Post by ladydedraca on Mar 11, 2017 19:36:41 GMT
■out of character■ Long overdue storytelling. Thanks Cy.
It's been a long road. Looking back at it now- way longer than necessary. At points it was so bumpy that they thought of giving up. Not even the fact that they had a child together was changing that fact. So why keep holding on? Why not saying, fuck it?
Good question. No easy answer.
They both were a different breed of human being. Stubborn and impulsive. At a point in their life they even were madly in love with each other. And some of this love was still there. As strong as ever. Just in a different form. Expressed in a different way. They had moved on, mostly. There was a strong bond between them that did not have anything to do with their little girl.
We have seen each other at our best and worst.
And sometimes we still do.
▪F L E E T S T R E E T M E M O R I E S▪
Location: New York City; New York
It felt like forever since they last had an afternoon together. It mostly had to do with either of them being busy. As of late mostly Elena herself. Training and Traveling. And then a short honeymoon in between shows. It was just as stressful as she had remembered before giving birth. With one difference, back then she didn’t care so much. She wasn’t that focused and determined doing her first professional run.
What changed? I have.
She was sitting on a bench inside that indoor playground. Her two crutches lazily resting against her healthy leg. She inspected the cast for a few moments, sighing. Looking around the building, only a few others had made it here today. It wasn’t her first choice but outside the rain didn’t leave much options. She had arrived early like always, watching over her daughter. The blonde, small hurricane was trying out whatever looked fun. Never showing any fear. That was something she certainly had from her father. The moment she thought that he was strolling inside, attracting the usual looks. His eyes covered by sunglasses. It almost made her giggle, but Elena DeDraca did not giggle.
“Ah, I see she is testing her limits again, never without her daring ways, yeah?” He laughed as he removed his sunglasses, watching his daughter play and looking to Elena with a smile. “Why is it everywhere I go, I get stares?”
She looked up at him, for a long moment observing him. People were still staring at the odd couple. Elena made some space for him. “Don't know. Maybe your size, the tattoos, the shades. But that are just wild guesses.” Her tone was light and amused. In response, he smirked and shrugged, taking a seat next to her and removing his sunglasses accordingly. She was right, of course. He was muscular with two sleeves of tattoos, some scruff on his face as he hadn't shaved, and tattoos up his neck as well.
“Hopefully I scare a bit, then. Keeps them away. Anyways, how are you, miss newlywed?” He asked in curiosity and warmth. Making for friendly conversation wasn't always a regular occurrence for the pair, but they've made great strides.
She looked at him with a friendly smile. It was small at first but when her eyes fell onto her hand, the huge ring stuck out. Making her smile like an idiot. “It's feeling still a little surreal. But I am sure you know how that feels. Your wife is lovely and perfect for you.” In a friendly manner she nudged his side. Leaning her head against his shoulder briefly.
“Yeah, it is. Or better said, she is.” He nodded and looked forward, an expression of thought on his face. “It all happened to fast, and I finally got what I thought I'd never have. Now, I just make sure I treasure everyday and not take anything for granted like I have in the past. Honestly, I like how I've changed.”
“Yeah. You seem to be the man you always wanted to be. I am glad for you.” She smiled mostly to herself. Her dark eyes focusing on Isabella. The little girl hadn't noticed her father till now. Shooting up to cuddle in.
He hugged her tight and picked her up. “Hey, love, how's my little girl doing?” His voice softened with her tremendously, a cross between baby talk and a whisper. Isabella, always fascinated by her father's tattoos, replied with a “good” and glared between Cyrus and his own dragon tattooed neck. He then looked to Elena and smiled. “I can't thank you enough for this little one. Just the way we've been able to work things out. Couldn't imagine not seeing her.” Cyrus gave Isabella a kiss on the head.
Isabella was cuddling close to him, getting comfortable on his lap. She grabbed his shades and analysed them. Keeping herself entertained. Elena's voice changed into a softer tone as well. “No need to thank me. I shouldn't have taken her away from you in the first place. But I was hurt. And one thing led to another. You weren't exactly how you are now. And I wasn't either.” She rubbed the head of the little blonde girl. “But she deserves her papa. And I won't decline her that. Plus, at a certain point you were like my best friend.”
“Yeah, we pushed through some mental times together. I suppose that's the magic of children. No matter the past or present, they do provide a common ground of unity for parents. I'm definitely doing the best I can.” He looked to his daughter and put his sunglasses on her face. “I've been quite deplorable in the past, but that's something I've been working on.”
She looked at the picture for a long moment. Her mind shutting off all the noises that were interfering from the outside. There were many memories locked behind those dark eyes. Her birthday. The first time they ever danced together inside the condo he had bought. Ed Sheeran playing in the background. A smile crossed her face. No. There weren’t just bad times. And even though she had never said so out loud, Elena DeDraca was happy that he was the one. The father of her kid. Their kid. It made their friendship stay intact even in times of war.
“You have changed. For the better. And even though I sometimes lash out at you, I am proud of you. The way you view things now and prevent yourself from the wrong people. We have been down a hard and heavy road, right? And yet we are still here. That is more than I can say for most people in my life.”
“More than I can say for most in mine as well. You've seen the revolving door I was trapped in, and luckily I escaped it. The road was looking darker, almost ending for a moment. Then, things began to turn.” He looked down momentarily, shaking his head. “You're bound to lash out at me, and I to you, because we just have our moments. Nothing we can't recover from quickly. Took me a while to realize I had to dial myself down outside of a ring, and being a father gave me that kick I needed.”
“Look at everything that has changed and then take a moment. Look back at all the mistakes that yet did lead us here. You wannabe badass got like zero chance to get rid of me. You aware of that?” She let out a soft laughter. Something she only spare for certain people.
He chuckled in response to her soft laughter, nodding in agreement. “Yeah, I had a suspicion all along. I wouldn't change any of it, though. And no matter how many times I have or will piss you off, you'll be stuck dealing with me somehow.”
“Is that a challenge Riddle? I mean like an actual challenge. You know how to piss me off better than most. Maybe I should have called you before I fucked up my IKT and Duos match. No wait.” She shook her head with a disgusted expression. “One I lost by judges votes. And in the next challenge i tore my ankle apart. Really worthy a fighter.” Her hand was softly running over the cheek of Isabella, feeling herself calm down by staring at her.
“See? I'm the least of your problems, dear. That rage in you is what does you in. Still harnessing, I see. A loss is a loss, the next will be different. No need to hold the grudge. Others will see it, they'll experience it. Just lead the way.” He added, feeling her tense tone and vibe moving in his direction.
“Mister Riddle you will never be the least of my problems. That train has left the station about two years ago.” She looked at him in a serious way. Even going as far as rubbing his hand. For only a brief moment, friendly gesture. “What about you lazy butt? You gonna stay out of the ring for the rest of your life? Catch a belly and analyse my matches? Not that it isn’t cool, but so doesn’t suit you.”
It was his turn to laugh softly now. Thoughts had been circulating his head for months on the next professional step in his life. On one hand, the time off was grand, but he was becoming restless as well. He winked at her. “I'm in talks. Someone is always contacting me about possible negotiations, so I'm keeping an open mind.” Straightening his shirt a bit, he looked over his own arms. “I've not stopped my training regimen at all, so no belly will be forming, I can assure you.”
There was always a measure of pride involved when it came to his ability to analyze matches and assist when necessary or wanted, especially when it pertained to those close to him in the business. Cyrus has always took particular investment into Elena's career moves, as they also were linked to him. She boxed his arm. Not too hard but yet not gentle either. He was used to it but that was like from another lifetime.
“First things first, I was not referring to your physical abilities or looks. It is the mind I am worrying about.” Elena stretched out watching Isabella who had just jumped off of his lap. Running back to the playground. “You and me, we never really fit with the rest. I don’t know where it comes from, but even when you turn all cryptic- I find method to your madness. I have forgiven and almost forgotten all the shit you pulled.” Another break. Her face hadn’t changed. “Yeah. We all make mistakes so I am not holding any grudge anymore. But I highly believe you were too comfortable with being semi retired. I see it on Pixie. So that means… fight me. Nothing fancy. Nothing for gold or fame. Just fight me. I wanna see if you still got any spunk in your step.”
Cyrus looked to her oddly for a moment. “What do you mean?” Surely she wasn't challenging him. He felt odd even entertaining that idea. True, he was comfortable going day to day, but he did miss the ring.
“Did I stutter?” She rolled her neck making it crack. A reminder from that career ending injury. Putting her best english accent back in action, she looked at him. A vicious smile forming. “Fight me. You and me. Nothing for the cameras. Nothing for a the companies. You fought Alexandra plenty, yet you always refused to fight me.”
“Yeah, well she isn't the mother of my daughter, either.” He added, still uneasy about the proposition. “The whole idea is barmy.” He simply couldn't bring himself to do it.
“Really? I thought you would be all up for it.” She smiled a little. “What throws you off? The idea of hurting me?” She almost chuckled seeing the bright colored cast coming in view.
“Exactly.” He looked at her matter of factly. “Not exactly something I'd like to do.”
“You think I can't defend myself darling?” Her tone was light and playful. Her eyes once more running to where Isabella played. There was a small boy that had joined her. “I just wanna see what you're capable of. I have been hearing too much about the style of Cyrus Riddle.”
“Then perhaps later, once you can do more than hopple away from me. But don't complain when you're bested. However, I'm only agreeing because you won't stop until I do.” He added the last bit to assure her he was well aware of her goading abilities.
“Why do I think that on the inside you're laughing right now?” She smiled at him, leaning back once again.
They would spend the rest of the afternoon talking about business but mostly about Isabella. Viewing her push the little boy in the mud. With some sort of pride, although neither of them would admit that. It was just not what society expected of parents.
But when did Cyrus Riddle and Elena DeDraca ever satisfy the needs of society?
E X A C T L Y.
It's been a long road. Looking back at it now- way longer than necessary. At points it was so bumpy that they thought of giving up. Not even the fact that they had a child together was changing that fact. So why keep holding on? Why not saying, fuck it?
Good question. No easy answer.
They both were a different breed of human being. Stubborn and impulsive. At a point in their life they even were madly in love with each other. And some of this love was still there. As strong as ever. Just in a different form. Expressed in a different way. They had moved on, mostly. There was a strong bond between them that did not have anything to do with their little girl.
We have seen each other at our best and worst.
And sometimes we still do.
▪F L E E T S T R E E T M E M O R I E S▪
Location: New York City; New York
It felt like forever since they last had an afternoon together. It mostly had to do with either of them being busy. As of late mostly Elena herself. Training and Traveling. And then a short honeymoon in between shows. It was just as stressful as she had remembered before giving birth. With one difference, back then she didn’t care so much. She wasn’t that focused and determined doing her first professional run.
What changed? I have.
She was sitting on a bench inside that indoor playground. Her two crutches lazily resting against her healthy leg. She inspected the cast for a few moments, sighing. Looking around the building, only a few others had made it here today. It wasn’t her first choice but outside the rain didn’t leave much options. She had arrived early like always, watching over her daughter. The blonde, small hurricane was trying out whatever looked fun. Never showing any fear. That was something she certainly had from her father. The moment she thought that he was strolling inside, attracting the usual looks. His eyes covered by sunglasses. It almost made her giggle, but Elena DeDraca did not giggle.
“Ah, I see she is testing her limits again, never without her daring ways, yeah?” He laughed as he removed his sunglasses, watching his daughter play and looking to Elena with a smile. “Why is it everywhere I go, I get stares?”
She looked up at him, for a long moment observing him. People were still staring at the odd couple. Elena made some space for him. “Don't know. Maybe your size, the tattoos, the shades. But that are just wild guesses.” Her tone was light and amused. In response, he smirked and shrugged, taking a seat next to her and removing his sunglasses accordingly. She was right, of course. He was muscular with two sleeves of tattoos, some scruff on his face as he hadn't shaved, and tattoos up his neck as well.
“Hopefully I scare a bit, then. Keeps them away. Anyways, how are you, miss newlywed?” He asked in curiosity and warmth. Making for friendly conversation wasn't always a regular occurrence for the pair, but they've made great strides.
She looked at him with a friendly smile. It was small at first but when her eyes fell onto her hand, the huge ring stuck out. Making her smile like an idiot. “It's feeling still a little surreal. But I am sure you know how that feels. Your wife is lovely and perfect for you.” In a friendly manner she nudged his side. Leaning her head against his shoulder briefly.
“Yeah, it is. Or better said, she is.” He nodded and looked forward, an expression of thought on his face. “It all happened to fast, and I finally got what I thought I'd never have. Now, I just make sure I treasure everyday and not take anything for granted like I have in the past. Honestly, I like how I've changed.”
“Yeah. You seem to be the man you always wanted to be. I am glad for you.” She smiled mostly to herself. Her dark eyes focusing on Isabella. The little girl hadn't noticed her father till now. Shooting up to cuddle in.
He hugged her tight and picked her up. “Hey, love, how's my little girl doing?” His voice softened with her tremendously, a cross between baby talk and a whisper. Isabella, always fascinated by her father's tattoos, replied with a “good” and glared between Cyrus and his own dragon tattooed neck. He then looked to Elena and smiled. “I can't thank you enough for this little one. Just the way we've been able to work things out. Couldn't imagine not seeing her.” Cyrus gave Isabella a kiss on the head.
Isabella was cuddling close to him, getting comfortable on his lap. She grabbed his shades and analysed them. Keeping herself entertained. Elena's voice changed into a softer tone as well. “No need to thank me. I shouldn't have taken her away from you in the first place. But I was hurt. And one thing led to another. You weren't exactly how you are now. And I wasn't either.” She rubbed the head of the little blonde girl. “But she deserves her papa. And I won't decline her that. Plus, at a certain point you were like my best friend.”
“Yeah, we pushed through some mental times together. I suppose that's the magic of children. No matter the past or present, they do provide a common ground of unity for parents. I'm definitely doing the best I can.” He looked to his daughter and put his sunglasses on her face. “I've been quite deplorable in the past, but that's something I've been working on.”
She looked at the picture for a long moment. Her mind shutting off all the noises that were interfering from the outside. There were many memories locked behind those dark eyes. Her birthday. The first time they ever danced together inside the condo he had bought. Ed Sheeran playing in the background. A smile crossed her face. No. There weren’t just bad times. And even though she had never said so out loud, Elena DeDraca was happy that he was the one. The father of her kid. Their kid. It made their friendship stay intact even in times of war.
“You have changed. For the better. And even though I sometimes lash out at you, I am proud of you. The way you view things now and prevent yourself from the wrong people. We have been down a hard and heavy road, right? And yet we are still here. That is more than I can say for most people in my life.”
“More than I can say for most in mine as well. You've seen the revolving door I was trapped in, and luckily I escaped it. The road was looking darker, almost ending for a moment. Then, things began to turn.” He looked down momentarily, shaking his head. “You're bound to lash out at me, and I to you, because we just have our moments. Nothing we can't recover from quickly. Took me a while to realize I had to dial myself down outside of a ring, and being a father gave me that kick I needed.”
“Look at everything that has changed and then take a moment. Look back at all the mistakes that yet did lead us here. You wannabe badass got like zero chance to get rid of me. You aware of that?” She let out a soft laughter. Something she only spare for certain people.
He chuckled in response to her soft laughter, nodding in agreement. “Yeah, I had a suspicion all along. I wouldn't change any of it, though. And no matter how many times I have or will piss you off, you'll be stuck dealing with me somehow.”
“Is that a challenge Riddle? I mean like an actual challenge. You know how to piss me off better than most. Maybe I should have called you before I fucked up my IKT and Duos match. No wait.” She shook her head with a disgusted expression. “One I lost by judges votes. And in the next challenge i tore my ankle apart. Really worthy a fighter.” Her hand was softly running over the cheek of Isabella, feeling herself calm down by staring at her.
“See? I'm the least of your problems, dear. That rage in you is what does you in. Still harnessing, I see. A loss is a loss, the next will be different. No need to hold the grudge. Others will see it, they'll experience it. Just lead the way.” He added, feeling her tense tone and vibe moving in his direction.
“Mister Riddle you will never be the least of my problems. That train has left the station about two years ago.” She looked at him in a serious way. Even going as far as rubbing his hand. For only a brief moment, friendly gesture. “What about you lazy butt? You gonna stay out of the ring for the rest of your life? Catch a belly and analyse my matches? Not that it isn’t cool, but so doesn’t suit you.”
It was his turn to laugh softly now. Thoughts had been circulating his head for months on the next professional step in his life. On one hand, the time off was grand, but he was becoming restless as well. He winked at her. “I'm in talks. Someone is always contacting me about possible negotiations, so I'm keeping an open mind.” Straightening his shirt a bit, he looked over his own arms. “I've not stopped my training regimen at all, so no belly will be forming, I can assure you.”
There was always a measure of pride involved when it came to his ability to analyze matches and assist when necessary or wanted, especially when it pertained to those close to him in the business. Cyrus has always took particular investment into Elena's career moves, as they also were linked to him. She boxed his arm. Not too hard but yet not gentle either. He was used to it but that was like from another lifetime.
“First things first, I was not referring to your physical abilities or looks. It is the mind I am worrying about.” Elena stretched out watching Isabella who had just jumped off of his lap. Running back to the playground. “You and me, we never really fit with the rest. I don’t know where it comes from, but even when you turn all cryptic- I find method to your madness. I have forgiven and almost forgotten all the shit you pulled.” Another break. Her face hadn’t changed. “Yeah. We all make mistakes so I am not holding any grudge anymore. But I highly believe you were too comfortable with being semi retired. I see it on Pixie. So that means… fight me. Nothing fancy. Nothing for gold or fame. Just fight me. I wanna see if you still got any spunk in your step.”
Cyrus looked to her oddly for a moment. “What do you mean?” Surely she wasn't challenging him. He felt odd even entertaining that idea. True, he was comfortable going day to day, but he did miss the ring.
“Did I stutter?” She rolled her neck making it crack. A reminder from that career ending injury. Putting her best english accent back in action, she looked at him. A vicious smile forming. “Fight me. You and me. Nothing for the cameras. Nothing for a the companies. You fought Alexandra plenty, yet you always refused to fight me.”
“Yeah, well she isn't the mother of my daughter, either.” He added, still uneasy about the proposition. “The whole idea is barmy.” He simply couldn't bring himself to do it.
“Really? I thought you would be all up for it.” She smiled a little. “What throws you off? The idea of hurting me?” She almost chuckled seeing the bright colored cast coming in view.
“Exactly.” He looked at her matter of factly. “Not exactly something I'd like to do.”
“You think I can't defend myself darling?” Her tone was light and playful. Her eyes once more running to where Isabella played. There was a small boy that had joined her. “I just wanna see what you're capable of. I have been hearing too much about the style of Cyrus Riddle.”
“Then perhaps later, once you can do more than hopple away from me. But don't complain when you're bested. However, I'm only agreeing because you won't stop until I do.” He added the last bit to assure her he was well aware of her goading abilities.
“Why do I think that on the inside you're laughing right now?” She smiled at him, leaning back once again.
They would spend the rest of the afternoon talking about business but mostly about Isabella. Viewing her push the little boy in the mud. With some sort of pride, although neither of them would admit that. It was just not what society expected of parents.
But when did Cyrus Riddle and Elena DeDraca ever satisfy the needs of society?
E X A C T L Y.
The Archetype & The Pale Queen
