Nathalie: Thank you! Hope you'll like this one too :)

The Agent and the Host

10.

"You put an innocent girl behind bar!"

These were the first words Jane blurted out to her when he crossed the threshold, after she had opened the door to him. The blond man was angry as hell, and glaring at her with all his might. And Lisbon just wanted to relax a little this evening…

"How do you know about Morin's arrest?" she asked nevertheless; a little bit curious by his behaviour. "It was strictly confidential."

"I got my own resources and contact at CBI. Told me what happened. So why?" he asked almost aggressively.

The agent took note of this. So whoever was with Jane had to be at the office that night, and close enough to visualise an interview without being suspected of something, yet couldn't get into the full details of the case.

"We didn't put an innocent girl in jail," she eventually said. If possible, Jan's eyes flashed even angrier.

"You don't get it! This…this was Red John's doing! Not that girl!"

"I know," the agent merely replied, moving to her living room. She sat on her couch and picked up the glass of wine she had poured herself a few moments ago. Watching the imperturbable young man losing it was just SO entertaining.

"Then why did you…" His eyes suddenly narrowed, but no longer angry. They were rather wondering, as if asking a silent question. Lisbon smirked at this and took another sip of her glass before answering:

"I told you, we didn't put an innocent girl behind bars."

His piercing blue eyes were fixed on her, as if they could read right through her and have access to her every thought. An understanding glint passed in his eyes and she knew he got it. Indeed, she and Hightower had put a request on Witness Protection on Melanie Morin. Now, only three people in the CBI –Hightower, the Witness Protection responsible, and herself- knew where the young woman was hidden.

"All right," Jane replied, obviously cooled down. "Sorry for the…outburst. Guess I'll be going?"

Lisbon narrowed her eyebrows in surprise.

"You're not staying?"

"Why would I?" he asked, tilting his head on the side with a curious expression on his face.

"I thought you wanted to seduce me," she teased with a wink. She was a little tipsy due to the alcohol and only meant to taunt him. She should have known it would only add oil on fire.

"Do you want me to seduce you tonight?" he asked with a wicked grin.

Lisbon sighed and shook her head.

"Jane…"

"Patrick," he interrupted immediately.

"All right, Patrick, let's make this clear. You are way too young for me and definitely not my type. So stop trying."

"Your denial will only make my determination stronger, you know that? One of my teachers always said 'What people secretly really desire is what they deny the first…plus you didn't seem to consider it stupid the other night," he added with a suggestive smile.

"I just got caught up in the move," she protested, frowning yet trying hard not to blush. "And the rest is bull. Your teacher is stupid."

"He's a coroner, and far from being stupid. Anyway, wanna watch a movie?" he eventually asked, pulling out a DVD from his back pocket, and added at her surprised look: "Yeah, I figured I needed a good reason to waltz into your apartment so I rented a movie."

He didn't wait for her answer, instead, put the disc in the player. Lisbon didn't protest in her slightly inebriated mind, and too tired to move from her seat. She had no plans for the night anyway, and a little diversion was always welcome. Despite liking being independent, she didn't feel like being alone tonight.

Jane walked back and let himself fall on the other side of the couch. Not too far, but close enough to let her know he was still there. His position was way enough for Lisbon. At least she wouldn't feel oppressed by his proximity.

It was obvious he had picked up something randomly, because neither Lisbon nor he had the slight interest in the movie. It was a dull comedy with some guy wanting to get his brother's girlfriend for himself, because he had been in love with her for ages and ages and….On her silent agreement; he took the monitor and put an end to their miseries. He then returned to the couch and turned to face her.

"Do you want to know why I want to court you?" he suddenly asked. Lisbon snorted in disbelief.

"You call that courting? I'd rather say invasion of privacy."

"I'll take that as a 'yes'," he replied with a grin, and she groaned and looked away. "So…You're beautiful, strong and stubborn. Despite your height, you can get very scary when you're annoyed and have authority over many men twice your size. Plus, you have a soft side you won't let people see, because you think it's a weakness. Even if this kind of reaction is a little stupid" she slapped his shoulder playfully, and he grinned in return. "It suits you, because somewhere, it's just so…you."

Lisbon didn't interrupt him, suddenly very busy staring at her carpet. She didn't like the way he pictured her. Like a strong yet vulnerable woman. She didn't like it. It made her feel…uneasy.

"Now, let's go to the physical aspect. I always thought my ideal woman was blond and tall yet lately, I am surprising myself in discovering a new liking in small brunettes." That cracked her a smile. "Plus, you have a really stunning, perfect body with perfect curves –and believe me, I have seen many women in m y line of work this past years." Now she didn't know if she had to blush scandalously or feel very insulted to be compared to the type of women he spoke about. "And before you reply something about this will never work because of the age difference, let me tell you numerous people marry with a gap of 20 years difference."

"That makes me feel so much better," she snorted, shaking her head in disbelief.

"Then, there's the fact you are genuinely attracted to me and," he cut before she could protest; "And, most important, I like you."

At these words, Lisbon dared a quick glimpse at the man. His eyes were clear and honest, and she suddenly couldn't face him anymore.

"How is Brooke?" she eventually said to change subject; not wanting to say something stupid that would turn the situation even more in his advantage.

"Mash realised it would kill her to take away Matt –and he would get too much damage if he did," he replied as if she hadn't been trying to avoid a clear answer, if any was to be given. "He agreed to let her end her contract with me, but afterwards, she's back to live with him." A soft smile grew on his lips. "I think he wants to marry her, if only for their kid's sake. He's quite fond of little Matt, and I'm pretty sure he's in love with her in his own way."

"That's nice to know," the woman whispered with a soft smile. At least two persons were likely to find a happy ending.

The silence that ensued was filled with tension. Lisbon couldn't bring herself to look at him, and he didn't add anything, apparently deep in thought. When the clock eventually stroked eleven, he stood up and announced he would be leaving now. She followed him, offered him to call a cab –he declined, like always. Before she could close the door though, his fingers gently captured her chin and he leant to kiss the right corner of her mouth. The unexpected contact made her blush heavily and when he pulled back, he had that familiar cocky smile she wished she could be slapping away.

"See you later, Teresa," he whispered with a wink.

And she was left there, closing the door behind and putting the chain, incapable of shaking off the warmth growing within her body or wiping the stupid smile off her face.

-AH-

It soon became a ritual. On Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, he would be in her kitchen when she came home, cooking something for dinner. Then they would sit on her couch and watch a movie. When she came in very late, he had a warm bath ready to greet her. He never slept overnight, never attempted to seduce her again, aside from small touches and lingering glances. A few times, she thought he tried to kiss her, but he would say or do something that would turn completely decent and sooth her mind. And he wouldn't stay long afterwards, just enough to chitchat about his day, amuse her with anecdotes, occasionally talk about Rouge Johnson's moves or bring some files on her, or some evidence he had managed to snatch from her office and wanted to keep someplace safe.

His involvement in this case started to scare her a little. Despite the small conversation and the few moments they shared as friends, it stilled left her wondering how far he was really ready to go to catch Red John. When she dared ask about it, he would brush her questions away with a small shrug and apologetic look.

Most of the time, she was looking forwards for these evenings. A little bit too forwards, for her own liking; because the more she got to know him, the more she got accustomed to his presence. And the closer she got to him, also meant the closer he got to manipulate her.

She didn't like it.

-AH-

That night, when she came home, Lisbon didn't close the door. She slammed it, and when it was still opened, kicked it close. Then she turned the locker and threw her staff on the ground, not caring where it would land.

"Hard day uh?"

She had almost forgotten it was Friday. There Jane was, sitting on her couch, observing her with piercing eyes. She ignored him and went in the kitchen, fully intending on taking some aspirin to lower her headache first. A new case had started the very morning, and had been closed about three hours later, after Cho found out about one of the suspect's antics.

Lisbon found the pills. Van Pelt had managed to trace down his location, but Agent Hayce, closer to the localisation, had managed to catch the information and intervene way before her screaming 'bloody murder' and thus, had hurt a few civilians on the way. Without arresting the murderer. It was Lisbon who found him running on the side road, auto-stopping. And then, Hayce put the blame on her for not being quick enough.

The woman almost threw the pills in her mouth and swallowed the water in the glass a little bit too fast. She and the sexist pig had a very loud altercation, her frustration getting the better of her, causing him to insult her explicitly, and her to punch him hard. Hightower had been forced to separate the two and threatened to suspend them both if they didn't stop behave like kids.

"Teresa?"

She put the glass back in the sink and sighed. The only positive point was that, despite trying to stay neutral, the black woman had sided with Lisbon and reprimanded Hayce for his impulsive behaviour. But now, the agent was sure he would start spreading rumours all over the place to get back at could possibly go even worst tonight?

"You're upset Teresa, tell me what's wrong."

Only then she realised Jane was standing behind her –rather closely, and had gently set his hands on her shoulders. When she didn't react, sneaked his arms around her waist. Lisbon stiffened at the contact. Jane dropped a tender kiss over her shoulder and repeated his request softly, his breath hot against her ear.

"Tell me."

Lisbon really wanted to break free. She didn't want to stay in this warm embrace. She didn't want to relieve in the feeling of his strong body holding her, breathe his scent and let herself melt in his hold. She didn't want to, but she still did and hated herself for it. It made her feel…weak and vulnerable. Lisbon closed her eyes when he kissed the same spot before releasing her enough to turn her around and hug her again. This time, she rested her head on his shoulder and sighed, knowing this was exactly what she wanted, and needed.

Someone to hold her after a long, tiring and eventful day, just for comfort.

His fingers started to draw circles on her lower back, but she didn't pay attention. Then, slowly, but surly, his hands started wandering over her hips. Lisbon was still too deep in her half-daze of self-loathing for letting him hold her yet appreciating his warmth to react strongly. It felt good to be hold like he held her. She hadn't been in anyone's arms since Sam, and still then, he never touched her so…caringly.

Then, his hand sneaked under her shirt and touched her skin. The warning bells rang loud in her head and she immediately jumped out of his grip.

"Fuck off!" she snarled. "What's with you?"

Jane blinked, but apparently didn't seem too surprised by her reaction.

"I told you I always get what I want," he replied smoothly. "And I want you."

"Why me anyway?" she muttered. "Can't you find someone else now Brooke is gone?"

Patrick stood up and took a step closer. Lisbon didn't take her eyes off him.

"Brooke has nothing to do with this. I was attracted to you with or without her around."

"Oh yeah?" she snarled, narrowing her eyes at him. "So all the previous nights were just there for the hunt? Until I would give in?"

His face was still smiling, but the expression had become slightly more serious.

"I already told you, you are beautiful, inside and out. How can I not wish to know more about you or try something?"

"Do you spill this to all of your conquests?" she snorted, rolling her eyes.

"Only the ones who deserve it."

Lisbon shook her head.

"I'm going to take a shower. If you are still in this living room when I come back, I'm kicking you out myself. And perhaps I'm not a student in medicine, but I also know where it hurts."

-AH-

The water had a weird effect on her, Lisbon thought. In front of a lake, large pound or whatever, she was terrified and paralyzed. In the shower, running down her muscles and slipping over her body, it felt soothing and comforting. After the past day, she wanted nothing more but to wash herself and crash bed.

Jane's half-confession had just put a definite end on her good mood. Not that she was such in good mood before, but the young man had managed to make her feel better before ruining the moment. It was just worst now. Even after all this time, he was still trying to…court her, as he said himself. She snorted, and turned off the water. After wrapping a large and comfy towel around her body, she stepped out of the bathroom and headed to her bedroom. Right now, she needed a good drink and a good sleep.

She pushed the door open and entered, determined on finding her large jersey before going down in the kitchen. When the door closed by itself, she had barely the time to turn that Jane had already crushed her against the wall with his full body, one hand pinning her wrists.

Lisbon almost rolled her eyes to herself. Of course, she should have known better than trust him to leave her alone.

"What the hell are you still doing here?"

He let the fingers of his free hand trail over her jaw lightly.

"Seducing you. Like it?"

Lisbon showed out her teeth. If she struggled to get out of his grip, her towel, only held by his chest crushing hers, would likely fall and his wandering eyes get a full view. Plus, she was barely stepping out of the shower. Her muscles were relaxed and disobeying her brain, and she had a hard time getting back in 'Agent mode' with the intense lustful gaze he was sending her. Brat, she thought, he had it all planned.

"I want you" he whispered against her neck and pressed his hips more against hers. Then, she felt exactly how much he did. To her utter surprise, instead of disgusting her, it…turned her on. Oh man, she thought, she was in troubles.

"Still don't want to try me, Teresa?"

He bit her neck lightly, taking his time to suck a weak point he had found during their last make out session. As expected, her whole body reacted by tensing and relaxing simultaneously. Her throat vibrated at the soft moan she tried to bite back. Jane could almost feel her resolve weakening second by second. Man, she was yielding so easily…it must have been a long time since a man had taken his time to seduce her…or she really needed a distraction from today's events. Whatever reason it was, he would take it in an eye blink.

"Still don't want to try me?" he asked again, mouth inches of hers.

Her eyes had considerably darken, her pupils dilated, lips parted, waiting –begging- to be kissed. Just a little more, he thought. A tiny little more, and…

"I'm not having sex with you, Patrick," she replied stubbornly; and it make him smirk. Her whole body's reactions were telling him a completely different story.

"Good," he whispered in her ear. "Cause I don't have 'sex' with my lovers. I make love to them."

"Stupid arrogant bra-"

She was cut by his lips again. And this time, when his fingers caressed her abdomen and she unconsciously leant into his touch, Patrick knew he had won her. Her towel fell on the floor and their kiss deepened, sealing the deal. If only for this night, Teresa Lisbon was his to claim.

-AT-

Wayne Rigsby was a man of simple life; easy to be satisfied, as long as food and drinks and beautiful women were around.

At first, that was the reason he signed as a vigil at the Red Host Club. He only had to take advantage of his height and weight to scare off unfortunate husbands or brothers or friends running after the women that had just entered. As far as he was concerned, they were clients coming to fulfill a need of romance and it was their business if their companion couldn't carry out their desires.

The staff was nice enough. The guys were still guys, inviting him for a drink after hours and spilling about their days; the few girls working there were okay –even though Betty acted a little weird from time to time, she was still approachable. He had only really met his boss once, during the first interview. She and her two handymen, Jane and Dumar, were in the office, asking questions or observing his reactions. At first, he had thought Rouge was a bitch, Jane a buffoon, and Dumar a snail. Then, when he first started working with them, quickly realized his mistake. Jane was way smarter that he originally thought, Dumar an excellent bodyguard in manners of thinking and acting, and Miss Johnson? She was tough as nails. He had seen her negotiate with potential businessmen particularly influent and not back up or melt into hypocrisy.

One day, an agent approached him and told him about his boss's dirty little secrets. Illegal traffics, gigolos and whores, but he wouldn't buy it. Rouge Johnson was a businesswoman who had started an interesting commerce and too bad if this wasn't fitting the government's tastes. After all, these kind of…places were often seen in Japan and no-one had complained yet.

But then, he started to notice strange moves within the higher spheres. He saw Dumar slip out and run after a few people who were found dead shortly after. He overheard words of Miss Johnson over the phone he shouldn't have. And if Wayne Rigsby was a man of simple life, he was not stupid. So he had called back the agent and promised he would keep an eye open. Agreed to take a few risks, but not too many. He didn't want to end up like Paul or the others…

"Brooding over dark thoughts, are we Wayne?"

Mr. Jane's voice surprised him and the tall man glanced at the blond warily. His manager seemed in particular good mood this morning, given the wide grin and glint in the eye. It gave him a boyish-like expression, but he would never dare voice it out loud.

"Sorry sir," he replied, a little tensely. Jane shrugged.

"Just be careful not to catch Dumar's attention when you lack of it. You know, you can take a sick leave if you don't feel well?"

Rigsby blinked in surprise. It wasn't in the blond man's habits to give deliberate hints or advices. Not that the man was a total bossy ass, but they rarely spoke about personal matters.

"Something good happened to you sir?" he eventually asked, unable to hide his curiosity. Jane shrugged again, this time a softer smile spreading on his lips.

Something good happening, in Patrick's mind, was a euphemism.

Sleeping with Lisbon had opened his eyes on his real attraction towards the woman. Never had he felt so drawn to someone. He was so eager to know more about her, to swipe away the anger he could sometimes read in her eyes and replace it by a smile or –like last night -raw pleasure. He couldn't remember feeling so…content, in a woman's arms. His greatest disappointment had been when the alarm had ringed, and he had to get up to rush to work. He wished he could have held her sleeping form a little more, burry his face in her hair to smell that cinnamon lotion of hers, caress those perfect curves, wake her up with a trail of kisses along her neck, take advantage of her sleepy state to worship that gorgeous body of hers and hear those soft moans that drove him crazy, roll her on her back, slid between her thighs and make love to her again.

"Keep this to yourself Wayne, but I think I hit the jackpot. She is the most incredible woman I have ever, ever met."

The tall man had a hard time keeping his frown back. Jane was falling for a woman? Weird thought. He always seemed so disinterested by their clients –and some were really, really great pieces of pie; Rigsby had somehow come to the conclusion the man was gay. The tall man had a nagging feeling about this, but kept that thought to himself and replied with a smile:

"Then I hope you will be able to keep her for a while."

He didn't know how to interpret the expression that appeared next on his face. A mixture of sadness, regret and…tenderness; as if he had found something he had been looking for a long time, yet couldn't put his hands on it.

"You have no idea how much I wish I could, Wayne." His eyes suddenly turned serious and he asked on an almost disinterested tone: "By the way, are you the one who tipped Agent Lisbon about the video Dumar trafficked the night of Paul's murder?"