shadxwmoonlight

[shadxwmoonlight]

HAPPY BIRTHDAY QUEEN BRE !

— to my wife, my life, my love, my honey bee, my very bestest friend, I am so grateful that you exist and that I exist at the same time as you ; I hope this year is everything you deserve and more, may all of your wishes come true and you feel as loved and special as you are !!!!!! ⋆˙⟡ ˚ʚ♡ɞ˚ ‪‪ꨄ ‧₊˚ ⋅ ౨ৎ ‧₊ ❤︎ .ᐟ‬

[shadxwmoonlight]

Oz could feel Shona losing her grip, his own legs buckling in return. It wasn't because of the extra weight but because seeing her in the flesh for the first time in months hit him like a stone. As if he was tied to a cement block drifting farther and further underwater and she was the only thing keeping him afloat. Now with her safely in his arms he felt like he could drop that burden--cut the rope. At her words he found himself falling to his knees, dragging her body down with him. It was like he could finally breathe, not like the gasping breaths of survival in the months she had been missing. He dared to pull away, only enough that he could take in the features of her face. Because if this was a cruel joke from the universe he wanted to remember every feature before she slipped through his fingers like sand. The sharp curve of her jaw, the way her lips were naturally plumped demanding to be kissed, her brown eyes swallowing the moonlight surrounding them.

He kept his palms glued to the sides of her cheeks, his thumbs mindlessly wiping away each tear that cascaded down her porcelain face. Oz still couldn't believe this wasn't a dream, surely he had died. Then again for all the crimes he'd committed in his lifetime he wasn't sure he'd be granted such a paradise. "You're really here?" He huffed in a hot whisper, not really a question but rather a bewilderment. He couldn't take his icy eyes off her even as he dared to press his lips against hers. He couldn't bear to lose another moment, a single second of having her this close again. Her words crushed him in a way he hadn't felt in so long. Not that numbness that threatened to consume him in her absence. This was the kind of pain that was real--pain snakingly sharp and reminding him that he was still alive, and that his heart was still beating. "Never. Never again." He reassured her whilst whispering against her lips. It was more than a promise, It was an oath. Whatever gods were at play wouldn't be able to cleave her from his side this time. Her words sent him into a frenzy, thoughts and emotions wielding and blending into one. Removing one hand from her cheek to place it atop hers that rested against his own cheek. "I love you Shona." Dragging her hand down a few inches to trail wet kisses within her palm. "I love you, until the world burns and there's nothing left but ash and rot in its wake. When everyone is nothing but spirit and fragments of essence, I will still love you. You have me forever, body and soul." Feeling lucky his words didn't come out in a trembling mess as his breath became shaky. Feeling overwhelmed with the amount of emotion that was colliding against his chest. The tightening of his lungs, even if she stole his breath away he wouldn't care. Because as long as he was with Shona, it'd be such a heavenly way to die.

This time his lips met hers hungrily, not being able to hold back the intensity of his love for her. Surprised he'd managed not to gnash their teeth together as he desperately pushed her lips apart with his tongue to meet hers greedily. Only pulling away when he felt he might suffocate them both, his hand sliding from her cheek and moving towards the back of her neck. His hand tangling into the mass of her raven hair, gripping a fistful of it between his fingers as he angled her head upwards with a gentle tug. Planting kisses atop the corner of her mouth, then moving softly down her jawline until his lips finally met the nape of her neck. Indulging himself on her scent, as his teeth grazed against the flesh there. "Marry me." He whispered between all consuming kisses against her neck. "Please, marry me shona." he begged, still feeling the warmth of his tears slipping from his eyes and crashing down upon her shoulder. Now that he had her back he wasn't going to let go of her again. This was just the start.

It didn't make any sense, fucking none of it, because how the hell could she go from living with the love of her life in domestic bliss, to being tortured by that freaky limbo-darkness world for what felt like an eternity? It wasn't the forever Shona wanted, wasn't what she had been promised, the joy and hope of a future with Oz had been cruelly snapped away from her in a blink of an eye. It was punishment of the worst kind because it felt personal, like something had chosen her in a crowd and destroyed her. How the tables fucking turned. It hadn't been fair, it was a wicked injustice to tear her away from Oz and when Shona finally figured out what the hell happened-- there would be blood.

It was a whirlwind of emotions standing in the apartment, Shona would know it by shadows alone, from the ticking clock to the still quiet, to the smell of those old-money upholstered furnishings, but it was home. It was their home together, the scent of cigarettes' and liquor, the sound of each other's breathing from opposite ends of the room, how her feet padded across the familiar space in a messy stumble of anguish and exhaustion. If she could just get to his arms it would all be okay, if Oz would just hold her then everything would be alright, she would be home. Shona couldn't stop shaking as the tears ran down her face, her legs begging her to let them rest, to fall down here where Oz would catch her, her chest ached at the sight of her lover in pain, her throat bobbed with the urge to call for him. He was too far away and yet only a few steps from her and yet she wasn't sure if could make it.

Time stood still as Shona waited in agony for his touch, for the welcoming feeling of his warm skin on her cold bones. For Oz to breathe life back into her living corpse that had given up a long time ago. Shona never thought she would see this again, to have him mere inches from her face, to feel the calloused palm of his hand ontop of her wet cheek. She shut her eyes leaning into the comforting feeling of him wiping away her tears, this was real, this was true, Oz was with her and she was now safe.

Shona felt like her heart had raptured inside of her chest at the sound of Oz's words, sending bone splinters through her torso and tearing her into pieces. This might very well kill her but as long as she died in his arms, she wouldn't care. After this nothing mattered, whether she was to live 100 years or 60 seconds more it didn't matter because she had gotten all the she wanted and if that was the price to pay for it, she would. Shona flung her arms tightly around Oz's shoulders, gripping him closer to her body as she cried and cried harder than ever before in her life. The blubbering mess of a woman shook as her legs gave way and she began to drop, clinging on to Oz for stability. Let her drop, let her fall down and never get back up, she needed nothing more ever again than this moment.

The smell of his cologne lingered in her nostrils as Shona felt her nose run alongside her tears, she couldn't speak through her shattering sobs, feeling too exhausted to do much else only hold on to Oz. She forced herself to try breathe but it was jerky and heavy, her chest heaving with every breath she attempted to quieten. "I missed you" she rasped through her hysteria, Shona pulled away from his grasp to look Oz in the eyes. "Don't let it take me again" she begged him, placing a shaking hand onto his face, remembering all the times she ached to say it to him in the darkness "I love you. I love you. I love you."

[shadxwmoonlight]

Oz had not been living since Shona's disappearance, he had merely been surviving. He suspected Barrett and Luis saw through the mask of indifference. Hell, even Mason had to coax him down from a mental break down. He had lost the one damn thing in this world that mattered. Oz wanted to tear the world apart, leaving ashes in it's wake. Endlessly searching for his witch with the tools that only money could buy. Throwing handfuls of cash to anyone who was willing to search, question witnesses, to find anybody that had a clue where she could've gone. However each venture lead to a dead end. There were no clues, no signs, not a single trace that Shona Samhain had ever vanished. All he had were the trinkets she left behind. Her favorite jewelry, her shoes, and some of her clothes. Every night he buried his nose into one of her sleep shirts. Inhaling her perfume that still lingered on them. It was the only reminder that she had been real, that she had existed. It seemed that reality was his new nightmare.

Days turned into weeks, and weeks into months. The probability of finding her was low, considering all the other victims had returned home. Why had it been her? Why was she still gone? It drove Oz to madness. Dealing with the grief in the only way he knew how. Violence and alcohol. Second chances weren't being given anymore. Seeing Luis and Barrett come back from each dealing bloodier than the last. But he felt those people deserved it, needed strangers to feel the bottomless pit he himself could not escape from. Spending every waking hour at the casino. Drinking until that black abyss claimed him, and waking up to find things had not changed. Shona was still gone, and he was still broken.

Being with Shona had changed him in a way that he could not accomplish on his own. Being with her had earned taunts from people who once knew him as the boogie man. They now called him weak, spineless, a fool in love. They were right, and Oz didn't care. Because being with Shona didn't make him feel weak. In her arms he felt like they could conquer the world. It was only without her that he felt incapacitated.

Standing in their empty penthouse it was too quiet. He couldn't remember the last time he stepped foot inside. Days? Weeks? It was all becoming a blur. He couldn't sleep here anymore, not without her. The silence was deafening. The walls should've been filled with her laughter, music, and the soft snore she made when she was beyond exhausted. Quiet had only sent him into a fit of rage lately. Stepping over glass as he already slammed the coffee table over a month before. Shards crunching beneath his boot as he slowly made his way to their lounge bar. There was already a variety of liquor bottles strewn out from the last time he had been here. The only things he wasn't willing to break. His hands hovered over the whiskey bottle. To live like this without her was pure torture. Going to startling lengths to cope and wanting to forget. Waking up in a drunken stupor every day, shame coating his tongue. He didn't want to forget her, but he couldn't live like this. Drinking, getting his fists bloody seemed to be the only solution anymore. Inhaling deeply through his nose as he flicked the cap off with his index finger and thumb. Right as he lifted the bottle to his lips ready to take a large swig he heard her.

No, it couldn't be. Not after all this time, just showing up at their doorstep like this. This had to be a hallucination, surely from lack of sleep and the amount of alcohol he had been consuming lately. Oz would take what he could get, even if the only place he could ever touch his love again was in his dreams. It was a welcome change from the nightmares he'd been having. His eyes adjusting to her features in the dark, slowly inching forward as if he moved too hastily she'd disappear completely. When they were a mere foot apart his palm reached out first, cupping her cheek. His thumb caressing over her tears as his own fell from his lashes. She felt real, and solid. "My witch, my little witch." He rasped out in a sob, before snaking his other arm around her waist and pulling her hard against his body. Burying his head into the nape of her neck. He couldn't refrain himself--keep any ounce of control. His body was shaking and his grip around her only tightened. If this was a dream he hoped it would be his last.

@shadxwmoonlight

Whenever Shona pictured death it was a welcoming embrace. A cool, comforting hand that walked you through the veil and into the eternal slumber with a gentle touch. It was kind, peaceful and there was no pain, worrying or suffering, only a quiet darkness that let you drift away to what comes next. But she had been so wrong, so stupid, foolish and pathetic to imagine anything other than the pit of despair she'd been trapped in. Hell. That was the only word she could use to describe it, the darkness that fed off of her pain and then filled her with more to gorge itself. The noises of the town and voices of passing loved ones who were just beyond her touch, not knowing she was there. Not caring... not remembering? Just moving on in her absence, like she never mattered at all.

At first it had been difficult for Shona to distinguish between what was real and what had been a hallucination of her own mind. Memories and nightmares blurred into one never-ending loop of her life. Her biggest regrets, deepest fears, most hopeful dreams all banded together to tear her apart, piece by piece as she could only accept it. Accept the torture until it finally put her out of the misery, but the darkness liked her too much. It should have been obvious but it had taken her some amount of time to join up the dots in her head, this was no mental prison, this was a cursed existence, one she had been fighting her whole life. She should have recognized the pull, that feeling of intuition that had sat with her through her entire life, that the only way she was getting out of here was to fight it with every bit of repressed magic she had.

Shona had flirted with a few tricks and spells over the years, never anything elemental or powerful enough to break a hold like this, so sinister and hungry, leeching onto the world like a fuckin' parasite but she also knew she had to go home. That she couldn't stay another second in this hell hole, not when she had too many things to do before she died, too many people she'd learned to love. Too much to fight for even if she wouldn't be fighting it for herself. They didn't need her, but she needed them. In the enclosing darkness Shona pictured her home as clear as possible, the smell of Vitani's perfume, the sound of Zelda's laugh. The kid-like smile of Barrett when he got giddy, and the comforting drinks in silence with Luis. Slowly she sketched out a path to follow, the sound of a beating heart in the void.

As Shona mentally pushed on she thought of the Casino and her friends, expensive aftershave and the smell of cigarettes', a lush penthouse with a shared bedroom. Warm hands on her waist, whispering secrets in hallways, slow dancing in the foyer, green eyes staring into her soul and telling her everything would be okay. Oz. Her entire heart, her world, her salvation. Exhausted, she prowled through her fondest memories of them, the ones that clung to her soul and pushed against the restraining grasp that held her back, she was going home to him or she would die here trying. Something like a scream and glass smashing vibrated through her as she stumbled into a dark room-- her heart thundering against her chest. She was alive.

Squinting as her eyes adjusted from what felt like a lifetime in the dark, Shona's gaze settled on the familiar figure of Oz in the apartment, she wanted to run to him, to embrace him, and cry and tell him all the things she was too stubborn to say before, but instead her body stood frozen as she forced herself to call out to him. "Oz" she croaked, voice breaking with emotion "Oz! -- please tell me you can hear me-- see me even... tell me its really you."

[shadxwmoonlight]

"Smart move." He commented genuinely, a small smirk pulling at his lips. "See that guy slacked over the poker table in the far back? He's been here all night. Went through his whole life savings in less than a handful of hours. Honestly, it's kind of impressive. Losing so much money so quickly. Now the poor sod is drunk and broke." Oz couldn't help the scoff that fell from his lips, the amusement flickering in his eyes. He could've felt sorry for the fool, but he had only done this to himself. It wasn't wise to play a game you didn't know how to win. "Since I can't entertain you with a game, can I interest you in a drink instead?"

It wasn't that anyone specifically told Bea to come to Moonlight tonight but there had been a lingering sense in the air that it would be a good idea. If you asked her way, she'd have no real answer, but that wasn't unusual. As far as this world went, Bea hardly had any answers at all...but she was getting there! She was learning and what she'd been taught most often was how everything was really strange around here. Like this place, for example. People willingly threw their money away to play a game they were never going to win. It was ludicrous but it was also entertaining to watch. When the man spoke, which she hadn't been sure if he would, Bea shook her head with an attempt at a smile. "No, that's alright. I don't particularly feel like losing money tonight. But don't let me stop you."

[shadxwmoonlight]

He really should've just left, but what was the point? He truly had nothing left to lose. Leaving now would only entail another drunken stupor at the casino. His hand finally fell limply back to it's side, turning slowly on his heels. the pit of his stomach feeling like a sack of rocks as he approached again, more cautiously this time. being more vulnerable than he had ever wanted anybody to see, especially the fucking mayor. yet he made no attempt to wipe his tear stricken face. palm resting atop the head rest of one of the two chairs seated in front of masons desk. letting his words sink in, he drew in a long inhale through his nose. "I did blame you. At first." The disappearance felt too personal, and yet there seemed to be no rhyme or reason for any of it either. "That night I confronted you, I realized it then. That look on your face, I wasn't the only person that lost somebody. Emily. I knew then you were just as helpless as the rest of us. I wanted to hate you, turn your guts inside out, but it's only because I wanted someone to blame."

"Because you're a fool, but one that cares." Oz wasn't sure how the media would've portrayed the disappearances if Mason hadn't been proactive in the search to find them. Would they have been forgotten about? "You've always been cracked." Oz mused, but a grim smile attempted to pull at his lips. "But we all are."

"Mason I don't know how to live like this. Without her." His fingers pierced into the leather of the chair. Oz's life had been filled with one misery after the next. Shona was a light in that darkness, and now it was gone. A touch of salvation before the storm. He should've known it was too good to be true, he hadn't deserved her. Then and especially now. God, if she saw him now. How fucking pathetic he became. He didn't want to crumble, but it was too late. "What am I supposed to do?" His voice trembled, as he choked out a sob, tears falling in their wake.

"You don't have to go." The words were out before he realized it, the only time he'd ever actually wanted the other man's company. At least he was one person that didn't blame him, and Mason had a feeling he was one of very few. He was the easy target, the face of the town, the one on stage during press conferences, a bumbling fool trying his hardest to avoid admitting nothing was under control and he didn't have the slightest idea what was going on. He couldn't blame anyone for directing their anger towards him... it had to go somewhere. He would pull out a bottle of scotch, if he had one, or whiskey, and in the moment he found himself relieved he didn't. His freshly awarded one year chip was burning a hole in his pocket, and he hadn't felt the urge to down a bottle as strongly as he had this last week or two. It seemed like every time he started doing better, he only ended up more in over his head.

"I had nothing to do with any of them disappearing," Mason clarified, knowing that Oz knew that, "but I had nothing to do with bringing them home, either." So, as far as he was concerned, he may as well have. "I don't know why I signed up for this." Or why he was confessing to Oz Godfrey of all people. Because he didn't care how he saw him, perhaps... or because he wanted to see him in a better light than he already did, and he hoped an explanation would help. Or maybe he just wanted someone to talk to, someone he didn't feel he could disappoint more than he already had. "I don't know half of the shit that goes on in this goddamn town, yet here I am, the fucking face of Evermore, promising everyone it's all going to work out. It's like a bad joke at this point. How long until the man officially cracks?"

[shadxwmoonlight]

Oz was done here, if Mason wanted to suffer then so be it. He sure as hell wasn't going to lick his wounds for him. Already moving towards the door after hearing the thud of Mason's body collapsing back into the chair. He needed to leave, he didn't want to talk about this--about her. His hand had just barely clasped around the door knob when he stopped dead in his tracks. Fingers twitching--urging him to leave, to run to the safety of the casino. where the alcohol would cloud his vision and blur his thoughts. He stood like that for a long time, waiting for Mason to finish. His shoulders curved inward as as his hand hovered over his only way out. feeling as if he was about to cave into himself. He hated this, the fortress surrounding his heart cracking under pressure like the tumbling of old ruins. Shona was everything. A reason to continue; a fucking shining beacon in this shit stained town. If he was being honest for a moment he was just as cowardly as mason. drinking his sorrows to wash away the memory of the woman he loved. but nothing ever would, and he felt an immeasurable amount of shame that he ever even tried too. He had become the very thing he detested, in a few months since her disappearance this is what he became. a sniveling drunk who needed fleeting human connections to get by, to feel something. perhaps he and mason weren't so different after all.

he was quiet for a long time, just staring as if he was looking through the door. tears rushing silently down his cheeks. finally, he slowly looked over his shoulder. not so much to make eye contact, but for his voice to be heard. " I know."

"no matter what you think of me, or the sins I've committed against you...I've never blamed you for her disappearance."

It may have been the first time since his path had crossed with Oz that he was not afraid of him, which was strange, seeing as his hand was bunching the fabric by his throat, the anger in his eyes and his voice hard to ignore. Mason winced, the pain pills doing little to dull the ache of a hand pressing against his healing wound, but he didn't say a word. Not until he was released, falling limp and hopelessly, like a worn out ragdoll. "I wasn't worried about that," he said, softly, his tone deflated as he sank back into his seat, tried to pretend the sting wasn't there still. He had tried to avoid taking the medication, in case it made him want to pick up a bottle, relapse, but he never had an issue with pills... and it was too painful to even breathe without them for awhile.

He didn't know why he cared to reassure Oz that he trusted him now. He was the last person he trusted in the whole godforsaken town. But, strangely, not at this moment. "I tried, Oz," he spoke again after a short pause, still quiet, but his eyes didn't move from the other man's. He needed him to know that he meant it. "I tried to figure out what happened to everyone, I tried to... bring them home, but I didn't—... I'm not a detective, I'm not—... well, I'm not going to make excuses. I failed. You understand why he did it, don't you?" Sitting up straighter in his seat, he did not break eye contact still, almost daring Oz to say no. "Maybe it was deserved. Maybe I can only fail so many people before I have to face the consequences. You of all people should agree."

[shadxwmoonlight]

Mason was actually insane, he fucking had to be. "Better question, why the fuck are you here? The loss of blood must be getting to your head Mayor. Go home." It wasn't a plea, it was a command. Oz's eyes narrowed at the statement, jaw clenching so tightly to prevent the grinding of teeth. He just stared, his eyes turning icy as they glazed over his features. "Bullshit." Oz spat softly, lying to him out of all people? Did Mason think he was stupid? Oz had been running countless underground schemes since his mortal existence began. He'd seen bloodshed in many different forms. Some were mindless, others had been creative and twisted--morally grotesque. "I don't partake in politics or whatever agenda the news spits out. If something important happens, well that's what Luis and Barrett are for." His eyes, ears, and shadows of evermore. "I'll give you this pass since you seem to have lost your ever loving mind, but do you think i'm a fucking fool?" Swiftly Oz moved to stand beside him one arm gripping the collar of his shirt and pulling him up and out of his chair until their faces were merely inches apart. Not caring about the wound he so tentatively overlooked cautiously moments ago. He was seeing red. "You're telling me you couldn't see the face of the man who had to have gotten this close to slip a knife under your ribs.?" His left fist was still gripping his collar upright even if mason's body limply resisted against him. His right hand hovering over the puncture. "The trajectory of your fucking wound was no accident, not a hit and run. It was meant to be slow, and painful wasn't it? To endure it?" He whispered, he began caressing the wound, slowly adding pressure with his palm. "I know you thought lowly of me, but to think I would weaponize this against you. Did you think I'd run to that trifle gossip blog if you told me the truth?" Oz hissed, eyes hovering over masons before letting his grip go and letting the man collapse back down into his chair.

If he didn't know any better, Mason would think he cared. Realistically, he probably did, if only because someone had beat him to it. Still, his frustration slipped slightly, placing a palm on the desk, trying to be discreet in leaning against it. He felt weak. Even just standing was exhausting now, and he was getting sick of it. Yeah, he was lucky he survived, and he knew it would pass, but he was not good at sitting still... or taking care of himself. "I didn't see his face," he stated, which was bullshit, but he wasn't sure if Oz would see through the lie or not. The police had questioned him, and he had kept his story; no discussion happened that he could remember, just a robbery attempt gone wrong on his way home. He wasn't sure why he wasn't upfront. To protect the man because Diablo had a point, because his words echoed in his head still, or because he was afraid he'd find him and finish the job if he ratted him out. "You really didn't hear? I figured you would be throwing a party by now." Especially after he had failed to bring Shona home.

[shadxwmoonlight]

"Yes, stupid enough to miss. You always seemed like the machoistic type." Oz mused through pursed lips, striding closer to the edge of his desk. Which only took a few steps to close the gap between them. "It doesn't matter now." He replied in a half truth, his eyes shifting between the mans gaze and his blood soaked torso. "No." He sighed in admission, running a hand through his hair before letting the hand fall loosely back to his side once more. He needed a fucking cigarette. "I know you didn't do that, but who or what did?" Oz wasn't sure why he cared, why he was even showing an ounce of sympathy. Perhaps it was morbid curiosity. "Dont' give me any bullshit, tell me the truth."

"Do you really think I'd be stupid enough to aim for my abdomen?" Mason lifted a hand, pinching the bridge of his nose, suddenly feeling incredibly exasperated. He hadn't turned on the news, he hadn't picked up a paper — it was a form of self care, really — so he didn't know if the event had yet to be publicized or if Oz just avoided it too. But what a ridiculous conclusion to come to. "I didn't do this," he clarified, turning to face the man once he reached the edge of his desk, his pace annoyingly slow... even to himself. He was grumpy, agitated, and it was seeping into his words; he did not have the energy to put on a cheerful, political front today. Especially not to his newfound company. "How can I help you today, Oz? I know you didn't stop by just to say hello."

[shadxwmoonlight]

Oz's fingers were still clenched into a fist when the door finally squealed opened and not expecting whatever--this was. Sure Mason could be cowardly, pathetic even, a groveling mess really but not a vessel operating an empty hovel. Mason didn't even offer a passing glance. Oz's hand fell back to his side, eyeing how the man limped back to his desk. His posture hunched, sweat lining his brow, and that's when his eyes finally met the large bandage wrapped around his abdomen. Blood seeping through the cotton. Fucking Idiot. For the firs time Oz was shocked into silence, taking a moment just to stare. Calculating what to say, until he finally made it across the threshold into his office. Closing the door behind him with a loud backwards kick of his boot against wood. "I'm sorry what the fuck is this?" He exclaimed in confusion, shaking his head as a migraine was beginning to form behind his temple. "For fucks sakes Mason if you're trying to off yourself at least have better aim."

He hadn't been long released from the hospital; in fact, Mason really shouldn't be at work, he could practically hear the doctors chewing him out, but he couldn't just stay cooped up in his house. Not after all the days spent laid up in a hospital bed. He was sitting at his desk, shifting through folders when he heard the knock at the door, followed by a voice he least expected. A voice that would normally send a shiver of anxiety through him, but he found as he rolled his chair away from his desk, winced at the sharp pain in his abdomen and made his way to open the door, the usual dread wasn't there. He was too drained. "It's really not a good time, Oz," he stated, but he unlocked and opened it, turning to walk back to his desk without so much of a look. What was the other man going to do that was so bad? Stab him?

[shadxwmoonlight]

starter for: @faiirytalcs (bea)

location: moonlight casino

Oz was practically living at the casino lately. Enjoying the constant buzz of noise that rang throughout his ears. There was never a moment of silence. The air was always tinged with pride, greed, and lust. It only ever grew quiet late into the early morning, when most of the patrons had disappeared leaving him alone with his thoughts. He dreaded those moments the most, but there was still time. It had barely turned midnight and he felt that familiar itch tug beneath his skin. A distraction, that's what he needed--or so he convinced himself. Strolling around the poker tables he noticed a blonde woman that stuck out like a sore thumb compared to the rest. Which wasn't an insult--she was beautiful, but to be here? He had to admit the curiosity was getting he better of him, moving to her side and raising a brow in her direction. "y'know you can join a game if you like? more fun than just watching, at least in my opinion." His tone came out more of a challenge than he meant too, but still he was too eager to hear her thoughts.

[shadxwmoonlight]

starter for: @naturallytwofaced

location: mason's office.

Oz didn't know why he was here. He had little reason for anything nowadays. His motto had been act now and drink your sorrows later. His heart felt like a burden and he didn't want to carry it around anymore, at this point he was willing to rip it out himself. There was still time to turn around but he found his muscles twitching before he could even think. Knuckles rapping against the door more harshly then he intended to. It was hard to control his autonomy lately while constantly being in a state of hung-over and on edge. He waited staring at the door as if he could see through it. "Holy fuck Mason just open the god damn door already."

[shadxwmoonlight]

It was a matter of time really, Oz wasn't an idiot. This had been the outcome he sought out for wasn't it? Watching Jack from across the casino like a hunter watching his prey. He just had to strike at the right moment. He needed to tear the man down, drag him down to his level. Make him feel what he felt. The loss, the suffering, the sleepless nights. Someone else needed to feel it and while he could've chose anyone he hand picked Jack like he was some precious jewel in a box. The only thing he wasn't accounting for was the reaction--how would the man react? Curiosity mainly, probably knowing jack. Would he display signs of jealousy--possessiveness? Emotions that had once maimed the boogie man so deeply that it left a scar upon his blackened heart.

He waited until the crowd died down. Purposefully making the man wait, as he greeted patrons and passed free drinks around. Enjoying the overwhelming laughter that arose when he played the right hand that won a game of wicked grace. The roaming of fingertips that dwelled on his kneecaps from strangers, tipping the line of borderline inappropriate. He needed to feel something, anything other than this numbness that threatened to swallow him whole. Finally when he was ready he strode towards the bar, cigarette already lit in his hand as he nodded at the mans greeting. "Jack." He replied, lips curling around the cigarette to hold it there while he poured them both a drink before Jack could even ask. Sliding the shot across the counter towards the other he kept his tone somber. "I don't celebrate." He countered, not wanting to think about Shona. He watched with hungry eyes waiting for the accusations, the grief he expected to see. Give him a reason--anything to get his hands bloody again. Instead he was only met with kindness, which made Oz loathe the man even more. "How about you? You look--" He trailed off as he shifted the cigarette from his mouth and back between his two fingers. "disheveled." He finished as he waved his hand in a clockwise motion. a trail of smoke falling close behind. it was rich coming from him, oz looked like shit, knew he did too, but this wasn't about him. It was about her.

Closed starter for: @shadxwmoonlight Location: Moonlight Casino

It troubled Jack, seeing Helena with Oz of all people. As far as Jack knew the man was simply the owner of the town's casino and had a smooth way with words. He had never been hostile towards Jack. Quite the opposite. Jack couldn't recall how many drinks Oz had generously let Jack have for free. His words and actions didn't add up with the feeling Jack had in the pit of his stomach though. It wasn't just seeing him with Helena at the cemetery. Before that there was almost a gut feeling telling him that this man was trouble. Jack had a curious nature though and needed to know more. But why were they together? Not that he was owed an explanation, but Jack felt uneasy about it. Was this...jealousy? No, surely not. He had no reason to be jealous of Oz. Jack was sat at the bar, knowing the man would reveal himself at one point. He'd never been here and not seen Oz. He was nursing this third gin and tonic, the glass nearly empty by now with mostly melted ice that watered down whatever little alcohol had been left. Then he felt it. It was almost a malicious aura and Jack could almost feel the ghastly silhouette breathing down his neck. The hairs on the back of his own neck stood up and he dared not turn his head. Curiosity killed the cat and satisfaction may have brought it back, but cats only had so many lives at the end of the day. When he saw the man walk around the bar Jack instantly planted a bright grin on his face. "Oz! Always splendid to see you when I come by." His grin didn't falter and as bright as he was beaming the grin was almost eerie. Jack let his eyes meet with Oz's, a million questions boiling in his mind that he desperately needed to know. He couldn't ask though. He wasn't going to. "How have you been? Are you enjoying the holiday season so far?" he asked, trying to make the conversation feel casual. He had to keep reminding himself there was nothing this man had personally done to him for him to feel such disdain again him. His grin softened into a curious smile. "I personally love the holidays. Any of them, really." He brought the glass to his lips and finished the watered down drink. "Would you be kind enough to get me another drink?"

[shadxwmoonlight]

starter for: @helbcrne

location: evermore cemetery.

It was a bit childish really, using Helena's company to get under Skellington's skin. Whilst Oz was good at masking his own emotions he was a master observer, it was all he had growing up. People watching. Jack trying to hide his true affections was even more foolish. He could see it in the way he spoke to her, watching them one night from behind the lounge bar in the casino. The way Jack's brow furrowed in sympathy, his fingertips flexing and tensing inside his jacket pocket. Wanting but never touching. He knew that feeling all too well. Shona. The thought of her dragged him under that night, drinking himself unconscious. The next morning he sought out Helena, offering a stroll in the cemetery together. Whatever he was expecting of Helena to be was entirely different from what she was--she seemed somber and reflective. an extreme stark contrast from what he pictured Jack to be. Oz skidded softly to a halt, looking around the surrounding graves and welcoming in a peaceful rush of freezing air into his lungs. He bit the inside of his cheek, momentarily lost in thought. "Morbid, isn't it?" Oz scoffed in way that sounded like a slight sorrowful laugh. "When the dead feel more welcoming than the living."

[shadxwmoonlight]

despite them being tangled in the dark—if one could call oz’s tight grip on her wrist an intertwinement. He noticed the well of water lining her lower lash, it caused him to straighten his posture, his neck craning slightly to the side in bewilderment and awe. Had he ever seen her cry? Well this wasn’t quite crying, but he had never seen her like this. Her words were still a loaded gun; that much hadn’t changed. “Driz.” He replied sweetly in a hiss, the amusement in his grin only furthered at the venom dripping from her tongue.

He debated for a moment whether to comment on it or not— she’d surely divert the topic as she had always done when they treaded the line too close to being something serious.

despite her attempts to break free his grip remained firm, relentless to let go until she commanded so. “ah, but you admit I was one, once..” memories of another life with her had flickered through his mind, they had burned brightly, a hot flame that turned into a wildfire consuming everything around them. But like all things it was quick to turn into ash. He didn’t like the emotion that stirred within his chest when she was pressed flushed against him. lifting her wrist to his lips as he trailed wet kisses starting at her fingertips and moving down along the back of her palm. his eyes burned at her comment, but he refrained if only for a moment. knowing he had the upper hand for the time being. "careful, pet. i know it's been a long time but i know you well enough driz, if you wanted to leave you would've already." his eyes met hers, his free hand moving to cradle her jaw-thumb caressing her flushed cheeks from the cold. "what's wrong?"

upon seeing oz , drizella's expression had soured like curdling milk , the tears pricking her eyes enough to blur her vision as his very presence felt like direct PROOF that a dark omen had tethered itself to what was left of her soul . she figured he'd be wise enough to let her go , given how their last altercation had gone , but she found the wind being ripped from her as a forceful hand located the bone of her wrist and yanked — like she were a spoiled mutt who's leash had just been given a firm and commanding tug .

dark eyes cut to his , not making any effort to veil the ire in her expression. her jaw muscles twitched , her neck straining as she craned it in a half ditch effort to give herself some height , a spear driving down the length of her spine and straightening it so the knobs of vertebrates were perfectly aligned . his frame loomed over her , encasing her in shadow , and she didn't make a singular effort to swallow her bite .

" oz , " his name was spat like venom , the syllable slippery on her tongue like oil , the forearm in his grip flexing as she made an effort to tear her wrist from its fleshy restraint .

the man's grin was lethal , sharp as a well-tended to dagger , and yet driz didn't feel that distant temptation to lean forward and cut herself on it . not yet . if anything , she wanted to sheath that dagger so deep in his ribs that crimson would stain her palms . a bitter laugh , brimming with mockery ; " you are no devil . you haven't been for a long fucking time . " her tongue was forked as fury steered it , digging her manicure into her palm as she clenched her fist . wanting to strike hard enough that he'd retreat , drizella stepped closer ; chest nearly flush to his as moisture clung to her lashes . she dropped her voice to a low grit , slathering her words in a condescending animosity ; " your mistress hasn't sent the hounds out for you , yet ?? better get home before the clock strikes midnight , oz , or you'll be in big trouble . "

[shadxwmoonlight]

location: oz's office.

starter for: @faiirytalcs (luis)

oz was flipping through contracts when luis had entered the room. however the boogie man didn't bother to look up, his irritation growing with each debt yet to be paid. It wasn't about the money. Fuck, it had never been about the money. It was the lack of respect he had been given lately. He was a treacherous loan shark for fuck sakes, not some forgiving saint. It seemed he had loosened his chain too much, what a foolish mistake--and one he wasn't going to make again. He slid the paperwork towards luis, leaning back and pulling out a cigarette from his desk drawer. "Hope this doesn't interfere with your personal life Luis, but I need these names dealt with. I'm tired of the games. No more cat and mouse shit, if they don't have their payment in full I expect you to do what you do best. and make it bloody."

[shadxwmoonlight]

if oz was being honest with himself, he didn't know where his head was at, or if it had even been screwed on correctly. that familiar old feeling was returning. the threat--the temptation of losing all that control he worked so hard to maintain was bubbling towards the surface. drizella's words kept creeping up into the forefront of his mind lately. that he had gone soft, and she was right. love had made him soft, and now that love was gone. it had been worth it, he tried to convince himself. That the pain of her loss was worth it, but to let this feeling consume him again? He couldn't do this to himself, but what else did he have left? He was once again a man with nothing to lose.

being out in the moonlight was as close as the boogie man could get to a sanctuary. blending into the shadows easily enough was a talent he was well-equipped with but tonight he was a hulking black mass walking down the city street. oz didn't know what he was doing, something to pass the time perhaps before he did something inevitably stupid. before he started drinking again, before he found someone he could lay his fist into and beat bloodied. what was worse he found pleasure in those dark thoughts for the first time in a long time. which is what terrfied him the most.

running into drizella was another curveball he hadn't expected from the universe, but with his luck lately maybe it was karma. seeing her not even take the time to stop and address him pissed him off. oh, so she could only play games on her terms? and maybe he was just upset with how right she'd been during their last conversation. before she could strut too much farther away he leaped and grabbed her wrist more harshly than he intended too--or did he? fuck he didn't know anymore. whipping her back to him as if they were caught in some enthralling tango. looking down the bridge of his nose at her a wicked grin took ahold of his features. "whats the matter driz? you're no stranger to dancing with the devil in the moonlight."

closed starter: @twistntime or @shadxwmoonlight !!

fuck. fuck fuck fuck. drizella couldn't breathe. it felt like her lungs were too big for her ribcage ( or maybe it was how suffocatingly tight her mother had tied her dress at the waist ) and drizella couldn't get it together. her keys ?? missing. phone ?? dead. sanity ?? so incredibly worn thin it'd be a miracle if there was any left.

this was PRECISELY why drizella didn't flirt with the boundaries of her mother's patience, storming down the sidewalk of evermore late at night with her heart in her throat because she fell out of line ONE time. no, she didn't love receiving a phone call from her mother after she had caught wind of her little escapade with maddox in a bar bathroom. something her mother somehow KNEW she had done within minutes of it concluding. and no, she didn't love how one comment coupled the next until drizella was left standing outside of the bar, receiver pressed to her ear, just listening to the onslaught of insults coming from the woman who had shaped drizella into who she was.

fuck maddox. fuck this town. fuck her mother's opinion. fuck EVERYTHING.

to make matters worse, as angry tears burned expertedly lined eyes, distracted by the way manicured nails were rummaging through her purse, drizella slammed right into someone else who also happened to be out on a midnight stroll. seething with rage, her head flew up, anger burning her tongue as she parted her lips to slue the other with insults before seeing who it was made her stop. ❛ no, absolutely not. fuck this, i am NOT talking to you right now. . . ❜ she said, primarily to herself, making quick work to try and steer around the other and get AWAY before they could say a word to her.

[shadxwmoonlight]

Oz held her body so tightly to his that he was frightened momentarily that he'd snap her into two. Lifting her feet off the ground as he clung to her in desperation. Feeling like a man that had been wandering lost in the desert searching for any sign of water, even if it was just a mirage. The last two months had been hell and he was ready to tear apart just about anyone or thing to find his little witch. He didn't want to show how much her absence had taken a toll on him; body and soul. It was evident however on his features, the way his eyes were sunken in and lined with black circles underneath. From the lack of sleep mixed with alcohol and whatever substance he could get his hands on. Now with her back in his arms he couldn't think straight. All he could see, feel, touch, was her. She was actually real, and she was here with him. She was home. His palm was cradling the back of her head, fingers intertwining with the locks of her hair. Placing an endless stream of kisses atop of her head--as silent tears began to fall against his cheeks. Leaning back only slightly so he could meet her gaze, wanting nothing more than to stare into them for another thousand years. "We looked for you. We all did. Everyone was broken by your disappearance. The world is a lot less bright without Shona Samhain in it." He whispered, palms now cradling each side of her cheeks. Pushing stray strands of hair behind her ears and just drinking in each feature. If this wasn't real, if it was just a dream he wanted to remember every single detail. Afraid he'd wake up in an empty bed again. At first he wanted to ask if she wanted to see the boys, or fuck even go to the hospital. The news had said the victims were unharmed but he didn't know how true that was. Just because Shona was home didn't mean that Mason was off the hook either. The boogie man still had some scores to settle, but for now that could all wait. She was his first and only priority. He just nodded, afraid that if he spoke again his words would only get caught in his throat. Bending his knees slightly as one arm went underneath her thighs and the other supported her back, lifting her up in one fell swoop. He hadn't known what she'd gone through, and he wasn't about to allow her to exert anymore energy. She needed to rest, and he needed her as close as he could get her. Carrying her out of the woods and towards his car.

@shadxwmoonlight

Shona was violently shaking, her cold bones vibrating around her too tight, too pale skin. Her teeth chattering against her skull, making her jaw ache, yearning for a sleep to end the misery. She assessed the river edge, noting the faces of some people she knew in passing. She didn't bother to try comfort anyone as she watched those gods-dammed-stupid-fucking-cops ask dumb questions and call for the Mayor. Great, because that's the welcome back everyone deserved, right? Shona didn't care for any of the bodies on the bank, that shit wasn't her problem. She wrapped her arms around her chest, wondering who would come for her? How long had she been gone for? Where did she go? Darkness threatened to elope her again and Shona felt her throat tighten as she tried to remain calm-- and then she heard him; Oz. Oz had come for her, to take her home. Shona felt her knees buckle in relief and exhaustion as she began sprinting towards him, not giving a shit who she left behind. Shona ran as fast as her aching body would take her, crashing into that familiar hold of Oz's arms, his warm body cradling hers, his aftershave lingering in the air. She missed this-- she missed him-- she missed safe.

Tears began forming in her eyes, when was the last time she spoke? Or let herself believe this would be possible. "Oz!" She gasped, gripping him tightly with her hands. Shona nuzzled his neck breathing in his scent once more before she met his lips in a kiss long overdue. Tears spilled from her eyes as she took him in, searching his eyes- this was real. "I thought... I'd never see you again." She whispered, her hand reaching up to touch his face. "I couldnt-- nothing was... fuck. Oz.. take me home, please."