No lifeguard on duty

[Silver Swan]

MP Apt 7

[ Sharon began to turn as she heard Haleigh and the ZACH!? her silver eyes widened with disbelief just as Nicolas opened the door and greeted her. she turned back , her hair flowing with the turn.]

Nicolas.

[ she said flatly as she walked in.]

Shut the door.

[ her armour covered fist still clenched. It SEEMED from the look of her face and the fact that she was in her armoured ensembled that she might be looking for a fight. but with whom? It wouldnt be hard to guess.]

I'm trying very hard not to give in...to my savage instinct. I've come so far since my time in Themyscria...but that coke head slut next door is going to make me revert...

[ pausing.]

and now...Zach is here? Haleigh thought she could sneak him in... she thought I couldnt hear EITHER of them?

[ laughing with disbelief]

do people around here think i'm STUPID? I hear EVERYTHING! Maybe I should go down there and BEAT that fact into her little head!

[ it was OBVIOUS that Sharon was on the edge. What had happened!?]

 

[Arsenal]

Mike's eyebrow lifted as he heard Zach shoot off his mouth. He began to squeeze off the shot until Haleigh intervened, placing her hand on his arm. The wolves advanced silently, boxing the new person in, coming between Zach and the others. Mike clicked his tongue and they froze, only one step from attacking Zach. Mike spoke to Haleigh, his voice even and deep as he kept Zach within his gaze.

I hadn't seen you in a while, so I was waiting for you after working out. Before we never had locked doors on our places and I knew you would recognize me as soon as you came in. I am sorry...I did not know you had COMPANY. I'll go.

Mike walked past Haleigh and towards the door. In a flash, he hooked Zach around the neck, delivering a "Rock Bottom". He whispered in his ear knowing that Haleigh could hear him.

If you ever disrespect her or the people that were here for her after you fucked up, I.WILL.KILL.YOU.

Mike got up effortlessly and exited, his wolves in tow.

Haleigh, you might want to watch that one if you plan to keep him. Because I am MUCH more mellow than HE will be...

 

[Rampage]

Nicolas closed the door and led Sharon farther into his apartment. Considering her mood, he was glad she came to him, but unsure if he was up to keeping her from killing someone.

Sharon, Haleigh did not expect Zach's appearance, and as for Zach...his time will come. There, Mike just slammed his ass on the floor. You should have seen it.

Nicolas chuckled a bit but stopped, realizing that Sharon was in no mood. His tone became more serious as he regarded Sharon more deeply.

It has been a long time, Sharon. I have missed you. How are you REALLY doing?

 

[MorningStar]

They all filed back to Melrose Place after what had turned out to be a LONG DAY. She went back to Morgan’s with she and Alison, and collapsed onto one of the sectionals in a not very ladylike slouch.

and how about Haleigh and Nicolas? they really stepped up didnt they?

Delilah sat up at that comment, not sure whether she should say anything or let it go. Though she wanted them all to work things out, and there was no question Haleigh and Nicolas had been there for Blaze – she wasn’t sure she liked the idea of Morgan falling back into old habits with Nicolas. She picked the kitten up from the floor, cuddling her to her chest.

But the conversation quickly moved on to Sharon.

She's unpredictable as ever since becoming the Silver Swan.

Delilah scratched the kitten’s ears.

“True – but I think she’s finally come into her own. We’ve had out problems, but she’s really found her strength. It’s like it was what she was always meant to be.”

She turned to Morgan.

“So Morg, you’ve had the most contact with these “new girls”. What are they like?”

She was basically just making conversation, but a little gossip session never hurt anyone, and they needed to keep their minds on lighter things, at least while they could.

 

[Silver Swan]

MP- apt. 7

[ Sharon stared at Nicolas with those silver eyes as he tried to find humour in the situation. He quickly realized she was unamused.]

I don't care about that Miami vice reject or Linda Hamilton...I'm just saying that if she thinks she can hide him from me...shes even dumber than she looks. If Zach is back...I could care less. He knows not to cross me.

I'm UPSET because that piece of trash next door (again referring to Claudia) is here. WHY did Morgan let her move in here!?

[ turning away, she paces a bit.]

She thinks what i did to her face EARLIER today was something? I'm going to murder her...maybe not now, but SOON. Her and her two bit twit sister.

[ she stops and looks at Nicolas as he asks her how she is...he seems genuine enough and it HAD been a while since they had interacted one on one. both had been through so many changes.]

I WAS fine...until now. NOW I want to snap Claudia Zacchara in half like the frail twig that she is. She doesnt know who she's DEALING WITH! NOT ANYMORE!

[ an indication that there was some sort of history or SOME past connection between them.]

 

[Rampage]

Nicolas realized that Sharon was talking about the Zacharas, and she was talking about killing. What was the connection? Nicolas decided there was enough time for that later, but now... Nicolas grasped each of Sharon's hands, hoping that she would calm down a bit.

Sharon...Morgan most likely sold the lease to a proxy, not knowing WHO the true tenants would be. Just CALM down. You have apparently decided on violence at least ONCE today. Hey, how about I cook you a nice dinner and we can talk it over? Everything we need to speak of.

Nicolas abruptly disengaged, collecting things in the kitchen to cook with. His voice was a bit weaker as he spoke now as he tried to keep things normal and under control.

I am sorry that you can no longer see me as other than the son of a monster. Things have been...REALLY hard without you to look to and Sharon...I don't want to go this long without you again. Have a seat, I will make you some fruit, and a little beef..how about a Napa salad? I remember that you do like red wine, I have some chilled in the fridge.

Nicolas busied himself with trying to make Sharon as comfortable as possible, his heart hurting from the loss of her over the time since Aerie and his fear of never being close to her again...

 

[Orion]

MP -- Apt 5

Mike gave as lame an excuse for sitting in the dark in a woman's apartment as Zach had ever heard... and even though the wolves closed in to intimidate him, Zach was afraid of a couple of rapid dogs, no matter HOW big they were. Mike wasn't ballsy enough to attack him right in front of Haleigh.

Sure enough... Mike excused himself to go-- but not before a SURPRISE cheap shot. Mike cleverly waited until he'd gotten behind Zach's peripheral vision to launch the attack, which blindsided Zach completely. the next thing ZACH knew, he was on the ground, Mike atop him. But Zach had trained with Haleigh in addition to his own physical training, and he reacted QUICKLY. Mike had a warning to deliver, but Zach didn't respond with words. He sharply slammed his knee into the side of Mike's ribcage, and was ABOUT to elbow him in the side of the head when he felt Haleigh separating them both. She was calling for them to stop, scolding Mike and practically pushing him out the door.

Zach took a moment to catch his breath, propping himself up on his elbow as Haleigh closed the door behind Mike and the Call of the Wild. It was quiet in the apartment again. Haleigh reached down to help him to his feet, bringing their bodies closer together than they had been since Zach had woken up with Haleigh in his arms this morning. There was a heavy pause, as they looked at each other, standing close enough to kiss. Haleigh pulled away first, with the excuse of getting them drinks. Zach shook his head.

"Haleigh... are you really with him now? Come ON. He's a TOOL. And Nicolas-- He's a KID. He doesn't know how to handle HIMSELF. Tell me I'm wrong."

 

[Spellbinder]

MP apt. 4

<< Morgan rubbed Tinker on her back. The siamese lay between her mommy and one of her "aunties" as she enjoyed attention from the two witches while Delilah cuddled the small white kitten.>>

<< As Delilah responded about Alison's obversation on Sharon, Morgan nodded.>>

I agree. Sharon has a new lease on life...she was taken through heaven AND hell to get to this point. She's a "NO B.S." kind of woman, and with people like Nicolas and Haleigh around, we'll need that.

<< a sign that while she DID appreciate Nicolas and Haleigh's help with Blaze...she was by NO MEANS "business as usual" with either of them.>>

<< as Delilah and Alison asked about the newest arrivals, the Zaccharas, Morgan shook her head to the negative.>>

Aside from their submitting a request to make some small changes to the internal structure of their apartment and Claudia adding Clara onto the lease, I havent had much interaction with them.

As for what they are like? Well they really arent doing well in making friendly aquaintence with their neighbors. So far though, they havent given me a problem...but if they ARE the type to try to test me...THEY will be the ones who FAIL!

Maybe Alison can dish more on them. After all, she IS a precog who can see forward AND backward in time.

<< she looks at Alison and Delilah with a wicked smirk on her face.>>

I think I'll check on Blaze now. << standing up>>

You ladies coming?

<< Morgan trusted Delilah and Alison, if they wanted to hang out in her apartment she certainly didnt mind, but she was thinking about her cross time alternate sister and wanted to make sure she was comfortable n ow back in her apartment.>>

 

[Harbinger]

MP Apt. 4

:: Alison looked at Tinker as the siamese rolled around, enjoying her head being scratched while Morgan rubbed her back.::

what...is mommy not spoiling you enough these days?

:: she says playfully as the feline's purring can be heard by them all.::

Oh I'm not implying that Sharon poses a RISK.

:: speaking after Morgan and Delilah about Sharon.::

Just that she's definately NOT quite the same as she was before. Definately an "UPGRADE". She will thrive here, and the team will be better off having her in its active ranks.

as for the new residents? dubious choices as best. i see nothing but tension, pretense and dischord following them.

:: Morgan spoke of checking on Blaze.::

I'll go with you, but then I have to leave. I need to get back to Minerva's Mansion, and on the way I'll check on Ava at Aerie. AND I'm making sure that Claudia and Clara Zacchara don't see me.

:: Delilah would note that Alison was DELIBERATELY keeping her presence hidden from those women.::

Btw, if you want to see a good drama? Just keep an eye on apt 5. Zachary "I used to be engaged to Haleigh and had past liason with Sharon" Armani is on the pemesis and has already been "greeted" by Mike and those...things he has following him around.

:: an indication that her seer's eye was as keen as ever::

Morgan...WHY does he have WOLVES in L.A.?

:: she laughs as she stands up with the women.::

 

[Silver Swan]

MP apt. 7

[ Sharon was a bit taken aback as Nicolas grasped her armoured hands and held them as he appealed to her to calm down. After looking at him with astonishment for a moment, she then looks down at her hands, held by his. He doesnt mean any harm, so she doesnt need to react violently ]

[ He instead offers to cook, and for them to share a meal and talk. Sharon's FIRST instinct was to immediately protest and leave, but why? what would it solve at this point?]

[ she exhales loudly as she takes a seat at one of the bar chairs of the nook.]

That sounds...nice.

[ he starts preparing things and he speaks.]

Nicolas, yes..I WAS horrified by you. Who WASN'T? The things you did to Dominique, the things we THOUGHT you might be doing to Morgan and Haleigh...it even frightened ME and you see how i am NOW.

But honestly? I don't care about that anymore. Set is gone, he's not coming back, not unless YOU give him a way in and somehow? I don't think you want that. I think you'd rather DIE than know you were responsible for the deaths of anyone on this team or the world over.

You're lucky, as horrifying as you were...you didnt do what I did when I first returned as THIS...

[ gesturing at herself.]

you didnt KILL people and desecrate a church. you didnt ..."rampage" through town killing men on live television.

After the nightmare at Arklay...i was shocked back to MYSELF. I felt more alive than i had after all the work you and Morgan did to save me from Rick Riley's lethal drug in my body. Setting my son free from his never ending HELL in that mansion...it set ME free too. After the Tri Sentinel, going to Aerie and then Themyscria...i had so much time to think, to learn...to develope my physical skills, mental discipline and hone my newfound powers. as a mutate!

[ she says as she looks at him.]

in my wildest dreams, i never imagined that i could stand shoulder to shoulder with YOU on the battle field and GIVE as good as i might get. the amazons sent me back to Aerie when the time was right. And that was when Dominique came after you seeking revenge.

Yes, it was HARD for me to learn who your REAL father was. It was terrifying even for ME and all ive been through, to watch you brutalize Dominique, capture Morgan and Haleigh and try to assault ALL of our minds.

EVERYTHING that happened afterward was a mess. Ava killing Mike, Karen almost snapping and giving over to the darkness it was all so...so UGLY.

But now...I look at you, and while its hard to see you EXACTLY as i did before...i realize after a talk I had with Delilah yesterday that people may still have that same struggle with ME.

So here we are..two forever changed people. I remember your adoptive father Gustav. I loved him and he loved me. I may have even become your adoptive mother if things had went a different way...i was planning to marry Gustav AND legally adopt you as well.

But you're a young man now...and knowing what you know about yourself, who your biological father is...can you REALLY stand there and tell me you want...or even NEED me to be in your life as before?

and there's one other thing...I DON'T approve of what you're doing with Haleigh. It looks bad and it hurts Morgan even MORE than what you two have already done.

[ Sharon was never one to mince her words these days.]

 

[Black Widow]

MP -- Apt 5

Mike explained himself, and Haleigh gave him a soft smile.... but she still prepared to usher Mike out of the apartment. It wasn't that she didn't want to SEE Mike... just that she had an imminent discussion coming with Zach and it was one Mike couldn't be around for.

"Well, that's very sweet, Mikey... and you don't have to apologize, just call first or something next time, alright? What if I had been doing something... of a personal nature?"

Mike began to see himself [and his pets] out.... but not before a FIGHT could erupt in her livingroom! Haleigh closed on them quickly, as Zach began to defend himself, pulling them apart and stopping an all out BRAWL.

"STOP! STOP, for CHRIST'S sake! MICHAEL, have you LOST YOUR DAMN MIND?! Whether you LIKE IT or not, Zach is a GUEST in my home and you can't just ASSAULT him! Good GRIEF, are you ON SOMETHING?? [he tried to warn her about something, but Haleigh was so frustrated, she wasn't hearing any of it] No! Go, just GO, and take Balto and White Fang with you, please!"

She exclaimed, as the wolves slinked out into the courtyard, and Haleigh closed the door behind them. She was thouroughly SHOCKED, for once. Despite Mike playing tough guy, she hadn't expected him to actually ATTACK Zach. She sighed, offering a hand down to help Zach up from the floor, shaking her head in disbelief. Zach got up, pulling gently on her hand to stabilize himself. He stood all the way up, Haleigh following him with her gaze. She considered asking if he was alright, but was wary to show too much concern... and she was wise in holding back... it was tense enough just standing there, still holding his hand, far closer than she was comfortable with at this point. The attraction was still there... the love was too. He was still the man she was going to marry once, even if the trust was badly damaged. they weren't exactly so different anymore, either... she didn't have a soap box to stand on. She wasn't trustworthy anymore either. She pulled away, offering to get him a drink. He declined... he had too much to say to bother with a drink.

"Yeah, well you know what? YOU are the only man who broke my heart, so if you DONT mind, I really don't think YOU are in any position to judge the other men in my life."

Zach: "Haleigh, I--"

"no... don't BOTHER apologizing, Zach. It's too late for that. I don't need it anymore. I don't need LOVE either."

She said plainly... determined. Zach admonished her not to be so hasty, not to turn her back on love.

"And why NOT? You know what Love has done to me? It made me WEAK. The kinds of things I've done in the name of love... DISASTROUS. A lot of people would be better off if I just turned it off."

Haleigh, her back to Zach, had the earlier intention of pouring herself a drink. But she never got around to it... She simply stood at the minibar, one hand on the glass, staring at the bottle of bourbon as she spoke. Zach approached her, his hands on her shoulders, turning her around.

Zach: "What happened, Haleigh?"

For some reason... Zach always made Haleigh want to talk. And maybe Haleigh was ALREADY vulnerable because of the isolation she'd been in for months. But her answer came out as easy as if nothing had happened between them.

"I slept with Nicolas... and it destroyed Morgan.... destroyed me. [after he asked Why] Because I love him. Because I CAN'T love him."

 

[Rampage]

But you're a young man now...and knowing what you know about yourself, who your biological father is...can you REALLY stand there and tell me you want...or even NEED me to be in your life as before?

and there's one other thing...I DON'T approve of what you're doing with Haleigh. It looks bad and it hurts Morgan even MORE than what you two have already done.

Nicolas turned to face Sharon, his face somber.

Maybe not JUST as before, but I needed SOMEONE who was willing to reach out to me. EVERY OTHER person who has ever had difficulty on this team has had SOMEONE, and the ONLY person I had--Haleigh--was someone no one would approve of. Nothing happened between us since then, just two people who tried to put their lives back together after a hell of a breakdown, realizing that those who they would do ANYTHING for would not even check to see if they were okay.

I accept that the...visibility of our association was wrong and hurtful and for that I am sorry. But I wish that someone else, ANYONE else...would have knocked on my door by now. I accept that you did not wish to do so yet, and I will have to live with that fact. In any case, I am glad you are here NOW, and you will see a much different Nicolas, for the better.

He turned back to flip the steaks, the salads already done and being placed on plates...

 

[Firebird]

Apartment 8

It was drama central over at Melrose Place for the day between two long-lost lovers reunited, old enemies aware of the others presence, and several conversations spurring from each of the residence.

Unlike those really hardcore soap opera fanatics she knew on her old world ( ) Blaze flipped the channel from General Hospital to the Chelsea Lately, a favorite show of hers. Getting up she moved into the kitchen to grab some celery and peanut butter to snack on.

Walking past her kitchen window she noticed Mike exiting Haleigh’s apartment and from her angle she also noticed Zach. A smirk ran across her lips, “I guess even a can opener needs to be serviced and oiled!” It dawned on her that Sharon would be aware of Zach’s presence now.
Reaching down to her plate of celery and peanut butter she quietly crunched on it, “Who needs General Hospital when I’ve got all the juicy drama right here!” Peering out her window she chuckled before returning to her living room to sit down to enjoy her snack.

 

[MorningStar]

Delilah made a "duh" face as Morgan suggested they ask Alison about Melrose Place's newest tennants. It never really occurred to her to use their powers when someone WASN'T trying to kill them.

As for the new residents? Dubious choices as best. I see nothing but tension, pretense and dischord following them.

Delilah smirked. "Great, so a change then."

As Morgan and Alison got up to check on Blaze, Delilah followed. She gave the kitten one more scratch between the ears and set her gently down on the sofa before getting up a bit slowly. The emotion of the day had really taken it out of her. She stretched then exited the apartment, turning to say her goodbyes to Alison.

"Well I wish you could stay longer, but it was really nice to see you. And like I said you're welcome to stay with me anytime."

Alison mentioned that ZACH was in LA. Delilah chuckled.

"Are you sure you don't want to stay? I could make popcorn and we could watch the fireworks."

Morgan...WHY does he have WOLVES in L.A.?

Delilah rolled her eyes. "Why do those two boys do ANYTHING they do?"

 

[Silver Swan]

MP apt. 7

[ Sharon didnt need to eat as often as she did when she was merely human. But she still enjoyed the taste of good food every now and then.]

[ she enjoyed fresh fruit and water as Nicolas finished preparing dinner, he turned and gave his answer to her question. he looked sad, the pain of loss was etched in his young face.]

Maybe that's why the Amazons sent me back. To be a buffer through the revelation of Dominique and Set. I had been VERY conflicted about what was happening before Dominique's rune unleashed Set. I didnt agree with Alison about killing you. I felt in my heart that I had to try to protect you...a MATERNAL instinct...but between Haleigh and Mike's IRRATIONAL opposition of anything Alison had to say, and the Sisterhood's attack...and the fact that I had just barely arrived and half the team wasnt even sure if i could HANDLE being "a member of the six"....i was truly at a loss.

Then suddenly I had to help protect Morgan from YOU. I did battle with Set, i wanted to KILL him then and there to save not only Morgan but YOU as well, but I couldnt stop him on my own.

We all know what happened in the end...

[ looking down at her armoured hands for a moment.]

And I ...i DO feel badly that I could NOT find it in myself to try to be there for you. I've dishonored Gustav's memory and I've let you down when you needed someone. I didnt know what i could DO for you...but that's no excuse.

[ she had a close friendship with Morgan, Delilah and Alison but she had also known Nicolas since he was a boy. So much had happened between her dying, coming back from the dead as Silver Swan up to Nicolas' aunt seeking revenge and Set appearing and the fallout...it was ALOT to take in, but Nicolas had one point that no one could really deny. Everyone else on the team had at least ONE person backing them in good times AND bad. For a while Nicolas and yes even Haleigh did not have that.]

I didnt know what to do...or HOW to be there before, but I'm here now. and while I do NOT agree with you and Haleigh even giving the appearence of something going on, In my heart...I still have care and concern for you.

 

[Spellbinder]

MP Courtyard

<< back outside and down the stairs, Morgan walked slightly ahead of Delilah and Alison but heard them as they were talking. The mention of Zach didnt really sway Morgan either way. As SHE understood it, Zach's affair with Sharon happened BEFORE he was official with Haleigh. But even if that werent the case, HE should've told Haleigh the truth before the Silver Swan's debut. Morgan imagined that Haleigh might have understood it better coming from him before Sharon's surprise resurrection.>>

<< but then she often gave Haleigh too much credit didnt she? She trusted this woman with her LIFE if necessary...it was a hard earned trust and bridge built between them after over a year, and the woman BETRAYED her. Morgan wouldnt give Haleigh ANY credit now except that she was capable of ANY despicable act with no remorse. >>

Well, I don't care if it's Zach or the Loch Ness Monster or anyone ELSE she has in there. if she is expecting him to stay HERE for an extended period of time, He'll have to go on the lease and I will increase the rent.

<< it didnt matter that Haleigh could afford whatever rate hike Morgan instituted, it just indicated that Morgan would offer Haleigh NO favors or consideration anymore...and she said it with an icy tone that Alison and Delilah knew left no room for discussion on it. Morgan could hardly care about the drama brewing in Melrose at the moment when her mind was on so many other things, namely her career and her sister.>>


<< Alison indicated she'd be leaving after checking up on Blaze and Morgan turned to her, agreeing with Delilah.>>

I'd love for you to stay longer. If you didnt have the mansion, I'd want you to move here. There's a space for you << pointing at one of the few unoccupied apartments.>> But just stay in contact okay Alison?

<< as they walked past the pool, Alison BINKED out of site, presumably inside of Blaze's apartment so as not to be seen by the Zaccharas.>>

She doesnt like them [ the Zaccharas]. I may have to find out why. If they pose some kind of THREAT...

<< Morgan trailed off as she heard the arguing of Haleigh and Zach and saw Mike coming across the courtyard looking like he'd just been in a fight. Haleigh's door had SLAMMED behind him.>>

Mike...what are you doing?

<< she said as she pointed at the two wolves.>>



What's going on in there?

<< Delilah stood next to her as they looked at Mike with more than a little curiosity.>>

 

[Orion]

MP -- Apt 5

Haleigh: "Yeah, well you know what? YOU are the only man who broke my heart, so if you DONT mind, I really don't think YOU are in any position to judge the other men in my life."

Zach winced a little. He hadn't expected such a stinging response, but he knew he deserved it. He tried to apologize… but she wasn't having any of it. It was clear she was bitter about something else. Zach didn't overestimate his effect on her… he was certain that their separation had badly hurt Haleigh… but that was MONTHS ago and whatever was bothering Haleigh was fresher than that… and WHATEVER it was… it was bad enough for her subconscious to prefer the familiar comfort of an old relationship, even if it was a failed one.

"Hey, don't do that… don't turn your back--"

Haleigh: "And why NOT? You know what Love has done to me? It made me WEAK. The kinds of things I've done in the name of love... DISASTROUS. A lot of people would be better off if I just turned it off."

It was disheartening to hear her talk like that… but it wasn't the first time he'd ever heard her entertain the idea of 'turning her emotions off'. Whether the idea of it simply appealed to her because it was an interesting ability… or that she SERIOUSLY considered it whenever her emotions gave her trouble, Zach couldn't be sure. What he DID know… was that for all the flaws that come with it, Haleigh's emotions did make her a lot more appealing as a person. Zach approached her slowly, gently taking her by the shoulders and turning her around to face him. He wanted to pull her into a hug… but she was still stiff and standoffish and she was occupied more in thought than she was in conversation. He wished she would just SAY it, already.

"What happened, Haleigh?"

As if she'd been WAITING for him to ask… her answer came immediately. She'd slept with Nicolas… and as one might expect…. It had a negative effect on interpersonal relationships. Haleigh was clearly devastated, admitted to loving Nicolas, and conceded that for whatever reason, she believed that loving him was unacceptable. Zach sighed gently…. Nothing was ever simple. He took her chin gently, lifting her gaze to meet his.

"Everyone makes mistakes, Haleigh."

Haleigh: "[scoffing] Yeah, well I somehow manage to make the MOST COLLOSAL ones, the most frequently."

Her self-deprecating tone delivered the response in such a way that he couldn't suppress a short chuckle. They shared eye contact for a moment, and Zach's smiled faded to an expression more serious.

"I know it defies whatever logical, rational conclusion you've come to Haleigh, but DON'T just STOP feeling emotions because of compromised decision."

Haleigh: "A compromised decision? Is THAT what you call SLEEPING with a man who was WITH one of my most trusted friends? Because I call it making just about the biggest fucking mess I could have POSSIBLY made. I mean really…. If I didn't know what the ALTERNATIVE was… I don't think I'd be able to LIVE with myself. But what GOOD has it done me? For all the 'love' between us… it can never work out… and it's the same old story, isn't it? Love takes me… to places I NEVER dreamed possible… and then it DROPS ME ON MY ASS… and leaves me feeling… like this."

Zach couldn't argue logic with Haleigh, and he knew better than to try. But he was a much less 'rational' person… after looking at a situation logically, he applied his heart to it… and though it had gotten him into a heap of trouble by preventing him from telling Haleigh about Sharon for fear of hurting her… he still believed it was the best way to make a sound decision.

"But aren't the highs worth the lows? Life… is a trade off, Haleigh. It's a balance…. And you can't have happiness without sorrow, or joy without pain. It's understandable to want to avoid pain… but to give up joy, happiness, and love just to do so… what kind of life would that be? Emotion is the only thing that separates YOU from… a can opener or a vending machine. Don't let go of the HUMAN part of you… it's the BEST part of you."

Unbeknown to Zach, Haleigh herself had said something VERY similar [about the balance of joy/sorrow]… not too long ago… and as he reminded her of that… she responded with only a terse smile. He had managed to balance the softer side with a logical SOUNDING side… something that Haleigh would appreciate…. And it seemed to work. They shared another long gaze…. And mostly out of habit, Zach finished a reassuring 'talk' by closing in for a kiss.


Momentarily forgetting the circumstances, he realized all too late that he was probably pushing his luck-- but she didn't pull back… and in fact, as their lips met… she kissed him back! Sensing a victory… He wrapped his arms around her.

 

[Black Widow]

MP -- Apt 5

Zach held her chin gently, reassuring her that she wasn't the only one who had ever made a mistake. That was mildly comforting, except:

"[scoffing] "Yeah, well I somehow manage to make the MOST COLLOSAL ones, the most frequently."

She replied quickly, making light of the truth. Her sarcastic humor made him laugh softly… and for a few seconds… they locked eyes. Haleigh was already forgetting that she was actually supposed to be despising Zach. It was so familiar… so comfortable, even after all this time… even after what happened. So MANY times during their relationship, Haleigh had come home frustrated or confused or angry with what was going on… so MANY times, Zach had the right answers… the right thing to say to either make sense of muddled emotions, or simply to comfort her. Zach tried to warn her against turning her emotions off, as he had successfully done so many times… but his choice of words caused Haleigh to scoff again. He just wasn't QUITE grasping the severity of the situation.

"A compromised decision? Is THAT what you call SLEEPING with a man who was WITH one of my most trusted friends? Because I call it making just about the biggest fucking mess I could have POSSIBLY made. I mean really…. If I didn't know what the ALTERNATIVE was… I don't think I'd be able to LIVE with myself."

She was referring, of course… to the alternate future timeline, where Morgan was terrorized by Nicolas, who was, in turn, murdered by Karen, and the rest of the team was divided, estranged, and all around suffering. She didn't explain that, however… it slipped her mind that Zach wouldn't already KNOW that… because they were already separated by then. But with Zach here, now… it felt like so little time had passed… and the timeline ran together…. Or maybe… she just LIKED conveniently forgetting about the magnificent FAILURE that was once her engagement. At any rate…. She continued without pause, because HE didn't stop her for an explanation.

"But what GOOD has it done me? For all the 'love' between us… it can never work out… and it's the same old story, isn't it? Love takes me… to places I NEVER dreamed possible… and then it DROPS ME ON MY ASS… and leaves me feeling… like this."

If the details were ever going to bring Haleigh back to the reality of who she was talking to… it would have been now…. But the TRUTH was…. They could have been talking about ANY past circumstances… because the fundamental conflict was so similar that the particulars lost most of their meaning. It was the same old battle… since joining the Six, Haleigh's life had taken on a nobler purpose and required an emotional evolution from cold, detached vengeance to someone with more… human feeling…. But there was always a part of Haleigh that had just wanted to allow the 'techno' part of her hybrid body to take over and reign efficiency. Zach had, for a long time, been the proverbial little-Dutch-boy-with-his-finger-in-the-dam. He had always talked Haleigh down from sequestering her emotional core.

His words tonight were having the same effect on her. He was NOT passion without reason…. And he probably wasn't aware just how meaningful what he said actually was…. Because Haleigh herself had said something almost verbatim, just a couple of months ago on Aerie. He admonished her not to abandon her more human side, reiterating that it was her best side… and she gave a tight smile, unable to argue with him exactly. Once again… like always… he knew what to say. Silence fell in the apartment, as she absentmindedly held eye contact with him… it was quiet enough to hear a pin drop, but it was not uncomfortable or tense… it was consoling… and like so many times before, when they were together, Zach leaned in to 'seal it with a kiss'… and Haleigh reciprocated… but as they got more into it… reality came CRASHING DOWN onto Haleigh. She was [quite passionately] kissing Zach. ZACH. Even the severity of the situation took a few seconds to really sink in…. But once it did… she ABRUPTLY pulled away, confused and a little irritated.

"WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!? [not giving him the chance to respond] So THAT'S why you came here, HMM? [getting more angry now] You flew ACROSS THE COUNTRY to try to get me to crawl back into bed with you?! What did you THINK? That you could take advantage of me because I'm hurt and vulnerable? You're disgusting!"

Zach: "[defensively]No, Haleigh, that's OUTRAGEOUS… I was trying to COMFORT you!"

Haleigh shook her head, a sardonic laugh in response, not believing her ears.

"You were trying to comfort YOURSELF… you MEN are the ones who find their comfort through such PRIMAL means. Women rather--"

Zach: "[hotly] DON'T kid yourself, baby. You're more like a man than you THINK. You ALWAYS seek out the nearest warm body when YOU'RE feeling broken."

Haleigh SEETHED…. He wasn't exactly WRONG, but Haleigh didn't have to hear it from HIM, of all people-- in fact… she didn't even have to dignify it with a response, other than:

"GET. OUT. [he tried to protest] No, I'm NOT joking. Don't MAKE me hurt you, Zach."

 

[Orion]

MP -- Apt 5

Zach, naturally, was thinking he'd done pretty damn good. There was still so much he needed to say… that he was sorry, that he still loved her… that they could just go back to the start, and thing would be different. But that was came to a CRASHING HALT. Haleigh pulled back, separating them with a small but stiff shove…. And then she began hurling accusations at him. It more than a little INSULTING that she would imply his SOLE MOTIVATION for following her back to LA was simply to bed her. He could do THAT with someone else… no, he'd come back here because he LOVED Haleigh, and he was RIGHT in thinking that she was distressed. He defensively responded, trying to diffuse a RAPIDLY escalating situation.

"No, Haleigh, that's OUTRAGEOUS…. [indignantly]I was trying to COMFORT you!"

But Haleigh was listening any more, and now she was becoming just plain CRUEL… and he wasn't going to let her continue to BELITTLE him without giving a much needed CORRECTION.

"[hotly] Don't kid yourself, baby. You're more like a man than you THINK. You ALWAYS seek out the nearest warm body when YOU'RE feeling broken."

He was WELL prepared to be SLAPPED for saying such a thing… but her reaction was MUCH more hurtful. She told him to get out… and after EVERYTHING tonight, she HAD to be saying it JUST out of spite.

"You're joking, right?? [off her response of not 'making her hurt him'] Oh, YOU'RE gonna do it, are you?? Why don't you just call MOWGLI and the WOLFPACK back here, and let THEM take care of your dirty work."

Haleigh: "GET OUT!"

The volume of her voice elevated to STEREOPHONIC levels…. And the flat panel tv on the wall behind her EXPLODED. It was like standing RIGHT NEXT to a person yelling into a bullhorn, and Zach's ears were ringing. The front door, a few feet away, flew open, and Zach, making perhaps the wisest decision of the night, shook his head but exited quickly. There were people in the courtyard-- Delilah, Morgan, and Mike. Perfect-- but Zach could vaguely hear Haleigh behind him as he passed them all on his way OUT of the courtyard.

Haleigh: "Just Let him GO."

 

[Rampage]

Nicolas listened to Sharon, the hurt on his face still evident but so was the care for her. he stepped forward to reach out to her, his hand touching her shoulder. Sharon as the Silver Swan would normally not allow such contact from hardly anyone, but one thing he had made sure to do when he reached out to her before was make contact, convey care through touch.

You did not dishonor my Father's memory. He loved you with all of his heart and considering that I have not been acting as he would have wished, he would have understood. Because he would have been here telling me calmly, as you have now, how he felt about my actions. To be honest, a large part of me did not realize HOW it looked. Haleigh and me just fell back into old roles after the incident, as being friends...except this time we were also the outcasts. In a situation like that, I think maybe you didn't expect me to listen to you but...really, you do not realize how much I RESPECT you.

Nicolas' eyes looked a bit far away as he thought of his Gustav and Sharon as a child.

When you visited my Father, he used to be SO fussy about everything...he wanted things perfect for you. And then you would walk in..so pretty, so poised...you know, I think you were my first sort-of crush a young child...and Father would seem..complete. You guys would talk for hours, and my Father would seek your companionship as much as my own. I would play in my room with toys or draw, and in my dreams you would stay with father and me, because you made him so happy.

Your relationship then is where I learned restraint. I offered to "help" you decide not to leave, because we wanted you with us, and he had never been more stern with me. He admonished me then that if you care about someone you can only let them know that you do, and be good to them, and enjoy the times that you have. But most of all, people have to do what they have to do, and you cannot take that from them.

I am not angry with you, and Father is not disappointed. But I do want you to know that we cared for you then, and we still do now, and however you decide to walk through that door...I will appreciate that you did. And though I am biologically a part of Set, my spirit is still the product of Gustav, and you are always welcome at my home. In all honesty, other than Mike, you are all of my Father's true life that I have left.

Nicolas poured Sharon more wine. He had hoped to reveal more of what he remembered to her at a more relaxed time but everything had moved so FAST since she joined the team. There had never been time. In any case, he hoped now that she would better be able to see her worth to him.