Spencer

The sun was shining at its brightest, pretty much showing off that it was the ruler of the sky for the day. The clouds were barely there but stayed clear from the arrogant heat circle. Birds flew from tree to tree, probably cursing the fireball in the sky, just like Shaun Roberts was currently doing in his messed-up head. It was graduation day for the senior class and everyone and their nona were out in their Sunday best snapping pictures of their little baby's big day. He finished his school year online before everyone and had the option to make a clean break from the school and town but he chose not to. 

His friends were here.

Before the large class took their designated seats at the center of the circular designed ceremony venue, he spent time with the group talking excitedly about their plans. The majority of them were traveling while one or two were getting a jump on their adult life. Shaun's appearance caused a stir and gained him some stares. He made a game of it and counted the different types of stares. Disgusted and shocked won by a landslide, he knew it was Derek's success in gaining many sheep for his pasture. It didn't bother Shaun at all. He finished high school with great grades, three letters of recommendation from teachers if he ever needs them, and references from four influential names in the business sector. For a kid from a messed-up background, he gained a lot.

He was contented.

Presently sitting between two of Derek's followers, he ignored their too-loud conversations and played a mobile game with the boys as the valedictorian gave her speech. It was a tad bit disrespectful but if you can remember every word of it, you will too. This year's valedictorian was Ayanna Sampson. She has been practicing her speech countless times, tweaking it after each feedback, and gained some courage as she did so.

"I heard the gay gene shows itself when their father ditch them. Dude must have known his son would have turned out that way."

"Fuck that shit. I'm more worried about our photos. I'm gonna be stuck next to that fucking fairy. I asked to switch but they said no."

"Photoshop it before you post it on your page. My folks plan to do that when they heard who I was sitting next to."

"Brave of him to show up. Derek must be boiling mad to see the twink that fucked up his life to show up."

"I know right. He's lucky to even step into school. I heard the Winshall millionaire is his guardian now."

"No way! I guess it could be true. Elijah and his crew still talk to him. They must have begged their folks for help. It's not like he has any hope of leaving for college."

"Derek said he kept saying they will go to college together, spouting a bunch of delusional nonsense. Derek says to keep an eye on him because he's bipolar. A fag, delusional, and has bipolar he's better off locked up in the psych ward."

"When you want to aggravate someone, it's best to put more bullshit behind your words." Those words came from Shaun, and it silenced the barely whispered conversation over his head. A snort of laughter escaped him when they turned forward and acted nonchalant to what they were trying to do.
They stayed this way until it was time to receive their diplomas. Shaun cheered loudly along with the parents of his friends when they crossed the stage. Elijah wanted to show off his 'future wife' so he proclaimed it to everyone as he carried her in his arms across the stage. Harem and Mischa followed their cousin and curtsied with the help of their graduation gown. Raine simply bent her head to show her customized cap with Rick and Morty's iconic - Peace amongst worlds sign. Ayanna was distracted when she crossed the stage, searching in the crowds. The animated wave and giddiness on her face were proof that she found the person. Few people followed her gaze and found the blushing Callum holding a sign saying, 'Congratulations, baby'. He definitely caught the piercing stare of Ayanna's father. Trey and Alec crossed the stage together, ignoring the teachers' shout for order. Gowns unhooked revealed the expensive suit they wore underneath, when they collected their diplomas they gave the audience a gentlemanly bow with identical playful smirks on their faces. The females in their class screamed their appreciation but their eyes were on the blonde who was fanning herself wildly.  Kage's act meant a lot to his father and his football coach. Before the waiting audience, he placed his signature on a brand new football along with the date and his graduating class then threw it into the audience.
It was no secret that Kage Byrons was the only footballer to be personally chosen by Baylor University's head football coach and to receive guidance from two-star football players. He didn't need to play the homecoming games he was banned from, to receive those opportunities. The last student to receive a personal invite to a college was Jayden Hector and the whole town knew what happened next.
Parents and teachers alike cheered as loud as they can following the path of the ball as it was caught by a kid sitting with her parents. She received memorabilia that will cost thousands in the future.

Everyone crossed the stage their own way, cheers reached the sky, all were happy until his name was called.

"Shaun Roberts."

The tempo of the crowd staggered but not all the way. The family who took him in were on their feet cheering him on as he lazily crossed the stage with a confident grin on his face. Grabbing his diploma from his soccer coach, he scoffed at the man with a hardened face then faced the crowd. 

"Thank you for having me entertain y'all. It's been memorable. See you fuckers in five to ten years!"

Shocked gasps from parents and teachers, amused laughter from teenagers were Shaun's exit music off the stage. He didn't return to his seat, he circled the ceremony set up under the appraising stares and made his way at the front of the school. It was the group's meeting point for the next planned event for their graduation day. Sitting on the bench on the grassy lawn that overlooked the parking lot, he thought of the days of goofing off with friends in that same lot. Being greeted by people who now scorn him, ignoring his true friends for a quick fuck with Derek when he 'beckoned' him. Shaun scoffed and placed that last tidbit in the does not open category. Crossing that stage and saying his version of 'Fuck you', he felt the weight the town gossips placed on his shoulders were lifted. He was able to be in a calm state with his graduating class, not caring about their attitudes towards him and ready to leave this town behind.
It will be another two weeks for him to leave but he was excited. Bryan has been filling him in on what he does outside of his 9 - 5 job and the people I will be serving when I reach California.

It was all an eyeopener and not to be taken lightly. Bryan asked Shaun twice about his decision before allowing him to read the contract and other accompanying documents. 

Yes, the mafia was like a Fortune 500 company, crossing their T's and dotting their i's. He was of the age that society sees him as an adult. The documents he signed basically confirmed his decision in joining the underground empire and his new position as one of them. His life was now theirs in reference to protecting each other, serving them, and also ready to put himself at risk for the society he lived in. He chuckled thinking of what he signed up for. He was about to embark on a life-altering journey that protect the idiots who shunned him because of his sexuality. This was why Bryan asked him so many times. Shaun understood but he couldn't live with that mentality if he wish to make something of himself. 

"Hey!"

The sound of Elijah calling out to him then being ambushed by the girls reminded him of where he was present. "Daydreaming, Roberts," Mischa greeted him with a playful ruffling of his hair. 

"Something like that," he answered, trying to see beyond the colorful outfits and hair he was covered with. His hair was neatened as before, his gown was removed and he was currently being fussed over by the girls. One by one they asked questions in which he answered smoothly. He was used to this. If it's not this group, then it will be the older sisters out the aunts, they have been pampering him nonstop. Shaun didn't dare complain, he was advised by uncle Eli to simply let them have their way. Thanks to them, he had a healthy glow, eating well, and was back in a good mental state. 

"Oye! Girls! He's starving," Mischa called out.

"Oh, you're right. Let's go. Did you eat breakfast?" Ayanna asked over her shoulder as she scurried over to an amused Callum standing next to Kage.

"Yes, Katie made sure I did," he answered.

"Do you want to ride with us?" Raine asked when her parents made their way over.

"Ah, aunt Janine said I should ride with them. Bryan and Katie have to leave in a few."

"Oh, yeah. They should be back in two days for the pool party," Elijah commented, pulling him into a hug. "Proud of you, dude. Congratulations," he added. The others said the same in their own way as they made their way to the cars. Their words made his eyes sting but he held out, he knew his cheeks were red and didn't care. His friends were proud of him. He graduated with pride in his chest. 

*******

Two Weeks Later
California

Leaving Spencer with no regrets felt good. After a tearful goodbye to his friends as they all went their different ways at the airfield, Bryan and himself had a very informative flight to California. His knowledge of other people has never been so in-depth. He was also taught the way they communicate with each other, what to expect when he reaches the new location for this particular Delacourde son, and how he should now view the world, the past two weeks. Eyes will be on him and also protection will always be 24/7.

"What you said about not seeing the heads of families after a while is true?" Shaun asked after a lull in their conversation.

"Small town 'businesses' like Ace's and others we are like store employees of large franchises. We know who are the real bosses but never laid eyes on them. You may come in contact with them if they personally visit your sector or are in need of your resources. The job I received from the new head was like that. I first met Master Raizon and the heir, Lucifer three years ago after being at Ace's side for years. All you need to know are their names and position in the family. It's hand over time and that means the new generation is about to take over. Ace explained to me when I was old enough, each generation brings about change and the hold they have on contacts becomes stronger. Keep your head up and follow the rules. Training will be hard but it will be worth it."

"I feel like I'm about to start my first job."

Bryan laughed lowly at Shaun's statement, he understood how the kid felt. That comment took him back to his first raid with Ace. The old man wanted to scare him back to 'normal society but the satisfaction in cutting down those troublemakers and being dominant on the streets captured him for life. He learned about life, was taught how to protect the innocent, and found himself. He grew from that angry abused kid to a confident self-aware, loving husband. Shaun hasn't told him the reason why he agreed to his offer but he prayed that under the Delacourde's the kid can find his niche in life.
"It's something like that."

"So have you ever met this son?"

"Only over the phone so he's an enigma to me. Well, to everyone," Bryan explained.

"He's one of the twins right."

"Yes. Eros and Ares Delacourde are the second and third sons of Raizon and Arianna Delacourde. Identical twins and heirs also to the throne. Lucifer is the oldest and he willingly claimed the role as head of the empire, he's eighteen soon to be nineteen. There's a princess, Rejeanne the only girl to the French Mafia, her identity is now slowly being leaked to the outside world but it's nothing to worry about. She's heavily trained. About the twins. They are as different as night and day. Eros is as night, while Ares is the day. Eros is quiet, observant, logical, and meticulous. He's more of an audience member of the world's show than being involved boldly like his twin Ares. Word has been going around that he's a low-key tech genius. He created the latest secured system we all use to communicate and keep track of everything. His father was a whiz at computers, moving the mafia from the archaic way of things to a more modern era. Eros has his own accomplishments that society uses but he had it all place under the security company his godfather runs, Black Hawk. 
    Now he's stepping out on his own. He's not socially sound if you understand what I mean. His brothers and best friends usually protect him from the world and navigate him through social events but things are changing. He wants to learn how to be normal."

"In other words, the rich kid is becoming a regular kid?"

"Well, yeah. You will be living with him as he trains you in combat and weaponry. You will be teaching him how to simply be a teenager. These kids are far from normal. Do you think the Johnson brood are at a level unreachable to many?! These kids are beyond that."

Bryan became quite lost in thought causing Shaun to think of his soon-to-be roommate. From the four calls that Eros made to Bryan, he was there to witness them. They were precise, firm, and left no room for idle chatter. This kid had a grown man tense in seconds and ready to serve him in a flash. He wondered if they can get along.

"Listen closely as he speaks. His speech is direct but little things are left unsaid."

Touching down at the private airfield in Pasadena, a car flanked by two white G-Wagons drove towards the jet, stopping a few feet away from the lowered stairs. Shaun followed Bryan out and took note of the uniformed men moving in-sync as they approached them.

"Good morning, sir. You can follow us in the car to see the young master. The destination has already been programmed," one of the men said. Shaun mouthed the words, 'young master' and stepped from behind Bryan to take a look at the car closer. It was an Audi A6 Quattro, metallic green with the dealer plates still on. He glanced at Bryan's way, thinking, who in their right mind buys a car for someone visiting for a few days. 

"Thank you. I know he's on a tight schedule, our bags are packed so we can move."

At the mention of their bags, Shaun finally noticed one of the guards at the rear of the car shutting the trunk. He really needs to pay attention more. 
Entering the car upon Bryan's soft order, the new car smell reached his nose instantly. Pulling his seatbelt, he appreciatively took in the tan interior and the spaciousness. "You like it?" Bryan asked as they drove away from the jet.

"It's an Audi, Bryan. What's there not to like? If I had to get a perfect car it will be this after a secondhand one and savings being piled up."

"Good to know your thinking is clear but don't forget your studies while you're out here. The college isn't far from where you're staying as Eros stated. Don't overwork yourself, okay?"

"I won't," Shaun said in a reassuring tone. As he said that he remembered Katie's warning, he quickly grabbed his phone and texted her individually then every one of his safe arrival. Communication was on top of everyone's request from him. They didn't have to voice it, they were still worried that he may relapse into heavy depression. His move to California was like a balm to their worry-filled minds.

The drive towards the city wasn't long, the silence was companionable and the scenery was highly appreciated. Coming from a small town like Spencer with its rustic charm still intact, moving to this city was every country boy's dream. Pasadena is currently known as one of the expensive places to live in California. In reference to economic research, it is part of the  Los Angeles-Long Beach-Glendale Metro Division. All walks of life will pass through the city making it lively. The atmosphere screamed fun at a cost with its Victorian and art deco buildings with the splash of modern. Popular stores can be seen along with dining establishments with a unique flair. In the education aspect, they touched every possible area bringing younger generations each year. It will be a big adjustment for Shaun but he was excited to see what this new environment holds for him. 

Driving through the streets, he realized no attention was drawn to them like in Spencer whenever someone drives a car that costs more than their annual income. The three-car convoy drove smoothly through the streets blending in with other high classed cars. They made their way through the shopping and dining district to the business area that had a few eateries with Bryan pointing out places he visited on his last trip. It wasn't long before they turned into a commercial parking lot then entered a private six-car lot that was cordoned off by a security toll booth. 
"Did you take note of the drive and landmarks?" Bryan asked when they slowed down. 

"Yes." The G-Wagon in front of them was being checked thoroughly and the passengers' IDs were being scanned before being waved in. They were let in, then it was Bryan and Shaun's turn. 

"Welcome back, sir," the guard greeted when he came to the driver's door. 

"One passenger, Shaun Roberts."

"He is now on the list. Can I have his present form of identification, please?"

Shaun handed over his state ID and driver's license which were scanned in less than five seconds and returned. "All clear. Please park in position four and follow Bates who will be waiting for you at the back gate."

"Thank You."

Parking in the reserved spot, Shaun got out and took a quick look around, the commercial building was twelve floors high and overlooked the street and the other businesses around it. The building they were about to enter with their escort stood in the old Pasadena area. The brick building had a modern touch that still tied in with the historical factors of the vicinity. 
"This is the young master's new business. With his job in San Antonio wrapped up, he made this a second business venture. On the ground floor is the cafeteria, four different restaurants with food truck accessibility. Second, to fourth floors are young store owners with different business offers. Fifth to tenth are either law, doctor, or consultant offices, and the last two are the young master's. Those two floors are unavailable to the public. No one is allowed there unless invited, you are not to speak of what you encounter there." 
The escort, Bates, was speaking to Shaun indirectly by the tour as they made their way through each area. After visiting the stores and offices, they passed the eleventh floor and went to the twelfth. The elevator doors didn't open immediately even though the security key was inserted on the tenth floor. 
"Please look to the top right corner," an automated voice said. It startled Shaun but he obeyed.

"Confirmed. First sector, armored division Carmine Bates. Devil's Deck heir Bryan Winshall also known as Joker. New recruit Shaun Roberts. Please proceed."

The doors slid open to dark stained floors and deep blue painted walls, decorated with black and white photos of the world's technological advancement. Gold light fixtures and black modern flower vases added to the masculine office decor. 
Bates took the lead, pushing the handle of the dark tinted door and continue his escort through the open plan living area on either side. Light-colored sofas and coffee table were on one side and a well-designed kitchen and dining area on the other. Two men were in the living area, one on the game console and the other lazily on his laptop. They ignored the men as they approached the office with the enclosed frosted glass wall. 
Shaun was shell-shocked at what he saw so far and learned. He was standing in the office space of a teenager. His second business to be precise. He tried to rack his brains if he ever heard or read of any entrepreneurs under the age of eighteen and failed. They may be others but they may not be on this level.

 Entering the office he heard the firm greeting more like an order from the person behind the large desk. The soldier and Bryan were like a wall before him.
"Thank you, Bates. Return to San Antonio after your three-day rest."

"Yes, sir."

The room felt different from the outside making him nervous. When Bates made his departure, he took a step back out of reflex. Something was off with that kid seated in the large leather desk chair. Though he looked like a teen occupying his old man's office chair, dressed in faded jeans and an oversized hoodie, Shaun sensed danger from him. His head was down as he diligently signed the papers before him and making quick notes on his laptop.
Taking a quick look at Bryan, he was once again shocked by the man's docile behavior. Hands clasped behind his back, eyes forward, the man was now a submissive soldier and not a bloodthirsty gangster. 

"Take a seat."

"Yes, young master," Bryan answered and did as he was told. Shaun swallowed loudly and claimed the seat beside his guardian. He felt uneasy and wanted to tug at his t-shirt to do something with his nerve-wracked hands. What was this aura coming from this child? Is he really his new roommate? His new boss?

Silence followed for a few seconds, then shuffling of papers, his eyes were away from their host but something pulled them to the man. A sharp gasp sped up his throat but he stopped it, remembering his position in that office. Glassy light brown eyes accosted him, taking both his breath away and sending chills down his spine. Skin as fair as the sands of the Caribbean islands and smooth to look at, maybe touch. His hair was under a colorful beanie but brownish blonde curls peeked out showing how unruly they were. He made a slight movement of his head to the right, bringing attention to an intricate ear cuff and jewel stud on his left ear. He was model-worthy beautiful with a strong jaw and naturally plump lips but he was far from being under anyone's thumb. 

This was Eros Delacourde.

A dangerous male beauty.

"This will be new to me. Having a roommate besides my twin is new territory for me. I'm not intrusive nor social so you can be at ease. I will be starting a new high school here and you will be starting college, I think that will be a start to our symbiotic relationship. Though you will be training under me as a new soldier in my division I hope we can be friends. I do have other friends but just like me, they decide to see the world that we protect with their own eyes. You will have a starting monthly salary of six thousand dollars. Housing and other necessities are catered by myself, so you can focus on your studies and training. These are for you."

Lost in a daze after hearing what his new living will be like, Shaun reached for the clear folder that was pushed towards him. 

"Bryan, thank you for agreeing with this."

"Your brother was the one who placed the idea so it's all thanks to him."

"His older brother tendencies are showing," Eros grumbled. 

"Uhh... Ummmm... Young master?!" Shaun called out with his hands shaking slightly, his head still in the folder.

"You can call me Eros. What's wrong?"

"T-the car. The car we arrived in, is in my name. These documents..."

"Yes. It's yours. You will need a car for personal use, right?" he asked with a genuine confused expression.

"Oh God, "Bryan groaned.

Shaun looked at the teen, flabbergasted, and turned stiffly to Bryan. "Is this what they meant?" he asked hoarsely. The man next to him nodded stiffly and roughly passed his hand over his face in disbelief.

"Do you not like the car? I can have it changed. I'm not one to do shopping. Jhoel made a comment of the Audi being one of the favorites amongst older teens."

"Yes, it is. Trust me it is but this is too much. You don't know me yet you gifted me a car. That's not....."

"Then it's now yours, right?"

Danger coated those innocent words and corrupted the smile on Eros' face. Shaun stopped his flustered actions and responded with a firm yes then sank into his seat.

"Great. All that you need to know is in that folder. I'm sure you will want to see more of Pasadena with your guardian. You're dismissed."

"Yes, young master," they both replied firmly and took their leave. 

It wasn't until they were once again by the car when their breathing turned normal. "I think Master Raizon's bloodthirst is pooled heavily in the second son and not the first. If we didn't leave, I think Katie was going to collect my life insurance," Bryan commented as he slumped against the car. Shaun was staring at the car, shivering as the last few minutes came back to him. That was his roommate. What kind of kid was he? 

"I want to get rid of all possible shockers. Let's go check the apartment out then move on from there."

It took the remaining week for Shaun to get over the additional shock all courtesy of Eros Delacourde.

*******

A week has passed and he was now alone in a new city. Bryan left a day ago after he was confident in Shaun's independence. The nearest shopping area was remembered and registered in his GPS, he got settled into the lavish apartment and with Katie's help over the phone, he got himself a new wardrobe and a haircut. 
It was late in the afternoon after a morning filled with last-minute checks when he received a message on the new phone courtesy of his roommate. Another welcome gift, he saw it as.

'Be at Babba's in one hour.'

He didn't have to double-check the sender, he can literally hear the bold language from the person. He shook his head and replied with a simple 'okay'. The restaurant was a casual hangout for young patrons, serving different cuisines every week with one or two American dishes for those who liked stability. 
The hour went by quickly and it met him walking to the entrance of the venue. The wild laughter of guests, the bright lights streaming through the window painting the sidewalk, and the warm scents circulating the corner restaurant. He slowed his steps when a familiar aura reached him. Ahead of him, a group of people was leaving the place and two persons from the group were startled for some reason looking to their left. In that direction was Eros Delacourde leaning against the building, body rigid as he took in his surroundings with a sharp gaze. They gave him a wide berth, alerting their friends with their shoving but kept going. Shaun saw the teen in a different light. He re-read the history of the mafia family and somewhat understood the inherited protective instinct each generation had for society. Though their empire was built on bloodshed they turned it all around to have that twisted comfortable living. The kids were born with guns in their hands and to be wary of the world. For this teen to move from that to a carefree kid, it will be hard. 

"Hey."

Eros gave him a firm nod in response and led the way into the restaurant. Finding a two chair table was easy due to the large group of people at each turn of their heads. Five minutes later a harried waitress rushed to their table and rushed out the daily special. "Turkish bread, beef stew, chick pea salad and tandoori chicken for two. Two flavored waters for now and non-alcholic drinks of your choosing." 
Shaun didn't mind the orders because he was looking forward to trying something new. 
The two stayed in a good silence, the dangerous tension wasn't there but more of a sixt sense unease. His gaze wasn't focused but a thoughtful look was on his face.

"All good?"

A low grunt was his answer and the propping of his chin in his palm. He settled in his chair lazily and kept his focus on the teen.

"What's your definition of 'going with the flow'? My sister came to a conclusion of her now present happiness and inclusion into society was due to her 'going with the flow."

"Your sister?" Shaun probed.

"Lucifer's soon to be wife."

"Oh. I can't give you a profound answer to your question because I'm still learning to do so now. I'm on my own now. I have always been but ties has been cut. Pride ruled my life for a long time that I refused help from friends who wanted to help me. I learn how to simply let it go. Heck, you gave me a car, new devices and a safe apartment to live in without really knowing me and all you ask for in return is normal living. That came in the path I am now walking on and I accepted because it popped up. Later on I will find trials which I can't help but accept. It will be up to my decisions in handling them. That's going with the flow; tackling each trial or oppurtunity at hand and enjoying the in between. You find ways to deal with things before and after don't you? A lot of what if's and I will solutions?"

Eros nodded in response while his body relaxed second by second as Shaun spoke.

"That takes the fun out of things."

"Order and control are two things I understand and execute well. I've been told it portrays me as cold."

"More like dangerous," Shaun muttered.

"That too. You seem more at ease." The waitress returned with their flavoured water, finally taking in her guests. She accidentally spilled the water on Eros' hand and hastily cleaned the mess after locking eyes with him. Shaun raised an eyebrow at the girl's reaction then to him. He sighed and retrieved a thick rimmed glasses from his jeans and donned them. Surprisingly it made his sharp brown eyes soften, making him less intimidating.

"You're right, I chose to become part of this, I can't fear my boss/roommate."

A flash of a smile played on the younger man's lips for a few seconds before fading. That will be the first time for Shaun to witness such a thing and unknowingly many more.
Their food arrived as they spoke casually, silencing them by its aromatic scent. During the casual dinner, questions were shared back and forth, the answers teaching each other of their new friend's weaknesses and strengths. 

"One thing, I'm gay. Not bi-sexual or going through a phase, I'm gay."

Shaun paused in his eating, his jaw became slacker when he heard the news, well, statement and the stew in his spoon fell back into the bowl. He squinted his eyes probably trying to see that 'I'm definitely gay' sign above his head. Eros simply kept eating not saying anything else. Is it so easy to come out to people? What's his reason for declaring his sexuality? He's sixteen, does he understand..... no..... only yourself can understand your inner workings. You can't shut people down.

"Sorry, I'm trying to figure out why you informed me of this? Isn't that private matter? Aren't you afraid of the backlash?"

"Why should I care what people think of me? I understand my sexuality and currently comfortable with myself. Ninety percent of the people around us can't even make up their minds if they want to say yes or no, why should I let them have power over my actions."

"I... I'm sort of jealous that you have such courage," Shaun muttered.

"I was taught to be my own person by the most wonderful mother in existance." In that sentence, the love a child has for his mother shone through his eyes and demeanor.

"It seem like not every woman can be called mother."

Eros eyed him closely. The comfort that was developing between them was now replaced with menace. Something shifted in the teen and Shaun felt the change but decided to brush it off yet keep aware of his surroundings. Little do he know, it was because of him the young master's mood was now bleak. The bitterness was underlying in his previous words but he hid them with a smile. 

"I can dispose of them if you wish." His young boss held his gaze, the weight of his words didn't burden him at all, a laugh escaped him thinking how quick his roommate will kill for him.

"Not worth the energy."

He shrugged and went back to eating with gusto, talking random nonsense to chase away that momentary blood lust.

California will be very interesting in years to come.