| Hello hello - this is just a small RP board for two fans who can't get enough of their favourite policing husbands. Plots involve canon-typical swearing and violence, and slash might occur later. Hope you have fun reading along! ![]() |
| Complete Self Indulgence | |
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| Topic Started: Dec 10 2015, 05:26 PM (725 Views) | |
| Gene Hunt | Dec 10 2015, 05:26 PM Post #1 |
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Detective Chief Inspector
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*It's coming up to that time of year again - that time of year where Gene finds himself sinking slowly into a quiet and foul mood over the course of a few days. Usually he tries not to think about it. The reason. Never talks about it. He's only ever really mentioned it to Sam once or twice, and only then when he'd been a complete arse and overreacted and needed to at least let Sam know why. Everyone at the station seems to know, though - or at least they stay out of his way a lot more on this specific day. Whether it's coincidence or whether Ray'd told Chris who'd told Annie etc, it doesn't matter anyway. It happens, and then they all move on. The Missus hadn't exactly known how to deal with it either... But then towards the end he'd stopped putting the effort in with her on her down days too. Easier to bury himself in work and drink and try to forget. But now, with Sam - there's someone else to consider. Someone else who's going to have to learn to just ignore him for these few days. Just let him get on with it. But knowing Sam, that isn't going to happen easily. He's already been irritable for a good 72 hours before the clock strikes midnight, and a few hours later Gene wakes on that specific day with a bleak, sinking feeling. The kind he always gets when his mind starts the mental countdown. This is the day everything went to shit. He gets up before Sam has the chance to wake, showers quietly and manages to make it out of the front door without making a racket. He can't lie in bed with his thoughts until work starts... He needs to occupy himself. Stop the cogs whirring and start the investigative juices flowing. The station is the perfect place for that... The low light and the familiar smell of smoke and paper... Somehow it's what he craves right now. The silence and space.* |
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| Sam Tyler | Dec 10 2015, 05:40 PM Post #2 |
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Gladys
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*Sam hasn't known Gene for very long, really - just a couple years. He forgets that most of the time. But then, there's times when he becomes painfully aware of that fact. For example right now, as he wakes up, feeling weirdly cold and alone, which he soon realizes is because he is alone. Blearily blinking at the clock next to his side of the bed, he has to come to terms with the fact that it's 7:00am, and Gene has already gotten up. It's quiet in the house, so it looks like he's not only gotten up, but indeed left. Sam blinks again, sitting in bed and then rubbing at his eyes, gradually waking up properly. Gene's been acting strangely lately. Even more grumpy than he usually can be, properly irritated even, shouting at Chris and not laughing at Ray's jokes. Sam had tried to ask Annie about it, but she had simply shrugged a little helplessly (and guiltily?), and then they'd had to part ways because Gene was hollering for Sam to get the hell to his office. It's been a difficult time, but something's kept Sam from asking Gene what the hell was wrong. Mainly, it was Gene who'd kept him from doing it, not allowing them to have any time on their own during the day, and masterfully dodging his attempts during the evenings when they were together in their home. Now, however, it's reached a point where Sam can't just keep hoping that it'll blow over. A glance out of the window confirms that the Cortina is gone. He needs to get to the bottom of this. Grabbing an apple for breakfast, Sam is out of the house as fast as he can. The first place to look for Gene this time of the day definitely is the station - it's going to be quiet there, and Gene's seemed to be craving privacy these last few days, so it makes sense. It takes Sam about 20 minutes to reach the station, even walking as quickly as he walks, but now he's here, pushing the doors open to CID. The lights are dim, even in Gene's office, but he still makes his way over there, hesitating for a moment before pushing the door open without knocking.* Gene? *His voice sounds too loud in the quiet of the office, making him flinch slightly.* |
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| Gene Hunt | Dec 10 2015, 06:34 PM Post #3 |
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Detective Chief Inspector
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*By the time Sam makes it to the station, Gene's sat in his chair and bent over the desk, a cigarette burnt down to the butt in one hand and the other propping his head up, buried in his hair. There's paperwork spread out messily across the tabletop, and to an observer he'd appear to be studying it all intently. But his eyes stare at nothing, fixed blankly on the pages and seeing none of the words printed on them. It seems that trying to distract himself isn't working this time. As he hears the soft, unmistakable sound of Sam's cuban heels approaching his office door, he feels a small stab of guilt. Sam must have woken up and wondered where he is. And even after how he's treated Sam the last few days, he's still come after him. Pulled down by the sadness and shame, Gene doesn't even twitch as Sam opens his door and calls his name. But after a moment he takes a slow breath and speaks, voice flat and unenthusiastic* You're in early. |
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| Sam Tyler | Dec 10 2015, 06:51 PM Post #4 |
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Gladys
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*Sam raises his eyebrows - his partner is a picture of defeat. After the irritation and aggression of the last few days this is quite a stark contrast, but somehow, it frightens Sam all the more. He's seldom seen Gene genuinely sad... But here he is. Cautiously, Sam closes the door behind him, stepping closer to the desk.* So are you. On a Saturday, even. *after a moment, Sam adds, speaking more softly than before* D'you want to talk about it? *Whatever "it" really is - Sam has no clue what's going on.* |
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| Gene Hunt | Dec 10 2015, 10:14 PM Post #5 |
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Detective Chief Inspector
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*Saturday. Shit. He hasn't thought about that. That isn't going to help his attempts at deflecting, is it. And Sam's already caught a whiff of something being wrong. Unable to bring himself to just come out and say it, Gene keeps his gaze on the paperwork in front of him.* Who says there is an 'it'? |
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| Sam Tyler | Dec 10 2015, 11:13 PM Post #6 |
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Gladys
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*Oh. So this is how it's going to be. Sam should've known, really. He leans against the wall, crossing his arms. He doesn't quite know how to approach this - Gene doesn't always appreciate the touchy-feely approach... He needs to test the waters.* You've been insufferable during the last few days - you punched Ray, shoved Chris face-first into his lunch and caused Annie to hide in the Collator's. And yet, no one's said a word about it. And most of all, you're here. Now. *Through all of this, Sam is speaking with a calm voice. He's not out to antagonise Gene, after all.* I'd call that an "it", yeah. Edited by Sam Tyler, Dec 10 2015, 11:52 PM.
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| Gene Hunt | Dec 10 2015, 11:41 PM Post #7 |
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Detective Chief Inspector
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*Gene can feel irritation and heat beginning to prickle at the back of his mind. He knows he's been a nightmare, he knows it. And he wishes he hadn't been, but he has. He just couldn't stop himself. Can't stop himself now.* Did it occur to you that no-one's said a word because this 'it' isn't any of their concern? |
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| Sam Tyler | Dec 10 2015, 11:49 PM Post #8 |
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Gladys
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*Sam tenses slightly.* Might not be their concern, but it definitely is mine. *Sam unfolds his arms and takes a few steps closer to Gene's desk.* We're supposed to be sharing more than just living space. *It sounds harsher than Sam means to, but the way Gene is acting... He needs someone to insist on this.* Edited by Sam Tyler, Dec 10 2015, 11:51 PM.
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| Gene Hunt | Dec 11 2015, 12:01 AM Post #9 |
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Detective Chief Inspector
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*Gene sniffs, trying to hide the fact that Sam's words have hit home. He knows he's being a bastard... But he can't just... Say it. He's told Sam before, but that was different. That was when he had a full flask in his pocket and the mental strength to keep his emotions at bay. But today? Today his strength is faded and failing. He grits his teeth, shakily taking one last drag on his burnt out cigarette. If Sam keeps pushing, he's not going to last.* This is one thing you don't wanna share, Sam. S'not your burden. *It's not your fault, it's mine... * |
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| Sam Tyler | Dec 11 2015, 12:03 AM Post #10 |
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Gladys
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*Aha, he's getting closer to uncovering the truth... Sam can tell. Gene has stopped outright deflecting. He's reached the desk now, almost close enough to Gene to touch him. He doesn't, though, keeps his hands to himself for now. His voice is gentle though as he says* Try me. |
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| Gene Hunt | Dec 11 2015, 12:15 AM Post #11 |
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Detective Chief Inspector
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*Gene screws his eyes shut, dipping his head further and letting loose a mournful, defeated sigh. He knows Sam, and once Sam sets his sights on something he won't let it go. This could go on for hours, and Gene just doesn't have the energy for it today. He's given up.* You're just gonna bark in my ear 'til I give in, aren't you. *stubs out his cigarette, watching the ash crumble and the embers die* .... Fine... *still not looking up, Gene stares down at his lighter, fiddling with it awkwardly for a moment before producing another cigarette from his pocket* ... Twelve years ago. |
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| Sam Tyler | Dec 11 2015, 12:23 AM Post #12 |
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Gladys
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*God, Gene looks even more defeated now. Something must be seriously wrong... Feeling somewhat guilty, Sam finally can't stop himself anymore from reaching out. He places his palm on Gene's back, right at the base of his neck, making sure that Gene can feel the warm touch. 12 years... Sam can't connect anything with that date, not immediately. Quietly, he asks* What happened? |
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| Gene Hunt | Dec 11 2015, 08:56 PM Post #13 |
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Detective Chief Inspector
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*That touch at the base of his neck... He's been avoiding touches like that lately. The gentle pressure that softens his insides and his ability to hold it all in. Still staring at the lighter in his hands, Gene mumbles.* Already told you, Sam. *He doesn't want to say it... But Sam isn't going to let him back out now. He flicks the flame up on the lighter, watching it as it flickers.* Found my brother. |
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| Sam Tyler | Dec 11 2015, 09:05 PM Post #14 |
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Gladys
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*Sam frowns for a moment as Gene says that he should already know - what....? And then...* .... *He should've known. Twelve years - of course. Last time they talked about it, Gene had told him that he'd found Stu ten years ago. Since then, two years have passed. Slowly, Sam slides his hand up and over to Gene's shoulder, squeezing and massaging gently. Shit... no wonder Gene's been in such a foul mood. No wonder no one said anything. Suddenly, Sam feels guilty for not realizing sooner.* I didn't realize... I'm sorry. |
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| Gene Hunt | Dec 11 2015, 09:23 PM Post #15 |
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Detective Chief Inspector
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*Shakes his head, lighting the cigarette finally and taking a long drag. He still hasn't met Sam's gaze, afraid that seeing his partner's worried frown will cause the dam to break completely. All this time and he's held it all in... He can't let it all break now. He sniffs, staring down at the cigarette in his grasp* Don't expect anyone to realise. Nothin' to be sorry for. |
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| Sam Tyler | Dec 11 2015, 09:28 PM Post #16 |
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Gladys
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*Sam stops himself rolling his eyes - Gene has to pretend to be strong to the very last, doesn't he... Sam had hoped that by now, he'd know that these kinds of pretenses aren't necessary in a relationship like theirs... though old habits die hard, he supposes. Breathing a sigh, Sam continues stroking Gene's shoulder. He's not pulled away yet, so he's fine with the contact... Sam can't decide whether that's good or worrying.* Why didn't you say? *He doesn't mean to accuse Gene of anything - he just needs to know... That is, he can guess at the reason, but he wants to hear it from Gene himself...* |
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| Gene Hunt | Dec 11 2015, 10:25 PM Post #17 |
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Detective Chief Inspector
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*Why didn't he say? For so many reasons... He doesn't want sympathy... He doesn't want to be seen as weak, as a victim of some tragedy. He's the Guv, he deals with this kind of thing all the time - death, loss, emotions that threaten to overwhelm if you don't shove them to the back of your mind and bury them under layers of smoke and good beer. Sam's seen more of Gene's weaknesses than anyone else... He doesn't want to pile any more on him if he can help it. Gene takes another drag, letting the stream of smoke curl up from his lips as he tries to think how to explain. ... What's the point? Won't change nothin'. S'happened. Y'can't bring people back. |
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| Sam Tyler | Dec 11 2015, 10:36 PM Post #18 |
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Gladys
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... *This time, Sam can't stop himself from rolling his eyes at least a little. Again, he should've known... It's so typical of Gene. Pragmatic to a fault.* That's not the point of it. *Sam's voice is gentle still, and now his other hand finds its way to Gene's other shoulder, stroking softly, almost absent-mindedly.* I... *Sam sighs - Gene is probably going to hate what he's about to say, but Sam can't think of any other way of saying it.* ... I can't help you if I don't know what's wrong. We're supposed to be partners, aren't we? |
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| Gene Hunt | Dec 12 2015, 11:10 AM Post #19 |
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Detective Chief Inspector
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*Gene sighs, screwing his eyes shut against the stab of guilt. He can't deal with an onslaught of emotions from two different sides. Of course they're partners... But god, this isn't the kind of thing he let's himself feel or think about easily. Quietly,* You know we are. Think I'd let anyone else see me like this? |
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| Sam Tyler | Dec 12 2015, 02:08 PM Post #20 |
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Gladys
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*Sam doesn't have an answer to this - because indeed, Sam has never seen Gene like this before, and he doubts anyone else has (at least not in a very long time). And really, right now there is nothing more to say... Gene's shoulders are hunched, and leaning down to get a better look at his partner's face, Sam can see that his eyes are screwed shut. Sam finally gives in to the urge that's been building and building over the seconds and winds his arms around Gene's shoulders properly, resting the side of his face against Gene's hair. Just as quietly as Gene* There's nothing to be ashamed of. |
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| Gene Hunt | Dec 13 2015, 12:08 AM Post #21 |
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Detective Chief Inspector
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*Gene feels some of the tension in his shoulders dissipate as Sam's arms wind around them. With a quiet sigh, he leans back into Sam - he can't help it. Having him there, having that support - it's something Gene knew he'd needed for a long time, but he daren't ask for it.* I couldn't stop it, Sam. He was my brother and I couldn't stop it. You tell me there's nothin' to feel ashamed about there. |
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| Sam Tyler | Dec 13 2015, 12:13 AM Post #22 |
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Gladys
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*There's some relief when Sam feels Gene lean back against him and into the embrace, and he makes sure to hold him close. Gene's words, however, make Sam's stomach knot up. He's blaming himself for Stu's death... * Gene... It's not your fault if he didn't want your help. I'm sure you did all you could... |
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| Gene Hunt | Dec 13 2015, 12:19 AM Post #23 |
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Detective Chief Inspector
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*Snorts softly, taking another drag on his smouldering cigarette to hide the pained wince on his face* Hindsight is a bastard of a thing, Sam. 'All I could' was nowhere near enough. |
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| Sam Tyler | Dec 13 2015, 12:21 AM Post #24 |
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Gladys
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*Sam tightens his embrace a little - having to listen to Gene beating himself up like that is hard... * *softly* And is beating yourself up gonna change anything about that? |
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| Gene Hunt | Dec 13 2015, 10:42 PM Post #25 |
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Detective Chief Inspector
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No. *He knows that. Nothing can change it.* But what else am I s'posed to do. |
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| Sam Tyler | Dec 13 2015, 10:48 PM Post #26 |
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Gladys
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.... *Sam exhales slowly. What indeed?* ... Talking tends to help. Getting everything out in the open. *Sam squeezes a little tighter, one hand trailing up to stroke through Gene's hair.* You don't have to carry this burden on your own. |
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| Gene Hunt | Dec 14 2015, 09:57 PM Post #27 |
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Detective Chief Inspector
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*Gene huffs a little, but doesn't pull away from Sam, The opposite, in fact. He leans in, the sadness sapping away at his defiance. Talking does help.... But talking hurts. Talking opens him up to the possibility of his fears being confirmed - that he could have done more, that he could have stopped it... That he could have been a better brother. But this is Sam... and if he's going to open up to anyone about this, it's going to be him. Always him. With a soft sigh, Gene nods once. A silent acknowledgement and acceptance of Sam's help. There isn't much else he can bring himself to do.* |
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| Sam Tyler | Dec 15 2015, 10:03 PM Post #28 |
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Gladys
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*It doesn't escape Sam's attention how Gene finally leans into this embrace with a sigh, as if he's giving himself over now completely. And that nod, Gene's hair rubbing against Sam's cheek. It's both relieving and heartbreaking at once. Having received this confirmation, Sam stops pressing Gene. He simply holds him, standing half behind his partner, his arms wrapped around his shoulders and meeting in front of his chest. He presses a soft kiss to the top of Gene's head, but other than that doesn't take initiative. If Gene wants to talk, it isn't in Sam's hand to force him too. Gene knows that the offer is there.* |
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| Gene Hunt | Dec 16 2015, 12:45 AM Post #29 |
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Detective Chief Inspector
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*Gene takes a moment to just let Sam's support sink in- the kiss to the top of his head, the arms surrounding him like a protective bubble. The silence stretches on, and finally the urge to talk rises. Sam doesn't even know what happened... And how can he really get a full understanding of it if he can't even imagine it? Quietly, Gene starts to elaborate, his voice level and thin, carefully controlled so it doesn't crack.* ... Found 'im in an alleyway. Or what was left of 'im after the drugs and the rats'd had their fun. Been lookin' for 'im for a full week and a half. Bastard always turned up late, even when 'e was bloody dead. |
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| Sam Tyler | Dec 16 2015, 02:26 PM Post #30 |
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Gladys
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*Sam waits patiently for Gene to begin his tale - and indeed, after a while, his partner starts without further prompting, his voice quiet. And... God. Sam swallows, dread pooling in the pit of his stomach. The state Stu must have been in when Gene found him... That Gene had to find him in that way... Sam remains silent, waiting for Gene to go on. His embrace is as strong as ever, showing Gene that he's here, he's listening. He wants to know what it was like.* |
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| Gene Hunt | Dec 17 2015, 11:05 PM Post #31 |
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Detective Chief Inspector
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*Sam's silence feels like a prompt to keep going - an agreement to listen if Gene wants to carry on. And it's not exactly that he WANTS to carry on; recalling all of this out loud hurts. It pulls at that piece of his heart, that wound left by losing a loved one that he's tried to ignore for so long. That shadow of loss creeps over him again, and he can't keep it all in any more. He can't hide it when there's an outlet here, waiting patiently for him to continue. Frowning down at his lighter, he carries on in a voice just above a whisper* Don't even have anyone to be pissed at, besides him, meself and-- *He stops, biting his tongue. No. He can't bring up his father again. That chapter's over and he's glad.* Nobody forced 'im to squirt that shit into his veins. Nobody held him down and MADE him snort half the country's cleaning products into his face. |
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| Sam Tyler | Dec 18 2015, 01:18 PM Post #32 |
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Gladys
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*Sam can feel a mix of emotions radiate from Gene - sorrow, anger... guilt. He really is blaming himself... Except, there seems to be something or someone else too.... but Gene breaks off, doesn't mention it again. And what he's saying next is too important for Sam to ignore it... Unable to remain silent any longer, Sam raises a hand to stroke through Gene's hair.* Sounds like he had problems you alone couldn't solve for him... You must've done everything you could. |
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| Gene Hunt | Dec 19 2015, 01:17 AM Post #33 |
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Detective Chief Inspector
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That's what you'd think, isn't it. Truth is I could've intervened a hell of a lot more, later on at least. *pauses a moment, taking another puff on his cigarette to calm his nerves.* First dozen or so times he ran off with 'is druggy pals I chased after him. Marched him back and gave as good a rollicking as I could. But once me job picked up.... *shrugs a little, the movement barely there*... I stopped chasing. |
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| Sam Tyler | Dec 19 2015, 11:13 PM Post #34 |
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Gladys
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*Sam opens his mouth - but at first, he doesn't even know what to say. Denying what Gene is saying would be pointless, cruel even, because who is Sam to try and invalidate Gene's feelings? Especially when he is finally opening up... No, he needs to be careful here... He needs to approach this with logic and endless care. Sam tries again* He was a grown man. No one could ask you to take responsibility both for yourself and him. *He chews at his lower lip for a moment, unsure how to continue.* Addiction is ugly and complicated, and an addict requires a lot of support... But there's only so much you could do. You're only human. |
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| Gene Hunt | Dec 20 2015, 12:08 AM Post #35 |
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Detective Chief Inspector
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*Gene snorts a little at this. Yes, he's only human. And that's the problem. People fail, people mess up, people hurt. And at this time every year, that's what he does. Hurts. And misses and wishes and looks back on the past with regret.* Apparently so. Doesn't exactly help though, does it. He was my brother, my own flesh and blood. For years it was the two of us against the shit pile that was the world. And then it wasn't. |
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| Sam Tyler | Dec 20 2015, 09:42 PM Post #36 |
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Gladys
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*At this, Sam can only squeeze Gene a little tighter.* ... I'm sorry. *It's all he can offer. He can't even begin to imagine how it must have felt for Gene - how much it's still hurting. The only thing Sam can do now is give Gene the support he needs...* |
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| Gene Hunt | Dec 22 2015, 12:07 AM Post #37 |
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Detective Chief Inspector
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*Gene shrugs it off, taking another drag on his cigarette before leaning over and taking hold of the bottle of scotch permanently perched on the edge of his desk. Slightly shakily he pours a measure into a nearby glass and holds it up to Sam. It's early - too early for drinking - but it calms the nerves. Dulls the ache. And that's what Gene needs now* |
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| Sam Tyler | Dec 22 2015, 05:45 AM Post #38 |
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Gladys
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*Sam's first reaction is to decline the proffered glass - it's far too early, and drinking won't solve the problem, and it will dull the pain only temporarily.... Very temporarily... But at the same time, Sam understands that on some level, accepting that glass means showing Gene that he accepts his feelings, his pain. That he doesn't think of him as any less because of it. So Sam disentangles himself just enough to be able to take the glass, letting up his hold so that Gene can move about properly. He still keeps a steadying hand on his shoulder though, to show that he's there. He won't leave. Still, he can't keep himself from saying* You know this won't help in the long run. *He doesn't sound harsh or unkind, to the contrary.* |
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| Gene Hunt | Dec 30 2015, 10:57 PM Post #39 |
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Detective Chief Inspector
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*Gene doesn't watch Sam take the glass - he's already pouring himself a double measure. The fact that Sam did take it though, that means a lot. To Sam's comment, he raises his eyebrows dismissively.* May as well give it a go. |
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| Sam Tyler | Dec 30 2015, 11:00 PM Post #40 |
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Gladys
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*His hand still on Gene's shoulder, Sam quietly replies* You must've given it a go countless times by now. Has it ever helped? *He needs to get through to Gene... He can't allow his partner to completely sink into misery... * |
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| Gene Hunt | Dec 30 2015, 11:29 PM Post #41 |
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Detective Chief Inspector
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*He shrugs one shoulder, taking a liberal swig from his glass. Whether it helps isn't really the question. It's something to DO. Some way he can distract himself and dull the memories enough to carry on. It may not help exactly, but it makes it bearable.* Don't remember. Which must mean yes. |
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| Sam Tyler | Dec 30 2015, 11:32 PM Post #42 |
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Gladys
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... *Sam exhales silently, looking down for a moment. Then, he suddenly realizes something... * Where... I mean, is there a grave you can visit? |
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| Gene Hunt | Dec 30 2015, 11:38 PM Post #43 |
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Detective Chief Inspector
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*Gene hesitates, his hand shaking just a moment before he takes one more sip and cradles the glass to his lap. A grave. The final representation of the end. No coming back. Looking down, he mumbles.* If kids haven't knocked it over then I s'pose so. Not been for years. |
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| Sam Tyler | Dec 30 2015, 11:41 PM Post #44 |
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Gladys
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*... Ah. That explains a lot. This time, Sam gives an audible sigh, though it's not because he's grown impatient with Gene. No, he does understand... And at the same time, Sam is glad he asked, but cause now he might have a good starting point to help Gene... * Show me? I'd like to see it. |
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| Gene Hunt | Dec 30 2015, 11:50 PM Post #45 |
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Detective Chief Inspector
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*finally, Gene does meet Sam's gaze - and it's wide, confused eyes that Sam will see. His mouth hangs open slightly as he tries to find the correct response to this. Sam wants to see his brother's grave? With a slightly hoarse voice,* .... Why...? |
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| Sam Tyler | Dec 30 2015, 11:53 PM Post #46 |
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Gladys
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*Sam meets Gene's gaze, and although he's a little surprised by just how much Gene is reacting to this, he doesn't show it, patting Gene's shoulder once.* I'd like to pay my respects. He was your brother, after all. |
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| Gene Hunt | Jan 2 2016, 12:07 AM Post #47 |
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Detective Chief Inspector
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*Gene frowns, confusion swimming in his eyes. Why would Sam want to do that? For a man he's never even met? Voice still thin, Gene replies, mystified.* ... You didn't even know 'im....? |
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| Sam Tyler | Jan 2 2016, 12:09 AM Post #48 |
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Gladys
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*At Gene's more than evident confusion, Sam can't help but smile a little, the hand that's been on his partner's shoulder sliding up to rest on his head. Softly, Sam repeats* He was your brother. That's reason enough. |
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| Gene Hunt | Jan 2 2016, 12:15 AM Post #49 |
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Detective Chief Inspector
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*still slightly baffled and unsure, Gene studies Sam for a moment before lowering his gaze once again. This is something he wasn't expecting. Stu's grave hasn't been visited by a soul for a good few years now. He had no friends left after he got too deep into the drugs ring. They all left. And Gene himself hasn't been back there since they buried him. To go back now? What would that do? How would that help? But Sam wants to go. He wants to see into this part of Gene's life... And somehow Sam always manages to get Gene to open up. It's his weakness. Still frowning, Gene looks up at Sam again.* What, now? |
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| Sam Tyler | Jan 2 2016, 12:17 AM Post #50 |
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Gladys
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*Sam gives a light shrug* Why not? We haven't got anything else to do. ... I won't force you, though. *Sam wants to help Gene... But he can't make anything happen without at least a little bit of willingness on Gene's side.* |
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| Gene Hunt | Jan 2 2016, 12:35 AM Post #51 |
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Detective Chief Inspector
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*He takes a long moment to consider. This is something he'd never imagined doing - taking Sam to this place. And parts of him are protesting loudly, screaming at him not to go. The parts of himself that drown his sorrows in drink and push the bad memories to the dark recesses of his mind. He wants to avoid this - anything to do with Stuart and what happened. But then... There's that tiny part of himself that WANTS to talk about this. That WANTS to try and face up to what happened and to heal a little... And it's that part that eventually wins out. Gene's shoulders tense, then he knocks back his drink, following it with a deep long puff on his cigarette. Then he stands, stubbing the fag out on the ashtray and picking his coat up from the back of his chair. He's still avoiding Sam's eyes for the most part, but his expression has shifted from confusion to one of resigned determination* Better get a move on then... Or we'll hit the Saturday traffic. |
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| Sam Tyler | Jan 2 2016, 12:38 AM Post #52 |
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Gladys
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*Sam, his hand falling away from his partner's have head, watches Gene silently, up until the moment he snuffs out the cigarette. It's then that he feels relief, even pride for Gene to have overcome at least this demon. So he doesn't allow Gene to just brush past him - he catches him, hand to his cheek, and kisses him gently. Only then does he pull back, trying to project all the encouragement he has.* Right you are. |
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| Gene Hunt | Jan 2 2016, 05:32 PM Post #53 |
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Detective Chief Inspector
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*Gene stays still as Sam kisses him, the sadness and reluctance still pooling in his heart preventing him from participating fully. He appreciates the gesture, but right now he can't find the energy to reciprocate. His eyes meet Sam's, and all he can really hope is that Sam can see the gratitude behind the mask.* Come on, then... *He turns, shrugging on his coat and walking out of the office. It'll be a short drive, but it won't be too long... * |
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| Sam Tyler | Jan 2 2016, 05:35 PM Post #54 |
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Gladys
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*It doesn't escape Sam's attention that Gene is pretty much unresponsive.... But this is Gene. Sam knows his partner. He knows how he works. There's a mask at work right now, and while Sam can't see behind it, he at least knows that the mask isn't all there is to Gene's emotions at the moment. He follows after Gene silently, nodding to the desk sergeant as they pass him.* |
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| Gene Hunt | Jan 3 2016, 12:44 AM Post #55 |
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Detective Chief Inspector
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*the drive is mostly silent, only a few words passing between them between leaving the station and arriving at the graveyard. Gene is similarly silent as they park up, getting out of the car without a word. Without waiting for Sam he hunches his shoulders and shoves his hands into his pockets, making his way through the gap in the gate and into the green. It's pretty wild in there - definitely not kept by anyone really, besides ripping out the biggest weeds a few times a year. Wild flowers grow where they want, peppered between the vertical stones, tiny specks of yellow and white against the dull greys and greens. After a minutes walk, Gene stops in front of one stone half hidden by ivy and grass. The name is still readable, as well as the dates despite the obstructions and the weathering. Gruffly, without looking back, Gene speaks.* You wanted to see it? There it is. |
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| Sam Tyler | Jan 3 2016, 12:48 AM Post #56 |
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Gladys
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*Again, Sam follows after Gene, although he doesn't kiss a detail about that graveyard Gene has brought him too. It's in a miserable state - but at the same time, it seems strangely beautiful. When they stop in front of the grave, Sam walks up to stand next to his partner, looking down at the stone. He's silent for a few seconds, before murmuring* ... You've not been here since the funeral, have you. |
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| Gene Hunt | Jan 3 2016, 01:03 AM Post #57 |
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Detective Chief Inspector
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*Gene flinches slightly, staring straight down at the name engraved there. He hasn't been here, no. After the funeral he just couldn't face it. A small lump in his throat, Gene pauses for a few moments and then murmurs.* Didn't see the point. S'not like he's here, is it. All's left here now are dirt and weeds. If I wanted to see them all I have to do is look out me back window. *He pauses again, reflecting on his words with a hint of guilt before clarifying* He's gone. |
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| Sam Tyler | Jan 3 2016, 01:11 AM Post #58 |
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Gladys
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*Sam remains silent, looking at his partner from the side. God, it's clear just how miserable he feels about all this. Was it a mistake to ask Gene to take him here...? Sam casts a glance around - they're alone - before placing his hand between Gene's shoulder place, as if to steady him.* I'm sorry. |
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| Gene Hunt | Jan 3 2016, 04:57 PM Post #59 |
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Detective Chief Inspector
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*takes a deep breath, letting it out slowly. It's been a long time since anyone really tried to engage with him over this... People usually try to avoid him around this time of year rather than actually engage with him. And as usual, when Sam is serious about something, it prompts a response in Gene. Makes him open up in a way that he isn't used to. And soon enough, Gene finds himself opening his mouth and speaking again, completely unprompted.* You'd 'ave liked him. Smart, he was. Had everything right up' ere. *taps at his temple* Wasn't the practical type though, you could tell. Was crap at fighting, couldn't punch 'is way out of a paper bag. Was all artsy-fartsy, feelings and emotions. Was bloody annoying sometimes. |
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| Sam Tyler | Jan 3 2016, 05:06 PM Post #60 |
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Gladys
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*Sam doesn't expect Gene speaking up so suddenly, so he starts slightly and glances over at him. He doesn't interrupt though - this is the first time Gene is properly talking to Sam about his brother, after all... And God, it's heartbreaking and heartwarming at the same time. Sam can't help but smile a little, his hand still on Gene's back, rubbing small and gentle circles.* Polar opposite of you then. *It also sounds like Gene must have felt responsible for him from the get-together, whether or not he's willing to admit it... * |
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| Gene Hunt | Jan 4 2016, 12:13 AM Post #61 |
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Detective Chief Inspector
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*Gene grunts in response, a small sad smile pulling at the corner of his mouth.* M'not saying he was weak... He was always just... small. Titchy. Wasn't just cos he was younger either. *looks down at the stone again, frowning with the memory* Always needed protecting from something. |
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| Sam Tyler | Jan 4 2016, 12:18 AM Post #62 |
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Gladys
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*Sam's hand moves as Gene speaks, sliding up to wind around his shoulders properly and pull him in close. Gene's words remind Sam of something the former said - that he and Stu had had to fight their dad when they were younger. Of course, it all makes sense... If Stuart couldn't cope with a childhood like that...* And... Did he let you? Protect him? Edited by Sam Tyler, Jan 6 2016, 07:05 AM.
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| Gene Hunt | Jan 6 2016, 12:23 AM Post #63 |
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Detective Chief Inspector
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*Gene sighs, mouth set in a grim line.* 'Til National Service. Thought it'd do 'im some good. Didn't do me any harm... *reflexively clutches at the hipflask nestled in his pocket*... Thought it'd help him toughen up a bit. But when he got back, he... *frowns at the stone, shrugging one shoulder a little* ... Didn't want my help any more. |
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| Sam Tyler | Jan 6 2016, 07:08 AM Post #64 |
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Gladys
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*Ahh.... Sam exhales silently, not saying anything for a few seconds. It makes sense. And it also makes sense that Gene would be under the misconception of having helped his little brother, right up to the moment Stu threw it back in Gene's face... But it isn't in Sam's place to confirm that, and pile even more guilt onto what his partner already is building. So he murmurs, squeezing Gene's shoulder* It wasn't your fault. |
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| Gene Hunt | Jan 7 2016, 06:14 PM Post #65 |
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Detective Chief Inspector
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*this time, Gene twitches, looking across to the shoulder that Sam squeezes and then down again.* Easy to say when y'werent there, Sam. *then, straightening up a little, Gene pulls the flask from his pocket and downs a swig.* Only child, weren't you. No brothers or sisters to keep in check? |
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| Sam Tyler | Jan 7 2016, 08:42 PM Post #66 |
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Gladys
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*Sam blinks, but resists the urge to pull his hand back. He needs to show Gene that he's with him, no matter what happens...* ... only child, yeah. My mum and aunt brought me up. |
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| Gene Hunt | Jan 8 2016, 12:01 AM Post #67 |
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Detective Chief Inspector
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*Gene grunts in reply, taking a deep breath and letting it out slowly.* Y'wish you ever had any? |
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| Sam Tyler | Jan 8 2016, 11:50 AM Post #68 |
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Gladys
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*This time, Sam remains silent for several seconds longer, considering Gene's question.* ... I don't... I don't know. *thinks about it a little harder, trying to remember* Sometimes. An older brother. |
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| Gene Hunt | Jan 9 2016, 02:30 PM Post #69 |
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Detective Chief Inspector
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*Gene grunts, nodding once. He doesn't know what he was hoping to achieve from asking that - he just needed to ask it.* Oh well. Maybe it's better you didn't. *He looks up at the greying sky and sighs.* S'pose we'd better be off. Don't want you to catch yer death while we're out here staring at a rock. |
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| Sam Tyler | Jan 9 2016, 02:35 PM Post #70 |
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Gladys
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... *Sam turns his gaze back on the grave. It feels wrong to just leave... Sam's hand slides away from Gene's back as he steps forward and crouches down in front of the stone. Without saying a word, Sam starts to clear away the weeds and plants growing over it, trying to brush dirt off the writing. It's the least he can do. And maybe it will help Gene break out of his she'll a hit more as well... * |
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| Gene Hunt | Jan 9 2016, 02:43 PM Post #71 |
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Detective Chief Inspector
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*Gene watches with a heavy heart as Sam clears the weeds from the foot of Stu's grave. Somehow it makes him sadder to see Sam show such care - care that Gene himself should have shown over the years. He should have visited more. Should have brought flowers or... Something... And Sam never got to meet him. Stu and him could have been friends, possibly... They'd probably have gotten along. He doesn't move, staring at the name on the grave as though doing so will bring him back* |
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| Sam Tyler | Jan 9 2016, 02:47 PM Post #72 |
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Gladys
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*Sam finishes cleaning the grave as best as he can, finally getting up and stepping back to have a look at his handiwork. Stu's name is properly readable now, and the stone itself more visible as well. Sam wipes his hands off on his trousers before taking hold of Gene's hand, intertwining their fingers. He doesn't know what Gene is thinking, but something makes him say* How about we go buy flowers? |
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| Gene Hunt | Jan 9 2016, 04:36 PM Post #73 |
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Detective Chief Inspector
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*flowers. Stu would have liked that.... Not trusting his voice or the lump that's risen in his throat, Gene just nods once. It occurs to him that his eyes feel fuller than usual, and damn Sam - he always does this. Manages to open the floodgates and pull emotions out of him that he's spent years carefully concealing. Turning away from Sam, Gene starts heading away from the grave. He can't let Sam see if a tear does threaten to fall.* |
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| Sam Tyler | Jan 9 2016, 04:43 PM Post #74 |
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Gladys
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*There's a short moment of relief as he sees Gene nod - but then, Sam notices that tell-tale glimmer in his partner's eyes. Before Sam can react, Gene has turned away already and is walking ahead, leaving Sam stunned, unable to move for a second. Then,however,he snaps to it. With a few quick steps he catches up to Gene and grabs his hand. Usually, he would leave Gene alone in his grief, let him work it out... But this is different.* Gene. Look at me. *He's desperate to help... Gene needs to confront this, and he needs to know that it's okay.* |
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| Gene Hunt | Jan 10 2016, 12:03 AM Post #75 |
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Detective Chief Inspector
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*Gene knows from the sound of Sam's voice why he's stopped him, and he really doesn't want to turn around. He doesn't want to prove Sam right. But he does, stopping and turning to face him. Expression forcibly flat and eyes red and shining he meets Sam's gaze wordless.* |
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| Sam Tyler | Jan 10 2016, 12:07 AM Post #76 |
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Gladys
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*God... The sight of Gene like this, so forcibly calm but his eyes telling a different story, it tears at Sam's heart. Sam can't help himself. He pulls Gene into a proper hug, winding his arms around his partner and holding on. Gene needs to understand that he isn't alone with his grief... Not anymore.* |
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2:10 PM Jul 11