A/N: Next up! Other updates are coming, need a little more time. Hope to get everything done by the end of this weekend. Have fun xoxo
Chapter 4: Knock You Down
Lucky Joe's Tavern - Kenzi's Apartment (1 Week Later)
She didn't expect it, but Lauren had actually been having fun while staying with Kenzi for this past week. They'd watched movies, had some great talks, and Kenzi even let Lauren work behind the bar one night.
And that was an eye opener.
But now Kenzi had told Lauren that the threat was over, and that is was time for her to go home. Which Lauren was fine with, but she would miss being here with Kenzi and everyone else. She was just about to finish packing, when Kenzi walked into her room. "Hey, is everything okay?"
"Yeah, you know; more or less…" Kenzi nodded, checking if her friend was finished with what she was doing. "… Just sucks that I'm gonna be alone for the next couple of months. Without Bo, and you" she jumped down on the end of the bed.
Lauren smiled, she was flattered that Kenzi was going to miss her. "I'd love to stay longer Kenz, really; but I'm needed back at the hospital. You just have to think about the situation positively" she said.
Kenzi frowned, "Positive? Uh, my Sister's in jail and my new roomie is already leaving me for a better gig. How am I supposed to feel positive about that?" She didn't see it.
"The time will fly by Kenz. Especially if this last week is any indication. And at least we know Bo's doing okay in that place, no one else is messing with her. That's the main thing. And you know, just because I'm going back to my place and to back to work; it doesn't mean we can't hang out" Lauren sat next to her.
Turning to her, Kenzi gave her a look of longing. It wasn't her fault, she just hated being alone. When Bo was in prison before it was torture. Their Father was back in Ireland, so they hardly ever saw him either. They only had each other. "Really?"
"Really…" Lauren nodded, "… I'll tell you what, why don't you come by my place after my shift tomorrow? We can have some dinner and watch a movie. Sound good?" She held her hand with a smile.
Kenzi nodded with a smile, "Yes, that sounds great! But, just remember; you're dating my sister. I know it's hard not to leer at this sweet ass, but I don't swing that way; and I'd never do that to my sister" she made it clear.
Lauren just laughed, "I'll try to control myself. But seriously, you're not my type" she said it in the most nicest way possible.
"I'm cool with that…" Kenzi chuckled, "… Come on, I'll give you a ride home" she grabbed Lauren's bag and brought it downstairs, throwing it in the trunk of her car and driving off to Lauren's apartment.
Women's Correctional Facility (3 Weeks Later)
Even with Paula gone, Bo was still being harassed by the Guards. And some new inmates that thought they'd become the boss of the place, but that wasn't happening. Bo didn't even want to be the top dog, she just wanted to do her time and then go home.
But some of the girls came to her for advice when they needed it most, which was fine with her. But some of them wanted her other services, and she just didn't do that anymore. So she told them that she would try her hardest, but inevitably they had to face their fears themselves.
What happened with Mags and Paula was a different situation. It wasn't just because Bo couldn't kill anymore, it was because if she'd gotten caught doing it; then her sentence would've been extended to decades. And she wanted out of this hell hole.
Besides, Mags' punishment wasn't that severe. From what Bo knew, Mags made it look like self defence. Which would've been very easy, since Paula had a short temper. Anything set her off. So other than a few years added onto her already lifelong sentence; Mags was free to roam about the prison as usual.
Once she served some time in solitary confinement that was, her month was almost up too. Bo couldn't wait to thank her for what she'd done. And to tell her that she got Kenzi to come through on her end of their deal.
A large some of money was deposited into Mags' son's bank account, so that he could afford the treatment that his daughter needed. It was the least Bo could do.
Bo was in her cell, doing her morning push ups. Since there was no gym in here, she had to do it the normal way. Suddenly, there was a knock on her cell door. "Can't you see I'm busy?" She kept going without getting up.
"I can, but it doesn't mean I'm going away"
When she stopped her exercising, it wasn't because she was done. It was because she'd heard that voice before. She pushed up from the floor, turning around to see an old friend of hers. "Casey?" She looked at her old buddy, and she was wearing a Guard's uniform. "What're you doing here?"
Casey checked if she was clear, and she was. So she stepped inside Bo's cell, giving her a brief but yet long hug. "What'd you think?" She told her, pulling back. "Your Pops sent me to look out for you in here. He heard you were having a hard time" she said.
"How the hell did he hear that-" Bo frowned but then realised, there was only one person who could've told her Father that, "Kenzi…" She muttered through gritted teeth, she hated that. "… Well, she wrongly informed him, I'm fine" she folded her arms.
"Oh yeah…" Casey pointed to the fresh stitches above her friend's eye. "… You're sitting pretty aren't you? Look, what's the harm in me being here? Besides, I can straighten out the guards if they try to beat on you. Can't let them hurt that pretty face right?" She touched her cheek.
Bo smiled, pulling her hand away. This was one problem with this plan, "Listen Casey, I have someone now…" She said. "… Someone I love. I hope this doesn't cause any problems between us. You'll always be one of my best friends" she smiled at her.
She and Casey dated a long time ago back in their teens, but like all things in Bo's life; it didn't last. And they parted ways once she moved to this city, she hadn't seen or heard from Casey in a few years. She didn't want her to think that this was anything else other than a helping hand.
Because she loved Lauren, and that wasn't changing.
Casey held her hands up, "Hey, this is just a favour to your Dad. I'll always love you Bo, just not like that anymore. I actually have someone too. So I guess we're both moving on huh?" She didn't see Bo like that anymore.
"Yeah I guess so" Bo was glad to hear that, the last thing she needed was a possessive ex. Lauren already had one, they didn't need another.
When they heard other guards approaching, Casey had to get back into character. "Pick up your shit McCorrigan!" She threw some of the books on the floor, mouthing a sorry to Bo. "This isn't a library!" She walked away.
After picking up her things, Bo went straight for her phone. Calling Kenzi straight away, "Hey Kenz, yeah I'm fine. Quick question though, why the hell is Casey here dressed as a Guard?!" She yelled in a whisper.
"Oh that?" Kenzi stuttered. "I just happened to give Dad a quick recap of everything that was going on and he decided that maybe it would be safer for Casey to just you know; hang around at the prison and make sure those bitches don't mess with you" she said.
"Kenz, I know you meant well. But I'm fine. Yeah, I get in the odd fight now and again but I can handle that. What I can't handle, is having my ex protecting me when I didn't ask for it. Things are messed up as it is. Does Lauren know?" Bo asked, she didn't want that.
"No, Lauren doesn't know anything. She's doing good. Back at work, smiling with her friends, safe and sound just like I promised…" Kenzi breathed through the microphone. "… Bo, you've got less than three months to go. Casey won't be a problem, Dad wouldn't have sent her otherwise"
Bo scoffed, "How would he know? He doesn't know about Lauren yet! You wait until I tell him that I've told an outsider our secrets. He'll hit roof! Oh my god, what if he tries to have her killed? This is a disaster!" She sat on her cot, scared.
"He won't do that. When you get out, just have dinner with him and explain things. At the end of the day, he only wants us to be happy. You know he'd never do something like that to you. You're just being paranoid, just breathe" Kenzi told her.
She did what her sister told her, and breathed deeply. "Okay…" Bo nodded, "… I feel a lot better now" she smiled to herself.
"Good, see? I told you, everything's gonna be fine. Just remember, another ten weeks and you'll be a free woman! Then you'll get to see Lauren, have a drink, and a cheeseburger. Freedom will look good on you sister! We'll have a blow out!" Kenzi promised her.
Bo nodded, "Okay, thanks Kenz. Can you tell Lauren that I'll call her later, if you get a chance?" She hadn't spoken to her in a few days, Kenzi had told her that she'd been really busy with the hospital. Which was fine, that was her job.
"Uh yeah, I'm going over to her place for dinner. I'll tell her then" Kenzi said.
That was one thing that Bo had been hearing a lot lately, apparently Kenzi and Lauren had become quite the pair of buddies in her absence. She wanted to be jealous, but Kenzi didn't have a lot of friends so she was glad that she had someone, and that Lauren did too.
"Okay, as long as you don't forget who's dating her" She pointed out.
Kenzi's laugh was short, "Yes yes, I know. Don't worry we already had the 'I'm just not that into you' talk. She took it pretty well. Gotta say, I was expecting some sadness but I didn't get anything. She must really love you. You've got a good one here Bo" she approved.
"I know, I just hope I still have her once I get out of this place. Anyway, I'll talk to her later. Thanks for everything you're doing Kenz. I love you" Bo could never repay Kenzi for what she'd done, she'd gone beyond the limits to help her out.
"Love you too babe, talk soon" Kenzi hung up the phone.
With that, Bo hid the phone again and went back to her push ups. She still had a work out to finish and she was looking forward to talking to her girl later. It was the only highlight of her day.
Lauren's Condo – Later
Once they were all done with Dinner, Kenzi and Lauren sat down to watch a movie like they always did. And on cue, Kenzi fell asleep by eleven thirty. It was a theme with them. Since she was soundly sleeping, Lauren wanted to call Bo liked Kenzi had told her too.
Lauren got comfy on the couch, with Kenzi sleeping next to her. She waited for Bo to answer, and when she finally did Lauren smiled at hearing her voice. "Hey you, how's it hanging in the joint?"
"Joint? Okay, I think you've been hanging around Kenzi too much. Seriously, get some distance from her. By the time I get out she'll have you dressing like a rapper" Bo had to laugh at her choice of words.
"You're probably right. So how is everything going? Did you get into anymore brawls? Because you know; you went in with the most beautiful face. It'd suck if you came out with the opposite of that. But don't worry, I'll love you regardless" Lauren smiled into the phone.
"Well, that's good to know. And to answer your question? No. I haven't gotten into any more brawls recently. These girls know not to mess with me. Besides, my Dad sent someone in to look out for me so; I'll be fine" Bo said.
Lauren raised her eyebrows in surprise, she hadn't heard that off of Kenzi. "Really? Kenzi didn't tell me that. Do you know them? Is it a friend of yours?" She asked.
"Yeah, a good friend. Her name's Casey, we sort of grew up together" Bo was dismissive.
And Lauren could hear it in her voice. "And dated, at a certain point in your life. Am I right?" She wasn't stupid. Actually, she was a genius.
"You're good…" Bo chuckled. "… It was nothing Lauren. Just a teenage fling. Honestly, she's got someone in her life now and so do I. That was the first thing that I made clear to her. She was cool about it" she told her.
That answer was enough for Lauren, "Okay, then I'm cool too. I mean, if you say it was nothing then it was nothing. And I trust you. So stop worrying, I bet you've been doing that all day" she laughed, knowing what Bo was like.
"You're on a roll babe…" Bo laughed, "… I was, but you've eased my mind. It's hell being without you, all I wanna do is see you and kiss you. Ten weeks seems like a lifetime" she sighed.
Lauren understood what she meant, "I know. But it's not like we're going the whole time without talking to each other. I miss you so much Bo. I've never been in this situation, I don't know how to act. But if we just keep doing what we're doing, we'll get through this. Together" she said.
"Together…" Bo repeated her words with chuckle. "… Yeah. Together. I like that"
This was the start of a nightly conversation that Bo and Lauren would have through the course of the next ten weeks. They had to keep talking, otherwise they wouldn't be able to cope through this whole thing.
They would talk about so many things. Lauren would tell Bo what was going on in the real world, about her work, and also how Tamsin hadn't given up her pointless grovelling. And Bo would tell Lauren what happening with inside the prison, who she had to fend off every other week.
But thankfully, the time went fast.
Ten Weeks Later
Lauren hadn't long finished a grilling night shift at the hospital. Sleep was essential when she came home, and she was actually enjoying her sleep for the first time in weeks, she couldn't fight out why though.
That was until she rolled over and felt someone laying next to her. She cracked open one of her eyes, seeing the person that she'd been waiting four months to see. "Bo?" She sat up, not believing this. "Oh my god, is this a dream?" She held onto her arms.
Bo smiled, shaking her head. "No, it's not. God, I missed you so much…" She leaned in, kissing her hard. She'd been waiting months for this. She just didn't want to let go of her, "… Did I forget to say Hi?" She laughed with tears in her eyes, holding Lauren's face.
"Hi…" Lauren kissed her again. "… I don't understand. Kenzi said you didn't get out until tomorrow" she wanted to be there to pick her up.
"They let me out early; good behaviour…" Bo couldn't stop looking at her face. She'd wished to see it for so long now. "… You are so beautiful" she whispered.
Lauren wanted to ball her eyes out, she was so overwhelmed right now. She didn't know it was because she was tired or because she was emotional. Maybe a bit of both. "Why didn't you call? I would've picked you up" that was her initial plan.
Bo just smiled, "I wanted to surprise you. And by the look on your face I'd say I did a good job. I was gonna go straight home since I knew you'd been working late. But I just couldn't go home without seeing you"
Lauren could understand that, she'd probably do the same thing. "That's fine. But, how'd you get in?" She hadn't given Bo a key yet.
Now it was Bo's turn to look guilty, "I uh; kind of picked your lock…" She smiled bashfully. "… It's a skill I acquired when I was eight"
"So, let me get this straight…" Lauren sat up properly, rubbing her eyes. "… You got out of prison only an hour ago, and already you've committed a crime?" She just wanted to make sure she had that right.
Bo nodded, "Kinda"
Lauren just laughed shaking her head, "I've missed you" she jumped on her, latching her mouth onto Bo's in a kiss.
As her hands travelled from Lauren's hair down to her hips. Bo pulled back suddenly, "Aren't you tired?" She asked.
"Not anymore" Lauren dipped her head again, kissing Bo once more. She'd been waiting four months for this.
And if there was anyone who knew how much she needed this, it was Bo. She'd been stuck in a jail cell for the past four months. Bo had already removed her shoes when she got into the bed earlier. So the next thing was her jeans, then get shirt.
Lauren removed her own, when she was done she noticed that Bo had some bruising on her ribs. And fresh scars. Acknowledging them while Bo was watching would just make her feel self conscious.
So instead, she didn't say a word. And grabbed for her face the first chance she got, bringing her into yet another kiss while pushing her gently down onto the bed.
Bo was at Lauren's mercy, although she probably wouldn't have to do much. It had been four months after all. But even though Lauren said she wasn't tired, Bo could tell that she still was. So she decided to take the reigns and rolled over so she was on top.
She began to grind down on her, both of them gasping as they felt the long awaited contact that they'd missed so much. Bending down, Bo brought her mouth to Lauren's neck and began trailing kisses from her collarbone up to her ear while she continued to move her hips.
At this point, Lauren just went along with it. Lost in the many feelings of pleasure. She'd missed Bo's intoxicating scent. It drove her crazy. She didn't want to be too rough when reach for her, due to the bruising on her ribs.
Since this was the only sexual contact that she'd had in months, Bo couldn't hold out for much longer. And Lauren hadn't been with anyone either, because she was always faithful to her partners. Something Tamsin never understood the concept of.
When their breathing got faster, they knew they didn't have long. And as if on cue; with one quick jerk of their bodies they succumbed to their desires. "After four months, I expected that to last a lot longer" Bo rolled over onto her side.
"After four months, I'd say any amount of time would be impressive…" Lauren turned to face her, bringing the bed sheet to rest over them. "… I'm so glad you're back. I feel like I've been going insane without you here" she admitted.
"Ditto…" Bo held her close, loving the feel of this bed. "… You don't know how good it feels to sleep on a comfy mattress. It's definitely better for my back" she laughed.
Lauren trailed her fingers up and down Bo's shoulder, the bruising was healing but it was still visible on her skin. "I think you should let me check you over"
Bo took her hand away from where it was and kissed it with a smile, "I'm fine Lauren. I was given the all clear from the Prison Doctor weeks ago. This is just wear and tear. Just being here with you is making me better" she assured her.
"Okay. If you don't wanna talk about it then I won't push you. But I do need to sleep, so we can pick this all up later" Lauren leaned in closer, cuddling Bo's body like she'd wanted to do a thousand times over the last few months.
This was something Bo welcomed, she wrapped both arms around her and slowly felt herself dropping off too. She was exhausted, and she hadn't had any real sleep in the last four months. This was what she wanted, and now she had it.
For the first time in four months, sleep was coming easy.
Next Morning
When Bo woke up, she woke up alone. And that made her anxiety kick into overdrive, since she'd spent the last four months in a cell all alone. She was hoping to find Lauren next to her. She got up, seeing a pile of clothes that Lauren had laid out for her. Just a simple tank top and shorts.
Once dressed, she walked out of the bedroom and into the kitchen. She smelt the most delicious odour of food. She hadn't smelt anything like that in four months. "You have no idea how much I've missed your amazing cooking" she approached the table, seeing the spread.
"I think it's pretty clear…" Lauren could see the look on her face. She kissed her cheek then gestured to the table. "… Help yourself" she told her.
And that's what Bo did, she helped herself to the steaming stack of pancakes that sat in front of her, she was going to enjoy this. "So, I was hoping that we could spend the day together. Can you take the day off?" She really wanted to do that.
But Lauren had to disappoint her. "I wish I could, really; but I've got back to back surgeries today. And I used up most of my vacation days when I stayed with Kenzi. I need to earn more. But if you're up to it later, we could get some dinner?"
"Yeah, that sounds great. Just text me when you're done with work and I'll come get you. I might have to check on the bar anyway, and see what kind of mess Kenzi's made while I've been gone" Bo was not looking forward to that.
"I've been by there a few times and it's still as rowdy as ever. Plus, she said that your Dad was arriving soon. I'm sure he'd take over while you're gone" Lauren got her shoes on.
That statement was enough to make Bo choke on her food, "My Dad?" She coughed. "My Dad's here? He's here? Like, right now?" She just wanted to make sure.
Lauren nodded, noticing Bo's behaviour. "That's what Kenzi said. Why? What's the big deal if he's here or not? Do you not get along with him?" She wondered.
"Uh, well that depends on how you look at it I guess…" Bo didn't want to give to much away, if her Dad was here then coming straight to Lauren's when she was released was a big mistake. She got up from her seat, "… I hate to eat and run, but I should really get over there. My Dad's a bit of a handful" she ran upstairs to grab her clothes.
When she came back down fully dressed, Lauren offered to give her a ride. She was practically on her way out of the door anyway. So they both left the condo together.
Lucky Joe's Tavern (Later)
Bo entered the bar, seeing the body guards everywhere. Including some people she considered family, they all welcomed her with hugs and kisses. And as she walked through the massive crowd, she was met with her Father's charming smile as she got to her favourite table.
Kenzi sat beside him, squealing in delight when she caught her sister's gaze. "Bo!" She jumped up from the booth, running over to her. "Oh my god! I missed you like crazy! You have no idea" she hugged her tight.
Bo held onto her, she'd missed her too. "Actually I think I have a pretty good one. I've missed you too Kenzi…" she pulled away from her, looking at her Father. "… Hi Dad" she was always nervous talking to him.
He was just so intimidating.
Joseph McCorrigan, or Joe for short; was a one man Irish Mob. No one messed with him. "My little girl…" He touched her face, seeing be faint scarring above her eye. "… I have no doubt that they got what they deserved"
"They got worse than they deserved, I made sure of that" Bo nodded, giving him a smile.
"That's my girl!" He kissed her head. "None of that matters now. You're free and clear, and Kenzi has done a good job handling the business while you've been gone. Much to my surprise" he pinched Kenzi's cheek jokingly.
Kenzi brushed him off, she wasn't a little kid anymore. "I learned from the best"
Joe brought Bo to sit next to him, while Kenzi sat on his left. "Kenzi tells me that you have a Detective harassing you. Is that true?" He asked.
Bo made eyes at Kenzi. Because if she told him the reason why Tamsin was giving her a hard time, then she'd have to tell him about Lauren. And she didn't know if that was a good idea just yet. "Maybe a little, it's not a big deal Dad"
He shook his head, "It is to me. If she continues to be a problem, then we'll have to have her taken care of. You need room to breathe Bo" he wasn't standing for this.
"I know Dad, but I can handle the cops. Can you just trust me with this? I've been doing fine by myself for the last couple of years" Bo said.
"And yet you've been imprisoned twice…" He looked at her, frowning. He could read her body language. "… If I didn't know any better I would say you're hiding something from me Bo"
Bo glanced at Kenzi who was just mirroring her scared expression. "I'm not hiding anything from you Dad. But I would like to have a talk with you, if you're not too busy?" She had to tell him about Lauren.
If she didn't then he would find out in his own way and then it wouldn't end well. Her Father wasn't without empathy, he always wanted what was best for her and Kenzi. She didn't think that this would be any different.
"Not at all. In fact, why don't we have dinner tonight? We can celebrate your newfound freedom. I've been waiting so long to catch up with my girls" he smiled happily.
Kenzi didn't think that Bo wanted her to come, but if she refused then he would just get suspicious. "So have we Dad" she hugged his side.
"Then it's settled then…" Bo smiled with him. "… I'll book a table at that Chinese place you love so much" she kissed her Father's cheek.
"And I will take over your responsibilities today. You've had a long couple of months. I want you to take the day to recharge and get back into your daily routine. I won't take no for an answer" he pointed at her with his eyebrows raised.
Bo held her hands up, "I know. You don't have to tell me twice. I'm just gonna go home and shower, then maybe take a nap. I'll book the table when I get in" she got up and went to leave the bar when her Father called her back.
"No daughter of mine will be walking home when she's fresh out of the big house…" He told her. "… Benjamin!" He called for Benny. "Be a good sport and drive Bo home" he winked at him.
Benny nodded, "You got it Joe" he took Bo's bag from her hands, walking her outside and into her favourite town car.
Now that she was gone, Joe thought he'd fish for information with Kenzi. Given the right leverage she would tell him everything. "Let me ask you sweetie, is Bo's news going to upset me?" He asked.
Kenzi shook her head, "I don't think so Dad. You know she'd never do anything like that. Trust me, what she wants to talk to you about is a good thing. A really good thing. I'm gonna hit the mall for a new outfit for tonight" she kissed his cheek, then left.
"A good thing hmm?" Joe thought over the many possibilities of what it could be. "I'll be the one to decide that" he said to himself. This wasn't just a business, this was his legacy. His empire. And no matter what, he wasn't letting anyone destroy that.
Bo's Loft (Later)
When Bo got in, the first thing she did was book a table at the Chinese restaurant downtown that her Father loved. Once she was done with that, she had to call Lauren and tell her that she couldn't make dinner tonight. "Believe me, I wish that I was with you instead. But my Dad insisted" she said through the phone.
"Bo, it's okay. Stop apologising. He's your Dad, I get it…" Lauren understood completely. "… Actually, your call came just in time. A friend of mine just asked me to cover her shift, I said I couldn't but now I can. It's nice how things work out"
"Hopefully, after tonight; everything can go back to normal" Bo hoped. If going to prison again, had taught her anything it was that she didn't want to waste her life living like this. She just wanted to have a life with Lauren and then that could be it, but it was never that simple.
"Those are mighty big hopes you have there Miss. McCorrigan…" Lauren laughed. "… But I hope you're right. I probably won't be able to answer my phone for the rest of the night, but I'll call you tomorrow. Promise"
Bo walked into her bedroom, seeing everything she'd missed for the last four months. "I'm holding you to that Dr. Lewis" she smiled into the phone. With a pair of 'I Love You's' they hung up their phones.
Placing it on her dresser, Bo went straight for the shower and washed away the last four months of her life. Even though last night she never wanted to forget. But she would make it up to Lauren for leaving so abruptly.
Now though, she had to get ready for a dinner with her Father. A dinner that she wasn't looking forward to, and that she was close to bailing out of. But she had to do this. Her Father always told her that she would take over when he died.
So now she was going to show him how much of an independent person she was, and that included decided who she let into her life and who she didn't. Lauren wasn't going anywhere. So if he didn't like her choice then he could shove his criminal empire.
Lauren was more important than any of it.
Chang's Restaurant - Later
Bo's nap wasn't helpful at all, not in the slightest. But now she had to follow through with her plans to go to dinner. She couldn't back out now. She changed into the slimmest pair of black jeans she could find in her closet. Finishing her outfit off with a lovely black button front blouse.
On cue Benny picked her up outside her loft, and he took her straight to the restaurant. She entered, knocking every man around her; dead with envy. They all wanted her. But unfortunately she was taken. She got to her Father's favourite table, kissing him on the cheek then taking a seat next to him.
"Sorry I'm late…" She was running a little behind. "… Traffic was insane. Did I miss anything?" She placed her clutch beside her on the table.
"Nothing particularly interesting. Kenzi was just telling me about her latest male partner…"Joe smiled. "… I've already arranged for some of my men to go and kill him" he said.
Kenzi widened her eyes, "Daddy! That's not what I wanted you to do! Please tell me you're joking" that was the last thing she wanted. Yes, her ex was an asshole but he didn't deserve to die. Not right now anyway.
Joe laughed, "Of course I'm joking…" He waved a hand. "… Where's your sense of humour girls? Have things become that tense that you can't have a laugh and a joke with your old man?" These weren't the daughters he left five years ago.
"We try not to joke about killing and only take that step when it's needed. Otherwise, we're pretty clean cut nowadays. I find, the more killing that's done; the messier our lives are. And that's when more cops get involved, it's better to just keep things calm. It's less hassle" Bo said.
Hearing that, Joe had to sit back in his chair and laugh. "I've clearly underestimated your skills as a leader Bo. You've got it all figured out. I'm proud of you…" He nodded to her. Suddenly the waiter appeared asking them for their drink order. "… A bottle of your best champagne, this is a celebration" he saw the waiter off.
Kenzi made eyes at her sister, telling her to get on with what they were here for. She was sick of keeping the secret to herself. She was going to bust eventually, so it was better for Bo to come clean now rather than later.
Bo just took a deep breath, she shouldn't be so scared of her Father, she was a grown woman for god's sake. "So Dad?" She got his attention. She was so happy that he was in a good mood. "The reason I wanted to have this dinner was to talk to you about something" she started.
"Yes…" He nodded. "… The 'Good Thing' that Kenzi mentioned earlier. I'm curious to know what this thing is. Is it a new deal of some kind?" He wondered.
She shook her head, "No, it's not a deal…" She said. "… About five months ago, I met this woman; she's a Doctor over at the hospital downtown. And we've become very close in such a short space of time"
Joe leaned forward in his seat, waiting for the waiter to finish pouring their drinks and then leaving the bottle before he too excused himself. "Why would this be one big secret? You know I'll be happy with whomever you choose. I don't decide your heart" he sipped his champagne.
"I'm so glad to hear you say that Dad…" Bo was relieved. "… Because that's not all. I had to tell her about what I do, about what we do" she watched his expression change.
"You told a civilian about us?" Joe whispered to her, seeing her nod confirmation. "Our entire livelihood survives solely on the fact that we are discrete about our dealings. And now you go and tell me that you've told an outsider all of our secrets" he frowned at her, not believing this.
Bo sighed, "I didn't tell her everything Dad. I think I'd lose her if she knew the whole truth about what I've done. But she knows about my prison time, both of them. And she accepts me for who I am, she doesn't see a criminal. She sees me" she had to get him to understand.
Kenzi touched her Father's shoulder, "It's true Dad…" She said. "… She stuck with Bo for the whole duration of her four-month sentence. She never left her, not once. Not even after her own life was threatened. Most people would run a mile after something like that. But Lauren didn't"
Joe heard the girl's name. "Lauren hmm?" He could see how nervous Bo was about telling him this. And that proved that she was serious about this Lauren. "And you mean to tell me that you of all people, have approved this courtship?" He looked at his youngest.
Kenzi was happy to nod her head, "I was sceptical at first, like always. But the more I got to know her, the more I liked her. And when Bo was in prison, she was really there for me. I didn't feel alone like last time. I had someone…" She smiled at the memories. "… She's a good egg Dad"
"Apparently so…" Joe breathed. "… Well, if she truly means that much to you then; who am I to stand in your way?"
Bo was surprised. "Really?"
He nodded, "You're a grown woman Bo. I have no right to dictate how you live your life, even when you do things that I may not agree with. But if you really like her, then I want you to be happy" he smiled, touching her hand.
She held it tight, "I don't just like her Dad…" She wanted to tell him the whole truth. "… I love her" she wasn't holding anything back anymore.
"Love?" He raised his eyebrows. "Well then that settles it. I have to meet this girl. I'll be going back to Ireland in a few days; let's set something up for Saturday" he wanted to meet this woman that had stolen Bo's heart.
"Umm, okay…" Bo didn't know whether to be worried or not. "… I'll have to see if she's free from work, but don't worry; we'll figure it out" she picked up her glass, bringing it up as Kenzi was about to make a toast.
Kenzi cleared her throat, "To Bo's freedom, and to our Family finally reuniting after such a long time apart. We've missed you Pops" she kissed his cheek before they all clinked their glasses.
Hospital (Later)
Lauren was in the middle of treating a little girl who'd had an allergic reaction to some medication and had come out with a rash all over her arms and legs. "Okay Lucy…" She smiled, spreading the ointment on the last bit of her skin. "… Now you've gotta promise me you won't be scratching between now and when the rash fades"
Lucy moaned, looking down at her legs. "But it's itchy!" She wanted to scratch it so bad.
"I know it is, but that's why I've given you a very special ointment. It's got ingredients in it that will stop the itching until it heals up. Do you promise me?" Lauren bent down, asking her. When Lucy just nodded, Lauren needed more than that. "Pinky swear?" She held out her pinky.
The six-year-old smiled, curling her own around Lauren's. "Pinky swear" she repeated her words with a nod.
"Good girl…" Lauren winked at her, then stood up and peeled off her gloves and threw them into the disposable bin. It wasn't contagious, but she always wore her gloves. Safety first.
"… The ointment is infused with menthol so it cools the skin down so she won't have that great of an urge to scratch. Just make sure it's applied four times a day, and to dry the skin thoroughly after she bathes" she said.
Lucy's Mother was so happy to hear that; she took the prescription sheet from Lauren and placed it in her purse. "Thank you so much Dr. Lewis. I was so worried that it was something much more serious" she was relieved.
"I understand, but thankfully it was just something small this time. But it's still lucky that you brought her in when you did, otherwise it could've gotten a lot worse. You did good Sally" Lauren touched her shoulder with a smile.
Sally took her daughter's hand, "Say thank you to Dr. Lewis"
"Thank you Lauren" Lucy was comfortable with calling her Lauren, since that what she told her to say.
"You're very welcome, and remember our promise; no scratching…" Lauren pointed at her, seeing her nod again. She waited for them to leave before cleaning up her things. Suddenly, she felt a pair of arms encircle her waist. She could smell who it was. "… Don't tell me; you fell again?" she remembered what Bo told her when they met.
What a lousy excuse.
"For you…" Bo hugged her from behind. "… Yeah. I fell big time" she had to get that in. Mostly because it was the complete truth.
Lauren turned around in her arms, "Good one…" she pecked her lips. "… I didn't think I'd be seeing you until tomorrow. Did everything go okay with your Dad?" she thought since Bo was here so late, then something had gone wrong.
But Bo nodded with a smile. "Yep. I told him about us, and he was so intrigued that he wants to meet you. Maybe some time this week? If your free, of course" she didn't want to make her miss work.
"Umm, that's a little unexpected…" Lauren laughed nervously. She didn't see that coming at all, and now she was a little anxious. "… I'm not really free at all this week. But I don't want to disappoint your Dad. I can always ask one of the girls to cover for me. When does he want to get together?" she asked.
"Saturday…" Bo said. "… Is that okay?"
Lauren nodded, "Yeah, it'll be fine. I'll ask Monica to cover for me. She owes me from a few weeks back anyway. I'll be there. Should I be scared, because I feel scared" she breathed deeply.
This wasn't how Bo wanted her to feel at all, she grabbed her hands. "You don't have to be scared. My Dad's gonna love you, like I do. Well, maybe not exactly like I do but; everything will go perfectly I can see it. Anyway, that's all I came here for" she exhaled, hating the fact that she had to leave.
Looking down at her watch, Lauren saw that she didn't have even a second to spare. "If I had a few minutes, I'd show you the on call room. Great mattresses in there" she said, hinting.
"I would definitely take you up on that blondie…" Bo kissed her again, "… But I got Kenzi in the car and she's wasted out of her mind. I should get her home so she can sleep it off. Just in case I wake you tomorrow, why don't you just call me? Sound good?"
"I will…" Lauren kissed her one last time, "… Love you" she whispered in between them, hearing Bo say it back before she left the cubical. She didn't know when she got like this, but she loved it. And she didn't want it to change.
Bo walked down the hallway towards the exit, when she came face to face with Tamsin and her Partner. "Well if it isn't Detective Cheater…" she smiled at her. "… And her furry friend" she looked at Dyson.
Tamsin hated her face, "I didn't know you were out of your cage" she hadn't heard anything, she didn't even know how long Bo's sentence was. She just figured it was a long one, considering her line of work.
"Yeah, they let me out on good behaviour actually. Must've done something good while I was in there…" Bo placed her hands inside her pockets. "… Let me guess? You're here to see Lauren? Or stalk her, like you've been doing for the past four months. She tells me everything"
"Is that supposed to make me jealous?" Tamsin laughed, "She'll see your true colours soon enough, and when she does I'll be right by her side to help her through it" she didn't need to explain herself to this criminal.
Bo just laughed, "You hear that Dyson?" she turned to him. "She couldn't give two shits about you and your feelings. See, I know girls like you…" she looked back to Tamsin. "… You're a user. You use who you can for whatever you want, and then when you get bored; you dump them"
Tamsin got up into Bo's face, "You don't know anything about me!" she hissed.
Looking down, Bo could see that Tamsin had her fists balled up. As if she was getting ready to punch her. "Do you wanna hit me Tamsin?" she asked. "By all means, go ahead. Then let's see who's behind bars. You lay one hand on me and it's assault. Come on Tamsin, you should know that" she shook her head in disappointment.
As she watched her walk away, Tamsin called spoke before she was out of ear shot. "You're not gonna stick around then? And latch onto Lauren like the little leech you are?!" she cackled.
"I don't need to do anything. See, because I trust her; and she trusts me!" It was Bo's turn to get up in her face now. "I've been in prison for four long months. And even then, I still called Lauren every day; and told her how beautiful she was; and how much I loved her" she said.
"So?" Tamsin frowned.
Bo just laughed, she was so stupid. "That's more than you ever did-" she couldn't finished the rest because she received a fist to her face. Falling back, Bo could taste the blood in her mouth. She spat it out beside her, taking a moment to collect herself.
Lauren rounded the corner when she saw the security guards running in that direction, when she got there she saw Tamsin being held back by her ass of a partner and Bo on the ground with blood pouring from her mouth. "Bo!" she ran to her, helping her up. "Are you okay?"
"I'm fine…" Bo felt an ache over her chin but other than that she was fine. "… I've had worse. I was just leaving anyway" she went to walk away, but Lauren stopped her.
"No, you need to let me check you out. Just in case…" Lauren waved a nurse over, telling her to take Bo to one of the empty cubicles. When they left she looked at her ex. "… What the hell is your problem?!"
Tamsin laughed, of course she was being made to look the bad guy. "I don't have a problem Lauren. No, you know what? That's a lie. I do have a problem; I have a big one! You're dating a convict!" she yelled, making her voice known.
This was enough for one night, Lauren looked at the security guards. "Escort these officers off of the premises. We don't tolerate this kind of behaviour here" she gave them their orders.
Dyson had to step in, he knew that Lauren wasn't his biggest fan and it was fair enough but they came here to do a job. "We can't leave until we get the autopsy report for the hit and run victim that came in a few hours ago. Apparently he was a John Doe" he said.
"Yeah, he was my patient. I lost him in surgery. I'll get the report for you and fax it over by the end of the night. Now please, leave. Next time I ask; it won't be polite" Lauren gave them their warning; she was done playing around.
This was her place of work.
With that, Dyson and Tamsin were shown the way out by the guards. And Lauren made her way back to her cubical. Of all the things that had to happen tonight.
A/N: Oooh, there Tamsin goes again. What's Lauren gonna do next? Let me know what you thought. xoxo