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The ceremony had been amazing. Antonio had graduated at the top of his class. Josie was really proud of him. He was going to do amazing things in the Chicago Police Department. She knew it. She sighed. She wasn't thrilled that he'd be working in the same District as her father, but the likelihood of them working together was slim to none. Antonio was going to be on patrol and her dad was in the Gang unit. They'd rarely intersect. Considering everything that had just happened today, the last thing Josie wanted was for her dad to find out that she was with Antonio. After the ceremony and the pictures, Josie and the Dawsons headed to the banquet and ball. She was most likely the youngest person there, but she was still treated with utmost respect. Antonio introduced her as his girlfriend to everyone they spoke to. Nobody was batting an eye at their age difference. This was giving Josie more hope for their relationship. They danced the night away and laughed at each other's jokes.
It was almost 2 when they decided to call it a night. Antonio helped her to his car. There was a light mist falling that night, so Josie was wearing his jacket to keep warm. She loved that it had his scent. She held his hand while they drove. They pulled up into her driveway, as was his habit. He would move his car after she got in the house safely.
"Your dad's not home." Antonio pointed out.
Josie noticed that the Jeep wasn't there. "Fine by me. He'd probably be pissed that I was home this late." She pointed to his watch. "Thank you for an amazing night."
"No, Jo. Thank you." He leaned over and kissed her, cupping her face. "I love you, Josie... don't you ever forget that."
"I won't." Josie was glowing. "Here, take your coat. If my dad sees that I have it, he will do something. He doesn't know about us... and we both know that it's better that way."
"I know, baby." He kissed her again. "I'll come by later this week to visit. Otherwise, I'll see you when you come over with Gaby?"
Josie nodded. "Yeah. Sweet dreams, Antonio."
"Only of you." He whispered.
Josie got out of the car and headed to the house. She waved to Antonio as she went in. He took that as the sign that she was safe and he headed back to his house. Josie carefully took her shoes off and headed to her room. She knew that while the Jeep wasn't there, it didn't mean that her father wasn't home. It's why she didn't want Antonio to walk her to the house this time. She headed up to her room. She was in the middle of taking off her makeup when there was large crashing coming from the living room. She wrapped her robe tightly around herself and went to investigate.
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She quietly went down the stairs. That's when she saw her father crashing around. He was drunk off his gourd, as was the usual with him lately. She was about to turn around to go back to her room when he father bellowed at her. Josie tried to run, but he came after her. He grabbed her ankle and yanked it. Josie tumbled down the stairs. She cried out as she hit her shoulders and back on the stairs. "Daddy! Stop!" She shouted. She was suddenly wishing she hadn't come down the stairs.
"Where've you been, huh? You little tramp!" He growled. "I came home... no supper made... you gone... the neighbours were gone. Who the fuck are you screwing?!"
"I'm not screwing anyone!" Josie threw her arms up to protect herself. "Daddy... you're not making any sense."
"Bullshit." He wrapped his one hand around her throat. "You're exactly like you mother." He slowly tightened his grip. "You're gonna up and leave me like that whore."
Josie kicked and swung around. It wasn't working. Her father was too drunk and too strong for her to fight off. She looked around her and saw the baseball bat that her father kept close to the door each night in case someone tried to break in. She reached for it and finally was able to grab it. She used all the strength she had in her body and swung the bat down. There was a sickening crack and his body went limp. She didn't know if she'd killed him or not, but she was getting out of there. She coughed as she ran out of the front door. She knew that almost everyone next door would be asleep, but she could see the light on in the basement. That was Antonio. He was still awake. She ran through the pouring rain and slid through the lawn. She fell a couple times but kept going. If she hadn't killed him, her father would be royally pissed when he came to. She arrived to Antonio's bedroom window. She could see him tuning his guitar. She pounded on his window and prayed that he would look up.
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Antonio was deep in thought about the song he was working on when he heard loud pounding on his window. He turned around and looked up. Josie was pounding on the window. Her face was covered in mud and she looked terrified. He dropped his guitar on the bed and ran to the window. He could see the fear in her eyes and tears streaming through the mud on her face. He signalled to the back door and ran to meet her. He bolted to the basement walkout door and unlocked it. The instant it opened, Josie threw herself into his arms and sobbed. Antonio pulled her in tightly and looked outside. There was no one there, so he closed and locked the door. "Josie, baby... are you hurt?" Josie shook her head and then nodded. Antonio was livid. He had an idea of what had happened. He wasn't going to make her walk to his room. He saw how she had limped to get to the door. He lifted her into his arms and carried her to his room. "Okay, hold on. I'm gonna sit you down here, and I'm gonna tidy off the bed. I wanna look you over... then we're calling the cops."
Josie cried out. "NO!"
"Jo, come on. Your dad did this... he needs to be dealt with."
"They're all buddies with him. They'll defend him... cover up for him." She was hyperventilating.
"Okay, okay. I won't call them... yet. But you have to calm down."
Josie nodded.
"Okay, good. I'm gonna grab some towels to help get some of this mud off and see what we're dealing with. If you're badly hurt, I'm going to have to take you to a hospital."
"I can live with that." Josie nodded. She carefully pulled off her robe.
Antonio went to grab towels and the first aid kit he kept in the bathroom. He went back to his room. Josie was still crying. He grabbed some tissues and wiped the tears away. "Babe, can you tell me what happened?"
She sniffled and took a pre-offered tissue and blew her nose. "Yeah. Um... so I was taking off my makeup... I heard a bunch of ruckus coming from the living room. I went to see... I shouldn't have... but I did. Dad was there... He was drunk... he was tossing the place. I don't know why, so I headed back to my room. The stairs creaked, so he came after me. I tried to run, but he grabbed my ankle and pulled me down the stairs. I banged my back and shoulders pretty badly. He called me a whore... told me I was trying to leave like Mama did. He... he... tried to strangle me. I tried to fight..." She broke down and began to bawl. "I couldn't... he was too strong. I was blacking out... and I saw the bat... I just grabbed it and swung. I hit him. He collapsed. Not sure if he's dead or I just knocked him out... I don't care. I'm not going back." She was shaking.
Antonio, not giving a damn about the mud that covered his girlfriend, pulled her in. "Jo, I'm not gonna let him hurt you again."
"How... how can you protect me? He's..."
"I'm not letting you out of my sight. If I can't call the cops, I'll call your mom. She's gotta be able to help us somehow."
"Antonio... can I get this mud... and blood off?" She pointed to her knees and elbows.
He nodded. Calling Dixie would have to wait. "I'll help you to the shower." He helped her up. He had to really support her when her knees buckled under her. "Okay, I'm gonna carry you there. Did you twist your ankle?"
"Probably. It's pouring buckets out there." She sighed. She nuzzled into his shoulder. "You're really warm."
He shook his head. "No, you're freezing. You ran outside in a September rain storm... in next to nothing. We'll be lucky if you don't catch pneumonia."
"I'm wearing pyjamas." She looked around as they passed the kitchen. "I didn't realize you had a suite down here."
"Mami and Papi had it built for Tiago originally, but since he's in Law School, planning a wedding, and living with his fiancée, they offered it to me instead. So I live here, but eat with them most nights."
"So they don't come down here?"
"Not usually. Which is probably a good thing right now. I have no idea how to explain this to them." Antonio kicked the bathroom door open and used his elbow to turn the light on. "So, can you stand on your own to shower?"
"I doubt it... look." She lifted her left leg.
Antonio looked at it. Her ankle was swollen and even through the mud, he could see the bruising. She'd sprained it good. "I'm not sure how I'm supposed to help you here... if you can't stand... I don't got a tub..."
"Come with me." She whispered.
"Jo... not sure that's the best idea." He knew what could happen if he got in that shower with her.
"Antonio... I want to be clean... and I can't stand." She begged him.
"Okay." He sat her on the lid of the toilet. "I'm gonna grab something for you to change into. I'm gonna get that clothes washed for you too. Just stay here. Okay."
"I can't really go anywhere, Antonio."
"I know. Habit." He kissed her forehead and went to grab some of his clothes for her to change into. He pulled out one of his baggier T-Shirts and pulled one of his pairs of sweats. They would be huge on her, but it was better than having her running around his place naked. He went back to the bathroom. "So, this is going to be huge on you, but at least it's clothes." He put the clothes and towel on the counter and turned the water on in the shower. "Let's get you out of these muddy clothes. Lean into me." He helped her up. "Let's start with the top."
Josie, leaning on Antonio, raised her arms. Antonio pulled the tank top she had on off. He focused on his breathing. Now was not the time to let his hormones go out of control. "How's the shoulder?"
"It hurts like a bitch." She said as she put her arms back down.
Antonio noticed she made no efforts to cover herself. "Let me see your back." Josie leaned into him for him to look closer at her back. He could see the bruises from the stairs developing on her back. She was going to be in pain for the next little bit. "Okay, let's get you back down."
"How bad is it?" She asked as she sat back on the toilet cover.
"You're gonna hurt like hell. The bruising's already coming out."
"I guess I'm not going swimming any time soon." Josie laughed softly. "Oh, my ribs hurt."
"They would after that." Antonio said. "Okay, time to get you out of these." He pulled her shorts and underwear off. "Okay, the water should be warm enough." He helped her up and slid the shower door open. He was probably going to be more uncomfortable than her, but he had to get in there with her. "One step in." He helped her get her injured foot in and then stepped in after her. He slid he door closed. "Okay. I'm gonna grab the shampoo behind you and wash you hair. Just lean into me."
"Antonio... you're all wet... and you're wearing clothes."
"I'll live." He said squirting a little shampoo into his hand. He massaged the shampoo into her hair. "I'm more worried about you right now."
"That feels good." She moaned. "I like that a lot."
Antonio laughed. "I'm glad I can help. Tilt your head back and I'll give you a good rinse." He rinsed his hands and then rinsed out her hair. "I'd put in conditioner, but I don't got any."
"You have something to get rid of the dirt... it's gross."
"Yeah, as long as you're okay with smelling like Irish Spring."
"I don't care." Josie whispered. "I just want the mud off of me."
Antonio took the face cloth and the soap and began to wash the mud and blood off her body. Her body was soft and curvy. She was as voluptuous as he had thought. He also took note that she kept herself smooth all over. It took every ounce of self-control in his body to not want to take her right there. They hadn't talked about that part of their relationship yet. He wasn't going to force her to do anything either. It didn't help that she was only 17 and he was going to be 21 in October. He grabbed the showerhead and rinsed Josie off. Josie moaned as the hot water ran down her body. Antonio had to fight the blood surging through his body at that sound. Josie held onto Antonio's strong arms as he rinsed the soap off her back and legs. She may have been naïve in how relationships worked but she definitely knew that Antonio was dealing with more than just her injuries right now. She was pressed right into him. She could feel the bulge that was growing below his waist. She was thankful the water was hot, it gave her an excuse for the red cheeks she must've had by this point.
"You've got soap all over you." She whispered hoarsely.
"I know. I'll wash off after I get you seated and towelled off."
"No, Antonio... I can lean on you... while you rinse off."
"Baby, you okay?"
She looked up into his eyes. "Yeah. I'm fine."
"Your voice is different."
"Um... well... I may be injured but I can uh... feel..." She didn't realize what she was doing, but her hand slid down from his shoulders, past his chest to the bulge that was very noticeable.
"Jo..." He gasped as her touch sent a jolt through his body. "Babe, we haven't talked about that yet..."
"I know... just... I'm sorry." Josie pulled her arm back.
"Jo... I didn't mean that. It's... I don't want to take advantage of you. You're 17... I can wait."
"Antonio... you're human. I get how biology works."
"Baby... it's not something... to take lightly." He had to fight back his primal urges. He wasn't a virgin by far, but he wasn't about to ravage her to take her virginity.
"Oh." Josie hadn't taken that into consideration. "I'm of legal age of consent."
"That's not the point." Antonio groaned. "I want to... I won't lie... but right now, you're hurt... and I can't just take that."
"Then we'll talk about it." Josie said, gently stroking his cheek. "You said we weren't going anywhere and nothing would break us apart. So, we talk about this stuff."
"If you insist. We'll talk. Now let's dry off and then we'll get some ice on your ankle." He turned off the tap and slid the door open. Somehow, he managed to keep his balance and grabbed the towel from the counter. "Here." He wrapped her in the oversized bath towel and helped her to sit back down. Then he stepped back into the shower and quickly rinsed himself off with cold water in hopes to calm his raging hormones. Then he stripped his soaked clothing off and wrung them out. He poked his head out. "Can you hand me the towel from the rod?"
Josie grabbed the aforementioned towel and handed it to him. She watched as he wrapped himself in it. She knew she hadn't been imagining his size as she caught a glimpse of him fully naked. She turned her glance away. She didn't want him to catch her staring. Once he was wrapped, he got out of the shower and tossed his wet clothes into the hamper that was by the door. He gently picked her up and carried her back to his bedroom. He laid her on the bed gently and padded to the kitchen to get some ice from the fridge. He couldn't find his icepack so he grabbed the bag of frozen peas and a dishtowel. He wrapped the towel around the peas and headed back to his room. "Here." He lifted her ankle and put a couple pillows under it and then rearranged his pillows so she could recline on them. He then put the peas on her swollen ankle.
"Oh! That's cold."
"It'll help with the swelling." Antonio moved up the bed to be closer to her. He wrapped his arm around her. "Once that's been on for about 15 minutes, I'll take it off and we can get you into that spare clothes."
"Your parents aren't going to be suspicious about all this racket?"
"They don't hear anything that's going on down here. It's a good arrangement. I just wish I could hide you here until you were 18. Then you would never have to see that monster again."
"He'd still try to run my life." Josie sighed. "I don't know what's gotten into him. He's been getting worse since he got into that Gang Unit."
"They don't necessarily have the best rep, Jo. I've heard stories... and I'm not even on the job yet."
"When do you report for your first shift?" She asked.
"Next week. I asked to start a week later to work some stuff out here."
"What kinda stuff?"
"The stuff where I can guarantee my girlfriend is safe. The stuff that will one day allow us to live our lives without being constantly looking over our shoulders for your dad."
"Sounds like a plan." She nuzzled into him. "You smell good."
"So do you." He kissed her forehead. "How are you feeling now?"
"Better." She admitted. "The ice is helping."
"Maybe I should get you some Advil or something. It should help with the pain."
"You sure you're not a doctor in disguise?"
Antonio shook his head. "No. Just did enough first aid courses over the years. Be right back." He got off the bed and went to his medicine cabinet. He took two Advil and grabbed a bottle of water from the fridge. He was going to deal with this, but only after Josie was asleep. He went back to his room and handed her the medication. He then quickly grabbed her muddy clothes and his soaked clothes and tossed them in the washer and set it on a quick cycle.
"Antonio?" Josie called.
"Coming." He called back. He really wanted to call the cops, but he knew Josie was right. They would just cover for her dad. It was a perk of him being a Detective in the Gang Unit. He was pissed. He punched the punching bag that hung near the washer before turning back to go see what Josie needed. "Yeah, baby?"
"You said we'd talk."
"I was also kinda hoping you'd forget about that." He answered her.
"Antonio. I'm not a prude."
"I know that, Jo. I also know how big of a deal it is to have..."
"Antonio, you're worried about my virginity? Don't be. I'm old enough to make that decision for myself."
"I know. Josie, trust me, I know. And if you had suggested that to me a year ago, I would've jumped at the chance to be intimate with a girl like you... but now... I love you. I don't want you to make this decision hastily... it's not something you can take back."
"Antonio." Josie reached for his hand. "I'm not making this decision lightly... or hastily for that matter. I just want to talk about it. It's almost as if you're avoiding the subject."
"Can I be honest with you?"
"Always. I prefer my men being honest over lying assholes." Josie said.
"I regret my first time. I regret not waiting... I regret not being in it for the relationship."
"How old were you?"
"16."
"How old was she?"
"We were both 16."
"Was she your girlfriend?"
"It wasn't like that... and that's the problem." Antonio sighed. "I wanted to be like the other guys on the boxing team. They'd all gotten laid and it's all they talked about."
"So, because you wanted to fit in..."
"I gave it to the first girl who was willing to... and she sure as hell wasn't a virgin. It's why I don't want to pressure you... and I hope no one is pressuring you from the outside."
Josie pulled him to her and kissed him. "Antonio... I'm not being pressured by anyone. I wouldn't do anything I didn't want to. I saw how your body reacted... I felt it. I want you to know... my body was doing the exact same thing. Is that why you went back into ice cold water after you got me out?"
Antonio nodded. "Yeah. I don't want to hurt you more than you already are."
"My ankle is a long way away from there."
"Okay... I make you a deal."
"Shoot." Josie batted her eyes at him.
"The next time the mood strikes... and you're ready... then... and only then, will I make love to you."
"Deal." She extended her hand.
He shook it but then kissed her deeply. "Now, I'm gonna put this ice away and check on the clothes. You... are going to rest."
"Aye aye." She mock saluted him.
"Oh, Josie." He laughed. He took the bag of peas and went to the kitchen. He changed the laundry around and headed back to his room. When he got there, Josie was looking at his baby album. "Where'd you find that?"
"In this drawer." She pointed to his nightstand. "You were really cute." She yawned, then covered her mouth. "Oops. Sorry."
"It's almost 4 am... you should get some sleep."
"What about you?"
"I'll sleep once I wind down. I'm still too mad."
"Will you at least stay with me?" She asked.
"If that's what you want. I'm just as comfortable on the couch as I am here."
"Please, stay."
"Okay. First, let's ditch this wet towel and get you into a shirt." He helped her reposition on the bed. He gently pulled the towel away and tossed it onto a pile of clothes. He pulled his shirt out on and helped her get it on. The shirt went to her mid-thigh. "Do you want the sweats too?"
Josie shook her head. "This is enough. Are you sleeping in a wet towel?"
Antonio looked down. "Uh, no. I'll put some boxers on." He caught the hint of smile on her lips. "No peeking."
"But..."
He tried to look at her sternly, but couldn't keep a straight face. "Whatever." He laughed. He went to his dresser and pulled out a pair of boxer briefs. He dropped the towel that had hung loosely on his hips. He kept his back to her.
Josie wasn't going to complain. Antonio's body was muscular. His waist and hips were narrow. His butt was tight and round. She forced herself to close her mouth. She caught a quick glimpse of the rest of him as he pulled on his underwear. She knew that when it came to that time, he was going to have to be gentle. He wasn't small.
"Better?" He asked as he turned around.
"Much." She grinned. She patted the bed next to her.
Antonio got on the bed and pulled the blankets over them. He pulled Josie closer, mindful of her ankle, and kissed her forehead. "Get some sleep."
"Mhm." She mumbled as she laid her head on his chest. It was a matter of minutes before she was sound asleep.
Antonio just held her. His brain was going a mile a minute. He wanted to go over there and kill Billy Fraser. He wanted to find a cop who wasn't corrupt who would do something about him. He wanted to have her stay with her for the rest of her life, safe and sound. When he knew she was in a deep sleep, he gently put her on the pillows and quietly got out of bed. He pulled on a T-shirt and a pair of sweats. He was going to go and deal with this. He snuck out the door and headed to Josie's house.
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The door to Josie's house was closed, but it wasn't locked and the alarm wasn't set. Antonio looked around. He saw the mess that Billy had made. He looked to the stairs and in the faint light he could make out the silhouette of a man crumpled at the bottom. He carefully walked over to the slumped figure and check to see if he was breathing. Billy Fraser was still alive and Antonio could smell the alcohol on him. "Fucking drunk." He muttered. He picked Billy up off the floor and dragged him to the living room. There he put him on one of the chairs. He went to the hall closet and found a scarf. It would have to do. He tied it as tightly as he could around the unconscious man. Once he was tied up, Antonio went to grab some ice-cold water. He tossed the water on Billy. Billy jolted awake.
"Who? What? Who are you?" Billy bellowed.
Antonio tried his best to disguise his voice. "Doesn't matter. All that matters is I know what you put your daughter through, you son of a bitch." Antonio didn't even realize what he was doing until it was too late. He threw a hard right cross to Billy's jaw. He heard a sickening crunch. Billy cried out in pain. Antonio then swung a left hook. By this point, blood was gushing from Billy's nose and Antonio could see he'd busted Billy's lip open. He stopped. "You ever... ever lay a hand on that girl again, and there's no one in this world who can cover for you or protect you. Do you understand me?"
Billy nodded weakly, coughing up some blood. "Who are you?"
"Who I am doesn't matter. All that matters is you let Josephine live her life the way she wants and you stay the fuck away from her. You don't... and next time... I'm bringing some friends... and you will be done." Antonio threw one last punch, knocking Billy out cold. He undid the scarf and took it with him. He wiped away any trace he may have left and head back to his house. He closed the door behind him and prayed that Josie would still be asleep.
When he got back to his suite, he washed his hands and hid the scarf. He tossed his now bloody shirt and pants into the washer and set it to wash. He took Josie's clothes from the dryer and put them in a nice pile on his dresser. She was still sound asleep, her auburn locks framing her face. Even with the bruises that were forming, she looked like an angel. He climbed back into bed and held her tightly. He wasn't going to let go. Not now, not ever.
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The sun beamed through his bedroom window. Antonio groaned. He looked at the clock. It was almost 8. Normally, he'd be at the Academy, the gym or work by now, but today was definitely not normal. He looked next to him. Josie was still sound asleep. He kissed her cheek and quickly went to see if there was any ruckus going on next door. There weren't any cops there and Billy hadn't come pounding on his door yet. He suspected his parents or Gaby might get suspicious if he didn't come upstairs soon, but he didn't care anymore. He was exhausted. He crawled back into bed and snuggled next to Josie. He smiled when she moaned his name in her sleep. At least she was dreaming about him. He pulled on the cord for the blinds and his room got a little bit darker. He closed his eyes and dozed off again.
"Oh my God!" Gaby's voice jolted Antonio awake. "Antonio!"
"Gaby?" He rubbed his eyes. "Gaby!" He tried to sit up in bed but Josie's body held him down.
"Antono... what the fuck?!" She screeched as she pointed to Josie. "You... did you sleep with her?"
"Sleep. Gaby. That's all we did."
"So you didn't hook up with my best friend?" Gaby put her hands on her hips.
Josie began to stir. "What's with all the noise?" She yawned but winced as she tried to stretch. "Woah... uh... hi Gaby."
"Hi Josie... care to explain why you're wearing my brother's shirt and you're in bed with him... at noon?"
Josie looked to Antonio's nightstand. "Shit. My dad's going to be pissed."
"You're not going back there." Antonio held her back. "Not after last night."
Gaby leaned against the doorjamb. Antonio was acting differently. "What happened last night?"
"Josie's dad decided to beat her... drag her down the stairs... he fucking tried to strangle her." Antonio growled. "She hit him with a baseball bat and ran here in the pouring rain. She's got a sprained ankle, bruised back, ribs and shoulder."
"Josie!" Gaby exclaimed, rushing to the bed. "Why didn't you ring our bell?"
"Because you would've called the cops... Antonio wanted to... I didn't let him." Josie whispered. "I didn't want a huge fuss being raised. Antonio... he always said to come to his window if I needed anything... so I did."
"How bad?" Gaby asked, signalling to her back and shoulders. Josie turned and lifted the back of her borrowed T-shirt. Gaby gasped. "Jesus Christ! It looks like you got run over by a steam roller."
"It feels like I did." Josie groaned as she slid the T-shirt back down.
"Antonio's right. You're not going home." Gaby closed the bedroom door.
"He'll kill me if I don't." Josie protested.
"He'll kill you no matter what." Antonio said. "Look... Let me call your mom before we make any rush to decisions?"
"Fine." Josie leaned back against the pillows. "Can I get the bag of peas back? My ankle is really bugging me"
Antonio nodded. "Yeah." He signalled to Gaby to follow him. "We'll be right back." They closed the bedroom door behind them.
"You're seriously not calling the cops?" Gaby asked him once they were alone.
"Can't risk it. Josie thinks that some of them would cover for him."
"Shit."
"You're telling me." Antonio grabbed the bag of peas from the fridge and wrapped them in the towel. "Give this to her, and talk to her. I'm gonna call Dixie."
Gaby nodded and took the ice pack back to his room. He waited for her to close the door. He then grabbed the phone and dialled the number Dixie had given him in case of emergencies.
"Hello?"
"Dixie? It's Antonio." He sighed. "You got time?"
"Yeah, of course. What's going on?"
"Josie came with me to the Academy Graduation and Ball."
"Yes, I know that."
"I got her home a little later than expected... Billy was there... drunk as a skunk. Josie went downstairs to investigate the ruckus he was making. He attacked her, Dixie."
"Oh my God!" Dixie exclaimed. Her fear and worry was very clear over the phone line.
Antonio explained the entire story as Josie had told him. "She ran over here, sprained her ankle and pounded on my window. She stayed with me. I don't want her going back there, Dixie. He'll kill her."
"Antonio, I didn't want her to stay there either!" Dixie exclaimed. "He used pull with the judges to get custody of her. They didn't even ask her what she wanted."
"There's gotta be something we can do." Antonio was exasperated.
"I've tried everything, Antonio. I have. Until she's 18, I can't do anything about it."
"What if I could do something?" Antonio asked.
"Like what?"
"Marry her. If she were my wife, he'd have no say over her."
"I know you'd protect her always, Antonio. It's something I wish I had found someone like you... instead of Billy."
"Was he always like that?"
Dixie laughed. "No. He wasn't. He was a great guy... then something happened after we moved to New Orleans and he changed. He turned into this guy... he wasn't the man I married... he wasn't the man who used to spoil Josie."
"Would it work... me marrying her?"
"Both of us would have to sign the papers... there's no way he'd agree to that. Does he even know that you're dating her?"
"No. Josie's terrified to tell him."
"I still have some friends in Chicago... I'll see if we can work something out. Maybe they can help us."
"Dixie, I know this affects you too... but what if she were to legally emancipate herself from you guys. I'm not saying she'd have to cut you out..."
"But if she were emancipated... she'd be free of him." Dixie finished Antonio's thought.
"Yeah."
"Ask your brother. He's in law school... he should be able to help us out... if that's an option... I'm all for it."
"I wish there were more I could do, Dixie. I love her."
"I know, Antonio. I know. All that matters is that she's safe." Dixie sighed. "Try and keep her safe... as soon as I know more of what my friends can do... I'll get back to you."
"Thank you, Dixie."
"No problem. Give Josie my love."
"I will." Antonio hung up the call. He sighed. Dixie was right. There wasn't much anyone could do for the next 9 months or so, at least until Josie was 18. He headed back to his bedroom to deliver the news.
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"Well?" Josie asked as Antonio opened the door.
"Your mom's hands are tied... we have a couple options... and she's talking to some friends here... see if they can help out."
"What are the options?" Gaby asked.
Antonio took a deep breath. "First one is, personally the one I'd go for... you and I get married he can't touch you anymore that way."
"He'd have to sign off on it, wouldn't he?" Josie interrupted him.
Antonio nodded. "Yeah... that's the catch. Your mom said no problem, but he's another story all together."
"He's a controlling psychopath!" Gaby exclaimed. "No way he'll go for that."
"What's the other option?" Josie kept her attention on Antonio.
"Other than killing him?" Gaby grumbled.
Antonio ignored Gaby's comment. "I'd have to talk to Tiago... but legally emancipating you from both your parents. You would legally be considered an adult and he couldn't fight it."
"Wouldn't that mean... Mama wouldn't be my mom anymore?" Josie tilted her head to one side, trying to stretch her neck.
"In the legal sense, yes... but it doesn't mean that you couldn't have her in your life... it would just be to get out from under Billy." Antonio concluded.
"Ask Tiago. It's gotta be the best choice."
"What are we going to do about her until then?" Gaby asked.
"Do what we can to have her spend the most time possible with us."
"Antonio, you guys can't just quit living to keep an eye on me." Josie said, carefully pulling the now semi-frozen peas from her ankle and massaging it. "You start work next week... Gaby has school and a life."
"You life trumps that." Gaby interceded.
Josie sighed and slumped back against the pillows. "I'm not going to win, am I?"
Gaby and Antonio nodded. "Nope."
"Can we not tell your parents?" Josie asked.
"It's going to be kinda hard to explain the bruises and why you're hiding in Antonio's bedroom." Gaby pointed out.
"I just don't want anyone going after my dad for this."
Antonio crossed his arms.
"Antonio? What did you do?" Josie asked, flinching as she tried to move on the bed.
"I went over there... I made sure that he got the message that you are off limits."
"Did you...?" Josie was genuinely worried that Antonio had killed her father.
He shook his head. "No. I didn't kill the son-of-a-bitch. He deserves it, but I didn't."
"Okay." Josie groaned. "Is there anymore Advil?"
"I'll get it." Gaby patted Antonio on the shoulder. "You may want to tell Mami that Josie's hiding here."
"I know." Antonio went and sat on the bed next to Josie. "I did mean it when I said I'd marry you right now."
"He won't let that happen." Josie laid her head on his chest. "It would be the best choice."
"I know, babe. I'm sorry."
"It's not your fault, Antonio." Josie whispered. "You're doing what you can."
"I'm not losing you, Josie. I love you... and I have a plan for us... just... I guess, we'll have to wait a few more months."
Josie nodded. "I love you."
He kissed her forehead and rubbed her back gently. There had to be another way.
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October...
"So, you and Antonio have plans for his birthday?" Gaby asked.
Josie nodded. She had plans all right. She just wasn't going to be sharing them with her boyfriend's sister, even if she was her best friend.
"Well, dish!" Gaby poked her in the ribs.
"Gaby... Seriously?"
"Well, at least tell me what you got him."
Josie hadn't thought about that. "I... um..."
"Ladies!" Miss Kincade called their attention. "Could we focus a little more on the Treaty of Versailles and a little less on whatever gossip you've got going on over there?"
The girls nodded and clamped their mouths shut. Despite Miss Kincade being engaged to Tiago, she still treated them like every other student. They set to create notes for their upcoming World War I exam. Gaby passed Josie a small piece of paper.
Can we talk about it after class?
Josie made sure that their teacher's attention was elsewhere. She mouthed. 'Yes, now study.'
Gaby grinned and went back to making the timeline for their exam. Josie just shook her head and went back to writing out the key players for both sides. She had a plan, but there was definitely nothing planned for his birthday gift. She sighed. Ever since that night, two weeks ago, Billy had kept his distance from her. Whatever Antonio had told him, it had worked. She was able to spend more time there. The only condition was that she at least made him a meal for each night. Gaby had helped her make multiple meals that could be heated up as soon as he got home and left them in the freezer for him. This meant she was safe... for now. The bell rang. Both girls closed their binders and packed away their things.
"Gaby, Josie." Miss Kincade walked over to their table.
"Miss Kincade." Gaby smiled.
"I know it's hard for you two... especially with me marrying Tiago... but try to focus."
"Yes, ma'am." Josie grinned. "We're going to try our best."
"Good. I'll see you guys Friday for Antonio's birthday supper?" Both girls nodded. "Great. Well, study hard. See you girls Friday."
Gaby and Josie nodded again and bolted for the door. Since that incident, Antonio and his dad, Miguel, had found a car for Josie to use. She had her license and now she had a little car to get her and Gaby around each day, especially now that they were both volunteering at Chicago Med as readers to the elderly patients. They had to leave right away to make it there on time. Some of their patients had a very specific schedule.
"So," Gaby got in the passenger seat. "What's the deal?"
"I have plans for Antonio and me this Saturday."
"I got that. What are they?"
Josie glared at Gaby before putting the car in reverse to pull out of her stall.
"Seriously, what are you doing?"
"I'm making him a special supper... then we'll see what happens."
"Josie... are you planning on what I think you're planning."
"I'm not saying anything."
Gaby leaned back in the seat. "Hmm. Well, do you have a gift for him?"
"Not yet. I don't know what to get him."
"If I were you, I'd just stick a bow on my head and call it a day."
"Gabriela Maria Dawson!" Josie exclaimed. "Seriously?"
"What? It's free."
"It's also something that is not just a giveaway."
Gaby grinned. "So you two talked about it."
Josie sighed. "Look, we have... he told me only when I was ready."
"And... are you?"
"You really wanna know if I plan on having sex with your brother?"
"Uh..." Gaby thought about it for a second. "No."
"There. So what can I give him for his birthday?"
"Maybe some new boxing gloves?"
"Seriously?" Josie signaled to turn into the hospital parkade. "That's really romantic."
"Cut the sarcasm, Josie. You know he goes through those like toothbrushes."
"Hmm... maybe... oh... I have an idea..."
Gaby put the hospital parking pass on the rear-view mirror as Josie parked the car. "What is it?"
"Would he wear a chain or something?"
"Like a cross?"
"I was thinking more like a dog tag... but yeah." Josie grabbed her bag with the variety of books she's read to the patients.
"Sounds cool. When you gonna pick it up?"
"Maybe after we're done here?" Josie locked the car.
Gaby straightened her uniform, looked at her watch and nodded. "The mall will still be open."
The two headed inside to try and make the patients' day a little brighter.
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It was Friday and Josie was pumped. Luckily for Gaby and her, it was an early day today. The teachers had staff meetings, which meant the kids got to leave at lunch. Gaby and Josie were going to go and get ready after that. Mainly, Josie was going to get ready. Gaby had gone with her to the mall to get Antonio's gift as well as a new dress. Josie's mom had insisted on sending her money for it, so Josie did as her mother asked. The dress she bought was perfect for tonight and any other semi-formal date nights they may have in the future. She made sure she put Antonio's ring on her hand as she did every morning and put on the chain with the heart pendant. She never went anywhere without them. She went downstairs and set to making herself some breakfast.
"Josephine." Billy's voice made her jump.
"Ye... yes daddy?"
"Will you be home this weekend?"
"Um, I'm not sure. Depends on how much work we get done on our Biology project today."
"I see."
"Will... will you be home this weekend?"
Billy poured himself some coffee. "No. I was just hoping you'd be home to make sure that the lawn was cut and that the laundry was done."
"I can do that. For sure." Josie nodded. "Are you going on a case?" She prayed that Billy didn't notice the ring... or the chain.
Billy nodded. "Yes. It's going to be a long one... are you going next door today?"
Josie wasn't sure where he was going with this, but she nodded. "Yeah. Gaby has the stuff for the Biology project there... and they've invited me to go for dinner tonight. It's Antonio's birthday."
"Ah... good." He reached into his pocket. "Can you give this to them?" He handed her a sealed envelope.
"Yes, sir."
"Good. Now... behave... I'll call when I can. Umm... I'm sorry... about that night. I really am."
Josie was speechless. She just nodded and took a sip of her orange juice.
"I'll see you when I get back." Billy grabbed his bag and left.
Josie just sat in shock. She was still trying to figure things out when Antonio appeared at her back door. She shook her head to clear it and went to let him in.
"I saw your dad just leave. Everything okay?"
Josie nodded. "Yeah. Um... he gave me a letter to give to your parents." She handed him the envelope. "He didn't say who I should give it to though."
Antonio sighed. "Well, I can read it or you can give it to Mami and she'll just tell me about it later."
"If you read it, will you tell me what's in it?"
Antonio cocked his head to one side, causing his earring to glimmer in the morning sun. "Depends."
Josie reached for the letter but Antonio hid it behind his back and kissed her. "What was that for?" She asked.
"It's what I was hoping for when I first showed up... not a letter from your dad."
Josie put her hands on her hips. "Fine, I'm sorry. Good morning and Happy Birthday, babe." She then wrapped his arms around his neck and kissed him. "Better?"
Antonio grinned. "Much." He looked at the envelope. "I'll read it and yes, I'll tell you what it says... then I'll give it to Mami." He wiped his shoes on the doormat and took off his police hat as he walked into the house. He sat on the barstool next to Josie's. Josie sat down and finished her breakfast while Antonio read the letter. "It says, 'Mr. & Mrs. Dawson. You may not know me... and you may not like what you've heard about me, but I have a favour to ask. I'm going into a deep cover assignment and I'm not sure how long it'll last. I know how close Josephine is with your daughter, Gabriela. If you could, please keep an eye on her. Should something happen, I would be greatly appreciative if you could take care of her until her mother is able to be reached. I will leave an envelope for your son, Antonio, at the District to cover any costs that you may incur in while watching over my daughter. Thank you. Billy Fraser."
Josie choked on the last bit of her toast. Antonio patted her on the back. "What?"
Antonio handed her the letter. "It's what it says."
"Holy shit!" Josie exclaimed. "I... I'm at a loss here."
"So am I." Antonio handed her her glass. "Drink this."
Josie finished off the orange juice. "What... I..."
"I know. Look... I can try and see if I can get any information... if you want."
"Sure." Josie nodded. "Just don't go getting into trouble to get it."
"I won't." He stroked her cheek. "You're gonna be late for school."
"Officer Dawson, if I'm late for school... you're gonna be late for roll call."
Antonio glanced at his watch. "Shit. You're right." He kissed her quickly but deeply. "I'll see you tonight?"
Josie nodded. "Yep. Are we still good for tomorrow? Just the two of us?"
Antonio nodded. "Can't wait. Love you, Jo."
"Love you, Tonio." She grinned. "Now, git... my dad may look for you to give you that other envelope. I'll give this one..." She grabbed it from Antonio. "To your mom when I pick up Gaby."
"Behave yourselves today."
"Always."
Antonio stole another kiss before putting on his hat and leaving. Josie locked the back door and headed to pick Gaby up for school.
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Antonio arrived right on time to meet with Trudy Platt. She was his partner for the time being and his training officer. She was a hard ass but that was to be expected with a new patrolman right out of the Academy.
"Dawson, you're cutting it awfully close, aren't you?"
"What are you talking about?"
"Detective Fraser's been looking for you."
Antonio gulped. The last thing he needed was for Billy Fraser to be getting too close to him and finding out that Antonio was dating Josie. "Uh, where is he?" Trudy pointed behind him. Antonio spun around and came face to face with Billy Fraser. "Uh, good morning, Detective."
Billy grunted. "Morning. I need to speak to you."
"Uh, sure."
Billy lead him to one of the empty offices. "In here." He waited for Antonio to step in before closing the door.
"What... uh... what can I help you with?"
"I know you're dating my daughter, Dawson."
Antonio knew his eyes gave away the fear he was feeling. "Umm."
"Don't try to deny it. I saw the necklace you gave... she's wearing a high school ring that she shouldn't have until June... am I close?"
Antonio nodded. "Yes, sir."
"Dawson, look me in the eye and tell me exactly what it is you want to come of this relationship with my daughter."
Antonio took a deep breath and hoped to hell his voice wasn't shaking too badly. "I want a life with her, sir. This isn't just some fling or me trying to get in her pants. I genuinely love her... I don't want anything to happen to her."
"Is that why you came and 'talked' to me a couple weeks back?"
"Yes." Antonio said more bravely than he felt. "I was worried for her."
"I want you to know I can't forgive myself for what I did that night. And I deserved what you gave me." Billy leaned against the desk. "I love my daughter... just..."
"Sir, you don't owe me an explanation." Antonio said quickly. "I just want what's best for her."
"Did your mother get the letter?"
Antonio nodded. "Yes. I was there when Josie delivered it."
"Do you know what it says?"
"Yes."
"Then you understand why I've been looking for you?"
Antonio shook his head. "No, not really."
"I want to give you the money needed to keep care of her. I'm not sure how long I'll be under, and I don't want to put your parents out of their way to keep an eye on her. I also wanted to know what your intentions were... in case she needs someone else to go to for help."
"I understand. Sir, one day... I hope to marry her... when she's ready. I don't plan on pressuring her for anything. That's now how I want our relationship to work. But, I do have one question."
"Shoot." Billy crossed his arms.
"Why doesn't Dixie take care of her?"
"That's a good question and one that, maybe... one day I'll explain. For now, just understand that her mother and I fell apart... and we're doing what we both think is best for Josephine." Billy reached into his breast pocket. "This should cover what's needed. If not... I'll check in with you and you can tell me if she needs more."
"Thank you, sir."
"Watch over my baby, Antonio... something happens to her on your watch... and you won't be around long enough to make Detective."
Antonio gulped. "Yes, sir. I understand."
"Good." Billy offered a rare smile. "Now get going before Trudy starts riding your ass."
Antonio took the envelope and headed out of the office. He locked the envelope in the safe and headed to find his partner. He had no idea of what he'd tell Josie, but he knew that she would need to know that her father knew about them.
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Josie was in the middle of practicing her lines for their upcoming one-act plays for Theatre when Gaby basically pounced on her. "Jesus Christ!" Josie exclaimed. "Gaby!"
Mr. Rogers, their theatre teacher, looked to Josie. "Josephine! Language."
"Sorry, sir." Josie apologized. This was one of those occasions where Josie wished she wasn't in a Catholic school. "It won't happen again." When he turned back to give advice to another group of students, Josie turned to Gaby. "What the hell was that?"
"Sorry. Just... yeah... sorry." Gaby hugged her. "So... you excited about tonight?"
"Excited... nervous... did you read the letter?"
"I caught a brief glimpse. Your dad's going deep cover and wants my parents to keep an eye on you."
"Yep."
"Then why exactly do you look like you're gonna puke?"
"I think he may know about me and Antonio."
Gaby's smile faded. "Seriously?"
Josie nodded. "Yeah. I didn't know he was home this morning, so I had put my ring and necklace on already."
"Shit." Gaby whispered. "Think he'd go after Antonio?"
Josie shrugged. "I have no clue anymore." She looked at the clock. "The bell's gonna ring right away. We can discuss this more once we're at my place getting ready."
Right on cue, the early dismissal bell rang. Mr. Rogers made sure everyone knew that the one-acts were being performed next week whether they were ready or not. He then wished them a good weekend and got out of the way before being stampeded by a group of teens that couldn't wait to get out of school for the weekend. Gaby and Josie booked it out of there and headed straight for the parking lot. Unlike a lot of their classmates, they had brought all their stuff with them to class to ensure they could make a quick getaway. They hopped in Josie's car and headed to her house.
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Antonio sighed. It was 5 and they were stuck in traffic. He groaned.
"Got somewhere to be, Dawson?" Trudy asked from the passenger seat.
Antonio sighed again. "Kinda, yeah. It's my birthday and my family has something planned... even though they think it's a surprise."
"Not a fan of surprise parties, Dawson?"
"It's not that... just... I would rather just have nice quiet family meal... or spend time with my girl."
"Ah. Detective Fraser's daughter."
Antonio nodded slowly.
Trudy laughed. "You got a death wish? There's only one other cop whose daughter would result in a death sentence. Hank Voight."
"I thought Voight only had a son."
"Well, yeah, but if he had a daughter... I pity the man that would try to date her. He would never stand a chance."
"Well, I have enough with Detective Fraser. He beat her you know."
Trudy turned to face him. "And you know this how?"
"She came to me. He'd done a number on her."
"Why the hell didn't you call it in?"
"Because... she didn't want me to. She's worried that there are corrupt cops like her dad."
"Ah." Trudy leaned back in her seat. "Let me guess, you don't think I'm on that list and that's why you're telling me this right now." When Antonio didn't say anything, Trudy added. "Right, Antonio?"
"Yeah, Trudy. That's right." Antonio groaned. "I just want her to have the best life possible... and I get that Fraser is a great detective in the Gang Unit... but he's a shitty father."
"Just don't let him hear you say that." Trudy pointed out. "He's liable to put you in the dirt."
"He knows about us. He also told me if I hurt her, I won't live long enough to make Detective."
"He's got a point, Ace." Trudy took a sip of her coffee. "Blech. It's cold." She put it back in the cup holder. "Look, as soon as we get through this traffic, and we're back at the District... punch out and take off. I'll finish up the paper work."
"Aren't you worried about the Sergeant..."
"He's a pussy cat. Just... go enjoy your birthday." Trudy smiled. "It's a big thing, ya know... family."
Antonio nodded. "Yes, yes it is." He focused on getting them back to the District as soon as possible.
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Josie was starting to pace in the Dawsons' living room. Antonio wasn't late, ever. "What if something happened?"
"Mija..." Liliana took Josie's hand and got her to sit on the couch. "It's Chicago. There's traffic. He may have a pile of paperwork to do too. He will be here."
"Does he suspect a surprise party?" Josie asked quietly.
"Probably." Tiago laughed. "We do this every year."
Gaby punched her older brother in the arm. "Tiago! He still acts surprised."
"Yeah... I know. I guess I just wonder why we try to surprise him."
"Maybe this year... we just don't say 'Surprise'." Miguel said. "We just have a nice family dinner and that would be a surprise."
They sat and chatted about a variety of things. Tiago and Rebecca talked about some of their weddings plans while Gaby and Josie discussed what they were going to be doing after senior year.
"You still planning on going back to New Orleans after we graduate?" Gaby asked.
Josie answered. "I'm not sure. As much as I love being back there... I don't want to leave what I have here."
"Josie," Tiago asked. "Have you started applying to schools yet?"
Josie nodded. "Yeah. Um... I mostly applied around here."
"What are you planning on pursuing?" Rebecca asked.
"Nursing." Josie smiled. "I want to be a nurse... preferably here in Chicago."
"You'll be a fantastic nurse." Miguel patted her hand. "And you, Gabriela... what have you decided?"
"Paramedic... for now. I also applied to be a firefighter."
"A... A what?" Liliana gasped. "Gabriela... why don't you apply for being a teacher or a lawyer... or a nurse?"
"Because, Mami... I don't want those things." Gaby said. "I want to be on the front lines."
"Ay yi yi." Liliana shook her head. "Why do two of my children have to decide to be doing crazy, dangerous jobs?"
"You think being a lawyer isn't crazy?" Tiago laughed.
"I can't win." Liliana tossed her arms up in the air.
The room went silent as they heard Antonio's car pull up. They weren't sure if they should shout 'surprise' or not. Josie took the initiative. She got off the couch and signalled to them to go and hide in the dining room. They'd surprise him, just differently than they normally would. She went to the door and waited until she saw Antonio's silhouette in the window. She took a deep breath and opened the door.
"Happy birthday, Officer Dawson." She blushed.
Antonio's eyes widened when he saw her. He dropped his bag and pulled her into his arms. "Awe, Josie." He lifted her and spun her around. "Thank you." He gently put her back on her feet. "How was your day?"
"Good." She grinned. "We started learning about reproduction in biology."
Antonio arched an eyebrow. "Did you now?"
Josie nodded. "How was your day?"
Antonio was dreading that question. "Um..." He closed the door, just in case his family was listening in. "Your dad knows that we're dating."
Josie's jaw dropped. "Wha... what? How?"
"He saw the ring and the necklace. He also knew it was me who went to confront him a couple weeks ago."
"Shit."
"He said he's fine with it... unless I hurt you. He said I do that... I won't live long enough to make Detective."
Josie sighed. "Well, at least it's something."
"He wants me to take care of you." He brushed her bangs from her eyes. "Which is probably the easiest thing for me to do." He bent down and kissed her.
Josie cupped his face with her hands, deepening the kiss. She was lost in the kiss when Antonio lifted her and she instinctively wrapped her legs around him. Antonio opened the door again and the two headed into the house, oblivious to the fact that his family was waiting for them inside. They were lost in the moment when Antonio's family jumped out from the dining room and shouted 'Surprise!'.
Antonio out of instinct dropped Josie and reached for his gun. Josie cried out as she ungracefully landed on the floor. Antonio's family froze. "Jesus Christ!" Antonio exclaimed.
"Sorry." Tiago and Gaby said as they carefully approached their brother.
"Ow." Josie groaned.
Gaby went to help her up but Antonio had beaten her to it. "Baby, Jo... I'm so sorry." He lifted her off the floor with ease. He kissed her. "I'm sorry, Josie." He had a tear slide down his cheek.
"Antonio, I'm fine... bruised but fine." Josie touched his cheek. "I guess I should've remembered they were hiding here."
"Well, for once we actually managed to surprise you, huh, bro?" Tiago poked Antonio in the ribs.
Antonio glared at his older brother. "Not funny."
"Well, if you hadn't been making out with her..."
"Children... enough." Miguel stood up. "It's done. As long as we have no broken bones... we can move on with tonight's activities. We have dinner reservations in about an hour, so... let's allow them to recover from our little snafu."
Liliana went and kissed Antonio's cheek. "Feliz cumpleaños, hijo."
"Gracias, Mami." Antonio smiled. "We'll be right back." He took Josie's hand and together they headed to his basement suite.
As soon as they were downstairs, Antonio started to apologize, but Josie stopped him. "Baby, I forgot they were there. It's on me too."
"I dropped you."
"And I hurt my pride... nothing else. Come on, change. Your family won't tell me where we're going for dinner."
"Interesting." Antonio laughed. "I'll go change into something a little fancier than my uniform."
Josie took his hand. "Antonio... you don't have to hide from me... we've seen each other naked... well you've seen me naked... I've seen you more or less naked."
"Miss Fraser... what are you up to?" Antonio cocked his head to the left.
"Nothing... just... you don't have to change behind closed doors anymore, baby."
Antonio nodded. "Okay... then you can help me pick out my outfit."
Josie then followed him into his room. She went to his closet and pulled out his black suit. She then went through his dress shirts. She pulled out a blue shirt that closely matched her dress. It was a sharp royal blue. She then pulled a black and silver tie to go with it. "Here." She turned to hand him his clothes and her jaw dropped. "Antonio." She gasped.
"What?" Antonio smirked. He was standing there in nothing but his boxer briefs.
"Uh... um... hi." Josie stammered.
"Hi." He laughed.
Josie had to take in the sight that was Antonio Dawson. He stood there and she could see every tight muscle in his body. Being a boxer and a cop definitely did a body good. She could also tell that he was definitely well endowed. She took a deep breath.
"You like what you see, darlin'?"
Josie nodded slowly. "Uh huh." She finally said. "Um... before I act on what I'm feeling right this second... I'm going to hand you your clothes... otherwise, we'll never make that reservation."
Antonio took the clothes from her and kissed her gently. "Josie... right now... you're not the only one fighting feelings."
Josie's cheeks instantly turned red. "Umm." She sat on his bed and watched him get dressed. Every single muscle in his body was toned. She could see how the flexed when he put his shirt on and when he pulled on his pants. Her mind suddenly went to how those muscles would look when he made love to her.
"Jo?" Antonio waved his hand in front of her face. "You there?"
Josie shook her head to clear those thought. "Yeah. I'm ready when you are."
Antonio extended his hand. "Then let's get going before my sister and brother come barging down here."
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The real surprise was where Liliana and Miguel Dawson decided to take the family for supper that night. Antonio had followed the directions his mother had given him and his jaw dropped when they pulled up in front of Gibson's Bar and Steakhouse. "Holy shit!" He exclaimed.
Josie looked between him and the restaurant. "Umm... I've never been here before."
"Neither have I. It's one of the priciest steakhouses in Chicago." Antonio was in awe. "I... I've always wanted to come here. Mami and Papi always said it was too much for steak."
"I guess your 21st birthday makes it a very special occasion." Josie squeezed his hand. "Let's go. They're waiting for us."
Antonio got out of the car and went around to help Josie out. Arm in arm, they met his family. They walked in and were quickly seated in a more private area.
"Mami... this..." Antonio whispered.
"Is worth it. You became a police officer... it's your 21st birthday... you have a girl we all adore... I cannot think of a bigger reason to take you here." She patted his hand. "Te quiero, mijo."
"Te quiero mucho." He kissed her cheek. "Thank you."
"Did we finally manage to surprise you?" Miguel asked.
Antonio nodded. "Very much. It's... it's the best birthday I could've ever imagined."
Josie was sitting on his left side and was going over the evening's menu. Her jaw must've have dropped because Tiago, who was on her other side, whispered. "Don't worry about the cost."
Antonio leaned into Josie. "Babe, something wrong?"
"Uh... the cheapest steak is 42 dollars." She whispered. "I can't ask your parents to pay that... the bill's gonna be horrendous."
Antonio whispered back. "Darlin', order what you want. They wouldn't have brought us here if they couldn't afford it."
Josie knew that that was true, but she felt guilty about the thought of a 42-dollar filet minion. She continued to browse the menu while the others discussed their day's events. When the waiter arrived to take their order, she was still trying to figure out what she wanted to eat.
"She'll have your filet minion, medium well." Antonio spoke up for her. "She'd also like a Caesar salad and a root beer if you have it."
The waiter nodded and headed back to place the order.
"How... how did you...?" Josie stammered.
"I know you love steak... I know how you like your steak... I also know that you love root beer." Antonio took her hand. "We said don't worry... remember?"
Josie settled in after that. The evening was spent discussing what was going to be happening come the end of the school year, how Antonio's patrol was going or Tiago and Rebecca's wedding. While the wedding discussion was going on, Josie silently prayed that she and Antonio would get to share that too... and soon. She didn't care if she was 18 when she married him. She just knew that they were destined to be together.
As the evening winded down, everyone went their separate ways. Gaby and her parents headed home while Tiago and Rebecca were headed back to their place. Antonio and Josie were the only ones left.
"Well, what would you like to do?" Antonio asked.
"It's your birthday, Antonio. I think you should choose." Josie blushed.
"Well... I could choose to interrogate you about what you have planned for tomorrow."
"I would never tell you." Josie swore. "It's my surprise for you."
"Then, how about we go home and watch a scary movie together."
"Only if I get to sit in your lap."
"I can live with that." Antonio leaned down and kissed her.
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