Linked ~ One Side

Some Strong Language in This Part

A few days had ed and Vincent still couldn’t shake this anxiety. If he knew who was behind all of his issues right now, he’d be able to get rid of them fairly quickly. But the fact that no one knew who this person was and why they want to get back at him like this brought tremendous amounts of stress. He couldn’t manage to focus on anything else and he began to spend more and more time at work, causing Maeve to become more suspicious of his intentions. No matter what he said, he could tell she was beginning to retract and question him than she used to. He killed him to break his promise and lie to her again, but he felt that it would hurt her more to tell her. What she doesn’t know won’t hurt her, right?

He went to the hideout early in the morning to meet with his most trusted colleagues. Since the demise of Vernon’s “empire,” a new group had been formed with some old faces and a few new ones. Vincent only trusted those he knew well with this information.

Trinity was the first to know. After all, she was the one to bring up the problem at hand. As soon as she found out about it, she ran to Vincent to make him aware. The loyalty she has for those she loves is unmatched. Although they don’t resemble each other in appearances, Trinity is the embodiment of her sister’s spirit. Every time Vincent visited Jordan at the cemetery, he never failed to mention how wonderful of a person her little sister was becoming. Part of him wished she had left this lifestyle for good when she had the chance, but this world was the only world she ever knew, and she quickly returned to her old ways. Though she no longer sought revenge, she couldn’t imagine a life any different than the one she has now. This was the path she had chosen, and she was surprisingly content with it.

Damien was brought into the loop next. Damien had been around just as long as Vincent. Although they often had their differences, they had each other’s backs no matter what. Vincent held a special place in his heart as the annoying brother, but he loved him even if he would die before itting it. Damien was moodier and more apathetic than the rest of the crew. But when it came to the monstrosities that were Vincent’s children, something in him changes. Maybe it’s his own secret desire to have a family too. He genuinely tried to turn his life around at one point, but the disapproval and lack of from his family caused him to give up on the chance of redeeming himself. He followed Trinity back into the world he had chosen over his family all those years ago. If he felt regret for that decision, he never showed or expressed it. Most of his feelings and thoughts were for him to know only.

Alfonso was notified soon after Damien even though he’s no longer active. It was more of a courtesy thing on Vincent’s behalf. Alfonso loves those children as if they’re his own, so it only felt right to tell him. Despite having left the gang for good, he’s been conducting his own research behind the scenes to try to aid in this search. The sooner the culprit is found, the better for everyone involved.

Lastly, against Vincent’s will, Diego was brought into the mix. There isn’t a day that es where Vincent doesn’t wish that he had wiped that asshole off the face of the Earth while he had the chance. If it weren’t for Maeve’s kind heart and forgiveness, Diego’s body would have left to rot in the street. Over twenty years later, Vincent still hated him ionately for all he had done to his wife. Diego’s remorse and apologies fell on deaf ears. Trinity added him into the group without Vincent’s approval, but he couldn’t deny the fact that his skills were needed. So, he put up with him as much as he could, and once this whole this is over, they’ll be right back to where they were: enemies.

Though extremely dysfunctional in of personality, this group was extremely effective in planning and working together on this case. It was personal, something no one would want happening to them. Everyone’s willing to put their differences aside for a common cause: keeping Gianna and the rest of the family safe.

Vincent: Where are we now?

Diego: As of right now, we’re still stuck in the same place. We don’t know who ordered this or why.

Vincent: *inhales deeply* Anything else?

Trinity: Al has been tracing backward to try to find anyone involved. If we can get at least one of them, maybe we can get them to talk.

Damien: Oh, we’ll get ‘em to talk.

Diego: we’re not here to kill them. We just need to get the information we need.

Damien: Nah, fuck that. They wanna mess with baby Gia? They gonna get what they fuckin’ deserve. May not be what I’m lookin’ for, but if they wanna piss me off, they may just get sent to an early grave.

Diego: So we’re moving to extreme torture now? Cool.

Vincent: I don’t think you have any room to talk.

Diego: I- *sighs and rolls eyes* alright.

Vincent: Look, I’m not trying to bring up the past to make you feel bad. But I let this shit happen once before and it almost cost me everything that I have now. I’m not letting it get to that point again. If someone hurts one of my babies or tries to, they’re going to suffer how they should.

Trinity: They want to get you bad. They went for Gia, your mini-me. I just… I can’t wrap my head around it all. We need to get back to work. We need to find who started this and everyone involved. We need to get people to guard your home when you’re not here. We need-

Damien: Aye, take a breath or two, girl. We can’t be frantic about it either or else we’ll be lettin’ our guard down.

Trinity: I know, I know. It’s just frustrating that we have absolutely nothing. *pauses for a moment, rubbing her temples* We don’t even know how long this hit has been out. They can be so far ahead of us and strike at any moment and I… *looks into Vincent’s eyes* I don’t want a repeat of what happened to Maeve, or even worse, what happened to my sister.

Vincent’s heart tugged at the thought of Jordan. She never asked to be in the world she ended up in, but she did it anyway for the man she loved. She was so kind and harmless, and yet she was ripped from this planet without a second thought.

He could still hear Alfonso’s screams of pure agony. He could still see his best friend sobbing over his wife’s lifeless body clear as day. That moment changed everything for everyone and it surely broke Al forever.

Vincent: I know. It won’t get that far. Not on my watch.

Diego: We’re all here to back you up and keep your family safe.

Vincent: *glances at Diego and smiles warmly for the first time* I know and I appreciate it. Look, let’s get back to work and try to find something useful today. I’m going to take a quick breather and then I’ll be back to help out.

Vincent retracted to another area of the hideout to process some things alone. He felt like he never truly has time to himself anymore. Twenty-four hours a day, he has to keep up his facade, especially in front of his family. Sure, he can be more open with the gang or the Haines’ but he still felt he could never show his fear, his heartache, his anxiety, and pain.

He wished he never came back into the world; he cursed himself for ever doing so. It seemed like he only knew how to make bad decisions, and he wished he had kept his promise to his wife. It would have saved him all of this trouble… or would it? Whether or not he came back into this lifestyle, this person, whoever they are, still would hold the same grudges they have now. The only difference is that Vincent probably would have never known about it.

Vincent was so lost in thought that he didn’t even notice Trinity coming up behind him.

Trinity: Hey, you okay?

Vincent: Hmm? Oh, yeah. I’m fine.

Trinity: Are you really?

Vincent: *inhales deeply* Not at all

His voice cracked. Although it was barely noticeable, Trinity picked up on it immediately. He blinked ferociously, trying to fight back the tears. Looking at him, Trinity could sense the agony.

Trinity: It’s okay to cry…

Vincent: I’m not going to. I don’t have the time to.

Trinity: Vincent…

Vincent: I’m fine!

He looked into Trinity’s eyes, attempting to prove that he was, in fact, fine. He forced his best smile, teeth included, and shrugged his shoulders. “I’m fine,” he repeated. His eyebrows began to furrow, the corners of his mouth twitching. His breaths were becoming more labored. “I’m fine,” he said once more, not sure if he was trying to reassure Trinity or himself. The dam behind his eyes broke as the tears spilled from his eyes. “I’m fine,” he whispered.

He raised his trembling hands to his face and sobbed into them. Trinity rushed to his side, placing both hands on his face. The feeling reminded him of Jordan and the sense of comfort she would always bring. It reminded him of the day he ed the gang when he was just a teenager and she comforted him and eased his mind.

Trinity: We will find them before they find you and your family. I can promise you that.

Vincent was unable to respond. He attempted to speak, but his body wouldn’t allow him to.

Trinity: Worst case scenario, we put her in hiding. And if needed, we send your other children somewhere far away from this whole mess until we can guarantee their safety. We won’t let them get what they want. They won’t win.

Vincent: But… what if they do?

Trinity’s heart broke for Vincent. He’s never so unsure of himself. Sure, he was doubtful when it came to Maeve, but he never gave up. The fire within him burned brighter with every day that ed. But now, that fire seemed to fizzle out. He was tired and scared.

Trinity: They won’t, Vinny. They won’t.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Maeve: Thank you for having me.

Aubri: *making coffee in the kitchen* No problem. Alfonso should be here in a bit.

Maeve: You really didn’t have to make him come home, Aubri. I could have waited.

Aubri: Maeve, honey, not trying to make you feel bad, but you look awful. I know something’s really bothering you. You know Al and I will drop anything for you.

Maeve: Right…

Maeve peered at the ground. She felt guilty for intruding, but she had no one else to turn to. She called hoping her uncle would pick up the phone, but his new girlfriend did instead. It took years for Alfonso to finally move on from Jordan’s death, and Aubrielle was the perfect girl for him. Though a bit younger, she loves Al for who he is and their chemistry is undeniable.

Aubri returned to the living room with coffee for Maeve.

Aubri: Hopefully this will help wake you up a bit. You seem exhausted.

Maeve: I’ve barely slept the past few nights.

Aubri: Really? Trouble in paradise?

Maeve: I don’t know.

Aubri: You don’t know?

Maeve: *staring into her untouched drink* He won’t communicate with me anymore and-

The front door opened, revealing Alfonso. His eyes were filled with worry as he gazed at his niece on the couch. Her grey eyes seemed dull and full of sadness. She barely smiled as he entered.

Alfonso: What happened?

Maeve: I just need to ask you something, and I hope you’ll be honest with me.

Alfonso: *sits in a chair next to Aubri* I’m listening.

She took a sip of her coffee, stalling to find the right words. She was worried and tired of beating around the bush. She lowered the mug and rested in on her thigh. Then, looking at her uncle, she spoke.

Maeve: Is my husband engaged in suspicious activity again?

Both Al and Aubri were silent for a moment. Aubri looked to her boyfriend, awaiting his response. Everything rested on his answer and she hoped he would tell her the truth.

Alfonso: No. He promised you he’d leave that in his past. Why do you think he would have gone back?

Maeve: *sighs* Nothing. Nevermind.

Aubri: You can talk to us, Maeve.

Maeve: It doesn’t matter. Even if he was, I doubt Al would betray Vincent’s trust anyway.

Maeve set the mug of coffee on the table before her and stood. She glanced at Al, then Aubri, then back at Alfonso.

Maeve: I should get going.

Aubri: Maeve, you shouldn’t be alone right now. I-

Maeve: Thanks, Aubri. We’ll catch up another time.

As she made her way to the door, she picked up her coat and keys. She paused at the front door.

Maeve: I believe you, Al. You’ve never given me reason to doubt your word. But if I’m proven otherwise, I’m not sure if I’ll ever be able to trust you again.

With that, she left the house quietly. They barely heard the door shut. Aubri ran after Maeve, but she was gone by the time she got to the front door. Aubrielle sighed, looking at Alfonso with disapproval.

Alfonso: Babe…

Aubri: You should have told her and you know it.

Alfonso: You know that I can’t. The situation could become more dangerous, especially if she chose to take the kids and run. Right now, we have them in a place where we can send people to watch over them. If she goes off the deep end and runs, we won’t be able to keep them safe.

Aubri: Don’t you think it’s worse to keep her out of the loop? What if she blindly trusts someone working with whoever ordered this? Or even worse, what if she takes matters into her own hands and gets herself into something she can’t get herself out of alive?

Alfonso: Maeve may be suspicious, but she’s not stupid.

Aubri: *shaking her head* Whatever.

Alfonso: Don’t be like that, babe.

Aubri: You know, sometimes it feels like I’m the only one who has that woman’s best interest in mind. Let’s not forget the story you told me about the last time you good pal decided to leave her out of the loop.

Alfonso: Aubri-

Aubri: You have a chance to change the outcome. Don’t let history repeat itself.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

After days of staying inside mostly locked in his room, Dom decided it was time to get out a bit. One of the people he met online wanted to meet up. It wasn’t their first time meeting though neither were sure how much longer this would last. Mutual respect lingered between them, but Dominic wondered what else was out there.

Dom: Kade?

Kade: Hmm?

Dom: Are you seeing anyone else?

Kade: Currently? No.

Dominic nodded.

Kade: Are you?

Dom: No…

Kade: Let me rephrase… are you interested in seeing other people?

Dom: I just wonder what else is out there.

Kade became visibly stiff, the words piercing his heart like a knife. He shrugged off the feeling, praying that this conversation would end. But he knew that even if it were to end, it would only be brought up again at a later time. He knew Dom was anxious to explore other possibilities, and he just wasn’t ready to let him go yet.

Kade: Right.

Dom: I’m not trying to hurt you. I jus-

Kade: No, I get it. You’re young, you don’t want to settle down yet, especially if you haven’t explored all of your “options” yet.

Dom: Kade, you know I care for you.

Kade: I know *smiles weakly* I have to accept that fact you won’t love me the way I love you because you’re not ready to love.

Dom: Y-You love me?

Kade: I thought it was pretty obvious *laughing*

Color rose to Dominic’s cheeks. No one has ever itted to having feelings for him let alone it to loving him. He felt a flash a joy and excitement which was followed by guilt for wanting to see what else was out there. Kade found what he wanted, and it was him, but he wasn’t sure if this is what he wanted. At the moment, it was, but in the long run, he wasn’t so sure.

Dom: Kade, I-

Kade: Don’t. Just let us enjoy today *rubs neck* After today, I’ll leave you be and you can go find what you’re looking for.

Dom: I don’t want to hurt you.

Kade: It’s just a part of life, isn’t it. I just want you to be happy even if that happiness isn’t with me.

Dominic placed his hand on Kade’s cheek. He wouldn’t even look at him. Dom tried to get him to shift his gaze, but his eyes were fixed on the ground. He was hurt and he didn’t want to show it. Dom sighed and grabbed Kade’s hand with his free one.

Dom: You deserve happiness too.

Kade: We both can’t have what we want. You wouldn’t be fully content with me until you explore. Maybe you’ll come back, maybe you won’t. But if you never explore, you’d grow to resent me and I couldn’t live with that guilt. I just-

Dom: Shhh, stop talking. Let’s just enjoy today.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Back at home, the triplets sat in the backyard. Liam and Ny were trying to mend their sister’s broken heart. She wasn’t herself. She was quiet and sad. She preferred to be by herself rather than around her family. She wasn’t taking care of herself. She was slowly transforming into someone they didn’t know and they had no idea how to help her.

Gianna wasn't used to the silent treatment. She hadn't spoken to Valentino in a few days. So many thoughts raced through her mind, but she didn't want to show up at his house partly because she was afraid of what kind of fate she'd be met with. She tried calling and texting him to no avail. Everything that seemed to be going so well suddenly felt like it was falling apart.

Ny: So, he's just been ignoring you?

Liam: Do you need me to go talk some sense into him? It's not like I don't know where he lives.

Gia: No, it's fine.

Liam: But it's not fine. If there's something wrong, the least he can do is talk to you. I would have thought he'd at least give you that respect.

Gia: What if I did something?

Ny: Did you?

Gia: Not that I know of, but people can get mad over anything nowadays.

Ny: Yeah, but I don't think Valentino would get mad at you for no reason at all, so you can stop worrying about that.

Gia: This just isn't like him... I mean, at this point I'm starting to fear talking to him. What if he wants to break up.

Liam: If this is his was of breaking up with you, we're going to have an issue.

Gia: I just don't get it. Everything was great and then it suddenly wasn't.

She pulled her knees to her chest. Ny rubbed her back, trying to console her. Liam stared in the direction of the Haines' house debating if he should just go over there and get Valentino to talk to his sister. He hated seeing Gianna of all people upset. She was such a ray of light and to see that shining light dimmed angered him.

Ny: Why don't we have a movie night?

Liam: Oh, hell yeah!

The two looked to Gia who seemed to be far off in thought. She glanced at Ny, then at Liam.

Gia: Yeah, I'd like that.

The three stood up, ready to head inside. It was time to put on their coziest pajamas and grab all the snacks they could before turning in for a night of movies and laughter. They hadn't  had quality time like this all together in a while. Their schedules never seemed to fully align with each other. But now was the perfect time to forget about everything else and just enjoy the company.

Ny went off to the bathroom to get changed. Liam grabbed Gianna's hand, holding her back for a moment.

Liam: How are you holding up? Truthfully.

Gia: *sighs* There's nothing I can do but wait. I'm not handling this well at all. I just hope he'll talk to me soon and we can fix whatever has been broken.

Liam: I hope this is just some sort of misunderstanding. I mean, I don't think Valentino would-

Just as Liam spoke his name, Gianna swore she could hear his voice. She paused for a moment, thinking she had finally lost it. But, she wasn't going crazy at all. She could see Val speaking with her father through the window. She thought she would feel relief or even sadness finally seeing him, hearing his voice, but all she felt was a rush of pure rage.

Liam didn't understand what his sister was seeing, but he immediately noticed the shift in her mood. He followed her gaze to see Valentino in front of the house.

Gia: You've got to be fucking kidding me

Liam: Hey, let's get ready for that movie night, okay?

Gia: I need to speak with him.

Liam: *grabs her by the shoulders* Not now. You're too angry to do this now.

Gia: Get off me

She ripped her body away from her brother's grasp with an amount of force Liam never knew his sister had. He stared at her wide-eyed, then glanced over his shoulder at Valentino.

Liam: *thinking to himself* Never thought I'd have to protect him from my sister.

He blocked her way, trying to deter her from going outside, but Gia rammed right into Liam, shoving him out of the way. Rather than getting murdered in his own home, Liam decided to just let his sister go because she would destroy anything in her path to get to that door.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Meanwhile...

In the front of the house, Vincent waited for Valentino. It had been a few days since his outburst after finding out what was happening behind the scenes with Gia. Vincent understood that Valentino was upset. Anyone would be if they found out their partner or someone they love was in as much danger as Gia. Vincent hoped that they would be able to have a more calm and civil conversation today where they both could speak their minds and come to some sort of understanding.

Val: Hey um look sorry for losing my cool the other day, it wasn’t right for me to do that and I know that *takes a deep breath* but look, I love Gia, I really do and to think someone wants her dead, that shit stung me. Like it struck a cord in me that I didn’t know i had and-

Vincent: I get it. I mean, I wasn’t really ready for the storm you brought, but it was going to come out eventually. I know you’re close to her and she really loves you. I’m sorry that this has caused such strain on you.

Val: Same here, I mean you’re her dad, you’re probably pulling your hair out thinkin’ about this. But fuck it, those pricks started this, and they picked the wrong family to mess with *tries to smile*

Vincent: Yeah, they did *laughs lightly, then becomes more serious* I almost lost everything the last time something like this happened. I’m going to do everything to keep everyone safe, I can promise you that. Have you talked to her?

Val: Nah, I haven't. She’s been callin’ and textin’ but I can’t bring myself to talk to her right now. I don't wanna say the wrong thing. Like I assume she doesn’t know-

Valentino's words were cut off by a loud bang. Standing in the doorway was Gianna, and she was positively pissed. The door bounced back from the force used to open it. Vincent just stared at the front door praying that it wasn't broken and that the paint on the house wasn't chipped.

Gia: What. The. Fuck? You’ve gotten my texts, ignored my calls, and yet you’re just here on my property talking to my dad?!

Valentino didn't respond, only looking to Vincent for some sort of assistance. Vincent contemplated his options and seriously did not know how to tame the animal that was somehow his daughter. Gianna was rarely angry, but this was a level no one had ever seen before.

Gia: Nothing to say? Seriously, Val?

Vincent: Uh, why don’t we head back inside, Gia? *grabs her hand*

Gia: *rips her arm away* No, you need to explain what the fuck is going on *points at Val*

Val: *sweating a fuck ton* Gia, baby, I can’t, I-I don’t know how to explain this. It’s just-

Gia: Just what? It’s not that hard to formulate a fucking sentence to explain why you’ve been leaving me in the dark.

Val: Well maybe there isn’t an explanation! Maybe have you ever given it the thought that i just need some space?!

Gia: *pauses and stares deep into Val’s soul before charging at him* Val, I swear to-

Vincent: *grabs Gia* Alright, alright. That’s enough. It’s not his fault, calm down.

Gia: Let go of me. I swear I’m about to send this kid into next year.

Vincent: Not tonight. I think we all need to have a talk.

Her blood was boiling. Seeing Valentino now was more than she could handle. Even she couldn't control herself or her emotions. There was so much she wanted to say, so much she wanted him to understand. But when she finally met his eyes, that anger seemed to dissipate. The look in his eyes immediately told her something was wrong. And it seemed like she was about to figure out what.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Please to check out Story.Book Sims  :two_hearts: post! Her side will contain a lot that isn't included in my part. Go show her some love.