All My Toys: 290

Dear Diary,

Let's. Go. To. The-Mall. It's a full on fashion frenzy! Billy is in town and joining Glo and me at the mall to maybe buy a new look for a date tonight with Dick Tracy. I'm actually forever shocked that I am getting involved with an ex again. I should know better, but we're both a little older and wiser now. What's the harm? Also, Glo seems a little off...

-Miss M

At the mall, specifically B.B.'s Boutique...

Billy: You know who I saw when Sulu and I were on a trip in New York?

Glo: The cast of Heated Rivalry?

Billy: I wish. No. April. I didn't realize she had moved there with Casey...

Miss M: Yeah, she moved there after she sold her share of the Diary to me. She's living her best life in Manhattan. She can basically eat pizza whenever she wants. Not that she will, she's not my level of gluttony, but yeah. (nervously laughs) We haven't really talked much.

Billy: She looked great. It's gotta be weird now though, everything has changed. Do you miss her?

Miss M: Well, you've been in space with Sulu for ages, a lot has changed. And, I don't know. I never thought I'd live in a world where one of my best friends was basically no longer my best friend.

Billy: Yes, well as one of your other best friends, I'm back and am not going on any space explorations for now. 

Glo: But, Sulu is? Everything ok between you two?

Billy: Of course. What about you? You've been a little quiet. Seems like something is going on with you.

Miss M: I've noticed that too.

Glo: Just have some things on my mind. 

Miss M: Like what? 

Glo: My career. Getting back into work or not. I agreed to that concert in Swans Crossing with Sandy, but what do I do next? And, there's something M said the other day, it's been messing with me.

Miss M: I think I know.

Billy: Oh. Ok, well we need to discuss this Swans Crossing concert, because, I'll be there. But, I think I'll go downstairs and let you two talk.

Glo: You can stay Billy.

Miss M: Yeah.

Billy: Nah you two talk. Come get me when y'all are done. Unless I need to be on standby if this turns into a Housewives table flipping situation.

Glo: No, we should be ok.

Miss M: We only ever got to a table flipping situation once but it was more a tag team against this old bee with an itch at the Foley's stockroom shoe sale. 

Miss M: (notices the look on Glo's face) I hope we are ok. What's wrong?

Glo: I don't mean to be bringing this up here. 

Miss M: You can always talk to me whenever. 

Glo: It's about when we were talking at your place, I brought up your dad's lounge and potentially seeing if there was an opportunity to sing there. It seemed like you were shutting that idea down quickly, and I don't know why. Did you think it'd be a problem for me to sing at your dad's place, like I wouldn't be a good fit? 

Glo: I felt like I was overstepping, maybe you thought I was trying to take advantage of your dad. 

Miss M: Glo, you'd be a good fit to sing anywhere, you are the most talented person I know. I am so sorry that my reaction hurt you like that. You taking advantage of my dad's business, that is not even a thought that entered my mind. My reaction had nothing to do with you, my dad's club would be lucky to have you. I just reacted that way because I'd be nervous at what you might learn being there. And honestly, didn't know how to vocalize that in the moment.

Glo: What would I learn? That sounds ominous.

Miss M: I know, it does. I grew up thinking my dad was a saint. When he went to prison, I lost faith in him. And now, he truly seems like he has been doing well. I am believing in him again. I know there is always some sort of shady activity in a night club, but if you worked there and came back with any detail about my dad displaying any kind of awful behavior, I'd be mortified and it would destroy me. Maybe I'm living with my head under a rock, but I truly believe he has become one of the good guys. I've already lost trust with one parent, I've lost Bruce. April. I don't get to see my daughter like I used to. I really want my dad to be someone I can rely on. With that said, you'd be amazing as a singer there. I never should have let my baggage impact you at all. I'm so sorry.

Glo: It's ok girl. I didn't know you had all these thoughts and worries about your dad. I just assumed everything was ok. 

Miss M: I think it is for the most part. I just. I don't want to lose him. But, I thought you wanted to take some time off? You're out here saying yes to concerts and everything.

Glo: I don't know, I can't escape it. Saying yes to this concert was a start, but I feel like I need to do something. I want that balance. Spending time with Layla, but also being able to work. Finances are ok right now, but you know it doesn't last forever.

Miss M: I say go for it. Obviously the concert. But even Club Ritz. If you sing there, it might actually be the reason I step foot in there. I am truly sorry that I had that reaction and didn't share what was coming up for me. 

Glo: It's ok, I'm sorry I didn't say something sooner. I love you girl.

Miss M: I love you too honey.

Billy: I can't tell if this is a clothing rack or an art installation. Are we even in a store?

Miss M: We're totally in a store. Man, you go to space for just a bit and come back funny.

Billy: Everything ok?

Glo: Yes. I am reminded how lucky I am to have amazing friends.

Billy: Great. So, where is this date going to be tonight?

Miss M: Let me tell you!

Later on. Police station.

Dick Tracy: (on speaker) Ok, I have just a few more things to manage, and then I'll head over to the diner. I'm looking forward to seeing you soon.

Miss M: Me too!

Click.

A little later on...

Miss M: Oh wow, now this place is cute!

Miss M: Gosh, I haven't been to a diner like this in ages. This is just absolutely perfect for a date. He really gets me...

Miss M: Mmm, I can smell that burger grease and... like a musky attic smell. Like this place was in a grandma's attic for many years. Interesting.

Miss Yvonne: Welcome to Dixie's Diner! Have a seat, I'm Miss Yvonne, just gonna be you tonight sug?

Miss M: One more, but he'll be a little late. My daughter's name is Yvonne. We call her Yvie for short.

Miss Yvonne: Ain't that sweet. Can I get you some coffee or a soda pop? Water?

Miss M: Oh, he should be here soon, I can wait.

Miss Yvonne: Say, you look familiar. Have you been here before? Well, prior to the remodel we were a Burger King. I just feel like I have seen you before.

Miss M: I mean, maybe we've passed each other on the street?

Miss Yvonne: Maybe. It'll come to me I'm sure. You came just in time. We reopened a few weeks ago, and the place has been a mad house with influencers and media sensations coming in to take their picture in what they call a relic restaurant. Whatever the heck that means. Business has slowed a little though, so you and your party might have the place all to yourselves tonight.

Miss M: Oh nice. I really love the whole look here. It reminds me of the places my dad would take me to eat when I was younger.

Miss Yvonne: Cute. What's your name sug?

Miss M: Miss M.

Miss Yvonne: Well lookie here! I know where I know you from! Miss M! You write that blog. The Diary one. Oh wow. We love reading your musings here. The cook has such a crush on you.

Miss M: Oh wow. A crush huh? If he can make a mean cheeseburger my date might be in trouble.  

Miss Yvonne: (laughs) He may need to come out here and take a picture. Maybe even have you sign his shirt or something. He talks non-stop about that article you wrote about the Wilton cake yearbook. Why, we're even planning on adding some of those cakes on the menu!

Miss M: That sounds so cool! And yeah, I'd be happy to meet him!

Meanwhile...

Dick Tracy: Ok, I think this should about do it.

Dick Tracy: Just need the data from Arcee, but I can get that tomorrow. (hears a noise) Hello?

Dick Tracy: Ah. Gordon told me you'd appear at some point.

Batman: How is he? I see he isn't back on the force yet.

Dick Tracy: No. He's still on leave caring for his daughter. So, what makes me so special to have a visit from the Batman.

Batman: I have a lead you might be interested in. You've been trying to solve the murder of Deathstroke, and I thought you might like to visit the motel he was living out of.

Dick Tracy: Yes. I would. But, I'll need a warrant first. And at this hour, it might be too late. Why don't we get a judge to provide a warrant and we can check this out tomorrow?

Batman: There won't be enough time. Motel has no idea who their resident was. They think he was some meth head that bailed out on rent, they're tossing everything out tomorrow per their policy on items left behind on an unpaid room. 

Dick Tracy: Mighty convenient that you come to me on the last night of this policy.

Batman: Yes. Indeed. We also don't know who to trust. As I am sure you know, there are people in this department, the courts, and this town that want this case forgotten. 

Dick Tracy: What makes you think that?

Batman: Now is not the time to be born yesterday. Gordon told me you could be trusted. So, are we going or not?

Dick Tracy: (sighs) Yes. Let me just send a message. (voice to text) M, gonna be a little bit longer, will be there soon.

Batman: (observes silently)

Back at the diner...

Miss Yvonne: What's wrong sug? You look like you got some bad news?

Miss M: Oh no. Not really. My date is just running a little bit longer.

Miss Yvonne: Ok, well we can fix the wait time sug. How 'bout a yummy very fun and fluffy Cherry Coke float? 

Miss M: Sure. That sounds really nice.

Miss Yvonne: Ok sug, comin' right up. Now, do we like this guy that is keeping you waiting? What's the verdict?

Miss M: We like him. He's a good guy. 

Miss Yvonne: Is there a but? Or just a cute butt?

Miss M: (laughs) He's a looker. I'm just not wanting to rush anything. Taking my time.

Miss Yvonne: Well, take your time on this sug, because this right here is one special fluffy n fun Cherry Coke float.

Miss M: This looks amazing.

Miss Yvonne: Ya know, us Misses need to look out for each other. (winks) You let me know if you need anything else.

Miss M: I totally will. (sighs before a sip) Oh that's good. Ok. So I just wait for what's next...

Across town...

Batman: It looks like someone has already been here. But they didn't clean up. Food has been spoiled, probably before he died. Would seem when he left this place, he was intending on coming back. The murder was unexpected then.

Dick Tracy: Why are you so interested in this case?

Batman: Deathstroke and I have crossed paths before. For someone to have killed him, direct shots like that, that's got to be from an even bigger threat than he ever could be. We both want the same thing, to protect this city.

Dick Tracy: Yeah. We just have different ideas on how to do that.

Batman: My way is more efficient.

Dick Tracy: So, what do I do if we find something in here? We broke in, anything we find that could lead us to a suspect will be inadmissible.

Batman: I trust you'll figure that out.

Dick Tracy: Thanks. Listen, as interesting as this has been, I have somewhere to be.

Batman: A date?

Dick Tracy: I'm not going into all those details. I'm already late as it is, and I really like going by the book. Being on time. Not breaking and entering.

Batman: When the truth comes out, about all the corruption in this town, I hope it won't damage you too much.

Dick Tracy: Excuse me?

Batman: Something tells me you see the world in black and white. And there's a whole lotta in-between.

Dick Tracy: Is that so? You think I don't understand the complexities of this job? I do. I want to follow things by the law, because I want whoever is behind this locked up with no way to weasel out.

Batman: I think I'm going to enjoy working with you while Gordon is out.

Dick Tracy: That so huh?

Click...

Batman: Get down detective!

BANG

Batman: Are you hit?

Dick Tracy: No, but where is the gunman?

Batman: It can never be a simple night.

Batman: Gone. Moonlight wasn't enough to get a look. Aside from the snake tattoo on his arm...

Dick Tracy: Wait a sec. Look at this.

Dick Tracy: Looks like a planner or journal. Lot of writing.

Batman: I suggest you take it detective. See what you might find. 

Dick Tracy: I don't think I can take this.

Batman: I think you can. Or I will. The decision should be made quickly, in case our gun toting friend returns. You also have somewhere to be, yes?

Dick Tracy: Yes, but this is evidence. I can't just walk out.

Batman: The fact we were shot at just now should tell you, this is not a black or white situation, but something very much in-between. We act accordingly.

Dick Tracy: (walks away) Yes, but that doesn't mean we give up our own principles. 

Dick Tracy: I mean, how deep do you think...

Dick Tracy: Hmm. Gordon told me he'd do that. Ebb and flow in the shadows. 

Dick Tracy: Until next time Batman.

Back at the diner...

Miss M: (chilling, singing along to the Crystals playing from a jukebox) 'And then he kissed me'

Dick Tracy: He did huh? Lucky guy.

Miss M: Dick!?

Dick Tracy: Hey doll.

Miss M: (blushes) I'm glad you are here. 

Dick Tracy: That so?

Miss M: Yes. I'm starving and can you smell that?

Dick Tracy: Burgers. And maybe, a little bit of dusty attic?

Miss M: I am so thrilled you get it too!

Miss Yvonne: Well it is just about time. This lovely gal has been patiently waiting.

Dick Tracy: And hopefully that will never have to happen again.

Miss Yvonne: Whew-wee, he sure is a looker sug. Can I get you something to drink?

Dick Tracy: Just some coffee for now please. 

Miss Yvonne: Comin' right up. (winks at Miss M)

Dick Tracy: What do you think? Kinda fun place right?

Miss M: I love it here. Can we stay forever?

Dick Tracy: If it's what the lady desires, so shall it be.

Miss M: How was work?

Dick Tracy: Interesting. But, I am more interested in how you are. You texted me that there was maybe an issue with your friend. Glo, right? Everything work out?

Miss M: Yes. Thankfully. I was a little worried. 

Dick Tracy: Makes sense. No one wants to have issues with their friends.

Miss M: Lord knows I've had enough issues with people in my life lately. But, Glo and I are good. Billy is back in town. It's been nice. He saw April in New York. I felt a little sad about that. Which is why I couldn't handle something happening between Glo and me. The three of us, we were like Charlie's Angels when we were kids. I really can't handle much more change.

Dick Tracy: What changed with April? I thought things were getting better?

Miss M: I did too. She sold me her share of the Diary. Before that, when I was going to marry Bruce, she rushed into the wedding to warn me that someone was going to kill me. She didn't have to do that, so I just assumed we were going to move forward with rebuilding our friendship.

Dick Tracy: Wait what?

Miss M: That was harsh. She would have been more than ready to let me know something like that regardless of where our friendship was.

Dick Tracy: Yeah, I get that, but someone was going to kill you? On your wedding day? I don't think you ever told me that.

Miss M: Well it turned out to be nothing. This annoying rich guy told her this rumor in passing essentially. But then we all got caught up in Bruce collapsing.

Dick Tracy: Did the police investigate the rumor?

Miss M: I think so, but there was nothing they could really go off of. It's all on file, you're more than welcome to check it out in your department. If you're really that interested.

Dick Tracy: Sorry, I'm not trying to turn this into work. I am just shocked, who would want you dead?

Miss M: You'd be surprised.

Dick Tracy: I'm baffled. Ok. Enough of that. You look quite lovely tonight.

Miss M: (blushes again) Thank you. You look quite handsome.

Dick Tracy: Careful. We might end up going a little faster than planned.

Miss M: You are silly. I think we can manage some compliments. Besides, us going slow is just a protective measure. More so for me.

Dick Tracy: How so?

Miss M: I've had a lot of people come and go in my life. I don't know that I can take much more.

Dick Tracy: I'm not going anywhere.

Miss M: Dick...

Dick Tracy: Yes?

Miss M: We have reunited, but this could end for us. We might realize we are't a romantic fit. Or you might want a classy dame who doesn't palpitate obnoxiously at the thought of eating a cheesebuger and fries.

Dick Tracy: That sounds pretty classy to me. 

Miss M: Dick.

Dick Tracy: Listen. I know we are taking our time. But I am here to say, no matter where this goes, for a moment, a lifetime, or just a friendship, you're back in my life and I'm going to make sure that stays that way. I'm not going anywhere. You will find, I am incredibly loyal. You slipped away once before, but no more.

Miss Yvonne: A looker and a keeper. Ok you two, what are we ordering?

Dick Tracy: We need to get her a cheeseburger and fries stat. And I'll have the bacon omelette. 

Miss M: Sounds perfect.

Dick Tracy: Good. 

Miss Yvonne: Alright, got the order in. And, before I forget, the cook will be coming out in a bit. He's been busy with some to-go orders. He's a grumpy Gus but will absolutely fangirl when he sees you.

Dick Tracy: A fan?

Miss M: Yes, apparently the staff here are all fans of the blog.

Dick Tracy: Swell. 

Miss M: Yeah. It kinda is.

Up next: All My Toys goes Crime Time! Or is it Prime Crime? Find out soon.

All My Toys is back! Get ready for more soapy toy drama you will ever know what to do with. Also, I want to add info with how you can help support people in our nerdy blogging community. I have never asked for money for my writing and that will never change, but I will ask if you can please donate (if you can) to a family in need. If you can't donate right now, please spread the word to those who might be able to. Thank you so much and thank you for supporting my dorky blog. Hugs to you all. 

Supporting the West Family- dear friend and fellow blogger William Bruce West is healing from a stroke and his family needs support. Will has contributed so much to the blogging community, his opinions on pop culture are the stuff of legend. Please check out the West Family GoFundMe and consider donating, they are very close to completing their goal. West Family GoFundMe