#elpida: cade

[twistedthings]

          ――――――――――― ⌽ ―――――――――――

Helpless. Weak. Alone. Terrified. Furious. Broken.

Determined. Strong. Together. Enraged. Smart.

Jessia had been all these things and though she had gotten through it all and come out on the other side alive she was far from living. She was a zombie that wore a pretty mask. In truth, she hadn't moved on or healed since she returned to her family, since she'd made her own escape from a kidnapper that no one tried to save her from, a man who was still out there and haunted Jessia even now as her body shut down and sunk into a familiar absent panic. She was shaking, there was no doubt about that, still crying too, even breathed out a few sobs but her mind was very much rational and present. Jessia hated it. When her body betrayed her and all she could hear in her mind was the horrible things she was thinking about herself for falling apart. Especially in this place over what? A slap to the face? Being rejected by someone she thought loved her? No, it was deeper than that, damage she ignored and shoved down bubbled to the surface and instead of dealing with it on her own, like she did everything in her life, Cade was there.

What was crazier, Cade was there for her. Even though she was starting to feel like he was talking too much, a reaction based on the fact she often found herself alone in the numb silence of her panic attacks, but Cade reacted simply with action and although part of her brain wanted to stop him, from talking or looking at her and seeing the mess she was becoming, another part of her didn't want him to ever leave because for the first time in such a long time Jessia felt cared for. The last time she'd felt this way was when her mother was still around, when Jessia was three and had just discovered her powers. Unfortunately for the happy couple and parents of three, that same moment was when Jerica Davies fell into an unbreakable coma, never to wake again. Mason Davies, Jessia's father, was so shaken by the whole experience; countless doctor visits, thousands upon thousands of dollars in medical bills, three children, a mortgage and two jobs just to keep his children fed and clothed while also visiting his beloved wife in the hospital, it broke the man. Jessia's father eventually sent her to live with his own mother and her two brothers went to stay with their mothers older sister.

Jessia didn't remember much after that, until she started school a few years later she really wasn't sure what happened to her. All that she could remember was white light, running in a backyard that had a wooden playset, and lots of tiny pinches as if that playset had given her many splinters. When Jessia would ask her grandmother the woman just nodded and got a far away look in her eyes before confirming that the blonde really loved that playset but Jessia knew for a fact there had never been any such thing in her grandmother's yard. It was all so strange and Jessia was sure that was the first time she ever shoved things down and hid them behind a metal door that she'd never open for anything. Yet as Cade instructed her, Jessia felt that door creaking open, ready to give way to whatever horror and truths lived inside her mind there. Her arms slid over Cade's strong shoulders to wrap around his neck as the man easily hoisted her up into his hold and her legs instinctually went around his waist.

The petite blonde let herself meld to him, her face tucked against him as she just tried to focus on her breathing; in slowly through the nose and out her partially parted lips. It helped regulate her breathing but her heart decided racing and making her head spin was the best thing for her. "I'm getting blood on you," she observed rather uselessly and in such a numb tone it surprised even her. Fuck. She hated being in this state, active, rational mind and her body on a completely different plane; bloody nose, red swollen eyes still burning with salty tears, and limbs that couldn't move even if she tried to get them to do so. Jessia was still angry, more so as Cade took her outside, still telling her everything was going to be alright and that he had her.

She was floating, absent in a space with just Cade and being in his hold. If she could smell anything aside from the harsh scent of her own coppery blood she would have gotten lost in the warmth and liveliness that was Cade's scent. Instead she clung to him like a sloth or koala bear, limp and useless, as if she didn't have functioning limbs of her own. "You're… a good guy," she added, emotion in her mind but that same numb inflection in her tone. No one had ever carried her anywhere like this; no one helped her, no one carried her out of her captor's cage and set her free. The warmth and sincerity she felt emitting from Cade was undeniable and perhaps she was naive but she trusted him, she felt safe with him. She didn't know what else to say to him, her mouth was giving into the panic, the flight and shit down mode it was going into after the emotionally charged moment she'd had with Marty, a response she hadn't expected but there was no telling when she'd get triggered like this and remember that cage and… and the man that had put her there.

Cade was going to fucking kill him, the thought of a hand being laid on her that wasn't loving of gentle, sickened him. His gut lurched with a rage that he was trying to stop rising to his chest, through his shoulders and to his fists, he didn't want the anger this second because what he truly wanted, was to be someone better, to show her people could be better than that. She didn't want to be angry, and neither did he but god.. the next time he god that asshole alone? He'd do much worse than what he'd done to her, he wanted to break the man, make him sob, show him exactly how Cade got into the position he had.

He swallowed down that anger, kept his thumbs there, swiping over her cheeks, kept her looking at him. "Then let's not be angry." he answered that, as if it was so easy for them to do, because surely if they did that together it would be, right? Cade saw the surfacing anger and all he could think to do for her was lean forward and press his lips to her forward in one quick, loving little gesture. A little peck to let the troubles bubble back down. "I'm not saying that we forget that anger, we wont forget at all... but lets not be angry right now, hm? How about we.. put a tab on it? We fold the corner of that page, so we can come back to it, and me n' you, we move to the next chapter." It was the only way he thought he could phrase it, exactly how he'd learned to manage that inner bubbling anger.

At the request to get her out of her and realizing that she couldn't actually move, he turned, eyeballing his best way of coming up with a plan. It was a club and plenty of people walked out of here with girls in their arms, surely better to carry one than have her tipsy and floundering so.. like it was nothing Cade leaned down. "Hold around my neck n' shoulders." he instructed in a low tone, only low enough for her. It wasn't like Cade was doing anything more than what she asked and this was simply the easiest way for him to lift her and for her to hold on. He let the rough of his hands hold around her thighs and in one swift movement, lifted her legs up and around his hips. Hell, he lifted her like she was weightless. It was like instinct, one hand kept hold of her leg, his fingers lightly squeezing supple flesh, but the other ran up and down her back slowly, soothingly.

"It's alright darlin', I got you now. I know it's hard, but you just focus on nice deep breaths for me, 'kay? I'll get us outta here." he whispered, through her blonde hair and to her ear. He made a move, and when he got near the door, simply pointed a finger to his employee. "Tell that fucking jackass I'll see him tomorrow."

He didn't live far, and he did hope she'd not find it awkward or weird of him to take her back there but it was close, it was quiet, it'd provide her privacy and she could take out every ounce of anger she wanted to, he could clean up those injuries properly, get her some water and food, try and help her as much as he could.. why? Well he had sympathy for what had happened but, he had a soft spot for her, he'd thought her beautiful the moment he saw her, he'd always thought she was far too good for that ass of an employee, or ex-employee, he'd not keep someone on his books that treated women like this.

"Just a little further, you doin' okay? Talk to me darlin'." He smelled of whisky and pine, rich and deep and lingering on his skin, with a heat similar to that of laying in front of an open fire. He was something strong and real, dependable, and god damn it he was trying his best, for her. Who'd have even believed Cade Sabelle could be this soft?

[wiinestories]

As a month passed since the bakery attack, Agatha's bump began to show signs of growth, a visible reminder of the new life growing within her. While she continued her work, she had opted to take on fewer cases since learning the news. Additionally, she had made the decision to move in with Cade, seeking comfort and support during this transformative time in their lives. As Saturday morning sunlight filtered through the curtains, Agatha and Cade found themselves nestled under the sheets, the warmth of their shared space cocooning them. While Agatha's attention was fixed on the TV, her mind wandered to thoughts of expanding their family. Pregnancy symptoms had begun to manifest more noticeably, including the occasional food craving, but amidst these physical sensations, the idea of adding a furry companion to their household took root in her mind.

With a gentle hand resting on her growing bump, Agatha eased herself out of Cade's embrace. "Honey, get dressed. I'm driving us somewhere." There was a playful glint in her eyes as she announced her plans. "Oh, and I don't kiss and tell," she added with a grin, her mysterious demeanor only adding to the anticipation as she reached for her coat and the car keys.

-

As they arrived at the kennel, Agatha's excitement bubbled over, her eyes shining with anticipation.With a mischievous grin, she revealed their mission: to choose a furry addition to their family. "We're making our family bigger, baby," she declared, gesturing towards the kennel. "And you'll be the one deciding which one we bring home. Oh, and don't worry about keeping everything tidy, I'll take care of that." Her playful tone carried a hint of affectionate teasing as she reassured him about the tidiness, knowing his penchant for order. She was perfectly aware of how he had an obsession with it by now. @elpida

[isolatednights]

"When did you get this?" reverse - cade&aiyla

@elpida

ever since they'd arrived the farm, they'd fallen into a routine of pairing together for whatever project required doing that day. most were necessities - repairs to the fence, hooking up solar panels, tending the gardens or going for supply runs off the property - but occasionally there were things that popped up that allowed them to live rather than just survive.

elias had approached the pair when it had been agreed additional raised beds would be built to expand their produce. the other man had wanted raspberries for rhea - a surprise, he'd claimed. cade had grumbled about the lack of necessity and only begrudgingly agreed after a silent exchange with aiyla.

the summer sun was high and hot - leaving the conversation between them restricted to the occasional comment or confirmation in hopes of reserving energy and getting done faster. when cade suggested a break for water, aiyla had stood - blue hues raising to look at him just as he's grabbed the edge of his shirt to wipe the sweat from his brow.

she'd moved before she'd even thought about it - fingers of one hand snatching the fabric and raising it back up while the others ghost over the spiderwebbing against his side. new - if the angry red color had anything to say about it. "when did you get this?" why didn't you tell me?

[wrldofmyown]

@elpida continued

She knew the answer to her question before she even asked however, she desperately wanted to be wrong. Then Cade said 'no' and her heart broke. A knot formed in her throat as her eyes welled up with tears and she took a step back from him. "I'm not that young," she tried to defend with a scoff but her words were slightly broken, "I'm closer to being 30. I can take my own decisions." But she knew where he was coming from, she knew he was right. It hurt her to admit that Cade was right because she wanted him. God, she loved him.

Her head began to pound as she held back tears and shakily took a seat on his couch, bringing her knees to her chest, softly resting her cheek on them as tears began to roll down her face.

Isa remained in silence for a bit, then brushed her tears away before looking at him with reddened eyes, "then what are we doing here? Why are you with me? Are we just supposed to have a fun time indoors and nothing more? am I just someone you want to have for a good time? While someone more... more... mature, more... motherly-like, more age appropriate shows up for Daisy and for you to spend your life with?"

[secretscost-archived]

@elpida asked: “let me hear you, baby.” - from cade

When Arya first met Cade, he had the looks of being a really rough and intimidating guy, which he actually was considering the bruises and cuts in his face and arms. But to Arya he wasn't that. Cade was very sweet, funny and a gentleman.

Until now that the man had his strong hands on her hips, helping her bounce her hips on his as she had straddled him. Arya was holding back her moans by biting down on her bottom lip mainly because she was afraid of being a little too loud and disturbing the neighbors.

"Hmmm..." Looking down at him, a smile spread across her lips. Her slender fingers caressed up her body until reaching her tits; squeezing them and pinching her nipples with her index and thumb. Rolling her hips, she moaned louder this time, feeling Cade's cock touching that special spot inside her. "Oh God... you feel so good, baby." Not to mention how handsome he looked beneath her. Arya leaned forward, hiding her face by the crook of his neck, kissing and nibbling his skin softly, "fuck me harder," Arya whispered in his ear. She couldn't get enough of him.

[thxnymph]

Closed Starter

"Finally some peace and quiet." Renata stated upon entering their suite. It was a beautiful room. It was more like a house really. A kitchen, a bathroom, a bedroom and living room. And to top it all off they had a lovely view of the city, and the night sky that was filled with stars.

Renata just wanted to sit down and eat something, to relax a little bit. The tour had officially begun, and despite the ominous figure that was the stalker, everything seemed to be going well. So far, nothing had happened. The police hadn't informed her of anything, there was no letters or pictures sent. Perhaps he had finally backed down, she could only hope. The singer didn't have to worry, since she had one of the best bodyguards working for her. Renata had Cade by her side at all times, which made her feel safe. "Sit down, relax. Do you want anything to eat? I can have room service bring it up." // @elpida

[persephonyed]

i went on a hunt for everything i owe, so i’m going to list it down below, and then you can tell me if i owe you anything else or if a thread is missing on here at all. this is my only solution to attempt to be organized rn before doing all the subscribing or thread tracking etc. trying to keep track of it on my own for the moment.

people/threads i owe replies to:

winifred & eleanor — @in-de-cent

margot & mason — @musingmixtape

margot & charlotte, indie & edith, arden & rue, and tate & cora — @cigvrettedvet

sebastian & lyanna — @silvrmoon

izzie & louis and piper & sydney — @fillyoursoulxx

imogen & taylor and ingrid & jack — @tenderstars

rosie & jolene — @felteverywhere

elei & carmen — @neveraftcr

darby & natalia, blair & flossie, and izzie & tansy — @lilacwiine

elenor & cade — @elpida

malia & jeb and a reply to the kayko starter — @springbreezc

sawyer & jules — @gothwives

if you’re not on this list and i owe you something, please speak now!!!!!! i really wanna make sure i have everything owed in my drafts rn before i go follow everyone and subscribe to everything and figure out how i am going to keep track of it. you can always tag me in replies, send me a dm when you reply, or yell at me on disc or something. i just wanna make sure i’ve got all my shit lined up and don’t miss anything. <3

[xgoldxnhour]

All I Want

continued from (x)

@elpida

The question makes her laugh, is that normal? It's a fair one to ponder and possibly a common virtue for those found their situation. A sort of purgatory, in a way. "If it were normal, don't think there'd be much of an industry that prevents this kind of thing then." Yes, perhaps birth control has become another capitalistic moniker taken advantage of, it was also supposed to be a safeguard. Something that just didn't have to be worried about.

The both seem to be going through their own waves and stages of grief or at least simply shock and uncertainty. They both bestow apologies and brush off the other. There really isn't any need for them but understandably used as a buffer to validate a reponse. "I guess I just didn't know what else to say, but--" Another laugh as the two seem to lighten away from the aftershock. Digested a little bit to put it loosely. "Of course, I told you..." Slowly, she begins to close their distance, walking away from the counter and toward his spot at the couch. "Not only are you sort of part of this...equation but--you're also the person I'd want to call about anything..." Their relationship has evolved slowly over the years, first is as friends and then something toeing the line and now they were trying to see what the other side had to hold. Surely, they weren't expecting this, but didn't entirely mean it was a bad thing.

There's a noticeable smile as he shares his dream of being a father. She could see it clearly, the image of Cade in the backyard playfully wrestling with some kids in the backyard, letting them win.

"Um...well--I hadn't thought about it, I mean, I have--now, but not a ton before. I don't know. You know my family." It had been only her, her brother and her father for years now; her mother having died when the twins were children, barely ten years old. "Do I want it? I--think so. I think...a part of me has always...wanted to have kids one day." The ease from before tenses again as hands tighten into fists and she feels the urge to distance again, twirling to the side slightly to look away, head down. "But what if I'm not good at it? The whole...mom thing." It's been a fear she's had for a long time, what if not knowing her mom keeps her from being a good one?

[wiinestories]

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY TO THESE TWO 💕😍😍 @elpida

[wiinestories]

WHAT IF THEY HAD AN INSTAGRAM EDITION - @elpida

[wrldofmyown]

@elpida asked: 'you've been crying whats wrong?' || meme || for Cade!

She had been thinking about what to tell Cade for three days now. The situation, under other circumstances, would've been happy news. But after their argument in which Isa put an end to them, the pregnancy test being positive, was among the last thing she needed.

With her eyes reddened and her voice shaky, she took a deep breath, "I'm pregnant." Then she showed him the picture of the test she had taken nearly a week ago.

[wiinestories]

🖤🖤 - for Eden&Cade (I'm also curious hehehe)

send 🖤 and my character will answer about yours.

Eden:

attractiveness:

repulsive / hideous / ugly / not attractive / unappealing / not unattractive / meh / no preference / ok / mildly attractive / nice looking / cute / adorable / attractive / pleasant on the eyes / good looking / hot / sexy / beautiful / gorgeous / hot damn / would tap that / perfect / godlike / holy fuck there are no words.

personality:

grating / irritating / frustrating / boring / confusing at best / awkward / unreasonable / psychotic / disturbing / interesting / engaging / affectionate / aggressive / ambitious / anxious / artistic (he does think she's got talents) / bad tempered / bossy / charismatic / appealing / unappealing / creative / courageous / dependable / unreliable / unpredictable / predictable / devious / dim / extroverted / introverted / egotistical / gregarious / fabulous / impulsive / intelligent / sympathetic / talkative / up beat / peaceful / calming / badass / flexible.

how likely they would have sex with them:

not if they were the last person on earth and the world was ending / fuck no! / never / no way / not likely / not sure / indifferent / I’m asexual / maybe / probably / it depends / fairly likely / likely / yeah sure / yes / would tap that / hell yes / fuck yes! / wishing that could happen right now / as many times as possible / we are already having sex.

level of friendship:

never in a million years / worst of enemies / enemies / rivals / indifferent / neutral / acquaintance / friendly toward each other / casual friends / friends / good friends / best friends / fuck buddies / bosom buddies / practically the same person / would die for them / true friends / my only friend.

first impression of them:

i hate them so much / i don’t like them / i don’t trust them / they annoy me / they’re weird / I’m indifferent / meh / they seem alright / they’re growing on me / truce / I think I like them / I like them / I’m not sure if I trust them / I trust them / they’re cool / they’re genuine / I think we’re going to get along / I really like them / I think I’m in love / oh fuck they’re hot (he's filth like that yes )/ I love them.

current impression of them:

i hate them so much / i don’t like them / i don’t trust them / they annoy me / they’re weird / I’m indifferent / meh / they seem alright / they’re growing on me / truce / I think I like them / I like them / I’m not sure if I trust them / I trust them / they’re cool / they’re genuine / I think we’re going to get along / I really like them / I think I’m in love (but wont' admit itttt) / oh fuck they’re hot / I love them.

Cade:

attractiveness:

repulsive / hideous / ugly / not attractive / unappealing / not unattractive / meh / no preference / ok / mildly attractive / nice looking / cute / adorable / attractive / pleasant on the eyes / good looking / hot / sexy / beautiful / gorgeous / hot damn / would tap that / perfect / godlike / holy fuck there are no words.

personality:

grating / irritating / frustrating / boring / confusing at best / awkward / unreasonable / psychotic / disturbing / interesting / engaging / affectionate / aggressive / ambitious / anxious / artistic / bad tempered / bossy / charismatic / appealing / unappealing / creative / courageous / dependable / unreliable / unpredictable (if HE GETS ANGRY AND SUCH HEH) / predictable / devious / dim / extroverted / introverted / egotistical / gregarious / fabulous / impulsive / intelligent / sympathetic / talkative / up beat / peaceful / calming / badass / flexible.

how likely they would have sex with them:

not if they were the last person on earth and the world was ending / fuck no! / never / no way / not likely / not sure / indifferent / I’m asexual / maybe / probably / it depends / fairly likely / likely / yeah sure / yes / would tap that / hell yes / fuck yes! / wishing that could happen right now / as many times as possible / we are already having sex.

level of friendship:

never in a million years / worst of enemies / enemies / rivals / indifferent / neutral / acquaintance / friendly toward each other / casual friends / friends / good friends / best friends / fuck buddies / bosom buddies / practically the same person / would die for them / true friends / my only friend.

first impression of them:

i hate them so much / i don’t like them / i don’t trust them / they annoy me / they’re weird / I’m indifferent / meh / they seem alright / they’re growing on me / truce / I think I like them / I like them / I’m not sure if I trust them / I trust them / they’re cool / they’re genuine / I think we’re going to get along / I really like them / I think I’m in love / oh fuck they’re hot / I love them.

current impression of them:

i hate them so much / i don’t like them / i don’t trust them / they annoy me / they’re weird / I’m indifferent / meh / they seem alright / they’re growing on me / truce / I think I like them / I like them / I’m not sure if I trust them / I trust them / they’re cool / they’re genuine / I think we’re going to get along / I really like them / I think I’m in love / oh fuck they’re hot / I love them.

[wiinestories]

drabble - angelo&agatha - a confession. @elpida

As Agatha lay on the hospital bed, her mind was consumed by thoughts of the recent events, particularly focused on Cade. Questions whirled through her head in a relentless cycle. Why hadn't he trusted her with the truth about his work? Why keep her in the dark about his involvement with dangerous people? Each repetition of these questions only intensified her confusion and hurt. A solitary tear escaped her eye, tracing a path down her cheek, a silent testament to the turmoil within her. She longed for Cade's presence, wishing he would be beside her to provide comfort and answers. Yet, at the same time, she feared what he might reveal, uncertain if she could handle the truth and the potential fallout from it.

Agatha's head snapped up as the door creaked open, revealing Angelo's imposing figure. "Leave," she said firmly, her gaze turning away from him. Angelo approached the bed, hands in the pockets of his black trousers. "I came over to apologize and because I noticed Eden wasn't here," he explained, closing the door behind him. "I meant my apology from earlier, Nightshade. I wasn't aware you were expecting. I'm sorry."

"I don't want your fucking apology. Just leave. I want to be alone with my baby," Agatha retorted, her voice filled with venom as she kept her gaze averted. Angelo tsked, shaking his head as he then took steps closer beside her, now standing before her. "You should learn to relax. It's not worth it for you to be like this when you are pregnant. I get it, you're angry over your husband lying to you—"

"Shut it!" Agatha's voice rose sharply as Angelo mentioned the word 'husband', her hand gesturing emphatically. Cade wasn't... not yet. But it certainly felt that way, didn't it? With a heavy sigh, she shook her head, her frustration palpable. "I've got no explanations to give to a bloody criminal, and I'm not taking advice from him either. Piss off." Agatha focused on her breathing, inhaling deeply and exhaling slowly, attempting to quell her rising anger.

"If it helps your cause, Sabelle is just someone who got me to Eden. Nothing else. He's not an associate of mine, and I know he doesn't deal with my friends either. He's just a guy doing some dirty work, but he's no criminal, and he's clearly into you. Guys like him? His type? Well, they might fit into this world, but if there's the right woman, he might just leave it all. He's not a man that would cheat, either. Learn to see the brighter side of things." Angelo snapped, narrowing her eyes at her.

"And yet I'm hearing this from a man that could cheat on Eden or leave her when she gets all the money she owes you..." Agatha pointed out, turning her gaze to him. "And you'll happen to know Cade better than I've ever had? Oh please," Angelo pulled his hands out of his pockets, raising a brow at her as he pressed his palms against the edge of the bed, flat. "I see she has told you about that," he remarked with a hum, his glare intensifying. "She has, and I warn you now, Santino, that if you dare to hurt her. I'll be the first to come after you and make sure you regret it." Agatha warned, her words laced with threat and firm determination.

Angelo began chuckling at her threatening words, slowly leaning off the bed as he didn't take them seriously. "Of course you're wrong about your own bullshit assumption." His voice raised, keeping his glare on her. "You, and most likely your precious husband, who doesn't have the balls to face you." His voice lowered, filled with poison. If someone dared to mention or use Eden against him, he'd react aggressively or aim for what could hurt. "At least I was and am honest about the criminal asshole I am, Agatha. But you're so fucking wrong about my feelings towards her because you have no fucking idea, and you make it up based on your own shitty assumptions."

"You don't give a damn about her, do you?" Agatha shouted at him, her words cutting through the air like knives as she ignored his venom-laced retorts. "You only care about what she gives you—a taste of youth and pleasure. That's all she is to you." Angelo's hands balled into fists, and he threw a punch towards the wall, startling her. The impact made him groan in pain, but he didn't stop. He struck the door with his other fist, the sound reverberating through the room. "You have no fucking idea because I care about her and I need her! I don't fucking care about the money!" His confession was raw, his anger palpable. As he realized the weight of his words, he began to calm himself, his tone softening. "I'll make sure to kill anyone that steps in our way. Mark my words, Agatha. I'm sure Sabelle would do the same for you. Put him on a fucking leash, and you two stay out of my relationship with Eden." With that, he opened the door and left the room, leaving Agatha shocked with his confession.

Agatha lay back on the bed, her hand gently caressing her growing belly. "How I wish, how I wish you were here…" she whispered softly, her words barely audible in the quiet room. With a heavy heart, she closed her eyes, hoping that when she woke up, Cade would be there beside her.

[isolatednights]

momentarily distracted by the hair that's beginning to creep around the frame of his face, aiyla's fingers practically itch to brush them back. his words break her from the thought ⸺ though she makes a mental note to search for a pair of scissors and sit him down for a proper cut in the coming days.

"we were talking about building a few new raised beds near the house before they showed up, and now we'll really need them if we're taking on two more mouths. maybe you can show him where we found the spare lumber in the morning and i can spend the day instructing him on what to do. you'll know right where to find me and i'll be in your sight from most places on the farm." perhaps it was a bit cruel, giving the man two laborious jobs back to back, but if the two of them wanted to stay with aiyla and cade, it would be long, strenuous days until things were properly set up. leaning into the brush of his fingers and blushing slightly, aiyla releases a soft hum of agreement. "me and you."

that remaining daylight hours pass quickly ⸺ and after sending rhea off with some food for the evening, it's blissfully quiet once more. aiyla contemplates arguing with cade, but knows its an argument she won't win. brushing down a wild tuft of hair as she passes, the woman slips into the bed with a sigh. "m'kay. just wake me when it's my turn, alright? we both have to be awake enough to deal with them if things take a turn," not that she expects it to, but aiyla hopes it will prompt cade to at least wake her halfway through the night, rather than taking the full shift.

padding into the barn, brows raise at the transformation that's taken place. rhea had poked her head in shortly after their arrival during her tour with aiyla and assumed they'd continue to rough it until they were invited into the farmhouse, but somehow elias had gone and transformed the space. flashing him a smile before dark hues continue to drink in the strung lights and bed.

snorting at the mention of the smell, her attention returns to him. "yes because i smell like a sweet peach." her day might have been far easier than his, but the luxury of a proper scrub down had been sporadic during their travels. everything about what they'd grown familiar with, however, had the promise of changing now that they'd found this place. "aiyla mentioned she'd get us some towels and a bar of soap from the house in the morning. apparently there's a well nearby and we're welcome to wash up but need to dump the water away from where they're growing crops." it wouldn't be the hot shower she craved, but it would be nice to be clean again.

"oh you didn't manage that today on top of everything else?" she teases, "i was planning it right over the barn door so everyone sees it as they enter." padding across the space, she offers out the pack she'd been handed before saying her goodnights to cade and aiyla. "they sent along something to eat and refilled our bottles.... and you aren't in this alone, you know? we have a chance of some normalcy here, so we'll work together to make this work. and if it doesn't... well. as long as you're with me, i'll have a home."

cade's hair had reached the point where it was starting to flick and curl, little tufts peppering across his forward and the way he always pushed it back was effortless. "it's a good plan, try n' scope him out a bit? see if his story lines up but, you just... be careful with him alone yeah? i'm never far i just.." a slow breath, a heavy exhale.. thoughts heavy on his mind. "you come irst to me so, don't like the idea of you goin' far with a still stranger or anythin' happening to you. just don't go far with him but if anything, even if you just suspect, shout. you know i'll come runnin'." he reached forward, dared to be a bit soft.. maybe there presence had him feeling that bit more protective but he reached to tuck a fallen strand of hair back behind her ear. "aiyla you are my number one, ride or die me n' you right? that don't change."

elias battled on through the day, he got the jobs done, cade showed him where he and rhea could set up for the night. after that he went through their packs, pulling out the bedding and trying to make up a safe and comfortable corner for rhea to sleep, he'd be fine taking first watch. unbeknownst to him that was also what Cade had done, moved a chair to the window where he could overlook the barn, just incase. "you sleep first, no arguments."

"there's my lovely wife." elias was smirking, being a big idiot as ever when rhea came in. he'd set up the bed, strung up to solar powered lanterns so it felt a little more homely than desolate and sure, it wasn't ideal but it was a roof, it was safe and secure and he'd done his best to clean their section. "now i know this isn't the ritz, but maybe when they trust us a bit more- as for the smell well, awfully sorry, been lugging around logs." he smiled, stupid and goofy and if she ever realised, it was in admiration of her, always smiling at the brightest thing he had in his life now. "i'll work on the live laugh love sign." he joked, taking a seat beside the makeshift bed of sleeping bags and piled blankets, one spread and neatly arranged underneath them rather than cold hard dirt. farm life suited him. "i'm gonna do my best, you know to make this work? i want this to work for us, i want you to have somewhere to call home rhea." he just... he hoped it was with him.

[wiinestories]

Alessio could see the fear and terror etched in Eden's eyes, a stark contrast to the confident and lively woman he had known back in Italy. The change was jarring, and it struck him deeply to witness how much she had been affected by the events that had unfolded since they last saw each other. Back in Italy, she had been full of life, her personality a vibrant mix of energy and sweetness that drew people to her. The stark transformation filled Alessio with a deep concern. Where was Angelo, the man who should have been by her side, the father of the child she was carrying? The absence of Angelo was troubling. Alessio couldn’t understand why his son wasn’t here, providing the support and protection that Eden so desperately needed. This was his responsibility, his duty as both a partner and a father, and yet he was nowhere to be found. The questions burned within Alessio, and he knew he would demand answers when he found Angelo. How could he have left Eden in such a state, especially now when she was carrying his child? Despite the blame he'd put on her, Alessio couldn't fathom it.

"You are safe," Alessio reassured, his voice soft yet firm as his hand gently ran up and down Eden's arm, trying to provide her with some sense of comfort. Slowly, he lifted himself from the ground just enough to reach for her phone, placing it back on its holder. Even as he moved, he made sure to stay close to her, sensing her need for reassurance. When she instinctively moved closer, his arms wrapped around her, holding her protectively. "Who is Agatha?" he asked, his brows furrowing with curiosity. The name was unfamiliar to him, but the way Eden had mentioned it suggested this person might be important to her—perhaps a friend or someone she trusted. His concern deepened as he watched her, noticing the way her words slurred slightly and how her skin had taken on a pale, almost translucent quality. She was weak, far too weak, and the signs were all there: the faintness in her voice, the unsteadiness in her movements.

"I am taking you to the hospital, Eden. You need to be well," Alessio insisted, his tone leaving no room for argument. He was deeply concerned about her condition, and the idea of her suffering any longer was unbearable. When she mentioned Angelo, her voice tinged with despair, he gently shook his head. "I'll make him see reason, don't worry," he promised, his voice filled with determination. He knew that Angelo needed to understand the gravity of the situation, and Alessio was prepared to confront him if necessary.

As Eden tried to stand, Alessio was right there, ready to support her. But it quickly became clear that she was too weak. Her legs buckled beneath her, and before she could collapse, Alessio caught her in his arms. His heart pounded with fear as she began to lose consciousness, her body going limp against him. "Help!" Alessio called out urgently to the motel staff, his voice filled with desperation as he carefully lowered Eden to the ground. He barked out orders, instructing them to call for an ambulance immediately. As he cradled her in his arms, his eyes were drawn to the bruises and marks on her chest and cheek, evidence of the pain she had endured. The sight of her injuries filled him with a deep, protective rage and a sorrow that cut to his core. She had been hurt, and he could see that, which pained him beyond words. As he waited for the ambulance, he held her close, whispering reassurances that she would be alright, though they were as much for himself as they were for her. He was determined not to let anything happen to her, not now, not when she needed him most.

As soon as Cade took hold of Alma, Agatha’s hands instinctively went to her hair, gathering the loose strands into a small ponytail. Her worry for Eden was palpable, evident in the way her fingers trembled slightly as she secured her hair. "She didn't sound well, and I'm worried too," she admitted, her voice laced with concern. The fear in her heart was growing, and it was clear in her eyes, which were clouded with anxiety over what might be happening to her friend. But as she watched Cade, her expression softened. Despite the worry gnawing at her, she couldn't help but smile as she witnessed Cade fully embracing his role as a father. He cradled Alma gently, his large hands steady and comforting as he bounced her lightly in his arms. Alma cooed contentedly, her tiny face bright with innocent joy, completely unaware of the tension in the room.

Agatha stirred, turning on the bed as Cade got up to answer the phone. The room was dimly lit, and the soft hum of the phone conversation seemed to echo in the quiet space. Her heart skipped a beat as he relayed the news about Eden being in the hospital. Instantly, Agatha sat up, her concern sharpening. "Is she alright? Have they said anything else?" she asked, her voice laced with anxiety. She ran her slim fingers through her hair, a nervous habit she couldn’t quite shake, as she processed the information. Her gaze briefly drifted to Alma, peacefully sleeping in her cradle, blissfully unaware of the surrounding turmoil. The sight of her daughter brought a brief moment of calm, a reminder of the fragile but precious life they had created. Agatha took a deep breath, trying to steady her nerves. "Yes, let's give her some time," she agreed, her voice softening as she considered Eden’s state. "And then we'll all go to see her. I think she’ll be happy to finally see Alma as well."

As Eden slept in the hospital, Alessio didn’t waste a moment. His mind was set on confronting his son, Angelo, and he moved with purpose, not allowing himself to hesitate. The guards at Angelo’s residence, recognizing Alessio immediately, granted him entry without question. There was an unspoken respect for the elder man, his reputation preceding him, and they knew better than to delay his passage. Upon entering, Alessio was greeted by Lawrence, who had returned to his duties despite the recent attack. The two men shared a moment, Alessio embracing Lawrence in a firm, reassuring hug. With Lawrence’s guidance, Alessio made his way to Angelo’s studio. The room was filled with the quiet hum of Angelo’s work, the space reflecting his son’s meticulous nature. But any sense of calm was shattered the moment Alessio walked in. Angelo looked up, surprise flashing in his eyes at the unexpected visit. But before he could utter a word, Alessio closed the distance between them with swift, decisive steps. Without warning, Alessio’s hand came down in a sharp slap across Angelo’s cheek. The sound echoed through the room, a stark contrast to the tense silence that followed. Angelo staggered slightly, shock and pain crossing his features as he instinctively raised a hand to his reddening cheek. Lawrence, who had followed Alessio into the studio, stood frozen at the doorway, witnessing the entire scene. The slap was not just an act of anger, but of deep disappointment, a father's reprimand that carried the weight of everything Alessio had witnessed and felt over the past few hours.

"Dovresti vergognarti dell'uomo che sei, che lascia una donna incinta a badare a se stessa in uno squallido motel, solo perché sei un furfante! Non ti ho cresciuto in questo modo [You should be ashamed of the man you are, leaving a pregnant woman to fend for herself in a sleazy motel, just because you're a scoundrel! I didn't raise you like this!]!" Alessio’s anger flared as he raised his voice, the restrained fury he had been holding back now fully unleashed. "Eden is in the hospital because you weren’t there for her! She’s carrying your child, and you left her to fend for herself while you sit here, oblivious to the danger she was in!"

Angelo, still reeling from the slap, struggled to find his voice. The reality of the situation crashed down on him as he saw the depth of his father's anger, an anger rooted in concern and love for both him and Eden. "Non sono ignaro di quello che sta passando! Era scomparsa e tutti la stavamo cercando. [I'm not oblivious to what she's going through! She was missing and we were all looking for her.]

All Eden wanted to do, was protect their baby and yet all she could do was lie there in a state of pain and fear. Everything had weighed too heavy on her shoulders, it'd all added up day by day, getting worse, all thanks to Sam who'd press down on her shoulders and heighten the tension she felt, he'd press until she was crumbling and now she was. It'd all added up and god, she looked so dainty.. she looked dainty normally sure but now she was fragile. Hearing the door unlock, the steps, she just kept mumbling the words, the small plea over and over and she didn't stop that soft prayer until she felt.. a gentle hand. Sam would've grabbed her, Sam would've ripped his hands at her and shook her, he'd have seethed hatred to her skin, he'd have hit her.. enough that her body was tense in waiting for the strike that never came.

Alessio. She knew from the whispered way he called her Cara, dear, she believe it meant.. but she knew the familiarity and someone familiar, someone safe.. she just needed someone safe. "Alessio-" she almost cried his name, that's when she really opened her eyes but Eden wasn't herself, she was so confused, enough to look to how dark it was outside. She'd... when did she call Alessio? Where had that time gone? "I think.. I fell?" she mumbled, the phone was still hanging down from it's holder, ringing an endless tone. "Where did Agatha..." Eden moved more to him, this worry and confusion etched into her screwed brows, but her hand instantly went to her chest, rubbing where it hurt. "I don't remember." and that was genuinely, terrifying.

Eden had very clearly lost a good chunk of time when she collapsed and to feel so confused, it was beyond concerning but what she really needed... was exactly what she moved for. She inched to him, positioning herself in a way that was her hugging to his chest. That made her feel like she could breath because, she trusted him... she trusted and very clearly knew where Angelo got his protective instincts. "I don't feel so good Alessio..I don't feel good anymore.." she mumbles the words, it's clear enough in her actions, she's weak, but even weak.. she knew she needed to go to a hospital, to see a doctor. "Will you stay with me?" she asked softly, that's what upset her the most, the idea of a place she was so primarily uneasy being in but being there alone. "I don't think he'll want to see me anymore."

It wasn't until she went to stand that she started to go faint again, she managed to warn him too, the feeling that started to wash over her, the paleness that grasped at her skin, Eden was not well at all. She explained, managed to mumble how whenever she ate she felt sick, a permanent thing and it'd been that way for weeks now. The murmured whispers about the pain in her chest, but halfway through that journey her head started to roll forward. "Please- please don't go. I don't want to be alone." She went limp, completely unresponsive again. There was an urgency to get her seen, there were looks too because she was being brought in with scratch marks still evident on her chest and an awful mark on her cheek where Sam had injured her. The bruising surrounding it was in the yellowing stage now two days had passed but it was still beyond noticeable.

After that phone call, Cade couldn't sit still. He was up, pacing. Why would it cut out like that? She'd never just hang up so abruptly.. but it didn't sound like hanging up. "I'm worried." he finally outburst the clear thought going on in his head. "I have this gut feeling somethin' has happened. I know it isn't Sam but she wasn't herself, what if.. Agatha what if something happened?" his hands pushed through his hair and when Alma started to stir, gurgling some noise he extended his arms to take the little one. She always looked tiny cradled in his arms. "I know little lady, you're worried about your aunt too huh? Well don't you worry one bit." he said this whilst stepping into his 'dad' rock, something he'd picked up really quickly was the ability to walk and bounce and Alma loved it, she'd make silly little noises, her hands would reach up for his free hand, since he could hold her securely in the one, she'd hold to his fingers, one hand not even wrapping around his fingers. "Minute we can we'll find out if your aunty is safe n' sound."

His phone went late, he could see it was the hospital. He'd asked Eden to put him down as another emergency contact, since they were as close as family it made since. He had Agatha and her down as his, since he'd had a firm telling off about not having anyone down, never wanting to worry his Mother. Cade got up quickly to go take the call with a look of urgency, walking into another room. He found it hard to focus on the phone but when he came back into the room he shook his head. A hand pushing up through his hair. "She's safe, well.. she's in the hospital, but at least we know where she is." his lips pressed. "You think that asshole is going to do the right thing? I don't want to go overwhelming her but.." he didn't know whether to stay, or go. "Late morning, give her chance to eat, why don't we all go? We can take Alma, she'd like that, Alma too.. 'coz I mean, we can go to the park after or something, we could go for breakfast out, my treat or lunch, whatever we feel like?" He really had taken over the role of caring for her like Ben would have and his best friend, would've been so proud of the man he was becoming and how he kept that promise, never forgetting.

[wiinestories]

"You're a better man than he is, son. You deserve my daughter and from what I'm hearing, you intend to be with her and that gives me relief and happiness," Patrick stated bluntly, a smile spreading across his face and reaching out to pat his shoulder again. "I've never been as open as I am with you, Cade. I intend for you to appreciate my trust. I know what Agatha means to you now, she's told us about what you went through. I'm glad you both were there for each other."

Agatha and Catherine entered the kitchen just as the conversation turned to Agatha's former boyfriend, Ryan. Catherine took note of the serious tone and decided to share the recent developments. "Well, Ryan called us two weeks ago," Catherine began, her voice carrying a hint of concern. Patrick turned halfway towards them, his expression reflecting a mix of anger and resentment.

Agatha's eyes widened at the mention of Ryan's call. "What do you mean? What did he say?" she asked, her brows furrowing with worry. Catherine took a seat on one of the kitchen stools, preparing to relay the unsettling news. "He said awful things, Agatha," she explained, her voice tinged with disbelief. "He accused you of cheating on him with Cade and claimed that you blocked him because you were too cowardly to face him." Patrick shook his head slowly, a scoff escaping him at the absurdity of Ryan's accusations. "Then, he had the audacity to suggest that Cade took advantage of you, using pity to manipulate you into being with him because he was aware Cade was in a bad situation. He also said that he got jealous overtime because of that because Cade was getting too close to you, and you didn't stop him from getting close, so Ryan justified his toxicity saying that he felt something was off," she added, her voice laced with disdain for Ryan's deceitful claims. "Of course we didn't buy that, honey. What a jerk! Suggesting my daughter would even dare to betray someone's trust!" Catherine exclaimed with slight anger and disgust, her nose scrunching up at the thought. "Your father gave him a piece of his mind through the phone."

Agatha's anger surged at her mother's revelations about the call from Ryan. "A fucking asshole," she muttered through gritted teeth, her frustration evident in her tone. Rubbing her forehead with her fingers, she ran her hands through her blonde locks, trying to calm herself. "I can't fucking believe he dared to say all of those lies. He's worse than I've ever thought he'd be," Agatha continued, her voice tinged with disbelief and disgust. Suddenly, a wave of nausea washed over her, and she instinctively placed a hand gently on her stomach, feeling the discomfort intensify. "God… I... I need to..." Agatha trailed off, her sentence left unfinished as she turned away and rushed to the nearest bathroom. Patrick's stirring ceased abruptly as he noticed Agatha's distress, and he hurried to her side without a moment's hesitation. Meanwhile, Catherine, hearing the sound of Agatha retching from the kitchen, turned her attention to Cade, her maternal instincts on high alert. Approaching him with a sense of concern, Catherine crossed her arms over her chest, her expression serious. "Is it the first time she's throwing up?" she inquired in a low tone, her voice tinged with worry. Deep down, Catherine suspected that Agatha might be experiencing morning sickness, a telltale sign of pregnancy.

He did move to the fridge to get himself orange juice and ice, he liked ice in every drink and wouldn't drink water unless it was icy cold. Cade did genuinely find himself liking this family, her parents. He hadn't seen much of London yet but maybe in their few days here he could see more of it, he did notice Agatha seemed happy to be home though and her happiness was his happiness at this point. He'd do anything to make that women happy. Son. That remark brought a smirk to Cade's lips, had never in his life had another man act any semblance of Fatherly with him so it was somewhat heart warming to feel so... easily accepted in that regard.

Once he'd got his drink he did grab a frying pan and the mince to begin browning that. He was pretty good when it came to seasoning too. "Do you mind me askin' the difference? Between normal shepherds pie and Irish shepherds pie?" he was genuinely curious, he knew the standard version, very similar to his ma's cottage pie really though he imagined the Irish version had some sort of secret ingredient. He should've asked Eden if she knew any Irish dishes, been more prepared. She'd know some of them given her Gran was Irish. He'd never forget the first time he'd heard that old ladies accent.

"Well Ryan was undeserving of such an impressive and beautiful woman, Sir." he nodded his head, he was being respectful and he agreed with everything Patrick, how intelligent she was, part of her charm in his opinion. "Your daughter helped me through a lot, I was in an emotionally, very dark place for a long time so, to me she really is the light of my life n' I intend to keep her happy, by any means." he listened to the story, the miscarriage and felt so much empathy for her and Catherine, for the whole family really. "I'm sorry to hear you've all been through somethin' like that." he kept his voice down, didn't want to make a huge deal on the family secret. The mention of Ryan being a gobshite perked his interest clearly though, the way Cade's body stiffened thinking about him saying a damn thing about or to Agatha. He'd warned him once to stay away, he'd not use words to warn him again. "Did Ryan say somethin'?" Cade asked quietly, this sinister nature in him showing through. "Has he said somethin' about Agatha? 'Coz trust me you wont need to fly out to handle him, there'd be nothin' left to find." Protective. Cade was beyond protective and in that very moment it showed so fiercely.

His hand flexed briefly along with his jaw, gritting together before he let the anger go, nothing he could do about it here. "Sorry I just, that fucking prick deserves every bad thing that happens to him. I'm of the very strong opinion he didn't deserve her from the start." he paused. "I liked your daughter long before I even knew she was with anyone but to find out it was an ass like him." He stirred the browning mince as he talked, reaching for the onions already diced by Patrick to pile them in, to cook in the juices and take in flavour. "I'll handle the gobshite."