Artist Notes: This was inspired by knune's series titled Running up that Hill which is a must read for all Claire/Wesker fans! Believe me you won't be disappointed! As such am dedicating this tale to Knune! Thank you so for the inspiration girl! And keep writing!
This tale was written to fit into knune's universe (as she has given me permission) and takes place just after the events of What you believe in the light.
As such all credit goes to her for letting me play in her playground!
"It's him isn't it?"
The question hung in the air, a silent accusation that neither man wanted to claim as their own. Outside of his name and relation to Claire, there was little Leon knew of the muscle bound BSAA agent who now stood before him. Chris knew even less about the Government Agent.
The steely looks exchanged said more than words ever could. There was no need to clarify the identity in question.
"Yes."
Chris's calloused hands rested on either side of the exposed jewellery box. They left smudged palm prints in the thick layer of dust that now covered the aged desk. The silence was heavy with the weight of the truth, darkness and the world; it was almost too much. For a moment Chris did not move, his body frozen in position as though he were a living statue.
"How long?"
His question held a thousand meanings, but only one answer sufficed.
"Judging by the amount of jewellery, I'd say for some time," Leon replied.
The truth could no longer be ignored.
Chris's eyes suddenly focussed on Leon. If a single look could kill somewhere the infamous Albert Wesker would have dropped dead.
"Thank you for bringing this to my attention. I'll take care of it from here."
Leon frowned to Redfield's calm statement. He had too far and been through too much to simply walk away.
"She may not be family but she was a friend. I think I deserve some answers too."
Chris hesitated; his eyes remained focussed on Leon as though attempting to uproot dark secrets that he did not carry. The young man reminded Chris of his younger days, when he was still a romantic idealist. Even a blind man could see that Leon carried deep emotions for the woman neither ever really knew.
With a hint of a nod the ex-soldier carefully lifted his hands from the table. Cautiously he made his way to the door that would led back to the living room.
Leon watched Chris's every action. His movements were slow, controlled and well thought out. Ironic for a man whom Claire often claimed was fiery, hot headed and quick to act. Then again, if Chris did not even know his own sister, who was to say she ever knew him? The former cop soon followed him out, he too had no reason to remain there any longer.
"I'll be in touch."
Chris said as they parted ways. It carried its weight in warning and held the promise that would haunt them both in the days to come.