Seasons
Fanfic by: NekoSama (aka Chris) and Doretta (aka Desiree)
Email: nekosama@ix.netcom.com and dstreeter78@yahoo.com
Status:Part 3
Catagory:Angst
Spoilers: none
Season: after Beholder
Rating: PG for violence.
Summary:A time for betrayal
Standard disclaimer: The Invisible Man and all the characters are not ours and are used without permission. We are not getting paid for this.
"The bathroom is through there," Arnaud pointed across the bedroom as he threw open the doors. "You'll have all the annemities you'll need while you're here."
Quinn stood watching as Arnaud paced the room, checking the locks on the windows and closing the blinds.
"You can sleep as much as you'd like." He took a breath as he turned to face his son. "What?" Arnaud noticed the solemn look on the boy's face.
"While I'm here?" he asked softly.
He wasn't sure what to say. Arnaud shoved his hands into his pockets and watched as Quinn walked over to the bed and took his coat off. He winced for effect.
"Are you in any pain?" Arnaud asked.
"A little."
"You have a nurse that you can call on if you need anything." He picked up the phone by the bed. "Just pick up the receiver. The line automatically connects to her."
Quinn noticed that there were no buttons on the phone. It was a paging phone only. He narrowed his eyes as he looked back up at his father. "What is this?"
"What is what?" Arnaud asked smiling.
Quinn took a step back, holding onto his stitches. They were killing him now.
"You can't be serious." He tried to look hurt.
"Quite." The word was very audible as Arnaud crossed the room and stood in front of Quinn. "I don't trust you, Quinn."
The boy looked away quickly, turning his back and crossing to the door. He walked through the doorway and down the hall.
"Then I'll leave right now." He was trying not to panic.
"No, actually....you won't." Arnaud motioned with his hand to a guard by the door. The large man moved and stood in front of Quinn.
"I'm just getting my bag," the boy growled, reaching down to the floor and snatching it up. He turned back and pushed past Arnaud. He bumped the man's shoulder as he walked by.
"You should be comfortable...." Arnaud started.
"Uh huh," Quinn said angrily as he stormed back into his room.
"You just can't leave."
"Yeah...I got that." He threw his bag on the bed and turned to glare at his father. "I'm tired."
"Then sleep." He turned to leave but stopped in the doorway. "Oh, and by the way." He put a finger to his lip as he looked back at Quinn smiling. "The door will remain locked until the nurse arrives. You'll not leave this room unless I'm advised, is that understood?"
Quinn took a few steps towards Arnaud.
"You're insane."
"Yes. And you're my son. Isn't it lovely?"
The two stood and stared at each other for what seemed like an eternity. Their eyes mirrored the madness they both felt. Quinn was in a silent rage.
Arnaud was beside himself with victory.
Quinn could think of nothing to say as Arnaud turned his back and left the room. He flinched when he heard the lock slide into place from the other side of the door.
****
Arnaud went back down the hall and went to Catherine's room. Both of the babies were sleeping, the nanny sitting between the two bassinets. Catherine wasn't in the room.
He growled slightly after he left the room.
Catherine was sitting in the living room, curled on a chair, drinking from a mug.
"What was that all about?" he hissed.
She jumped a little hearing his voice. That dream was still too vivid in her mind. "What was what?" she snipped back.
"That screaming! What were you screaming like that for?"
She sat quietly not wanting to answer him.
"Well?"
"I had a nightmare, if you must know," she grumbled taking another sip from the mug.
"Really? Hmmm... Uh, what are you drinking anyway?"
"Warm milk. Why?"
Arnaud smiled a little. "Really chere, I do care about your health as much as I do for the children."
The smile made her skin crawl just a little bit. She hoped he was satisfied and would leave her be now.
Arnaud traced his fingers over her shoulders and began to massage them.
She jumped up out of the chair dropping the mug on the floor as she did. "What are you doing?"
"Just trying to relax you. You are very tense, you know," he added and faced her.
"Yeah, well, YOU touching me is not going to relax me at all," she spat and stormed back to her room.
Arnaud grinned. He had felt her shoulders melt under his touch. He knew that it wouldn't take much more to get her to understand that she was his.
****
She glanced over her shoulder as she rounded the hallway. Making sure Arnaud was walking out the front door, Catherine moved to her doorway and opened it, letting it squeak so he could hear it.
She cocked her head and listened for the front door to shut before moving back away from her room. Shuffling her feet as she ran, Catherine bolted down the hallway to Quinn's room.
"Quinn," she whispered, putting her ear up against the large door. "Quinn are you there?" She tapped lightly at the wood with her fingers.
"Catherine." Quinn shot up from the bed and ran to the door. "Catherine, my god, are you alright?" he asked loudly.
"Shh, Quinn. Don't. There are guards everywhere. I shouldn't be here."
"No. You shouldn't." He grimaced as his stitches tugged.
"Quinn. How do you feel?"
"Fine," he said, trying to spare her the truth.
"We have to get you out of there."
"Don't worry about me, Catherine. I came here for you. I'll get you out."
"Quinn, he's not going to let either one of us near each other."
"Nonsense." Arnaud smiled as Catherine screamed. Whipping around, she threw her back up against Quinn's door.
"Catherine?" Quinn asked concerned.
"I'm fine, Quinn."
"You can see each other, chere," he told her, stepping closer to her. "But only as I deem it. Is that clear?"
His eyes were intense as he moved within an inch of her body. She tried to melt into the door, tried to keep her composure.
Arnaud raised his hand and let it slide down her arm as his intense eyes bore into her own.
"Quinn. Go lay back down." He smiled at Catherine. "You should be in your room as well. Or would you prefer mine?"
He leaned down and stopped dangerously close to her lips. His hot breath mingled with hers as she parted her lips. Feeling her succumbing, Arnaud brushed his lips against her, pulling away as she moved closer to him to deepen the kiss.
"Later, chere," he told her sweetly.
Catherine opened her eyes as Arnaud moved away. A cold draft filled the place in front of her where he had stood as he walked down the hallway, hands in pockets.
She took a deep breath and turned back to Quinn's door. "Go rest, Quinn."
"Catherine. If he even touches you.." He growled at the thought.
"No, Quinn. He won't. I have to go." She shut her eyes and turned back down the hall.
Quinn moved away from his door and went back to the bed as he heard Catherine move away.
She shut her door behind her after watching Arnaud move into his own bedroom. Her hands were shaking but her head was clear. She locked her door....mainly against herself.
****
Hobbes had spent most of the morning on the phone. He was glad today was Saturday so he wouldn't have to let the fat man in on this just yet.
Finding out where Quinn was did NOT necessarily mean that Catherine and the babies were alive, but it could. He just didn't want to get everyone's hopes up AGAIN. That would be too painful.
Especially after he'd found out about what Huiclos had done. He'd been surprised that Eberts had been the one to help him. Maybe he'd misjudged Eberts.
He shook his head and got back to his task of tracking down where the call had originated from.
****
Catherine knew this was a dangerous game that she played, but she knew Quinn wanted to be here even less than she did.
She listened to make sure that Arnaud was still up. She opened her door and went into the kitchen. She made herself a mug of warm milk her hands trembling a bit as she did.
'Stop it!' she told herself. 'You have to get a grip or this isn't going to work!'
She went into the living room and sat on the couch waiting for the game to start.
Arnaud came into the room about ten minutes later. "Trouble sleeping?" he asked noting what she was drinking.
"A little," she replied.
He took a seat next on the couch across from her, watching her as she sipped at the mug.
Her eyes watched him closely over the rim.
"What is it?" he asked softly.
Catherine shook her head and pulled the mug away from her lips.
"I'm just thinking."
"About?"
"About this afternoon." She let it hang there as she brought the cup back up to her mouth and looked away, across the room.
Arnaud sat back into the couch and put his arms across the cushions, relaxing. He gave his jaw a quick scratch as he looked over her shoulder at the wall.
"It was lovely, Arnaud," she whispered.
He turned his gaze back onto her, noting her eyes were locked onto his. He didn't speak a word.
Catherine rose slowly from the couch and placed her mug on the coffee table between them. Not bothering to check the belt on her robe, she walked around the obstacle and stopped as her knees brushed up against his. She stood hovering over him, letting her hair fall over her shoulders as she looked down into his eyes. Her silk robe hung loosely, not obscuring
Arnaud's view of her smooth leg.
"I think we both know what we want, Arnaud." She knelt down onto the couch, placing her knee next to him and leaned down to look him straight in the eye.
Gently, she brought her hand up and caressed his cheek, letting it hang at his jawline. His eyes had grown so dark. His lips had parted just slightly.
Catherine knew his breath was coming fast. "It's just a matter of when." She smiled and moved in closer, letting him feel the warmth of her breath on his temple as she placed her lips there.
Slowly, Catherine left a trail of soft kisses from his temple to the corner of his mouth and stopped there.
She pulled her head back, letting the hand she had pursed on his jaw slide down his chest as she rose from the couch.
Smiling, Catherine turned her back to him and walked slowly away. She knew he was watching her.
She reached down to her robe belt and undid the knot. She let the two ends hang loosely at her sides as she reached to her shoulders and tugged at the fabric.
Holding onto the robe so as not to let it slide completely off, Catherine felt the silk slide down her back. It stopped right at the base of her spine, her hands still holding onto the front of the robe, covering herself.
She didn't even look behind her. She knew he was coming.
Rounding the corner to her room, Catherine shook. She was in control and she knew it. She let herself into her bedroom and left the door open.
Catherine crossed to her window and stood staring out, watching as the sun went down over the Italian landscape.
****
Quinn wrestled with the lock on his door. He had to get out of here now, before Arnaud tried anything else with Catherine.
He would kill Arnaud if he touched her again. She reminded him a little of his own mother, AND she was Huiclos' wife. He'd come to like his uncle quite a bit, almost thinking of HIM as his father rather than Arnaud.
****
"Bobby, what are you doing?" Lori walked out of the bedroom rubbing her eyes. It was late and Hobbes was still clicking away at the computer.
"Nothing, Lori. Go back to bed."
She stopped next to him and peered over his shoulder.
"Lori..." he snipped, slamming the screen down on the laptop.
"What's the matter with you, Bobby?" she asked angrily. Turning on her heel, she headed for the kitchen.
He sighed and got up out of the chair.
"I'm sorry," he said with honesty in his voice. He ran to catch her and wrapped his arms around her from behind, holding onto her.
She tried to push his hands away. "You've been in such the mood these last few days,
Bobby." She managed to wrestle out of his grip. "It's really starting to take a toll on my patience."
"I know. And I am sorry. I've just been working on this case...it's driving me nuts."
"I really think you need to take some time off, Bobby. This is a hard time for everyone. Maybe you should go see Darien and Claire. They could really use someone right now I'm sure." She reached into the fridge and brought out the milk.
"I should." Hobbes stood watching her as she poured a glass and took a sip. He rubbed his empty stomach, realizing he hadn't eaten all day.
"What is it, Bobby?" She noticed him watching her.
"Hm?" He looked surprised.
"What's the matter?"
"Nuthin. I just haven't...." he trailed off, not wanting to bother her. "It's nothing."
"Tell me." She set the glass down and rounded the counter, walking up next to him and placing her hands on his arms. She looked him in the eye.
"I can't tell you."
"Yes you can."
"No," he said slightly giggling. "I can't. Not now anyway."
"Alright."
Hobbes was shocked. She wasn't fighting him.
"Alright?"
"Yeah." She smiled and placed a kiss on his cheek. "On one condition."
"What's that?"
"That you come to be with me for two hours."
Lori let her hands trail over his chest and wrapped them around his waist. "You need to sleep," she continued.
"Yeah," he answered. "You're right. As always," he added.
"Good." She turned him around and began pushing him down the hallway. "Two hours. That's all I ask."
"You got it."
They made their way to the bedroom and shut off all the lights.
****
Arnaud came up behind Catherine and wrapped his arms around her waist.
She turned to face him. She let her fingers trail down his cheek slowly, moving to his neck and then to his chest. She undid the top buttons on his shirt, feeling him take in a deep breath.
He leaned forward and kissed her passionately letting her tongue twirl around his. He explored the contours of her mouth savoring the taste.
"Shall we take this to your room?" she purred when they broke for air.
"As you wish, chere," he smiled leading her into the hall. He pushed her up against the wall and kissed her again.
She moaned softly as he moved to her neck kissing her there and then nipping at the skin gently. Her whole body was alive with sensations and she was drowning in them. She gained enough composure to push him away and look into his eyes.
He stared back the passion burning in his gaze. He nodded as her eyes motioned to the door to his room. He led her inside and pulled her close standing behind her.
She gasped feeling his arousal pressed against her. "Oh...." she groaned as he placed kisses down her neck and continued to slide her robe off leaving her in a sheer nightgown.
"Yes, my dear. I know you want this too," his hot breath melting her resistance.
Catherine closed her eyes as his hands caressed her body gently.
****
Lori heard the beeping first. She brought her head up from the pillow gingerly, trying not to disturb Hobbes who snored softly beside her.
She pushed her covers off and crept out to the living room. Pausing at the entrance to the room, she blinked, allowing her eyes to adjust to the dark.
The only light in the room came from Hobbes' laptop. The screen was down, but a small amount flickered from inside.
Lori made her way over and flipped the screen back up. Two words blinked wildly over and over in front of her.
"Rome, Italy. Rome, Italy. Rome, Italy."
"Rome?" she whispered to herself. Without touching a thing, Lori padded back to the bedroom and climbed onto the bed.
"Bobby. Bobby, hun wake up." She shook him gently.
"Wha..." he started.
"Bobby, you're computer is going mad. Come on, get up."
Hobbes sat up and looked around the room.
"My computer?" Then it struck him. "What does it say?!" he asked wildly as he threw the covers back and ran down the hall.
He skidded to a halt in front of his desk and rubbed his face as a smile spread across it.
"That's it!" he yelled. "Lori, this is it!"
"What is what?!" she asked smiling now too.
"We found him. We found Quinn!"
Lori gasped and covered her mouth in shock. Her hands shook.
"Oh thank god!" she choked out as Hobbes swept her up and they hugged.
"I have to call Huiclos. And Darien. We have to go." He ran to the phone.
"I'll pack."
Lori ran down the hall, flicked on the light in the bedroom and snatched the suitcase from out under the bed. Smiling, she rummaged through the closet and pulled out everything she thought Bobby may need for the trip. Then she started on her own bag.
****
The door was easy enough to break through. The lock had been a temporary one. Quinn knew Arnaud must have installed it just before he brought him home.
That meant to him that for a moment there had been a small amount of trust. He was still going to prey on that to whatever extent he could.
Quinn pulled at the door handle, praying the hinges would not creak. And they didn't. He peered into the hall, trying to make out anything in the dark.
Sliding out into the emptiness, Quinn walked to the wall and began sliding his way down the hall.
He watched the ceilings for cameras and spotted one at the other end. But he wasn't going that far.
He stopped outside of Catherine's bedroom and put his ear to the door. He could hear a woman's voice, cooing softly as a chair creaked.
"The nanny," he spoke softly to himself. Grimacing, he turned and looked across the hall at his father's room. "Dammit."
He paused, checking that the camera wasn't angled anywhere near him and skipped across the hall. He took the few steps to Arnaud's room cautiously, trying not to make a sound.
Quinn watched the door for any sign of light. There was some, but it was weak and it flickered.
"Candles," he thought.
He placed his hand on the knob and twisted it slowly, biting his lip. He closed his eyes as the knob clicked and the door swung loosely in his hands.
With a small shove, Quinn cracked the door open and moved his head closer to see in.
"Arnaud." Catherine moaned his name from the depth of her throat.
"Catherine," Quinn said loudly, barging into the room. "Cath..." He stood frozen in the doorway.
Catherine's eyes shot open, her hand clenched as it left Arnaud's face. Arnaud took a step back from her and smiled, his kiss still tingling on her lips.
She turned and faced Quinn, who's eyes were now the color of coal.
"You son of a bitch!" Quinn screamed as he lunged forward at Arnaud, fist ready. His swing contacted Arnaud directly on the jawline, sending the man sprawling onto the floor. Quinn joined him there, holding him down as he socked him in the stomach.
"Quinn, no!" Catherine yelled, trying to pull Quinn off of him. Arnaud was silent, almost smiling as his son pummeled him.
"I can't believe people like you exist you sorry piece of worthless scum!" Quinn landed another blow across Arnaud's nose.
He couldn't sit still any longer. With a shove, Arnaud had Quinn flying backwards and onto the floor.
Quinn's head smashed onto the wood, sending his eyes into spots. "Jesus," he choked out as the air left him.
"You'll stop now," Arnaud ordered, raising up from the floor, holding a bloody lip.
"Like hell I will," Quinn growled, pushing himself off the floor with his arm. He immediately took a step towards Arnaud.
He was too fast. Arnaud's fist smashed into Quinn's abdomen before the boy could move. He was sent sprawling back to the floor.
"No! Oh my god!" Catherine threw herself next to Quinn, grabbing at his shirt. "You son of a bitch!" she yelled at Arnaud, glaring at him.
"Both of you, out," he demanded. "Out!!"
"Come on, Quinn," Catherine said to the wounded boy.
She put an arm under his head, helping him up. Quinn winced as he stood and glared at his father.
"Go to hell," Quinn spat as they left the room.
Arnaud had nothing left to say.
****
Catherine helped Quinn down the hall to his room. She pushed open his door with her free arm and walked with him inside.
Quinn pushed himself away from her, taking his arm from around her shoulder, and limped over to his bed.
He threw himself onto the matress.
Catherine moved to plump a pillow to put behind his head.
"Don't touch me," he snarled as she got close.
"I'm trying to help."
"Just leave." He glared up at her.
"Not gonna happen," she said matter-of-factly. Catherine grabbed a pillow and put it under his head.
She moved her hand down and tugged at his shirt.
"I said don't touch me." His voice was calm as he snatched her hand. She had hold of his shirt.
"You're bleeding, Quinn." She cocked her head and stared down at him. She didn't want to come across as worried, but she did.
"I'm sure I am. It'll be fine."
"No. Actually, it won't. You've popped all your stitches."
Before he could respond, she grabbed the phone off the nightstand and called the nurse.
"We need medical attention in here immediately," she ordered into the phone before hanging up.
"Leave." He was so serious, his eyes were burning a hole through her.
"No." She stood her ground, pulling his shirt up to see the wound more clearly. "Quinn, this is bad. We're going to get you out of here."
Catherine looked back up at him, ready to reassure him. His head was laid back on the pillow, his eyes shut.
"Quinn? Quinn?" She shook him, suddenly worried. "Jesus!" She shot up off the bed and ran to the door.
"Get in here!" she screamed. The nurse turned the corner running just as Catherine opened the door.
"What's going on?" the nurse asked hurriedly as she ran to the bed.
"He passed out. His stitches are gone."
"I see that." She placed her hand on Quinn's forehead. "He's burning up. We have to get him to a hospital. Immediately."
"Fine. Fine. What do we do? Call a guard?"
"Orders are to call Mr. DeThiel."
"No. Screw him. He could care less. He did this!" Catherine screamed at the woman and crossed the room to stand next to her. "Listen to me. We're both being held here against our will. And I'm sure you are to in some shape or form."
"No, actually, I'm not," the woman answered.
"Please," Catherine pleaded. "Help us." She swallowed the lump in her throat. She wanted to scream, to beat this woman into submission. Quinn needed her help and she was going to give it.
"Of course I will," the nurse answered. "I brought this boy into this world, I'm not going to see him out."
She pushed Catherine back and headed to the door.
"Wait..." Catherine was at a loss for words.
"There's no time to wait. Listen to me. I'm here for Quinn. And no body else." She pursed her lips and pushed a button under the dresser edge. "We'll have a car here in a moment. Get dressed."
Quinn moaned on the bed as the nurse moved into the doorway to leave. She heard him and flew back.
"Quinny. Quinny can you hear me?" She placed her hand gently on his cheek, willing him to open his eyes.
"Yes..." he mumbled, eyes still shut.
"Open your eyes, deary. Come on."
He cracked his lids slightly open, suddenly very dizzy.
"Renata?"
The nurse nodded and smiled. "Yes, Quinny. It's me. I'm going to get you out of here."
Quinn could only shut his eyes. Sleep overtook him as Renata moved away.
"I promised Mr. DeThiel I wouldn't leave Quinn. I thought he was going to be staying here. I had no idea this would happen." She moved towards Catherine. "But rest assured. Mr. DeThiel has crossed the line. This boy is like a son to me." She turned to face
Quinn. "You'll both be safe within the hour."
With that, Renata left the room.
Catherine stood next to Quinn, jaw open, eyes teary. She was suddenly very assured that they were going to be alright.
Catherine looked over at Quinn. She understood why he was angry with her. She'd have to explain it to him later. She left his room and went down to hers.
She let out a sigh of relief noticing the door to Arnaud's room was closed. She went into her room and dressed quicker than she ever had in her life. She didn't hear as Arnaud crept into her room.
"Going somewhere, chere," he growled.
She let out a startled yelp and back towards the bed.
Renata looked up as she was helping Quinn down the hall with the aid of a guard that she had bribed.
"Oh, no... Catherine..." Quinn moaned.
"Get away from me, you monster!" she spat.
"You think I'm a monster?" he smiled. He hadn't wanted to take her by force, but now he wanted to teach her a lesson. No one makes a fool of him. NO ONE.
Catherine caught that look in his eyes. In one quick movement she grabbed the lamp off the nightstand and swung it at him.
The lamp connected with his head and Arnaud crumpled onto the floor.
Quinn urged Renata to move faster when they heard the crash. They got to the room and saw Catherine standing over Arnaud still holding the remnants of the lamp. Her whole body was shaking.
Quinn walked with the aid of Renata over to Arnaud's unconscious form. He stood looking down at him.
"Are you alright?" he asked Catherine, not taking his eyes off his father.
"Yeah," she stuttered.
"Then let's go." He turned his head and motioned to leave.
"Wait...Quinn...we can't just..."
"Oh but we can." He turned to face Catherine. "Get your stuff, we're leaving."
Quinn frowned down at his father and left with Renata.
Catherine grabbed her bag and watched as the nanny came into the room to get the babies.
"He's fine," she told her, noting the woman's panicked expression. "Let's go."
She was struck by Quinn's expression. He knew and she was certain she would too, that Arnaud was not worth the effort.
They stepped around his body as they left the room, children in hand.
****
Catherine held onto Kiersten tight as they entered the hospital. The ride there had been a quiet one.
Renata was able to get Quinn seen very quickly and they readied a room for him. She also brought a bassinet in for Catherine to lay the babies in.
Catherine laid Kiersten down and the nanny laid Alexander next to her. She looked at Renata wearily. "How is he?"
"They're stitching him up as we speak. I need to ask you something," she said.
"What?"
"You told me that Mr. DeThiel was holding both you and Quinn captive. I can't understand why he would do that to his own son, but I would also like to know who YOU are? How do you know Quinn?"
"I'm his aunt," she started.
"His aunt?" she thought for a moment. "You married Huiclos?"
"Yes. It's a very long story. How much do you know about Arnaud?"
"Not too much. I was with Rachelle when she had Quinn. I know that she searched for Mr. DeThiel for a long time and when I found out Quinn was going to be living here, I requested to be the one to take care of him," she answered.
Catherine sighed and gave her the short version of what had happened. She picked Kiersten up when she woke up and started to fuss
Quinn was wheeled in as Catherine stood with the baby.
"Quinn, how are you?" she asked, putting a hand on his knee as he moved past her.
"Oh...ya know....good." He stared at the ceiling.
"Quinn, I'm going to go talk to your doctor." Renata moved from the room.
"Quinn..."
"I'm sorry, Catherine," he told her before she had a chance to speak. "I was really out of line earlier."
"You were sick, Quinn. I totally understand."
He smiled weakly up at her. His eyes lit up when he saw her holding Kiersten.
"Is that...?" he asked pointing.
"Yeah," Catherine answered smiling and bending down. "Her name is Kierstin."
Quinn held his hand out and pulled the blanket away from the baby's face a bit. His smile diminished slightly when he remembered.
"I have a brother..." he said.
"Yes..you do." She moved away from the bed and laid Kiersten down into her bassinet. Catherine moved and picked up Alexander.
She brought him slowly over to Quinn. The nurse that wheeled him in, helped him prop his head up a bit.
Without asking, Catherine lowered Alexander down into Quinn's arms.
Quinn's smile was radiant as he reached down and let his little brother grab hold of his finger.
"Hey, Alexander," he cooed at the baby. "I'm your big brother Quinn."
"He looks a lot like you," Catherine noted as she stood watching.
"Is that bad?" Quinn asked laughing.
"No. Definitely not." She couldn't help but smile. He had no idea how handsome he was. It was lost on Quinn. His gaze was so intense on the newborn as he watched his every movement.
"We're going to take you home," he said aloud as Alexander stared up at him. Quinn brought his brother's head up to his lips and placed a soft kiss on his forehead. "You're mommy misses you very much."
Catherine couldn't help it. She placed a hand on Quinn's head and smoothed back his hair, letting her palm rest there. She knew his heart still ached for his own mother. And his father had all but killed him.
"I'm going to keep you safe, little guy," he said quietly. "I promise."
...To be continued
Any feedback is welcome...
Fanfic by: NekoSama (aka Chris) and Doretta (aka Desiree)
Email: nekosama@ix.netcom.com and dstreeter78@yahoo.com
Status:Part 3
Catagory:Angst
Spoilers: none
Season: after Beholder
Rating: PG for violence.
Summary:A time for betrayal
Standard disclaimer: The Invisible Man and all the characters are not ours and are used without permission. We are not getting paid for this.
"The bathroom is through there," Arnaud pointed across the bedroom as he threw open the doors. "You'll have all the annemities you'll need while you're here."
Quinn stood watching as Arnaud paced the room, checking the locks on the windows and closing the blinds.
"You can sleep as much as you'd like." He took a breath as he turned to face his son. "What?" Arnaud noticed the solemn look on the boy's face.
"While I'm here?" he asked softly.
He wasn't sure what to say. Arnaud shoved his hands into his pockets and watched as Quinn walked over to the bed and took his coat off. He winced for effect.
"Are you in any pain?" Arnaud asked.
"A little."
"You have a nurse that you can call on if you need anything." He picked up the phone by the bed. "Just pick up the receiver. The line automatically connects to her."
Quinn noticed that there were no buttons on the phone. It was a paging phone only. He narrowed his eyes as he looked back up at his father. "What is this?"
"What is what?" Arnaud asked smiling.
Quinn took a step back, holding onto his stitches. They were killing him now.
"You can't be serious." He tried to look hurt.
"Quite." The word was very audible as Arnaud crossed the room and stood in front of Quinn. "I don't trust you, Quinn."
The boy looked away quickly, turning his back and crossing to the door. He walked through the doorway and down the hall.
"Then I'll leave right now." He was trying not to panic.
"No, actually....you won't." Arnaud motioned with his hand to a guard by the door. The large man moved and stood in front of Quinn.
"I'm just getting my bag," the boy growled, reaching down to the floor and snatching it up. He turned back and pushed past Arnaud. He bumped the man's shoulder as he walked by.
"You should be comfortable...." Arnaud started.
"Uh huh," Quinn said angrily as he stormed back into his room.
"You just can't leave."
"Yeah...I got that." He threw his bag on the bed and turned to glare at his father. "I'm tired."
"Then sleep." He turned to leave but stopped in the doorway. "Oh, and by the way." He put a finger to his lip as he looked back at Quinn smiling. "The door will remain locked until the nurse arrives. You'll not leave this room unless I'm advised, is that understood?"
Quinn took a few steps towards Arnaud.
"You're insane."
"Yes. And you're my son. Isn't it lovely?"
The two stood and stared at each other for what seemed like an eternity. Their eyes mirrored the madness they both felt. Quinn was in a silent rage.
Arnaud was beside himself with victory.
Quinn could think of nothing to say as Arnaud turned his back and left the room. He flinched when he heard the lock slide into place from the other side of the door.
****
Arnaud went back down the hall and went to Catherine's room. Both of the babies were sleeping, the nanny sitting between the two bassinets. Catherine wasn't in the room.
He growled slightly after he left the room.
Catherine was sitting in the living room, curled on a chair, drinking from a mug.
"What was that all about?" he hissed.
She jumped a little hearing his voice. That dream was still too vivid in her mind. "What was what?" she snipped back.
"That screaming! What were you screaming like that for?"
She sat quietly not wanting to answer him.
"Well?"
"I had a nightmare, if you must know," she grumbled taking another sip from the mug.
"Really? Hmmm... Uh, what are you drinking anyway?"
"Warm milk. Why?"
Arnaud smiled a little. "Really chere, I do care about your health as much as I do for the children."
The smile made her skin crawl just a little bit. She hoped he was satisfied and would leave her be now.
Arnaud traced his fingers over her shoulders and began to massage them.
She jumped up out of the chair dropping the mug on the floor as she did. "What are you doing?"
"Just trying to relax you. You are very tense, you know," he added and faced her.
"Yeah, well, YOU touching me is not going to relax me at all," she spat and stormed back to her room.
Arnaud grinned. He had felt her shoulders melt under his touch. He knew that it wouldn't take much more to get her to understand that she was his.
****
She glanced over her shoulder as she rounded the hallway. Making sure Arnaud was walking out the front door, Catherine moved to her doorway and opened it, letting it squeak so he could hear it.
She cocked her head and listened for the front door to shut before moving back away from her room. Shuffling her feet as she ran, Catherine bolted down the hallway to Quinn's room.
"Quinn," she whispered, putting her ear up against the large door. "Quinn are you there?" She tapped lightly at the wood with her fingers.
"Catherine." Quinn shot up from the bed and ran to the door. "Catherine, my god, are you alright?" he asked loudly.
"Shh, Quinn. Don't. There are guards everywhere. I shouldn't be here."
"No. You shouldn't." He grimaced as his stitches tugged.
"Quinn. How do you feel?"
"Fine," he said, trying to spare her the truth.
"We have to get you out of there."
"Don't worry about me, Catherine. I came here for you. I'll get you out."
"Quinn, he's not going to let either one of us near each other."
"Nonsense." Arnaud smiled as Catherine screamed. Whipping around, she threw her back up against Quinn's door.
"Catherine?" Quinn asked concerned.
"I'm fine, Quinn."
"You can see each other, chere," he told her, stepping closer to her. "But only as I deem it. Is that clear?"
His eyes were intense as he moved within an inch of her body. She tried to melt into the door, tried to keep her composure.
Arnaud raised his hand and let it slide down her arm as his intense eyes bore into her own.
"Quinn. Go lay back down." He smiled at Catherine. "You should be in your room as well. Or would you prefer mine?"
He leaned down and stopped dangerously close to her lips. His hot breath mingled with hers as she parted her lips. Feeling her succumbing, Arnaud brushed his lips against her, pulling away as she moved closer to him to deepen the kiss.
"Later, chere," he told her sweetly.
Catherine opened her eyes as Arnaud moved away. A cold draft filled the place in front of her where he had stood as he walked down the hallway, hands in pockets.
She took a deep breath and turned back to Quinn's door. "Go rest, Quinn."
"Catherine. If he even touches you.." He growled at the thought.
"No, Quinn. He won't. I have to go." She shut her eyes and turned back down the hall.
Quinn moved away from his door and went back to the bed as he heard Catherine move away.
She shut her door behind her after watching Arnaud move into his own bedroom. Her hands were shaking but her head was clear. She locked her door....mainly against herself.
****
Hobbes had spent most of the morning on the phone. He was glad today was Saturday so he wouldn't have to let the fat man in on this just yet.
Finding out where Quinn was did NOT necessarily mean that Catherine and the babies were alive, but it could. He just didn't want to get everyone's hopes up AGAIN. That would be too painful.
Especially after he'd found out about what Huiclos had done. He'd been surprised that Eberts had been the one to help him. Maybe he'd misjudged Eberts.
He shook his head and got back to his task of tracking down where the call had originated from.
****
Catherine knew this was a dangerous game that she played, but she knew Quinn wanted to be here even less than she did.
She listened to make sure that Arnaud was still up. She opened her door and went into the kitchen. She made herself a mug of warm milk her hands trembling a bit as she did.
'Stop it!' she told herself. 'You have to get a grip or this isn't going to work!'
She went into the living room and sat on the couch waiting for the game to start.
Arnaud came into the room about ten minutes later. "Trouble sleeping?" he asked noting what she was drinking.
"A little," she replied.
He took a seat next on the couch across from her, watching her as she sipped at the mug.
Her eyes watched him closely over the rim.
"What is it?" he asked softly.
Catherine shook her head and pulled the mug away from her lips.
"I'm just thinking."
"About?"
"About this afternoon." She let it hang there as she brought the cup back up to her mouth and looked away, across the room.
Arnaud sat back into the couch and put his arms across the cushions, relaxing. He gave his jaw a quick scratch as he looked over her shoulder at the wall.
"It was lovely, Arnaud," she whispered.
He turned his gaze back onto her, noting her eyes were locked onto his. He didn't speak a word.
Catherine rose slowly from the couch and placed her mug on the coffee table between them. Not bothering to check the belt on her robe, she walked around the obstacle and stopped as her knees brushed up against his. She stood hovering over him, letting her hair fall over her shoulders as she looked down into his eyes. Her silk robe hung loosely, not obscuring
Arnaud's view of her smooth leg.
"I think we both know what we want, Arnaud." She knelt down onto the couch, placing her knee next to him and leaned down to look him straight in the eye.
Gently, she brought her hand up and caressed his cheek, letting it hang at his jawline. His eyes had grown so dark. His lips had parted just slightly.
Catherine knew his breath was coming fast. "It's just a matter of when." She smiled and moved in closer, letting him feel the warmth of her breath on his temple as she placed her lips there.
Slowly, Catherine left a trail of soft kisses from his temple to the corner of his mouth and stopped there.
She pulled her head back, letting the hand she had pursed on his jaw slide down his chest as she rose from the couch.
Smiling, Catherine turned her back to him and walked slowly away. She knew he was watching her.
She reached down to her robe belt and undid the knot. She let the two ends hang loosely at her sides as she reached to her shoulders and tugged at the fabric.
Holding onto the robe so as not to let it slide completely off, Catherine felt the silk slide down her back. It stopped right at the base of her spine, her hands still holding onto the front of the robe, covering herself.
She didn't even look behind her. She knew he was coming.
Rounding the corner to her room, Catherine shook. She was in control and she knew it. She let herself into her bedroom and left the door open.
Catherine crossed to her window and stood staring out, watching as the sun went down over the Italian landscape.
****
Quinn wrestled with the lock on his door. He had to get out of here now, before Arnaud tried anything else with Catherine.
He would kill Arnaud if he touched her again. She reminded him a little of his own mother, AND she was Huiclos' wife. He'd come to like his uncle quite a bit, almost thinking of HIM as his father rather than Arnaud.
****
"Bobby, what are you doing?" Lori walked out of the bedroom rubbing her eyes. It was late and Hobbes was still clicking away at the computer.
"Nothing, Lori. Go back to bed."
She stopped next to him and peered over his shoulder.
"Lori..." he snipped, slamming the screen down on the laptop.
"What's the matter with you, Bobby?" she asked angrily. Turning on her heel, she headed for the kitchen.
He sighed and got up out of the chair.
"I'm sorry," he said with honesty in his voice. He ran to catch her and wrapped his arms around her from behind, holding onto her.
She tried to push his hands away. "You've been in such the mood these last few days,
Bobby." She managed to wrestle out of his grip. "It's really starting to take a toll on my patience."
"I know. And I am sorry. I've just been working on this case...it's driving me nuts."
"I really think you need to take some time off, Bobby. This is a hard time for everyone. Maybe you should go see Darien and Claire. They could really use someone right now I'm sure." She reached into the fridge and brought out the milk.
"I should." Hobbes stood watching her as she poured a glass and took a sip. He rubbed his empty stomach, realizing he hadn't eaten all day.
"What is it, Bobby?" She noticed him watching her.
"Hm?" He looked surprised.
"What's the matter?"
"Nuthin. I just haven't...." he trailed off, not wanting to bother her. "It's nothing."
"Tell me." She set the glass down and rounded the counter, walking up next to him and placing her hands on his arms. She looked him in the eye.
"I can't tell you."
"Yes you can."
"No," he said slightly giggling. "I can't. Not now anyway."
"Alright."
Hobbes was shocked. She wasn't fighting him.
"Alright?"
"Yeah." She smiled and placed a kiss on his cheek. "On one condition."
"What's that?"
"That you come to be with me for two hours."
Lori let her hands trail over his chest and wrapped them around his waist. "You need to sleep," she continued.
"Yeah," he answered. "You're right. As always," he added.
"Good." She turned him around and began pushing him down the hallway. "Two hours. That's all I ask."
"You got it."
They made their way to the bedroom and shut off all the lights.
****
Arnaud came up behind Catherine and wrapped his arms around her waist.
She turned to face him. She let her fingers trail down his cheek slowly, moving to his neck and then to his chest. She undid the top buttons on his shirt, feeling him take in a deep breath.
He leaned forward and kissed her passionately letting her tongue twirl around his. He explored the contours of her mouth savoring the taste.
"Shall we take this to your room?" she purred when they broke for air.
"As you wish, chere," he smiled leading her into the hall. He pushed her up against the wall and kissed her again.
She moaned softly as he moved to her neck kissing her there and then nipping at the skin gently. Her whole body was alive with sensations and she was drowning in them. She gained enough composure to push him away and look into his eyes.
He stared back the passion burning in his gaze. He nodded as her eyes motioned to the door to his room. He led her inside and pulled her close standing behind her.
She gasped feeling his arousal pressed against her. "Oh...." she groaned as he placed kisses down her neck and continued to slide her robe off leaving her in a sheer nightgown.
"Yes, my dear. I know you want this too," his hot breath melting her resistance.
Catherine closed her eyes as his hands caressed her body gently.
****
Lori heard the beeping first. She brought her head up from the pillow gingerly, trying not to disturb Hobbes who snored softly beside her.
She pushed her covers off and crept out to the living room. Pausing at the entrance to the room, she blinked, allowing her eyes to adjust to the dark.
The only light in the room came from Hobbes' laptop. The screen was down, but a small amount flickered from inside.
Lori made her way over and flipped the screen back up. Two words blinked wildly over and over in front of her.
"Rome, Italy. Rome, Italy. Rome, Italy."
"Rome?" she whispered to herself. Without touching a thing, Lori padded back to the bedroom and climbed onto the bed.
"Bobby. Bobby, hun wake up." She shook him gently.
"Wha..." he started.
"Bobby, you're computer is going mad. Come on, get up."
Hobbes sat up and looked around the room.
"My computer?" Then it struck him. "What does it say?!" he asked wildly as he threw the covers back and ran down the hall.
He skidded to a halt in front of his desk and rubbed his face as a smile spread across it.
"That's it!" he yelled. "Lori, this is it!"
"What is what?!" she asked smiling now too.
"We found him. We found Quinn!"
Lori gasped and covered her mouth in shock. Her hands shook.
"Oh thank god!" she choked out as Hobbes swept her up and they hugged.
"I have to call Huiclos. And Darien. We have to go." He ran to the phone.
"I'll pack."
Lori ran down the hall, flicked on the light in the bedroom and snatched the suitcase from out under the bed. Smiling, she rummaged through the closet and pulled out everything she thought Bobby may need for the trip. Then she started on her own bag.
****
The door was easy enough to break through. The lock had been a temporary one. Quinn knew Arnaud must have installed it just before he brought him home.
That meant to him that for a moment there had been a small amount of trust. He was still going to prey on that to whatever extent he could.
Quinn pulled at the door handle, praying the hinges would not creak. And they didn't. He peered into the hall, trying to make out anything in the dark.
Sliding out into the emptiness, Quinn walked to the wall and began sliding his way down the hall.
He watched the ceilings for cameras and spotted one at the other end. But he wasn't going that far.
He stopped outside of Catherine's bedroom and put his ear to the door. He could hear a woman's voice, cooing softly as a chair creaked.
"The nanny," he spoke softly to himself. Grimacing, he turned and looked across the hall at his father's room. "Dammit."
He paused, checking that the camera wasn't angled anywhere near him and skipped across the hall. He took the few steps to Arnaud's room cautiously, trying not to make a sound.
Quinn watched the door for any sign of light. There was some, but it was weak and it flickered.
"Candles," he thought.
He placed his hand on the knob and twisted it slowly, biting his lip. He closed his eyes as the knob clicked and the door swung loosely in his hands.
With a small shove, Quinn cracked the door open and moved his head closer to see in.
"Arnaud." Catherine moaned his name from the depth of her throat.
"Catherine," Quinn said loudly, barging into the room. "Cath..." He stood frozen in the doorway.
Catherine's eyes shot open, her hand clenched as it left Arnaud's face. Arnaud took a step back from her and smiled, his kiss still tingling on her lips.
She turned and faced Quinn, who's eyes were now the color of coal.
"You son of a bitch!" Quinn screamed as he lunged forward at Arnaud, fist ready. His swing contacted Arnaud directly on the jawline, sending the man sprawling onto the floor. Quinn joined him there, holding him down as he socked him in the stomach.
"Quinn, no!" Catherine yelled, trying to pull Quinn off of him. Arnaud was silent, almost smiling as his son pummeled him.
"I can't believe people like you exist you sorry piece of worthless scum!" Quinn landed another blow across Arnaud's nose.
He couldn't sit still any longer. With a shove, Arnaud had Quinn flying backwards and onto the floor.
Quinn's head smashed onto the wood, sending his eyes into spots. "Jesus," he choked out as the air left him.
"You'll stop now," Arnaud ordered, raising up from the floor, holding a bloody lip.
"Like hell I will," Quinn growled, pushing himself off the floor with his arm. He immediately took a step towards Arnaud.
He was too fast. Arnaud's fist smashed into Quinn's abdomen before the boy could move. He was sent sprawling back to the floor.
"No! Oh my god!" Catherine threw herself next to Quinn, grabbing at his shirt. "You son of a bitch!" she yelled at Arnaud, glaring at him.
"Both of you, out," he demanded. "Out!!"
"Come on, Quinn," Catherine said to the wounded boy.
She put an arm under his head, helping him up. Quinn winced as he stood and glared at his father.
"Go to hell," Quinn spat as they left the room.
Arnaud had nothing left to say.
****
Catherine helped Quinn down the hall to his room. She pushed open his door with her free arm and walked with him inside.
Quinn pushed himself away from her, taking his arm from around her shoulder, and limped over to his bed.
He threw himself onto the matress.
Catherine moved to plump a pillow to put behind his head.
"Don't touch me," he snarled as she got close.
"I'm trying to help."
"Just leave." He glared up at her.
"Not gonna happen," she said matter-of-factly. Catherine grabbed a pillow and put it under his head.
She moved her hand down and tugged at his shirt.
"I said don't touch me." His voice was calm as he snatched her hand. She had hold of his shirt.
"You're bleeding, Quinn." She cocked her head and stared down at him. She didn't want to come across as worried, but she did.
"I'm sure I am. It'll be fine."
"No. Actually, it won't. You've popped all your stitches."
Before he could respond, she grabbed the phone off the nightstand and called the nurse.
"We need medical attention in here immediately," she ordered into the phone before hanging up.
"Leave." He was so serious, his eyes were burning a hole through her.
"No." She stood her ground, pulling his shirt up to see the wound more clearly. "Quinn, this is bad. We're going to get you out of here."
Catherine looked back up at him, ready to reassure him. His head was laid back on the pillow, his eyes shut.
"Quinn? Quinn?" She shook him, suddenly worried. "Jesus!" She shot up off the bed and ran to the door.
"Get in here!" she screamed. The nurse turned the corner running just as Catherine opened the door.
"What's going on?" the nurse asked hurriedly as she ran to the bed.
"He passed out. His stitches are gone."
"I see that." She placed her hand on Quinn's forehead. "He's burning up. We have to get him to a hospital. Immediately."
"Fine. Fine. What do we do? Call a guard?"
"Orders are to call Mr. DeThiel."
"No. Screw him. He could care less. He did this!" Catherine screamed at the woman and crossed the room to stand next to her. "Listen to me. We're both being held here against our will. And I'm sure you are to in some shape or form."
"No, actually, I'm not," the woman answered.
"Please," Catherine pleaded. "Help us." She swallowed the lump in her throat. She wanted to scream, to beat this woman into submission. Quinn needed her help and she was going to give it.
"Of course I will," the nurse answered. "I brought this boy into this world, I'm not going to see him out."
She pushed Catherine back and headed to the door.
"Wait..." Catherine was at a loss for words.
"There's no time to wait. Listen to me. I'm here for Quinn. And no body else." She pursed her lips and pushed a button under the dresser edge. "We'll have a car here in a moment. Get dressed."
Quinn moaned on the bed as the nurse moved into the doorway to leave. She heard him and flew back.
"Quinny. Quinny can you hear me?" She placed her hand gently on his cheek, willing him to open his eyes.
"Yes..." he mumbled, eyes still shut.
"Open your eyes, deary. Come on."
He cracked his lids slightly open, suddenly very dizzy.
"Renata?"
The nurse nodded and smiled. "Yes, Quinny. It's me. I'm going to get you out of here."
Quinn could only shut his eyes. Sleep overtook him as Renata moved away.
"I promised Mr. DeThiel I wouldn't leave Quinn. I thought he was going to be staying here. I had no idea this would happen." She moved towards Catherine. "But rest assured. Mr. DeThiel has crossed the line. This boy is like a son to me." She turned to face
Quinn. "You'll both be safe within the hour."
With that, Renata left the room.
Catherine stood next to Quinn, jaw open, eyes teary. She was suddenly very assured that they were going to be alright.
Catherine looked over at Quinn. She understood why he was angry with her. She'd have to explain it to him later. She left his room and went down to hers.
She let out a sigh of relief noticing the door to Arnaud's room was closed. She went into her room and dressed quicker than she ever had in her life. She didn't hear as Arnaud crept into her room.
"Going somewhere, chere," he growled.
She let out a startled yelp and back towards the bed.
Renata looked up as she was helping Quinn down the hall with the aid of a guard that she had bribed.
"Oh, no... Catherine..." Quinn moaned.
"Get away from me, you monster!" she spat.
"You think I'm a monster?" he smiled. He hadn't wanted to take her by force, but now he wanted to teach her a lesson. No one makes a fool of him. NO ONE.
Catherine caught that look in his eyes. In one quick movement she grabbed the lamp off the nightstand and swung it at him.
The lamp connected with his head and Arnaud crumpled onto the floor.
Quinn urged Renata to move faster when they heard the crash. They got to the room and saw Catherine standing over Arnaud still holding the remnants of the lamp. Her whole body was shaking.
Quinn walked with the aid of Renata over to Arnaud's unconscious form. He stood looking down at him.
"Are you alright?" he asked Catherine, not taking his eyes off his father.
"Yeah," she stuttered.
"Then let's go." He turned his head and motioned to leave.
"Wait...Quinn...we can't just..."
"Oh but we can." He turned to face Catherine. "Get your stuff, we're leaving."
Quinn frowned down at his father and left with Renata.
Catherine grabbed her bag and watched as the nanny came into the room to get the babies.
"He's fine," she told her, noting the woman's panicked expression. "Let's go."
She was struck by Quinn's expression. He knew and she was certain she would too, that Arnaud was not worth the effort.
They stepped around his body as they left the room, children in hand.
****
Catherine held onto Kiersten tight as they entered the hospital. The ride there had been a quiet one.
Renata was able to get Quinn seen very quickly and they readied a room for him. She also brought a bassinet in for Catherine to lay the babies in.
Catherine laid Kiersten down and the nanny laid Alexander next to her. She looked at Renata wearily. "How is he?"
"They're stitching him up as we speak. I need to ask you something," she said.
"What?"
"You told me that Mr. DeThiel was holding both you and Quinn captive. I can't understand why he would do that to his own son, but I would also like to know who YOU are? How do you know Quinn?"
"I'm his aunt," she started.
"His aunt?" she thought for a moment. "You married Huiclos?"
"Yes. It's a very long story. How much do you know about Arnaud?"
"Not too much. I was with Rachelle when she had Quinn. I know that she searched for Mr. DeThiel for a long time and when I found out Quinn was going to be living here, I requested to be the one to take care of him," she answered.
Catherine sighed and gave her the short version of what had happened. She picked Kiersten up when she woke up and started to fuss
Quinn was wheeled in as Catherine stood with the baby.
"Quinn, how are you?" she asked, putting a hand on his knee as he moved past her.
"Oh...ya know....good." He stared at the ceiling.
"Quinn, I'm going to go talk to your doctor." Renata moved from the room.
"Quinn..."
"I'm sorry, Catherine," he told her before she had a chance to speak. "I was really out of line earlier."
"You were sick, Quinn. I totally understand."
He smiled weakly up at her. His eyes lit up when he saw her holding Kiersten.
"Is that...?" he asked pointing.
"Yeah," Catherine answered smiling and bending down. "Her name is Kierstin."
Quinn held his hand out and pulled the blanket away from the baby's face a bit. His smile diminished slightly when he remembered.
"I have a brother..." he said.
"Yes..you do." She moved away from the bed and laid Kiersten down into her bassinet. Catherine moved and picked up Alexander.
She brought him slowly over to Quinn. The nurse that wheeled him in, helped him prop his head up a bit.
Without asking, Catherine lowered Alexander down into Quinn's arms.
Quinn's smile was radiant as he reached down and let his little brother grab hold of his finger.
"Hey, Alexander," he cooed at the baby. "I'm your big brother Quinn."
"He looks a lot like you," Catherine noted as she stood watching.
"Is that bad?" Quinn asked laughing.
"No. Definitely not." She couldn't help but smile. He had no idea how handsome he was. It was lost on Quinn. His gaze was so intense on the newborn as he watched his every movement.
"We're going to take you home," he said aloud as Alexander stared up at him. Quinn brought his brother's head up to his lips and placed a soft kiss on his forehead. "You're mommy misses you very much."
Catherine couldn't help it. She placed a hand on Quinn's head and smoothed back his hair, letting her palm rest there. She knew his heart still ached for his own mother. And his father had all but killed him.
"I'm going to keep you safe, little guy," he said quietly. "I promise."
...To be continued
Any feedback is welcome...
