TITLE: Shark – "Fleeting Glances"
AUTHOR: D M Harper.
SUMMARY: From the deep sadness of loss, a strong bond can sometimes be formed. A/U
PAIRING: Jessica Devlin & OFC; Sebastian Stark & OFC
RATING: MA for Mature readers.
DISCLAIMER: This story is simply entertainment for those of us who like to dabble in subtext. There is no intent to infringe on the copyright of 20th Century Fox Television and creator Ian Biederman. This tale does feature realistic consensual sexual interaction between two females, so if you are underage or unable to view due to restrictions in your part of the world, be gone and take my sympathy with you. If you find such material offensive, you have taken a wrong turn at the last intersection and need to back the bus up drongo!
A/N: Much gratitude to Wendy Woo proof reader extraordinaire. Be kind, read & review.
Chapter 14
While engaged with writing a ticket for a rolling stop sign violation, Sam's cell phone sounded with Jessica's familiar ringtone. Finishing off the paperwork, she handed it to the driver, "Have a good day sir."
He grumbled and wound up his window.
Opening her phone, Sam answered, "Hello Miss Devlin."
"Hi honey."
"Are you home yet?"
"I'm just about to leave for the office."
"Have you slept?"
"Yes Sam, I've had five hours plus I slept on the plane."
"I'm glad to hear that."
"I'm calling to invite you over for dinner."
"That would be very nice."
"It will be and Sam."
"Yes sweetheart?"
"Bring a change of clothes for the morning."
Sam laughed at the less than subtle invitation, "Yes ma'am, I'll see you then."
-o-
The Harley Davison Police Motorcycle idled in the side street until the late model silver BMW sedan passed by. The siren lights were activated and the bike entered onto Temple Street. Manoeuvring the bike skilfully around traffic, the officer soon caught up to the rear bumper of the vehicle.
Jessica looked in her rear view mirror and ungraciously swore, "Shit!" She checked her speedometer and saw she was travelling at twenty miles per hour, well under the posted speed limit. Indicating right, Jessica pulled over into the first available space and the white bike pulled up behind her.
Reaching over to the glove compartment, Jessica withdrew her insurance and registration papers in preparation. Retrieving her DA's badge and licence from her purse, Jessica waited for the officer to approach her window. "Crap, I must have ran the last set of traffic lights," the blonde thought to herself. Jessica watched as the officer took up position beside her door. She lowered the window and waited.
In a deep voice, the officer said, "Good afternoon ma'am, can I please see your registration, insurance and licence?"
Jessica handed over the requested items and displayed her DA's identification. She glanced at the leather gloved hands as the officer checked her papers.
The officer passed back the paperwork then inspected her licence. Using the portable radio mike attached to his collar, the officer requested a warrant check on Jessica's particulars. When it came back clear, the officer handed it over to the blonde.
Thinking that was the end of the ordeal, Jessica was shocked when the cop gave the next direction, "Ma'am, can you please turn off the engine, remove the keys, step out of the vehicle and position yourself on the sidewalk?"
The DA was certain she had not broken any laws and a slight anger rose, "Excuse me Officer, can you tell me what this is all about?"
"Ma'am, please do as I have instructed."
Jessica switched off the motor, grabbed the keys and opened the door. Walking around the front of the car, she stood beside the passenger door and took the opportunity to scrutinise the officer. She noted the Lieutenant's bars on the collar of the uniform shirt then scanned for a name tag. When she found none, Jessica started to panic and asked, "Excuse me Lieutenant, have I done something unlawful?"
"Yes you have ma'am," came the southern accented reply.
"I see your name tag is missing."
"It broke this morning ma'am."
"Can we please clear this matter up? I'm due at the District Attorney's Office."
"Can you please face the vehicle and place your hands on the roof ma'am?"
"What?" exclaimed Jessica crossly. "This is beyond harassment."
"Ma'am, do you refuse to follow my instruction?"
"No," snapped Jessica as she positioned herself against her car. Her irritation increased, but she knew it was ill advised to exacerbate the situation.
"Ma'am, I'm now going to frisk you?"
Jessica's limit of compliance teetered close to the edge, "I'll have your badge for this."
"Yes ma'am," replied the Lieutenant calmly.
Jessica flinched when she felt the cop's gloved fingers run over her jeans encased calves. "My partner is a Sergeant at Rampart and I will be telling them all about your unacceptable behaviour."
"Yes ma'am," uttered the police officer as hands roamed over Jessica's upper thighs. "Who would that be?"
"Sergeant Sam Lake."
"There is no Sam Lake at Rampart ma'am."
Those eight words sent a chill down Jessica's spine and the realisation she was dealing with an imposter, "I'm the District Attorney for Christ's sake; you'll be hunted down for this."
"I know who you are," replied the man matter-of-factly. "I saw your badge."
Firm hands curved over Jessica's taut buttocks and she recoiled, "I hope you are getting off on this you fucking sick bastard, because you won't get away with it."
"Shush now, that is no way for a lady to speak."
Jessica struggled against the strong hands and swore loudly when the pretend law enforcement officer pressed his weight roughly onto her back, "Fuck, just get the fuck off me." Her temper and fear were flaring and her legs started to shake. She was trapped and couldn't move as the male pinned her arms between her body and the car frame.
"No sense in screaming bitch, no one is around to help you."
-o-
Sam turned off Dewap Road and onto West Temple Street. She immediately recognised Jessica and her BMW pulled up alongside the road. Turning into the first vacant drive, she got off her bike and called for backup.
Removing her helmet, she withdrew her gun and used the sidewalk bushes as cover until she was only four feet away from her girlfriend and the officer.
The previous day, Sam had been called back to the station and advised by Captain Braxton there had been several complaints made by women claiming to have been pulled over by a Motorcycle Patrolman, frisked inappropriately and let off with a warning. The three women had stated the officer gave no explanation as to what violation had been committed, but had been extremely polite while assaulting them and spoke with a southern accent.
After a search of all divisional Traffic Officers' records, it was ascertained that no male officer fitted that description. All three complainants owned BMWs and had been driving in different areas within the Central Division Zone. Each incident had occurred at different times of the day and all Officers had been instructed to keep a vigilant look out for the perpetrator.
As she progressed closer, Sam froze when she heard the imposter tell Jessica there was no sense in screaming. She stealthily inched forward with her weapon aimed at the perp's centre mass and shouted directions, "LAPD, STEP AWAY FROM THE WOMAN. RAISE YOUR HANDS AND REMOVE YOUR HELMET THEN PLACE IT ON THE GROUND IN FRONT OF YOU. THEN INTERLOCK YOUR FINGERS BEHIND YOUR HEAD AND DON'T MAKE ANY SUDDEN MOVEMENTS TO REACH FOR YOUR GUN OR I WILL SHOOT."
Releasing his hold and backing up, the phony officer turned his head to the right and lifted his hands. Following Sam's other commands; he finally placed his hands behind his balding head.
Sam remained in professional mode and enquired, "Miss Devlin, are you okay?"
"Yes," answered Jessica in an angry tone. "I am now."
"Please step away from your vehicle Miss Devlin and move behind me."
Jessica did as she was asked without looking directly at Sam.
A black and white Patrol car swiftly pulled up to the rear of the BMW and two Officers alighted from the vehicle. They instantly appraised the scene and neared Sam.
"Officer Riley," began the Lieutenant. "Can you please confiscate the suspect's weapon, handcuff him and read him his rights then pat him down?"
"Yes ma'am," responded the brawny, medium height blonde.
Sam maintained cover while the perp was restrained and searched. He was then placed into the back compartment of the Patrol car and Sam finally holstered her gun. She turned to Jessica with a furrowed brow, "Can you follow me back to the station and provide a statement Miss Devlin?"
"I certainly can." Jessica looked Sam up and down and added, "You managed to come along at the right time and what are you doing in Traffic?"
"I'll explain back at the station ma'am."
-o-
Once the perp had been processed and secured in a holding cell to await an interview with detectives, Sam escorted Jessica to interview room one and waited with her for Detectives Simpson and Meadows to arrive.
"Would you like something to drink ma'am?"
"No thank you Sam."
Sam noticed Jessica's trembling hands and sat down next to her. She put a comporting left hand on her shoulder and said, "I'm really glad you are all right and wish I could hold you."
Jessica's eyes glistened with tears, "Hearing you say that is enough for now. I know you are always the true professional."
Sam grinned, "I'm glad you understand my position."
"I do and you can explain everything to me over dinner."
While softly caressing her girlfriend's shoulder, Sam asked, "Are you all right to give me some details?"
"Yes I am Sergeant Lake."
Sam removed her hand and took out her notebook, "Take your time and tell me what happened."
Jessica proceeded to recount the incident in a precise manner, giving as many specifics as she could.
"Excellent," declared Sam when she was done. "That will do for now. The detectives won't be much longer ma'am. How are you feeling?"
Jessica gave her a mega grin, "Much better now and thank you."
Sam leaned in and uttered, "Just doing my job ma'am."
"And you did it extremely well."
Inching in closer to Jessica, Sam dropped her work mask and whispered, "I missed you and I love you so much. I'm very relieved to see you are okay."
A wave of tingling washed over Jessica and she shivered, "I love you too and you look really good in all that leather."
Sam smirked at the compliment, "You are the only woman who can make me forget I'm on duty."
"I like that."
"I do too."
Sam was about to kiss Jessica when the doorknob turned. She pulled back and got to her feet.
"Hey Lake, good to see you again," greeted a sandy haired man in his mid-thirties. "I'm real sorry this happened to you Miss Devlin."
Sam shook the man's hand, "It's nice to see you too Detective Simpson."
"You want to sit in on this one Sam?" asked Simpson as he sat down. "My partner is still interrogating the perp."
"It would be my pleasure Detective." Sam passed her notebook to the detective, "It's all there; Miss Devlin was very thorough."
The detective perused the notes, "Indeed. Miss Devlin, we believe you were a target simply because you drive a BMW, but does the name Ralf Tanner ring any bells?"
"No Detective and I assume I'm not the only victim?"
"No ma'am. You are the fourth in two days and just happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time."
Jessica scoffed, "It seems to have become a habit lately."
Simpson nodded, "Well yes, you certainly have had your share of excitement of late. Tanner was dismissed from the Police Academy a month ago for manhandling a fellow female recruit who coincidently owns a silver coloured BMW."
The detective spent another ten minutes going through Jessica's details before leaving the room to type up the paperwork.
When the door closed, Sam patted Jessica on the back, "Once you've signed your statement, you'll be free to leave ma'am.
"I think I'll give the office a miss and go straight home."
"That's a good idea."
Captain Braxton waltzed into the room, "Hello Jess, sorry about all this. Are you okay?"
"I'm fine Cynthia," answered Jessica as she stood up from the table. "The officers have been looking after me."
"Sam, have you got a moment?" asked Braxton from the doorway.
"Yes Captain. Excuse us Miss Devlin." She followed the Captain out into the corridor.
"I need you to go with Detective Meadows and transport prisoner Tanner to County Jail and have him booked. He isn't too popular around here at the moment."
Sam nodded, "No worries Captain."
"Thanks, Meadows is waiting for you in holding."
"I'm on the way ma'am."
-o-
Once Jessica had signed her declaration, she called Deputy DA Wiseman at the Sex Crimes Office and informed him of Tanner's case.
"So I gather there will be no deal?" enquired Thomas Wiseman.
"No Tom, not this time, he gets the full ride."
"No problems, I'll see to it personally."
"I appreciate your cooperation and will talk to you tomorrow."
"Bye Jessica."
Jessica closed her phone and went to Captain Braxton's Office.
"Come in Counsellor," Cynthia said after the DA rapped on the door frame.
"I just wanted you to know my office is aware of Tanner's case."
Cynthia motioned to one of the two vacant armchairs, "Sit down Jess you look tired. This hasn't been much of a welcome home for you after being in protective custody."
"I was hoping for a quiet afternoon," scoffed the blonde with a grin. "Instead I cross paths with a delusional pig."
"It's a wonder the tabloids aren't here to hound you over the incident. They gave you quiet the hammering these past three weeks."
"Yes, so I've been told and I'm not happy about it at all."
"That's understandable. Unfortunately it's a price you have to pay when working in the public sector."
"True, but that doesn't mean I have to like or accept it."
Cynthia laughed, "So how was it being in Stark's company 24/7?"
"Good and the poor man is very much maligned. He's a softy at heart and a good friend once you get to know him."
"Well he does have some respectable characteristics and is easy on the eye."
"Trust you to notice Cynthia."
"Don't tell me you haven't thought about it?"
"I can honestly say no. He is not my type, besides I am extremely happy with my private life and partner."
"It's about time Jess."
The two friends chatted for another hour before being interrupted by the arrival of Sam.
"Excuse me Captain, Miss Devlin. Tanner is being interviewed by Deputy DA Wiseman over at lockup and I'm off home."
"Thank you Lieutenant, enjoy your days off."
"Thank you and I will ma'am."
Sam departed and Cynthia noted, "It's nice to see Sam has bounced back after her partner's death."
Having a deeper knowledge of the situation, Jessica frowned, "Don't be fooled, Sam is still hurting but refuses to let it show."
"I'll keep an eye on her and I wasn't aware you knew her that well."
"We became close during the Jordon trial."
"Oh of course, I forgot about that association."
Jessica checked her watch, "I better be off home, thanks for the chat and coffee." Standing, she headed for the door.
"You're welcome Jess, take care."
"Bye Cynthia." Jessica raced to the car park, hoping to catch up with Sam.
To her relief, her girlfriend was standing beside her car and grinning, "Hello sweetheart."
Jessica took the time to check out Sam's uniform, "I really hope you are intending on wearing that outfit to my house?"
"No."
"No?" queried a perplexed Jessica.
"I have a better idea. I'll cook you dinner at my place so you can relax."
"You have yourself a deal."
"Can I suggest you drop into your home and pack an overnight bag?"
"You can honey, I'll see you soon."
Sam followed Jessica to her house, ensuring she was safe then led her home. She indicated to Jessica to park inside the garage after opening the doors and after securing her truck, Sam closed the doors and went to Jessica. Taking off her jacket, she wrapped her arms around the blonde's shoulders and kissed her softly on the right earlobe then murmured, "I love you so much."
Jessica squirmed in her lovers arms and melted, "Oh god Sam."
"Are you positive you are feeling fine?" enquired Sam before pecking at Jessica's ear repeatedly.
"Yes honey," answered Jessica as she touched the silver bar on Sam's collar. "I guess congratulations are in order."
Sam released her, "Thank you and I was going to tell you weeks ago. I've been seconded to Traffic for four months then return to Rampart to take the rookies on board."
Jessica took Sam's right hand, "You'll be an excellent trainer."
Sam was mindful of the ordeal her girlfriend had been through and allowed her to initiate their intimacy. She ushered Jessica into the kitchen and asked, "Would you like a beer?"
"No thanks."
"Okay," Sam replied as she let go of Jessica's hand. "Is there anything else I can get you?"
"No, I'm fine." Jessica's cell phone rang and she answered, "Hello Jessica Devlin speaking."
"Jessica, it's Tom. I'm just calling to let you know Ralf Tanner is scheduled for arraignment at eleven tomorrow morning."
"Thank you for the call and the speedy work."
"You're welcome, bye."
Closing her phone, Jessica reached out and slipped her hand over Sam's tummy, "Tanner is being arraigned at eleven tomorrow."
"Okay, I'll take your bag through to the bedroom." Sam walked down the hall towards the staircase and Jessica followed. Turning to her, Sam cupped her face, "Sweetheart, did he hurt you at all?"
"He injured my back a little when he pushed into me from behind and held me against the car."
"How about you go have a relaxing bath then I will give you a massage."
"That sounds like a good idea and I'm sorry I'm a little down."
Sam kissed Jessica's on the temple, "It's perfectly fine. You've been through a traumatic experience and it's only natural to want to retreat."
Jessica pressed into her girlfriend's chest and softly wept, "I was so scared when I realised he wasn't a police officer."
Running fingers through silken hair, Sam remarked, "I know you were baby, but you are safe now." She allowed Jessica to cry, comforting her with soft caresses and whispering words of endearment and reassurance.
Sometime later, Sam gently pulled away and asked, "Are you ready for that bath now?"
The reply was merely a whisper, "Yes."
"Okay, I'll draw the water for you and get you a nice glass of red."
Jessica looked at her with sparkling blue eyes. "Thank you."
"You're welcome sweet Jess."
-o-
Sam left Jessica in the bath and went into the bedroom to take off her uniform shirt and throw on a jersey.
Going to the kitchen, she made a start on dinner and twenty minutes later, returned to the bathroom to top up Jessica's glass.
"How are you doing in here?"
"Very relaxed," replied a sedate DA.
Sam smiled, "Sweetheart, when was the last time you ate?"
"Uhm last night I think, why?"
"The wine should help you sleep, because you are going straight to bed after eating."
"Okay, you'll get no argument from me."
Sam tittered to herself as she walked back to the kitchen. After putting down the bottle on the counter, she called Sebastian and enquired how he was.
"I'm doing well. How is Jess?"
"She is tired, hungry and a little tipsy."
"She really missed you Sam."
"I missed her too. When does Julie arrive home?"
"She gets in tonight, I happen to be on my way to the airport now."
"Sebastian, Jess was assaulted this afternoon."
"What?"
Sam recounted the episode in detail.
"So this creep Tanner was basically prowling around the streets posing as a Traffic Cop?"
"That's about it. He assaulted three other women over the last two days."
"I haven't heard anything about it, was it in the news?"
"Not until yesterday. There was a story in the paper, but you guys wouldn't have seen it."
"Holy shit, where is Jessica now?"
"She is here at my place enjoying a warm bath and a glass of wine. She is still upset and suffering mild shock."
"Well you look after her and I will call her tomorrow. By the way, she and I aren't due back to work until Monday."
"Good, she needs to rest and get some sleep."
"I'm sure you'll make sure she does."
"I will and that applies to you too."
"Listen Sam, I really appreciate you looking out for Julie."
"Don't mention it Sebastian, it was my pleasure and you have a terrific daughter."
"Yeah, I lucked out there and she is very fond of you."
"Give her a kiss for me and tell her I'll call her tomorrow."
"Will do, bye Sam."
"Bye."
Sam checked on the braised steak in the oven then Jessica. The blonde was sound asleep and Sam gently rubbed her shoulder, "Baby, dinner is ready."
Jessica was startled awake, "Oh sorry."
Sam reached for a towel as Jessica climbed out of the tub.
-o-
After dinner, Sam led a weary Jessica to the bedroom, "Get into bed Jess."
"Are you joining me?"
"Not yet baby, I still have to take a shower and clean up the kitchen."
"Okay," said Jessica as she eased in between the covers.
Leaning down, Sam kissed her on the head, "Sleep well sweetheart."
"Thank you."
Sam turned off the light then closed the door. Going downstairs, she attended to the housework then prepared for bed. She was about to set the alarm system when there was a knock on the front door. Sam smiled when she spied Roger through the peephole. Opening the door, she said, "Hey Roger, how are you this evening?"
"I can't complain. I wanted to invite you over for a barbeque we are having on Saturday night and if your girlfriend is back by then, she is welcome too."
"I'm glad to say Jessica got back this morning and I'm free, but I'll have to check with her."
"Okay, let me know. It's just a family get together."
"I'll talk to you tomorrow, I've got the next three days off."
"Oh good, see you then."
"Goodnight Roger." Sam secured the house before climbing the stairs and snuggling in behind Jessica.
Jessica stirred slightly and mumbled, "Hey darling."
"Go back to sleep sweetheart."
Sam stayed awake for some time listening to Jessica's deep breathing and kissed her on the nape of the neck before drifting off.
-o-
Sam and Jessica both jumped up when Jessica's cell rang. She reached for it on the nightstand and answered, "Jessica Devlin."
"Jessica, Manny Delgado. I've just received news on what transpired this afternoon, are you okay?"
"Yes, I'm fine."
Sam nuzzled into Jessica's shoulder.
"That's good to hear and if you need anything from my office, don't hesitate to contact me."
"Yes sir and thank you for calling."
"I hope you are not alone?"
"No Mayor, I am at my girlfriend's, goodnight." Jessica ended the call before Manny had a chance to comment.
Sam giggled, "That was smooth Jess."
"I guess I can expect a summons to City Hall on Monday."
"Time will tell."
Jessica yawned as she lay back down.
Sam nestled in closer and started to sing a lullaby. Within seconds, the blonde was sound asleep and Sam soon followed.
-o-