Looking For Answers (closed)

[BeachBum25]

Continuing to carry Tori into his bedroom, Declan kissed her again. He had never felt about another woman the way he had, and still did, feel about Tori. He believed they were perfect for one another in every way. He just could never get Tori to understand that he pushed her about her job, because he loved her and wanted to protect her.

Removing her shirt, Declan's eyes moved over her body. In his mind, she was perfect. He moved his lips to her neck and kissed and nibbled her flesh as he moved his hands up her sides. He leaned up and looked at Tori; smiling into her eyes.

Then.......... What was that? He stopped. He heard Tori ask what was wrong. He looked from her chest to her eyes and then back to her chest. "Tor... what happened?" He looked back at her. It was not a look of anger. It was a look of concern. "What happened to you Tori? What is that from? Who did that to you?"

He realized that once again Tori would think he was being overprotective. He kissed her softly. Then, he moved his lips and kissed her scar.. letting his tongue trace it a little... all while maintaining eye contact with her.

Declan rolled onto his back on the bed and pulled Tori over on top of him. He caressed her back as he looked at her. "I will stop asking questions if you just answer one question for me..... are you alright?"

When Tori told Declan that she was fine, he dropped it. He was going to use the same strategy with Tori that he was planning on using with Rachel.... let her tell him when she wanted to let him in on what happened.

Placing his hand behind her head, Declan ran his fingers through her hair as he pulled her back down to him. He kissed her deeply, but he could sense from Tori that the moment had passed. He didn't push it. He held her close as she lay on top of him. His mind wandered... wondering if he had just messed up any chance of getting back with Tori. He didn't think that his concern for her should have ruined anything... well, other than what they had originally entered his bedroom for.

 

[zydrate]

Was she alright? No... she wanted to say. She wasn't alright because she wasn't sure where they stood. Was their breakup final? What was going to happen after this... if 'this' had happened? Would that mean they were back together? Tori thought it would only work if he could just get a hold of his temper and his jealousy... it was sort of a turn on at first but... after a while, it made her feel like he didn't trust her when other guys were present.

With her head resting on his chest, Tori closed her eyes and nodded, "I am for now... but D.." she looked up at him, "We really should talk once things settle down a bit," she didn't want to lose him but it also wasn't the time to worry about each other. She wanted to get Rachel out of town until things with the Moores settled down, "If that's OK with you?"

Tori pushed herself up and moved to grabbed her shirt. Well... if things had happened the way it was going to, it sure wouldn't have been something she regretted. She did miss his touch and well, just his company.

He had given her the keys to his 'house' and would text her the directions. She had more questions about the house but again, now wasn't the time. They gave each other a hug, not just a friendly one but one that had meaning behind it. Were they going to be OK? Nothing was certain...

***

Before going to her apartment to get Rachel, Tori stopped in at her small rented office space and unlocked the door. She needed to check some messages and take care of a few things before taking Rachel out of town and then, she would be able to pick up with her business.

Checking her messages, Tori took some notes of potential clients and all she had to do was call them back. Some didn't sound like big hitters but still, they were work nonetheless. As she was busy with the phone, she hadn't noticed someone had stepped into the office only because she was preoccupied with the phone... until a large hand reached over and yanked the phone out of her hand. Tori wasn't in the least startled as she looked up from her desk and saw Rory Moore, standing before her.

"We need to talk," he said and took a seat at the edge of her desk.

 

[BeachBum25]

He wanted to know about the scar, but Tori wasn't going to tell him now. As usual, it was going to be on her terms. If she was going to tell him, she would tell him when she was good and ready.

"I am fine with that Tor. I am sorry I reacted the way I did, but, when I saw it I was worried about you... still am. We can talk about it whenever you are ready."

Watching her get up off the bed and grab her t-shirt, Declan was pissed at himself. Once again, he had allowed his protective instincts to interfere with his relationship with Tori. Not that there was any relationship with them right now, but, if things had progressed the way they were going, maybe it would have been an indication that Tori was open to them getting back together. Now.... who knew?

After giving Tori the keys to the house, he hugged Tori closely.. caressing her back a little. He kissed her lightly on the lips before she left. Once she was gone, he sent her a text with directions to the house, and finished it up with "Thank you and be safe, please."

*************

He returned to Gravediggers for his shift. When he checked in, he was told to go upstairs and see Flannery. "What the fuck is he doing here again. He never hung around here before this shit started." Declan went upstairs to meet with Flannery. It was a very brief meeting in which Flannery just wanted to make sure he was okay. "I'm fine. I told you that I would wait for the okay before taking anything out on the Moores. I went home, rested and now I am back and ready to work." Declan's frustration was definitely showing through.

Going back down to the bar, Declan got right to work. The bar was filling up and he was staying busy. As he placed two pints of Guinness in front of a couple guys, he overheard one of them say something about hearing that the police had someone that was trying to get information on the Moores over at the Saltwater and the person got beat up. He said the police brass were not happy about what happened.

Grabbing his phone, Declan called Tori. She didn't answer. Declan called her again, and again, she didn't answer. Declan sent Tori a text, "Call me NOW." Then he went upstairs to see Flannery. Walking into the apartment, "is it true Flannery?" Declan got angrier when Flannery didn't answer right away. "Is it true the cops were using my sister to get info on the Moores?"

 

[zydrate]

She should have been scared, but she wasn't. In fact, she was more annoyed. The Moores were a trip of a family. They thought they owned the city and in part, they did own a few major sections but that was about it. It was old money and they were tried and true to their old ways, not exactly welcoming the new generation and their improved ways of doing business.

"So... talk." Tori said as she crossed her arms in front of her and leaned back in her office chair, looking up at Rory.

Rory just smirked and stood up, walking around the office, looking things over, "Which side are you on Tori?" he said, looking out side, his back turned as he stuck his hands in his pockets.

"Side?" Tori repeated. What was he talking about?

There was a long pause before Rory continued, "You know this wasn't supposed to be personal Tori, hell, you're not even supposed to be involved but you got yourself involved so you're kind of stuck now... where's Conry's sister?"

"What are you talking about?" Tori said, trying to sound perplexed. Just then, her phone buzzed with a call. She could faintly see it was from Declan. She reached for her phone and then felt Rory's big hand come down on her arm, hitting it hard against the top of her desk. "We. Are. Talking." He said, gripping her arm hard.

This was a hell of a day so far and Tori was tired of it... she yanked her arm away and didn't dare show how much pain she was in, "Listen, Rachel is off limits. So you go back and tell your family that."

"She is working with the cops! I suppose she didn't tell you that! That's the only reason that little bitch was at the club and trust me, she got what she deserved!"

Tori smiled and shook her head, "You're getting mad at the wrong person but that's just like you and your family. Thinking you can intimate everyone you come across... I wouldn't worry about what Conry's sister is doing, you should be more worried about her brother once he finds out. Leave her alone. She didn't get any information and I can vouch for that. Your asshole family got to her so your job is done. Leave her out of this."

Continuing to stand up to Rory, Tori wasn't more than a few inches from him as he towered over her, "Now, get out of here or else." What or else? she thought to herself. She could defend herself but that was it, she wasn't the kind to win an all out fight...

He just shook his head as he walked out, calling over his shoulder, "You just put a target on your back..."

"Whatever.." Tori said to herself. She grabbed her phone and saw the missed calls from Declan... shit... Guess he found out... Instead of calling him, Tori called Detective Ralston, another guy who had grown up in the neighborhood. He would know who Rachel's handler was... because at the moment, she hadn't gotten much out of Rachel. God, this was all a mess. She had to get Rachel and take her out of town now. On the way, she called Declan back but he didn't answer. Leaving him a message, Tori said she was taking Rachel now to his new house and she would let him know when they arrived. She didn't want to tell him about Rory's inquiry just yet and over the phone because he would probably do something he'd regret later...

 

[BeachBum25]

"This shit is getting more fucked up every minute. If the fucking cops sent my sister in to do their dirty work, I am going to fuck up each and every one of them that had anything to do with it. Also, you know that if it is true, the Moores will be looking for my sister. I don't care what they say, they are not going to let this die. Something has to be done."

Declan could see in Flannery's face that he knew the police were involved, and that the information Declan had was accurate. "D, we just found that out. I haven't had a chance to tell you. Yes, it seems that they used your sister to try to get some information, but when she went in, a couple of Moores' people recognized her. Those are the three that were involved and are no longer a threat. We are trying to find out what the Moores know."

He could feel his anger and frustration rising. "The fucking Moores need to know their place. They can't even think about going after Rachel, and I will tell you that if they do, all bets are off. I will go in and blow that fucking place up and anyone inside it. I don't give a fuck about the collateral damage." Flannery told him to settle down. "No, I won't settle down. I settled down and where did that take us? It took us to a place where the Moores are going to feel like they can do what they want and there will be no consequences."

Yes, Declan was going a little overboard based on the information that he currently had, but he knew the streets and he knew what would happen if the Moores were not afraid of any retaliation.

He took out his phone to call Tori again, and saw he had a missed call from her. He called her back. "Tor, please tell me that you didn't know the cops sent Rachel in there. Please tell me you had nothing to do with it." Tori told him that she had just found out, and that she wanted Rachel to be the one to tell him.

"Okay, listen to me. Once we hang up, turn your phone off and make sure Rachel turns her phone off. Once you get settled at the new location, find a place and get a burner. Call me when you get that. In the mean time, your phones stay off. If I need to get a hold of you before you call me, I know where to find you.... and Tor, please don't hide anything from me. If something... anything happens, I need you to promise me that you will let me know."

 

[zydrate]

Rachel was asking about what she was going to do without her phone and Tori was a bit fed up with her questions. As they were leaving Tori's apartment, she turned and grabbed Rachel by the shoulders, "Rach, listen to me. I know this all sucks but we have to go, OK? Once we get to the new place, we'll know more about what's going to happen next. This right here," she waved her arm around to everything, "is a serious situation. So, let's go." Tori wasn't having it right now with her, ordinarily, she adored Rachel and didn't mind her company. Tori was an only child and grew up by herself. No cousins that she knew of... just herself and a few neighborhood kids.

"Listen, we have a 2 hour drive ahead of us, OK? Once we're out of the city, well get some things and go to the house, I-"

"Whose house is it?"

"A friend."

"Which friend... seems to me you have all these friends all of a sudden--"

"I have friends and acquaintances Rach, I have favors I've called in for this." She grabbed the girl's arm and pulled her along with her to her car.

Just as they reached Tori's car, she noticed 2 tires were flat... Goddamnit! Tori quickly looked around to make sure no one was near. She had only been in her apartment for 10 minutes in order to get Rachel... and sure enough, there were puncture holes in it. Perfect.

Still holding Rachel's arm, she dragged her to another car where she busted a window and proceeded to unlock the door. "Get in." She told Rachel as she herself got into the driver's side and slid underneath the front dash. How did she know how to hotwire a car? YouTube of course.

Just as the car started (reluctantly), Tori heard the squeal of car tires and the revving of engines nearing them. That wasn't good. She threw the car in drive and got out of there.. she drove away as casually as possible because no one knew she had taken a different car... As soon as she was out of sight, she sped up and headed toward to Declan's house.

Rachel wasn't talking and that was both a good and bad thing. After driving for 40 minutes and making sure no one was following them, Tori slowed down to the speed limit. She didn't want to get caught for both speeding and stealing a car. Rachel was quiet and when she looked over at her, she saw she was sleeping. Good. She needed rest.

After a quick stop at a gas station for some gas and a cheap burner phone, Tori drove another hour until they reached the house. Before she left the gas station, she sent Declan a simple message, letting him know the burner's number and that she and Rachel had made it out of the city. Once they reached the house, she let Declan know they were safe. As they looked around the house together, Tori told Rachel to go pick a room and get some rest.

Not even 15 minutes after Rachel went upstairs, Tori slumped against the wall in the kitchen and leaned over, trying to catch her breath... she was doing too much too fast... she needed proper rest but with everything that had been going on, she hadn't had the chance to do so... she just needed to catch her breath, that's all.... it took more than 20 minutes before the pain in her chest to subside... now, she could only wait and see what was going to happen next. She set her gun on the coffee table in front of her and sat down to wait.

 

[BeachBum25]

Declan was going out of his mind. Flannery was very aware that it was only a matter of time before Declan went off, and frankly, he couldn't blame him. After what the men had done to his sister, despite the Moores denying any knowledge of it and now finding out the police had sent her into Saltwater to get info on the Moores, nobody could blame Declan for going off on the Moores, the police handler, or both.

"D, let me make a phone call. Go downstairs and sit at the private booth. I will be down in a couple of minutes and we will talk." Declan agreed, but he also knew that if Flannery came down with another "stay calm" message that he would go off.

Stopping at the bar on his way to the booth, Declan got a glass of ice water and moved to the back of the bar where they kept a private booth for organization meetings. Sipping the water while he waited, Declan wondered how Rachel and Tori were making out on their trip to the house.

When Flannery came down, he had a very serious look on his face. Sitting across from Declan, Flannery looked him right in the eyes. "Ok D, here is what Mr. McShea said.... he is going to take care of the situation with the police. He can't have you going off and breaking the legs of a few cops. It wouldn't be good to have one of his best men in jail, and it wouldn't be good to have the police start cracking down on our business. As for the Moores, any new aggression on their part will be met with actions that will make it very clear to the Moores that we do not play their stupid games. Mr. McShea doesn't want you to go looking for anything until they do something, but if/ when they do, he is going to give you free reign."

Listening to what Flannery was saying, Declan relaxed a little. He understood what was being said and it made sense to leave what had happened alone, but make sure that we went off when they did anything new. "D, Mr. McShea was impressed by your thinking when you said that we couldn't let the Moores feel like they could do whatever they wanted. When they step out of line, no matter how small of a step it is, the response we will give them will let them know they were wrong."

After shaking hands with Flannery, Declan got up from the booth and headed back to his apartment. He decided to swing past Tori's apartment on the way to his place just to make sure it was secure and there were no problems. As he drove past her place.... "What the fuck is going on?" When he saw Tori's car still parked on the street, he was immediately pissed at Tori. He wondered what she was up to. She sent him a message that she had a burner, and then a message that they had arrived at the house.

Parking down the street, Declan noticed some broken glass in the street as he walked back toward Tori's car. As he neared her car, he noticed the two flat tires. What he also noticed was a car up the block a little with two men sitting in it. Keeping his head down so that they did not recognize him, Declan moved up the street, looking up at the car parked on the other side of the street to see if they noticed him. Moving past the car, he crossed the street and made his way back down the street. Both of the guys in the car had their windows rolled down.... perfect.

When he got to the car, he leaned down on the driver's door. Looking into the car, he noticed that the two guys were fairly young. "So, you two get the job of tailing and threatening a woman. You must be really, really tough guys." Before either of them could react, Declan punched the driver, and he could feel from the punch that the driver's jaw was broken. Declan immediately looked to the other guy who was shocked at what was happening. "If you do anything stupid, you won't be as lucky as your pal here, because I will blow your fucking head off." Declan showed the man the gun in his left hand.

Grabbing the driver, whose mouth and nose were bleeding, Declan dragged him out of the car, took the gun out of his waist band, and put him in the back seat. Then, he got into the driver's seat and drove away; heading to a nearby park. Declan drove all the way into the back of the park and found a secluded place to stop. He got out of the car and made the guy in the passenger seat get out too. After taking the gun out of the back of his pants, Declan punched him and knocked him to the ground. Declan proceeded to hit him about 20 more times, before picking him up and dragging him back to the car and putting him in the backseat. He got the driver out of the car and punched him in the stomach and ribs numerous times; breaking quite a few ribs. Then Declan put him back in the car.

He made a call to Tori's burner phone. He confirmed that she was where she was supposed to be and that they were both okay. He told Tori he found her car and the men who were watching for her. "I will be back in touch soon Tor. I will come up and get rid of the car you stole and get your car up to you."

Declan then called Flannery and gave him a rundown on what had transpired. "I am taking this car and I am parking it on the sidewalk outside the front door of Saltwater." Flannery did not object. "Okay D, I will send someone there to pick you up. Just leave it there as a message. Do not go into saltwater. Just dump the car with the 2 guys and get out of there."

After dumping the car in front of Saltwater and blocking the front entrance so nobody could go in or out of the front door, Declan got in the car with the guy sent by Flannery to pick him up. It was only on the ride to Gravediggers that Declan started to feel some pain in his right hand. He looked down, and his knuckles were raw and bleeding. That brought a smile to his face.

Once he was upstairs at Gravediggers, Declan was surprised to see McShea there. McShea wanted to hear firsthand what had happened. When Declan was finished, McShea nodded his head. "Okay Declan. Very good. It seems the Moores want to test us. Trust me, they are going to regret it, and I am not just talking about trash buildup or delivery delays. I am talking really regret it."

After McShea left, Declan talked to Flannery a little more. He told him that his car was over there and that Tori's car needed 2 tires replaced and he had to go get rid of the stolen car Tori used. Flannery sent a tow truck to pick up Tori's car and get the flat tire replaced. He asked for Declan's keys, and sent a crew out to get his car, just in case the Moores had someone else watching the street now. "After her car is fixed, you can take it to her. Right now, just relax a little."

 

[zydrate]

Tori gasped as she was woken up by someone shaking her shoulder. She quickly recovered when she saw it was Rachel, who was standing over her, saying "Tori, I'm starving. We didn't stop for anything but snacks on the way and I kind of don't want them anymore."

Rubbing a hand over her face, trying to wake completely, "Alright... Rach... what do you want to eat? It's going to have to be something delivered because I don't want to take that car out into town."

Falling next to Tori, Rachel shrugged, "I don't know.. all I do know is that I don't want pizza."

Tori smiled, at time, Rachel acted like a kid... probably because her brother treated her like one or maybe Tori did also. "OK, well, how about some burgers? I think I can have some delivered or have some sort of grocery delivery and we can get something you really like and we can cook it?"

Rachel nodded, Tori saw Rach's bruises were almost hidden by her make-up and that made her feel bad for getting after her earlier in the day, "You said this was your friend's house but it's not furnished too well. I mean, the bedroom upstairs isn't even decorated..." the young girl was quiet for a moment, "This is Declan's place isn't?"

Tori knew there wasn't any hiding as she nodded, "He said he bought this place earlier this year... trust me, I didn't even know about it until today."

Picking up the burner phone, Tori scrolled the nearby places that delivered and found a small grocery store that delivered. She quickly called them and ordered some food for both dinner and breakfast for tomorrow. Tonight would be vegan burgers (Rach's new 'lifestyle'), salad and some soda. Tori even had to order some paper plates and plastic ware as the kitchen wasn't too stocked.

Surprisingly, the delivery was faster than expected and so, as Tori and Rachel were getting things cooked up, Rachel looked at Tori, "Tor... I'm sorry to be so much trouble... I know this is all my fault.."

Tori didn't answer right away as she grilled the burgers.. "Rach, this is not your fault. None of it is. But, you should have talked to Deek first...or even me before agreeing to what these cops asked of you. And again, I'm not saying it's your fault, OK? The Moores... well, they are not good and never have been."

The two were quiet once more, "No one's mad at your Rach. Least of all Declan... if you could have seen the worry on his face when he found out you were gone... and if he didn't care, he wouldn't have come to get you. Can you just promise me that you'll talk to him when you see him again? Please?"

Rachel didn't answer as she put the salad together, as Tori saw she was deep in thought. Everything was ready when Rach finally agreed, "I will talk to him... I'll tell him everything." Tori could sense a but... "But, you have to tell him about what happened to you also."

And there it was. Tori sighed... nodding after a minute, "I will tell him everything."

 

[BeachBum25]

Once Tori's tires were replaced, Declan started to leave to take her car to her. He was stopped by one of Flannery's aides. "Mr. Flannery said we are supposed to go with you. We will drive your car and pick up the car that was borrowed." Declan nodded. "Okay, here is the deal, though. You can't follow me all the way. It isn't like I don't trust you, but I don't want to take any chances. We will stop at a rest area. You will wait there in my car. I will bring the borrowed car to you there and we will do the exchange. That way everything works out for all of us."

The men were okay with Declan's plan. They understood his desire for an additional buffer zone. They drove for a little way before Declan pulled into a rest area. Flannery's guys pulled up next to him. "I'll be back in a little while. Do you want me to bring you anything?" They both said they didn't want or need anything, so, Declan headed off.

About 10 minutes before getting to the house, Declan called Tori's burner. "I am going to be there in a few. I have your car and I will take the car you borrowed." Tori acknowledged Declan but didn't say anything else. When he arrived, Declan parked Tori's car in front of the house and took the keys in to Tori. Handing the key to her, "I guess it is a good thing I still had a key to your car. It made it easier than having to come up here to get it." He gave her a little smile. "I'll be back in a little while, but I won't stay too long... don't worry."

On the way back to the rest area, Declan stopped at a store and picked up a couple sandwiches, some snacks and a couple of bottles of water for the guys who brought his car up. After the exchange of cars, Declan headed back to his house to check on the girls and spend a little time with them.

"How is she doing Tor? I know she is hiding in a room right now. I am sure she doesn't want to see me. I just want her to know I care for her and that I will do anything to keep her safe." He could see Tori make a face. "What was that for? You don't believe me, either? All I ever wanted for you was for you to be safe. That is the same thing that I want for Rachel. Yes, maybe I am overprotective, but that's what how people are when they love someone... they do everything in their power to protect them. I was just doing it the only way I know how."

Declan stopped. He knew he was on a rant. It was what happened when he got frustrated with Rachel and Tori. He couldn't understand why neither of them understood that everything he did was for them. He wanted them safe. Hell, he bought this damned house for them... hoping that the three of them would be able to live there... away from all of the craziness that was in their lives. No, he hadn't thought it all through. He hadn't thought about jobs and he hadn't thought about what Rachel would do being around them with none of her friends. He just wanted them safe.

"Listen, I will leave you two alone. I know she doesn't want to see me, and I am guessing you would rather I left. Take care Tor. Let me know if you need anything."

 

[zydrate]

"D..." Tori said as she held him by his shoulders to stop him, "stop, OK? She wants to see you, I think she's just afraid of what you're going to say and do. Just go in and talk to her. She's willing to talk. I think she's more hurt that she broke your trust and feels that all this is her fault. Just go in an talk to her... assure her that you're not mad at her. That all this is going to be OK."

At least Tori hoped it would all be OK. She saw the stress in Declan's eyes. Hell, she was suffering the same stress but felt it more because of Rachel.

"Go talk to her, OK? I'll be right here..." she had wanted to add that she wasn't going anywhere.

***
After about 10 minutes, there wasn't any screaming from either of them so that was a good thing... right? Yes, it was a good sign. As brother and sister talked behind closed doors, Tori cleaned up the kitchen and put things away. She would need to go into town later and get some things for the place. It had basics but at the very best... just basics.

As she cleaned, she stopped and looked around. She could see herself here... it was nice and quiet. The closest neighbor had to be at least a mile or so. She wondered how much Deek had paid for the place...

Thinking about what he had said earlier, about wanting her to be safe, well, she knew that. But he had to understand, she was safe. Yes, she was safer with him but she knew to look after herself too. Hell, she had to. But she wished he could do the same for himself.

He was always making sure she was OK. That's also why she felt a bit guilty about not telling him about that little incident with her heart a few months back... there would be no way he would want her to continue doing what she was doing. Maybe that's why she kept it from him? With a sigh, she turned the lights off in the kitchen and took a seat in the living room. There was a TV but the remote batteries had died so that wasn't an option. Instead, she just sat there and waited...

 

[BeachBum25]

Declan was determined to not get Rachel upset. He was sure that anything he said would be misconstrued, so, he was just going to listen to what she had to say. He also was going to focus on not showing any physical reaction to what she said. He would keep a straight face and hope that he didn't get her upset.

Listening to her, Declan could feel his anxiety level rising. Rachel confirmed that she had been sent into Saltwater by the cops. Declan continued to work hard to maintain his composure. He felt they were making progress, and he didn't want to mess anything up. "Listen Rach, I understand why you called Tori and not me. I know that you two have a special relationship. I am not upset by that. I just want you to know that I love you and I want you to be safe... that's all."

They talked a little while; Rachel telling Declan that he was too overbearing and that she knew that he wanted to protect her, but he needed to let her live her life. Declan wanted to come back with a comment, but chose not to. Progress had been made, so, he let it go at that. Declan got up and gave Rachel a hug. As he was leaving the room she commented about how the house needed some decorating. He laughed. "That is what I hope you and Tori will take care of." Rachel smiled. "I am going to stay here for a little. I want you and Tori to have some time to talk." He turned and looked at Rachel. She just shrugged her shoulders.

Closing the door behind him, Declan went looking for Tori. Finding her in the living room, Declan sat on the sofa with Tori. "Well, that went pretty well. Although, most of it was just me not saying anything and letting her have her say. I didn't disagree with anything she said, even though there were comments I wanted to make. I thought it was better that way."

Watching Tori's reaction, Declan decided to just keep going. "Rachel seems to think there is something that you and I need to discuss. I promise you Tor, no matter what it is, I will use the same tactic with you as I did with her. I will say nothing that will upset you."

 

[zydrate]

Tori didn't say anything at first. She knew she had to tell him and she had no problem doing so... her hesitation was because she didn't have any idea how he would act...

With a heavy sigh, she started, hoping he'd let her finish, "It happened a few days after we had...I had decided that we needed a break..." she told him about how she had been under stress from everything, including getting her business to remain steady so she wasn't losing money on it and although she managed to stay afloat, it still got to her.

"You remember my mom had heart problems and more than likely... well, obviously it's genetic..." she told him about being rushed to the hospital and having emergency surgery. "I knew I should have told you but we left on such bad terms, I didn't think you'd want to hear from me..."

"The night it happened, Rachel was with me and she's the one who called the hospital and I asked her not to tell you---at least not yet." There was never a good time to tell him. They had hardly spoken when they broke up.. at least until a few nights ago. "So... that explains the scar you saw the other day... I have a pacemaker to help my heart."

She waited... she gave him the simplest explanation only because it was quick and to the point... not because she didn't think he'd understand it. He would have questions and she would answer them. It was quiet for a while. Was he mad? He had a right to be mad at her but with everything going on, this was not something to bring up until things settled down...

 

[BeachBum25]

Sitting next to Tori on the sofa, Declan listened as she told him about what happened to her. He tried as hard as he could to maintain a straight face. It wasn't easy, though. The two women in his life both kept things from him. Neither of them trusted him, and it was pissing him off. He had been able to remain calm with Rachel, but now, with Tori adding what she had kept from him on top of it, Declan was really struggling to remain calm.

The one thing that was helping him in his struggle to remain calm was wondering if the stress in his relationship with Tori had contributed to her heart problem. Yes, she said it was genetic, but did him being so protective of her cause the symptoms to show sooner than they normally would have?

"Tori, I need you to give me all of the information; don't hold anything back. If I am in any way responsible for what happened, I need to know. Now is the time to get it all out. We are talking about it, just be open and honest and tell me if I am the one responsible for what happened."

He wasn't sure that he really wanted to hear it, but he had to. He had to know if he had done anything to hurt Tori. He watched her closely and remained silent. The longer Tori remained quiet, the more he felt like she believed he was a contributing factor to her condition. His heart started to sink. He knew what he needed to do if she confirmed his contribution. He would have to cut off all contact with her. Well, that was how he felt he would have to react. It would hurt, because she was one of only two people that he cared about in life.

 

[zydrate]

With a hard sigh, Tori reached for Declan's hand and held it, threading her fingers with his, "D... You are not the cause or the culprit of any of what is going on with me. Yes, stress is a factor but all my stress is from other things..." he wanted honest and Tori thought about it for a bit. She wanted to be honest with him but she was afraid of what he would insist on doing and that is solving the problem for her. Making things right for her. It was sweet but up to a point.

Besides, what she was going through, he couldn't fix. She didn't want to put that burden on him nor did she want to be a burden to him.

"I'm not saying I appreciate your help D, I just need to figure things out and does it stress me out? Yes it does. My business isn't doing so good and yes, its barely keeping afloat. But I believe if I go out and actively get more business, I should be OK..." Right? She thought.

Pulling his arm over her and across her back shoulders, Tori nestled against him, both quiet for a few minutes more. "You know what I'm going to say next, right? I don't want to be a burden to you. You have enough going on... I thought about all this during out time away. I guess I feel broken and I think you don't deserve that."

"Actually, I know you don't deserve it."

She let it sink in for a bit, "I'm trying to remain optimistic and also, not have so much anxiety and stress but these past few days have really been a test. I'm just glad Rachel's safe..."

Her other hand covered his so she was holding his hand in hers, "Now..." she looked up at him, her head resting on his shoulder, "I can tell you're not happy about it but you have to understand I've handled a lot on my own. I know you're here for me, at least I still hope so, I believe that we both want control of this relationship and that's where we butt heads a lot... right?"

 

[BeachBum25]

Listening to Tori, Declan was intent on not interrupting her. Yes, this led to several periods of extended silence, but he hoped that Tori saw it for what it was.... he cared about her and what she was saying.

He was surprised when he heard her say, "we both want control of this relationship." Hearing that led him to believe that Tori still believed there was something salvageable between them. Hopefully, he was not misunderstanding what she said.

"Tor, I don't know if it is so much that we both want control of the relationship. At least, I know I have never wanted to control you. Maybe it seems that way because I always tell you what I think and how concerned I am about your line of work. I care about you and don't want anything to happen to you. Sometimes I wonder if I care too much, but then I realize that isn't possible. The one thing I thing that causes us problems is that we are both stubborn. Once we make up our minds, anything going against what we think is considered a threat. I am not a threat to you Tor... I just want you safe and making your way home every day."

He pulled tori closer to him and he leaned against her. Looking into her eyes, he smiled at her. "I understand that the last few days have been stressful for you. I know that babysitting Rachel has been a pain and has taken you away from soliciting new work. If you want to leave, I will stay here with Rachel for a little while. That will give you some time to get out and look for new business. However, I do not want you staying at your place. Either stay at my place or come back up here every night. One or the other. Yes, I know... I am being overprotective, but the Moores have already made one threat and slashed your tires, who knows what is next."

 

[zydrate]

"..who knows what is next..."

"I'm fine with staying here with Rachel, that's the easy part of all this. I'm just-- I.." Tori held up a hand and took a deep breath, trying to figure out to tell him about what happened before after she had tried to call him back earlier in the day. With a sigh, she reached out and held both is hands with hers, "Rory Moore came to see me today when I was at the office checking on things. He wanted to know where Rachel was at and to know that they were looking for her. I told him that she was off limits as she didn't get any information."

She could feel Declan's breathing quickening and she wanted to stop but knew it wouldn't do any good to stop now, he wanted to know everything and she wanted to tell him everything, "So, for helping, he said I now have a target on my back. But you know Rory... he's all talk and no action.. he just likes to play big and thinks he's helping out his family when in fact he's just making a mess of things..." In other words, it was best not to take Rory's word on anything as the family rarely sent him to do anything.

"It's going to be OK, Deek..." she realized his hands let go of hers and he had his fists clenched, ok...so he was upset and this was why she hadn't wanted to tell him. "Listen, Rachel and I will stay here for as long as we have to... D?"

 

[BeachBum25]

"So, he is responsible for your tires being slashed, and it was him who had the guys staking out your place." Declan felt his fists close. He took a couple of deep breaths and then placed his hands back in Tori's. "Tor, I know that in the past that Rory has never been seen as a threat, but obviously something has changed in him. In the past, he would never have dared to threaten you like that. You are right, he is going to make a mess of things for his family. McShea is already putting the clamps on them financially by making sure they don't get anything delivered and by not having the trash picked up."

He pulled Tori closer to him. "I am sorry that you got mixed up in this. I am going to make sure that you and Rachel are safe. I also want to help you with your business. I know that I have been opposed to that line of work for you, but I want to help. I am not sure what I can do for you, but you just tell me what you need me to do and I will do it. And no, I do not expect you to tell me right now.... just whenever something comes up."

"If you are okay with staying here with Rachel for a while, I am going to have to go in the morning and let Flannery and McShea know that Rory is behind at least some of this. I am sure they will send a message to Rory and the rest of the family. In the mean time, let's just relax and not worry about any of that."

They sat quietly on the sofa for quite a while. Inside, Declan was stewing. If it wasn't for his promises to Rachel and Tori, he would already be on his way to Saltwater to find Rory. Yes, he would call Flannery, but they would not be able to stop him. Rory had made direct threats against the only two people in the world that Declan cared about, and he was going to pay for making those threats.

Tori fell asleep in his arms. After making sure she was sound asleep, Declan laid her down on the sofa and went to find her a pillow and a blanket. He covered Tori up and went and sat in the chair across from the sofa. He sat there and watched Tori sleep, until he fell asleep in the chair.

He was up before both Rachel and Tori the next morning. Despite his inclination to leave before they awoke, he stayed. He had to make an attempt to show them both that he was trying. He went into the kitchen and saw that Tori had ordered food for breakfast. That was good, because he could leave while they ate. Declan rarely ate breakfast. It was coffee for him and he knew he had some in the cabinet from his last time here.

After making a pot of coffee, he sat at the counter. As Tori and Rachel made their way into the kitchen, he greeted them each with a kiss on the cheek and a smile. Once Tori started with breakfast, Declan told them he had to get back in for work. Tori knew what that really meant, but Rachel wasn't aware of the topic of conversation from last night.

He kissed them both goodbye and told them he was going to try to make it back here tonight. After getting out on the road, he called Flannery to let him know what Tori had told him about Rory Moore. Flannery agreed that the Moores needed another message. "He threatened my sister and my ex, Flannery... I need to be the one to deliver the message." Flannery agreed, but insisted that Declan have some backup when he delivered the message.

That afternoon, Declan and five men assigned by Flannery went to Saltwater. Declan walked to the bar and told the bartender that he was there to see Rory. The bartender shrugged his shoulders and said he had no idea who Rory was. Before he finished the statement, Declan had him by the throat. Several people started to move toward Declan, but were halted by the five men who were with him.

"Maybe I didn't make myself clear. I am here to see Rory. Now, either you tell me where he is, or I will break every bottle of the cheap booze you serve here with your face. Am I clear?" The bartender pointed toward a door. Declan released him and turned to his backup. If he reaches to push any buttons, shoot him. I will be right back."

Declan walked through the door that the bartender had pointed to. He found Rory sitting at a table with two other men that he did not recognize. Ignoring the other two, Declan walked over to Rory, grabbed him by the collar, pulled him out of the chair and dragged him toward the door back to the bar. "We need to talk."

Once back in the bar, Declan took Rory into the center of the room. "This is what happens when you threaten women because you don't have balls enough to say it to a man." Declan proceeded to repeatedly punch Rory in the face; stopping periodically to look around the bar. "This is why he threatened women, because he knew that if he said that I had a target on my back, I would beat him senseless. Well, guess what...." And the beating continued.

Just then, the front door opened and two of the Moores came walking through it. "What the fuck is going on?" Declan's backup moved toward them to keep them away from Declan and Rory. "This is what happens when you go after women. You want to do battle with us, you come after us. Don't.... EVER..... go near my sister or Tori. If I even think that you might be thinking about harming either of those two women... better yet, if I think you are thinking about harming any woman, I will burn this piece of shit bar down with all of you fuckers in it."

He hit Rory one more time, this time square on his nose.. shattering it. Then the six of them walked out and went back to 'Diggers to give a report to Flannery.

 

[zydrate]

Later in the morning, after Declan left, Tori and Rachel cleaned up the kitchen and made 2 lists for the house. The things it needed and things that would be considered extra that would just make it a bit nicer. They didn't have to but Tori knew it would make Rachel feel better and take her mind off of things going on right now.

Since Tori had her car back, she and Rachel drove into the small town and explored. She knew they should have stayed home but Rachel was the kind of person who wasn't a home body, where as Tori could and loved to stay in for days on end. They got a few books and some DVDs from a thrift store run by a local couple.

They walked around the small town, getting some lunch at a café before heading back to the house. Even though she felt relatively safe, Tori made sure to do a sweep of the house and the outside while Rachel waited in the car. The all clear was given and once inside, Tori locked the door.

Declan said he would try to make it back tonight but Tori worried he was doing too much and sent him a text, telling him that they would be OK and if he wanted, he could stay there tonight since they were doing fine.

There was no answer right away and that was fine... he was probably fine with the bar... at least that's what Tori wanted to believe but knew it was probably something completely different and she didn't want to think about it nor did she want to tell Rachel anything about what could be happening. Was Tori just as bad as Declan by keeping things from Rachel?

Tori took a shower as dinner was cooking. She had gotten some clothes since she and Rach literally left without packing any clothes or essentials. Feeling a bit better, she came back to the living room to find the local news on. It wasn't much as nothing really happened in this part of the state. She then checked on dinner and let it all set for a few minutes.

She went to find the burner phone to see if Declan had messaged back. Checking it, there was nothing yet. He was probably on his way still but Tori hoped not. She wanted him to get some rest that he deserved.

 

[BeachBum25]

"You know that the police are going to be involved in this D. When he goes to the hospital, they will call the police. Now, if he is smart he will say nothing, but I am not sure how smart Rory is. So, here is what we are going to do. You are going to get out of town for a little while." With that, Flannery handed him a wad of cash and a burner phone.

"Destroy your phone, dump it somewhere. You will not be using that anymore. Everyone who needs to get ahold of you, has the number for your new phone. Share that number sparingly. Someone, probably me, will be in touch with you when it is time for you to return. In the meantime, relax."

Declan looked at Flannery and then at the wad of cash that Flannery had given him. "Well, I have never been to Hawaii." In all reality, Declan had no intention of going to Hawaii. He knew where he was going... to his place to be with Rachel and Tori, but he didn't want anyone to think that he would be anywhere in the area.

While they were talking, one of Flannery's guys came into the room. "There is a Detective Ralston out here. He asked to talk to Declan. When the barman told him he wasn't around, he said he needed to talk to somebody in charge." Flannery told Declan to go out the back door and get out of town. Flannery went out to talk to the detective.

The detective asked some general questions about Declan, where he was, when he would be back to work. Flannery told Ralston that he didn't know where Declan was, but he would check the schedule to see when he was due back in work. Then Flannery stopped. He looked at Ralston, again. "You are from the neighborhood, aren't you? Tell me something detective, did you have anything to do with Declan's sister getting sent into Saltwater to try to get information on the Moores, which, I might add, ended up with her being kidnapped and her life put in danger because you did not protect her?"

Ralston was silent. His eyes darted around the bar. His reaction told Flannery everything he needed to know. "Well detective, I would recommend that you leave here and never come back. That is, unless you want that story leaked to the press. I am sure that the public would love to hear how you protect private citizens who help them out."

Declan went out the back door and got into his vehicle and headed to his house. He wanted to call Tori to let her know that he was on the way, but, he didn't know her number. Her number was in his contacts, where she had put it the first time they met, so, he always just went to his contacts to call her. Once he was there, he walked to the front door, knocked, and then opened the door slowly so as not to scare Tori and Rachel. "Hello?"

Once inside, he handed Tori his new burner phone. "Can you do that thing where you put your number in my phone again so I can give you a heads-up next time. Oh, and while you are at it, do me a favor and put Rachel's number in there, too."

He knew they would both have some questions. He tried to head them off. "Because of everything that has happened with you two ladies, I have been given some time off... with pay to stay here and protect you. Now, I know that neither of you like that, but I am going to be here with you for a while." He looked at Tori. "I know you want to work on your business. I will help you any way I can, I already told you that." Then looking at Rachel. "I know you hate it when I am protective. I will just be here. I am not going to restrict your movements, other than to tell you that you can't go back to the city for a while. When the time comes, we will go back there together. Hopefully, it won't be too long."

 

[zydrate]

There were certain dishes that Tori could make for meals. Of course, Rachel had wanted some lasagna and so their only option was to buy a frozen one and bake it when they got home. They had decided on breadsticks and salad for sides and had gotten enough to feed an army.. but Tori knew Rachel was finally getting her appetite back so she did her best to appease her so she would at least eat.

Just as the lasagna was ready to come out of the oven, there was a knock at the door and it opened with a familiar voice behind it. Declan. He still came back even though it was a long drive? Tori could scold him for it but didn't... at least not in front of Rachel.

When he walked in, he handed her his phone, asking for her to put her new number in it as well as Rachel's.

She figured that Rachel would be hesitant that Declan was now there, telling them he was their for his safety. Had this been a few weeks back, it might have resorted to a big fight about him being too over protective of the both of them, instead, Rachel hugged her big brother and told him she was glad he was there.

Luckily Rachel didn't question as to why they couldn't go to the city, thank goodness. Instead she told Declan about what they had gotten for dinner and it would still be another 15 minute before it was ready.

Tori handed the phone back to him and gave him a knowing look saying they would need to talk later. Right now, they just had to act normally...

***

Dinner was no big fanfare, there were some quiet moments of them just eating but there was also some moments of talking about what else the house needed going forward.

After dinner, everything was cleaned up and Rachel had said she was going to go read and then go to bed... which let Tori and Declan alone to talk... that was if he wanted to. Tori didn't push anything because she was tired... but she had to ask, "So, what's going on? I mean, you know.. what's it like back there?"

 

[BeachBum25]

To say that Declan was surprised at how Rachel reacted would be an understatement. He wasn't sure whether she was just putting on an act or if she was being sincere in the way she was acting. Whatever the case, it made the evening much easier and more relaxing.

Despite the fact that there was no real fanfare with dinner, Declan enjoyed it immensely. It had been a long time since he had the opportunity to sit down and enjoy a meal with Rachel and Tori. He didn't make many comments when the ladies were talking about what the house needed going forward. It definitely could use a lady's touch, so, he just let them go. They were welcome to do whatever they wanted..... withing reason.

Declan insisted on doing most of the cleaning after dinner since he had not participated in the making of dinner. Once everything was cleaned, and put away. Declan heard Rachel say she was going to bed. He gave her a hug and kissed her cheek. "Good night Rach... I will see you in the morning." He did not tell her he was going to be spending a few days.. maybe more... with them. He would run it past Tori first and then figure out how best to tell Rachel.

Moving to the sofa, Declan sat next to Tori. He knew she wanted to talk, and he would let her know everything. Once she asked how things were in town, Declan shared it with her. "The Moores aren't too happy with me. I had a little conversation with Rory. The Moores are going to puff out their chests a little, but Flannery said that he and McShea will take care of it all. They also said they would be taking care of the police, too.. if the Moores involved them. The hospital might contact them when Rory stops in for treatment."

He paused. He could see that Tori was a little upset... probably because he went after Rory after finding out he paid a visit to Tori and had threatened both her and Rachel. "Tori, you asked me a question. You can't be pissed off at me for being honest with you. You always get mad at me for hiding things from you despite the fact I am trying to protect you by doing so. Would you rather I hadn't told you?"

He calmed down a little. "Sorry Tor. I just want for us to get along. I want to be straight with you. There was no way I could let him get away with threatening you and Rachel. He had to know it wasn't okay. Oh, and speaking of the police... did a Detective by the name of Ralston have anything to do with Rachel going into Saltwater?"

 

[zydrate]

"OK, you're right... I'm sorry, it's just--" Tori sighed, "I worry about what could happen when you do things like this. All the 'what ifs' come up even though you're sitting right beside me, perfectly OK, except for," she picked up his hands and showed him his bruised and battered knuckles, "these."

Speaking of police...

This was no time to lie, even though Rachel had no intention to do so, "I'm not sure but I knew he would know who did." She and Ralston had gone to school together and graduated at the same time, "I had called him to see what he knew about all this and he had said he would let me know, if anything, what he found out."

This was all a mess, that was for sure.. and none of it was Rachel's fault. It was something that was stewing for a good few years and it just took one wrong thing to make it all boil over. And in this case, Tori felt like the police were to blame solely for this. If an all out war started between the territories, then it would make the cops jobs a lot easier.

Tori knew Declan knew this also...

"Maybe tomorrow I can go back and talk with Ralston personally. See what's going on.. get some questions answered."

 

[BeachBum25]

"There is nothing to be sorry about Tor." Looking down at his hands. "Well, my knuckles took a little damage. I will be fine." Looking over at Tori, he smiled at her. "You see Tor, we really are the same. We each worry about the other.. we just do it differently. You keep it bottled up inside and only tell me now because we are being open and honest. I let you know that I am worried about you... yes, maybe too aggressively, but only because I care."

As Tori started talking about how she had reached out to Ralston, Declan listened intently. He was surprised to hear her place the blame on the police and not so much on the Moores. He was also a little upset that Tori hadn't told him about Ralston before this.

"Tori, I believe the police have to accept a lot of the blame for this, and I have actually thought of hiring a lawyer to address that, but I am not sure how Rachel would take that. However, I do think the Moores have to own up to what they did. Maybe what happened to Rachel didn't come from the top, but that just means their piece-of-shit organization has no true guidance. Hell, the fact that Rory came and threatened you and Rachel shows that they have no idea what they are doing. I wouldn't be surprised if this puts an end to their whole organization.... McShea is really pissed and he is going to cut off all services to them in addition to whatever other retaliation he has in mind."

"I don't want you going into town to talk to Ralston. I can't and won't prevent you from going and I can't make you stay here, but I would like you to give it some time. Maybe you can call the cop and see what he found out, but I am going to leave that up to you."

 

[zydrate]

Tori let out another hard sigh when Declan said he didn't want her to go into town and talk to Ralston but she let it go and nodded, "I'll think about it. Perhaps we can get Rach to open up a little more."

They still held each other's hands and Tori leaned back against Declan, thinking about what they talked about. Of course, it wasn't all over just yet as the hard part was already here and that was the waiting. Waiting for what's to happen next...

It was still too early to go to bed but Tori was tired. She often found herself more tired lately but after all she had been doing, she knew it was to be expected. Staying there, next to Declan, in the dimly lit room was nice. It was relaxing. Although there was only one other bed in the house, to which Tori had gotten some sheets and pillows for at the thrift shop in town and had washed them before putting them on the bed.

Among all that was going on, she would let herself think about the house. Think about what could be... or was it what could have been? Yes, Deek said they were both stubborn but it was in both their nature in growing up the way they did. But in reality, Tori couldn't see herself with anyone else... hell, she didn't want to think about anyone else as there was always something between them that had clicked as far back to when they had first met.

"I bet it's killing you to just be sitting here..." Tori said, knowing she was right. She brought his arm she was leaning against and lifted it up and around her as she snuggled into the crook of his shoulder, "You must be suffering greatly," she said in a teasing tone.

 

[BeachBum25]

He felt her sigh when he had said that he wanted her to give it some time before she went into town. "Come on Tor, I said that it was up to you. You have to admit that I am trying. In the past I would never have said it was up to you."

They sat quietly for a few minutes. It felt really good to be this close to Tori. He enjoyed his hand in hers, and he liked the way that she leaned her body against his. He felt like this is the way it should be. Tori was the only woman he cared about, and there was nobody else he could see himself caring about at any time in the future... not like he did Tori.

When she brought his arm around her, Declan pulled Tori closer to him. "Killing me to be sitting here? Not at all. I can't think of another place that I would rather be right now." He laughed a little as Tori teased him about suffering greatly. "You know what is making me suffer? The thought of sleeping on this damned sofa. I knew that I should have made sure there were beds in all of the rooms, but I didn't think that I was going to have any company here for a while.... not that I am complaining about you being here."

He kissed the top of her head as he held her against him. "Something tells me that you are suffering greatly, also," he whispered to her. "Of course, it would not be a great idea for Rachel to wake up and find us in bed together. I know she was not happy when we split up, but I don't think she would be happy about finding us together. Of course, if I woke up early and snuck out here onto the sofa...." Declan winked at Tori.