Chapter 13 – If I had three lives I'd marry you in two
A/N Thanks to everyone who's taken the time to review, it really brightens up a writer's day. Apologies in advance for the length of this chapter but then a quick straw poll suggested people prefer longer ones in any case.
As some have suspected this story is approaching the finish line and I hope to reach it before running out of interesting things to explore. We're not quite there yet, however, there's a tad too much baggage for Jane and Lisbon to sail off into the sunset just yet…
Gale Bertram sat in his expensive office chair and took a moment to enjoy the view from his corner office on the top floor of the Edmund Barton building. In the background Lake Burleigh-Griffin sparkled in the sunlight while in the foreground was the squat, un-renovated building that was home to the CBI. Its 150 occupants were perpetually in the shadow of the building which was the sole preserve of the Australian Federal Police.
The director of the CBI allowed the sense of fierce pride overwhelm him for a second. By all rights the CBI should have been amalgamated into the AFP long ago and it was to this end that Bertram had installed himself inside the heartland of his enemy. He needed to be close to the decision makers of the Federal Police rather than among the people who were his 100%.
Without warning the door to his office burst open and someone entered. Taking a moment to fix a crocodile smile on his face Bertram swivelled around to deal with the intruder. To his surprise it was Patrick Jane.
The consultant breezily entered the room , frowned at the low set seats in front of Bertram's imposing mahogany desk and elected to perch himself on the corner of it. "G'day Gale, I've just popped in to talk over a couple of things."
The crocodile smile wavered just a fraction. "Patrick. What an, unscheduled surprise." Gale leaned back in his chair to restore something of the power balance between them. He couldn't recall the last person who'd had the temerity to seat themselves on his desk.
Jane responded with an insolent smirk. "Well Gale, if I took the time to schedule it would hardly be a surprise, now would it?" Bertram was about to respond when Jane held up a hand to forestall him. "You're a busy man so let's not waste time. I've recently become aware that your agent in charge of the Serious Crimes Unit came into serious consideration for a couple of senior roles, only for her to mysteriously fall out of contention at the last minute." Jane looked at Bertram, allowing a suggestive silence to grow between them.
Bertram felt a surge of irritation. He knew that for all Jane's air of knowledge he was merely speculating on things that had happened while he was away. "Senior Agent Lisbon was a strong candidate for the roles but was narrowly beaten by people who were viewed as having stronger claims. That's entirely out of my hands, Patrick."
Jane leaned forward. "Let's not beat about the bush. I know you're a sociopath from a wealthy wine growing family in South Australia. Your eldest brother has taken over the estates and the next eldest has made a very good go of it as a merchant banker.
You on the other hand have chosen to devote your considerable abilities into heading up a small but elite law enforcement arm in the State's Capitol."
As Gale reared up in anger Jane hastened to continue. "No need to get upset Bertram! There is no judgement here. A certain percentage of our society is made up of sociopaths and some of them like you choose to harness those traits in positives ways. We've always had a good understanding of each other and while that is in part because you've mistaken me for a kindred spirit it's nevertheless profited us both."
Bertram crossed his arms and gazed coldly at Jane. "For someone who isn't beating about the bush you're taking a long time to get to the point."
Jane nodded to concede the point. "Teresa Lisbon is one of your best assets and you don't want to see her go. The thing is, I care for her a great deal and I want her to be happy. As you are no doubt aware she's been offered a significant role with the AFP in Melbourne. I want you to stay out of it and not block her chances."
Several emotions flickered across Bertram's face before settling on one of calculation. "Naturally I'm highly offended by your baseless accusations. Speaking hypothetically, however, if what you say is true, what would my motive be for doing as you ask?"
Jane plastered on a bright smile and leaned further forward. "Well Gale, let's put it like this…"
Lisbon double checked the details of the email and looked over to Jane's couch. It was empty. She walked over to Rigsby who was hunched over his laptop, pecking away at the keys. "You seen Patrick?"
Rigsby blinked as he refocused. "I think he's helping out the OCU guys, been there all morning."
Lisbon raised an eyebrow. "Is it me or has Jane been unusually public spirited recently?"
Rigsby shrugged. "Dunno boss, maybe he's just stopping himself from getting bored."
"Maybe," she echoed, unconvinced.
At this point the man in question made his way from the kitchen to his couch. It was such a familiar sight Lisbon was surprised he hadn't worn a trail through the carpeting. It was comforting, however. Jane was completely at home, as if his long absence was but a distant memory. She once again second guessed Jane's assurance he was quite ready to follow her to Melbourne. The thought reminded her of her original mission.
She joined her consultant on his couch. "Patrick, I just got an email from the crown prosecutor for the Bligh case."
The name made Jane smile in fond recollection. "Ah yes, that was the one where I convinced that dodgy hedge fund executive to express his undying love to that highly surgically enhanced septuagenarian."
Lisbon shuddered at the vivid memory it revoked. "She made the bride of Wildenstein look normal." She shook her head as if to erase the memory. "Anyway, the trial starts next week and they want us to testify this Friday. In Melbourne."
Jane regarded Lisbon over the rim of his teacup. "This week, eh? That works out quite well timing wise, doesn't it?"
Lisbon nodded. "Yes. My job interview is on the Monday after so I was thinking staying for the weekend rather than flying back after testifying…"
Jane glanced around to make sure no-one was in earshot. "Would you like me to…"
She casually threaded her hand in his. "Yes." Lisbon bit her lip nervously. "I was thinking of catching up with Tommy on Friday night."
James smile was reassuring. " I would love to meet him. He's the one you're closest to, I know."
Lisbon nodded and then stood abruptly. Her voice became business like. "Ok. Great. I'll book the flights."
That night it was Lisbon who struggled to find rest in the arms of Morpheus. After the fourth round of her trying to pummel the pillow into a shape that would promote sleep Jane sighed and sat up in bed. Teresa turned her back on him and tried to slide away be he caught her gently around the waist and then coaxed her to lay her head on his chest.
"Stop worrying so much," he whispered. He gently began to run his fingers through her hair.
Lisbon's eyes drooped shut as she felt her anxiety begin to recede. Realising what was happening her eyes snapped open and she dug her chin a little into his ribs.
Patrick tensed. "Hey! What was that for?"
"Stop being so nice to me," she muttered. "You know I can't worry properly when you do that thing to my hair."
Jane sighed resignedly. "Twisting yourself into emotional knots won't go make them go away either, Teresa. Whatever issues there are we'll find a way. Together."
Lisbon allowed herself to be pulled back onto his chest again but entwined her fingers with his to stop them wandering. "I'm asking a lot of you. Basically you're leaving everything familiar behind to follow me. The AFP may not even have a job for you in Melbourne. What will you do? Where will you live? If things don't work out between us then where will that leave you?"
Jane tried to be reassuring. "All that's just details. So long as we're committed to us we'll find a way."
Lisbon sat up again in agitation. "You can't just wave your hands and say the problems will go away like magic!"
Seeing her distress Jane gave serious thought to her words. "Ok, that's fair. Let's tackle them one at a time. What will I do? Honest answer, I don't know. I've done my stint with law enforcement so I won't be going back to that. As I told you I put nearly all my money into the foundation but I still have a few resources. The Kombi that you endlessly disparage is worth nearly one hundred grand to the right collector. I'll probably have to settle for less if I make it a quick sale but that will still buy me enough time to make a considered decision on what to do next."
He felt Lisbon relax a little as he gave her problems due consideration and pressed on. "Where will I live. That's a good question." He looked at her searchingly and then proceeded cautiously. "If you aren't ready I understand completely but I was hoping we could find a place together…"
Lisbon blinked in surprise. Jane hastened on. "I know it's pretty fast but we've known each other a long time and I spend half my time with you anyway. We'll find a place big enough that we both have room, somewhere we can retreat…"
A fierce hug cut off Jane's ramblings. "OK." Lisbon said softly.
Jane's teach gleamed in the darkness. "Really? I'm surprised. I thought I'd have to argue much longer than that."
Lisbon burrowed into his chest. "I've decided I like having you around."
Jane's smile grew even broader. "Good to know."
"Besides," Lisbon mused teasingly. "The thought of you continuing to live in those horrible no tell motels is frankly off putting in a boyfriend."
Jane nodded. "I know. Recently I've reached the point where I can let that part of me go. Us moving to another city will be a helpful catalyst for that." His fingers slid through her hair once more. "So, are we don't worrying for the night?"
Lisbon shifted a little and made eye contact with Jane. "What if things don't work out between us? I'm not the easiest person to be with and neither are you…"
Jane enclosed Lisbon in a tight hug. "I'll be sad, well heartbroken to be honest. But I won't regret having given it a crack and I certainly won't resent having left Canberra. I'm ready for a change. I'm not wedded to law enforcement like you are and if I never have to see a dead body or grieving family again it'll be too soon."
He smiled fondly in the darkness. "Lay your commitment concerns to rest, Teresa. Once I set my heart on something I stay the course, you know that. I'm also patient and willing to follow your lead on where we go from here. So no more worrying, OK?"
Lisbon sighed into his chest. "OK," she said before hugging him fiercely in return. Jane's hands continued to run through her hair long after she fell asleep. The action was almost hypnotic and he fell in a trance like state, unthinking, just living in the moment and taking joy in having her in his arms.
On Thursday afternoon they drove to Snowdon airport and caught a flight to Melbourne. They bickered good naturedly through the one hour flight and continued on arrival with Jane insisting on using a concierge taxi service that skipped the normal queues. Lisbon's protests died when she saw the long line of people waiting for a ride and despite having to navigate to an obscure part of the airport car park she had to concede the benefits of bucking the system.
Jane, of course, was unashamedly gleeful at having 'corrupted' Lisbon, to the point where she threatened to make him sleep in his own hotel room. They'd booked adjoining rooms at the Alto, a small boutique hotel in the heart of the CBD. It was one of many diverse concerns around the country with which Bertram had mysteriously negotiated special CBI rates.
The travel arrangements had presented Lisbon with something of a moral dilemma. She'd insisted on booking separate rooms despite the waste of CBI funds it represented. Ultimately she decided she could square the increased cost more easily than blurring the boundaries between her professional and personal lives.
By the time they checked in they were too tired to wander far in search of a meal. Fortunately Lisbon knew of an decent quality Indian restaurant nearby and they enjoyed a quiet, intimate meal. Jane was sufficiently attentive and charming to have Lisbon relent on her earlier threat and he was allowed to spend the night in her room.
In more ways than one the court appearance was a trial for Lisbon. Despite having been cut off from access to his hedge fund, Malcolm Bligh had considerable personal resources and his defence boasted no less than three Queen's Councils. That and the nature of Jane's deception meant Lisbon would have to tread very carefully when questioned by the 'silks' and their dry cultured accents which could make the most reasonable statement look the words of an idiot.
Making matters worse was Jane's natural contempt for people over inflated with self-importance and pomposity. The court room with its be-wigged and gowned judges, barristers and prosecutors, it's obsession with due process and near religious reverence for ceremony was a target too inviting to resist. Jane almost regarded it as a moral obligation to 'pull the cork out of their arses'.
Fortunately Bligh's confession had opened up several avenues of investigation that had produced mountains of evidence of fiscal misdoings and of course the murder to cover it up. So long as the confession was not dismissed as illegally obtained there was no doubt of obtaining a guilty verdict.
That Friday was the fourth day of the trial, testament to the deliberate manoeuvrings of the QCs who surgically sliced away at every piece of evidence and testimony conjured forth by the prosecution.
Lisbon was called to the stand when court resumed after morning tea (the one part of the institution that Jane actually approved of). For the next hour and a half she was forced to state and restate her testimony and reasons for pursuing Bligh as a suspect. All the while fending off aspersions as to her character, professionalism, competence and knowledge of the law.
Fortunately Lisbon was an old hand at testifying and knew to keep her answers as succinct and simple as possible to avoid any chance of misspeaking or leaving an opening for further cross examination. Finally it was over and Lisbon was allowed to leave the stand. Despite the coolness of her responses her shirt was stuck to her back due to the stress. She took her seat next to Jane who was quietly fuming at how she'd been treated. Mercifully the Judge (a known lover of fine dining) called an early recess before Jane could be called to testify.
The second they were outside the courtroom Lisbon hustled Jane up against the wall. "Whatever it is your planning to do, don't." She hissed.
Jane tried to answer but could only gulp ineffectually. Something about being pressed against the wall by Lisbon's small tight body was causing him to lose his composure. "I uh, wha, how did you know?" He managed eventually.
Lisbon softened a little when she noticed Jane's reaction, flattered despite herself. "I've seen that look in your eye too often to not see the danger signs. This is a big case, maybe my last one with the CBI. Don't mess it up or else."
Jane tried to calm his breathing. "Or else what?"
Smiling wickedly Lisbon pressed her body flush against his for a long second before stepping back. "Or else that's the last time I push you up against a wall."
"Message understood," said Jane hoarsely. "Just one question."
Lisbon surveyed her disheveled consultant, hands confidently on her hips. "What's that?
"How long until the hearing resumes?" He shifted posture slightly, trying to adjust himself.
She cocked her head slightly. "An hour and a half. Why?"
Jane looked Lisbon in the eye, the heat of his gaze was palpable. "Your hotel room has some nice walls…"
Lisbon inhaled sharply. "Let's go."
Two hours later Lisbon watched a very calm and mellow Jane respond carefully and politely to the prosecutors' questions. He was methodically explaining the chain of logic leading to his suspicion of Bligh being the killer. Still basking in the afterglow she pondered how much easier Jane would have been to handle if she'd had her wicked way with him before every court appearance.
Just as it appeared Jane was going to sail through his testimony without incident a positively youthful QC of 45 made the grave error of thinking he was the smartest person in the room. He began a line of questioning designed to subtly lead Jane into a chain of logic that would contradict most of his testimony. With a wicked glint to his eye that only Lisbon detected he played along, allowing the silk to think he was succeeding only for Jane to employ a little verbal trickery and suggestion to yank the proverbial carpet out from under the smug barrister's feet at the last instant.
The humiliated QC was forced to retreat to the safety of the defence council while one of his more senior colleagues was left with the task of ending the cross examination without making the prosecution look any more incompetent. Jane's testimony had taken them past afternoon tea and the witnesses were dismissed for the day.
The Crown Prosecutor, Stuart Bennett, thanked them for their testimony and assured them the case against Bligh was as good as proved. He invited them to drinks but Lisbon gracefully declined, preferring not to push their luck when it came to Jane being in the proximity of lawyers. As they walked down William St, Lisbon linked hands with Jane. "You were very well behaved in there, thank you."
Jane looked somewhat embarrassed. "Well, uh, let's just say you found a very enticing way of incentivising good behaviour."
Lisbon sighed happily. It definitely beats shouting myself hoarse while you just stand there looking bored."
"Oh believe me, Teresa," Jane smirked, "you had my complete attention."
"Oh hush," Lisbon nudged him affectionately. She checked her watch. "Well as we've been let out early due to good behaviour how about we catch a tram down Bourke St and I take to you Pellegrino's. There's plenty of time before we're due to be at Tommy's.
Jane glanced inquisitively at Lisbon's. "What's Pellegrino's?"
"Oh nothing special," she said casually. It was only the first espresso bar in Melbourne and the place I worked at all through uni…"
Jane didn't bother hiding his fascination. All this time you were a barista and you didn't let on?
Lisbon smiled self-consciously. "What do you care? You don't even like coffee. Not that it matters, but I waited tables. They were very traditional Italian gentlemen and wouldn't let a woman anywhere near their precious espresso machine.
Jane pulled Lisbon closely in beside him. "By all means lets go. So long as they don't serve the tea in one of those vile little metal pots I look forward to visiting your former stomping grounds." Arm in arm they made their way through the busy streets, Lisbon re-acquainting herself with the city and Jane affectionately watching her reactions play across her face.
After a pleasant time at Pellegrino's where the old owner came out and made much of his 'favourite waitress' they returned to the hotel to refresh themselves before catching a taxi to Tommy's house in Yarraville. After relatively short ride they pulled up outside a small weatherboard worker's cottage, one of dozens that lined each side of the narrow street. Tommy's house was a little run down but sturdy enough. Its small front porch was dominated by a battered old lounge.
Lisbon tromped confidently through the gate and knocked on the solid front door. It swung open and Jane got his first live look at Tommy, the eldest of the three brothers. He was on the short side, lean with short dark hair. He was wearing dark jeans and a faded t-shirt of some band Jane had never heard of. Both forearms were tattooed with Asian characters and Japanese Koi fish.
The somewhat foreboding appearance was offset by his strong familial resemblance to Lisbon and his quiet joy in greeting his sister.
"Ripley!" He greeted her before encasing Lisbon in a tight hug. She hugged back with equal enthusiasm before punching him in the arm.
"Hey! What's that for," he cried in mock pain.
Lisbon dropped her voice to an irritated hiss. "I told you not to call me that, it's embarrassing."
It was much too late, of course. Jane was already striding forward with an eager grin. "You must be Tommy, Ripley's brother," he said shaking the shorter man by the hand. "I'm Patrick, it's nice to meet you at last."
There was a hint of reserve in Tommy's expression but he was polite enough. "Patrick. Good to meet you too." He glanced at Lisbon and his expression lightened. "After hearing Ripley go on and on about you for the last ten years I was kind of expecting devil's horns and a tail…"
"Shut up!" Lisbon interjected, blushing furiously. "I didn't talk about you all the time," she continued lamely.
Jane smiled the knowing smile that was perhaps the one that irritated her the most. "Of course you didn't," he said condescendingly. Taking charge he hustled the Lisbons across the threshold. "Something smells good so let's get in off the street.
Tommy's house was small but well maintained. Simple furnishings on plain floorboards. Jane scanned the living room. Clearly a male domain with its shelves of LPs and high end entertainment system, yet with some feminine touches as well, a framed art print or two and a simple but elegant flower vase. Jane recalled Annie lived with her father most of the time.
Lisbon led the way through the narrow hallway towards the back of the house which opened into a small enclosed garden. A simple brick patio had a stainless steel gas barbecue in operation, a few sausages hissing and spitting on the hot plate.
Tommy joined them a moment later, three opened beers held carelessly by their necks in his left hand. He passed two to his guests and took a healthy pull from the third. Then he started tending to the barbecue. Jane looked from Teresa to Tommy and back again in vain. Neither seemed to have much to say.
Eventually Lisbon broke the silence. "Salad stuff in the kitchen?"
Tommy nodded. "Knock yourself out."
Jane watched Lisbon retreat into the kitchen. The silence between brother and sister had not been uncomfortable. To the contrary, there was a sense of them being soldiers in arms, comrades who had seen so much together words were rarely required. He took a drink from his own beer. It was a German import, low range. Not half bad. He considered requesting a glass to drink it out of and then quickly discarded the thought.
He contented himself with maintaining his own silence, deducing Tommy would not appreciate a chatterbox. Judging the sausages close to done Tommy began adding other meats. A few marinated chops, a couple of porterhouse steaks and at the last a dozen king prawns and a thick salmon fillet.
He tended to the meats with a minimum of fuss his movements assured and economical, interrupted only by the occasional need to swat away a particularly intrusive blowie. Jane quietly enjoyed the easy competence of Lisbon's reserved brother.
Lisbon emerged from the kitchen and quietly observed the two men around the barbecue. Her heart rate was a little elevated and she scanned their expressions anxiously. A breath of relief punctured the silence. Jane appeared to have instinctively determined the best approach with Tommy and more importantly seemed determined to make an effort.
She joined them in the garden. "Inside or outside? She asked her brother.
Tommy slid the last off the meat onto a foil tray and switched off the burners. "Inside. Too many flies about today."
Once at the table and with a nice selection on each plate (salmon for Lisbon, steaks for Jane and Tommy, a smattering of the rest for each of them), the silence was broken between mouthfuls of food. Tommy asked Lisbon about her upcoming job interview and her plans for Melbourne if she was successful.
In turn Lisbon had questions about Tommy and his brothers and especially Annie, who was spending the weekend with her mother.
Jane didn't take much part in the conversation but was content to listen and observe. It was a pleasure to watch the easy dynamic between Lisbon and her brother and for the first time in a long time he felt regret at not having had a sibling when growing up. What the Lisbon's shared went beyond normal family attachments. They were like war comrades, survivors who come through the thick of it together. A mutual trust and respect. Maybe a little bit more deferential on Tommy's side but essentially equal.
Lisbon tried to bring Jane into the conversation from time to time and Jane answered readily before fading into the background again, not wanting to intrude on the intimacy of Lisbon's catch-up with Tommy.
Once the meal was done Jane volunteered to clear the dishes and seeing there wasn't a dishwasher, took on the task or washing and stacking the dishes to dry. Lisbon and Tommy started on their second beers and headed for the living room.
When Jane joined then a half hour later all conversation had ceased, the Lisbon's bonding silently over an ice hockey game featured on Foxtell. He watched silently for a few minutes, amazed again at the Melbournian passion for watching sport, even if it was a replay of something played on the other side of the world.
Jane wandered into the living room and perused Tommy's shelves. Amongst the rows of LPs there was a sparse shelf devoted to books, a mix of automobile history and biographies of musical artists. Selecting a small book on The Pogues he plonked down next to Lisbon who barely reacted.
An hour passed in companionable silence before Lisbon's yawns because too frequent to ignore. Jane was about to make their excuses when Tommy forestalled his plans. "Ripley, you look knackered. Why don't you crash in Annie's room for a couple of hours, give me a chance to get to know Patrick here without you threatening to kill either one of us."
Lisbon guilty jerked herself upright, trying to look alert. "I'm good Tommy, wanna see out the game…"
Jane gently squeezed Lisbon's hand. "You should you know, you've had a big day. Besides, I'm a big boy, I'll be fine."
Eyes drooping with fatigue Lisbon peered up at Jane's face. Seeing the truth of his words she nodded and lurched to her feet with a groan. She dropped a chaste kiss onto Jane's lips then awkwardly hugged her brother who was reclining on the other couch before making her way to Annie's room.
Jane put down his book. "I'll bet you five dollars she'll be out like a light within two minutes."
Tommy muted the TV and grinned. "No bet. Sis sleeps the sleep of the righteous."
Jane smiled fondly. "That she does, most of the time anyway."
Tommy got a mischievous glint in his eye. "You ever tell her she snores?"
Jane shook his head ruefully. "Made that mistake on a stakeout five years ago. Chilly doesn't begin to describe the reception."
"That's nothing," scoffed Tommy. He gestured grandiosely at himself, "You are in the presence of a man who recorded it on his iPhone and played it back to her and lived to tell the tale."
Jane whistled in appreciation.
Tommy shook his head. "Of course I wasn't too proud to hide behind my little girl to deflect Ripley's wrath!"
Jane laughed in genuine appreciation and just like that, the subtle tension between he and Tommy eased. The younger man drained his beer and went into the kitchen to fetch two more. He placed one of them in front of Jane, along with a beer glass. Jane raised an eyebrow at the latter.
Tommy looked back challengingly. "I figured being a Sydney wanker, you'd want to drink that beer out of a glass."
Jane resisted the temptation to deny the accusation and began pouring. "It does taste better, you know."
"I know," said Tommy. But there are those who drink from a glass and those who drink straight out of the bottle. We Lisbon's are simple folk, might as well stay true to my roots.
Jane nodded and raised his glass in a silent toast. "You know our great grandparents were probably shipped out in chains on the same ship. It's no reason not to enjoy the finer things in life when the opportunity presents itself."
Tommy shrugged noncommittally and took a pull from his beer.
Jane studied him silently, trying to decide how the conversation would go and silently hoping Tommy wouldn't be too predictable.
Tommy looked right back. "So, Ripley tells me its spooky what you can read into people. Give me your best shot."
Jane shook his head. "I already know a fair bit about you from Teresa. Anything I say could have just been down to what she told me or let slip."
Tommy's gaze intensified. "Oh don't cop out, man. After hearing so many stories I wanna see if you're fair dinkum."
Jane sighed. "OK but don't get upset if you hear things you don't like."
Tommy merely gestured, urging him to get on with it.
The mentalist rested his chin on his hand and regarded Tommy Lisbon. He knew he was younger than Teresa but the years hadn't been quite as kind. His dark brown hair was already shot through with grey and there were lines at the corners of his eyes and mouth. Jane inhaled deeply. "You're someone who's seen trauma as a child, no news there."
Tommy didn't react, just returned Jane's stare. He pressed on. "Teresa was the eldest and took on the lion's share of the burden but you stepped up as well. You were her only ally during that sorry time, your two brothers were too young."
"You put aside a normal childhood but unlike with Teresa, the injustice rankled. You hated your father, never forgave him. I'm guessing when Teresa left for Canberra you finished the job of raising your brothers but as soon as that was done your rebellious streak flared up and you went off the rails a bit. Drinking, maybe some minor drugs, you joined a band or at least followed one around. You're a good person so you didn't go completely off the rails but you went AWOL for a few years there."
Janes eyes flickered up and down, reading Tommy's micro expressions and using them as a trail markers for steering the story. "Teresa didn't like it but she didn't say much. Too much guilt for having left you to finishing raising your brothers, I suspect. On your side your hero worship of Teresa dropped a notch or two after she left. You couldn't help feel like it was a betrayal even though intellectually you could completely sympathise."
"Your relationship is rock solid again but knowing the both of you I doubt you ever talked it out. The catalyst would have been you getting married… no, the birth of Annie. It was too important for both of you that Teresa be part of your daughter's life, especially after things didn't work out between you and your partner. " Jane noticed Tommy's clenched jaw and decided to wind it up. "I could go on, mentioned you've settled down but that the rebel inside still lives on in your passion for music and cars but you don't need me tell you that." He smiled weakly, worried that he'd gotten carried away as usual when called to demonstrate his skills.
Tommy blinked and started to take a long drink from his beer only to discover it was empty. "Drink up," he muttered, gesturing at Jane's half full glass. He got and up fetched another round from the kitchen. When he returned he'd regained his composure. He collapsed back onto his chair. "Well you did warn me. Frankly I don't know how Teresa puts up with it. She's not exactly open, or patient."
Jane's smile grew warmer. "No she's not," he said fondly. "But I don't try and read her much these days. Just the stuff the she wants to say but is too stubborn to."
Tommy smiled briefly then turned serious. "I know you've been expecting me to put on the big brother act, warn you to treat Teresa right, but I'm not going to do that. I know how important you are to her, known it for a long time."
Jane couldn't stop himself form interjecting. "Really?"
Tommy chuckled. "Whenever she talked about work you got mentioned far more than anyone else."
"Maybe that's because I was the biggest pain in the arse."
Tommy smiled. "No doubt you were, but I also saw how Teresa looked when she talked about you. Point is, she cares for you deeply and she's too good a judge to just lower her guard for anyone."
Jane's expression turned quizzical. "So…"
Tommy placed his beer on the coffee table. "Teresa is the toughest person I've ever known. I doubt she would have told you much about what happened with dad but when he started to hit the piss it got really bad. He'd get into a mood where he was determined to find something to make him lose his rag and then we had hell to pay. Teresa was just a skinny little thing but when things got violent she threw herself in there to protect us. Every time."
Usually the old man was just aware enough to stop if it meant hitting her," Tommy's expression turned bitter. "Most of the time. A few times she copped such a beating she could barely get out of bed the next day, but there she was, putting cereal on the table for Stan and James, trying to make them school lunches with an arm so badly bruised it might as well have been broken."
I started calling her Ripley after I saw Aliens. To us she was like Sigourney Weaver in that movie, never giving up, just saving us kids even if she had to face down the alien queen. She's the only reason me and the others are half way normal, or even alive. She did it all and she never cried, at least in front of us, she never stopped working, caring and providing for us and she never felt sorry for herself. "
Jane was sitting motionless, his heart felt constricted, a complicated mixture of pride, awe and sadness for what Lisbon had endured. For once he could find no words to express how he felt.
Tommy leaned forward, trying to get to the point of his story. "I love my sister. I owe her everything but she's not without her flaws. Losing her mum and then the way dad treated her, it messed her up. She takes every burden on herself, she doesn't believe she deserves to be happy. She either sacrifices it for someone else's sake or she ends things out of fear they can't really love her." Tommy pinned Jane with his gaze. "What I want you to do, Patrick, is not let her push you away. To make her happy and feel like she deserves it. I want my big sister to feel safe and loved despite her contrary nature."
"I know you've been through even worse than Teresa. I know you know that to someone like me it shows. I think that's part of why she's chosen you. You're one of the few people who can really understand her." Tommy's expression turned rueful. "I think she needs someone who can virtually read minds because she'll never admit to weakness or sentiment. She deserves a break so be good to her."
Jane swallowed heavily and then reached forward to shake Tommy's hand. "I promise to do all that and more for Teresa, as much as she will let me and hopefully with your help." He allowed a beat to pass. " You know, Tommy, Teresa isn't the only Lisbon who turned out to be a pretty amazing human being."
The younger man stifled laugh. "Neither of us can hold a candle to her but thanks for the sentiment." He tried to cut short a yawn. "It's late and I'm absolutely buggered. You might as well crash with Teresa. I'll see you both in the morning."
Jane stretched and felt his back crack painfully. He nodded at Tommy and headed for Annie's room. He paused at the doorway and peeped inside. Teresa had kicked off her boots but was otherwise clothed and sleeping on top of the covers. She was curled on her side looking innocent and vulnerable like a small animal. Jane tried to picture the tremendous burden she'd been forced to shoulder from a young age. How it hadn't killed her optimism or desire to help others and do good despite working in a highly cynical profession. He felt profoundly blessed that such an extraordinary woman could even give a morally ambiguous scoundrel like himself the time of day.
He quietly slipped out of his shoes, shrugged off his jacket and lay down next to Teresa, enfolding her in a tight hug. Lisbon mumbled under her breath and then half awake, turned around in his arms and kissed him fiercely on the slips before falling asleep again. Jane lay awake for a long time, enjoying the feel of her in his arms and fantasising that he could keep here there forever.
The rest of the weekend alternated between Lisbon preparing obsessively for her interview and showing Jane some of the sights of Melbourne. As Jane watched the obvious pride with which she pointed out old haunts and landmarks he revelled in this new openness to her. Something she rarely allowed to show in impersonal, bureaucratic Canberra.
Despite Lisbon's fears or possibly because of her preparation, the interview on Monday went extremely well, to the point where Andrew promised an offer in her inbox by C.O.B the next day. The good omens continued when she and Jane were unexpectedly upgraded to business class on the flight back, something Jane denied any responsibility for.
As Lisbon leaned back with a sigh and sipped at her complimentary champagne Jane looked across at her and took her hand. He paused for a second taking in her slightly flushed features, a combination of the alcohol and her excitement at having landed a plum role. He coughed self-consciously and began. "Teresa, I want to tell you something and I don't want you to freak out or feel like you're obligated to say anything in return."
Lisbon froze in her chair, the glass half way to her lips. Her consultant continued, his voice pitched low but clear. "Teresa, I love you. You might wonder why I'm telling you on a mundane flight back to Canberra instead of after a candle lit dinner or making love... " Lisbon threw a panicked glance around the cabin to make sure no lurking flight attendants were listening.
Jane tightened his grip to refocus her attention. The reason I'm telling you this now is because what I feel for you, it's there all the time, as sure as the air I breath. I love you. I'm not sure a lot of people have said that to you but you deserve to hear it at least once every day. I hope that one day you'll feel the same but I understand completely if you…
Really, the man was impossible. "Oh shut up," Lisbon said even as she felt her stupid heart melt at his declaration. She softened her expression to take the sting out of here interjection. "I love you too, obviously. "I love damn near everything about you except your habit of putting yourself down."
Jane's smile threatened to eclipse the sun. He pulled her hand to his cheek and then his chest and leaned back with a dramatic sigh of pleasure. Despite herself Lisbon laughed at the theatricality of it all. Secretly she was proud of herself for having returned Jane's declaration. For all his perceptiveness she knew his battered sense of self-worth did not always allow him to see what was a plain as day when it came to her feelings for him. She did love him, complex mix of arrogance and insecurity and all.
Jane half closed his eyes in bliss, then, because he could no more turn of his analytical side than he could his breathing he shot a penetrating glance at Lisbon. "You thought I was going to say something else, didn't you?"
Lisbon was caught completely off guard. "Whhhat?," she stuttered.
"Just now. When you heard what I said there was a bit of relief in the mix, wasn't there."
Lisbon rallied valiantly. "Of course there was relief! You've made an art form out embarrassing public outbursts. For all I knew you were about to tell the whole plane how you feel."
Jane's smile turned cocky. "That explains the relief but what about the undertone of disappointment?" His gaze turned penetrating though not without affection. "You thought I was going to propose!" He crowed triumphantly.
Lisbon was momentarily speechless, her expression was very much like she'd just been caught with her hand in the till. "I did not!" She hissed furiously if somewhat unconvincingly.
Jane's expression turned knowing and conspiratorial something he knew Lisbon hated. "Yes you did. Well fear not, Teresa. I know better than propose to you on an airplane. For one thing, there'd be a real risk of you throwing yourself out of the escape hatch without a parachute."
Lisbon's emotions warred between outrage and laughter. "Did I say I love you? I meant I hate you! You are insufferable, arrogant, insensitive…"
Several flight attendants were now looking in their direction as Lisbon, unaware, continued her tirade. Jane patted her hand lovingly as she tried to snatch it away. "Don't worry Teresa, we can table the subject of marriage for the moment."
His words failed to appease Lisbon. "The subject of marriage never came up in the first place!"
For the remainder of the flight the other business class passengers were treated to the first class entertainment of watching Lisbon and Jane arguing away in a world of their own. The mentalist pleased he'd managed to move things past his love declaration while gauging her receptivity to a marriage proposal and Lisbon in turn at least part way complicit in what was going on for all her posturing to the contrary.