Chapters Octavia opened the cardboard box in front of her. Inside was her desktop some wires and a keyboard. She looked over to the corner by the window where her father was putting together a table for her to work at. It was made from mahogany with several drawers built in. Her new London flat in 221 B Baker street was a small apartment of her choice. She could have had a much bigger one if she let her parents pay but she had her reasons.
"Octavia dear are you sure you don't want us to find you a different place?"
"No mother I'm fine here."
"But it's so small your father and I could get you a much nicer flat."
"Crescendo dear she trying to show us she can take care of herself. She's nineteen I have faith in her abilities." Said Phillip.
"I know I'm just worried dear she is my little girl."
"I'll be fine mom don't worry. All I need is a job that will fit with my school schedule and I'll be fine."
"We could cover you rent if you-"
"Mom."
"Ok."
Crescendo walked over to her daughter and embraced her in a gentle hug.
"Even though I'm worried I'm also very proud of you."
"Thanks."
Octavia's mother held her at arms length.
"Promise you'll keep us in the loop ok? If you get sick or start dating or anything."
"I won't be dating mother I'll be too busy."
"People say that all the time when they go to collage.''
Phillip piped in without looking up from his work.
"There's a lot about you to love Octavia I'm sure there will be all sorts of girls interested in you."
"Father."
"Ok ok. Crescendo could you help me flip this table up?"
Octavia's mother walked over to help her husband while the woman in question looked around her new home. It was a three room apartment one bedroom one bathroom and a living room. The walls were a warm shade of brown with dark trim. There was a brick fireplace and two windows in the main room. The bedroom was small but of a large enough size for a queen sized bed and a night stand to fit easily. Her main room had a couch some book shelves and a tele as well as the for mentioned desk. Last was the bathroom small simple and clean.
The kitchen was located in the left corner of the main room with all the necessities in place. Octavia would be very comfortable here and it was a good neighborhood too. Phillip clapped his hands together as he stood as if he was trying to clean dust from them.
"That's all the furniture done now we just need to unpack."
"That's fine dad Lyra and Bon Bon are coming over tomorrow to help me with that. I'll call you and mom when they leave."
"Are you sure?" Asked Crescendo.
"Yes I'm sure."
"Come along dear let's go home and let our daughter relax shall we?
Once they were gone Octavia gave a sigh and sat on the couch. Her backpack lay beside it containing her laptop. Pulling it out she typed the London Post into the search bar. This opened up the front page containing a rather eye catching story. Three found murdered in river Thaimes She decided to read the article.
The bodies of three known criminals have washed up on the side of the Thaimes. They were bound together with time of death at around 10pm yesterday. The police have identified the deceased in question as wanted members of the Crowns gang. The said enterprise have been associated with murder, theft, robbery, and drug trafficking. The culprits of the killing are not yet known. When asked Chief Inspector Cane would not comment.
The rest gave information on the details of deaths and other matters. When finished Octavia proceeded to browse the job section in hopes of finding employment.
Six blocks south of Octavia's flat in Barnet cabs and cars past each other in the street. People walked the pavement many heading in the same direction. The happening spot in this part of town was the Foal house a nightclub containing music, booze and gambling. Anyone who entered was greeted by the loud bass of DJ Pon-3 who had so named herself the diva of dubstep. From the south part of town came a jeep containing two individuals who were late for work.
Pulling up on the side of the street the driver stepped out hurriedly running around the side to get the door for his passenger. He wore a black wool coat with black jeans and a dark green undershirt. Unknown to the common eye he had a crowbar and revolver hidden beneath his jacket. Reaching the other side he pulled open the door letting the woman step out.
She smiled at him revealing pearly white teeth she like the driver wore black jeans and a matching wool coat though in her case tailored for woman. Her read undershirt bore the mark of a headset with a wire and read 'music is magic'. To her surprise the man in front of her held out the crook of his arm as if he meant to escort her. She giggled slightly to her self.
"Hold 'em were just going to work not some fancy restaurant."
"Hey I'm the one who lucked out here you could do a lot better than me. Therefor I have to step up my game to keep you around my Nightingale."
She leaned forward and gave him a quick peck.
"How could I do better than you? Now come on Vinyl is already doing her set you need to tend the bar and I need to serve the drinks."
Once again Hold 'em held out his arm. Rolling her eyes Nightingale took it and the two proceeded into the club. Upon opening the door they were greeted by the thudding of bass flashing lights and the aroma of cigarette smoke. People danced on the main floor while others sat with there drinks. The bar sold everything from beer to flaming shots and the amount of drunks would only increase as the night went on. In one of the back rooms were several poker and pool tables. The Foal House their port in the storm.
The pair proceeded to there work station as the current bar tender waved them over. He was clearly displeased with his comrades being late since he had been forced to handle the growing crowd by his lonesome till now. Hold 'em picked up his walking pace as he was waved over by the bar tender Nightingale followed close behind. As expected Ashes did not great them warmly.
"The fuck in Tartarus you two been? Your twenty minutes late!"
"Sorry we slept in a bit and traffic was terrible but were here now." Replied Hold 'em.
"look guys I don't want to be a dick but I can't hold off a Friday night crowd on my own!"
"It won't happen again Ash."
"My name is Ashes not Ash! Now please give me a hand I'm seven orders behind already."
While the three set to work Vinyl smiled amused behind her purple shades. She didn't need to hear them to know that Ashes wasn't happy with there friends being tardy on a Friday. It was one thing to call in the temporary replacements when they were known to be gone but they had not called in so there was no way of knowing when they'd show. Still with Coin Flip acting as the poker room guard the gang was all here. As the record ended Vinyl pulled out another one preparing to place it on the turn table. The audience looked up to her while she adjusted the various nobs dials and switches for her favorite album her own remixed dubstep version of 'I fought the law'.
"Ya'll been a fucking amazing crowd tonight you know that?
Cheers erupted from the audience.
"I've got my personal favorite coming up now. Anyone who has been here before knows the one but for those who don't listen up!
She took a drag on her cigarette while pausing for dramatic effect.
"Get ready for the most brutal fucking bass you ever heard!
The crowd cheered again as Vinyl flipped the on switch. A steady beat filled the room growing in intensity slowly as I fought the law played in a remixed style. The crowd waited in agony for the impending bass drop but Vinyl refused to give it till she was ready. She continued to operate the turn tables working her magic as she would say a grin growing on her face by the second. She started bobbing her head it was almost time. Then when she knew the crowd could take no more she yelled the words they needed to hear. "Bass drop!"
The bass burst from the sound system and the crowd roared at the satisfying conclusion to the build up. Vinyl held up two middle fingers to either side of her as if to say fuck everything but the bass. The electronic sound engulfed the crowd drowning out everything else in the world. These were the times Vinyl was happiest when she was making music not war, Love not hate, Joy not pain. The times when she wasn't fighting on the streets against drug dealers and other criminals.
The problem was that a life of crime had always been her only other skill and she had bills to pay that DJing would not cover. Also there were other reasons she took up the line of work. But for a person like Vinyl no matter how many times you kill it doesn't get easer. The fact that those she killed were the scum of the earth gave some consolation. Still Taking lives even for what she thought was the right reason was hard.
This brought up another question in her mind. Yesterday her gang a group calling themselves the Everfree had broken up a drug deal. It scored them ten grand in British pounds and a suit case of low quality meth. The gang had a strict rule about no drugs and no selling them. Instead they made sure they didn't hit the streets. But this brought up the problem of disposal. How do you discretely get rid of illegal drugs so no one uses them?
She had seen in the news that the bodies had been found but as to whether or not the police had leads was anyone's guess. Still she was confident she had done a sufficient job in destruction of the evidence. As the song finished she came back to the world of now. She was about to pull out another record when she got a text on her phone. Pulling the buzzing device out of her pocket she glanced at the screen. Message from S.G.
She tapped the screen with her thumb and read the message. Finished she sent a text to each member of her teem via group messaging. "Back room now!" She set the table on repeat and called for a replacement team to fill there posts.
"Hey folks I'm sorry to say I got to bounce but don't worry Steady Bass is on his way to fill for me. He'll be here in ten minutes!"
She jumped down from the stage and began walking to the back room door. Once inside she found The rest of the gang had assembled. Vinyl didn't speak instead she walked over to a locker and pulled out a pair of brass knuckles, Switch blade, revolver and a hand gun. She stored them away in various concealable areas on her person. Last she pulled an black bandana and tied it loosely around her neck.
Hold 'em leaned against the back wall shuffling cards between his hands Nightingale on his left. Ashes was checking his guns for any issues while Coin Flip stood with crossed arms. After Vinyl finished preparing she turned to the group before speaking.
"I just got a text from the Buss boy down at the Lucky Fiddle Pub. It seems the Crowns are hassling Shot Glass about switching protection from us to them. He's stalling best he can but we need to get down there and prove a point to the fuckers."
"What's our plan then V?"
"He says there's six of them down there we can take them. Don't use guns unless you have to and keep damage to the bar to a minimum we have to pay for any damages. All the same give them a beating they won't forget! Make it clear they don't shit where we eat!".
Vinyl stepped out the back entrance into the ally where her Breakout motorbike was parked. Throwing her leg over it she revved the engine before looking back towards her gang. They had piled into the jeep and were awaiting her signal. She sped off down the street past the brick houses and shops. It was common practice to stay in a flat above your business and many people did so. Vinyl kept to the allyways and backstreets it was quicker and more discreet then the main roads.
The jeep was following close behind and they made progress towards their destination quickly with one of her hands Vinyl pulled the bandana around her neck up so that it covered her face. She breathed deep preparing for the worst as she always did. Gang fights had a habit of getting out of hand vary easily. Any fight could be there last for anyone in her team. To her they weren't workers they were family and if she lost any of them she would morn them as a fallen brother or sister.
They were one block away now from the Lucky Fiddle Pub she gripped the handles of her bike hard in frustration. Shot Glass was a good friend to them. He insisted on drinks on the house whenever they popped in even if they tried to pay. He would always say The Everfree get free drinks for evermore. It wasn't just about that though he had been a good friend. He'd given them a place to crash on more than one occasion and he always smiled when they came in. That made this personal.
Vinyl cut the engine in front of the pub the others pulled up behind her. Together they approached the door hearing the sounds of a fight coming from inside. She pulled the pair of brass knuckles from her leather jacket and kicked open the door. It swung inward and the opposition looked up. Vinyl glared from under her glasses. They had been giving Shot Glass cigar burns apparently tired of him stalling. The buss boy was tied up in a chair and gagged obviously terrified. The one holding a cigar spoke up. "This doesn't fucking concern you get out before cut your ugly face!"
Vinyl stepped forward her comrades coming in behind her. She took off her glasses revealing a set of blood red eyes the rage in them evident. Two of the six thugs eyes widened a look of terror on there faces.
"She a bloody daemon!"
"No...I'm worse. Fuck them up!"
All Tartarus broke loose. Vinyl charged the man with the cigar throwing a right hook at his jaw. It made contact and thanks to the brass his jaw broke. The force of her blow was so strong that several teeth flew from his mouth as the broken bone cut through the side of his mouth and came out the other side. He was on the floor in an instant screaming causing his mouth to hurt more and create more screaming. Vinyl continued to kick him in the ribs cracking a few. "Don't fuck with my people you bastard!" She yelled.
The others were busy with there own fights. The sound of crowbars clashing and clubs smacking people were combined with cries of pain. Hold 'em's Crowbar made contact with on of the thugs arms. There was a loud crack and a scream from the injured party before he was silenced by a punch knocking him to the ground unconscious. With that done Hold 'em Proceeded to smack a thug that was giving Coin Flip trouble in the back. He went down like a sack of grain.
Coin Flip nodded thanks before turning to a new target and kicking him between the legs. Once he bent over he brought his knee up to his nose then he fell backwards spewing blood when he breathed. Clapping his hands together he looked up in time to see nightingale choke a man unconscious and drop him on the floor. The sound of a door opening and feet slapping the cobblestone signaled the last man had run.
Vinyl put away her brass knuckles and walked over to Shot Glass. As she did so she gestured to Coin Flip to untie the buss boy. Shot Glass was behind the bar huddled up to avoid anything that might fly though the air and hurt him. She vaulted over the bar and landed next to him crouching. She raised his head up looked and his face and arms to asses the damage. The burns on his arms would leave scars but the cuts on his face would heal.
"Your gonna be fine Shot Glass we'll cover the damages to the bar and don't worry about the medical bill we'll get that too."
"Bless ye Shade."
"We owe you."
Everyone in the gang had a cover name that they used in the field. Vinyl's was Shade, Hold 'em was Death Card, Coin Flip was Chance, Ashes was Dust and Nightingale was birdsong. Shot Glass did know her real name but on the off chance that some of the beaten thugs could still hear it was better safe then sorry.
Vinyl smiled sadly before climbing back over the bar and retrieving her glasses. As she put them on she heard a click in the background. She whirled around pulling her hand gun out to see the runaway had come back and was preparing to shoot her. Before anyone else could do anything to stop him Vinyl fired five rounds in his chest. He fell on his side shuddering and coughing blood up. Vynil winced she hadn't had time to aim so her shots had been sloppy. It looked like she'd hit a lung though.
Quickly yet reluctantly she walked over and popped another round in his head to stop the suffering. The barrel still smoking she holstered the gun in the belt under her jacket. Her nerves were extremely agitated as she drew a cigarette from her pocket and lit up. She took a deep inhale and breathed the smoke out her nose.No matter how many times you do it. It never gets easer. She thought to herself. She pulled out her phone and text her special cleaning crew with information and directions. She was going to need help to clean up a mess this big.
Octavia flipped through the pages of her magazine in an irritated manner. Not only were Lyra and Bon Bon late but they had changed their minds on todays activities. Now instead of helping her move in they were taking her somewhere. All they had told her was that it was a surprise.
Having flipped through every page of her magazine she tossed it aside and leaned her head backwards onto the couch. She could hear her wall clock ticking. Since they had abandoned their plans to help her Octavia had spent the day doing things herself. Now she had one less day to look for a job before collage started.
Just before she got up to go to the fridge for the remains of the fresh fruit she had made for breakfast she heard a knock at the door. Sighing she walked over turning the dead bolt. The door open she saw Lyra and Bon Bon standing in front of her. Bon Bon wore a pink and blue dress while her partner had on a dress of turquois. As per usual there fingers were intertwined together. Octavia smiled at them.
"Wow you two are still an item? I was sure you would have driven each other crazy by now." She said sarcastically.
"Don't be silly Octavia! We're more in love than ever. Isn't that right Bony?" Bon Bon gave Lyra a kiss on the cheek.
"Of course we are dear."
"So where are you two dragging me?"
"I'll only tell you if you promise to go."
"And if I don't want to go just based on hearing that?" Octavia had a worried tone in her voice.
"Then we'll make you anyways."
Octavia bit her lip curiously. These two had known her for too long. They knew exactly how to push her buttons to make her act like an idiot. "This is karma for when lied to mom about being a kleptomaniac. Octavia had taken to grabbing anything that caught her eye when she was out two years ago. Once she had nearly been caught while at a party for trying to nick her hosts antique crystal flask. It took a lot of work to lie her way out of that one.
She had spent the last several months since then trying to contain her habit with moderate success. The problem was when you were from a rich family it's hard to have fun. The school she had gone to was full of other rich kids and the only friends she had ever had were in front of her. She had begged her mom and dad to let her switch to mainstream school to get away from the rich snooty kids at the private one.
Much to her liking after some discussion they said she could if she worked with a tutor on more advanced studies on Saturdays. Shortly after she met her two best friends and even played a hand in them becoming a couple. Still people get busy when you aren't and she just couldn't resist the rush she got every time she snagged something. It wasn't that she didn't love her music that was her dream but she still craved excitement too.
"Ok tell me and I'll go." She said.
"The Foal House nightclub! DJ Pon-3 is playing tonight so it's going to be loud!"
"It's not exactly my style of music..."
"Come on Octavia we'll dance and drink and best of all it's gonna be happy hour by the time we arrive!"
Octavia mulled the thought over in her mind. "If I drink enough the noise won't really be a problem."
"I'll go if you buy. I don't have a job so I'm making do."
"Fine deal."
Vinyl smoked a cigarette out the side of her mouth as she moved with the music she created. The table was her instrument and only she could work it's magic in the way she did. Finishing the current record she slapped a new one in place with barely a pause in the music. She cranked the volume as loud as it would go without blowing her speakers. The wubs as she called them filled the room rippling any stationary glass of liquid in the club.
She smiled while her teeth clenched the cigarette taking a quick puff letting it out her nose. This was what she needed to be herself. To just forget about crime and focus on the music. As they say music can save the soul She thought to herself. The smoke finished she put it out in an ashtray by her table. She looked at the clock 11 AM. Time for a fifteen minute break. "Hey everyone I got to get a break here for a few shots at the bar! Don't you worry though I'll be back in fifteen till then this baby is on auto!"
The crowd clearly disapproved of her leaving but she made her way to the bar regardless. Ashes saw her coming and poured a shot of whisky and proceeded to set it on fire. Taking a random seat at the bar next to a girl with black hair that stretched to the small of her back Ashes slid the shot over to her.
The Dj downed the drink in one gulp still flaming much to the surprise of the woman next to her. Vinyl didn't notice as she tapped the counter with her finger showing her desire for a second one. Again the flaming shot was placed before her. The woman turned to face her noticing the three rings she had in her left ear as well as the two in her right. Her hair was messier than anyone else she had ever seen with two shades of blue in it. The Dj she was staring at looked out the corner of her eye as she took her second. Again she tapped the counter.
"Dear Celestia how many flaming shots can you drink?"
Vinyl turned towards as her drink was slid across the bar towards her.
"Don't worry this is the last for now. I can't get drunk till after the performance is over."
Octavia looked at her unsure what to make of that before her. While contemplating she saw the woman light up a cigarette with a zippo lighter. She exhaled the smoke out of her nose and turned to face her.
"Is there a reason your starring at me?"
"I...uh...no."
Octavia turned her attention back to ale in front of her. She had come here with the intention of getting drunk quickly but when she saw the rowdy crowd and thought of possible repercussions she had changed her plan. Vinyl looked at her closely noting the formal grey coat and pink bowtie.
"Your going to that school for classical musicians up the road aren't you?"
"How did you know?"
"Please you have it written all over you in the clothing and posture."
Octavia looked down into her drink taking a sip. Vinyl looked at the clock she only had a few minutes left. She sighed and breathed out some smoke. This as far as breaks go was not one of the best talking with a classical musician for fifteen minutes was not her idea of a good time. Still she didn't want to act like a jerk so she continued.
"What do you play...for an instrument I mean?"
"Cello."
Vinyl's eyes perked up. Regardless of her passiveness with classical music she knew from experience that a Cello sounded good when mixed with the right dubstep. Also the London Academy for classical music only took the best and she had just had it confirmed that's where she went. "Golden Cruet said he want a new act to draw a more professional crowd..." She thought.
"Do you need a job? cause we have an opening here for a person like you."
"Excuse me but we talk for just a few minutes and you offer me a job out of no where?"
"Well why not you just told me you play the Cello and I know you good at worst if you made into the London Academy. The boss has been nagging me for three weeks to get someone like you down here. It isn't bad either working full time will pay for a small flat and enough to eat out once or twice a month."
Octavia looked at her drink and pondered the offer. She did need a job but working in a place like this was not ideal. Still she could make it work possibly it would be hard but not impossible.
"Tell me more."
"Well you would be doing some sets with me some on your own. Employees drink free and if you need anything you come to me. There isn't really health care but if you get hurt or something come to me and I'll get the boss man to sort it out. Also the boss is pretty flexible with your positions hours right now."
"When do you need an answer?"
"Noon tomorrow would be good sooner would be better. The boss will start you off with a two week contract. If you like the work and draw a crowd you'll get a month long one."
"Why do you call him boss? What's his name?"
"He doesn't let me tell it to people who don't work for him. He's weird like that."
Vinyl looked at the wall clock and raised her eyebrows over her glasses.
"Shit I'm late for my set! Here take my number if you want the job call I got to go!"
"Wait what's your name? I at least need to know that!"
"Vinyl Scratch yours?"
"Octavia Melody."
"Cool see ya gotta bounce!"
She ran off to the stage as fast as she could through the crowd. Octavia watched not sure of what to make of things. Lyra and Bon Bon got back from the dance floor and sat with their friend. Lyra was the first to see the phone number in Octavia's hand. Having seen her sitting with the DJ she jumped to a semi reasonable conclusion.
"Did she ask you out?"
"What no!"
"Your holding a phone number and she was the only person you talked to."
"She offered me a job Lyra don't get exited." Octavia said flatly.
"Are you going to take it?" Asked Bon Bon.
"I don't know...Probably I don't have a tone of options right now and it's better than being a waitress."
"Been there done that and never again." Smirked Lyra.
"Whatever you do Octavia don't cock up the interview do that and you won't get the job."
"I don't know though girls me working in a nightclub?"
"Maybe it would be good for you to get out of your comfort zone." Said Lyra who had stolen Octavia's drink though not to her concern.
"Ya I think you need to loosen up! Trust me being a waitress is a bad idea."
Octavia continued to think it over till they left. They caught a cab and the three crashed at Octavia's flat. She let them have the bed on the condition that they only slept in it. She slept on the couch for the night.
Vinyl had finished her last set for the night at long last she was about to head out the doors when she got a text from Hold 'em.
V got to talk in back.
Fuuuuuck! Said Vinyl under her breath as she changed course. The sun would be up in an hour and Vinyl was ready to sleep. She opened the door to find The Everfree in their 'meeting room' as well as one member of Vinyl's 'cleaning crew'. She walked to her place at the table and placed her hands on it leaning forward. "What's wrong Chimney Sweep?"
The man stepped forward and handed a bullet to her the word Crowns was etched in it. Vinyl set the bullet on the table and lowered her head running a hand through her hair. She drummed her fingers for a moment then looked up.
"When did you get this?"
"Me and the boys were dumping the body of the one you killed when a bunch of the Crowns boys came and attacked. They killed Spade and Hook before they could run. We bolted but they caught me. They told me I could live if I brought that to you and said that they're coming to kill all of you."
"Shade We can't take on the whole Crowns gang without help." Said Coin Flip.
"I know Chance" Replied Vynil
She paced the room for a while as the others watched finally she spoke again.
"How much cash we got in the safes?"
"After sending the 20,000 pounds to the orphanage we have 3,255 pounds. I told you we should have held on to-"
"Chance shut your mouth now or I'll put you on the floor with a bloody nose."
"V we needed what we gave-"
Vynil's fist met chances nose and he hit the floor clutching it with blood coming out.
"When we started this gang we all made a promise! We said we wouldn't let greed take over and we would help those who needed it! That's why we rob rich people and gangs not bystanders! If we start thinking only about ourselves how long before we start dealing Meth or P.C.P.? We can not be as bad as the ones we fight or our whole purpose is gone!"
Chance stood back up when he made eye contact with Vynil she could see that she had made her point to him. She sighed heavily before grabbing some tissues and handing them to Coin Flip.
"I'm sorry I lost my temper Chance I-"
"No I was wrong I'm sorry."
Vynil nodded then took off her shades and placed them on her head. She paused a while longer then spoke.
"Chimney Sweep I need you to take a message to Shamrock. Tell them we need some muscle at our key points. If he asks what he's getting paid tell him he owes me from time he was on the Thaimes in fishing boat. It will shut him up and he'll send some boys over."
Chimney Sweep made his way out the door and hurried off. Hold 'em having watched him go turned to Vynil.
"Your asking the Peaky Blinders for help?"
"It's not a permanent solution but it will have to do till we can get some cash to hire fighters."
"Then what?"
Vinyl frowned and ran her left hand down her face.
"War."
Octavia looked at the number in her left hand. It was nothing more than a scrap of paper but to her it felt heavy. She needed this job but did she want it? The idea of working in a nightclub was less than preferable to her but she had already looked in the papers. There was not really any other option. Sighing and almost sure she would regret it later she typed in the numbers.
Vinyl's phone buzzed in her pocket. She contemplated letting the machine get it but there was a good ten minutes until her guest was supposed to arrive. She pulled it out. Unknown number. She hit answer cautiously taking calls that weren't in her contacts always made her nervous. Then she remembered that Octavia was possibly going to call and she loosened up a bit.
"Yo this is DJ Pon-3?"
"Um...Miss Vinyl?"
"Oh it's you Octy cool." She relaxed a bit.
"If you would please call me Octavia I would be more inclined to speak with you."
"Ok don't like nick names I'll try to remember that."
"Thank you."
"So are you calling about the job then?"
"Yes...I am."
"Cool I was right! I had a feeling you would be interested. I can get you work as early as tonight if you want?"
"That would be good seeing as how rent will be due soon."
"Wait you don't have money to pay your rent?"
"...No I don't."
"When is it due?"
"Two weeks."
"Pay day's not till the end of the month how were you planning to pay?"
Octavia paused she had hoped that she would get her first check before rent was due and be able to at least pay part of it. She had enough food to last her a while but this meant the only other option was to ask her parents for help. They would be more than willing to oblige but she was trying to be independent of them for once in her life.
"I was hoping to get my first check before then." She reluctantly admitted.
"Look I can't get you paid early but I've got some spare quid. I'll cover your first rent for you if you like?"
"Excuse me did I hear you right?"
"Hey sorry I didn't mean to piss you off or anything."
"No I'm not mad but..."
"What?"
"Why would you do that for someone you just met?"
"Cause you sound down on your luck and I like helping people I guess."
Octavia sat back in her couch. She felt upset with herself for jumping to conclusions about Vinyl based on exterior appearance. The way she dressed she had assumed she was some kind self absorbed drug addict like most of the people she had met in clubs. Now she had offered to pay her rent because she liked helping people even if she barley knew them. Mother always said don't judge a book by it's cover now she felt like a fool.
"Uh Octavia did the call drop?"
"Oh uh...no I was just...focused on tuning my Cello. I'm multi tasking if you will."
"Ok well I take it you want the job then?"
"Yes I do actually and If you help me cover my first rent I promise to pay you back as quickly as I can."
"Ok if you want to but don't like rush it and make yourself go hungry for a few days or something. This job pays ok but it's hardly going to let you retire at a remotely young age."
"Well thank you Miss Vinyl."
"Hey do me a favor and just call me Vinyl or V ok? If you want Scratch works too but I don't like the whole formality thing especially with people I work with."
"If you really want me to I can I suppose."
"Cool."
"By the way who's my boss?"
"Eh...Technically me but I don't really lord the position over people but if you have a problem like a fan is showing unwanted attention or something tell me and I'll ban him or something."
"Oh..."
"Is that a problem cause seriously don't worry I didn't even really want to be the 'manager' in the first place so I'm not going to make your life miserable or anything."
"No that's not it I was just a little surprised at the coincidence."
"Hey I've gotta go I have a meeting to attend to now but your first shift starts today at 9PM ok?"
"I'll be there early if you like."
"Ya cool if you could get here like twenty minutes before opening that would be great. I'll teach you how to hook up the speakers and stuff. Show you the ropes as they say."
"Ok and thank-"
The call had ended before she finished. She almost got mad that Vinyl had hung up on her but she had said that she had to go to a meeting so she was probably in a rush she couldn't help.
"Well I actually should tune my Cello come to think of it." She said to herself.
That said she got up and made her way to her bedroom where her instrument was kept. On the bed was a note from Lyra and Bon Bon. She already knew that they had left but they had been gone before she woke up. Picking up the scrap of paper she read it to her self.
"Me and Bon left before you woke up don't worry we didn't want to make a mess of your bed so there's no you know. We just wanted to say take the job we both think it will do you some good to live differently for a bit. Also that DJ huh? You could do worse." Octavia could practically hear them giggling.
Vinyl took a seat at the table as Shamrock entered with two body guards. He wore a green jacket and a bowler hat with a monocle. He had a cigar in his mouth and a smile that would set most people at ease. His red hair was nearly as messy as Vinyl's and his beard had been given free reign to grow.
None of Vinyl's gang acted as if there was anything different than usual going on. The fact was that Shamrock was more or less a friend. They had an agreement not to go onto each others turf without permission and had been of use to each other many a time. The thing about Shamrock that people didn't like was that anything he did had to benefit him. If you were looking for charity you would not find it in his neighborhood. The Irishman had a keen eye for spotting business opportunities and was as good a salesmen as he was a criminal.
If you had to say something good about him you could say that he was a man of his word. Once a deal was made he stuck to it. Not once had he double crossed a client. He respected any debt he owed hence his reason for a meeting with Vynil and her gang. He took a seat in one of the spare chairs as his guards stood behind him. Blowing a smoke ring he turned to Vynil and spoke.
"Good ta see ya shade!" His accent as obvious as ever.
"Ya it's cool seeing you too."
"I got yer message from that worker of yer's and I'm sorry to say I can't oblige yer request at the moment."
"Fuck what's the problem now?"
"Money is that's what. Our accountant Little Darbey decided it was a good idea to fill two duffle bags with a hundred thousand pounds each. He paid the safe guards off but we dealt with them when we discovered the guilty parties. With our other expenses we can't hire temporary muscle to fill in for what we loan you."
"Are you trying to tell me that you want me to recover your money for you?"
"Well where such a thing to happen I might be able to help you out."
Vinyl rolled her eyes under her shades. When dealing with Shamrock there were always strings attached.
"Fine let's talk price then."
"Yer getting men from me that's the price."
"Don't try that with me you already owe me a favor for that incident on the Thaimes. This is not connected to that so you are going to give me compensation for my work."
Shamrock sighed taking a puff of his cigar.
"I'll give you 8% of the recovered cash."
"I want twenty."
He scoffed.
"No way in Tartarus Shade! But I'm feeling generous today how about 10%?"
"I'm not going lower than fifteen. Pay me less and you can take your business elsewhere."
"Ok how about thirteen?"
"Fifteen or no deal. Also I want the name of a reliable gun merchant as an I'm sorry for belittling me by offering such a shit deal!"
"Shite! Fine fine! I should have known better than to push me luck with you."
He gestured to one of his body guards who pulled a piece of paper from his coat pocket with a quill and a bottle of ink. Shamrock quickly drew up a contract and signed it passing the paper to Vinyl with the quill. She looked it over carefully then signed it passing it back to him. He rolled it up and put it in his jacket pocket.
"I need the money back before I send you any men. As for the gun merchant I'll give you his contact info when I have me cash in me hands."
"Give me a few days at most I'll get it back."
He nodded and started for the door his guards behind him. Vinyl looked at the clock in the room. She had three hours before the club opened. Hold 'em looked over at her.
"So 30,000 pounds and a weapon dealing contact?"
"Yep." Vinyl popped the P.
"Well what's the plan then?"
"Coin Flip and Ashes will stay here with me at the club. As for you two." She pointed at Hold 'em and Nightingale. "We need to get that money as soon as possible. I doubt the Crowns will take very long to come after us."
"Do you have any plans for tonight V?" Asked Hold 'em.
Vinyl pulled a cigarette from the pack in her pocket and lit it with her zippo. She took a deep draw and blew the smoke out the corner of her mouth. She nodded her head.
"Mind letting us in on them?"
"Best I don't for now till the plans a sure thing. Don't want to get your hopes too high."
Hold 'em reluctantly nodded before standing with his girlfriend to head out. Once they departed Vynil stood and made for the door leading into the club. She motioned for the others to follow her.
Octavia pulled her brush through her hair for the last time. She checked her breath feeling satisfied with it before grabbing her bowtie and tying it about her neck. There was a honk outside her flat from the cab she had called. She looked at her watch. Ten till 8:40 just enough time to arrive when promised if all went well. Grabbing her Cello she made for the door running a check list in her head. Satisfied she climbed in the vehicle.
"Where to ma'am?"
"The Foal House please."
The cabbie started up the engine and drove down the left side of the road. They made good time and Octavia tipped the driver a little extra though she probably couldn't afford it at the moment. He thanked her as she grabbed her Cello from the trunk and approached the door. Unfortunately she found it locked and was forced to knock on the doors.
A few minutes later the blue haired DJ opened them up for her. She kicked down the door stops as Octavia stepped in nodding her thanks. With the doors now propped open Vinyl turned to her.
"You need help carrying that?"
"Thank you but I can manage."
"Cool. Anyways just put it on the stage and come grab a drink at the bar if you want. If your not in the mood I could probably dig up some kind of snack."
"The latter would be appreciated thank you."
"No bigs."
Vinyl turned to go in the back room that had a sign on it that said 'Select staff only!' Octavia couldn't help but think about the way the DJ sounded as she put he instrument down on the stage. It was clear she was not from England or anywhere nearby for that matter. In fact she sounded more like a citizen from the Americas. The only reason she had a clue was from movies she had seen. Her thoughts were interrupted when she felt someone tap her shoulder. She turned to see Vynil holding a Blueberry muffin in her hand.
"Sorry all we have in back is breakfast food for some reason. You didn't really strike me as the type for Fruity Chocolate Flakes so I grabbed this."
Octavia gave a small smile and took the muffin having a small bite. It was good but then again in many cases a muffin is a muffin. When she looked back up the DJ was digging through her record box. Again she felt guilty for jumping to conclusions about her earlier. Despite her appearance she had been nothing but friendly from the day they met. Sure she looked like a punk but she didn't act like one. She was pulled out of her thoughts when she heard Vinyl speak.
"Shit they didn't get the records for tonight's show!"
"Couldn't you just use the ones you have?"
"No the sound would clash with you're Cello music. Trust me it would sound awful."
"So what do we do?"
"Well I got some at home that would work. I could go get them quick but I...Need help carrying them." She said the last part reluctantly.
"Why would you need help carrying things in a car?"
"I don't drive a car I ride a Breakout."
"A what?"
"What do you call them here uh...oh ya a motorbike! I don't have anywhere to store them on it and I need both hands to steer."
"Well I suppose you should get one of your friends to help you then."
"That's kinda the problem. Without Coin Flip there's no guard on duty and Ashes has to watch the bar."
"What about the others that work here?"
"They're home sick and we weren't expecting to be busy enough to need replacements."
"So how do we get the records?"
"Well you'll have to carry them while I drive I guess."
"I beg your pardon?"
"I'm sorry ok but there aren't any other options right now. We have to go or there's going to be a bunch of pissed off clubbers here in like ten minutes!"
Octavia gulped at the thought of riding a motorbike but Vinyl had made the position they were in perfectly clear. She nodded and Vynil and her made for the front door. Heading around the back of the club into an ally the DJ threw her leg over the Breakout. She revved the engine to life and motioned for Octavia to hop on. Gulping again she did so and the bike sped off doing a U turn in the ally and into the road.
Octavia let out a small eep and clung tightly to the driver. Vinyl turned on the music and loud rock 'n roll started playing as she weaved in between cars definitely breaking traffic laws and speed limit alike. Octavia looked up in time to see her make an Illegal right turn the rear wheel of her bike sliding a little till she faced straight down the road.
"You are a terrible driver!"
"I'm in a hurry we don't have a choice if we don't want the boss super pissed! This is your first day on the job you need to make a good impression!"
After a two more minutes Vinyl slammed the breaks skidding to a stop outside a rather shabby apartment complex. She practically jumped off the bike but to her surprise she helped Octavia down. Imeadeatly after she ran up the steps of her building to the front door taking them two at a time. Octavia followed her into a hallway with papers littered across the floor.
Vinyl hurriedly dug out her keys and opened the door to her flat. Octavia followed her in and was surprised to see that the room had nothing more than a bed and a chair in the way of furniture. This apartment was maybe a third the size of hers at best and the cupboards didn't even have doors. They were filled with nothing but Ramen noodles and other cheep packaged foods. You could tell the house had not been cleaned in a long while as paper and the occasional whiskey bottle lay on the floor.
Vinyl was rummaging through the mess digging out records as fast as she could. It seemed the only form of entertainment in the whole room was and old record player. Other than that she had nothing no Telly no computer or anything. Octavia couldn't hide the concern on her face as Vinyl turned towards her with a stack of albums.
"Heh...Sorry about the mess I don't really get visitors sooo..."
"Why would you live like this? You make enough to pay for a better place than this."
Octavia imeadeatly regretted her words as she saw Vinyl wince from them.
"I'm sorry I didn't mean it like-"
"Dude it's fine I know this place is a shit hole. I just have other things to spend my scratch on. Now come on we got to go!"
She ran out the door with her records as Octavia followed hesitantly behind. Once outside the DJ handed the records to Octavia and jumped back onto her bike. The Cellist climbed on keeping the records between her and Vinyl while holding on for dear life as they sped back to the club.
Vinyl's bike skidded to a halt in the ally behind the club. She leapt off quickly and held out her hands for the records in Octavia's arms. The Cellist handed them over and Vinyl placed them on the ground. Once again holding out a hand to help her off the bike.
"I'm not a child Vinyl I can get off myself."
Naturally as soon has she said that she misplaced her footing and slipped. She was surprised when she didn't hit the ground. Opening her eye's she saw Vinyl had caught her by the arms. She had an amused smirk but released her once she was not in danger of falling. Octavia flushed slightly annoyed as the DJ picked up the records. She might have preferred physical injury to the dent in her pride.
"Come on Octavia if we hurry we'll only be a few minutes late!"
"I'm coming just hold on!"
They breached the front doors together and Vinyl passed the records over to the Cellist.
"Put these on my table I have to send a text real quick."
"But we're already late!"
"That's why I got to text the boss now hurry!"
She nodded to her and ran towards the stage. Vinyl tapped at the screen on her phone furiously sending the message. Finished she ran up to the stage. Octavia was in place with her Cello bow at the ready. The DJ placed a record on the turn table before yelling into the mike.
"What's up London?" The crowed bellowed cheers seeing the show was going to start.
"Tonight I want you to welcome our newest member of the team here at Foal House Octavia Melody!
There was cheering again. Octavia timidly waved her bow all the while wondering if she was small enough to hide behind her Cello. Vinyl looked over at her expectantly and to her horror she realized it was an indication to acknowledge the crowd. She swallowed before speaking into her mike.
"It's...Great to be here." Vinyl gestured for her to continue. "And I can't wait to get started."
She hoped Vinyl would take the hint and let her just play. Glancing to her right she could see her scratching her head before nodding at her. She scratched a record before turning on various parts of the machine. A steady beat enveloped the room and she pointed a finger at Octavia as she bobbed her head. Taking her cue she turned to the sheet music in front of her and began to run the bow across the strings.
Vinyl looked over at her and smiled while the two music genres blended together. Octavia acknowledged the gesture as she played. Still the DJ had her glasses on as always and she realized she had never even seen her eye's. It made it irritatingly hard to see what she was really thinking. Her brow furrowed in slight agitation at the thought.
The DJ was starting to feel confused by the Cellist to her left. She was playing at a popular club with free drinks for employees. Why was she scowling to herself? She turned back to her machine trying to focus but she was wondering if she had pissed her off somehow. The more she thought about the more she felt hurt a bit.
She had done her best to make a good impression. She liked getting along with her co-workers both legal and crime related. Of course with Octavia clearly being as the locals say 'posh' it was possible seeing the state of her apartment had disgusted her. The more she thought about it she thought it was at least a contributing factor.
She pulled a cigarette out of the pack in her pocket and lit up. Breathing the smoke out her nose she relaxed a bit. Unknown to her she had freed her switchblade from her pocket in the process. It fell on the floor but the sound of the bass covered it and Vinyl was none the wiser. Switch blades were illegal in London getting caught owning one would make you subject two a 500 Quid fine at the least.
Octavia had been so focused on her playing she barely noticed the crowed dying out as people left for home tiered. As she heard the sound from Vynil's speaker die out she turned her head to the right seeing her jump off stage. Looking forward she saw the bouncers were ushering the last few drunks out of the club. She started putting her Cello away when she saw something shining on the floor by Vinyl's turn tables. Her instrument packed away she walked over and picked it up.
It looked like the handle of a knife but there was no blade. Turning it over she unknowingly triggered the weapon and the blade popped out cutting her hand. She dropped the knife on the floor crying out in pain. Vinyl heard and turned to see Octavia bleeding. She bolted for the stage and jumped onto it. But instead of going for the knife she went to Octavia.
"Fuck! Octavia I'm so sorry!"
Vinyl took off her leather jacket reveling the rest of her white long sleeve shirt. She ripped off one of her sleeves and tied it around Octavia's hand. Then she looked at the floor and grabbed her knife putting the blade away and shoving it into her pocket. Octavia looked at her with an expression of confusion and shock. Vinyl licked her lips nervously.
"Why do you have a...whatever that is?"
Vinyl bit her lip a bit.
"I uh...Have some crazy fans I want to be prepared if things go too far when I'm going home."
The fabric around Octavia's cut was soaking up most of the blood. It was minor and probably wouldn't even need stitches. Vinyl still felt horrible for her obliviousness.
"There's a first aid kit in the back I'll go get it and we can clean that better."
"I'll come with you."
"No! You can't it's strictly certain workers only. I'll be right back ok?"
Octavia nodded slightly confused by what was going on as Vinyl ran off. She returned quickly with some disinfectant, gauss and medical tape. As she went to work the speed and skill she showed in even such a basic medical procedure was evident. When she was finished it looked like she had gone to a hospital instead of making do.
"I'm sorry Octavia I screwed up look if anything is needed to like make it heal better just let me know I'll cover the cost."
"Vinyl it's fine. It was dumb of me to mess with it anyways."
"Is there like anything you need?"
"Vinyl I'm not mad you need to stop worrying about it."
"Ok...cool." She paused. "He uh you want to go get a drink at the bar?"
"I'm a bit tired I would like to rest tonight."
"Oh ya ok...some other time maybe?"
Damn those glasses Thought Octavia she couldn't tell if she had hurt Vinyl's feelings by saying no or something. She was pulled out of though by Vinyl waving a hand in front of her.
"Octavia?"
"Sorry Vinyl what did you say?"
"I was just... Never mind I'm gonna go get some shots. I'll see you at work ok?"
"Ok."
As Octavia left another well dressed man came through the door. Coin Flip stopped him at first but the man held up an envelope and was permitted to pass. He found Vinyl taking shots at the bar looking board.
"Miss Vinyl Scratch?"
"Ya?"
"I have a message for you from your boss."
Vinyl turned in her bar stool. He handed her the envelope and walked away. She opened it and two tickets for the upcoming movie Blood In The Streets fell out. This movie was sold out for the next six weeks in every theater in London! It was based on the best selling American crime author in history. Inside the envelope was a note saying. you and a plus one have a paid day off tomorrow. She jumped from her seat and ran outside. Looking left and right she spotted Octavia climbing into a cab.
"Octavia!"
The black haired woman halted the driver and looked out the window when she heard Vinyl yelling at her. She was holding two white strips of paper in her hand as she approached.
"Vinyl what in the world are you doing?"
"I just got a letter from the boss. He gave me these." Vinyl held up the tickets.
"This is important because..."
"Well I got two and he said me and whoever I brought had a paid day off."
Octavia lifted an eyebrow in slight confusion.
"So if I understand you correctly your asking me to go to the cinema?"
"Ya why not? This movie has been nominated for so many awards it's got to be freakin epic!"
"But why me?"
"What do I need an explanation for asking a friend to hang out?"
Octavia tried to hide her surprise. Did she just call me her friend?
"So do like want to go or would you rather work to get paid?"
"When's the movie?"
"It's a 10 PM showing runs till midnight."
"That's a bit late Vinyl..."
"Octavia you're working the night shift now! Every time you work your up all night."
"Well collage won't start for three more days...Ok I'll go if you really want me to."
"Awesome I'll meet you at the theater here's your ticket."
Octavia grabbed it through the window. Vinyl gave a two finger salute from her forehead and started towards her motorbike. Octavia sighed as the Cabbie started off. This was a strange work shift. She had ridden a motorbike, played in a nightclub, and now she was going to a late night movie. She rubbed her eyes. Why had she agreed to go? What was she even doing here? If her parents found out she had been riding a motorbike and working in a nightclub they would be worried to say the least.
That's when a little voice in her head spoke. Because you like the danger. All the excitement that's why you shoplift isn't it your board maybe that's the attraction Vinyl has to you. She shook her head trying to get rid of the thoughts. Still they persisted. Maybe it's true. I like hanging out with Vinyl because she is adventurous?
The cab pulled up in front of her apartment complex and she stepped out grabbing her Cello. As she climbed the stares to her flat she pulled out her phone and looked at the contacts finding Bon Bon. As soon as she had put her Cello away she pressed call. It rang for a few seconds then she heard her pick up.
"Hey Octavia what's going on?"
"I need someone to talk to for a bit if that's ok."
"I can put you on speaker and you can talk to Lyra too if you want she's right here getting ready for work."
"You can if you like."
"Ok your on speaker. So what do you need to talk about?"
"I took the job at the club."
"You did?" Bon Bon exclaimed.
"I knew she would she's hot for the DJ" Said Lyra in the back ground.
"I am not Lyra!"
"Oh now I'm sure of it!"
"Lyra stop teasing poor Octavia she'll admit it when she's ready."
"I do not like her!" Yelled the Cellist.
"Well I guess if you didn't I wouldn't blame you. I mean she's a punk and probably treats everyone like a bitch anyways."
"Shut up Lyra! Vinyl is not like that!" She yelled into the phone.
"Ah Ha I knew it! Try lying your way out of this one!"
Octavia blushed with both embarrassment and rage. She couldn't believe she just fell for that.
"So Octavia what is Vinyl really like?" Bon Bon asked with true interest and no intent to tease.
"She is extremely strange. She rides a motorbike and dresses like a gangster. She smokes and drinks but..."
"But what?"
"She's nice. As soon as I got there she offered me a drink or food. When I asked for a snack she didn't tell me where to get it she brought it to me. Whenever she got off the motorbike she offered to help me down."
"Wait you rode her bike?"
"Yes we had to go get the records from her apartment." There was snickering from Lyra.
"Is she a good driver?"
"If you mean law abiding no. But if you mean speed without death yes."
"Ooh that's sexy! Hey Lyra will you buy a motorbike for us to ride? Octavia is making it sound super fun!" Bon Bon called over to her.
"I'll think about it." Said a muffled Lyra.
"So Octavia what else?"
"Well she..."
"She what?"
"My first pay check isn't until after rent is due so she's paying it for me."
There was silence on the other line for a while. Octavia almost suspected the call dropped.
"Like did you ask her and she said ok?"
"No she just did it I'm paying her back though."
"So she said it was a loan?"
"No...She offered to just pay it originally."
"Fucking Celestia! Octavia you've only known her for two days!"
"She says she just likes to help people. I wouldn't think much of it."
"You saw her flat right?" Lyra was sitting next to Bon Bon to be heard better.
"It's horrible! The thing is filthy and she lives off Ramen noodles she has a bed and a chair. Plus the whole flat could almost fit inside mine three times!"
"So she lives in a hell hole but gives away cash willy nilly?"
"Ya she does."
"I honestly have no clue what to make of that Octavia. It is the weirdest thing I've ever heard." Said Lyra.
"I don't know what to do really."
"Do about what?"
"We're going to the cinema tomorrow it's not a date or anything but we're going as friends."
Unknown to Octavia there was the slightest bit of disappointment in her voice.
"Maybe you should make a move or something?" Suggested Bon Bon.
"Ya but make it subtle." Chimed in Lyra.
"I don't know this is...Difficult."
"Just try your best to read her if she's interested which frankly I think she really is it will be visible. See anything that looks good and go for it." Lyra sounded Ernest in this.
"I'll see how it goes tomorrow then I'll decide."
"Call as soon as you leave each other we want details!"
Octavia hung up and turned on her TV. It turned out to be on the news channel with a red bar at the bottom saying Gang war in London. She leaned forward as the reporter came into view.
"London city police have found evidence linking the killings of the gang members found in the Thaimes to a new crime here in London. Police sources have confirmed that it appears a war between two gangs has broken out. Today three men Identified as members of the Crowns were shot and killed. The identity of the fourth victim is unknown. We have footage of one of the two witnesses here. We will play it now"
"So me and my mate are gathering up scrap metal for some extra Quid and we see these three guys draggin a fourth cross the ground. From what I saw he was still kickin but once they had him in the ally they done started whacking him with clubs and such. I don't know when but he died from it. So these three guys are turning around when a gunshot goes off and splatters one of em's brains on the floor. The other two started shooting so we ran. Last thing I saw was a big man and some hooded woman checking the bodies."
"Police are advising caution to all who travel in secluded areas or after dark. This has been reporter Pen And Pad for the London Daily."
Octavia turned off the Telly. She felt sick to her stomach. There was so much happening all around her she wasn't sure what to do.
Night out with Vynil
Vinyl sat on her bed pulling her boot's on with a cigarette in her mouth. Her blue hair was as messy as ever and she had her shades. However she currently wore black denim jeans with no holes and her only clean shirt. Granted it was a white T with a blue flower and the words 'Jokes on you' but for once there was no dirt grime or blood on her clothes.
She might have attempted better dress if she had more than two pairs of cloths but this would have to do. Still her trademark black leather jacket was coming along. Her boots now on she pulled over the jacket onto her shoulders. She checked the pockets. Brass knuckles, Switch blade and revolver all where they should be. She checked to see the gun was loaded. Six shots in place and some more should reloading be necessary.
She pulled out her phone to look at the time. 9:20. putting it away she started for the door. Just before she could reach it there was a knock. Placing her hand in her jacket pocket so she could draw her gun if need be she slowly opened the door. She relaxed upon seeing Hold 'em and Nightingale.
"Damnit what are you two doing here?"
"We couldn't find the money V...but we know who has it." Said Hold 'em.
"Who?"
"The crowns found the thief and beat him to death. I think they have the money now." Sighed Nightingale.
"I think he was trying to work out a deal with them and it went south. But the money wasn't on any of them. We killed the three that were carrying him. None of them had more than ten Quid."
Vinyl ran a hand down her face before kicking a bottle across the room. It crashed into the wall and shattered.
"Ok I'll figure something out just go and take some time off or work just go I don't care I'm busy tonight!"
She started towards the door but stopped in the frame when Hold 'em spoke.
"Ya we heard about that you going on a date with the new girl tonight right?"
Vinyl looked at the floor for a few seconds.
"Hold 'em you should know by now that I'm not the kind of person people fall in love with."
She stepped out through the door before closing it. Nightingale looked at her lover seeing the concern in his eye's.
"Your worried too huh?"
"Ya she needs to stop shutting everyone out."
"She's always been like that though I'm not sure she can change."
"Let's hope this Octavia can help her because I know we can't..."
Octavia stood in front of the mirror brushing her hair to perfection. Her phone was leaned against the bathroom wall so Bon Bon could see her through Skype. She had dressed in a simple short grey dress with her bow tie as usual. An amethyst hair pin holding her hair in a manner so that one of her eye's was partially covered.
"What do you think Bon?"
"The hair over the eye is a good touch. But the bow tie doesn't really go well with it."
"I Always wear a bow tie!"
"Yes but it's counteracting the trick with your hair. It pulls attention away from your face because it's so bright and pink."
Octavia looked at her self in the mirror. She had to concede the point. If she were dressing for a concert it would be fine. But this was not really going to help the look she was going for. She took it off and set it on the side of the bathroom sink.
"What are you wearing for shoe's?"
"I'm trying to find a compromise between bad girl and high society."
"I get it a little bit of you and a little of her...I would go with black dress boots if you have them."
"I've got a pair."
"Good go put them on."
Octavia did so then returned to the bathroom. Bon Bon looked at her as she passed the phone around herself so she could see her outfit.
"Good but one last touch you know the treble clef earrings you have? Wear those."
"Good idea."
She hurriedly put them on and looked back at her friend. Bon Bon gave a thumbs up just before the cab outside honked.
"I got to go Bon! The cabs here!"
"Don't be late on account of me go go!"
Octavia slipped the phone into her purse and ran out the door to the cab. Sliding in she pulled the ticket out of her bag and read the name of the theater off to the driver. He nodded and sped off down the road with the radio playing some song called In the end. As the song went on Octavia found her self being drawn into it more and more. When it finished what it had said stuck in her mind. With every sin I want to stay holy? The line was somewhat confusing.
Then again maybe people who have done bad things still want to be good people. Was that what it was saying? She was pulled out of her thoughts by the cab coming to a stop. She paid the cab driver and stepped out seeing the DJ Leaning against the wall by the entrance. She walked over as the blue haired girl waved.
"Cool you made it."
"Yes I did." She looked around. "Where's your bike?"
"Oh well on the way home from the club last night I kinda hit something sharp and it popped one of my tires. It's in the shop right now getting a tire replaced."
"So you walked?"
"Well ya I only live like four blocks away."
"Ok well shall we?"
"Sure."
Vinyl held open the door for Octavia who accepted the gesture and walked in. They approached the ticket counter together and placed the paper slips on the table. The woman behind the table tore off her halves and handed the remains back. Vinyl led the way towards the concessions hands in her pockets. Octavia came in behind her hoping to get some gum drops. Vinyl pulled out her wallet and drew out some pound notes.
"Hey what do you want Octy-I mean Octavia?"
"Oh...I can get my own thank you though."
"Chill I'm buying tonight ok? Now what do you want?"
Octavia considered protesting but she could tell the DJ would not listen.
"Just a box of gum drops and a small drink please."
"Ya so a box of gum drops for her some Pike n Bike's for me and two drinks."
"Five pounds please." Said the vendor.
Vinyl counted out five pounds in one pound notes then put the last remaining bills into her wallet. The cups and snacks were placed in front of her and she handed Octavia's to her. The DJ led the way to the drink station and began filling her cup with some of everything.
"What are you doing Vinyl?"
"This is called a suicide where I come from. Honestly the name is the most impressive thing about it but they're still good most of the time."
"Where is it that you come from?"
Vinyl turned towards her. Again those damned glasses made gaging her mood impossible.
"Boston originally." Her tone carried a feeling of hurt.
"How did you end up in England?"
"I just did."
"But-"
"Hey look the movie is gonna start we better hurry!"
Vinyl grabbed Octavia's arm and pulled her into the theater. They sat in the back row corner with The DJ wearing her shades even in the dark. The commercials started up as Vinyl began popping multiple candies into her mouth at a time. Octavia could still feel the goose bumps on her arms from when the blue haired girl had grabbed her. What is going on with me? She looked back at Vinyl. The movie had started with a voice over by the protagonist. The woman next to her was too focused on the movie to notice Octavia looking at her.
It was clear to Octavia glasses or no that prying into Vinyl's past had upset her. Swallowing before she spoke she decided to apologize.
"Vinyl?" She whispered.
"Ya?"
"I'm sorry if my question just now upset you I didn't mean to-"
"Octavia it's my fault. I could have just told you it's not something I talk about but I made you feel bad instead so I'm sorry."
"Oh well..."
"Let's just say it didn't happen ok? Then we can just move on."
Octavia nodded but in her head she was kicking herself. This isn't going so well. How did I expect it to go? How did I want it to go? How does she want it to go? Octavia got up quietly catching Vinyl's attention.
"Where you going?"
"I have to wash my hands they're sticky from the gumdrops." A blatant lie she still had them unopened in her purse.
"Ok I'll tell you what you missed when you get back."
"Thank you."
Octavia made her way out of the theater into the lobby. As she B-lined for the bathroom she pulled out her phone and called Bon Bon.
"Octavia what's going on?"
"I don't know what I'm doing Bon I've known this person for two days and I'm in a theater with her and I don't even know what I'm trying to get out of it!"
"Calm down Octavia listen to me ok?"
"Ok."
"When you were getting ready for tonight I could tell you were excited. Not like oh I'm going to a cool movie excited more like I'm going to be around someone I want to impress excited."
"Ok?"
"From the time I've been with Lyra 'thanks for hooking us up by the way' I've learned one thing never changes."
"What?"
"Emotions are as weird and unpredictable as bloody Tartarus."
"I don't understand?"
"Let me put it this way...I don't know what but something about her caught your interest when you first met her. I mean you working a nightclub? No you didn't get the job because you needed it your standards are too high. You took it because she intrigued you. I know it's only been like two days since you met her but sometimes that's all it takes. I'm not saying you're in love with her or something but you definitely like her for some reason."
"That...makes sense. So what do I do?"
"Get back in there and get to know her. Try to be as casual as you can act like you care about what she says which I think you do so that's easy. Don't try to dig to deep into her life it might bother her just ask simple questions."
"Like what?"
"What's her favorite food? Why does she like her bike? What the bloody Tartarus is her favorite color?"
"Ok...I can do that."
"Look right now your too nervous to make any big decisions so don't try anything tonight. Don't flirt just talk. When the time is right you will be ready ok?"
"Got it I got to go see you later!"
"Go go go!"
Vinyl smiled at Octavia as she sat back down next to her. It had occurred to her on the way back that if Vinyl heard her open the gum drops when she returned she would get caught in a lie. Therefor she had opened them outside and eaten a few to give credit to the bending of words. Vinyl quickly explained that she hadn't missed much more than a gun fight and someone getting as she put it Offed. Once she finished explaining the DJ returned to watching the movie. Octavia kept looking for a way to start a conversation.
"Hey Vinyl?"
"Ya?"
"Remember how I told you not to call me Octy?"
"Ya I slipped up in the theater concessions sorry."
"No it's ok I was going to say since we're friends as you put it yesterday I'm fine with you calling me that."
Vinyl smiled and very lightly punched her shoulder.
"That's awesome Octy!"
Octavia was still growing accustomed to Vinyl's sense of humor but she could tell that the punch had been endearing based on the fact she had gotten hugs from her mother that were more painful. She smiled back at the DJ who offered her some of her candy.
"Here try some of these they're actually a lot like gum drops if they were filled with tropical fruits."
Octavia grabbed one of the pill shaped candies and popped it into her mouth. After the first few chews she could taste a very sweet lemon flavor before she swallowed. She turned back to Vinyl and nodded. The DJ was about to say something but her phone buzzed and she pulled it from her pocket. She read the message before putting her phone away and looking back at the movie.
"Was that important Vinyl?"
"No it's fine just one of the team needed to know where the whiskey was kept."
"Shouldn't they know?"
"Well our main staff sometimes have to leave on short notice. Me included it's part of the job. So we have replacement people on standby. If we need to leave we call them they come over and get paid double. The problem was it's an erratic schedule so one of our guys quit. The new guy doesn't know the ropes yet."
"Oh."
As the film continued Octavia became more comfortable as did Vinyl. Throughout the movie she found out quite a bit about her. She mainly liked rock and dubstep, Her favorite color was blue and her favorite flower was poison Joke. In fact it so happened she had fed a sandwich with poison joke in it to one of her teachers. Apparently he had gotten mad at Vinyl for swearing in class and when he ate his lunch he couldn't say anything other than profanity for several days.
"My favorite one that he said was 'Fuck Celestia to Tartarus for the creation of that dildo colored weed!'"
"He said that?"
"It's my favorite one because he said it in front of the principle. Guess who was given his two weeks notice?"
"Your prank got him fired?"
"First off I was ten. Second he treated all the class like crap. Half of us wanted to cry at the end of the day the other half wanted a gun for Hearths Warming eve."
"He was that bad?"
"Ya he was."
"So you getting him fired makes you a hero then?"
Vinyl pushed open the doors that led into the street unseen to Octavia she grabbed a scrap of paper from a passer bye's hand. She went from smiling to a slight frown. It was only there a second though she quickly brushed it off and followed Octavia down the walk.
"Nah the worlds full of hero's there's no room for a prankster like me."
"Your a lot more modest in person then on stage Vinyl why is that?"
"When your on stage you have to act confident or the crowd will walk all over you. I spend enough of my life being a hard ass that when I have time off I prefer to take it easy."
Octavia was about to ask another question when her stomach protested. She hoped that Vinyl didn't here the unladylike sound but the grin on her face told her that she had.
"Someone's hungry huh?"
"Excuse me."
"Octy I don't have table manners the fact I even know to open doors for people amazes me. Come let's get something to eat."
"It's twenty past midnight where is going to be open?"
"Trust me I know a great place not far from here. Open all hours and by the way I'm buying."
"Vinyl stop paying for everything please."
"Why most people like getting free food?"
"I don't want to impose on you and you have already paid for the theater expenses."
"Octy your not imposing on me it's my thanks for putting up with me."
The DJ started off before Octavia could reply forcing her to follow. She could feel a warm presence in her chest whenever she was talking with Vinyl. She was trying hard not to blush around her and give away her motives. She didn't even know if Vinyl would reciprocate the feelings. At this point though she found herself admitting she hoped she did. She sped up so that she was walking beside the DJ as they continued down the sidewalk.
"So where is it we're going?"
"Surprises are more fun than facts."
"Vinyl that was unbelievably-"
"Here we are."
Octavia looked in front of her and saw a fish and chips vendor on the street corner. The sign read ' Hook and Lines chip shop.' She turned towards her companion seeing her ordering two servings and handing over the pounds. Two orders of fish and chips were handed to her wrapped up in newspaper and the DJ handed one to Octavia smiling.
"Vinyl I'm not sure that..."
"Just try it ok? Trust me they're fucking delicious."
"Ok...but is all the swearing necessary?"
"Fuck yes!"
"Vinyl."
The DJ Laughed as Octavia took a bite of one of the chips and found it quite appetizing. After a bite of the fish she found it equally so. As she continued to eat Vinyl smiled digging into her own. After finding a bench to sit on they finished eating in silence. Vinyl collected their papers and took them over to the garbage. Octavia looked at one of the clocks on the building it was past 1 AM.
"I suppose I should go back to my flat Vinyl."
"Ya me too." Nodded the DJ.
"I'll call a cab and see you at work tomorrow ok?"
"Ya cool."
Octavia reached into her bag for her wallet and phone. The latter was quickly produced but no matter how much she dug her wallet was not there.
"Oh no...Think where did you last have your wallet Octavia? You were at the movies you called Bon Bon...oh no I left it in the bathroom when I was putting away my phone!"
She looked down the street Vinyl was still in sight walking down the road. Octavia ran as fast as she could calling out after her. Vinyl turned around seeing Octavia running. When she was close enough she grabbed her shoulders as she caught her breath.
"Octy what's wrong?"
"My wallet I left it in the theater!"
"Shit what time is it?"
"Almost 1:30."
"Damn we can't make it back there in time to get it the doors are closing now."
Vinyl pulled out her pocket book and saw she only had two pounds and some change.
"I'm sorry Octavia I don't have enough to pay your way even as far back as the club."
"I guess I could call Lyra and Bon Bon. Maybe they could give me a ride though they're probably sleeping now."
Vinyl scratched the back of her head for a minute. The idea seemed very awkward and she doubted it would be well received. Still she felt obligated to offer the option.
"Hey Octavia if you need a place to crash I can sleep on the floor and you can use my bed if you want?"
"Wait you want me to stay at your place?"
"Only if your cool with it I mean! Like I just thought I should offer since we're only a few blocks from there is all!"
Octavia had to think it over for a bit. Vinyl's place was a mess but she didn't really have options. Also the offer was sweet in a way.
"You sure it's ok Vinyl?"
"Ya it's fine and I'm sorry about the huge mess. I'll clean up some if that would help?"
Vinyl opened the door to her flat and walked over to the bed attempting to make it. Octavia looked around the room with a concerned eye. Vinyl was a giver she had made this much clear. But she was giving everything she had. At a certain point a person has to take care of themselves. The way she lived it was like she didn't care about herself at all.
The DJ had made the bed and was now collecting bottles and debris and tossing them in a corner. It was at this point that Octavia noticed the cloths she had seen her wearing the other days on the floor. Now for the first time realizing there was no dresser or drawers she realized Vinyl only had two pairs of clothes.
"Hey Octy is this ok?"
Octavia was pulled from her thoughts when she saw Vinyl's attempts at cleaning. It was better but that did little to change the fact that the apartment was in terrible shape. The DJ walked over to one of the walls and pulled her coat around herself. Octavia looked at her confused.
"Vinyl where's your blanket and pillow?"
"I got my Jacket."
"your going to curl up in a corner with a leather jacket to sleep in?"
"Your the guest so you get the bed."
Octavia's mouth hung open for a moment before she shut it.
"Vinyl get in this bed with me right now."
"It's not a big deal I-"
"You are not going to get sick because I'm a bed hog now climb in. Have some blanket and sleep!"
Vinyl carefully took off her Jacket so as not to show the weapons inside and placed it on the chair. Kicking off her boots she climbed into the bed next to Octavia. This was not one of the things that Vinyl had thought of occurring when she offered Octy a place to crash. She closed her eye's and moved so she was a respectful distance from the Cellist as to not make her uncomfortable.
"Goodnight Octavia."
Octavia swallowed nervously. She was extremely flushed in the face and her heart was beating out of her chest. Without thinking she wrapped her arms around the DJ Next to her and pulled her in. Vinyl opened her eyes surprised by the embrace. She coughed slightly not sure what else to do. Finally she spoke.
"Octy...your hugging me."
"I know." Stammered the Cellist.
Vinyl rolled over in bed so she was facing Octavia. Her purple eyes contrasted with her flushed cheeks incredibly well. Then she saw a hand reaching towards her glasses and she shut her eyes as they were removed. She hated people seeing them the only time she took her glasses off was to terrify people who pissed her off. What if Octavia runs?
"Vinyl please open your eyes."
"Octavia I don't-"
"Please Vinyl?"
As she had asked the eyes opened and Octavia found herself staring into pools of deep red. She wanted to compare them to rubies but it seemed so cliché. Still there wasn't really any other word to use. She couldn't take her eye's off of them and eventually Vinyl closed them and started to crawl out of the bed. Octavia grabbed her and she turned.
"I'm sorry if my starring bothered you!"
"Everyone who sees them stairs. Then they run or call me a daemon. My friends are the only ones who look the other way."
"Vinyl..."
She pulled her back onto the bed so that she was laying next to her again.
"Your eye's are one of you best qualities."
There was a long pause. Vinyl was surprised that someone actually complimented her eye's. The voice that had been telling her to keep Octavia away from her heart was almost mute now. It had only been three days now that they had known each other. In hindsight she had been doing a terrible job of not getting attached. She was so perfect to her. She was adventurous in her own way. She was kind and gentle as well. There wasn't any part of her that made Vinyl not want to be in her presence.
Vinyl cupped Octavia's face in her hands and brought her lips to hers. Her intention for a brief kiss was destroyed when Octavia grabbed her tightly and slid her tongue into Vinyl's. The DJ gave a brief moan as Octavia slid around in her mouth. She moved her hands down the Cellist back till they reached the small of it. Then she pulled away from her mouth and began planting kisses on the base of her neck.
Octavia slid her hands under Vinyl's shirt and around her back but before she could achieve her goal she was flipped onto her back with the DJ laughing playfully on top of her. They paused a moment as they looked at each others eyes. Vinyl smiled as she came down and kissed Octavia sending her Tongue in. It met with Octavia's and the DJ began to tug on it lightly by sucking in breath. Octy sharply took in air from this and grappled the woman on top of her pulling her in.
Vinyl moved to her ear nibbling little bits on it as well as teasing it with her tongue. Noticing the earings she lightly tugged on them too. After a moment of this she leaned in and whispered to her.
"Your beautiful Octy."
The woman beneath her turned her head to kiss Vinyl's cheek. Once done she returned the whisper.
"You are too Vinyl. But what do you want to do now?"
The last bit was said as soon as Octavia's hand made contact with Vinyl's underwear. The DJ closed her eye's as Octavia slid her hands up and down that which proved a hindrance. Vinyl began pulling the dress off of Octavia shoulders as fast as she could without damaging it. As she did so Octy undid the DJ's belt and unzipped her jeans sliding them down. Vinyl succeeded in removing the dress and was fiddling with the bra of her new lover who in the mean time was pulling off Vinyl's shirt.
The Bra removed Vinyl drew circles around Octavia's nipples with her tongue. After teasing each one twice she pinched one with her fingers and the other with her teeth. Octavia breathed heavily as The DJ brought her hands slowly down the curves of her sides. They stopped when her finger slid inside her panties and pulled them free off her legs. Vinyl moved two fingers over her slit slowly making Octavia take deep halting breaths. Pleased with the results the DJ began sucking on the base of the Cellists neck as her fingers worked faster.
"Vinyl-stop teasing-me please!"
Her wish was granted as the fingers stopped working outside and plunged in moving at a steady pace. The black haired woman brought a hand to her mouth to cover the loud moans coming from it as she got closer to climax. Vinyl could feel it building up and increased speed. Octy's moans were to loud for her hand to muffle now.
"Vinyl!" She yelled loudly still trying and failing to cover her mouth.
Octavia came on Vinyl's hand as she reached her peak. She slammed the back of her head into the pillow behind it breathing heavily with sweat coming down her brow. When she opened her eye's she saw a satisfied DJ standing over her. She leaned up and kissed her pulling her onto the bed. She lifted the bra up and cupped both of Vinyl breasts making sure to give each one attention. as she lightly squeezed each one in turn she brought kisses down her lovers body lower and lower. When she reached her goal she slid the panties away and kissed her just above her sex.
"Are you ready?"
The DJ nodded as Octavia slowly licked Vinyl's wet cunt. As more fluid leaked out onto the sheets Octavia knew she was doing good. She had only ever read on the internet in preparation for this moment. Now she knew she wasn't a failure. She started licking harder grabbing onto it and sucking from time to time. Each time she did that she received a satisfying gasp from Vinyl. Now she was beginning to feel confident.
Licking the top part of Vinyl's sex she stuck two fingers in as well moving them with as much speed as she could. The DJ Started shuddering as she got close and once Octavia hit her G spot she cried out as juices dripped out of her into Octavia's mouth. Swallowing she crawled to lie down next to Vinyl. She was breathing heavily from the strong release as Octavia snuggled in next to her.
The DJ covered them both in blanket then pulled Octavia into her arms. The Cellist nestled her head into the crook of her lovers neck and gave a contented sigh. Vinyl's smiled down at her and kissed the top of her head. Together they fell asleep in each others arms.
Octavia awoke as the sun came through the window by the bed. She turned to look at Vinyl but found she was not there. Looking around she wasn't in the room at all. For a moment She was worried that the DJ had fled. Maybe she had done something to upset her last night? These worries were dismissed when she saw a folded scrap of paper on the bed with the word Octavia Written on it. She opened the note and read it.
Hey Octy I got up early and didn't want to wake you. The shop called and said they fixed my bike so I went to get it. I'm going to stop at the bank on the way back and grab some Quid so we can get breakfast at this great place I know. That is if you want to. I know it's a shit hole but make yourself at home while I'm gone. Vinyl. Ps. I'll grab your wallet on the way too.
She put the note in her purse as she got up and the cold air hit her naked body. She had forgotten that she didn't have any cloths on after last night. Quickly getting dressed she looked around the room for something to keep her occupied till Vinyl returned. She spotted the box of records and the old player in the corner. After searching through the albums she found an old one labeled Green Hay.
She read the names of the songs on the back. Luna of suburbia, I fought the law, Boulevard of broken dreams. The names were rather strange to her but at the same time Intriguing. She placed the record on the player and lowered the needle. As it spun the music started playing in the room. She sat down on the bed and looked at the door. Waiting for Vinyl to return was rather agonizing.
I wonder what Vinyl thinks about last night? I don't know what happened I just...wanted her. I hope she liked it as much as I did being honest with myself.
It took half the album before she heard the door start to open. Octavia stood quickly as Vinyl walked in dressed the same as yesterday and those damned glasses on again. The DJ walked over to the player and took the needle off the record. Octavia was worried for a moment but when Vinyl turned she was smiling.
"I never took you for the Green Hay type?"
"I was waiting for you to get back."
The DJ nodded scratching her head.
"Octy can we talk for a minute?"
"Of course Vinyl."
They sat on the bed together. The DJ was clearly nervous as she drummed her fingers on her knee. Octavia grabbed her hand and squeezed it this calmed Vinyl down a bit.
"Listen Octy last night was...unexpected. But I would be lying if I said I didn't like it. But I just feel like I have to say that if you want to just forget it and say it didn't happen that would be fine."
"Vinyl why would I do that?"
"Look I'm not..."
"Not what?"
"Good enough for you."
"Vinyl look at me."
The DJ looked up from her lap to the Cellist. Octavia took off her glasses and set them on the bed. She looked at Vinyl's eyes for a moment then leaned in and kissed her deeply. After a moment the DJ kissed her back wrapping her arms around her neck. When they separated Octavia put her head on Vinyl's shoulder so that her mouth was by her ear. She wrapped her arms around her tightly before saying.
"Don't ever say that again to me."
"Ok"
Vinyl hugged her back and they sat there for a while Before she spoke again.
"Listen Octy if you want to see where this goes your going to have to realize I don't know anything about dating. I've never had a girlfriend so..."
"You have never been in a relationship?"
"No my work makes it difficult. For fucks sake I was a virgin till last night."
"Your kidding with all the fans you have?"
"I didn't want my first time to be on some stupid fling...If I did get to I wanted it to be meaningful."
"So was last night meaningful?"
"Ya it was."
Octavia squeezed Vinyl tighter and kissed her cheek. Unknown to her the DJ was shedding quite tears of both happiness and guilt. She cared about Octavia probably even loved her but she couldn't tell her what her life was really like. It would put her at risk but not telling her the truth felt like they're whole relationship or whatever this was had been based on a lie. She cut the water works off as quick as she could and held Octavia at arms length.
"So did you see the note?"
"Yes."
"Are you hungry?"
Octavia nodded.
"Come on there's a good place a little ways from here and with my bike it will be a breeze to get there."
As Vinyl grabbed her glasses and stood to walk to the door Octavia grabbed her hand and entwined her fingers with Vinyl's. The DJ smiled slightly as she pushed open the door and stepped out. They climbed onto the bike as Octavia wrapped her hands around the drivers waist and after the engine revved they rode to there destination.
Vinyl politely held the door open for Octavia at the breakfast house. It was named Celestia side up. A woman at the counter saw them enter and gave a smile. Vinyl gave a wave as she came over and gave her a hug. When they separated the apparent friend of Vinyl's looked at the pair. She nodded and slugged Vinyl on the shoulder.
"About bloody time you started dating V!"
"Berry It's good to see you but can you please keep it down?"
"V don't be rude introduce me to your girl here."
Vinyl rolled her eye's beneath her shades.
"Berry this is Octavia Melody and Octy this is Berry Punch my favorite drinking buddy."
"Nice to meet you Miss Melody."
"Uh yes charmed as well."
"Charmed huh? V your dating an upper class lady?"
"Berry this is our first date can you please stop making fun of me and get us a booth?"
"Fine but next time we have a drink I'm going to drive you insane."
"Maybe I'll find a new drinking buddy then?"
"You could but who would even put up with you?"
"Berry I want a booth please."
The woman shook her head in a knowing manner and led them to a booth at the far end of the restaurant and placed two menu's down. Vinyl sat down first and Octavia slid in next to her. The DJ looked at her amused and put an arm around her shoulder as she opened the menu for them to look at together.
"What are you getting Vinyl?"
"I can't decide between the fruit salad or the loaded omelet."
"How about I get the fruit salad and you get the omelet. Then we can share?"
"Cool that will work."
Vinyl sat the menu down before pulling Octavia in a little closer. She smiled at this and rested her head on the DJ's shoulder. She was pulled out of her blissful state when Vinyl shifted her arm so it covered the left side of her neck.
"What is it?"
"I'm trying to cover the hicky I gave you last night before Berry Punch sees it."
Octavia stifled a laugh. Vinyl kissed the top of her head. She had never felt this way before. When she was younger she had crushes on other girls from time to time but she never acted on them. Octavia...she was crazy in some ways but it was her adventurous side that first caught Vinyl's attention. The night she had to go get the records and she had climbed on her bike with her. She was brave and even wild at times. She had seen that first hand last night.
"Vinyl?"
"Ya Octy?"
Octavia bit her lower lip a bit before speaking.
"I was thinking that if you wanted a nicer place to stay you could move in with me?"
The DJ blinked surprised.
"If you don't want to it's ok but I don't live far from work and since I don't have a car you could park your bike in my spot."
"You don't need to offer for me to move in because we...well are a couple now."
Octavia's eye's widened a bit. She just called us a couple!
"Vinyl I asked because I...I want you to move in ok?"
This presented a problem. It would not be easy to keep her guns and weapons hidden if she lived with Octavia. Also she didn't want to bring too much attention to her residence either but if she said no it would probably hurt her feelings. Then again the only people in the crime world that knew her true identity were her gang but this didn't solve the problem of weapons. She already knew that she carried a knife so she could probably keep it. Bringing a gun into her home would raise questions. Still she could keep them at the club and brass knuckles could stay in her pockets easily.
"If you really want me to I will."
Octavia gave Vinyl a quick peck on the lips as the DJ pulled her legs over her lap. Their moment was interrupted when Berry Punch gave a loud ehem. They looked over to see the young woman smiling at them as if she was trying to hold giggles in.
"Should I expect a happy announcement by the end of the month V?"
"Shut it Berry or I'll 'Punch' the words out of you."
Octavia let out a groan at the horrible pun while Berry gave Vinyl a look that said seriously? The DJ smiled as the waitress pulled out a pad to write on.
"What are you two having?"
"The loaded omelet and a fruit salad."
"Ok be back in a bit."
Before she left Berry Punch turned to Vinyl.
"Oh before you leave could you stop by the front desk? We need to discus some money matters."
Vinyl looked up from the table a serious expression on her face.
"I'm not sure today's a good day for that Berry."
"I'm afraid it can't wait V."
Octavia noticed that Berry wasn't being hostel but there was definitely a note urgency in her voice. Vinyl nodded and the waitress left. Octavia looked back to the DJ who was rubbing her forehead as if contemplating something.
"Is everything ok Vinyl?"
"It's fine babe just a betting deal to sort out."
"Do you need help?"
"No no I'm not in trouble I just need to talk to Berry before we leave.."
As much as Octavia wanted to believe Vinyl was being Honest there were to many strange things happening lately. The knife could have been just a simple weapon for personal defense. But the odd behavior that Vinyl had showed of late was making Octavia concerned. Still the way Vinyl's character was proved to her she had a good heart and that was what she loved about her. When they finished Vinyl paid the bill and the two left their seat. passing the counter the DJ looked at Octavia.
"Hey Octy could you wait by the bike? I'll be out in a minute."
"Ok?"
Octavia went outside but curiosity got the better of her and she didn't go to the Breakout. Instead she went to a position that she could watch what transpired between Berry and Vinyl. She found a place in time to see Berry pull a wad of pound notes from her apron bundled up in a rubber band. It was fairly thick and the DJ nodded. Try as she might Octavia could not read lips. As Vinyl started for the door she ran over to the bike. When the DJ came around the corner she smiled.
"Ready to go babe?"
"Ya what was Berry asking about?"
"Oh like I said she lost a bet with me a while ago and finally paid up."
Octavia bit her lip. The fact that Vinyl had received money from Berry was true. But with the amount that was handed over she doubted a waitress would make enough money to risk a bet of that size in the first place. The DJ had already hopped onto her motorbike and was waiting for Octavia. She climbed on and they sped off.
"Where are we going Vinyl?"
"I have to go to the club for a meeting with some of the staff. When we get there I'll give you some pounds for a cab. If you want me to swing by your place before work just give me a call in about two hours and I'll drive up ok?"
"I'll Call you in a bit then. You should see where your going to be living after all."
"Can't wait! By the way I have your wallet nothings missing that I could see it was at the front desk."
Octavia smiled this day was going pretty well.
Vinyl sat down in her chair in the back room of the club. Octavia was on her way home and she was waiting on the rest of the gang to show up. She was counting out the money. 5,000 Quid. That paired with the info on the movement's of the armored car that she had gotten from the boss and she had a plan.
The van was carrying more money than she could steal on it's way to a London bank. She knew where it would be and where she had the best chance of robbing it. The money inside would be enough to hire some muscle to deal with the Crowns. Once this was done the media would go nut's. There would be blood and lots of it before this was over.
She knew a day like this would come eventually. When you killed a member of a rival gang it was to be expected. Still the Crowns had been murdering their way to power for too long. The streets were dangerous in their territory day and night. Recently they had started dealing in Meth which was going to wreak havoc on the city if not controlled. She looked at one of the safes in the room locked with a combination.
Vinyl still had no safe way of destroying the drugs once she stole them. Hiding them could lead to them being found. Burning them would attract attention. She didn't have infinite space to lock them up so what should she do? The door opened as her gang stepped in one at a time and took their seats.
"So the club boss gave us 5,000 pounds to prepare for a heist he filled me in on. It's an armored truck heading to a bank in London. We're going to have to jack it and steal every pound we can because Golden Cruet demands half of the take or he walks to the cops."
"So how much do we need?" Asked Coin Flip.
"To hire the men we need if my plan works at least 100,00 Quid."
"That means we need a minimum of 200,000 Pounds!"
"Yes I know but this can't wait any longer! One of the Crowns boys killed Rags!"
Vinyl raised her voice in an impatient tone silence was brought to the room for a moment.
"Fucking bastards!" Ashes slammed a fist into the table.
"Were going to steal the money. Nightingale you go see The Doc about some non lethal weapons take this money. I don't want to hurt the drivers more than we have too. After you get the stuff bring it back here and go about business as usual for tonight. In front of you are your parts of the heist plan. We will not speak until after the mission is carried out tomorrow."
Everyone nodded and walked out the back door to the ally. Vinyl stood and paced to her locker to put her guns away for when she went to Octy's but as she stood she noticed the door was cracked. Pulling out her handgun she stepped quietly to the door and grabbed the handle. Quickly she whipped the door open and pointed the gun at the stunned spy. Within a second of seeing who was there she stumbled back into the table and dropped the weapon.
Her glasses slid off and she fell to the floor clutching her head in her hands as Octavia sat where she had fallen stunned to silence. Vinyl's head fell on her knees and she slammed her fists onto the floor in frustration.
"What are you doing here!"
She didn't yell or raise her voice at the Cellist she merely sounded as shocked as she was. Octavia's first impulse was to run and tell the cops everything she had just heard but this thought was quickly dismissed. Every time she misjudged Vinyl there was more to the situation then she thought. She had to at least get the full story.
"Vinyl..."
"How much did you hear?"
"Everything."
The outlaw looked up at her red eye's glistening with held in tears.
"I'm sorry Octy...I don't know what else to say."
"Talk to me."
Vinyl looked at her confused. She had resigned herself to the fact that she had lost Octavia as soon as she saw her in the doorway.
"I don't understand?"
Octavia crawled over to her until she sat directly in front of the DJ.
"Tell me what is happening so I can understand. Start at the beginning the very beginning I will listen to the whole thing."
Vinyl looked up at the celling for a moment then turned her attention to the woman in front of her.
"You really want to know?"
"Yes."
The DJ swallowed and began.
"I was raised since before I can remember in an orphanage in Boston. It was a fucking Tartarus hole. When I was about sixteen I ran away and fell in with a gang there. At first things were fine. I ran supplies and shipments for them to people who paid for our stolen goods. One day I delivered a package to these...people. They were strange but the money was too good to pass up. Three days later the Orphanage I was from was bombed by an urban terrorist group! People I knew were killed."
"Vinyl I'm so sorry..."
The DJ clenched her fists tight and lowered her head to her knees.
"It was my fault! The last package I delivered contained the supplies to make the bomb! The people I delivered it to were the fucking bombers!"
"But you didn't know what was in the bag?"
"I was too greedy to even ask! I saw the pay and said I'd do it!"
Vinyl held her head in her hands starting to loose the war against her tears. To Octavia things were starting to make sense. She gave because she felt guilty she lived in poverty because she chose to. She was trying to make up for a mistake she had made as a child with no options on the street. But how did being a criminal factor in? Before she could ask Vinyl gave an answer.
"When I found out I was pissed. I stole as much gang money as I could and ran to London. After I met the right people I got a shit hole place to live. Any money I had left I gave away. I met a DJ who taught me how to spin disks...things were good. But the only real skill I had was as a criminal. Over the year's I found others who shared my mind set. We started stealing to provide for ourselves and what we didn't need we gave to people who did need it. The people you heard me talking with that was them."
Octavia listened closely she could tell Vinyl wasn't done.
"When a gang makes money other gangs get jealous. When they were harassing me I would run but...One day I caught some members of a rival gang beating a man with clubs. When they bothered me I didn't care I could run. Worst case scenario I lost all my money on hand but they were hurting someone because he had tried to get them to pay for their drinks at his bar. I crept up behind one of them and pulled his gun out of his pocket...I tried to scare them but it didn't work."
Octavia was putting all the pieces of the puzzle together at last.
"That was the day I learned that the law can't always keep people safe. They were beating that man to death in broad daylight and no one did anything to help him! Until I shot the punk who was hurting him in the chest. It killed him. The other's ran away all they had were clubs I had a loaded gun. What I do. What my gang does is clean the streets of the people who deal drugs or murder people. We steal from other gangs or people who have more than they need. We give what we can and try to be better than the people we fight."
She looked up at Octavia her story finished. The Cellist stared at her for a moment before pulling her in a hug. Vinyl was beyond surprised. She had expected that she would run away and report her to the police. Instead she was getting a hug? Octavia spoke to Vinyl while keeping her in a tight embrace.
"Listen to me Vinyl. As long as you are honest with me from now on I can live with this. I still care about you and I am not going to send you away from me! What you are doing...I don't know what to call it but I understand your reasons. In truth the fact that you give so much at such risk to yourself is admirable."
Vinyl wrapped her arms around Octavia pulling her in. She tried to think of what to say. What could she say to show what this meant?
"I love you Octavia."
The Cellist started in surprise thinking she must have heard the words wrong. But she hadn't she knew she hadn't Vinyl had just said she loved her! She wanted to cry but held it in pulling Vinyl to her feet. She held her at arms length until they made eye contact. Octy took a deep breath sure of what she was about to say.
"I love you too Vinyl. That's why I'm going to help with this."
Vinyl sat on the couch in Octavia's flat drinking a glass of water. The Cellist sat next to her doing the same.
"Octavia I don't think you should do this."
"Vinyl I want to."
"It's dangerous Octy!"
"Vinyl I love you and I am not going to back down."
"Have you ever even shot a gun before?"
"You can teach me."
"Octy it's not that simple! When you shoot someone it's hard to handle but when you kill someone...you never get used to it!"
"Vinyl I've seen the news the way crime is in this city. You're doing something about it and...I want to as well."
"This isn't some crusade where we will become hero's or something! People die! They already killed Rags!"
Octavia remembered hearing that name when spying.
"Who was Rags Vinyl?"
"He was one of our fences we bring stolen goods to him he pays us and sells them for a profit. Somehow they found out he was working for us and..."
"What?"
"They cut off his head with a butcher knife."
Octavia grimaced a bit but for some reason she felt it hardened her resolve.
"Vinyl I want to help."
"Octavia I don't want you in danger! Rags was a friend a good one loosing him hurts! If I lost you it would kill me!"
"And what about me loosing you? I love you too Vinyl and if you are going to be in danger I want to be beside you!"
The DJ stared into her eye's hard looking for any sign of doubt to exploit as an argument to say no. All she saw was certainty. She stood and walked to the kitchen area placing her empty glass in the sink. On one of the shelves she spotted a bottle of red wine from a decent vintage. She took it down and grabbed two wine glasses walking back out to her lover. She sighed with closed eyes as she spoke.
"I want to say I don't need help but that's a lie. I want to say you would get in the way but I don't think you will. I want to say no but you wouldn't listen...so I won't."
She freed the cork with her switch blade and poured the wine into the two glasses handing one to Octavia. Sitting back down on the couch she grabbed her glass. The Cellist did the same and clicked her glass to Vinyl's. They each took a sip and leaned back on the couch placing the glasses on the table in front of them.
Octavia grabbed her hand weaving her fingers with the DJ's. Gaining a smile from this she climbed into her lap and hung her arms around her neck placing her head on Vinyl's shoulder. The blue haired woman started to lean to her right laying Octavia down and slowly working her way on top of her.
"How could I have been lucky enough to get such a brave, crazy and beautiful woman?" She whispered to her.
Instead of an answer Vinyl's head was pulled down so her lips met Octavia's for a brief moment before Vinyl Grabbed her head gently and made the kiss so deep the Cellist released a loud moan into her mouth. The DJ pulled away from the kiss and started working kisses down her jaw to her neck.
"Vinyl..."
"What?"
"Go as far as you want don't hold back."
Vinyl turned her attention to Octavia's chest and began pulling away the dress for the second time technically that day. Tossing it on the floor she started working on her lover's underwear but it was made more difficult by Octy pulling off her cloths as well. In a matter of moment's both sets of clothing were on the floor accompanied by their underwear.
Vinyl who had been on top of the Cellist lifted her onto her lap with her legs wrapped about the waist. She began giving her kisses at the base of her neck near the spot where the hicky had appeared. Octavia saw the DJ's focus on her as a chance to gain a bit of dominance. Carefully she slid her middle finger into Vinyl's sex. She found it to be incredibly wet as she worked it slowly.
The DJ meantime had stopped with the foreplay upon feeling the pleasure building. Slowly the position changed as Octavia lowered Vinyl onto the couch speeding up her finger. The DJ clenched the folds of the couch with her hands as she got wetter. She let out a breath and felt something grab the ring on her belly. Looking down she saw Octavia playing with it by using her teeth.
"Octy your-not-playing-fair!"
"I know but outlaws don't do that right?"
Before more could be said by the DJ a second finger made it's way into her and she gave a small gasp. Octavia was getting more and more satisfied with the appearing results and added her mouth to the mix. Vinyl didn't hold on long as a burst of fluid coated Octavia's hands and tongue. She swallowed and licked her lips before positioning herself so that she could pleasure Vinyl again but in this case receive at the same time.
The DJ took the hint and began licking and kissing her lover's thighs teasingly. Octavia looked over her shoulder at the woman with half closed eye's. Her long hair draped down her shoulder as she gave deep breaths. She suddenly shuddered as she felt her most sensitive area being sucked on with vigor. Vinyl's tongue went as deep as she could send it getting coated in her lover's wet juice. She mixed kisses in with her work making for a combo that brought many sexy noises of pleasure from the receiver.
In an attempt to re-assert herself Octavia performed similar work on her lover. Vinyl responded to this by lightly smacking Octy's ass and squeezing it on impact. This earned her a sharp gasp much to her satisfaction. It quickly turned into a contest of who could make the other cum faster. It ended with two in sink cries as they reached their climax together.
Panting Octavia made her way to the exhausted Vinyl pulling her into an embrace offered with soft kisses on the cheek and neck. The DJ's hair had never looked so unkempt as it did now. She opened her eye's slightly to look around her surroundings. The beautiful black haired Cellist next to her was coving her in affectionate kisses. She reached out and cupped her face in her hands to bring their lips together. She kept the kiss soft but passionate pouring all the care she had into it.
Octavia could feel the emotion in how Vinyl's lips moved. It was almost overwhelming as she melted into it running her fingers into the DJ's hair. When the kiss ended Vinyl got up much to Octavia's protest. However instead of getting dressed she picked her up and carried her into the bedroom laying her gently on the bed.
Proceeding to get under the covers as her lover had after being set down she pulled her into her arms by the waist resting the Cellist's head on her breast. Octavia took a deep breath before weaving her legs in with Vinyl's hugging her back.
"I wish I could spend every night here next to you."
"I'm sure you would if you could Vinyl."
"I promise I'm going to do this right ok? Romantic dinners, flowers, chocolates anything I can think of."
"Just be you. That's who I fell in love with."
"Doesn't mean I can't try to impress you."
Octavia nestled into the DJ getting more comfortable.
"Get some sleep gorgeous we still have to work tonight." Said the DJ.
"Then we can crawl in bed afterwards?"
"Ya for a little bit."
"Cool."
The blue haired woman laughed and kissed the top of Octavia's head closing her eye's. Before she fell asleep something occurred to her.
"Octy?"
"Yes?"
"I think you need a new couch."
"I was planning on it but now I think it's a priority."
"I think it is too."