[ They must like each other a lot now for how badly they irritated and frustrated the other in the beginning. Even if they do still have their moments. They probably always will.
Mike's face tilts a little at the hand at his jaw, relishing the warmth there and the quick press of Frank's mouth to his own. It's quick, barely there, but it earns a chuckle. Man of his word after all. Not that he ever doubted it. ]
You're not so bad yourself. [ A wistful sort of sigh. ] Ready to go in now?
[Was it always simply irritation before? Or was that what Frank thought the emotion was before further inspection? At any rate he lightly gives Mikes face a pat before guiding his hand to his arm.]
You're saying that because you're blind.
[And as if his attitude wasn't enough, Frank knows he's an acquired taste.]
Let's go. I'm pretty hungry.
[And while the place isn't far, and yes they are wet, there isn't any reason to run.]
[ Open and honest despite that teasing jab. Frank isn't easy, and Mike wouldn't have it any other way. ]
Me too.
[ The bonus is his nose has stopped the small amount of bleeding so everything won't taste terrible. Hand wrapped around Frank's arm, he lets him lead the way and enjoys the walk next to him. ]
[He doesn't believe it. How many mugs does he get to take a close look at? How many of them does he actually like? Frank won't go to battle for this. Mike's world view is softer, sweeter than what Frank is accustomed to. And raining on his parade is good, sometimes. Not all the time. Let him have some shine. Let that optimism stick around a little longer.]
A hint? Well...everything in here on the menu is edible.
[Hardy-fucking-har. They step carefully moving to the opposite sidewalk and there are a few awnings that offer some shelter from the rain. Frank walks conscious of Mike trying to match his pacing.]
[ He knocks their shoulders together gently as they go. He doesn't get to look at a lot, admittedly. It's not something that they really ask for a lot. It crosses a lot of personal boundaries that most people aren't comfortable with. He's glad, at least, that Frank indulges in his more gentle moments and unrelenting optimism. ]
That's a terrible hint. Narrows it down to absolutely nothing.
[ Said with a laugh, but he doesn't press for more. Mike keeps up with Frank's stride well enough, and takes advantage of the awnings to listen for more clues on his own. ]
Does it have coffee? I can't imagine you having a meal without it. I'm not sure you'd survive.
[How can he not want to participate? There is something ridiculously wholesome and soft about Michael. Maybe there are aspects of that in his brother that have yet to be seen. If he wants to take a look at the world the way he can, Frank is going to let him. No, he doesn't agree that he's handsome. Mike makes him feel attractive. And indulging in softer, sweeter emotions like he used to is a treat. He wouldn't trust just anyone like this.]
They don't serve coffee, they serve espresso.
[That is a better hint, right? There's music coming from one of the establishments. Some chintzy Sinatra stuff.]
[ Not something a lot of people Mike meets in the night end up saying about him. In fact, soft is probably the last thing on their minds before unconsciousness. The fact that Frank indulges and hell even encourages him with small things like this is such a good thing. He feels, a lot lately, that he hasn't been able to get moments like these. He likes experiencing the ones Frank feels by proxy. ]
Espresso, huh. Never figured you for that kind of a guy. Was it an old Marine buddy that got you to try the fancy stuff?
[ And if so, is he going to order one, or is it just wine? He's not sure that they'd have beer at this place, but with the Sinatra he's hearing, he could be wrong. When they finally go in, it's ridiculously obvious what kind of place it is, but it's the ambiance given off that's the most impressive. ]
[Chances are the people he meets don't end up conversing. And while Frank is well aware they stand in a sliver of grey between the black and white, there would be others that get to be in his good graces. Sometime. Might as well enjoy it.
He shivers off some of the rain drops as he gets the door. Sinatra swells. There's the smell of garlic, parsley and oregano. Tons of starch and cheese. They're greeted immediately.]
Espresso is good in a pinch, also pretty fucking good with ice cream.
[Does Mike know where they are yet? They're being lead to their seats.]
[ Depends on what the Devil is after. Sometimes talking (screaming?) is necessary. He's surprisingly good at interrogations. The bonus of being able to tell when someone is lying to him. He's glad, though, that he and Frank get this grey area together.
The change in temperature earns a brief shiver from Mike and he presses a little closer to Frank's side. Once they are inside it's fairly easy to figure out where they are at, or at least the type of restaurant. It smells amazing. ]
I've never had it with ice cream. You'll have to introduce me.
[ Once they are seated, Matt unzips his hoodie, and sets it to the side. Some other time he might have sat across, but this time he wants to sit next to Frank. He's got a soft, long sleeved shirt underneath, nothing fancy, just one of his softer Henleys in a light blue. ]
[There is such an irony in the fact that the Devil Frank knows is truly the better one. Telling them apart is easier after speaking. Then again Mike usually goes out of his way to differentiate. He's got his own burner phone. They have this steady stream of contact. This is all going somewhere. Fast.
Which is why he hasn't flinched from indulging in the time they share alone. Feelings like this were gunned down in a park or so he thought. He's going to roll with it.]
After dinner. You'll spoil your appetite.
[He doesn't mind that they sit side by side. Makes it a bit better that way.]
It's called ambiance, you swine.
[A waiter brings glasses of water and garlic bread with balsamic and oil. The menus are placed down.]
Well, shit. I didn't think about that but uh you got anything in mind? Standard Italian.
[ He's got significantly less issues with his temper. It comes in handy. Mike's so used to the little tells being something that only he and his brother know. Not another person in their lives. If one doesn't count Elektra.
This is a whole new experience for Mike. He never really gave it thought before, there was too much going on, and there never seemed to be time. Never mind the logistics of trying to be with another person while having a dual life. ]
Obviously.
[ A quiet laugh and he knocks Frank's shoulder gently with his own. ]
Ambiance, right. Can you spell that?
[ What's a little love without a touch of gentle war? They're always going to be at odds in some ways. That's definitely ok. ]
The menu? It's fine, most places don't. [ He leans over for a reassuring peck to Frank's jaw. ] Anyways, I'm pretending to be as sighted as I can. Easier to get by.
[Both Matthew and Michael are the same height. They have an identical gait. Their voice is the same. The finer details like scars, like the way they carry a conversation are what give it away in the end. At least from Frank's point of view. He hasn't seen the act in progress with Karen or Foggy. Having one brother here to himself is more than enough.]
Yes. I can spell it. Thanks.
[A counter nudge. Just so.]
They got plenty of appetizers. Calamari, stuffed mushrooms, flat breads with and without meat.
[The peck has him feeling more buoyant. He gives Mike's hand a pat.]
They got your manicotti. Do you want it with spinach, cheese or beef? Or you can get the suprema with all of them together on a plate.
[ Most twins have some similarities outside of the physical attributes. Usually they grow apart in other ways. They've never been most twins. They've not really given themselves the opportunity to grow apart. Which might be part of the reason why they are having difficulty now.
He leans his head over so he can rest his chin on Frank's shoulder, feel the vibrations of his voice as he talks. ] Flat bread or stuffed mushrooms sounds good. We could split one?
[ He chases Frank's hand with his own at the pat, and traces fingers along his knuckles. ]
[Similarities yes, they've pretty much committed to being the same person. Frank has wondered from the outside how much of this singular person they've made is from Mike. Does he even get a say or do they just compromise?]
Yeah, let's definitely split one. We'll ask the waiter.
[The idle touching makes Frank less tense. He has had this place on his radar for some time. He would come here in the city ages ago. And there's been no danger, no crime. Originally it was a stake out for himself. With Mike coming into his life the way he has, it felt better to give it a try together. Real time together. No talks on icy rooftops or encounters in back alleys.]
Do you want any wine? They got beer too. Peroni, Morretti, an IPA and Budweiser.
[ Years ago they might've had different choices to make. Mike isn't so sure sometimes they have that luxury now, but it grates like a weight he hadn't known he'd been carrying. It isn't so easily shrugged off. ]
Sounds good.
[ Mike can hear Frank relaxing more, and it earns the same response from him. Just leisurely dinner with no obligations. No expectations. He's glad to be able to share this with Frank. It helps to get to know him better. ]
[Right now with them alone, he can say that he likes who Mike is. This is who he chooses to be. And sure there's a lot of bullshit swirling around them from both sides, Frank is absolutely to blame there too.]
We'll make that two.
[The waiter comes around and introduces himself. Frank asks for the suggested appetizer and they go with the mushrooms after all. And wine placed in. Manicotti for Mike, Frank gets lasagna.]
[ The same could be said for Frank. He's glad he's been able to get to know the man outside of the awful circumstances that first brought them together. It's a treat to catch those little glimpses. To share them, and share himself as well.
Mike says hi when the waiter comes by, and thanks him as well. Once the wine is there, he picks it up to get a good scent of the wine. ]
Out like this? I---I honestly can't remember the last time I was out somewhere for just a date. At home? Whatever we've got in or the closest take out place that doesn't use an obscene amount of additives that is still open late.
It it wasn't school then it was work. There were a couple of small things, crushes really, but nothing---nothing serious.
[ No, he left that whole roller coaster to Matt and Elektra and tried desperately to keep their life as in order as he could. After a sip of wine, he gets a piece of bread as well, dipping it in the oil and herbs. ]
I'll do my best then.
[ He chuckles a little. Jack Murdock wasn't much of a cook. Sure, there was food on the table enough for him and two kids, always fruit, even if it was a little more expensive, but it was hard. Their dad did what he could, though. Even if a lot of times it was just peanut butter and jelly or ham and cheese sandwiches.
Maybe that's why, when they have time, Matt and Mike do enjoy cooking. Maybe he could do that for Frank. A thought for another time. ]
Don't really have a lot of experience with that outside of Foggy and his folks during the holidays. It's always a huge affair.
Yeah? You weren't inviting anybody to dance awkwardly at the ice cream social or whatever.
[Junior prom, homecoming...whatever.
Getting to know the Murdocks he can only imagine what kind of chaos would ensue if one man leaned heavily in the opposite direction to offset the balance. How much of that is here? Mike seems so agreeable. Then again, being put through this wringer willingly, something has got to give.]
I used to go all out.
[Used to in a life before. A time before. Sobering though he doesn't let it sink in much. Just enough to remind him to lean into the present.]
Opportunity never really came up, and nobody really wanted to dance with the blind kid.
[ Not in their lives. A shared life doesn't leave a lot of those moments to get one's hands on.
Mike knows full well the kind of chaos that ensues. He was there for Elektra after all. The fact that she's back and Matt is quickly wrapped up in her again despite everything--- Maybe that's why he's leaning so hard now. For himself. Because he deserves a little consideration, too. ]
Do you mind if I ask what that looks like?
[ Going all out. He doubts it's the same as what Elektra had in mind for things, or even Matt with showing her Fogwells. His spot would be different. He loves the old gym, of course, but one of his favorite places is one of the highest rooftops he can get to.
One that leaves him where he can't hear quite as much of the city as he usually can. For just a few minutes, there's so little to get wrapped up in. No responsibility. ]
Yeah, well. Guess we'll figure out a way to have a dumb awkward first dance some place.
[Is he kidding? Maybe. Possibly. The idea that Mike would sit with the wallflowers doesn't' seem fair. Then again, adolescence isn't kind to anyone. Frank had two left feet and a pizza face as a teenager. He got some dances at least. Right now they're fixing to have a great Italian spread.
Mushrooms get served up. The plate is set between them. Smells gorgeous.]
Well. Uh. Heh. I never had too much money, so I would try and cook. The way to someone's heart is through their stomach. And I figured if we could get a good meal it'd be the next best thing. I'd gotten pretty good at fixing up dishes. So uh come the holidays or any old time I'd do my part to cook up something for everybody.
[Not really date material. More like sad widower shit. Frank sips his wine again and goes for a mushroom.]
When we--when Maria and I had time we'd go catch a game. She liked doing shit like that. She'd get so mad if I suggested she was humoring me.
[ Mike actually isn't sure. His heartbeat didn't give anything away.
The mushrooms do smell amazing, and it's easy to tell they were freshly made and not just something they got out of a freezer on a whim. A special treat for sure. ]
That sounds really nice.
[ They did their best at St. Agnes, to do something homey for the holidays. It wasn't the same, though. Not like what their dad would try to scrounge up for them no matter what he was bringing in. It never mattered to he and his brother, though. It mattered that they got to spend the time together. All of them.
No, it's not, but it's still a part of Frank. For better or worse. Mike's glad he can be a part of it being shared. ]
I used to listen to the games on the radio with my dad. Always loved the sound the ball made when it was crushed.
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calltoaction) wrote2019-09-13 04:07 pm
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Mike's face tilts a little at the hand at his jaw, relishing the warmth there and the quick press of Frank's mouth to his own. It's quick, barely there, but it earns a chuckle. Man of his word after all. Not that he ever doubted it. ]
You're not so bad yourself. [ A wistful sort of sigh. ] Ready to go in now?
[ Before they both end up completely drenched. ]
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You're saying that because you're blind.
[And as if his attitude wasn't enough, Frank knows he's an acquired taste.]
Let's go. I'm pretty hungry.
[And while the place isn't far, and yes they are wet, there isn't any reason to run.]
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[ Open and honest despite that teasing jab. Frank isn't easy, and Mike wouldn't have it any other way. ]
Me too.
[ The bonus is his nose has stopped the small amount of bleeding so everything won't taste terrible. Hand wrapped around Frank's arm, he lets him lead the way and enjoys the walk next to him. ]
So, do I get any hints yet?
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[He doesn't believe it. How many mugs does he get to take a close look at? How many of them does he actually like? Frank won't go to battle for this. Mike's world view is softer, sweeter than what Frank is accustomed to. And raining on his parade is good, sometimes. Not all the time. Let him have some shine. Let that optimism stick around a little longer.]
A hint? Well...everything in here on the menu is edible.
[Hardy-fucking-har. They step carefully moving to the opposite sidewalk and there are a few awnings that offer some shelter from the rain. Frank walks conscious of Mike trying to match his pacing.]
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That's a terrible hint. Narrows it down to absolutely nothing.
[ Said with a laugh, but he doesn't press for more. Mike keeps up with Frank's stride well enough, and takes advantage of the awnings to listen for more clues on his own. ]
Does it have coffee? I can't imagine you having a meal without it. I'm not sure you'd survive.
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They don't serve coffee, they serve espresso.
[That is a better hint, right? There's music coming from one of the establishments. Some chintzy Sinatra stuff.]
Here we go.
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Espresso, huh. Never figured you for that kind of a guy. Was it an old Marine buddy that got you to try the fancy stuff?
[ And if so, is he going to order one, or is it just wine? He's not sure that they'd have beer at this place, but with the Sinatra he's hearing, he could be wrong. When they finally go in, it's ridiculously obvious what kind of place it is, but it's the ambiance given off that's the most impressive. ]
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He shivers off some of the rain drops as he gets the door. Sinatra swells. There's the smell of garlic, parsley and oregano. Tons of starch and cheese. They're greeted immediately.]
Espresso is good in a pinch, also pretty fucking good with ice cream.
[Does Mike know where they are yet? They're being lead to their seats.]
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The change in temperature earns a brief shiver from Mike and he presses a little closer to Frank's side. Once they are inside it's fairly easy to figure out where they are at, or at least the type of restaurant. It smells amazing. ]
I've never had it with ice cream. You'll have to introduce me.
[ Once they are seated, Matt unzips his hoodie, and sets it to the side. Some other time he might have sat across, but this time he wants to sit next to Frank. He's got a soft, long sleeved shirt underneath, nothing fancy, just one of his softer Henleys in a light blue. ]
Candles, too? What a romantic.
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Which is why he hasn't flinched from indulging in the time they share alone. Feelings like this were gunned down in a park or so he thought. He's going to roll with it.]
After dinner. You'll spoil your appetite.
[He doesn't mind that they sit side by side. Makes it a bit better that way.]
It's called ambiance, you swine.
[A waiter brings glasses of water and garlic bread with balsamic and oil. The menus are placed down.]
Well, shit. I didn't think about that but uh you got anything in mind? Standard Italian.
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This is a whole new experience for Mike. He never really gave it thought before, there was too much going on, and there never seemed to be time. Never mind the logistics of trying to be with another person while having a dual life. ]
Obviously.
[ A quiet laugh and he knocks Frank's shoulder gently with his own. ]
Ambiance, right. Can you spell that?
[ What's a little love without a touch of gentle war? They're always going to be at odds in some ways. That's definitely ok. ]
The menu? It's fine, most places don't. [ He leans over for a reassuring peck to Frank's jaw. ] Anyways, I'm pretending to be as sighted as I can. Easier to get by.
But, uhh, manicotti sounds good.
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Yes. I can spell it. Thanks.
[A counter nudge. Just so.]
They got plenty of appetizers. Calamari, stuffed mushrooms, flat breads with and without meat.
[The peck has him feeling more buoyant. He gives Mike's hand a pat.]
They got your manicotti. Do you want it with spinach, cheese or beef? Or you can get the suprema with all of them together on a plate.
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He leans his head over so he can rest his chin on Frank's shoulder, feel the vibrations of his voice as he talks. ] Flat bread or stuffed mushrooms sounds good. We could split one?
[ He chases Frank's hand with his own at the pat, and traces fingers along his knuckles. ]
Spinach, please.
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Yeah, let's definitely split one. We'll ask the waiter.
[The idle touching makes Frank less tense. He has had this place on his radar for some time. He would come here in the city ages ago. And there's been no danger, no crime. Originally it was a stake out for himself. With Mike coming into his life the way he has, it felt better to give it a try together. Real time together. No talks on icy rooftops or encounters in back alleys.]
Do you want any wine? They got beer too. Peroni, Morretti, an IPA and Budweiser.
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Sounds good.
[ Mike can hear Frank relaxing more, and it earns the same response from him. Just leisurely dinner with no obligations. No expectations. He's glad to be able to share this with Frank. It helps to get to know him better. ]
Sure, a pinot noir should go good with this.
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We'll make that two.
[The waiter comes around and introduces himself. Frank asks for the suggested appetizer and they go with the mushrooms after all. And wine placed in. Manicotti for Mike, Frank gets lasagna.]
...what d'you usually eat?
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Mike says hi when the waiter comes by, and thanks him as well. Once the wine is there, he picks it up to get a good scent of the wine. ]
Out like this? I---I honestly can't remember the last time I was out somewhere for just a date. At home? Whatever we've got in or the closest take out place that doesn't use an obscene amount of additives that is still open late.
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No?
[A light tease. Frank gets his own glass and offers to clink.]
Well, glad to shake up the normal for you. I eat what I can on the go. Mostly what's in a bodega.
[And not military rations. Shock.]
This place should be good. They're not farm to fork but really well reviewed for a mom and pop.
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No, I...never really had the time, I guess. [ He chuckles gently at the clink of the glasses. ]
I'm glad you get to as well. I'll have to pick next time and see if I can surprise you, I think.
[ It's not that much of a shock, but then again Mike's smelled fresh ingredients on his hands and clothes before. He knows he can cook. ]
I like little mom and pop shops. Places like this, the little bodegas, and all. Good things. Good people.
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[Living a part of a whole life doesn't leave that much wiggle room. He takes a sip of the wine and goes for one of the garlic breads.]
I welcome a surprise.
[Especially something that Mike would take the time to suss out for the both of them.]
Yeah. Almost the next best thing to home cooking.
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[ No, he left that whole roller coaster to Matt and Elektra and tried desperately to keep their life as in order as he could. After a sip of wine, he gets a piece of bread as well, dipping it in the oil and herbs. ]
I'll do my best then.
[ He chuckles a little. Jack Murdock wasn't much of a cook. Sure, there was food on the table enough for him and two kids, always fruit, even if it was a little more expensive, but it was hard. Their dad did what he could, though. Even if a lot of times it was just peanut butter and jelly or ham and cheese sandwiches.
Maybe that's why, when they have time, Matt and Mike do enjoy cooking. Maybe he could do that for Frank. A thought for another time. ]
Don't really have a lot of experience with that outside of Foggy and his folks during the holidays. It's always a huge affair.
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[Junior prom, homecoming...whatever.
Getting to know the Murdocks he can only imagine what kind of chaos would ensue if one man leaned heavily in the opposite direction to offset the balance. How much of that is here? Mike seems so agreeable. Then again, being put through this wringer willingly, something has got to give.]
I used to go all out.
[Used to in a life before. A time before. Sobering though he doesn't let it sink in much. Just enough to remind him to lean into the present.]
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[ Not in their lives. A shared life doesn't leave a lot of those moments to get one's hands on.
Mike knows full well the kind of chaos that ensues. He was there for Elektra after all. The fact that she's back and Matt is quickly wrapped up in her again despite everything--- Maybe that's why he's leaning so hard now. For himself. Because he deserves a little consideration, too. ]
Do you mind if I ask what that looks like?
[ Going all out. He doubts it's the same as what Elektra had in mind for things, or even Matt with showing her Fogwells. His spot would be different. He loves the old gym, of course, but one of his favorite places is one of the highest rooftops he can get to.
One that leaves him where he can't hear quite as much of the city as he usually can. For just a few minutes, there's so little to get wrapped up in. No responsibility. ]
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[Is he kidding? Maybe. Possibly. The idea that Mike would sit with the wallflowers doesn't' seem fair. Then again, adolescence isn't kind to anyone. Frank had two left feet and a pizza face as a teenager. He got some dances at least. Right now they're fixing to have a great Italian spread.
Mushrooms get served up. The plate is set between them. Smells gorgeous.]
Well. Uh. Heh. I never had too much money, so I would try and cook. The way to someone's heart is through their stomach. And I figured if we could get a good meal it'd be the next best thing. I'd gotten pretty good at fixing up dishes. So uh come the holidays or any old time I'd do my part to cook up something for everybody.
[Not really date material. More like sad widower shit. Frank sips his wine again and goes for a mushroom.]
When we--when Maria and I had time we'd go catch a game. She liked doing shit like that. She'd get so mad if I suggested she was humoring me.
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[ Mike actually isn't sure. His heartbeat didn't give anything away.
The mushrooms do smell amazing, and it's easy to tell they were freshly made and not just something they got out of a freezer on a whim. A special treat for sure. ]
That sounds really nice.
[ They did their best at St. Agnes, to do something homey for the holidays. It wasn't the same, though. Not like what their dad would try to scrounge up for them no matter what he was bringing in. It never mattered to he and his brother, though. It mattered that they got to spend the time together. All of them.
No, it's not, but it's still a part of Frank. For better or worse. Mike's glad he can be a part of it being shared. ]
I used to listen to the games on the radio with my dad. Always loved the sound the ball made when it was crushed.
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