Disclaimer: I do not own; never have and never will T-T. Thanks again to MOG for creating the ATF Universe. Thank you to all who have reviewed, favorited and added to their story alerts.
Chapter 4
The recent turn of events played right into his hands. After all those years of keeping tabs on the boy, making sure he headed in the right direction, it was almost perfect. Again, how stupid the ATF played right along. Oh, he knew his boss would be tickled pink to find that he did his job so well. He grinned his eyes filled with mischievous madness.
At 6:00 a.m. the next morning, Jesse awoke to the early morning whinnies of several horses. Chris or somebody must be taking care of the horses. Even though he had a restless night he knew without a doubt he would not be able to go back to sleep. He grabbed his crutches, hobbled to the bathroom, took care of some necessary business, and splashed some water on his face. Looking into the mirror he realized how bad his night had been. Whatever.
Hobbling back to his room he found some sweat pants and shirt to pull on before he headed down the hallway. No one else seemed to be up and about. A few snores from the other rooms confirmed his suspicions. He decided to head out to the barn and see who was working. If his assumption was correct and it was Chris then he might risk getting a lecture about needing his rest and keeping his ankle elevated. He'd deal with it. There was only so much rest he could take in one day. Well here goes nothing.
He opened the door and scooted on in. Sure enough, it was Chris hard at work. Jesse quietly leaned against the stall rubbing his recently acquired friend's nose. The black nudged Jesse's shoulder causing him to lose his balance and almost topple over. As he regained his balance he accidentally bumped his crutches. The crutches fell to the floor with a resounding bang.
The sound of movement in the other stall momentarily ceased. "Who's out there?"
Jesse's throat went dry as he saw Chris peek around the doorway breathing a sigh of relief. "Next time answer." He re-holstered his gun and moved out of the stall. "Aren't you supposed to be resting and elevating that ankle? You think you can get away with not following Dr. Gilbert's orders."
"There's only so much resting someone can do before they're bored out of their mind. I'll rest later, besides it's a little difficult to sleep when the horses are neighing rather loudly." Jesse reached up and stroked the black's face.
Seeing how comfortable Jesse was with the horse made Chris smile. "So, got a name for him yet?"
"Yeah. I think I'm settling on Rogue."
Chris thought the name would fit Ezra better, but didn't voice his opinion on it. With a slight tilt of his head Chris agreed the name fit the animal. "Sounds like a keeper. What do you think, Vin?"
"Sounds good to me." The quiet sharpshooter spoke his thoughts behind Jesse.
It was the second time that morning, Jesse lost his balance. First Rogue, now Mr. Tanner's silent presence.
"Easy, kid. Chris is right, you should be resting and keeping that ankle elevated."
Feeling a bit irked Jesse muttered. "I was fine until you snuck up on me."
"Preoccupied is what I'd say. Horses tend to do that. They like being the center of attention." Peso whinnied as if agreeing with Vin's opinion. "See, Peso, agrees. He wants my attention pronto." Vin moved off to see his horse.
Chris wiped the sweat from his forehead and nodded to Vin. "Are the rest of them up yet?"
"Are you kidding? I think Bucklin and Josiah are competing to see who can out snore the other. I'd say within an hour. J.D. and Nathan will rise and rouse the rest out of bed. Since the kid ain't riding who's staying behind."
Jesse almost wished he could ride, but the damn weight on his ankle was a reminder that any fun was on hold for another six weeks.
"I think Josiah mentioned he'd stay behind. Probably take a ride another day when I decide to stay here and catch up on some things." He climbed up to the loft while Vin helped him with some hay bales.
When they finished, Chris knew it was time to hit the showers. "I think I'll go clean up before the others use up all the hot water. Jesse, time to head back to the house. You need something to eat before your first dose."
Vin covered his mouth to keep from busting a gut as he caught Jesse making a face while silently mimicking Chris' words. "You know you're as bad as him. Come on. Let's go." Chris picked up Jesse's crutches. "I could carry you to the house."
The kid swiped the crutches from Chris' hands. "No thanks. I'll be fine." Not waiting for Chris, Jesse headed toward the house."
"Come on Chris, admit it, it was funny." Without another word, Chris followed Jesse leaving his friend and humor behind.
After the first week, Jesse was granted a reprieve to return to school. Chris met with the administrators and filled out the necessary paperwork as Jesse's designated guardian. The principal looked relieved much to Jesse's dismay.
"I'm finally glad to see somebody is looking out for his best interests. This is the time most teens need guidance; especially through their high school years."
Whatever, Jesse thought. It's only temporary. As soon as the bad guy is apprehended I'll be back on the streets again. Who benefits from that? Obviously, not me.
Chris watched Jesse closely, while the principal rambled on and on. What was that kid thinking? Probably wondering what was going to happen to him after the bust. He wasn't even sure, but as of now, they would take things one day at a time.
Catching Larabee watching him, unnerved Jesse. Damn get it together Jess! You need to stay alert. He cleared his throat. "Excuse me, Mr. Bowden, may I go to class now?"
"Sure, Jesse, let me write you a note. Need any help getting to class? I could arrange for a student to help with your books."
"That would be great." Jesse stood as Chris retrieved his crutches from the floor.
He put a hand on Jesse's shoulder. "Here, you may need this." He passed the cell phone to the teen. "Stay out of trouble. I'll be here to pick you up after school, or if you feel you can't get through the entire day, give me a call. My work number is programmed into your phone under ATF." His voice was low so the conversation stayed between Jesse and Chris.
At first he was mad that Chris invaded his privacy, but that was quickly dispelled. "I had JD put in the number and that's all he did. Remember if you're not up to a whole day, or something is out of the ordinary call me. And the school knows about the meds, but you'll continue taking them at home. Easier that way." He pulled Jesse into a brief hug before settling back in his chair to continue his discussion with Mr. Bowden.
The hug left Jesse a bit disconcerted. It had been unexpected. He hated being off balance physically, but mentally was even worse. What was the agent playing at? They both knew this was only temporary – wasn't it? He shook his head to clear it and set off to his locker. A boy his age with glasses and a shock of red hair had been sent to help him to his first class. He figured once his friends saw him they would help him the rest of the day. Sure hope Joe's here, or even Luis, need to find out what Luis said to Tanner. Without any further problems he made it to his first class.
The morning passed rather quickly. By lunchtime Jesse was exhausted. His friends had caught up to him and helped him out. Joe noticed right away his amigo wasn't quite with it.
"Hey, you okay? You look a little green around the gills."
Nothing got past his friends. "Never thought a busted ankle could wear me down. Luis, I've been meaning to ask what did you say to Tanner."
"Not much. Just that you're my amigo and if anything happened to you I'd hold him personally responsible." His friend grinned broadly.
Jesse rolled his eyes. "Yeah, I bet that left him quaking in his boots. How long have you known him?"
"Oh, long before you set foot in Purgatorio. He helped my family out a time or two. Good man. Knows what it's like for us, been through some hard times himself. Granted, I think all of his team has had some problems of some sort throughout their lives. Especially his boss, Larabee. That's probably why those two get along so well."
"What sort of problems?" Jesse ventured.
Luis shook his head. "Not for me to say. I was told never to divulge that information unless I wanted to live a very short life. Sorry amigo, you'll have to ask your appointed warden. Tanner can be scary when he wants to be, but Larabee, I don't even want to go there."
"Chicken shit."
Without a pause, Luis answered, "And proud of it. But that's between you two and me. Can't let the rest of the world know it and ruin my hard earned reputation."
"Okay, let's see if I can get through the rest of this day without making a fool of myself. It would be…" The hairs on the back of his neck stood on end. Something suddenly felt out of the ordinary, like someone was watching him.
His friends sensed Jesse's wariness. "What's up?"
"Not sure. Something's not right. And don't ask me what it is, because it's just one of those feelings." Confided Jesse.
Jumping to his friends distress, "Every time you've had one of those feelings it's been something, right?" Jesse nodded. "Why don't you follow Larabee's advice and call him. If you don't want to discuss it just tell him you're not up to finishing the whole day."
"I made it this far and I've had more than enough rest. Besides, you guys have my back, right?" Joe and Luis could not argue. They, also, knew how stubborn their friend could be and here was one of those moments.
The rest of the day flew by along with the week. Jesse continued to feel like he was watched but never said much more about it. His friends stayed close, acting like the ever helpful buddies that they were. Chris picked him up every day that week and kept a close eye on his watchdogs.
"Do you think we should tell that Larabee guy what's going on? I swear that guy knew what we were doing." Luis later told Joe.
Joe thought about it and negatively shook his head. "Let it be. Besides, Jesse might come unhinged if we squeal. I'd rather play it out. Luis, maybe you should talk to Tanner in your round about way, see what he thinks. I'm going to check out some things, see what's new on the streets. Maybe I'll uncover something useful."
"Be careful. I don't think his spirit could stand another loss." They both shivered inwardly knowing the game they played was about to get even more dangerous.
It seemed like forever before Jesse got his cast off. It felt good to be able to do the activities he had given up six weeks ago. He was told to take it easy and not attempt to do everything in one day. Chris made sure that wasn't going to happen. He restricted his riding to the weekend only and only if Chris or one of the others went with him. Jesse complained like any other teen would in that particular situation.
What Chris didn't know was what Jesse's friends had uncovered for him. Word on the street verified someone was watching Jess and possibly not in a good way. By the time it filtered back through Ezra's channels the information was at least a week old. Chris was fuming. He wanted answers. Vin and Ezra were sent out to see what other information was out there in Jesse's part of the hood. Also, to see what information the Black Marauders had obtained and why they failed to mention it to the ATF. Next, Chris needed to speak with Jesse. It was time to find out what he knew and how they could put it to use.
Luis had been minding his own business when he became aware of a shadowy figure in the alley. Experience told him to be stay alert, take it one step at a time, see how it played out. This could be nothing, but it also could be his last stand. Joe where the hell are you? Whoever was tailing him was good. Let's see how good you really are. Before he could bolt he found himself looking down the barrel of a .357 Magnum.
"Going somewhere Luis?" The voice was deadly and low, yet vaguely familiar.
Realization dawned while relief swept across his features. "Shit, Tanner, what was that for?"
"Had to make it look real. I need some answers and if I find that you're lying you are going to be in a world of hurt. Comprende?"
Luis had no choice but to nod affirmatively.
Joe started to get worried when Luis didn't show up on time. Where the hell is he? I hope he didn't run into any trouble on the way here.
He had just got up when he thought he heard the back door squeak open. "Luis, it's about time. Where've you be…?"
The person he met was definitely not Luis. Aw hell! This was going to be a long day after all.
They were both brought into ATF headquarters. Luis exchanged glances with Joe after they were thrown into the same conference room. A very slight tilt of Luis' head told Joe that Jesse had been alerted to the current situation. Both Tanner and Ezra kept a watch on the two gang members behind the mirrored wall. They knew the two in the conference room knew they were being watched.
Ezra pulled out his phone. "Standish. Yes, we got them. They're waiting in the conference room, just as you commanded. Okay, I'll let him know." He ended the call. "Mr. Tanner that was our illustrious leader. He wants you and Buck to go and collect Jesse from Mrs. Wells."
"What if he runs?"
"Chris said, quote unquote, handle it."
Vin muttered, "Why does he get the simple part?"
"Oh, my dear, Mr. Tanner, his part is not going to be simple. Not at all. I don't envy him." The sincere look he gave Vin said enough.
His teammate finally understood. "You're right. I hope the kid doesn't run. I'll see ya in a few." Tipping an imaginary hat Vin went in search of Buck.
The cryptic text message Jesse received an hour ago made him cringe. His boys were in trouble. Which also meant so was he. He figured he had a half hour before someone was sent to pick him up. No doubt Chris was pissed. He never meant to withhold the information, but other things kept popping up lately. Plus, Chris wasn't the easiest person to talk to for that matter. On the other hand, it was hard for Jesse to reveal how he felt about the situation. Yeah, it was unnerving to find out someone was basically stalking him. More than likely the same person that kept tabs on him all these years. It was at that moment something clicked in his head.
A cold shiver crawled down his spine. Whoever this person was had purposely guided him from Missouri to Colorado. Someone wanted him here, but for what purpose? Why kill his family? What did the ATF have to do with it? Was this all a part of Valentine's plan or was it possibly something bigger?
Jesse needed some air and quick. Mrs. Wells was kind enough to offer her home to Jesse whenever Chris couldn't pick him up after school. Or if Chris worked on the weekend. Chris didn't trust him to leave him at the ranch on his own. He made it seem like he was safer with someone than on his own, but Jesse knew it was a trust issue on the agent's part. Couldn't blame the guy.
He was lost in thought when Mrs. Wells came in the room and placed a hand on his forehead. "Are you not feeling well? You look a little pale. Maybe you should lie down for a little bit."
Jesse had almost jumped out of his skin when she touched him. "Yeah, I think I might just do that. Thanks Mrs. Wells."
"Okay. I'll be in the front room if you need me. Should I close the door?"
"Yeah, that would be good." Jesse's mind raced with indecision. He mulled over a few things. If he took off he would certainly piss off Chris possibly creating a situation he had no chance of winning and then again if he stayed the same inevitable consequences would still be there waiting for him. Great. Stuck between a rock and a hard place. Always. Making his decision and knowing what would happen left him with a queasy stomach. I hope history isn't going to repeat itself. With a heavy heart he opened the window and as quietly as possible slipped out onto the fire escape.
No sooner had his feet touched the metal grating he heard someone knocking at Mrs. Wells' door. Up or down. Shit! He started down as fast as he could.
Vin immediately felt something wasn't right as Buck knocked on Nettie's door. Before Nettie could open it Vin left Buck standing alone. "Vin?"
The door opened revealing a surprised Nettie. "Hello Buck. Is everything alright?"
"I'll let you know in a minute. I need to see Jesse."
Nettie waved him on in and indicated to the closed bedroom door. Buck entered and swore.
"Now Buck there will be none of that. At least not in front of…Oh no! He skedaddled out the window." Nettie was beside herself.
Buck reassured her, "Don't worry Nettie. We'll find him. I'm sure Vin has the situation under control." At least he hoped he did. Otherwise Chris was sure to blow a gasket.
Vin had made it down the stairs in time to catch the wayward boy creeping around the corner of the building. "Checking out the sights?"
Fuck! Where did he come from? He tried to dodge, but Vin was quicker. In no time flat he had Jesse subdued and in cuffs for safe measure.
"Am I arrested?" Jesse shouted.
"No, but I'm not taking any chances. Get in the truck. I don't have the time or the patience for your antics today." Vin got on his cell. "Buck, I got him. Tell Nettie everything is alright. I'll talk to her later. The sooner we get him to Chris the better. See ya in a little bit." He ended the call, pocketed the phone, and got Jesse into the truck while waiting on Buck.
"Did you really think running was going to take care of your problems? It only creates more problems."
Not knowing if Vin required an answer or not Jesse took the plunge anyway. "No."
"No, what?"
"No, running doesn't solve my problems. I panicked. I needed some time to think. I would think someone like you would understand that."
Vin sighed. "Yeah, I understand and yet every time I run I have six friends come looking for me. I'm still learning the concept, too."
Buck finally joined them ending the conversation. As soon as the truck was in gear Buck lit into Jesse. "What in the hell were you doing?"
"End it right there Bucklin. This is not the time or place. It's up to Chris to handle the rest of this." Buck grumbled a bit but heeded the sharpshooter's words. He did not envy Chris' part in this at all.
Too soon for Jesse's liking they pulled into the parking garage. Vin undid Jesse's cuffs and quietly told him. "For your sake, behave yourself. Chris is already on a short fuse. I kind of understand why ya held back, yet there are those like Buck here that can't quite wrap their heads around it. The sooner you spill your guts the better. Just so you know, your compadres didn't rat ya out, they hold your best interest, got it."
Jesse nodded. That wonderful lump in his throat returned. The thought of seeing Chris more pissed than the first time he managed to tick him off had him worried. That and the embarrassment of what was promised had his insides twisting in knots. He vaguely wondered if he could take Tanner by surprise. Those thoughts were dispelled when Vin said, "Put it out of your mind. Not gonna happen. Do I need to put the cuffs back on ya?"
"I didn't say anything." He protested.
"No, but you were thinking it. You don't want me pissed, either." Jesse figured Vin was close to it just by the tone.
Buck added, "Boy, you're batting a thousand if you succeed in pissing off both Chris and Vin in the same day. Wouldn't want to be in your shoes."
Buck had been about to expound some more when Vin's phone rang. The ring had an ominous tone as well. "Tanner. Yeah, we're here. Yep. Entering the elevator as we speak. Where? Same room. Not gonna talk to him by yerself? I wouldn't trust you neither. Expect us in five." Conversation ended.
Jesse felt that crazy feeling again when they stepped out of the elevator. Who the hell was watching him? Vin felt the kid stiffen a little, the same inner radar told Vin to keep moving. "Keep going, don't meet anybody's eyes, and stay with us."
Buck heard Vin speak softly to the boy. His senses were also on alert. Not quite sure what set it off, yet something felt odd. They made it to the conference room without any mishap. "Go on in, someone will be in shortly." Jesse entered and immediately spied Joe and Luis.
"Hey bro. I see they got you, too. Didn't get Luis' message in time."
He sat down noticing the one way mirror immediately. He put his elbows on the table while he held his head in his hands. "No I got it. I was ambushed. And soon I'm going to be in a world of hurt. What did they get out of you?" He kept his voice low, praying that the men on the other side of the wall wouldn't hear him.
"Sorry man, Larabee knows about someone watching you. Shit, that guy is scarier than my old man. I thought El Diablo was standing in front of me."
He looked up slightly, meeting his friend's expression. "It's okay Luis, it was bound to come out. I've learned that particular glare is called the fear of Larabee. Even I'm not immune to it." Just thinking about it made his heart rate increase.
"You guys are wusses." Joe said trying to lighten the mood.
"If I'm a wuss then you're a wienie. Shit Jess, I thought he was going to wet himself when Larabee came within an inch of his face." Luis openly smiled at his companions.
"Hey you were no better when he did the same to you." Joe countered.
"Some gang bangers we are. Cannot stand up against one ATF agent. Let's hope this never leaves this room, otherwise our reputations are shot to hell." He continued to hold his head in his hands. "Tell me one thing, Joe. Does he know about the safe house?"
"No. I said I would never tell anyone and I meant it. I'll take that secret to the grave."
Jesse commented. "I hope it never comes to that. Thanks man. Luis, you too."
"The same goes for me. Nobody will ever know about that place, unless you want them to. I'll go head to head with El Diablo and never reveal its whereabouts."
"So, basically what you're telling me is you'll spill your guts about everything else, but that one little secret." Jesse said smiling.
Joe and Luis said in unison, "Si."
Their little camaraderie abruptly ended, wiping the smile off of Jesse's face when the door banged open and in walked Chris Larabee. Together the trio thought – aw hell! "Hate to break up the reunion boys, but I need to know what you three were planning to do with the information you had in your possession. Jesse."
Being the leader, Jesse naturally shouldered the blame, taking full responsibility for Joe and Luis' actions as well as his. He simply stated to Chris he never meant to keep this turn of events to himself, and he was going to tell him when he was certain he had all the facts. Joe and Luis always helped him out long before the ATF ever was involved.
Joe actually flinched when Chris' glare intensified after Jesse's last statement. Not good, Jess. Your ass is grass as far as he's concerned. You should've left that last one alone. Luis' thoughts were worse. He wondered if he would ever see his friend alive again.
Chris kept his cool, although it threatened to erupt every few seconds. He needed to exit the room before he regretted anything. A knock at the door saved Jesse for now. Ezra stuck his head in, "Uh, excuse me, Mr. Larabee, uh, your presence is required post haste in the Director's office."
Thank you Ezra. "Nobody move until I or one of my men return." Chris exited the room and asked. "Please tell me the Director does not want to see me."
"He doesn't. It was the only thing I could think of to get you out of that volatile area. I truly thought you and Mr. Ryder were going to exchange fisticuffs."
Chris' reply wasn't far from the mark. "You have no idea how close." At times like these he was glad his men could read him so well. "Where's Vin?"
"Right behind you, cowboy." Chris never flinched because Ezra's eyes gave Vin's presence away.
"Vin, take Joe and Luis home. Tell them not to drop their guard, because I believe whomever is watching Jesse is probably watching them, too. If anything out of the norm happens we are to be the first to know. No ifs, ands or buts. Make sure that point gets through to them."
A distinct nod from Vin confirmed the directive. "Ezra take Jesse to the old conference room and remain with him until I return. I need to collect my thoughts."
"Take all the time you need, Mr. Larabee. I'm sure the undue wait will have the right effect on your wayward charge. I don't fancy being in your shoes."
Chris agreed with his friend. "Neither do I." Ezra placed a hand on one of Chris' shoulders and gave a small squeeze before he left to carry out his order.
Back in his office, Chris stared unseeing at his computer screen contemplating the current situation. "A penny for your thoughts, pard?"
"Hey, Buck."
"Looks like you could use a fresh one of these." He placed a steaming hot cup of coffee in front of Chris.
"Thanks." Chris took the cup and drank some. "I don't know what to do with Jesse. Why would he withhold something like that? Anyone else would've been begging for help, yet he thinks he can take it on. I'm beyond frustrated. Part of me wants to hold him and the other part wants to tan his hide."
The answer he received from Buck left him speechless. "Maybe he needs both. He's so used to doing things on his own that he doesn't quite know how to be a normal teenager."
"Buck, I don't think teenagers are normal. Hell, we weren't normal. I recall we got into a lot of trouble during that time."
A little exasperated, Buck tried to explain again. "Yeah we got into plenty of trouble: girls, cars, late nights and the list goes on. Jesse, however, hasn't had a normal childhood. He had to grow up way too soon. Now he struggles with the possibility of trusting someone else to share the load. It's not that easy.
"Like I said before you're good for him. He needs you. When we first picked him up today or I should say when Vin intercepted him, he was already struggling with the consequences of his actions. It's hard to stop running when that's all he's known. Vin understands it and I'm sure somewhere in that mule head of yours that you do too."
"Buck get to the point." Chris' head was throbbing.
He looked up as if asking for guidance. "The point is give the kid a chance to explain. Don't go all crazy on him. You're both too stubborn for your own good. If you give him attitude you'll get attitude in return. Talk it out. No shouting if you can help it. You can be firm, but let him know you'll be there for him, the same way you've been there for us."
"Where did that come from?" Amazed by his friend's wisdom.
"Learned from watching my best friend." Buck patted Chris on the shoulder as he exited the room. Guess it's time to do this.
He hated to wait, especially with certain doom hanging over his head. Ezra kept himself preoccupied by shuffling a deck of cards along with a few tricks added in. Jesse kept waiting for the knock on the door and when it finally came he slouched further into his seat.
It's about time. The door opened and in walked Chris. Ezra noted that Chris was much calmer and more sure of himself. He tipped an imaginary hat and walked out without a word to his boss, closing the door behind him.
Chris pulled out a chair and sat down. Breaking the silence he began, "I'm going to try and take this slowly. I'm beginning to understand how hard it is for you to let someone else take responsibility. You've been looking out for yourself for a long time now. Having me shoved into your life was like having your freedom ripped from you. Yet, under the law, a kid your age needs some adult supervision.
Jesse looked as if he was about to go off, but Chris wouldn't allow it.
"Hear me out, Jess, then you can rant if you like. I'm going to let you in on a little secret of my own. Nobody but my men and the Director know this. I, too, know what it's like to lose family. You lost your parents and I lost my wife and son. The bomb in my vehicle was meant for me. Unfortunately, my wife and son paid the ultimate price with their lives. It's been hell for me since that day and until recently, I have begun to live again.
"My team has helped me to get past the pain. It lessens a little each and every day. I've had my setbacks, but I have people who care so much that they make sure I don't do anything crazy to myself or anyone else. I'm telling you this, because I want you to understand you're not the only one suffering. When the director first mentioned you and the closeness of our cases I didn't want anything to do with you. I couldn't see myself looking after another boy knowing that I failed my son, because I couldn't protect him. But it looks like I've been given another chance. Although, it's up to you as to whether or not I succeed this time. I'm here to protect you and only you can allow that to happen."
His throat constricted again. That weird connection between him and Chris was ever present. Aw hell, I don't want these feelings again. Don't want to get close to anyone, don't want the pain I have enough of it. Why can't these guys see I'm better off on my own. These choices I'm suppose to make are ripping me apart. I'm tired of making the wrong choice and somebody close pays the price.
Jesse felt Chris' eyes watching him, struggling to cope with his inner turmoil. Not once did Jesse raise his eyes to meet Chris'. I'm such a wuss. He expects an answer, but I'm not sure what to say. Maybe this is my chance to set things right. Although another part of me thinks I'm going to regret this some day. Jesse finally swallowed the lump and sighed. "Fine. I'll try harder, but I'm not guaranteeing anything."
A slight awkward silence followed. Jesse didn't want to pry, but he had to know. "Did you ever find out who killed your wife and son?"
"Yeah, someone very unexpected. Unfortunately, that person is very elusive." The subject was closed at least for the time being. "Ready to head home?"
"No." Not with my ass on the line. Jesse looked apprehensively at Chris.
"There's no point in delaying it. Just makes it harder. You knew the consequences…"
"Yeah, but it doesn't mean I'm looking forward to it."
"You think I'm looking forward to it. It's not something I want to do, but you do need to learn. I reckon in the future you'll think twice before doing anything reckless. Let's go." Chris put a reassuring hand on Jesse's shoulder, pulled him into a one arm hug. It was something Jesse missed every now and then, even though it would take some getting used to.
The next day Chris and Jesse had the chores done with a little time to spare. While Jesse headed to the shower, Chris started breakfast it was then his cell phone rang. "Larabee."
"Hey stud, how are you and the kid?"
"Fine, Buck. Just trying to get a little breakfast here." Chris looked in the refrigerator and pulled out some eggs and bacon.
Of course, Buck needed to know his friend was more than fine. "Listen Buck, what's done is done. I don't want to rehash this. Jesse's a smart kid, maybe a little too smart sometimes. Travis was right, he needs someone to lean on, like the rest of us. It won't be no cake walk, but it's a chance I'm willing to take.
"Believe it or not, I think we took a big step forward. There will more than likely be setbacks, yet I'll do right by the boy."
Buck reassured his friend. Glad to hear a positive view. "That you will, pard. That you will. I'll see you in the office. Later."
Perfect timing. Chris heard the water turn off and figured Jesse be ready to eat in about fifteen minutes. Enough time to finish making breakfast.
The ride to school was bumpier than Jesse ever realized or it was because his backside bore the painful reminder of his most recent misdeeds. He'd never let on how much it hurt, at least, not in front of Chris. Plus, he knew Chris had already forgiven him. The crime was done, punishment served, and now they moved on.
It hadn't been that much different when his dad had been alive. It was a rarity if one stayed mad at the other, usually on his part, but they usually went on with their lives. Could this be a turning point for him? In some small way he hoped, but for now he'd keep it to himself.
Pulling up to the school, Chris put the truck in park and looked at Jesse. "Now if you think you're in danger, you are to call me. If not, jot down the time, place and possibly the direction in which you think it came from. Got it?"
He nodded, then said, "Yes, sir."
Chris reached over, mussed up his hair and said, "Go on. Remember any trouble…"
"I know. I know."
"I'll pick you up later." Chris saw the look of confusion cross Jesse's face.
"Thought I be going to Mrs. Wells." Jesse had just exited the truck.
Chris leaned across the seat. "She has some other business to tend to, unless something is more pressing at work expect me here. If I'm unable, I'll leave you a message on your phone with instructions."
Jesse nodded in agreement. He stunned Chris by imitating Ezra's and Vin's famous two finger salute before heading into the school. Chris shook his head amazed at how perceptive that kid could be.
At his locker, he grabbed a few things, then went to the cafeteria to look for his friends. Since Chris started dropping him off, he had more than enough time to kill. It wasn't long before Joe, Luis and some of the other gang members waved him over to their table.
"Jess, I see you survived your encounter with Agent Larabee."
Todd voiced his concerns. "So it's true. The ATF have become certified babysitters."
"Not so loud, Todd. How much did big mouth over there tell ya?" The glare he shot Joe had his friend looking anywhere but at him.
"He said you were under house arrest. The ATF were in control. Jesse, we've known each other for how long, four or five years? I think the rest of us are entitled to know what's up."
Joe finally found his voice. "Yeah, who's been watching your back, us, not them. I think the guys need to know. We can't help unless you think we can't do the job."
"Are you serious? Jesse wouldn't leave us out of the loop. You wouldn't do that to us, would ya Jess?" Another friend voiced his concerns.
The quietest voice among his boys broke through catching Jesse's attention. "Jesse, are you leaving us?"
"Hell no! What kind of question is that? Don't let these bozos warp your brain. Joe, what the hell have you been telling them?"
Luis came to Joe's defense. "We wanted to wait until we saw you, Jess. You know Joe hates it when you're gone for any length of time. By the way, why are you still standing, there's an available chair." He purposefully shoved the chair toward Jesse.
Locking eyes with his two amigos, Jesse grabbed the chair and sat down between Joe and Luis without a problem. He turned his head slightly whispering in a low voice for Luis' ears only. "I'll get you back for this."
Luis covered his mouth pretending to cough, hiding the laughter that threatened to escape. Joe glanced sideways to the other two, knew right away what Luis had been referring to and bit his tongue to keep from smirking.
"So, Jess, are you going to keep the rest of us in the dark or are you going to tell us? Especially the reason why Joe and Luis are ready to fall out of their chairs laughing. Jesse was going to kill those two after school. Hopefully he would have some time before Chris' arrival.
"Okay, you guys know about my past. Well, it looks like it has caught up with me again." Jesse had begun to say.
Teddy interrupted. "I knew it! You are leaving us!"
"No, I'm not leaving you guys. Yeah, I've been busy, but it's not like I had a choice recently." Jesse spoke a little softer and the guys leaned in to hear what he had to say. "The short story is someone's watching me."
"Like now?" This time Josh interrupted.
A little more exasperated Jesse continued. "I only have fifteen minutes to explain this, so quit interrupting. As of now, no, but sometimes I get this creepy feeling like someone is and I can't tell you who, because I don't know. Remember that guy, Ernie, the one giving me information about Valentine. Well he failed to show one day and the next thing I knew I was arrested."
"Uh, Jesse, I…"
"Didn't I say don't interrupt me? Geez Todd, what do I have to…" Jesse stopped when he saw Todd's hesitant manner. "What's eating you?"
"Uh, I guess you didn't hear."
Even Joe and Luis felt that whatever Todd had to say was not good news.
"Hear what? Todd, whatever it is, just say it already."
"They found Ernie, dead." His voice was just above a whisper.
Jesse's world came to an abrupt stop. His heart rate accelerated and the roaring began in his ears. He thought he would've passed out if Joe hadn't elbowed him. "Hey man, you alright? You've gone pale by at least three shades of white and that's not an easy feat. Class hasn't even started." He glanced at his watch. "At least not for another ten minutes. Jess, stay with us. Luis get him a pop I think he needs a little sugar or something. Todd, when did you hear this?"
Still watching Jesse, Todd answered, "I think they found his body the day Jesse got arrested."
Jesse finally found his voice. "Where? Todd, where did they find him? How did he die? And why didn't you at least tell Joe! Shit!" The panic in his tone had them all worried. "Tell me!"
"Easy Ace. Calm down. You got our attention along with the entire student body. Take it easy." His best friend watched all around them. An uneasy feeling crept into their space.
He took his friend's advice after noticing the looks people were giving him. "Alright, I'm okay." It was a bald face lie, because he couldn't stop his hands from shaking. He dropped them into his lap, waiting for Todd to answer him.
Todd hadn't seen Jesse react to news like this in a long time. It shook him to his core to see his leader unnerved. "They found him behind a dumpster, in an alley, two blocks from where you were arrested. He had been stabbed."
Stunned and shaking Jesse needed some air. He felt a few hands keep him steady as he stood. He heard Joe's voice as if far away although he stood next to him. "Call Larabee. Don't run Jess, call him."
Jesse nodded. The roaring continued followed by the last sentence he heard Todd say, but this time a different voice repeated it. He pulled out his phone, pressed it into Joe's hand as the warning bell rang and weakly said, "Call him."
As Jesse said 'call him' Joe felt his friend go limp. He had no choice but to lower him onto the floor. Todd called for assistance, Luis grabbed the phone from Joe and located Chris' number. A couple of teachers assisted Joe and the others carried Jesse to the nurse's office. One of the other teachers tried to take the phone away from Luis. Luis shook his head no and began to explain he was calling Jesse's guardian, Mr. Larabee. The teacher was insistent, but Luis refused especially when the man finally answered.
"Larabee." Everyone in the conference room went silent. They could tell by his actions alone that something stressed Chris. "What? Luis, slow down, what happened." His face paled as he listened to Luis. "Where is he? I'm on my way."
The six men waited for Chris to speak. "Jesse passed out. I need to get to the school."
"Chris, you want someone to go with ya?" His second in command asked.
"Sure. Buck, you're in charge. Tell Travis I'll call him when I get home. I'll let y'all know how Jesse's doing. Let's go Vin." They quickly left the room.
"I sure hope Jesse's alright." JD commented.
Nathan mentioned. "Hope it's nothing serious."
Buck responded. "He'll pull through this. He's now got Chris in his corner."
"And the rest of us." Ezra added.
Josiah would not be left out. "Amen to that, brothers."
It didn't take Chris and Vin long to get to the school. They identified themselves at the front doors and were buzzed into the building. They immediately made their way to the office and were directed to the nurse's office. There Chris saw a very pale boy laying on a cot. A cold washcloth had been placed over his forehead. He watched the boy's chest rise and fall with each breath.
"Ma'am, how is he?" Chris asked.
"He gave his friends a bit of a scare for a while there. But he came to after they lowered him onto the cot. I wanted to call for an ambulance, but he refused to go anywhere until you had arrived. I would suggest taking him to his doctor for a complete once over. Just to be sure."
As Chris had been about to agree another voice entered the conversation. "Chris?"
Chris was at Jesse's side immediately. "I'm here. I'll take you home."
"Need to talk." His voice sounded weak to him. A bout of coughing seized him ending all conversation. The nurse handed a small Dixie cup of water to Chris and he carefully helped Jesse sit up and take a few sips.
"Better?" He watched as Jesse nodded. "We'll talk later. Ready to go home?" Again he nodded. Chris signed the piece of paper the nurse handed to him allowing him to take Jesse home. Vin went and got the truck close to the entrance as Chris helped Jesse out of the school and into the truck.
Jesse could barely keep his eyes open and promptly fell asleep against Chris' shoulder while Vin drove. "Think he'll sleep all the way."
"Not a doubt in my mind."