#goodnight i need his sperm bye

[suchawrathfullamb]

those rare moments when I remember Hugh has kids are the moments I become fertilized

[naturaldisasterfanfiction]

14. Part 3

Seeing that Robyn is going to go there and argue I grabbed her arm “don’t go there, listen to me” Robyn is ready to argue but I don’t think I want that, if she goes to him and he tells her I am doomed “but I told him! And how dare Teejay say that to you, also I know Teejay has told him you are here, I am not stupid Chris. I am not having this shit” shaking my head, I am sweating now “just leave it, leave it until the guests go Robyn, it creates drama. Me being here is already drama for you and I have made this harder for you. You doing this is also my fault, me causing drama so please don’t” Robyn’ face softened she let go of her dress she partially held up when she was walking off, I know she is ready to battle but no “why are you saying that Chris? I am so happy you came, there is no drama. I just don’t want people to know, is that what has upset you? I didn’t want that for you Chris, honestly. Did someone say anything to you” shaking my head “nah, just saying” Robyn is reading my face, she is trying to calculate what happened and who said something “you said you needed to speak to me, what happened?” shaking my head “guests have come out, it’s fine. Just don’t argue, you don’t need to stress. I will be here” Robyn is staring at me; she knows full well I am lying to her face and she isn’t liking it “did someone say something to you Chris? I am asking you one time” licking my top lip staring at her, I don’t want the drama but it’s just coming to me constantly “you need to see your mom” Jahleel came up to Robyn, she knows something is up “is it important?” Robyn asked “I think so, just go. Hi friend!” Jahleel said to me “I will babysit Chris” Jahleel skipped over to me “fine” Robyn walked off “chile, he’s a monster. So anyways Monica wants Robyn to come over because Rorrey said he will be good, you should see the side of his face, bruised” walking backwards to sit down at the table again.

Me and Jahleel are just staring at the family talking but like I am not seeing anyone look at me yet “you think he will say anything?” I asked him “either he will say it now or he may save face and say it after, I think the it’s the second option because he will say it. I mean I saw he wanted you to react” he is right he did “I don’t get why you are being nice to me? Nobody is nice to me, it’s Mel but we have history” I don’t get it, nobody is ever nice to me, not in Robyn’ camp. At some point they do hate me “well I don’t know you from the past, I am new to you but I have been around long enough to see my girl needs to be happy, I know her taste in men just doesn’t help but I feel like she never let herself go. I only know you from when I met you, so I judge from then. You haven’t done anything to me so there is that. Robyn told me to take care of you so if you commit a murder, then I have to remain” he laughed “I am joking, please don’t do that but I have no issues with you. Besides, I don’t need to hear about how dry her pussy is anymore; I am so happy for her. All she does is work and please others, she froze some of her eggs too actually” raising an eyebrow, I didn’t know that “froze her eggs? So, like they can stay there forever?” I questioned “yeah, she doesn’t believe in men and also she thinks she’s not worth the perfect life. It’s sad, honestly. She just throws herself into work and it’s like people always want, want, want and then when it comes to it no man wants to be with her, they do not want her to be wife, they want sex or the status of they had Robyn and she is not like that. She even was with Hassan and I was like oh Jesus, that ain’t going to work out but she was kind of happy, but then she didn’t feel herself and I felt he was slowly changing her, she was depressed because she gained weight, he also was trash towards her and I think it has upset her, she accepted it and then said I will get a sperm donor and then one came along” I laughed “that is interesting to hear, when I see Robyn I am turned on all the time. Men are scared of her, she has so much power so they feel they can’t be what she wants. From what I know is that men feel powerless, but I don’t see that, she is not the woman they think. She is very vulnerable and honestly if she were so powerful as they think, she wouldn’t have listened to her team for all them years. I never felt that at all with Robyn, I just never felt worthy of her because of the mess of my life. And ever since I have always been lost, I have always wanted to make her my wife, she is worthy” Jahleel cooed out “that is cute, when I see you both it’s so natural. Who am I to judge her happiness, but I wouldn’t worry about Rorrey anyways” Jahleel is good people, I like him.

I don’t think Rorrey said anything, but they are still here, both of them are assholes “Christopher” I jumped hearing my full name “huh” looking down “hi” Majesty waved “that is Uncle Christopher, don’t be rude now!” Noella scolded her “tuh, Uncle Christopher. Hi” I laughed as I moved up in the chair “hi, where you been princess? You look so beautiful in this dress baby” Majesty twirled in her dress “Robyn baby is a girl and I wore pink, baby name is Fenty” I gasped “oh wow really? I like that name; I love your dress. Don’t tell Robyn but your dress is better” Majesty laughed “sing to me again, sing there. Come on!” shaking my head “no, I am shy but you can tell the DJ to play a song and I will sing it here for you” Noella is laughing at her daughter but she is cute, I love the kids they good people “I come back” she ran off to tell the DJ, I wonder what she going to play “what song she like of mine?” I asked Noella, she just laughed “she likes a lot actually so don’t be shocked” I am scared now, she seems like she will pick an awkward one. Looking at my phone as it rang, my lady is ringing me. Answering the call “who is this?” I asked, “it’s me stupid butt!” I laughed out “I know who it is, why you stalking me? You know I hate that” seeing Majesty running back, she is so much like Robyn, so confident in her shit too, she will do it without a care “Christopher!” she yelped out, looking at her “who is that dad?” how do I listen to both “he’s playing your song!” she laughed, nodding my head “can I call you back baby, I am busy sorry” I am not doing good with two excitable kids “can I come to the house dad after schoo tomorrow? Mom said I can, also I got school work and I want you to help with it” Majesty sat on my lap, letting out an oh “baby I am not in the country, nobody is at the home so don’t go there. Just Keeis and you don’t want to sit with him, uhm. I will be back in like two or three days’ time but I am not there” I hope I haven’t upset Royalty, she is the only girl that loves me a lot besides Robyn “are you seeing Aeko?” my daughter asked “no it’s something else but I promise, soon I will let you know why ok? Just right now I can’t” Royalty sighed out “is it that thing you said, to make you happy?” smiling lightly “making moves baby, just believe in me. When I land back, I come and pick you up” Undecided started playing which made me laugh “it’s the song!” Majesty shouted, “do you have another child?” I was shook she said that “uh no, what? I do not, she is my friend’ daughter, you know your daddy is famous. You my main, stop it ok? I love you and I will call later” let me get off this call “love you too, bye dad” she put the phone, placing my phone on the table “But I'm undecided, excited, ignited. And I don't wanna feel the way I do, but I like it” I sang as I tickled Majesty.

Majesty is sat on my shoulders, like this girl is harassing me but she is cute with it though “Majesty, you harassing Chris now?” Robyn came over to us, she has been so busy “I am not auntie, over there Christopher!!” she shouted “uh, excuse me young lady. You get off there now” Robyn is not amused “only I can climb you” I overheard “huh?” I said “nothing but get down now” oh Robyn don’t like it “she good, it’s fine. I think you’re wanted anyways” looking behind her, I can see Rajad just stood there staring “people are leaving now, so things will be ok” nodding my head as I walked off with Majesty “it’s your bedtime now” her dad said, Majesty whined “let me get her, thank you for letting her hang with you” he said, picking Majesty off of me “it’s ok, she good. Goodnight little boss” placing her on the ground “you’re so cool!” she spat, touching the top of her head “it’s cool” smiling at her, she isn’t wrong. The people are leaving now so I will just wait around, actually let me call Royalty back because I promised her, getting my phone out of my pocket pacing around the yard. I was going to call but then the time different, I mean she could be awake but let me try. The phone rang out, and rang out, but no answer.

I am really unsure on what will happen, do I go to a hotel or not “I am tired!” Robyn whined out “I am wearing slides now, come. Come on in, why are you here, we are all inside” I shrugged “I just don’t want to you know be in y’all faces. I came here for you, so like to see you ok and things. I am getting a hotel; I think it is best with your brother here” Robyn frowned at me “say what? Stop it, I was going to ask because you never finished off, did someone say something to you?” she is asking me again, I don’t want the trouble “ain’t Rorrey say anything to you?” I am sure he did “no but he said he wants to talk to me, but I don’t want to know, why?” placing my hands on my hips, I might as well say something “so me and Jahleel went into the home, you know to go to toilet. And uhm, I see your brother. He started on me, and I just wanted to walk away but he touched my shoulder, and then I said don’t touch me. And then he pissed me off and said that I only bully women and I punched him, I knocked him out on the floor. And then Jahleel said let’s drag him to some room, he woke up and just left but came back, I know it’s bad because he was drunk and I could have done damage to him in a bad way, but I am sorry and I understand that you want me to go for that because it’s a bad thing I did, my anger is still there. I was going to tell you before, but I didn’t want to ruin your day” Robyn pointed at me “right” she walked off, what is that supposed to mean, is that right she is angry at me or what.

I followed behind Robyn back into the home, I don’t know where she is storming of too but I am not sure if she is angry at me or at Rorrey “out! Everyone out! Besides my brother’s, mom, Mel you can stay. Ja! You stay too, also Teejay, cousin. Stay here too” Jahleel looked at me and I just looked at him, we know what is happening because I mean we was both there when it happened “out now, hurry up, Chris sit down” seeing the spot next to Mel is free so I sat down, because I mean Robyn told me too and she is angry, very angry “what happened?” Mel asked me, looking at the side of me “she will say it” I mumbled, Mel sighed out knowing it will be some shit “ok so Teejay why did you stop Chris coming in? What is the reason?” Robyn asked him “uhm because he is not family and he came randomly, I was just protecting you” Robyn laughed “ok quit the lies, what did he say to you” she pointed at Rorrey “what do you exactly know Teejay, I suggest you tell me because you both are using my name to get by in life, I didn’t even let my own dad off! Who are you!? Who are both of you! So come on, what do you know and why did you do it and the fucking truth” I mean I think Teejay is lying about something “what did he say to you Chris?” oh no, she is asking me “he said that I am not welcome here, I need to go” I answered “so? What is the truth Teejay? We meant to be family. I have given you a life! So, come on?” I am so glad I am not the one she is shouting at “Rorrey told me that Chris is the father, you’re the one of many. He told me he is the father, we don’t need him in Barbados, he is not allowed to come. He will treat you like shit, so he wants to protect you from that” Teejay pointed at me “right, so Rorrey told a secret of mine? You told!? Is that what we doing now Rorrey, really? The fucking both of you, lived a good life because of me, I hate to bring it up and throw it in both of your faces but I am. I have done nothing but do everything for you all, I made you all have a better life, me. I did it, I have done everything for everyone but when it comes to me to be happy every one got an opinion on it. You know both of you fucking know how much I have wanted something of my own and you can’t even be happy for me!? I am finally having a baby, and this is what you do to me on my day!? I am thirty five, closer to forty and I can’t even get a man to want me the way the world assumes they want, if it were that easy I would be married with my third child because that is all I have wanted, I wanted my happily ever after. Now I am pregnant, not by who you all wanted, you think it’s cute to disrespect my movements, the funny part is you both would praise me if it was Drake and that nigga is no angel! He is also a fuck nigga, but you think the sun shines out of his fake ass. Settle, that is what you want” Robyn clasped her hands together, she is composing myself.

She breathed out “when is it my turn, I ask this every time, I will never make you happy because it’s about me. You may not like me for this, and I know for a fact the whole fucking world will hate me about Chris. This is what will happen, both of you niggas will NDAs to sign, and if anything fucking leaks I will sue you for money, just because. Rorrey, the properties I got you, I want them back. My jet, you don’t use. You don’t ever use my name for anything, while I am in this house I don’t want to see you. Don’t text me, call me, email me, see me. I don’t want to know; I am glad Chris punched you. My daughter comes first, not you or anybody else, you either with it or you gone. You ain’t shit without me, you thought I was playing, and if Rajad wants to fucking follow, then go!” she shouted “I am disappointed in you Rorrey, why did you tell your sister’ secret? We don’t play that Rorrey” Monica said upset “you upset my daughter for nothing, this is hurting me because my daughter is upset. You sign those papers your sister sends you, go and stay with your dad now” Rorrey is not happy “don’t even speak to me, you won’t see my daughter. And if I die, don’t come to my funeral. I wanted a brother, not an enemy because I have that out there. How dare you say such words to Chris! How dare you!” she shouted in his face “sit down now, come on” Monica held Robyn’ arm, motioning her to sit down “rest now, I think he knows” watching Robyn sit down “but he doesn’t mom, because me. I am weak, I will end up forgiving him because I am weak. This is all I get with the men in my life, shit. It’s not fair mom. I am fed up” Robyn’ voice broke, putting my head down “that is because you got a good heart, but you don’t forgive for anything, you don’t need anyone baby. Stop it, look at this. Get out, go now!” Monica said to Rorrey, I don’t like to see Robyn sad at all, not on her day “I am sorry Robyn, I wasn’t thinking. I am sorry” looking up at Rorrey walking out “I don’t want to see him, just sign the papers and be done with” Robyn sniffled saying as he left “hey come here” Mel got up from the couch, Jahleel did not seem phased by it all.

Side eyeing Jahleel yawning, Mel and Robyn have gone, Monica has gone. And Jahleel is also ditching me and I am just sat here in Robyn’ home not knowing what to do, maybe I need to give Robyn space “you can always sleep in the bed with me?” rubbing my head laughing “no thank you, but thank you for offering. I wanted to ask, you seemed not phased by Robyn crying like that, is that something she has done before?” I asked him “uh she’s had her moments yes; my friend was always sad, but she pushed on. Throw yourself into work” seeing Mel has now come back “she’s in the kitchen if you want to see her” Mel said to me, letting out an oh as I got up “nigga, you still here. Go to sleep” Mel pushed Jahleel out of the way “I was offering my bed to Chris actually, being a nice fucking person here. Babysat him and this is what I get, the abuse. Anyways goodnight Batman, I will be Robin” shaking my head laughing as I made my way out “goodnight” he is funny, but I hope Robyn is ok. I do wonder if Robyn asked to see me or Mel just said, my eyes widened at the kitchen here. It is huge, like this is my kitchen but like three times that, impressive “I know it’s late, I didn’t get to eat my own cake” Robyn said as she ate cake from the paper plate “you want some?” she offered me “I thought you was tired” making my way over to her slowly “craving cake, it’s nice you know” she still has her baby shower dress on, she looks so beautiful. Grabbing the paper plate from Robyn and placed on the side counter, sighing out as I placed my hands on the side of Robyn’ face, my thumbs lightly stroking her cheek staring into her eyes “stop” she breathed out, looking down before she sobbed out crying “Robyn” wrapping my arms around her, I knew she was feeling this way but was masking it.

[afteriwake]

(Banner by @strangelock221b)

…And All The Men And Women Merely Players - Mycroft Holmes is not-so-subtly trying to make sure there’s a reconciliation between his youngest sibling Sherlock and his ex-wife, Molly Hooper, by forcing them to work together on a theatre project. But it isn’t all smooth sailing when his and Sherlock’s sister comes back from the States with a boyfriend who is the devil incarnate…and all hell is about to break loose.

READ CHAPTER 1 | READ CHAPTER 10 | BUY ME A COFFEE?

By the end of the day, Sherlock felt he would be rightfully justified in denying Moriarty a part in the play. He wasn’t suited for the nuance of the material, going loud and boisterous when he should be quiet and contemplative. But that was just him being himself, Sherlock supposed. Still, he looked at the faces of those whose judgment he trusted and saw none of them were impressed.

With Russell in the care of his “uncles,” and no doubt soon his “grandmother,” Sherlock invited both Mary and John to his home to talk about all the actors they had seen that day. Neither John or Mary made any qualms about Moriarty being not right for any of the parts, though two other actors, Sally Donovan and Philip Anderson, had caught their attention for roles. Unfortunately, John and Mary thought the suitable for different roles, so he hoped Molly could be a sort of tiebreaker.

“I think Phillip would do well as the morgue assistant,” Molly said once the food they had ordered arrived and they sat in the sitting room, eating out of the cartons. “It’s slightly comedic, even if it’s a smaller role, and he seems more suited to that.”

“And Sally?” Mary asked.

“Perhaps the morgue attendant, if she’ll wear men’s dress,” Molly said, tilting her head for a moment before eating some lo mein. “She seems to have a bossy look when she’s talking in the clipped tones a woman impersonating a man would have. And I don’t think it will be a stretch that a black woman would use a disguise to infiltrate the medical system. At least, disbelief should be suspended during the duration of the play because she’s a charismatic actress. I just loved her during the reveal to the detective.”

“Which reminds me,” Sherlock said. “I’d like to have them both come back and play off of you, John, as I haven’t seen anyone else so far I’d consider for the role of the detective.”

“I’d be honored, Sherlock,” John said with a grin.

“And do I get a sneak peek at any role I might get?” Mary asked with a wry grin.

“Of course, Miss Ricoletti.” Sherlock gave her a wink and Mary grinned widely.

“I know there are other women who would be portraying the ghost if we were keeping this closer to the true story,” Molly said, “but I think I can tweak the script so Mary can do a bit more in the ghostly sense.”

“So this is all really based on a true story?” John asked.

Molly nodded. “I was visiting a friend in London while I was living in New York, and we went on a ghost tour, and her grave was one of the spots. The more I looked into the story the more fascinating it became. It’s still hotly debated whether she committed suicide or whether she was killed by the group of women to put her out of her misery with her illness, but her likeness was seen along the streets of London and at the deaths of London’s finest for weeks to come after the murder of her husband and her suicide.”

“Is there going to be information on the case in the playbill?” Mary asked.

“I think it would be interesting to include,” Sherlock said. “But in the end, that’s a discussion between my brother and Molly.”

“I think we’ll include information, maybe with a picture of the woman herself and the bare-bones facts as their known with a link to find out more,” Molly said. “At least, that’s what I’d like.”

Speaking of your brother,” John said, “I was surprised he brought Greg today. Was that because they knew the bastard would be making an appearance?”

“Yes,” Sherlock said, his mood souring slightly. “I don’t know if they had known I’d be bringing Russell to the auditions, but the idea was to keep Moriarty from auditioning. Unfortunately, as they say, the best-laid plans of mice and men, etcetera, etcetera.” He poked at his beef a little harder than intended. “He made a comment that makes me feel like it’s stuck in my craw. He said Russell looked like he did as a child.”

John and Molly’s eyes widened. But it was surprisingly Mary who spoke first. “Well, I didn’t know his name was James Moriarty until today. I thought he was Jonathan Martin.”

“What?” Sherlock said, nearly dropping his food.

“I’d seen a play he was in...oh, three years ago? And I swear his name on the marquee was Jonathan Martin.”

“The bastard,” Sherlock said, shutting his eyes. He quickly set his food on the side table and stood up, reaching for his mobile in his pocket.

“What is it, Sherlock?” Molly asked.

“John Martin was the name Janine told me the bastard gave her,” he said, “Moriarty is Russell’s father.”

“Bloody hell,” John said, slumping back in his seat. “So that malignant tumor on your family is his sperm donor?”

“Unfortunately,” Sherlock said as he finished pressing the speed dial for Janine. He hoped she wasn’t celebrating a recent betrothal yet. Or perhaps hopefully she was and this would make matters simpler.

“Hello?” Janine asked.

“Have you ever met my sister’s boyfriend?” he asked.

“No. Sherlock, I haven’t even met your sister, remember?”

“I believe you have,” he said.

“Met Eurus? No, I’d remember that.”

“No. I believe you’ve met Moriarty. Also known as Jonathan Martin.”

There was an audible gasp on the other side of the connection. “What?”

“Janine, whatever you do, stay away from London for the time being. If you want Russell, I’ll have Mycroft and Gregory take him to you. But I don’t think it would be a good idea for you to be here while he’s in town, at least until Russell’s paternity has been put to rest for good.”

“Daniel proposed last night, and I said yes. He knows the truth and he loves us both anyway.”

Sherlock felt some of the tightness leave his chest. “Good. I’ll send you both a bottle of expensive champagne to celebrate once Moriarty has left.”

“You don’t think he’ll try and take Russell, do you?” Janine asked.

“No. But I think if he sees you and puts two and two together, he’ll try and extract something from myself or my family or you, and none of us need that.”

“Well, I have work that will take up my time here for a few weeks. Perhaps Daniel and I can go abroad for a bit, if you’ll keep Russell that long?”

“That might be best,” he said. “But I promise, as soon as we can, I’ll give him back to you.” He paused. “You do know my brother, his husband and John are aware of the truth, aren’t you?”

“I am now,” she said. “It’s not a well-kept secret, but as long as my family doesn’t know...”

“Understood,” Sherlock said with a nod, even though he couldn’t see her do so. “It will be alright, Janine. I promise. We’ll do what we can to get my sister and the bastard away from England until after your marriage if necessary, even if it means calling in favours in the States.”

“Thank you,” Janine said. “I’ll call to say goodnight to Russell in a few hours.”

“I’m sure he’d love to hear from his mum,” he said. “Good-bye for now.”

“Bye,” she said, hanging up.

Sherlock lowered his mobile and pinched the bridge of his nose. He realized by having the conversation in front of her, Mary knew the truth now as well, but that was a small problem if it would be a problem at all. He sat on the sofa next to Molly, who put a hand on his shoulder and squeezed gently. “Of all the potential sperm donors in the world, this had to be the worst one,” he said.

“Does it really matter if it comes out?” Mary asked. “I mean, you’re on the birth certificate, you’ve claimed him.”

“But Moriarty could have some claim as well, I’m not sure. Mycroft can have his solicitor look into specifics discreetly.” He sighed and then lowered his head. “I’ll do whatever it takes to keep Moriarty out of Russell’s life. Legally, monetarily, perhaps even utilizing illegal means.”

“Wait to see what the solicitor says,” John said. “That’s why your brother has one on retainer for family matters.”

“I know,” Sherlock said, looking up and turning to Molly. “I’m sorry you’ve come back into my life in the middle of this.”

“I wouldn’t be anywhere else,” she said, leaning over and kissing his cheek. She dropped her hand from his shoulder to take his hand in hers and he squeezed it gently, not letting go when he was done. At least he knew he had the support of family in friends in doing what was best for Russell, and that was keeping his biological father as far away as possible.

[millennialsimsproductions]

“This is really good, Rowan,” Raquel said. “God, you cook so much better than I do. I need to learn before the baby’s born.”

“Neither of us have the time to eat out,” Rowan explained, “because of our work habits. And I’m the one who cooks. So I practice every day. It just takes practice.”

“Well, you’ll have lots of time to practice while you’re on maternity leave, babe,” Wayde said. “That’ll be the way you fill your time!”

Raquel kissed her husband’s cheek, and Rowan raised a questioning brow.

“You know how I hate to have idle hands,” Raquel said. “And you can only clean the house so often, so we were trying to think up other things I could do once I start leave.”

“Oh, yeah,” Marina glanced at Rowan with a sheepish smile. “You’re gonna have a hard time being on leave. We didn’t think of that.”

Raquel’s lashes fluttered like a leaf in a hurricane as her eyes bounced between Marina and Rowan. “What is this? You guys are having a baby?”

Rowan beamed. “That’s why we wanted to have you guys over for dinner tonight --” Marina grabbed Rowan’s plate, but Raquel was up with hers and Wayde’s before Marina could react, and the two went to the kitchen together “-- so we could tell you. We’re not pregnant yet, but we’re planning it all out.”

Wayde scooted closer to Rowan. “That’s great, Ro. You’re gonna be pregnant? Or both of you?”

Rowan laughed. “No, just me.” The others returned to the couch. “I think two pregnant women at once is a little hectic for anybody.”

“So how are you gonna do it?” Raquel asked, eyes shining.

“We looked into a lot of options, because we were hoping that science would have advanced enough to allow us to have a child together,” Rowan said, “but we’re not quite there yet.”

“So we’re gonna go with a sperm donor,” Marina said.

“I go in for the insemination in a week,” Rowan said, “to give me the best shot at getting pregnant.”

“So, you’ve picked a donor? What’s he like, do you know?��� Raquel asked.

“He’s the same ethnicity as Marina, which is why we picked him,” Rowan said, “and we read his profile and he’s musical. You guys know Marina plays the guitar, right?”

“I didn’t,” Wayde said. “So, he’s like you. That’s cool.”

Marina grinned. “Yeah, it is.”

“Oh!” Raquel squealed, hopped up from the couch, grabbed Rowan’s hands, and pulled her to her feet.

“I am so happy for you, Ro!”

“Me, too,” Rowan gushed, hugging just as tightly. “I really hope it sticks, you know?”

“Me, too, but if it doesn’t, you can try again, no problem,” Raquel promised. “It took us a little while to get pregnant, but you just have to keep trying.”

They pulled back from their hug. “Okay,” Rowan said. “We’ll see what happens.”

“Call me as soon as you know!” Suddenly, Raquel’s smile faltered and panic slammed into her eyes. She tensed, eyes unfocused as she stared past Rowan’s head.

“Raquel?” Rowan asked, alarmed. “Hey, are yo--”

Raquel clamped a hand over her mouth and against her stomach before she spun and sprinted into the bathroom.

Rowan and Marina exchanged concerned looks as the sound of Raquel’s retching permeated the bathroom walls and filled the living room.

“That’s gonna be your wife soon.” Wayde patted Marina’s shoulder as he past her to comfort his wife.

Once they were both in the bathroom, Marina shuddered and said to Rowan, “I hate throwing up. That’s another thing.”

“It’s not my favorite, but I can tolerate it,” Rowan said. “I always feel better after. I hope that stays consistent once I’m pregnant.”

“I’m so sorry, Ro.” The bathroom door swung open, and Raquel poked her head out before coming back into the room, Wayde at her heels. “Dinner was really good -- I mean it. Just...pregnancy pukes, as I like to call them, since I never get morning sickness in the morning.”

Rowan chuckled. “It’s okay, don’t worry. As long as you’re feeling alright.”

“Oh, yeah,” Raquel promised. “But I do think I’d like to go home and lay down after that, so we’re gonna get going.”

They said their goodbyes and Rowan walked her friends to the door.

“I mean it,” Raquel said, “call me as soon as you know the results, may they be good or bad. Okay?”

“Okay,” Rowan promised. “Bye, guys. Goodnight!”

[afteriwake]

…And All The Men And Women Merely Players (10/?)

And I seem to be on a roll with this fic...

…And All The Men And Women Merely Players - Mycroft Holmes is not-so-subtly trying to make sure there’s a reconciliation between his youngest sibling Sherlock and his ex-wife, Molly Hooper, by forcing them to work together on a theatre project. But it isn’t all smooth sailing when his and Sherlock’s sister comes back from the States with a boyfriend who is the devil incarnate…and all hell is about to break loose.

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By the end of the day, Sherlock felt he would be rightfully justified in denying Moriarty a part in the play. He wasn’t suited for the nuance of the material, going loud and boisterous when he should be quiet and contemplative. But that was just him being himself, Sherlock supposed. Still, he looked at the faces of those whose judgment he trusted and saw none of them were impressed.

With Russell in the care of his “uncles,” and no doubt soon his “grandmother,” Sherlock invited both Mary and John to his home to talk about all the actors they had seen that day. Neither John or Mary made any qualms about Moriarty being not right for any of the parts, though two other actors, Sally Donovan and Philip Anderson, had caught their attention for roles. Unfortunately, John and Mary thought the suitable for different roles, so he hoped Molly could be a sort of tiebreaker.

“I think Phillip would do well as the morgue assistant,” Molly said once the food they had ordered arrived and they sat in the sitting room, eating out of the cartons. “It’s slightly comedic, even if it’s a smaller role, and he seems more suited to that.”

“And Sally?” Mary asked.

“Perhaps the morgue attendant, if she’ll wear men’s dress,” Molly said, tilting her head for a moment before eating some lo mein. “She seems to have a bossy look when she’s talking in the clipped tones a woman impersonating a man would have. And I don’t think it will be a stretch that a black woman would use a disguise to infiltrate the medical system. At least, disbelief should be suspended during the duration of the play because she’s a charismatic actress. I just loved her during the reveal to the detective.”

“Which reminds me,” Sherlock said. “I’d like to have them both come back and play off of you, John, as I haven’t seen anyone else so far I’d consider for the role of the detective.”

“I’d be honored, Sherlock,” John said with a grin.

“And do I get a sneak peek at any role I might get?” Mary asked with a wry grin.

“Of course, Miss Ricoletti.” Sherlock gave her a wink and Mary grinned widely.

“I know there are other women who would be portraying the ghost if we were keeping this closer to the true story,” Molly said, “but I think I can tweak the script so Mary can do a bit more in the ghostly sense.”

“So this is all really based on a true story?” John asked.

Molly nodded. “I was visiting a friend in London while I was living in New York, and we went on a ghost tour, and her grave was one of the spots. The more I looked into the story the more fascinating it became. It’s still hotly debated whether she committed suicide or whether she was killed by the group of women to put her out of her misery with her illness, but her likeness was seen along the streets of London and at the deaths of London’s finest for weeks to come after the murder of her husband and her suicide.”

“Is there going to be information on the case in the playbill?” Mary asked.

“I think it would be interesting to include,” Sherlock said. “But in the end, that’s a discussion between my brother and Molly.”

“I think we’ll include information, maybe with a picture of the woman herself and the bare-bones facts as their known with a link to find out more,” Molly said. “At least, that’s what I’d like.”

Speaking of your brother,” John said, “I was surprised he brought Greg today. Was that because they knew the bastard would be making an appearance?”

“Yes,” Sherlock said, his mood souring slightly. “I don’t know if they had known I’d be bringing Russell to the auditions, but the idea was to keep Moriarty from auditioning. Unfortunately, as they say, the best-laid plans of mice and men, etcetera, etcetera.” He poked at his beef a little harder than intended. “He made a comment that makes me feel like it’s stuck in my craw. He said Russell looked like he did as a child.”

John and Molly’s eyes widened. But it was surprisingly Mary who spoke first. “Well, I didn’t know his name was James Moriarty until today. I thought he was Jonathan Martin.”

“What?” Sherlock said, nearly dropping his food.

“I’d seen a play he was in...oh, three years ago? And I swear his name on the marquee was Jonathan Martin.”

“The bastard,” Sherlock said, shutting his eyes. He quickly set his food on the side table and stood up, reaching for his mobile in his pocket.

“What is it, Sherlock?” Molly asked.

“John Martin was the name Janine told me the bastard gave her,” he said, “Moriarty is Russell’s father.”

“Bloody hell,” John said, slumping back in his seat. “So that malignant tumor on your family is his sperm donor?”

“Unfortunately,” Sherlock said as he finished pressing the speed dial for Janine. He hoped she wasn’t celebrating a recent betrothal yet. Or perhaps hopefully she was and this would make matters simpler.

“Hello?” Janine asked.

“Have you ever met my sister’s boyfriend?” he asked.

“No. Sherlock, I haven’t even met your sister, remember?”

“I believe you have,” he said.

“Met Eurus? No, I’d remember that.”

“No. I believe you’ve met Moriarty. Also known as Jonathan Martin.”

There was an audible gasp on the other side of the connection. “What?”

“Janine, whatever you do, stay away from London for the time being. If you want Russell, I’ll have Mycroft and Gregory take him to you. But I don’t think it would be a good idea for you to be here while he’s in town, at least until Russell’s paternity has been put to rest for good.”

“Daniel proposed last night, and I said yes. He knows the truth and he loves us both anyway.”

Sherlock felt some of the tightness leave his chest. “Good. I’ll send you both a bottle of expensive champagne to celebrate once Moriarty has left.”

“You don’t think he’ll try and take Russell, do you?” Janine asked.

“No. But I think if he sees you and puts two and two together, he’ll try and extract something from myself or my family or you, and none of us need that.”

“Well, I have work that will take up my time here for a few weeks. Perhaps Daniel and I can go abroad for a bit, if you’ll keep Russell that long?”

“That might be best,” he said. “But I promise, as soon as we can, I’ll give him back to you.” He paused. “You do know my brother, his husband and John are aware of the truth, aren’t you?”

“I am now,” she said. “It’s not a well-kept secret, but as long as my family doesn’t know...”

“Understood,” Sherlock said with a nod, even though he couldn’t see her do so. “It will be alright, Janine. I promise. We’ll do what we can to get my sister and the bastard away from England until after your marriage if necessary, even if it means calling in favours in the States.”

“Thank you,” Janine said. “I’ll call to say goodnight to Russell in a few hours.”

“I’m sure he’d love to hear from his mum,” he said. “Good-bye for now.”

“Bye,” she said, hanging up.

Sherlock lowered his mobile and pinched the bridge of his nose. He realized by having the conversation in front of her, Mary knew the truth now as well, but that was a small problem if it would be a problem at all. He sat on the sofa next to Molly, who put a hand on his shoulder and squeezed gently. “Of all the potential sperm donors in the world, this had to be the worst one,” he said.

“Does it really matter if it comes out?” Mary asked. “I mean, you’re on the birth certificate, you’ve claimed him.”

“But Moriarty could have some claim as well, I’m not sure. Mycroft can have his solicitor look into specifics discreetly.” He sighed and then lowered his head. “I’ll do whatever it takes to keep Moriarty out of Russell’s life. Legally, monetarily, perhaps even utilizing illegal means.”

“Wait to see what the solicitor says,” John said. “That’s why your brother has one on retainer for family matters.”

“I know,” Sherlock said, looking up and turning to Molly. “I’m sorry you’ve come back into my life in the middle of this.”

“I wouldn’t be anywhere else,” she said, leaning over and kissing his cheek. She dropped her hand from his shoulder to take his hand in hers and he squeezed it gently, not letting go when he was done. At least he knew he had the support of family in friends in doing what was best for Russell, and that was keeping his biological father as far away as possible.