06-16. Gold Digger Romance: Part 2

Emad having settled matters with old man Walsh and his son Bo-- not to mention facing another showdown with Majid (aka Bunter)--Stage Two of his Wealthy Wife Project began in earnest.

For Bebhinn, career came first. So Emad wasn't going to waste any more time. He seduced her.

The next morning, before Bebhinn rushed to the office, Emad made sure the two of them were a happily committed couple. Bebhinn was no longer a free woman.

He watched her leave for work, sending her off with a genie cleanse. The least he could do after keeping her awake half the night. ... As for his day, there were a few people he needed to contact.

The first person Emad visited was Tony Donherty,  the married man Bebhinn had been having an affair with.

Emad: Tony, it's only fair to warn you that Bebhinn and I will be getting married soon. Of course, that means the two of you are through. Wouldn't want your wife to find out about your little indiscretion, now would you? Not that I judge your heartbreaking habits, but you see how it is?

Tony: Please! Don't tell my wife about Bebhinn! She'd throw me out. I'd be finished. Destroyed!
Emad: Yes. I imagine you would be. We'll just keep this between ourselves for now. Maybe you can do me a favor sometime in the future, seeing as how I'm being so open-minded here.

Next stop was Bo Walsh's humble home. Emad wondered what was wrong with this kid. He'd rather live like this than at the Walsh mansion? Well, Bo's lack of worldly motivation could be used to advantage.

Emad: I just stopped by to tell you that your sister and I will soon be married. Now I understand that you have no interest in your lost inheritance, and I wouldn't dream of interfering in your desire for independence.

... But if there's ever a time when you need a favor--a boost in your career, a debt forgiven, an enemy silenced--don't hesitate to come to me. We'll arrange something beneficial for the both of us. ... Same goes for you, David.

Bo: Well, I can't see how anything like that would come up. I'm just a civil servant, you know.
Emad: But I hear you're an inventor! Some day you might need a door or two opened.
David: He's right, Bo. Getting inventions on the market isn't easy.
Emad: Smart man. Better listen to your friend here, Bo. He has your best interests in mind.

Emad decided to see how the elder Walsh was dealing with the ultimatum he'd been given and was not surprised to learn the old man had come around. Ambition, greed, and meanness had won out.

Emad: I'm going to do all I can to further your daughter's career and to make Walsh a name to induce respect and fear here in Rinn Fada. Faraz and Walsh, a sound partnership, don't you agree?
Walsh: I've been thinking it over, and I do believe you have the qualities I've been looking for in a son.

That night, Emad took Bebhinn to the Lake of the Unicorn. The magical creature was close by when Emad embraced Bebhinn and then asked his question.

Emad: Bebhinn Walsh, will you marry me?

Her answer was yes.

The Wealthy Wife Project had gone more smoothly than Emad had dared anticipate. Add a touch of magic to romance and even the sky holds no limit. Emad was surprised to discover he was enjoying Bebhinn's company.

But nothing would stand in the way of the speedy wedding Emad had planned. Forget the wedding arch; forget the reception; forget the honeymoon. None of that mattered. He found a community room at a local equestrian ranch. Bebhinn liked horses, so why not?

Emad ignored the locals at the club, but instructed a few of his lackeys to attend the ceremony and make sure there was no interference from his brother Majid or Bebhinn's family.

The private wedding proceeded without a single problem. No interruptions, no second thoughts from the bride.

Vows were said and rings were exchanged.

Mr and Mrs Faraz danced. Love was in the air ... or was that Evil filling the room?

Emad suggested a quick roll in the hay as a token honeymoon, and Bebhinn did not protest. He was beginning to really appreciate this woman. Spending time with her was proving to be quite satisfying.

Then the after-wedding wishes appeared. All about ghosts. ... Whose ghost did Bebhinn wish to see? Was someone blocking the path to her and Emad's rise to power?

For Emad, there was no doubt who he wanted dead. It was Bebhinn, his blushing bride.

But Emad was still feeling indulgent at that moment. He'd been pleased to find his new wife enjoyed getting a little dirty. He wondered if maybe she might be more valuable to him alive, rather than dead. At least for a while.

06-15. Gold Digger Romance: Part 1

Emad had been a busy man the past couple of days. When he left the Wimsel estate, he went straight to the Walsh manor. He'd heard about single-and-available Bebhinn Walsh from David McDonagh, Bo Walsh's friend.

But the elder Walsh wasn't at all welcoming when Emad asked to see his daughter. In fact, Larry Walsh was quite a Mean Spirited old bugger.

Walsh: Who are you? I don't know you! What do you want with my daughter anyway? I think you better take yourself off!

Emad: Mr Walsh, I'm Emad Faraz, Marvin Bunter's brother. I think you're acquainted with him?

Walsh: Hmm. Well, come back in the morning. My daughter is retired for the night.

Emad hung around the lot till dawn since he really didn't have any other place to go. He took time to make plans.

Walsh: Bebhinn! Someone is here to see you. 

Bebhinn: Mr Faraz, I think I saw you at Lord Wimsel's wedding. What can I do for you? Something the Town Council can help with? I'm on my way to a Council meeting this very morning. 

Emad: Actually, I did want to know a little more about the town. I'm new to the area. Maybe some information about work opportunities, community activities?

Bebhinn: How wonderful! I'd be happy to discuss ways you could serve Rinn Fada. Please, come in.

Walsh: Make it short, Faraz. My daughter is an important woman. She doesn't have time for useless chatter. You better not have anything improper in mind either. Bebhinn doesn't need any more of that sort of thing!

Emad: I assure you, I have no intention of distracting Ms Walsh from her duties. I support her position in Rinn Fada and respect the power she wields here. 

As if the father wasn't enough family to deal with, Bo Walsh showed up as well. The boy was glaring at him, playing the tough. What a laugh! A fireman challenging a genie! 

The next level of defense appeared to be a cat. What kind of man keeps domesticated house cats as security?

Emad finally was able to make himself at home. He toyed with the flames in the fireplace while he waited for an opportunity to speak with the Walsh female.

After a brief discussion about joining committees to Save the Unicorn and Restore the Oaks, Emad managed to ask a more intimate question.

Emad: Ms Walsh--Bebhinn--you seem to do so much for the town. How do you manage on your own? You are, are you not, without a partner? Single?

Bebhinn: Well, yes. I'm unmarried. I have little time for a personal life, Mr Faraz.

Emad: Please, call me Emad. 

The lady hadn't mentioned any romantic interest in Tony Donherty. Not that she would, of course. A secret affair isn't something one just admitted to a new acquaintance.

Bebhinn left and Emad wandered outside to find Bo grooming the horse. Time to test the boy's mettle. Emad preferred to win the son over to his side. He'd also need to crack the old man's resolve. But one Walsh at a time.

Surprisingly, Bo Walsh showed some moxie. He and Emad were closely matched. Emad had even leveled his own Sim Fu skill during the sparring. Yes, Bo's martial arts ability and new Disciplined trait could prove useful.

It was almost time for Bebhinn to return from work. Emad had remained all day at the Walsh home. He was not about to lose the ground he'd established in the Walsh household.

And neither was Larry Walsh going to give up his chaperone role.

Walsh: You still here, Faraz?

Emad: Still here, Walsh.

Walsh: Maybe you and I should have another little chat.

Emad: Oh, I agree. 

Walsh: Meet me inside.

Emad didn't bother to hurry. His priority was Bebhinn. She must have been thinking about him during her time at the office because she was very receptive to his presence. The sing-a-gram he'd sent her had been worth the cost.

Whispering naughty nothings in her ear, Emad told Bebhinn he'd see her once he finished speaking to her father.

Emad didn't wait for Walsh to start interrogating him. He took charge.

Emad: Listen to me, Walsh! Your daughter is an adult. She doesn't need a bloodhound for a father! Time you and I came to an understanding. I am no inexperienced, powerless nobody. I am not here to weaken your family. On the contrary, I have strengths that will enhance the Walsh influence in Rinn Fada. Do NOT underestimate me!

Walsh (sputtering): Why you, you upstart! 

Emad: Quiet! I suggest you think about what I just said. Haven't you always wanted both your children to follow in your footsteps? Rise to their potential? I'm telling you, I can make that happen. Consider what I'm offering. Because with or without your approval, Walsh, I'm here to stay!

Emad: Bebhinn, I have waited all day for you. It was a lifetime!

She was a woman after his own Evil heart.

Emad: I can't tell you how much I admire your dedication. I have my own plans for politics, you know. I've been in positions of authority before, but this time, I think work behind the scenes might be just what is called for. Supporting a candidate of your caliber would be an honor.

Emad: But your leadership ability is not the only thing I admire about you. You are a beautiful woman, Bebhinn. I find you irresistibly alluring. 

That's when Emad made his move, and Bebhinn gave no objection. Whatsoever.

06-14. House Divided

Bunter thought all the confessions were over that night until Caprice whispered in his ear.

Caprice: Marvin, I have to tell you something. It's only a small thing, but if Emad tells you first, you may get the wrong idea.
Bunter: What is it? What are you talking about?
Caprice: Emad kissed me. No, wait! I didn't kiss him back. He kissed ME. He tried to get me to run off with him. Of course I didn't. I never would have.

Something in Bunter's chest clinched. Caprice could have fallen for Emad's charismatic act. She might have left him! All because of the lies, his and Emad's. ... But Caprice had given Bunter a chance. She was still with him. And now that they'd talked things through, it was time--again--to deal with his brother.

_____
Bunter had a pretty good idea where to find Emad. There were only so many wealthy families in Rinn Fada. Larry Walsh, High Elder of the Brethren, was the most likely choice. He was old and he had an unmarried adult daughter. Besides, Bunter needed to talk to Walsh anyway.

Bunter: Mr Walsh, sir. I wanted to report that the rat situation has been taken care of. Turns out, there were no rats. They were undisciplined ugly dogs, sir, if you can believe it. I talked to the owner, and he told me he had just rescued the creatures from the shelter. He's trying to get them trained and assures me they won't be causing any more trouble, as long as people stay off his property.

Walsh: How strange. Well, thank you for checking it out. I'm never sure what to believe about some of these reports I get. ... So! Are you ready to receive your Amulet at the ceremony?

Bunter: Sir, that's the other thing I wanted to discuss with you. I've decided that I'm not Woeful Brethren material. The vows, as you know, have been somewhat difficult for me to--embrace, as it were. I'm sorry to disappoint you.
Walsh: Now son, you're not worried about that celibacy thing, are you? Because we talked about that. We're willing to bend the rules for someone of knight status.

Bunter: No, sir. That's not entirely it. My presence is required here at the manor now. His Lordship's research is progressing to the point where he'll be needing more of my assistance.
Walsh: That's a shame. But I suppose Lord Wimsel has first claim on your time.

Bunter: There is something else I have to speak with you about. Has Emad Faraz been by your place?
Walsh: He certainly has! Been spending the last two days here actually. He told me he was your brother?
Bunter: Half-brother.

Walsh: Yes, that's what he said. At first, I wasn't too impressed with Emad, to tell you the truth. Some kind of circus person, I think. But he and my Bebhinn got on like a house on fire. I was happy to see it. Not my first choice for her, you understand, but she'd been running around with a married ... well, never mind about that. Bebhinn only has eyes for your brother now.
Bunter (gritting his teeth): I see. Mr Walsh, may I drop by and speak to you for a bit?

_____
Walsh: Bunter, my boy, I'm sorry the Brethren are losing you. I sure wanted to see you wearing your own Golden Amulet, but I have something else for you here.

... This is a special medallion worn by the last knight we hired to watch over our little community. I'd like to say the stone will bring you good luck, but I'm afraid the poor man who last wore it died in a freak ice storm. Fell off a cliff, he did. Not the medallion's fault though. It's a valuable item and ... well, anyway, it belongs to you now. A reward for your service.
Bunter: Thank you, sir. I wasn't expecting anything like this.
Walsh: Not at all, son, not at all.

Bunter: High Elder, I don't know how to broach this subject, but I feel I must say something. It's about my brother Emad. You see, he can be something of a troublemaker. He has aspirations that, at times, drive him to compromise on principles. Emad schemes and takes risks and he, well, doesn't always care who he hurts in his rush to the top.

Walsh: Now lad, I appreciate what you're trying to tell me here. But no need for this kind of concern. Truth be told, I was beginning to recognize these traits in Emad myself. ... And I was very glad to see them!
Bunter: What?

Walsh: You know I do not suffer fools gladly. I respect a man with ambition and the gumption to make his way in life! A man needs to have a bit of meanness about him. Why, even my Bebhinn, as beautiful and talented as she is, has a vicious streak in her. How do you think she's managed to rise in her career so quickly? Just wish my son Bo had that kind of grit.

Bunter: But sir, Emad has powers that make him quite dangerous! He's not just ambitious, he's ruthless! He devises master plots that would make your head spin!

Walsh: Brother Bunter, if I may still call you that, I don't think you're getting the point here. Emad sounds very much like myself when I was younger. You can't let sentimentality get in the way of success! Never. I'm relieved that Emad is more than just an acrobat and entertainer. My god! Why would I need another temperamental artist type around here? Bo's inventing is enough to plague me! 

... If Bebhinn and your brother end up together, well, good! I can be confident in leaving the control of my estate in their hands. I won't live forever. Those two will be worthy successors when I pass on.

Bunter (mumbling to himself): Which might be sooner than you expect.

_____

Getting nowhere with Walsh, Bunter decided to leave the man to his Mean Spirited blindness. That family and Emad were a perfect fit. If Miss Walsh was as Evil as her father described, she deserved someone like Emad!

His brother had already entrenched himself in Rinn Fada. It would take a full blown war to force him out. Not a good option for anyone, especially innocent bystanders. But that didn't mean Bunter was just going to let Emad take over. He would have to be devious though--much more devious than his evil-minded brother.

Bunter tracked Emad down to an old warehouse. Rumors had it that he was hanging around there a lot lately.

Emad: You're trespassing, little brother. This is my turf. What the hell are you doing here?

Bunter: I've come to talk, Emad. Propose a truce.
Emad: Don't give me that bullshit! Look at you. You haven't come here to TALK!

Emad: I owe you for what you did to me, you bastard! You won't be catching me off guard again! I have people watching my back now, Majid, so don't go kicking up one of your fire storms around here. Someone might get hurt, and it won't be me!

Bunter: All right, brother! No fire this time. I'll just claim a little of your blood. How's that?

Emad: Dammit, Majid! Get the hell off me!

Emad: Back off!

Emad: ENOUGH!!

Emad: Majid, you really need to find a new act. This routine is getting predictable.
Bunter: You should never have involved Caprice in any of this. Don't ever touch her again.

Emad: You damn hypocrite! Arrogant, selfish bastard! Don't try to intimidate me! I taught you how to piss standing like a man! I taught you how to ...
Bunter: Ok, ok. We're even. Can we talk now?

Emad: Why does it have to be like this, Majid? We use to work together. Play together. I came looking for you hoping we could be partners again.
Bunter: Emad, forget it! The first time I saw you here, you tried to drown me.
Emad: Never! I was a little rough maybe, but you could take it. We always use to challenge each other, remember?

Bunter: I can't trust you anymore, Emad. We don't see life the same way now. I'm not your adoring little brother. You're not the older brother I followed. That world is gone. Somewhere along the line, I became the brother you resented and you became the brother I doubted.

Emad: Very touching, Majid. So where does that leave us? Surely you don't think you can run me off?
Bunter: What do you want, Emad?

Emad: Come now, little brother. Haven't you figured that out yet? I want this town. Nothing less. ... Still want to negotiate a truce?
Bunter: You can have the town---for all the good it will do you. Just don't come near my family.
Emad: Another threat, Majid? Not much of a peacemaker, are you? You're not even a good negotiator.

Bunter: You're digging your own grave, brother. You don't need my help. Plenty of others will be cheering you on. After all those years twisting the wishes you granted others, Emad, didn't you learn? ... Be careful what you wish.