A Gunsmith Cats Fan 'Fic
Vol.2 Part 3
By; Talis13
Standard Disclaimer- Most characters belong to Kenichi Sonoda in this story arc; I have made up a few though. Of course, in this chapter most will be my characters; except Bean this time. I don't own him, nor any bands mentioned- Metallica, AC/DC, Black Sabbath, or Ozzy Osbourne himself. Nor Crazy Town or their song 'Butterfly'; also I don't own Bon Jovi or CCR. I also don't own Motel 6 or Comfort Inn. I think that's all I don't own. Okay, summary- this story is being told primarily from Bean Bandit's POV; we'll rarely hear from Rally. I felt like it is why. It sounded like fun. ^^ So, basically we'll get the story of his little excursion to California and back. Enjoy!
Bean hung up the phone and grabbed the infamous custom jacket of his, the leather flowing over hand and slung it over his broad shoulders. He grabbed extra cash, stuffing it into his jeans pocket as well as an inner pocket of the jacket, and then his keys to a 1970 Mach 1 Mustang. He walked over to his filing cabinet and pulled out another set of plates 'just in case', as well as a set of California plates. Carrying them under his arm he walked out the door and locked the six bolts. Walking down the stairs to the garage quietly, he swung the door open and strode over to the Mach 1; it was in great condition in gray tones and a souped up engine. He smiled despite himself. Bean hopped into the car and roared out of the garage, shutting and arming the alarms in his wake.
Driving out onto the main streets of Chicago, he watched as buildings zipped by as well as other cars and people. His dark eyes traveled up the tall skyscrapers glistening in the setting sun. As the sun set, he got closer to the rundown outskirts of the city and began slowing down, recalling the exact address of the person he was picking up. Pulling to the curb, Bean moved a briefcase and black bound book to the backseat of the Mach 1 and then looked at his watch; five 'til six. Bean waited for his 'client' to come.
Exactly at six, an older gentleman came out of one of the buildings by himself, carrying a briefcase that was locked to his arm. He strode over to the Mach 1 and entered the passenger's side, looking at Bean. Bean turned at looked at the man through the dark Oakley sunglasses; middle-aged man, light thinning hair, pressed business suit. "Christopher Owens?"
"Yes. Bean Bandit I presume?" the man replied.
Bean started the car again. "You got it."
The man just nodded as Bean pulled away from the curb and into the darkening, desolate streets. Bean was silent the whole time as Mr. Owens fidgeted slightly with the briefcase around his wrist. He dug out a key, but stopped before unlocking the case; he looked over at Bean. "How secure is this car?"
A somewhat toothy grin crossed Bean's face. "Are you kidding?"
The man shrugged and then proceeded to unlock the case from his wrist, setting it at his feet. "You have to understand young man, I can't be too careful with this."
Bean shrugged and continued driving. He found a CD and put it into the player. AC/DC started playing.[i] As the music played, he looked in the rearview and then at his passenger. "Are you expecting any trouble from anybody?"
"I take it there's somebody following us already?" the man sighed.
"Looks that way."
"Ah. Well, it would most likely be somebody my former partner has hired to 'take me out' as the case may be."
"What happened?"
"He double crossed me on a business venture in our excursion into illegal arms. I informed him that I was leaving and taking my business elsewhere. I provided substantial monetary help you see." The man explained.
"Gotcha." Bean replied glancing in the mirror once more as he pulled onto the interstate highway. The car was still following and pulling closer. Bean pointed at the seatbelt. "Better attach that four-point harness pal."
Bean grinned and gunned the car, smoothly pulling from the other vehicle. Mr. Owens looked over somewhat fearfully as a grin crossed Bean's features, as he drove around 125mph down the interstate. Owens grasped the briefcase as he sunk a little farther into the seats. Bean was weaving fluidly around traffic trying to loose the car still tailing him. Suddenly, the other car started picking up considerably, pulling closer to the Mach 1.
He arched an eyebrow; NOS on top of a supercharger? Nice. As the other car pulled closer, Bean looked over at Owens, clutching the case with closed eyes. He grinned and popped the gas again. Out on a straight stretch of highway, there were fewer cars this late, so he could drive with more ease. Stars were actually becoming visible, the farther they went from Chicago's lights. Grinning, Bean noticed the only time he actually looks at something off the wall, like stars, is when he's going down the road over a hundred miles per hour, not even being able to take any kind of joy in them. He kept up the joyride for over an hour.
After that, the other car began to slowly be left in the dust; that's what they get for not getting a better-conditioned car. They were making good time; they left at six and it was eight o'clock. And, the gas tank was feeling the burn from that speed during the hour. He looked over at his passenger who was starting to uncurl his hands from the strenuous ride. "What are we doing?"
"We're filling up the tank. We were busting over a hundred for over an hour man." Bean replied as he slowed and pulled on the off ramp.
"Yes, I noticed." Owens replied dryly. Bean had to choke down his laughter from that, and decided on a grin. Pulling up to the gas station, Bean got out and put the highest octane he could find in the car. Owens got out and went to use the restroom and get coffee to calm his slightly frazzled nerves. As he stood outside, a chilly breeze whipped by and he heard his cell phone ring. Pulling it out he answered. "Bean Bandit."
"Hey Bean. It's Rally. You've been gone less than three hours, yet you still manage to have the police on your case and cause trouble. However do you do it?" Came with a giggle over the phone.
He smiled. "Hey babe. Is that right? Why now?"
"Well, you know, I get this call from somebody about a mad chase on the outskirts of our fine city. Afterwards this crazy freak off his leash is driving out the state line over a hundred miles an hour. I figured the choices were kind of limited." Rally replied, grinning through the phone.
Bean finished pumping the gas and walked into the station to pay. "Is that right?"
"And since it sounds like you're at a gas station, you're my best guess."
"Okay, you've got me. So, I had a small problem. I can handle." He grinned and paid the cashier.
"Figured you better watch out Bean. People are looking for you already. Not good. Figured I'd warn you." She replied.
He sat in the drivers seat and noted that Owens was already back. " You're all heart babe. Thanks for the warning. Be good while I'm gone."
"Me? In trouble? Don't be silly. Besides, the only time I get in trouble is when you're here." Rally replied dryly.
He chuckled. "Yeah, imagine that. I'll talk to you later babe."
"Talk to you later Bean." With that it ended with a 'click' of phones. Bean fired up the car and looked over at Owens with a grin. "You might wanna buckle up dude."
Owens looked fearful a moment and then slowly buckled the seatbelt as Bean pulled out of the station and back onto the interstate. He looked over at Bean, who had that clinical look on his face once more. Owens was trying to think of something to say, conversation. "So, who were you talking to?"
Bean looked deadpan, almost not believing small talk is coming from this man. He arched an eyebrow. "A friend."
Owens arched an eyebrow. "I don't believe that. The only times you were smiling were when we were in the middle of a drag race." He rolled his eyes. "And then on the phone. Friends rarely cause that flash of happiness I've discovered."
Bean looked over with a glare thrown towards his passenger. "What damn business is it of yours anyways?"
"None! I was just trying to be friendly." Owens replied, hands in the air in defeat as he moved from Bean.
"You can turn the charm off then." Bean growled. But then he thought about it; he was driving this man how many days? Better to be almost civil. He shrugged in defeat. "It was my girlfriend."
Owens smiled. "Ah. Beast found the Beauty 'eh?"
Bean almost smiled. Almost. "Yeah, cheesy as that reference is. You could say that." He was silent a moment. "So, are you married? Got kids or anything?"
Owens felt the car accelerate again; around eighty miles an hour. "Yes. I've been married for twenty- five years. I have two children; a boy and a girl, ages twenty-one and nineteen. They're my angels."
Bean smiled. "So, what's it like being married that long?"
"Wonderful." Owens had a genuine smile on his face. "I love my wife and children dearly. That's the only reason I do what I do; to support them."
Bean glanced at a map he had; they were in Iowa right now. They should be able to make it to Nebraska before pulling off to sleep. He then accelerated smoothly to avoid giving Mr. Owens a heart attack, and then drove silently with a small smile. He was wondering what prompted the talk about marriage and kids. He looked out at the dark sky, full of brighter stars in the middle of nowhere than Chicago's outskirts. Probably just some sentimental side he was trying to squash; that thought garnered a grin. He looked back out the window, trying to arrange his thoughts. Stars and more stars. He thought Rally would like to see it; she doesn't get out of Chicago a lot and probably hasn't had much opportunity to see things like this. She was always looking up at the stars in the sky. He was going to have to drag her on a vacation. Maybe in the summer: that might be a good idea. Where to?
Thoughts being abruptly stopped by a flash of headlights in the rearview, Bean looked back a moment. A fast approaching sports car; looked like it had thick glass too. Probably bullet proof; he could hardly see the driver in the car. He looked over making sure Owens had his seatbelt on and then prompted the car to go above and beyond the speed limit and call of duty again. The engine roared as he pulled away from the other car. However, the other driver had other plans; he began making a breakaway towards Bean's side of the car. Owens was in the seat, hands over his head; not that it would have helped if that had a high-powered rifle. Bean shrugged making sure his hidden throwing knives were easily accessible, just in case. The windows were up, but he glanced over and saw that the car had pulled nearby, the window down and a man with an assault rifle leaned it out the window, aiming at Bean. Bean pushed the gas, pulling ahead, but the shot still caught the rear of the Mach 1, causing the car to hop a bit. Bean had a really pissed off look on his face as he pulled out a couple of knives to the ready. The car came up again, pulling to the side as Bean snarled a challenge to the shooter. The shooter took said challenge and fired at the glass of the Mustang. Glass exploded in a spray towards Bean and Owens, but Bean hurled the knives out the window with pinpoint accuracy at the shooter and into the arm of the driver. Gunning the car, Bean pulled away at nice clip of around one sixty. "Son of a bitch. This is gonna be a pain in the ass to replace and cost me a God damn arm and leg."
Owens was shaking as he dusted glass off his jacket. Bean looked at the back seat. He pulled another jacket out. "Here."
Owens mumbled 'thanks' and put the jacket on to ward off the biting chill that whipped through the window. Bean was glaring at the fading view of the sports car. He pulled out his phone. It rang several times before someone sleepily answered. "Hmm? Hello?"
"Hey. Sorry if I woke you Tyler. Its Bean Bandit, man."
"Bean! Hey dude, haven't heard from you in awhile!" Tyler began. "So, what's up?"
"I know its kind of inconvenient, but think you got an extra car I could pick up? Some idiot fired an assault rifle at my driver window. And at the rear of the car." Bean snarled.
"Sure man. Any particular one?" Tyler began. "'Cause we've probably got it."
"Choice huh?" Bean smiled. "How about a '76 Corvette?"
"Hey man! You still got those refined tastes! Sure, I'll go out and get it ready for you. When you think you'll be by?"
Bean looked at his watch. "Probably in about an hour."
"No problem man! I'll get it ready for you. Talk to you later."
"Thanks Tyler." Bean replied before hanging up the phone and putting it back in his jacket. He looked over at Owens. "At least it'll only be an hour."
About an hour later, no more circumstances and just a slightly chilled Bean Bandit drove into the city of Lincoln, Nebraska. He pulled up to an old warehouse and beeped the horn once. The door eventually rose up just enough for Bean to drive the beat up Mach 1 in. He and Owens, who had restrapped the briefcase to his arm, got out. Bean grinned and shook hands with a young man who appeared to be about twenty-four, maybe five. He had sandy blonde hair and coveralls on, wearing a grin as he greeted them. "Long time no see! How's business been?"
"No to bad friend. In process of some right now even." Bean threw a look over his shoulder at Owens who was still looking around somewhat fearfully.
"Hey! You probably got a time limit huh? Here's the car." He pointed at a black 1976 Sting Ray Corvette. It glimmered even under the dusky lights in the building. Bean looked over at the car appreciatively. Very nice.
"Looks good." Bean stated, grabbing a hand full of cash and handing it to Tyler. Tyler in turn, handed him the keys with a smile.
"Enjoy." Tyler stated as he stuffed the cash into a pocket.
Bean looked up a moment. "Hey, do you ever get in parts for '67 Shelby Cobra Mustangs?"
Tyler nodded his head. "Yeah, occasionally. Why? Did you finally decide to pick one up?"
"Naw. I know someone who has to get body work down on one on a normal basis." Bean stated with a sly smile.
"Bad driver?"
"Nah, bounty hunter with good taste." He replied with a grin, brown eyes twinkling under the dusky garage lights.
Tyler nodded appreciatively. "Yeah, give him my number then. Like I said, I get some sometimes."
"She, not he and I'm sure she'll be happy to hear that." Bean stated, as he grabbed his belongings from the back of the Mustang.
"'She' huh?" Tyler grinned, showing a sharp smile. "Has Bandit been on the lose and busy again then? And a bounty hunter no less."
Bean grinned. "Define 'busy' man."
"Hell man, just curious. She actually your lady then?" he arched an eyebrow, hands tucked in his pockets.
"Yeah. Finally." Bean sighed with the beginnings of a quirky smile. "But well, well worth the wait lemme tell you."
Tyler smirked. "The mighty Bean Bandit has been taken hook line and sinker everybody."
Bean grinned. "Whatever man. I'm still the regular guy that drives."
"Sure, whatever you say dude. Sounds like a little mores happening than you're letting on." He paused. "So, what's this chick look like anyway?"
Bean stood, thinking a moment, recalling those details burned in his memory from awhile back. "About five foot six and light as a feather. She has this dark skin, like Native American or something and black hair cut at her shoulders. And these amazing killer blue eyes."
Tyler chuckled. "And he's hooked folks!! She sounds like a looker; why'd she fall for you?"
Bean laughed as both he and Owens sat in the car. "Your guess is as good as mine. Well, been a nice visit, but I've got to roll. Thanks again Tyler."
"Anytime man. Have a profitable trip and tell your gal pal I said hey!" he stated with a grin just before closing the heavy metal door once more. Bean pulled back onto the interstate easily with a nice car underfoot. Owens had finally calmed down and taken the extra jacket off, putting it in the backseat. Bean looked over. "We're going to stop in a couple of hours in Kearney."
"That's fine." Owens replied as he leaned back in the seat, still clutching the case. Bean glanced at his watch; two in the morning. The drive to Kearney was surprisingly quiet. Except for Bean switching CD's every so often. It went from AC/DC to Metallica and then finally to Ozzy Osborn. As Ozzy wailed in the background, Bean pulled off interstate 80 and into Kearney. Pulling up to a Motel 6, he parked the car and reached over, tapping Owens. "We're here."
Owens shot up and then looked around, clutching the briefcase before calming back down. Bean had a slightly amused look on his face. "Okay." Both got out, Bean grabbing his briefcase and book, and went to the register to get rooms. Owens still grasped the briefcase around his wrist in a death grip. Bean grinned. "You gonna sleep with that thing too?"
"Yes. Its very important." Owens replied, hurrying into his room. Bean shrugged and walked into his own room. Bland, normal tan motel furniture. He threw the case on the table and then sat on the bed; opening the black bound book he had been carrying around. He flipped through the pages, stopping after every so often, just to look. It was a sketchbook he kept: just something to do. Mostly sketches of people. He turned towards the back of the book, looking for the most recent lines. There was one he drew of a car design; so not all people. He was still working on his own car designs; another was close but not there. He flipped the page. It was a drawing of a photograph May had given him of she and Rally. They were both smiling, Rally pulling a huge straw hat over May's ears. May was flashing the peace sign on both hands. He smiled. Turning the page, he flipped through a couple of pages of just sketches he had done of Rally. The most recent one was when she was sleep against him the other night. He woke up and noticed how peaceful she looked. He sketched out just her face in soft, unconnected lines; smile just barely lilting at her lips. He shook his head and closed the book, placing it on the briefcase. Turning down the sheets after stripping off the t-shirt and jeans he wore, he lay on the bed and fell into a deep sleep for a few brief hours.
Around ten o'clock, Bean woke up at the alarm he set and packed up his things after a really quick shower. His hair was still dripping on the carpet as he put his flak jacket back on and walked out of the room. He pounded on the door none to lightly. Owens came to the door, looking through the peephole first. He opened it and came out into the hall, already ready to go, case in hand. Bean arched an eyebrow. They checked out and hopped into the car after grabbing something quick to eat. He figured they would be able to make it into Utah before stopping for sleep again.
Owens fumbled with the case once more before putting it at his feet. Bean looked over. "So, what the hell is in that thing anyway?"
"Just my current contracts and money information." Owens looked out the window before looking back at Bean. "I've heard about your theory on people who break contracts with you, so don't worry."
Bean grinned. "So long as you know, there won't be a problem then."
Owens nodded and looked quietly out the window once more. Bean put his Oakley's on and shifted gears onto Interstate 80 once more. He passed by a Boss 302 Mustang on the left, looking as he went; grabber blue with black interior. Blowing by the Mustang, he sighed; he was still mad about his Mach 1 having holes punched in it. A slight glare etched its way across his features once more in remembrance. Owens was casting a wary glance at the speedometer as Bean continued to glare out the window; they were heading about eighty miles an hour in morning traffic. Owens looked over. "May I use your phone? I'd like to call my wife." He asked tentatively.
Bean whipped out the phone unfolding it and handing it to him in one graceful arch. Owens took the phone and dialed out to his home. It rang twice before someone picked up. He smiled. "Hello dear, its me!" pause "Yes, I'm on my way now; we're in Nebraska. Uh huh." pause "I see. Yes, I should be home in a couple of days at the most." pause "Not a problem dear! Tell Cynthia and Greg I said hello. I'll see you all soon. Oh! Make sure you keep all security in place, because they are after me." pause "I love you to." He hung up the phone, handing it back to Bean. "Thank you."
"No prob." Bean stated replacing the phone in his pocket. "Although I hope no one tapped that home line. Otherwise they're gonna be all over us again."
"Maybe. But didn't changing cars throw them off?"
"Maybe. But if they're pros, they'll figure things out." Bean replied. He reached under his seat and pulled a CD case. "Go ahead and pick something."
Owens grabbed the book, unzipping it. He looked through a few pages. "Hard rock fan?"
"Of sorts." Bean replied with a canine smile.
Paging through the book again, Owens began reading off groups and singers. ".Black Sabbath.Metallica.Ozzy.Creedence Clearwater Revival? That doesn't fit in here."
Bean laughed. "Yeah I know. Neither does Bon Jovi but that's in there too."
"What's Crazy Town?" he asked, pointing at a sky blue CD with a girls face painted on it.
"Its this alternative rock thing I bought.on a whim." Bean replied unsteadily.
"Huh. Why?"
Bean shrugged almost nervously. "There's this one song I like. Called 'Butterfly'."
"Can we listen to that then?" Owens asked, pulling the disc from its sleeve; he was curious.
"Sure." Bean grabbed the CD and put it on playing number six. Rhythmic music came out of the speakers of the 'Vette and Bean smiled. Owens looked over and saw the hint of a genuine smile on his driver's face. "So, why this particular song?" he was curious.
Bean shrugged again, giving that toothy grin. "Reminds me of my girlfriend I guess."
"Ah. I see." He replied, listening more closely to the lyrics as it repeated over the stereo. He grabbed the disc booklet and looked at it. "'The Gift of Game' huh? Interesting title." He looked at the cover once more; a girl in pigtails with devil horns, a halo, lots of tattoos and hardware, including a tongue ring, licking a lollipop. He arched an eyebrow: interesting. "So does this specifically remind you of your girlfriend?" he asked, pointing at the girl.
Bean chuckled. "Nah. She's a little more refined than that. Although she has yet to admit to having a tattoo, I have it on good authority she does have one."
"Good authority?"
"Her best friend." He grinned again with more 'I know something you don't' edge.
Owens could not help but chuckle at the thought. He shook his head. "I'm not even going to ask Mr. Bandit."
Bean laughed once more. The drive through Wyoming was fairly short, if not illegal. Wyoming proved to be fairly uninteresting to both occupants of the car. The most interesting happening was lunch in the city of Rawlins. Much to Owens delight and Bean's chagrin, the rest of the ride to Utah that day was essentially problem free. They stopped that evening at a Comfort Inn hotel after getting something to eat. Bean sat quietly in his room reading a magazine; Tactical Knives. He flipped a page and then set it down, looking at the clock; it could not be only nine o'clock. Remembering the time change, he looked at the wristwatch sitting at the table: ten o'clock. That's more like it. He picked up his phone wondering if she would still be up or not. He shrugged and hit the third speed dial button. It rang three times. "Heeellllooo! May speaking!"
Bean grinned. "Hey kid. Its Bean."
"Hey!! How's your trip been?" she asked as she blew the copper nail polish dry on her nails.
"Not too bad. Except getting my Mach 1 blown to beat hell." He replied with a growl.
"Whoa! Down boy!" May giggled. "It's a car. I'm sure it can be replaced. Besides, aren't you Mr. Money Heals All Wounds?"
"Yeah, but that was one of my favorites." He stated.
"Aww, poor baby." May cooed.
He thought he heard Rally. "Hey May, is that Rally?"
"Yeah, she's trying to wrestle the phone from me and its not working! Hah! That's what you get for using my sparkly nail polish you fiend!" she yelled.
"Grr. hand over the damn phone May Hopkins!!" Rally growled. Bean chuckled.
"Come on May. It sounds like she's gonna kill you as soon as her nail polish dries." He heard May laugh.
"Fine, fine! Hope the rest of your trip is good Bean! Come back ASAP, 'cause Rally stop bugging me without you here!! Hey!" he heard as Rally ripped the phone from her hands.
"Now go away brat!!" Rally yelled at May who was giggling. "Hi Bean! How's it going?"
"Better than when I talked to you last." He replied with a smile at the attitude switch over the phone.
"Ah. Everything going all right then?"
"Yeah. Except for having to get another car after mine got a couple of holes blown in it." He replied stretching back and leaning against the wall at the bed of the bed.
"Oh my. What happened?"
"Some guys after the guy I'm driving." He shrugged, looking at the ceiling of the room. "Had a damn rifle and shot a hole in the side of my car and then blew the glass out on my side."
"Are you alright?!" Rally asked.
Bean chuckled. "Yeah babe, I'm fine. The other guys aren't, but hey, shit happens, you know?"
"Yeah, especially with you." She mumbled. "What were you driving?"
"The gray Mach 1." He sighed. So did she. "Damn. I love that car."
"You love any car." He replied.
"So?! You do too!! Besides, that's not entirely true. I don't like any new cars." She pouted.
"Point. Well, I need to get to bed. Just figured I'd let you know how its going."
"Sure! Thank you for calling! I do worry you know." She replied.
"Yep. Well, I'll talk to you later."
"Love you. Talk to you later!" she called cheerfully, hanging up before he could reply. He looked at the phone as if it had just grown fur and blinked once. Did she just tell him she loved him? He had another of those toothy-canine grins come again. Imagine that; he was not really surprised, but he figured he'd be the first to admit it. He shrugged and actually hung up the phone, setting it near his jacket. His head hit the pillow and he went out like a light; smiled still lingering from his nice realization.
The next morning, Bean was up around nine o'clock. He took a shower and got dressed in his jeans, green shirt and that heavy jacket all over steel-toed boots. He packed his briefcase along with his book and then exited the room, walking a couple of steps to Owens' room. He pounded on the door and waited a moment. Owens stepped out, case once again in hand and both walked out towards the desk. After grabbing something to eat, they were off again.
Owens was happy that his trip was almost over. He had hired the best driver and was a few hours from being home. Interstate 80 headed right into Sacramento; home. With his wife and children. Although one of his kids was in college, he still saw him on occasion. His head jerked at the sudden increase in speed as Bean floored.
Looking out the rearview mirror, Bean saw another car approaching. It might not be another enemy, but he took no chances. They were clipping 125 mph when the other car picked up speed, pulling up near Owens side, even though that put them out into gravel and dirt. They came up and rammed the side of the Corvette, putting what would probably turn into a nasty looking scrape real quick. Bean ground his teeth; he should have charged for expenses on this trip, still unsure why he didn't. He then remembered Rally had been over that morning; no wonder. He rolled his eyes at his mushy, less than attentive monetary needs if not personal ones and then popped the gas, pushing the 'Vette harder. Bean swerved to miss someone in front of him and then back at the car still at their side. He then went and broadsided the other vehicle with the Corvette. Hearing the grinding metal on fiberglass as the other car ran into the ditch made Bean grind his teeth. At least they were gone for the time being. Owens looked at Bean who was still scowling.
"Um-" Owens tried to began.
"Save it. Wait until I'm done fuming about another damn car!" Bean barked, gripping the steering wheel with enough pressure to break it in half if he wanted. Owens nodded numbly and then looked straight ahead as Bean fumed silently. Nevada was actually less interesting then Wyoming and Utah combined. After a few hours, Bean was actually calm enough to speak. "We need to stop and gas up the car."
Owens nodded, but decided against being vocal. They stopped at BP and filled the tank, then heading over to McDonalds for lunch. Owens watched as Bean ate enough for three people; he smirked. Bean noticed. "I have a big appetite."
"No kidding?" Owens shot back with a wry grin.
Bean gave his own dry smile and finished in silence. After they had both finished, they got back out onto the interstate once more. Finally, much to the relief of both parties, they had crossed the California line. It would be, at the most, two hours with good traffic. Both gentlemen gave a sigh of relief. Bean didn't think he'd ever NOT charge for expenses again, and Owens was afraid he would have never seen his state, wife or children again if Bean had to get another car. Bean looked over through the sunglasses. "Not that you haven't been a decent passenger, but I'm glad we're almost done."
Owens chuckled. "You and me both."
The rest of the ride was silent until they reached Sacramento. Owens gave directions to where exactly to be dropped off. They approached a large estate with a heavy metal gate in front. Bean stopped and looked over. "May I see your phone again?"
Bean passed it over and watched as Owens spoke. "Hello, Michael? Excellent. I hope everything has been well. Yes, I'm out on the park; it is a black 1968 Corvette. With a little body damage. Could you open the gate please? Thank you." He closed the phone once more. "Thanks."
Bean nodded. After the gate opened, he pulled in and up the long driveway. Pulling to a stop and cutting the ignition, both men got out of the car. Bean followed Owens up the stairs and into the monstrous house he lived in with his family. Both walked silently to a room Bean took to be Owens' office. Owens walked around the desk to a safe he kept behind it. He pulled out 80K and then stopped thinking. Then, he added 30K on top. He smiled, handing it to Bean. "I added 30 extra. I thank you for your services."
Bean received the case with a smile. It was the nicest thing he had seen in awhile. "No problem. And thanks for the expenses. Will I be able to get out of here alright?"
"Yes. I'll come with you." He gestured towards the door, walking out, Bean behind him. They walked back out to the beat up car, Bean chipping some of the paint peeling off of the fiberglass, mumbling 'damn' or something of the sort. Owens cringed. "Sorry again."
Bean shrugged. "Shit happens. I'll be seeing you." Bean hopped back in the car and it started with a roar. He waved back once as did Owens, and he pulled out the drive and through the gate as it closed behind him. Making sure the car had a full tank, Bean took off for home; he also thought he would kiss the ground once he got there. He followed interstate 80 back out and pushed all night until he had to stop in Nebraska. He grabbed a hotel room at Comfort Inn again and hit the sheets. And then rose again, quickly padding over to his jacket and pulled out the cell phone. It took a couple of rings. "Hello?" sang a smooth voice over the phone.
Bean smiled at the sound. "Hey, its me."
"Bean! You sound half dead."
"Thanks. Its good to hear from you too." He replied and then stopped. "Although I feel like it and probably look like it too."
"Where are you?"
"Nebraska."
"WHAT!! Damn Bean. You want to get home or something?"
"Something like that. Thought I'd call and say hey and tell you I'll be back tomorrow." He then yawned.
Rally giggled. "Good! I'll be happy to have you back!"
"So will I!" May cheered loud enough for him to hear.
"Sounds good. I'm gonna go crash, so talk to you later."
"Okay and-"
"Wait. One more thing." Bean smiled, waiting a moment. "I love you."
Rally was silent a moment. "I love you too. See you soon."
Both hung up, smiling. Home was looking even better than it was before. Bean fell asleep for a few hours, smile on handsome features, dreaming of home. He woke up around three that afternoon, took a shower and hit the road once more. He drove almost straight through, only stopping for gas and made it back to Chicago around ten o'clock that night. He pulled into Rally and May's driveway and killed the engine. He saw a couple of lights on and walked up to the door, knocking loudly. He heard somebody tromp down the stairs and one green eye look through the blinds; it was May. She swung the door open. "YOU'RE BACK!!!"
"And happy to be here." He replied, walking in after her, and sitting on the sofa. He looked up as Rally came gracefully down the stairs. She jumped into his lap and kissed him. May waited: she then looked at the clock after a few. "Uh, guys? Any day now. Air?"
The kiss broke after a few minutes, and lack of oxygen. Rally looked into Bean's sleepy brown eyes. He looked back in blue. "You are a sight for sore eyes."
Rally blushed. "You too." She hugged him.
May rolled her eyes. "You two are the mushiest people I've ever seen. Not to mention its out of character for both of you! Just think if the public ever caught you two in that embrace!!" she pointed at Rally, straddling Bean's lap as both grinned.
Both laughed. "I just wanted to stop by before heading home. I feel dead."
"You look dead if that helps." May chimed in with a giggle and dodged a pillow thrown by Rally.
"Thanks for stopping by; now I don't have to worry as much!" Rally stated as she stood up and grabbed Bean's hand. He stood up as well and started heading towards the door once more, still holding her hand. He turned with a smile before walking out. "Its good to see you Rally. I really missed you."
"I missed you too."
"She sure did! Hell, I'm glad you're back!" May yelled before running back up the stairs amidst wild giggling.
Rally rolled her eyes as Bean gave that toothy smile once more. Rally turned back to him. "You do look tired though. Careful going back home."
"No problem babe. Love you." He stated as he held her small hand.
"Love you too." She replied as they shared a short kiss.
Rally stood at the door until he began to pull out the driveway. She gave a wave and stepped back in, locking the door. Bean smiled from his place behind the wheel as he waved back. It was certainly good to be back home.
Author's Notes~ Why hello to all of you who made it this far. Quite the long 3-parter, 'eh? Well, that's the end of this Bean Bandit focused 'fic. How was it? I can't change things without knowing what's wrong. Anyways, the actual notes; I made personality additions here, you'll note. YES! Bean can draw I've decided. This will come into play later, just wait. ^^ Also, admissions of love are a big thing for me. So, this was kept simple and to the point. Only momentary pauses, etc. Well, I hope you like it. Also, the next Volume, number 3 Baby! Constructive feedback is appreciated! Thanks!!
----------------------- [i] Bean just strikes me as one that would like AC/DC, you know? ^^ He strikes me as a hard rock listener.
Vol.2 Part 3
By; Talis13
Standard Disclaimer- Most characters belong to Kenichi Sonoda in this story arc; I have made up a few though. Of course, in this chapter most will be my characters; except Bean this time. I don't own him, nor any bands mentioned- Metallica, AC/DC, Black Sabbath, or Ozzy Osbourne himself. Nor Crazy Town or their song 'Butterfly'; also I don't own Bon Jovi or CCR. I also don't own Motel 6 or Comfort Inn. I think that's all I don't own. Okay, summary- this story is being told primarily from Bean Bandit's POV; we'll rarely hear from Rally. I felt like it is why. It sounded like fun. ^^ So, basically we'll get the story of his little excursion to California and back. Enjoy!
Bean hung up the phone and grabbed the infamous custom jacket of his, the leather flowing over hand and slung it over his broad shoulders. He grabbed extra cash, stuffing it into his jeans pocket as well as an inner pocket of the jacket, and then his keys to a 1970 Mach 1 Mustang. He walked over to his filing cabinet and pulled out another set of plates 'just in case', as well as a set of California plates. Carrying them under his arm he walked out the door and locked the six bolts. Walking down the stairs to the garage quietly, he swung the door open and strode over to the Mach 1; it was in great condition in gray tones and a souped up engine. He smiled despite himself. Bean hopped into the car and roared out of the garage, shutting and arming the alarms in his wake.
Driving out onto the main streets of Chicago, he watched as buildings zipped by as well as other cars and people. His dark eyes traveled up the tall skyscrapers glistening in the setting sun. As the sun set, he got closer to the rundown outskirts of the city and began slowing down, recalling the exact address of the person he was picking up. Pulling to the curb, Bean moved a briefcase and black bound book to the backseat of the Mach 1 and then looked at his watch; five 'til six. Bean waited for his 'client' to come.
Exactly at six, an older gentleman came out of one of the buildings by himself, carrying a briefcase that was locked to his arm. He strode over to the Mach 1 and entered the passenger's side, looking at Bean. Bean turned at looked at the man through the dark Oakley sunglasses; middle-aged man, light thinning hair, pressed business suit. "Christopher Owens?"
"Yes. Bean Bandit I presume?" the man replied.
Bean started the car again. "You got it."
The man just nodded as Bean pulled away from the curb and into the darkening, desolate streets. Bean was silent the whole time as Mr. Owens fidgeted slightly with the briefcase around his wrist. He dug out a key, but stopped before unlocking the case; he looked over at Bean. "How secure is this car?"
A somewhat toothy grin crossed Bean's face. "Are you kidding?"
The man shrugged and then proceeded to unlock the case from his wrist, setting it at his feet. "You have to understand young man, I can't be too careful with this."
Bean shrugged and continued driving. He found a CD and put it into the player. AC/DC started playing.[i] As the music played, he looked in the rearview and then at his passenger. "Are you expecting any trouble from anybody?"
"I take it there's somebody following us already?" the man sighed.
"Looks that way."
"Ah. Well, it would most likely be somebody my former partner has hired to 'take me out' as the case may be."
"What happened?"
"He double crossed me on a business venture in our excursion into illegal arms. I informed him that I was leaving and taking my business elsewhere. I provided substantial monetary help you see." The man explained.
"Gotcha." Bean replied glancing in the mirror once more as he pulled onto the interstate highway. The car was still following and pulling closer. Bean pointed at the seatbelt. "Better attach that four-point harness pal."
Bean grinned and gunned the car, smoothly pulling from the other vehicle. Mr. Owens looked over somewhat fearfully as a grin crossed Bean's features, as he drove around 125mph down the interstate. Owens grasped the briefcase as he sunk a little farther into the seats. Bean was weaving fluidly around traffic trying to loose the car still tailing him. Suddenly, the other car started picking up considerably, pulling closer to the Mach 1.
He arched an eyebrow; NOS on top of a supercharger? Nice. As the other car pulled closer, Bean looked over at Owens, clutching the case with closed eyes. He grinned and popped the gas again. Out on a straight stretch of highway, there were fewer cars this late, so he could drive with more ease. Stars were actually becoming visible, the farther they went from Chicago's lights. Grinning, Bean noticed the only time he actually looks at something off the wall, like stars, is when he's going down the road over a hundred miles per hour, not even being able to take any kind of joy in them. He kept up the joyride for over an hour.
After that, the other car began to slowly be left in the dust; that's what they get for not getting a better-conditioned car. They were making good time; they left at six and it was eight o'clock. And, the gas tank was feeling the burn from that speed during the hour. He looked over at his passenger who was starting to uncurl his hands from the strenuous ride. "What are we doing?"
"We're filling up the tank. We were busting over a hundred for over an hour man." Bean replied as he slowed and pulled on the off ramp.
"Yes, I noticed." Owens replied dryly. Bean had to choke down his laughter from that, and decided on a grin. Pulling up to the gas station, Bean got out and put the highest octane he could find in the car. Owens got out and went to use the restroom and get coffee to calm his slightly frazzled nerves. As he stood outside, a chilly breeze whipped by and he heard his cell phone ring. Pulling it out he answered. "Bean Bandit."
"Hey Bean. It's Rally. You've been gone less than three hours, yet you still manage to have the police on your case and cause trouble. However do you do it?" Came with a giggle over the phone.
He smiled. "Hey babe. Is that right? Why now?"
"Well, you know, I get this call from somebody about a mad chase on the outskirts of our fine city. Afterwards this crazy freak off his leash is driving out the state line over a hundred miles an hour. I figured the choices were kind of limited." Rally replied, grinning through the phone.
Bean finished pumping the gas and walked into the station to pay. "Is that right?"
"And since it sounds like you're at a gas station, you're my best guess."
"Okay, you've got me. So, I had a small problem. I can handle." He grinned and paid the cashier.
"Figured you better watch out Bean. People are looking for you already. Not good. Figured I'd warn you." She replied.
He sat in the drivers seat and noted that Owens was already back. " You're all heart babe. Thanks for the warning. Be good while I'm gone."
"Me? In trouble? Don't be silly. Besides, the only time I get in trouble is when you're here." Rally replied dryly.
He chuckled. "Yeah, imagine that. I'll talk to you later babe."
"Talk to you later Bean." With that it ended with a 'click' of phones. Bean fired up the car and looked over at Owens with a grin. "You might wanna buckle up dude."
Owens looked fearful a moment and then slowly buckled the seatbelt as Bean pulled out of the station and back onto the interstate. He looked over at Bean, who had that clinical look on his face once more. Owens was trying to think of something to say, conversation. "So, who were you talking to?"
Bean looked deadpan, almost not believing small talk is coming from this man. He arched an eyebrow. "A friend."
Owens arched an eyebrow. "I don't believe that. The only times you were smiling were when we were in the middle of a drag race." He rolled his eyes. "And then on the phone. Friends rarely cause that flash of happiness I've discovered."
Bean looked over with a glare thrown towards his passenger. "What damn business is it of yours anyways?"
"None! I was just trying to be friendly." Owens replied, hands in the air in defeat as he moved from Bean.
"You can turn the charm off then." Bean growled. But then he thought about it; he was driving this man how many days? Better to be almost civil. He shrugged in defeat. "It was my girlfriend."
Owens smiled. "Ah. Beast found the Beauty 'eh?"
Bean almost smiled. Almost. "Yeah, cheesy as that reference is. You could say that." He was silent a moment. "So, are you married? Got kids or anything?"
Owens felt the car accelerate again; around eighty miles an hour. "Yes. I've been married for twenty- five years. I have two children; a boy and a girl, ages twenty-one and nineteen. They're my angels."
Bean smiled. "So, what's it like being married that long?"
"Wonderful." Owens had a genuine smile on his face. "I love my wife and children dearly. That's the only reason I do what I do; to support them."
Bean glanced at a map he had; they were in Iowa right now. They should be able to make it to Nebraska before pulling off to sleep. He then accelerated smoothly to avoid giving Mr. Owens a heart attack, and then drove silently with a small smile. He was wondering what prompted the talk about marriage and kids. He looked out at the dark sky, full of brighter stars in the middle of nowhere than Chicago's outskirts. Probably just some sentimental side he was trying to squash; that thought garnered a grin. He looked back out the window, trying to arrange his thoughts. Stars and more stars. He thought Rally would like to see it; she doesn't get out of Chicago a lot and probably hasn't had much opportunity to see things like this. She was always looking up at the stars in the sky. He was going to have to drag her on a vacation. Maybe in the summer: that might be a good idea. Where to?
Thoughts being abruptly stopped by a flash of headlights in the rearview, Bean looked back a moment. A fast approaching sports car; looked like it had thick glass too. Probably bullet proof; he could hardly see the driver in the car. He looked over making sure Owens had his seatbelt on and then prompted the car to go above and beyond the speed limit and call of duty again. The engine roared as he pulled away from the other car. However, the other driver had other plans; he began making a breakaway towards Bean's side of the car. Owens was in the seat, hands over his head; not that it would have helped if that had a high-powered rifle. Bean shrugged making sure his hidden throwing knives were easily accessible, just in case. The windows were up, but he glanced over and saw that the car had pulled nearby, the window down and a man with an assault rifle leaned it out the window, aiming at Bean. Bean pushed the gas, pulling ahead, but the shot still caught the rear of the Mach 1, causing the car to hop a bit. Bean had a really pissed off look on his face as he pulled out a couple of knives to the ready. The car came up again, pulling to the side as Bean snarled a challenge to the shooter. The shooter took said challenge and fired at the glass of the Mustang. Glass exploded in a spray towards Bean and Owens, but Bean hurled the knives out the window with pinpoint accuracy at the shooter and into the arm of the driver. Gunning the car, Bean pulled away at nice clip of around one sixty. "Son of a bitch. This is gonna be a pain in the ass to replace and cost me a God damn arm and leg."
Owens was shaking as he dusted glass off his jacket. Bean looked at the back seat. He pulled another jacket out. "Here."
Owens mumbled 'thanks' and put the jacket on to ward off the biting chill that whipped through the window. Bean was glaring at the fading view of the sports car. He pulled out his phone. It rang several times before someone sleepily answered. "Hmm? Hello?"
"Hey. Sorry if I woke you Tyler. Its Bean Bandit, man."
"Bean! Hey dude, haven't heard from you in awhile!" Tyler began. "So, what's up?"
"I know its kind of inconvenient, but think you got an extra car I could pick up? Some idiot fired an assault rifle at my driver window. And at the rear of the car." Bean snarled.
"Sure man. Any particular one?" Tyler began. "'Cause we've probably got it."
"Choice huh?" Bean smiled. "How about a '76 Corvette?"
"Hey man! You still got those refined tastes! Sure, I'll go out and get it ready for you. When you think you'll be by?"
Bean looked at his watch. "Probably in about an hour."
"No problem man! I'll get it ready for you. Talk to you later."
"Thanks Tyler." Bean replied before hanging up the phone and putting it back in his jacket. He looked over at Owens. "At least it'll only be an hour."
About an hour later, no more circumstances and just a slightly chilled Bean Bandit drove into the city of Lincoln, Nebraska. He pulled up to an old warehouse and beeped the horn once. The door eventually rose up just enough for Bean to drive the beat up Mach 1 in. He and Owens, who had restrapped the briefcase to his arm, got out. Bean grinned and shook hands with a young man who appeared to be about twenty-four, maybe five. He had sandy blonde hair and coveralls on, wearing a grin as he greeted them. "Long time no see! How's business been?"
"No to bad friend. In process of some right now even." Bean threw a look over his shoulder at Owens who was still looking around somewhat fearfully.
"Hey! You probably got a time limit huh? Here's the car." He pointed at a black 1976 Sting Ray Corvette. It glimmered even under the dusky lights in the building. Bean looked over at the car appreciatively. Very nice.
"Looks good." Bean stated, grabbing a hand full of cash and handing it to Tyler. Tyler in turn, handed him the keys with a smile.
"Enjoy." Tyler stated as he stuffed the cash into a pocket.
Bean looked up a moment. "Hey, do you ever get in parts for '67 Shelby Cobra Mustangs?"
Tyler nodded his head. "Yeah, occasionally. Why? Did you finally decide to pick one up?"
"Naw. I know someone who has to get body work down on one on a normal basis." Bean stated with a sly smile.
"Bad driver?"
"Nah, bounty hunter with good taste." He replied with a grin, brown eyes twinkling under the dusky garage lights.
Tyler nodded appreciatively. "Yeah, give him my number then. Like I said, I get some sometimes."
"She, not he and I'm sure she'll be happy to hear that." Bean stated, as he grabbed his belongings from the back of the Mustang.
"'She' huh?" Tyler grinned, showing a sharp smile. "Has Bandit been on the lose and busy again then? And a bounty hunter no less."
Bean grinned. "Define 'busy' man."
"Hell man, just curious. She actually your lady then?" he arched an eyebrow, hands tucked in his pockets.
"Yeah. Finally." Bean sighed with the beginnings of a quirky smile. "But well, well worth the wait lemme tell you."
Tyler smirked. "The mighty Bean Bandit has been taken hook line and sinker everybody."
Bean grinned. "Whatever man. I'm still the regular guy that drives."
"Sure, whatever you say dude. Sounds like a little mores happening than you're letting on." He paused. "So, what's this chick look like anyway?"
Bean stood, thinking a moment, recalling those details burned in his memory from awhile back. "About five foot six and light as a feather. She has this dark skin, like Native American or something and black hair cut at her shoulders. And these amazing killer blue eyes."
Tyler chuckled. "And he's hooked folks!! She sounds like a looker; why'd she fall for you?"
Bean laughed as both he and Owens sat in the car. "Your guess is as good as mine. Well, been a nice visit, but I've got to roll. Thanks again Tyler."
"Anytime man. Have a profitable trip and tell your gal pal I said hey!" he stated with a grin just before closing the heavy metal door once more. Bean pulled back onto the interstate easily with a nice car underfoot. Owens had finally calmed down and taken the extra jacket off, putting it in the backseat. Bean looked over. "We're going to stop in a couple of hours in Kearney."
"That's fine." Owens replied as he leaned back in the seat, still clutching the case. Bean glanced at his watch; two in the morning. The drive to Kearney was surprisingly quiet. Except for Bean switching CD's every so often. It went from AC/DC to Metallica and then finally to Ozzy Osborn. As Ozzy wailed in the background, Bean pulled off interstate 80 and into Kearney. Pulling up to a Motel 6, he parked the car and reached over, tapping Owens. "We're here."
Owens shot up and then looked around, clutching the briefcase before calming back down. Bean had a slightly amused look on his face. "Okay." Both got out, Bean grabbing his briefcase and book, and went to the register to get rooms. Owens still grasped the briefcase around his wrist in a death grip. Bean grinned. "You gonna sleep with that thing too?"
"Yes. Its very important." Owens replied, hurrying into his room. Bean shrugged and walked into his own room. Bland, normal tan motel furniture. He threw the case on the table and then sat on the bed; opening the black bound book he had been carrying around. He flipped through the pages, stopping after every so often, just to look. It was a sketchbook he kept: just something to do. Mostly sketches of people. He turned towards the back of the book, looking for the most recent lines. There was one he drew of a car design; so not all people. He was still working on his own car designs; another was close but not there. He flipped the page. It was a drawing of a photograph May had given him of she and Rally. They were both smiling, Rally pulling a huge straw hat over May's ears. May was flashing the peace sign on both hands. He smiled. Turning the page, he flipped through a couple of pages of just sketches he had done of Rally. The most recent one was when she was sleep against him the other night. He woke up and noticed how peaceful she looked. He sketched out just her face in soft, unconnected lines; smile just barely lilting at her lips. He shook his head and closed the book, placing it on the briefcase. Turning down the sheets after stripping off the t-shirt and jeans he wore, he lay on the bed and fell into a deep sleep for a few brief hours.
Around ten o'clock, Bean woke up at the alarm he set and packed up his things after a really quick shower. His hair was still dripping on the carpet as he put his flak jacket back on and walked out of the room. He pounded on the door none to lightly. Owens came to the door, looking through the peephole first. He opened it and came out into the hall, already ready to go, case in hand. Bean arched an eyebrow. They checked out and hopped into the car after grabbing something quick to eat. He figured they would be able to make it into Utah before stopping for sleep again.
Owens fumbled with the case once more before putting it at his feet. Bean looked over. "So, what the hell is in that thing anyway?"
"Just my current contracts and money information." Owens looked out the window before looking back at Bean. "I've heard about your theory on people who break contracts with you, so don't worry."
Bean grinned. "So long as you know, there won't be a problem then."
Owens nodded and looked quietly out the window once more. Bean put his Oakley's on and shifted gears onto Interstate 80 once more. He passed by a Boss 302 Mustang on the left, looking as he went; grabber blue with black interior. Blowing by the Mustang, he sighed; he was still mad about his Mach 1 having holes punched in it. A slight glare etched its way across his features once more in remembrance. Owens was casting a wary glance at the speedometer as Bean continued to glare out the window; they were heading about eighty miles an hour in morning traffic. Owens looked over. "May I use your phone? I'd like to call my wife." He asked tentatively.
Bean whipped out the phone unfolding it and handing it to him in one graceful arch. Owens took the phone and dialed out to his home. It rang twice before someone picked up. He smiled. "Hello dear, its me!" pause "Yes, I'm on my way now; we're in Nebraska. Uh huh." pause "I see. Yes, I should be home in a couple of days at the most." pause "Not a problem dear! Tell Cynthia and Greg I said hello. I'll see you all soon. Oh! Make sure you keep all security in place, because they are after me." pause "I love you to." He hung up the phone, handing it back to Bean. "Thank you."
"No prob." Bean stated replacing the phone in his pocket. "Although I hope no one tapped that home line. Otherwise they're gonna be all over us again."
"Maybe. But didn't changing cars throw them off?"
"Maybe. But if they're pros, they'll figure things out." Bean replied. He reached under his seat and pulled a CD case. "Go ahead and pick something."
Owens grabbed the book, unzipping it. He looked through a few pages. "Hard rock fan?"
"Of sorts." Bean replied with a canine smile.
Paging through the book again, Owens began reading off groups and singers. ".Black Sabbath.Metallica.Ozzy.Creedence Clearwater Revival? That doesn't fit in here."
Bean laughed. "Yeah I know. Neither does Bon Jovi but that's in there too."
"What's Crazy Town?" he asked, pointing at a sky blue CD with a girls face painted on it.
"Its this alternative rock thing I bought.on a whim." Bean replied unsteadily.
"Huh. Why?"
Bean shrugged almost nervously. "There's this one song I like. Called 'Butterfly'."
"Can we listen to that then?" Owens asked, pulling the disc from its sleeve; he was curious.
"Sure." Bean grabbed the CD and put it on playing number six. Rhythmic music came out of the speakers of the 'Vette and Bean smiled. Owens looked over and saw the hint of a genuine smile on his driver's face. "So, why this particular song?" he was curious.
Bean shrugged again, giving that toothy grin. "Reminds me of my girlfriend I guess."
"Ah. I see." He replied, listening more closely to the lyrics as it repeated over the stereo. He grabbed the disc booklet and looked at it. "'The Gift of Game' huh? Interesting title." He looked at the cover once more; a girl in pigtails with devil horns, a halo, lots of tattoos and hardware, including a tongue ring, licking a lollipop. He arched an eyebrow: interesting. "So does this specifically remind you of your girlfriend?" he asked, pointing at the girl.
Bean chuckled. "Nah. She's a little more refined than that. Although she has yet to admit to having a tattoo, I have it on good authority she does have one."
"Good authority?"
"Her best friend." He grinned again with more 'I know something you don't' edge.
Owens could not help but chuckle at the thought. He shook his head. "I'm not even going to ask Mr. Bandit."
Bean laughed once more. The drive through Wyoming was fairly short, if not illegal. Wyoming proved to be fairly uninteresting to both occupants of the car. The most interesting happening was lunch in the city of Rawlins. Much to Owens delight and Bean's chagrin, the rest of the ride to Utah that day was essentially problem free. They stopped that evening at a Comfort Inn hotel after getting something to eat. Bean sat quietly in his room reading a magazine; Tactical Knives. He flipped a page and then set it down, looking at the clock; it could not be only nine o'clock. Remembering the time change, he looked at the wristwatch sitting at the table: ten o'clock. That's more like it. He picked up his phone wondering if she would still be up or not. He shrugged and hit the third speed dial button. It rang three times. "Heeellllooo! May speaking!"
Bean grinned. "Hey kid. Its Bean."
"Hey!! How's your trip been?" she asked as she blew the copper nail polish dry on her nails.
"Not too bad. Except getting my Mach 1 blown to beat hell." He replied with a growl.
"Whoa! Down boy!" May giggled. "It's a car. I'm sure it can be replaced. Besides, aren't you Mr. Money Heals All Wounds?"
"Yeah, but that was one of my favorites." He stated.
"Aww, poor baby." May cooed.
He thought he heard Rally. "Hey May, is that Rally?"
"Yeah, she's trying to wrestle the phone from me and its not working! Hah! That's what you get for using my sparkly nail polish you fiend!" she yelled.
"Grr. hand over the damn phone May Hopkins!!" Rally growled. Bean chuckled.
"Come on May. It sounds like she's gonna kill you as soon as her nail polish dries." He heard May laugh.
"Fine, fine! Hope the rest of your trip is good Bean! Come back ASAP, 'cause Rally stop bugging me without you here!! Hey!" he heard as Rally ripped the phone from her hands.
"Now go away brat!!" Rally yelled at May who was giggling. "Hi Bean! How's it going?"
"Better than when I talked to you last." He replied with a smile at the attitude switch over the phone.
"Ah. Everything going all right then?"
"Yeah. Except for having to get another car after mine got a couple of holes blown in it." He replied stretching back and leaning against the wall at the bed of the bed.
"Oh my. What happened?"
"Some guys after the guy I'm driving." He shrugged, looking at the ceiling of the room. "Had a damn rifle and shot a hole in the side of my car and then blew the glass out on my side."
"Are you alright?!" Rally asked.
Bean chuckled. "Yeah babe, I'm fine. The other guys aren't, but hey, shit happens, you know?"
"Yeah, especially with you." She mumbled. "What were you driving?"
"The gray Mach 1." He sighed. So did she. "Damn. I love that car."
"You love any car." He replied.
"So?! You do too!! Besides, that's not entirely true. I don't like any new cars." She pouted.
"Point. Well, I need to get to bed. Just figured I'd let you know how its going."
"Sure! Thank you for calling! I do worry you know." She replied.
"Yep. Well, I'll talk to you later."
"Love you. Talk to you later!" she called cheerfully, hanging up before he could reply. He looked at the phone as if it had just grown fur and blinked once. Did she just tell him she loved him? He had another of those toothy-canine grins come again. Imagine that; he was not really surprised, but he figured he'd be the first to admit it. He shrugged and actually hung up the phone, setting it near his jacket. His head hit the pillow and he went out like a light; smiled still lingering from his nice realization.
The next morning, Bean was up around nine o'clock. He took a shower and got dressed in his jeans, green shirt and that heavy jacket all over steel-toed boots. He packed his briefcase along with his book and then exited the room, walking a couple of steps to Owens' room. He pounded on the door and waited a moment. Owens stepped out, case once again in hand and both walked out towards the desk. After grabbing something to eat, they were off again.
Owens was happy that his trip was almost over. He had hired the best driver and was a few hours from being home. Interstate 80 headed right into Sacramento; home. With his wife and children. Although one of his kids was in college, he still saw him on occasion. His head jerked at the sudden increase in speed as Bean floored.
Looking out the rearview mirror, Bean saw another car approaching. It might not be another enemy, but he took no chances. They were clipping 125 mph when the other car picked up speed, pulling up near Owens side, even though that put them out into gravel and dirt. They came up and rammed the side of the Corvette, putting what would probably turn into a nasty looking scrape real quick. Bean ground his teeth; he should have charged for expenses on this trip, still unsure why he didn't. He then remembered Rally had been over that morning; no wonder. He rolled his eyes at his mushy, less than attentive monetary needs if not personal ones and then popped the gas, pushing the 'Vette harder. Bean swerved to miss someone in front of him and then back at the car still at their side. He then went and broadsided the other vehicle with the Corvette. Hearing the grinding metal on fiberglass as the other car ran into the ditch made Bean grind his teeth. At least they were gone for the time being. Owens looked at Bean who was still scowling.
"Um-" Owens tried to began.
"Save it. Wait until I'm done fuming about another damn car!" Bean barked, gripping the steering wheel with enough pressure to break it in half if he wanted. Owens nodded numbly and then looked straight ahead as Bean fumed silently. Nevada was actually less interesting then Wyoming and Utah combined. After a few hours, Bean was actually calm enough to speak. "We need to stop and gas up the car."
Owens nodded, but decided against being vocal. They stopped at BP and filled the tank, then heading over to McDonalds for lunch. Owens watched as Bean ate enough for three people; he smirked. Bean noticed. "I have a big appetite."
"No kidding?" Owens shot back with a wry grin.
Bean gave his own dry smile and finished in silence. After they had both finished, they got back out onto the interstate once more. Finally, much to the relief of both parties, they had crossed the California line. It would be, at the most, two hours with good traffic. Both gentlemen gave a sigh of relief. Bean didn't think he'd ever NOT charge for expenses again, and Owens was afraid he would have never seen his state, wife or children again if Bean had to get another car. Bean looked over through the sunglasses. "Not that you haven't been a decent passenger, but I'm glad we're almost done."
Owens chuckled. "You and me both."
The rest of the ride was silent until they reached Sacramento. Owens gave directions to where exactly to be dropped off. They approached a large estate with a heavy metal gate in front. Bean stopped and looked over. "May I see your phone again?"
Bean passed it over and watched as Owens spoke. "Hello, Michael? Excellent. I hope everything has been well. Yes, I'm out on the park; it is a black 1968 Corvette. With a little body damage. Could you open the gate please? Thank you." He closed the phone once more. "Thanks."
Bean nodded. After the gate opened, he pulled in and up the long driveway. Pulling to a stop and cutting the ignition, both men got out of the car. Bean followed Owens up the stairs and into the monstrous house he lived in with his family. Both walked silently to a room Bean took to be Owens' office. Owens walked around the desk to a safe he kept behind it. He pulled out 80K and then stopped thinking. Then, he added 30K on top. He smiled, handing it to Bean. "I added 30 extra. I thank you for your services."
Bean received the case with a smile. It was the nicest thing he had seen in awhile. "No problem. And thanks for the expenses. Will I be able to get out of here alright?"
"Yes. I'll come with you." He gestured towards the door, walking out, Bean behind him. They walked back out to the beat up car, Bean chipping some of the paint peeling off of the fiberglass, mumbling 'damn' or something of the sort. Owens cringed. "Sorry again."
Bean shrugged. "Shit happens. I'll be seeing you." Bean hopped back in the car and it started with a roar. He waved back once as did Owens, and he pulled out the drive and through the gate as it closed behind him. Making sure the car had a full tank, Bean took off for home; he also thought he would kiss the ground once he got there. He followed interstate 80 back out and pushed all night until he had to stop in Nebraska. He grabbed a hotel room at Comfort Inn again and hit the sheets. And then rose again, quickly padding over to his jacket and pulled out the cell phone. It took a couple of rings. "Hello?" sang a smooth voice over the phone.
Bean smiled at the sound. "Hey, its me."
"Bean! You sound half dead."
"Thanks. Its good to hear from you too." He replied and then stopped. "Although I feel like it and probably look like it too."
"Where are you?"
"Nebraska."
"WHAT!! Damn Bean. You want to get home or something?"
"Something like that. Thought I'd call and say hey and tell you I'll be back tomorrow." He then yawned.
Rally giggled. "Good! I'll be happy to have you back!"
"So will I!" May cheered loud enough for him to hear.
"Sounds good. I'm gonna go crash, so talk to you later."
"Okay and-"
"Wait. One more thing." Bean smiled, waiting a moment. "I love you."
Rally was silent a moment. "I love you too. See you soon."
Both hung up, smiling. Home was looking even better than it was before. Bean fell asleep for a few hours, smile on handsome features, dreaming of home. He woke up around three that afternoon, took a shower and hit the road once more. He drove almost straight through, only stopping for gas and made it back to Chicago around ten o'clock that night. He pulled into Rally and May's driveway and killed the engine. He saw a couple of lights on and walked up to the door, knocking loudly. He heard somebody tromp down the stairs and one green eye look through the blinds; it was May. She swung the door open. "YOU'RE BACK!!!"
"And happy to be here." He replied, walking in after her, and sitting on the sofa. He looked up as Rally came gracefully down the stairs. She jumped into his lap and kissed him. May waited: she then looked at the clock after a few. "Uh, guys? Any day now. Air?"
The kiss broke after a few minutes, and lack of oxygen. Rally looked into Bean's sleepy brown eyes. He looked back in blue. "You are a sight for sore eyes."
Rally blushed. "You too." She hugged him.
May rolled her eyes. "You two are the mushiest people I've ever seen. Not to mention its out of character for both of you! Just think if the public ever caught you two in that embrace!!" she pointed at Rally, straddling Bean's lap as both grinned.
Both laughed. "I just wanted to stop by before heading home. I feel dead."
"You look dead if that helps." May chimed in with a giggle and dodged a pillow thrown by Rally.
"Thanks for stopping by; now I don't have to worry as much!" Rally stated as she stood up and grabbed Bean's hand. He stood up as well and started heading towards the door once more, still holding her hand. He turned with a smile before walking out. "Its good to see you Rally. I really missed you."
"I missed you too."
"She sure did! Hell, I'm glad you're back!" May yelled before running back up the stairs amidst wild giggling.
Rally rolled her eyes as Bean gave that toothy smile once more. Rally turned back to him. "You do look tired though. Careful going back home."
"No problem babe. Love you." He stated as he held her small hand.
"Love you too." She replied as they shared a short kiss.
Rally stood at the door until he began to pull out the driveway. She gave a wave and stepped back in, locking the door. Bean smiled from his place behind the wheel as he waved back. It was certainly good to be back home.
Author's Notes~ Why hello to all of you who made it this far. Quite the long 3-parter, 'eh? Well, that's the end of this Bean Bandit focused 'fic. How was it? I can't change things without knowing what's wrong. Anyways, the actual notes; I made personality additions here, you'll note. YES! Bean can draw I've decided. This will come into play later, just wait. ^^ Also, admissions of love are a big thing for me. So, this was kept simple and to the point. Only momentary pauses, etc. Well, I hope you like it. Also, the next Volume, number 3 Baby! Constructive feedback is appreciated! Thanks!!
----------------------- [i] Bean just strikes me as one that would like AC/DC, you know? ^^ He strikes me as a hard rock listener.