The next morning, I woke up at 4:45, got dressed and went for my run. I went to the roof of my apartment building and started my work out as the sun started rising. I might not be a morning person yet, but this has easily become my favorite workout of the day. I have more energy and I just feel better all day. I refuse to believe it's the lack of sugar or I wouldn't get out of bed until 10. While I'm working through the circuit I'm wondering what's next on the list. I guess I could try apartment hunting. I have 3 weeks until next month is due and I'm running month to month by now since I've been here so long. Maybe I'll have time after work today. I finish my work out and have somewhat of a plan. I run downstairs and jump in the shower. I only decide to wear one coat of mascara. I didn't wear any make up last week and I looked better than I usually do. I curled my hair and put it in a ponytail, I like the extra bounce it has. I decide on black cargo pants and a white tank top. I also decide to wear the thigh holster with my new loaded gun. I'll have the confidence I get when I work for Rangeman without losing my identity in it. I head out with a bit of a bounce in my step, and buy a paper grab an egg sandwich since donuts are out. I have no idea how I'm going to partner with Lula today. Blasting the radio to some up beat peppy dance song I dance like a moron on the way. I haven't worked my ass off all week just to cave in today. I'm going to have fun today and prove I can do this. I am going to make myself proud. Even when no one will understand. Instead of heading for the office I head to my parents. I know my dad wakes up early and can go with me now if he's home by 7 That gives me an hour to go there and get him home.
"Stephanie? What are you doing here so early? Is everything OK?" My mom has somehow met me at the door again when I pulled up. I figure that question is going to be repeated a lot since nothing is normal anymore. I kind of like that nothings normal, I can play it off as mysterious. See I can make anything positive today.
"Stephanie?" Ooops I got distracted.
"Hi mom, everything's great. I just wanted to get a head start on my day. I've been waking up early to work out while I watch the sun come up. I like the quiet and it gives me time to plan things out and think." I lean over and kiss her cheek as I enter and it surprises her. My family shows affection with food. But I 'm not like that. I love with everything I have and I've decided not to hide it anymore. I'm not about to jump around hugging and kissing everyone. But I think she deserves it. After all her why me questions she seemed to support me last week. It meant more to me than every piece of cake she's ever given me.
"This is a nice surprise. Have you eaten?"
"Yeah I got some food on the way over. I'm on a new diet and I didn't want to ask for anything special. I also wanted to avoid the bakery." I admit smiling.
"What kind of diet you're already skinny."
"I'm not fat but I want to build some more muscle to help me protect myself and that means no junk, and no real sweets. I can add some back in later but for now I 'm trying this. I feel great too, I even got my morning workout done. I was hoping to pick daddy up for the gun range. He's going to help me become more familiar with it."
"Can you have chicken on your diet? I'm making roast chicken, potatoes, gravy, and a vegetable for dinner tonight."
"I can have chicken. Can you make rice too, or I could pick some up?" I had talked to Austin in detail about what was best to eat. I was afraid I wouldn't be able to eat anything.
"Of course I can make rice. Frank's reading the paper, go in and get him. You look good today."
"Thanks mom. Hey dad!"
"Hi pumpkin, what brings you by so early?"
"Do you have time to go to the range before work? I just finished my work out."
"Yeah let's go." I waved bye to my mom and told her I'd see her tonight and went to the range. Dad decided to drive separately so I didn't have to drive him back home before heading in to work.
We practiced for a half hour and I actually had a good time. I felt like a little girl getting to go on a special date with her dad again. Everyone sees my dad as a fly on the wall. I see my dad and see memories of spending time with just him. I'd watch and try to help as he changed the oil in the car. I'd play catch with him in the yard and we'd watch the games with a large bag of junk food, homemade cookies, and a jar of peanuts. When I was little he believed I could fly. I guess he never stopped believing in me. I talked to him about the week at the beach, I told him how much I loved the cottage and how I wanted to work something out with Randy so I could spend more time there. I could pay him, but I'd love to go back. He promised he'd talk to him and let me know. I told him about Austin and what we had been working on. I told him about my talks with Ranger and Joe, how I couldn't take anymore set ups, just in case. He promised me there wouldn't be any at dinner and he seemed mad at both men. What surprised me when he said Stephanie you know better than that. You treated those men wrong. You were in a relationship with both men. I'm glad you're taking a break from dating but you need to look at your role in all of it. I know I have a large roll in it, but was I downplaying my part? I suppose it's something else to think about. I headed to the office after promising I would think about it more and pay attention. I wanted to get there a bit early to look over the files and run some searches. I have no idea what time Connie gets in though.
"Hey Steph, how was the beach?" Evidently she gets there before 8:30
"Hey, perfect. I couldn't have asked for a better week. I watched the sun rise and set the waves. I decided I don't want to quit. I really do like this job underneath all the crazy. Any new skips come in?" I don't want rumors spread around about Austin and I didn't want everyone to know I was trying to get better at my job. I just wanted them to see it happen. I decided to just keep quiet about it for now. It's not that I'm worried about the gossip, I just didn't want to be the talk of the town again. Plus, wouldn't it be nice if people stopped making money off me?
"Yeah I have a stack for you. Rangeman picked up the ones that were due immediately, the rest are yours."
"did you get a new gun? Why are you wearing it? You never do."
"Just trying to be a better bounty hunter."
"You can be a better bounty hunter by bringing in your skips and showing up for work! This isn't a damn charity! Christ!" Vinnie opened the door only to gripe and shut it. Today it wouldn't bother me.
"Thanks, Connie. Anything fun happen here over the week?" I pulled out my laptop and started running the searches for the first few skips.
"Gina and Louise said you and Joe had another fight last week. Joe just said he didn't want to talk about it to anyone who asked. Barbara Jean and Marty got in a quiet but heated argument at Pino's on Wednesday. Your grandma tried to open the lid of a coffin at two different viewings. Nothing new really. Oh, and Joyce came in and tried to get a file we gave to Rangeman. She barked and quacked and still Vinnie wouldn't hand it over. It was disgusting and amusing. She wanted to work with Rangeman and they weren't having anything to do with it." I laughed at that. The guys at Rangeman know better than to screw with a walking STD.
"She's pathetic, she doesn't even hide her barnyard sounds when she's screwing Vinnie. Who would want it after that kind of preview? I hope Barbara jean and Marty work it out though."
"I didn't fight with Joe. We sat in the car and talked. We came to the agreement that things between us were completely over. We'll still be friends when we can, but our relationship is done. He wants a burg wife and I want support at this."
"Makes sense. So, what are you going to do bout Ranger?"
"Ranger and I talked too. We also decided to just be friends. No more alleys or hiding out at Rangeman. It's the best choice, just don't let me get sucked into the alley. It's easier said than done."
"You two are blind."
Most of my skips were easy. Dottie was arrested again for solicitation, Billie Jean Bailey was another repeat for shoplifting and they'd both be easy pickups and wouldn't give me any trouble. Amanda Trent is a plus sized 22-year-old housekeeper was arrested for beating a skinny ho, after catching her husband in an uncompromising position with the help. Can't say I blame her. A 12-year-old Lisa Bell was arrested for bringing a knife to school. She wanted to have steak for lunch and hoped to cut it. Mooch caught a DUI hopefully he wasn't pissed at me and Morelli. The last two I'll need help with Jameson and Nickie Elliot were arrested for severely beating their teenage cousin when she was caught with a boy. How is beating her any better than whatever she was doing with a boy? I talked with Connie for a bit longer and headed out to get the easy skips.
Billie Jean and Dottie rode in together it wasn't a busy time for either of them so I got them breakfast and Connie had agreed to re-bond them once I got there. I got Lisa Bell at school and she was more than happy to come with me. I called her mom and got permission so while Connie was still there I had her start the paperwork and even waited to take her back to school. She thought it was the coolest thing to have a bounty hunter 'hunt' her. 3 down and I hadn't even seen Lula yet. I knew today would be a great day.
I made it back to the office wanting to get more information on Amanda Trent. I didn't want to underestimate her. I've had one upset wife accuse me of taking her husbands' side and come at me. I wasn't about to break my good run today by getting stabbed or shot at by a crazy lady. Cheating husbands have a way of turning perfectly sane women into crazy ladies. I made sure I had my stun gun charged, I already had my Baby Glock loaded and in the thigh holster. And I looped my cuffs so I wouldn't have to search for them. When Lula walked in she was wearing a poison green tank top and glittery black shorts that didn't cover near enough with white platform heels.
"Hey White Girl! How was your vacation all by yourself?"
"I had a great time at the beach I can't wait to go back. It was exactly what I needed. Time away from Morelli and Ranger. But some time I'll take you all with me and we'll have a party there."
"Why'd ya need time away from Ranger? I'd be all up on that sexy Batman like a second suit. That cop ain't bad either. Seems to me you threw too hot men out and came back empty handed."
Connie nodded about Ranger and fanned herself.
"I just want to be single for a while. Too much of a good thing is a bad thing, right? I couldn't make a choice, instead of them I chose me."
"Huh." Lula looked at me for a minute and something made sense to her. "Alright Steph, No more Joe and no more Morelli." I couldn't help but nod.
"No more men."
Ranger walked in and the air pressure changed and my libido sped up. I can't have a relationship with Ranger when everything is sex and money. Expensive cars and one night stands don't mean much there's this many secrets.
"Babe" One word and look was all it took to weaken me. But I wasn't giving in.
"Ranger." Shit I need out of here. "Lula are you riding with me today?"
"In a minute I'm talking to Hal over here.: Double shit. Now, I'm trapped. I can be just friends with him. It's no big deal. I can smell his soap, and see the look in his eyes and fanaticize about someday/ Crap no I said I wouldn't do it so I won't."
"How was your vacation?"
"Perfect. I'm probably going back this weekend." That's when I realized Brett looked at me surprised. Great Austin and Brett had talked and soon Ranger would know exactly where I'm staying, if he didn't already. And did Brett think we were in a relationship or know that I wasn't seeing anyone. Now I'm back to worrying what people think. I let out a large sigh and regretted it after. OK plan B.
"Can we talk outside? I don't want Vinnie to hear. Brett come with us." Connie looked at me and smiled thinking I brought Brett along because I couldn't control myself. It was only part of the reason though. The guys followed me outside. And the girls stood at the window watching. I made sure my back was turned so they couldn't read my lips or even try to, since they haven't successfully done it yet.
"OK look I know you both know where I was. I didn't want anyone to know exactly where I was staying but I brought the tracker and my phone. I know I probably don't have to ask this, and I don't mean to offend anyone."
"Babe no one looked at your trackers. No one knows where you were at on the beach."
"Please just don't tell anyone what house I was in. It was quiet and peaceful and I made a friend who is normal without trying to change me or create a scene." I rambled on pretending I hadn't heard Ranger so Brett would hear me. He acknowledges me slightly.
"Babe you asked for space and I gave it. I told everyone you were out of town and safe. No one followed you."
"Thank you Ranger. About the car."
"No price." He cut me off again.
"Well thank you. I'm going to bet that I can keep this one safe. Everyone else gets a bet and I want to keep it safe." They both smiled at that, then frowned when they thought about it.
"I don't mind the bets. I did at first. I just don't want to see money exchange hands while I'm watching a car burn, or before I get a shower after being hit by something. I think I deserve that much." They nodded and Ranger I started thinking about kissing him again. I jumped back deciding flight was the best option.
"Ok well I will be going to collect my skip."
"You OK?" Ranger smiled knowing why I jumped back. And nodded once. We all ended back in the office and Ranger went in to see Vinnie and closed the door.
"Brett I have a file I need help with. If I find them would help with the capture if I split the profit 50/50?"
"Why not ask Ranger? Doesn't he usually help you?" Probably knowing something was up.
"Yeah but he never accepts his half, I end up feeling guilty and I figure it might help pay for the beaver exploding on you. It's for a pair of brothers who beat their sisters' daughter when they caught her with a boy. I figured it's a big job for me. But if you don't have the time or want to I can find someone else. It's not a big deal." I said stumbling around trying to give him a graceful way out of it and not sound like a needed the help.
"Do you want to take the file or do you want Rangeman to? I can help you or I can take it and you don't have to do it. You don't owe me for the beaver. That was messed up but you don't owe me."
"I'd rather have the help. I could use the money."
"Sure. I'll help you. Just call me tomorrow if you find them." He programed his number in my phone.
"Thanks."
"Lula are you coming with me or are you staying here today?"
"I'm coming with you but we need to make a stop I need some donuts to start the day I didn't get any breakfast." I stopped short, looking panicked and she bumped into me making everyone look at us. Ugh.
"Um, I can't take you to get donuts today. You can drop me off and get them after if you want though."
"Why can't you get donuts? I can buy you some if you need money."
"No I'm on a diet and I can't have sugar. I um, well, I don't trust myself to go in."
"No Joe, No Ranger, and no sugar? Who are you hiding under your bed? I know how you get with no sugar. You can't handle no sugar. Not even granny's undies were strong enough." Oh, kill me now. Everyone was staring. Ranger was back out here and heard. He looked irritated, I had just told him I wasn't up for seeing anyone romantically. Brett looked confused cause he knew nothing. Connie and Lula were trying to figure out who I could be sneaking around with.
"I'm not hiding anyone. I'm managing just fine."
"Girl you're gonna go blind!" Shit Lula. Like anyone doesn't know what you're thinking. That's not what I meant. One day no embarrassment right. I stuttered a bit trying to find an answer that wouldn't sound worse when Ranger smiled his 1000-watt smile.
"Let me know if you can't manage Babe." His eyes were dark and promised he could help. I remember his help and it was hard not to jump him then and there. Forget the skip. I'm going to the gym.
"Nope I'm good. Lula I'll get you later. Go eat your damn donuts." I rushed out as Ranger laughed. He knew I was beyond flustered.
I found a pay by day gym changed and hit the treadmill hard. I ran more than usual and my time was better. I then went on to do the weights and then the work out circuit. I then went back to the treadmill finally when I felt like Jelly I slowly made my way back to the locker room to change. At this rate, I'll be in shape in no time. I felt sore but good after a long shower. I bought a sandwich and went to pick up Lula. I'd get Amanda today and have help with the brothers tomorrow. I called Lula and told her to look for me.
"So where'd you get the car? I'd think Ranger got it for you, except it's not black. It's tiny but roomy. I like it. Looks like It came from a cereal box like a mini car."
"It's from Ranger. I suspect it's my last one from him. I hope so. I ruin too many cars. I swear he bleeds money from helping me, not just kidding. After we talked last week I woke up and found the cure and the keys. He wouldn't take my calls. I tried talking to him about it this morning but he doesn't want it back."
"If he had a problem giving you cars, he wouldn't keep doing it. Friends or more, that man wants you safe. This is how he takes care of you."
"Yeah. Doesn't mean it's enough Lula."
"I know. Now let's talk about something else, like why are you wearing a gun? You never have your gun? Is someone after you?" Good a subject change. Not exactly what I was hoping for but at least it's not too heavy.
"No, no one is after me. I Just want to be a better bounty hunter and less of a damsel in distress. Face it, being afraid of shooting someone again hasn't helped me. I went with my dad to get a new one and One I didn't kill anyone with and that fit me better. We went to the range and this one doesn't scare me so much and I figure if I use it and wear it all the time the comfort will come."
"You're a great bounty hunter. I can see why you want to be better though. You've had some bad luck." Sure, if that's what you call it.
"Thanks Lula. Also, can we not talk about my sex life in front of people anymore? Ranger knew what you were talking about and I'm working with Brett tomorrow. Plus, Vinnie probably has the office bugged." We shivered in disgust at that.
"Sorry. I didn't notice them until after it was said."
"It's OK."
I called Amanda again and she answered so I knew she was home. I apologized for the wrong number and ended the call telling Lula the plan. You go to the back door and I'll go to the front. I'll count to 50 so you have time to get in position. Duck under the windows on your way back so she doesn't see you. Then I'll tell her who I am and cuff her. Sound good?"
"Yeah that always works."
"I'll stun her if it doesn't just make sure she doesn't run through the back. If you hear me scream come help me though, OK"
"I can do that. I brought my gun too."
"We're shooting as an absolute last resort."
"You take all the fun out of this bounty hunter stuff." I really needed to talk to her. Just not right now.
I let Lula out and counted walking up to the door as I was close to 50.
"Amanda Trent?" She looked pissed already.
"Yeah, who are you?"
"Stephanie plum, I represent your bonds office. I need you to come with me to reschedule your court date. You need your court date to stick it to your cheating husband and to not be labeled a felon." There that should tell her I'm on her side, right?
"I'm not going to jail. You can reschedule whatever you like."
"That's not an option. I drew my stun gun and she hit her with it as fast as I could. Yes! I shouted for Lula that I had her when she started to get back up.
"What the heck?" I stunned her again quickly. And put the cuffs on as fast as I could. Hopefully those keep her sane, but probably not after the second stun.
"Lula help me get her to the car." We wobbled to the car with an arm over each of us and buckled her in. Cuffs and a seat belt should hold her the 10 minutes it takes to get back to the jail.
It held thankfully. I collected my receipt and ran into Joe. Maybe I should only work in the morning I had good luck then.
"Hey Joe." Awkward
"Steph. How was the beach?"
"The perfect get away. I needed it. How are you?"
"I understand. I'm good. Can I talk to you?"
"Sure what's up?" I asked following him.
"I know we just broke up but I think I want to go on a date. I wanted to tell you first so you didn't see it or hear about it and have it hurt you." I was a bit jealous, but I know he wants a family.
"That's good Joe. I'm happy for you." Surprisingly I meant it. I wanted him to be happy even without me.
"Are you sure?"
"Yes Joe, just make sure she's looking for the family life. You're a good guy you deserve the family you want." Look at me being all mature about it.
"Thanks Steph. I wasn't sure how this would go." He looked even more relieved and he sounded and you could clearly hear it in his voice. I gave a small laugh
"No arms waving and yelling? I'm just trying to grow up a bit."
"Guess it's time we all do. Are you in danger again? I see you have a new gun and you're carrying it."
"No, just trying to stay safe so I don't need to be rescued anymore."
"If you ever need me, I'll help. That doesn't change."
"Thanks, but I want to be the one to save myself. I want to be proud of me. I don't want to need someone else to validate me." He nodded and I walked away. This was still a sore subject. And as happy as I am for him, I still hurt for me a bit. I hope he finds who he's looking for.
