#carterowen

Carter

[I wanted to stay in bed, which had happened for the last few days since the reunion. I couldn't hold off any longer with contacting #Franco. #Mac had been right with what little he had spoke to me in the kitchen before Piper and I holed ourselves up in her cabin. We ate enough watermelon and drank enough Starbucks to drown the fears of what reality was beyond the four walls. I worried. I more than worried about Piper. I easily, without thought, had turned into some sort of freak right in front of her at the reunion. And the explanation I had given Piper was a lot simpler than what was going on. Others were being manipulated to expose the emotion that would possibly bring death if you weren't experienced. #Dominic had gone into hiding, leaving his family behind. The chip #Franco had left in my possession after my return from Paris had to be destroyed. Our race, though we were all human, but with "special" abilities to control the elements and use them for good, we were slowly being taken out by something or someone. I kept starting the email to #Franco and would delete it, unable to explain what had happened at the reunion. I knew what happened. I panicked because the thought of losing Piper after 10 years...I saw the cup of Starbucks slide next to the computer and sighed. Maybe Piper was preparing early for a long night. Still, I kept my eyes on the screen with the blank email to #Franco open.] Thanks, Lewis...[Shaking my head slightly, I was trying to still figure out what to write to #Franco and debating something else at the same time. When you live without someone for a long period of time and suddenly they are back in your life again. Your world seems to shift on its own axis. Finally peeling my eyes away from the screen, I looked up to see Piper sucking on her frappuccino from Starbucks. I could be thankful for the reunion bringing Piper back into my life, but everything else that happened, I put her at risk for something much greater.] I can't even begin to apologize, Piper for the other night. None of that should have happened...

Piper

-It didn't take a genius to see the struggle in Carter's movements, his body was tense, even his eyes gave him away. Resting my cup next to his while scooting to the end of my chair to give Dirk's shirt a hard tug- You have to stop apologizing Dirk. -I chewed into my lip, desperate to tell Carter about my own secret world. It wasn't my place no matter how much I trusted Carter with my life, I couldn't just blab..- Please? This was just a fucked up series of events...but the outcome...-Tugging the fabric again to get my point across- was well worth it. We are both fine. I know you'll figure this out -Lifting my hand to rest against Carter's cheek, smiling softly- We..will figure it out. Got it?

Carter

[I gave Piper a small nod and leaned against her hand. Before I could even stop the words from coming out the rolled off my tongue like it was only natural to ask Piper.] Come to Paris with me? [Internally I groaned and shut my eyes with a small but nervous chuckle fell from my lips. It seemed, just like when Piper and I were growing up together. I didn't think before I spoke, and now 10 years later it hadn't changed. Was I probably pushing a limit with the question, I didn't really know, but I didn't really care. The night of the reunion started a whirlwind of thoughts when it came to Piper. And finding myself without her again, even a few days would have me packing my bags from Paris, alone, and heading right back here.]

Piper

What...? -No matter the question the answer was always yes when it came to Carter back then, no matter how much I willed it otherwise. My eyes closed for a moment as I moved into his lap and let my forehead rest against Carter's own. Whispering- You already know the answer to that question Mr. Diggler -Chuckles nervously as I mutter the last few sentences.- But...I'll have to tell a few people before I go and you...ermm...-Cringing internally- will have to meet my brother...and possibly anyone who comes with him -Groaning as lift my head to once again find Carter's gaze- I don't know how that will go over.

Carter

I figured I would. Who in their right mind would let their sister just fly off to Paris, you know? [I gave Piper a small smile as she pulled back and wrapped my arms tighter around her waist.] Who else would come with him, Piper? [It wasn't that I was trying to pry into Piper's life, but I barely knew anything about her anymore, only what I had seen over the last few days of being together and from when we were in high school. Pulling one arm from around Piper's waist, I finally picked up the Starbucks and took a sip. The last few days of being exhausted and wracking my brain to figure out what to tell #Franco in the email, I needed something to perk me up. Not that being in Piper's presence didn't do that. It really did.]

Piper

-It took seconds for my forehead to drop and my nose to nuzzle into Carter's neck, inhaling his scent and smiling as I laughed lightly- Could be his husband...or anyone of my...other brothers? -I groaned, hating every second I knew I would need to keep my secrets from Carter- Not really my brother brothers but guys I take care of? -Fuck I was digging a hole. Closing my eyes and lifting my head, I didn't peek at Carter. I couldn't. If I did I'd stumble all over again- I can't tell you everything I want too, Dirk. And trust me...I want to more than you'll know. But I promise when I can I will...-Sighing I kept my eyes closed, mumbling low- I hope that's enough for now...cause I can't lose you

Carter

[I listened to Piper and could hear the waver in her voice. She wanted to tell me but she couldn't. I understood where she was coming from. Everyone had secrets.]

Piper

-When Carter stayed silent I felt my heart slow to barely a light pulse, maybe this was too much for him. Maybe I was. Pausing I gave a small tug to the hem of Carter's shirt- Say something please?

Carter

[There was nothing to debate in my head when it came to Piper not telling me anything besides something basic about who was in her life, or what reasons they were there. I gave Piper a small nod as I set my coffee down.] I trust you when you tell me you can't give reasons, Piper. [My arm went back around Piper's waist and I laid my hands on her lower back, drawing the miniature versions of the philosophy that had been tattooed on my arms from #Franco almost as long as I had been away from Piper. Even as the words flowed from my mouth, I had to wonder what Piper had been hesitant in telling me. Did she need some sort of permission to do so? From her brother maybe? As odd as the thought was, I knew every family had secrets, some praying that they would never come to see the light of day. But, with the time gone between Piper and I, I could still trust her. I knew that. I had no hesitation when it came to Piper. When the time was right, she would tell me. I kept my gaze on Piper askew that. I had no hesitation when it came to Piper. When the time was right, she would tell me. I kept my gaze on Piper as I leaned forward and pressed my forehead to hers.] If your brother tells you that you can't, or whoever, I promise to make the trip as quickly as possible back to Paris. [Piper's last statement kept going over and over in my head and I knew where she was coming from. 10 years was too long not to have Piper in my life again.] You're stuck with me now....

Piper

-I let go of the breath I was holding as Carter's forehead found mine, both hands now stroking through the few days worth of scruff covering his face. My heart racing as he continued, never imagining I'd be here with, Carter. Smiling as my words began to spill- I’m usually the one threatening that. No matter what my brother says he won't keep me from you Dirk. He'd have a huge ass fight on his hands that putting it nicely. -Laughing softly envisioning said moment- He wouldn't he may however grill you like no one’s business. -Leaning in to steal a small kiss, humming as my lips pulled away from Carter's to mumble again- When would you...or we be leaving?

Carter

[I returned the light kiss from Piper and pulled back slightly with a lifted brow.] Still the scrapper then? [I tried not to let the laugh come, but it did anyways. Piper may have gotten along with most people in high school, but I did remember a few who I had to tear her off of in the halls before the teachers had gotten there. Most times I was dodging Piper's flailing limbs with my arm securely around her waist, or I was trying to keep from not inhaling her hair as Piper struggled against the grip I had on her waist. Either way, Piper was a tough damn cookie and one hell of a scrapper in the hallways. My eyes wandered down what I could see of Piper's and cocked my head a little with a smile.] I still think you got it, Lewis. I think you could take on your brother, no problem. [Another laugh fell from my lips as my arms tightened around Piper's waist more.] As soon as we talk to your brother, I'm good to go. #Franco is already expecting me

Piper

-Narrows my eyes playfully, knowing full well what Carter thinking. Mumbling as I fought a huge ass grin- It was only...once. -Letting my arms drop to wrap around his neck, groaning light- Ok ok. Maybe a few more but so many more deserved it -My head shook, laughing at how much I'd changed in that respect from high school. Now I wasn't sure what I'd do- Guess I should call him and give him the green for coming on over? -I tried to hide the worry this scenario presented. I wasn’t worried so much about them meeting and disliking each other. More worried about them joining forces-

Carter

I'm pretty sure it was more than a time or two when I had to dodge you flailing and struggling in that cheerleader outfit, Piper. [I laughed even more when I remembered the very last time I had to drag her off of her ex, who I had shouldered the other night at the reunion. And I knew Piper gave him the same treatment in the bathroom as she did the last time she had seen him 10 years ago. Shaking my head as my laughter died down, I gave Piper a wink.] I'm sure you can hold your own, and as soon as he wants to come over, I'm cool with it.

Piper

-Grinning slightly, admiring Carter features as he laughed. 10 years and the dimples were still there, the same smirk I loved. Blushing beet red as one hand quickly moved, splaying across my features to hide them from Carter- And you loved it. -My hand dropping moments later to grab my cell from beside Carter's drink while inhaling a rather large calming breath- If you want to run after this...I'll understand. -Shifting some to lean into Carter chest, dialing Butch's number and waiting-

Butch

-I laughed and straightened myself back up, still sporting the erection. I didn't get more than two steps before my phone when off again I looked down at who it was from before sliding my thumb across the screen to answer.- Heya sis! What's doing?

Piper

-Stiffening in Carter's lap hearing Butch answer, all those years of mocking friends for their older brothers over protecting was about to come back and bite me in the ass. Chuckling as I relaxed once again- Butch I'm good. You're sounding good. Been holed up again with V relaxing? -I grinned, nuzzling my nose into the Carter's neck- Still feel up to a visit?

Butch

-laughing- You gonna ramble on about the weather next? Not sure how I could sound good right now but I'll take it. And yes, I still plan on visiting I just got... caught up in the Twilight Zone. -I heard my phone beep again and I pulled it away long enough to read the txt V sent me. I choked and sputtered some before remembering that I was still on the phone with Piper- Ummm... soooo I have a twin running round out there...

Piper

-Arching a brow, pulling my phone away to stare at it while Butch babbles. Pretty sure I heard a homer like groan before his voice came back. Laughing as I shook my head- Let's face facts we both know I could ramble you to death but...this time I'll get to point. -Pausing, swearing I miss heard Butch- You have a what? So I have another...fucking hell. I'm killing our father

Butch

Shit girl you find our father and I'll do it for you. You draw me a rough charcoal picture and I'll find his ass. -I paused, still thinking about the txt my hellren sent me. It was way too awkward to be sporting this hard on and talking to my sister at the same time. My thoughts were blown straight out the window. I cleared my throat and spoke louder than I intended to- Why'd you call me?

Piper

-Cringing as my brother’s voice raises, unable to help the slight annoyance that filled my voice- Are you on drugs?-laughing- You told me about a twin. I called because I want you here. I'm kind of hopping for rather quick too..

Butch

No I'm not on drugs... -facepalm- I can't run out right now I have to go get my ass chewed by Wrath and I hope to fuck he doesn't pick up on my obvious arousal while I'm there cause it aint for him-I clamped my mouth shut- I've said too much

Piper

-Both eyes widened at Butch's admittal, even my hands got a bad case of the dropsies sending my cell into my lap.-Why! Who tells their sister that?! -Blinking all over again I fished the phone back into my grasps and mumbled- I think...yeah. I need to go. You...go -Laughs all kinds of awkward- Deal with that and yeah. Just come soon? Please. -Hanging up on all too quickly then tossing my phone to the bed to stare at Carter- Well I'm pleasantly traumatized for the night -Blinks-

Carter

[I could barely hear what Butch had said to Piper, but with her response, my brow lifted.] Should I even question why you just said that, Piper? [My arms tightened around Piper's waist a little more at the thought and chuckled. That must have been traumatizing for Piper with the look of horror and her dropping her phone in my lap while she was talking to Butch.]

Piper

Beyond..-Blinking, laughing low as I turned to bury my head into the groove of Carter's neck- I think he said he had an erection he needed to show the king....-Squeaks when I realize my last words to Butch- And I told my brother to hurry and come?! -Just laughs, snorting like Lewis except ten times worse- I...am all kinds of special huh?

Carter

[I almost died of laughter in my head when I heard Piper tell me what she said to Butch. Before I could stop it, I threw my head back and laughed. I couldn't believe Piper had told her brother to hurry up and come. Or that I had just heard her say he was sporting an erection while on the phone with her.] His life must be pretty exciting, Piper. [I snorted as my head came back down and my eyes locked with Piper's.] That was an excellent recovery though. Dropping the phone and managing to pick it back up without falling off my lap. [I was still snickering at the thought of the horrified look on Piper's only seconds before she dropped the phone.] You are special...but what the hell king are you talking about? Does Butch have a meeting with the King of and Arab nation or something, Piper? That's fucking impressive if he does. [laughs harder]

Piper

-Pretty sure I was now crimson red thank to Carter's added tease. Shaking my head and letting myself simmer a little before even beginning to speak- No not the Arab king. But more a king of their kind? -Groans low- Soon, Carter. It'll all make sense soon

Carter

Like I said earlier, Piper, I trust you when it comes to things like this. [I gave Piper a small smile and a quick kiss on the nose as Piper's cheeks died down from the bright blush that was just there.]

Piper

-Lifting my chin to bite at Carter's chin, playfully grumbling as I nibbled along his jaw- Still? Even with all the time we've been apart? -Shifting again to straddle Carter lap, lazily relaxing into his chest while allowing my fingers to trace over his exposed tattoos, humming softly-

Carter

Still, Piper. I know people change and I don't doubt that you have too. [I could feel Piper's fingers tracing gently along my tattoos and smiled as Piper settled into my lap.] What's your philosophy about life? [My brow lifted in curiosity because I knew what mine was. It was written all over my skin on my arms.]

Piper

-My fingers continued their movements as my head came to rest against Carter's shoulder- I don't know if it's a philosophy as much as a way of life? -Chuckling nervously as I kissed the side of Dirk's neck- I just live it...I know there’s more to life than anyone ever told me. But...-Groaning softly- This is going to lead to me rambling Dirk. We both know it. Why do ask? Usually when you ask me something like this there’s something brewing up in that head of yours -Lifting my head to find Carter's gaze- So spill handsome...-Leaning in to steal a kiss, letting my lips linger long enough to cause my cheeks to blush once again- As long as it's good...

Carter

[I smiled against Piper's lips after letting the kiss linger a few seconds. I unwound my arms from her waist and pulled up Piper's sleeves to see a completely blank canvas on her arms.] I could put it on your arms when we get to France, if I don't get bludgeoned to death by your brother first before we go, Piper. [I chuckled lightly as I thought of how intricate and beautiful Piper's philosophy would look on her.] It's just a thought...[I knew there was more to the thought, but revealing a master plan to Piper wasn't on my play book just yet. Since the night of the reunion, I had too many thoughts of losing her again to a hunter, even if I was around. Double the protection, working together as a unit. But I had been weary of mentioning anything to Piper because it would come at a greater cost. She wouldn't have to leave the life she is living behind, but Piper would have to be more aware of the world around her. I could only hope for now though, she would agree to what I had been thinking about.]

Piper

You'd do that? -Not even bothering to hide the excitement in my voice as my eyes moved from Carter's arm to my own. My own curiosity down boiling over with thoughts remembering what he had said about protection spells- What would they look l like, Dirk? -My eyes found his again; my head tilting as they took in all Carter features.- Is that all that you're thinking?

Carter

I honestly don't know what they will look like. [As much as I tried to imagine it, I didn't know. The symbols were different for every person who had them done. I shrugged softly Piper and pecked her lips quickly.] #Franco's look different than mine, and so do #Dominic's. It depends on the person. We will just have to wait and see. [I could see the excitement on Piper's face as I smiled.] Nope, not all I'm thinking. But, can you trust me that I will tell you when the time is right?

Piper

-I fought a broad grin, playfully pouting in reply to Carter's question.- I have to wait and trust you? -Lazily draping my arms round his neck, leaning in to brush my lips along his as I nod slowly- I trust you completely Dirk. Even with my life. The answer will always be yes. -Stealing a kiss, humming softly- You think #Franco will mind me coming? Well once you finally send the email? - I pulled back smiling, knowing he needed to send it. No matter how much I was enjoying being Dirk's distraction.- I'll make you a deal, Carter. You write it and then we can go find some stupid movie and cuddle?

Carter

[I groaned lightly when I heard Piper make a deal with me about the email to #Franco, which I still hadn't written. She was a much better distraction. And frankly, I wanted to keep being distracted by Piper. I glanced at the computer screen quickly and then back to Piper.] He won't mind. He likes visitors...[I left my statement open ended because I knew how #Franco thought. He would find Piper just as fascinating as I did.] I'll take that deal, Lewis...you go pick the movie, and I'll be right there. [I quickly kissed Piper's lips, letting them linger a bit, and pulled away as my other hand moved my coffee cup.]

Piper