KING OF HEARTS and QUEEN OF SPADES

Chapter III. Mayhem

Lexa stopped the engine and Murphy showed up in the doorway holding a beer and, from what it seemed, he wasn't sober. For a heavy drinker like him, the beer seemed off but everybody griefs differently.

- Octavia, I am... he tried to speak but I cut him mid-way.

- Spare the casual "I am sorry" and pass me that beer. I need some alcohol.

Murphy handed me the beer bottle and smiled with some sadness in his eyes. I took a sip of it and it felt so bad, a very bad taste in alcohol... 'Eww Murphy' I handed him the beer and rolled my eyes scoffing.

- Lexa are you going to stand there or you're coming in? Murphy said.

- I am waiting for my sister to pick me up. I will see you later and catch up with you guys. Octavia, if you need to talk or something give me your phone.

I handed her my phone like I was under hypnosis and she put her phone number in. Giving it back, she grinned at Murphy who was smiling rising both eyebrows like I made a new conquest.

- Blake, I know you don't do normal things but for what it's worth, I am really sorry Bellamy took his final ride to the gates of Heaven or Hell.

- Yeah, thanks Woods. If you need a friend or to order some food, call me, I texted you.

Murphy was already laughing and drank his beer in one gulp. He moved towards Lexa almost falling.

- Tonight we are hosting a gathering at my restaurant, if you want to come; the old crew will be there. This shithead here is cooking. She will give you the address ... and, Lexa, welcome home!

He used his free hand to hold on to me. He definitely was wasted. Cheap beer and, judging by the smell, tequila or rum. Lexa handed me the keys and my helmet.

- I'll see if I can swing by. Take care of John and Octavia... take it easy. I know it is a lot to process but don't do something stupid.

A large black SUV pulled in front of Murphy's house. Lexa sprinted towards it. Probably it was Anya or one of Anya's colleagues. She waved her hand with a sad smile before getting into the car. They immediately took off, as if it was a damn car race.

- Josephine is inside with Gabrielle and the crew. She called me and we were trying to call you but you haven't picked up so we thought it was best to wait.

- Murphy, I can't process everything....I am still frozen in time. I feel like I just crashed into a brick wall at full speed. What am I supposed to tell Josephine?

- This morning is about grieving not pointing fingers. We all understand and respect if you would like to take a few days off or a break or –

- NO.

- What?

- I said no Murphy; I need my job to keep me away from thinking too much. I need some sleep too. Can I get the afternoon shift?

- Whatever you need Blake, I got you covered.

They both entered the house. In an instant, they were pulled in a group hug. Monty, Jasper, Josephine, Hope, Harper, Gabrielle and Raven. I knew my friends will be there for me but never expected to have this group hug. I gave in and tears started to fall. We held each other for a few minutes before Harper broke the silence.

- Octavia, we are here for you. If you need anything just ask. I care for you my sister, I care.

I simply nodded and I felt a pair of hands snaking around my waist. Josephine's perfume intoxicated me. She was resting her forehead on my right shoulder, leaving an exhausted sigh.