I THEE WED -ALTERNATIVE
DISCLAIMER: The characters are the property of Warner Bros, and Shoot The Moon Productions.
The story is mine for everyone's entertainment.
RATING: R
SUMMARY: Sequel requested for With This Ring with some surprises-late third season .
AUTHOR'S NOTE: I'm posting this alternate version. Thanks to Cat for the title.
PART I
Lee woke up in a cold sweat from the realistic, fierce dream he had just experienced. This particular
dream had been a continuous occurrence for almost a year, growing more intense with each episode.
The subject matter was always the same, the marriage license from the San Angelo wedding came back
as being correct from the cruise line. He didn't want to get an annulment. He loved Amanda with all his
heart, and she reciprocated. They stayed married, even went to New York City for their honeymoon,
Plaza Hotel, and all. Lee now had an "instant" family whom he loved and cherished. Lee was not entirely
upset when these imaginary fancies occurred in his sleep. The parts which dealt with closeness to his
partner were very enjoyable, especially the closeness in the bedroom.
Scarecrow's valid feelings were getting stronger every day, and harder to keep from Amanda. She was his
best friend, and always there for him. No woman he had ever known had stood by him when everyone
else thought the worst. He wasn't dating any more. She invaded his thoughts, and his dreams. She made
every day worth while living for him. His heart was hers, and finally he admitted, his love.
Were these dreams telling him to let go of his fears of commitment? He wasn't going to see Dr. Phaff, the
Agency psychologist to find out. He intended to let the situation work itself out. In any event, he looked
forward to each day, mostly due to his partner.
Lee arrived at the Q Bureau ahead of Amanda. He had some final reports to catch up on, but, secretly, the
longer he saw her during each day was almost "heaven" to him. If only, he had the courage to tell her.
Amanda walked into the Q Bureau with a sunny smile, and cast a lingering glance at Scarecrow. He caught
her eyes for an instant. "God, I love him so," she thought, "this is so hard each day." "What's the agenda
for today, partner?" she inquired. "Just finalization of reports, and busy work, nothing spectacular (except you,") he thought.
The phone rang, breaking his train of thought, "Stetson, here," Lee answered. "Scarecrow, I need the two
of you down in the Bullpen as soon as possible, we have an assignment for you both."
Down in Billy's office, he explained to the partners, the rudiments of their next case. "We will be sending
you both to New York City to pose as a married couple, Leland and Mandy Martin. You'll be staying at the Plaza in a large suite, hopefully with separate beds. Reservations are already set up. This case should
take about a week. We have a possible mole within the New York City office for the Agency. He could
be leaking information to an Iranian terrorist organization on the location of military weapons, government
issue. The middleman is a corporation called Itran, an import-export concern. They have a powerful
group in control of the board, and a CEO who is the assumed head of the terrorists by the name of Catel
Dabar. Catel has a well established rapport in New York City high society, and a reputation as a womanizer. It doesn't seem to bother him a bit if they are married, so watch yourself, Amanda."
"Yes sir," replied Amanda.
"Julian Kennedy is our New York operative whom we are concerned about. He hobnobs at all their
parties and social events. Scarecrow, you and Amanda will cover as a D. C. couple interested in purchasing Itran stock. You both will be attending a party at Trump Plaza Saturday night given by Itran.
Julian should be attending. He needs to be watched. Establish a friendship with him, and get yourselves
invited to any events which will benefit you catching him in the act. Good luck to you both. Any questions?"
"When do we leave for New York City, Billy," asked Lee. "Tomorrow afternoon from Dulles. Your
tickets and reservations confirmed. Pick everything up today, and you need not check in tomorrow
morning." "What about wardrobe?" asked Amanda. "Already taken of, waiting at your hotel room at
the Plaza. Good luck to you both. Have fun, but be careful."
"Yes, sir, we will," uttered both agents in unison, and at that occurrence, they smiled at each other.
Back up in the Q Bureau-later in the day.
"The flight is at 2:00 o'clock tomorrow afternoon. So, I'll pick you up at twelve, so we can have lunch
and not have to hurry," stated Lee, checking the itinerary. "I'll be ready," replied Amanda, "dressed to
the nines as Mandy Martin. I'll let my mother know it's a photo shoot on New York society life, including
Trump. I'm sure she will buy that one."
Lee chuckled at her. They both were so getting used to coming up with tall stories, that it was automatic.
Scarecrow looked at his watch. "Look, it's almost time for dinner. How about dinner at Emilio's tonight?
I could pick you up at seven." 'It's a date. The boys and mother will be leaving for Williamsburg shortly
thereafter. They liked it so much, the last time." "You mean, there's no hurry to get you home, for once?
I won't know what to do," he teased. "The infamous Scarecrow, won't know what to do, that's a laugh,"
retorted Amanda. "I'll get you for that, wait and see," responded a determined Lee, and started to chase
her around the room, the devil in his eye. "Oh, know you don't," screamed Amanda, getting out of his
way as quickly as possible, ducking and dashing, to and fro. The Q door suddenly opened, and she crashed
headlong into Francine, who was carrying their tickets and travel information. "I'm sorry, Francine. Are you all right?" "Yes, Amanda," the disgruntled blonde cackled furiously. "Land first, the next time.
You're tickets are over there, travel info still in my hands. Help me up, and I'm out of here."
Lee willingly obliged, helping both of them to their feet. She gave them both a nasty look, and walked
out the door with a slam. Both partners looked at another, then burst out laughing. "You started it,
Stetson," Amanda teased again. "Oh, no I didn't, Mrs. King. You made the first comment, you started
it." Lee starting chasing again, but this time he paused to lock the Q door. "Lee, c'mon, enough of this
game." Lee continued chasing her, pinning her against the wall, "take back what you said," he looked
determined, pinning her down with his strong arms. "Lee, please, you're hurting me." He hadn't realized
how strongly he had gripped her arms. Letting go immediately, he apologized. "I'm, really sorry, Amanda.
I wouldn't hurt you for the world," remembering that time during burnout when he had accidentally
slapped her. He looked at her, very concerned, rubbing her arms, "I'm so sorry, are you o.k.?" Lee looked
at her pleadingly. "Gotcha," Amanda laughed. "Now we're even."
Lee was really downhearted now, and couldn't look at Amanda. He was actually hurt. "Lee, talk to me,"
Amanda was concerned, "What's wrong?" "Lee, please, don't do this," she pleaded as he started unlocking
the Q door., "please, I'm sorry." She stopped him, and placed her finger under his chin to force him to look
at her. She suddenly remembered the slap from the burnout period, and knew what he was upset about.
"Oh, Lee, forgive me. I wasn't thinking. We were just playing in the beginning." Her hand was on his cheek, "please," she looked into his eyes. He slowly placed his arms around her waist, took her hand away
from his cheek, and kissed it. Scarecrow leaned in toward her, drawing her closer to him, millimeters away
from her lips. "You're forgiven, I'm sorry too. I jumped the gun. I just don't want to ever hurt you. I-I"
he brushed her lips with his own. She eagerly responded to his kiss, wrapping her arms around his neck,
and then leaning in again to kiss him tenderly. Lee growled low in his throat, and took her lips possessively, deepening the kiss., totally letting go with all pent up feelings. "Amanda," he whispered,
"I've wanted to do that for so long." He buried his face in her luxurious hair, and pulled her closer to him.
Amanda was in heaven. The tears came unbidden. She held on to Lee, groping even closer, if possible.
"Oh, Lee," she said softly, "just hold me. Let me stay here forever." She was trembling. "Honey, it's o.k.
Don't cry." Lee broke away , and looked into her large, brown eyes., and wiped away her tears.
"I can't help it," she stammered, I can't keep these feelings bottled up any more, I can't. You're my
best friend, the one I would talk to about how I feel. But I can't talk to you because you're the cause of
my feelings. Maybe, oh, I don't know what to do." She turned away from him.
"Talk to me, please. Look at me." Amanda turned back, and their eyes locked. "I have those same feelings. I love you, and I can't keep it inside either, or I'll burst." Lee smiled and held her to him.
"I love you, too, Scarecrow, for a long time now." A smile emerged on Scarecrow's face, he grinned from
ear to ear, at that news. He kissed her passionately. Amanda responded in kind, placing her arms around
Lee's neck. They broke apart after what seemed like several minutes to catch their breaths, still in awe at
the revelation that they finally declared their love for each other.
"I've been such a fool to wait so long to tell you," he whispered, kissing her forehead. "You feel go good
in my arms, like you have belonged there always." "Maybe you weren't ready until now," interrupted
Amanda, "but, believe me, the wait for your love is well worth it, she leaned in and kissed him again,
tenderly. Scarecrow smiled down at her, shaking his head, at the wonder of it all.
They were interrupted by a phone call from Billy, who asked them to come to the Bullpen immediately.
He had something important to tell them. "Make yourselves comfortable, this shouldn't take long,"
Billy noticed the grins on each of his agents, like they had a secret they were sharing, and wondered,
"maybe, at last, it's finally happened, we shall see. "Lee and Amanda," Billy began, "we received a
communication from San Angelo that their computers were being updated, and they discovered that
entity information on cross check did not match. Lee, Personnel was contacted during your trip down
there a year ago, and the new clerk gave all your correct entity info, so, you're legally married. The
Bahamian Embassy has stated that the annulment can be completed at their location right in D. C.
All you two have to do is sign the final release papers, and the matter is closed. You can take care of
this when you get back from New York City. Any other questions?" The two partners smiled at each
other, not upset at all about the situation, and even held hands. Lee came out of his reverie, and asked
Billy about wedding and engagement rings. Billy said they were all out in properties , so purchase them
in New York City. We have an account at Tiffany's. Bill the agency, of course, and try to remember
to keep the cost low. They both agreed. Billy wished them well. Amanda said she would see Lee at
the arranged time, and she started for home.
Lee thought, on the drive over to Arlington, that the circumstances were pretty close to the occurrences
in his dream, and he didn't mind at all. In some ways, he liked the idea of being married to Amanda.
In fact, the more he thought about the situation, the more he liked the idea. He didn't know Amanda's
reaction, but, she didn't seem to be upset at all in Billy's office. She was ready at seven. Lee placed
her luggage in the trunk of the Vette, and they headed for Emilio's for dinner.
"Amanda, did you want me to take you home right after dinner, or, do you want to come over to my place
for a while?'' asked Lee, after the meal was over. "Mother and the boys are gone, and I'm pretty tired.
I really would like to come to your place, there is no use for me to travel all the way home. I would rather
be with you, anyway." Lee really liked that answer. Once out in the Vette, Lee kissed her, and huskily
said, "stay the night." "Yes, gladly," managed Amanda, "I thought you would never ask."
Once ready for bed, Amanda melted into Lee's arms, and soundly kissed him good-night. Lee respected
and loved Amanda with all his heart, and whatever she wanted concerning the sleeping arrangements,
he would follow, although it would take all his self-control to accomplish this feat. He had a small extra
bedroom with a comfortable bed she could use. He wanted to make love to her so much, to show her how
much she meant to him, but, if she thought it was too early to be intimate, he would respect that.
"Amanda, I love you so much," he whispered against her mouth. "I love you, too, sweetheart, ready for
bed?" "Yeah, I guess I'll see you tomorrow, then." Lee replied. "Lee, I want to be with you, in the same
bed, honey, isn't that all right?" Lee beamed, "it's more than all right, it's fantastic.
"I can't believe this is all true, you love me, you say it's o.k. to sleep in the same bed. I thought you would
want to take it slower, but, I'm glad that you decided to join me." "I want to make love to you, Lee, that
tired , I'm not. I want you so badly." Amanda held him tightly, and looked deeply into his eyes.
PART II
"Oh, Amanda, yes," finished Lee. The romantic atmosphere in Lee's bedroom was enhanced by the
mood music from the stereo, and the candles flickering their dancing aura across the room. Lee stood
by his bed staring into two beautiful deep brown eyes, that showed all the love for him , and trust built
into her intuitively since that first day at the train station. She was so incredibly beautiful. He lowered
his lips to hers, and kissed her with a possessiveness that before today, he had never known. He kissed
her tenderly and passionately, and the intensity and heat started to build between them. Amanda urged his
mouth open, and flicked her tongue against his , continuing as they explored, played, and danced wildly
against each other's mouths. He planted kisses down her neck, reaching her sensitive spot, which he knew
instinctively, and lingered there. Amanda moaned low, "Lee," which is all she managed to get out.
Lee lowered the spaghetti straps of her nightgown over her breasts, and her gown dropped to the floor.
She stood before him, her perfect body bathed in the candlelight. He could only shake his head ,and
he whispered to her how beautiful she was. She smiled at him, moved closer to him, loosened the belt
of his robe, and guided it down his shoulders to the floor. She observed the man she so deeply loved
standing millimeters away, with such passion in his eyes that they were, it seemed, a dark blue. Lee crushed her to him, feeling her soft breasts and silky skin against him for the first time. His arms snaked
around her waist, and he took her lips , engulfing her mouth voraciously. After a few minutes, they broke
the kiss for breath, Lee lifted her onto his bed , and very carefully placed himself on top of her.
Light filtered into Lee's bedroom to announce the start of a brand new day. Both lovers were still asleep
in each other's arms. Lee was the first to stir. It took a minute before he realized fully exactly where he
was. Then he gazed at the angel asleep in his arms, and thanked God silently for this wonderful woman,
and her love. As he watched her in slumber, he vowed never to take her for granted, and always be there
for her, and never stop loving her. He thought back to a few hours ago. Last night had been incredible.
His feelings for her ran so deep, that it scared him somewhat. But being without her, which he couldn't
even fathom now, would make life almost unbearable, more so, than not revealing his feelings.
He looked at the clock. They would have to leave for the airport presently, but her wanted to let her sleep
as long as possible. Besides, then, he got to watch her beautiful face, smiling in a peaceful sleep. After
a few minutes, he tried to wake her with a light kiss to her lips. She began to stir, her eyes opened, and
she saw the wonderful man she loved gazing at her with all the love he possessed for her, reflected through
his eyes.
"Good morning," she yawned, and kissed him softly. "How long have you been awake?" "Long
enough to take in your beautiful face, and realize how lucky I am to have you in my life, and what a fool
I was for waiting this long to tell you how much I love you." Amanda responded through watery eyes,
"I love you, too, Scarecrow, so much, always."
"Amanda, I'm afraid it's time to get ready for the airport, and grab a quick brunch beforehand. You know,
I wouldn't mind staying here forever with you, but we've got to get going to make our plane," Lee
reluctantly acknowledged.
They had brunch at Dulles and were on their way to New York City on their two o'clock flight. They reached the Big Apple just short of two hours. Trying to get a taxi in New York City anywhere took
ingenuity plus, but the Scarecrow was well adept at the game, and they reached the Plaza, luggage and
all within thirty minutes of having departed the flight. Their room was, indeed a suite, as Billy had
stated, but separate beds it did not have. The two partners smiled at each other at that fact. Other
cases, they would have minded , now, they relished the idea.
Amanda looked over the wardrobe provided for both of them in order to look the part of a wealthy
couple, and found the selection to be perfect. The gowns were beautiful, as were the everyday and
casual clothing. Having settled in, Lee suggested a jaunt to Tiffany's to choose engagement and
wedding rings, and dinner at Sizzlin' Sam's for steaks. Any probable investors for Itran stock were
always scrutinized with thorough background checks, as was the case with Lee and Mandy Martin.
They lived in the upper crust section of Washington D. C., don't you know, and were considered the
"darlings" of Washington society, mingling with only the most influential and wealthy residents. The
Agency made sure of that fact.
As the left the Plaza Hotel on their adventure into jewelry, Scarecrow noticed out of the corner of his
eye, that they were being tailed by a dark skinned man in dark clothing. Lee whispered this to Amanda,
as they scooted through the revolving doors. They lost the tail in short work due to the pretense of
hailing one cab, and jetting into another. Maybe the Scarecrow should have been called the Snake
because he knew how to slither so well.
Tiffany's was everything the movie, Breakfast At, projected it to be. You could lose yourself there, if
you really wanted to. Amanda was amazed at the selection and price range of everything. Lee's hand
in hers made any trip worthwhile. She spied a diamond solitaire in yellow gold, probably too large in
caret size for the Agency's taste. It was a least a caret in weight with little side diamonds nestled in the
shape of flowers. She fell in love with the ring. There were also matching wedding rings for both the
bride and groom. Lee heard her sigh. He asked the sales clerk to let them see the rings. Amanda tried
the solitaire on, the fit was perfect. The wedding bands also fit both of them. Scarecrow asked that they
be wrapped for them, he would pay half the bill. "No, Lee. I can't let you do that," replied Amanda
concerned. "We'll just purchase something smaller." "No, we will not, Amanda. We have to look the part.
Besides, I want these for us, for our own personal use. Amanda, I wish we were really married. I know
this is short notice , but I've known you three years now, and I want you to be my wife. Please say yes.
You know we are legally married from San Angelo, can't we just think about keeping it that way?"
"Lee, this is crazy , but it feels so right. Yes, and we can think about it." After purchasing the jewelry,
they decided to wear all the rings right away. Since it was still early, they walked hand in hand along
the shopping district of the Big Apple, of course, at the exclusive shops. Lee saw their previous tail in
view again. "Duck in here for a minute," he warned Amanda. Their refuge turned out to be St. Patrick's
Cathedral. The darkly clad man followed them into the church. They hid in one of the vestibules. Lee
decided he had had enough of being followed, and confronted the individual, shoving his gun into the
man's back. "What can we do for you," Lee asked roughly, holding the man at bay. Itol Yehman was
employed by Dabar as a hit man and bodyguard. He tried to loosen from Scarecrow's steel hands to no
avail. "My employer told me to follow you, ,I was only doing my job," Itol conveyed. "Well, you report
back and inform Mr. Dabar, that I will not put up with being followed by anyone's hired hoods. Also,
if he wishes me to even think about investing any money with Itran, I am to be treated with the utmost
respect from now on, or I will take my business elsewhere. Is that clear?" "Yes sir, Mr. Martin," stammered
Itol, and ran out of the church.
Amanda had to sit down in one of the pews for a minute, she was shaken, at what had happened during the
past five minutes. "Lee, how did you know who he was, and how did he know who you were," rambled
a nervous Amanda. "Hmmm, let's see, first part of the question, past experience and a bit of research,
second part of the question, all prospective investors of Itran stock are scrutinized completely, and the
Agency made sure that detail was covered, and I will not put up with a tail anyway."
"You know, Mrs. Stetson , if I were marrying you right now, in any faith, I would say, I, Lee, take thee,
Amanda as my wedded wife. To have and to hold, from this day forward. For better or worse, in sickness
and health, to love and to cherish, for all the days of our lives. I would add. "With this ring, I pledge my
life to you, my complete love to you, for as long as I would live." Amanda was in tears. She couldn't stop
crying, she was so completely happy. She composed herself, took Lee's hand and said, "I, Amanda,
take thee, Lee as my wedded husband, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better or worse, in
sickness and health, to love and to cherish, for all the days of our lives. I would add, With this ring, I pledge my heart, my love, and my entire being, for as long as I shall live." Lee had tears of joy in his eyes.
"Sweetheart, I will love you always," sighed Scarecrow, taking her lips and kissing her fully. As they broke from the kiss, Amanda replied "I love you so much, Lee. I've never been so happy."
"Amanda, I hate to break this up, but we had better get to the restaurant, we have a big day tomorrow,
and we really could use some sleep." The meal at Sizzlin Sam's was delicious, and once back at the
Plaza, and in their room, the two partners fell sound asleep as soon as their heads hit the pillow.
To Be Continued
DISCLAIMER: The characters are the property of Warner Bros, and Shoot The Moon Productions.
The story is mine for everyone's entertainment.
RATING: R
SUMMARY: Sequel requested for With This Ring with some surprises-late third season .
AUTHOR'S NOTE: I'm posting this alternate version. Thanks to Cat for the title.
PART I
Lee woke up in a cold sweat from the realistic, fierce dream he had just experienced. This particular
dream had been a continuous occurrence for almost a year, growing more intense with each episode.
The subject matter was always the same, the marriage license from the San Angelo wedding came back
as being correct from the cruise line. He didn't want to get an annulment. He loved Amanda with all his
heart, and she reciprocated. They stayed married, even went to New York City for their honeymoon,
Plaza Hotel, and all. Lee now had an "instant" family whom he loved and cherished. Lee was not entirely
upset when these imaginary fancies occurred in his sleep. The parts which dealt with closeness to his
partner were very enjoyable, especially the closeness in the bedroom.
Scarecrow's valid feelings were getting stronger every day, and harder to keep from Amanda. She was his
best friend, and always there for him. No woman he had ever known had stood by him when everyone
else thought the worst. He wasn't dating any more. She invaded his thoughts, and his dreams. She made
every day worth while living for him. His heart was hers, and finally he admitted, his love.
Were these dreams telling him to let go of his fears of commitment? He wasn't going to see Dr. Phaff, the
Agency psychologist to find out. He intended to let the situation work itself out. In any event, he looked
forward to each day, mostly due to his partner.
Lee arrived at the Q Bureau ahead of Amanda. He had some final reports to catch up on, but, secretly, the
longer he saw her during each day was almost "heaven" to him. If only, he had the courage to tell her.
Amanda walked into the Q Bureau with a sunny smile, and cast a lingering glance at Scarecrow. He caught
her eyes for an instant. "God, I love him so," she thought, "this is so hard each day." "What's the agenda
for today, partner?" she inquired. "Just finalization of reports, and busy work, nothing spectacular (except you,") he thought.
The phone rang, breaking his train of thought, "Stetson, here," Lee answered. "Scarecrow, I need the two
of you down in the Bullpen as soon as possible, we have an assignment for you both."
Down in Billy's office, he explained to the partners, the rudiments of their next case. "We will be sending
you both to New York City to pose as a married couple, Leland and Mandy Martin. You'll be staying at the Plaza in a large suite, hopefully with separate beds. Reservations are already set up. This case should
take about a week. We have a possible mole within the New York City office for the Agency. He could
be leaking information to an Iranian terrorist organization on the location of military weapons, government
issue. The middleman is a corporation called Itran, an import-export concern. They have a powerful
group in control of the board, and a CEO who is the assumed head of the terrorists by the name of Catel
Dabar. Catel has a well established rapport in New York City high society, and a reputation as a womanizer. It doesn't seem to bother him a bit if they are married, so watch yourself, Amanda."
"Yes sir," replied Amanda.
"Julian Kennedy is our New York operative whom we are concerned about. He hobnobs at all their
parties and social events. Scarecrow, you and Amanda will cover as a D. C. couple interested in purchasing Itran stock. You both will be attending a party at Trump Plaza Saturday night given by Itran.
Julian should be attending. He needs to be watched. Establish a friendship with him, and get yourselves
invited to any events which will benefit you catching him in the act. Good luck to you both. Any questions?"
"When do we leave for New York City, Billy," asked Lee. "Tomorrow afternoon from Dulles. Your
tickets and reservations confirmed. Pick everything up today, and you need not check in tomorrow
morning." "What about wardrobe?" asked Amanda. "Already taken of, waiting at your hotel room at
the Plaza. Good luck to you both. Have fun, but be careful."
"Yes, sir, we will," uttered both agents in unison, and at that occurrence, they smiled at each other.
Back up in the Q Bureau-later in the day.
"The flight is at 2:00 o'clock tomorrow afternoon. So, I'll pick you up at twelve, so we can have lunch
and not have to hurry," stated Lee, checking the itinerary. "I'll be ready," replied Amanda, "dressed to
the nines as Mandy Martin. I'll let my mother know it's a photo shoot on New York society life, including
Trump. I'm sure she will buy that one."
Lee chuckled at her. They both were so getting used to coming up with tall stories, that it was automatic.
Scarecrow looked at his watch. "Look, it's almost time for dinner. How about dinner at Emilio's tonight?
I could pick you up at seven." 'It's a date. The boys and mother will be leaving for Williamsburg shortly
thereafter. They liked it so much, the last time." "You mean, there's no hurry to get you home, for once?
I won't know what to do," he teased. "The infamous Scarecrow, won't know what to do, that's a laugh,"
retorted Amanda. "I'll get you for that, wait and see," responded a determined Lee, and started to chase
her around the room, the devil in his eye. "Oh, know you don't," screamed Amanda, getting out of his
way as quickly as possible, ducking and dashing, to and fro. The Q door suddenly opened, and she crashed
headlong into Francine, who was carrying their tickets and travel information. "I'm sorry, Francine. Are you all right?" "Yes, Amanda," the disgruntled blonde cackled furiously. "Land first, the next time.
You're tickets are over there, travel info still in my hands. Help me up, and I'm out of here."
Lee willingly obliged, helping both of them to their feet. She gave them both a nasty look, and walked
out the door with a slam. Both partners looked at another, then burst out laughing. "You started it,
Stetson," Amanda teased again. "Oh, no I didn't, Mrs. King. You made the first comment, you started
it." Lee starting chasing again, but this time he paused to lock the Q door. "Lee, c'mon, enough of this
game." Lee continued chasing her, pinning her against the wall, "take back what you said," he looked
determined, pinning her down with his strong arms. "Lee, please, you're hurting me." He hadn't realized
how strongly he had gripped her arms. Letting go immediately, he apologized. "I'm, really sorry, Amanda.
I wouldn't hurt you for the world," remembering that time during burnout when he had accidentally
slapped her. He looked at her, very concerned, rubbing her arms, "I'm so sorry, are you o.k.?" Lee looked
at her pleadingly. "Gotcha," Amanda laughed. "Now we're even."
Lee was really downhearted now, and couldn't look at Amanda. He was actually hurt. "Lee, talk to me,"
Amanda was concerned, "What's wrong?" "Lee, please, don't do this," she pleaded as he started unlocking
the Q door., "please, I'm sorry." She stopped him, and placed her finger under his chin to force him to look
at her. She suddenly remembered the slap from the burnout period, and knew what he was upset about.
"Oh, Lee, forgive me. I wasn't thinking. We were just playing in the beginning." Her hand was on his cheek, "please," she looked into his eyes. He slowly placed his arms around her waist, took her hand away
from his cheek, and kissed it. Scarecrow leaned in toward her, drawing her closer to him, millimeters away
from her lips. "You're forgiven, I'm sorry too. I jumped the gun. I just don't want to ever hurt you. I-I"
he brushed her lips with his own. She eagerly responded to his kiss, wrapping her arms around his neck,
and then leaning in again to kiss him tenderly. Lee growled low in his throat, and took her lips possessively, deepening the kiss., totally letting go with all pent up feelings. "Amanda," he whispered,
"I've wanted to do that for so long." He buried his face in her luxurious hair, and pulled her closer to him.
Amanda was in heaven. The tears came unbidden. She held on to Lee, groping even closer, if possible.
"Oh, Lee," she said softly, "just hold me. Let me stay here forever." She was trembling. "Honey, it's o.k.
Don't cry." Lee broke away , and looked into her large, brown eyes., and wiped away her tears.
"I can't help it," she stammered, I can't keep these feelings bottled up any more, I can't. You're my
best friend, the one I would talk to about how I feel. But I can't talk to you because you're the cause of
my feelings. Maybe, oh, I don't know what to do." She turned away from him.
"Talk to me, please. Look at me." Amanda turned back, and their eyes locked. "I have those same feelings. I love you, and I can't keep it inside either, or I'll burst." Lee smiled and held her to him.
"I love you, too, Scarecrow, for a long time now." A smile emerged on Scarecrow's face, he grinned from
ear to ear, at that news. He kissed her passionately. Amanda responded in kind, placing her arms around
Lee's neck. They broke apart after what seemed like several minutes to catch their breaths, still in awe at
the revelation that they finally declared their love for each other.
"I've been such a fool to wait so long to tell you," he whispered, kissing her forehead. "You feel go good
in my arms, like you have belonged there always." "Maybe you weren't ready until now," interrupted
Amanda, "but, believe me, the wait for your love is well worth it, she leaned in and kissed him again,
tenderly. Scarecrow smiled down at her, shaking his head, at the wonder of it all.
They were interrupted by a phone call from Billy, who asked them to come to the Bullpen immediately.
He had something important to tell them. "Make yourselves comfortable, this shouldn't take long,"
Billy noticed the grins on each of his agents, like they had a secret they were sharing, and wondered,
"maybe, at last, it's finally happened, we shall see. "Lee and Amanda," Billy began, "we received a
communication from San Angelo that their computers were being updated, and they discovered that
entity information on cross check did not match. Lee, Personnel was contacted during your trip down
there a year ago, and the new clerk gave all your correct entity info, so, you're legally married. The
Bahamian Embassy has stated that the annulment can be completed at their location right in D. C.
All you two have to do is sign the final release papers, and the matter is closed. You can take care of
this when you get back from New York City. Any other questions?" The two partners smiled at each
other, not upset at all about the situation, and even held hands. Lee came out of his reverie, and asked
Billy about wedding and engagement rings. Billy said they were all out in properties , so purchase them
in New York City. We have an account at Tiffany's. Bill the agency, of course, and try to remember
to keep the cost low. They both agreed. Billy wished them well. Amanda said she would see Lee at
the arranged time, and she started for home.
Lee thought, on the drive over to Arlington, that the circumstances were pretty close to the occurrences
in his dream, and he didn't mind at all. In some ways, he liked the idea of being married to Amanda.
In fact, the more he thought about the situation, the more he liked the idea. He didn't know Amanda's
reaction, but, she didn't seem to be upset at all in Billy's office. She was ready at seven. Lee placed
her luggage in the trunk of the Vette, and they headed for Emilio's for dinner.
"Amanda, did you want me to take you home right after dinner, or, do you want to come over to my place
for a while?'' asked Lee, after the meal was over. "Mother and the boys are gone, and I'm pretty tired.
I really would like to come to your place, there is no use for me to travel all the way home. I would rather
be with you, anyway." Lee really liked that answer. Once out in the Vette, Lee kissed her, and huskily
said, "stay the night." "Yes, gladly," managed Amanda, "I thought you would never ask."
Once ready for bed, Amanda melted into Lee's arms, and soundly kissed him good-night. Lee respected
and loved Amanda with all his heart, and whatever she wanted concerning the sleeping arrangements,
he would follow, although it would take all his self-control to accomplish this feat. He had a small extra
bedroom with a comfortable bed she could use. He wanted to make love to her so much, to show her how
much she meant to him, but, if she thought it was too early to be intimate, he would respect that.
"Amanda, I love you so much," he whispered against her mouth. "I love you, too, sweetheart, ready for
bed?" "Yeah, I guess I'll see you tomorrow, then." Lee replied. "Lee, I want to be with you, in the same
bed, honey, isn't that all right?" Lee beamed, "it's more than all right, it's fantastic.
"I can't believe this is all true, you love me, you say it's o.k. to sleep in the same bed. I thought you would
want to take it slower, but, I'm glad that you decided to join me." "I want to make love to you, Lee, that
tired , I'm not. I want you so badly." Amanda held him tightly, and looked deeply into his eyes.
PART II
"Oh, Amanda, yes," finished Lee. The romantic atmosphere in Lee's bedroom was enhanced by the
mood music from the stereo, and the candles flickering their dancing aura across the room. Lee stood
by his bed staring into two beautiful deep brown eyes, that showed all the love for him , and trust built
into her intuitively since that first day at the train station. She was so incredibly beautiful. He lowered
his lips to hers, and kissed her with a possessiveness that before today, he had never known. He kissed
her tenderly and passionately, and the intensity and heat started to build between them. Amanda urged his
mouth open, and flicked her tongue against his , continuing as they explored, played, and danced wildly
against each other's mouths. He planted kisses down her neck, reaching her sensitive spot, which he knew
instinctively, and lingered there. Amanda moaned low, "Lee," which is all she managed to get out.
Lee lowered the spaghetti straps of her nightgown over her breasts, and her gown dropped to the floor.
She stood before him, her perfect body bathed in the candlelight. He could only shake his head ,and
he whispered to her how beautiful she was. She smiled at him, moved closer to him, loosened the belt
of his robe, and guided it down his shoulders to the floor. She observed the man she so deeply loved
standing millimeters away, with such passion in his eyes that they were, it seemed, a dark blue. Lee crushed her to him, feeling her soft breasts and silky skin against him for the first time. His arms snaked
around her waist, and he took her lips , engulfing her mouth voraciously. After a few minutes, they broke
the kiss for breath, Lee lifted her onto his bed , and very carefully placed himself on top of her.
Light filtered into Lee's bedroom to announce the start of a brand new day. Both lovers were still asleep
in each other's arms. Lee was the first to stir. It took a minute before he realized fully exactly where he
was. Then he gazed at the angel asleep in his arms, and thanked God silently for this wonderful woman,
and her love. As he watched her in slumber, he vowed never to take her for granted, and always be there
for her, and never stop loving her. He thought back to a few hours ago. Last night had been incredible.
His feelings for her ran so deep, that it scared him somewhat. But being without her, which he couldn't
even fathom now, would make life almost unbearable, more so, than not revealing his feelings.
He looked at the clock. They would have to leave for the airport presently, but her wanted to let her sleep
as long as possible. Besides, then, he got to watch her beautiful face, smiling in a peaceful sleep. After
a few minutes, he tried to wake her with a light kiss to her lips. She began to stir, her eyes opened, and
she saw the wonderful man she loved gazing at her with all the love he possessed for her, reflected through
his eyes.
"Good morning," she yawned, and kissed him softly. "How long have you been awake?" "Long
enough to take in your beautiful face, and realize how lucky I am to have you in my life, and what a fool
I was for waiting this long to tell you how much I love you." Amanda responded through watery eyes,
"I love you, too, Scarecrow, so much, always."
"Amanda, I'm afraid it's time to get ready for the airport, and grab a quick brunch beforehand. You know,
I wouldn't mind staying here forever with you, but we've got to get going to make our plane," Lee
reluctantly acknowledged.
They had brunch at Dulles and were on their way to New York City on their two o'clock flight. They reached the Big Apple just short of two hours. Trying to get a taxi in New York City anywhere took
ingenuity plus, but the Scarecrow was well adept at the game, and they reached the Plaza, luggage and
all within thirty minutes of having departed the flight. Their room was, indeed a suite, as Billy had
stated, but separate beds it did not have. The two partners smiled at each other at that fact. Other
cases, they would have minded , now, they relished the idea.
Amanda looked over the wardrobe provided for both of them in order to look the part of a wealthy
couple, and found the selection to be perfect. The gowns were beautiful, as were the everyday and
casual clothing. Having settled in, Lee suggested a jaunt to Tiffany's to choose engagement and
wedding rings, and dinner at Sizzlin' Sam's for steaks. Any probable investors for Itran stock were
always scrutinized with thorough background checks, as was the case with Lee and Mandy Martin.
They lived in the upper crust section of Washington D. C., don't you know, and were considered the
"darlings" of Washington society, mingling with only the most influential and wealthy residents. The
Agency made sure of that fact.
As the left the Plaza Hotel on their adventure into jewelry, Scarecrow noticed out of the corner of his
eye, that they were being tailed by a dark skinned man in dark clothing. Lee whispered this to Amanda,
as they scooted through the revolving doors. They lost the tail in short work due to the pretense of
hailing one cab, and jetting into another. Maybe the Scarecrow should have been called the Snake
because he knew how to slither so well.
Tiffany's was everything the movie, Breakfast At, projected it to be. You could lose yourself there, if
you really wanted to. Amanda was amazed at the selection and price range of everything. Lee's hand
in hers made any trip worthwhile. She spied a diamond solitaire in yellow gold, probably too large in
caret size for the Agency's taste. It was a least a caret in weight with little side diamonds nestled in the
shape of flowers. She fell in love with the ring. There were also matching wedding rings for both the
bride and groom. Lee heard her sigh. He asked the sales clerk to let them see the rings. Amanda tried
the solitaire on, the fit was perfect. The wedding bands also fit both of them. Scarecrow asked that they
be wrapped for them, he would pay half the bill. "No, Lee. I can't let you do that," replied Amanda
concerned. "We'll just purchase something smaller." "No, we will not, Amanda. We have to look the part.
Besides, I want these for us, for our own personal use. Amanda, I wish we were really married. I know
this is short notice , but I've known you three years now, and I want you to be my wife. Please say yes.
You know we are legally married from San Angelo, can't we just think about keeping it that way?"
"Lee, this is crazy , but it feels so right. Yes, and we can think about it." After purchasing the jewelry,
they decided to wear all the rings right away. Since it was still early, they walked hand in hand along
the shopping district of the Big Apple, of course, at the exclusive shops. Lee saw their previous tail in
view again. "Duck in here for a minute," he warned Amanda. Their refuge turned out to be St. Patrick's
Cathedral. The darkly clad man followed them into the church. They hid in one of the vestibules. Lee
decided he had had enough of being followed, and confronted the individual, shoving his gun into the
man's back. "What can we do for you," Lee asked roughly, holding the man at bay. Itol Yehman was
employed by Dabar as a hit man and bodyguard. He tried to loosen from Scarecrow's steel hands to no
avail. "My employer told me to follow you, ,I was only doing my job," Itol conveyed. "Well, you report
back and inform Mr. Dabar, that I will not put up with being followed by anyone's hired hoods. Also,
if he wishes me to even think about investing any money with Itran, I am to be treated with the utmost
respect from now on, or I will take my business elsewhere. Is that clear?" "Yes sir, Mr. Martin," stammered
Itol, and ran out of the church.
Amanda had to sit down in one of the pews for a minute, she was shaken, at what had happened during the
past five minutes. "Lee, how did you know who he was, and how did he know who you were," rambled
a nervous Amanda. "Hmmm, let's see, first part of the question, past experience and a bit of research,
second part of the question, all prospective investors of Itran stock are scrutinized completely, and the
Agency made sure that detail was covered, and I will not put up with a tail anyway."
"You know, Mrs. Stetson , if I were marrying you right now, in any faith, I would say, I, Lee, take thee,
Amanda as my wedded wife. To have and to hold, from this day forward. For better or worse, in sickness
and health, to love and to cherish, for all the days of our lives. I would add. "With this ring, I pledge my
life to you, my complete love to you, for as long as I would live." Amanda was in tears. She couldn't stop
crying, she was so completely happy. She composed herself, took Lee's hand and said, "I, Amanda,
take thee, Lee as my wedded husband, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better or worse, in
sickness and health, to love and to cherish, for all the days of our lives. I would add, With this ring, I pledge my heart, my love, and my entire being, for as long as I shall live." Lee had tears of joy in his eyes.
"Sweetheart, I will love you always," sighed Scarecrow, taking her lips and kissing her fully. As they broke from the kiss, Amanda replied "I love you so much, Lee. I've never been so happy."
"Amanda, I hate to break this up, but we had better get to the restaurant, we have a big day tomorrow,
and we really could use some sleep." The meal at Sizzlin Sam's was delicious, and once back at the
Plaza, and in their room, the two partners fell sound asleep as soon as their heads hit the pillow.
To Be Continued