The crew was gathered around the table for dinner when the captain came in and said that they were short two men for the night. He was grateful that someone from another stationhouse had volunteered to fill the opening. Joe and Colby looked across the table at Denise as the tall newcomer entered the room. The man had a smirk on his face that they didn't like as he headed for the empty chair next to Denise. He was two chairs away when Jack slid over one seat wordlessly and continued eating.
Nick handed the man a plate. "Welcome. We are finishing up dinner. Hungry?"
The man glanced at Denise before taking the plate. "Very. What's on the menu?"
"We keep things very bland and under control around here. Tonight we are having pork roast and boiled potatoes, rolls, green beans, peaches, and brownies for dessert. Everyone pulls their own weight, so you get to help with clean-up. I'm Nick, by the way." he said, holding out his hand.
"Randy." he seemed to think for a second before shaking Nick's hand.
Denise had eaten all that she would be able to swallow, she knew, and was surprised by Jack's actions. She was even more surprised when Damien stood behind her, blocking Randy's view of her and giving her time to leave the room. She saw Jack rise and stand shoulder to shoulder with Damien, forming a human shield. Why are they doing this? What do they know? She asked herself as she nearly scurried down the hall.
Colby was right behind her, catching her in a quick hug. "It's okay. Just remember not to be alone anywhere. We've got your back. Nothing is going to happen in our house." Denise looked up at him. "We haven't told anyone else. Not yet. As soon as that prick came through the door it was obvious he had a thing for you."
"Something is wrong with that ass. It was clear as soon as he saw you, Oracle. Now I hear that there is history? What's up?" Nick asked, joining the two of them.
Colby looked around. "I doubt we are going to have time to get into it tonight. Make sure the guys all know that he is a danger to her. I mean a physical threat. She cannot be left alone for any reason." Denise started to blush.
"Not to worry. She's one of us. I don't like him or trust him." Nick replied. He reached out and ruffled Denise's hair as he spoke to her. "Whatever happened before isn't going to happen here. You are our Oracle. We've got you now."
Nick went in one direction while Colby and Denise went in another. Denise observed her co-workers, her brothers chatting quickly and quietly with each other. Curt nods were exchanged and furtive glances shot her direction.
Just before lights-out, Denise headed for the bathroom with her change of clothes for the night and her toothbrush. Figuring she would be in and out quickly, her guards waited in the bunkroom.
"Alone at last, bitch!" she heard snarled behind her as a hand wrapped around her throat.
