and cute. Aren’t you just the sweetest most wonderful doggo to walk this earth? Yes you are.” Leaning down to more of the dog’s level while planting a soft kiss on his forehead to solidify his good-boyness. 

What an entirely different world she had entered. It was like nothing she had ever seen before with all the lights and the way the floor moved into so many different places. At her gym there was just a room for swimming and a room for weights. Not much else was needed, but here there was so many possibilities everywhere the eye could see. It was all so overwhelming and strange. The way the man spoke about it too seemed to match the energy of the place. Looking up at him while still keeping close to Bruno she replied “Oh dear, I’m not one to normally bet my seashells on anything. Unless I’m betting on myself. I’m really good at swimming.” She said as if she would go right now and race somebody this instant. “No I think I’m lost actually. I’m kinda glad I did lose my path though. This place is a splash! Did you build it yourself?” 

The dog instantly melts into her touch, tail wagging enthusiastically as he pushes his head towards her. Bruno was a dog who was strictly trained to follow commands. He was skilled to the level of a service animal when it came to stopping threats to his owner- which would arise more often than one may assume. Yet that pup-like nature possessed by all domestic canines was shining through in this moment.

“Well, the only thing related to swimming here would be a game of Fish, I’m afraid.” He muses idly. He allows the dog to push itself towards her for a few more moments before snapping his fingers, to which Bruno instantly returns to his side. Personal image was something Oz considered of great importance. Being regarded in such a manner that deterred swindlers from his establishment was always a consideration, and Bruno represented a part of his image. He couldn’t have the dog being seen so enthusiastic for affection too openly. If the wrong person got a note of this they may lure the canine off, with intentions best not considered. Anyone, human or animal, associated with Oz Borror became open to certain risks, the man knew this too well.

“Build may be the wrong word. Did I lay the foundations brick by brick? No. However, I did make this place the fine establishment that it currently is.” A casino had existed in this very spot before Oz had came into ownership, but it had certainly never been as popular as it currently was. He slowly follows the girl as she begins to examine things, feeling a strange responsibility to not let her wander off alone.

“Tell me miss Dory, were you headed home by any chance? I’m sure I can arrange a taxi. But while you’re here why not try your hand? Perhaps it isn’t a coincidence you ended up here tonight. I’m not a strong believer off fate…but who isn’t to say a big win is in your deck tonight.”

Ella wondered if what she was doing was truly kind. “It just seemed like the right and safest thing to do.” She didn’t want people to bump into her because they were careless and in need of a room. And she didn’t need a fancy room, though later she’d find out that James already got her a theme room because no way in heavens would that man allow a pregnant woman sleep in one of the lesser rooms. 

She really missed Hayden in moments like this, not that she minded Oz his company. She just felt safer when Hayden was around. But the man always had its own plans, and it left Ella wondering what he was up to. She never asked him, how could she it wasn’t any of her business and that was something Ella did. She didn’t meddle in the business of others. Perhaps that is why she somewhat avoided trouble, at least since she left her home. 

Thinking about her home, she wondered how long it would take before she would rightfully reclaim the house. Her lawyer had asked her to be patient but the waiting was tormenting, the longer she waited she felt her stepmother could think of yet another vile plan to ruin her life. 

“I’m sure there will be no need for that. I used to sleep in an attic on a bed without a matress so whatever room I’m being offered will certainly be better than I’ve had before.” She didn’t know why she let it slip, perhaps because she felt a similar comfort with Oz as she felt with Hayden. 

“I see, I really am looking forward to my daughter’s arrival. I was super happy when I learned it would be a girl, if only Edmund could have been there as well.” Her eyes glazed and she quickly wiped away any potential chance of tears. She chuckled at the troublemaker remark, she wasn’t sure how Dandelion would be personality wise but she looked forward to finding out about it. “The man was Edmund Williams, he passed away last month after being shot in combat. He was in the army.”

@oz-borror·

“I’m sorry to hear that, truly.” The male’sexpression had shifted at the revelation of her lover’s passing. It was somethinghe could empathise with, far too closely than he would desire. Perhaps it wouldhave comforted Ella to know he also knew the loss of a partner, but it was a factthat was not to cross Oz’s lips. Instead, he could only offer her his sympathy,something she had likely received from others so many times that it had lostits worth.

The male’s eyes glaze over the people who run by them,allowing a silence to settle over the pair for a moment. In their briefinteraction he had learnt so much about Ella, and yet he felt he had onlyskimmed the surface. She was certainly an intriguing little character.

Suddenly his phone begins to vibrate in his pocket. He pullsit out and turns his head to the other direction, speaking to an unknownindividual in a tone that made the conversation impossible for Ella to follow.After a few seconds he slips it back into his pocket, turning to Ella andsmiling.

“Apologies, a call from a business partner ofmine. It seems I won’t be able to spend as much time in pleasant company as Iwould like.” He rises from the seat, nodding to Ella as he does so.

“It was a joy to meet you Ella darlin’, something tellsme that we’ll be doing again real soon. And if I may just say..”

“Or potato chips,” Tiana adds helpfully. “Well, you’re a simple man, but I agree. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve seen some pretty cool things come out of new, trendy food, but I’m more of a classic myself. My papa taught me how to cook,” she said in way of explanation, but didn’t want to really touch on the subject further. “Anyways, give me some fries and I’d be a happy camper!” Tiana remarked turning back to her drink in hand. 

She didn’t really mind that Oz seemed to catch everyone’s attention. It was better that way, because then they weren’t looking at her. Or, at least, paying as much attention to her. She took another sip of her drink with a sigh, not even realizing that Oz was studying her. After all, there wasn’t anything very interesting about her, other than her dreams.

“Huh?” Tiana was confused as he started speaking again, but her brain quickly caught up. “Oh, no, you’re fine. Just don’t ask me for my room key and we’ll get along just fine/” Tiana smiled tersely at Oz, but it quickly relaxed into something more inviting. “Besides, we’re all stuck together. We should get along. Who knows how long this outage will go on. Hopefully, not too long or I’ll go insane. I can only twiddle my thumbs for so long.”

-----

“I would never dream of such a thing,” The other retorts, a tone of sincerity to his words, “And if any man here does- just send him in the direction of Oz Borror. I’ll show them how many uses a room key can have.” Despite the severity of his words the male’s face remains pleasant. Oz possessed many dubious qualities, but he held a respect for women that might surprise those to know him. Perhaps it came from the influence of his late wife, who to this day the male still carried around a picture of in his pocket, faded by the years. She had been his world- the details revolving around her death were known by few, it was a hazy event that somehow escaped the focus of tabloids. As the years passed and the town’s numbers had grown, this relationship had faded into Oz’s past so that in the present, very few actually knew he had ever been married. He would prefer to keep it that way, it was a topic he wouldn’t speak of, even with his own kids.

“I get that. I’m a man of action, sitting around watching the world go by has never sat well with me. If the mayor doesn’t get this sorted by morning, I’ll climb up the utility poles and fix it myself.” He chuckles softly, raising his glass to take another sip. Even if the outage hadn’t affected the casino’s electricity, it had certainly affected his guest numbers. This was something he didn’t want to see dragged out. With his drink finished he holds the empty glass up to the bartender, who nods and moves over to refill it. As this occurs, he glances to the other once more.

“I don’t believe we’ve had the pleasure of meeting before. As I mentioned, you can call me Oz.” He holds out a hand for her to shake, Oz had always placed great importance on introductions. It seemed ridiculous to sit and have a conversation with an individual when you didn’t even know their name. “And who might you be doll?”

Of course, her boss had to find her fighting with the machine. Like this couldn’t get anymore embarrassing. Shock tried not to roll her eyes at his scolding and tried not to pout. Which she was honestly failing to do. She’d heard him scold her on her eating habits countless times before. Her diet was far from healthy but it was cheap which meant more money in case of emergencies. While she hated to be scolded like a child, which perhaps her reaction was reminiscent of one, she was a little happy to see the only father figure she held in her life. If it was anyone else she’d have told them exactly where they could stick their “fake” concern. But she didn’t talk back to Oz or at least she hadn’t done so in years. Not to mention some part of her wanted to believe his concern over her health was genuine. After all he’d let her along with her brothers stay with him for almost thirteen years now and hadn’t left them yet. He was a rare consistency to their lives which for her translated that he must have have cared for them. Her pout faltered turning to a smile when he threw his arm around her. She was used to his lack of personal space. At his question she snickered

“Oh yeah, totally. You know me always blowing through my money.” Her voice was laced with sarcasm and she makes a smoking gesture. The truth was she was saving the money he’d given her, she’d been saving her money like that for years. Always squirreled away in a box hidden in her old tree house. Always being saved for emergencies just like this one. The money he’d given her for the job in question was currently being used for the room she’d gotten for her brothers and her. She wasn’t sure how long they would be staying at the hotel. So she wanted to make sure she had enough money to keep them from getting kicked out to the cold. At least until the electricity was back on in town. Which meant no ‘extra’ spending. “I don’t see the need to waste my money at some bougie restaurant that puts more emphasis on atmosphere then the actual food. When I can spend way less money on food right here. That is if I can get this machine to fucking work.” With that she gives a sharp kick to the vending machine the metal of her steel toed boot clanging against the metal bottom of the machine.

-----

Oz was certainly not the ideal role model, on the contrary, many would argue he was a negative influence on the trio he had taken in. Encouraging their bad habits and rebellious natures, the unholy trinity had certainly not been nurtured into ‘respectable’ citizens by normal standards. You certainly wouldn’t be seeing them going to get an office job and buy a house with a thatched roof. However, Oz had provided them with something which, to Lock, Shock and Barrel, was likely far more significant. A sense of belonging. He had come to view the trio as his own flesh and blood, willing to show them an affection no other would receive. The mutual respect they held for one another had resulted in their odd little family forming bonds that were virtually unbreakable. Of course, they would still have their rows, and at times the ‘boss’ would feel it necessary to scold his henchmen for not completing a task to direct orders. Yet the fact this occurred and the trio still stood working for him today showed they were given the grace of leniency.

He watches her let out her rage on the machine with amusement, Shock had always been the feistiest of the three. He takes a step back to lean his shoulder against the side of the wall, hands sliding into his pockets in a casual manner. “Well, as long as you’re eating. Trying to change your habits is like telling a fish not to swim. But do me a favour and try to not have a heart attack for the time being, I still have a lot of use for you.” He smirks coyly, seeing the subtle annoyance in the other’s gaze. He knew Shock hated to be scolded- yet that only made him want to do it more.

He casts a sideward glance down the hallway, ensuring they are completely alone. This wasn’t exactly the ideal place to have a discussion with the other- but they had limited choices with the power outage. He looks back to her, a brow arching.

Anna has to admit that the bar didn’t even crossed her mind, she was always one to prefer a good old hot chocolate over anything involving alcohol. “Is a shame is too cold to use the pool.” Unlike the bar the pool sounded way more fun, lay down by the sun, play in the water with her friends, she heard they even had a bar inside the pool whith would make the best of both worlds and please almost everyone, unlike her sister that was very good on the ice Anna felt more at home when the water was nice and warm.

She smiled at his words. “Being in the hotel with everyone else is way more fun than staying home alone, is the perfect opportunity to meet new people and I’m glad to know you’re not missing out.” She knew a few people liked to stay alone in their homes but for Anna that just sounded sad so she was glad he was there.

She reached out to his hand and gave a nice shake. “Is lovely to meet you Oz, I’m Anna. Would you mind if i join you on your way to the bar?” she asked

-----

“I’ve been in a hot tub in a snowstorm and can tell you it’s a lot more enjoyable than you’d think. It’s the getting out that puts a chill through your soul. But you can’t stay in forever- unless you like looking like a prune.”

His intentions for being here hadn’t been solely to meet new people, by this point Oz knew virtually everyone there was in Redwood. Another reason had been to see if any information would be provided on the black out. As of the current the mayor had announced it was completely normal and hence no panic should be raised…but that didn’t sit well with Oz. Something seemed off, and he just couldn’t put his finger on it. This only made the man more determined to get to the bottom if it- if there was one thing Oz loathed it was not being in the know.

“Anna, a delightful name for an equally delightful young lady. And I would love nothing more than for you to accompany me, it’s easy to get lost in the halls in this place. You’d think they’d stick a few pictures up to let us know the difference in ‘em.”

He begins to slowly stride down the hall with Anna by his side. It was quiet up here, but when they got to the lower floor they would meet the many people still fighting for a room.

Winnie wasn’t sure why he was sitting in a bar on a stool. He’d never much had a taste for the stuff. Admittedly, he was more of a flavored water sort of person or perhaps if he were feeling dangerous, he would drink a carbonated beverage. His favorite nighttime drink had to be a nice cup of tea with some honey in it which soothed his throat after a long day of using it.

 It was sometimes difficult to get children to listen without using his more raised tone of voice. Never shouting. He didn’t like to shout at people. It wasn’t something that he figured into his day. He had other co-workers for that sort of thing.

He heard another voice and looked over at the man for a moment. Skip the sushi? Ew. Did people actually order that. “Honey does not go with sushi.” He replied, softly. And honey was Winnie’s favorite thing. “But it does go well with a nice piece or two of toast.” 

When someone came to help him, he ordered a water with lemon, and looked around for a few moments before looking back to the man nearby. “Are you waiting for someone or a room? I know it is a bit–how would you put it? I suppose one would say disorderly here at the moment.”

-----

“No…it definitely does not.” There is an evident amusement to the male’s tone. Winnie’s was a response he had not anticipated. Oz liked to play little games with himself, which often entailed trying to see how quickly he could read a person and hence anticipate their actions. It all came as part of the package of being a seasoned poker player. Winnie’s reply, mannerisms and menu order had already told Oz a significant deal. “Although, I’ll be honest with you, I’m more of a marmalade man when it comes to my toast.”

It didn’t surprise Oz that they hadn’t met before, despite him knowing the majority of Redwood’s citizens- and those he didn’t he would often have information on provided by his Unholy Trinity. Winnie seemed the type that would rather be strung up by the legs than go into the Snake Eyes Casino, especially if he knew all that went on in there. So, it seemed this would be their first time becoming acquainted. Oz could come off as extremely intimidating to others, yet there was also a charisma present that drew people to him. Perhaps it was the constant smiling or jokes, either way, it was wise for people interacting with the casino owner to try and stay on his good side. The mean side of Oz Borror was something nobody wanted to see.

He raises his glass to his lips to take a small sip of the liquid, then lowering it to the table with a slow nod. “Disorderly…yea, that’s one way of putting it. People are acting as nutty as a snickers bar over a little outage. And between you and me..” He leans a little closer to the other, “I don’t need to be here. My property has its own electric generators. But I’m a real people person, so where the crowd goes, I’ll be there~” He leans back again, sending Winnie a quick wink. He wasn’t lying. With everyone preoccupied worrying about the outage, there had been empty seats in the casino tonight. With no customers around he had came seeking entertainment, and the crowds of frantic guests were certainly supplying.

“And what about you, my honey loving friend? Here for a room?”

The streets were paved with a sort of silver light on this sweet winter night. On her way home from a late night class teaching others how to swim she began to lose her way. Even though there were many years of reinforcement to help her memory it still became difficult at times. No matter what she did the memory loss was still there after all these years. Knowing she was safe in the place that had basically raised her there was no need for panic. Everyone knew who she was and surely if she asked nicely they would direct her to her home. Inspecting each face as they walked by to see if they could be bothered to listen to her. But each one seemed to be lost in their phones. Maybe they were buying gifts online for their loved ones she thought. 

After a little while she began to get goose bumps, they felt like frozen bubbles up and down her arms. Wishing to find someone soon her eyes pulled her to bright lights across the way. They seemed so enchanting like a light in the middle of the deep dark ocean coming to rescue her. 

But as soon as she walked in she forgot all about how she was lost. Instead she spotted the canine and her eyes were fixed. “Hey umm–hi there!” Reaching out to Oz. “Is that your puppy?” A smile brighting when thinking about how soft it would be stroke her fingers through their cuddley puppy fur. Hoping that the man before her would be the one to ask permission if she could pet them. 

-----

When the girl reaches her hand out towards the dog its tail begins wagging enthusiastically; however, it stays seated by its owner. Bruno was a German shepherd and he had been meticulously trained to follow commands. They could be a dangerous breed if not trained, their sheer body weight alone could knock a person over. Oz had always been a big dog lover. He’d had an animal by his side his entire life, to be without one would feel like loosing an arm. He smiles widely when the woman enters, she certainly wasn’t the usual type to walk through his doors, but any customer was welcomed. Money didn’t discriminate after all.

“It is indeed, darlin’.” He responds, walking towards her with a pleasant smile. “His name is Bruno, don’t let his appearance fool you, he’s a big softie.” On most nights Oz didn’t bring Bruno down into the main area of the casino as it could be hard to keep an eye on him when dealing with customers. But as the dog had been locked inside all day whilst Oz was out meeting ‘business’ partners, the male had felt they deserved some time out. There was no need for customers to fear the animal, not once had he attacked anyone without an order to.

“You can give him a stroke, he doesn’t bite.”

Oz had never directly spoken to Dory, but he was aware of who she was. Most people in town were, the girl with persistent memory loss after a tragic accident. It was hard to not feel sympathy for her. As the other approaches to rub Bruno, Oz observes her in a manner of mere curiosity. Did she mean to come here or was she lost? Oz may be a swindler, but he wasn’t so low as to deceive a woman with amnesia. His head tilts to the side, that pleasant smile not fading.

“So how can I help you doll? Are you here to roll a few dice? Stack some cards? Or maybe slot machines are more your style? We have it all, just name your game.”

Nani shouldn’t have admitted it so readily, but the sudden chaos of the snow storm and the power outage brought with it a breath of relief. She had been run off her feet since the age of eighteen, and life seemed to keep barrelling on without checking to see if she could keep up. See, Nani looked after her sister Lilo following the death of their parents, but now that Lilo was eighteen it hadn’t gotten any easier. On top of the worry for her family, she took over the running of the local dance studio a few years ago, and that was a whole other kettle of fish.

Nani was always tired, and finally getting a rest in the hotel, despite the mess it caused for everyone else, was like Christmas come early. She made her way to the bar, just for somewhere to sit that wasn’t in the same room as her sister and her friends. Nani plonked her elbows on the bar.

“D’you get hit with a bad batch?” Nani asked, throwing Oz a sympathetic grimace at the comment.

-----

The male grins at her comment, a single chuckle passing through his lips as he shakes his head. “Luckily no- but I’ve seen that chef rummaging through the bins behind the butchers for old fish scraps, it can’t be a coincidence that there’s no sign around  here claiming the fish is ‘fresh’.”

What an unsettling statement. Perhaps even more unsettling was that, being a practiced poker player, it was impossible to determine when Oz was joking or speaking in seriousness. Either way, perhaps best Nani stuck to some bar peanuts.

Whilst the rest of the towns people were at the hotel to seek a room, Oz had no such purpose. His casino was one of the few establishments to have its own private generators, which luckily hadn’t been hit by the power shortage. However, the sudden panic to hit the town had left his establishment with dwindling customers on this night, hence, he had decided to come and people watch. So far, he had already experienced an abundance of entertainment, the most memorable perhaps being two men falling into a fist fight over who had gotten to the water dispenser first. Oh yes, tensions were certainly high amongst the people of Redwood tonight. Yet, the woman to sit beside him seemed more so tired than anything else.

“It’s funny, I have to say I neve thought one little power outage would send the towns people into such a frenzy. I saw a guy try to sell his watch to a stranger in exchange for his room key a few moments ago, if they’d just set their butts down and stop running around like headless chickens- it would all run a little smoother.”

Sally had found herself swept up in the same chaos as everyone else. However, she seemed to be taking it a lot better than most. She was able to get a room fairly quickly, which she attributed to the fact of the elderly man she had rolled in with her. With her father safely upstairs and asleep, she’d made her way back to the lobby and coincidentally the bar. She wasn’t quite sure when Oz had shown up, frankly if she knew he was going to be down here, Sally would have stayed in her room. 

Sipping at her own drink, she’d been looking over the food menu when he advised against the sushi. “I’ve had it from here before, it’s not terrible. Certainly not the best, but its food.” Sally stated confidently, not lifting her gaze from her reading. 

-----

The other lets out a scoff at her remark, raising his glass and taking a sip. Oz was a man that was difficult to irk- at times it seemed the unsettling smile that resided on his lips never extinguished. Yet, there was one individual who seemed to know how to push the casino owner’s buttons, and she had just sat down beside him.

Sally was perhaps the only individual in town who had the courage to stand up to Oz. Be it due to strength or an ignorance of just how powerful he was, it was clear this was one individual Oz would struggle to pull the strings of. He would continue to try none the less. Sally was the pathway to one Oz would gladly see ruined, Jack.

“Well with logic like that, be my guest. But don’t say I didn’t do my duty and warn you.”

He stays silent for a moment, not bothering to hide his clear observing of the other. His fingers drum gently off of the counter of the bar table, a soft grin on his lips. After a moment his head tilts, he clearly didn’t intend to let her sit in peace. Perhaps the creepiest thing about Oz was how much knowledge he seemed to possess about the lives of individuals in the town.

“Oh please your flattery is making me blush.” And it wasn’t a lie. Ella wasn’t used to being complimented, despite her overly kindness. Which is why she embraced the compliment wholeheartedly. Oz certainly was a charming fellow even if it was all for show, Ella certainly liked that demeanor on him. That charming smile that made her feel welcomed really did nice things to her. It reminded her of Hayden, though that man was rare to smile. She pictured him smiling when he was with Persephone though, her motherly figure was like Hayden’s Kryptonite. Everyone who saw the two together knew that.  “Well aren’t you charming like always.” Ella giggled like a blushing maiden. 

Ella was dressed in one of her own creations, it was one of those things that she still could do while being pregnant that she enjoyed. She even hanged some of the creations in her own boutique. The dress was long which she enjoyed, with a flowery patern on white fabric. It was easier to move in than pants even though the weather was getting a lot colder. She didn’t intented to play but it had been a while since she played her card games. It had been since her father died, though she had been more than tempted to invite the Patterson brothers for a game but alas the boys rarily had time. 

“And it is nice to see you too Oz.” Ella said with a wide grin, pleased that she could use the restroom here cause she really needed to go rather quickly. “Luckily I’m not due for another two months, but thank you for the offer.” She laughed at his witty joke. She wasn’t aware what the usual activities were. Ella was rather oblivious to those things, as if they magically turned invisible in front of her eyes. She was simply blind to it. And even if she realized, Ella wouldn’t be someone to tell them to stop. Though she’d worry for those junkies and hope that they’d go on a more stable path. 

“I’m hoping to see you when I return, which I promise won’t take long.” She followed the employee and went to do her business. The place looked nice even for a casino. She could feel a pang of pride knowing Oz took good care of his esteblishment. When she was done she followed the way back, looking for the man. It took her a moment to see him again.

“Well you have my gratitute, being pregnant gave me a weak bladder so it seems.” She teasingly joked. “I must say I’m rather impressed with this place. You do a great job.”

-----

“That’s what I’m here for.” Oz muses, a hand reaching upward to sleek back his hair. He enjoyed complimenting others; it was something that came as second nature. This was one of the male’s more appealing personality traits; however, he would be just as quick to belittle or criticise when the mood struck. Not that Ella would be likely to experience much of this, in ways she reminded him of his own daughter, Shock, automatically creating a soft spot that should exclude her from facing his nasty side.

As she left to attend her call of nature, Oz strolled further into the casino to give a few orders to employees. There had been suspicions of counting cards taking place over the past few weeks by a male who appeared frequently, all eyes were on orders to be alert, and let the boss know if he made an appearance. Oz took great pride in his casino- and whilst he may swindle another without blinking an eye, any to try cheat him would face the consequences. This reputation was vital for a casino owner to serve as deterrence, Ella would be surprised how many would try and cheat their way to a few bucks if they thought they’d get away with it.

When the girl returns, Oz seems to virtually swell up with pride at her compliment, standing a little straighter as he nods. “You’re too kind to me Ella, really. But I suppose you aren’t wrong.” He chuckles softly, before linking his arm with the hers and beginning to guide her down through the hallway. The place was already filling up with guests, grouping in the main rooms that stretched down each side of them. “This place is my little kingdom. I’ve put years of my blood, sweat and tears into keeping it as fine as it is. Make no mistake, there have been a few times I thought I might have to shut the doors for good…but every time I do, a little bit of luck comes my way.” A vague statement which could have many different meanings, perhaps best to not know who had helped keep this place thriving.

The pair continue to walk down the hallway until they near the end, where a set of large, ornate doors stand. A wooden snake coiled around the top, with eyes of ruby red that seemed to pierce into the very soul of whoever looked at them. This was a room that was preserved for Oz’s more ‘private’ clients. It was a place Ella would be kept well away from.

He whisks her into a room at the left which is filled with a wide array of gambling machines and poker tables. His walking slows down as they pass them, his head tilting to glance to the other. A single brow arches in a manner of curiosity.

“Tell me, darlin’, do you play?”

Tiana needed something stronger than coffee or tea. Luckily, the hotel had a bar, a sushi bar…? In the north? The important part was that there was a bar in the hotel and she could get a drink. Thankfully, it didn’t seem to crowded yet as people were still in a mad dash to get rooms and settle into them before night fell.

With a sigh, Tiana hopped onto an open barstool. Usually she was the one taking orders, so it was almost strange to be on this side of the house. At the comment from her neighbor, Tiana scrunched her nose at the word sushi. “I shall heed you advice. Sushi is the last thing I want when it’s snowing outside. Or when it’s being served at a hotel bar.” She chuckled before turning to the bartender. “Wild Turkey on the rocks please,” she ordered against her better judgement. She really should have gone with whatever the well option was, but after the day she had, Tiana wanted to treat herself to a nice bourbon. The bartender carded her and then handed over the drink.

“Why sushi? There’s nothing wrong with bar food sometimes. Or a good soup. Like gumbo. That’d be perfect right now.”

------

“I could not agree more.” The male retorts, an amused smile on his lips as he sets his glass back down on the bar. “Whatever happened to the days of a bowl of peanuts? Call me a simple man- but I don’t care much for whatever food is trendy, if something isn’t broke, don’t fix it. And bars had their selections of snacks down to perfection.”

The bar tender casts an awkward look Oz’s way, he had never been one to keep his voice lowered. Besides, the casino owner didn’t much care if they heard his opinions. Maybe it would teach them to ditch the sushi and go back to what they know. He shifts his position to rest an arm on the bar table, his head faced towards the other. He takes a moment to study her appearance, trying to recollect if they had met and if not- if his Unholy Trinity had ever provided information on a similar appearing woman. Oz had eyes and ears stretched across the town, feeding him with news of the biggest events, scandals and figures. It helped him to always stay in the know, which was important for an individual in his…less public line of work.

Ella chuckled at the man’s remark, she shook her head a little if only to contain the smile on her lips. She wasn’t aware who Flora, Fawn and Maria were. But they probably were sweethearts, Ella rarily thought bad of a person. If anything her stepmother was the only exception she made to that rule. Ella had always been physical in the way she thanked people. She wanted to have her gratitude truly reach the other instead of saying a simple thank you. After all this man took time out of his shedule to return something that belonged to her. 

“I certainly agree with that.” Though Ella would be kindhearted to outsiders as well. Not that she had ever met one, it seemed like everyone she knew belonged to this town. She never even questioned it. Ella had enough reason to be here though, this was the place she grew up in. Where her family’s home was. Surely it was where she belonged. 

She smiled at the kindness of the other, helping her sit down. It wasn’t as easy with how far she was due. Seven months of a strong girl. Dandelion. Normally she would decide that name with Edmund but alas the boy would never be able to hold his babygirl in his arms. She could feel a little something stuck in her throat as she was reminded of him. But for the sake of her child she decided to be a strong woman, she was a business owner of her own boutique now. She would be able to take care of her little one herself. Perhaps it would be time to finally start working on that children’s clothing line she always dreamed off. 

She nodded. “Yes, my family is here as well considering there was no power in their home. The generator was too small to make dinner so we decided to stay here. I’m not sure if Hayden is here though. I haven’t seen him yet?” Which worried her slightly but the doctor had told her to worry less since it wasn’t too great for the baby. Stress for the momma meant stress for the little one and she didn’t want to put Dandelion through that. “I decided to wait for last to give them a break but it seems not everyone had the same idea.” She sighed lightly.

“It’s nice to meet you Oz Borror, my name is Ella. Ella Fontaine.”

-----

Oz, like Ella, had lived in this town his entire life. It hadn’t been his plan, oh no. After college he had intended to leave this place behind, start a new life in a big city- maybe Vegas or Chicago. But, Redwood seemed to have a way of keeping individuals who were reared here permanently bound to it’s roots. After winning the casino Oz had a reason to stay. Being a Casino owner hadn’t exactly been in his cards (pardon the pun), and yet…once the place was in his possession, it just felt right. It were almost as if Lady Fate herself had been playing a part within his winning that night. Of course, the baggage to come attached to the Casino had been somewhat startling. But Oz was a man who never turned down a challenge, even if the consequences were potentially lethal.

At the mention of Hayden Oz’s smile seems to shift, from something sweet to something devilish, but the man is soon nodding his head as he leans back on the seat once more. He rests one arm on the side of his chair, fingers drumming against it in a little rhythm. “Well, you’re awful kind letting everyone get their rooms before you.” He glances to the side as if checking for prying eyes, then looking back to the other.

“Just between you and me, once your family get here, I’m sure I can pull a few strings and make sure you get one of the best suites. I just wouldn’t be able to sleep soundly knowing I left a woman and her babe without a helping hand.”

The town was in temporary chaos. Power outages, strange flashes in the sky, and now every citizen being squished into the limited hotels that Redwood had to offer. How had these few buildings managed to maintain electricity you ask? Why, through the kindness of those who had private generators, just like Oz Borror.

‘Kindness’ wasn’t exactly the correct word. His agreement to assist hadn’t been given for free to the mayor. On no. With Oz, there was always a price.

As people ran around the hotel reception, pushing and yelling for rooms in which they could place their head on a pillow and forget this horrible ordeal, Oz sat in the room just to the left, a snug little bar the hotel provided which served both spirits and sushi, what a weird place. Clearly the male didn’t have a necessary reason for being here, his home had not suffered the outage. Yet, here he sat, people watching and humming an old tune as he cupped a glass of bourbon. His humming would only cease when a new face sits on the stool directly beside him.

He looks to them, raising his glass to take a sip.

“A word of advice, skip the sushi.”

Ella certainly didn’t have any business in here, but she was fatigued from walking all day, that and she really needed to use the restroom. At times like this she wished she still had Edmund at her side, it was sad to buy stuff for your future child alone. Normally Ella wouldn’t be seen near this place, not that she didn’t know anything about gambling. Card games were pretty much her strong suit even if no one really expected it from her. And she seemed to have this thing called beginners luck everywhere she went, it was why she always was stared at in carnivals when she went home with a big price. 

“Excuse me.” She said politely, a bit startled with how the staff was behaving. So classy and almost perfect to the key it made her wonder how hard they had to work. But that was just herself thinking of her past experience in the Fontaine household. She says Fontaine cause it never truly belonged to the Termaine family, they just claimed it as such. As the widow of Ella’s father she felt the house belonged to her no matter if Ella was the true owner. The staff got fired and all the work belonged to Ella from that day on. 

“Can I borrow your bathroom, I promise I won’t give birth in it.” She said as a playful joke, her optimism at least wasn’t broken.

-----

Oz’s eyes flick to the side momentarily, a tight-lipped grin present. His employees were well aware that the boss played his little betting game every night. And he had lost on this occasion. Pregnant widow had most certainly not been his guess. However, the bitterness of losing was not to last long, for the casino owner instantly recognised who she was.

“I’d know that pretty face anywhere~” He walks up to her with extended arms, taking her hand and kissing the top of it in an overly dramatic fashion. Oz loved to show off as a gentleman when on the job. Once the suit was on, the smooth talk and charisma he naturally possessed increased by about one hundred. It was all just another element of entertainment for the owner, plus, flattery could keep a customer spending significantly longer than they intended. 

“Ella, it’s great to see you. Use our restrooms, of course! Hell- give birth in it if you want. It’d be a nice change from the usual activities going on in there.” Drugs, amongst other things, were one of the most common. Oz wasn’t a man to judge a person for their hobbies, but his quarrel with druggies was how damn messy they were. There could be powder going up the walls and around the toilet seats after one had been in the bathroom. If the culprits were ever caught they would be swiftly ‘escorted’ from the premises. Not that Ella needed to be concerned about this, as she was their first customer, the bathrooms would be perfectly pristine.

Oz snaps his finger and instantly one of the employees approaches, “Take this fine young lady to our restrooms, and if you hear any yelling, be prepared to help her with one of god’s greatest creations.”

Apoligizing to her was almost like a reflex, she was certainly not the most gracious person in the world, not like her sister, so she bumped into people and fall a lot, luckly most of the times she didn’t got hurt. She smiled at his words, he seemed like a nice guy and she was happy to know he didn’t seemed bothered by her mistake.

”No, I’m not in a hurry, that’s just how I normally walk.” She chuckled slightly, Anna was an energetic and impulsive person. “I was just going for a walk, no destination in mind, I figure since we’re in a hotel, we might as well enjoyed it instead of just staying in the room.” She said with a sweet smile. “How about you? Are you going anywhere specific?”

-----

“I couldn’t agree more,” the male responds, previously chuckling softly at Anna’s comments regarding walking style, “An opportunity to stay in a 5 star hotel shouldn’t be wasted- especially when it has a bar.” He chuckles slightly again. Anna seemed like a sweet girl, far more so than her sister- who at times could feel very, well, cold. But sweet wasn’t always a good thing. It allowed for a naivety that could too often be abused by others. Luckily for Anna, Oz had no reason to trick her, there was nothing he saw worth gaining. So for now, he was happy for some pleasant conversation. 

“Not anywhere in particular, no. Honestly, I don’t even need to be here. My home has its own generator source for electricity. But I’m a real people person, so I thought I’d drop by and see how everyone was doing.” 

He extends a hand to her, that charismatic smile he was known for appearing on his lips. He’d figured out who she was, but people tended to become uncomfortable when he revealed this little skill of his. It was much simpler to let them think they introduce themselves. 

Ella beamed instead, taking the figure in with a welcoming smile. “Scare me? How absurd.” If anything the man seemed like an absolute charming sweetheart. “Please take a seat, you must be tired of standing the whole time. This ordeal is quite messy after all and the crowd doesn’t seem like they are giving up on their rooms too soon.” She chuckled, trying to take light of the situation. Moping about it wouldn’t help anyone, so she decided that optimism and her overall kindness would be enough.

“Oh, you found it. Dear heavens my mind doesn’t seem to be what it used to.” She cackled sweetly before helping herself up and getting the purse. “Thank you kindly.” She said as she offered the stranger a hug. 

------------------------------

“Please, a lady like yourself is far too young to be saying such things. Leave the Alzheimer’s to old dolls like Flora, Fawn and Maria.” A rather ironic statement, considering two of the three Weather sisters were only a few years older than Oz, and one the same age. Some may be surprised by the girl’s forwardness, offering a hug to a complete stranger- but Oz had always been a very physical individual himself. He clearly had no concept of ‘personal space’. Smiling warmly he allows the action, patting her back a few times as he chuckles, 

“Don’t mention it. Us Redwood folk need to look out for each other in messy times, after all.”  In truth, Oz didn’t even need to be here. His Casino had its own power generators that supplied both the establishment and his house with all the electricity they needed. It was partly providing the hotels current supply- not for free of course. He and the mayor had come to a, on Hal’s part, begrudging ‘agreement’. No, Oz was merely here taking in the sights of the people. It wasn’t as if anyone was at the Casino given the outage.

“Here, allow me-“ Having taken notice of her stomach, he helps the girl lower herself down onto the seat once more, then positioning himself onto one beside it. He crosses his legs in a casual manner, looking to the other with intrigue. In truth, Ella was one of the people he knew next to nothing about in Redwood. She obviously kept out of trouble, as that was the information most commonly supplied by his lackies. “I take It you’re here for a room like the rest? By the looks of it, it’ll be all night before they have everybody sorted, the receptionists are running around like chickens with their heads chopped off.”

He chuckles once again, shaking his head softly as he leans forward to extend a hand towards her. “The names Oz, by the way. Oz Borror. The pleasure is all mine.”