He had some of his favorite sandwiches and his mother's favorite tea brewing laid out with pretty desserts and whimsical mugs that made him think of sleep overs at her house. The most important thing about the cafe - it was wheelchair accessible. He'd asked his mother to meet him at noon. At ten past, he was growing nervous.
"Darling," Mary sighed, wheeling herself up to the table. "Forgive me. Traffic into the city was wretched today."
Spencer stood, getting up to hug and kiss his mother.
"Forgiven," he said. "Where's Seb?"
"He's off to visit the baby bird so I can have some alone time with my son," Mary said, pecking his cheek. "That's what you wanted, yes?"
"Yes, please," Spencer said, beaming at his mum. "You look wonderful. I'm glad you're out. Has Dad been minding his mouth?" he asked, moving around to sit and pour their tea from a large green teapot.
"Both of your fathers have been surprisingly absent. It's a shame, I miss Sherlock. I don't know what they get up to that they haven't been about," Mary replied with a sweet smile. Of course, even at her age she was silly enough to believe that Sherlock didn't miss her or need her. Even after everything. "It's been nice and quiet with Freya and Seb and Jack."
Spencer laughed. "As if those three can ever be quiet, Mum," he said. "Eat something. I'd hate for the sandwiches go to waste. My stomach is still.. touchy." He took a wedge and nibbled at it.
"Oh, darling, I hope if it continues you'll have that checked," Mary said, taking a sandwich so as not to be rude. "How have you been? How is Brandon? Still taking his meds?"
"Yes, better, I think. And worse. His meds make him ill. I don't like it. He's not drinking, Mother," Spencer said. "And he's.. affectionate. I'm afraid of his mindset. Depression. I want him to see other doctors, get second opinions."
"A wise decision. How do you get him to agree to it?" Mary asked, sipping at her tea.
"It's non-optional," Spencer said, looking at her over his glasses. "Merely researching the alternatives first. I assume you saw my latest work?"
"Hmmm, yes. Very delicate. Almost as though you wanted to show me you were being responsible," Mary teased, giving him a wink. "I still worry for you. You're my child. I don't like to see you around all those nasty people."
Spencer looked contemplative.
"Speaking of nasty people," he hummed. "I know you've.. disapproved of Abby, because of her ties to rival operations."
"Among other things," Mary agreed. She reached out to touch his hand. "But I know you care for her."
"I do," Spencer said, covering her hand, holding in both of his own. "I've always felt there was something, something more to her, something more than her unknown friends, her deep wounds, and need for protection." He looked at their entwined hands.
"I hope she proves worthy of your feelings," Mary replied, giving his hand a squeeze.
Spencer looked up.
"She has a son," he said, meeting his mother's eyes.
"I see," Mary replied, having already known about the child. "And how do you feel about that?"
"I feel that someone has the boy - Liam, he's called, and is threatening his life," he said, eyes blazing. "I trust as a mother, you understand what it is to have your children threatened."
Mary's returning smile was a little false, and more than a little 'professional'. "Oh yes. I can certainly sympathize with the situation."
"They're using him, Mum," he said. "Using her. And have asked her to kill Finch in return for her son. Mum, I want that child in my presence by day's end."
"And how am I to do that, pray tell? I'm not the one with the power anymore," Mary replied, and for a moment her head twisted to the side. Hearing something. She shook her head. "I would be very put out if anything were to happen to you or Finch."
"Mother, the day you don't have power is the day your name is lost to human memory," Spencer said. "He's only a little thing. Two and a half, Thad said. Please."
[Sentiment. - MH]
Mary read the text with a scowl, but she nodded. "Consider it my pleasure, angel. I'll speak with Sebastian as soon as possible."
"Mum," Spencer said, watching her carefully.
"It's fine. Just a business text, dear," Mary rewarded him with a tight smile. "I should go soon, if I'm to organize a rescue so quickly. In the future, I would appreciate if you didn't mask asking for favors with lunch dates. It's unnecessary. I don't need to be bribed, just ask me."
[You spoil them. Overindulgent. As always. - MH]
"Mum, I didn't know about the baby until last night at two am," Spencer said. "Don't be cross with me." He bit his lip, looking sad. "It's only - I know how the little lad's gonna feel - not getting to see his mum."
Mary patted his arm, taking pity on the child. "It's alright, dear, I believe you. Finish lunch with me? I've missed you."
"I've missed you too," Spencer said, sniffing. "I meant to make this a weekly thing. So you don't have to stalk me always. Just because you're in that rubbish cottage and your chair, doesn't mean you can't go where you damned well please."
"Quite right. Except there are a few places I won't be able to go personally," Mary amended. She gave her son a devious smile, voices in her head already stirring to life, planning a rescue mission. "Every Friday at noon. That is the perfect price for coming out of retirement." She winked at him.
"Yes, Mummy," he said, nodding. "I'll have the loveliest standing lunch date in all the world. Have another sandwich."
***
Finch blanched. "Mum, you can't be serious."
"When am I ever not serious, darling?" Mary asked, her voice all velvet and steel. She lowered her eyelids, preening a little.
"But Mum," the younger Morstan shook her head, curls bouncing. "I can't. I can't do it, that's what you told me-"
"That's unfortunately why you have to do it," Mary replied. She examined her nails, rubbing the fingers of her free hand over the roses on her wheelchair. "You're a target now. You have something to protect, but if they see you as weak, they'll come after you again and again. You have something you need to prove. What if the men aren't around and you have to watch the child alone? No, no, you must do this. Don't fret, darling, I'll be watching. It will be easy as pie."
Finch grimaced, rubbing her hand over her stomach. "I never found baking a particularly easy hobby."
"Neither did I," Mary hummed, knowing the battle was won.
In the end, there were people of Moriarty's behind her as back up, but Mary had been right, Finch was the sharpest shooter next to Mary or Seb. She took out an old man and a few lackeys hiding in the shadows, a purple wig on her red hair that matched Abby's faded locks. The child would need a marker, something to prove she was an ally, before he would come with her. With the guards silenced, Finch walked through the place, her mother guiding her path through an ear piece, before she stood in the doorway of the nursery.
Liam was being bundled - unhappily - into a push-cart by the au pair.
"Nuh, nuh!" he grunted, throwing his fire-truck and smacking the Matriarch in the face.
"Mrs. Cathleen," the red-head gasped.
"Stop it, I'd dealt with worse brats than this one," the old woman said, holding the boy down.
He started to scream at her.
The gun in Finch's hand clicked, her voice coming out low and soft. "Get your hands off of that child, please."
Cathy whirled, hand around Liam's little wrist. "Or what?" she sneered. "You gonna shoot his Granny in front of him?"
Liam whimpered unhappily, swiping at his eyes.
"Aba?" he asked, uncertain.
"Yes, I am. Because children can be taught that sometimes Grans are very bad people who must be punished. I've already taken out all of your back up," Finch said, desperately wishing her mother weren't being so silent. "Give me the child."
The red-headed au pair had pulled a gun with a silencer, popping out two bullets into one of Finch's guards.
"Try again," she said.
Finch smiled. "Liam, sweeting. Close your eyes."
Liam's teary eyes fluttered closed as he stuck his thumb and first two fingers in his mouth, hiccuping around them. Finch had a bullet through the au pair's head in a matter of seconds, without even checking to see if he'd listened to her. She turned the gun on the McCannady elder. "I'm not afraid of you. I'm going to take the child and give him back to his Mama, and if you ever put a price on my head again, I'll make sure you stop breathing. I'm Finch Morstan, and being a Morstan is a much more terrifying thing than being a Moriarty."
The woman dropped Liam's wrist, a deep frown on her face.
"E's not the only thing I got," she said, voice trembling. "And you kill me, and they'll all go for Thaddeus, my dear, dear boy. I know you've been keeping him. Tread carefully, Miss Morstan. The world's a lot bigger than Moriarty."
Liam looked up at the older woman, realizing he'd been let go. He bolted across the room.
Finch caught him up, keeping her gun leveled at the old woman. She snorted through her nose. "No, Mrs. McCannady. It's not." She looked at Liam, safe in her arms. "Shall I take you back to Abby, love? I'm Finch, I'm your friend."
Liam still had his hand in his mouth, the other one wrapping in Finch's shirt. "Mama?" he asked around his fingers, big hazel-green eyes bright beneath his dark hair and nutty skin.
Finch backed out of the room, letting the remaining guards melt out of the shadows and storm the room to secure the old lady and pack up a bag for the child. She hugged him close, only turning away once she knew they were safe. "Yes, darling. I'm going to take you to Mama."
Liam was being bundled - unhappily - into a push-cart by the au pair.
"Nuh, nuh!" he grunted, throwing his fire-truck and smacking the Matriarch in the face.
"Mrs. Cathleen," the red-head gasped.
"Stop it, I'd dealt with worse brats than this one," the old woman said, holding the boy down.
He started to scream at her.
The gun in Finch's hand clicked, her voice coming out low and soft. "Get your hands off of that child, please."
Cathy whirled, hand around Liam's little wrist. "Or what?" she sneered. "You gonna shoot his Granny in front of him?"
Liam whimpered unhappily, swiping at his eyes.
"Aba?" he asked, uncertain.
"Yes, I am. Because children can be taught that sometimes Grans are very bad people who must be punished. I've already taken out all of your back up," Finch said, desperately wishing her mother weren't being so silent. "Give me the child."
The red-headed au pair had pulled a gun with a silencer, popping out two bullets into one of Finch's guards.
"Try again," she said.
Finch smiled. "Liam, sweeting. Close your eyes."
Liam's teary eyes fluttered closed as he stuck his thumb and first two fingers in his mouth, hiccuping around them. Finch had a bullet through the au pair's head in a matter of seconds, without even checking to see if he'd listened to her. She turned the gun on the McCannady elder. "I'm not afraid of you. I'm going to take the child and give him back to his Mama, and if you ever put a price on my head again, I'll make sure you stop breathing. I'm Finch Morstan, and being a Morstan is a much more terrifying thing than being a Moriarty."
The woman dropped Liam's wrist, a deep frown on her face.
"E's not the only thing I got," she said, voice trembling. "And you kill me, and they'll all go for Thaddeus, my dear, dear boy. I know you've been keeping him. Tread carefully, Miss Morstan. The world's a lot bigger than Moriarty."
Liam looked up at the older woman, realizing he'd been let go. He bolted across the room.
Finch caught him up, keeping her gun leveled at the old woman. She snorted through her nose. "No, Mrs. McCannady. It's not." She looked at Liam, safe in her arms. "Shall I take you back to Abby, love? I'm Finch, I'm your friend."
Liam still had his hand in his mouth, the other one wrapping in Finch's shirt. "Mama?" he asked around his fingers, big hazel-green eyes bright beneath his dark hair and nutty skin.
Finch backed out of the room, letting the remaining guards melt out of the shadows and storm the room to secure the old lady and pack up a bag for the child. She hugged him close, only turning away once she knew they were safe. "Yes, darling. I'm going to take you to Mama."
***
Abby sat curled up on the leather sofa in Baker Street, trying not to cry. She knew the drunk devil was somewhere upstairs, doing fuck knows what, and she had problems. She had to figure out how to get Liam without killing Finch. How to apologize to Finch for whatever she did to her, because this was going to hurt. She hugged her legs tighter to her chest, rocking a little, worrying about her sweet nephew, all alone with that murderous bitch.
Spencer came home with several bags of fancy-store things in one hand, a cup in the other. He had on his leather gloves and a sleek peacoat.
"Sorry, love, lunch with Mum ran long, then errands, and I got caught up," he said.
"Oh," Abby startled herself out of her reverie. She stood and stretched, shaking out her hair. "Um, that's okay. Was just mullin' some things over. How's your mum?"
"Better. We've got a standing lunch date now," he said, handing her the cup. "Tea for you. New place. I had a pastry and coffee myself. I know, I know, not supposed to have it - but neither of us will tell my specialist."
"Mm, this is delicious," Abby hummed, sipping at the takeaway cup. There was something so comforting about a hot beverage with those crisp white lids. "At least you're eatin'. That makes me 'appy, so if you chea' a little, I'll never tell on you."
"Good. At least you're in a better mood. So now we can move onto.. presents!" he said, holding up the bags.
Abby's brow knit together. "An' why am I gettin' presents? It ain't my birthday."
"Somebody's somewhere," Spencer said, shooing her to the couch. "Besides, it's not so much presents as necessities." He sat the six bags across the table. Most had names scrawled across them in stuffy fonts. "Go on, open them."
She reached into the bags, unwrapping little clothes with careful, shaking fingers. After a moment, the realization dawned on her that he knew who she would put these little things on. Her lips parted. "You knew?"
"Only just found out," Spencer admitted. "I knew there was something more going on, but I didn't- well, if I'd known, I'd have done something a bit sooner. I spoke with Mum about it, then went shopping. Children need lots of things, and they grow so quickly."
Abby blinked rapidly, unsure of whether to feel relieved or angry. "You told your Mum? But- But why?"
"To get him out, of course," Spencer said, growing impatient and opening up one of the bags himself. "Look, tiny sunnies," he said with a half-grin. "I couldn't resist. I'm a whiz with computers, but storming the compound? I needed Mum's help for that sort of job. I'm not exactly practiced in legwork."
"Bu-But they'll- But I'm- I was- But-" Abby didn't even know what to say. She felt like she was drowning. "What if he gets hurt? What if something happens-"
Spencer set the things aside, pulling her close to kiss her temple. "Mum always comes through," he whispered against her hair. "Don't worry. You'll have your son back."
"He's my nephew," Abby said, even though she knew that the word 'son' was more appropriate. "My sister's child."
"Oh!" Spencer said. "Your- the one who's, erm, passed. That's why they have the boy." He nodded as though things were making sense. "I was a bit confused at your lack of stretch marks. Scars, you have, but someone as little as you wouldn't get away without a bit of- you know."
"He calls me mum an' all, I don't think he remembers Lizzy much. But yeah, he's her kid." Abby looked up at Spencer with shining eyes. "I di'n't, um, you know it's hard for me to trus' people. I jus', I mean, if anyone could get 'im back, I know it's your mum. I guess I'm tryin' to say thanks."
Spencer smiled. "Say thanks when we get him back," he said, holding her gently. Thinking, he began to frown. "You said your sister's son. He wouldn't belong to my sister's current stalker, would he?"
"No, he don't have that Chinese look to 'im. Probably someone she hooked up with while she was high. I'm jus' thankin' my lucky stars he didn't turn out to be crack addicted or somethin' like it," Abby replied, kissing his chest. He could say for all he wanted that he was a dangerous man, but she knew he was good, at least in some places.
"Yeah, could've been worse-"
Abby's phone buzzed.
[Downstairs. Let me in. -Thad]
Abby took out her phone, frowning at the text. "It's Thad. Alrigh' if I let 'im up?"
Spencer rolled his eyes. "I suppose if you must, but if Brandon comes downstairs, out he goes. He gets Brandon too riled," he said, leaning to give Abby another kiss. He unwrapped himself from her, leaning to play with the toddler sized sunglasses again.
Abby dodged down the steps, unlocking the front door for Thad. "It's alrigh', Spencer's taken care of things-"
"Not me," Thad said, his eyes red and puffed. "Ain't got nowhere to go. Been kicked out and fired. Emily and Paul turned me down. Katie wouldn't even answer her phone. Anyone else is too close to kin."
"She kicked you ou'?" Abby asked, moving aside to let him in. "I don' understand. I thought you were doin' so well. Spencer said she kissed you."
"And Scarface proposed and she said yes," Thad barked out. "She came to work and fired me. Said to get ou'. Don't matter how I feel none. Not important. I just need a place to kip for a week or so until I can find something other work. Sofa, floor, don't matter. I just need a roof over my head."
"I mean, it ain't my place. You got to ask Spencer," Abby replied, mood souring at his hard words. She led him upstairs. "Spence, your sister's gone off her nut and kicked Thad out."
"Oh for fuck's sake, really?" Spencer said. "And you just let her?"
"Yeah, boyfriend proposed," Thaddeus replied. "Got a rock the size of the moon on her finger. Not real nice to start an affair that sends her to hospital."
"You sent her into the hospital?" Spencer said, getting up from the coffee table.
"Not on purpose!" Thad said, raising his hands up.
"Shh, shh, shut up, or it will come downstairs and we'll all 'ave a figh'," Abby hissed, eyes glancing up at the ceiling. "Look, what did you do to get yourself kicked ou'? I mean, she can't blame you for the hospital."
"I kissed her, she kissed me," Thad shrugged. "She shows up to work and - shite. Saw you upset and thought we was shaggin'."
"Oh you are an idiot," Spencer said, crossing his arms. "My sister is jealous in the supreme."
"Really? Finch?" Abby asked, plopping down on the sofa with a wince. Her ribs were still smarting and were likely to for a while. "She always seems so sweet."
"Sweet with a sting," Spencer laughed, draping an arm around her. He pulled her in to kiss her hair again. "If you think I'm possessive-"
"But she said she didn't want-"
"Didn't want to be like our mum," Spencer interrupted. "My mother has had various affairs, one broken engagement, two marriages, two children, and lives with most of her exes and her husband. She thinks giving in to two loves means there's room for a third. And after a third, a fourth and who knows from there!" Spencer looked at Abby. "That's rubbish, of course."
Abby perked up and smiled at him. "Oh? I'm glad to hear it."
"Mum always had two," he whispered into her ear. "Dad and Father, Jim and Seb, Jack and Seb. Freya, well, they didn't start as lovers, but Aunt Free and Uncle Ford, she don't talk about, but I know, they've gone there."
"Ah, the little blonde one," Thaddeus grinned. "Your mother-?"
"Definitely shagging her," Spencer agreed.
"How did she have time to- you know, do what she did for a career, if she was so busy shaggin' all those people?" Abby asked. "I wonder what she'd've been capable of if she'd only 'ad one."
"Been insane," Spencer murmured. "She needed them. Like I need you and Bran."
Thaddeus made a gagging sound.
"Oi!" Spencer shot off. "Don't you start, beggar."
"When will we know?" Abby asked, changing the subject suddenly, squeezing Spencer's hand. "Abou' Liam, I mean? I could go an' 'elp your mum, if she wanted."
"No, she'll tell me," Spencer said. "She's got to mind the plan first. I told you, not my forte. Hence the favor."
"You're Mum's going after him?" Thaddeus asked.
"Of sorts," Spencer agreed.
Thaddeus picked up some of the clothes. "That's gonna make him look like a right chav," he snorted. "Abs, no way."
"Spencer picked 'em out. He'll look adorable," Abby said, fingering a tiny pair of skinny jeans. "Y'know. If 'e comes out alrigh'."
"He'll come out-" Spencer said as he heard the door open and close downstairs. "Oh hell, I haven't had so many visitors since Dad and Father were still working in the city."
"Spencer, Brandon?" Vance called upstairs. He wasn't entirely comfortable just letting himself in, but he did have keys.
"Upstairs, Vance," Spencer called.
Thaddeus bolted up out of his chair. "No, no, nope," he said, heading for the kitchen just as Vance made it through the landing.
"Where the hell've you been?" Vance said to Thaddeus. "And where's Finch?"
"Not here, mate," Spencer said. "Why, she not at work?"
"Of course not," Vance said. "Or home, or well- anywhere." He reached out to snag Thaddeus by the back of his leather jacket as he started to sneak behind the tall criminal. "Not so-fast, I may be half-blind but I ain't completely dumb. Why ain't you at home neither?"
"Because you're ruddy wifey kicked me out!"
"She did what?" Vance said, looking confused.
"Sca- Vance!" Abby shouted his name, standing up to step between them. "Finch sawr me askin' Thad a favor and lost 'er head at him. Thought we was kissin' or somethin' like. She kicked 'im out."
"Well, that's just ridiculous," Vance sputtered. "You're with Spencer."
"Yes, she is," Spencer said. "But my sister's an idiot."
"You know, I'm really tired of that implication," Finch said, stepping up the final step. Her tight black clothing outlined every curve of her body, her gun holstered on her wide hip. The child cuddled close in her arms. "I like to think I'm a little clever sometimes."
All eyes turned.
"Oh, hell, it's a baby," Spencer said, actually getting up from the sofa.
"Ababababa!" Liam started babbled, pulling his hand from his mouth to start wiggling on Finch's hip. "Mamammama."
"Oh, oh my God," Abby said, rushing to take the baby from Finch before he kicked her. She hugged him close. Her eyes were shining. "Oh, God, tell your Mum I said thank-"
"Mum didn't do it, I did," Finch told her with a shrug, crossing her arms over her chest. She rolled her eyes. "Well. I guess Mum helped a little."
Spencer stepped around to fold his sister into a hug. "Thank you, Finch," he said, hugging her tightly. "Thank you."
"You're welcome, Spencer," Finch said, rubbing his back. "It seemed important."
"It is," Abby agreed, rocking Liam. She poked his nose. "I missed you, Batman."
Liam giggled. "B'man," he said, pointing at Finch. "Mama, she's b'man," he whispered into her ear, too loudly.
Spencer barked a laugh. "Yes she is."
"Thank you, Finch, thank you," Abby repeated, kissing Liam's face. "I can never repay you."
Admist Liam's giggles, drawing a fascinated Spencer to the little one, Thad and Vance locked eyes before turning on Finch.
"Do you-"
"Have any idea-"
"Safety-"
"Months pregnant!"
"Could've been shot!"
"Or hit, or kicked!"
"Just out of hospital!"
The two men went back and forth on either side of Finch.
"And what were you thinking?"
"Forget that, she went up against my family! She could've been killed!"
"Oh yes, I don't like your gran at all," Finch said, biting her lip, giving Thad big eyes. "Your grandda is, unfortunately, deceased. Sorry."
"Good riddance," Thad said, going to cup Finch's cheek. "Are you alright?"
Finch frowned, like he'd asked a very stupid question. "Of course I'm alright. Why wouldn't I be alright?"
"Because you murdered someone?" Abby suggested.
"Mwuder?" Liam said. Spencer covered the boy's ears.
"I think best to take him to the kitchen for cocoa, yeah?" he said.
Abby nodded, taking the baby into the kitchen. "You want some cocoa? What abou' food? I betcha they ain't even feed you in tha' place-"
"Mum said I had to go. Because I was the one they wanted," Finch said, lips twisting to the side.
"I could've gone," Spencer said.
"No, Gran would've killed you on sight," Thaddeus said. "You didn't get hurt any, did you?"
"I got word that Warren was taken out tonight," Vance said.
"Yes, there were some casualties on both sides, unfortunately," Finch sighed, scratching her arm absentmindedly. "More on theirs, though. But I got the baby out, and that's what matters."
"You're supposed to be resting," Vance said, taking up Finch's other side. "All this excitement, bad for your heart. And you've gone and fired your receptionist."
"Office coordinator," Thad said with his nose in the air.
"He was snogging someone in the actual store," Finch sulked, looking up at Vance with pleading eyes. "It was fair-"
"I told you I was hugging her for bein' upset over her baby," Thad said.
"Shouldn't matter who he snogs, does it?" Vance said, pursing his lips. "Besides, we snogged in Moriarty's more than once." He grinned.
"That's different," Finch said with a huff. "I'm trying to be a professional. I can't have employees snogging girls in the store. Any other boss would've let him go, too. It's common sense." She blushed, though, not wanting to admit how jealous she was anyway.
"We weren't snogging!" Thad repeated.
"He says they weren't snoggin'," Vance said, getting Finch to sit.
"Why are you sticking up for him?" Finch whined. "You're supposed to be on my side."
Feet thundered down the stairs, Brandon passing without even looking in the sitting room. "I heard that slag touch one of my pans- Oh my God you cannot feed that to a baby!"
"Wha' else am I s'posed to feed him?"
"Move over and get out of my way! You're ruining a frying pan that cost me a hundred fifty pounds!"
"Brandon!" Spencer said, heading into the kitchen. "Calm down. He's just come from being traumatized. Besides, I can replace a bloody frying pan."
"She cannot give that to a baby. It's burnt around the edges, he'll choke on it-"
Finch looked up at Vance, waiting for his response. "Well?"
"You- he-" Vance frowned. "His stuff's still at the bloody flat. Besides what if I had really been in Paris when I texted you. What if you'd been alone? Hm? You wouldn't have taken yourself to A&E or called your doctors."
Finch's teeth clicked together, clenched tight as she bit back the response of 'I wouldn't have been at the hospital, I'd've been shagging him'. After a few moments of her lips pressed tight, she said, "I don't like him."
Vance and Thaddeus looked at each other, before sighing and saying, "Yes, you do," in tandem.
"You so do!" Spencer shouted from the kitchen.
"No, you don't!" Brandon shouted with them.
Finch rolled her eyes, standing. "I'm not talking about this right now, with an audience."
"So let's go home, where you were meant to be," Vance said. "Not gallivanting off to do my job."
She huffed, pulling the purple wig off to let her red-gold hair tumble out. "Fine. Let's go. Besides, I bet Abby needs some time alone with the baby."
"Coming?" Vance asked over his shoulder. Thaddeus looked apprehensive, but nodded.
In the kitchen, Spencer was making faces at the baby. He'd always been the youngest, so seeing someone so tiny was rare for him. Liam especially seemed obsessed with his glasses. Little hands pulled the lenses off his face.
"Oi, oi, careful, little bugger," he laughed.
"Someone want to tell me how we ended up with a baby in the flat?" Bran asked, glaring at Abby while he cooked up something for the little one to eat.
"It's her son," Spencer said. "Well, nephew, but semantics. I don't like the Irish on our arses and asked for Mum to take care of things. And Finch did it, since apparently Mum still doesn't trust me for leg work."
"Arrrrrses," Liam repeated.
"Oi, watch the language around the little 'un," Abby said, petting Liam's little head. "We don' say tha' word, love. Alrigh'?"
"Are we keeping it?" Brandon asked.
"Of course, we're keeping it," Spencer said. "Why? Problem?"
Liam looked at Brandon with his big green eyes. He made grabbie hands at the shiny blond haired man. Brandon winced, but he scrunched his fingers back at the child. "Just seems risky. With all the things we get up to. And I do mean all of us."
"Finch is having a baby," Spencer huffed, running his fingers through the little boy's hair. He was so wiggly. "I bet this one is even paper trained."
"You're younger than Finch. Abby's a criminal, not a stay at home mum, and I'm dying," Brandon said, bending to scoop the kid into his arms. He nuzzled it's soft head. "What's your name, kid?"
"Lee-am," the boy said, grabbing straight for that hair. He petted it. "But-but and b'man. Shh. Mysery." He put his finger to his lips.
Abby giggled. "He's goin' to be awful at secrets."
"Liam. That's a good name," Brandon approved, rocking the kid with his head at an odd angle, continuing to stir the sizzling food. "This is weird."
Spencer was smiling though, a completely dopey-in-love look on his face. "I like it," he murmured. "He'll be in school in a few years." He wiggled his fingers at the boy who had stuck his face through Brandon's hair.
"Mama, who dis?" Liam asked, yawning.
"A moron," Abby muttered under her breath. "That's Brandon. He cooks food."
"I'm a chef, there's a difference," Brandon snarked back.
"Hungry," Liam mumbled, kind of dozing as Brandon's easy movements rocked him.
Spencer's eyes were practically twinkling as he looked at Abby. A cat-like grin was spread across his lips. "We'll need to get papers drawn up for him," he said softly.
"Yes please," Abby replied in an almost whisper. "I want 'im. Good an' proper."
"I bet you'll have him," Brandon said, passing the kid back to her so he could grab a little bowl for the warm porridge. "Here, feed him and go find a place for him to sleep."
"He can sleep in the bed tonight," Spencer said. "I'll have to get some of my contacts and our lawyer involved to make sure you have everything appropriate. You'll probably have to go meet with my lawyer tomorrow, sign everything, but I'll make sure it's ready." He leaned over to kiss Abby softly. "Goodnight, little man."
"Byebye," Liam said, opening his mouth for a bite of food.
"Am I to follow?" Bran asked, watching Spencer make to leave. "He's not the only one whose hungry."
"Let's give them a moment?" Spencer suggested, nodding his head.
"Yeah, yeah, alright," Brandon said, waiving good-bye to the kid before heading up the stairs again. "So," he called over his shoulder, "overnight father?"
"Pfft, you said it yourself, I'm too young for that," Spencer said. "You were good with him though. I'd never have known what to feed a kid that age."
"Food is food. You feed people, you need to know what people eat," Brandon brushed off, looking over his shoulder. "You alright with her having a kid? If you're not ready to be a dad, what's going to happen with her?"
"I dunno, figured we could make the downstairs room into theirs?" Spencer shrugged. "Just because we're shagging and involved doesn't mean she wants me to parent her kid. She's hardly going to have him call me 'dad'. Can you imagine?" he snorted.
Brandon turned back to look at him once they were in his room, eyes sharp. Deducing. "Yeah. I could see her wanting that for you."
Spencer laughed, nervous now. "Really?" he rubbed his hands over his arms. "No way. Me.. a dad?" He hadn't considered that liberating the kid might actually put him in position to - be a parent. He'd only thought of reuniting a mother and her son. But Liam wasn't technically her son. But he wasn't technically Spencer's either.
"You might want to tell her that before she goes getting any ideas," Brandon suggested. "Buying baby clothes- I peeked in the sitting room- helping her get him back. You look like you wouldn't mind so much. Don't get her hopes up just to hurt her, Spencer."
"I didn't- realize-" Spencer said. "Would you might helping the little mite eat so I can talk to her? I've no idea what she expects. Fucking hell- Bran, I might've become a dad."
Brandon rolled his eyes, and started back down the stairs. "IQ of a genius, can't figure out common sense."
Spencer's pulse was rising as he followed Brandon. His cousin didn't seem all that phased. Or opposed to the kid. At least outside of the obvious dangers. His palms were sweating when they made it back to the kitchen.
"Ah, Abby," he said. "Bran said he can help feed Liam. I think before I go talking to lawyers and whatnot, we should be clear on the specifics."
"Oi, Batman," Brandon cooed in a soft voice. "Come over here, and if you eat all of that, I'll tell you a story before bedtime."
Abby reluctantly relinquished hold of the small child to the blond man, following Spencer out into the living room. "Yeah, what?"
Spencer had to wrench his eyes away from the little freckled, mocha-baby next to the Ice Man.
"Well they seem fast friends," he said, coughing. "Well, for starter's you've got a couple of options. Depends on whether your sister was registered as birthing Liam in a hospital or not. Any idea?"
"I wasn't really around. All I know is she had him before she died," Abby said, sitting down on the couch, her face drawn tight. "I visited them a few times before she was killed. She didn't talk about any of the legalities."
"I can look into it then," Spencer said sitting next to her and covering one of her hands. "If he doesn't have registration, or even if he does, it's really up to you how you want him listed. I could get you papers, proper ones, to make him yours. Or as hers with you set up as legal guardian. A bit harder to do with -" unemployed, very young, single woman.
"He's mine. I want him," Abby said, squeezing his hand. She looked at him with dark eyes, assessing his every tone and pitch. She shook her head. "I ain't askin' you for anythin' else. He's mine, I can handle 'im. I understand that you're barely out of teen years. I ain't askin' for a dad for 'im."
"You sure?" Spencer asked softly. "I mean, I'm not asking you to leave, not at all, but the boy needs - people. A dad, a mum. Abby, I had two fathers, but I still missed my own mum like crazy. I'm not- I have no claim on the kid, but he's-" He looked back towards the kitchen, something tugging at his chest. "Spencer is an awfully hard name to say."
"Are you breaking up with us?" Abby asked, frowning.
"No!" Spencer said, head whipping around. "What if I was asking to.. be a.. dad.. for him?" His voice was stilted, uncertain.
"Spence, that's a big decision," Abby said, squeezing his hand again. She gave him a weirdly maternal smile. "It's not- It's not somethin' you come back from. Why don' we just take it one nigh' at a time?"
"Oh," Spencer said, disappointed. "If that's what you want-" he said. "I'll just- I'll take care of the papers. Have you got a last name for him? or will he take yours?"
"Spence, don't look like that," Abby said, moving to kiss him, fingers touching his shoulder, holding him close. "I didn't say no. I jus' said you should consider it more. You're so young."
"I'm not young as all that," Spencer said. "And I love you, and I'm certain of that. And between me and Bran we're at least forty." He laughed, trying not to feel so strangely upset.
"I don't want this to affect us, either. I mean, obviously, this will affect us. But- But I do love you," Abby said, kissing him again. "We'll be 'ere for a while yet. I'm jus' askin' for you to go slowly." She grinned. "I've go' a baby to look after. An' you gave 'im back to me."
Spencer nodded. "Okay," he said. "Should I stay with you downstairs or should I tell Bran he needs to share his bed for a bit? I know you want time with him. We'll get him somewhere proper to sleep." He ran his hand over his face laughing. "We've got a baby."
"Will you-" Abby blushed, heart beating fast. "Will you stay? I just- I know it's stupid, but I feel like she could come out an' snatch 'im back."
"He can sleep in the middle," Spencer whispered. "That way he won't roll off the bed."
A high pitched shrieking giggle came from the kitchen.
"It's weird. I wouldn't peg 'im as good with kids," Abby said, standing to return to the kitchen.
"He's quite possibly good with anyone..." when he's sober.
Liam had both hands on Brandon's cheeks as he sat on the table. "Banana!"
"I'm not a banana!" Brandon giggled, blowing raspberries at the child. "Bran-don."
"Bandonana," Liam squealed. "Mama!"
"Are you having fun?" Abby asked, taking him out of Brandon's arms. It seemed his little feet wouldn't hit the ground today, everyone was cuddling him so close. "I'm so tired, Liam. Will you lay down with Mama?"
"Mmm," Liam grunted. "Byebye, Bananadon."
Spencer tried not to burst into laughter. "Give him a bit of a wash up. I think there should be a set of pyjamas and overnight pants for him in those bags. I'll bring them in shortly, Mama."
"Bath! We've never done a bath," Abby said, taking the laughing little angel into the bathroom. "Splash splash!"
"Everything alright?" Bran asked, leaning back in his chair.
"Apparently I want to be a dad, Banandon," Spencer teased. "She wants me to think on it before making the decision. But I don't think there's not much to be made. Look at him. He's perfect."
"Good. That's good, I guess," Brandon said, giving Spencer an unfathomable look. "You'll be good for them, I think."
Spencer reached out to fix Brandon's child-tangled hair. "Don't leave me, Bran," he demanded softly. "Don't leave us."
Brandon opened his mouth to say something, but clicked it shut again, jaw flexing under thin skin. "Wasn't planning on it. Unless you were goin' to kick me out an use my room as a nursery."
Spencer sighed harshly. "I still haven't worked out how to do the sleeping arrangements yet," he said, leaning down to press his cheek to the top of Brandon's head. "Tonight he'll stay in the bed with me and her. After that, we'll work on it."
"Go, go, be with the little family," Brandon huffed. He leaned up to kiss Spencer. "I'm a wreck. I should get some sleep."
"Yeah, I'll take care of the dishes in the morning. Just leave them in the sink. I love you, Bran," Spencer said. "Go get some rest."
"Love you, too," Brandon whispered, wondering what rabbit hole he'd stepped into.
Spencer gave Brandon a few more loving kisses before heading back into the living room to pick out some pyjamas and things. He met a towel swaddled Liam and half damp Abby in the bedroom. The clothes were a little big on the tiny boy. but he was yawning and listing towards Abby's shoulder as they helped dress him. Spencer really did mean to go back out and get back to work, but pulling away from the sleeping boy and woman were hard.
Liam slept with his fingers in his mouth, and drooled a bit, but the way he clung his other hand in Abby's shirt reminded him quite a bit of his 'mother' indeed.
Spencer came home with several bags of fancy-store things in one hand, a cup in the other. He had on his leather gloves and a sleek peacoat.
"Sorry, love, lunch with Mum ran long, then errands, and I got caught up," he said.
"Oh," Abby startled herself out of her reverie. She stood and stretched, shaking out her hair. "Um, that's okay. Was just mullin' some things over. How's your mum?"
"Better. We've got a standing lunch date now," he said, handing her the cup. "Tea for you. New place. I had a pastry and coffee myself. I know, I know, not supposed to have it - but neither of us will tell my specialist."
"Mm, this is delicious," Abby hummed, sipping at the takeaway cup. There was something so comforting about a hot beverage with those crisp white lids. "At least you're eatin'. That makes me 'appy, so if you chea' a little, I'll never tell on you."
"Good. At least you're in a better mood. So now we can move onto.. presents!" he said, holding up the bags.
Abby's brow knit together. "An' why am I gettin' presents? It ain't my birthday."
"Somebody's somewhere," Spencer said, shooing her to the couch. "Besides, it's not so much presents as necessities." He sat the six bags across the table. Most had names scrawled across them in stuffy fonts. "Go on, open them."
She reached into the bags, unwrapping little clothes with careful, shaking fingers. After a moment, the realization dawned on her that he knew who she would put these little things on. Her lips parted. "You knew?"
"Only just found out," Spencer admitted. "I knew there was something more going on, but I didn't- well, if I'd known, I'd have done something a bit sooner. I spoke with Mum about it, then went shopping. Children need lots of things, and they grow so quickly."
Abby blinked rapidly, unsure of whether to feel relieved or angry. "You told your Mum? But- But why?"
"To get him out, of course," Spencer said, growing impatient and opening up one of the bags himself. "Look, tiny sunnies," he said with a half-grin. "I couldn't resist. I'm a whiz with computers, but storming the compound? I needed Mum's help for that sort of job. I'm not exactly practiced in legwork."
"Bu-But they'll- But I'm- I was- But-" Abby didn't even know what to say. She felt like she was drowning. "What if he gets hurt? What if something happens-"
Spencer set the things aside, pulling her close to kiss her temple. "Mum always comes through," he whispered against her hair. "Don't worry. You'll have your son back."
"He's my nephew," Abby said, even though she knew that the word 'son' was more appropriate. "My sister's child."
"Oh!" Spencer said. "Your- the one who's, erm, passed. That's why they have the boy." He nodded as though things were making sense. "I was a bit confused at your lack of stretch marks. Scars, you have, but someone as little as you wouldn't get away without a bit of- you know."
"He calls me mum an' all, I don't think he remembers Lizzy much. But yeah, he's her kid." Abby looked up at Spencer with shining eyes. "I di'n't, um, you know it's hard for me to trus' people. I jus', I mean, if anyone could get 'im back, I know it's your mum. I guess I'm tryin' to say thanks."
Spencer smiled. "Say thanks when we get him back," he said, holding her gently. Thinking, he began to frown. "You said your sister's son. He wouldn't belong to my sister's current stalker, would he?"
"No, he don't have that Chinese look to 'im. Probably someone she hooked up with while she was high. I'm jus' thankin' my lucky stars he didn't turn out to be crack addicted or somethin' like it," Abby replied, kissing his chest. He could say for all he wanted that he was a dangerous man, but she knew he was good, at least in some places.
"Yeah, could've been worse-"
Abby's phone buzzed.
[Downstairs. Let me in. -Thad]
Abby took out her phone, frowning at the text. "It's Thad. Alrigh' if I let 'im up?"
Spencer rolled his eyes. "I suppose if you must, but if Brandon comes downstairs, out he goes. He gets Brandon too riled," he said, leaning to give Abby another kiss. He unwrapped himself from her, leaning to play with the toddler sized sunglasses again.
Abby dodged down the steps, unlocking the front door for Thad. "It's alrigh', Spencer's taken care of things-"
"Not me," Thad said, his eyes red and puffed. "Ain't got nowhere to go. Been kicked out and fired. Emily and Paul turned me down. Katie wouldn't even answer her phone. Anyone else is too close to kin."
"She kicked you ou'?" Abby asked, moving aside to let him in. "I don' understand. I thought you were doin' so well. Spencer said she kissed you."
"And Scarface proposed and she said yes," Thad barked out. "She came to work and fired me. Said to get ou'. Don't matter how I feel none. Not important. I just need a place to kip for a week or so until I can find something other work. Sofa, floor, don't matter. I just need a roof over my head."
"I mean, it ain't my place. You got to ask Spencer," Abby replied, mood souring at his hard words. She led him upstairs. "Spence, your sister's gone off her nut and kicked Thad out."
"Oh for fuck's sake, really?" Spencer said. "And you just let her?"
"Yeah, boyfriend proposed," Thaddeus replied. "Got a rock the size of the moon on her finger. Not real nice to start an affair that sends her to hospital."
"You sent her into the hospital?" Spencer said, getting up from the coffee table.
"Not on purpose!" Thad said, raising his hands up.
"Shh, shh, shut up, or it will come downstairs and we'll all 'ave a figh'," Abby hissed, eyes glancing up at the ceiling. "Look, what did you do to get yourself kicked ou'? I mean, she can't blame you for the hospital."
"I kissed her, she kissed me," Thad shrugged. "She shows up to work and - shite. Saw you upset and thought we was shaggin'."
"Oh you are an idiot," Spencer said, crossing his arms. "My sister is jealous in the supreme."
"Really? Finch?" Abby asked, plopping down on the sofa with a wince. Her ribs were still smarting and were likely to for a while. "She always seems so sweet."
"Sweet with a sting," Spencer laughed, draping an arm around her. He pulled her in to kiss her hair again. "If you think I'm possessive-"
"But she said she didn't want-"
"Didn't want to be like our mum," Spencer interrupted. "My mother has had various affairs, one broken engagement, two marriages, two children, and lives with most of her exes and her husband. She thinks giving in to two loves means there's room for a third. And after a third, a fourth and who knows from there!" Spencer looked at Abby. "That's rubbish, of course."
Abby perked up and smiled at him. "Oh? I'm glad to hear it."
"Mum always had two," he whispered into her ear. "Dad and Father, Jim and Seb, Jack and Seb. Freya, well, they didn't start as lovers, but Aunt Free and Uncle Ford, she don't talk about, but I know, they've gone there."
"Ah, the little blonde one," Thaddeus grinned. "Your mother-?"
"Definitely shagging her," Spencer agreed.
"How did she have time to- you know, do what she did for a career, if she was so busy shaggin' all those people?" Abby asked. "I wonder what she'd've been capable of if she'd only 'ad one."
"Been insane," Spencer murmured. "She needed them. Like I need you and Bran."
Thaddeus made a gagging sound.
"Oi!" Spencer shot off. "Don't you start, beggar."
"When will we know?" Abby asked, changing the subject suddenly, squeezing Spencer's hand. "Abou' Liam, I mean? I could go an' 'elp your mum, if she wanted."
"No, she'll tell me," Spencer said. "She's got to mind the plan first. I told you, not my forte. Hence the favor."
"You're Mum's going after him?" Thaddeus asked.
"Of sorts," Spencer agreed.
Thaddeus picked up some of the clothes. "That's gonna make him look like a right chav," he snorted. "Abs, no way."
"Spencer picked 'em out. He'll look adorable," Abby said, fingering a tiny pair of skinny jeans. "Y'know. If 'e comes out alrigh'."
"He'll come out-" Spencer said as he heard the door open and close downstairs. "Oh hell, I haven't had so many visitors since Dad and Father were still working in the city."
"Spencer, Brandon?" Vance called upstairs. He wasn't entirely comfortable just letting himself in, but he did have keys.
"Upstairs, Vance," Spencer called.
Thaddeus bolted up out of his chair. "No, no, nope," he said, heading for the kitchen just as Vance made it through the landing.
"Where the hell've you been?" Vance said to Thaddeus. "And where's Finch?"
"Not here, mate," Spencer said. "Why, she not at work?"
"Of course not," Vance said. "Or home, or well- anywhere." He reached out to snag Thaddeus by the back of his leather jacket as he started to sneak behind the tall criminal. "Not so-fast, I may be half-blind but I ain't completely dumb. Why ain't you at home neither?"
"Because you're ruddy wifey kicked me out!"
"She did what?" Vance said, looking confused.
"Sca- Vance!" Abby shouted his name, standing up to step between them. "Finch sawr me askin' Thad a favor and lost 'er head at him. Thought we was kissin' or somethin' like. She kicked 'im out."
"Well, that's just ridiculous," Vance sputtered. "You're with Spencer."
"Yes, she is," Spencer said. "But my sister's an idiot."
"You know, I'm really tired of that implication," Finch said, stepping up the final step. Her tight black clothing outlined every curve of her body, her gun holstered on her wide hip. The child cuddled close in her arms. "I like to think I'm a little clever sometimes."
All eyes turned.
"Oh, hell, it's a baby," Spencer said, actually getting up from the sofa.
"Ababababa!" Liam started babbled, pulling his hand from his mouth to start wiggling on Finch's hip. "Mamammama."
"Oh, oh my God," Abby said, rushing to take the baby from Finch before he kicked her. She hugged him close. Her eyes were shining. "Oh, God, tell your Mum I said thank-"
"Mum didn't do it, I did," Finch told her with a shrug, crossing her arms over her chest. She rolled her eyes. "Well. I guess Mum helped a little."
Spencer stepped around to fold his sister into a hug. "Thank you, Finch," he said, hugging her tightly. "Thank you."
"You're welcome, Spencer," Finch said, rubbing his back. "It seemed important."
"It is," Abby agreed, rocking Liam. She poked his nose. "I missed you, Batman."
Liam giggled. "B'man," he said, pointing at Finch. "Mama, she's b'man," he whispered into her ear, too loudly.
Spencer barked a laugh. "Yes she is."
"Thank you, Finch, thank you," Abby repeated, kissing Liam's face. "I can never repay you."
Admist Liam's giggles, drawing a fascinated Spencer to the little one, Thad and Vance locked eyes before turning on Finch.
"Do you-"
"Have any idea-"
"Safety-"
"Months pregnant!"
"Could've been shot!"
"Or hit, or kicked!"
"Just out of hospital!"
The two men went back and forth on either side of Finch.
"And what were you thinking?"
"Forget that, she went up against my family! She could've been killed!"
"Oh yes, I don't like your gran at all," Finch said, biting her lip, giving Thad big eyes. "Your grandda is, unfortunately, deceased. Sorry."
"Good riddance," Thad said, going to cup Finch's cheek. "Are you alright?"
Finch frowned, like he'd asked a very stupid question. "Of course I'm alright. Why wouldn't I be alright?"
"Because you murdered someone?" Abby suggested.
"Mwuder?" Liam said. Spencer covered the boy's ears.
"I think best to take him to the kitchen for cocoa, yeah?" he said.
Abby nodded, taking the baby into the kitchen. "You want some cocoa? What abou' food? I betcha they ain't even feed you in tha' place-"
"Mum said I had to go. Because I was the one they wanted," Finch said, lips twisting to the side.
"I could've gone," Spencer said.
"No, Gran would've killed you on sight," Thaddeus said. "You didn't get hurt any, did you?"
"I got word that Warren was taken out tonight," Vance said.
"Yes, there were some casualties on both sides, unfortunately," Finch sighed, scratching her arm absentmindedly. "More on theirs, though. But I got the baby out, and that's what matters."
"You're supposed to be resting," Vance said, taking up Finch's other side. "All this excitement, bad for your heart. And you've gone and fired your receptionist."
"Office coordinator," Thad said with his nose in the air.
"He was snogging someone in the actual store," Finch sulked, looking up at Vance with pleading eyes. "It was fair-"
"I told you I was hugging her for bein' upset over her baby," Thad said.
"Shouldn't matter who he snogs, does it?" Vance said, pursing his lips. "Besides, we snogged in Moriarty's more than once." He grinned.
"That's different," Finch said with a huff. "I'm trying to be a professional. I can't have employees snogging girls in the store. Any other boss would've let him go, too. It's common sense." She blushed, though, not wanting to admit how jealous she was anyway.
"We weren't snogging!" Thad repeated.
"He says they weren't snoggin'," Vance said, getting Finch to sit.
"Why are you sticking up for him?" Finch whined. "You're supposed to be on my side."
Feet thundered down the stairs, Brandon passing without even looking in the sitting room. "I heard that slag touch one of my pans- Oh my God you cannot feed that to a baby!"
"Wha' else am I s'posed to feed him?"
"Move over and get out of my way! You're ruining a frying pan that cost me a hundred fifty pounds!"
"Brandon!" Spencer said, heading into the kitchen. "Calm down. He's just come from being traumatized. Besides, I can replace a bloody frying pan."
"She cannot give that to a baby. It's burnt around the edges, he'll choke on it-"
Finch looked up at Vance, waiting for his response. "Well?"
"You- he-" Vance frowned. "His stuff's still at the bloody flat. Besides what if I had really been in Paris when I texted you. What if you'd been alone? Hm? You wouldn't have taken yourself to A&E or called your doctors."
Finch's teeth clicked together, clenched tight as she bit back the response of 'I wouldn't have been at the hospital, I'd've been shagging him'. After a few moments of her lips pressed tight, she said, "I don't like him."
Vance and Thaddeus looked at each other, before sighing and saying, "Yes, you do," in tandem.
"You so do!" Spencer shouted from the kitchen.
"No, you don't!" Brandon shouted with them.
Finch rolled her eyes, standing. "I'm not talking about this right now, with an audience."
"So let's go home, where you were meant to be," Vance said. "Not gallivanting off to do my job."
She huffed, pulling the purple wig off to let her red-gold hair tumble out. "Fine. Let's go. Besides, I bet Abby needs some time alone with the baby."
"Coming?" Vance asked over his shoulder. Thaddeus looked apprehensive, but nodded.
In the kitchen, Spencer was making faces at the baby. He'd always been the youngest, so seeing someone so tiny was rare for him. Liam especially seemed obsessed with his glasses. Little hands pulled the lenses off his face.
"Oi, oi, careful, little bugger," he laughed.
"Someone want to tell me how we ended up with a baby in the flat?" Bran asked, glaring at Abby while he cooked up something for the little one to eat.
"It's her son," Spencer said. "Well, nephew, but semantics. I don't like the Irish on our arses and asked for Mum to take care of things. And Finch did it, since apparently Mum still doesn't trust me for leg work."
"Arrrrrses," Liam repeated.
"Oi, watch the language around the little 'un," Abby said, petting Liam's little head. "We don' say tha' word, love. Alrigh'?"
"Are we keeping it?" Brandon asked.
"Of course, we're keeping it," Spencer said. "Why? Problem?"
Liam looked at Brandon with his big green eyes. He made grabbie hands at the shiny blond haired man. Brandon winced, but he scrunched his fingers back at the child. "Just seems risky. With all the things we get up to. And I do mean all of us."
"Finch is having a baby," Spencer huffed, running his fingers through the little boy's hair. He was so wiggly. "I bet this one is even paper trained."
"You're younger than Finch. Abby's a criminal, not a stay at home mum, and I'm dying," Brandon said, bending to scoop the kid into his arms. He nuzzled it's soft head. "What's your name, kid?"
"Lee-am," the boy said, grabbing straight for that hair. He petted it. "But-but and b'man. Shh. Mysery." He put his finger to his lips.
Abby giggled. "He's goin' to be awful at secrets."
"Liam. That's a good name," Brandon approved, rocking the kid with his head at an odd angle, continuing to stir the sizzling food. "This is weird."
Spencer was smiling though, a completely dopey-in-love look on his face. "I like it," he murmured. "He'll be in school in a few years." He wiggled his fingers at the boy who had stuck his face through Brandon's hair.
"Mama, who dis?" Liam asked, yawning.
"A moron," Abby muttered under her breath. "That's Brandon. He cooks food."
"I'm a chef, there's a difference," Brandon snarked back.
"Hungry," Liam mumbled, kind of dozing as Brandon's easy movements rocked him.
Spencer's eyes were practically twinkling as he looked at Abby. A cat-like grin was spread across his lips. "We'll need to get papers drawn up for him," he said softly.
"Yes please," Abby replied in an almost whisper. "I want 'im. Good an' proper."
"I bet you'll have him," Brandon said, passing the kid back to her so he could grab a little bowl for the warm porridge. "Here, feed him and go find a place for him to sleep."
"He can sleep in the bed tonight," Spencer said. "I'll have to get some of my contacts and our lawyer involved to make sure you have everything appropriate. You'll probably have to go meet with my lawyer tomorrow, sign everything, but I'll make sure it's ready." He leaned over to kiss Abby softly. "Goodnight, little man."
"Byebye," Liam said, opening his mouth for a bite of food.
"Am I to follow?" Bran asked, watching Spencer make to leave. "He's not the only one whose hungry."
"Let's give them a moment?" Spencer suggested, nodding his head.
"Yeah, yeah, alright," Brandon said, waiving good-bye to the kid before heading up the stairs again. "So," he called over his shoulder, "overnight father?"
"Pfft, you said it yourself, I'm too young for that," Spencer said. "You were good with him though. I'd never have known what to feed a kid that age."
"Food is food. You feed people, you need to know what people eat," Brandon brushed off, looking over his shoulder. "You alright with her having a kid? If you're not ready to be a dad, what's going to happen with her?"
"I dunno, figured we could make the downstairs room into theirs?" Spencer shrugged. "Just because we're shagging and involved doesn't mean she wants me to parent her kid. She's hardly going to have him call me 'dad'. Can you imagine?" he snorted.
Brandon turned back to look at him once they were in his room, eyes sharp. Deducing. "Yeah. I could see her wanting that for you."
Spencer laughed, nervous now. "Really?" he rubbed his hands over his arms. "No way. Me.. a dad?" He hadn't considered that liberating the kid might actually put him in position to - be a parent. He'd only thought of reuniting a mother and her son. But Liam wasn't technically her son. But he wasn't technically Spencer's either.
"You might want to tell her that before she goes getting any ideas," Brandon suggested. "Buying baby clothes- I peeked in the sitting room- helping her get him back. You look like you wouldn't mind so much. Don't get her hopes up just to hurt her, Spencer."
"I didn't- realize-" Spencer said. "Would you might helping the little mite eat so I can talk to her? I've no idea what she expects. Fucking hell- Bran, I might've become a dad."
Brandon rolled his eyes, and started back down the stairs. "IQ of a genius, can't figure out common sense."
Spencer's pulse was rising as he followed Brandon. His cousin didn't seem all that phased. Or opposed to the kid. At least outside of the obvious dangers. His palms were sweating when they made it back to the kitchen.
"Ah, Abby," he said. "Bran said he can help feed Liam. I think before I go talking to lawyers and whatnot, we should be clear on the specifics."
"Oi, Batman," Brandon cooed in a soft voice. "Come over here, and if you eat all of that, I'll tell you a story before bedtime."
Abby reluctantly relinquished hold of the small child to the blond man, following Spencer out into the living room. "Yeah, what?"
Spencer had to wrench his eyes away from the little freckled, mocha-baby next to the Ice Man.
"Well they seem fast friends," he said, coughing. "Well, for starter's you've got a couple of options. Depends on whether your sister was registered as birthing Liam in a hospital or not. Any idea?"
"I wasn't really around. All I know is she had him before she died," Abby said, sitting down on the couch, her face drawn tight. "I visited them a few times before she was killed. She didn't talk about any of the legalities."
"I can look into it then," Spencer said sitting next to her and covering one of her hands. "If he doesn't have registration, or even if he does, it's really up to you how you want him listed. I could get you papers, proper ones, to make him yours. Or as hers with you set up as legal guardian. A bit harder to do with -" unemployed, very young, single woman.
"He's mine. I want him," Abby said, squeezing his hand. She looked at him with dark eyes, assessing his every tone and pitch. She shook her head. "I ain't askin' you for anythin' else. He's mine, I can handle 'im. I understand that you're barely out of teen years. I ain't askin' for a dad for 'im."
"You sure?" Spencer asked softly. "I mean, I'm not asking you to leave, not at all, but the boy needs - people. A dad, a mum. Abby, I had two fathers, but I still missed my own mum like crazy. I'm not- I have no claim on the kid, but he's-" He looked back towards the kitchen, something tugging at his chest. "Spencer is an awfully hard name to say."
"Are you breaking up with us?" Abby asked, frowning.
"No!" Spencer said, head whipping around. "What if I was asking to.. be a.. dad.. for him?" His voice was stilted, uncertain.
"Spence, that's a big decision," Abby said, squeezing his hand again. She gave him a weirdly maternal smile. "It's not- It's not somethin' you come back from. Why don' we just take it one nigh' at a time?"
"Oh," Spencer said, disappointed. "If that's what you want-" he said. "I'll just- I'll take care of the papers. Have you got a last name for him? or will he take yours?"
"Spence, don't look like that," Abby said, moving to kiss him, fingers touching his shoulder, holding him close. "I didn't say no. I jus' said you should consider it more. You're so young."
"I'm not young as all that," Spencer said. "And I love you, and I'm certain of that. And between me and Bran we're at least forty." He laughed, trying not to feel so strangely upset.
"I don't want this to affect us, either. I mean, obviously, this will affect us. But- But I do love you," Abby said, kissing him again. "We'll be 'ere for a while yet. I'm jus' askin' for you to go slowly." She grinned. "I've go' a baby to look after. An' you gave 'im back to me."
Spencer nodded. "Okay," he said. "Should I stay with you downstairs or should I tell Bran he needs to share his bed for a bit? I know you want time with him. We'll get him somewhere proper to sleep." He ran his hand over his face laughing. "We've got a baby."
"Will you-" Abby blushed, heart beating fast. "Will you stay? I just- I know it's stupid, but I feel like she could come out an' snatch 'im back."
"He can sleep in the middle," Spencer whispered. "That way he won't roll off the bed."
A high pitched shrieking giggle came from the kitchen.
"It's weird. I wouldn't peg 'im as good with kids," Abby said, standing to return to the kitchen.
"He's quite possibly good with anyone..." when he's sober.
Liam had both hands on Brandon's cheeks as he sat on the table. "Banana!"
"I'm not a banana!" Brandon giggled, blowing raspberries at the child. "Bran-don."
"Bandonana," Liam squealed. "Mama!"
"Are you having fun?" Abby asked, taking him out of Brandon's arms. It seemed his little feet wouldn't hit the ground today, everyone was cuddling him so close. "I'm so tired, Liam. Will you lay down with Mama?"
"Mmm," Liam grunted. "Byebye, Bananadon."
Spencer tried not to burst into laughter. "Give him a bit of a wash up. I think there should be a set of pyjamas and overnight pants for him in those bags. I'll bring them in shortly, Mama."
"Bath! We've never done a bath," Abby said, taking the laughing little angel into the bathroom. "Splash splash!"
"Everything alright?" Bran asked, leaning back in his chair.
"Apparently I want to be a dad, Banandon," Spencer teased. "She wants me to think on it before making the decision. But I don't think there's not much to be made. Look at him. He's perfect."
"Good. That's good, I guess," Brandon said, giving Spencer an unfathomable look. "You'll be good for them, I think."
Spencer reached out to fix Brandon's child-tangled hair. "Don't leave me, Bran," he demanded softly. "Don't leave us."
Brandon opened his mouth to say something, but clicked it shut again, jaw flexing under thin skin. "Wasn't planning on it. Unless you were goin' to kick me out an use my room as a nursery."
Spencer sighed harshly. "I still haven't worked out how to do the sleeping arrangements yet," he said, leaning down to press his cheek to the top of Brandon's head. "Tonight he'll stay in the bed with me and her. After that, we'll work on it."
"Go, go, be with the little family," Brandon huffed. He leaned up to kiss Spencer. "I'm a wreck. I should get some sleep."
"Yeah, I'll take care of the dishes in the morning. Just leave them in the sink. I love you, Bran," Spencer said. "Go get some rest."
"Love you, too," Brandon whispered, wondering what rabbit hole he'd stepped into.
Spencer gave Brandon a few more loving kisses before heading back into the living room to pick out some pyjamas and things. He met a towel swaddled Liam and half damp Abby in the bedroom. The clothes were a little big on the tiny boy. but he was yawning and listing towards Abby's shoulder as they helped dress him. Spencer really did mean to go back out and get back to work, but pulling away from the sleeping boy and woman were hard.
Liam slept with his fingers in his mouth, and drooled a bit, but the way he clung his other hand in Abby's shirt reminded him quite a bit of his 'mother' indeed.
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