Ah, Family {<Tyr and Crimson>}

[Sacrificing Crimson]

Flashes of thoughts and sounds ran together to form a single, cohesive scene. Trapped within the dream nothing remained the same: sounds played as flashes of color against her eyes, washing away every thought to replace each with a soft, flowering ambiance which sprouted from her iris and spread through her being. Everything grew, twisting and twining like the seeking tendrils of vines, pushing deeper into the center of her being like the nutrient hungry roots of some ancient, all encompassing tree, each sound translating directly into the vision of impossible blooms. As the sounds grew so did the foliage, sprouting and shooting toward the black sky of her vision until each intertwined, forming a canopy to rival that of any living forest.

Suddenly, the dream shattered, dashed into a million dancing fragments of light as the familiar piercing wail of an alarm awoke from its slumber, screaming for her attention like a babe thirsting for affection and love. Carefully untangling long limbs from the rumbled and twisted sheets the small teen stretched, one hand falling heavily atop the blaring clock at her bedside. The sharp wail of the alarm came to an abrupt end and she didnâ??t bother repressing a sigh of relief. Small hands covered the soft planes of her face for an instant, slender finger carefully massaged both temples and eyelids, brushing away the last lingering fragments of the dream.

â??I need to stop dreaming,â? Jasmine muttered softly, fingers playing lightly along the smooth flesh at the back of her neck as sleep dulled eyes scanned the dark corners of the room. From below the sounds of waking family members pushed at her, doing their best to coerce her tired body from the warmth of the bed.

â??Too early, way too early....â? Voice a tired sigh she finally slipped from the soft embrace of the mattress, padding silently along the floor to pull on a soft white robe over the shorts and tank top sheâ??d warn to bed. The crimson glow of the clock at her bedside announced the time, 6:45 a.m., a full hour before her usual waking time, though on this particular day the young woman had no room to complain.

Family dinner at eleven, funeral before three, I hope theyâ??ll at least let me escape before I have to spend too much time with the kids. Letting go an exhausted sigh and dragging her body from the room, Jasmine padded down the hall quickly, disappearing into the bathroom before her younger brother could dart from his room and take over.

Thirty minutes and one hot shower later she emerged, once again wrapped in the soft embrace of the robe, enjoying the feel of the cottony soft garment against bare flesh. Disappearing once again into the darkness of her room, she paused a moment to flip on the lights, blinking furiously in the brilliant light which flooded the room. White, blue, and purple walls met polished oak floors only to give way to a soft, purple rug in the center of the room. A small desk, vanity, large book shelf, and small entertainment center lined the walls to leave the center of the room to the bed. Rising from the center of the large room a four poster bed sat on its own, dominating the space easily, the one piece of furniture in the room giving even a hint of Jasmineâ??s personal preference.

Thick, soft mattress were draped in royal purple sheets, a large black and neon green comforter and coverlet bunched at the end to nearly hide the small seat at the end of the bed. The frame of the bed itself was a deep mahogany which reflected the light, making the entire bed shine with an almost dark golden glow. Pillows piled at the head of the bed nearly hid a small collection of stuffed animals, though one sat alone at the center of the bed; a foot tall stuffed Jack Skelington that had been a gift from her grandmother for her birthday.

Taking the time to retrieve Jack from the dark sheets Jasmine gave the toy a quick squeeze, setting him at the head of the bed once again before quickly making the bed. Everything once again in order she spared a quick glance at the clock before hurrying into a large walk-in closet. Emerging a few moments later with clothing in hand, the small teen quickly shed her robe. After quickly rubbing lotion into her soft, pale gold flesh and brushing out the still slightly damp locks of raven hair Jasmine dressed in a simple black skirt that fell nearly to her knees. A modest slit up the right side showed a slender strip of flesh from the bottom of the skirt to high on her thigh and the cloth around the slit was embroidered with tiny emerald and sapphire flowers. The shirt that matched the skirt was cut only low even to show off the skin high on her chest and shone a deep emerald that shimmered as she twisted. Against the dark silky cloth the small teens flesh took on a slightly darker tone, at the same time highlighting the delicate webs of veins beneath soft flesh. A pair of black and green ballet flats completed the outfit.

Dressed, Jasmine paused before the mirror to make certain everything was in its proper place, eyes taking in every inch of her body before focusing on her face. Unlike her fatherâ??s strong yet muted features or her motherâ??s almost severely beautiful face, Jasmineâ??s features blended into something delicate, but at the same time striking, hinting at something from the Far East on either side of the family.

Gifted with a high forehead, delicate nose, and high cheekbones Jasmineâ??s eyes dominated her face. Almost glowing a brilliant gold and sapphire flecked green her eyes were large, slightly elongated, and almond shaped, the gorgeous color of her irises were framed by thick, lacy lashes. The delicate slope of her nose drew attention to the full, pink pouting lips. Surrounding the delicate, striking oval of her face raven locks fell in waves down her back, the slightly damp locks curling into perfect ringlets at the ends. Left to air dry, the curls would tighten, remaining intact and perfect without any help from products. In the light streaming through her wind, Jasmineâ??s hair shone black, a deep, rich, shimmering darkness so deep it ran with deep purple and blue highlights, making her skin seem that much more pale even as her eyes shone brighter.

Only standing at 5â??3 Jasmine wasnâ??t tall by any stretch of the imagination. Even at 18 she was often mistaken for someone a few years younger, though her body gave away the lie. Instead of being stick thin, as was the trend among most girls her age, Jasmineâ??s body was a series of long lines and curves, marking her as opposite her motherâ??s almost sever beauty. Instead she was lithe, graceful, with curves that most of her friendâ??s envied. From the generous swell of her chest Jasmineâ??s body curved into a perfect hourglass, the eye following the length of her figure to a tiny waist which led directly into the curve of her hips. Just as she was well curved at the top, Jasmine was at the bottom as well, the soft ebony cloth of the skirt rising a few centimeters higher in the back thanks to the swell of her buttocks. Long, shapely legs seemed to go on for miles despite her short stature, though heals would have added a few inches.

Giving a tiny, satisfied smile Jasmine turned as the sound of her name drifted through the door. Sparing one last glance at the mirror before gliding to her vanity, the young woman added just a touch of eyeliner and mascara, happy with only those few touches of makeup before slipping clear lip-gloss into her pocket.

â??Coming,â? she called over her shoulder, rushing out of the room only to return a second later for the jacket sheâ??d hung at the back of the door the previous night. A nod from her mother made Jasmine happy with her choice of clothing, though the small smile tugging at the womanâ??s lips told the teen that the woman was glad that sheâ??d not selected anything that actually showed off her figure. If she had, it would have drawn attention from the blind haired, blue eyed woman standing before her. Allowing herself a silent sigh Jasmine followed her parents out of the house, spotting the familiar figure of her younger brother already seated in the car. Unlike Jasmine, Nathaniel was the spitting image of their blond haired parents.

Slipping into the back and turning her attention out the window Jasmine spoke little on the way through the city, hoping to disappear into her thoughts for the day instead of spending time with the family. The only person she wished to see was David, her boyfriend of the last year, and he wouldnâ??t arrive until the funeral itself. Just another day in paradise Jasmine thought bleakly, hoping that the clouds gathering in the east would cover the sun threatening to turn the day hot and humid.

 

[Tyr]

The road slid beneath Bull’s chopper as he accelerated through the corners, making his way home. The old Harley Davidson's motorcycle was sounding good as he dropped down a gear and sped past some tourist going too slow for his liking. The sun was out and sky nearly clear of clouds, the wind against one face, a perfect day to ride. Without a helmet his long brown wavy hair whipped in the wind, as he enjoyed his freedom, the helmet tied to the side of his bike, for the states that broke your balls about wearing one. It wasn’t that long ago that he’d been in the pen looking at a set of bar, and his only glimmer of sky, was when they allowed him into the exercise area. Bull could appreciate his freedom now, well at least while it lasted. Over the years he’d been in and out of the prison system going all the way back to juvenile hall. Still, he was out jail, and that's all that mattered.

The worn black leather jacket offered some defense against the wind as he accelerates away from the glaring tourists. Most people found his 6’3” 260lb physique intimidating, in conjunction with the rest of his attire. The jacket had a burning skull with wings on the back, indicating his membership in a biker gang. His worn blue jeans, were covered by a set of dark leather riding chaps, the only thing exposed was his tall pair of black riding boots. Till just a day ago, he’d been working in a bike shop, living in the back till he got himself some money together. The shop offered him an opportunity to fix up his bike and get it running, while having a place to crash. The bike was just finished when he’d gotten from his family that his mom had died. Even though he really couldn’t care less about his family, his mom had always stood by him in good times and bad. Father had always been an asshole, and being in prison, he’d had the perfect reason not to attend his funeral, when he died. Now, though he wanted to attend and say goodbye to his mother, and fuck the family if they were going to give him a ration of shit. So Connor “Bull” Tillman headed home.

Even though he was 34 he felt good, all those hours working out in the exercise yard had done him well. He was in good shape, wouldn’t win a muscle contest, but sure was toned. Though a casual observer couldn’t see it, his body was adorned by a variety of tattoos. The light of the sun glinted off his earring as he turned to watch a convertible go by with a fine looking girl in it. The man driving didn’t notice at first that the girl next to him was turning and smiling at Bull. Turning his head bull smiled back at the young girl, in a manner that directly eluded to his thoughts. Though she couldn't see the way his eyes undressed her, thought the dark sunglasses he wore. The man realized something was going on and turned to see Bull driving directly alongside his car, the driver jerks the wheel and almost loses control. Bull just smiles and continues on, he would see the two arguing in the car through his mirror.

That was one thing he was really looking forward to was a steady girl, not one of the sluts that fucked anyone in the gang that needed a place to put their dick, or the whores that they sold drugs to. Given he didn’t have a place, or really that much money, he still was looking, plus not just any girl worked for him, he needed one that could put and appreciate his proclivity for wild unadulterated sex.

The hours passed quickly as the hills and trees all took on the familiarity of home. These were the places he haunted for many a year, and called home. Though home now was the gang, and the road, and not anyone place or person. Still as much as his life was filled with trouble, he did have fond memories of this area for the most part. It wasn’t long till the driveway to his mom’s house approached. He let off the gas and braked, a bit of dusk flying as he came to a stop. Stepping off the bike, he shifted the knife at his hip, and the long metal chain that went from her wallet to his belt. He stretched for a moment, working the kinks of road out, tilting his neck and cracking it. The leather gloves on his hands only extend to the first knuckle, leaving the remainder of his fingers exposed, as he cracked them. Finally satisfied, he looked around as he made his way up and onto the front porch. He wondered who would be home, if anyone. Lifting his hand he raps on the door, seeing if anyone is home.

 

[Sacrificing Crimson]

Family dinner, it turned out, was to be served at the home of Evelyn Tillman. The entire family had been invited and somehow everyone managed to fit into the dining room, though the large oak table of the room barely had space to fit all the cousins, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and grandchildren that Evelyn had left behind. While the adults ate quietly in the main dining room a table had been erected for the children and younger family members in the living room and, as usual, Jasmine was left in charge until one of her cousins arrived.

Thankful to escape the constant chatter, fights, and hysterical giggles of the children, the young woman slowly strolled through the house, pausing in rooms which held memories. Growing bored of looking through the various rooms Jasmine finally settled into a corner of her grandmotherâ??s bedroom, eyes running along the old and very classy furniture. Somewhere in the room there were things that had been left specifically for her, but the family hadnâ??t yet been able to collect those things left for them. Apparently Evelyn had decided that her eldest son was to have control of the will. At the thought of that meeting with the lawyer Jasmine couldnâ??t help but smile, once again reliving the moment when her mother, Janice, had discovered that, not only was she barely mentioned in her motherâ??s will, but her brother, whom she despised, would have sole discretion on how things would be divided up.

â??Eve, you should have seen the look on her face,â? Jasmine said softly, speaking to the air itself as she ran her fingers over the various dresses, shirts, and assorted clothing in her grandmotherâ??s wardrobe. â??I thought she was going to have a heart attack, but you probably planned things that way, didnâ??t you?â? Smiling and letting out a soft sigh Jasmine seated herself at the very corner of her grandmotherâ??s bed, chest suddenly tight as she remembered the womanâ??s smiling face, the conspiritory way they had sat together, whispering secrets to one another, all the while smiling as they shared with each other what theyâ??d have never told any other member of the family. Evelyn had never been too fond of her daughter, especially the way her child had treated Connor, the uncle that Jasmine had never met, and sheâ??d not been fond of the way that Janice had treated Jasmine, either. In the entire family Evelyn Tillman had been the closest to Jasmine, and her death had left a hollow spot in the young womanâ??s life.

Pulling from the memory of her motherâ??s shocked, outraged face, Jasmine stood with a sigh, sparing one last glance at the room in which her grandmother had spent so much time, before forcing herself to leave. Once again walking down the hall she heard the faint sound of someone knocking on the front door and frowned, everyone had supposedly already arrived.

â??Jasmine, be a dear and answer the door,â? Janice called from the dining room, her high, almost nasal voice sounding to Jasmine as if someone were strangling a cat.

â??Yes, mother,â? Jasmine called, sighing and running a hand through her hair as she hurried down the hall. Opening the door quickly the young woman wondered who in the world could be knocking. Shocked for a second as she opened the door to reveal a tall, well proportioned man dressed in what could only be called bikerâ??s clothes Jasmine couldnâ??t help but stare for a moment.

â??Yes,â? she asked softly, forced to tilt her head back a bit so that she could finally rest her eyes on his face. Oh god, momâ??s going to have a heart attack Jasmine thought dryly, unable to keep her eyes from roaming over his body again before returning her attention to his face. Who the hell is he? Could this be Connor?

 

[Tyr]

Looking around and seeing the other vehicles in the drive, someone was clearly at home. One part of him hoped it wasn’t his snooty stuck up older sister Janice, yet another part of him wanted to see her face when he showed up. Either way he just figured he’d show up, bury his mother and be on the road, shouldn’t take more than a day or two. Conner didn’t know yet that his mother had made him executor of her will. So family business was going to delay his immediate plans for a road trip.

Raising his hand one more time, he’s about to pound the door when it opens. There stood a small girl, no a woman, with long black hair. She didn’t look any older than maybe sixteen or seventeen. Bull tried to wrack his brain to remember what his sister’s brat’s name was. He remembered that his sister had named her after a flower or something … rose … tulip …. cauliflower… damn he couldn’t remember it. His large frame fills most of the door, as he stares down at the tiny girl.

Lowering his fist, while giving the small girl a guilty smirk, he responds.

Hi little girl. I think I’m looking for your mommy.

Then almost unconsciously his eyes begin to explore her small nubile form, trying to determine what lies beneath the black skirt and top. He might have tried to hide his hunger, but he didn’t, the curves reminding him of what he’d been missing for so long. Damn he had to find a steady fuck, or he was going to be in trouble.

So are you going to let me in or not?

The deep voice rumbles with authority, as he leans against the doorjamb waiting for the small thing to speak.

So strange to ask permission to enter this house, he been in and out of it his whole life. This very porch was the spot his kissed his first girlfriend Kelly, and right out there where that SUV sat was the spot where she later gave him head for the first time. Damn there were so many memories attached to this place. Maybe it was his freedom and lack of incarceration that made him think about the good times and not the bad. The fighting, the arguments, and his dad’s belt tanning his ass, those memories were there, but today he wanted to think about the good ones.

While the girl made her decision, he looks past her, everything seemed the way he remembered it. The pictures in the foyer hanging showing various family moments, the little table with the flowery vase all were sitting just as they were so many years ago. No the place looked a little older on the outside, probably since dad was dead the maintenance had lacking, but the inside look liked it was frozen in time.

 

[Sacrificing Crimson]

Jasmineâ??s initial reaction to her uncle faded the moment he called her a little girl. Eyes taking on a harder glint Jasmine straightened to her full height, unimpressive though it wasnâ??t, and gave him a glare. â??Iâ??m not a little girl, and yes, my mother is here. Come in if youâ??d like,â? she said snappily, turning with a flare of both skirt and hair as she walked down the hall to show him to the dining room only to see her mother walk into the hall.

â??Jasmine, who was at theâ?¦.,â? Janice began until her eyes fell on her brother. Eyes widening slightly the woman couldnâ??t help a sneer twisting her lips and Jasmine quickly stepped away, ignoring everyone and simply waiting to see how the meeting would go. Standing beside her mother it was obvious that Jasmine didnâ??t take after the tall, model thin blond, but were one to look closely at her face they could find traces of her motherâ??s strong bone structure.

â??Connor,â? Janice said coldly, completely ignoring her daughter and the rest of the family as they began to trickle out of the dining room and living room. â??Iâ??m surprised you could take the time out of your busy schedule to come to our motherâ??s funeral. I thought youâ??d still be locked up somewhere.â?

Turning just enough that Jasmine was in her view, Janice beckoned the young woman forward, motioning to her with one long fingered hand. â??I see youâ??ve met my daughter, Jasmine. Say hello to your uncle, dear.â?

Without pause Jasmine looked at him, a momentary flash of pity in her eyes since she knew heâ??d have to deal with her mother. â??Weâ??ve met,â? she said simply, honeyed voice easily hiding her dislike for the tone her mother took. â??I need to go finish something,â? Jasmine said quickly, turning and disappearing down a far hall without another word. From behind she could hear Janiceâ??s high, almost nasal voice and shuddered, grumbling softly under her breath as she took the stairs leading to the second floor quickly.

I wonder how heâ??s managed to put up with her for so long, maybe grandma made him promise not to kill her. Chuckling softly to herself and wandering through the house once again Jasmine paused in front of the door that lead to the room which had once been her motherâ??s. After only a secondâ??s hesitation the young woman opened the door, entering the small study that Evelyn had fashioned for herself. Letâ??s see how long I can hide up here until Iâ??m found Jasmine mused dryly, scanning the titles of the books lining the shelves before picking up a book of tattoo designs her grandmother had purchased for her. Folding her small frame into the window seat overlooking the front yard Jasmine began to flip through the pages, mind wandering as she waited for a familiar car to pull into the drive.

 

[Tyr]

Bull just smiled as the little girl gave him a bit of attitude, though he made no attempt to apologize or rectify the situation. He planned to get this over with as quick as possible and be on the road, as soon as possible. So he followed the cute young girl with the attitude down the hall towards the dining room. He wasn’t at all surprised by his sister’s less than friendly use of his name, as they’d been on poor terms for years. Connor thought she was stuck up, self-important, and a self-centered bitch. She had a great body, and that did nothing in his opinion to disguise her lousy personality. Oh she could smile at you till you might think she actually liked you, when in fact she’d verbally abuse you behind your back, the two-faced bitch.

No problem, sis, they gave me a get out of jail card. So what better way to spend my freedom, then with my loving family?

The sarcasm obviously lost on no one with an IQ score above room temperature. To further annoy his sister, he just gives her a big friendly smile, like they both had said nothing. Though he was amused by the small girl’s quick comment and escape, something he wouldn’t have minded doing. He watches the girl head off, and turns back to Janice.

Nice girl, sis, luckily she doesn’t take after you.

Bull couldn’t help the dig, the last few years at home with her were miserable. He couldn’t imagine the guy desperate enough to fuck a piranha like her, over the years he warned off enough friends. Though he did imagine she’d be a good fuck if you gagged her and held her down, otherwise you’d have to listen to her shit in that nasal shrilly voice of hers. Oh well not his problem, so he just continues to smile at her.

So what times the funeral? Oh and do you mind if I crash in my old room? I’ve got my stuff on the bike.

Even if his sister was going to be a bitch, he still was going to the funeral; his mother deserved that, for sticking with him through the good and bad times. When he was in the can she wrote, sent goodies, and took his collect calls. She never stopped loving him, and he appreciated that in so many ways. She even kept his room ready in case he came home. Though he knew he was going to hell, he was sure she was going to a better place, and hopefully one without dad. Bull just stands filling the hallway waiting for his sister’s answer.

 

[Sacrificing Crimson]

â??As long as I donâ??t have to see you I donâ??t care where you stay,â? Janice snapped immediately, brushing a lock of platinum blond hair behind her ear in a smooth, practiced motion. â??I wouldnâ??t invite you to stay with me, thatâ??s for sure.â? Sneering at him and turning Janice walked further down the hall, following her daughterâ??s path up to the second floor, all the while completely ignoring her brotherâ??s existence. It was imperative she didnâ??t pick at him too much since he was in control of her motherâ??s will, and Janice expected fully that he would be gone within a week if he could help it. Worthless bastard, I donâ??t see why mom put up with him for so long, crazy old woman should have just given everything to me.

Quickly finding the short, too round Jasmine seated in the â??studyâ?? that her mother had been so fond of, Janice closed the door loudly enough to snap the girl out of her dream. â??You are to stay as far away from my brother as possible,â? Janice ordered immediately, ignoring the sudden stiffening in Jasmineâ??s shoulders. â??Do not speak to him, do not spend any time with him, completely ignore his existence. Are we clear?â? Staring down the length of her nose at Jasmine, Janice glared at her daughter, making it perfectly clear that she was to be taken completely serious on the matter. Jasmine, on the other hand, simply turned back to look out the window.

â??Yes, mother,â? she sighed, craning her neck a bit to look for Davidâ??s car. â??You donâ??t have to worry about it; anyway, I have no reason to want anything to do with him. After the horror stories youâ??ve told me I doubt very highly Iâ??ll seek out his attention.â? Voice mild, and slightly bored, Jasmine looked back to give her mother a quick, reassuring smile before returning her gaze to the street. It was always so tiring to keep her mother pleased and Jasmine knew that if Janice didnâ??t want her spending time with her uncle itâ??d be practically impossible to see him, anyways. The entire family seemed to hate him and, so far, Jasmine wasnâ??t all that impressed either.

 

[Tyr]

Sure sis, whatever you say.

A response to her requirements, his comment one that he used to say to her when they were kids, because it pissed her off. He could only smirk as she turned her back and left. Bull justed walked back to bike, to get his pack and duffel bag. Since he was recently out of prison his personal possessions were few. Throwing the bag over his shoulder, he sauntered back into the house the encounter with Janice reminding him all the reason he didn’t come home.

The two kids bedroom were next to each other, with a Jack and Jill bathroom between them. Bull didn’t know who was sleeping in Janice’s old room, as he tossed his stuff on the bed. There was a guest bedroom down the hall with its own bathroom, and the master upstairs. Taking a moment Bull begins to remove his riding gear, taking the chaps and jacket off and using the desk chair to hang them. Since he rode without a helmet, he could feel the road grit and grim across his face, and since the funeral was later he figured on cleaning up a bit.

Stepping in to the bathroom, he pushed the door to the other room shut, since it never did lock, and begins to remove his clothes, leaving them in a pile on the floor. How many times had he and Janice fought over this bathroom, especially since she considered it her sole domain. Both doors were prone to blow open if someone opened a window or door and the air pressure in the house changed. Janice used to throw a fit, if he saw her in any condition but perfectly manicured. Looking at the small mirror over the sink, something that prisons didn’t have, he sees his own reflection. Tattoos, and a few scars cover the muscles that rippled beneath. His stature and physique where just one of the reason he got the nickname “bull”, the other dangled between his legs. Turning the water on, he steps into the shower, the cold water turning to warm, he begins to enjoy a leisurely cleaning, something else denied him during his incarceration.

 

[Sacrificing Crimson]

Finally, having reassured her mother multiple times that she had no interest in having any sort of relationship with her uncle, Jasmine managed to escape her motherâ??s presence. Grumbling beneath her breath as the small young woman headed down the hall, she paused for a moment at the sound of the shower running. Seeing as Janice hadnâ??t even spent more than an hour at Evelynâ??s house since the womanâ??s death, and every other member of the family was currently on the main floor enjoying free food and ignoring the fact that Evelyn was dead, Jasmine assumed that Connor was bathing.

Rolling her eyes slightly and hurrying past, the young woman couldnâ??t help a second long spark of curiosity to how her uncle looked naked, but she quickly destroyed any such thoughts. Disgusted with herself Jasmine once again began to pace the first floor, paying little attention to her surroundings until hands suddenly folded over her eyes. Stopping her pacing immediately the small woman smiled, sighing softly after taking in a deep, calming breath.

â??Guess who,â? said a familiar voice, hands moving from Jasmineâ??s face to her shoulders. Suddenly turned, Jasmine smiled at David, giving him a quick kiss on the cheek before she pulled away.

"God I'm glad you're here," Jasmine practically purred as he beamed from the kiss, but before she could say anything else Jasmine spotted her mother turning the corner. With a silent sigh the young woman grabbed hold of her boyfriend's hand, leading the young man along behind her as she headed for the livingroom.

 

[Tyr]

Bull finished up the shower, happy that the road grime had been washed away. Grabbing a towel he quickly dried down before wrapping it around his waist. Stepping out of the shower, he smiled, it just nice to be home, even if the circumstances were the worst possible. Walking back to his room, he pulled a clean set of clothes from his pack: black jeans, black T-shit, and clean underwear. He only had another day’s change of clothes, before he’d need to do laundry. Unfortunately he didn’t have any formal funeral wearing type clothes, so these would just have to do. His sister would probably make some derogatory comment, but that was life. Deodorant and he should be ready to go, thinking twice he steps back into the bathroom, and uses the towel to clean the mirror just to confirm that he looked presentable. A quick comb through his hair, getting the tangles out of his wavy hair and he figured he was as ready as he would ever be. He did think about removing his nipple ring and earring, something they couldn’t wear in the pen, but decided against it, so if Janice had an issue she could just fuck off, it was a free country.

Bull ran a towel over his boots polishing them up, grabbed his wallet and chain and headed down stairs, something he wasn’t looking forward to.

- - -

David was always so happy when Jasmine kissed him. She was so cute, and he was so lucky that she dating was him. He’d chased her for so long, almost begging her to go out with him, bringing her flowers, writing cutesy letters, all those things, till she really didn’t have any choice but to say yes. She understood him, and listened when he explained all his problems, so he listened to her and empathized with her as she outline her own family issues. David knew that a good relationship was based on a mutual understanding and caring, so he was working hard on proving himself.

He never even got to ask how she was feeling, especially in this time of mourning, before Jasmine grabbed his arm and yanked him into the living room. As much as he wanted to be alone with her, and resume their relationship on the more physical side, he understood that that she was mourning and needed her space. He totally understood that his desires had to wait, till the appropriate time.

 

[Sacrificing Crimson]

For the last year Jasmine had been dating David, and she was still slightly surprissed that sheâ??d agreed to date him. He was nice, a near push over in their relationship, and he spoiled her rotten even when she didnâ??t ask him to. Jasmine knew that she couldnâ??t ask for a nicer boyfriend, he was caring, gentle, and nearly smothered her with love, but at the same time Jasmine couldnâ??t help wishing that he had a spine sometimes. Whenever they had an argument Jasmine won, all she had to do was pretend to start crying and he crumbled, becoming putty in her hands. At first it had been amusing and sweet, but lately Jasmine found herself wishing that heâ??d actually fight with her in earnest, or at least stand up for himself for more than a few minutes before folding. Even seated beside him on the couch Jasmine couldnâ??t help wondering if David would ever get more demanding.

The previous week, right after sheâ??d found out that her grandmother died, they had had a date. As usual towards the end things had gotten rather physical, but it hadnâ??t been Jasmine whoâ??d pulled back, in fact, sheâ??d been the one whoâ??d instigated everything, hoping to drown her thoughts in sex. Instead, David had pulled back, wanting to do nother more than comfort her, and assuring her that it would be her choice the next time they had sex because he didnâ??t want to push her into something she didnâ??t want to do. At the time sheâ??d thought it was sweet but irritating, but that was beginning to change.

Seated beside David, Jasmine settled her hand on his thigh and rested her head against his shoulder, tucking herself against him so that they touched from shoulder to knee with only a few centimeters sepperating them at the most. Heâ??d been the first one to scoot over a bit, just to make sure that she didnâ??t feel crowded and make certain that her mother didnâ??t have any reason to sepperate them. Heâ??s sweet, but god, he needs to stop being so damn soft Jasmine grumbled to herself, sighing softly as she watched her family interract.

 

[Tyr]

Bull made his way to the dining room, thinking about all the times he done the exact same thing, just this time it was different, because mom and dad were gone forever. Everyone was already there, Janice and her husband Terry, Jasmine and what appeared to be her boyfriend, and everyone else that was somehow related to Evelyn Tillman. Bull first thought was the young girl’s boyfriend looked more like a boy than a man. The kid was thin, lanky and as fair skinned as a newborn baby. He wasn’t even sure if the kid had any hair on his chest, damn he looked almost effeminate. Poor girl was probably just like her mother and picked guys with no balls. Between Terry and Janice, Bull knew which one wore the pants in that family.

Stepping into the dining room, the boy next to Jasmine almost flinched on seeing Bull enter the room. Bull spies an empty chair, seeing one next to the girl and across from Janice, he just heads for it.

Hi everyone.

- - -

David was shocked when the guy entered, he’d heard about Connor, but the motherfucker was huge, and probably the scariest guy he’d ever seen. The guy’s arms were probably bigger around than his own legs. And from what he’d heard, this guy wasn’t just tough looking, he was bad motherfucker; Jasmine’s mom always had something poor to say about the guy. Luckily for him Jasmine’s mother seemed to like him, so David had been smart enough to stay on her good side something that most people had trouble doing. When the guy sat down, David put his hand on Jasmine’s leg not as a sexual advance, but as a reassurance, so she knew he was there for her. Though he was at some level happy the guy was on the other side of Jasmine, he felt safer. Not that this guy would do anything will all these people around, he wouldn’t would he? A moment of lingering fear takes David.

 

[Sacrificing Crimson]

Four open chairs and he has to sit next to me, what the hell? Even as the words ran through her head Jasmine couldnâ??t help but focus her attention on her uncle. Forcing herself to turn her attention to anything else the young woman couldnâ??t help but admire the way he caught everyoneâ??s attention just by walking into the room, and she knew why: he was huge, his presence alone enough to catch the attention of anyone near and he practically radiated confidence, not to mention violence.

See, I want someone like that Jasmine thought to herself, watching Connor from the corner of her eye for a moment. At least he can stand up for himself. Pulled from her thoughts as she felt Davidâ??s hand settle high on her thigh she turned to look at him curiously, unwilling to resist the urge to shift so that his hand slid a bit higher. Turning back to look at her uncle Jasmine gave him a small smile, about to ask him a quick question before her motherâ??s voice cut through the sudden silence.

â??Connor, I almost didnâ??t recognize you without all the dirt and grease. Get rid of those ridiculous tattoos, cut your hair, and you might actually be presentable,â? Janice purred sweetly, eyes flashing as she dabbed at her mouth daintily with her napkin before dropping her hand beneath the table to rest on Terryâ??s thigh. â??Donâ??t you agree, Jasmine, dear?â?

Glaring at her mother Jasmine sat back in her chair. â??I was actually about to ask Uncle Connor about some of his tattoos, I rather like them,â? Jasmine purred sweetly back, giving her mother perfect eye contact as she kept her face innocent and sweet even as the woman across from her gritted her teeth. â??Personally, I like his hair, it adds to his features. Itâ??s such a shame that everyone keeps their hair so short, some men look good with longer hair.â?

Thoroughly enjoying the way Janiceâ??s smile faltered Jasmine braced for a fight, but she was surprised when her mother simply looked at her brother and made a small sound of disgust. Going to ignoring both of them Janice turned her attention to one of her aunts, or some cousin, Jasmine really wasnâ??t sure, she was simply happy to no longer have to deal with her motherâ??s stare, at least for the time being.

 

[Tyr]

Bull just smirks as his sister’s bitchy attitude comes to bear. His sister had always been overbearing, manipulative and controlling, just it didn’t work with him, which pissed her off. On his sister’s jab, he quickly responds back.

Well sis your charming personality always comes through no matter how perfect the hair, nails, or clothes are.

His sister looking for allies tries to elicit her daughter in berating his lifestyle, which Bull figures she will do, and is surprised when she actually offers a compliment, followed by an inquiry. He smiles at his sister as he turns lifting his short sleeve to reveal just a small portion of his many tattoos to the girl.

Obviously, someone in this family has good taste.

If he could befriend the girl, it would so tweak his sister, to have her frothing at the mouth, which would be very amusing.

Tattoos are art, and show things about who we really are. This flaming skull with wings represents brotherhood, trust, and life.

In case Janice were still listening to him, he added a little more to tweak her. Knowing that she would be almost spying on the conversation. So he ignores his sister and talks to the young girl

If you ever have an interest and want to see more of them just let me know.

David was amazed that Janice was so brave, the way she confronted the huge man. But when he starts talking to Jasmine, he find himself enraged, the thoughts of how dare he come to mind, but David finds himself unable to react because of fear.

 

[Sacrificing Crimson]

Jasmine studied Connorâ??s tattoo, finding herself curious to see what others he had, and where. Nodding slightly she gave him a smile. â??They are art, though many people donâ??t see it that way. Itâ??s rather sad that anyone whoâ??s willing to paint their bodies to represent the person they are is shunned by society.â? Noting the way her motherâ??s face had begun to grow slightly red Jasmine gave Connor another smile.

â??I may take you up on that offer, sometime. I have a slight fascination with tattoos.â? Voice a sweet purr she ignored Janiceâ??s glares, surprised at just how satisfying it was to make the woman angry, especially when she seemed to have an ally who didnâ??t seem to give a damn about what the woman thought.

â??I was actually thinking about getting a tattoo sometime, Evelyn was helping me pick one out, but we hadnâ??t settled on one yet. If youâ??re planning on getting any more I actually know the guys who run the parlors in town, Art retired a few years ago but his son took over Fantasy Graphics. You got a tattoo there, right? The line work on some of your tattoos actually looks like something heâ??d done.â?

From the corner of her eye Jasmine could still see her mother and she realized that most of the conversation at the table had stopped as Janiceâ??s posture straightened, her eyes narrowing as she glared at her daughter. â??Jasmine,â? the woman snapped, glaring at her daughter before her face smoothed out and her voice became sweet. â??Weâ??ve had this conversation already, you are not getting one of those things on your body, theyâ??re only for misfits and delinquents.â?

 

[Tyr]

The kid wasn’t a total snob like her mother, and he appreciated a girl that liked tattoos. Bull was a little surprised not that Evelyn would help her pick out a tattoo, but that the girl was so close to his mom. His mom was a good woman, but seemed to hide her personality when father was alive. He’d seen little parts of it over the years, and came to truly appreciate how good a person she was, probably far better than he deserved.

At the mention of Art, Bull could only smile at the number of times he’d visited the shop. Feeling camaraderie with her, he lets slip a little more.

Arty, shit I was about sixteen and wasted, and I asked for something really cool, and well he ….

Janice interrupts the story of his first tattoo, imposing herself on everyone. And just like always she had a useless point to make. Shallow bitch, some guy should have held her down, and tattoo asshole on her ass, cause you couldn’t tell the difference between that and her mouth. Bull had forgotten how easily it went the other way and that Janice could rile him.

Jesus sis, there’s no reason to get your panties in a bunch. The kid was only asking, and fuck it’s her body, she should be able to make the decision on what happens to it.

Realizing he just sworn, and that it was quiet in the room, he should have kept his mouth shut, but Janice just got him going. Damn he remembered all the times she’d start the fight, get him mad, and run back to daddy, so he got his ass tanned for some offense. Mostly of course calling his sister every explicative in the world.

Those misfits and delinquents as you say sis, are now just about everyone in the world. So whose out of touch now?

David was hoping that Janice would throw the brute out, so he'd be gone. He squeezes Jasmine's leg, so she knows he's still there for her. Rather than anger the guy, David remains quiet, wondering if Jasmine is alright. The guy was just rude and crude David thought.

 

[Sacrificing Crimson]

â??No daughter of mine is going to have those things like some kind of common criminal,â? Janice continued, glaring at her brother pointedly. â??Now, weâ??ve had this discussion before, Jasmine, and you know you wonâ??t win the argument so you might as well give up.â?

Finally having had enough Jasmine sat a little straighter and gave her mother a smile. Scooting her chair back and letting Davidâ??s hand fall from her thigh Jasmine smoothed down her skirt in a practiced gesture and began to walk around the table, headed for the door.

â??If tattoos are only for delinquents and common criminals then why do you have one, mom?â? Jasmine asked her question in all seriousness, blinking slowly before walking out of the room only to hear her mother yelling for her. Ignoring the woman and walking out the back door Jasmine stopped only long enough to grab her jacket before disappearing into the yard.

Walking across the yard and standing beneath the shady branches of the huge oak that took up most of the far corner, Jasmine dug through her pockets, cursing under her breath as she pulled a pack of Marlboroâ??s from her pocket. Quickly lighting the cigarette she took a deep breath of nicotine and tar before sighing, leaning against the thick trunk of her favorite tree as the smoke trickled from her nostrils. God I hate that woman.

 

[Tyr]

Of course the girl won’t win the argument, Janice would just speak louder and louder till no one could be heard. She truly gave meaning to the word shrew. How any man could put up with that bitch, was beyond him. By the woman’s very nature, he question Terry’s masculinity. A guy would have to hogtie her and gag her if they wanted a piece of that ass, otherwise it just wasn’t worth it. The image of Janice on a bed hogtied brought a smile to his face, when the kid fights back. The kid definitely was a spunky little thing. The smile continued as the kid bolted for the door leaving Janice frothing.

David stood there horrified unable to move. Now there was no one between the huge man and him.

Bull just looks at his sister with an eyebrow raised.

So what tattoo do you have sis?

- -

David seeing Janice engaged with the brute, he opts for the valiant thing, and retreats to see if he can console Jasmine.

Excuse me, I’m going to see if I might help Jasmine.

David gets up heads out the door to see if he can find her. Looking around, David begins to search for her, concerned clearly evident on his face. Though he’s happy to be away from Jasmine’s mom and that brute. It wasn’t long till he found her over by a large oak tree, smoking a cigarette. Normally he would admonish her about the bad habit, like he'd done so many time before, but thought better of it this time.

Jasmine, are you okay?

 

[Sacrificing Crimson]

â??I donâ??t see how Terry can put up with her,â? Jasmine snapped immediately, taking another deep drag on her cigarette. â??Sheâ??s so arrogant and irritating! I know sheâ??s my mother, but, God, sometimes I want to strangle her.â?

Sighing softly and rubbing her forehead Jasmine looked at David and sighed again. â??You donâ??t mind me getting a tattoo, right?â? Dropping the filter of the cigarette and quickly smothering the cherry with one slipper clad foot Jasmine didnâ??t even wait for Davidâ??s reply, instead she simply brushed her hair out of her face and shrugged. â??It doesnâ??t matter, Iâ??m getting one anyway. You might want to go back inside and calm mom down, sheâ??s probably frothing at the mouth and Connorâ??s probably egging her on.

Brushing a few specks of ash from her coat Jasmine let out a long breath slowly, turning and heading back into the house again, intent on disappearing from her motherâ??s sight until the funeral.

 

[Tyr]

Jasmine vented her anger, and David listens as he’d done throughout the relationship. His head just bobs in agreement as she outlined her disgust with her mother, a rather consistent topic of late. He was pleasantly surprised when she extinguishes the cigarette, and asks his opinion about tattoos.

Well you know, those things never go away, and what if you don’t like it later. You aren’t going to get one of those tramp stamps are you?

At times Jasmine was such a good girl, and other times David thought she had a wild streak. He didn’t want to agree with her mother, but it probably was best to wait before getting a tattoo, just because it was a decision you couldn’t go back on easily. And then she seemed intent on going back in, which was for David a place he would like to avoid. Still he had to be there for her, that’s what boyfriend's do.

You uncle is even bigger than I thought he would be. Damn I’d hate to meet that guy in a dark alleyway.

David didn’t say or any other place on this earth. Still when Jasmine turns and goes, he follows.

 

[Sacrificing Crimson]

He's like one of those little dogs that sticks to their owners Jasmine though dryly, feeling a little guilty about comparing her boyfriend to a dog, but he stuck to Janice like she was the most amazing thing in the world, and it irritated Jasmine that her mother liked her boyfriend better than her own daughter.

Before she got far into the house Jasmine turned back to David, shrugging slightly at his assessment of her uncle. â??I donâ??t think heâ??s that bad. Heâ??s huge, donâ??t get me wrong, but I donâ??t think heâ??s as bad as mom keeps saying.â? Sighing softly she brushed a lock of hair behind one ear and gave David a small smile. â??Iâ??m gonna go upstairs and hide from everyone for a while. Could you be a doll and wait down here, I justâ?¦I kinda want to be along for a little while. Okay?â?

 

[Tyr]

David followed Jasmine into the house, happy that she was his girlfriend. He was just so lucky to have such a special relationship like he did with her. So when she asks to be alone, he’s bummed but understands after such a traumatic event. Though the thought of having to spend any length of time with that thing was just too much for him. It was so like Jasmine to see something that was beat, battered, and down right ugly and call it cute. Still he had a solution to the problem.

Hey I’m gonna head home and clean up and I’ll meet you at the funeral this afternoon. If you need me for any reason just call, I’m there for you. You know that right?

He didn’t mean to ask for affirmation, but he always did. David wanted and needed to hear that she likes and cares for him. It was just part of being in touch with his feelings. Once released David goes to offer more condolences to Janice and goodbye before heading out.

 

[Sacrificing Crimson]

â??Alright, hun, Iâ??ll see you later,â? Jasmine said, giving David a kiss on the cheek before heading back up the stairs. As a boyfriend he was nearly perfect, but once again Jasmine was irritated with how needy he was sometimes. He couldnâ??t even leave her alone for a little while without making sure that it was alright. Sometimes she really thought he needed a keeper instead of a girlfriend.

With a sigh Jasmine disappeared into her grandmotherâ??s room again, pulling out a photo album that Evelyn had hidden under the bed a few years back. Since the last time sheâ??d shown it to Jasmine sheâ??d filled it with pictures. There were photos of her with her husband and pictures of the kids at all ages, even Connor.

Studying the pictures Jasmine realized that she was actually extremely curious about her uncle. Since sheâ??d only met him once when she was small, he was a complete mystery. According to her mother, he was an asshole who didnâ??t give a damn about anyone or anything and should be kept locked up for the rest of his life; an animal unfit to be let out in public. Already Jasmine could tell that her motherâ??s assessment of him wasnâ??t true, and Jasmine was surprised she was considering trying to spend some time with him.

 

[Tyr]

Bull saw the boyfriend come down, speak with Janice and quickly make his escape, the whole time he seemed to be avoiding eye contact with Bull. He envied the kid's escape, something he wouldn’t have minded doing. Still he ate something, because he was hungry and it was far better than he’d gotten while in the pen, plus with food in his mouth Janice was less likely to give him a ration of shit. The kid was gone, which was a clear sign she was smarter than him. Janice too seemed to ignore him, so everything went well as long as no one spoke, though he did wonder were that tattoo was on his sister. The whole thought just amused him, as he ate.

Finally fed, he excuses himself, though no one seemed to be paying attention, and decided to take a tour of the house and grounds. Since hadn’t been back here in a number of years, the thought was it might be relaxing, anything had to be better than standing in a room with Janice making small talk.

He decided to explore the house and see what changed first, so it wasn’t long till he was stepping into his mom’s room. Bull didn’t think to knock, cause he didn’t expect anyone to be around. He thought the girl had gone off to her own room.

 

[Sacrificing Crimson]

Jasmine looked up quickly as she heard the door open, uncurling from her position on the bed. Album spread out beside her she blinked slowly when she saw her uncle, posture asking the question, though she didnâ??t ask why he was there.

â??Sorry, I didnâ??t think anyoneâ??d want to come in here,â? Jasmine said softly, tucking a photo back into the sleeve as she stood up, smoothing down her skirt and shirt before tucking a lock of hair behind her ear.

â??I see you finally decided to escape my mother.â? Giving him a smile and picking up the album Jasmine dusted a bit of grime off the cover, kneeling at the end of the bed to slide it back under the bed.