A Gunsmith Cats 'Fic
Vol. 2; Part 2
By; Talis13
Disclaimer- Hello again! So, how are we liking the story so far? A little less fluff than before, but, yeah, I know, not by much. ^^ I'm a hopeless romantic, what can I say? Oh yes, the actual standard disclaimer- most characters in this story are not mine; they belong to Kenichi Sonoda, who, might I add, has become quite the influence in my artwork lately. He's got fascinating characters, what can I say? Well, enjoy the story!
Rally opened her eyes slowly, and looked up. Bean was still asleep next to her; his dark eyes were still shut and hair still everywhere. She smiled as his arm automatically tightened around her slightly, pulling her closer. Rally closed her eyes again, just for a moment, one hand stretched across his stomach, the other under her chin. Her eyes fluttered open again when she felt Bean moved ever so slightly. His dark eyes looked down at her. "Good morning." His deep voice rumbled.
Rally smiled again, eyes sparkling. "Good morning."
Bean sat up, pulling Rally with him. He leaned down kissing her. Rally's eyes shut as she enjoyed a morning kiss. She smiled again. "Such a nice way to wake up."
Bean actually blushed slightly. "That's nice to hear. You ready for breakfast?"
"That sounds good." Rally stated as she stretched, arms above her head for an instant.
He watched as Rally's bright blue eyes regained some of their color from a good night's sleep. Smile returning, he stood up and stretched again, walking into the adjoining kitchen. Opening the fridge, he glanced inside, pulling out eggs and sausage. He fired up the stove and began fixing their food. He heard Rally's light steps approach behind him. She wrapped her arms around his waist and leaned her cheek against his back, eyes closed. Bean wrapped a hand around her arm; his head tilted back, eyes closed, just enjoying her closeness. She let go of him, stepping away with a smile. "Nice to know you appreciate me Bean." She stated with a wink before turning and rummaging around for bread to put in the toaster.
Finding the bread and throwing it in the toaster, she sat at the small table, head propped up on one hand. She watched as Bean made breakfast; Rally burst into giggles. He turned and looked questioningly at her. "What's so funny?"
"You getting all domestic on me!" Rally blurted amidst her giggles.
He grinned at her. "Yeah, well, this incident will never leave between us, deal?"
She acted like she was thinking about it. "Hmm.but May would be terribly interested to know." she was cut off by Bean grabbing around her waist.
"Don't you dare utter a word of this to her Rally Vincent!" he laughed.
Rally was giggling uncontrollably at that point. "Fine, fine! Geez, can't a girl have a little fun Bandit?"
He fixed both their plates and set one in front of her seat and his and then set her in a chair. "No. Especially you girl."
"C'est la vie. Oh well, maybe next time." She stated as she began to eat. Bean sat across from her and did likewise, looking up at her bright eyes every so often. When she had finished, Rally stood and put her dishes in the sink and turned to him. "Do you have some dish soap somewhere?"
"Uh, under the sink, but you really don't-"
"That's alright! I want to help!" Rally stated cheerfully, turning a bright smile towards him once more. Rally retrieved the soap from the cabinet and began filling the sink, humming as she smiled. Getting a washrag from the sink as well, she began to clean her dishes, stacking them in the dry rack, and then just started washing some other dishes that were also residing in the sink at that point. She heard Bean finish and he walked behind her, putting the dishes in the sink, his arms around her. He kissed her neck and she looked up at him through half-closed eyes; he was far too romantic for his own good. She smiled. "I've got it Bean. Have a seat."
"Only if you're sure." His voice rumbled just below her ear.
She smiled. "Positive, but thanks for asking."
He reluctantly let go of her and reached for his cell phone as it rang. "Bean Bandit." He paused. "I see. Who recommended?" pause. "Okay. Well, what are we talking about here?" pause "I see. Where to?" Bean looked down a moment, thinking. "Yeah, no sweat. 80 grand for that trip pal." Pause "That's fine. And who exactly am I picking up?" pause "Got it. Where from and when are you leaving?" long pause "Yeah man, I've got it. I'll see you then; cash on delivery. Talk to you later."
Bean hung up the phone and looked at Rally who had a remote interest in his phone conversation at this point. She smiled. "Business trip?"
He grinned. "Yeah, you could say that." His smile turned into a small frown though. "I'm gonna be driving a guy to California though."
"I see." Rally looked unhappy a moment, as she dried her hands off on a towel. "How long will you be gone?"
Bean wrapped his arms around her small waist. "I won't be gone too long babe. Probably less than a week."
"Ooh. You're leaving soon then I take it." Rally replied.
"Tomorrow night."
"Ah. Well, you probably have things to do then. I'll go ahead and get ready to leave." Rally stated as she pulled away from him and walked towards the living room to collect her shoes and jacket.
He followed her into the living room and watched as she slipped the boots onto he feet. "Are you mad?"
She waited a moment to answer. "No, not mad. I'm just worried about you Bean. That's all."
He hugged her when she stood up. "I'll be fine. You know I can handle it."
She returned the hug with a sad smile. "I know you can. But I'm still going to worry Bean."
"Thank you. I appreciate it. It means a lot coming from you." He replied, releasing her from the hug. She shrugged the jacket onto her shoulders and he walked with her down to the garage.
She dug the keys to the Cobra out of her jacket pocket. "Well, at least call me before you go."
"Sure babe, no problem. And I'll have my cell phone, so call if you want, alright?" Bean replied as he opened the garage door for her. He grabbed her hand and brought her back to him all in one smooth motion, giving her a quick kiss before letting her go again.
"I'll see you later Bean." Rally stated with a smile and wave as she fired up her Cobra. It roared to life and she pulled out onto the street, waving back once. He returned the wave just before the door reshut.
Rally drove down the roads at a quick clip towards her house. She made it home fairly quickly and pulled into the driveway. Ken was still over; his car parked in the drive as well. Rally got out of her car, locking the doors, and walked to the house. She opened the door, letting herself inside. She walked into the kitchen, slinging her jacket over a chair that was not occupied. Ken looked up at her. "Morning Rally." He stated as he took a sip of coffee.
"Morning Ken." She replied with a smile. She then went upstairs to her room and picked out her clothes for the day and walked to the bathroom for a shower.
After a quick shower, Rally changed into her jeans and sweater and wrapped her hair in a towel to dry some. She walked down the stairs and into the kitchen, tucking her hair into the towel again. She looked up at May and Ken cheerfully eating a breakfast of toast and juice. She smiled. "Morning May."
May's head turned. "Well, well. Good morning Rally Vincent. When did you get in?"
Rally looked at the clock. "About a hour ago, why?"
"Ooh, I see." May got that devilish gleam in her eyes again. "So, I take it you spent the night."
Rally was rummaging around for a coffee cup. "Yes May, and no, I didn't sleep with him."
"Ahh."
Ken had a less than remote interest at this point; he was reading the newspaper. He glanced up after a particularly interesting article. "Play nice girls."
"Of course daddy." May purred with a smile.
Rally rolled her eyes after she found a cup and poured some coffee. Adding a bit of cream, she sat at the table and looked into the coffee cup. May looked at her. "Are you reading tea leaves?"
"No goofball, I'm reading the coffee." Rally shot back.
Ken stood up and stretched. "Well, it looks like you're both in wonderful moods today, so I'll be going home in a few. Have some business to attend to."
"Awwww." May sighed.
"Hey, I've got to go babe, you know that. Maybe we can get together again this week?" he replied before turning into the living room and walking upstairs.
"Yay!" May cheered after he went upstairs to collect his belongings. She turned back to Rally who was still thoughtfully looking into her coffee. "What's wrong Rally?"
Rally shrugged tentatively. "Eh, nothing much I suppose."
"But seriously?"
"Well, Bean's going to be gone for the better part of the week." Rally began. "He's taking someone to California apparently."
"Oh. Well, I'm sure he'll be fine Rally! This is Bean the bulletproof ox we're talking about! Cheer up girl! It won't be long, I'm sure!!" May smiled at her friend whose head was still bowed slightly.
"I suppose."
"When's he leaving?" May asked as she sipped her juice.
"Tomorrow night."
"Ah. Well, as quick as he is, he'll probably be home by next weekend."
"I know. I just wish he didn't have to go."
May looked up with a grin. "So what did you really do all night then?"
"MAY HOPKINS!!" Rally shrieked. "We didn't do anything!"
May just laughed. It was still continuing when Ken came back downstairs, keys in hand. He picked May up and gave her a kiss. "I'll see you later May. Love you."
"Love you too." May replied sweetly and waved as he walked out the door. "He's the best."
Rally smiled despite still being annoyed with May. "I'm glad you're happy May."
May smiled. "Well! We only have to work a short shift in the shop today (noon to five)! Want to go shopping after we're done? I heard there was a sale at the mall."
"Uh. sure, I suppose so." Rally replied uneasily. Shopping with May required some careful planning. She shrugged and they waded into the afternoon.
At noon, the girls opened up the shop and Rally finished her last special order gun of the week. May was skipping about, ready for five o'clock to roll around so she could go shopping. She cleaned the windows and helped customers in between. After finishing with the windows, she went back to the stock room to grab extra ammo and restock the shelves. After finishing her tasks, she sat quietly on her stool, watching as Rally finished taking an order for someone. May took a sip of Sprite.
Rally tuned with a smile. "Well, at least the afternoon's going fast May!"
May looked up and her chin dropped. "Oh my gosh! It is! That's great; four o'clock already!?"
Rally grinned in response; she was actually looking forward to shopping with May of all people! It would help get her mind off of Bean leaving for the week. A small frown crossed her dark features. May looked up. "Hey! Cheer up Ral'! He'll be back before you know it!!" May stated with a wink.
Rally smiled. Of course May would realize she was unhappy; having a best friend can be handy in situations like this. May grinned and began to vacuum the floor as Rally straightened the stock on the shelves. At five o'clock, Rally counted down the register and locked it away until Monday. She and May walked back to their house amidst infectious giggling on May's part. Rally started making something for dinner grinning as May explained some somewhat embarrassing points of her and Ken's relationship. Rally looked over at May thoughtfully from her seat as the microwave dinners cooked. "May? Do you think your relationship with Ken is serious?"
May looked at her friend and kept a serious face the whole while. Rally really wanted to know she thought. "Yes, I think it is." She replied quietly. "I hope I can stay with him forever Rally."
Rally looked on quietly and then smiled. "I hope it happens for you then."
"Me too!" May replied with a smile. Rally set a dinner in front of her and the two ate quietly at the table.
After finishing, May changed into jeans and a button down shirt with her 'grenade jacket' while Rally just changed into a turtleneck; she also packed her CZ75 away in her shoulder holster just in case. May was talking excitedly about the stores she wanted to visit as Rally cranked up the Cobra. She smiled at the sound. She drove a ways towards the mall they were visiting, May talking the whole time. They parked and walked into the mall.
After they entered, May started dragging Rally towards a store and Rally looked up towards their goal; Victoria's Secret. She rolled her eyes; figures. "Yeah May, like you need any more underwear."
"HEY! A girl can never have too much Rally." She replied with a wink.
Rally rolled her eyes again at that and they entered the store. She noticed the guys standing just outside the store like normal, looking at their feet, waiting for their girlfriends or wives to come out. Rally giggled.
"What's so funny?" May asked as she looked at a black bra.
"The guys standing outside the door! That's hilarious! I don't think there's a man alive that will willingly come into this store, even though, their girl does this for them!" Rally replied with a giggle.
May laughed as well. "Yeah I know! I can never get Ken in here; even though he does like it when I visit it." Rally just laughed and May looked up again, that strange glint in her eyes. "You gonna try and get Bean to come in here?"
"MAY!"
May laughed. "I'll take that as a 'no'; resounding one at that. Although I'm pretty sure he wouldn't mind."
Rally just sighed. "Okay May, enough."
"Ah, you're just no fun Rally!" May replied, looking at different pastel lace panties.
"Ah yes, of course not." Rally replied, as she smelled some of the lotion from the nearby stand; it smelled like berries.
May pointed at a matching bra and underwear set that was dark purple. "That would be perfect for you Ral'!"
Rally looked a moment; she actually did like the color. May grinned; she could tell Rally was thinking about it. Rally shrugged and pulled a set off the rack, finding the correct size, and headed towards the fitting rooms. "I'll be back in a minute May."
"Okay!" May replied as she looked for something nice, provocative, and out of Rally's taste to throw into the changing stall. She grinned pulling out a black teddy. She walked over to the changing rooms. "Where you at Rally?"
"Last one on the right side."
May walked over and threw the garment over the door. "Here's something you both might like!" she called.
May broke into hysterical laughter when Rally shrieked. "MAY! What is wrong with you?! I refuse to where this!!"
After a moment the garment came flying back over the door, landing on May's still giggling form. "Fine, fine! I was just trying to be nice, thinking of you and your guy!"
She could just hear Rally roll her eyes. After a couple of minutes, Rally came back out, throwing a scowl in May's general direction. May smiled and waved as she walked up to Rally, who looked annoyed. May smiled. "So, you gonna get that?"
"Yes. Now leave me alone brat!" Rally replied as she walked up to the cashier and paid for her purchases. May stood behind Rally and paid for hers as well.
When they were back out in the mall, Rally had cooled down some. May looked over. "Want to get some ice cream?"
"Sure."
They walked to the food court and May got a cherry vanilla cone, while Rally got a medium vanilla milkshake. Both sat in a booth at the court, enjoying their ice cream. Suddenly a very male voice sounded nearby. "May! Rally! That you?"
Rally turned and smiled; it was Roy. "Hey Roy! Yeah, its us!!"
Roy walked over and slid into the booth next to May. "You girls are out shopping? That's striking me as odd."
May giggled. "It is 'cause we're usually so busy!!"
Roy turned towards Rally again. "I haven't spoke to you in a few days. What have you been up to?"
Rally looked up sharply; Roy acted like he knew something. She studied her drink before looking up. "Not much?"
Roy just gave her 'a look'. He folded a napkin in front of his place. "I see. Although Dave mentioned something the other day that seemed to denote something else." Rally gulped but did not say anything. Roy continued. "I'm not going to try and use you Rally; you're too good for that. Just be careful with him, alright?"
Rally lost the deer in headlights look and gave a wavering smile. "I will. And thanks Roy. He won't hurt me though."
"Its not entirely him I'm worried about Rally. He's got a lot of enemies. I just want you to be careful. That's all." Roy stood up to leave.
"Thanks Roy. And I will be." Rally replied as she took a sip of her milkshake.
Roy nodded. "Alright. Well, I'll see you girls later." He waved and turned back into the mall.
Rally breathed deeply. May grinned at her friend. "He's such a father figure towards you, you know that?"
"Yeah, I know. And I really do appreciate it." Rally replied as she finished her shake. May stood up as well and they walked around the mall some more. Rally was window-shopping as May went to throw away some of her napkins from the ice cream. May turned back and saw that Rally was staring intently at a jacket in the window; the window of a leather goods shop.
May stopped behind her and looked at the jacket. It was a rich black, men's leather jacket, and far too big for Rally. May began to smile. "Rally?"
Rally's head whipped around. "Hm?"
"You like that jacket or what?"
"Yeah. Its really nice." Rally replied, turning back to the window.
May grabbed her arm and started pulling her into the store. "Well, it doesn't cost anything to go in and look at it! Come on girlfriend!"
Rally laughed at May's antics and let herself be dragged into the store. They stopped and looked at the display once more and then looked in the actual racks to find the jacket. May strode purposefully over to one and pulled out the exact jacket. Rally looked up. "How do you do that?"
May winked. "A skill with leather products."
Rally rolled her eyes as May looked at the price tag. "Not bad for a leather jacket. Nicely made too; and warm for winter weather. Hmm."
"How much?"
"Two-fifty. Like I said, not bad."
"Not really." Rally replied thoughtfully as she held out one of the too- long sleeves. "I don't know if he'd wear it or not though."
"Are you kidding?! This would look great on him; go ahead and picture it, I'll wait." May grinned.
Rally did; she hated it when May of all people was right. "I hate it when you're right, you know that?"
"Yes." May grinned.
Rally sighed. "Yeah, but do you think I should get it? He won't even be wearing it for a week."
"Damn. A whole week." May's sarcasm was not missed by a long shot.
Rally rolled her eyes once more. "Okay, Okay! I'll get it! Only because it will look really good on him!"
"What size does he wear?" May asked, looking at the racking.
"What's the biggest one they have?" Rally asked.
"Umm.looks like.2X." May held it up, squinting. "Okay, yeah, that should fit him."
May smiled and motioned over one of the store clerks to take it from the rack it was hooked to and box it up. He unlocked the jacket and put it into a graceful silver/gray box with the store name in small type along the top right corner. He rang it up and Rally handed over her credit card. They walked out of the store, Rally hanging onto her packages with a noticeable amount of happiness. May smiled; she was happy Rally bought the jacket for him. It shows Rally's actually serious for once.
They walked around the mall, stopping in a couple more shops before May looked at her watch; eight- thirty. She turned to Rally who was hugging that jacket box again. "Its eight-thirty Ral'; you ready to go?"
"Sure May!" Rally replied cheerfully. "Besides this jacket is getting extremely heavy!"
May giggled along with Rally and they left the mall. At home that night, Rally sat at the table cleaning her CZ75, while May was in the living room watching television. The phone rang and May sprang to get it. "Hellooo!"
May was silent as someone began talking into the phone; she stopped their speech. "Listen buddy boy, we don't have time to listen to your weak-ass prank calls! Call somebody more gullible! Geesh!" she hung up.
"Gee May, that wasn't a prank call was it May?" Rally asked from the kitchen.
"What was your first clue?" she asked as she sat back in her chair with popcorn bowl. "Great!! I missed part of the movie!! Argh!"
Rally strolled into the room after locking the safety on her gun and putting it in a holster. "What are you watching?"
May pouted. "Ever After".
"Hey, I didn't know that was on! Can I watch it too?" Rally asked as she flopped into the couch.
"Sure! Although you just missed where she hit the prince in the head with the apple." May replied as she grabbed popcorn.
"That's alright!" Rally began, also reaching for the popcorn. "He deserves it in the end at the ball anyways!"
"Yeah!" May replied waving a fist in the air. They both sat and watched the rest of the movie.
Around midnight, Rally heard a noise in the kitchen; she opened one eye, listening. She saw May across from her in the chair head down asleep. Apparently they had both fallen asleep at the end of the movie. She tentatively reached around the gun that was still in her lap. Pulling it out of the holster accompanied by a the slight metallic 'ping' of the metal on leather, she saw May slowly wake up. May's eyes shot open when she saw Rally and then she heard the slight scuffle in the kitchen. May grinned and reached under the couch cushions, pulling out a smoke grenade. Rally rolled her eyes slightly; she would have to talk to May about that later. May motioned towards the door again and they both put their heads down, Rally lowering the gun back to her lap.
There was whispering. "Well this is gonna be easy. Look; they're both asleep in the chairs."
"Good. I heard they're little terrors." Another stated with a sigh. "May be Dave'll feel a little better about it then. Just don't hurt 'em without due cause."
It sounded like three approached, but Rally was not entirely sure. She saw as May deftly tucked the grenade under her hand between it and the couch. One came up near May, between she and Rally. "This is the bomb freak, right?"
"Yeah. Make sure she doesn't have anything." But it came to little too late. May slipped the grenade from the couch and it hit the carpet with a slight 'thunk'. One of the people started to draw a gun out to fire at May, but Rally beat him to it, firing his thumb and both knees out. Suddenly, the smoke grenade went off with a small concussive blast that caused the two windows to crack and smoke to waft around and cover Rally and May's escape to the next room. May ran to grab another grenade from a cookie jar in the kitchen and Rally fired at the knees and shoulders of a second person. Unfortunately, the third managed to get himself out of the house. Unfortunately for him, May ran out the door after him, three hand grenades in tow with a smile. She hurled them at the guy who was screaming for all he was worth at that point, trying to get away from little innocent Minnie May. One exploded in a bright flash and the other two exploded in pink smoke. He was sobbing when May came up with her roll of trusty duct tape and a grin.
"Hey sugar, what's happening?" she asked as she tied him up with the duct tape.
After May had dragged the one back in, she propped him against the wall and then looked at the two on the floor bleeding. "Ewww." Her head shot back to the one standing. "Hey waitaminute! I remember you!"
Rally looked at the guy as well; he looked familiar, she just could not picture from where. May smiled and looked at Rally. "Duct tape in the hall with Garrison! Remember?"
"That's right!" Rally's eyes lit up as the man started scowling at May again. "Let's see. So, what's up this time bud?"
He just scowled at her. May came closer, materializing a grenade from almost thin air. He gulped. "Well, we were sent to bring you two in."
Rally's eyebrow rose. "Uh huh. Well, who sent you? I'm assuming Garrison."
The man shrugged. "We just got the orders girl. I don't know who sent them through this time."
May scowled and then turned to Rally with pleading eyes. "Please Rally! Please, just let me use one! Only one!!"
Rally rolled her eyes. "No May. Go call the cops."
May frowned but turned towards the phone and called. She looked back up. "They'll be here in a few."
"Okay, thanks May."
The police arrived in about half an hour. After everyone was cleaned up and shipped out, both Rally and May retired to their respective rooms to finish their sleep for the night.
Sunday morning was the only day during the week that both Rally and May slept in; especially Rally. The shop was closed for that day during the week to catch up on rest usually. It was also the day that the girls spent time driving, shopping or shooting (well, Rally did anyways). In other words, a day of rest. This Sunday, Rally caught up on her coloring and May just watched television all day. That evening, around five o'clock, the phone rang. "Hello, Vincent residence."
"Rally? Its Bean."
Rally smiled. "Hey Bean! Getting ready to head out I take it?"
"Yeah, just wanted to call and let you know. Like I said-"
"You know she was already unhappy and you haven't even left yet!?!" May laughed on the extension.
"MAY HOPKINS HANG UP THE PHONE THIS INSTANT!!!" Rally screamed into the phone.
May giggled right up until she hung up the receiver. Rally sighed as Bean laughed. "Hey! Its nice to know you care babe!"
"Of course I care! Don't be silly." Rally pouted into the phone resting on her shoulder.
"Aw, I'm just messing with you Rally. I know you care." Bean replied through a grin. "But, it is nice to hear."
"Thanks Bean." Rally sighed into the phone.
"No prob. Don't worry, like I said before, I should be home before the end of the week."
"I know Bean. Feel free to call during the week though, if you want."
"I probably will on my way home." He replied. "Well, I need to be going. I'll see you later Rally."
"Bye Bean. See you later." Rally stated as they both hung up the phones. She looked at the clock and then the calendar. It was going to be a long week; she could tell already. With any luck, a couple of bounties should come through this week; liven it up and speed it on during the week. She sighed and grabbed some graham crackers, walking into the living room to join May at the television.
Continued in Vol. 2, Part 3
Vol. 2; Part 2
By; Talis13
Disclaimer- Hello again! So, how are we liking the story so far? A little less fluff than before, but, yeah, I know, not by much. ^^ I'm a hopeless romantic, what can I say? Oh yes, the actual standard disclaimer- most characters in this story are not mine; they belong to Kenichi Sonoda, who, might I add, has become quite the influence in my artwork lately. He's got fascinating characters, what can I say? Well, enjoy the story!
Rally opened her eyes slowly, and looked up. Bean was still asleep next to her; his dark eyes were still shut and hair still everywhere. She smiled as his arm automatically tightened around her slightly, pulling her closer. Rally closed her eyes again, just for a moment, one hand stretched across his stomach, the other under her chin. Her eyes fluttered open again when she felt Bean moved ever so slightly. His dark eyes looked down at her. "Good morning." His deep voice rumbled.
Rally smiled again, eyes sparkling. "Good morning."
Bean sat up, pulling Rally with him. He leaned down kissing her. Rally's eyes shut as she enjoyed a morning kiss. She smiled again. "Such a nice way to wake up."
Bean actually blushed slightly. "That's nice to hear. You ready for breakfast?"
"That sounds good." Rally stated as she stretched, arms above her head for an instant.
He watched as Rally's bright blue eyes regained some of their color from a good night's sleep. Smile returning, he stood up and stretched again, walking into the adjoining kitchen. Opening the fridge, he glanced inside, pulling out eggs and sausage. He fired up the stove and began fixing their food. He heard Rally's light steps approach behind him. She wrapped her arms around his waist and leaned her cheek against his back, eyes closed. Bean wrapped a hand around her arm; his head tilted back, eyes closed, just enjoying her closeness. She let go of him, stepping away with a smile. "Nice to know you appreciate me Bean." She stated with a wink before turning and rummaging around for bread to put in the toaster.
Finding the bread and throwing it in the toaster, she sat at the small table, head propped up on one hand. She watched as Bean made breakfast; Rally burst into giggles. He turned and looked questioningly at her. "What's so funny?"
"You getting all domestic on me!" Rally blurted amidst her giggles.
He grinned at her. "Yeah, well, this incident will never leave between us, deal?"
She acted like she was thinking about it. "Hmm.but May would be terribly interested to know." she was cut off by Bean grabbing around her waist.
"Don't you dare utter a word of this to her Rally Vincent!" he laughed.
Rally was giggling uncontrollably at that point. "Fine, fine! Geez, can't a girl have a little fun Bandit?"
He fixed both their plates and set one in front of her seat and his and then set her in a chair. "No. Especially you girl."
"C'est la vie. Oh well, maybe next time." She stated as she began to eat. Bean sat across from her and did likewise, looking up at her bright eyes every so often. When she had finished, Rally stood and put her dishes in the sink and turned to him. "Do you have some dish soap somewhere?"
"Uh, under the sink, but you really don't-"
"That's alright! I want to help!" Rally stated cheerfully, turning a bright smile towards him once more. Rally retrieved the soap from the cabinet and began filling the sink, humming as she smiled. Getting a washrag from the sink as well, she began to clean her dishes, stacking them in the dry rack, and then just started washing some other dishes that were also residing in the sink at that point. She heard Bean finish and he walked behind her, putting the dishes in the sink, his arms around her. He kissed her neck and she looked up at him through half-closed eyes; he was far too romantic for his own good. She smiled. "I've got it Bean. Have a seat."
"Only if you're sure." His voice rumbled just below her ear.
She smiled. "Positive, but thanks for asking."
He reluctantly let go of her and reached for his cell phone as it rang. "Bean Bandit." He paused. "I see. Who recommended?" pause. "Okay. Well, what are we talking about here?" pause "I see. Where to?" Bean looked down a moment, thinking. "Yeah, no sweat. 80 grand for that trip pal." Pause "That's fine. And who exactly am I picking up?" pause "Got it. Where from and when are you leaving?" long pause "Yeah man, I've got it. I'll see you then; cash on delivery. Talk to you later."
Bean hung up the phone and looked at Rally who had a remote interest in his phone conversation at this point. She smiled. "Business trip?"
He grinned. "Yeah, you could say that." His smile turned into a small frown though. "I'm gonna be driving a guy to California though."
"I see." Rally looked unhappy a moment, as she dried her hands off on a towel. "How long will you be gone?"
Bean wrapped his arms around her small waist. "I won't be gone too long babe. Probably less than a week."
"Ooh. You're leaving soon then I take it." Rally replied.
"Tomorrow night."
"Ah. Well, you probably have things to do then. I'll go ahead and get ready to leave." Rally stated as she pulled away from him and walked towards the living room to collect her shoes and jacket.
He followed her into the living room and watched as she slipped the boots onto he feet. "Are you mad?"
She waited a moment to answer. "No, not mad. I'm just worried about you Bean. That's all."
He hugged her when she stood up. "I'll be fine. You know I can handle it."
She returned the hug with a sad smile. "I know you can. But I'm still going to worry Bean."
"Thank you. I appreciate it. It means a lot coming from you." He replied, releasing her from the hug. She shrugged the jacket onto her shoulders and he walked with her down to the garage.
She dug the keys to the Cobra out of her jacket pocket. "Well, at least call me before you go."
"Sure babe, no problem. And I'll have my cell phone, so call if you want, alright?" Bean replied as he opened the garage door for her. He grabbed her hand and brought her back to him all in one smooth motion, giving her a quick kiss before letting her go again.
"I'll see you later Bean." Rally stated with a smile and wave as she fired up her Cobra. It roared to life and she pulled out onto the street, waving back once. He returned the wave just before the door reshut.
Rally drove down the roads at a quick clip towards her house. She made it home fairly quickly and pulled into the driveway. Ken was still over; his car parked in the drive as well. Rally got out of her car, locking the doors, and walked to the house. She opened the door, letting herself inside. She walked into the kitchen, slinging her jacket over a chair that was not occupied. Ken looked up at her. "Morning Rally." He stated as he took a sip of coffee.
"Morning Ken." She replied with a smile. She then went upstairs to her room and picked out her clothes for the day and walked to the bathroom for a shower.
After a quick shower, Rally changed into her jeans and sweater and wrapped her hair in a towel to dry some. She walked down the stairs and into the kitchen, tucking her hair into the towel again. She looked up at May and Ken cheerfully eating a breakfast of toast and juice. She smiled. "Morning May."
May's head turned. "Well, well. Good morning Rally Vincent. When did you get in?"
Rally looked at the clock. "About a hour ago, why?"
"Ooh, I see." May got that devilish gleam in her eyes again. "So, I take it you spent the night."
Rally was rummaging around for a coffee cup. "Yes May, and no, I didn't sleep with him."
"Ahh."
Ken had a less than remote interest at this point; he was reading the newspaper. He glanced up after a particularly interesting article. "Play nice girls."
"Of course daddy." May purred with a smile.
Rally rolled her eyes after she found a cup and poured some coffee. Adding a bit of cream, she sat at the table and looked into the coffee cup. May looked at her. "Are you reading tea leaves?"
"No goofball, I'm reading the coffee." Rally shot back.
Ken stood up and stretched. "Well, it looks like you're both in wonderful moods today, so I'll be going home in a few. Have some business to attend to."
"Awwww." May sighed.
"Hey, I've got to go babe, you know that. Maybe we can get together again this week?" he replied before turning into the living room and walking upstairs.
"Yay!" May cheered after he went upstairs to collect his belongings. She turned back to Rally who was still thoughtfully looking into her coffee. "What's wrong Rally?"
Rally shrugged tentatively. "Eh, nothing much I suppose."
"But seriously?"
"Well, Bean's going to be gone for the better part of the week." Rally began. "He's taking someone to California apparently."
"Oh. Well, I'm sure he'll be fine Rally! This is Bean the bulletproof ox we're talking about! Cheer up girl! It won't be long, I'm sure!!" May smiled at her friend whose head was still bowed slightly.
"I suppose."
"When's he leaving?" May asked as she sipped her juice.
"Tomorrow night."
"Ah. Well, as quick as he is, he'll probably be home by next weekend."
"I know. I just wish he didn't have to go."
May looked up with a grin. "So what did you really do all night then?"
"MAY HOPKINS!!" Rally shrieked. "We didn't do anything!"
May just laughed. It was still continuing when Ken came back downstairs, keys in hand. He picked May up and gave her a kiss. "I'll see you later May. Love you."
"Love you too." May replied sweetly and waved as he walked out the door. "He's the best."
Rally smiled despite still being annoyed with May. "I'm glad you're happy May."
May smiled. "Well! We only have to work a short shift in the shop today (noon to five)! Want to go shopping after we're done? I heard there was a sale at the mall."
"Uh. sure, I suppose so." Rally replied uneasily. Shopping with May required some careful planning. She shrugged and they waded into the afternoon.
At noon, the girls opened up the shop and Rally finished her last special order gun of the week. May was skipping about, ready for five o'clock to roll around so she could go shopping. She cleaned the windows and helped customers in between. After finishing with the windows, she went back to the stock room to grab extra ammo and restock the shelves. After finishing her tasks, she sat quietly on her stool, watching as Rally finished taking an order for someone. May took a sip of Sprite.
Rally tuned with a smile. "Well, at least the afternoon's going fast May!"
May looked up and her chin dropped. "Oh my gosh! It is! That's great; four o'clock already!?"
Rally grinned in response; she was actually looking forward to shopping with May of all people! It would help get her mind off of Bean leaving for the week. A small frown crossed her dark features. May looked up. "Hey! Cheer up Ral'! He'll be back before you know it!!" May stated with a wink.
Rally smiled. Of course May would realize she was unhappy; having a best friend can be handy in situations like this. May grinned and began to vacuum the floor as Rally straightened the stock on the shelves. At five o'clock, Rally counted down the register and locked it away until Monday. She and May walked back to their house amidst infectious giggling on May's part. Rally started making something for dinner grinning as May explained some somewhat embarrassing points of her and Ken's relationship. Rally looked over at May thoughtfully from her seat as the microwave dinners cooked. "May? Do you think your relationship with Ken is serious?"
May looked at her friend and kept a serious face the whole while. Rally really wanted to know she thought. "Yes, I think it is." She replied quietly. "I hope I can stay with him forever Rally."
Rally looked on quietly and then smiled. "I hope it happens for you then."
"Me too!" May replied with a smile. Rally set a dinner in front of her and the two ate quietly at the table.
After finishing, May changed into jeans and a button down shirt with her 'grenade jacket' while Rally just changed into a turtleneck; she also packed her CZ75 away in her shoulder holster just in case. May was talking excitedly about the stores she wanted to visit as Rally cranked up the Cobra. She smiled at the sound. She drove a ways towards the mall they were visiting, May talking the whole time. They parked and walked into the mall.
After they entered, May started dragging Rally towards a store and Rally looked up towards their goal; Victoria's Secret. She rolled her eyes; figures. "Yeah May, like you need any more underwear."
"HEY! A girl can never have too much Rally." She replied with a wink.
Rally rolled her eyes again at that and they entered the store. She noticed the guys standing just outside the store like normal, looking at their feet, waiting for their girlfriends or wives to come out. Rally giggled.
"What's so funny?" May asked as she looked at a black bra.
"The guys standing outside the door! That's hilarious! I don't think there's a man alive that will willingly come into this store, even though, their girl does this for them!" Rally replied with a giggle.
May laughed as well. "Yeah I know! I can never get Ken in here; even though he does like it when I visit it." Rally just laughed and May looked up again, that strange glint in her eyes. "You gonna try and get Bean to come in here?"
"MAY!"
May laughed. "I'll take that as a 'no'; resounding one at that. Although I'm pretty sure he wouldn't mind."
Rally just sighed. "Okay May, enough."
"Ah, you're just no fun Rally!" May replied, looking at different pastel lace panties.
"Ah yes, of course not." Rally replied, as she smelled some of the lotion from the nearby stand; it smelled like berries.
May pointed at a matching bra and underwear set that was dark purple. "That would be perfect for you Ral'!"
Rally looked a moment; she actually did like the color. May grinned; she could tell Rally was thinking about it. Rally shrugged and pulled a set off the rack, finding the correct size, and headed towards the fitting rooms. "I'll be back in a minute May."
"Okay!" May replied as she looked for something nice, provocative, and out of Rally's taste to throw into the changing stall. She grinned pulling out a black teddy. She walked over to the changing rooms. "Where you at Rally?"
"Last one on the right side."
May walked over and threw the garment over the door. "Here's something you both might like!" she called.
May broke into hysterical laughter when Rally shrieked. "MAY! What is wrong with you?! I refuse to where this!!"
After a moment the garment came flying back over the door, landing on May's still giggling form. "Fine, fine! I was just trying to be nice, thinking of you and your guy!"
She could just hear Rally roll her eyes. After a couple of minutes, Rally came back out, throwing a scowl in May's general direction. May smiled and waved as she walked up to Rally, who looked annoyed. May smiled. "So, you gonna get that?"
"Yes. Now leave me alone brat!" Rally replied as she walked up to the cashier and paid for her purchases. May stood behind Rally and paid for hers as well.
When they were back out in the mall, Rally had cooled down some. May looked over. "Want to get some ice cream?"
"Sure."
They walked to the food court and May got a cherry vanilla cone, while Rally got a medium vanilla milkshake. Both sat in a booth at the court, enjoying their ice cream. Suddenly a very male voice sounded nearby. "May! Rally! That you?"
Rally turned and smiled; it was Roy. "Hey Roy! Yeah, its us!!"
Roy walked over and slid into the booth next to May. "You girls are out shopping? That's striking me as odd."
May giggled. "It is 'cause we're usually so busy!!"
Roy turned towards Rally again. "I haven't spoke to you in a few days. What have you been up to?"
Rally looked up sharply; Roy acted like he knew something. She studied her drink before looking up. "Not much?"
Roy just gave her 'a look'. He folded a napkin in front of his place. "I see. Although Dave mentioned something the other day that seemed to denote something else." Rally gulped but did not say anything. Roy continued. "I'm not going to try and use you Rally; you're too good for that. Just be careful with him, alright?"
Rally lost the deer in headlights look and gave a wavering smile. "I will. And thanks Roy. He won't hurt me though."
"Its not entirely him I'm worried about Rally. He's got a lot of enemies. I just want you to be careful. That's all." Roy stood up to leave.
"Thanks Roy. And I will be." Rally replied as she took a sip of her milkshake.
Roy nodded. "Alright. Well, I'll see you girls later." He waved and turned back into the mall.
Rally breathed deeply. May grinned at her friend. "He's such a father figure towards you, you know that?"
"Yeah, I know. And I really do appreciate it." Rally replied as she finished her shake. May stood up as well and they walked around the mall some more. Rally was window-shopping as May went to throw away some of her napkins from the ice cream. May turned back and saw that Rally was staring intently at a jacket in the window; the window of a leather goods shop.
May stopped behind her and looked at the jacket. It was a rich black, men's leather jacket, and far too big for Rally. May began to smile. "Rally?"
Rally's head whipped around. "Hm?"
"You like that jacket or what?"
"Yeah. Its really nice." Rally replied, turning back to the window.
May grabbed her arm and started pulling her into the store. "Well, it doesn't cost anything to go in and look at it! Come on girlfriend!"
Rally laughed at May's antics and let herself be dragged into the store. They stopped and looked at the display once more and then looked in the actual racks to find the jacket. May strode purposefully over to one and pulled out the exact jacket. Rally looked up. "How do you do that?"
May winked. "A skill with leather products."
Rally rolled her eyes as May looked at the price tag. "Not bad for a leather jacket. Nicely made too; and warm for winter weather. Hmm."
"How much?"
"Two-fifty. Like I said, not bad."
"Not really." Rally replied thoughtfully as she held out one of the too- long sleeves. "I don't know if he'd wear it or not though."
"Are you kidding?! This would look great on him; go ahead and picture it, I'll wait." May grinned.
Rally did; she hated it when May of all people was right. "I hate it when you're right, you know that?"
"Yes." May grinned.
Rally sighed. "Yeah, but do you think I should get it? He won't even be wearing it for a week."
"Damn. A whole week." May's sarcasm was not missed by a long shot.
Rally rolled her eyes once more. "Okay, Okay! I'll get it! Only because it will look really good on him!"
"What size does he wear?" May asked, looking at the racking.
"What's the biggest one they have?" Rally asked.
"Umm.looks like.2X." May held it up, squinting. "Okay, yeah, that should fit him."
May smiled and motioned over one of the store clerks to take it from the rack it was hooked to and box it up. He unlocked the jacket and put it into a graceful silver/gray box with the store name in small type along the top right corner. He rang it up and Rally handed over her credit card. They walked out of the store, Rally hanging onto her packages with a noticeable amount of happiness. May smiled; she was happy Rally bought the jacket for him. It shows Rally's actually serious for once.
They walked around the mall, stopping in a couple more shops before May looked at her watch; eight- thirty. She turned to Rally who was hugging that jacket box again. "Its eight-thirty Ral'; you ready to go?"
"Sure May!" Rally replied cheerfully. "Besides this jacket is getting extremely heavy!"
May giggled along with Rally and they left the mall. At home that night, Rally sat at the table cleaning her CZ75, while May was in the living room watching television. The phone rang and May sprang to get it. "Hellooo!"
May was silent as someone began talking into the phone; she stopped their speech. "Listen buddy boy, we don't have time to listen to your weak-ass prank calls! Call somebody more gullible! Geesh!" she hung up.
"Gee May, that wasn't a prank call was it May?" Rally asked from the kitchen.
"What was your first clue?" she asked as she sat back in her chair with popcorn bowl. "Great!! I missed part of the movie!! Argh!"
Rally strolled into the room after locking the safety on her gun and putting it in a holster. "What are you watching?"
May pouted. "Ever After".
"Hey, I didn't know that was on! Can I watch it too?" Rally asked as she flopped into the couch.
"Sure! Although you just missed where she hit the prince in the head with the apple." May replied as she grabbed popcorn.
"That's alright!" Rally began, also reaching for the popcorn. "He deserves it in the end at the ball anyways!"
"Yeah!" May replied waving a fist in the air. They both sat and watched the rest of the movie.
Around midnight, Rally heard a noise in the kitchen; she opened one eye, listening. She saw May across from her in the chair head down asleep. Apparently they had both fallen asleep at the end of the movie. She tentatively reached around the gun that was still in her lap. Pulling it out of the holster accompanied by a the slight metallic 'ping' of the metal on leather, she saw May slowly wake up. May's eyes shot open when she saw Rally and then she heard the slight scuffle in the kitchen. May grinned and reached under the couch cushions, pulling out a smoke grenade. Rally rolled her eyes slightly; she would have to talk to May about that later. May motioned towards the door again and they both put their heads down, Rally lowering the gun back to her lap.
There was whispering. "Well this is gonna be easy. Look; they're both asleep in the chairs."
"Good. I heard they're little terrors." Another stated with a sigh. "May be Dave'll feel a little better about it then. Just don't hurt 'em without due cause."
It sounded like three approached, but Rally was not entirely sure. She saw as May deftly tucked the grenade under her hand between it and the couch. One came up near May, between she and Rally. "This is the bomb freak, right?"
"Yeah. Make sure she doesn't have anything." But it came to little too late. May slipped the grenade from the couch and it hit the carpet with a slight 'thunk'. One of the people started to draw a gun out to fire at May, but Rally beat him to it, firing his thumb and both knees out. Suddenly, the smoke grenade went off with a small concussive blast that caused the two windows to crack and smoke to waft around and cover Rally and May's escape to the next room. May ran to grab another grenade from a cookie jar in the kitchen and Rally fired at the knees and shoulders of a second person. Unfortunately, the third managed to get himself out of the house. Unfortunately for him, May ran out the door after him, three hand grenades in tow with a smile. She hurled them at the guy who was screaming for all he was worth at that point, trying to get away from little innocent Minnie May. One exploded in a bright flash and the other two exploded in pink smoke. He was sobbing when May came up with her roll of trusty duct tape and a grin.
"Hey sugar, what's happening?" she asked as she tied him up with the duct tape.
After May had dragged the one back in, she propped him against the wall and then looked at the two on the floor bleeding. "Ewww." Her head shot back to the one standing. "Hey waitaminute! I remember you!"
Rally looked at the guy as well; he looked familiar, she just could not picture from where. May smiled and looked at Rally. "Duct tape in the hall with Garrison! Remember?"
"That's right!" Rally's eyes lit up as the man started scowling at May again. "Let's see. So, what's up this time bud?"
He just scowled at her. May came closer, materializing a grenade from almost thin air. He gulped. "Well, we were sent to bring you two in."
Rally's eyebrow rose. "Uh huh. Well, who sent you? I'm assuming Garrison."
The man shrugged. "We just got the orders girl. I don't know who sent them through this time."
May scowled and then turned to Rally with pleading eyes. "Please Rally! Please, just let me use one! Only one!!"
Rally rolled her eyes. "No May. Go call the cops."
May frowned but turned towards the phone and called. She looked back up. "They'll be here in a few."
"Okay, thanks May."
The police arrived in about half an hour. After everyone was cleaned up and shipped out, both Rally and May retired to their respective rooms to finish their sleep for the night.
Sunday morning was the only day during the week that both Rally and May slept in; especially Rally. The shop was closed for that day during the week to catch up on rest usually. It was also the day that the girls spent time driving, shopping or shooting (well, Rally did anyways). In other words, a day of rest. This Sunday, Rally caught up on her coloring and May just watched television all day. That evening, around five o'clock, the phone rang. "Hello, Vincent residence."
"Rally? Its Bean."
Rally smiled. "Hey Bean! Getting ready to head out I take it?"
"Yeah, just wanted to call and let you know. Like I said-"
"You know she was already unhappy and you haven't even left yet!?!" May laughed on the extension.
"MAY HOPKINS HANG UP THE PHONE THIS INSTANT!!!" Rally screamed into the phone.
May giggled right up until she hung up the receiver. Rally sighed as Bean laughed. "Hey! Its nice to know you care babe!"
"Of course I care! Don't be silly." Rally pouted into the phone resting on her shoulder.
"Aw, I'm just messing with you Rally. I know you care." Bean replied through a grin. "But, it is nice to hear."
"Thanks Bean." Rally sighed into the phone.
"No prob. Don't worry, like I said before, I should be home before the end of the week."
"I know Bean. Feel free to call during the week though, if you want."
"I probably will on my way home." He replied. "Well, I need to be going. I'll see you later Rally."
"Bye Bean. See you later." Rally stated as they both hung up the phones. She looked at the clock and then the calendar. It was going to be a long week; she could tell already. With any luck, a couple of bounties should come through this week; liven it up and speed it on during the week. She sighed and grabbed some graham crackers, walking into the living room to join May at the television.
Continued in Vol. 2, Part 3