Lost World

A roleplayer: Yeah. GL To know if you're actually okay. GL

A roleplayer: I was not the one terrorized by a stranger yesterday. I am fine, Gregory.-M

A roleplayer: You think it was that bad? GL

A roleplayer: You do not?-M

A roleplayer: I mean it wasn't great. But it's not a catastrophe either. GL

A roleplayer: She hid behind you the entire evening, Gregory, and wailed every time I attempted to speak to her. I would classify that as a catastrophe.-M

A roleplayer: (...) Well, she thinks you're something like a cartoon supervillain that's gonna ban fun. GL I should've known better. GL

A roleplayer: Wait. That sounds bad. GL I didn't set you guys up for success. GL

A roleplayer: I suppose that is a decent way to describe myself.-M

A roleplayer: It is fine, Gregory, truly. Please apologize to her for me.-M

A roleplayer: I mean... I couldn't really argue with her on that. GL I'd rather we give it another try. GL If you're willing. GL

A roleplayer: Are you certain that is wise?-M

A roleplayer: Yeah. She'll warm up to you once she realises you don't want to ban fun, just don't know how to have fun. GL

A roleplayer: So she'll be more comfortable with me when? A few years from now?-M

A roleplayer: Depends on how far you're willing to go, really. GL Realistically? Few months? GL

A roleplayer: I do not know what that means.-M

A roleplayer: Are you gonna try and actively win her over or will you just let her warm up by being a consistent variable? GL

A roleplayer: I do not wish to traumatize her further.-M Whatever you believe is best, I will do, up to and including the termination of our relationship.-M

A roleplayer: Mycroft. You did not traumatize my child. GL Don't break up with you for me, silly. GL I'm just asking if you're willing to try and be fun or if you'd rather just be... you, I guess. GL Because you is just fine. You're not dangerous to her, she'll figure that out if you give her the chance. GL

A roleplayer: The data paints a very different picture, Gregory, but I appreciate the sentiment.-M I will attempt to 'be fun' and less supervillian.-M

A roleplayer: I think you're data is incomplete. GL Great. That's what I was hoping for, it'll be incredibly entertaining. GL

A roleplayer: Mm. Happy to provide you entertainment.-M

A roleplayer: You know I'm just teasing. GL If you need help with being fun let me know. GL

A roleplayer: This is me letting you know.-M

A roleplayer: Well, she's six. Fun to her means silly jokes and playing games. If that's a bit much sugar will do. GL You're allowed a bit of bribery. GL

A roleplayer: This may be doomed from the start.-M

A roleplayer: Though I am skilled at bribery.-M

A roleplayer: Just let her talk about penguins and princesses for hours and try to remember some. She'll love that. GL

A roleplayer: And laugh at her jokes. Even if they are not really funny. GL

A roleplayer: I can easily manage those things.-M

A roleplayer: I think then you've already won. GL

A roleplayer: Yesterday was not a success. I have won nothing.-M

A roleplayer: Well, do you want to come round for dinner? We can just try again. GL

A roleplayer: So soon? Have you consulted Tabitha on this?-M

A roleplayer: Stop panicking, Myc. GL

A roleplayer: It is a legitimate question. You should warn her.-M

A roleplayer: To confirm her believe you're a supervillain she needs to be warned about? GL

A roleplayer: No. Warn her that I am coming over.-M

A roleplayer: She doesn't need to be warned, Myc. GL I'll let her know. GL

A roleplayer: Thank you.-M

A roleplayer: Does she have a favorite penguin or princess?-M

A roleplayer: (...) Don't bribe her with an actual penguin. GL I'm sure she'll be happy to tell you all about it if you bring some jelly beans for dessert. GL

A roleplayer: It is not legal for private citizens to own penguins, Gregory.-M

A roleplayer: I'm not sure that would stop you. GL

A roleplayer: I am unsure if I should take that as a compliment or an insult.-M

A roleplayer: Bit of both, maybe. GL Mostly a compliment, though. GL

A roleplayer: Yes, alright.-M Jelly beans for dessert. Anything else?-M

A roleplayer: Do you want a manual? GL

A roleplayer: That would be incredibly useful, yes.-M

A roleplayer: (..) That's a joke. There is no manual. GL Though I'm sure you'd read it. GL Maybe try for a tad less formal than your usual suit? GL

A roleplayer: I know it was a joke, Gregory, I am not that dense.-M Less formal than my normal attire?-M

A roleplayer: Well, I wasn't sure if you'd expect me to write one. GL Just a bit? Might help with the supervillain accusations. Supervillains wear suits. GL

A roleplayer: I see. I will find something more suitable.-M

A roleplayer: Hey, just.. maybe lose the jacket and the waistcoat? GL Rolled up sleeves are very casual. GL And sexy. GL

A roleplayer: I will do my best to appear less....evil.-M

A roleplayer: I personally appreciate the evil look. GL Just maybe not around Tabs. At least not in the beginning. GL

A roleplayer: Do you?-M

A roleplayer: Hah. Course I do, Myc. GL I'm sure I can prove it next time we're alone. GL

A roleplayer: Let us first ensure your daughter is not permanently scarred by my presence, hm?-M

A roleplayer: Myc, I know that under that supervillain exterior is a big softie. She'll love you once she finds out. GL

A roleplayer: One can only hope.-M

A roleplayer: Trust me. She will. GL

A roleplayer: Just like I do. GL Well... not exactly like that but you know. GL

A roleplayer: I understand your meaning.-M

A roleplayer: See you for dinner? GL

A roleplayer: Yes. I look forward to seeing you.-M

A roleplayer: So do I. GL

A roleplayer: Mycroft left the office later that afternoon to return home in hopes of finding something less terrifying to wear for dinner. He was still hesitant to force Greg's daughter to be around him so soon after their first catastrophic encounter, but he trusted Greg knew best for the girl. He remained in his button-down, trousers, and shoes from earlier in the day but paired it with a cream colored cashmere jumper. He hoped the softness of the jumper would round out his sharp edges. On his way to Greg's home, he made a few stops, ending up with a child-sized bouquet of flowers and a small stuffed penguin for Tabitha along with the requested jelly beans and a bottle of wine for Greg. It was just after five when Mycroft knocked on the door.

A roleplayer: The flowers were pretty, but Mycroft was cut off by Greg jumping in to steer attention away from the fact that Mycroft had no earthly idea how to respond. Instead, Mycroft nodded and picked up his fork to eat, or simply push the food around the plate; he hadn't entirely decided which would be preferable. When he heard the lite clink of metal in front of him, he glanced up to see Greg and Tabitha hitting their forks together. Curious, he thought to himself. Then Greg was turning to him to participate. "Oh, uh..." Mycroft held his fork up and mimicked their actions. He wasn't about to destroy a family dinner tradition.

A roleplayer: Tabitha watched them carefully, if Pa was inviting him to do dinner swords he was maybe coming more often. While she was sure he was distracted she glanced at him. He was wearing a jumper that looked really soft, a bit like a bunny, she decided. Did he kill the bunnies to get it? She frowned, no Pa wouldn't be friends with someone who did that to cute little bunnies. His face was so serious, though, maybe less villain more... headmaster. She could imagine him lecturing kids about not running through the hallways. How he would sit in a big imposing leather chair while the kids that got in trouble sat on a tiny one on the other side of the desk. She glanced at the flowers. After last time she probably should be in trouble. She didn't even say hello... when he and Pa were done she quickly held out her fork toward the strange man without quite looking at him.

A roleplayer: The corner of Mycroft's mouth lifted in a small half smile. It was absolutely ridiculous to be banging their forks together over the dinner table, but even Mycroft had to admit it was fun. Tradition and all. He could see the little girl in his peripheral vision. She was studying him so intensely and clearly working through her feelings toward the villain in her home. He couldn't quite see the feelings and thoughts that made their way to her face, but he could only assume she was sizing him up and attempting to determine exactly which bits of fun he had banned that day. He saw Tabitha move just as Greg pulled his fork away, thrusting her own fork in his direction. She wasn't looking at him but in his direction. Good enough, he thought to himself, holding his own fork out and gently tapping against hers. A smile then. A genuine smile, he hoped, would appear soft and gentle for the girl. "I like this tradition." he told her.

A roleplayer: Tabitha pulled her fork back just as quickly as she'd extended it, still without properly looking at him. When he spoke she quickly glanced at his face. Why does his smile look like she's in trouble and he'll let her know only at the end of dinner? She just nodded and started eating her magic pasta. Greg had watched them both with a smile, reaching his free hand under the table to gently squeeze Mycroft's leg. He was doing good. Better than Greg had expected, actually. Sure Tabitha wasn't exactly his fangirl, but she wasn't crying and hiding for now which he counted as massive progress. "My dad did it with my siblings and I when we were younger. I always liked it as well." he said realising that his daughter was not going to talk. He took a bite from his pasta. "Do you want to stay after dinner? We could watch a movie or play something.."

A roleplayer: Mycroft was grateful for Greg's reassurance because Tabitha was giving him absolutely none. "That sounds better than my family dinners," he chuckled. "We spoke about schooling and current events..." he began. "Or we were lectured for getting in trouble with our teachers..." He spoke to both of them, though he was careful not to point himself fully in Tabitha's direction. He glanced at Greg when the man asked if he wanted to stay after dinner. Greg was purposely trying to force Tabitha to spend more time than she wanted with him, wasn't he? Mycroft nodded. "I'd like that..." he nodded. "If it's alright with Tabitha, that is."

A roleplayer: Getting in trouble at school? Tabitha peeked up at him for a second at that comment. Did he really? She couldn't really imagine it, she imagined him like Jeff... he was annoying and always told the teachers they had homework that he obviously did and about who sneaked some playing cards into class. Greg closed his eyes for a moment, trying his best to keep the exasperated sigh from escaping him. "Very considerate, Myc," he muttered and turned toward his daughter. "Is it okay if he stays a bit longer, Tabs?" She looked at her Dad and shrugged then leaning in to whisper something at him. "I don't want to play with him," she said and Greg almost laughed. "You don't have to, monkey. How about a movie?" She glanced over at Mycroft before looking back at Greg. He probably only watched boring movies. "What movie?" Now it was Greg's time to shrug. "I think I found the Barbie DVD that went missing last month." Tabs eyes grew big and she nodded eagerly. It was her favourite movie and if Greg was honest the DVD didn't went missing, but he needed a break before he could watch the 500th rerun. He looked over at Mycroft. "Movie it is." he said, not letting him run now that he'd have to sit through one and a half hours of pink torture.

A roleplayer: Mycroft chuckled as Tabitha whispered to Greg. No, he couldn't imagine the little girl would want to play anything with him, but he was hardly offended by it. His games of choice were simple: Chess, mostly, and the occasional game of Operation that Sherlock always insisted on, given that Mycroft was terrible at it. He nodded at the decided movie. "I take it you are a fan of Barbie?" he asked the little girl. "Do you have a favorite?" he hoped his tone was soft and curious and gentle enough to help Tabitha feel comfortable in opening up a bit to him. If not, Mycroft was certain the rest of the evening would be doomed.

A roleplayer: Tabitha just nodded at the question. Yes, she was a fan of Barbie, yes she had a favourite and yes she knew he probably thought all of that was stupid. But Pa had already decided on the movie, her movie, so she didn't try to think to much about the stranger staying, instead focussing on finishing her pasta quickly. Greg looked over at Myc and offered a one sided shrug and a smile. "How's the pasta?" he asked, noticing that Mycroft hadn't even tried it yet. God, had he known he'd need to distract both of them from this interaction he'd have just had dinner in front of the telly.

A roleplayer: (Thanks!)

A roleplayer: Well, at least the girl nodded a response in his direction. Mycroft would consider that a win in this situation. "If you're willing...I might need a lesson in the Barbie universe. I know a bit but I have a feeling you know far more than your father or I." Mycroft looked over when Greg asked what he thought of the food. "Good. Thank you, Gregory..." he take a few bites. "Delicious, actually. Pasta's one of my favorite foods..." he said to no one in particular. "Is it your favorite?" he asked Tabitha cautiously. Testing the waters to see if she would at least nod or shake her head in his direction.

A roleplayer: Tabitha looked at him not even trying to hide her the suspicion. He wants to be friends with Pa so he tries to be friends with me so Pa will like him more. She didn't want to give him a lesson about Barbie, if he wanted to know he'd just have to watch the movies and learn. She focussed back on her food when he turned his attention back to her father. Greg saw the catastrophy coming before it happened but too late to intervene. Mycroft turned his attention back to Tabitha, trying to make conversation, with a six year old that was clearly not in a talking mood. She ignored him and turned to Greg. "Can I get up? Pleeeeease? I'm full." Greg sighed and nodded. "Yeah," he agreed and she basically sprinted out of the kitchen. He shook his head an turned toward Mycroft. "Don't take it personally, Myc... I mean, it's already going way better than last time."

A roleplayer: Mycroft's face fell when the little girl completely ignored him and instead spoke only to her father. The way she ran away told him all he needed to know. He took another bite or two of food and then set his fork down, humming at Greg. "Yes, I think so." he lied but smiled in Greg's direction. Mycroft didn't exactly take it personally as nearly every child he'd come in contact with had hated him from the start. Sherlock had been the only exception until he grew up and decided Mycroft was satan incarnate. Mycroft wanted to press Greg to let it go and come to terms with the fact that Tabitha did not and was not ever going to like him. He knew it would start an argument and he didn't want that so instead he kept his thoughts to himself. "Can I help clean up?" he asked instead, standing to take his bowl to the counter. "We don't want to keep Tabitha waiting on her movie..."

A roleplayer: Greg followed Mycroft with his eyes as he moved to the counter. "I haven't even finished eating yet.." he said and looked down at his plate. "Sit down, Myc, please?" he asked while spooning some more pasta onto his plate. He could sense in the sudden shift of topic that Mycroft wasn't agreeing with him, but since he wasn't say anything Greg didn't want to bring it up either. He didn't want to accuse him of lying, if he was only scared. "Tabs will be fine. I think it'll be good if she has a bit of buffer time, right now. It's a lot for her..." he said, looking over at Mycroft. "For you too, isn't it?" He softened a little, knowing how hard Mycroft was trying and just starting to realize how critical he was with himself. "But you're doing good, both of you." he reassured, though he had a feeling it would only fall on deaf ears. He took another bite of pasta, leaning back in his chair.

A roleplayer: Mycroft squeezed his eyes shut and took a shallow, steadying breath with his back toward Greg. When he turned again, he smiled. "Apologies...." he returned to the table without his plate and sat down next to Greg. "A bit of time is good, yes. I can imagine having a strange man you're terrified of in your space is probably too much for a little girl..." It was nearly too much for him as a grown man. He nodded at the man. "Thank you for saying so...and for being so patient." He knew Greg would be terribly optimistic about the whole situation and give him more credit than he believed he was due, but he was grateful for the faith his partner had in him.

A roleplayer: Greg finished his pasta, one hand resting on Mycroft's knee under the table. He couldn't say much, well he could but he knew that Mycroft wasn't listening. Not really. He wanted to argue with Mycroft's premise, but he could only lose, he felt like. Once he was done he leant back in his chair and looked at his partner. "Hey, love," he said, voice soft, before getting up. "C'mere..." he pulled Mycroft out of his chair and into a tight hug. He draw calming circles onto his back with his palm. "I know you don't agree... but this is good. You're doing so good."

A roleplayer: Mycroft opened his mouth to protest, but Greg wasted no time in pulling him up and into his chest. He was worried that Tabitha would walk in on them hugging and be even more put out than she already was. He was certain any sort of affection shared between him and Greg would lead to more tears and terror. Mycroft, however, needed that comfort from Greg. He always needed it. Greg was one of two people in the world who could manage to calm him down or draw him out of his mind when he began spiraling. Mycroft wrapped his arms around Greg and laid his head on the man's shoulder. He let his eyes close and his breath regulate as Greg rubbed his back. "It's not that I don't agree..." he began. "It's that You mean a great deal to me and I want Tabitha to feel...cared for too."

A roleplayer: "I know, love," Greg muttered, smiling a bit as Mycroft relaxed into him. He kept his arms wrapped tightly around him, circles slowing a little as he noticed Mycroft calming down. "You're doing good," he repeated softly, "She loves the flowers and she already interacted with you. I know it's not as much as you'd like... try and be patient with her, okay? It may take her a few meetings to properly warm up to you," he turned his head to press a gentle kiss to Mycroft's hair. "I'm so proud of you."

A roleplayer: Mycroft leaned into the kiss. "I do not care how long it takes....as long as you don't end up having to send her to therapy because she has nightmares about the super villian her father is dating...." he teased though it was completely true. Mycroft would be patient with the little girl, but the number of meetings she needed was not the most worrying part. For him it was the idea that Tabitha would never warm up to him or trust him or speak to him in more than a shake of the head. If that happened he knew there would be no way Greg would continue their relationship and he would not expect the man to. He would want nothing but the best for them both, but that didn't make the fear, however unrational it may be at this point, any less real. He pulled back slightly and looked over Greg's face. "I do not deserve you."

A roleplayer: "Oh shush," Greg muttered, when Mycroft said he didn't deserve him. Who knew what either of them deserved. He stayed there a moment longer, just holding Mycroft when he heard footsteps. He lifted his head to find Tabitha in the door staring at them. Greg instinctively thightened his arms around Mycroft. "You okay, Tabs?" he asked as he slowly released Mycroft from the embrace, god he already missed his warm body against his own. Tabitha nodded and Greg actually laughed. "What is it, monkey? You came here for a reason?" She nodded again and Greg rolled his eyes. "Suddenly lost your ability to speak, yeah?" She frowned at him and shook his head. "Not very convincing," he teased, glancing over at Mycroft. "Is it movie time?" She nodded and Greg smiled. "Once the table is cleared we can watch a movie, you wanna help?" She glanced at Mycroft before nodding and walking over to the table to get her plate.

A roleplayer: Mycroft felt the eyes before he felt the shift in the room. He would have immediately pulled away from Greg, but the man was having no part in it. A tightened hug. A warning not to panic. A warning not to run away. Mycroft turned to stand beside Greg as he spoke with his daughter. He looked in Tabitha's direction but did not make eye contact. He knew he was intimidating even when dressed down and speaking softly. He did not push or interrupt their one-sided conversation. When Tabitha stopped in front of them at the counter, Mycroft reached out for her plate. "Thank you for helping," he said.

A roleplayer: She nodded at Mycroft before quickly going back to the table to clear the next piece. Greg helped her and quickly loaded the dishwasher, before turning to her. "Alright, you go and wait on the sofa, we'll be right there, okay Tabs?" he asked and she nodded but didn't leave immediately. Instead her eyes wandered from Greg to Mycroft and back. Like she was trying to figure something out that didn't make sense in her head. "Okay," she muttered after a moment and turned to leave for the living room. He looked at Mycroft with a soft smile. "You okay?"

A roleplayer: Mycroft helped the pair clean up. He could see the cogs turning in her head trying to explain the embrace. Ah, yes. Greg hadn't told Tabitha they were dating. There was no reason to do so. Their relationship was incredibly fresh, and she was still so young. Mycroft was happy to be Greg's friend for the time being, but that did not stop Tabitha from seeing something. Children were quite perceptive, after all. She left them alone again, this time walking instead of fleeing. Another small victory. Mycroft chuckled, "No, but I will be." he promised, pressing a kiss to Greg's temple. "We should not keep her waiting any longer. She's liable to come marching in here again with her hands on her hips fussing....just like you do."

A roleplayer: "Oi! Rude..." Greg said, though there was no conviction behind it. He was glad that Mycroft seemed relaxed enough to tease again. He was glad that apparently Mycroft had seen all the little things Greg had just seen. How she came back, how she helped and nodded at Mycroft. How she's trying to explain why her Pa is liking this super villain. "But you're probably right, we shouldn't keep her waiting." He grabbed two small bowl from a cupboard and put some of the jelly beans Mycroft had brought into them. He held both of them out for him. "Can you bring them over? I'll bring some water."

A roleplayer: "Only the truth, darling..." Mycroft chuckled and took the bowls to the sitting room. He placed the gently on the small coffee table in front of the sofa. The next hurdle they would face would be seating arrangements. Mycroft did not know if there was a certain place Tabitha liked to sit and watch a movie from. If she was anything like him, which he assumed she was not, there was a particular spot he did everything from. A specific spot on the sofa, a specific chair in my study, a specific spot to lounge in where he kept his films. A particular side of the bed and side of the double sinks in his bathroom. There was always a spot he had to be in. He considered his options before choosing to sit on one side of the sofa, a corner so he could rest his arm and keep his back supported properly.

A roleplayer: Tabitha came bouncing into the living room, teddy bear in one arm, a Barbie doll in the other but stopped when she saw Mycroft sitting on the sofa. She quickly looked around for Greg before carefully approaching and climbing onto the far side of the sofa, teddy clutched close to her chest. She spotted the bowls on the side table and her eyes widened a little. "Can I have some?" she asked quietly and glanced at Mycroft. Greg was meanwhile busy filling the water into the caraffe as slowly as possible. Carrying it and some cups over also very slowly, to give them a chance to meet. He stopped in the doorframe, watching them quietly.

A roleplayer: Mycroft had been fiddling with a loose thread on the arm of his jumper when Tabitha entered and stopped. He glanced up and smiled at her. She, however, did nothing more than frantically look around for her father, who had abandoned her with the villain. She settled clear across the sofa away from him, having her teddy bear act as a shield within her grip. She looked so little, so scared, but also not, Mycroft thought to himself. He returned to the thread as she got herself settled. What Mycroft hadn't expected was for the little girl to ask him a direct question. Was it desperation? Was it the fact that he was certain Tabitha already knew he was the weak one who would never refuse her a thing? Perhaps a bit of both, if Mycroft really allowed himself to think on it. He followed her eyes to the bowls. He nodded, "Of course..." he leaned forward and picked up one of the bowls. He carefully handed it over, making sure she had a good grip on it before he left go.

A roleplayer: Tabitha realised she'd have to let go of her teddy to grab the bowl and hesitated only a moment before putting it down. She grabbed the bowl with both hands and for a moment she was worried he tricked her and wouldn't let go, but then she was sitting there with a bowl of jelly beans and a big grin on her face. "I love jelly beans" she muttered and picked out a blue one. Her favourite. She fished another out of the bowl and held it out toward Mycroft. "The blue ones are the best," she said, her free hand already searching for another in the bowl. Greg had to bite the inside of his cheek so he wouldn't chuckle. He was quite proud of her for getting onto the sofa with Mycroft instead of coming to look for him. He'd only give them a little moment longer, the water slowly getting heavy in his hands.

A roleplayer: The grin on her face when Mycroft let go of the bowl made him chuckle softly. Then the little girl spoke to him. Then Mycroft's chest tightened and his eyes widened with her next move. She held out one for him. She was giving Mycroft a blue jelly bean like some sort of piece offering. He held out his hand so Tabitha could set it in his palm. "Your favorite. Thank you for sharing..." he popped it into his mouth. "You're quite right. These are delicious...my favorite has always been the orange ones," he shared with her. "But the blue one may be a close second, I think." he hesitated a beat and decided to ask another question. "Do you like any other candies?"

A roleplayer: Tabitha hummed, he was wrong the blue one's were the best. Nevertheless she picked an orange one out of the bowl and held it out for him. "Mhh, I like all candy, that's a stupid question." she declared, before realising who she was talking to and quickly offering him another orange jelly bean. "Do you have an evil villain plan?" she asked, making sure not to look at him and sound as casual as a very curious, slightly scared six year old could. And poor Greg was just standing there, not ready to interrupt their little moment. He wondered if any of them would soon realize that he was still missing from the scene.

A roleplayer: Mycroft thanked her for the orange jelly bean. "I can see where that is a stupid question, you're quite right." He took the next one and popped them both in his mouth. He nearly choked on them when she asked if he had an evil plan. Instead, he chuckled. "An evil villain plan..." he repeated and shook his head. "Not for you or your father and certainly not to outlaw fun...." he promised. "I'm only an evil villain at work when I have to deal with less than nice people...like your father does. I help put bad people in jail." An extremely sanitized explanation of his career, but appropriate for the child. "Outside of work, I try my best to be kind...to be a good person...."

A roleplayer: You're right. Tabitha tilts her head a little at that. Grown ups usually didn't say she was right, especially not when she said rude things. His chuckle didn't sound like a villain, either... and evil villains didn't do things like her Pa. They didn't put bad guys in jail because they are bad guys. Something didn't make sense about him. Villain was probably ruled out by now. Headmaster... still kind of legitimate. Maybe like a someone who makes sure the people in jail don't get out? She shrugged and ate another jelly bean before leaning her head back. "Paaaaaa~ I wanna watch a movie," she called and Greg chuckled from the doorframe, finally entering the room. He put the water down and kissed her on the head. "Sorry to make you wait, monkey, did you get along?" he asked picking a jelly bean out of her bowl. She nodded and looked over at Mycroft. "I don't think he's evil... just weird and scary," she said quietly and Greg chuckled. "Yeah... he is a bit, but he's actually kinda nice." He sat in the middle between them and grabbed the remote from the table. "Ready for a Barbie movie?" he asked in Mycroft's direction, though Tabitha answered first. "Yes. The BEST Barbie movie!"

A roleplayer: Mycroft thought she was going to counter, but instead, all Tabitha did was yell for her father. "He makes me wait too, Tabitha...it's frustrating, isn't it? Shame on you, Gregory...." Mycroft shifted back to his spot to give Greg room on the sofa. He didn't want to be too close to the man given that Tabitha was there and all. Mycroft couldn't help but laugh at the declaration Tabitha made. "Weird and scary. I'll have to work on that..." Mycroft nodded his head at Greg's question. "Must you make us wait for the best movie, Gregory, honestly. What are we going to do with you..."

A roleplayer: "Oi! You're supposed to be on my side," Greg said in mock exasperation and poked Mycroft in the side, simply because he can and apparently they were turning childish now. Tabitha watched the interaction, trying to figure out if the man was being mean to her Pa, but Greg didn't seem actually offended so she let it slide. She scooted over and curled up into Greg's side, who instinctively wrapped an arm around her as he navigated through the menu of Barbie as The Princess and The Pauper, mentally preparing himself while Tabs excitedly wiggled in his arm. "Everyone ready? There will be no pee breaks." he declared. "Wait!" Tabitha called "I will be right back." Greg sighed but let her go "And I'm the one making you wait, yeah?" he muttered though didn't mind the little break where he could lean back against the cushion, reaching out to squeeze Mycroft's hand. "So the orange jelly beans are your favourite, why didn't I know that?" he teased softly.

A roleplayer: "Well, when you start sharing your jelly beans with me, I'll consider taking your side, darling." Mycroft scrunched his nose as Greg poked him playfully. He watched as Tabitha made Greg wait for something and left the room again. He let Greg slip his hand into theirs. He hummed at the man's question. "You never asked...." he reminded the man. "I also do not allow myself candy except on rare occasions, diet and all...." he explained. "I also usually enjoy chocolate or gummy bears to any other candies but that's neither here nor there. " he squeezed Greg's hand. "She shared her jelly beans with me, Gregory, she...no longer believes I'm a villian...did you hear that?"

A roleplayer: Greg scooted closer and leaned his head on Mycroft's shoulder. "Never asked... well I guess that's true." he conceded with a smile and closed his eyes for a moment, this was nice. After spending the entire evening worrying and mediating between the two this was actual progress. "You and your diet.." he muttered, knowing it was a lost cause. And as long as Mycroft was just his usual pedantic self about it and not actually stopped eating Greg had decided to simply let him. When Mycroft talked about Tabitha Greg opened his eyes again and turned his head. "Yeah, I did... told you it's not a lost cause, love. She'll need time, but it's going well. No tears, no hiding."

A roleplayer: Mycroft nodded. "She spoke to me... " Mycroft couldn't believe the turn of events. He didn't understand them and he didn't want to disect them. He would not allow himself to read too far into the short conversation he'd had with Tabitha. He would continue to try. "I'm eternally grateful you have not taught her how to sense panic in me yet like you do far more than you should....my heart was hammering so loudly in my ears I thought you might hear it from your spot in the doorway. Thank you for...being there but not....interrupting." he appreciated Greg's all-knowing and gentle nature. Mycroft pressed a quick kiss to Greg's lips while they were still alone. Not wanting Tabitha to see.

A roleplayer: Greg chuckled softly at the disbelieving tone. "Of course she spoke to you, Myc. She had a whole evening to collect evidence you're not actually a supervillain. She gotta test that hypothesis." he said, remembering all the small moments he'd noticed that Mycroft had simply dismissed for the simpler narrative of Tabitha is still scared. It's not wrong, she was, but it wasn't the whole picture anymore and Greg knew that. "You're welcome, love. I knew you'd do well with her," he reassured softly. He enjoyed the closeness for a moment longer before his fatherly instincts came through again. "Tabs, you're coming?" he called and got a muffled "Yeah" in return and a moment later Tabitha was standing in the living room with the stuffed penguin Mycroft had brought. "You forget it in the kitchen," she said and handed it over to Mycroft before taking in their position with a frown. She wanted to cuddle with Pa.

A roleplayer: Mycroft couldn't stop the small smile that spread across his face. First, she'd brought her flowers back to the table at dinner and now she was bringing the small stuffed penguin Mycroft had brought as a gift. "Ah, good catch..." he praised her. "Thank you for remembering. I'm certain he appreciates being included in movie night..." Mycrfot took the stuffed toy and settled it between Greg and himself as Tabitha climbed back into her spot on the sofa. He saw the frown and knew that she did not appreciate Mycroft being so close to her father. He shifted away just slightly hoping to show the little girl that he wasn't trying to steal her father's attention or affection from her.

A roleplayer: Greg looked at the penguin Mycroft placed between them and noticed how he shifted away. He sighed and realised that his five minutes of calm and quiet might just be over now. He took the remote back into his hand and looked from Mycroft to Tabitha. "Everyone ready now?" When they both agreed he started the movie. Tabitha basically climbed into Greg's lap and he wrapped his arms around her, placing a kiss on top of her hair. "You're getting too tall, monkey, I can barely look over your head," he said and she turned to him with a pout, though was quickly distracted by the opening scene. When the first song started he let her go knowing she'd get up to dance and sing, only that she didn't. Greg looked at Mycroft for a moment before turning his attention back to the little girl in his lap. "You don't wanna sing along, monkey?" he asked and she shook her head. "You're getting sick?" she shook her head again. "Want me to do it with you?" That got her to turn around and look at him. "No you're a terrible singer." Ouch.

A roleplayer: Mycroft chuckled. "I tell him the same thing," Mycroft told the little girl. "What if he just dances and let's you do all the singing?" Mycroft offered. He would love to see Greg dancing and laughing, and enjoying himself with Tabitha. "Go on..." Mycroft nudged Greg to get up with his daughter. She would feel so much more comfortable with Mycroft seeing them if Greg were with her, almost like a teddy bear shield.

A roleplayer: Oh no. Greg can't tell what happened exactly but the wobbling lip was a sure sign of what was to come. He shot Mycroft an apologetic look and handed him the remote, while simultaneously rubbing calming circles on her back. "You can pause... or keep watching. Whatever you prefer. Just... don't leave, okay?" he asked while already getting up gathering her teddy from the sofa, gently bouncing her as she cried at his shoulder. "It's okay, Tabs... do want to tell me what happened?" he asked as he moved her over into her room to calm her down.

A roleplayer: Mycroft's head spun as a remote control was pushed into his hand and Tabitha began to cry. Wait, what? He thought to himself. It was going so well and then all of a sudden it wasn't and Mycroft had absolutely no idea what was wrong. He paused the movie and set the remote next to him by the penguin. He sighed. Things had been going so well. They were all on the sofa and happy and content. There were jelly beans and cuddles and stuffed animals and Tabitha's favorite movie on the television. Now he was right back to square one. Greg had had to separate them while Tabitha panicked and became increasingly more upset and Mycroft was meant to simply sit with his thoughts. He closed his eyes and pinched the bridge of his nose. He really should learn to tell Greg no more often.

A roleplayer: It took a few minutes for Tabitha to calm down enough to talk to Greg, he simply carried her around, rubbing her back, mumbling sweet nothings. When her crying finally went down into tiny sniffles he sat down on her bed, so he could look at her. "Hey, monkey..." he said softly and pressed a kiss to her forehead. "Was that a bit much?" he asked and she nodded. "Does he stay?" she asked suddenly and Greg blinked. "For the movie? Yeah..." She shook his head and gave him a stern glare. "No. Does he.. stay with us?" Greg gently caressed her head and considered his answer for a moment. "I like him very much and I'd like him to stay every now and then, yes." Her sniffles got a bit more irregular again. "But you'll always come first, Tabs, you know that, right?" She rubbed at her eyes and nodded slowly. "I... what if he doesn't like it?" Greg blinked confused "Liked what?" Tabitha shrugged and looked away. Greg sighed. "I don't know the future, Tabs." he simply said and she nodded. "Would be better if you did," she answered and Greg laughed. "Yeah, agreed." Greg leaned back against the wall and wiped a tear of her face. "You know... he is probably really worry that he did something wrong and upset you," he said and Tabitha frowned. "He did," she answered plainly and Greg huffed a laugh. "Did he?" She nods "I... didn't want to and then he wanted to make me and.." The little wobble came back and Greg quickly nodded. "I know, I know... that wasn't nice, was it?" he asked and she shook her head. "Do you think we can go back anyways? No one has to sing or dance we can just see the movie and eat jelly beans?" She thought about that for a moment before nodding and taking his hand. Together they entered the living room again, she a little bit behind Greg.

A roleplayer: Mycroft was sitting on the sofa in the silence, staring down at his hands in his lap. He was pulling with the loose thread again, worrying over what was taking the pair so long. Mycroft feared the worst. Maybe Tabitha had changed her mind about him. Maybe this was the moment Greg realized it was a fruitless endeavour to get the little girl to like him. He really should leave. He really should not come by for a few days...or weeks, really. To give the poor girl a chance to relax. Instead, he found himself terrified to do much more than sit there alone quietly beratting himself for saying anything. He heard the shuffling of their feet and looked up. His heart dropped. the girl was behind Greg once again hiding from Mycroft. Then his chest tightened because he noticed Tabitha had been crying. A lot if her puffy eyes and tear-stained cheeks were to be believed. Maybe Mycroft was evil. Maybe he'd been wrong about himself the entire time. He tried to smile over at both of them before letting his eyes drop back to his hands.

A roleplayer: Greg wasn't sure how much more of this evening he could handle. Having to calm and reassure Tabitha was one thing, but having to do it for Mycroft as well as different story. He sighed and dropped onto the sofa, grabbing a handful of jelly beans. Sugar. Maybe all he needed was some sugar. He handed the bowl to Tabitha once she sat next to him and wrapped his arm around her. "We're gonna watch the movie and eat jelly beans," he revealed to Mycroft, before taking the penguin and moving it to the far end of the sofa so he could lay his head in Mycroft's lap. Tabitha forwned a bit but took her place half curled up on top of Greg and he tightly wrapped his arms around her. "Press play?" he asked up at Mycroft.

A roleplayer: Mycroft nodded and pressed play. He was surprised when Greg laid down with Tabitha and put his head in Mycroft's lap. He saw the little girl's frown and noticed she didn't protest. Mycroft set the remote back down before moving his hand to play with Greg's hair. It was as much to comfort his partner as it was to comfort him. Mycroft loved touching Greg in all sorts of ways but his favorite, by far, was ways like this. Sweet, innocent and domestic. He'd never had this sort of relationship so he found himself selfishly stealing as much as he could from Greg. With one hand on Greg's shoulder and the other in his hair Mycroft turned his attention to the movie. He wanted to pay attention so that he had something to talk to Tabitha about that she enjoyed. He wanted her to know that he was interested in things that she loved and that he wanted to get to know her better.

A roleplayer: With Tabitha curled on top of him and Mycroft's fingers runnning through his hair it actually didn't take long for Greg to fall asleep on the sofa. He already knew the movie by heart anyway even though that wasn't entirely his decision. Tabitha was paying the intense attention only a child could pay to their favourite movie even though it was the 500th time it was watching it. Tabitha was snacking jelly beans noticing her father had fallen asleep snacked way more than she probably should. And it definitely wasn't a coincidence that she didn't eat the orange ones, handing the bowl with only oranges over to Mycroft and pointing at the second one on the table.

A roleplayer: Mycroft turned to look at the little nudge on his arm. Tabitha was holding out the bowl of jelly beans to him. He smiled at her as he noticed she'd left all the orange ones for him. He shifted carefully to put down the half-empty bowl and pick up the other one. He handed it over, making sure she had a good grip on it before letting it go. "Thank you..." he whispered, picking up the other one and balancing it on the arm of the sofa so that he could eat a few of the beans she'd given him. He made a mental note to find a bag of only blue jelly beans to bring to the little girl as a peace offering the next time they were able to see each other.

A roleplayer: With the second bowl Tabitha had less restraint and finished it all by herself. Greg only realized because she was basically vibrating on top of him from all the sugar and the clolourful stains around her mouth. He yawned and looked at the TV, the movie was almost over. He smiled up at Mycroft and nuzzled his face against the other man's leg. This wasn't too bad, he thought, though he wasn't sure how he was supposed to get Tabs to sleep anytime soon. Not that that was ever an easy task. He carefully shoved her off and sat up to stretch before he handed her a cup with water and taking one for himself, finishing it almost in one go.

A roleplayer: Mycroft instantly missed the comforting weight of Greg's head in his lap. It had been so pleasant in the stillness. Mycroft could pretend that the evening had been pleasant and that Tabitha didn't hate him and that Greg wasn't upset with him. It had been so cozy and warm and domestic. Mycroft wanted all of his evenings to be like that. He'd finished his jelly beans, the empty bowl still balanced on the arm of the sofa. He watched Greg get water for himself and Tabitha. Mycroft remained quiet as they finished the movie. "That was lovely..." he offered to the silence. "Thank you for letting me stay to watch with you, Tabitha. Maybe we could watch it again soon?"

A roleplayer: "Greg groaned and gave Mycroft a dirty look. Such a suck-up. Of course he knew he was just being nice and tried to be likeable... but still. Tabitha grinned a little at that and nodded. "Maybe." she agreed and Greg smiled. That was more than he'd been hoping for, though the empty bowls of jelly beans did paint a picture of maybe unintentional bribery. He looked at the clock. She needed to go to bed soon... unrealistic. "Do you want to go and play something Tabs?" he asked, dropping his head back into Mycroft's lap with a yawn. "I just... need to lay here a little longer," he added eyes already half closed. Tabitha pouted for a second before nodding and jumping off the sofa. She grabbed her teddy and went off to her room. "Hopefully she doesn't set anything on fire..." he muttered half as a joke. "How was the movie?"

A roleplayer: When Greg returned to his stretched-out position, Mycroft relaxed once more. His hand immediately found Greg's hair to play with. "She could burn the entire building down, and I would replace it for you, Gregory. Though she does not strike me as the type to be that mischievous. Sherlock used to set things on fire all the time as a child. He would also take things apart to see how they worked and never bother to put them back together...." Mycroft hummed. "It was adorable. I was surprised that it followed the novel by Twain. I'd happily watch it again just to see her so happy and mesmerized by it. " he said quietly. "I'm sorry for letting her eat so much candy but I didn't want to say anything to her about possibly getting a stomachache. She was having so much fun...she looked so...content." he explained. "I hope you do not expect me to deny her anything she wants because I doubt I'll be able to resist."

A roleplayer: Greg instantly relaxed into the touch and fully closed his eyes. This he could get used to, being able to cuddle with his two favourite people while a movie played, just lying here with Mycroft playing with his hair. Greg rolled his eyes even though they were closed when Mycroft commented on replacing the building and chuckled a bit at the mention of Sherlock, that did sound like him. "Well, I'm looking forward to you regretting that choice when you saw it for the 500th time. I'm glad you didn't suffer too much, yet, though." When Mycroft mentioned the candy Greg just shrugged. "Happens," he said simply and glanced up at Mycroft. "You'll spoil her rotten, love. And I can't always be the bad parent that denies things. Just... try and be responsible okay?"

A roleplayer: "Impossible to regret because seeing it for the 500th time implies I have been fully welcomed by her and that I have not scared her too terribly much. It implies more time spent together on the sofa, more conversations and the like...." he reminded the man. "I will spoil her rotten, yes, but I promise not to do anything that would cause her great harm. Those things I will certainly deny her but I can not promise that I will not find an alternative solution to whatever she is requesting. It seems only fair."

A roleplayer: It was actually quite adorable to hear that Mycroft allowed himself to be hopeful now. It made something inside Greg's chest ease. But then Mycroft continued talking and Greg let out a long exhausted sigh. "God... I made a terrible mistake," he muttered. He wasn't serious, he loved introducing Mycroft to her life and he knew Mycroft would enrich it, he just wasn't sure if he'd make a great parental figure. He'd just called Sherlock's attempts at arson adorable. "Please try to not spoil my child rotten, Myc..."

A roleplayer: "I promise, Gregory. Do give me more credit than that..." he leaned down and pressed a kiss to Greg's forehead. "Are you suddenly regretting letting me into your little life? You knew good and well that I spoil you at every available opportunity. I do not know what made you think your daughter would be any different...." he reminded the man. "You were also the one who mentioned bribery would work on her, so really....this is all your fault."

A roleplayer: Greg looked up at him for a moment considering that. He was right. "No. I don't regret it... not until you become the fun parent and I'm the one who makes her eat vegetables." he said, reaching up to caress Mycroft's cheek. "Well... I'm not a six year old, I'm giving you something in return for being spoiled rotten," he said before chuckling. But it was true, Mycroft was taking him to a lot of fancy places and bought him expensive gifts, though Greg always pointed out he didn't need that. "But yeah... just don't go overboard with the bribery. I don't want her to get too used to it."

A roleplayer: Mycroft leaned into Greg's touch as he smiled down at the man. "I promise to make sure she eats her vegetables and brushes her teeth at night." Mycroft rolled his eyes at Greg's sly little response. "Honestly, you're impossible sometimes....." Mycroft nodded. "She won't get used to those sorts of things because she's got you to learn how to be a kind, genuine person...a good person with a strong work ethic and a good head on her shoulders. There won't be ponies or show horses or anything of that nature."

A roleplayer: "Just needed to make sure..." Greg said and let his hand fall back down, smiling up at the other man. It sometimes was hard to read Mycroft, even now. "I'd love to invite you to stay the night, but I fear that's actually a bit too much for today. Another time?" he asked, not moving his head from Mycroft's lap. He didn't want the other to leave yet, though he did have in mind that he had to prepare for one last fight tonight. "You could come back soon. She said she wants to go to the zoo... I'm sure you know a lot of interesting animal facts... or you will by the time we go."

A roleplayer: Mycroft let Greg sit up. "No, no. I would decline even if you had asked me to stay, Gregory, one step at a time, hm? I'm certain there will be plenty of time for sleepovers in the future." It was his turn to raise a hand to brush his thumb across Greg's cheek. "I'm happy to join you both any time, no matter the place, as long as Tabitha is in agreement that it's alright if I join. She still needs plenty of one-on-one time with you, yes?" he asked carefully. "I promise to brush up on my animal facts to impress her."

A roleplayer: Greg leaned into the touch and closed his eyes again. God, he wanted him to stay. Instead he opened his eyes and leaned in for a quick kiss. "Thank you, love," he said quitely and looked down at his hands for a moment, letting the events of the day replay in his head. "It's.. been a long day. Thank you for coming back and for staying. I know it hasn't been easy for you... probably still isn't completely. But it really means a lot to me that you're willing to do this." He looked back up at him with a smile. "And I'm really glad you can see your effort paying off..." he added and leaned in for another kiss. "Don't worry, I'll make sure she gets as much time with me as she needs. Just as I do with you."

A roleplayer: Mycroft nodded. "Rome was not built in a day and neither will Tabitha's trust in me." Mycroft kissed Greg quickly. "Should I go and say good night to Tabitha before you have to wrangle her into bed? We can discuss our next date later. You shouldn't stay up too late tonight. Long day of work tomorrow, hm?" Mycroft wanted to stay but he knew staying would make leaving in a few hours even harder. At least at home he could relax and calm down and consider how he was going to be less scary for the young girl.

A roleplayer: "I'm glad you got out of your head a little," Greg said and wrapping his arm around Mycroft to stop him from leaving. "Just.. a little longer?" he asked. The day had drained him, being the mediator and taking care of both of them, reassuring Mycroft and comforting Tabitha. "But yeah, you can definitely say goodnight before you leave." A yawn escaped him but he didn't want to let go just yet. "Yeah, long day. I assume for you as well?"

A roleplayer: Mycroft chuckled and settled against Greg. "If anyone was going to be able to pull me out of my head it was you. He sighed happily and closed his eyes. He absolutely loved being with Greg like this. Just sitting together in the quiet and holding each other. "A full schedule of meetings and conference calls. A stack of analytic reports to review and approve. Animal facts to study and memorize. Not sure when I'll be able to sleep tomorrow...." he chuckled. "Sometimes I hate having to leave you...."

A roleplayer: Greg rolled his eyes but the fond smile was giving him away. "You're impossible." he muttered and kissed his temple. This was nice, just a moment of peace and quiet and warmth. After a moment he sighed and pulled back, pressing a quick kiss to Mycroft's lips before letting go of him. "I hate that you have to leave... but we'll work on getting you sleepover priviledges." He got up and held out his hand for Mycroft. "Say bye to Tabs?"

A roleplayer: Mycroft nodded and took Greg's hand to follow him to Tabitha's room. He stayed behind Greg so that he didn't overwhelm the little girl and let Greg begin the conversation. "Thank you for having me over tonight and for sharing your jelly beans and your favorite movie with me, Tabitha. I had fun tonight...." he said. "I just wanted to say goodnight before I left." He stayed in the doorway of the girl's room leaning against the doorframe with his hands in his pockets. "I hope we can do it again some time."

A roleplayer: Tabitha looked up from the floor where she was playing with her doll. She looked at Greg first, before glancing at Mycroft. He sounded like he meant it and she nodded. "Goodnight," she said and gave him a small wave before turning back to her doll. Greg shrugged and walked with Mycroft to the front door. "Well, that wasn't too bad... text me when you get home, okay?" he said, lifting his hand to caress Mycroft's cheek. "And... thank you again... for doing this."

A roleplayer: Mycroft returned her wave before turning and heading toward the front door. "That was probably the best interaction of the entire evening. "He chuckled. When Greg caressed his cheek Mycroft closed his eyes and leaned into the touch. "Thank you for being patient with me." Mycroft closed the distance between them, wrapping his arms around Greg's waist and leaning in to kiss the man good night. "Good night, darling."

A roleplayer: Greg wrapped his arms around Mycroft in return and leaned against him for a moment, inhaling his scent one last time before letting him go. "Good night, love." he said, reluctantly letting go of him to open the door. Once Mycroft was gone he sighed and made his way back into the bedroom, to start round one of the bed time fight, because he was sure there would be multiple. And he'd lose most.

A roleplayer: Mycroft returned home from his evening at Greg's absolutely exhausted. He had not realized how on edge he had been and it all seemed to hit him at once as he stepped through his front door. He knew it would take time, but how much time was too much? How long would Greg be optimistic that his darling little, sassy six year old would actually come around to liking Mycroft. That little voice in the back of Mycroft's head refused to be silenced. A few weeks later, Mycroft had rearranged his schedule to be able to join Tabitha and Greg at the zoo. He'd painstakingly picked his outfit and even got Anthea's input on what would be most appropriate for the excursion. Which was exactly how he found himself walking beside Greg dressing in a pair of jeans and a polo shirt. He hadn't worn either one of those things since his school days and even then it was a rarity. "Where to first?" he asked Tabitha.

A roleplayer: Greg had let out a quiet whistle when he saw Mycroft approaching in this for him very unusual attire. "I don't think I've ever seen you in a jeans," he said with a smirk and hugged Mycroft to welcome him. "Looks good on you," he whispered before letting go of him again. He grabbed Tabithas hand who was silently looking up at Mycroft, teddy tightly clutched to her chest and they started their excursion. Greg glanced down at his daughter when Mycroft asked her before taking over the answer. "Playground. I promised ice cream. Then penguins." he explained simply and Tabitha nodded, skipping next to him. "How was your day.. Myc?" he asked, love almost slipping out before he stopped himself.

A roleplayer: "Well, as what I'm sure will be another surprise, I took the day off," he looked over at Greg as they headed toward the playground. "I wanted to make sure there would be no interruptions today...I even left my work phone at home...can you imagine? Me?" he chuckled. "How are you two? Been enjoying your day so far?" he asked them both though he knew Tabitha wouldn't answer him from her spot on the other side of Greg. She was, as usual, using Greg and her teddy bear as a shield to protect her from the weird and scary man her father insisted on making her see.

A roleplayer: Greg stopped dead in his tracks, Tabitha how missed the moment pulling on his arm before coming to a stop as well confused. Greg shook his head, the smile that appreared on his face speaking of pure fondness. "You're impossible..." he muttered, before he picked up the pace again. "We're fine. Tabs brought back a great maths test today. Work was... well... lots and lots of paperwork. Sometimes I miss doing more fieldwork." he said before glancing at his daughter, he had a great reason to focus more on the desk bound duties though.

A roleplayer: Mycroft panicked slightly as Greg stopped. What could he have possibly done wrong this soon into their afternoon. His heart nearly dropped to his feet when Greg just smiled at him and continued walking. Mycroft rolled his eyes at Greg's teasing. "Honestly, Gregory, it's not that earth shattering". When Greg mentioned Tabitha's accomplishment Mycroft peer over to her. "Well done, Tabitha. You should be very proud of yourself." he tried his hand at some praise having absolutely no idea if it would land the way he intended it to or if it would just make the little girl ignore him even more.

A roleplayer: "It is..." Greg said quietly, but didn't intend on making a bigger thing out of it. Though it felt gigantic. When Mycroft praised his daughter he gently squeezed her hand. "Yeah, she studied really hard for it," he said and she nodded in agreement, glancing over at Mycroft for a second. Soon after they reached the playground and Greg let go of her had so she could run off and join some other kids on the climbing jungle. He sat down on a bench and patted the place next to him for Mycroft. "You really want me to fall ever harder for you, don't you?" he said in a slightly teasing tone, though he was entirely serious. Seeing the man he loved put so much effort into building a relationship with his daughter, especially after their difficult start...

A roleplayer: Mycroft joined Greg on the bench so they could watch Tabitha play for a bit. "No, no. I am not trying to trick you into caring for me..." he chuckled. "I just wasn't certain when you and Tabitha would be ready and I did not want to be distracted," he tried to explain to his partner. "Tabitha deserves to have our undivided attention when we're with her. I was hoping by...dressing in this ridiculous outfit and limiting my distractions she might see that I'm serious about wanting to make her comfortable...get to know her...that sort of thing."

A roleplayer: Greg placed his arm on the backrest of the bench behind Mycroft, tracing small patterns on his back. "That's really sweet of you, love," he said, watching his daughter laugh about something one of the other kids said. "I don't want you to change who you are for her, though. I love the effort you put in, don't get me wrong..." he said and leaned a little closer, so no bystanders would overhear his next words "I also love the outfit, you're arse looks great in jeans" He smirked and leaned back into a more casual position. "She'll get there. I think it'll help her to see us interact... I think it's not yet time for big conversations"

A roleplayer: The touch as small as it was comforted Mycroft. He wasn't sure he'd ever truly figure out how Greg was able to comfort and calm him so easily. No one else had ever been successful. "Not changing myself, Gregory, just being slightly...less me." When Greg leaned in closer and whispered in his ear he immediately blushed and looked down then away from Greg. "Honestly...." he couldn't help but smile to himself at the compliment. "You say I'm the impossible one...." Turning back to Greg Mycroft allowed himself a few minutes to observe the man. "I know she will. I am a patient man. For the most part."

A roleplayer: Greg chuckled softly as he saw Mycroft blush but decided not to comment on it. He leaned his head against Mycroft's shoulder and closed his eyes for a moment. "You are an incredibly patient man.." he muttered softly, before smirking "For the most part." He watched his daughter interact so easily with the other kids and smiled. He was looking forward to the time she was interacting so easily with Mycroft. Hoping that time would actually arrive soon. "Look after her for a second? I need to use the loo." he said after a moment and got up. "I'll be right back." Almost as on command of destiny as soon as Greg was gone Tabitha was maybe accidently shoved by another kid and fell. She sat up, tears already pooling in her eyes as she looked around for her dad.

A roleplayer: Mycroft wanted to stammer out a 'don't you dare leave me alone with your daughter who is terrified of me' but Greg was gone before Mycroft's brain caught up. He sighed but turned his attention back to the little girl just in time to see Tabitha be pushed and fall back into the sand of the playground. Mycroft was up and hurrying over to Tabitha before he knew what he was doing. He knelt down beside her. "Tabitha..." he was worried she'd been seriously injuried. "Are you okay? Did you hurt anything?" Mycroft started to reach out for the girl when he noticed she had tears in her eyes. Mycroft's chest tightened uncomfortably. That was not a sight he ever wanted to see again. "You father just went to the loo. He'll be back in a moment. Do you want to...come sit with me on the bench to wait for him?"

A roleplayer: Tabitha sniffled and wiped at her eyes. She didn't know if she was okay, everything hurt, maybe? She was scared, not exactly because of the man in front of her, because her dad wouldn't leaver her alone with someone who was actually scary, but he was not the one she wanted and he was not helping. And his question just made her more upset. Her lip wobbled as she tried to hold her sobs back but quickly failed. She wanted her Pa and her teddy and she wanted to be okay. This didn't feel okay. She wiped her face with her sleeve. "I... I... I..." she tried but was always stopped by another sob.

A roleplayer: Mycroft's heart absolutely shattered when the little girl began to cry in earnest. Without a second thought, Mycroft scooped her up and held her against his chest and rubbed her back. "It's okay, darling....I've got you..." He cooed, turning to head back to the bench. He leaned down, grabbed her teddy bear, and passed it over to the little girl. He sat down and shifted the girl in her lap. He held on to her but not too tightly. He wanted her to know she had the freedom to choose where to sit and wait for her father.

A roleplayer: Tabitha stiffened when she was lifted from the sand, hands clutching into the fabric of her own shirt. She stopped sobbing, the tears running quietly down her cheeks and as soon as her teddy was handed over she buried her face in it. "I want my Pa.." she sobbed quietly, looking over Mycroft's shoulder to the path, searching for Greg. When Mycroft sat down with her she stay stiffly perched on his lap for a moment before wiggling enough to slid down sitting next to him, shoulders still shaking with silent sobs, glancing up at him through tear filled eyes every few seconds, teddy still pressed tightly against her face before looking around for her dad. "I want Pa.." she sniffles again.

A roleplayer: Mycroft let her move to sit beside him. "He'll be right back..." Mycroft said softly. "I promise," he brushed a hand over her hair and down her back. "I know I'm not your pa but I do care about you," he continued to speak softly to her. He rubbed her back even though she was still stiffly sitting beside him. Mycroft was at a complete loss of what to do to make her feel better or what to say to her to actually comfort her. It was a hopeless situation and Mycroft hated that the little girl was a complete mystery to him.

A roleplayer: Tabitha took all the courage she was holding in her little body to move away a little from him. "D-don't touch me... please," she said, voice wobbly not able to look at him. It wasn't that it was... bad. But she barely knew him and she didn't want him to touch her. And he was not her dad. At least by now she noticed that nothing was hurting. Though that was only a small comfort. She rubbed at her eyes again and looked around. Where was Pa? Then a new thought hit her, Pa liked this man. He let him touch him. Maybe he'd be mad because she told him not to. Maybe... she felt the sobs coming back to shake her shoulders and curled up into herself, sobbing quietly into her teddy. Greg wasn't suspecting any of this as he made his way back.

A roleplayer: Mycroft immediately took his hand away and sat quietly next to her after he whispered an apology. A fresh set of tears and tiny sobs fell from the little girl and the way she kept hurriedly looking around for her father did nothing to help Mycroft. Maybe this was how it ended. Greg trusting Mycroft with his daughter for less than five minutes, and the little girl ending up in tears. Seemed a fitting end to what had been nothing sort of an explosive beginning.

A roleplayer: When Greg entered the playground again and saw them sitting on the bench he paused only for a second before jogging over. "Hey, Tabs, what happened?" he asked before he even reached them, glancing over at Mycroft for a second before turning his attention back to the little girl. She jumped off the bench and ran toward him "Pa..." she sobbed, now holding back less. Greg picked her up and held her tightly. "It's okay, monkey... are you hurt?" he asked softly and rubbed her back, sitting back down with her. She shook her head and he sighed in relief. "Good... it's all gonna be okay," he muttered as he rocked with her. He looked over at Mycroft, mouthing "What happened?"

A roleplayer: Mycroft had never been so relieved to see Greg. "Just after you left, she was shoved by one of the other children. She fell and I went to check on her. I brought her back here so that we could wait for you..." he explained quickly. "I'm sorry..." There was a great deal more he wanted to say. 'I'm sorry for not watching her closer.' 'I'm sorry for not being able to see what was about to happen.' 'I'm sorry for disappointing you both.' 'I'm sorry for not being able to comfort her'. But nothing else joined his apology.

A roleplayer: Greg placed a kiss on Tabithas hair, she was still quietly sniffling into his shirt and he could feel the wet heat of her tears through his shirt. He kept rocking her, but freed one of his arms to place a hand on Mycroft's shoulder. For an amused second he wondered it'd be like this to have more than one child, attention constantly split. "Well... you didn't shove her, so there's nothing you need to apologize for, Mycroft. Thank you for looking after her," he said, leaving his hand on the other mans shoulder while turning his attention back to his daughter. "That was scary, huh?" he asked her softly and she nodded against his chest. "Yeah... sorry, I wasn't there, Tabs. I just went to the loo... what do you say. Shall we get ice cream now?" She sniffled some more but nodded. "I want extra ice cream," she muttered and he chuckled. "Two scoops and sprinkles, how does that sound?" She grumbled a little before sniffling again. "I want extra!" He squeezed her a bit more and rolled his eyes. "Okay, okay... we'll talk about it once we're there." He looked over at Mycroft and smiled before tending to his next concern, mouthing quietly. "You okay?"

A roleplayer:  Mycroft was far from okay, but he nodded to Gregory. "Ice cream sounds wonderful." Nothing sounded wonderful at that particular moment except maybe going home and coming up with a way to amicably break things off with Greg once the patience wore off. Or perhaps he would not need to worry about that and Tabitha would simply do it for him. Announce one day soon that she hated Mycroft and never wanted to see him again. Greg would have no choice but to listen to her. It could work out in both their favors. He stood and followed the pair over to the ice cream stand. He ordered and paid for them after Greg was done. "Should we sit?" he asked pointing at the few small tables around the stand.

A roleplayer: Greg carried Tabitha over to the ice cream stand and placed her on the ground before it to let her pick the flavours she wanted. He thanked Mycroft for paying as he handed Tabitha her ice cream, whose other hand was still tightly clutching her teddy, tear streaks still visible on her cheeks. He brushed a hand over her hair and kept it on her back, guiding her to one of the tables. She happily lapped at her ice cream, ignoring the adults entirely. Greg placed his hand on Mycroft's leg under the table and leaned in to speak quietly to him. "You're tense... where's your head, love?"

A roleplayer:  Mycroft ate his ice cream silently until he felt Greg's hand on his knee. He hummed as if he hadn't heard the man, but answered quickly when his brain processed the question. "No, no. I'm fine," he smiled to reassure the man. "Just enjoying my ice cream...." There was not much more to say on the matter. Greg knew exactly what was wrong. Greg would stubbornly ignore it. "Are you enjoying your snack?" he asked Tabitha across the table, wanting to redirect the attention to her.

A roleplayer: "It's not a snack it's ice cream!" Tabitha said and licked some off the melting ice cream off the cone. Greg smiled, well, at least she was fine. He squeezed Mycroft's leg once more and ate his ice cream silently. When he finished he looked over at him again. "You're catastrophizing." he said simply and Tabitha looked up. "What's castro- catsto- what?" she asked and tilted her head, ice cream forgotton for a second. "Ca-ta-stro-phi-zing" Greg helped and she nodded. "Yeah that." He chuckled and looked over at Mycroft, "I'll let you explain that, I'm sure you've got the oxford definition memorized... I'll get napkins."

A roleplayer: Mycroft nodded at the little girl's correction but remained quiet as Greg admonished him for his behavior. Mycroft paled when Greg got up and left them again. Curse that man for being intentionally cruel. He swallowed thickly as he turned his attention back to Tabitha. He did not hold her eyes; however, keeping them fixed on his cup of ice cream. "It means that I am thinking about the worst-case scenario..." he began. "I tend to...overthink situations when I am worried."

A roleplayer: Tabitha hummed and licked at her ice cream again. "What's a worst-case scenario?" she asked before immediately adding. "Why are you worried? Is it because I said-" she stopped suddenly when Greg came back and was very focussed on her ice cream. He placed a few napkins in front of her and frowned. "Said what?" he asked, looking first at Tabitha who was very much ignoring him right now and then at Mycroft. "Myc... what kind of secret do you guys have?" he asked, though keeping his voice soft.

A roleplayer: Mycroft immediately shook his head. "No, darling, it's not because you asked me to stop touching you. You were well within your right and I am not upset with you at all. I'm proud you stood up for yourself and asked for what you wanted...what you needed." he explained. "I picked her up and brought her to the bench. When we first sat down I had her in my lap. She moved to sit beside me and I was...trying to comfort her...by rubbing her back."

A roleplayer: Greg almost melted like the ice cream that was running over Tabithas hand. Then he saw her hunched shoulders and the worried eyes resting on him. He frowned a little, trying to figure out what was happening. He couldn't quite grasp it, though. "He's right, you know." he said simply. "You did very well telling him to stop when you didn't want him touching you." She smiled a little before licking the ice cream off of her hand. Greg wondered why she'd think he didn't like she enforced her boundaries like he tried to teach her. And knowing Mycroft he will have listened to her. He wasn't touching her when Greg arrived, just sitting by her side. He smiled at Mycroft. "So, you figured out what's catastrophizing, Tabs?" he asked and she shook her head. "No... but I think it means something bad making you worry a lot"

A roleplayer: "That's right, Tabitha." Mycroft nodded. "Sorry. Worst-case scenarios are...imagining the worst possible thing you think will happen and sort of...replaying them in your head," he began to explain, hoping he was being clear enough for her to understand without scaring her. "For me, it is a way to attempt to control or predict the outcome in the future. It does not always work, but it is something I often...can not control. It is a form of anxiety....feeling worried all the time whether or not their is a reason for it."

A roleplayer: "Oh..." she said and looked at Mycroft for a long moment, trying to process his words. She knew her Pa also worried sometimes about the future and she knew that she worried and her Ma worried but Mycroft seemed to worry extra much. She didn't like worrying it was unpleasant and no fun. "So... you worry even when you don't want to worry? And when there is nothing to be worried about?" She had been worried about her math test and it ended up good so she understood it a little. "What are you worrying about?"

A roleplayer: Mycroft nodded again. He swirled his spoon in the cup, pushing around the last of his melted ice cream around. "That's exactly right. " When she asked what he was worrying about he glanced up to her and then to Greg. Should he tell her? Would it upset her or scare or? Would it upset Greg to hear Mycroft be honest with his six year old? Did Mycroft care? He watch Greg for another second before his eyes went back to Tabitha. He lowered them to his cup before he answered her. "I am worried that you will never...like me. Which is absolutely fine, by the way. I would never be upset by it. I am also worried that..." he stopped and shook his head. "It's ridiculous things to think about."

A roleplayer: Greg watched Mycroft cautiously. This was a major point, explaining his worries honestly without putting too much on the shoulders of a child was an extremely difficult task. He also watched Tabitha's reaction. She frowned and nibbled at the cone of her ice cream. She didn't like him.. but she also didn't dislike him. He brought her flowers and watched Barbie and told her she was right and stopped when she said no. She didn't answer for a long while before looking up again. "Does worrying make your tummy hurt?" she asked, her tummy always hurt when she was worried.

A roleplayer: "Sometimes, yes," he said. "Mostly, it makes my chest hurt. Like someone is squeezing me too tightly in a hug. Sometimes, when things are really bad, it causes me to feel like I can't take a deep breath." He did not often have panic attacks these days because he could sense them a little better and work to calm himself down. He glanced up again to the little girl and then to Gregory.

A roleplayer: Greg placed his hand back on Mycroft's leg and squeezed gently, trying to simultaneously tell him 'I'm here' and 'You're doing good'. Tabitha nodded as if she understood. She didn't, not really. But she knew worrying could affect the body and apparently that was what it did to Mycroft. "Like when you ran really really fast and then you can't breathe?" she asked, some melting ice cream dropping onto her shirt. "Oh..." she muttered and tried to wipe it off with her hand, which was also slightly ice cream covered. "Oh. Pa..." she said and looked over to him. Greg chuckled and shrugged. "It's alright monkey, we'll put it in the laundry later." She nodded. "Can we go see the penguins?"

A roleplayer: "Just like that, yes." Mycroft answered. He was incredibly grateful that the little girl seemed to immediately not care what they'd been discussing and turned her attention to what was next on the list. He gathered their trash and tossed it away before joining the pair of them and heading in the direction of the penguin enclosure. "If you ever leave me alone with her again, Gregory, I will never join you on another outing...." he murmered in the man's ear as Tabitha walked slightly ahead of them. "You are liable to give me a heart attack at this rate."

A roleplayer: Tabitha was skipping a bit in front of them, teddy in one hand a stick she had found on the ground in the other and was trying to whistle some tune. Greg watched her fondly but stayed close to Mycroft. "I think you're missing an incredibly point here, love," Greg said softly and glanced over at his partner "She was okay alone with you. I know, I know, you disagree because she was crying. But she wasn't crying because of you, she didn't yell or try to run away, did she?" He looked back at her daughter who was a bit ahead and had turned around to wait for them. "You're sooooooo slow," she complained and Greg chuckled. "See... she's fine."

A roleplayer: "She was sobbing, Gregory, sobbing." Mycroft quieted as Tabitha turned around. He couldn't help but chuckle at the over-exaggerated and dramatic way she drew out the words. She reminded him a lot of Sherlock at that age. Curious, sassy, dramatic, but also quiet and nervous in her own way. "I know she's fine now." he agreed. "Let's not keep her waiting too long, hm?"

A roleplayer: Greg placed a hand at the small of Mycroft's back as they picked up their pace a little to follow the little girl who'd started skipping again. "Look over there are the penguins!" she called excitedly and swirled around once, almost tripping over her own feet. "Amazing, we'll catch up to you there, Tabs," Greg said and she grinning sprinting over to the enclosure. Greg slowed to his normal pace again and looked over at Mycroft. "Children sob, love, a lot. If you use that as your metric for success you can only lose." he said, picking their conversation back up.

A roleplayer: "I would say it is a good metric to weigh myself against after attempting to comfort a child who wanted nothing to do with me," he said. "I had no idea what to do and what I chose to do was wrong....but more than that...I was wrong. I am not a person she wants, Gregory..." he held up his hand. "I know that it will take time for her to warm to me. I am willing to wait, but I do not think you have considered the possibility that she never warms to me. She may simply be indifferent to me."

A roleplayer: "Mycroft. She met you twice. Of course she wanted me to comfort her not some bloke her dad had brought home twice and she only just downgraded from supervillain to weird adult." he said seriously, stopping Mycroft when they were close enough that he could see Tabitha but not close enough that she would hear them. "You did well. You checked if she was hurt, you tried to comfort her, when she named a boundary you accepted it. It's not your job to be her dad... that's my job. And while I was gone you were a safe adult for her to be around until her dad came back."

Stranger: Mycroft smiled, gesturing to a second mug and a plate of toast. “There’s plenty if you’d like some.” He murmured, “I imagine it will lessen in a day or two. This bond is non traditional, so it makes sense that the emotions and feelings would be different as well.” He watched the man for a moment. “Come sit by me; maybe it will help make you feel less at ease. I’m sorry I didn’t wake you; you seemed very peaceful, and I wasn’t about to disturb your rest.”

You: Greg padded into the kitchen and sat down beside Mycroft. "Best sleep I've gotten in a while post pain killers." Greg picked up the mug of tea and took a sip. Perfect as usual. He was quiet for a few moments as he picked up a piece of toast and munched happily on it. "Well, we've survived for the moment. I guess that's something to celebrate, hm?" he looked over at Mycroft hoping the man really was feeling better. "What's next?" he asked.

Stranger: Mycroft nodded, sipping his tea. “We’ll need to discuss living arrangements. If you’re still content to live at the flat with me, we can make arrangements to move your things in. Apart from that, I suppose we will be spending the day together so neither of us does ourselves a mischief because of feeling unsettled.” He smiled at Greg. “The weather’s meant to be nice; we could take a walk?”

You: Greg nodded. "Sounds like a lovely day." He was incredibly excited to spend the entire day with Mycroft. Maybe this was the beginning of something absolutely wonderful, something both of them had needed for a very long time. "I don't mind moving into your flat. Are you sure there's going to be enough room especially after the baby comes? I know we talked about having separate rooms for the foreseeable future but we need to make sure all the baby's things will fit with me there too. I can keep my flat so that way I only really need to move my close and some personal things over. Might be easier that way. Got to have a contingency plan in place for when I get in the dog house." he teased gently.

Stranger: “There’s enough room.” Mycroft replied, “There is an office space that isn’t necessary. I’m turning that into the nursery, and then the two bedrooms will be for you and I. It’s cozy, but not cramped.” He glanced at Greg. “You’re welcome to retain your flat, Gregory. I understand that you may prefer to have your own space. I will arrange for the rent to be covered, so you needn’t worry about it.”

You: Greg sighed. "Don't think that means I'm not serious about this bond." he wanted to make sure that Mycroft didn't think he was gone as soon as the pup arrived. "We're going to need to carefully consider all the options once the baby arrives. We can't scrub the bond too soon postpartum or there could be complications for you. I'm more concerned about /you/ needing some personal space away from me, yes? And the last thing I want is for you to feel like you can't escape me. You're not my property, you're not inferior to me, you're my friend and my partner now, Myc, that makes us equal. You've been through hell with your previous Alpha...we just need to make sure you don't feel backed into that corner again."

Stranger: “I didn’t think that, Gregory.” Mycroft replied, “I simply know this is unusual, and even committed, you’re moving into a space that was originally mine rather than ours or your own. It is not surprising that you want to hold onto your flat.” He patted Greg’s knee. “I know you wouldn’t bond with me unless you were serious about helping.”

You: Greg smiled over at Mycroft, slipping his hand over the man's as Mycroft patted his knee. "Sometimes I feel like you need reminding that you're in control of the situation now...and that we've got a long while to go before we can even begin to think of scrubbing the bond...if we ever wanted to that is..." There was a part of Greg that was hopeful they wouldn't ever scrub the bond. There was also a part of Greg that wanted Mycroft to experience what it was like to date and choose a partner because you wanted to not because you had to. "And I'm not going to let you pay my rent. I'm a big boy. I can pay my own bills even though I bonded into a wealthy family."

Stranger: Mycroft wrinkled his nose, though he nodded. “Very well. If you change your mind though, somply let me know. I’m happy to cover the costs.” He leaned against the Alpha lightly, nibbling at a piece of toast. “It seems hard to believe it’s nearly halfway through the time until we meet the pup.” He remarked, “They should be able to tell me boy or girl at the next appointment.”

You: Greg turned and pressed a kiss to Mycroft's temple when the man leaned into him. "Halfway there?" he asked. "Well, we've got a lot to do then. Got to finish the nursery, make sure your bag is packed, set up a little cot next to your bed...." Greg had made a list. An actual list of everything they'd have to do to get ready for the pup. He'd spent the majority of his leave reading parenting blogs and articles about what to expect during pregnancy and what to look out for during high risk ones just so he could be prepared. "I can't believe you'll already be able to find out..that's fantastic....I don't know about you but I'm so excited to meet the little bugger...." He looked down at Mycroft's bump when he said it. He'd even started buy a few things for Mycroft and the pup as gifts for the nursery. A few outfits, some books and things like that though he was trying not to go overboard. He didn't want the man fussing at him.

Stranger: “You’re almost more excited for this than I am.” Mycroft teased, “I can already see you with the pup in a baby sling, carrying them around at work while you bark orders at your team.” He appreciated Greg’s apparent eagerness for the pup to join them. He’d had some worry that the man might resent Mycroft or the pup, especially since it was technically the child of the man who had shot him. “The nursery just needs to be painted and arranged. I have all the furniture. I managed to salvage my grandmother’s rocking chair, with Sherlock’s help.”

You: "It's far more likely that you'll see me sleeping on the sofa with the pup asleep on my chest after we've had a late night snack. We'll be the picture of perfection..." Greg was happy to hear that Mycroft had gotten pretty far along with the nursery set up. "That's wonderful to hear. I should be able to handle the painting and set up of the furniture....which reminds me...I got you some things..." He held up his hand to let Mycroft know that he'd be right back before he disappeared into his room. He returned with two wrapped boxes. One contained this little cot and the other had the rest of the items for Mycroft and the baby. "Wasn't sure you were going to have a baby shower...or really when we'd be able to celebrate properly..." he set the boxes on the table for Mycroft.

Stranger: “I will remind you that you still have a cast on your hand.” Mycroft replied, “You’re welcome to help with the painting, but I’m not an invalid. I can do some of it.” He looked at the boxes, then back to Greg. “You didn’t need to do this, Gregory.” He smiled, “Though it is very thoughtful. Thank you.” He unwrapped the cot first, remarking on the practicality and thanking Greg again. He unwrapped the second package, looking at the books and the infant clothing. “A very fashionable infant.” He said, holding up a tiny pair of overalls patterned with bees.

You: Greg made a face at the man. "/You/ shouldn't be doing any heavy lifting while you're pregnant. The last thing we need is for you to become invalid." Greg was practically bouncing in his seat while Mycroft unwrapped the gifts. "The baby and I discussed making this easier on you for the first few weeks. The little cot fits right next to your bed with places to put wipes and diapers and things. So you won't have to go very far to change them or feed them in the middle of the night...." He reached into the smaller box and pulled out a little baby blanket. "This is one of my favorites..." The plush blanket was covered in tiny umbrellas.

Stranger: “Ah yes. You and the baby had conversations.” He smiled, “Can you convince them not to kick my bladder with such glee.” He looked at the blanket, reaching out to touch it with a soft smile. “It’s perfect, Gregory. All of it is. Thank you so much for this.”

You: "I've tried to remind the baby that they need to be a bit nicer to you given that you are doing them a huge favor by giving them a place to live for nine months but they're really stubborn..." he chuckled. "Do you mind that we've had conversations? Everything I've read says that it's good for us to talk to them while they're in the womb. This way they know who we both are....helps with bonding after they're born. Not that I'm going to bond with your pup or anything....it'd just be nice if they weren't scared of me when they got here..."

Stranger: Mycroft shook his head, reaching out to pat Greg’s cheek. “I don’t mind at all. I’m happy for them to talk to you, Greg. I appreciate the time and effort you are putting into preparing for this pup, and I love that you want to try and let them get used to your presence before they’re born. It’s important that they know you and are alright with you. What if something were to happen to me and I couldn’t come home from the hospital with them? They need to be used to you, content with your presence.”

You: Greg leaned into Mycroft's touch. "We're going to make sure that nothing happens to you and that you both come home from the hospital together." Greg didn't want to think about what would happen if Mycroft couldn't come home right away or worse didn't come home at all. He knew it was a needed plan. He knew that Mycroft had probably already updated his will and things to include instructions on where the pup would go in the event of his untimely demise. "Who gets custody if something happens to you?" Greg asked. "I realize that I might not want to talk about it but...we should"

Stranger: “Custody goes to you, now that we’re bonded.” Mycroft replied, “I texted Anthea and she is having my will updated. If you are unable or unwilling, she is next in line.” He glanced at Gregory. “I would understand if you didn’t feel willing or comfortable taking them if I died, but I trust you implicitly. You’re the first choice of guardian if I am unable.”

You: Greg couldn't believe what he was hearing. "Just we're bonded doesn't mean you'd want them to come to me especially since I don't really have any claim to them..." he began. "But I'd be absolutely lying to you if I said I wasn't relieved to hear you say that you want them to stay with me. I am absolutely willing, Mycroft, biologically mine or not...I'm in with both feet."

Stranger: “You have more claim to them than their sire.” Mycroft frowned, “Sherlock is not a suitable guardian, for all I love him. I would not subject another child to my mother’s idea of parenting, and Peter’s parents are no longer living, not that they are better than my own.” He turned, looking at Greg intently. “I would choose you for them even if we hadn’t bonded. I trust you, Gregory, with myself and, more importantly, with my pup.”

You: "You're going to make me cry again." Greg choked out barely above a whisper. Greg fought hard against the urge to wrap Mycroft up in his arms and plant a kiss right on those beautiful lips of his. He knew the man would hate it. Knew it would be a selfish, inconsiderate move to make especially while Mycroft was so unbelievably vulnerable. Instead, he gave Mycroft a barely held together, dopey smile. He hoped against everything that Mycroft wouldn't grow to hate his sentimental nature. "How about that walk, hm?"

You: (hey, I have to grab dinner. Might be a hot minute before I'm back!)

Stranger: “Poor sentimental Alpha.” Mycroft said quietly, smiling, “How difficult it must be, knowing that at any moment I could do something like making you guardian or allowing you to hold me and sending you into tears.” He leaned in, pressing a light kiss to Greg’s jaw before standing and grabbing his overnight bag from where he’d left it by the kitchen door. “Let me change into something I haven’t slept in, and then we can go.” He grinned after Greg before disappearing down the hall.

Stranger: ((Ok, NP))

Stranger: ((I have to run an errand for my mom, yikes. I’ll be gone a hot minute. If we get disconnected, I hope to find you again))

Stranger: ((Sorry))

You: (Hey! I'm back.)

You: Greg took a deep breath as Mycroft left him alone in the kitchen. He needed some time to collect himself after Mycroft's teasing and the kiss and just...everything. When he was sure his legs could hold him again he got up and cleared their mugs and the empty plate from the table and went to his room to change as well. "You've got to pull yourself together." He told his reflection as he stood in the bathroom. "You're absolutely impossible." He finished getting ready and returned to the front of his flat to slip on his shoes for their walk around the neighborhood.

Stranger: ((Back! Sorry))

You: (Hi!)

Stranger: Mycroft was waiting by the door, carrying his umbrella but dressed casually in trousers and a jumper in a forest green tone. He smiled at Greg, offering his hand to the man once he had his shoes on. “Shall we?” He asked, “I know it isn’t meant to rain, but better safe than sorry, yes?”

You: "I'd be concerned if you didn't bring that umbrella of yours...don't think I've ever seen you outside without it." He took Mycroft's hand as they left the flat, locking the door behind him. It was such a happy, domestic act just walking around the neighborhood hand in hand. That part had shocked Greg. He hadn't expected Mycroft to want to hold hands though it made sense. They were both still quite needy from the new bond.

Stranger: “Yes, well...I find it to be quite useful in a variety of occasions.” He walked quietly for a time, enjoying the warm weather and having Gregory close by his side. It felt safe, felt correct in a way that contact with Peter never quite had, and Mycroft was reveling in the happy sensation. He knew it was partially influenced by the new bond, biology urging him to stay close to the safety of his Alpha, but there was also the genuine warm affection he held for Greg from their time together.

You: "You never cease to amaze me." Greg squeezed Mycroft's hand as they rounded the corner. "So we've figured out our living arrangements, talked about the nursery...seems like we've had a pretty productive morning, I'd say. I'll stay packing up my things tonight to get ready..."

Stranger: Mycroft smiled. “Flatterer.” He said lightly, “We have been very productive. Finished most of our necessary tasks. You’ll have enough time for a nap this afternoon, should you desire.” He looked at the other man for a moment. “I should warn you, I will have to visit my mother before long. And she likely will learn that we’ve bonded. I will try to keep her away from you, though.”

You: Greg nodded. "Do you think that she'll be disappointed in what's happened? In your choice for a new Alpha since I'm not one who wants to rule with an iron fist so to speak?" Greg had considered that Mycroft would need to visit his family and tell them of what had happened. "Do they understand how horrible Peter was to you?" he asked. "You know I don't mind coming with you...you need someone in your corner."

Stranger: “She will likely accuse me of being deliberately difficult to drive Peter away. She may imply that I’ve no sense of integrity for rebonding so quickly. She will undoubtedly disparage the fact that I’ve chosen a policeman.” He sighed, “I don’t want you to have to be exposed to her. I have never been, and will never be, a good enough Omega for her standards.” He looked away, falling silent as he tried to marshal his words into something that wouldn’t anger Greg. “Her thoughts were that I need discipline, and if Peter left a mark or an injury after, it was because I did something to drive him to it.”

You: "Wouldn't be the first time someone thought I wasn't worth anything," he said. " I don't want you going alone. Whether you take me with you or you invite your parents over to our flat, doesn't matter. I just don't think that your mother needs to continue such speak so harshly to you and she won't listen to reason at all....but I could...it'd be nice to be able to praise you a bit."

Stranger: Mycroft bit his lip, shaking his head. “I don’t want her at our flat.” He admitted, “I don’t want her to snoop through our things and criticize the wall colors.” He sighed, squeezing Greg’s hand. “If you come, you need to promise me you will keep your temper. Mummy is a master at getting under people’s skin, and this isn’t like Peter.”

You: Greg sighed. "I wouldn't punch your mother, Mycroft, but I would definitely have words with her. Starting with the fact that her way of thinking is archaic and that Omegas don't need discipline. She may not be physically abusing you but speaking down to you...constantly criticizing you...it's just as bad, Mycroft. Someone's got to put her in her place, wouldn't you say?"

Stranger: Mycroft shrugged. “I suppose I’ve grown accustomed to her ways. I was an unexpected child, and then presented omega on top of that. She was disappointed.” He leaned against Greg as they waited at a street crossing, “To be honest, my worry has more to do with her saying something rude to you. If she is unkind to you, I may not be able to hold my tongue.”

You: "Don't worry about me...I've got a thick skin, Myc. I doubt very much that your mother could say anything to me or about me that I haven't heard before." Greg couldn't help but smirk at the idea of Mycroft not holding his tongue. "Maybe that's what she really needs...you standing up to her and letting your thoughts and feelings on the matter ring out. Your mother sounds like a bully, Mycroft, just like Peter was."

Stranger: “I suppose she is, in some ways.” Mycroft replied, “I know you’ve a thick skin, Gregory, but that doesn’t mean I will simply let her try to tear down my chosen bond mate.” He shifted, biting his lip. “She may refer to the pup as a bastard, because I am no longer bonded to Peter. Try not to snarl at her?”

You: "I make absolutely no promises on that. Any person who would speak about their grandchild like that needs a bit of a snarl." Greg turned and pressed a kiss to Mycroft's temple. "I'm sure that your mother will do a fair bit of tearing us both down once she's told what's happened between you and Peter and told about the pup. We'll have to both try and be on relatively good behavior."

Stranger: “Oh, she knows about the pup.” Mycroft said, “That is the reason I have to visit.” He smiled a bit. “You’re taking this all very well. I appreciate that. I will let you know when she tells me the date.”

You: "What is there to take poorly?" he asked the man. "Your mother hates the fact that you had a bond scrubbed because she thinks that Omegas are inferior to Alphas. Now you've got an Alpha who isn't such a...traditional Alpha. Seems quite cut and dry really." Greg looked over to Mycroft as they walked. "I look forward to it..."

Stranger: “This mag be shocking, but most people don’t like the knowledge that their new partner’s mother will likely insult them the first time she meets them.” He leaned up, pressing a kiss to Greg’s jaw. “Should we start back soon? I think we’re losing the sun.” He featured up to the clustering clouds.

You: Greg couldn't help but chuckle as they turned back towards his flat. "Couldn't be any worse than being insulted by your new partner's brother the first time they met. Something about being a pathetic excuse for a DI who wouldn't know his right hand from his left hand if they were both the same. I think I can handle your mother....I've had some practice with in laws, you know?"

Stranger: Mycroft groaned. “Oh Sherlock...he’s always been combative and inappropriate.” He smiled at Greg gratefully. “You’re being very kind, and I appreciate it.” He smiled. “It should be after we find out the sex, so perhaps there will be a name she can refer to the pup by instead.”

You: "There's something fun we can do with our time...choosing baby names." He said. "Well, you can choose the name...I can just lay with my head in your lap talking to the baby while you look through pages and pages of unique, old world names.... then we can make sure to remind your mother that it's a living being with feelings and needs and opinions all their own is growing in there."

Stranger: Mycroft smiled at the image Greg brought into his mind; listening to the Alpha talking to the pup as they sat together, feeling the warm weight on his lap...He blinked, eyes a bit misty from the wash of emotion. “I would appreciate your input on names.” He remarked, “I was actually thinking of choosing something that isn’t as...unique as Sherlock’s name or my own. This little one deserves something a little easier, since so much of their life is in upheaval before they even arrive.”

You: "Don't worry. Live will settle down in time for their arrival. Once they get here they won't have any idea that things were ever anything but this..." he motioned between them as they walked. "We don't have to tell the baby about Peter or about what happened before. Think the only other thing we'll have to figure out is what they're going to call me if I'm still around in this capacity. Should it be Uncle Greg or Gregory or 'the silly old man'....possibilities are endless really.

Stranger: Mycroft nodded. “I’ve no plan to tell them about Peter; when they’re grown, perhaps, if they ask about their sire.” He looked at Greg, shaking his head. “You’re only a few years older than I am, Gregory...you’re hardly ‘old’. I suppose what they call you will depend on whether we are still bonded when they begin talking. We have time to think about it, to decide on something you’re comfortable with.” He kept to himself the fact that if the pup chose to call Greg something like Papa, Mycroft wouldn’t protest at all. “I was thinking of...testing our bond, this afternoon. To see if the sensation of being pulled apart has lessened. I don’t wish to cause you distress, but I’ll need to know if I need to arrange for another day of leave.”

You: "True but I'm going to tell you now that if they start calling me Papa or Dad you'll never be able to get rid of me." Greg nodded when Mycroft mentioned testing the bond that afternoon. "Don't worry about me," he said. "We both'll have to go back to work so we might as well get used to whatever pain we're going to experience due to separation. We can still keep up our meetings, can't we? That way we all get the best of both worlds."

Stranger: “Oh no. However will I cope with an affectionate Alpha who respects my boundaries and knows how to cook?” He snickered, nodding. “We can keep up our meetings if you like. You’ll see me every evening at the flat, of course, but the meetings are normal for us, and it will be nice to get extra time with you.”

You: "I meant before I move in, Mycroft, before I get all moved in we won't see each other every day, right?" he questioned. "Unless you just miss me so much that you can't stand to be without me...." It was far more likely that Greg would be the first to cave but he kept that bit of enlightened observation to himself. "When I move in it'll be a lot of time we'll have together. Mornings before work...time after work...weekends and holidays..."

Stranger: “Oh...of course.” He nodded, “I suppose I wasn’t thinking of before. I can’t promise I won’t come over to spend some time with you. Perhaps not every day, but...the feeling of contentment is rather intoxicating.”

You: "It's part of my allure," Greg added. "You're welcome in my flat anytime you want to come over. It shouldn't take me long at all to finish up packing my clothes and things. I started the other day when we first started talking about officially moving in together." The got back to Greg's flat and the Alpha let them inside. "Are you really feeling alright? No negative side effects?"

Stranger: “I feel alright, Gregory.” Mycroft assured him, “I promise to let you know if I feel any adverse effects. At the moment, I honestly feel rather pleasant; content and safe.” He looked at Greg. “I know it may not last, but I plan to enjoy it while it does.” ((Do you want to skip ahead some? Few weeks maybe?))

You: (Yeah, that'd be great!)

Stranger: ((BRB, the dog is screaming at someone))

You: Greg nodded. "Best not to assume it'll change...there's really no reason to think you'll go back to feeling miserable." Greg fixed them lunch that afternoon before Mycroft left for a few hours to test the bond. Greg decided it was best not to tell the man just how much he missed him. Nearly a month later, Greg had moved in all of his clothes to Mycroft's flat and had started to work on painting the nursery during the weekends. He and Mycroft moved the furniture, fussing between them on where things should go like a properly bonded couple. They spent their days at work, their evenings having dinner together and lounging around on the sofa looking for baby names when they weren't both still finishing up that day's work. It was absolutely perfect for Greg. The sort of home life he'd always wanted with a partner but never got to experience.

Stranger: ((Back))

Stranger: Mycroft had never felt more content in sharing a home, even as a child. Greg was considerate and helpful, willing to work together with Mycroft to shape their home as they wanted it. They’d discussed hundreds of names for the pup but come no closer to finding one that seemed perfect, leading Mycroft to simply refer to the growing pup as ‘little boy’ after a doctor’s checkup that had left him in grateful tears. One Sunday morning he poked his head into Greg’s open door, face pale and drawn. “We’re expected at Mummy’s by noon. Are you ready to go, Gregory?”

You: Greg was tugging on a jumper when Mycroft interrupted him. "Yeah, just have to put on my shoes. What do you think? Do I look proper enough to hold your mother's tongue for at least a few minutes?" he turned so that Mycroft could get a good look at him. Greg had showered, shaved and picked out his nicest outfit for their lunch with Mycrot's parents. "You know we don't have to do this, Mycroft, you aren't under her control anymore...I'm not in her pocket, remember?" he said moving to stand in front of Mycroft. He reached up and brushed his hands over Mycrofts shoulders and down his arms. "Either way I'll be right there beside you."

Stranger: Mycroft was wearing a suit, carefully tailored to fit with the swell of his stomach. He looked Greg over, nodding. “You look lovely. She’s unlikely to find fault with your clothing.” He leaned up, pressing a light kiss to the corner of Greg’s mouth. “If we do not go to her, she will come here. And I couldn’t bear that.” He sighed, shifting. “I appreciate your support more than I can say, dear.” He straightened, pressing a hand to his stomach as the pup kicked. “The car will be here soon.”

You: "It's not the clothing I was talking about. People's first impressions of you is like ninety percent visual, isn't it? If I look put together and posh we might have a better chance of not having an argument within the first ten minutes." Greg leaned down when Mycroft stopped for a moment. "Little one...you've got to take a break. We're going to visit your grandparents and your mum is already under enough stress..." Greg brushed a quick hand over Mycroft's bump. "Into battle as Sherlock would say, mm?" They moved out of his room so that he could put his shoes on. He made sure to grab his things as the driver knocked on the door of their flat.

Stranger: Mycroft chuckled. “He’s being stubborn today; I think he senses I am worried and is responding to it.” He followed Greg, speaking quietly to the driver to give him the address as they walked down to the car. The ride was tense, Mycroft sticking close to Greg’s side as though unable to bear sitting alone. When they pulled to a stop in front of the house he was the first one out, picking up the bottle of wine he’d brought for his parents in an attempt to appease them. “Into battle.” He murmured to Greg, “Will you ring the bell? I ought to stand behind; start off on the right foot.”

You: "You'll stand beside me, Mycroft. Partners, remember?" It wasn't an order by any means, it was simply a...request. Greg wanted Mycroft beside him in everything else...it just made sense that that would carrying over into this. Greg rang the bell of Mycroft's parent's house and immediately laced his fingers with Mycroft's, giving it a squeeze. "Together." he glanced quickly at Mycroft giving the man a small smile before the door opened. "Good afternoon Mrs. Holmes. Mr. Holmes." Greg had to remind himself to be polite and mind his manners. Mycroft had been trying to teach him over the last few weeks to be a little less brash in his modern mind set but Greg proved to be nearly as stubborn as his partner.

Stranger: Mycroft’s fingers trembled a bit in Greg’s grasp, but he didn’t let go, letting the touch soothe him as he glanced over his parents. “Mummy, Father.” He said quietly, nodding. Mummy was in front, of course, looking the two of them over with critical eyes while his father hung back a step, smiling at his son and Greg. Father was a perfect example of a traditional Omega, of course; he never needed ‘reminding’. Mycroft sighed, biting the inside of his lip. He passed the wine bottle to Father as they were ushered inside, turning automatically to take Greg’s cost and hang it with his own. He turned back, only to find Mummy eyeing Greg once more. “So...you are the Alpha Mikey has decided to throw away family tradition and decency for? He always has been a troublesome child, but this really is beyond the pale.”

You: Greg didn't protest the way Mycroft took his coat or remained just behind him when Mrs. Holmes started in on him. Greg knew instantly that Mycroft got his fire from that woman. "If by that you mean the Alpha your son made a conscious decision to take for love, comfort, and safety from the manipulative, abusive, psychotic Alpha you originally bonded him to, yes. Greg Lestrade...." The Alpha stuck out his hand to the woman. "It's very nice to meet you." Greg could nearly see the smoke coming out of the woman's ears. "Mr. Holmes..." Greg moved around the woman as if to dismiss her negative portrayal of their relationship and extended his hand to the elder Holmes. "Mycroft's told me so much about you....it's really a pleasure."

Stranger: Mycroft struggled for a moment, but managed to keep his glee at Greg’s casual disregard hidden. He watched his father shake Greg’s hand and greet the Alpha, so caught up in seeing his partner meet the man who carried him that he forgot to keep an eye on Mummy. He stiffened when she gripped his shoulder tightly, a soft yip of surprise escaping him. “I shouldn’t need to tell you that I am disappointed you’ve taken up with a mannerless lout.” She snapped, “For your own sake, I hope that pup is Peter’s and not proof of whatever affair you and your...partner were conducting.” Mycroft flushed, shaking his head. “You shouldn’t sp..speak of Gregory like that, Mummy. He’s been very kind. He was willing to bond with me so that you’d grandchild wouldn’t be harmed by the bond scrubbing.”

You: Greg was chatting with Mr. Holmes about his line of work when he heard the yelp from Mycroft. Mr. Holmes quietly asked Greg not to get involved as it was simply the way their family worked. Frowning at the man Greg responded quietly in return. "It's not the way my family works." Greg turned around again and immediately put himself between Mrs. Holmes and Mycroft. "I shouldn't need to tell you how disappointed I am to learn that my partner's own mother would sell him off to the highest bidder like some sort of farm animal." he snapped back. "Peter was well on his way to putting Mycroft into an early grave with the way he was hurting him. Broken bones, bruises....If it weren't for Alphas like me, Mrs. Holmes, Omegas like Mycroft would never learn what compassion or kindness is. The pup in his belly may biologically be Peter's but don't you /ever/ mistake that man for his father. /I/ am that pup's father whether you like it or not and I will /not/ allow you to talk to Mycroft so rudely, are we clear?"

Stranger: Mycroft clung to the back of Greg’s jumper with one hand, bracing himself to haul the Alpha back if he needed to. This was exactly why he hadn’t wanted to make the man come; it was never going to end well with the pair of Alphas butting heads. “Miley has always been stubborn and unwilling to learn. If he earned a few bruises through his smart mouth and inability to obey, it is simply his own fault. I never had to discipline his father, and we’ve been married nearly 48 years. It wouldn’t hurt Mikey to toughen up and learn to accept his place in life.” She sneered at Greg, eyes running over him. “You’re a soft excuse for an Alpha, and I will /not/ be lectured in my own house about how I speak to my ungrateful child.”

Stranger: *Mikey

You: "There's nothing at all to learn." Greg corrected the woman. "Mycroft's place is at the side of his Alpha, not three steps behind in quiet subservience. He's stubborn and outspoken and absolutely perfect the way he is. His smart mouth and his 'inability to obey' it's what's kept him alive when Peter was repeatedly abusing him. It wasn't just a few bruises, don't you understand? It was broken bones and punctured lungs and falls down the stairs. It was concussions and beatings that left scars. Your son is one of the bravest, wisest people I've ever had the pleasure of knowing. He's given me so much, taught me so much in the short time we've been bonded and I would rather be a soft Alpha than to rule with an iron fist any time someone put a toe out of line. You may demand blind loyalty and silent subservience from your Omega but I don't. Mycroft is my equal and always will be whether you approve or not doesn't matter but you will not speak ill of my partner no matter your feelings on our bond."

Stranger: Mycroft winced as Greg spoke, revealing things he’d kept hidden from his parents for years. He knew Greg had seen him once or twice lacking a shirt, when he woke crying out from a nightmare, but he hadn’t realized the Alpha had seen the scars. “Gregory, please...calm down.” He tugged lightly at the man’s jumper, “We don’t want Father’s meal to get cold. I’m sure he worked hard on it.” He didn’t dare look at his mother, who he was sure would be furious. She was used to being in charge in her home, and Peter had always been content to play the part of obedient Alpha son-in-law. Greg of course would not, nor did Mycroft truly expect him to. It wasn’t in the man’s nature to let insults about Mycroft slide off.

You: Mycroft pulled Greg out of his heated state enough that Alpha turned to look at him. "Love, it's alright, I promise." he reached up and gently brushed his thumb over Mycroft's cheek before pressing a kiss there. He turned back to face Mycroft's parents. "Apologies, Mr. Holmes. Mycroft's been raving about your cooking...it puts mine to shame, I'm sure. Can I help you with anything?" he asked the man knowing he'd say no. Greg had a feeling that Mr. Holmes was going to remain quiet throughout the meal, serving the Alphas before serving his son and then himself. He'd probably also be responsible for all of the washing up which Greg was absolutely /not/ going to stand for. "Shall we, Mrs. Holmes?"

Stranger: Mycroft heard his mother huff and storm off towards the dining room. He looked at Greg, leaning into the man and pressing his nose to the Alpha’s neck briefly to scent him. “Thank you.” He murmured, “That was very kind of you. I didn’t realize that you knew; about the scars, I mean.” He took Greg’s hand, tugging for him to follow. “Come, we can help Father carry the dishes out.”

You: Greg let out a shuddering breath when the woman left. He let Mycroft press against him and scent him, nodding. "She deserves to know that this started with her outdated rules," he said quietly before Mycroft tugged him off to the kitchen to help. He was glad to be of some use more than just starting arguments with stubborn Alphas. Greg helped Mr. Holmes with the dishes making sure to praise him loudly during lunch at how delicious everything tasted. Greg made sure to ask for more than one recipe, promising to keep the secret ingredients secret, hoping to let Mr. Holmes know how appreciated all his hard work was.

Stranger: Mycroft sat by his father, chatting quietly with the man whenever he wasn’t being chatted to by Greg. He watched as his mother fired question after question ag Greg, asking about his family, career, interactions with Mycroft, his first bond. She was clearly hoping the other Alpha would be tripped up, and Mycroft was quietly proud that Greg had no trouble keeping up with her.

You: Greg should have known that their lunch with his new in-laws would be anything less than an interrogation. He felt as if he was on trial for committing murder more than simply there for the Holmes' to get to know. "My parents passed a way a number of years ago and I certain miss them both. It's just my sister and I, she's three years younger." Greg went into more detail about his family knowing the woman wanted to know what tier of society Greg was raised in. "I've got twenty years in. Went into the force straight after University and been working my way up...that's how I met Mycroft actually...and Sherlock. We all work together at some point during cases...quite the family affair." he chuckled, reaching over to squeeze Mycroft's hand. "My Omega cheated on me repeatedly over the course of our eight year marriage. I respected her enough to let her go instead of keeping her locked up in a bond she didn't want." he said when asked about his previous partner. "Is there something in particular you're searching for, Mrs. Holmes?"

Stranger: “I simply wish to know why you, someone who knows the pain of an unfaithful partner, would put yourself in a position to be seen as an adulterous Alpha. Clearly you have no respect for your own reputation or Mikey’s. Not to mention the fast approaching bastard pup.” Mycroft dropped his fork, appalled at her words. “Mummy, that is enough!” He looked as shocked at his own words as his parents seemed, “Gregory has been nothing but kind and careful. Almost no one knows we are bonded, because he was concerned it might reflect badly on me due to leaving my bond with Peter. He suffered a gunshot because of his defense of me, and he is a far better man than Peter could even dream of being, not that he would.” He stood, setting his napkin on the table and pressing a kiss to his father’s forehead. “I’ll be in touch.” He murmured to the older Alpha before turning to Greg. “I believe we should go, Gregory.”

You: "People talk regardless of whether or not it's true. Mycroft never stepped out of the bounds of his contracted bond with Peter and I never stepped in them. My reputation can take it, I assure you." Greg's face flushed when the woman made a comment about the pup. He opened his mouth to respond but Mycroft beat him to it. Instead, Greg allowed Mycroft to stand up for himself ready to jump in if the Omega needed support which of course he didn't. He leaned over to Mr. Holmes as whispered something while Mycroft went off on his mother. 'You taught him well, sir', he told the man with a smirk. Greg nodded and turned to Mr. Holmes first. "Thank you so much for lunch, Mr. Holmes. It was lovely to meet you. I hope to see you again soon." Greg got up and pushed his chair in. "Mrs. Holmes," he said as he let Mycroft lead him out of the room. When they got to the front door Greg helped Mycroft into his coat before plucking his own off the hook. "Are you alright, Myc?"

Stranger: Mycroft was pale and shaking, jaw clenched as he tugged his coat on. His eyes softened for a moment as he looked at Greg and he shook his head. “That was horrendous.” He murmured, “I just...I need to get out of here.” When they were in the car he retreated to one corner of the seat, resting his cheek against the glass and texting the driver the instruction to take them home. He closed his eyes, taking a shaky breath. “I’m sorry.” He finally spoke, “This was a mistake.”

You: Greg knew he'd messed up as soon as they were in the car. Mycroft stayed as far away from him as possible. Greg didn't say anything until Mycroft spoke some time into their journey home. "Should have listened to you about not joining..." he said. "And you're not the one who should be apologizing. It's my fault things got so heated...I couldn't...play the part she wanted...couldn't just let her talk to you like that. I'm sorry I lost my temper..." Greg looked over at Mycroft. "I'm proud of you though, Myc, for standing up to her. The look on her face when you met her head on was...priceless."

You: ** You don't think she'll be upset with your father, will she? She's not one to...punish him, is she?"

Stranger: Mycroft looked up, wide-eyed. “Gregory...no. Don’t apologize. I understand why you wanted to come, and...you were magnificent. I’ve never seen /anyone/ challenge her like that. I couldn’t believe how well you did. And...given the circumstances, you stayed fairly calm.” He reached out, touching Greg’s hand. “She won’t be upset with father. And she won’t hurt him. For all her talk, she’s rather softhearted when it comes to father. She rather dotes on him.”

You: Greg laced their fingers together. "So it's just you that she takes her frustrations out on, then...and all because you're just like her. You know that's what that is, right? You're both passionate, strong-willed, opinionated people. You both like to be right all the time...She's a good woman if a little misguided in the way modern households should run. I'm glad to hear that she's nice to your father. He's such a wonderful man." He hesitated a beat, afraid to ask for the reassurance he desperately sought. "Promise I didn't upset you by the way I acted?"

Stranger: “I’m too much like her.” Mycroft agreed, “And then when I presented...it was too much for her. She was so disappointed that I wasn’t an Alpha.” He sighed, shuffling closer and turning to drape his legs across Greg’s lap, not quite on his lap but close enough to wrap his arms around the Alpha’s neck and press a kiss to his cheek. “You did not upset me, Gregory. No one has defended me like that...ever. You were very protective; it was very pleasant.”

Stranger: "May I explain to her how important he is?" Sherlock offered with a gentle smile as the lab lead him through the busy sidewalks. He knew where they were going quite well. He had a lot of trust for the pup already even if they hadn't been partner's for long.

You: John nodded before he realized the stranger couldn't see him. "Yea, of course, but I should warn you she's not even three yet." John turned the pouting girl in his arms to face the stranger. "Rosie, no stop with the crocodile tears. I want you to listen to this nice gentleman. He wants to tell you about his service dog, yes? And why you shouldn't play with them while they're working." They stopped, just out of the line of steady foot traffic so that the man could speak to his daughter. "She's all ears." he told the man.

Stranger: "So miss Rosie, my dog's name is Einstein. He helps me to go places because I can't see anymore. I got hurt. But because of him I can walk around and find my way to where I should go. When you touch him while hes helping me it distracts him and means that he cant keep me safe. That's why I bumped intonyour daddy. So if you see a dog with a special vest like what Einstein has on you should always ask if you can pet before you do," Sherlock explained after lowering himself so Rosie could see him a little better.

You: Rosie continued to pout as the man spoke to her. "I hurt Eye-sty?" she asked. John couldn't help but chuckle. "No, Rosie, you didn't hurt Einstein." Rosie nodded, reaching out to wrap her arms around the stranger. "Rosie, love, you really shouldn't touch people without their permission either. What did the nice man /just/ say?" Rosie gave the man a kiss on the cheek. "Sorry." she said. "No touching Eye-sty" John sighed. "I'm terribly sorry." he said to the man. "She's usually better behaved, especially in public. Rosie let go of the man." John said. "I just sayin' sorry, Daddy."

Stranger: Sherlock chuckled softly and gave the little girl a hug back, "It's alright, now you make sure you listen to your daddy today alright?" Sherlock gave the little girl a smile and and turned his face to John, "she's such a sweet little thing. It's alright, I adore children.... I'm Sherlock by the way," the brunette said and ran a hand through his curls hoping he hadn't caused one to stick up randomly.

You: Rosie nodded to the man as she returned to burrow into John. "Thank you. Most people, after having been practically assaulted on the sidewalk, wouldn't be so genial." He chuckled. "John." he said. "John Watson. It's nice to meet you, Sherlock, wish it had been better circumstances." he looked the man over once more, making sure everything was in place before he turned to Rosie. "Sorry again for all the hassel. Have fun at the park." John said, bidding the man goodbye. "Bye, Eye-sty". Rosie called, waving to the puppy as they headed off down the sidewalk.

You: *hassle

Stranger: Sherlock grinned and hand Einstein do one of his tricks for Rosie. He could stand on his back end and wave with his front paw. He gave the dog a treat before walking on with the harness firmly in his hand. As the day went on he and Greg went to the grocery store. While he could do most things he still hadn't manages shopping alone just yet but he was learning quickly. The two of them were going through pasta sauces when he heard a familiar little girl's voice a couple aisles over.

You: "Biscuits!" Rosie practically shouted. "We need biscuits, Daddy." John shushed the little girl. "Yes, love, I know we need biscuits." he told the little girl, plucking a couple of packages off the shelf. He tossed them in his cart as the little girl kicked her feet from her position in the front of the cart. "We also need to figure out what to have for dinner tonight." he said, making his way down the aisle and turning onto the next. " 'Ghetti!" Rosie giggled. "You, darling, are going to turn into a noodle if you keep it up." he pressed a kiss to her forehead and moved down the aisle. "Eye-sty! Daddy, look!" John glanced up. What were the chances. "Lucky for him you can't get down." John teased. "Have any recommendations for sauces?" he asked as they came to stand beside the pair of men.

Stranger: Sherlock turned to the sound of the voice with a bright smile, well that was unexpected. "Who would have thought that we shopped in the same grocery store," Sherlock chuckled as Greg walked up to them. "So this is the handsome sounding father you were telling me about," The older man said making Sherlock blush and punch in his general direction. Landing a lit.to the ribs. "Shut up Greg. Though I must say my favorite sauce is vodka sauce if you're interested."

Stranger: Hit to*

You: Rosie leaned over her seat, giddy with excitement. "Wanna play, Daddy." John shook his head. "No, Rosie, remember what Mr. Sherlock said earlier. You can't play with the dog while he's working. You'll hurt Sherlock again." Rosie grumbled but quieted down as she continued to stare at the dog beside Sherlock. "I'm handsome, are I?" He teased as the second man joined them. "Did he also tell you that my daughter nearly caused Sherlock to fracture his skull on the sidewalk. I, luckily, broke his fall." John said, pointing to his shoulder. "Thanks, Sherlock, I'll keep that in mind."

Stranger: "Sherlck here said your voice sounded nice so he thought you wpuld be handsome. Im sure he wil habe me describe you him later," Greg said with a grin while Sherlock didn't say anything and just tried his best to hide his blushing face. Hehe pushed his sunglasses up a little showing a tiny bit of the heavily burned areas from his accident but he didn't think about what he was doing in the moment.

Stranger: Sherlock*

You: "Can I trust you to do me justice?" he asked the man. He stuck out his hand. "John Watson. It's nice to meet you. This is my daughter Rosie." The little girl looked up and waved before quickly turning her attention back to the dog. "Be sure to add a few inches to my height and I'd like it if you didn't tell him about all the new gray hairs." John chuckled pointing to his head. "And make sure you remind him I'm a doctor. Helps when trying to convince someone to have dinner, after all." John glanced over to Sherlock as the man quietly shifted out of embarrassment. John immediately noticed the scars, but didn't mention them. "Nothing to worry about, Sherlock, Greg's just teasing, I'm sure. I'm a hideous, troll of a man, who's only got his voice going for him."

Stranger: "This is what I get fr trusting my brothers husband to help me with shopping," Sherlock said with a soft laugh and shook his head. He finally realized his glasses were out of place and he quickly put them back. Even though he couldn't see the scarring he was self conscious about it. There was still some visible across his new and around the edges of the classes but it wasn't too bad there and wasn't usually noticed. Fred just rolled his eyes and gave Sherlock a little push towards John, "didn't you say you were going to ask him out if you ever saw him again?" Sherlock's blush went to the tips of his ears after that and he was glad that he couldn't see j ohns cleave because surely the an would turn him down after this.

You: When Sherlock was pushed in his direction, John's hands automatically went up, worried the man was going to stumble again. When he was certain Sherlock was steady on his feet, John reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out a business card. He looked up in Sherlock's direction, waiting for the man to speak. When he noticed how shy the man had suddenly become he smirked. "Well, I would love to have dinner with you, Sherlock, when you're free." He passed the card to Greg. "You'll have to be nice to Greg though, if you want my number. Can't have you thinking I'm too easy. You'll lose interest." he chuckled. "Thanks for the recommendation, by the way." John said, leaning in close to Sherlock as he pulled a jar of sauce off the shelf. "Don't wait too long to call." he returned to his cart and put the jar down. "Bye, Eye-sty!" Rosie waved as they turned onto the next aisle.

Stranger: Sherlock had to take a little to calm himself after John walked away. He could smell the man's cologne where they had brushed for just a moment. His heart was completely racing. The shopping was done and Sherlock managed to get the number from Greg. He waited until the next morning to call John and when he got vicemai Sherlock left what felt like the most awkward message of his life. "Hi john... um. It's Sherlock obviously. I was wondering if you would like to have dinner tonight? You can bring Rosie if you want to...I normally have dinner ready by 7 and I 'll I've at 221b Baker street. I understand if you don't want but... Yeah. Text me, my phone reads the messages out to me. Bye."

You: John had a busy day seeing patients so he didn't have time to check his phone regularly. It was mid afternoon when he finally had a break in appointments and was able to listen to the new voicemail. He sat at his desk chuckling. Sherlock seemed nervous on the call. John found it rather adorable. He pulled up his messages, punching in Sherlock's number. 'Hey, Sherlock, I'm sorry for the late response..it's been a hell of a day. I'd love to have dinner this evening with you. Though I don't want Rosie torturing your service dog or destroying your flat, so I'll leave her with the sitter. See you closer to seven? John'

Stranger: Sherlock had been staring at his phone for ages and the second that he got some kind of response from John he was up doing his best to clean his flat a little. His home was the first hing he'd memorized just now there was less lab equipment. The only left was a microscope and a box of slides to commemorate when he used to be able to see. He didn't want to give it up even if he knew that he couldn't use it anymore. Finally when the flat seemed reasonably clean Sherlock answered John's text 'Sounds great, my flat is the upstairs one. You can just walk in. Sherlock' God he was terrified but he was soon in the kitchen preparing pasta and Alfredo to go with the chicken he had Greg season the night before. He put two breasts in the oven and waited. While things cooked and he waited for the pasta to boil Sherlock showered and shaved carefully before dressing in a suit, trying to look nice for John.

You: The message came through quickly. John raised the phone and called Rosie's regular sitter. He hung up and finished his afternoon paper work before he left to retrieve Rosie from daycare. The next few hours passed quickly as John fed Rosie dinner and bathed both of them. John put on a fresh jumper and slacks, checking himself in the mirror before the bell rang. He let the sitter in, thanked her for coming over on such short notice and left his flat. At Baker Street, John stood looking up at the building for a few long moments before he eventually stepped inside. He took a deep breath and moved upstairs, knocking on the door frame. "Sherlock?" he called. "It's John."

Stranger: "In the kitchen," Sherlock called as he drained off the pasta. His microscope had been moved from the table to the counter and Sherlock had set up the table as neatly as he could. He was nervous and it showed in his shoulders but ue would get through it. Einstein was in his bed by the fire happily chewing on his newest squeaky toy.

You: John moved through the flat and into the kitchen. He stopped beside Sherlock at the sink, looking over the man. "I'm clearly under dressed for the occasion." He teased. "You look lovely though. Nice color on you." He looked down at the pasta. "Do you need help with anything? I don't mind earning my meal, you know?"

Stranger: "Is it the purple shirt? I was hoping to get the purple one," Sherlock said with a smile at John and shook his head. "It's almost done. I just need to put the sauce on the pasta. Thank you though," Sherlock didn't ordinarily put his sunglasses on when he was home but he did it for John. After all the blonde didn't need to see all of that. He returned the pasta to the pot before adding in the sauce and stirring it all up. "There we go, now I just need plates."

You: "It is the purple one." John said. "You must have quite a system worked out in your closet. I bet I'd be a complete train wreck." he said, leaning against the counter as Sherlock began to assemble the pasta, carefully stirring the sauce to combine everything. "I hope Greg didn't give you too much fuss after Rosie and I left yesterday. You looked ready to crawl under a rock with the way he was teasing you." John chuckled. "Here...let me help with the plates." John said. "I really don't mind."

Stranger: "He's my brother in law. I suppose it's kind of his job to embarrass me," Sherlock said with a small laugh and directed him to the cabinet with the plates while he took the chicken from the oven and got forks and things. He was beginning to relax a little since the conversation seemed quite easy.

You: John pulled down two plates for them, setting them on the counter. "Still, not the best way to go about meeting your future boyfriend, right? By being embarrassed by a brother, no matter the relationship." John teased. He helped Sherlock fill their plates and took them to the table. "This looks delicious." he said, sitting down at one of the places. "Thanks for cooking for us. This is definitely my kind of date. A quiet night in, good company." John glanced over at Sherlock, eyes hesitating for a moment on the glasses. "Are you feeling alright after our collision from yesterday?"

Stranger: "I'm perfectly fine, I just hope you aren't hurt I did land right on top of you," Sherlock said.with a smile and placed his plate down. "I don't drink really but I've got sparkling cider if that's alright," Sherlock said and nodded to the wine glasses had set out on the table. He hoped that John wouldn't mind. Though he had a feeling that he could do nearly anything and John would be alright with it.

You: "Yeah, that's fine." John poured them each a glass. "My shoulder's a bit sore, but that's not all unusual." he said, beginning to cut his chicken. "I got shot a few years ago while I was deployed. It aches regularly if I sleep on it wrong, or do too much lifting and the like. It'll feel better in a day or two." He took a bite of food, humming as he looked over Sherlock. "So, tell me about yourself, Sherlock. What sort of work do you do?"

You: (brb)

Stranger: "I'm not actually working right now... I'm still trying to adjust to my lack of sight but I keep myself occupied and I occasionally call Greg an idiot when he doesn't notice something. It's interesting having to learn to read in an entirely new way," Sherlock hummed and smiled at John. "I used to be a detective, self employed I would help the police when they needed it but after my accident, I had to step away from all of that."

You: (Hi, sorry!)

You: "Ah, right. I was going to ask, but then thought better of it." John said when they man mentioned his accident. "I didn't want to be as rude as Rosie was the other day. I..I saw your scars at the grocery store. They didn't look like they'd been healed long..." John said carefully. "I'm sorry, for whatever happened, I can't imagine what you've been through. Getting hurt and then having to relearn practically every part of your life...." John took another bite of pasta, chewing carefully. "If it's any consolation...I've got a hell of a scar too. Maybe I can let you examine mine some time."

Stranger: "It hasn't been long, only two years. When they tell you that you shouldn't look into a breaker while a reaction is happening and you should always wear goggles, I should have listened," Sherlock said and looked to John. "They're actually not even completely healed... the part near where my eyes were has been rather stubborn," Sherlock hummed but gave a little smile when John said he would show him the car had gotten. "I'd like of you did John, thank you. And getting shot like you did can't be any less traumatic I would imagine."

You: John shook his head. "No, it was still very traumatic." he said. "I've suffered a while with PTSD. I still have nightmares some times. Wake up in cold sweats, heart racing in my chest, right back in that war zone." John took a sip of his cider, as the silence filled the space between them. "But it's getting better. I've got Rosie now. She's been a godsend, really. I'm trying to raise her well, but then she goes and causes accidents and I wonder if I'm failing her as a parent." he chuckled. "I'm fairly certain she would have tried to pet Einstein again at the grocery store, if she hadn't have been in the cart."

Stranger: "That's alright. You said she wasn't even three yet, it takes time for things like that to process, I think you're a fine father John. I just wonder how I was lucky enough to catch someone like you as single. From Greg's description I was right in thinking you are handsome as well," Sherlock smiled and sipped his own cider before finishing off his chicken. He didn't really eat much and he was already full so he just set his fork down to talk with John.

You: John grimmaced. "Oh god, I'm not sure I want to know what he told you about me." he chuckled. "I bet he embellished a bit. He seemed quite eager to force you into a date. Is your brother-in-law always like that? Or is he just so happy in love that he thinks /everyone/ else should be too?" John finished his dinner and leaned back in the chair. "Not that I'm complaining much. You're a beautiful man, Sherlock, especially in that suit you've got on."

Stranger: "He's been trying to get my confidence back up... this is the first date I've been on since I lost my sight," Sherlock explained and stood. He wrapped his plate in plastics wrap before putting it in the fridge. He then went to get j ohns so he could was it and start getting everything cleaned up.

You: "Well, I'm flattered then. Seems I was finally dealt a winning hand." he teased. "You didn't eat much, are you feeling alright?" he asked, moving towards Sherlock at the sink. "I hope I haven't been a terrible conversationalist this evening. I know it hasn't been the happiest of topics we've gotten on."

Stranger: "Oh I'm fine, I don't normally eat much," Sherlock smiled. He really didn't. He just didn't have the appetite of a normal person. "I've enjoyed our conversation too believe it or not. I don't really get the chance to talk to others as much now that I pretty much stay home unless I have to go out," Sherlock hummed and reached to takes j ohns hand and reassure him whole he washed.

Stranger: While*

You: John gave Sherlock's hand a squeeze. "Well, good. That's a relief, really. I haven't dated much since Rosie came along. Haven't had much time." he said. He noticed the kettle on the stove and moved to retrieve it, stealing a bit of Sherlock's running water. "Nothing better than a warm cup of tea on the sofa after a lovely dinner, right?" John asked. "Unless you had planned on kicking me out?" he asked, glancing towards Sherlock as the water began to boil. "Don't want to over stay my welcome and ruin my chances for a second date."

Stranger: "Tea sounds lovely but make sure you put whatever you take exactly in the same place. I'll never find it otherwise," Sherlock hummed and gave the blonde a bright smile. "Speaking of rosie... I was wondering how someone as amazing as you became a single parent," Sherlock asked. He'd answered questions about his eyes so he thought that maybe he could get that bit of information from John.

You: "Promise." He said. "Or maybe I'll just leave the kettle somewhere different so you're forced to call me again." he teased, giving Sherlock's arm a squeeze as he pulled down two cups for them. He popped in the tea bags and poured the boiling water over them to steep. "Well..." he began. "I was married for a few years. wife got pregnant while I was on R&R. When I got shot and came home, she announced she couldn't be a soldier's wife or a mother anymore. Never knew for sure, but I thought she was cheating on me after Rosie was born."

Stranger: "She lost an amazing man," Sherock said softly and went to give John a small hug, hoping he wasn't pushing things too far. He really did like John he found and May be this would work out well. A first date going so well had to be a good sign.

You: John was surprised when Sherlock wrapped his long arms around him. "You don't know enough about me to make such a statement." he teased, wrapping his own arms around Sherlock. "This is nice..." he said. "Not your typical first date. Much more...interesting." he teased as they stood together in the kitchen. "Do you always hug without permission, Sherlock Holmes?"

Stranger: "Only when I feel it is fitting," Sherlock said with a grin and hummed softly. He took one of his hands and reached for John's face, gently feeling his featured and tracing shapes, "Greg's description on your face shape was accurate. He said your eyes are a very dark blue too."

You: John nodded. "They are, yeah. Not nearly as captivating as yours..." he said as Sherlock's fingers worked over his face. John closed his eyes, standing perfectly still so that Sherlock could memorize the shape and feel. "Like what you feel?" he asked, happy that he'd had time to shower and shave before their date. He would have hated to still smell like the surgery with Sherlock this close.

Stranger: Sherlock shook his head a little, "my eyes are damaged and destroyed. They aren't anything like yours." He was kind of glad that Rosie had distracted Einstein now because he'd never felt his heart race like this for someone before.

You: "They may be different than they were, Sherlock, but even under those glasses I'm certain they still hold enough mysteriousness to captivate all of London." John said quietly. "Your scars...they hold a hell of a story of the troubles you've endured to get where you are. Accident or not."

Stranger: Sherlock nodded and used his free hand to take his glasses off. He looked down a little unsure of how John would react to the extensive damage. He'd never shown any one but mycroft what his face liked like after the accident so he was understandably nervous. His brother had told him that there wasn't much of his eyes remaining. But he wasn't sure about the accuracy of that.

You: John's heart broke as Sherlock took off his glasses. "Oh, Sherlock...." he began. He was quiet for a long time before he reached up and brushed his thumb over Sherlock's cheek. "Still beautiful." he said quietly. He took Sherlock's other hand, taking a few steps back and raising it to his shoulder. It took a bit of maneuvering, as John had to turn around, but eventually he was able to slip the tips of Sherlock's fingers under his jumper, letting Sherlock feel the starburst shaped scar. "Not the same thing, but a promise is a promise, after all."

Stranger: Sherlock nodded and felt over the scar as best he could but he'd have to feel more later on. "I'll keep my glasses on when Rosie is around, I don't want to scare her," Sherlock said and leaned down to rest his head on John's shoulder lightly while he still felt the scar.

You: "Maybe just for a little while." John said. "But I think it's safe to tell her once she gets to know you." Eventually John turned around in Sherlock's arms. "Does this mean I get a second date?" he asked, smirking. "I don't have anymore scars or war stories to tell, but I've got a lot a toddler who's in love with your dog and who's got more force than a tiny tornado."

Stranger: "Id love to go on a second date with you John, this is probably the best first date I've ever had," Sherlock said with a smile and pressed a small kiss to John's cheek, trying to be brave.

Stranger: "Id love to go on a second date with you John, this is probably the best first date I've ever had," Sherlock said with a smile and pressed a small kiss to John's cheek, trying to be brave.

You: John couldn't help but chuckle. "Perfect." he said. "I was nervous, you know? Had no idea what I was going to talk to you about. Thought I may be over zealous in my apologies after yesterday. Not really the best way to win a first or second date." he teased.

Stranger: "You won me over easily," Sherlock said with a smile. He placed his glasses on the counter, not feeling like he needed them after John called him beautiful without them.

You: "Glad to see I haven't lost all my charm." he teased. "Now, I was told there would be tea and a bit of canoodling on the sofa before I have to leave and return to my fatherhood duties." he said, releasing Sherlock and grabbing their tea. "Shall we?"

Stranger: Sherlock giggled at John, "Did you really just say canoodling? That's amazing." He was glad that John was happy to spend tome with him and Sherlock knew it was too early for it but he hoped it would turn into something amazing.

You: John hummed, following after Sherlock. "I did, yes. When you become a father you find yourself saying all sorts of silly words." He waited for Sherlock to settle before holding out the mug. "Like canoodling, kerfluffal, hankypanky. There's a dictionary for dad's, you know. Stork drops it off with the baby."

Stranger: Sherlock giggled again and sipped his tea with a hum. "Mmm maybe hankypanky is a little risque for a two year old though," Sherlock grinned and tucked himself against John's side when the blonde sat down.

You: You are very unique, Mr. Holmes, it's part of what's so charming and alluring about you. Sarah would be perfect a perfect date for you to take to your social engagements. I'll have her profile sent to you this evening. I am terribly sorry for the inconvenience. I will miss our time together a great deal.-A

Stranger: Thank you, Anthea. I shall, as well. I don't want to pry, but if there's anything I can do, anything at all - now or in the future - please don't hesitate to contact me. I'm absolutely serious. -M

You: No, sir, there's nothing. You have much better things to do than solve my problems for me.-A

Stranger: It would be my privilege, but I won't press you. Take care of yourself, dear girl -M

You: [A few weeks later. They saw each other at an event, but Anthea wasn't allowed to speak with Mycroft.] You looked handsome in your new suit.-A

Stranger: Your dress was beautiful, but I admit concern over how thin you've become and the proprietary attitude of your companion. -M

You: I needed to lose the weight.-A Charles wasn't having a very good day. It was a long evening for him.-A

Stranger: Nonsense, you were fine the way you were. -M

Stranger: I've had long evenings, but I haven't acted like that, I hope. Are you sure there's nothing I can do? -M

You: Thank you, Mr. Holmes, that's very sweet of you.-A And no, you were nothing but a gentleman any time we were together. My favorite politician.-A

You: [Delayed] Things have simply been stressful for everyone. Charles is the man who runs the company I work for. He's changed a few things.-A

Stranger: Perhaps it's time to find a new service to contract with, my dear. -M

Stranger: Sarah has been a lovely date for social occasions but she doesn't have your spark -M

You: She'll learn what you like soon.-A

You: I don't have the option to leave.-A

Stranger: What do you mean, you don't have the option to leave? -M

You: Charles has taken me for his. He can be..jealous.-A

Stranger: You do realize that's no longer equitable employment or contract work but abusive and best and slavery at worst -M

Stranger: [delayed] Apologies if I've made things worse. I can help, if you feel it would be safe. -M

You: No, it wasn't your fault, Mr. Holmes. It was mine. I broke the rules and was punished accordingly. It's nothing you need to get involved in.-A Especially not for a woman like me.-A

Stranger: A woman like you? You mean a caring, intelligent woman who makes her trade caring for the emotions and needs of others? I don't think it would be difficult to find things on your employer that would put him away for a good long time -M

You: I would not have put it so eloquently, no, but thank you.-A What does it matter what happens now? Even if I did leave him, Charles would make sure I could never work in the industry again.-A That's what started this whole thing. I told him I wanted out because I'd met someone I cared for.-A

Stranger: I know it's a lucrative industry but surely the talents and skills you've honed can be used in other professions -M

You: I would have to find someone willing to overlook my past. There aren't many employers who would do such a thing.-A

Stranger: What an utter ass. That is the behaviour of a child - M

Stranger: Well, I would certainly keep you. I don't mean for that to be patronizing. I realize it probably is. -M

You: There's a difference in your wanting to keep me and Charles' wanting to. You believe you have feelings for me. Charles simply doesn't want to share.-A

Stranger: I want you to be happy and free to do as you like. -M

Stranger: I care for you, in what capacity beyond that of a good friend, I do not know. I haven't allowed myself to contemplate beyond that - but I do want what you feel is best for you, not what I feel is best. -M

You: [Delayed] He forbid me from seeing you.-A

Stranger: I have snipers. -M

You: That's a bit much, sir.-A

Stranger: I have a black site in London and several outside of it? -M

You: Mr. Holmes, I can't let you get involved. I've said too much as it is.-A [Delayed] I have to go. I'm sorry.-A

Stranger: Take care of yourself, Anthea. You know where I am. -M

You: [Early the next morning.] Mr. Holmes, I won't be able to contact you again. I'm sorry for any inconvenience my absence will cause you. Your next three sessions with Sarah are free and Mr. Elliot hopes you'll accept his sincere apologies for my unacceptable behavior. Should you need anything, please contact him directly.-A

Stranger: Well, that was fine and dandy, Mycroft supposed, but he didn't want sessions with Sarah, free or otherwise. Oh, she was a nice girl, smart enough, but she lacked whatever it was that Anthea had. And her behavior hadn't been unacceptable, so there was no need to apologize. He texted back as much, then sent a message to Charles saying the same, that he was sure it was all just a misunderstanding. And then, he went to work. He'd find something on Charles Elliot - no matter how clever he thought he was, Mycroft was more so and had more resources at his disposal. A sniper wasn't sounding like a bad idea at the moment, to be honest.

You: Anthea had sent the message to Mycroft after a rather eventful night with Charles. They'd gone to dinner, then gone home where Charles reminded Anthea who she belonged to. It wasn't until she was caught texting Mycroft (and forgetting to clear the messages) that Anthea was truly punished for stepping out of line with her boss. The early morning message to her former client was written in an attempt to calm Charles down and for Anthea to receive medical attention. She knew her left arm was broken and she knew a few ribs were at least broken. She could feel her lip swelling from the split at the corner from where Charles had backhanded her after an off the cuff remark. She didn't know how many other bruises littered her body and she didn't care to count them as she sat on the exam table being asked repeatedly who hurt her.

Stranger: The first thing Mycroft had done was put a flag on Anthea's name so if anything came up, he'd know. And when his assistant brought to his attention that she'd landed in A&E later that morning with serious injuries, he cursed himself for not going ahead with the investigation sooner. He had connections at the hospital and he hoped she would forgive him for being just as much of an manipulative ass as Charles, but with different motivations, when he sent the request for her to be kept overnight on a regular ward, where all visitors would be forced to leave promptly at eight and not return until early the next morning. He had no doubt she could actually use the healing time and rest, but it also gave him some wiggle room in which to work. He had discreet plainclothes guards assigned to that corridor with instructions to check badges and identification of anyone attempting to access her room, and started digging for dirt on Mr Elliot.

You: She lost count of the number of times she told the doctor that she was fine and just needed her arm put in a cast so that she could go home. No one believed her, of course, but it hardly stopped her from trying. "I don't need to stay over night for a broken arm and a few bruised ribs." she complained to the nurse who was getting her room set up. "There has to be some mistake." she said. "I'm perfectly fine, see? Charles is my partner, please let him take me home." The nurse shook her head. "Just a precaution, Ms. Jones. I'm sure your partner will understand." It took Charles being physically pulled out of her room and escorted off the hospital premises that night for Anthea to realize what was going on. She picked up the hospital phone next to her bed and dialed Mycroft's number (her phone destroyed in the fight). "Does the eight o'clock restriction extend to you too, Mr. Holmes?"

Stranger: "Good evening to you as well, Anthea," Mycroft said dryly, "And that depends on if you would like it to or not. Otherwise, I do think I've found some rather gruesome things on Mr Elliot that I'm preparing to allow to find their way to the proper authorities. Unless you would like me to engage the sniper, of course."

You: Anthea couldn't help but chuckle at Mycroft's tone and offer to kill her abuser. She shook her head, knowing he couldn't see her, and reminded him not to do anything he'd regret. "The doctor's and nurses have urged me to file charges against him." she began. "He...Charles broke my arm in two places. They think I may have to have surgery if the cast doesn't fix things." she sighed, looking down at her arm. "I shouldn't have bothered you last night." she whispered, feeling the tears at the corner of her eyes. "I just couldn't..." her voice cracked and she stopped. "I-I'm sorry, Mr. Holmes. Thank you for your help. Good day."

Stranger: "No, Anthea, please. You should have bothered me last night. It's not a bother, I mean. You aren't a bother. I'm happy, as always, to help you," he assured her. "I'm terribly sorry about your arm, and I hope you can avoid surgery. I'd like to find you somewhere safe to stay. There's going to be a good deal of people going into a witness protection scheme because of this. You can be one of them. You probably ought to be. The list of charges... it's long. It's not something he'll be granted bail for. And it implicates most of his underlings, but I've kept the escorts out of it, as most of them had no idea and have done a good job of publicly listing completely legal work - exotic entertaining and the like," Mycroft said, hoping she wouldn't hang up. "Even if you never want to speak to me again for how I've commandeered the situation, I'd do it again to attempt to prevent you from going through any more horrors."

You: Anthea was getting ready to hang up the phone because she didn't want Mycroft to hear her breakdown, but stopped as he began hurriedly explaining everything to her. She couldn't believe he'd taken everything so seriously. She couldn't believe that he'd followed through on his promise to her. She covered her mouth as she listened to him, tears falling down her cheeks in crooked lines. "T-the reason I-I'm even in this mess is because I-I couldn't st-stay away from y-you...." she stammered into the phone. A sob escaped as she continued. "I b-broke the ru-rules and fell fo-for y-you." she explained. "Because y-you treated me better th-than anyone I'd e-ever serviced. Y-you were my best cl-client."

Stranger: "Darling girl," Mycroft said softly, "treating someone with basic human dignity no matter their profession is what should be aspired to, and I'm so terribly sorry that hasn't been your experience. You're under no obligation to me, I need you to understand that. I am ridiculously fond of you, as I said before, I haven't allowed myself to contemplate further. I just want your happiness and safety. If that means you go into a protection scheme and I never see you again, yes, of course I shall miss you, but you being safe is more important. Getting Charles off the streets is going to make a lot of people safer, and preventing others from filling the vacuum will help, as well."

You: Anthea shook her head again, trying to wipe her cheeks off as she held the phone. "I-it's not about obligation." she sniffled. "Y-you aren't the first person I-I've felt this way about." Embarrassed she took a moment to try (and fail) to calm herself down. Anthea didn't want to go into hiding. Anthea didn't want to leave London or her friends or Mycroft. She wanted to go home and sleep in her own bed. She wanted to make sure that Charles didn't hurt anyone else. "I-I don't expect this t-to change anything be-between us, Mr. H-holmes." she said quietly. "I just wanted you t-to know. I don't want to leave L-London or go into h-hiding. I just want things to be l-like they used to be."

Stranger: "I'm releasing the information to the authorities presently, and I've had Charles tailed since he left the hospital. He'll be in custody within the hour. Would you like me to come and see you, or would you rather just get the good drugs and get some rest?" Mycroft asked, gently. Of course he wanted to see her, but realized that she'd been through a great deal, and might not be feeling up to it. "It doesn't need to change anything unless we decide it does, together. I would like to see you for social events once you're feeling up to it. They're so much more fun with you, as you know my coworkers and the important players by now. We do make a good team."

You: Anthea thought about what she wanted for a few moments, smiling when he complimented her. "Can't I h-have it all?" She asked, finally beginning to calm down. "You and the medication? I-I know I won't be a-able to rest tonight. These beds are horribly un-uncomfortable." She took a few steadying breaths, reaching up to wipe her eyes again. "I'll attend anything y-you want me to, Mr. Holmes. Y-you deserve to be repaid for the work you've put in on my case. I don't know how to thank you." She confessed. "But I'll start b-by trying to clean m-myself up for you today."

Stranger: Mycroft laughed softly at her asking if she could have it all. It wasn't unkind laughter, just genuine amusement. "You can have whatever you like, up to and including chocolate ice cream before bed, because you've had a hell of a few weeks. Don't worry about repaying me. It's not necessary. Nor about cleaning yourself up. You've been through the wringer today, my dear. If it will make YOU feel better, then do so - but not on my account. I should be there shortly. Twenty minutes or so."

You: Anthea hummed a thank you to the man before she hung up the phone. He knew her so well it frightened her. He'd never been shy about the amount of information he had obtained and Anthea had grown used to it. Mycroft had a difficult career, with many different facets that he was forced to keep spinning in harmony. It was his job to ensure those around him were truthful, safe for him and others to be around. It was his job to stay twelve steps ahead of everyone else. Anthea had been swept along in his charm and mystery, falling for him after a few months of seeing him, and she'd never been able to restrain herself. When the nurse came in, Anthea asked for help making herself look presentable. "A special visitor?" the woman asked, brushing her hair. "Mr. Holmes advised he'd be stopping by later tonight." the woman explained. "You look just fine, Ms. Jones. I'll be back around ten for your next dosage." Anthea nodded, thanking the woman for her help and settled back into the pillows on her bed to wait for Mycroft.

Stranger: Flowers were what one brought for a convalescent. Well, that and fruit, but flowers seemed more appropriate at the moment. He managed to find an florist that was still open on his way and bought a small arrangement, nothing ostentatious, but of flowers he'd heard her reference as her favourites before. Thus, Mycroft arrived at the hosptial, dutifully showed his identification to his own plainclothes agents, and knocked on the doorframe of Anthea's room before stepping in. She looked exhausted, and bruised, but she was alive, and that was enough to be thankful for. "I have to say I much prefer you in ballgowns to hospital gowns," he said, by way of greeting, setting the flowers down on her bedside table. "They suit you better."

You: "I knew I forgot to pack something before I left the house this morning." She teased. She looked over at the small arrangement of flowers. "You never cease to amaze me with the details you remember." she said, glancing back up to him. "I don't think I ever told you my favorite flowers were carnations. At least not directly anyway." she patted her bed so that he could rest with her. "I hope the army of people you have outside didn't give you any fuss." she said, shifting so that there was room for him to sit down. "That doctor of yours is just as stubborn as you, you know? I hope you didn't threaten him too much when you advised I was required to stay over night."

Stranger: "I recommended. He merely agreed with me. They're worried about your arm," he replied, sitting next to her. "I was informed on the way over that Charles in in custody and will remain there until his trial can take place. The state is pursuing a list of charges as long as your arm. But enough about him, and that. I've missed your companionship, it's wonderful to see you, even if I wish it were better circumstances."

You: "It will heal." she said, wiggling her nearly covered fingers. "Surgery or not." She nodded, sighing in relief when Mycroft explained that her abuser was in custody. She knew, with Mycroft's hard work, that she was finally safe...finally free of him. She owed the man sitting next to her a great deal for all he'd done for her. She smiled at him, reaching with her free hand to find his own. "I can't tell you how much I've missed you, Mr. Holmes. The dinners, the events, the conversation." She brushed a thumb over his knuckles. "The circumstances hardly make a difference. This..." she said, referencing all that had happened to her. "has happened before, you know?"

Stranger: "Occupational hazard?" he asked, holding her hand between both of his. "You ought to think of going into business for yourself. I would wager you'd have quite a few girls who would be willing to work for you. Sarah thinks the world of you, she's said as much. Then you could do the kind of vetting that ought to be done, and less worries about unscrupulous men running the show. Or you pursue the life of a trophy wife with a besotted, indulgent husband," he said, winking.

You: Anthea couldn't help the wave of relief that washed over her as Mycroft sat with her, joking to lift her spirits. She blushed slightly at his wink. She was always a bit powerless with his charming ways. "I don't know about being a trophy anything, but being the wife of a besotted, indulgent husband sounds like an awfully good retirement plan, don't you think?" she asked. "I could finally put this life behind me. Focus on my own interests, my own hobbies. I could find a quiet little job in a shop some where. I could spoil said husband with home cooked meals, massages and lazy Sunday mornings."

Stranger: "Annabelle. What a lovely name." Mycroft said softly, sighing as he looked into Greg's eyes for a moment before offering a smile. "You won't want go to a shelter, they won't accept you with a newborn. I can offer you a room for the night." he said softly, leaning on his umbrella and looking back down at the baby girl who was quite content to just stare at him it would seem.

You: Greg's heart sank. He hadn't even considered that the shelter wouldn't accept him with Annabelle. He should have done better research before he was turned out of his former manor. He glanced back up to the man, eyebrows knitting together in confusion. This man, this complete stranger, wanted to offer them both a room for the night? There had to be some sort of catch. The man must want something from him. Not money, given his state of dress, but perhaps sex or a house keeper. Greg shook his head. "No, thank you, we'll- we'll be fine. I wouldn't want to impose."

Stranger: "You wouldn't be imposing at all. The house I own is far too large for one man if I am honest. You can take your pick of guest rooms." Mycroft replied with a soft smile as he looked down at the baby and sighed. He couldn't stand the thought of them being out on the freezing cold streets at night. It would be so dangerous for them both and Mycroft wouldn't have that.

You: Hesitating a few more moments, Greg finally relented, nodding. "I don't have money to pay you for the night..." he began. He only had enough for another can of formula for the infant. "We can...figure something out, I'm sure...." he said as he moved to stand beside Mycroft, just a touch behind the Alpha. It was habit for the Omega, to walk behind and not beside the Alpha, having been taught respect at an early age. "We'll only need one room, so we shouldn't be in your way. We'll be gone by sun up."

Stranger: "No, don't be silly. Breakfast will be served at 8am, Gregory." Mycroft said, slowing so he was at the Omega's side. He glanced at the baby and smiled again at her. She was awfully cute. "I will have one of my men collect some formula and nappies for the baby." he added, putting his phone away in his inside pocket and bringing Greg to where a car with a chauffeur was parked up waiting for him.

You: Breakfast being served was something Greg had been used to in his former life. His previous Alpha had been rather well off, with a small staff, and the trappings of luxury. When Mycroft advised he'd be having items bought for the baby Greg shook his head. "That's really not necessary. I've got enough stuff for her. You really don't need to go that far, especially for a complete stranger." He stopped at the car as the driver opened the door. He really shouldn't have expected anything less from the businessman beside him. He carefully slid into the car, Annabelle still tucked up against his chest.

Stranger: "I'd rather she didn't go hungry and soiled." Mycroft replied, getting in beside Greg and closing the door. He made sure the heating was up, hoping it would help warm the both of them. It had been particularly cold that evening. "Tell me, Gregory... how did an Omega with a newborn end up on the streets like this? What sort of sick, twisted Alpha would kick their child out of the house?"

You: Greg sighed at the warmth of the lush town car. They'd been outside for hours, walking around the city. "I've got food for her and nappies." Greg grumbled to himself, upset at the notion he'd let his own child starve to death. "Some Alphas are uninterested in raising families." he said, not looking up at Mycroft. "They prefer to have young, attractive Omegas on their arm. When that one falls pregnant they have plenty to choose from." Greg swallowed thickly. "Not that I mind. We're better off without him."

Stranger: "Oh, I meant no offence. I just thought it would be best if you wish to prolong your stay, or for when you leave... either way." Mycroft said, then frowned at the catch in Greg's voice. He sighed a little and frowned as he looked into Greg's eyes. "I have met Alpha's like that... they are usually vile, old and usually look like they hit every branch when they fell out of the ugly tree."

You: Greg couldn't help the chuckle that escaped his lips at Mycroft's comment. He hadn't expected a phrase like that from such a 'put together' man. "Charlie wasn't ugly...isn't ugly, at least not in looks." He also wasn't as handsome as Mycroft, but Greg kept that observation to himself. "He is, however, a vile man. I tried to warn his newest Omega. Charlie brought him home while I was pregnant. He didn't listen. He was too caught up in the charm and gifts that Charlie was lavishing upon him." Greg shrugged. "Doesn't matter much anymore...our bond has been scrubbed. It's just Annabelle and I. I'll get a job and a little flat and we'll be just fine, eventually."

Stranger: "Men like that will die alone and unloved." Mycroft replied with a shake of his head. He smiled as Annabelle began to drift off to sleep, head tilting on one side. "She looks just like you." he said softly, glancing up at Greg and then back down. He was glad to help, he couldn't stand the thought of an Omega as sweet and handsome as Greg being thrown out onto the streets purely for giving birth.

You: "I'm grateful for it." he said, glancing down at the little girl. "It's be difficult if she favored Charlie." The rest of the ride passed quietly as they headed towards Mycroft's home. When they finally pulled up the long drive, Greg looked out of the window. Mycroft wasn't joking about having the space. He got out of the car, allowing Mycroft to help him. "You don't have a partner who's going to be upset that you brought home a couple of strays, are they?"

Stranger: "As I said, it's just me. Well me and my staff. Other than that... it can be rather lonely walking these halls at night. Please, come in." Mycroft said, smiling as his butler as he opened the door and thanking him softly. He took Greg through to a lounge on the ground floor where there was a proper fire burning and a pot of tea for two waiting along with a perfectly made up bottle being kept warm for the baby.

You: Greg followed Mycroft into his house, looking around as he went. The home was impeccably clean, lavishly furnished, yet inviting. Clearly there had never been children or a family in the home, from the state of everything. Greg's stomach grumbled as he saw the tea for them. Mycroft had clearly called ahead. "You don't need to keep this up." he said, motioning to the bottle and tray of goodies for them. "I'm sure your staff don't appreciate having to wait on us." he smiled at Mycroft as he sat down on the sofa. "But I do appreciate it. You'll have to let me repay you for your kindness."

Stranger: "Nonsense, they have to wait on me. It's hardly taxing to put an extra cup out." Mycroft replied with a soft smile on his face as he poured the tea out for them like a proper gentleman. He sat back and watched as Greg got comfortable. It was nice to have company of an evening. "Supper will be ready soon, I assume you'd enjoy a bite to eat? And I'm happy to keep an eye on little Annabelle while you shower or bath if you wish to?"

You: Greg sat the offered tea aside so that he could feed Annabelle. It had been a little while since her last meal and Greg wanted to make sure she was full and happy while they were visitors in Mycroft's home. He didn't want the girl to fuss and upset the Alpha. "Maybe a little something, yeah." he said as the girl happily ate her own dinner. "You really don't have to trouble yourself with watching her. If you really don't mind, we'll wash up before bed. She hasn't had a proper bath yet."

Stranger: "I really don't mind at all. I used to keep an eye on my brother all the time." Mycroft said with a wave of his hand as he took his suit jacket off and shoes, relaxing for the evening. He sipped his tea and sat back on the sofa, smiling as Annabelle fed. "Goodness me, the little mite makes quite the noise when she's hungry." he said with a little titter of amusement.

You: Greg was worried, at first, that Mycroft was annoyed with the sounds the little girl was making. "I-I can feed her somewhere else..." he said quickly, looking up. "If it bothers you. I know you've just gotten home from work and it's important you relax. You shouldn't let us completely wreck your normal routine." Greg noticed the near twinkle in Mycroft's eye. It was curious, to him, to see an Alpha so captured by an infant. Or really, to be around an Alpha that seemed to /want/ to help with the infant. "Or..." he began cautiously. "You could feed her, if you want. You look like you want to ask."

Stranger: "I... may I?" Mycroft asked, brightening as he sat up and put his tea down. He offered his arms and gently took her into them when Greg handed her over. Smiling wide, he began to feed her. "There we go... there..." he whispered to her, his heart melting as tiny fingers gripped at his own to hold on while she fed. "Well, aren't you just a little delight?" he asked her, smiling wide.

You: Greg nodded as he moved to pass over the little girl and her bottle. He took the dirty blanket away so that Mycroft wouldn't ruin his waist coat and settled back with his own cup of tea. He took a long draw from the cup, letting the hot liquid warm him up properly. "Careful." Greg whispered. "It's all a show for you. Just wait until she's screaming at three in the morning because she's wet and hungry." Greg chuckled. "She'll have you changing your mind." He watched the man feed Annabelle, who was perfectly content to finish her whole bottle (something she hadn't done in a long time). "She's quite taken with you. I don't think I've ever seen her so comfortable with another person."

Stranger: "I am honoured she feels so safe with me. And now, little miss... a little winding." Mycroft said, taking the towel from the tray and putting it over his shoulder as he sat back with her and rested her over his shoulder, rubbing her back gently and patting to have her burp rather loudly down his ear. "Well goodness, that was a bit one!" he chuckled, looking over at Greg with a smile.

You: Mycroft shook his head. "You're a curious man, Mycroft Holmes..." Greg finished his tea and leaned forward to pour himself another. "You're clearly well off. You've got tailored suits, a staff that's near magic, and a house that should be featured in a magazine. And yet you're not all that flashy about it. You're humble, overly generous and excellent with children." he said. "How do you not have a mate and a brood of your own?"

Stranger: "My job. I thought it not fair to have an Omega miss me for so long or have to bring up a child when I might be absent for weeks at a time. It's through choice. Though right now with a child in my arms I remember that I have made some truly awful choices in my life." Mycroft sighed softly as he rubbed at Annabelle's back a little more before realising that she'd fallen asleep.

You: Greg hummed. "At least you made the conscious decision not to start a family because you couldn't be active and present in their lives. It's admirable, really. Charlie never felt the same way. He'd leave for days at a time, with his assistant being the one to tell me he was out of town. I'd fuss at him, in the beginning, and he'd buy me gifts to shut me up. It was fine for the first few years..." he trailed off. "Sorry, I shouldn't be bothering you with all of this." He noticed Annabelle had fallen asleep, nuzzled into Mycroft's neck. "Are you alright with her? I can take her, if you'd like."

Stranger: "No, it's quite alright. You have every right to be angry." Mycroft said softly, smiling as he held Annabelle against him. He chuckled and shook his head. "I'm quite alright. But do you mind popping a little more tea in my cup with a dash of milk please?" he asked softly, not speaking too loud so he didn't wake the baby up now she was so deeply asleep.

You: Greg quickly poured Mycroft his tea, careful not to add too much milk. He held the cup out for the man. "It's not worth dwelling in the past." Greg said quietly. "It's not going to help Annabelle and I. I've got to get over myself, find a job and a flat and a daycare that'll take her. Shouldn't be too difficult, right? Put in some applications, make the rounds a bit, bump into another wealthy Alpha to take me in for the night." he chuckled.

Stranger: "You're welcome to stay as long as you wish, Gregory. Until you are financially stable." Mycroft said warmly, sipping the tea and holding onto Annabelle with one arm and a smile on his face as he closed his eyes. He looked suited to it, sitting here with a babe in arms and a cup of tea. Like he was actually built for it. Not that he would let his guard down like this anywhere else.

You: "I would never do that. I promised you one night and you told me I couldn't leave before breakfast. I'd hate to see what you'd say if I stayed for a few weeks. And besides..." he watched the man carefully, though Mycroft had since closed his eyes. "I could never afford rent on this place." he teased gently.

Stranger: "My rent is quite reasonable. One cuddle of the baby a day." Mycroft said with a soft little chuckle. He sipped his tea again and looked over at Greg with a sigh. "How long have you been on the streets? It seems like a while..."

You: "Only one?" Greg asked. "I don't believe that for a second. Not with the way you relaxed when Annabelle was put in your arms." he said quietly. He swallowed thickly when Mycroft asked about his recent homelessness. "Annabelle was two weeks old when I was thrown out. We didn't go right to the streets though. I had some money in my accounts and I got us a room for a few nights. Spent the rest of it on some formula and some nappies. So, to answer your question, about a month."

Stranger: "I'm so sorry..." Mycroft whispered, putting his tea down and resting his now free hand on Greg's shoulder with a sigh. He squeezed it gently and smiled sitting up a little. "I must insist that you stay longer than just for breakfast." he said brightly, carefully stroking at Annebelle's hair gently. She was snoring a little against his neck.

You: "I didn't tell you all that so that you could pity me. This sort of thing happens all the time, Mycroft. There are plenty of Omegas who've been coupled with shitty Alphas who take advantage of them. Who use and discard them. It's a sad truth, but it's a truth none the less." He smiled over to Mycroft as the man squeezed his shoulder. When Annabelle gave a particularly loud snore Greg chuckled. "You'll have to teach me your ways before I go. I've never heard her snore like that."

Stranger: "This is aid that I'm offering, Gregory. Not pity. I would be very happy to have you both here where you would both be safe." Mycroft said softly as he looked down at the baby, chuckling at her snores. He sighed and shrugged. "Perhaps it's because she knows she's safe here?"

You: (Hey,love, if you've sent something I haven't gotten it. Can you resend?)

Stranger: "This is aid that I'm offering, Gregory. Not pity. I would be very happy to have you both here where you would both be safe." Mycroft said softly as he looked down at the baby, chuckling at her snores. He sighed and shrugged. "Perhaps it's because she knows she's safe here?"

You: (Thanks!!)

Stranger: ((np!))

You: "I'm sure she's an excellent judge of character, even at six weeks old." The Omega assured the Alpha. "It also helps that your scent is so warm and comforting. I don't think I'd let you go either, if I was in Annabelle's place." Greg finished his tea and put his cup back on the tray, collecting Mycroft's empty cup as well. "Are you sure you don't mind watching her a bit longer. I could pop into the shower while she's sleeping."

Stranger: Mycroft blushed at Greg's words and smiled as he gave a nod. "Of course, go and shower. I can hold onto her then you can put her down to sleep before we dine. There is a cot in the third bedroom on the left when you go up to the west wing of the house. I'll have my butler show you the way. There's a bed in there and an en suite you can use." he said, leaning back again.

You: Greg nodded as he was shown out of the lounge and up to the nearly empty wing of Mycroft's home. He thanked the butler and disappeared into the bathroom. He turned the water on and stepped under the scorching flow. He took a deep breath as the water began to relax his impossibly tight muscles. He hadn't had a chance to relax in weeks, or bathe, for that matter. Greg scrubbed himself nearly raw and shampooed his hair twice, just to make sure he was a bit more presentable for Mycroft. When he was done, he stepped out of the shower, noticing his clothes were gone and instead were replaced with a fresh pair of trousers and a cozy, cream jumper. "Do I want to know how you were able to get all these baby items /and/ a pair of clothes that fit me perfectly in the twenty minute ride it took to get here earlier?" he asked as he rejoined Mycroft.

Stranger: "The cot and toys were... already here. The clothes are actually my own. We're roughly the same size and I haven't warn those at all. I thought jeans and a jumper would be needed at one point for a trip. It wasn't." Mycroft replied as he looked up at Greg. He looked a lot happier now he was clean and in fresh clothes. He really was quite handsome with his hair sticking up all over the place so sweetly from his shower.

You: "Can't really imagine you as the type to wear jeans and jumpers." he said frankly. "Seems a bit out of character. Your suits...you wear them like a body of armor almost. Regal, groomed, tailored. I bet you're a beast in the boardroom, making everyone quiver in your wake." he teased as he moved in and held out his arms for his daughter. "I'm sorry for asking about the items." he said quietly. "It wasn't my intention to bring up any bad memories."

Stranger: "Less boardroom... more parliament. And, it's quite alright. I had a partner, I was ready to start a family and then the position that I have now opened up. We mutually decided to bring our relationship to an end." Mycroft said with a shrug of his shoulders as he got up and handed Annabelle over so she could be put to bed properly. "There is a baby monitor up there too."

You: "Still doesn't make it any easier." Greg said as they moved out of the lounge. He left Mycroft at the stairs and went up to put Annabelle in the little cot. He kissed her before settling her in and turning on the attached monitor. "You're quite smitten with him, aren't you?" he asked the little girl, watching her for a few moments. "Don't get too attached, darling, he's not our Alpha. We're guests, remember?" Greg sighed and took the other monitor with him as he rejoined Mycroft in the dining room. It was all terribly formal for Greg; a ghost of his past life. "So you're a politician?" Greg asked as he waited for Mycroft to sit. "Makes sense now, I suppose."

Stranger: "Of... a sort." Mycroft said, gesturing to the seat across from him. He smiled and sat down. He'd rather sit across from him than sit at the head of the table as he usually did. It seemed like it would be awfully pretentious if he did. "Is she comfortable up there?" he asked softly, sitting back as his butler brought out a wonderful meal for them that would certainly fill Greg up.

You: Greg hummed. "Let me guess..." he said, looking down at his plate full of food. God he'd be spoiled if he stayed here too much longer. "You dabble in a bit of everything? Hold a minor position? All confidential, of course?" Greg was teasing the man now, finally beginning to loosen up at the idea that Mycroft was genuinely interested in helping him instead of using him. Greg nodded when Mycroft asked about his daughter. "Quite." he turned the little monitor around so that Mycroft could see. The little girl was laying splayed out like a starfish in the cot.

Stranger: "Yes, and that is as much as I can tell you, I'm afraid." Mycroft said with a little laugh. He took a bite of his dinner and hummed, nodding as he swallowed. Impeccable as ever. He looked at the monitor and gave a soft little chuckle. "She seems ever so content, doesn't she?" he asked softly, smiling at her little image as she moved a little in her sleep. He looked back up at Greg and smiled. "Food alright?"

Stranger: Give me one. G And then give me a chance to prove you wrong. G

You: I am currently owned by another Alpha.-M

Stranger: (delay) Oh. G I'm sorry, I didn't G You're not wearing any G It didn't seem like G (delay) I'm sorry. G

You: It's hardly a traditional relationship, Grace. It's a business arrangement.-M

Stranger: (delay) So I don't have to worry about your Alpha coming down to the station to sock me in the face? G

You: He's already made his dislike known.-M

Stranger: Do I know them? G

You: No.-M

Stranger: I'm confused. G You're not interested in spending time with me because you already have an Alpha, who doesn't like me, but isn't going to punish me for coming on to you, and all of this despite it not being a traditional bonding? G Do I have that right? G

You: Yes, Grace, it's complicated.-M

Stranger: (delay) Too complicated for some potential friends to talk about over dinner? G

You: I suppose, if you insist, we could have a quick bite.-M

Stranger: Great! That would be great. G Are you free tonight? G

You: I'll arrange the time and send a car for you.-M

Stranger: You don't need to send a car. G Just send me the info, and I'll see you there. G

You: [Delayed] Consider it sent.-M

Stranger: brbr!!

Stranger: See you tonight. G (switch to Paras? )

You: (Yeah, I'll start!)

You: Mycroft made sure to send the address of the small, discrete Chinese restaurant to Grace before he reminded his Alpha that he'd be working late. Charles, his Alpha, was rather upset at another night spent alone, but eventually allowed Mycroft to return to his work. Mycroft spent the afternoon in meetings and conference calls giving himself little time to think of the previous night or what sort of punishment may be waiting for him at home when he returned. Before he left the office to meet Grace, Mycroft made sure the bruise under his eye was covered and the marks on his wrist hidden by his suit jacket. He arrived at the restaurant early and found a booth near the back to wait for Grace.

Stranger: Grace was practically bouncing as she strode in to the restaurant. A few short words with the hostess and she was led back to the table where Mycroft was. Something made her pause for a second, a momentary frown tugging at her lips, but with a small shake of her head it passed and she was smiling once more as she slipped into her seat. "Hi," she greeted, tucking her short bobbed hair behind her ears. "Thanks for meeting me, Mycroft."

You: Mycroft gave her a short smile. "Of course, Detective. I am always happy to oblige the more stubborn members of New Scotland Yard." Mycroft glanced around every so often, hoping no one he knew would happen upon them during dinner. He didn't wish to field questions from nosy colleagues or have word get back to Charles that he hadn't exactly been truthful about working late. "You said you wished to discuss my current situation." Mycroft said after they had ordered their dinner. "What questions may I answer for you?"

Stranger: Her eyes narrowed a touch as Mycroft glanced around. It was as if . . . but no. No. Not Mycroft. Sure. "Well, I really meant I just wanted to talk to you. I meant it when I said I wanted to get to know you better. Even if just as friends." She wasn't keen on interfering in another Alpha's relationship, even if Mycroft said it was 'just business'. In her experience, it almost never was. "I am sorry if I caused any problems for you. I really didn't think -- it's not like you're wearing any marks -- not that you have to!" She was putting her foot in it wasn't she? It was the 21st century, Grace Lestrade, Omegas didn't need to display claiming marks or other signs of being 'owned'. They weren't even 'owned' in the legal sense, anymore.

You: Mycroft took a deep, steadying breath as Grace began stumbling over her words. Alphas, he thought to himself. "Marks are still fairly common, Detective, however in my case, part of my agreeing to been sold off from 'under my parents' watch was that Charles would not be allowed to bite me." He explained. "I do not wear a ring because we are not married. We are simply...coupled, if you will. I intended to leave the arrangement after a few years, but circumstances have since changed. I am no longer able to leave." He swallowed thickly, thinking of his son at home. "Charles and I are not intimate outside of my heats, we do not share a room or dinner or any other number of things found in a traditional relationship. However, I am still considered his property."

Stranger: That bad feeling came back, and she stopped trying to push it away. Anyone could be subject to... to bad situations. Including Mycroft Holmes. 'Selling Omegas hasn't been legal for forty years," she said softly under her breath. "You're no one's property." Not in the eyes of the law at least. The public was always much slower to adapt and adopt such views. "How did circumstances change?"

You: Mycroft chuckled. "In higher social circles..." Mycroft began. "It is still common practice. Omegas are gifted, instead of sold, but changing what you call a process hardly changes the process itself. It allowed my parents to retire to the country, allowed me to continue working and gaining even more political standing in the government." he hesitated when Grace asked what had changed. Mycroft rarely spoke about his personal life with his colleagues, but Grace was more than that, wasn't she? "I became pregnant shortly after Charles took me."

Stranger: Yes, she felt ill. "...how old are they?" Her mind might not be as magnificent as the Holmes's, but it was still working overtime. Common practice, it still wasn't legal, and thus not binding. If Mycroft wanted to leave, he could. But a child, that of course made it different. More complicated. They way Mycroft spoke about it, too; she tucked those details away, reading into them with all the experience of an detective long on the force.

You: "Arthur is four." he answered quickly. "Grace, are you alright?" Mycroft asked the detective, noticing the way she practically turned white at the idea that not every couple was happy. Mycroft could practically hear the wheels turning in the woman's head and it worried him slightly. "Whatever you're thinking please stop." he warned her. "It's not worth getting involved in. I am perfectly fine, Arthur is perfectly fine. Charles is away more often than he is home so our lives aren't affected by his presence as much as you may think. Yesterday was an argument, which I'm certain every couple has experienced in their time together."

Stranger: "Couples argue," she agreed, with a nod. "But one partner being afraid of the other is not normal, Mycroft." She was scrutizing the omega closely now. It was hard, in the dim lighting of the out of the way booth, but she thought . . . reaching across the table, she lightly brushed at the skin beneath Mycroft's eye.

You: Mycroft flinched out of Grace's touch. "I am /not/ afraid of Charles, Detective. Just because I am an Omega does not mean I am weak and defenseless." He stood up quickly, not bothering to wait for his food. "I do not need to be pitied by another Alpha. Apologies, but I have to go. Goodnight, Detective." He grabbed his coat from inside the booth and turned to leave the restaurant, opening the door rougher than he would have liked.

Stranger: Gace winced. Yes, she'd handled that poorly. She should have known better. How many cases of abused Omegas had she been pulled into before? The shrinks said there was something less threatening to those Omegas about a /female/ Alpha; some underlying biological instinct or something. Grace didn't understand the science of it, only that she could help. In all her years, she'd seen just about everything, and heard everything. Mycroft's flinching and sharp retort was nothing new to her. Instinct told her something was wrong. But as the Special Victims cops often told her, their instincts weren't enough. Running her hand through her hair, Grace waved off the waitress as she came with the food, asking her to pack it up instead. Pulling out her phone, she quickly texted the man, I was not pitying you, Mycroft. I was worrying. I apologize if I overstepped (again). GL Snagging the bag with the food in it, she sighed as she ruffled her hair again, heading back to the office for another late night.

You: Mycroft was nestled in the back of his black town car when his mobile buzzed in his pocket. A message from Grace. Worrying over an Omega that wasn't her own, that certainly wouldn't do. Mycroft typed a quick message out to her before replacing his mobile. It was pity, Detective. It was you assuming you know every detail about my situation. Perhaps you should stick to solving homicides and leave my personal life out of your thoughts.-M As his car pulled up to his home Mycroft saw the lights on. It meant Charles was waiting for him. He took a deep breath before he got out of the car and went inside. "Hello, darling." he said, attempting to be the sweet, demure Omega Charles preferred. It would help ensure they did not fight that evening. "You lied to me." was the only warning Mycroft received before the fist of his Alpha met his cheek.

Stranger: Back at the office, Grace tried to distract herself from Mycroft with the powerful combination of paperwork and coffee. It didn't work very well. Going for a refill, she ran into some cops with one of the Special Detectives heading out. Greeting them, there was the brief exchange of normal banter before she asked what they were headed to. "Potential domestic. Some neighbors called it in." Grace glanced at the clock, and then thought of her paperwork. "Can I come along?" The detective gave the okay, so in two cars, the pulled away from NSY, heading to the address of the call.

You: Mycroft heard the sirens in the distance, but it didn't register they could be coming for him. The pair had been yelling at each other for nearly an hour, breaking many items in their sitting room as Mycroft struggled to protect himself from Charles. He'd managed to get a few good punches in before the Alpha overtook him. "Getting off with that whore of an Alpha, weren't you?" Charles asked, dragging Mycroft up the stairs by his hair. "Of course not, darling. I would never step outside of our relationship, you know that. Please, let's not argue tonight." Charles pushed open the bedroom door and flung the Omega on the bed. "Arthur's not here. I didn't want him to see his mum having to be punished for being a cheating slut." Mycroft struggled to get out from Charles' grip but was pinned to the bed.

Stranger: It was a nice neighborhood they were going to, and it made her think of Mycroft all over again. Her heavy sigh and shake of her head got the detective's attention. "You all right?" "Yeah," Grace said, before added, "Just . . . when we're done here, can I get your opinion on something?" The Beta woman nodded, with that grim look in her eye. They pulled up to the curve and saw the concerned neighbors standing outside on the sidewalk; that wasn't very usual. The beat cops started to talk to them while Grace and Detective Cooper took the steps up to the front door. "New Scotland Yard, open up," she called after ringing the bell, hand on her belt. "Open up."

You: Mycroft couldn't hear anything, he'd blocked the room around him out as Charles punished him for his dinner with Grace. He didn't know how long it went on until Charles was crawling off of him and pushing him to the floor. "Get rid of them or it'll be another round for you." the Alpha spat in Mycroft's direction. The Omega faltered as he got up and headed towards the door, adjusting his rumpled suit. "C-coming." he called as he hurried down the stairs as fast as his battered body could carry him. "St-stop banging. Please." he pleaded as he checked himself in the mirror on his way to the door. There wasn't much he could do to hide his split lip and bloody nose, but he didn't really have a choice. "What?" he snapped as he wrenched the door open.

Stranger: Grace started as the door opened to reveal Mycroft; a much altered Mycroft than she'd seen not that long ago. She felt Cooper next to her stiff; "Sir," she said gently, "We got a call for a domestic disturbance. Will you please step out of the house?" Grace's hands were curled tight into fists at her side. It was only Cooper's warning glance that kept her from storming into the flat and finding the Alpha lurking within and beating him into a pulp.

You: Mycroft was surprised to find Grace at his door. "No, Detective Inspector, I will not step out of my own home. " he said sharply. "I suggest you both leave my property before I call my lawyer and have your entire squad forced into early retirement. This is borderline harassment." he sneered. "Now, if you'll excuse me, I have work today. Do /not/ let me see your faces again." Mycroft spat, closing the door in the officer's face. He leaned against the door, heart still pounding in his chest, and closed his eyes. He was trying to calm down and settle his nerves before he returned to his Alpha.

Stranger: "What was that about?" Cooper asked, waving the other two officers over. Grace sighed. "What I was going to talk to you about." "You know we have to go in." "Yeah," Grace nodded. A sign of violence, a clear assault. Even if charges weren't ultimately made, they had a legal obligation to intervene. "I'll go wait in the car. Less messy that way." Cooper nodded her agreement, and sharply told one of the beat cops to call it in as Grace trooped back to the car. In this Mycroft (or his lawyers) didn't have a legal leg to stand on. Someone had just brutalized that Omega, and Omega Protection Laws were very clear, even if they could occasionally be stiffling. From the car, Grace watched, mentally supplying the script. "Sir, you're going to have to open this door, else we'll have to take it down." Vaguely she wondered if it would be better if she was all together gone, but she couldn't bring herself to walk away.

You: Mycroft hadn't taken two steps before a new voice came through the door. He stood glued to the spot as the officers waited for him to respond. What was happening to his life? A harmless dinner led to an argument. The argument got out of hand and led to the police being called. The police being called led to a very angry Alpha bounding down the stairs towards him. "I thought I told you to get rid of them." he snapped, shoving Mycroft into the wall, knocking the breath out of him. Charles was furious with him but looked as if nothing had happened: no bruising, no blood, no sign of the pain Mycroft had inflicted upon him. The Alpha answered the door as Mycroft hurried into the sitting room to straighten up. "Apologies for my Omega." Charles said, turning on the charm. "He's not the brightest."

Stranger: The trio of cops all stiffened, instinctive knowing this was the danger. "Of course, sir," Cooper said calmly. She was immune to his charm; some of the most charming people she'd met were the biggest bastards she'd landed behind bars. "Would you please step out of the house?" Split them up; standard step one. Get the abuser away from their victim.

You: "Of course." He said, complying with the officer's request. Charles didn't want their business spread around so he kept his voice quiet. "I hope this won't take long. I have an early morning and need to get to bed. I'm sure there's been a misunderstanding. Mycroft said there was a domestic violence call placed for our address?" he questioned. "We fought, yes, but doesn't every couple. Perfectly normal." he smiled at the officer. Inside, Mycroft had thrown away the broken picture frames and his favorite vase, as he heard Charles leave the house. He didn't dare leave the sitting room, for fear of running into Grace or being questioned about what happened. He moved to the sofa, sitting down and pulling out the small first aid kit he kept in the side table for Arthur. He cleaned himself up quickly, hoping to look better by the time Charles returned.

Stranger: The neighbors had already been sent back inside, for their own safety. "Perhaps, sir, but your mate came the door with a bloody nose and a split lit. That is not normal. Would you please accompany Officer Davidson down to the garden? I will need to speak to your mate." A short nod from Cooper before slipped inside. "Sir?" she called. "I'm sorry, I know you feel this is an intrusion, sir, but I'm afraid I have to speak with you about this." It wasn't hard to find the man in the living room, and her eyes took in the signs of missing objects from around the room. A brawl, in her opinion. An uneven one, but a violent one.

You: Mycroft sighed, standing up to face the officer. "I feel this is an intrusion because it /is/ an intrusion. Pity NSY must scrape the bottom of the barrel for officers who are unable to listen. I advised everything was fine, Charles will corroborate my story, therefore you threatening to break my door down and coming into my home, without being invited, is completely an invasion of our privacy. I have absolutely nothing to say to you, officer." Knowing the cop was alone, Mycroft quickly brushed past the woman and down the hall to the kitchen to make tea. He paused at the doorway of the kitchen. "Tell Detective Lestrade I will be lodging a formal compliant against her, as well as your squad." he snapped. "Show yourself out."

Stranger: Cooper sighed, following the man. She hated the types who thought they knew the law and the protocols of the police better than the police. At least the insults rolled right off her. "Unfortunately it's not, sir. I'm sorry if Detective Lestrade's presence has upset you, but I assure you that she had no idea of the address we were going to. She's often brought in on some of our cases. For your comfort, she has excused herself. However, that does not mean I can simply leave you. You were obviously injured and unless you tell me that someone else is in the house," which neither he nor his mate had done so, "I have to assume it was your husband that did this to you, and I am legally required to speak to you about it." The threats didn't bother her either; their Captain was a hardass who had no problem going to the mat to defend his officers, who he trusted implicitly.

You: Mycroft put the kettle on, grumbling when he was followed by the woman. "You have spoken to me about it." he yelled, turning to face the other. "You have asked what has happened and I have told you, it was none of your damn business. Therefore, you have done your job." he moved to stand in front of the officer, not backing down. "He is not my husband." He enunciated each word for emphasis, seething with anger. They were doing nothing but making it worse for Mycroft. Once they left, Mycroft would be punished again for allowing them in the house and lying about his injuries. Mycroft only wished to get the punishment over with. "I injured myself. Charles had nothing to do with it. Happy?" he asked.

Stranger: Cooper sighed. Already she could tell this was a lost case. He wasn't ready to face what he was going through, or try and get help. They, the police, couldn't do a damn thing, without that. It was infuriating and heartbreaking and the worst part of the job. "Of course," she said neutrally. Cooper pulled her card out and left it on the counter next to Mycroft. "If you ever injure yourself again, feel free to give me a call." A significant pause and a sharp look to let the Omega know, in her reassuring Beta way, that she understood more than he thought he did. Free of pity, absolutely clear of it. Only conprehension. Mycroft could lie to himself, but not to someone as experienced as Cooper. "Again, apologies for the intrusion, sir. Enjoy the rest of your night." Cooper nodded her head and turned sharply on her heel, leaving the house. The two other cops met her eyes over Charles's shoulder and quickly ended the conversation, apologizing for the misunderstanding and wishing him a good night. They piled into cars, the beat cops peeling away first. Cooper sighed heavily as she took her place in the driver seat. "You're fucked," she told Grace. Grace could only nod as she looked out the window at the imposing house. "I know I am."

You: "That was her, wasn't it?" Charles roared as he entered the kitchen. "No, darling, that wasn't who I had dinner with. That was...Cooper." he held up the card to read the name off of it. "What did you tell her?" he asked, moving to snatch the card out of the man's hand. "Did you tell her how you were running around on me? That I had to remind you /exactly/ who you belong to?" Charles pressed Mycroft into the counter, pining him. The Alpha leaned down and nuzzled into Mycroft's neck, teeth grazing the sensitive skin he found there. "Stop it, Charles, you know that's not allowed." Charles grabbed one of Mycroft's arms and twisting it behind his back as the Omega tried to get away. "You're mine." the man growled. "My property." Another twist and Mycroft felt the snap of his arm, crying out in pain. He forced the elbow of his other arm back into Charles' ribs, catching the Alpha off guard, allowing him to quickly leave the kitchen. Mycroft, broken arm clutched close to his chest, hurried towards the front door. "Grace!" he called out to the retreating car. "Grace!" "No you don't, they can't help you now." Charles said, fingers curling into Mycroft's hair, tugging him back off of the doorstep.

You: *twisted

Stranger: (( Hey, I have a small request. Can you avoid describing any more rape that might happen? Just for my comfort. Like, I get that it will probably happen, but can we skim over it from now on? I'm fine, really, but it made me a little unsteady. Also, can there be a second domestic call lodged? Then they'll really have to take Charles in, and be able to take Mycroft to the hospital))

You: (Yeah, definitely! Thank for letting me know!)

You: (Didn't mean to upset you!)

Stranger: ( No, no, you're fine! Normally it doesn't but for some reason it's hitting hard )

You: ( I completely understand!)

Stranger: They were already too far away for Grace to have possibly heard, and with her head slumped down and Cooper focused on the road and reviewing the grim details they already had, neither saw Mycroft's brief escape. It was a nearly silent drive back to the station. Grace settled back at her desk, pretty much resigned to not getting anything done, head rested in her hands. When there was a sharp knock at her door, she nearly fell over in her chair, startled. She was ready to laugh about it until she looked up and saw Cooper's grim face. The other woman barely had to say a word before she understood. A repeat domestic call. Now they really could do something. Snagging her coach, she practically sprinted down to the car, imaptiently waiting for Cooper to catch up. "Breath, Grace," Cooper had to remind her as they drove through the streets. "Keep it together. You're going to have to stay in the car, still." Grace nearly broke the handle on the door at that.

Stranger: ( Also, random information but i want to share: Cooper's first name is Gwendolyn. She hates it. Goes exclusively by Cooper. )

You: (Thanks!) "Darling, you need to calm down." Mycroft was still, after hours, trying to get his Alpha to calm down. He needed to see a doctor about his broken arm and his split lip. They'd been arguing for hours over the dinner, over the text messages from Grace, over Mycroft's work hours and everything under the sun. Mycroft froze when he heard another knock at their door. He knew what it meant before Charles even snarled at him not to say a word. Their house was a wreck. There were broken dishes littering the kitchen, the sitting room looked like a tornado had come through it and the entry way had been ground zero. Mycroft heard the voices from the kitchen, no Grace. He carefully considered his options, knowing his face would send Charles into another fit, he stayed in the sitting room and looked around for his discarded phone. Finally seeing it, he typed out a message to Grace. Charles won't agree to another search. I don't wish to speak to another officer. Please?-M

Stranger: Grace jumped as her phone buzzed. Pulling it out, barely daring to hope, she couldn't help the relieved sigh at the name. He can't argue against another search. They're going to bring him in. GL Two disturbance calls in a night does that, and the blame auto falls on the Alpha in the house. For once the shitty laws were working in their favour. Are you okay? I'll come in if you want. GL

You: Are you okay? The question was so terribly simple and Mycroft knew it shouldn't have touched him the way it had, but those three little words in black text on his screen were enough to force tears. "No." he sobbed, typing out the same reply to the DI. She was there, even after the way Mycroft had treated her, still attempting to help him. He didn't want to be paraded through the house and led out to an ambulance. He didn't want everyone knowing he was weak and defenseless. He didn't want to give a statement to a stranger. He wanted his arm to stop throbbing and for the pain in his ribs to ease enough for him to take a deep breath. I need a doctor.-M

Stranger: That was enough for Grace to get out of the car. On my way. GL She slammed the door behind her. Cooper and the other officers were dealing with Charles as she quickly strode up the short path to the door. She was vaguely aware of him becoming increasingly beligerent, but didn't worry about it. Cooper could handle herself, as could her other officers. And if Charles had a single braincell, he'd realize fighting would only make it worse. Part of Grace hoped he didn't have a single braincell. "Mycroft?" she called as soon as she was through the front door? "Myc, where are you?"

You: Mycroft had tried to clean up the sitting room again, but hadn't made much progress when he heard Grace call for him from the entry way. "In here." he said, as loudly as he could. He'd stopped to rest on the coffee table, holding his arm close to his chest. He looked up as Grace joined him. He wasn't sure what to say to her or even where to begin. He opened his mouth, but closed it quickly. He should apologize to her for acting like a child. He should tell her the truth and allow her to help him. He should remind her there were better people for her to waste her time on. "I couldn't calm him down." was what came out instead. "I'm sorry, Grace..."

Stranger: "It's not your fault, Mycroft." Grace swallowed hard, taking in the room, Mycroft, and the way he cradled his arm against his chest. "You don't need to apologize, Mycroft, you didn't do anything to deserve this." Touching him lightly on the uninjured shoulder, she guided him to the sofa. Sweeping some debris off it, she guided him down. "Is this because you had dinner with me?" she asked gently.

You: Mycroft, too tired to fight with the woman, allowed himself to be moved and sat on the sofa. He sat far too close to Grace, craving the safety she brought with her. "Of course I did." he said, not looking at her. "I lied to him about having dinner with you, about flirting with you for months. I work too much. According to Charles I should remain here, at home, where I can look after Arthur and giving him more pups." Mycroft wiped at his face, embarrassed. "It's my own fault I'm weak and couldn't fight back properly. It's disgusting that I can't take care of myself...." he continued. "That I need you to do it for me. I shouldn't have..." he finally looked up to her. "You shouldn't have bothered to come back after the way I treated you. I'm sorry, Grace."

Stranger: "Shh." Grace swiped her thumb over his cheek, humming softly to calm him. "Those things don't mean you deserved this. Nothing could deserve this," she assured him. Some small part of her glowed to hear that he'd been flirting with her, that it hadn't been all in her head. "Not being able to fight back agaisnt an Alpha taller, heavier, and stronger than you is not something to be ashamed of. You were scared," she worked through his concerns slowly, knowing it was only the first of many times she'd have to go through this and not caring a bit. Her head lifted at the reminder of his son. "Where is Arthur?" They'd have to take him with them, especially if this tipped Mycroft into wanted to get out. Which she knew was overly optimistic, but she couldn't kill that hope.

You: "He's...he's not here." Mycroft said, leaning against the woman. "Charles sent him to stay with Sherlock. He...he always does before this happens. Charles may believe that I deserve to be punished for stepping out of line, but he...he prefers Arthur not see." Mycroft sniffed. "Sherlock'll keep him until tomorrow. I'll have Sherlock bring him over tomorrow. I think a few days off will do us both well." Mycroft looked around the room at the idea of Arthur coming home and suddenly couldn't continue to sit down with Grace. "I'll need to straighten up though, before he gets here." Mycroft turned to Grace. "I need to have my arm set, Grace, so that I can come home and straighten up. I don't want Arthur coming home to a destroyed house. It'll worry him unnecessarily. I don't want to upset him too."

Stranger: Going back to making soothing noises, Grace shook her head. "Don't worry about it, Mycroft. We'll get it sorted." She wasn't keen on the idea of letting Mycroft come back here at all. "Does Sherlock know?" Sherlock had to know, right? Grace's ears picked up as she faintly heard the sounds of someone getting belligerent outside, but she made no move to bring it to Mycroft's attention. Cooper and the others would be bustling Charles into the squad car for the disturbance calls; that would be enough to hold him at least overnight. Grace could bring up assault charges to Mycroft later.

You: Mycroft nodded. "Of course he knows. Everyone in the bloody country knows and no one cares. Why should they? An Alpha disciplining their out of control Omega, there's nothing wrong with it." Mycroft began to pick up some of the items scattered around the sitting room. "The one time Sherlock mentioned it to our parents, Father threatened to write him out of the family trust. Even I would have kept my mouth shut after that. Sherlock makes up for it by watching Arthur whenever I call him." Mycroft stopped, wincing at the pain in his ribs, his head spinning slightly. "We should go. Charles should be shouting abuses to the arresting officer from the back of the squad car by now."

Stranger: "There's a thousand things wrong with it," she told him firmly, getting a grip on her urge to sock Sherlock in the face, and using less restraint when it came to Mycroft's father. No family trust was worth this. "Stop that," she said, standing up and guiding him back to the sofa. "We'll get you to the hospital soon. I just want to make sure he's gone." She gave him a small smile. "They can handle it. They're probably hoping he tries to punch one of them."

You: Mycroft shook his head. "Charles isn't stupid. He knows he'll barely be booked and processed before he's let go because he knows I don't have the guts to press charges for what he's done." Mycroft flopped onto the sofa, ashamed of himself. "I can run a bloody country, but I can't stand up to one man. Pathetic, Grace. It's absolutely pathetic." Mycroft wiped his face again, taking a shaky breath. "Perhaps I should call my parents and have them come and deal with this mess. They gave me to Charles because they thought I needed looking after. They wanted grandchildren, the ability to brag about their 'son-in-law'. Perhaps now they'll know these fights escalate far beyond what I've always told them."

Stranger: Her hope started to wither. "It's not pathetic, Mycroft. So many people go through this exact same thing. It is far, far from pathetic." She wanted to keep him far away from his parents too, who cared so little as to hand their son over to such a brute. Her ears strained, checking for the voices outside. She needn't have bothered because Cooper was walking in. She took one look at the room and another at Mycroft before she offered, "Should I pack you anything before we head to the hospital?"

You: Mycroft shook his head. "I do not plan on staying longer than necessary to tend to my broken arm." Mycroft stood once again and made to leave the sitting room. "I apologize for my attitude earlier. I do understand you were simply doing your job." he told the Beta, giving Cooper a small smile before he left the sitting room. He stopped in the entry way for his over coat. "Can I trust you two to forgo any theatrics while you take me to the hospital or should I call my driver?" he asked the pair of officers. "The neighbors are already gossiping behind their curtains, I'd hate for them to return to my drive way for yet another time tonight."

Stranger: Cooper was very serious as she said, "Sir, we don't indulge in theatrics," opening the door for him. "If anyone asks, we are taking you to the station to deal with the noise complaints and your . . . and Charles after he got belligerent about the repeated calls." A very diplomatic smile while Grace snorted as she took the coat the coat from him, drapping it over his shoulders. "Come on," she said gently, guiding him out the door.

You: Mycroft's eyebrows furrowed. "What do you find so amusing, Grace?" he asked as he was led outside and down to the waiting car. He slipped into the back seat as the pair slid in up front. He looked out the window and up to his home. He'd once loved it there, the space and the quiet charm about the house. Now the home held a negative energy thanks to his Alpha. He was quiet for a long time as they drove towards the hospital. "If I press charges..." he began timidly. "Will he be able to take Arthur away from me?" That was one of the main reasons Mycroft stayed, knowing he'd lose his son to the powerful Alpha.

Stranger: "Cooper's ability to spin things the best way possible," was her light answer. Once they were in the car, and started driving, she let herself sigh in the silence. It wasn't comfortable, but she still felt like a weight had been lifted from her shoulder. The two women glanced at each other at the question, though. Grace swallowed, knowing she'd have to handle it. "Most likely not," she said, twisting around in her seat to look at that Omega. "Custody tends to favour the Omega. And if you raise assualt charges against him, and you and someone can attest to a pattern of abuse . . . your case is incredibly strong." Grace would make sure Sherlock swallowed his damn pride and stood up for his sister. "That we had to come twice in one night, even if there isn't an earlier record of calls, will speak volumes for the assault charges," Cooper added.

You: Mycroft snorted, shifting under Grace's gaze. "No one's going to be able to attest to the pattern of abuse." he looked down at his arm. "Sherlock won't speak out against my parents decision and I forbid you to force him to do such, Grace." Mycroft knew the woman was as stubborn as he was and would force the issue more than necessary. "So to ensure my son remains in my car I will not be able to press charges. Lovely." he mused to himself, alone in the back of the patrol car. It was just as well, he thought as they neared the hospital, perhaps Mycroft deserved the position he found himself in. Perhaps this was simply his punishment for being born an Omega and disappointing his family. He thanked the detectives as they came to a stop at the hospital. "I'd prefer you simply left me alone. I'm not a stranger in the emergency department. My assistant will take me home."

Stranger: "You don't need the pattern of abuse," Cooper assured the Omega, even though she knew it would be a weaker case. Weaker didn't mean impossible though. "Absolutely not," Grace said flatly. Getting out of the car, she opened the door for Mycroft, offering an arm to help him out. "I left you alone once tonight, and regretted it. I will not do it again." Her eyes dared him to challenge her on it. Didn't matter if she had to sit in the waiting room the entire night. She wasn't going anywhere.

You: Mycroft stood staring at the Alpha. She was determined, stubborn, forceful, but there wasn't a shred of anger in her eyes. Mycroft wasn't sure what he'd done to deserve such kindness from the woman. He nodded, not arguing as she led him into the hospital and helped him check in. It was nearly an hour before he was called back. He stood and moved to the nurse waiting on him, assuming that Grace would follow him. He stopped when he saw she wasn't there. "Well?" he asked. "You did say you weren't leaving me alone again tonight, yes? I'm sure you'll enjoy watching me burst into tears again as they poke and prod me."

Stranger: "Not in the least," Grace said, her heart breaking a little bit, but she was back at his side in an instant, so glad that he was letting her in. "You can hold my hand if you need," she promised. The nurses took over, comfortingly cooing over the injured Omega. In a pause while they went to get some things, after they'd gotten Mycroft changed into a gown, revealing and extended molt of bruises, Grace took Mycroft's hand. "I've asked them to take pictures to document," she told him gently, knowing she might have overstepped here. "In case you decided to press charges." There was a lump in her throat as she said it.

You: Mycroft hated the way the nurses fussed over him, patting on the shoulder and reminding him he'd made the right decision. They took blood and swabs and ran a battery of tests on him. He hated their pitying looks, their meaningless words, their frowns. He knew they'd talk about how terrible he looked as they snapped their photos and cleaned him up. "It's fine." he told Grace, surprised she took his hand. "I know you and Cooper were lying." he said quietly. "Pressing charges won't do a bit of good. Charles will use Arthur to keep me with him. A weak case is a lost case."

Stranger: "It's not a lost case, Myc. It's not. I've seen so many of these case, and trust me, yours is not a weak case." She hesitated before adding gently, "You said the emergency room staff wasn't unfamiliar with you?" She'd accepted that Mycroft wouldn't allow Sherlock to testify in support, but the he could have no qualms about the hospital.

You: "This isn't my first broken arm." he explained. "I've been here before. Once when I was pregnant with Arthur, once for a broken ankle and a few times for stitches." he listed off his more recent injuries to the DI as they held hands. Mycroft's grip tightened as the nurses moved the gown in different directions in order to get enough photos of him. He felt vulnerable and exposed in front of the DI. "This is the first time I haven't been alone during a visit, however."

Stranger: Grace smiled, and smoothed his hair off his forehead. "I'll be here whenever you need me," she promised, belatedly flushing. Now wasn't the time. She waited until the nurses left again before she raised another sensitive topic. "Myc . . . did he /force/ you at all?" Another thing she'd seen time and time again. "Ever?" Again, no pity, just concern and affection.

You: Mycroft leaned into Grace's touch, soaking up the kindness from the Alpha. "You're a terribly good friend." he said softly. He didn't move or meet her eyes when she asked her next question. "You already know the answer to that." Mycroft said, shifting on the bed. "It hardly takes a rocket scientist to know exactly the sort of Alpha Charles is. I will, however, spare you the details. I have enough respect for you, Grace, but it's nothing you should concern yourself with."

Stranger: A hard swallow and a small shake of her head. "Will you let them do an exam?" It would be more evidence, more proof, piling up against Charles. An Alpha raping their Omega was a toss up still, but more and more public opinion was swaying in a positive direction. And considering that by all normal standards, Charles wasn't even Mycroft's Alpha (no markings, no marriage, no claiming) -- Grace would take whatever she could get.

You: Mycroft considered it for a long while. He'd never had that sort of exam done. He never thought it would make a difference and he only felt more shame surrounding his abuse. But Grace had been so kind to him, had come to help him when he called, even after his outbursts towards her. He knew she was only trying to help solidify his case against the Alpha. Eventually he nodded. "You'll stay with me, yes? I hate being poked and prodded like a piece of cattle. I don't...I don't want to be left alone with the doctor."

Stranger: "Of course I'll stay," she promised, squeezing his hand with a smile. "The entire time. And you can focus on me and tell me all about things that are way over my head and I'll never udnerstand," she teased. "Like how the pea trade in Niger affects Tube traffic from Victoria station."

You: Mycroft couldn't help but chuckle. "You wouldn't believe me if I told you it did." he said, looking up at her. "I want you to meet Arthur." he said. "Once this whole thing is settled. I think he'd like you, Grace. I usually don't tell many people about him, given my line of work, but I do consider you a friend more than a colleague." Mycroft, all too soon, was made to lie down on the examine table as the doctor began looking him over. Mycroft never let go of Grace's hand, fearing he was squeezing too tight. "I don't like this." he whispered, closing his eyes.

Stranger: "I would be honored to meet him," Grace whispered. Mycroft could have broken every bone in her hand and she wouldn't have minded. "You're okay," she reassured him, stroking his hair. "You're doing great. It won't be long," she added, glancing at the doctor who seemed perturbed. The omega doc worked quickly and efficiently, shaking his head occasionally, documenting what he found. When he was done, he helped Mycroft sit up straight, reassuring him as well, thanking him for being a wonderful patient. After saying a doc would be in shortly to help reset his arm and cast it, he made a small gesture to speak to Grace. Giving Mycroft another squeeze and the promise that she'd be right back, she dropped a brief kiss to his hair before following the doc out. "Are you the reporting office?" The man said, crossing his arms over his chest. Grace shook her head. "No, just a friend. But I am a detective, who saw what happened. I'm trying to get him to file charges. My hope is that we'll go to the station after this." The doctor nodded. "I hope so too. There was recent trauma, but also scaring. The kind you'd get from long time abuse. I've seen a lot of things, but this," he shook his head. "I'd be shocked if he'd ever once gotten properly slick for intercourse." Grace blushed; it was unusual to hear and Omega speak so bluntly. "I'm a doctor, Detective," the Omega snapped, clearly annoyed with her embarrassment. "Yes, right, of course," she coughed. "Is there anything else?" "...I'm no expert on the matter, but I would be surprised if he could ever carry a pup to term again." Grace felt her heart break a little for Mycroft. Nodding she sighed. "All right. Thank you doc." "Let me know how things go," the man said, before leaving. Grace returned to the room, mustering a smile. "How are you doing?"

You: Mycroft whined as Grace left, unable to stop himself. He didn't want to be left alone in the cold room in nothing more than a paper gown that didn't even properly cover him up. He wanted to go home and crawl into bed with his son. He wanted to pretend like this day hadn't happened. He wanted to go back to being Mycroft Holmes, politician, not Mycroft Holmes, abused Omega. He looked up when Grace came back to the room. Mycroft knew something was wrong. "What?" he said quickly, ignoring her question. "What's wrong? The doctor wouldn't have asked to speak to you privately if something wasn't wrong. He shouldn't have spoken to you about my medical conditions to begin with. Oh god..." he trailed off, watching Grace's face. "Am I pregnant again?" he asked, beginning to panic slightly at the idea. He knew blood work was standard for an Omega but he hadn't even begun to foster the idea that he could be expecting again. "Grace Lestrade, stop looking at me like that and tell me what that doctor said."

Stranger: A deep breath as she took both of Mycroft's hands. "You're not pregnant," she told him. "Myc, I... the doctor isn't sure you could get pregnant anymore." She just forced it out. "He said there's a lot of scar tissue, and I guess that would cause problems." She wasn't a doctor, she didn't know the mechanics of how, but . . .

Stranger: "I'm so sorry, Mycroft."

You: "What?" he asked as his voice cracked. He may not have wanted to birth any more of Charles' pups but that hardly meant he didn't wish to give Arthur a sibling. He only had a few more years in him to safely bare children and now he was being told the Alpha may have taken away the possibility of that. "Stop." he said. "Just stop." he pulled his hands away. "That bastard has abused me for six years." he spat. "He doesn't get to take the ability to have another pup away from me. He doesn't get to continue to rape me after he's beaten me down. He can't...I'm not...no one will..." Mycroft couldn't hold it in any longer, breaking down on the exam table. He knew what it meant, not being able to have any more pups. No one wanted him now and no one would want him in a year when he'd cleaned himself up.

Stranger: Grace knew she shouldn't, now wasn't the time, but seing him break like this, such strong, brilliant man falling to peaces breaking everthing in her too, she couldn't help it. "Shh," she cooed, gathering the Omega in her arms. "Myc, My, shhh." She didn't know what else to say. She couldn't say it was okay, it wasn't. It WASN'T. She could have said, promised, begged the omega to see that there was a future for him still; that was too presumptuous, too much like replacing one Alpha with another. Mycroft didn't need an Alpha, and he needed to know that.

You: Mycroft didn't know how long he spent in Grace's arms, furiously sobbing into her blouse, but he didn't care. She wanted to help him and this was what he needed. Grace didn't know what to say and Mycroft didn't think he could stand any speeches about how everything would work itself out in the end or how he was lucky to be alive or how Charles would never see the light of day again. Mycroft knew Charles eventually be released after some time. They were interrupted by the next doctor entering to set his broken arm and Mycroft limply allowed the doctor and Grace to set him into position on the table again. He didn't speak for the rest of their stay in the emergency department, instead just looking away from the pair of them and allowing the silent tears to fall down his cheeks.

Stranger: When the doctor said Mycroft could get dressed again, and he'd be allowed to check out, it was late at night and Mycroft hadn't spoken in what seemed like forever. "Do you want me to help you?" Grace said at last. "Get dressed again?"

You: Mycroft was exhausted by the time he was allowed to leave. It was nearly three in the morning and he hadn't eaten or showered since the previous morning. Everything hurt, everything was sore. He shook his head at Grace. "No, you should leave. It's late and I've kept you much longer than I should have." he said, standing from the examine table, carefully trying to keep the gown closed to retain some shred of dignity in front oft he Alpha. "I'm sorry for my outburst earlier. I shouldn't have reacted like that." he didn't look at her as he pulled his clothes out of the white hospital bag. His suit was rumpled and practically ruined in his eyes. He knew he'd throw it away as soon as he got home. "I'll have my driver come and get me."

Stranger: "Mycroft." Her voice was gently firm as she ducked so he had to look at her. "I'm not leaving you."

You: "Stop being so nice to me. I don't have the energy to argue, Grace. I'm tired and I'm sore and I want to go home so that I can clean up my house before Sherlock returns Arthur." he finally stopped fiddling with his clothes as she pulled his face up to look at her. "You've gone above and beyond the call of duty. I'll be sure to give a glowing recommendation to the superintendent for you and Gwendolyn."

Stranger: That hurt more than anything. "This isn't about duty, Mycroft! This is what I want to do to. For you! I want to be here with you, to help you. It's not me being nice, it's caring about you. I'll help you clean the house, hell, I'll do it by myself, you should be resting, but I won't let you go home alone. I can't!" Her voice cracked on the last part. Sinking down to her knees, she stared up at him. "Please, Mycroft. All I want to do is help."

You: Mycroft was taken back by Grace's outburst. When the woman fell to her knees Mycroft stared down at her. Slowly he tugged her back up. "Your knees will not appreciate that tiled floor." he reminded her. He sighed before he leaned into her, wrapping her in an awkward hug. "You're not going to clean my house alone. We'll go home and rest for a few hours. Then we'll call Sherlock and ask that he keep Arthur until lunch to give us plenty of time." he pulled away. "You should realize how much you've helped already, Grace. After you and Cooper arrived the first time, I tried getting away from Charles again. I didn't make it to the doorstep in time to catch you, but I knew, after that, what needed to be done. It's because of you that I've had the courage to come here and be examined and that I'm going to press charges."

Stranger: Her heart soaring, Grace enfolded Mycroft into a gentle hug. "Thank you," she murmured. How odd that she was thanking him for letting her help him clean. Stroking his hair, she felt bereft when he pulled away. Nodding she swallowed. "If you want to press charges, the sooner you do, the better." She knew that wasn't what Myc wanted to hear. "Maybe we ask Sherlock to keep Arthur until dinner, or for another night. Take him on a day trip to the sea shore or something." She had a growing nightmare of Charles coming back to Myc and Arthur.

Stranger: *coming back to the house with Myc and Arthur still there.

You: Mycroft shook his head. "I want Arthur home with me where I can keep an eye on him. I don't like to be away from him longer than I have to." the Omega explained, allowing Grace to help him get dressed again. He blushed as they worked together to get his pants and trouser's on. "I feel like a child." he said. "You having to coddle me so with this stupid cast on. I owe you a great many favors for this." he gave her a smile as she finished the buttons on his shirt. They made their way out of the exam room and up to the desk so Mycroft could check out. "Are you telling me that I should go to the police station instead of my house?" he asked as they exited the hospital. "Will it take long or could it wait until we've both had a few hours rest?"

Stranger: "It can wait until you've rested a bit," Grace assured him as she waved down a cab. She blushed faintly as she said, "I might have asked Cooper to start the basic paperwork." A stupid hope at the time. "She'll be there in the morning to continue it," she assured him.

You: "Do you often take such liberties with all the helpless Omegas you wrangle away from abuse Alphas?" he asked the woman as she stuffed him into the cab and climbed in next to him. He gave the driver his address and settled back in the seat as the cab drove towards his house. Mycroft took his own liberties with Grace and nestled close to her, laying his head on her shoulder and closing her eyes as they drove back to his home. He needed to thank her properly, he thought as he began to drift off to sleep. Perhaps a promotion or a raise or a free holiday. He'd have to figure it out later when his brain was working properly. A short ride later and Mycroft was being roused by the DI. He yawned and hustled out of the cab, waiting for Grace. "There's plenty of guest rooms for you." he said as they made their way up the drive to the front door. "All impeccably kept by yours truly."

Stranger: Grace thought it was better if she didn't make any response to that, so she was glad when he settled in a seemed to drop off. She told herself it wasn't a /liberty/ to hold him to her side, not to rest her cheek on his head. It was comforting a friend. She could almost believe it too. Trotting to keep up with Mycroft as he got out of the cab, she shook her head. "You should take it easy," she said, rather than tell him she had no intention of sleeping. "Do you . . . want to sleep in one of the guest rooms," she suggested carefully.

You: Mycroft shook his head as he let them inside. "Charles and I don't share rooms." he explained. "My heats were always spent in his. As much as I hate to admit it, his scent always helped during them. It was better than my own room without an Alpha around." he moved through the entry way and upstairs. He stopped at the first room. "This one is close to my own room, should you need anything. Bathroom is across the hall for you. My room is the next door on the left." he told her. "If you get up before I do you're welcome to anything you find in the kitchen." He gave her a small smile. "Thank you again, Grace, for everything." he hesitated for a moment, nearly having to bite his tongue to keep from asking her to stay with him. "Goodnight, Grace."

Stranger: Grace would have found it hard to say no. "Of course, Mycroft. You'll know where to find me if you need anything." She waited until he'd gone into his room, and then she started to go around the house, checking that windows and doors were locked. It wasn't paranoia, she told herself, if it kept people safe. She knew Charles would get out until the next afternoon at the earliest, and once Mycroft had charges brought against him . . . if he made bail though, they might have a problem. He could try to claim a right to stay in the home. She wondered who it was deeded to. They'd figure something out, though.

You: Mycroft cleaned himself up as best he could before he changed (with great struggle) into his pajamas. He crawled into bed, sighing with relief, knowing he was finally safe again. He thought he would have had no trouble falling asleep, but to his surprise he couldn't quiet his mind. He supposed part of him was worried Charles would come bounding through the door at any moment. He heard Grace moving around the house and Mycroft knew she was checking to make sure they were secured before going to sleep. When it was finally quiet, Mycroft got out of bed and padded down the hall to the guest room. He knocked. "Grace?" he called softly through the door.

Stranger: Grace had sat on the edge of the bed, checking some things on her phone. She jumped at the knock, hurrying to the door. "Mycroft?" she opened it. "Are you okay? Is everything all right?"

You: "I'm fine." he said, trying to reassure the Alpha. "I just couldn't seem to fall asleep...." he trailed off, hoping she would understand what he needed. He thought it completely unfair to continue to take things from her, to take her kindness for granted. "So I came to check on you. I heard you walking around. I know we're both had a terribly long night." he said, unsure of how to continue. Embarrassed he quickly changed the subject. "I'm sorry. I really should go back to my own room. Forget I've interrupted your evening again."

Stranger: She hadn't a clue what he needed. Taking his hands, she shook her head, "No, you haven't interrupted anything. And you came here for a reason, Mycroft. What do you need?" Unthinking, she stroked the back of his hands with her thumbs.

You: Mycroft squeezed Grace's hands as she reached out to him. He opened his mouth to explain it to her but couldn't find the right words. So instead he turned, still holding her hand, and led her to his room. He let go as they stepped inside and moved over to his 'side' of the bed. He got in under the covers and moved them for her, patting the bed. He hoped he hadn't offended her by this final ask. He fully expected Grace to refuse and return to her own room.

Stranger: Grace's mouth went dry as she froze in the doorway of the room. She strangled a noise in the back of her throat as her hands curled at her side. She took a step forward and then paused. "Are you sure, Mycroft? I promise, I won't do anything," she added in a rush. "Nothing, just, just sleep here with you. Make sure you're okay."

You: Mycroft sighed. "If I was worried about anything you would do, Grace, I wouldn't have allowed you to stay with me at the hospital or bring me home." he reminded her. He didn't understand why she was so uncomfortable. He readjusted the blankets. "It's not a requirement. You're welcome to say no, Grace. I won't be offended. "

Stranger: Say no! As if she would ever say no. Shaking her head, she crept closer, remembering to stop and slip off her shoes. She'd sleep in her blouse and slacks, but she stopped and draped her jacket over a chair. Then she carefully crept to the edge of the bed, letting out a slow exhale, willing her body to behave as she slipped under the offered blankets. "Hi," she murmured shyly.

You: Mycroft immediately nestled close to her, craving the affection and attention she'd given him earlier. "Hi." he greeted her. "Are you alright with this?" he asked, noticing she seemed to be reminding herself to remain professional as she settled into his bed. "It's not like you could hurt me, Grace. I don't believe you have it in you to do such a thing, especially not to an already broken Omega."

Stranger: "You're not broken," she breathed out, shaking her head. "I don't... I don't want to cross a line with you. Do anything you'd regret." That would kill her, to have him look at her and regret something. "I don't want to upset you." Or scare him.

You: "Cross a line?" he questioned. "What could you possibly do to upset me?" Mycroft didn't understand. "You've seen me break down into hysterics, you've seen me naked, you've watched as I was examined and prodded. You've learned more about my medical well-being than most people know. You've done nothing but help me, even after I pushed against you and threatened you. I owe you a great thank you, Grace.'

Stranger: "You don't owe me anything," she said. Grace could think of a thousand lines she could cross right now. Starting with brushing her fingers against his cheek and leaning in to kiss him. Her hands twisted in the fabric of her slacks to keep herself from doing exactly that.

You: "You're far too stubborn." Mycroft said as he scrunched up his nose. "I will figure out how to thank you and you'll not argue with me." he felt her twisting her hands into her trousers, worrying over upsetting him. "Neither of us are going to get any sleep with you fussing like that. Tell me what's wrong."

Stranger: "I'm not fussing." Worrying and fussing were very different. "And nothing's wrong. I just... I'mtryingtofocusonnotkissingyourightnow."

You: "Oh for god sake." Mycroft said, leaning up and kissing Grace on the lips. "There." he said, settling back onto her shoulder. "It's just a kiss, Grace. You kissed me in the exam room earlier, I don't see what the big deal is now. It's not as if you're proposing marriage to me."

Stranger: She flushed deep red. "It's different," she protested in a high pitched squeak. That hadn't been on the lips. That could have been passed as friendly. This, laying in bed next to him, kissing him properly, was definitely not friendly. Nor was having him nestled against her. This wasn't how it was supposed to happen. She felt like she was taking advantage. Of his fragile, emotional state. Being a predatory Alpha.

You: "It's not. You're comforting me in my time of need. It's what you begged me to let you do, it's what I want you to do." he told her. He could tell she didn't enjoy the kiss or being coaxed into bed. He could tell she was worried about controlling herself, though Mycroft didn't understand why it would be a problem. "Perhaps you should go back to the guest room. You'll never get any rest if you're anxiously twisting the blankets and your trousers." Mycroft moved away from her, turning on his side, wincing at the pain in his ribs. "I'm sorry to have bothered you."

Stranger: In her stupid, stupid brain, it smack of rejection and it made her whimper. Shifting close to his back, she lay a arm gingerly over his side, resting her hand against his sternum. "You're not bothering me," she whispered. "I just . . . please don't feel like you owe me anything. For any of this. Okay?"

You: "If you're insinuating that I've asked you into my bed with the express purpose have giving myself to you as a thank you, I'll be extremely offended, Grace." He resisted the urge to move back towards her to cuddle with her. "I've never willingly brought an Alpha into my bed. I prefer sleeping alone, being alone. It's always been better that way."

Stranger: "That's not what I meant!" she squeaked again, feeling like she'd insulted him by trying to avoid insulting him. Letting out a deep breath, she went for honesty. "I'm not expecting anything from this. After this. I think I've made it pretty clear how I feel about you, Mycroft, but you need to know that I'm not mistaking this as anything more than being here for you as a friend." And her stomach twisted in knots, having gotten that off her chest. So what if she wanted to pull him against her and bury her face in his hair? It was all contained in this night. Ultimately it didn't mean anything more than comfort.

You: "Then you won't deny me your comforting arms or your scent or the fact that you carry a gun to help me sleep comfortably for a few hours." he said, finally nestling back against her. Grace was warm and inviting and reassuring. Her scent calmed him and relaxed him and the weight of her arm around him grounded him. "I know what this is." he whispered. "I'm not asking it to be anymore that this, Grace."

Stranger: Stupid, stupid, stupid. Her head wanted one thing and her heart another, and hearing him say those words broke her heart a little. "Okay," she murmured, pressing her lips to his hair. "You should sleep."

You: He hummed. "So should you..." he began, closing his eyes. He focused on her breathing and her arm tightening around him and her lips pressed against the back of his head. It was so sweet and gentle and reassuring. It didn't take him long before he finally fell asleep with Grace holding him protectively. By the time he woke up again, it was nearly lunch time, his stomach grumbling in protest. He felt worse when he woke up than he had when he went to bed, everything sore and tight and protesting the mere thought that he'd need to get out of bed.

Stranger: "Look who's finally awake," Grace murmured. She'd barely moved all night, only napping occasionally. After the sun had risen, she still hadn't moved, refusing to deprive Mycroft of that comfort he'd wanted to much. Instead she'd worked on her phone, coordinating some different things. Sherlock was keeping Arthur until dinner, Cooper would have lunch for them at the station, and she'd gotten in contact with Mycroft's assistant to get the flat cleaned up. "How are you feeling?"

You: Mycroft groaned. "I've certainly felt better." he said, voice rough from the events of the last night. "You're still here." he turned in her arms, looking over to the detective. "I thought you may leave after I fell asleep with how uncomfortable you were after I kissed you and told you I wanted to cuddle." He winced, stretching his arm with the cast. "I bet I look like hell. I'll need to clean up before Arthur arrives." he turned, looking for his phone. "Has Sherlock called?"

Stranger: "You could do with a shower," was all she said. "I've been texting him. It's nearly lunchtime. I wanted to let you sleep. He and I agreed that he'll keep Arthur for the afternoon and bring him home for dinner. That way we can go to the station without you worrying about him. If," the nerves jumped into her throat again, "you still want to press charges."

You: Mycroft frowned at the woman. "You've clearly been busy planning my day, haven't you?" he sighed. "Thank you." Mycroft sat up with some effort. "Yes, I want to press charges and yes, I promise to eat the lunch you've requested." Mycroft stood up and turned to the woman. "Are you sure you don't want to go home and change? You don't have to baby sit me the entire day, you know? I won't change my mind once you've gone."

Stranger: She shook her head. "That's not why I'm here. I have a spare set of clothing at the station. I'll shower and change there." Sitting up, she swallowed down nerves. "Do you need anything? I'm sorry I planned your day for you."

You: Mycroft moved around to his closet, picking out a fresh suit for his day. When he returned he moved to stand in front of Grace, laying his clothes out on the bed. He wiggle his way to stand between her legs. "You're far too nervous about this." he said. "I know that things have been turned upside down, Grace, but I'm not afraid of you or of what could happen with us. Please stop working yourself up over it, yes?" he leaned down and pressed a kiss to the DI's forehead before he gathered his clothes and moved to the bathroom. "No more peeking..." he teased, stopping in the doorway of his bathroom. "You've got far too many free views in the past twenty four hours."

Stranger: Stunned, she was left blushing from the kiss and the teasing even as she heard the shower start. Had he just flirted with her? Standing up, she smoothed the wrinkles out of her clothes as best she could before turning and making the bed neatly. That done, she went down stairs and started to clean up a bit, remembering to text Mycroft's assistant (Annie?) a reminder to clean the bins outs when she came to neaten up. When she heard the shower turn off, she headed back upstairs. Knocking in the door, she said, "No more peeking. But are you almost ready to go?"

You: Mycroft emerged, looking battered but refreshed, in a cloud of steam. "Yes, Alpha." he smirked. He was dressed in his trousers, button up and waist coat. He kept his sleeves rolled up to fit over the cast. Mycroft grabbed his phone from the bedside table and moved with Grace downstairs, making sure he had his keys and wallet as well. They left his home and were greeted by Tom, his driver. Anthea must already have been at work. He explained where they were going to the man and slid into the back seat. He took out his phone and sent a message off to Sherlock to check on Arthur and then a message off to Anthea explaining what had happened. The messages in response were quite colorful, both making Mycroft chuckle at his phone.

Stranger: He was definitely flirting, and he definitely knew what it was doing to her, unless he was absolutely blind to how red she'd turned when he'd called her Alpha. She felt shabby next to him and knew her change of clothes wouldn't help the matter. Quiet in the back of the car, she jumped when Mycroft chuckled. "Arthur okay?"

You: Mycroft nodded and turned the phone to Grace. Sherlock sent a photo of Arthur dressed in a small lab coat, goggles and gloves. "They are currently experimenting. I was chuckling at the comments that Anthea and Sherlock sent regarding the events of last night." he explained. "Anthea's always hated Charles, even before I had a reason to." Mycroft shrugged. "Apparently it's Alpha instinct."

Stranger: Her esteem for Anthea, already high, rose higher. "He's a really cute kid, Myc." Grace smiled at him. "And if he's anything like you, brilliant, too."

You: "He is quite brilliant, yes, and sweet. I have a feeling he's going to be an Omega, but I hope I'm wrong. I don't want him subjected to the same hardships I have." Mycroft glanced up to Grace as the car rounded the corner. "What happens now?" he asked her. "With the process. Once I make my statement to you and Cooper. How long will it take for Charles to serve time and have his parental rights revoked?"

Stranger: "Once you formally press charges, he'll be arrested and then arraigned. Could take a long time for his case to be heard. The system is a bit backed up." And some files were extra slow to get transfered where they needed to go. "You can start the process of declaring him an unfit parent right away. You'll want to get a lawyer to help you with that. I don't know a ton about that part." She reached over and laid her hand over him. "There might be a trial for Charles," she warned, "If he doesn't take some kind of deal that gives him a reduced sentence. We can ask the prosecutor to make sure he stays away from you as part of any deal that is offered to him."

You: Mycroft nodded. "I'll have Anthea call my lawyer and see what favors I am owed. I'm sure I have some information a judge or two would prefer not made public." Mycroft looked down at Grace's hand over his own, smiling. She was far too good to him. "I'm sure a restraining order will go hand in hand with the assault charges. He's never harmed Arthur, quite the opposite, in fact, but I can not believe any normal human being would allow him to continue to see his own son after the amount of violence he inflicted on me."

Stranger: Nodding in agreement, Grace felt better knowing Mycroft was willing to pull strings here to make his case go well. In that way it was far from a normal case. Why had she ever worried at all? He practically ran the country, he could probably make Charles disappear with no one the wiser, now that he felt like he could do it. Thumb rubbing his hand, she smiled at him. "I'm glad you're feeling better," she murmured, chest squeezing painfully.

You: "I feel absolutely terrible." he said as the car came to a stop. "I feel like crawling back into bed and not getting out for a few days." he looked out of the window up to the station, lacing his fingers with Grace's. He was nervous to begin the process but he knew he was doing the right thing. He'd file charges, fight for full custody and figure out a way to have another pup for Arthur. He's figure out a way to properly thank Grace and maybe, just maybe, begin a real relationship with the Alpha.

Stranger: Squeezing his hand, she blanched a bit. "I'm sorry," wishing she could lean over and nuzzle against him. "Do you want me to stay with you for the whole thing?" She wasn't sure they'd let her. Plus there was the keen awareness that she was walking into her work wearing yesterday's clothes, having apparently spent the night with a victim. A victim from not her case, but still. Police talked. She'd stay if she could, though.

You: "It's alright." He said, looking at her. "You don't think it's a good idea." he told her. "I can tell from the look on your face. I don't want to cause problems for you, especially not after everything you've done for me." he considered his options, taking a deep breath. "Why don't you let my driver take you home. You can rest, eat and shower and be back at my house by the time Arthur arrives with Sherlock. We'll have dinner together."

Stranger: "I told you, I can shower and change here. Be close by for you." That was really it. She still wanted to be close to him. "Besides, I've got to check in on some stuff." Her abrupt request for time off had been approved (with more than a little cheek and comments of 'finally, a day in the office without you around'), but she didn't feel right leaving things as abruptly as she had.

You: "I know what you've told me." he said. "I'm not a complete idiot, Grace, I just don't want to put your career in jeopardy for forcing you to stay at my home or stay with me at the hospital..." He gave her hand another squeeze before he got out of the car and waited for her to join him. With another glance to her, Mycroft finally felt courageous enough to march into the station. He was nervous, yes, numb as his statement was taken and he gave names of his regular doctors at the emergency department, his general practitioner and his assistant.

Stranger: "You didn't force me to do anything," she assured him before he marched off. Grace rushed through a shower, the water turned up as hot as it could go. She allowed herself fifteen minutes after she scrubbed herself, forehead resting against the tiles, her hand between her legs. Washing away the evidence and making sure the thoughts that had brought her to her peak were firmly locked away again, she turned off the shower and dried herself off. Her change of clothing was thankfully minimally rumpled, and she felt better when she popped into her office with a fresh cup of coffee to take care of a few things. That turned into a few more things. Until Mycroft had to be directed to her office when he was done.

You: "For someone who's taken the day off you certainly do work quite a lot." Mycroft said quietly from the doorway of Grace's office. He watched her for a few moments, eyes narrowing as he watched her. She looked refreshed, relaxed and a bit pinker. "They're finished with me for the day." he told her. "I'm going home now, but I do still wish for you to join us for dinner, at the very least."

Stranger: Frowning, Grace glanced at the clock and then swore. "I didn't realize it had gotten so late." Standing up, she stretched, giving him a sheepish smile. "I'd love to join you for dinner. And meet Arthur." Looking down at her clothes, she grimaced. "But maybe I should head home too and change into something less . . . rumpled."

You: Mycroft shook his head. "You look fine." he said, "Arthur doesn't care about your clothes and neither do I. I don't plan to remain in this suit for much longer any way. Far too restricting." He gave her a smile. "Cooper seemed even more intent than you were last night, to toss Charles in a cell and throw away the key." he told her as they left the station and slid back into Mycroft's waiting car. "I'm glad she's taken my case."

You: (brb!)

Stranger: Instantly her mind jumped to helping Mycroft get out of his suit, and she had to pinch herself. "Cooper takes this stuff seriously. And she probably had to spend time with him last night. I'm sure he did little to endear her to him." Cautiously, she slid her hand across the center seat towards Mycroft.

You: (Back! Sorry that took so long) Mycroft took Grace's hand, enjoying the comfort it brought him. "Lucky for me he's a brute who believes he can charm anyone into his good graces." he chuckled. "You know I like this, yes?" he said after a few silent moments between them. "I can't tell you the last time I've felt the touch of an Alpha that was so tender and positive."

Stranger: "I'm glad." Even as it made her wonder if any Alpha that was halfway decent would mean the same thing to Mycroft, after as ass like Charles. She pushed that thought away and instead focused on how nice it was to hold Mycroft's hand. "It's what you deserve."

You: "I'll remind you of that when you're yelling at me about Sherlock or about trying being one of my little minions." he hummed, amused. He used his free hand to carefully scroll through a few emails, not able to do much else with the cast on his arm. Anthea had cleared his schedule for a week long holiday and then another week of working from home. He was grateful for her dedication to his well-being. When they finally arrived back to Mycroft's house, he found Sherlock and Arthur waiting for them. "Mummy." the little boy exclaimed as he ran full speed towards Mycroft's legs. Mycroft immediately scooped the little boy into his arms, ignoring the screams of pain from his body. "Hello, darling. I've missed you." he kissed the boy's cheek. "Were you good for Uncle Sherlock?" he asked, looking over to his brother who stood scanning the Omega's injuries. Sherlock gave a short nod. "The perfect lab assistant." Sherlock said.

Stranger: Grace hung back, watching the painfully domestic scene. Some part of her was still angry at Sherlock, no matter what Mycroft said. How could he have born knowing what his brother went through all the time?

You: "Well, I am glad to hear it." Mycroft said, shifting the boy to his side. He turned back to Grace, calling her over to him. He knew she was angry with his brother, but he hoped she would forgive him soon. "Arthur I want you to meet a very good friend of mine." Mycroft said. "Arthur, this is Detective Inspector Lestrade." Arthur looked at the woman. "You're the one that works with Uncle Sherlock." the little boy said. "The one that took care of mummy last night at the hospital." Mycroft glanced to Sherlock. "You didn't need to worry him." Sherlock held up his hands. "He overheard the phone call and read my texts. I wasn't going to lie to him, brother mine, though a few more..precarious details were omitted." he glanced to Lestrade. "Should I show myself out before your new body guard does it for me?" the youngest Holmes brother asked. "Grace.." Mycroft warned.

Stranger: "It's nice to meet you Arthur. Yes, I work with your Uncle Sherlock and I helped your mummy last night. He didn't really need my help, but I was worried about him, you see, and he was nice enough to let me stick around and bother him." She grinned at the little boy, already smitten. The smile was more strained as she turned to Sherlock. "It's your brother's home. He can decided if your welcome or not. And clearly you're welcomed." It was as civil as she could manage right now. "Thank you for your cooperation; I know we're running late."

You: Mycroft knew he'd have to talk to Grace again about Sherlock, but now wasn't the time. Sherlock shook his head. "It wasn't an imposition, Mycroft knows I enjoy my time with Arthur." The little boy nodded. "I'm his favorite." Arthur said proudly. "I do have to go, however, I'm meeting John for dinner. Until next time, Arthur." Sherlock moved to kiss the boy on the check. "You have my full support, brother mine." he gave a quick squeeze to Mycroft's arm as he moved around the pair. "Lestrade." he said, before leaving the house. Mycroft looked back to Grace. "Thank you for not yelling at him." he said as the three of them moved to the kitchen, Arthur complaining he was hungry. He set the boy down so he could go pick out something for them to make for dinner.

Stranger: It was a start, Sherlock's promise, and Grace gave a little approving nod. Meeting Mycroft's eyes, she sighed. "I know it's not as easy as I wish it was," she relented. "Do you need help? Let me cook, you should still be careful of that arm."

You: Arthur chimed in from his spot at the pantry. "Grace is right, mummy. Sit down, we'll cook for you." "That's Inspector Lestrade to you, young man." Mycroft gently reminded his son. "And I'm not so sure she ready to cook with you, hm?" Arthur pretended to be hurt. "She adores me, Mummy. Just look at her." Mycroft groaned. "I should have warned you, Grace, Arthur inherited every bit of the Holmesian sass." Arthur pulled out a box of noddles and carefully held a glass of sauce to his tiny chest. " 'ghetti, Mummy. It'll make you feel better."

Stranger: "Don't listen to him, it's Grace to you," she told him with a grin. Ruffling his hair, she laughed. "And ever bit of the charm that renders them irresistible to Lestrades," she said with a wink. "Excellent choice, Arthur. What else do we need for Spaghetti?"

You: "You've done perfectly well resisting us, I wouldn't doubt for a moment that you couldn't." Mycroft teased, moving to sit down at the table. "You've got to get the pot." Arthur said, pointing to the rack he couldn't reach. "And put the water onto boil. I'm not allowed to do that. I burned myself once." Mycroft hummed. "And why did you burn yourself?" he asked. "Because I didn't listen when you told me the stove was hot and I shouldn't touch it." Mycroft nodded. Arthur took the things to Grace to put on the counter before he moved to grab his step stool. He set it up right beside the stove so that he could help her.

Stranger: Grace could already tell her cheeks were going to be sore long before dinner was over, she was grinning so broadly. Fetching the pot, she filled it with water and set it on the stove to start heating. "All right. Do you know how much pasta we need for three people."

You: "We always cook the whole box." Arthur said. "That way we have leftovers for tomorrow." Mycroft could practically here the 'duh' coming. "Arthur, Grace isn't used to cooking for us, don't be rude." he quickly interrupted. "Sorry." the little boy said, handing her the jar of sauce to begin heating up. "Garlic bread too." he said after a moment. "Don't forget the bread." Mycroft watched the pair carefully, thankful that Arthur seemed comfortable with Grace. Mycroft had a feeling they'd be spending a great deal of time together in the coming months.

You: (Hey! So sorry but I have to head to bed. Thank you SO much for an absolutely fantastic evening. You are one of the best Greg's/Grace's I've had in ages and I am incredibly thankful. I'll keep the log, just in case we ever run into each other! Have a wonderful day/night, love!!)

You have disconnected.

Stranger: Is anyone else staying? -MH

You: Not tonight. It's just me and my parents.-A

Stranger: Do you have a spare room? -MH

You: Rather stupid question, isn't it?-A We have two extra rooms, Holmes.-A

Stranger: You could have let them sleep on the sofa or the floor. -MH

You: My parents wouldn't allow anyone to sleep on the floor.-A

Stranger: Alright. -MH Address? -MH

You: [Location attached] How long?-A

Stranger: I believe an hour or so. -MH Walking is involved. -MH

You: Fine.-A

Stranger: [An hour later.] More than an hour. -MH

You: You realize it's after midnight, yes?-A

Stranger: Yes. I'm well aware. -MH

You: Take a cab.-A

Stranger: [Delay] I suppose it was naive to think you wouldn't work it out. -MH

You: I'm far more intelligent than you give me credit for.-A

Stranger: I can't get a cab. -MH

You: Why not?-A

Stranger: I don't have money. -MH

You: I'll pay. Hurry up.-A

Stranger: I can't let you pay. -MH

You: You can. Don't be too prideful.-A

Stranger: I'm not being prideful. -MH

You: Then get in a cab.-A

Stranger: You're letting me stay in your house for a night. -MH I can walk. -MH

You: You're infuriatingly stubborn.-A

Stranger: Yes, but at the very least I've relented enough to try and get shelter.- MH

You: Only because of the weather, yes?-A

Stranger: Yes. -MH It's not usually so bad. -MH

You: How long have you been out this time?-A

Stranger: Since seven o'clock. -MH

You: You're going to get sick.-A

Stranger: It's a possibility. -MH

You: I'll see if we have some extra clothes that'll fit you.-A

Stranger: I doubt you will. -MH

You: You underestimate my parents.-A

Stranger: How? -MH

You: They've been doing this a long time. They've got clothes, toiletries, bags of food. Lists of CPS case workers, shelters, food banks.-A

Stranger: [Delay] That's very kind of them them. -MH They can't get in touch with the CPS. No case workers. No social workers. No police or teachers. -MH

You: Why not?-A

Stranger: Do not get in touch with them. -MH

You: Mycroft, there's a reason you're on the streets.-A

You: There are people who can help you.-A

Stranger: I don't want or need help. -MH I do understand why other people would want them to be involved. But under no circumstances are they to be involved this time. -MH

You: Stubborn.-A

Stranger: I never denied it. -MH If they get involved then Sherlock and I will undoubtedly be removed. -MH That can't happen. -MH

You: Perhaps that's exactly what needs to happen.-A

Stranger: No. -MH Sherlock gets bullied as I do. If he is removed and put into foster care he will be bullied by any other children and misunderstood by his carers. He is not troubled, he's just different. -MH I can look after him, he can come home and he won't be bullied. He needs that. -MH I can't have him separated from me. -MH

You: They won't separate you.-A

Stranger: Yes. They will. -MH

You: So you allow yourselves to live in an abusive, unloving environment?-A

Stranger: Myself. Yes. -MH They don't hurt Sherlock, I believe they do like him and I certainly do my best to make up for them. -MH

You: Your parents are terrible people, Mycroft. They may not hurt him now but they could start.-A

You: Your abuse could worsen.-A

Stranger: I have no doubt mine will. But I have a job. Once I've finished school I'll take custody of Sherlock myself. -MH

You: People can help you do that sooner.-A

Stranger: No. -MH

You: Always so determined to do everything alone.-A There are still people left you can depend on.-A

Stranger: Who? -MH The care system? I know the statistics, I know what that would do to someone like Sherlock. -MH

Stranger: I can take care of this alone and if it means I'm going to suffer a little longer then I will willingly do it. -MH

You: You're old enough to emancipate yourself from your parents and take custody of Sherlock.-A There's aid available for these situations.-A

Stranger: Yes I know. I do have plans in motion, but it's not that easy. -MH

You: I never said it was.-A

Stranger: Anthea. Do not get authorities involved. -MH Please. -MH

You: [Delayed] Fine.-A

Stranger: Thank you. -MH

Stranger: brb))

Stranger: ((Back))

You: Don't mention it. Just remember that my parents will have to report the abuse. It's the law, Mycroft.-A

Stranger: [Delay] Then I appreciate the help, but I'll sleep elsewhere. -MH

You: Stop it. I've been waiting for you for ages. Bring yourself over here.-A

Stranger: Anthea. It can't be reported. -MH

You: Stop it. Stop being so stubborn and let us help you /and/ Sherlock.-A

Stranger: It will not help! -MH Sherlock and I are nothing like other children. It could be catastrophic. I know what's best for him because I am the only person that knows what it's like in his head. -MH

You: I'm well aware of how different you are.-A

Stranger: Wonderful. -MH

You: Which is why I'm going to ask my parents to foster you and Sherlock until you finish school.-A

Stranger: [Delay] What?

Stranger: *-MH

You: You'll have to share a room with him but I don't think it'll be a problem. They've done it before.-A

Stranger: [Delay] Why would they do that? -MH

You: To help you.-A

Stranger: They don't even know me. -MH

You: But I know enough about you.-A

Stranger: I didn't think you liked me. -MH

Stranger: Time had slipped by him as he lost himself in his mind, going over every possibility, every chance that he might make it out of this, knowing that he had a high chance of not surviving the C.A.R.I. It wasn't that they just forced an Alpha on Omegas. Deaths in there were very high because the Alpha's willing to do such, were feral, large and rather dominate ones, that didn't care about the Omega in question, and usually were not safe or kind at all, and rather brutal. Going off suppressors was already going to be a horrible nightmare, his body having been on a double dose since he presented at 15, and now they would go cold turkey. With everything in his mind, Mycroft had completely forgot that Gregory was coming for their meeting, not remembering until the man was standing in his office, looking to him with concern. He still felt numb, and though with most others he would have stowed this aside, shut it down till later, Gregory was someone that he trusted enough not to have to hide, well... at least not as much as he typically did. Reaching down, he picked up the notice and handed it over to the man, still not able to find his voice after all of this.

You: Greg moved to stand in front of Mycroft's desk as the man passed over the paper he'd been reading. There were very few times Greg ever saw the man speechless, in fact he could count them on one hand: Sherlock's last overdose before John, Sherlock's suicide (no matter the reality of it) and now this. Greg looked down and scanned the paper. It was a notice sent out explaining the new ban on suppressants for Omegas over the age of 21. Greg didn't like it, no, but he didn't understand why it would cause Mycroft's loss for words. "It's ridiculous that these laws still pass in today's society." he said, reading it again. "You'd think everyone would be far more open to the idea that we're all equal." he looked up at Mycroft who was still waging some internal war with himself. Greg furrowed his brow. "Is this what you're upset about?" he asked the man. "It's shit, Mycroft, but it won't affect you. You don't have an Omega and you certainly won't have to worry about them running around the office too close to their heats. We'll see another stupid law banning the ones that do work to take time off when they..." he trailed off as his brain caught up to the situation. But it couldn't be. Mycroft couldn't be an Omega. There was no way. "What? What's wrong?"

Stranger: Of course Gregory would be upset at the law, but he could tell that it really wasn't important to him, because even though the man was sweet and cared and would never hurt a fly, the law didn't affect him. He was an Alpha, a 'higher being' in the eyes of the law, the law that he fought and protected each day, even if there were parts of it like this he disagreed with. Mycroft had never told anyone of his condition, the only ones who knew where Sherlock, his mother and his father, no one else. "Gregory, this isn't just banning suppressants. This is a death sentence to many Omegas. Without suppressors, those who have somehow stayed under the radar after their 21st birthday, with no bond to speak of or pups, they will be brought to C.A.R.I and after that... it is unclear what will happen, but those places are pure filth and evil." Standing, he moved around his desk, needing to not look at the other for the moment, worried that those eyes would be able to read him like a book, to read his secret and why this upset him more than it really should. Of course, Gregory just thought him a Beta, it was what he had everyone convinced of, and though everything in him wanted to believe that if the other really did know about him, he would never turn him in, it was just not something he was willing to risk, to scared to think that maybe his only friend would turn on him.

You: "I know..." Greg sighed, setting the notice down on Mycroft's desk. "Maybe they'll work on some sort of extension that allows those Omegas to find a suitable partner without fear of automatically being rounded up and tossed into C.A.R.I. It also means that we'll need better regulations for those places. Clean them up, require them to offer suitable healthcare for the Omegas, train the Alphas properly and not just let anyone have a go in there. You know I don't agree with these things, Mycroft, but there's not much I can do to stop them. It might not even work. If enough people fight against the law it could be retracted. There's always change, maybe this is that first spark that sets a rewrite for all the archaic laws still on the books." Greg watched as Mycroft avoided him, turning his back to the Alpha. Mycroft was far more emotionally invested than he ever let on and it was clear to Greg this was something weighing heavily on his mind.

Stranger: "That will take far too much time, rewriting laws, getting extensions, and even if they do find a partner, the law still clearly states that Omegas must have at least one pup by time they turn 21. I know Omega births are declining and I know why that is a problem, but this is ridiculous. They are killing us faster than we can bear children," Mycroft groaned, throwing his hands up in frustration before bringing them back down to rub his face. Even if he could somehow magically find an Alpha that he could tolerate and create a bond, those in his work would still know of his condition, and they would know he didn't have a child. Though they might not care normally, the world of politicians was fierce and violently competitive, and if they could find a way to bring him down from the position he held now, there were plenty who were willing to do it, wanting his spot. Yes, he planned to fight this law with everything he had, but the last time he did, just to get the age changed, it took him over six years. He had only a few weeks, a month at most before he was out of suppressors and his scent came back, and then it would be too late for him. There was not enough time, and he feared this was it, he would have to leave, to flee.

You: Greg stared at the back of Mycroft's head as the man began to let go of what he was holding in and that was when it happened. "Us?" Greg repeated. Greg's questioned were answered with that one little word. Mycroft Holmes was an Omega masquerading as a Beta, fighting to change laws from the inside out. "Mycroft..." he said quietly, though he made no move towards the man, afraid of upsetting him more. "There'll have to be an age restriction on pups, Mycroft, especially for people in your position. It's not healthy for the Omega or the litter, the older the mum is. Some concessions will have to be made, even the idiots who put these laws into place know that." he continued. "How long have you got left?" he asked the man.

Stranger: It didn't dawn on him that he had slipped up until Gregory was rather silent, and then uttered that one word, parroting it back to him. No... He couldn't have, how did he let that go? Heart pounding in his chest and his breathing quickening, he started to feel trapped, as if the C.A.R.I were going to come down on him now, that they would have heard him somehow and were on their way. The rest of what Gregory had said was lost on him, the world sounding like he was under water. There was a chance though, it was a minor slip, wasn't it? He could easily write it off. "My mistake, no, I-I meant to say them. I am just rather invested in this cause, have been fighting it for a year, it's easy to slip..." It was a weak attempt, and though he knew Gregory was smarter than that, he was hoping to god that at least this chance would be given to him, that he could still salvage this. Mycroft planned to use every last bit of pull and connections he had to make sure that when his suppressors ran out, he was somewhere safe, somewhere that the government would never find him, that they couldn't take him away.

You: Greg shook his head at Mycroft's back. "No." he said simply. "You don't make mistakes like that. I know you better than you think I do, Mycroft. And I know that I'm not nearly as smart or observant as you and Sherlock but I'm not a complete idiot. I know you well enough to know when you're hiding something and I know when you're lying because you never look me in the eye." he paused for a few beats before he continued. "I don't care, just so we're clear, what your biology is. I don't care what people think that means and what assumptions some domineering Alpha thinks about Omegas. What I care about is how this is going to affect you and what it means for the thousands of Omegas who don't have your connections and your money. I don't want this to force you into hiding or into the C.A.R.I.. I want to help, Mycroft."

Stranger: Mycroft could feel himself starting to shake, the fear closing off his throat as he knew that this couldn't end well, that any way out, he was still going to be trapped. This was truly a sight to be seen, the great Mycroft Holmes, the 'Ice Man,' the British Government as it were, terrified and needing to flee for his life. Unfortunately those titles meant nothing to the horrible people who passed the law, who ran the C.A.R.I. "I'm not certain you can. I only have a few weeks of suppressors left... and even then, if I can manage to stretch them out a month, everyone here will know, and they will see I'm unbonded and without pups. It will be too late." Even if he did somehow manage to survive the rape and horrors of being with an Alpha at C.A.R.I, the pregnancy alone could kill him at his age, but that didn't matter to the monsters who enforced these laws. He spoke soft, his voice barely over a whisper as he tried to keep whatever composure he had left, still refusing to look at the other, not wanting to lose the last shred of dignity he was holding onto.

You: Greg watched as Mycroft fell apart on the other side of his desk and there wasn't much that Greg could do to fix it. But that didn't mean that Greg wasn't going to try. The DI moved around the desk and reached out for Mycroft. "I know this isn't easy." he said quietly. "But you've got to take some deep breaths, Mycroft, I don't want you passing out on me." Greg turned the man with some effort, so that he could see Mycroft's face. "Hey, now, we'll figure it out. We're friends, yeah? We'll find you someone you like, someone who'll be a good Alpha for you. And if we go through all of London and you aren't satisfied you can have me. I don't care what it takes, Mycroft, but I will not allow you to be carted off to C.A.R.I. I won't stand for it. You're too important to me and Sherlock and the whole bloody country."

Stranger: Nearly failing at keeping it together when he felt the man's hand on his shoulder, he half fought not to turn, not sure he could look into those brown eyes and hold the last of his walls in place, but that didn't matter, Gregory was determined and now he was face to face with the other. "Alpha or not, they will still take me, Gregory. I don't have a pup. You may see the reason behind not impregnating an older Omega, but those... /creatures/ do not. I went this long in life because I did not want an Alpha, I want to be on my own, to provide for myself, and not have someone looming over me. I have no desire for pups either. Even if I did wish to find someone, what Alpha would want an Omega like that?" He questioned, passing over the fact that Gregory said he could have him. He knew the man was just saying that because he was his friend, not because he really wished to bond with him.

You: "I know that's not anything you want, Mycroft." Greg started. "But we've got to figure out a way to keep you safe, yes? I'm serious about bonding with you, if it'll keep you out of C.A.R.I. You know what kind of a man I am, what kind of Alpha. You've combed through my background, worked with me for years, you know that I'd never force you to do anything you didn't want to but this might be your only option, so you should at least consider it." he nearly pleaded with the Omega. "You can keep your house, you can work as much as you'd like, we don't have to pretend to be some perfect picture of domesticity. I mean hell, do you even know if you /can/ have pups? What happens if you're unable? There has to be /something/."

Stranger: "I can't do that to you," Forcing Gregory to be his escape was not right, he couldn't ask that of anyone, especially someone like him who deserved so much more. Letting out a sigh, he moved to take a seat once more, fearing he was shaking too much that he might collapse. It was normal that he wouldn't eat all day, except a few little things here and there, and it typically didn't pose a problem, but now with the stress, it was taking its toll. "I don't know if I can, I have never tried. I have been on suppressors since I was fifteen. Even if I could though, I refuse. Can't an Omega state they do not want pups and not be seen as completely mental for just uttering the statement!" Something else dawned on him as well, that his first heat without suppressors was going to be awful, and dangerous at his age. Omegas weren't biologically meant to go this long without bonding, or to have stayed on suppressors this long. Going off of them now cold turkey might just get to him before the C.A.R.I could. Could this situation get any worse?

You: "You can because I'm offering, Mycroft." Greg explained as he helped Mycroft sit down. Greg moved around the large desk and took a seat in his normal chair. "There's absolutely no judgement from me for you not wanting to have pups, Mycroft, you know that. I don't understand why it can't be /your/ decision or any Omegas choice what they want to do with their own lives." Greg sighed and raked a hand through his hair as he leaned back. "Things are going to get messy, terribly messy, Mycroft." he closed his eyes as he settled back into the chair. He was silent for another beats before he eventually opened his eyes and looked at Mycroft. "I'm sorry, Myc, really."

Stranger: "My chances of survival are very slim." Mycroft said after a few minutes, looking down, his voice soft, defeated, tired. "If the C.A.R.I don't get me, my first heat will, or pregnancy because birth control over 21 unless you have proof of a pup has been banned as well." He knew that his condition was a cross to bear from the first moment he presented, but never once did he think it would lead him here, that he would be facing his imminent death. Having fought tooth and nail for over thirty years to keep it under wraps, and to be on his own, he had lost. "Please, promise me one thing Gregory. You will look after Sherlock." Though his brother never much liked his meddling, or constant supervision, he worried what would happen to him once he was gone. At least Gregory would be there, the one man who cared enough, who had stepped in and taken him under his wing, who had brought him back from the brink of self destruction.

You: "They aren't going to get you, Mycroft. Your heat will be hell, yes, it'll put you through the ringer and it'll drag out until you're ready to die but you won't. You're one of the strongest people I know, Mycroft, look at /everything/ you've already been through. Look where you are now." Greg leaned forward and rested his hands on the desk in front of him. "Let me help you. You know this is your best option, your /safest/ option. It'll keep you out of C.A.R.I. You can continue to look after your brother with me. You can have your space and your privacy and whatever else you want. /If/ you end up pregnant, I'll keep the pups. You don't have to be responsible for them, I won't force you into that life."

Stranger: "It won't keep me out of C.A.R.I. It would help, it is the best option I have right now, and it might delay the inevitable just a tad longer, but they will come for me. Someone here will report me. I work among snakes and as soon as they catch wind that I am an Omega, they will do everything in their power to bring me down so they can take my spot." Mycroft knew Gregory would never tie him down, force him to be a 'perfect' Omega who served and waited on their Alpha, never force him to have pups... but that didn't change the laws. "I don't know why you are doing this for me, as I have never done anything to deserve this sort of kindness from you, but know that it does mean more than I can say. I have at least two weeks, so until then, I wish to think this over. After that, even with a bond, I give it only a few more days until the C.A.R.I is at my door."

You: Greg shook his head. "They won't take you if we're properly bonded and at least 'trying' for pups." Greg reminded the man. "Someone in my standing..." he said. "They won't rip my Omega from our home. I think I can call in a few favors from some C.I's we've got." When Mycroft asked for time to consider the options he had Greg gave in. "You're too hard on yourself, Mycroft. You're a good man. You've been a good friend to me, you know that." Greg eventually stood and straightened his coat. "Take your time." he told the man. "Just remember that I'll do whatever I can, that I'm /willingly/ wanting to help. This isn't a life sentence to me, yeah? It'd be nice to have you around, if that's what ends up happening, and if not..." he shrugged. "We'll figure it out." He took a deep breath and tried to give Mycroft a smile. "Call me later. Or text. Just let me know how you're doing, yeah?"

Stranger: Taking a deep breath, he tried to steady his pounding heart, his throat still tight as he let out shaky breath after shaky breath. Swallowing hard when the other moved to stand, he nodding, trying to give the other a small smile for reassurance, but feeling it fade far too quickly to be noticeable. He would consider this, along with other ways that he could find so that he did not trap Gregory, even if the man said that he wasn't. There was no use in going home right now, Mycroft much rather himself be distracted with work than to be alone and wallow in the inevitable. The hours passed and no one entered his office, no one even dared after he had shouted at an intern who came in unannounced, that was till Anthea rushed in, slamming the door behind her, a look of fear on her face. "Mycroft, you need to leave now, take the back exit." Her voice was soft, but it was hurried, his brows furrowing as he looked to her. "What's-" "C.A.R.I. Someone bugged your office, they heard your coversation with the Detective Inspector and called them," All the blood left his face as he paled, feeling as though he were about to be sick. "They are out front, you have about five minutes before they will be in here, go, now. I will try and hold them off for as long as I can. Do you have somewhere you can go? They will search your home, you can't go there." Standing quickly, he grabbed his mobile, his heart thudding as he tried to think. "I will figure something out." Grabbing his coat, he turned towards the exit that no one knew about in his office for moments just like this, turning back one last time to look at his assistant. "Anthea... thank you," There was so much more he wanted to say, like how she had heard, if she had known, and why she had warned him, as well as say more than just thank you, but there wasn't time. Slipping out the back, he listened as the heavy footsteps thudded in the hall next to him, Mycroft slipping out into the back alley. Dialing a number, he held the phone up to his ear, pressing against the wall as he looked around the corner, trying to think of the best way to get out of there without being seen was. He just hoped that Gregory picked up the phone.

You: Greg left Mycroft's office and went back to his flat. It wasn't anything all that fancy. He had two bedrooms, a sizable kitchen and sitting room and a couple of bathrooms just big enough to turn around in. He was a bachelor by every definition of the word. He didn't necessarily like being alone but he wasn't much for marriage, having an ex that cheated quite regularly had left a bad taste in his mouth. But Greg got by with work and Sherlock and the occasional blind date or night out at the pub with his mates. He was also a creature of habit as evidenced by that particular night. Greg left the office building, went home and ate leftovers. He was stretched out on the sofa and watching television when his phone rang. "Hey." he said, seeing it was Mycroft's number. "Didn't think you'd call me so soon. What's up?"

Stranger: "Gregory, I need help, please," He started, panting as he ran around another corner, hearing the noises of his pursuers, their shouts filling his ears as he dodged down alleys. "Someone heard our conversation, they called C.A.R.I. I'm trying to run away, but I have no where to go, they will search my house, and Sherlock's! I'm not even sure they won't search yours, but you are the only person I can trust right now," Mycroft was out of breath, stopping for just a few moments to assess where he was at, looking down the streets and trying to think of the best way to lose them. "Look, I know that I wanted time to think, but that option isn't available anymore. They are looking, and they will find me. I know it is a lot to ask, and I hate doing this, but I need your help, please," He was begging, something he never did for anyone. Granted, he knew that forming a bond outside of a heat was painful and never pleasant, and usually needed to be redone when the heat was present, but it wasn't impossible. The pain he would feel during that was something he would take a thousand times over if that meant he would be safe for just a little while longer, his heart thudding and his lungs burning as he continued to flee.

You: Greg immediately sat up when he heard the terror in Mycroft's voice. "They won't come here. They know you're not really going to bond with me, that it was just talk. But I'll have to be here just in case." he continued. "Come to my flat and we'll figure out something, yeah? Can you get a cab? Should be safe enough to disappear with all the drivers running through London." Greg moved through the flat, making sure it was secure enough to house a wanted Omega for the time being. He checked his credentials and gun were in his side table and began to run down his list of contacts. "I'll make some calls while you're on your way, see if I can figure something out for you in the mean time." he explained. He would make some calls, throw C.A.R.I off Mycroft's trail and buy them a bit more time to figure out their situation.

Stranger: "A Cab is too dangerous. I am about twenty minutes from your flat, if I keep up my pace." There was a loud shout closer than he had hoped, Mycroft swearing under his breath as he knew he would have to cross over an open street if he wanted to get far enough away to keep his lead on them, the sound of their footsteps echoing through the back alleys. "Please, leave the door unlocked, I will come right in. I can't risk staying out on the streets any longer than necessary." With that, he hung up the phone and focused, weaving in and out of the alley's and then out into the busy street, crashing into a few people walking by. Apologising, he continued on, finding the nearest alley to continue in, not wanting to draw more unwanted attention in his direction. It didn't take him much longer than the twenty minutes he had estimated, Mycroft pushing through the door quickly and shutting it behind him, slamming the lock into place and stumbling back into the flat, starring at the door in horror.

You: Greg didn't have time to respond to Mycroft before the man was hanging up their call. Greg set to work, making sure he could figure something out in the interim. He was assured by a few colleagues that C.A.R.I couldn't enter his home without a warrant and the chances of that were slim, given his standing in NSY, but it was a possibility. Greg was finally, after a few calls, able to get in tough with David, his contact within C.A.R.I. "Hey." he told the man. "Good, yeah, good. Listen I need a favor." he told the man. "I've got my sights set on an undocumented Omega." Greg held the phone away from his ear as David roared with laughter. "Yeah, I know, have your fun later. Someone's turned him in and I don't want any trouble, yeah? Think you can do me a favor and tell them to back off?" he asked the man. He was quiet for a long while before he spoke again. "Yeah, we'll do that. Thanks, Dave." he hung up as Mycroft came bursting through his front door. "You're alright." he said to the Omega. "

Stranger: Gasping for air, Mycroft nearly collapsed as he stumbled backwards, his sights turning quickly to Gregory when the man spoke, every nerve of his on high alert. "Gregory, quick, we don't have much time, they are coming, you can't let them take me, please," Rushing to the other's side, he took his arm, tugging him towards the back of the flat, knowing that this wasn't what he would have ever imagined forming a bond to be like, had he even entertained that idea, but desperate times called for desperate measures. He absolutely hated himself for this, for forcing Gregory into it like this, for wrapping the other up in his horrible mess, but his fight or flight instincts were too great to ignore right now, and he was certain that his scent was traceable even through suppressors right now because of the fear seeping through his skin. There were some things that the suppressors couldn't cover, fear being one of them, and typically that wasn't an issue for him as he had nothing to fear, no one to fear, but now, his life was on the line.

You: "Mycroft, it's okay...don't...take a..." Greg stammered as he was swept up by the whirlwind of Mycroft Holmes and tugged towards his bedroom. Mycroft was panicking more than Greg had ever seen and it terrified him and upset him. When they reached the bedroom, Greg flopped down on the bed as Mycroft continued to remain on high alert. "You've got to calm down and listen to me, Mycroft, or this isn't going to work and you're going to end up hurt when you don't need to be." Greg began to attempt to calm the Omega down. "Hush, no listen to me." he forced out. "They can't come in without a warrant, yes? And they won't have gotten one while they were chasing you through the streets. They'll have gone to your house and then to Sherlock's flat." Greg smoothed his hand over Mycroft's arm. "I've already called him. He knows exactly what to say to them, you don't have to worry about it. What you do have to worry about though, is that we've got to bond, but we can't do it with you panicking. It won't stay, if you're afraid of me. "

Stranger: Rushing into the bedroom he moved them both to the bed, pausing only for a moment when he thought he heard something at the door. Gregory's attempts at calming him weren't helping, why couldn't the man see how urgent of a matter this was? "Gregory, no, we-" He was cut off when the Alpha raised his voice just a bit, Mycroft freezing as he looked to the other, his heart roaring in his ears. Oh god, Sherlock was going to be wrapped up into this, and even though Gregory had likely told him what to say, that didn't mean his brother wouldn't be a smart ass, and what if he said something wrong. "No, they can't go to Sherlock, you have to tell him to leave, to stay with mother and father for now, please, Gregory, call him-" He was silenced again when this time those arms came to wrap around him and pull him close, his nose landing right in the Alpha's neck, that scent filling his lungs as he panted. Going stiff in the man's arms, Mycroft took a moment, those pheromones wrapping around him, soothing him, calming him down, the Omega in him wanting to obey, to listen, even though everything he had ever fought for told him he shouldn't listen to them. After a few minutes, he relaxed, his heart still pounding, but he closed his eyes, his hands still grasping the other's shirt as he held him close, the tears streaking silently down his cheeks. "I'm sorry," It was barely a whisper, but he knew the other would hear him.

You: Greg hugged Mycroft, willing the man to calm down. "Sherlock will be fine, Mycroft, he knows how serious this is and he won't do anything to jeopardize that for you. I know you two don't always get along but Sherlock knows better than to pull one over on me. If I'm not happy he doesn't get cases and we both know he won't let that happen." Greg rubbed Mycroft's back as he felt the Omega slowly began to relax in his arms. "Hush now..." he said softly. "You don't have anything to apologize for, nothing. You haven't done anything wrong. I'm not upset with you. I'm just trying to help, yes?" he explained gently to Mycroft. When he was sure Mycroft was calmer he pulled away. "You and I have been dating for a few months now, yes? You kept your status a secret from me until this new law was passed when you realized you were out of options. You told me and in return, I bonded you as punishment for lying to me. Do you understand?" he asked the Omega. "/That's/ all that's happened. You'll hear me say things that aren't true and aren't how I really feel but you have to trust me, Mycroft, it's for your protection. Now..." he said, moving his hands to unbutton Mycroft's collar and expose his neck. "Deep breaths for me, hold still. It won't last that long, I promise. You'll want to rest after this." he paused for a moment as he stared at Mycroft. "I'm so sorry to have to do this, Mycroft." he gave the man an apologetic smile and leaned forward, sinking his teeth into Mycroft's neck.

Stranger: How the man had come up with all of this in the twenty minutes it had taken for him to get here was impressive, the lengths he had gone to, the people he had called, and even this back story, his mind was reeling. It felt like he was moving in slow motion as he watched the man start to unbutton his shirt, his neck exposed as the other looked to him, apologising yet again. This was it, the bond, and it was going to hurt, but it was better than death. Trying to take the man's advice, he took a few deep breaths, scrunching his eyes closed as he leaned his head to the side, feeling the heat on his skin as Gregory's breath brushed it. The pain was worse than he had imagined, a shout piercing the air as he felt his throat aching, his neck throbbing as he felt the release of chemicals, none of this feeling like a bond was supposed to, his throat feeling tight like he couldn't breath as he felt the suppressors fight the flood. it barely registered that Gregory had released him and licked the wound, sealing the skin and laid him back, his eyes screwed shut as he allowed himself to fall onto the bed. There was a loud pounding at the door and his heart raced, everything coming through as all of his nerves were heightened from the fear and the bond. "No, no, no, no, no," He whimpered, trying to fight against the weakness he felt in his stomach, knowing that was C.A.R.I at the door.

You: Gregory didn't know what to expect but it certainly wasn't the noise that Mycroft made when Greg broke the sensitive skin of the Omega's neck and started to bond with him. Greg hummed against Mycroft as he held the man in place, trying to soothe his friend as best he could. He held onto Mycroft, afraid the Omega would run away from him out of pain and fear and Greg knew he couldn't bear to have to do this again to his friend. When Greg was finished, he helped Mycroft out of his suit jack and waist coat, trying his best to lay them neatly across the other side of the bed. He laid Mycroft down and took off the man's shoes before essentially tucking the Omega into bed. "Shh, it's alright. You're safe here, Mycroft. I promise I won't let anything happen to you." Greg told him. "Rest, I'll come check on you in a bit." Greg moved out of his room, closing the door and taking a moment to himself before he answered the banging on his front door.

Stranger: He was exhausted, utterly exhausted as he felt the need to sleep come over him, his neck throbbing and the skin their burning like fire. It wasn't time to sleep, not with C.A.R.I. waiting for him at the door, but Mycroft didn't have any energy whatsoever to fight this. The least he could do was force himself to stay awake long enough to hear what was said, and to say goodbye to Gregory when they dragged him out of this room. It was dark and cool in here, and the only thing he could hear besides his roaring heart was murmuring outside near the entrance. He wanted nothing more than to hang on for just a tad more, his eyes feeling so heavy, as well as the rest of his limbs, the darkness starting to creep in on him. Groaning as he shifted, he could feel the steady throbbing in his neck soon, his features scrunched as he realised he had fallen asleep. Mycroft didn't even remember it happening, and he wasn't sure how long he had been out, but at least he was breathing normal and his heart didn't feel like it was trying to escape his chest. That didn't mean though that his neck felt any better. "Gregory," He croaked out, not sure the other could hear him, or even where he was, or why he was calling for the other, but the other would at least help him when he did know what he wanted.

You: There were a string of surprise visitors at Greg's flat that night, the first of which was C.A.R.I. He refused them entry, as he knew he would, but it didn't much matter. Greg was bonded now and there wasn't much they could do but accuse him of harboring an undocumented Omega. "He's not undocumented. He's bonded and currently sleeping through the final stages of such." he began spouting laws back to the men standing at his door. "One more step and I will not hesitate to put a bullet in you both." he warned. "Well within my right as a DI with NSY if you enter my flat without permission." The men eventually left but weren't happy. Greg knew it wouldn't be the last he'd see of them. A little while later, Anthea arrived, had a few choice words for him and a bag with a few things Mycroft would need until he could return home. Greg let the woman in to check on the still sleeping man. The last person to visit was Sherlock, which surprised Greg more than anything. Greg explained what happened, assured Sherlock his brother would survive and promised the consulting detective his cases wouldn't suffer before SHerlock eventually left. Greg was puttering around his sitting room when he heard the strained voice. He moved to his bedroom and opened the door. "Hey. How are you feeling?" he asked Mycroft. "Do you need something? Maybe some dinner?"

Stranger: "Not great," He sighed, closing his eyes at the intrusive light, everything still feeling rather sensitive and on edge, but toned down from when he had passed out. "A glass of ice water and a paracetamol would be lovely," Hopefully the tablet would help get the pain under control, but he knew that it mostly had to do with the fact that his body was not happy that he was on suppressors and bonded out of heat. Mycroft really hoped to god that a bond during heat felt far better than this, and the after affects didn't last as long either, because he knew they would have to do this once more. Bond's made outside of a heat were typically not as strong, and had a chance of failing, so most couples tried again during a heat. Though, the number of bonds created outside were usually due to extenuating circumstances, much like his own. When the other returned, he sat up, thanking the man as he took the glass and threw back the tablets, finishing off the glass and setting it to the side, his hand reaching up to brush against the sensitive skin of his neck, a hiss escaping his lips.

You: "Don't mess with it." Greg said, pulling Mycroft's hand away. "You'll only aggravate it." He looked over Mycroft, hoping the man was being honest with him. "Anthea brought a weekender for you." he said, pointing to the bag he'd set down in the corner of the room. "You'll have to stay here a few days just to make sure you're alright before you go back home but you'll be able to stay alone until your heat, whenever that is. We'll have to bond properly then but it won't be anything like this. You'll enjoy it, at least I hope you do." he gave the man a small smile. "There's plenty to eat in the kitchen, if you get hungry later. I cleaned up while you were asleep too. Clean towels in the bathroom." he pointed to the door on the other side of the room. "I'm going to stay in the guest room while you're here. You can take this one. The scent should help you enough to make you comfortable without being too overbearing." he explained.

Stranger: It wasn't safe to stay alone, he was sure of it. If that C.A.R.I. had already come for him, they would come again, and somehow this man had held them at bay. "Gregory wait," Reaching out, he grabbed the man's wrist, stopping him from leaving the bedroom. "I know this is a lot, and I have already burdened you enough, but..." Pausing, he licked his lips, not sure if he should ask the next question or not. The man had already saved his life today, bonded him and was giving him his bedroom to sleep elsewhere, how could he possibly ask more? Letting go of his wrist, he shook his head, forcing a small smile for the other as he looked down. "Never mind, it's not important." It was too much. With the bond mark he was safer than he was before, until they could prove that he didn't have pups, or hadn't been trying, but this bought him some time. He didn't need to impose on Gregory any more than he already had. "Thank you."

You: Greg sat back down when Mycroft reached out for him. He waited for Mycroft to ask for whatever he needed or wanted but Greg realized the man wasn't going to ask it. Greg nodded. "Yeah, you're welcome, Mycroft." he said with a smile. "Help yourself to anything you want, yeah? If you need me I'm just down the hall on the left. Can't miss it." he chuckled softly. "Not as big as your mansion you've got so there's not many places to go around here but it's cozy, you know? It'll be a nice little vacation for you." he moved to the bedroom door but paused and turned back to Mycroft. "You don't have to keep quiet, Mycroft, if you don't want to. If you need something, just ask. If you want me to keep out of your way while you're here, just say. I've got plenty of work to keep me busy...just don't feel like you're a burden or anything." Greg bid the man good night and closed the bedroom door behind him as he moved down the hall and got ready for bed.

Stranger: Maybe at some point he would feel right asking such a thing, but he couldn't now. Nodding as the man closed the door, not realising how exhausted he still was till he was alone in the dark, the bed soft and comforting as he laid back down, the pain subsided for now thanks to the tablet. Drifting off, he just listened to the hum of the telly outside in the living room, finding that just having the knowledge that Gregory was outside that door, making sure he was safe, it was rather nice. The tile was cold under his skin, which felt like it was on fire having been given whatever dugs the C.A.R.I had to induce his heat, Mycroft whimpering as he huddled in the corner, feeling exposed without clothes. Any moment an Alpha would walk through the door, claim him, force himself on him, and fill him so full to try and give him pups. He was certain he wouldn't make it, as he could see the stains on the fabric of the old mattress, and the grit in the grout of the tiles, his heart thudding. Where was Gregory? Where was the Alpha he was bonded to? The man had made the C.A.R.I leave, so why was he hear now? His gaze shot up when he heard the door open, his heart sinking as he looked at the vicious Alpha in front of him, the hormones dripping from the man, his muscles taught under his skin. This was it, he ws done for. Shuffling back, he whimpered as he tried to make himself as small as possible, to get away from the Alpha as he took step after step, closer and closer to him. "Gregory! Help, please! Gregory!" Mycroft cried, his throat aching as he shouted, tears sliding down his cheeks. ((That last bit is a nightmare, just for clarification :) ))

You: (Thanks for clarifying!) It was just after dawn when Greg was jolted away by someone yelling his name. He'd accidentally fallen asleep on the sofa as he was watching television. It was more of a common occurence than he'd like to admit but it happened as one aged. Insomnia was a terrible problem to have, after all. He wasn't expecting anyone to shout him name, so when he woke up he looked around trying to figure out where the voice was coming from. Before he knew it, the events of the previous day came flooding back to him. "Mycroft." Greg said as he scrambled off the sofa and hurried down the hall. There was Mycroft, his newly bonded partner, thrashing around in the bed. Greg could already feel their bond, weak as it was, forcing him forward to tend to his distressed Omega. "Mycroft, wake up." he said, reaching out for the man and trying to gently wake him up. "You're safe. You're alright. Come on now, it was just a nightmare. You're in my flat. You're fine."

Stranger: The Alpha drew closer and closer to him, his arms reaching out, grabbing him by his wrists and dragging him to the bed, Mycroft fighting against it with everything he had. "No, please, no!" ***** He awoke to Gregory holding him in the bed, his heart pounding as he fought against the other, the flashes of the nightmare starting to fade as he looked around, seeing the other there in front of him, his breathing laboured. "Gregory?" Wrapping his arms around the other's shoulders, he buried his face in the man's chest, the scent from the Alpha calming his nerves as the nightmare faded away. "They had taken me, I was in a room, stripped and an Alpha was about to..." His voice shook as he gripped the other, his knuckles white as he held tight, the fear still very present even after realising it was a dream. "Please don't leave me alone, I can't... please," The nightmares would come back, he just knew it, and having to face that again was not an option he was willing to take. Never before had he had nightmares, or dreams really, always waking from slumber without so much as a hint to them, but now, with the stress of it all, it was no surprise that it came to him like this.

You: Greg was thought Mycroft may try to punch him with all the flailing and fighting the Omega was doing as he woke up from the nightmare. Greg was surprised when Mycroft finally woke up enough to realize who he was and buried his face in the Alpha's chest. Greg wrapped his arms around Mycroft and rubbed the man's back as Mycroft tearfully recounted the nightmare he'd had. He shushed the man as they sat on his bed, wrapped around each other. "It's alright. I'll stay in here with you..." he whispered. "It was just a dream, Myc, you're safe." The words became a sort of mantra that he'd repeat every few minutes as Mycroft came down off the panicked rush of the nightmare and the fear it had pushed to the front of the man's mind. When Mycroft had calmed down enough to breath normally, Greg spoke again. "How are you feeling? Should I make us some breakfast?"

Stranger: The patterns the man was rubbing into his back were soothing, Mycroft tracing them with his mind as he closed his eyes, just focusing on the fact that he was here, in Gregory's flat, and not at C.A.R.I. with some Alpha coming for him at any moment. At the mention of food, his nose scrunched, the idea of eating not sounding very appetizing for him, even if he hadn't eat since the morning before. He really should, but this was something he did all the time, going days without eating very much at all. "I'll just have a cup of tea, please." Maybe Gregory would let him off easy, not fight him on eating anything, or question when the last time he had a meal was, but then again, he remembered who the man was, and how well he had done with Sherlock, and the odds of him being the same with him were rather high. That didn't stop him from trying though, pretending as if asking for tea was breakfast enough, that maybe he would eat later, even if he didn't actually mean it.

You: Greg nodded and pulled away. "Why don't you go and wash up while I put the kettle on. We can share some toast or something, since you're not that hungry. You've still got to keep your blood sugar up, no matter if you're not all that hungry. Don't need to have you passing out in my flat and banging your head on anything." he gave the man a smile before he leaned forward and pressed a kiss to Mycroft's forehead. "I'll be in the kitchen when you're done. Don't forget your bag." he reminded the man of the bag with fresh clothes and toiletries. Greg untangled himself from Mycroft and made his way out to the kitchen. He put on the kettle for tea and made them both some toast and some eggs for himself, before he set the table for them.

Stranger: The kiss to his forehead was a bit of a surprise, his eyes going wide as he looked up and watched the other leave, his cheeks flushed, though thankfully the room was dark enough it wouldn't be noted. Grabbing his bag from the ground, he found something to wear, though not his first choice, before walking to the bathroom and stepping into the shower. The hot water felt good on his skin, washing away the horrors of yesterday, though it still stung at his neck a tad. Mycroft knew it would be a couple of days before that felt alright, but he never would have imagined that the damn thing hurt this much. After a few minutes in the shower, he finally turned off the water and dried off, slipping into a nice pair of slacks and a button up, no tie or waist coat, so it was far less than he typically wore, but at least it was better than sweats and a tee, which he would never be caught dead wearing. Walking out towards the living room, he could smell the food, his stomach growling in protest as his brow furrowed, wishing it would just be quiet.