Snoot Autism part 3

God. It just keeps going doesn't it?
The real question is if it's worth the effort
Guess we'll see!

Part 1: https://rentry.org/cbqhkotg
Part 2: https://rentry.org/ncaxd6f5
Part 4: https://rentry.org/9i3qsnps
Part 5: https://rentry.org/zyc7rbxc

Part 5B continued

Although he doesn't like the idea of leaving the house alone again, he doesn't see much of a choice in order to secure it. And perhaps while he's out getting some new locks, he can leave a message of his own for Donovian. Then again, perhaps Donovian has just made the kind of blunder the police might actually get involved with? It may be worth speaking to Father Xander about it.
As much as Wynn would like to handle things himself, he has enough sense to admit when things are spiraling out of his control. He returns to the church to speak with Father Xander. The aged ankylosaur has been a rather reliable source of wisdom for Wynn, give or take a few sermons. Plus, perhaps he can use that police contact he mentioned having to some use. He finds the priest sitting in his office leaning back in his chair and loudly snoozing. Wynn takes a nearby wooden crucifix and taps it loudly on the old saurian's desk like a gavel. Wynn has found this to be the most expedient way to awaken the Xander from one of his naps, as he learned when Minnie used it as a last resort before service one Sunday.
The loud clacking does its job as Father Xander bolts upright and blusters out a few questions of who what when and where. He becomes a little less flustered when he sees Wynn and asks what he can do for the man. Wynn takes a seat and tells Father Xander about what has just occurred, and that he was hoping the old priest could offer him some guidance or help. The saurian looks disturbed by the news at first, but then scowls darkly. He comments that he's had just about enough of this Donovian fellow, and that he will pass along the information to his friend in the VBPD. He then tells Wynn he should go get the locks changed on the house now and make sure Claudia and Malcolm are alright. They should be arriving home soon.
Wynn was hoping for something more than that, and asks if that's all the old priest has for him.

IF Attachment is >=2 and IF Honesty is >=2, Father Xander will say no and move to a small cupboard behind his desk where he will extract a cloth bag. He reaches into it and extracts Wynn's Magnum that the man thought he lost. Father Xander presents the weapon to Wynn, stating that he believes Wynn should have it back if he plans on defending those he cares about. As Wynn grasps it, Father Xander reiterates with emphasis, DEFEND, before relinquishing it completely. He passes the rest of the bag over as well, and Wynn can feel the heft of the ammunition for the magnum clatter around inside.

Father Xander says that they have to be patient, and be willing to bear a great deal of trouble ahead. His friend in the police will keep an eye out in case any sort of charges against Wynn or Claudia are filed. If any of them are false, then Donovian will be in some serious trouble. Beyond that, Wynn needs to be help Claudia and Malcolm weather the storm that Donovian seems to be preparing to drop on them. It will be be difficult, but Xander promises the whole of the parish will be there with him to provide comfort and shelter if needed. Not only that, the longer they all endure, the more likely an egomaniac like Donovian will be to overstep his bounds and expose himself.
Wynn isn't to thrilled with the answer, but as he hefts the gun in his hand he nods and thanks Father Xander, departing the office with a purposeful stride. After leaving, he spends what time he has left before the others return from school and work to purchase new locks and get some copies of the new key that goes with them.

Several hours later
Wynn has installed new locks on all the doors, and prepares for the difficult task of telling Claudia what is going on. No amount of rehearsing the words in his head seem to be enough to put him at ease however. And none of the ways he can think to say it sound at all comforting. So he sits on the living room couch and waits, glaring at the telephone and lost in thought. He hears Claudia's car arrive, and as she enters through the front door she greets him in a some what surprised manner. She immediately senses something has transpired going by the intense look on Wynn's face.
She asks if Wynn has gone to pick up Malcolm yet, but he responds there's some bad news they need to talk about first. A grim expression crosses her face as she puts down her personal items and takes a seat next to the man. She inquires what's wrong, and Wynn tells her that Donovian has made a move. Wynn extends a hand holding a freshly minted key to Claudia, and informs her of the events of the day.

IF Attachment is >=2 and Honest is >=2, Claudia is shaken by the story, but beneath that shock is anger. She's distraught that her home, the refuge where she and her son live and sleep, has been breached. Wynn taking steps to secure it, however meager, and telling her of his talk with Father Xander calm her somewhat. However, she gets up to pace around the room in order to process how violated she feels. She asks Wynn what are they going to do. Wynn says that as tempting as it would be to kill Donovian, it would not make Claudia or Malcolm's life easier. He says the only thing they can do now is to start recording every action he takes against them, so when the time comes they have everything they need to ruin his benevolent public image.
Wynn goes on to say that no matter what may happen, he'll be there next to her. She appreciates this sentiment and takes her seat beside him once more. She is not in a particular mood to snuggle, but when Wynn puts an arm around her to massage her shoulder, she does not push him away. She just lets out a heavy sigh and vents to Wynn on how tired she is of it all. Placing a hand over the one on her shoulder she give him a firm squeeze as she says that she'll be okay as long as Wynn sticks by her. He promises to do just that. Claudia gives his hand a quick kiss and tells him to join her in the car to go pick up Malcolm from Tiffany's. She doesn't want to be alone right now.
IF Attachment is >=2 and Honest is <=1, Claudia is terribly confused by the turn of events. She tries to keep her composure, but unfortunately the mask of control slips off and she is left in a state where tears run freely down her face. All she can do is apologize for the display as she attempts to regain some composure. Wynn clutches one of her hands and promises her that Donovian will not hurt either her or Malcolm. If he tries anything, he'll regret it. Claudia give Wynn a look like she doesn't believe him. Wynn gives her hand a reassuring squeeze, which seems to get a reaction out of her, even if it's just a placating smile. She looks away, and says that she'd settle if Wynn could just get him to leave her alone.
For a time the sit together while Claudia pushes her emotions back down and she regains control of herself. She tells Wynn that they should probably go and get Malcolm before it gets too dark. She adds to that by saying she very much wants him near one of them from now on. Wynn agrees as he helps her up off the couch. They both go to the car to collect Malcolm.
IF Attachment is <=1, when Wynn tells Claudia the situation, she immediately asks what he is going to do. Her voice is tinged with panic as she asks this and as she clutches onto the sleeve of his jacket. She goes on to ask if Malcolm is okay, and is about on the cusp of a bout of hysterics before Wynn places a hand on her shoulder and calms her down. He explains that Donovian causing problems again was inevitable, and that he does have a plan for dealing with him. One that will keep her and Malcolm safe. He just needs some time to make sure everything is in place. Until then, Malcolm and her just need to keep their heads down and let him worry about all the details.
This appears to work to calm Claudia down as she takes several deep breaths and releases his arm. Wynn says that he will go get Malcolm for her and that he'll be back soon. In the meantime, she should find something to calm herself down so she doesn't worry Malcolm. She agrees to this and goes to the kitchen to prepare some soothing tea. Wynn meanwhile makes his way to Tiffany's to collect Malcolm.

Arriving back home with Malcolm, the three of them sit down around the living room. Claudia clutches Malcolm close to her and motions for Wynn to try to explain things to the boy. While it was a simple matter of stating facts to Claudia, it is more difficult when putting things in terms Malcolm will understand. He doesn't really know how best to explain it to what extent.

Wynn sits down next to Malcolm and Claudia, and resolves to be upfront with the boy. Wynn has spent enough time with him to know that even if he's only 5 years old, he can understand some pretty serious stuff. The boy can more or less understand the plot of Kingdom Souls after all. He should be able to conceptualize a deranged maniac is going to be harassing him and his mother for sociopathic reasons.

IF Attachment is >=2, Wynn speaks softly to Malcolm, starting out by warning Malcolm that what he has to say is scary, but not to be afraid. He and his mother are both here. Then, in his own stilted way of speaking, Wynn explains that the bad man he met at the fair is back, and will be trying to hurt them all. Not physically, Wynn hopes, but by trying to bully and intimidate them all. He tells Malcolm he will have to be careful from now on, because that bad man may come after him in order to hurt his mother, or Wynn. Wynn also tells Malcolm that none of them are alone in this. Father Xander and all their friends are there to help too. So it may be scary, but it is not hopeless.
IF Attachment is <=1, Wynn speaks robotically to Malcolm, and warns the boy that they are all under threat. He states matter of factly that Malcolm will have to take precautions while at school, and to keep his eyes open because he could be targeted by the Director of the Hospital. He will need to stay close to his mother or Wynn when possible, as the both of them will do what they can to keep him safe. Wynn in particular promises to take care of both Malcolm and Claudia.

Malcolm's reaction is a muted one. At first, at least. He looks away from Wynn as the man speaks, but as he explains how Malcolm may be used to hurt his mother, tears start to well up in the boy's eyes. Eventually, he asks Wynn, "Why? What'd they ever do to him?" An all too familiar question that Wynn does not really want to answer without Claudia's express approval. He looks to her for some guidance on what to tell Malcolm. The parasaur woman clutches her son tighter and takes a moment to gather her thoughts. Malcolm continually asks her what's the matter and why the bad man wants to bully them as she tries to find the words. Regrettably, she either cannot find the words or bear to tell him, and so looks to Wynn to choose.

HONESTY CHOICE 5
Tell Malcolm that Donovian is his father (+1)

Wynn breathes heavily and answers Malcolm's question. He tells the boy Donovian, the bad man, is Malcolm's father. He says that the reason why his father is harassing his mother is because Donovian did not want Malcolm, but Claudia did.

IF Attachment is >=2, Malcolm does not take this news well. He bursts into tears insisting that it Wynn is lying because dads don't do that. When he turns to his mother to look for some confirmation of the statement, he finds only her tearful and apologetic face. Thus does the bawling begin in earnest. Through the crying, Malcolm continues to assert that Donovian can't be his father, but as it goes on the statement shifts to he doesn't WANT him as his father. Not long after he starts saying this, his small arms reach out for Wynn and declares he wants him as his dad. HE'S his dad. At this juncture, Claudia takes a long look into Wynn's eyes. A crossroads in their relationship has been reached.
And Wynn chooses to cross it. Reaching out to the parasaur boy, Wynn scoops him up and pulls him into a deep hug and lets him continue his weeping into his shoulder. Claudia does not immediately join the embrace. She instead looks at the two of them and soaks in the scene playing out before her. The expression on her face says all there is to say. She is overwhelmed with joy with what she's seeing, but the raw emotion of it all will not permit the tears to stop flowing. Eventually, she too joins the hug, and the two parasaurs let their emotions pour out for a long time. Wynn alone holds back a cascade of tears, due only to whatever circumstances had so thoroughly buried such sentimental acts within him. But on the inside, he felt only rapture.
For a time, the three of them held onto one another until at last the tears ceased to fall, and they had all become exhausted from the outpouring of emotion. In the quiet after the heartfelt moment, Malcolm asks his mother if they can eat something. This gets her laughing, and even a slight smirk out of Wynn as they finally break the hug and move to the kitchen. Malcolm remains clinging to Wynn until at last dinner is served (a simple meal of microwaved ramen noodles). Afterwards, the boy is put to bed by Wynn and Claudia both, and it is not long before he drifts to sleep.
It has been a long day for Wynn and he wants nothing more than to climb into his own bed and fall into unconsciousness. However he is prevented from doing so by a tugging at his arm and something coiling around his leg. Claudia pulls him into her room and tells him that she doesn't want to sleep alone tonight. Despite the implications that run through Wynn's mind, he is not in store for a night of passion. While she does draw the man into a deep kiss, and her hands do a bit more exploration than the did previously, she was being honest about just wanting to not sleep alone.
They share her bed for the night, in what some may say is a disappointingly chaste manner. Wynn is over the moon however. Having Claudia wrap her arms around him and nestle into his side in a soft, warm, nice smelling bed is more than enough for him to drift into a deep slumber.
IF Attachment is <=1 Much the same will occur as above, except that when Malcolm turns away from Wynn, he does not turn back. He instead buries his face in his mother's chest, continually denying what he has been told. Claudia attempts to calm him, saying everything is alright, and repeating Wynn will take care of them. Wynn silently watches on for a time, eventually deciding to take the same approach as he did with Claudia earlier. His tone is even and calm as he talks to the boy. He reassures Malcolm that it does not matter that Donovian is his father, because if he turned his back on Malcolm and Claudia, he loses all claim to them. Again, Wynn states that he won't abandon them. He will be there. He promises.
Malcolm calms down a little as Wynn speaks these words. The man takes this as a sign his tactic is working and continues. He e states that Donovian will not trouble them for much longer, as he will take care of the director, but he needs Malcolm to be strong because Wynn has a job for him. This gets the parasaur boy's attention. Wynn explains that Malcolm's job is to keep his mother happy, and to do that, he needs to not cry or let anything bother him. Malcolm asks, "Like you?" To which Wynn nods the affirmative. He tells the boy to take all the sadness and anger and uncertainty and get rid of them. Life is nothing more than tasks that need to get done. This is a big one, but it will get taken care of.
This seems to have been the right tactic to use, as the boy stops crying in full, reducing the stream down to a few intermittent sniffles. Eventually he says Okay. Claudia's relief is palpable as things calm down. Snoodling Malcolm, she suggests making some dinner for them all. Malcolm and agrees and Wynn just nods. After a basic, but filling, meal of potato soup and bread, the two parasaurs feel the call of their beds beckoning them. Claudia asks if Malcolm would like it if she spends the night with him, to which he replies yes. She carries her son to her room and they settling in together, Claudia herself clutching onto the small boy like he's a stuffed animal.
As the boy begins to drift, he asks Wynn one last question. He asks Wynn if it doesn't matter who his dad is, could Wynn be his? Wynn stares at the boy and replies, "If you wish." This seems to satisfy the boy, who closes his eyes and falls into sleep soon after cradled in the arms of his mother. Wynn returns to his own room and sits on the edge of his bed. He considers the situation well handled, but once again turns his thoughts to the tasks ahead of him. That's all people like Donovian, Dierdra, and Alphonse are ultimately. Tasks that need to be taken care of. He repeats this sentiment to himself as he lays down and slips into unconsciousness.

It doesn't matter who his father really is

Wynn looks at the two parasaurs, and decides that the less Malcolm knows about Donovian's motives, the better. Knowing that he's related to such vile individual that has caused his mother so much grief would only distract from what needs to be done. So Wynn clears his throat and does his best to explain to Malcolm why they are being targeted, without explaining the familial connection.

IF Attachment is >=2, Wynn tells Malcolm that five years ago, the boy's mother was training to become a nurse at the hospital and had Donovian as a boss. At first Donovian was very nice, but he was just hiding the fact of how bad he really was. Wynn stumbles throughout the next part somewhat as he tries to sugar coat the explanation. The man says that Donovian is the kind of bad guy that likes bossing other people around, and when he saw that Malcolm's mother was pregnant with him, Donovian told her to get rid of the baby, just because he didn't want Claudia to have him.
Wynn glances at Claudia on occasion to see if his somewhat sanitized explanation is being well received. She doesn't seem to be objecting, so Wynn continues. He says to Malcolm that his mother said no, and that is why Donovian is so mad, because Malcolm's mom wouldn't let him bully her into getting rid of him. Wynn studies the boy's face to gauge how he's handling the story. The man did put it in simpler terms than he might have needed to, but he wagers that the 5 year old may not be able to handle the unfiltered truth of the situation.
Malcolm does look to be somewhat misty eyed, but as he digests the words he just looks like he gets mad. This may be the 5 year old boy's first experience with contempt at another person, and he seems to be be having difficulty trying to come up with an idea of how to express this new emotion. Inevitably, his introduction to righteous fury leaves him speechless, so the hug he had on his mother is reinforced as he buries his face into the crook of her neck and holds her tightly. Though muffled, Claudia can clearly hear him saying that he loves her and to not be sad. He and Wynn will stop the bad guy.
This declaration is too much for Claudia. She replies that she knows and reaches a hand out to Wynn as her eyes fill with emotion and tears begin to flow. Not long after, Malcolm pushes himself up a bit out of the hug and looks at Wynn. He sees Claudia and him holding hands and after a moment of contemplation asks the man, possibly for the second time but far more seriously, whether Wynn is his dad. The man is stunned by the question and looks to Claudia for help. She hesitates, attempting to speak but her words are lost in emotion of the moment. So Wynn decides that what Malcolm needs right now, what the both need really, is someone to step into the role. And it is a role that Wynn wants to occupy.
So Wynn tells Malcolm, Yes, he is his father. The statement leaves the room silent as the words are processed by the two parasaurs. Claudia's expression shifts between what could be generously described as flustered, stupefied, and horrified. Malcolm's expression is slower to change if this is a question he asked before. If so, he asks, sounding hurt, why Wynn didn't say so before. The man must once again lie to the boy, and he says that because he was gone for a long time and didn't know if Malcolm would be angry with him, but things are serious now so he has to tell the boy. Malcolm does get a bit introspective, for a toddler anyway, but turns to look into the flabbergasted face of his mother and asks her if that's true.
She hesitates, but as the moments drag on she locks eyes with Wynn. He has put the decision back in her hands, and judging by the pleading look in his eyes, he is doing this because he wants the role. She composes herself and then tells Malcolm, yes. Wynn is his real father. He was gone for so long, she wanted Malcolm to get to know him before revealing it, and considering how hurt Wynn was when they met at the start of the year, she also didn't want Malcolm to worry.
Malcolm is a little upset, but it passes quickly as his face breaks into a bright smile and he states simply, "I knew it." This gets Claudia to laugh and Wynn to crack a smile. Claudia breathes out a lot of tension and declares they should have something nice for dinner to celebrate. Malcolm is passed over into Wynn's arm, which results in a big hug between the two, with Malcolm asking his "dad" dozens of questions about himself, each one being answered by a brief and well meaning lie. Each lie is made quickly, but Wynn is able to craft a stable enough explanation for his absence from Malcolm and Claudia's life, and why it was secret. Wynn says he's actually a soldier, hence the "Private" title, that was on a classified mission.
Eventually Wynn is spared from telling more lies by Claudia calling them for dinner, a nice plate of spaghetti with some hastily homemade garlic bread. Over dinner, Malcolm repeats the lies Wynn told him about his history to his mother, to which she hesitantly nods her head and confirms. On occasion she shoots Wynn a look of concern, but otherwise keeps up her happy demeanor. After dinner Malcolm wants to stay up all night to talk to his "dad" and how together they'll put a stop to the bad guy that's bullying Claudia. Wynn reaffirms this. For another hour or so Malcolm has Wynn locked in yet more questions which the man answers with yet more lies and half truths. Eventually the boy exhausts himself. Wynn and Claudia take him to bed.
After the two of them are away from the door, Claudia grabs Wynn by the arm and asks him what the hell is he thinking, and whether he understands what he's doing. The man apologizes to her for lying to Malcolm like that, and for putting her on the spot. He admits to her that he told the boy what he needed to hear, and that Wynn, on some level, wants the role. Looking to Claudia, he asks if she can forgive him. She isn't mad, which surprises him, but contemplative and a tad bashful. She returns his gaze and confesses that for a while now she has wanted Malcolm to have a man that would be a father to him and a good husband to her, though she adds that last part rather sheepishly.
Seeing Wynn perk up at the mention of husband she tells the man that for what it's worth, things have been working out so far, so if he can help her and Malcolm get out of this mess with Donovian maybe she would agree to make that role of father and husband more official. She smiles at that and plants a kiss on Wynn's lips before releasing his arm. She leaves him in the hallway and tells him she'll handle telling Minnie and her social circle at church, if he can find someway to explain things to Tiffany. Wynn confirms the order, and turns to walk into his room before hearing Claudia beckon him. She says, jokingly, that maybe now that the cat is out of the bag, they can share a bed. Wynn freezes and waits to see if she's actually joking.
She laughs a little and says that maybe they can do that later. She doesn't think either of them would be able to get any sleep tonight otherwise. With a final goodnight she enters her room and shuts the door. Wynn goes into his room and sits awake. The idea of being a father and husband sounding more and more appealing by the second, until at last he closes his tired eyes and falls into a deep sleep.
IF Attachment is <=1, Wynn explains the facts of the situation coldly and in a calculated fashion. He explains Donovian as a deranged individual that has decided to target Malcolm and his mother because he enjoys picking on those weaker than him. Claudia was the one person to defy him, so now he has made it his mission to destroy her and Malcolm for it. Wynn assures the boy that Donovian will be dealt with. However, Malcolm needs to be wary of the director's tricks, as he is in danger now.
Malcolm accepts the explanation without much fuss, asking what they'll do to stop the bad guy. Wynn once again reassures him that in time, he will take care of Donovian. For now, the boy just needs to be careful and keep close to his mother or Wynn. When asked if he understands, it takes a few moments for Malcolm to comprehend what's been said, but he does nod. At which point Wynn claps his hands together and stands up, saying that is good. As such, he will prepare dinner while Claudia and Malcolm relax.
The conversation turned out to be shorter than anticipated, giving Wynn plenty of time to prepare a rather robust meal for the three of them. Fruits and veggies mixed together in a salad, sweet potatoes, and some nice bread. It's not long before he calls the other two in, and in obedient fashion Claudia enters carrying Malcolm. The three sit down and the meal passes in silence. Afterwards, Wynn says he shall clean up, but the other two should entertain themselves before bed. Again, the two comply. The parasaur woman moving almost robotically as she escorts Malcolm out of the kitchen. The speed at which she obeys Wynn's instructions is not lost on the boy.
As Wynn finishes clearing the table and exiting the kitchen, he overhears Malcolm telling her that she's acting strange. Wynn hangs back a bit in order to listen to more. Claudia asks the boy what he means, and he explains to her that she's letting Wynn just tell her what to do. She explains to her son that she just needed a break and that she's letting Wynn take care of things for a bit. Like how sometimes teams change captains, or how mommies and daddies sometimes switch jobs. This meets with some skepticism from the 5 year old, who asks if Wynn is like his dad now.
She thinks for a moment before saying that Malcolm should treat Wynn like his dad, and listen to what he says. Wynn has promised to take care of things for them after all. Malcolm has his own moment of thought before agreeing to the concept. Wynn then chooses to enter and pretend he did not hear the conversation as he sits down to watch whatever show they've selected for the evening. After it ends, Claudia takes Malcolm to bed, and then the other two bid each other goodnight and enter their rooms. Wynn does not waste much time and falls to sleep almost immediately.

IF Honesty = 5, Wynn dreams once more. The White Space, the cold, the looming shadowy figures, they all blur past his eyes. It's just a flash before he exists in a dark place. Still cold, but he feels cramped. Confined. Hungry. There are other things beyond the confinement that his dream self knows are there, but they do not appear. But they are things like him. Trapped. As overwhelming sense of claustrophobia consumes his mind, he awakens, breathing heavily.
IF he spent the night with Claudia, her arms are still wrapped around him and her snout rests comfortably on his shoulder. She stirs, but does not awaken, a fact that is a great relief to Wynn. He does not understand these dreams or why they occurring now. He does know they are not just nightmare. They are memories from before his current memories began. A history that he presumed was forgotten.
Taking several calming breaths he rests his eyes once more and focuses on the weight of the parasaur woman that sleeps next to him. It's a soothing feeling for him, and he thinks that perhaps this ease he feels around her may be encouraging these memories to bubble to the surface. Before long, his thoughts grow hazy and he falls once more into sleep.

Right. So bit of a writer's note here, but I think in the final version of this whole story, these dream sequences will be put into the bonus chapter section. I mean maybe. They kind of stand out a little and don't know if they add much to the story beyond letting you know you got the right Honesty choice and shedding light on Wynn's deleted history. The relevance of it is the question.
Anyway, that's it for part 5 I think. Neat.

Part 6B - Donovian steps up his harassment campaign. Tiffany and Minnie get some scenes and react to Claudia and Wynn's relationship. Wynn finally meets the Detectives

Two Weeks Later
One week into April. Winter has given way to Spring, and the heat is slowly rising.
In more ways than one. The cold war of harassment that Donovian has waging against Claudia has heated up in tandem with the weather. Junk mail and spam calls were the start of it. Donovian apparently used Wynn's own false identity and Claudia's address and phone number to sign Wynn up to many websites, mailing lists, and scams as possible. If he was attempting to ruin Wynn by attempting to manufacture some kind of identity theft, he must have been initially quite disappointed that there was nothing there to ruin. Pvt. Wynn Doe didn't actually exists, so there were no bank accounts, medical history, or any real information to steal.
Fortunately it seems this has limited to what Donovian can use Wynn's fabricated identity for to things that only require a name, address, and e-mail. The last of those things the director would need to provide himself. Without a Social Security Number, Donovian can't even sign Wynn up for credit cards to overcharge and leave with debt. Claudia herself was spared from most of the onslaught by lacking a few modern conveniences like a cell phone and home computer, meaning any digital harassment she would be facing never reaches her. Donovian does have access to her medical records however, but if he has dared to tamper with them it has not yet been made manifest.
Wynn questioned Claudia about this, and although she is worried he might alter her records, he'd have to be very careful messing with them or else he'd have to face off against the hospital's own and the insurance companies they work with's legal teams. He could, technically alter her record to declare her mentally unstable and prescribe her whatever pills he wants, but that sort of thing could be challenged in court. If he hasn't done that yet, then he probably isn't sure he can win, get away with a false accusation, or deemed it not worth the expense to try. Not yet anyway.
Malcolm is at greater risk however. Several phone calls have been made to the school demanding Malcolm be expelled for one reason or another. His threatening calls resulted in Wynn and Claudia being called in to confront quite a few baseless accusations concerning Malcolm's home life. Apparently Donovian was attempting to spread vile rumors about Claudia being an unfit mother and Wynn being some sort of abuser. Fortunately, the staff had interacted with Wynn and Claudia personally enough times, on and off of school grounds, to not need much convincing to disregard these rumors as just that. The next time the school received such a call, they threatened legal action which seems to have put an end to the calls. For the time being anyway.
In fact, in most cases, the threat of any sort of police involvement or legal action by someone other than Claudia or Wynn seems to cause the Director to back down almost immediately. He apparently doesn't feel confident in going to court, least of all because he'd actual have to step into the light to make the accusation. He has apparently gotten too used to picking on Claudia, who didn't defend herself, so he had no idea what to do when someone actually threatens him with reprisal. It was very heartening for not only Wynn, but also Claudia, to witness him be so thoroughly hindered.
Donovian has fortunately also had difficulties targeting Claudia at work. There were sudden and inexplicable low reviews and an uptick in visits from the health inspector. However, Minnie was not only aware of what was going on, but the majority of her customer base are customers she sees every day, so they didn't care about what some online reviews said. Not only that, she runs her kitchen competently, so the health inspector found very little to complain about. After the third anonymous complaint and visit, the inspector caught on that someone was targeting the Minnie's Diner with false accusations, and according to gossip, made a few complaints of their own and soon after the visits ended.
As for what Wynn has been doing in response to these attempts to sabotage his, Claudia, and Malcolm's lives, he has been generally on damage control and general guard duty. Whether it be driving Malcolm to and from school, checking in on Claudia at work, sorting through and disposing of the junk mail, or simply screening what calls come in, Wynn has become a certifiable bulwark against anything or anyone that wants to get close to Claudia or Malcolm.

IF Attachment >=4 and Honesty >=4, the combined efforts of Wynn, Claudia and the strength of their community has resulted in Donovian's attempts to be largely ineffectual. While their life is somewhat more annoying from the director's attempts ruin their lives, life continues much as it previously had. The biggest difference is in Claudia. Whatever fear she had of Donovian has apparently evaporated and been replaced by a much more powerful sense of self assurance. Ever since the night Wynn was all but adopted by her and Malcolm into their family, Wynn has been noticing that she's been full of energy and looking forward to confronting the new challenges that have entered her life. It's like she's a woman reborn.
She no longer recoils or flinches at the phone, nor does she shy away from speaking about taking a more proactive approach against Donovian. Wynn does wonder if it is because of seeing the director fail against actual resistance to his harassment, or if it was Wynn's presence beside her through all this and shouldering some of the burden that has given her this confidence. Wynn does not deny seeing someone fail in making the lives of his loved ones worse is a good moral boost, but he is also fond of the rather poetic notion that Claudia loving the wrong man caused her such grief, and that loving the right man had freed her of that grief. Being in love with Claudia being another notion Wynn does not deny.
The deepening relationship between the two has left Wynn rather happy these last two weeks. Since that night where Malcolm chose him as his father, Claudia and Wynn have shared her bedroom. Although more chaste than one might expect, it has still been quite a nice experience for Wynn. Nothing terribly erotic has occurred, but she has been very affectionate and not at all shy about good morning kisses or snuggling close to wish him good night. There is still a line she pulls back from though. She still carries the scars from Donovian's betrayal. Wynn is clueless to whatever it is she's waiting on before she crosses that line of intimacy.
As for his relationship with Malcolm, the boy has not been shy about telling anyone who asks that Wynn is his dad. It does cause a bit of a stir among the gossip circles at church, but neither Wynn nor Claudia pay it any mind. Wynn in particular is ecstatic to take the title, despite is usual neutral expression giving the opposite impression. Malcolm himself is over the moon with the extra time he gets to spend with his new father, and insists being around Wynn at all times. They still go to Tiffany's to wait for Claudia to get off of work, but now Wynn has taken a more active role in the shared activities of the children. Tiffany herself seems quite happy for Malcolm.
Rare is the night now that Wynn is not there by Malcolm's bedside with Claudia reading a bedtime story to the boy. More words flow from him in the reading of these stories than typically does in a whole month. Ill practiced and monotone as he may be it's a ritual that all three of them relish deeply.
IF Attachment >=2 and Honesty >=2, the attempts by Donovian, though seemingly fruitless, have kept Wynn and Claudia on their toes and exhausting them. Although there was a great deal of help from Minnie keeping Donovian away from Claudia, Wynn's reputation is cast in a more dubious light in the eyes of others. While he did make some efforts to get out into the community with his weekly visits to church and his work with the charity events, he has not really opened up with anyone other than his immediate circle. He barely interacts with anyone else, so when rumors began to fly about him being either immoral or dangerous, there was more fertile ground for the rumors to take root in.
While not perfect, it's under control. And Wynn accepts his less than stellar reputation with the others in the community as a small price to pay for some semblance of normalcy at home. His relationship with Claudia and Malcolm are all that have really mattered to him, and what few compromises he's made outside the home have paid dividends inside of it. Though usually tired at the end of a day putting out fires and squashing rumors, the three of them find their evenings to be quite pleasant. The occasional phone call still causes Claudia to jump, but it is no longer a paralyzing fear for her. The tiredness she has worn since Wynn had met her has begun to diminish and the man can see the beginnings of a new life start to invigorate her.
The more romantic side of his and Claudia's relationship has stepped up a bit since that night as well. The two of them now spend most of their free time on the couch cuddling with one another. They only really hold back when Malcolm is in the room with them. Like above, Wynn has gained access to Claudia's room and the two behave in much the same manner, remaining as rather chaste sleeping companions. That being said, Wynn does not sleep as easily as he would otherwise. He is left unsure on how his and Claudia's relationship will ultimately pan out, and his thoughts drift to Dierdra and her offer.
As above, Malcolm and Wynn's relationship is stronger than ever since the man has taken the role of the boy's father. Whether declaring it or not, Wynn has been cemented in the young parasaur's mind as his dad. The only difference between the two of them compared to how they are above is that Wynn still withholds some parts of himself from engaging in activities with Malcolm. Not for any conscious decision not to, it just never occurs naturally. It is not every night he is asked to read Malcolm to sleep, but when he does he relishes the opportunity. Though his delivery remains somewhat stilted.
IF Attachment >=2 and Honesty <=1, Wynn has taken most of the burden of dealing with Donovian's efforts to mess with the three of them by himself. It requires a great deal of running around, but he does so with such fervor that while he may end the day somewhat ragged, Malcolm and Claudia are able to live in peace. His interaction with others is often brief and terse. He's become a somewhat intense personality to deal with if one is not in the immediate circle of the people he knows. He registers most strangers as potential threats and does not let his guard down around them until after a pretty intimidating stare down. This has left him with a rather damaged reputation that causes a fair amount of gossip.
Although most of this gossip never amounts to anything. Claudia and Maloclm both seem to be happy whenever they are seen out and about. Although talking to them typically involves doing so under the carefully watchful eyes of Wynn. Clauida, for her part is doing well enough. She still freezes when the phone rings, and due to the spam calls it rings quite often. Wynn's solution was to simply disconnect the phone when Claudia and Malcolm were at home. It's a brute force sort of solution, but for the first time in a long time she feels a sense of peace. Although he ends most days tired, Wynn does find enough time in the evenings to bond with two parasaurs.
Typically this takes a rather simple form as just being in the same space as them while they do their own thing and enjoying the atmosphere. Malcolm usually plays with his hot wheels or video games while Wynn observes and listens to the boy's commentary. After freshening up from work Claudia then busies herself with preparing dinner, and often when she has time joins Wynn on the couch. Wynn and Claudia do not share a room in this instance. The warmth between them exists, but there is a distance there that has yet to be traversed. Wynn's aversion to opening up to the two of them is reflected in Claudia keeping the man at arm's length.
They exist in much the same way as they always have, save for the undeniable closeness he and Claudia share. Try as he might however, Wynn can not long deny the immediate threat that Donovian poses, and the looming storm that is Alphonse. While Donovian may be flailing to cause them harm now, it's only a matter of time before something of his sticks. And for as wretched as the director is he is nothing compared to the menace of Alphonse. Wynn's nights are often disturbed by the anxious thoughts of what he could possibly do against either of them, while also keeping what he has now.
IF Attachment <=1, Wynn has been quite busy countering the attacks made by the director while also in essence running Claudia and Malcolm's lives for them. The parasaur woman is rarely seen without him by her side, nor does she engage with others without him overseeing the exchange. To those that speak with her, it seems as if she is in a sort of daze and very often refuses to make a decision on her own, ceding all choices to Wynn. It has, so far, been an effective way to keep her life happy and controlled. Minnie is not particularly happy about it, and there is a growing concern amongst those at church. The dubious rumors about Wynn spread by Donovian have left an impression on Claudia's community.
It is at the point where Claudia is at times confronted by neighbor or fellow parishioner about her health and safety, only for her to reply that Wynn is taking care of her while she sorts some things out. Soon after, Wynn usually appears to put to rest any concerns and whisk Claudia away. This rarely reassures the neighbor, but neither Claudia nor Malcolm appear to be in any danger, so they do not pry too deeply. Malcolm meanwhile has been a trooper. He mimics Wynn in a variety of ways now, and performs as the man asks to an adequate degree. His devotion to his mother is evident, and even at such a young age he takes the role of helping her quite seriously.
As for the harassment from Donovian itself, Wynn has again taken virtually everything upon himself in terms of cleaning up any excess junk mail and spam calls. He also coached Claudia and Malcolm in how they should handle any situations outside the house that may be instigated by the director. This has resulted in the two of the parasaurs acting a bit more anti-social than usual, but they do remain safe from anything that may be considered distressing. It has had the side effect of putting a strain on Claudia and Malcolm's relationships with Minnie and Tiffany respectively.
At home, things do appear idyllic however. Wynn does exist as a tenant more than anything else. He is ever at the periphery of Claudia and Malcolm's affections, which has not faltered in the slightest in the quiet time they have together. He does watch them on occasion from the shadows of a house, much like a cat would, and analyzes them. Often gauging what they may need to stay comfortable and stable, and whether it is something he needs to coach them to do or do himself. Whatever the case, they appear happy. Sometimes, Wynn does feel a small feeling of pride in his efforts when he sees smiles on their faces. The only thing else that concerns him is the pending contact with Dierdra and how best to handle that.

Today is Saturday. Claudia and Malcolm are both home, and the household is at an impasse as to what to do with the day off. Claudia tells Wynn that Minnie had invited her to visit the park today, and that perhaps they could all go together and make a nice outing out of it. When Malcolm is asked if he wants to go, he said he wanted to hang out with Tiffany today. Wynn doesn't want either of them to be too far away from him with what all is going on, so he suggests perhaps Tiffany can join them at the park.
Claudia certainly doesn't mind, but Malcolm was hoping to play video games. However, with the promise of playing some kind of game with Wynn, the boy's excitement does return. Wynn then calls Tiffany to see if she is interested, and while she too would have rather played video games today, she admits that she really does just enjoy spending time with Malcolm. So she relents as well. Thus, Claudia, Malcolm, Wynn, and Tiffany all meet up and drive to the park. Wynn only briefly concerns himself with the thought that Dierdra may make an appearance.
When they arrive, the temperature is balmy, the sun is shining, and the wind is cool. Fortunately Wynn's idea that Dierdra may be haunting the park turns out to be paranoia, and free of the rose tinted allosaur woman. Minnie awaits their little cadre near the fountain of the park, idly chatting with a familiar looking hot dog woman, who seems to be more than a little bored by whatever topic they're discussing. They are rescued by Claudia getting Minnie's attention just as the ceratopsid woman was handing the vendor a pamphlet for St. Sattler's.
The Hot Dog woman does shoot a look of recognition towards Wynn and as he approaches. They have a brief exchange where the woman comments on the entourage Wynn now travels with, wondering what the deal is. Tiffany answers for the man, explaining the reason they're here. When the vendor follows up with another comment of what a nice crew they all make, Malcolm responds in a way that identifies Wynn as his father, probably just by calling him dad while asking him to get a veggie-dog. Tracy's reaction is based off of Attachment, with the higher ratings having her think it's adorable, and the lower ones commenting on how Wynn doesn't seem the type. But before any response can be made, Tracy sees Minnie approaching and hastily makes an exit.
Minnie greets Wynn, Malcolm, and Tiffany. She delights in conversing with the children about this and that aspect of what they have going on in their lives and what their interests are, keeping the conversation light and fun. After the chit chat with the kids, Minnie asks them to go ahead and play with Wynn while she and Claudia sit and have some old lady talk. Wynn picks up on some subtle glances she shoots towards him when she mentions "old lady talk," and determines that he'll be the topic of conversation. While he does like to stay informed on all things, he does trust Claudia to remain safe with Minnie. So he and the kids goes off a ways to engage in some fun games while the two women find a park bench and begin chatting.
The park does feature a jungle gym and a few other playground staples for kids to use, in addition to a nice open grassy field for general running around. Tiffany leads the charge for what playground equipment the use and games they play. Wynn is a bit of a third wheel in all this, mostly just keeping an eye on the two of them as they crawl all over the jungle gym. However, he does get to participate when they go to the swing set. Of course it is only because they demand he push them, but it still counts as far as the man is concerned. The trio flit around from one activity to the next, whittling away an hour or more running back and forth playing.
The the most Wynn got to participate in was when Malcolm and Tiffany took on the roles of the main characters of their favorite game, Kingdom Souls, which featured a main trio of its own. Malcolm took the lead boy, Tiffany the lead girl, and Wynn was given the role of the brooding anti-hero friend that went back and forth between good and evil. For the next hour the man participates in a reenactment of some of the kids' favorite scenes from the series of games. He isn't the greatest actor, although his performance in swinging around the stick meant to be his lock-blade (the signature weapon of the franchise) is actually somewhat impressive. Impressive enough for the children to inquire if he actually knows how to sword fight.
Wynn hadn't thought much about it, but going back over the play fighting it in his mind he does realize the swings he made were a bit too good for a simple reflex action. He has had one or two instances in the known years of his life that could count as a knife fight that he did well in. Better than the other guy at least. The moves he was making may be impressive for a child but would most assuredly not impress an actual swordsman. Still, he takes the compliment and their stick fight continues.
Soon, the three of them wear themselves out with their dramatic reenactment of a climatic scene where the currently evil friend is defeated and then is monologued at until he fades away, with many proclamations of the power of friendship along the way. The trio march back to where Claudia and Minnie were chatting, both applauding the performance upon the approach of the weary actors. The sit around a picnic table and while Malcolm and Tiffany attempt to explain the scenes they were playing to Minnie, Claudia and Wynn discuss getting lunch. After some talk about what to get everyone, Claudia asks if Tiffany and Malcolm would go with Wynn to help get the food. There is an implication that Claudia is not quite done discussing things with Minnie.
The kids agree and join Wynn in the walk towards the various food carts and vendors that are sprinkled around the park. The lunches are veggie wraps for the herbivores and for Tiffany and Wynn, hamburgers. During the trio's fetch quest, Tiffany and Malcolm engage Wynn in a discussion about taking up the mantle of Malcolm's father. Upon the topic coming up, Malcolm immediately takes hold of Wynn's hand as he starts telling Tiffany of how great it is, and how Wynn has been keeping him and his mom safe. The more Malcolm exposits about the conflict with Donovian and his family, the more Tiffany starts to get visions of grandeur about how she would help Wynn stick it to the director and even help in taking him down.
Her comments tend to amount to breaking into Donovian's house and beating him up.

IF Attachment is >=4 and IF Honesty >=4, Wynn gives thanks Tiffany for the offer of assistance. He admits that he would not mind hurting Donovian, but Father Xander has a friend in the police force that Wynn hopes Claudia will get in contact with.
IF Attachment is >=2 and IF Honesty >=2, Wynn admits how he would very much like to take whatever help Tiffany can offer. Knocking Donovian off his perch does sound pretty nice, although he'd settle if the director just left them all alone.
IF Attachment is >=2 and IF Honesty <=1, Wynn relishes the the mental image of caving in Donovian's skull, however he suppresses the urge to share the feeling with the children. He does say that if Donovian crosses paths with Wynn again, he would makes sure he'd give the director something to think about.
IF Attachment is <=1, Wynn replies that while he appreciates the offer, he'll take care of things. He does reassure them both that Donovian will get what he deserves.

Regardless of the response, Tiffany and Malcolm both express confidence that everything will work out in favor of their little group. A sentiment that Wynn agrees with whole heartedly and silently declares that he'll make it so. They reach their desired food cart, order the food and start heading back laden with a few bags of food. They return to the table where Claudia and Minnie are happily waiting for them and break out the lunches. The meal passes quickly and quietly, and after a round of bathroom breaks, the children gravitate towards the central fountain and Claudia is dragged along by them to splish and splash their hands, feet, and tails in the fountain.
Before Wynn can join them, Minnie gets his attention an asks if she could talk to him for a moment. Wynn isn't entirely certain what she wants to discuss, but he has a pretty good idea. Moving back to the table that had just finished their lunches at, Minnie sits opposite of him and opens up with a few pleasantries. Despite seeing and chatting with Wynn and Claudia every Sunday, she seems quite interested in how he's doing and if how he's settling in with Claudia. Wynn responds as he usually does. A "Good," and a "Fine." He is quite certain he knows she's working herself up to what she actually wants to talk about.
Sure enough, after the typical conversation starter questions, begins to get to the real topic. She starts reminiscing about how Wynn first entered all their lives, and comments on how things have really gotten more eventful since then. With concern entering her usually cheerful voice, she asks Wynn if he ever thought he'd end up where he is now. After a pause Wynn says no. Minnie continues, saying that God really does work in mysterious ways, and that when Raptor Jesus put Wynn into her and Father Xander's care, she couldn't have expected things to develop as they have either.
She begins to list out the various things Wynn has done and participated in since he arrived. The parts that she knows of anyway. It's mostly a very generalized retelling of choices Wynn has made since arriving. Higher scores will meet with more approval, and Lower scores more concern. The end of her little recap will capstone with her being delighted in telling Wynn that Claudia told her that Malcolm sees the man as a father. She says that she had prayed so long for Claudia to have a man come into and complete her life.
At this point she drops the cheerfulness from her voice completely and her worried tone takes over. She wonders aloud if Wynn is that man, and what Claudia means to him. She says that five years ago she took a sad and broken young woman who just had her whole life destroyed by an evil man, and put her back together with a whole lot of love and prayer. She isn't about to let Wynn put Claudia through all that again, and definitely not with Malcolm on the line either. With a bit more emphasis to her words now, she asks Wynn what kind of man he is.
Wynn stares off in silent contemplation for a few moments while he considers the question. His gaze inevitably landing on Claudia, Malcolm, and Tiffany all laughing and smiling by the fountain as they entertain themselves. In all circumstances, he does want the lot of them to be spared from any pain or suffering. The real question is indeed, "What about him?"

COMBO HONESTY CHOICE AND ATTACHMENT CHOICE 6
He wants to keep them all safe and to make them happy, even if that means he has to offer himself up to do it (+1/+1)
He will do whatever it takes to protect them. Nothing will get between him, Claudia, and Malcolm (+1)
He's made mistakes and is trying to be a someone worthy of the kindness he's been shown (+1)
He owes them a debt, and he won't leave them until it's repaid

IF Attachment is >=5 and IF Honesty >=5, Wynn's gaze returns to meet Minnie's and with a deep breath, he admits that more than anything he wants to remain with Claudia and Malcolm. To be a father to the boy, and a husband to Claudia. He is certain now that he loves the parasaur woman. He continues one however by confessing that as wonderful as it may be to stay with them, to finally put down roots and be someone, it may do them a great deal of harm.
He confesses to Minnie about how he came to the church that night, and about the dangers that he fled. He states that as awful as Donovian is, Alphonse is far worse. If Claudia is waiting on him to propose to her, or if she offers Wynn a chance at truly being with her, he isn't sure he should. He admits that for as long as he can remember he has been on the run, and now he has reached a point where he can make a different choice. However, he doesn't want that choice to be at the expense of Claudia or Malcolm's safety.
He says that this is all new territory for him. Being in love with someone, and being so attached to a place. But he wants to preserve it anyway he can. So if it comes down to it, Wynn says that he'd die to keep them all safe.
Minnie leans back as she digests Wynn's story and declaration. She had not expected for Wynn to have such a dangerous history attached to him. Unlike Father Xander, she does not have some sort of ex-military background or friends in the police department, so she definitely wears the expression of someone who has just gone out of her depth. After a few moments, she makes the sign of the cross she offers her hands to Wynn, encouraging him to join her. Wynn does so, and Minnie begins to pray.
It's a simple enough prayer. She asks God and Raptor Jesus to forgive Wynn for the errors he's made in life, and to continue to guide him towards the path of redemption. She also prays for him and Claudia to pass through the darkness cast over their lives by the servants of evil Donovian and Alphonse, and to protect the two of them from what evil those men would do. She then tells Wynn to end the prayer with something.
Wynn is unsure, but closing his eyes and thinking for a moment, he prays that he can stay with Claudia. After that, Minnie says amen, which is soon echoed by Wynn after she gives him a quick gesture. After that Minnie tells Wynn that now he has the best person he could ever ask for in his corner, and the solution will present itself. Wynn isn't entirely sure on that, but it did give him some small comfort. Before he can dwell on the subject for too much longer, Minnie leans forward and says that, as he might have guessed, she and Claudia had a little talk about him earlier. Specifically about whether the parasaur woman should pursue a deeper relationship with the man.
He's only just begins to feel nervous about the statement when Minnie rises from the table to whisper into his ear that she agrees with Claudia's feelings that Wynn IS the man she hoped he was. With that she slides away from Wynn and goes to where the other three now sit patiently. The day of activity and food now taking their toll on the young Malcolm, who looks ready for a nap. Wynn joins them soon after. Tiffany has had fun, but is ready to head indoors and preferably back onto her video games. Claudia is also ready to take a nap herself, although she does perk up as Wynn approaches.
Declaring it's been a fun time, Minnie leads the pack of them back to the parking lot and to their cars. On the way there, Wynn feels a tug on his hand as the sleepy parasaur boy struggles to keep up. The man remedies this by scooping him up and carrying him in one arm. He soon feels a tug on his other arm, and sees Claudia beaming back at him before pulling closer and resting her head on his shoulder. Once they arrive at the cars, the ceratopsid woman gives each of them a heartfelt hug goodbye before departing. The rest of them pile into their on vehicle and return home.
IF Attachment is >=2 and IF Honesty >=2, Wynn looks back to Minnie and states that he doesn't want anything bad to happen to them. He's made mistakes in his life, and he doesn't want either of them to have to pay for them. Wynn admits to not being a perfect man, but he's trying to be better. He confesses that he wants to be with Claudia, and that starting a family with her would be his fondest wish. That being said, he has no idea what he's doing. He can only hope he makes the right call when he needs to. Whatever decision he makes, it will be with Claudia's well being in mind.
Minnie gives him a comforting smile. This is a sentiment that she seems very familiar with. She tells Wynn that what he is feeling is something she and Father Xander hear most from those who come to them for help. The fact Wynn admits he's made mistakes is already a good sign that he wants to change for the better. Minnie offers her hands out to Wynn, who after a moment registering what she wanted him to do, takes her hands. She gives them a comforting squeeze and tells him that all he needs now is to pray to Raptor Jesus for guidance and the proper discernment, and it will be provided to him in time.
Wynn isn't particularly convinced at the helpfulness of the advice, but thanks her nonetheless. Minnie uses the opportunity to pull him in a bit closer as she asks Wynn what he thinks she and Claudia talked about today. Wynn correctly guesses him. With a nod, Minnie says that it was indeed, but more so about whether Claudia was ready to open herself up again, and whether Wynn was the right choice. Pulling him a bit closer, Minnie tells him that after this little exchange she will let Claudia know that she has nothing to worry about. With a wink she quickly comments that she will still tell the parasaur woman to keep an eye on Wynn so he doesn't misbehave.
Releasing her grasp on the man she rises and moves to the fountain. Wynn follows closely behind her, where the others sit waiting. Much like above they all return to their vehicles and return home after a pleasant day at the park. Wynn and Claudia both quite pleased with how their day went, despite not spending much of it together so far.
IF Attachment is >=2 and IF Honesty <=1, Wynn's fists will clench as he thinks about how he might try to explain his feelings without revealing too much. He tells Minnie that helping Claudia has really put his whole life into perspective. He never knew people as good natured like Claudia existed, and the fact that men like Donovian prey upon them makes him angrier than he thought possible. He struggles to find the right words to describe why. After stumbling over it in his mind, he fails to find those words.
Somewhat deflated, he declares that he will stay with Claudia to protect her and Malcolm from anyone that will do them harm. Once more struggling to express himself, he managers to say that she deserves someone in her life that keeps her safe, someone that loves her, and if he can be that for her, he will.
Minne looks at Wynn sympathetically. She understands the feelings he is attempting to convey and nods knowingly. With a twinge of sorrow in her voice, she says that while she was able to get Claudia back to a good spot, the poor woman has been stuck there, held in place by fear of Donovian. Minnie agrees that what Claudia needs now is a protector. Someone to get between her and the evils of the world. Getting up from her spot at the table to come around to him and place a reassuring hand on his shoulder, Minnie says that a big regret of hers is that she couldn't do that for Claudia.
The ceratopsid woman thinks Wynn can however. She tells Wynn that in the talk she and Claudia had today, the parasaur woman told her about how safe Wynn had made her feel. For the first time in years, Claudia can go about her day and not have to worry about Donovian. For that, Minnie thanks Wynn, and tells him that as long as he's with Claudia, she isn't going to worry about whether her friend is safe or not. Wynn offers a affirmative nod in response. Together the get up from the table and rejoin the others at the fountain. Wynn immediately picks Malcolm up and asks if the boy is ready to head home.
The young boy says yes, a sentiment shared by Tiffany and Claudia. Wynn leads the group to the cars as Malcolm rests against his shoulder and Claudia takes hold of the man's hand. After a series of goodbyes and see you tomorrows, Minnie departs. As the others sort themselves out in the car, Wynn drives them all home.
IF Attachment is <=1, Wynn remains silent for a time, eventually speaking in a monotone voice, still looking off at Claudia, saying that she needs him. He will do what he needs to do to put her life back in order. To hopefully provide her with a peaceful life. He admits that it was never his plan to remain with her forever. That he cannot remain here, and that he has lived too long as a phantom to find a life now. But he will give her peace before he does. He will take care of her and Malcolm, and solve their issues for them. He owes them that much for the kindness they've shown him.
Finally turning to look at Minnie, he says that he hopes she understands that he is very fond of everyone he has met from St. Sattler's. It is just difficult for him to express this feeling after being alone for so long. Minnie returns his flat expression with a pensive one of her own. She inevitably nods that she understands that Wynn is no the most, expressive, of people and that his behavior has certainly caused a bit of a stir in the church, but he has to realize that the rest of St. Sattler's cares deeply for Claudia. That shutting all of them out won't help Claudia or Wynn.
She admits that she has been worried about Claudia recently. Every talk she has with her seems to end with her deferring to "Wynn says this" or "Wynn told me to do that." She is worried that while the man's heart may be in the right place, he's essentially cut her off from everyone. Wynn tilts his head slightly as he thinks about how to respond, eventually stating that as long as the problems in Claudia's life are solved, and that she can be at peace, then it really shouldn't matter. Especially after he leaves. Then she and everyone at St. Sattler's can just forget about this whole ordeal.
Minnie shakes her head, saying that isn't how friends treat each other, let alone how a church treats one of its members. Wynn is confused by the last statement, his expression failing to hide the feeling. Minnie gives a small smile. She asks if he really thought she, Father Xander, and the rest of St. Sattler's would forget about the strange man that had done so much for all of them. Wynn doesn't show it, but the thought of being remembered by so many people causes a deeply unsettling feeling in him. That's the last thing he wanted. He is however able to hide this better than his confusion from earlier.
He asks if she really means that. Minnie smile brightens a bit, confirming that he'd be hard to forget if he went away. Wynn casts his gaze back to the fountain as he ruminates on this. Minnie takes the opening granted by his silence to continue, saying that he may think himself a ghost, but if there's one thing the good Lord is known for, it's giving people a second shot at living. So he may as well stick around see if he finds something to live for. Wynn asks her if she really thinks there's a chance of that happening for him. She responds that it's possible, if he chooses to let it happen. There's still a chance for him.
IF Attachment = 0, She instead looks away towards the fountain herself, and states that miracles can happen.
With the reassuring words hanging in the air, Wynn rises from his seat and thanks Minnie for the talk, and tells her he'll think about what she's said. With that he leaves to rejoin Claudia, with Minnie following behind him. Seeing Wynn approach Claudia picks up Malcolm, and calls for Tiffany. With a nod and a short statement that it's time to return to the house, the group returns to the cars. Offering a flurry of brief goodbyes they all pile into their cars and return to their homes.

Next Scene - finally time to bring in the detectives

Later that afternoon at Claudia's house
Tiffany has decided to stay over a bit longer to spend some more time with Malcolm. The two of them are currently playing a Kart racing game on the Nintendino. Claudia sits on curled up on one end of the couch half reading a book and half watching the children. Wynn meanwhile is in the kitchen considering what to do for dinner. Before he can settle on just getting a good ol' crowd pleaser like pizza, he becomes aware of the sound of a car pulling up.
Moving to the living room window and peering out of it, he sees a rather plain and boxy looking car park in front of the house, and a aging pachycephalosaurus emerge out of the driver's seat followed by a much younger pterodactyl. Wynn's eyes immediately focus on the badges worn by the pair, proudly labeling them as officers of the Volcadera Bluffs Police Department. Wynn reels back out of sight of the window, his mind rapid firing reasons that they might be here. Two possibilities rise above the others: Either they're there for him, or they're here because because Father Xander asked them to be.
It was too late to dash through the house and hide, that was for sure. The most he could do was to give the other three some form of warning by telling them the police have arrived. Claudia is definitely shocked to hear the news, while the kids exchanged worried looks. Not but a few seconds later the door knocks. Wynn hides his concern well as he opens the door, revealing the two officers who offer a good morning. They identify themselves as detectives; the older as Patch Winslow, and the younger as Terry Connors. After their introduction, they ask if they are speaking to Pvt. Wynn Doe. There is a pause before Wynn confirms his identity. Claudia appears at Wynn's side and asks what all this is about.
Det. Winslow informs them that a friend of his, Father Xander had been talking his ear off about a problem he should help solve. He then motions a thumb towards Det. Connors and says that the youthful pterodactyl officer is just tagging along for the coffee. Det. Connors scoffs at that but if he wanted to say something he holds it in. Wynn steps aside and motions them in, while Claudia asks the children to move into Malcolm's room, and for Tiffany to keep an eye on the boy. They nod their agreement as the detectives enter and scurry off down the hall. Claudia meanwhile goes to prepare some coffee, while Wynn and Det. Winslow take seats around the living room.
Wynn notes that only Det. Winslow takes a seat, as Det. Connors takes a position that lets him keep an eye on Claudia in the kitchen. Wynn takes the calm before the questioning begins to analyze the detectives. Patch seems to a typical detective. Brown suit that looks decades old, gray hairs, full mustache, as bald as all pachysephalosauruses are. The younger detective wears far more casual clothes. A t-shirt, jeans, sneakers, bomber jacket, and sunglasses. Most curious to Wynn is that the pterodactyl has chosen a mullet as his hair style.
Not to focus too long on the fashion of the pair, but they do give some clues as to their personalities. Det. Winslow comes across less adversarial, and Det. Connors definitely seems to be a much more loose cannon type. That being said, if they are both here on Father Xander's behest, then having an old friend and a loose cannon to help deal with someone with so much legal protection like Donovian sounds like just what the proverbial doctor ordered. Knowing they are not here to arrest him also helps to relax Wynn.
As is the usual with Wynn, he remains awkwardly silent compared to his conversation partner. It does seem that Det. Winslow was given some warning about that though, as he begins to speak as soon as he gets comfortable in his seat. He confirms that he is Father Xander's contact in the police department, as they go way back to when they were both in the army. He was the one that dug up the info, or lack thereof, on Wynn at the start of the year, and Father Xander has been slipping little updates about Wynn to Patch this whole time as a precaution.
Before Wynn can ruminate too much on the implications of that statement, Patch continues. He says the whole Donovian business is unfortunately not looking too good for Claudia as is. As far as state law is concerned, verbal harassment doesn't rank high on the list of offenses, and if charges were brought to court, the director has the funds to draw things out until Claudia is financially ruined by legal fees, or just pay bail and go about his day. Wynn comments that Father Xander has mentioned this issue, to which Patch just waves a hand to hush the man as he continues.
The aging detective goes into the Alphonse connection, saying that if they are able to bring Donovian in on something more tangible that it wouldn't take much pressure to get the guy talking. So Patch asks Wynn if he has gotten any information on how Donovian and Alphonse are connected, or if there is some way to level a charge at the director they don't know about.

IF Attachment is >=5 and IF Honesty >=5, Wynn tells the detectives that he had spoken with Dierdra some time ago, and she had made him an offer. This is news to the detectives, and the both lean in to listen intently. Wynn states that the allosaur woman promised to get Donovian off Claudia's back if Wynn returns the money he stole from them and helps her take down her father, when she comes to collect that is. The man also retells what Dierdra told him about Donovian and Alphonse's little partnership.
Det. Connors is the first to speak, saying that he isn't sure that does anything other than confirm what they already know. It may be enough to get a warrant to investigate Donovian. Patch nods at the assessment and then asks Wynn if there's anything else, anything at all. Wynn state that Dierdra appeared extremely reasonable, and wanted to avoid as much bloodshed as possible. Two qualities that left Wynn with a sense she did not particularly enjoy her lot in life. He hesitantly adds at the end of the description that she also found him...cute. This gets a laugh out of Terry.
It's also at this point that Claudia reenters the room with coffee for everyone, each of them accepting the cup offered to them. She then moves to sit next to Wynn. The man's bashfulness is only exasperated by her presence, as he hopes she didn't hear that last comment. However, she torpedoes that notion as she leans in and kisses the side of his head and informs him that Dierdra is right. Then as she turns to the detectives, Claudia asks if what they've been saying means the police aren't able to help her or Wynn.
The detectives exchange a few introspective looks and grumblings, and reply that there may still be a chance. Addressing Wynn once more, Patch asks if Wynn thinks that, when or if he meets Dierdra again, he could convince her to testify against Donovian and her father. Wynn isn't sure. The allosaur woman has no love for either of them, that much is certain, but it may be a great deal to ask her to give up a the potential power that comes from running a criminal organization. Wynn reflects that he may have changed his ways, but he was essentially a blank slate with no goals in his life but to survive by any means necessary. Once he found Claudia, and something more to live for, he couldn't care less about leaving his old life behind.
Wynn says he will try, but is unsure if it will succeed. The detectives nod and give him a number, telling the man that until they have something more solid, the chief can't spare a dedicated force to keep an eye on Wynn or Claudia. That number however goes directly to Patch and Terry's desk, and they'll be there in a blink if he calls. With that, the two down their coffee and bid Wynn and Claudia goodnight. After they leave, Claudia goes to the window to watch them go and gives a bit of a disappoint harrumph. She tells Wynn that they weren't particularly useful. They just told them they can't help at all.
Wynn nods his head in partial agreement, holding aloft the phone number, stating they at least are on call in case things get dicey. With another sigh Claudia asks Wynn if her really thinks there's a chance this Dierdra woman might be convinced. Wynn shrugs. The parasaur woman then tells Wynn to let her speak with Dierdra, a statement that causes the man to reel back in surprise. Claudia merely smiles at him and says that if there's anyone here who can convince her that turning her life around isn't impossible, it's Claudia. Wynn smiles at that, but doesn't say anything.
After a moment or two Claudia goes to get the children and let them out of the room. They of course listened to everything, and bombard Wynn and Claudia with questions. All of which the two do their best to answer without causing a panic in the children. Tiffany in particular is anxious to help out anyway she can. Such notions are quelled by Claudia saying that this is a thing for adults to take care of, and that Tiffany should be getting back home, and the young raptor girl can't tell anyone about this. Tiffany's only protest to this is that she's actually quite hungry and would like some dinner first.
Malcolm is less interested in helping, and more in asking Wynn what the man is going to do, and if he's going to become a cop or something. The man says he'll concern himself with that later, as he and Claudia decide to order a pizza, as it is going to be a long night of explaining things to the children.
IF Attachment is >=2 and IF Honesty >=2, Wynn describes his meeting with Dierdra similarly to the how he did above. He does not mention that Dierdra found him cute however. When Claudia comes in she asks the detectives if they really can't do anything about Donovian. The respond that as it stands right now, the best they can do is try their luck with a warrant and hope they can find some evidence when they search Donovian's home and office. If they can't find something, they probably won't get another chance to look into the guy for a while. The department doesn't want to embarrass itself raiding the home of what the public at large considers to be an upstanding member of society only to come away with nothing.
This is very disappointing news to Claudia and Wynn. Patch will ask if Wynn could conceivably convince Dierdra to testify, to which the man will express heavy doubts. Patch and Terry exchange worried glances, and say that if they give them a few more weeks to butter up the chief, they'll try their luck with the warrant. Until then, it would be best if Wynn and Claudia just keep their heads down. Patch gives Wynn his number and tells the man to call him if there's an emergency. After downing their coffee, the two detectives say their goodbyes and leave. After they go Claudia shakes her head at it all and looks utterly defeated. She gets up and goes to let the children out of the room, finding them pretending to not have been eavesdropping.
When questioned, neither of the children play dumb for long, and soon begin asking if any of them are in trouble with the police. After being reassured that everything is fine, they are let back into the living room where they are allowed to get back to their video games. Although they are certainly a bit worried about the goings on. Claudia orders a pizza and motions Wynn to follow her into the kitchen. Once there, she quietly asks Wynn if he thinks about this Dierdra woman. Wynn says that from his brief interaction, he's fairly certain that she's serious about keeping her end of the bargain. He reiterates that Dierdra could have taken what she wanted whenever she wanted, but the fact she hasn't leads Wynn to believe that she can be trusted.
Claudia ponders this for a time and says that perhaps they should accept her offer then. If the police can't help them, then what other choice do they have? Wynn doesn't want to admit it, but taking Dierdra's deal may be the only way out of this whole mess. Wynn also doesn't want to think about how she could use him against Alphonse, as he has no idea what he could do against such a monster. The man concludes his thoughts with a nod and tells Claudia that if he can't convince Dierdra to work with the police, then they really don't have any other choice but to take her offer.
Claudia puts a comforting hand on his shoulder and says it'll work out, because Claudia trusts has faith in the man. He returns the gesture by placing his own hand on hers, and after a moment, they return to the living room to keep the children company until the food arrives. They seem to catch the tail end of a conversation the two young saurians are having that ends abruptly as the adults enter. Wynn and Claudia let it go without question as they take their spots on the couch and observe the game.
IF Attachment is >=2 and IF Honesty <=1, Wynn gets frustrated with the detectives. A twinge of anger seeps into his voices as he tells them about his meeting with Dierdra, but only that she confirmed their suspicions about Alphonse and Donovian. However, he adds on a the somewhat petulant question that if they already know Alphonse is a monster and suspect Donovian, why are they waiting to act? Det. Connors replies that it mostly comes down to city hall. Chief Ripley wants to take Alphonse down by force, but city hall is worried he'll turn the newly gentrified Little Troodon and Skin Row into a warzone. A lot of collateral damage to an area the city just spend a whole lot of time and money renovating.
So as much as the chief would like to just bust down the doors and wipe Alphonse and his crew out, his hands are tied until he can find a solution that doesn't result in a section of the city becoming a shooting gallery. Patch adds in that they also considered the potential danger to the citizenry somewhere in their accounting process. The elder detective goes on to say that even if they can nab Donovian and get him talking, the can round up the whole criminal organization and not just Alphonse. Rats have a way of scuttling away when you just go kicking the doors in. So preferably, they'd like to be able to arrest as many of his lieutenants as possible.
Wynn's only response is to narrow his eyes in anger at beaurocracy being the reason he and Claudia are in limbo. At this point Claudia returns with the coffee, which is accepted by the detectives, but Wynn merely holds his cup as he considers what to say. Claudia sees he's thinking and asks if there is anything that can be done. As above, Patch tells her that they can hope to get lucky with a search warrant. Wynn's info has given them enough to do at least that much. If that doesn't work, it'll only serve to tip off Alphonse and Donovian that they're under suspicion and they may have a traitor in their midst. After downing the last of their coffee, the detectives rise, give Claudia a number to contact them with, say their goodbyes, and depart.
For a time Claudia and Wynn sit in silence. Eventually she asks what are they going to do. Wynn takes her hand and holds it tightly, replying that if the police are bogged down by red tape and procedure, and that Dierdra is just using this whole situation to take her father's place and can't be trusted, then they may be on their own. Claudia begins to ask about Father Xander, but Wynn cuts her off, saying that he would just tell them to be patient and wait for the police to do their work. Another few moments pass before Claudia rubs a hand on the man's back and tells him that she wants to let the police have their shot. Wynn looks up at her with a doubtful expression, but nods his assent to her request. There may still be time for something to change.
IF Honesty = 0, he follows that thought up with another, saying that he'd be fooling himself if he believed that. It's at this point that Claudia goes to retrieve the children, who come out of the room doing their best to pretend they didn't hear anything. They become a bit more lively when Claudia orders a pizza, and during the wait they discuss the frustration of not just being able to take out the bad guys. Wynn agrees that it would be simpler if things just worked how they did in movies. Between the grumbling about the situation, the video games, and the food, they are all able to distract themselves back into a good mood for the rest of the evening.
IF Attachment is <=1, Wynn tells the detectives only the relevant information gleaned from his conversation with Dierdra. That Donovian and Alphonse do have a partnership, and that there is currently a power struggle taking place within the criminal organization. The pair of detectives nod and say the power struggle is news to them. They ask Wynn how he came by this information, to which Wynn informs them about his initial theft of the money and heard some of the lieutenants discuss Alphonse's apparent mental decline as their cue to initiate a change in leadership. They have been keeping a tight lid on the plan, lest Alphonse find out and slaughter them all.
That information is interesting to the detectives and they thank Wynn for it. Wynn does not share any additional information however, especially when Claudia reenters the room with the coffee. The detectives take the opportunity to apologize to the parasaur woman for being unable to assist more fully with the Donovian situation, saying that they'll keep trying to get him on something. Claudia graciously thanks them back, and assures them that as long as Wynn is with her, she has nothing to worry about. He's been taking good care of her and Malcolm. Terry shoots a suspicious glance towards Wynn, which only sees the man gazing back with an emotionless visage.
Apparently failing in whatever appraisal of the man he was making, the detective signals to his partner that they should probably get going, as the chief will be wanting to hear back from them soon. Once more, Patch offers Wynn his number should anything of note occur or they get into trouble, and tells the two to keep their heads down and let the police handle things. After an exchange of goodbyes, Claudia goes to fetch the children and prepare a homemade dinner while Wynn thinks about his situation. The time is fast approaching where he will cross a point of no return, and thoughts of death dance through his mind. The plan that forms in his mind is one that will clear the board of its pieces, and allow Claudia and Malcolm to be at peace.
And most importantly, allow him to disappear back into the night like a ghost. However, there is still time to change plans if something should happen to change his mind.
IF Attachment = 0, then instead of thinking there is still time to change plans, he thinks that the plan is set. There is no point in changing course now.

Dinner more or less passes pleasantly enough in all scenarios. Afterwards, Tiffany is escorted home, where she tells Wynn how much she enjoyed the day with Malcolm and him. Wynn responds in kind, telling the young raptor girl her company is always welcome. As they near her home she opens up a bit more about her concerns about the whole situation. She tells Wynn that during her and Malcolm's time in his room waiting for the police to leave, they got to talking about things. The boy seems extremely confident that Wynn, being his new dad and all, will just sort stuff out and all the problems will go away. Tiffany wants to believe that too, but she's a bit older and knows that things don't always get a nice and tidy ending.
She tells Wynn about how she thinks of Malcolm as the little brother she never had, and Claudia is like a second mom for her. Wynn has proven to be, in Tiffany's eyes a pretty weird, but all pretty cool, dude. As they walk to her door she tells him that she's serious about helping. She wants to be there for people that she considers family. So if Wynn has a plan or scheme that he needs some help with to knock Donovian's teeth in or whatever, she'll do it. Wynn gives her his usual emotionless stare, and tells her that it would be incredibly dangerous. Deadly even. Whether it's youthful naivete or a deep love for the Malcolm and Claudia, Tiffany asserts she doesn't care.
She has spent the last few months feeling like she's done nothing to help except by playing with Malcolm and helping him pretend things aren't that bad. She wants to do more. Wynn tilts his head as he considers his response, and eventually takes a knee to get eye level with the raptor girl. He explains to her that giving Malcolm a place to go where he isn't afraid is very helpful. He's been trying to do that for Claudia. He reassures Tiffany that without her, Malcolm, Claudia, and himself would all be worse off. He promises that if he needs her to help more than that, then he will come calling. Until then, he asks her to continue to be a safe harbor for Malcolm, and if need be him and Claudia.
Tiffany appears to be soothed by the words, and by having her playtime with Malcolm be recontextualized as being guarding him. She happily and perhaps jokingly salutes, and says good night to Wynn. The man responds in kind and returns home. Once there, he finds the house preparing itself for sleep. All at once the weariness he accumulated all throughout the day hits him, and he lumbers towards the nearest comfy chair, where he sits, leans back, and drifts into a deep sleep.

IF Honesty = 6

Once more the dream comes, and a multitude of things flow through his senses. Now, it is more than just images, but there is smell and sound as well. What he sees is more defined. The people in the white space at the start are human. He can smell snow. The third man speaks, "How Much?" A reply is given, "Two-Fifty." Then the darkness. A car that morphs into a cage becomes his reality. Flashes of time flutter past him. Words mixed with echoes of sensations of pain. Instructions are given. Training. Other boys his age appear and vanish into the shadows of the dream. Sometimes their faces are blank canvases devoid of features. He is always standing against them. These others are not his friends. When they appear, he remembers hunger.
They stand in a ring around a flag he doesn't know. One last image appears before he awakens. He stands above another boy. The boy has a face, in vivid detail. He is dead, and Wynn feels relief.

Yeah. I'm probably going to move all these dream sequences out of the story proper (I say that as if I'm going to make this an actual story) and into bonus chapters.
Then again, if they don't really factor into the story at all except to make Wynn a bit of an edgelord, then perhaps I should just remove them entirely? I'll think about it if I ever do a 3rd pass.
At any rate, I think that's the end of part 6.

Part 7B - Final choice, Talk with Dierdra that humanizes her and makes the case as to why she would abandon a life of crime, lead into the 4 endings.
Can't really RESOLVE Dierdra's conversation until after the Final Choice is made, so we can get into the 4 ways it plays out. It's sort of where the path truly splits.
Although everything after this can just be focused on one path of Wynn instead of trying to think of how to write around 4 potential personalities that still all have to move forward, so hopefully it'll go faster.
Hopefully I don't need ANOTHER rentry to round out this the ending for this one. Anyway...

3 weeks later
The first days of summer are already turning the days into a sweltering nightmare for Wynn. In the colder months he could wear his favorite jacket without issue or question, allowing him to carry around all his various tools and concealed weapons wherever he went. Now though, he was the spitting image of conspicuous. While the breeze coming off the ocean gave him some relief, rolling up one's sleeves and having the breast of the jacket left open only does so much. More than once when walking with Claudia she has asked if he was too hot, only to have the man in a mix of bravado and also not wishing to reveal his concealed weaponry, lied in saying he was fine. Of the lies he's operated under, these were the least believable.
Things have otherwise developed in a positive trajectory for Wynn, Claudia, and Malcolm. The initial successes in rebuffing Donovian's attempts at harassment have carried through these past weeks. The director's attempts at overwhelming the trio with a tidal wave of annoying phone calls, junk mail, and siccing public services on them have petered out. While Wynn cannot be certain, he guesses that the director's efforts were not seeing adequate return and so has thus abandoned such pranks. Wynn has an uneasy feeling about the resulting silence however. He has held off on any retribution against Donovian due to promises he's made to Father Xander and Claudia to let the proper authorities handle things.
All that's done by Wynn's estimation is given Donovian time to concoct something far less juvenile. Regardless of how he feels about it though, there is little he can do now that the the two detectives are taking a greater interest in the situation. They have made several visits to check in on himself and Claudia. Their visits are always rather brief and offer very little in the way of new information, but they do at least prove to be entertaining company when they stay for coffee. While Wynn often acts cagey around the detectives, Claudia and Malcolm enjoy their presence. Even Wynn admits he finds that old, friendly, professionalism of Det. Winslow to be rather charming and understands how he and Father Xander would be friends.
Meanwhile Det. Connors, while mostly silent in their initial encounter, has proven to be rather rambunctious and prone to jumping to conclusions. More than once while Det. Winslow was running through the usual explanation of what the police force is waiting on before acting, the young pterodactyl has proclaimed his willingness to start cracking heads. This is always hushed by the elder detective rather quickly. Both detectives do agree on something concerning Wynn however, in that they find his taciturn nature to be rather humorous. Terry has already begun a sort of joking bet with Patch as to whether he can get Wynn to say more than 5 words during their visit, not counting "hello" and "goodbye."
While Wynn was not particularly keen on speaking overmuch anyway, after learning of this little wager, the man did endeavor to speak even less than usual. This exchange has amused Malcolm and Claudia a great deal, and has in fact put most of Wynn's worries at the back of his mind. While the man is still bothered by the lack of the progress offered by the officers, he does at least know it is not due to lack of attention.

On a personal level, Wynn and Claudia's relationship is as official as it gets as far as those around them are concerned. Whatever misgivings their neighbors and the gossip circles at church have had were quelled by Minnie's intervention. Wynn is thankful for this, but now any rumors surrounding him and Claudia have changed from his dubious morality to when the two of them are going to get married.

IF Attachment is >=2, Wynn is embarrassed whenever he overhears these conversations, but he'd be lying if he said he had not thought about it. Claudia is the first woman, saurian or otherwise, that he's even really registered as attractive. Sure, all the kisses and the cuddling she heaps upon him has certainly awakened something inside of his usual automaton like personality. Beyond the physical she has also enticed him with her, for lack of a better term, pure heart. Whether it is because of a reawakened protective instinct in the man or true love blooming in his soul, he doesn't much care. He would very much like to tell her he loves her, but he can't seem to find the right moment to do so.
IF Attachment is <=1, Wynn ignores the comments mostly. His focus is mostly on keeping Claudia in a state of comfort and happiness. She has for some time now existed in a bubble of sorts. Since ceding all effective control of her life to Wynn, she has existed in an almost dreamlike existence. However, he has on occasion found her parroting the talk of "how wonderful it would be to be married." He feels nothing but confusion at the idea, and though she has not spoken to him directly about marriage, or indeed the deepening of their relationship in anyway, a small sliver of worry works its way into his guts at the idea. He cannot tell if it is because he finds the idea repulsive, or whether he would, in fact, agree to it.

Malcolm has been likewise enthralled by being unofficially recognized as Wynn's son by those around him. Whether he knows the truth of his true parentage or not does not matter to him at all. He has stopped bringing it up every day at school, particularly when the other children complained about it being annoying, but at home he hardly ever calls Wynn by his name anymore. It has been thoroughly replaced by "dad." It makes for rather touching displays while in public, and the joy in his face dispels any doubts onlookers may have about Wynn's character. While the jaunts into the public are typically reserved for church, Wynn picking Malcolm up from school, or going down a block to and from Tiffany's there were a few times the trio went out to eat.
They often fluctuated between the Pizza Cave and Dino-Moe's restaurants. The former was a favorite of Malcolm and Tiffany when she tagged along, and the latter soon became a frequent favorite of Claudia and Wynn. The chatty, elderly Tyrannosaur owner has endeared himself to them. Moe seemed to have taken a shine to the trio, possibly because they were one of more consistent customers. It seems the old saurian's age is catching up with him and he's looking to retire, or hire on some fresh blood as he can't keep up with the work anymore. He even offers a job to Wynn, but the man politely declines.
Moe does reveal he knows just about everyone there is to know in the city during these little chats over diner. Apparently he knows not only Det. Winslow, but also the now chief of police is one of his best friends. He also lets slip a certain knowledge only someone familiar with criminal enterprise may possess, but he often catches himself before speaking too much on that front. Often times waving the subject off as being all in the past before changing to a new topic.

And so this is where Wynn finds himself after three weeks. The morning at the end of this period, the man awakens as he has for some time now next to a still snoozing Claudia (IF Attachment >=2 or his own bed if not), and rises to engage in a well practiced morning routine. Begin the percolation of coffee, shower until it is ready, and then enjoy a fresh cup after refreshing himself.

IF Attachment is >=2, Claudia appears behind Wynn and wraps her arms around him and rests against his back, quietly humming a good morning to the man. Wynn becomes a very particular kind of invigorated as he replies to the parasaur woman's greeting. She is still half asleep, apparently only emerging from her bed to once more feel Wynn's body heat against her. Thus her response a collection of very simple hums and half formed words that the man deciphers as a request for coffee and a return to the nest of pillows and blankets they had just left. A tempting offer to be sure, made more tempting by the fact neither of them anywhere to go today.
IF Attachment is <=1, the early morning ritual goes off without issue or interruption. There are few things that Wynn is able to actually enjoy but a good early morning shower never fails to help him recenter himself. Emerging from the bathroom reveals Claudia has awakened and has begun to busily prepare breakfast. No sooner does Wynn sit down than he is treated to a plate of pancakes, eggs, and a cup of coffee, prepared to his liking. A dutiful Claudia merrily toils away in the creation of her own, and Malcolm's breakfasts. Barely a word beyond a thank you or good morning is exchanged between the two.

The quiet morning routine is interrupted by a knock on the door. Wynn knows that it is far too early for either of the detective's usual check ins or a visit from Minnie. He stops whatever he is in the middle of and moves to the door while telling Claudia to stay back. He is cautious about opening the door, as his usual accoutrements for self defense are with his jacket in his room. He doesn't consider the idea to have gone to get them and make the visitor wait until the door is already swinging open. He is shocked to find Dierdra standing upon the front step waiting for him wearing a rather form fitting exercise attire and jacket that does little to conceal he bountiful physical assets.
Without missing a beat, she very cheerfully greets the man and plants a kiss on each of his cheeks before forcing her way past him and into the house. It only takes her a moment to take the space in and comment on how charming she finds it. Claudia is naturally flummoxed by the allosaur's appearance in her home, knowing her only as some dreaded mafioso's daughter, if at all. Dierdra, upon spotting Claudia greets her in identical fashion to how she greeted Wynn, kisses and all. Wynn and Claudia both are stunned by this interaction, Claudia only barely able to stammer out a good morning and feebly asks what is going on as she positions herself next to Wynn.
Dierdra eyes them both with a smile and formally introduces herself to Claudia, and then turns to Wynn and says she has some very good news that she wanted to deliver in person. Asking for a cup of coffee and a place to sit, she then gracefully strides to one of the comfy single seater chairs in the living room and claims it. Claudia and Wynn exchange glances as the allosaur woman, rather purposefully they both suspect, stretches out into the chair in a particularly provocative manner. Claudia is not particularly impressed by the display, but as a gracious host she does oblige in getting Dierdra some coffee.
Wynn and Claudia both sit down on the couch with their own cups to listen to what Dierdra has to say. The allosaur woman doesn't seem bothered with Claudia's presence, but Wynn takes note that as Claudia takes a seat next to him, Dierdra's eyes do linger on the intimately small space between the man and parasaur. Wynn has some difficulty in reading her saurian features, but he is fairly certain he detects a bit of envy in her eyes.
Seemingly catching on that she was zoning out, Dierdra clears her throat and thanks Claudia for the coffee before asking if the parasuar woman really wants to hear what she has to say. There may be some gorey details she'd be happier not knowing. Claudia rather stoically states that Wynn has already told her everything there is to know as she places a hand on his closest arm. The gesture gets another quick glance from Dierdra, but the elegant allosaur quickly smiles and says very well as she shares her good news. She states that things have gone very well on her end. Her father has lost a lot of support over the years, more than even she suspected, and convincing members of the crime family to turn on him has just been surprising easy.
Dierdra chuckles to herself as she goes onto say that apparently using her father's habit of eating humans, deepening mental degradation into an animal, and the possibility of an all out race war none of them would survive wasn't what convinced them, but the fact that all these things would make it harder to make money. She looked at the pair on the couch and made a rather hollow laugh at that, asking them if they could believe that it'd come down to something so simple as what would make them more money. A slight frown forms as her snout scrunches up. "Insane," she says, "simply insane." However she quickly smiles again and states that now that she knows that's all they care about, bringing Wynn into the organization won't be an issue with any of them.
Before either Wynn or Claudia can comment, she goes on. She says there are only two things that worry her at this point, the first being that her father is doing absolutely nothing. Her expression becomes grim as she admits that quite frankly that it terrifies her that he isn't taking any action whatsoever. She's taken somewhat extreme steps to not let her father catch on to what she's doing, but she did expect him to do more than just sit in his office all day and stare out the window. His apparent lack of concern could be his mental decline, or he could just be letting her gather up all the people who want to oust him. The fact she can't tell is very troubling to her.
Turning to face Wynn directly, she explains that is another reason why she wants him to join her and be her right hand man. She wants someone she knows doesn't have any loyalty to Alphonse. Her eyes and voice soften as she looks at the man, adding that she needs someone who chooses to side with her for the right reasons. Which brings her to her second concern: the fact that she needs to know Wynn will actually join her for the right reasons. As such, she reveals to Wynn that she'll be spending the day with him. She shoots a very quick glance towards Claudia, and tells the parasaur that she can tag along if she likes.

IF Attachment is >=5 and Honesty is >=5, before Wynn can say anything in response Claudia immediately says she does in fact want to tag along. Wynn and his issues are as much her responsibility as his are hers. This catches Dierda off guard, as the allosaur woman pulls back from the parasaur's proclamation. Dierdra does readjust back to her previous confident demeanor quickly, and replies with curiosity of just how far this little relationship between Wynn and her has gone. This does drum up a little bashfulness in Claudia, but nothing more than what she's dealt with from listening to gossip at church. Wynn throws in his support by clasping her hand tightly and responds that it has gone a pretty far.
Dierdra leans back and comments on how cute they are, and openly admits she's envious. She rather dourly states that her father's reputation drove off any potential lovers she may have had. After a brief moment of reflection she pushes the thoughts to the back of her head and takes on a happier tone and proclaims that they have all day to get to know one another. Wynn and Claudia look towards each other as they digest the situation that's been thrust on them. Neither is particularly sure what to make of it, but the apparent friendliness Dierdra has put on display is putting them at a certain level of ease. That being said, neither of them were particularly happy with the turn of events.
Wynn less so than Claudia, who by his estimation seemed more inclined to give the sensual saurian woman a chance in spite of what the man could only describe as being a sudden protectivness of him. He considers briefly that if Dierdra decides to get flirtatious, Claudia may react in a way that causes an argument, which may jepordize any chance of convincing the allosaur woman to testify to the police. However, Wynn trusts Claudia enough to know what she's doing and stifles the thought of asking her to stay behind. Especially when the thought that him going off with Dierdra, alone, for unspecified amounts of time, may upset Claudia more.
So Wynn rises to his feet and says that both he and Claudia have to make some calls to clear their schedules if they are both going to be spending it with Dierdra, and they'll probably have to drop Malcolm off with Tiffany. Claudia rises with the man and agrees, saying she'll see to calling out of work and handling Malcolm. Wynn meanwhile turns to Dierdra and asks her if she has someplace in mind to spend the day. She rather absentmindedly responds that she'd prefer someplace away from Little Troodon or Skin Row. She's heard the aquarium makes for a lovely date spot. The low light makes it very romantic. Wynn rankles at the implication which causes Dierdra to laugh, saying she's just teasing. Wynn then suggests that perhaps a nice restaurant.
She agrees to the idea, so long as it isn't one her father owns. Wynn suggests Moe's, to which now Dierdra's expression rankles and she admits she's never heard of it, but it sounds like even in her gym clothes she'd be over dressed. Wynn assures her it's actually quite nice before going to get his jacket and various accoutrements. By now Malcolm has been woken up by Claudia and is making his way into the kitchen for breakfast. Upon seeing Dierdra he stops dead in his tracks and his eyes go wide. Dierdra shoots the young boy a charming smile and waves at him. Claudia pushes him into the kitchen and gets him set up with something to eat. When Wynn joins them, Malcolm asks him who the lady is.
Wynn explains who Dierdra is and that he'll be staying at Tiffany's while he and Claudia go spend the day with her. Malcolm's only reply is to say she's pretty. Wynn catches sight of Dierdra from the door to the kitchen, and sees her make a rather touched expression while also letting a quiet "Aww" escape her lips. Not quiet enough that Claudia doesn't hear of course. The parasaur woman rolls her eyes at that but smirks all the same before going to get dressed. After Malcolm is fed, clothed, and Tiffany has agreed to watch the boy for the day, all three of Wynn, Claudia, and Dierdra walk the small parasaur boy to Tiffany's. Wynn keeps Dierdra in front of him the whole time as a precaution.
This backfires somewhat as she catches on and adds a unsubtle amount of sway to her stride. The man rethinks his strategy and instead walks between her and Claudia. After dropping off Malcolm and returning home, the three of them stand outside of Claudia's car, spurring the parasaur woman to ask whether they should take Dierdra's instead. Dierdra merely states that her car stands out more than Claudia's does, which is why she parked a few blocks away. Satisfied with the answer, Claudia gets in, Wynn holds the door open for Dierdra which earns him a kiss blown his way, and then Wynn takes the co-pilot seat. After they're all situated, they drive off.

IF Attachment is >=2 and Honesty is >=2, Wynn states that Claudia will come along. Seeing as how all this affects her as well, she should be there. Claudia nods in agreement and states that they should both be there for something this important. Dierdra does seem charmed by the display, mentioning that Claudia's got a little bit of gumption to her. She goes onto say that fortunately things are going well enough on her end that they have the whole day to spend to get to know each other better. Rolling her head to look at Wynn, she teasingly states that she wonders if she can get some girl talk out of Claudia about Wynn.
The idea of spending all day with Dierdra does not fill either Wynn or Claudia with a pleasant feeling, but neither of them can say that the relaxed and friendly demeanor of the allosaur woman feels anything but genuine. Although they are both worried about what Dierdra may have planned for them, there is a certain level optimism that this will go well. That being said Wynn's still quite concerned about the woman sitting across from him. For all her charming nature and smiles, he remembers the macabre scene he first saw her taking part in, hesitant and regretful though she may have been, she still took part.
Taking the brief pause in the conversation to rise up with Claudia in tow, he states they'll have to clear their schedules and get Tiffany to watch Malcolm for the day. Claudia agrees and immediately goes to the phone to do just that while Wynn asks if Dierdra had someplace in mind to spend the day. The allosaur woman runs a single delicately manicured, clawed finger from the tip of her chin down the length of her jaw to her cheek as she hums in thought. She smiles as she says she'll let him decide, but he should probably choose some place outside of Little Troodon and Skin Row, as her father will certainly notice if she shows up there with a delicious looking human on her arm.
The admittedly pretty but no less toothy smile she gives Wynn when she makes that comment makes the man wonder if she was just being an obvious flirt or giving him a warning. He thinks he prefers the latter. Claudia overheard the comment and gets a bit flustered about it and quickly interrupts that perhaps they can go to see a show. She mentions hearing something about a fire dancing troupe being quite a spectacle. Dierdra's amusement is plain as she respond the fire dancers she's probably thinking of are currently performing in Caldera Bay, so that isn't an option. She does compliment the parasaur on her good taste though saying she would be happy to take their whole family to see them when this is all over.
Wynn cuts the teasing short and suggests Moe's. Dierdra scrunches up her face at the suggestion saying she's never heard of it. Wynn counters that her father wouldn't have either in that case. She considers the idea and accepts it, but comments that it sounds kinda cheap. Wynn says that it may been hitting a bit of a low period in customers, but it's cozy. The word cozy changes her expression back to something more playful as she repeatss the word back to him in a more sensual tone. Wynn gives her a look and hurriedly gathers his jacket and his various tools. Claudia has woken Malcolm up in the meantime and is explaining the situation to him as he rubs the sleepiness from his eyes.
Wynn lingers until the three of them can exit back into the living room together and answer some of the boy's questions. After the young boy gets dressed Claudia picks him up and carries him to the kitchen as Wynn follows along behind. Malcolm's eyes go wide when he catches sight of Dierdra, however briefly. She only has time to give him a smile before he disappears into the kitchen. After practically inhaling his breakfast while Claudia is getting herself ready to head out, he sits with Wynn in the living room and clings bashfully to the man. He is uncharacteristically bashful in Dierdra's presence, which is only exasperated by the glamorous allosaur woman cooing at him with baby talk.
Before too long, Claudia returns and the group sets out to deliver him to Tiffany. Wynn walks beside Claudia as they both take one of Malcom's hands, as Dierdra follows behind. Wynn can feel her eyes staring into their backs but tries to ignore it. After depositing Malcolm at Tiffany's they return home and with a gesture from Wynn pile into Claudia's car. Wynn assists the other two into the car before climbing into the driver's seat, and driving off.
IF Attachment is >=2 and Honesty is <=1, Claudia looks to Wynn for direction, and the man tells her that perhaps she should stay with Malcolm and take him someplace safe while Wynn handles thing with Dierdra. Claudia looks worried for the man, and glances between him and Dierdra as she weighs the options before her. Eventually she nods in agreement. She then plants a kiss on Wynn's lips before telling him to be safe and goes to go get Malcolm. Wynn's eyes follow her as she goes but turns back to Dierdra once she leaves the room, noticing the allosaur woman suddenly look away once he's facing her again. Evidently she was rather invested in observing that kiss. The man disregards it, and asks Dierdra if there is someplace she wanted to talk.
Still avoiding eye contact, she attempts to speak casually as she suggests that they go someplace public yet also a place where they can hold a private conversation without anyone snooping around. Wynn considers the idea for a moment and asks if she is familiar with Dino-Moe's. She thinks about it and with a frowning responds with a no. Wynn says it's a nice little restaurant owned by someone friendly with him and Claudia, and it isn't particularly busy so they should be able to talk freely. Dierdra seems satisfied with the description. She does playfully ask whether Wynn is comfortable going to a restaurant alone with her.
Wynn says that Moe may ask about it, but Claudia has nothing to worry about. He notes he may have spoken a bit sharper than he intended as Dierdra's expression narrows in response. A slight awkwardness hangs in the air before Wynn goes to his room to gather his jacket and weapons. Just in case. He peeks into Malcolm's room as Claudia rouses her son, and says to them both that he'll be back later. Malcolm and Claudia both demand a hug from the man before he departs, and after giving both of them a firm embrace, he returns to the living room and asking Dierdra if she's ready to go. She seems a little disappointed, saying she was hoping to see Malcolm before she left. Wynn denies the request, but with the condition that maybe once he trusts Dierdra more.
She's feigns hurt at the comment but nonetheless relents and rises to her feet. As they leave the house, Dierdra calls out a goodbye to Claudia, and how she hopes to talk to her more later. Despite the man never really emoting, she can tell Wynn is not particularly amused by this act and tells him to not be so sour. As they walk to Claudia's car she tells him that despite their chosen professions, they are allowed to have a little fun. Wynn doesn't respond as he holds the passenger side door open for her. She merely rolls her eyes and says she expected him to be a bit more charming considering how Claudia was treating him. Wynn merely states that Claudia's isn't in a criminal organization out to kill and eat him.
Dierdra smirks and comments that certainly would be a point in her favor as she settles into the car. Wynn takes the driver's seat and drives off.
IF Attachment is <=1, Claudia remains silent and looks to Wynn, who tells her that she does not need to go if she does not want to. After a moment of staring off into space she says that she would prefer to stay with Malcolm. Wynn knew she would choose to do so. It's for the best that she let him take care of things. With nary another word, Wynn turns his attention to Dierdra as he rises to his feet. He says that it seems that it will be just the two of them and asks if she has apreference for where she wishes to discuss things. The man offers the elegant allosaur a hand to assist her to her feet. She appears to be pleased by the gesture and takes the offered hand. She answers his question by saying she is feeling a little hungry.
Wynn nods and says he knows the perfect place to discuss things, a restaurant known as Dino-Moes. Dierdra offers a curious look saying she's never heard of it. Wynn tells her it's a bit lacking in finery as of late, but it should provide a decent setting for a long discussion. Dierdra accepts and waits with Claudia as Wynn collects his things. When he returns to the saurian women he finds them talking. He doesn't hear much, only Claudia telling Dierdra that Wynn is a good man that has been keeping her safe, and the response from the allosaur woman along the lines of her thinking the roles were reversed. The small talk ends abruptly as Wynn arrives, and gestures towards the door. Wynn bids Claudia a good day and tells her to remain safe as she waves goodbye.
On the way to the car Dierdra mentions how she finds the parasaur woman to be quite lovely, and that she sincerely hopes that once all this is all over she might spend a bit of time with her, and perhaps her son. She comments how her own home life has left her rather curious on how an affectionate family does things. Wynn doesn't comment on that last part, but does say that he owes Claudia a great deal for taking him in as she has. As he holds the door open for Dierdra he mentions that he does not plane on staying with her though, only so long as it takes for her to be at peace. Dierdra is given pause by this statement. A series of contemplative thoughts move behind her eyes, and eventually she smiles.
She says that may work out for the best then, considering on what she wants to talk about today. Wynn nods once more and moves to the driver's seat of the car and together they drive off to Dino-Moe's.

Next Scene
Gonna try typing this up in a manner that doesn't require 4 different versions of the same scene, but in a way that if the player doesn't have the points then he just doesn't get the dialogue that goes with it.

The car arrives at Dino-Moe's. It's still early in the morning, barely past 7AM, but as of late Moe has been opening earlier in an effort to attract more customers in with a small breakfast menu. It is not particularly effective as evidenced by the empty parking lot. The passengers disembark and enter the nearly vacant establishment. The interior is almost as empty as the parking lot. There is only one other table occupied by an elderly couple that seems to be idly sipping coffee and reading a newspaper. Much like the previous visits, it appears only Moe is working at present and greets Wynn, and if she is there, Claudia, warmly. When he sees Dierdra, the old T-Rex gets smitten by the glamorous allosaurus woman.
While Dierdra does reply graciously to the old saurian's overly affectionate introduction, it is obvious to Wynn that whatever flirtatiousness she had when conversing with the human was not on display here. If Claudia is not present, he shall express some curiosity at her absence to Wynn, but when the man states it's purely for business, Moe will nod with understanding. He will comment that Wynn should probably not do what he would do then and guffaw as he leads them to their table.
Giving the group the best seat in the restaurant, Moe does make some small talk, primarily towards Dierdra in attempts to perhaps impress her. The allosaur woman politely listens, but after a few minutes shifts her gaze to Wynn with an expression that begs him to intervene and rescue her. The man obliges and interrupts Moe and asks for some coffee and authentic Italian morning pastries. The exuberant T-Rex snaps out of his old man rambling and stomps off happily to the kitchen humming a tune. Dierdra thanks Wynn for the timely distraction. The man just shrugs, but if Claudia is present, she explains that Moe is a very friendly old cuss that is at that age where he just wants someone to talk to. Plus, he's bored with the restaurant so empty.
Dierdra looks around the eating area an after a few moments of analyzing the trappings and atmosphere she asks how busy does the place usually get. Wynn answers that it's busier at night. When asked by how much, he replies there are usually a dozen or so more tables occupied. Dierdra states that she'd be able to get the place far more profitable with a few choice updates. She comments that once she gets that money back she may buy it and get it set up as a legit source of income. Claudia (if present) states that Moe has been talking about retirement, which piques Dierdra's interest. The allosaur woman states that would make things easy for her, and she'd even give the old Rex a good deal too.
While Moe is away from the table Dierdra keeps the majority of her focus on Wynn and asks the man for details about himself, almost like a job interview disguised as casual conversation. Usual things like, how long has he been in the thieving business, what were his plans for all that money, was it the biggest haul he ever got, how'd he even know the money was there, was it really that easy to break into their safe, has he ever gotten his hands bloody. The sort of questions that appraise his abilities. Dierdra doesn't seem to be particularly concerned with Claudia's presence when asking these questions, if the parasaur woman is there. Wynn answers the first series of questions systematically.
As long as he can remember, he was going to use it to keep himself afloat as he continued to travel, it was, he didn't know so much would be there, yes but only because the safe was outdated, IF Honesty = 6 Wynn will grimace and say yes, otherwise he will admit he has gotten into a few fights. As Dierdra goes over Wynn's answers in her mind, Moe returns with their food. If Claudia is present she will ask Wynn a few questions of her own, but unlike Dierdra's probing of his occupation, Claudia will inquire more about Wynn's motivation for living the way he did. To this the man has little to say. He merely shrugs and states it's the only life he knew. Beyond 10 years ago is a void.
Before another round of questioning can begin, Moe returns with the coffee and cannolis and providing a bit of a pause in the discussion. He engages in a bit of friendly banter with Dierdra, saying how she must be from the old country considering how pretty she is. She seems a bit annoyed by being questioned, but conceals it well as she affirms her mother was a Saltriosaurus from the southern coast of Italy, Messina. Moe delights in the news and says that he knows some Messina recipes and will make some for her and the rest of the table. He'd love to hear about more about her mother, and hey who knows, they may be family? A genuinely warm smile covers Dierdra's face at the thought, however she says she can't tell him much as her mother died when she was young.
Moe, with a massive clawed foot in his mouth but still undeterred, gives his condolences but also says that depending on the name, he may know a thing or two. At which point Dierdra gives him, and Wynn for that matter, her full name of Dierdra Amante Degli Umani. A look of worried recognition crosses Moe's features as he hears the name. Dierdra's warm smile fades a bit as she tells the old Rex that she's not here to cause any trouble, and that she would like to try that Messina recipe if he is willing. Moe, more cautious than he was before, agrees and as he passes Wynn, warns the man to stay on his toes around the allosaur woman.

If Claudia is present, she offers her own condolences to Dierdra about her mother, and asks what she was like. Dierdra's faded smile remains as she answers that she would rather not discuss her mother, as it's not a pleasant subject for her. It would end here unless IF Attachment is = 5, in which case Wynn will say that this whole meal is to get to know one another, and that trust must go both ways. Dierdra appears much more willing to heed Wynn's words as she sighs to herself and relents. She explains that her mother did not have a choice in becoming so. Alphonse wanted an heir, so he found a woman that fit his standards and made one. He would have preferred a son, but he got her instead. He never tried for another child as far as Dierdra knows.
From what she remembers in the short time she had with her mother, she was always trying to teach Dierdra things outside of the standard curriculum of your typical mob boss's daughter. Little things like being compassionate, honest, being a loving person. Dierdra's gaze drifts off into space as she briefly falls into some memory. Analyzing her expression, why guesses it's a pleasant one, or perhaps one with a bit of melancholy. Claudia asks what happened to her mother. Dierdra merely doesn't answer for a time, until she at last states that her father happened. One day her mother was called away, and Dierdra never saw her again. Alphonse simply told the then young allosaur girl that her mother was gone and not coming back.
At this Dierdra takes on a grim face and tells the others that if they have any doubt about her wanting to be out from under her father's thumb, they can put those doubts to rest. She's wanted him gone for a long time. Wynn doesn't detect any lies in her words, and Claudia gives her a compassionate stare and offers her condolences. Dierdra replies that the condolences are appreciated, bu not necessary. If either Wynn or Claudia want to help her then they can just agree to her offer when the time comes.

Dierdra shifts her expression back into a pleasant smile and says they'd better not let the food go to waste. She digs into the connolis and coffee and Wynn follows soon after, albeit not so ravenously. Claudia also has a much more reserved pace of eating if she's there. Dierdra delights in the meal, going so far as to say that the connolis are perfect. She says she's definitely buying this place out after she usurps Alphonse. After consuming three of the sugar filled pastries she downs her coffee in a single gulp and takes a moment to savor the taste of the fluffy pastries and caffeine. She does throw an appraising eye towards Wynn while he sips from his own cup. After a few moments of silence she leans forward on the table.
She asks Wynn if he likes her. This gets a sudden spit take from the man, and Claudia if she's present. Wynn is more measured in his reaction compared to the parasuar's. Claudia is by aware of Dierdra's overt flirtatiousness, but even still she is not used to it. The allosaur woman certainly finds it amusing, but it does seem she does want an answer. She presses Wynn on the question, explaining that she genuinely wants to know. She reassures him she does not mean romantically, but just in general. While she wouldn't mind the man's appraisal of her physical appearance, but she is more interested in what about her he likes and dislikes, outside of the company she keeps and what her father forces her to do.
Wynn ponders this. This is only his third time seeing her and only their second time conversing. Not much to go on, and definitely not enough for him to discern any lies from the truth. What he can settle on being true about her is her hate of Alphonse and distaste for using violence. Thinking back to the first time he saw her at the start of the year, she was obviously, and literally sick of the situation she was in. Dierdra has been laying the friendliness and flirtatiousness on thick, even in their first talk. Coming on a bit strong though she might be, Wynn can't say it's entirely an act. There's something about it that strikes true however.
Wynn doesn't have the social knowledge necessary to tell for sure, but it's more like she's making her first real attempt to interact with someone in a friendly manner as opposed to what could honestly be life or death business. Couple that with the thought that, going by the attention she's shown him, the looks, and tone of voice, she's being very genuine about liking him. Though why he has no idea. If Claudia is present, he will look her direction and consider it is not so much him but what he has with Claudia that Dierdra envies. IF Attachment = 5, it occurs to the man that perhaps the only frame of reference she has is the rather bleak version given to her by her father.
After a fair amount of thought, Wynn finally speaks and answers the anticipatory allosaurs. He states that he likes Dierdra's preference to handle things with deals and compromise instead of violence, it speaks very well of her character and actually encourages the man to work with her. As Wynn returns to drinking his coffee Dierdra asks if that's all, and raises a curious eyebrow that she doesn't have anything he dislikes. A hint of hopefulness in her tone. Wynn merely replies she asked him to not include her profession or people she's surrounded by. A small laugh escapes her mouth as she does admit that didn't leave a lot else for him to discuss, but she assures him that there is more to her.

IF Honesty >=2 and Attachment >=2, he'll take the opportunity to ask Dierdra to expand on that, perhaps explain why she is doing things in such a friendly manner. Dierdra glances between Wynn and Claudia before she answers. She says that over the course of her life she's rubbed elbows with the worst sort of people imaginable, most of whom work for her or her father. So whenever she has a chance to defy these people, even just by not acting like a barbarian, she takes it. She admits that there is going to be some bloodshed when she takes over, which will make it easier to rebuild it with people that share her particular morals. Wynn has shown her by his affection towards Claudia that he shares those morals. It's that simple.
After Dierdra gives her reasons and Wynn says that her morals really don't line up with what she wants to do, and asks if Dierdra has considered leaving the criminal life behind. Dierdra shakes her head and says that it isn't the same for her. She can't just turn over a new leaf like Wynn did. She isn't surrounded by a bunch of saints. There is no walking away for her, only compromising what she can and where she can to get the best result she can. And unfortunately for her, very often the best result she usually gets is innocent people like Claudia get to be left alone. After a pause she suffixes the statement with a very grim "Sometimes." Starting over for her is simply impossible.
IF Honesty >=5 and Attachment >=5, Wynn and Claudia digest what she's said before Claudia calls bullshit. Dierdra wasn't expecting that out of the parasuar but keeps her cool as she rather defensively asks what she means by that. Claudia says that from what she's heard from Dierdra, she clearly hates the life she is living, the people she's surrounded with, and it sounds like she is desperate to find some way out but can't see it. At this point Claudia leans forward, and explains that neither she nor Wynn have likely gone through what Dierdra has, but both of them have had their lives crumble to nothing in one way or another. Claudia says Donovian took everything but Malcolm from her. Wynn doesn't even have a history that he remembers.
BUT, as Claudia states, there's always a chance to change things for the better. It may seem impossible when you're alone, and perhaps that's what Dierdra is going wrong. Claudia says that without Minnie or Father Xander pulling her through the darkest moment in her life, she and Malcolm may not be alive. She's tried doing the same for Wynn, and she proclaims that if Dierdra is willing she'd do the same for her as well. Wynn seconds this sentiment, admitting he couldn't have said it better himself. Dierdra looks away from them considering her words. They've obviously had some affect on her. Wynn atakes the lead and asks Dierdra again to consider leaving her back on the criminal life promising that both he and Claudia would be there for her.
The words sink into Dierdra but she shakes her head, unwilling to commit to them. She states that they are far too optimistic before continuing on.

Getting to the heart of the bargain, Dierdra asks Wynn, and Claudia if she's there, if he thinks that any of them have a chance on their own against Alphonse. The only way Dierdra thinks this will work is if she is able to completely turn the gang on Alphonse. He's a monster but if he's alone he can be dealt with effectively. If she goes to the police, or has any split in the organization at all, the infighting will be bloody and she might loose.
So reiterates, with emphasis, does Wynn really think he can deal with Alphonse without joining her?

HONESTY CHOICE 7
No (+1)

Wynn leans back and after a moment of consideration says that no. He cannot. He's seen Alphonse, and he's as much a monster as Dierdra says, both physically and in personality. If he wants to survive he needs Dierdra's help.

IF Honesty >=6 and Attachment >=5, Wynn does say that does not mean he's accepting Dierdra's deal however. Dierdra gets frustrated with him at this and asks why not. Wynn responds that Claudia, Malcolm, Minnie, Father Xander, and Tiffany have all, in their own way shown him that he can have a life. A REAL life. One where he can be a real human being instead of some kind of ghost drifting from one place to another. Looking at Dierdra he says he can see it in her too, her desire to really live. But she can't do that if she compromises now. This may be her one chance to walk away from it all. She'd lose the power and whatever money came with her life underneath her father's thumb, but she'd actually be free.
Dierdra lets a heavy breath out through her nose at that. After a few moments all she can say is that it's a compelling offer, but she doesn't like the odds of it working out. Wynn gives a rare smile and says that it's a pretty steep gamble, but he says that however things play out, she can rely on him being there. Without missing a beat, Claudia places a hand on his and adds, "all of us." Dierdra stares for a moment before wiping a little wetness that had formed in her eye and lets out a laugh. She says that she wasn't expecting a counter offer. She ends the discussion with a very whistful sounding "We'll just have to see where the cards fall then, won't we?"

Yes

Wynn leans forward and states that he has more options than what Dierdra is offering. Alphonse is a monster, but he's not invincible. If Wynn can't take him down legally, then he'll just have to deal with him some other way.

IF Attachment is <=1, Wynn states that doesn't mean he's saying no to her offer. Far from it. Violence has its place, it just needs to be done carefully. Dierdra agrees, and states that Wynn is right in wanting to be careful, and she appreciates his willingness to seek alternatives. However, she stresses that her plan is the only way to settle things for good.
Wynn accepts her reasons for believing so, but still says that he will consider it.

After a tense moment after answering the question, Moe returns wheeling out a cart with several dishes on it. He has his previous smile and confidence back as he rolls up next to Wynn and apologizes for taking so long. He's pulling double duty as the cook and the waiter currently. Without further adieu he reveals some very authentic looking Italian food, and proclaims it to be Braciole Messinesi. To Wynn it looks like breaded meatballs on a skewer, but it certainly smells delightful. Regardless of how Dierdra was feeling after the question she had just asked Wynn, her face will immediately brighten at the sight of the food, and she will immediately compliment Moe on its preparation.
If Claudia is present, Moe will present her with a pasta dish, which he will identify as Vermicelli alla Siciliana. Another authentic Messina dish according to him. After serving up the plates, Dierdra says some very kind words to the old saurian, which is naturally replied to with an "eeey, forgetaboutit." The various plates of food do not last long at all, and none of those eating felt the need to converse during the meal. The food is delicious as expected. Wynn can't understand how Moe's business is losing steam with such good food on offer.
The table sits in silence as they digest. Dierdra, who was rather ravenous in her devouring of her meal, sits in a state of blissful contentedness with a full stomach. She describes that the last time she had anything like this was when her mother was when her mother made it for her. Nothing else has ever come close. If Claudia and Wynn had gotten her to open up about her past, then Dierdra will actually speak a little more on the subject saying she never got a chance to take learn how to cook them herself. Claudia suggests asking Moe for the recipe when he comes back, and IF Attachment is >=5 Wynn will suggest perhaps asking him for a job if she does end up leaving the criminal life behind.
Dierdra will laugh at that, saying it may be worth changing lifestyles for food this good.

The general feeling at the table tells its occupants that it is time to move on. Almost as if he was reading their minds, Moe appears and starts collecting dishes. If Claudia is present, he insists that this is on the house, a fact that Dierdra will argue with saying that she insists on paying for food this good. Moe refuses again, saying that he doesn't charge friends or family, so if she wants to complain she can direct it at Claudia and Wynn. He almost gets away on that remark, but Dierdra catches him and says she's not letting a gentleman like him get away without some thanks. She gives him a kiss on his cheeks, turning the old saurian as rose tinted as the elegant allosaurus.
As for Wynn and Claudia's reaction, they are each flattered the aging saurian considers them in such high regard. While Wynn doesn't show it, the idea does mean a great deal to him. Claudia is sure to give him a hug before the group leaves. If Claudia is not present, then Dierdra pays the bill and gives her compliments to Moe, saying she'll be sure to come by more often.
After either paying Moe or being let go, Dierdra, Wynn, and potentially Claudia exit the restaurant, and marvel at how they were there. It's been about 3 hours, though all but Wynn comments that it didn't feel that long at all. Dierdra speaks first as they stand in the parking lot, and asks what is next on the agenda. She is interested in seeing where Wynn wants to go next. She coyly asks whether they still have so much of the day left, and she's extremely curious as to what Wynn's hobbies and interests are. If Claudia is present, the sensual allosaur will turn to the parasaur and suggest Claudia can give some insight.
Wynn hasn't really developed any hobbies in the months he's lived with Claudia outside of snooping and spying on Donovian's movements, making plans to break into his home and office, and generally contemplate how and when to actually strike at him. But he doubts Dierdra wants to sit in a car for several hours watching the comings and goings of people or camera footage on a disposable phone. He spends most his free time assisting in church functions, cleaning, doing small maintenance projects around Claudia's house, and he supposes video games. He wracks his mind for something that may be both entertaining, but also eat up some time so this interview with Dierdra may end more quickly.
If Claudia is present, she is asked what kind of hobbies she has that may help decide what to do next. However, much like Wynn she reveals that she doesn't actually have much in the way of hobbies. She's spent the last 5 years scrambling to just keep her life together, she had to drop pretty much all her interests so she could raise Malcolm. It's only since Wynn has arrived that she's had any real free time at all. Before then, it was just work, meals, church, and sleep. Dierdra is understandably disappointed by the answers. Putting her hands on her hips she says she's got nothing going on either. It's pretty much all work and living in fear of Alphonse. So the three of them just stand there in the parking lot and realize none of them have any hobbies.
As the realization sets in Dierdra can't help but erupt in laughter with Claudia following suit soon after. The two saurian women get a pretty good laugh in while Wynn leans against the car and thinks things over. While he does so, the other two banter a bit about perhaps taking a class or something.

Without Claudia present the event is less mirthful, but in either case eventually an idea crosses Wynn's mind that perhaps they can simply go to someplace scenic to enjoy the atmosphere. He goes on to suggest the Bluff that Volcadera is known for. Dierdra considers the option and agrees, saying that it may be a landmark, but people are usually more focused on the beaches below it. Claudia is all for it, stating that she actually hasn't gotten to ever go up onto the bluff despite living here for most of her life. With the decision made, they once more pile into the car and drive. Making sure to follow Dierdra's instructions of which streets to avoid to stay clear of her father's territory adds a few minutes to the trip, but they arrive within the hour.
The ocean air suffuses the area, and strong winds blow across the bluff. It's just about noon when they arrive and the bluff has is rather active in regards to visitors. An old wooden fence lines the bluff's ridge, and numerous signs have stand every dozen or so feet apart warning tourists to not only beware being blown off the bluff by strong winds, but to also not jump off or leave small children unattended. Ascending the bluff it is indeed very windy. It is also comfortably cool as a result, something Wynn is quite happy with. The month of May has only just begun but the heat is already quite intense so he welcomes the relief, especially seeing as how he refuses to take his jacket off.
Dierdra will lead the way to the edge of the bluff. Wynn will follow second, and if she's present Claudia will lag behind as she is buffetted by the high winds. Wynn will hang back and assist her up the trail by offering his arm to her which is readily accepted. Joining Dierdra at the bluff's edge, they look out over the rolling waves of the ocean and down onto the beaches on either side of the bluff. The beaches are populated by a multitude of coloful saurians. With some effort, one could spot a handful of humans among the throngs of dinosaurs. While Wynn seems more interested on the vast ocean before him, Dierdra gazes down onto the people on the beaches beneath her. Claudia would just lean against Wynn's shoulder if present.
Wynn will see different types of weather when he looks out over the ocean, depending on the ending he's currently set to get. E1 is a dark cloud bank stretching across the horizon, E2 is a storm out at sea, E3 is big nimbus clouds obscuring the sun, and E4 is a clear and pleasant blue sky.
Dierdra pointedly ignores a "Please don't lean on fence" sign and sits on one of the wooden beams of the fence and begins to speak to Wynn. She says she's glad Wynn chose to come here, it hadn't been here since she was a kid, back before they put up all the signs. She humorously explains some kid thought he could fly and jumped off, so the story goes. If Claudia is there she will add that she remembers that story from when she was little, and say she heard the boy survived with a distinct tone of relief in her voice. Dierdra will shrug at that and continue. The allosaur woman will state that coming here brings back some good memories, and coming here now after so long is proving to be quite comforting to her.
The two or three of them spend a decently long while just taking in the atmosphere around them. The fresh air, the warm sun, the cold breeze, the scent of the ocean. All of it does make for a memorable moment in time. Eventually Dierdra will sigh and lament that she doesn't get out here more often. Wynn notes the direction her eyes are looking and lets his gaze follow hers down towards the beach, where a human man and saurian woman are walking together. Wynn starts putting some information together in his head about Dierdra, what she's said, and how she's behaved around him. He keeps it to himself, but he considers that the reason she's been so keen to get him on her side in all this may have less to do with his skills and more his species.
Wynn will keep the suspicion to himself, especially if Claudia is present, but it does shed her overly friendly attitude in new light, as is her interest in observing him and Claudia interact. Concluding that whether his theory about her is true or not, Dierdra does appear to be honest about her intentions and she is pleasant company. He also admits to himself that she IS rather attractive. If Claudia is with him, that last comment is countered by a follow up thought as Wynn looks down towards Claudia. A thought that says that as attractive as Dierdra may be Claudia has given Wynn a place to call home, and fostered a deep love in the man. To him, there is no contest between the two saurian women when it comes to who holds sway over his heart.

After a long moment of gazing at beach goers or the ocean, Dierdra will once again speak to Wynn. She'll very plainly ask Wynn what does he want when all this business is concluded. The suddenness of the question causes the man to jolt slightly, but he had expected this question.

ATTACHMENT CHOICE 7
He wants to stay with Claudia and Malcolm, and start a new life here. Regardless of what happens, he isn't leaving. (+1)

Wynn resolutely states that, whatever comes, he isn't leaving Claudia or Malcolm. He has a place here, whatever it may be. IF Honesty <=1, and Claudia is not present, he will address Dierdra with a certain intensity that makes the statement sound almost like he's not just trying to convince Dierdra, but himself.
If Claudia is present, then the two of them will tighten their holds on one another. Wynn will add an "If she'll have me" after a beat. Claudia doesn't hesitate to squeeze the man a little tighter and confirm he is welcome to stay as long as he wants. Dierdra's only comment to this to pretend to look away at the small gesture of affection. Wynn spots a quick flash of what he thinks is guilt cross Dierdra's otherwise neutral expression.
%pinkIF Attachment >=6%% and Honesty >=6 Wynn looks down at the parasaur that is resting her body against his, and feels the deep affection he feels for her swell in his chest. Deciding this may be his best chance in the coming days to express his true feelings he speaks again to Claudia. He tells her that if he can stay however long he wants, then perhaps they should get married. This gets both Claudia and Dierdra's heads to snap up to look towards Wynn. Sparing only a quick glance to even consider Dierdra's reaction he settles his gaze into Claudia's now widening eyes. He repeats, "If she'll have me."
Her answer comes in the form of throwing her whole body into a kiss that nearly knocks the man over. The kiss is filled with such deep affection that neither Wynn nor Claudia notice the small crowd that takes notice of the amorous display. Even the fact that Dierdra is there parts from their minds. Eventually Claudia parts the embrace to essentially come up for air and gives a very breathy yes. It's only now that the two of them become of those around them as the various spectators to the scene give a smattering of claps and cheers. The man and the parasaur give sheepish looks. However, it's evident that both of their hearts are a flutter.
Remembering Dierdra's existence he glances her way to see that she's forgone any illusions of not being invested in the romantic display, looking at the pair with a mix of envy and tearful admiration. Remembering the question that spurred all this, and after the bashfulness subsides somewhat, Wynn reiterates that it will have to wait until this whole thing is over, but promises it will happen. Claudia affirms that she knows it will and reengages the man with another kiss. Their hands do not part for the rest of the time the spend on the bluff.
Claudia does apologize to Dierdra for performing such a sudden display in front of her as if she had been rude to do so. The allosaur woman just sighs and wipes the beginnings of a tear from her eye and says there's nothing to apologize for. She did ask after all. She just wasn't ready for that. Once the crowd goes back to minding its own business she'll tell Wynn and Claudia that they can probably guess but she's lacking a certain edge one might expect from the daughter of a crime boss, especially one as evil as Alphonse. Claudia will respond that is something to be thankful for, and in fact be proud of. Dierdra would agree, but she goes on to say that she was sort of hoping Wynn had more of an edge to him, and not be as...chivalrous.
When Clauida asks her why, the elegant allosaur explains that part of her deal to Wynn would have required the man to stay in Volcadera Bluffs...with her. Dierdra blushes as she says this, as much as a red scaled saurian can blush that is, and both Wynn and Claudia can easily guess her reasons before she speaks them. But she tells them all the same, saying that she hasn't had the best experiences with saurians in her life, and seeing Wynn and Claudia's romance from a far, she started wanting a human of her own. Dierdra laments that it seems she can't sway the man over to her now, and it doesn't sound like he has much interest in taking part in her scheme either.
Wynn will affirm that he believes Dierdra's right about lacking the edge necessary to be a crime lord, but that she's got everything it takes to start a fresh new life. Extending a hand to her, he will add "including friends." Claudia will mimic the gesture and offer her a place to stay if she needs one. She does have a spare room. Wynn will comment it's a bit small, get an elbow from Claudia, and hastily add that it's cozy. Dierdra will laugh softly at the bit of comedy, but wave off their extended hands.

IF Attachment =1 Wynn will state that he had considered staying for a time, but his tone belies a hollowness to the words. Dierdra can tell he isn't being entirely truthful, or isn't putting his heart into his words. She looks disappointed.

He isn't sure. Presuming he lives, and has a choice, perhaps it would be best for everyone if he left just so they'd be safe.

Wynn states that this business with Alphonse, no matter how it goes down will be messy, and that's not even counting on what will happen with Donovian. If he really cares for Claudia and Malcolm, then he may have to disappear for a while just so they may avoid any fallout. Dierdra nods at this and adds that laying low is also an option, and if Wynn takes her deal, she'll have a nice little spot he can do that in where he can keep in touch with the parasaur family.
If Claudia is present she will cling tightly to Wynn and ask him if he really thinks he has to go, and saying maybe once it's over that it will be just actually be over. It's an optimistic prognosis, and one that Wynn is hopeful for, but the reality of the situation points to quite the storm. But, it will die down in due time. It's not like he'll be gone forever. Wynn attempts to reassure the parasaur woman with this sentiment, but her worried expression remains. Dierdra remains quiet, but wears an apologetic expression on her face.
F Attachment = 0, Wynn will reiterate that once he knows Claudia and Malcolm are at peace, and nothing can hurt them again, he will likely move on. There will be nothing left for him here afterwards. Dierdra will cock an eyebrow at that and ask if he's sure. She could make him a rather tempting offer, and asks how much does he think he's worth. Wynn will reply that currently he's worth couple million, unless Honesty =6, in which case he will rather coldly state $250. The significance of the statement is lost on Dierdra, but the odd nature of it does give her pause.

After Wynn gives his answer, Dierdra will rise to her feet and pat whatever wooden flakes are still clinging to her ample rump off and say that she thinks that she's seen and heard enough to satisfy her for the day. With a smile, she'll ask for a ride back to Claudia's house, where she'll part ways with Wynn, Claudia, and Malcolm. Nodding in acceptance, Wynn will lead those present back to the car and begin the drive home. The drive back is silent. Dierdra looks out her window deep in her own thoughts, and Wynn is not too talkative in anycase. If Claudia is there, she occupies the front passenger's seat, and rests her head back and, like Dierdra, is lost in thought. However, she does look towards Wynn often. Usually with an expression like she wishes to speak.
She holds in whatever she wants to say however. They return to the house around 1pm. If Claudia is with Wynn, both of them will linger around the car as Dierdra stretches and prepares to walk to hers. The allosaur woman gives Wynn a slip of paper with a phone number on it, and tells him that whenever he decides he's ready to make that deal, she'll be waiting for him. Wynn and Claudia both say their thanks to Dierdra and their goodbyes. Dierdra just smiles, waves, and as she walks away blows a kiss towards Wynn. An act that gets Claudia to roll her eyes, but wear a good natured smile despite herself. After she gets out of sight, Wynn and Claudia go to gather Malcolm and discuss how best to spend their evening.

IF Attachment >=6 and Honesty >=6, then Claudia will lean into Wynn and coil her arm around his as they walk, and begin to wistfully talk about Wynn's marriage proposal. She reveals on the drive back, she'd been thinking of how the name Claudia Doe sounded in her head, and what sort of dress she might wear. Wynn listens calmly, and starts thinking of how odd it feels to have a life ahead of him for a change. During the walk, Claudia essentially charts out what she will reveal to Malcolm, and when. She agrees that any wedding plans will have to wait until after this mess is dealt with, but there is a deep yearning in her voice that tells Wynn she would marry him tomorrow if permitted. And he'd do the same with her.
But, the agree to hold off. They simply don't know where any of this will fall, so for now, the ceremony will just have to wait. The conversation is still quite pleasant though.

If Claudia stayed behind, the door will open as Wynn arrives, with Claudia and Malcolm waiting there for him. Dierdra calls out from behind him, and offers him a piece of paper with a phone number, saying that she'll get in touch with him and that is the phone number she'll be calling from, so don't ignore it. She also says that her deal is the best offer he's going to get. Wynn will silently analyze the paper and then look back to Dierdra as she turns to leave, giving a sensual "see you around," as she goes. Wynn watches her as she goes. He's cautious, but optimistic. The thought that he could indeed trust her crosses his mind, but he just can't be sure. Not yet. Shoving the slip of paper in his pocket, he goes to greet the waiting parasaurs, and informs them that the meeting went well.

IF HONESTY = 7

The final dream. This dream comes to him that night, whether he spends it alone in his room, or nestled in a lovingly chaste embrace with Claudia, he is struck with the now undiluted history of his life. He awakens with a jolt, and he remembers everything.
He is young, about 6 or so. His parents hold onto him, not out of concern, but to make sure he cannot run. He did not know this at the time, and was merely confused. His family was poor, not just in wealth, but in morals too.
Snow falls around them as the third man arrives. A human, asking his parents "How much?" "Two-Fifty," they reply. 250 dollars. Wynn remembers what they would use it for. Drinking. It is all he ever remembered seeing them spend money on.
He is exchanged. Still too young to grasp the concept of what was happening to him. He is moved into a car, the door shut in his face, and then he's gone.
His arrival into his new life is unpleasant. He is ushered into a room with other boys, most older than him, where he sees that flag. Even now he doesn't recognize it, but he knows it is not of any nation. His new life is explained to him by a man who looks like a soldier.
All of them are nobody. They don't have histories. Their future is to be soldiers. To kill, and be killed. If they do well, they will be given clothing, food, beds, and brides. They no longer have lives, unless they earn it.
With that, clothing is taken from Wynn, and he is introduced to his cage. For years he lives this way. Being raised with the mantra that he is nobody and has no history on repeat. He is taught how to steal, and how to fight, how to keep his mouth shut, and how to follow orders.
Boys come, and boys go. They force them all to fight each other for meals. The weak are encouraged to cheat and use every dirty trick they can. The strong are encouraged to kill the weak.
It was when he was 10 when he first killed another boy. Wynn had simply beat him to death. He didn't know his name. Neither of them had names then. The guards were pleased. Wynn had separated himself from the chaff.
He was given a bed. Decent food. Fresh clothes. But more was expected of him. Weapons now. Knives and guns. Breaking and entering without being caught.
His training had barely begun though before it ended by outside forces.
There were no alarms, but Wynn was shaken awake by a soldier and told to follow. They had been found and were closing shop, covering their tracks. The soldier said Wynn was lucky. He gets to live. He followed the soldier to the pens where they kept the boys that hadn't "graduated" like Wynn did.
Then they started dousing them with gasoline. Wynn was told to help. He obeyed. The wailing from the cages was inhuman. More so when they were finished, and the solider ignited them.
It as this, Wynn knew, that his memory had erased. This moment where fire filled his vision and screams filled his ears, when Hell itself was opened before him.
He was dragged from the inferno by the soldier and brought out onto the surface. But once there, gunfire broke out. It was a sudden storm of violence, with the soldier he was following being immediately cut down in front of him. Helicopters bearing the American Flag roared overhead, Jeeps carrying soldiers thundered into view.
It was the first time he'd seen saurians, but in contrast of the night and head lights he couldn't tell. It was pure chaos.
In this chaos, a singular impulse ran through him: The urge to Run. And run he did. He ran as far and as fast as he could, and somehow, was never caught.
A blur of time passes, as Wynn crosses over into the time of his life where his amnesia truly kicked in. When he was merely surviving like an animal.
Small thefts, petty burglaries, and minor crimes that eventually built him up as a thief of some skill. He went from an animal into a creature of cunning. And so, the era of 10 years ago began, and his memories finally were made complete.

It was not a comfort to him, to know this. And as he sits upright in bed, sweat dripping from his brow and shivering, he doubts he'll ever be able to tell another living soul.
But, if he is with Claudia, and he looks down on her peacefully sleeping form, he feels a sense of calm overtake him. A sense of serenity. A sense, that perhaps he has remembered this now because he has found someone with whom he can share this burden with.
Perhaps.

Yeah, I know. Ow the edge.
It's only the second pass so, as stated above I'm not sure I'll keep it, I'm just getting it out there.

Part 8B - THE POINT OF NO RETURN.
The divide in the routes starts here. All choices have been made, and now, it's time to reap what has been sown.
A helpful little chart of how the points tally up. Should be easier to type now that I can focus on 1 interpretation of events at a time.

E1: Attachemnt <= 2 (Honesty irrelevant)
E2: Attachment = 3-7 Honesty <= 2
E3: Attachment = 3-5 Honesty = 3-5
E4: Atatchment = 6-7 Honesty = 6-7

Gonna try to do at least one of these endings all in one go, just to see if it's easier to do that instead of each of the 4 routes before moving onto the next chapter.
So let's start with probably the most insane outcome: E1. Perhaps in writing it out I can find some way in justifying Wynn poisoning the whole community.

Ending 1

Three days later
Three days of internal debate and silent consideration have left Wynn feeling tired, but he believes he has reached a decision on the Dierdra issue. The allosaur woman's offer is to assist him with getting Donovian off of Claudia's back, and removing Alphonse as a threat in exchange for Wynn's assistance in the act and service afterwards. While the man has no particular interest in be lashed to Dierdra for an extended period of time, he believes that accepting the deal is the most expedient way of assisting Claudia while also keeping a low profile. He also believes that if and when he has performed adequate service to Dierdra, he shall simply leave once again and return to his life of off the grid survival via petty larceny.
Now it is a simple matter of waiting for Dierdra to call him to begin her scheme. As such, he now spends most of his time hovering around the phone and waiting for the number she gave him to appear on the caller ID. Claudia and Malcolm both continue to live their lives under his supervision, and together the three of them form an effective little unit. Everything, as it stands now is proceeding in a smooth, mechanical, fashion. Claudia may be going through the motions of life in a dream like fog due to eschewing all responsibility and choice in her life to Wynn, but she's happy. Although Malcolm does not always follow instructions perfectly, he remains devoted to keeping his mother in a happy place, and has an unshakable childish trust that Wynn is always right.
Everything is proceeding peacefully up until the middle of the day. His usual staring off into space in the living room is disturbed by a phone call from Claudia calling from work. The moment he asks her what is happening, it becomes clear she's in a panic. She has apparently gotten a call from Malcolm's school that an agent from Child Protective Services showed up and started asking about Malcolm. She's practically crying as she explains that they made insinuations that he could be taken away from her. Wynn tells her he'll grab Malcolm and return back to the house and to not worry. No one will ever separate her from Malcolm. The reassurances don't help all that much over the phone, as she says she wants to be there with Malcolm. She needs him and Wynn near her.
Wynn pauses briefly as he thinks over the words telling her to ask Minnie if she can leave early, and if she can to await his return at her home. This reduces her panic somewhat and she agrees. She doesn't hang up the phone however, and asks Wynn to tell her it's going to be okay. Wynn does so and assures her that he'll take care of everything. After a few moments she says okay and that she'll be home soon before hanging up. Wynn wastes no time in going to Volcano Elementary to collect Malcolm. The staff greet him upon his arrival and, though in a stilted manner, explain what has happened.
The CPS agent arrived and started asking questions about Malcolm and his life at home. If he's ever come to school looking malnourished, or hurt, or sad, and so on. Most concerning to Wynn was that the agent asked if the staff could tell them about Malcolm's parents or guardians. Questions about Claudia's competency or mental state and made special mention of what their impressions were of Wynn. Upon inquiry of what the staff said, it's revealed that they defended Claudia's parenting skills even if she's been distant of late. Then they described how Malcolm has been acting more like Wynn, which is to say speaking less and in a far more monotone way. All of this got the agent very interested.
After observing Malcolm for a few minutes, the agent left, saying that they might be back tomorrow. It doesn't take Wynn long to guess that this was Donovian's next harassment tactic, and one that may actually prove to be the downfall of Wynn and Claudia. He thanks the staff for letting him know of what happened, and tells them that despite the visit from the CPS agent, they can rest assured that Malcolm is in good hands.

As he is about to leave, the phone rings, and with a bit of surprise the saurian manning the desk calls out to Wynn as he's leaving, saying that it is for him. Wynn takes the phone and is disappointed to not hear Claudia's voice on the other end, but Donovian's. The director's voice oozes with smug satisfaction as he greets Wynn, and exclaims how happy he is that he caught him. He explains he had just gotten a call from a new friend of his at the CPS, one that was very interested to hear a rumor about the neglect, and possible abuse, of a child. Wynn remains silent and listens, never hinting to any of the school staff what the call may be about.
Donovian speaks with the tone of superiority of one that believes to have just made the winning move in some game. Donovian continues boasting about his master stroke. He starts his exposition by asking if Wynn enjoyed staying busy with the pranks over the last couple months. He reveals that they were always meant as more of an annoyance, just a little something to keep him in Claudia's mind. This, however, is the real deal. This is where he hurts Wynn, and breaks Claudia. He pauses, apparently expecting something out of Wynn, but Wynn remains stone faced and silent. The director's voice loses some of its bluster with the lack of interaction, but it is replaced by an equal amount of contempt.
The director rather frustratingly laments that Wynn really pisses him off. It's like talking to a retard or something. He continues, saying that if Wynn isn't going to ask why Donovian is going through all this for one stupid girl then he'll never find out. A question answered with more silence. The frustration deepens. The director questions if Wynn can hear him or is he deaf and retarded. Wynn simply replies "No." This sets the director off, as he belts out a series of sarcastic and angry laughs. After calling Wynn a FUCK-ING comedian, he says that if he wants to hear something funny, then how about he laugh at watching Malcolm get thrown into the back of a CPS truck, Claudia get fucking committed to an insane asylum, and Wynn get thrown behind bars.
The director fumes at Wynn through the phone, asking if Wynn would find that funny, because he will be laughing his ass off. The man pauses to absorb the information, which Donovian uses to taunt him. The taunting drips with venom and a lust to do harm. Donovian goes into detail about how the brat will cry as he's dragged away from his mother, and how Wynn is doomed to rot in a jail. But he says not to worry about Claudia. He'll take care of her personally. He's gonna make sure that he is able to directly oversee her internment and treatment at the best mental health facility he has authority of. He is in the middle of a describing one of the many despicable acts her is going to use as "treatment," when Wynn interrupts.
Wynn asks what Donovian wants. At first Donovian laughs, tells the man to go fuck him self, and that he's getting what he wants. However, Wynn repeats the question. The man wagers that if he feed Donovian's ego by begging or giving the director the impression he has gotten power over Wynn, then perhaps he can delay Donovian's plan for something with more delayed gratification. The director hurls a few more insults at Wynn's direction, but after Wynn asks a third time, Donovian finally takes the bait. From the other end of the phone, he mocks Wynn's apparent collapse of stoicism, but decides to play along. He admits he did have an offer that would let Claudia keep her brat, but if he wants to hear it, Wynn will have to beg.
Wynn glances around at the school staff that is very awkwardly watching this very prolonged and strange sounding conversation. Wynn places a hand over the receiver and quietly informs the onlookers that it is Claudia's harasser, and then signals to them with a finger over the mouth. Wynn gets back to the phone, and knowing to not stray too far from his usual emotionally flat tone, asks Donovian to please tell Wynn what he wants. Naturally Donovian strings Wynn along for a bit longer and revels in the perceived power he believes he has gotten over the man. Eventually however, Wynn's playing to the director's sadism and ego pays off, and the parasaur's gloating reaches its zenith.
Donovian finally makes his deal. He explains that he's gotten bored of tormenting Claudia, and he's willing to let bygones be bygones. All that he wants in exchange for leaving her alone is for her to do the only thing he thinks she was ever good at and spread her legs for him once or twice a month, and he'll fix her professional record right up. She'll be able to get a job again, and be able to raise her brat in peace. But that's only if she shows up to Donovian's house tonight. If she doesn't, then in the morning he'll provide the CPS agent with medical documents detailing how she was mentally unstable, hasn't been taking her prescribed medication, and neglecting medical care for her child. All of this proof being created by Donovian of course.
The director states the Wynn puts the cherry on top, as some weirdo with no history whatsoever hanging around the kid makes her look even more deranged. He can make up whatever story he wants about the man and the agent will believe it. And so Donovian tells Wynn to choose.

Wynn only pauses for effect, as he had decided long ago of what fate awaited the director, he just needed to know what time table he's working with. Learning that there was physical evidence that needed to be found was certainly a bonus. Wynn replies at last with a, "Tonight, then." This elicits a cackle from the other end of the phone, and a "Good boy." Donovian goes on taunting Wynn by reassuring him that he shouldn't feel bad about trading Claudia for his own safety, as he explains that she isn't worth anything outside of an easy lay. After getting in a few more barbs Donovian hangs up. Wynn very quickly hangs up the phone, thanks the staff for their patience, but does not stick around to answer their confused questions of what exactly is going on.
The man proceeds through the halls to Malcolm's classroom and enters, surprising the teacher and other students. Wynn flatly states to the teacher that he needs to take Malcolm home, as there is an emergency. The teacher isn't entirely convinced, but upon the boy rising up and asking if everything is okay with his mom, releases Malcolm into the man's care. Wynn informs Malcolm once they are in the church van that the bad man that has been harassing his mother is back, and now the time to finally get rid of him has come. However, Wynn will need Malcolm to be there for his mother while he takes care of it. The parasaur boy nods excitedly, happy that his surrogate father figure will finally make things better.
Upon returning to Claudia's house, Wynn and Malcolm find the parasaur woman in the fetal position in her room in a catatonic state. Once she sees the man and her son however, she animates and rushes to them. She scoops Malcolm up in her arms and holds him like her life depends on it, and then leans into the man. He puts a comforting hand on her shoulder and informs her of Donovian's intentions. She's horrified and in a fit of hysterics begs Wynn to not let it happen. The man reassures her that he won't. Just stay with Malcolm, remain calm, and let him take care of everything. After spending some time collecting herself and additionaly assurances from Malcolm that Wynn will take care of things, she nods and is certain that everything will work out.
With evening on its way, Wynn enacts his long prepared solution to the Donovian problem, made all the easier by Dierdra's offer. He calls the allosaur woman with the number she gave him, hich is answered almost immediately. She is not particulary happy, as she explains he was to wait for her call. Wynn apologizes but states that Donovian is forcing his hand to expedite things. She is curious by what he means and he explains, in brief, the situation. He ends the recap by saying that Wynn will accept Dierdra's offer but he is removing the director as a problem. He kno Dierdra may have had a use for the parasaur, but Wynn can no longer allow him to live. As such, he would like to cement this bargain between the two of them by taking care of Donovian himself, and Dierdra cleans up.
She mulls the request over for a time, before agreeing, and to call her when it's over. Wynn thanks her, and looks forward to working with her in the future. After hanging up the phone, it is now just a matter of waiting. Though, not at Claudia's of course. Wynn goes into his room and gathers the necessities for the task at hand, and once equipped informs Claudia and Malcolm that he is going to handle the Donovian problem and will be back tonight. He instructs them that if anyone asks, he's was here with them all night. They do not hesitate to agree. With one last assurance to the two parasaurs that tonight with mark the end of all their problems, he departs. A look of desperate relief, thanks, and admiration from the mother and child send him on his way.

Wynn's plan is a rather simple one: Wait inside of Donovian's home until the director returns and then ambush him. However, there are some steps he must make before he can get on with with the chore that is Donovian. Firstly, he has to steal a car. It wouldn't do to have Claudia's vehicle or the church van at the scene of the crime. A task easily done, as he can drive Claudia's car to any parking lot and obscond with one. He's well familiar with the hospital parking lot by this point and the placement of its cameras, as well as which cars will be unattended until sunrise. Secondly, his own hunting cameras he had set up have served their purpose, and must be removed. While not particularly tech-savvy, Wynn suspects that their footage is not wholly his alone to view.
So he wants to make sure that they aren't filming when he gets to work. Finally, the documetns Donovian has apparently created need to be accounted for. Wynn strongly suspects that a narcissist like Donovian would keep them close by so the man will have to spend some time searching the director's home for any physical copies. If the documents are at the hospital, or in the hospital computers, then he may need the director's compliance in accessing them.
Wynn proceeds with the first stages of his preparations with no complications. Stealing a car is almost second nature to the man. It's on the edge of sundown by the time he arrives in Donovian's little neighborhood, and no one seems to care about or notice the removal of the cameras. Afterwards, it is the matter of breaking into Donovian's house. While Wynn has observed the building for sometime, he is still unsure of interior and any alarms or cameras that may be on the premesis. But he does know where the breaker box is, which is conveniently on the house's exterior. Not knowing precisely when Donovian will arrive back home Wynn worked quickly to pop the box's panelling and scanned the labels to locate what breakers affected what.
Neither cameras nor alarms are listed, and there are no obvious signs of either on the premises to the naked eye either. Wynn is genuinely shocked that Donovian would not invest in any security at all, but he considers that the director may be so arrogant as to never even consider he may be in danger. Possibly he counted on his connection to Alphonse to discourage anyone who would dare, or indeed offer protection to him. Approaching the rear of the expensive home with a cautious eye continuingly scanning for any sign of security measures. Looking through windows, around corners, in high or hidden places reveals nothing. Truly an oversight on Donovian's part. Wynn stands at the back door and places a hand on the doorknob. He doesn't want to believe it, but he has to be sure.
He turns the knob. It's unlocked. The man shakes his head and smirks. Donovian really thought he was untouchable. Wynn enters into the stillness of the empty house. It's decorated with ostentacious decor, modern art pieces, and an overwhelming amount of framed pictures and awards. The amount of images of Donovian's smiling face leering at Wynn from every corner of the house would not doubt unnerve most people, but Wynn moved with mechanical purpose through the house. In what time he had, he meticulously searched it room by room for anything that may fit the bill of forged medical documents. Wynn does find a safe in the director's home office, but as he hunches down to begin breaking into it, he hears a car pulling into the driveway. He recognizes the sound of the engine.

He was expecting this eventuality and gets into a hiding position around a blind corner where Donovian may walk past him without seeing the man. He draws the bowie knife from within his jacket, and waits. Donovian enters in through the front, whistling a tune. Wynn listens as the parasaur doctor moves about the house interacting with this and that. The man stays still as a statue and waits minute after minute, listening to Donovian's footsteps, mumbled words, breathing. At some point the director activates a music player of some kind and proceeds to make a phone call. The call itself is utterly mundane, informing whoever is on the other end that he will be occupied tonight.
Finally, almost an hour of lurking, Wynn's patience is rewarded as Donovian enters his office, walking right past the man. In a flash Wynn wordlessly buries his knife in the small of Donovian's back, right above the tail. The blade struck the parasaur's spine, and hit with enough force to sever it. The director barely knew to scream before his legs collapsed beneath him. In a rapid and fluid maneuver, Wynn then produced a length of coiled wire and formed a garrote which he hastily slipped over the director's head and pulled taught, strangling the parasaur and choking any shouts before they could escape. He struggled, but with a knife in his spine prevening his tail from lashing the man or legs kicking, it was futile. It was not long before he stopped moving.
The moment he was certain Donovian was no longer conscious, Wynn released the pressure. Robotically, he inspected his victim. He wanted the director alive, and garrotes were a bit of a gamble in that regard. Fortunately for Wynn, the director's windpipe had not been crushed in the struggle, and he had merely been strangled into unconsciousness. Wynn had a minute or two after the director started breathing again to secure him and make sure the knife wound in the back wouldn't bleed out and kill him. In short order, the human used the wire garrote to bind Donovian's hands and after pulling off the saurian's socks, gagged him with them. the director was slowly returning to the waking world during this process, but sprand to horrific awareness when Wynn retrieved his knife out of his back.
The gag was surprisingly effective. Donovian looked about confused, in pain, weeping, and upon laying eyes on the quietly watching and motionless form of Wynn, in utter terror. The man, silently as a ghost knelt down to Donovian's prone form, placed the knife's tip against the parasaur's jugular, and calmly asked where are the documents he forged that he was going to give to CPS as proof. Wynn stated, that if he told the truth, Wynn would let the director live. using his free hand to remove the impromptu gag, resulted in the director immediately folding. He said they're in the safe of the room they were in and provided the combination. Wynn moved like a predator to the safe, and with the provided combination popped it open. Within where a multitude of incrimination documents.
Wynn scarcely cared for those, and passed them over until he found the forgeries that would destroy Claudia's life. Tucking into his jacket, he once more stalked over to Donovian, and inquired about the CPS agent. The director through pain and fear explains that the CPS agent was counting on those documents to take action. Even with Wynn being a freak and isolating Claudia, there wasn't enough cause to take the kid. Without those files "proving" Claudia is mentally unfit, they'll be fine. Donovian pleads with Wynn that he's telling the truth, and asks that now that he's done what the man had said he'll let him live. He won't tell anyone it was him. He's good at keeping secrets. Just ask Alphonse. Wynn is not really listening.
He leans in and firmly grasps Donovian's crest, causing the director to plead for his life in ever more pathetic tones. Wynn without a hint of emotion plunges the knife into Donovian's throat, and silences him forever.

Rising to his feet, the man calmly walks to the phone and dials Dierdra's phone number. She cautiously asks who it is, and Wynn answers, telling her that his part is finished, and now she may fulfill her end of the bargain. There's a hesitance from the other end of the line, but eventually she agrees, and tells the man to not be there when the cleaners arrive. Wynn tells her thank you before hanging up and exiting the house. Now that night has fallen, he is a bit more cautious about any random onlooker catching sight of him in the dark. He slinks from one shadow to the next until he returns to his borrowed car. Driving it back to its previous parking space at the hospital, he covers up any sign of his theft of it and returns to Claudia's car.
He then, simply, drives away back to her house. He does check for any profuse bloodstains on his garments before entering, with only his gloves and forearms bearing any sign of the nights butchery. He takes the time to use the outside hose to rinse off some of the blood, and secrets away his gloves in his jacket pockets. Once sufficiently less bloody, he enters to find Claudia and Malcolm together on the couch. The parasaur woman awake and caressing the head of her son, who lay asleep in her arms. Immediately she looks to the man with wide eyes. She does not need to voice her question for Wynn to answer. He states in an even tone, "It's done."
And a weight lifts from Claudia, as her eyes close, tears begin to flow, and she leans back and whispers, "thank you." An exhaustion appears to wash over her then, as years of stress and anguish are let go, and for the first time in years, she is able to be at peace. Wynn offers a simple smile and proceeds to his room, wherein he sheds his tools and clothes. Laying upon the bed his only concern as he drifts into sleep is that he will have to do laundry tomorrow.

Well, it seems we're gonna need a 4th rentry, so I'm gonna go make that now. Just gonna continue on with Part 8B and the other endings
On to Part 4: https://rentry.org/9i3qsnps