********
The next morning Joe arrived at the Complex at 8:00, he wasn't expecting to find Westlake there. She was sitting at the computer console looking over a fax that came in.
"What are you doing here so early? Did you spend the night here or something?" he asked.
"No, just decided to come in early. Coffee's made if you want a cup.. The fax from Interpol came in this morning. They got a match, an art thief named Jeff Dodson. Here's the photo they had of him."
"Good, so where would an art thief go to sell expensive art detective?"
"He'd probably hide it and lay low until the investigation was done and then move the art to another city to sell. Or he might try to sell it over the Internet, you can find a lot on e-bay you know."
"Very cute. So what's the plan? We've got to flush him out somehow before he leaves town."
Just then the elevator came down and Frankie stepped off, and the screen came to life cutting the conversation short.
"Good morning everyone. Any leads yet on this?" Catlett asked.
"Actually, the prints came back from Interpol early this morning. They belong to a Jeff Dodson. Joe and I are going to work on a plan to flush him out before he leaves town with the art." Westlake said.
"Good work, whatever you two come up with will be good I'm sure. Unfortunately I've got a family emergency out of town and have to leave immediately. I'll keep in touch to make sure you guys are okay. If you need me you can reach me on my cell. Please be careful."
"Thanks Sherman, we'll call if we need you." Joe said
"Westlake, can you come by my office in half an hour? There's something I want to run by you?"
"Sure Catlett, I'll head over now."
The screen went blank and Westlake stood up. Frankie was standing there with his mouth open.
"Did he just sound concerned? That's something I haven't seen from him in a long time." he said.
"It's probably nothing. I think he's more worried about his family emergency and wants to get moving, so I'd better not keep him waiting."
She got into the elevator and went up to her car. 20 minutes later she pulled into the parking garage at the Federal Building. She went upstairs and knocked on Catlett's door.
"Come in" she heard.
"You wanted to see me Catlett."
"I received a phone call from Chris Davis at Metropol last night and one from your brother this morning. For some reason, both thought you might be staying with me. Is there any reason for this?"
"None I can think of."
"Cameron, I'm speaking to you as a friend, I hope that we're friends?"
"Well I wouldn't say best friends, but yeah, I guess we're friends."
"Good, because your brother mentioned something about a background check and that I should keep an eye on you."
"He wanted me to check out my mother's latest boyfriend, something didn't sit right with him. Let's just say that he's got a very colourful background and he's not someone we want mom to date. Oh yeah, and apparently, he's obsessed with me. And he's not in Seattle right now either." Westlake started crying. Catlett could see that she was afraid.
"Have you spoken to Joe or Frankie about this yet?"
"No, I don't want them worrying about me. Frankie would never let me out of his sights."
"Where are you staying, not at home I hope?"
"I'm at the complex, figure I'll be safer there."
"Alright. Westlake, talk to Joe and Frankie will you. Let them know what's going on."
"I will." Catlett gave her a hug on his way out. Boy he really was concerned if he was giving her a hug. Just what had Jon and Chris said to him.
********
Westlake stepped out of the elevator at the Complex to find Joe sitting at the computer. She could tell he was playing a computer game by the look on his face.
"Well that's productive don't you think? What about our art gallery case?"
"Frankie's on top of it. He's sent out an e-mail on a black market ring. We're just waiting for a response"
"Where is Frankie by the way?"
"He went out to get some stuff. How did it go with Catlett?"
"Fine, he just wanted to go over something with me. Good news is he'll be out of town for a couple of days. That should give us enough time to solve this case."
"Good." Joe paused for a moment. How was he going to ask her gently without being invasive? "Cameron.."
"Yes?" she said as she poured herself a cup of coffee.
"Did your meeting with Catlett have anything to do with this?" in his hand he held a one-page summary of the background check. "I found your overnight bag hidden behind the couch and this was in it."
"First of all, what were you doing behind the couch, and second of all what were you doing going through my bags? That was none of your business."
Joe got up from his seat and started walking towards Westlake. She quickly walked the other way to avoid him. He could see that she was angry. "I dropped a pen behind the couch and your bag was open. This was on top. I wasn't snooping, but this is serious. Are you in trouble?"
"You want to know the truth?" she was yelling now, "FINE! The background check I did for Jon was on my mother's latest boyfriend. Apparently, Bradley Johnson has had numerous aliases and numerous counts of stalking, etc. Oh yeah, and he's also very interested in knowing all about me and he's not in Seattle right now. You know where he is, he's here in Metro. I met him last week at the grocery store, but of course he gave me a different name. Oh yeah, and this is the kicker, he doesn't like you, he was watching us Saturday night. I found a note in my mail box Sunday evening." By now Westlake was in tears and shaking uncontrollably. She let Joe walk right up to her now. He took her in his arms and held her.
"I'm assuming you got rid of the note, but listen, you can't stay here. It's too cold and quiet at night. You can stay with me, I won't let him anywhere near you."
"No Joe. I think that's what he wants. If he's as dangerous as his record shows, then he might come after you. I won't let you put yourself in danger."
"We'll go to a safe house in some family filled neighbourhood. I don't honestly think he'll try something with children around. Frankie can handle things here, if he needs us we're just a phone call away."
"Joe."
"Look I know that you're a strong, brave woman, but I'm not letting you do this alone. We're partners and we watch each other's backs. Frankie will say the same thing."
"What will I say?" Frankie asked as he stepped off the elevator.
"It's a long story X-man, we'll tell you later. Could you please arrange for a safe house for us, with everything we need?"
"Sure thing, but you'd better do some explaining."
Frankie made the arrangements while Westlake sat on the couch, her overnight bag now in the open for Frankie to see. Joe explained the situation to him. After much discussion, Frankie finally agreed to let them borrow his beloved 'cuda. After all, how many suburban couples do you know who drive around in a Viper?
********
Later that evening, Joe and Cameron Allen pulled into the driveway of their new home. It just so happened that there was a one level house for rent and the Allen's were lucky enough to scoop it up. Also, the place came fully furnished. Joe and Cameron had their back-stories if any of the neighbours asked. They were high school sweethearts who eventually married during college (Frankie's idea). Joe was a construction worker and Cameron was a substitute teacher (this would explain why she didn't necessarily go to work everyday). When they got out of the car, Cameron could see a couple sitting on their front porch watching them. She grabbed her bags and started towards the door saying hello on her way, she didn't want to seem snobbish right? Joe opened the front door and took her bags from her. He put them down just inside the door and scooped her up in his arms, taking her completely by surprise. She let out a little laugh as he carried her over the threshold of their new home. Once they were inside and he'd put her down, she shut the door.
"What was that for?" she said laughing
"For show. This is supposed to be the first home we've lived in since we were married, it's only right that I carry you over the threshold. Besides, I think the couple next door were being ever so slightly nosey, don't you?"
"Yeah, I suppose. Just don't make a habit out of that Mr. Allen. So let's check out our humble abode."
"Good size living room, oh and I like the fireplace, very classy."
"Yes, we've got a gas stove. I always wanted one of those." She said as she walked into the kitchen.
Joe wandered down the hall towards the bedrooms. The master bedroom was furnished, however the second one was not furnished in the way they had thought. Instead of a bed was a desk and computer hook up. "Looks like there's only one bedroom. The other is an office."
Westlake came down the hall and looked for herself. She then went into the master bedroom. "Well as long as you promise not to snore too loudly or kick, I suppose I'll share the bed with you." She looked at him with her head tilted to the side and smirk on her face.
"I do not snore, at least I've never been made aware that I do." He said with a grin on his face.
"You'll know after tonight." She laughed.
Joe started towards her and feeling very childish all of a sudden, tackled her onto the bed and whispered in her ear, "Maybe I'll finally get to see that tattoo you told me about."
"You never know do you." She replied.
They got up off the bed, both breathing hard. Keeping this strictly professional was going to be difficult if they kept doing things like that Westlake thought as she went to the kitchen. She went to the cupboard and put on the kettle for a cup of tea. Joe came up behind her.
"Cameron, what do you feel like for dinner tonight?"
"I don't know, let's see what Frankie got for us."
"I was thinking more along the lines of take out. You've had a long day and I don't want you doing anything tonight but relaxing."
"Alright, but only for tonight. I'm game for about anything."
"Do you like Greek food?"
"Yeah, Greek sounds good."
"Great, I know a great little restaurant. I'll order and pick it up. What would you like?"
"Chicken Souvlaki please."
"Alright, I think I'll have the same."
Joe went into the living room and called the restaurant while Westlake made the tea. When he left to pick up the food, even though he protested Westlake stuck a twenty in his coat pocket to pay for her food. Her phone rang just after he left.
"Hello"
"Cammy, it's Jon. You okay?"
"I'm fine Jon. I told you not to worry about me, I'm a big girl."
"Yeah well I can't help it. Where are you, are you at home or with a friend?"
"I'm staying with a friend. If you need to reach me you'll have to call my cell, we don't have a phone here."
"Alright, what's the news on your end with Bradley Johnson?"
"Nothing concrete yet, but we're hoping. We've also got another case on the go right now, so I'm keeping busy. I have to go, my friend is back with our supper. Give Julie and Cassie a kiss for me, and say hi to mom."
"Okay, call me if anything develops there."
"I will. Love you."
"Love you too."
They hung up as Joe walked in the door. Stapled to the bag was the twenty that she had slipped in his pocket.
"I told you I was paying and you go and slip me a twenty. Now I ask you, would a wife really give her husband money to split the bill?"
"If she really cared about him, she would help foot the bill once in a while."
She set the table and they sat down to dinner. After supper Joe did the dishes and they decided to sit outside on the patio. It was a warm night, summer was finally coming. They sat together on the swing and just listened to the sounds around them. After a while, Joe could hear Westlake's breathing slow to a deep rhythm and knew she had fallen asleep. He could definitely get used to this. He carefully scooped her up and carried her into the bedroom. He didn't dare try to undress her for bed, so he just laid her on the bed and went into the living room. He looked at the clock, it was 10:00 so he turned on the television, watched the news and closed his eyes. The next day, the real fun would start.
********
The next morning Joe woke up to the smell of coffee being made. He looked up from the couch where he was lying and saw Westlake standing in the kitchen in her shorts and tank top. She turned when she heard a moan come from his direction.
"Morning Joe"
"Morning, I would just like to say that I did not dress you last night."
"I know, I woke up around midnight and changed. Why didn't you sleep in the bedroom, surely it would have been more comfortable than the couch?"
"I didn't want to wake you. Besides, I rarely sleep in my own bed, never mind a strange bed."
"Well no wonder your shoulders and neck are always so stiff." She said as she walked over to him. She took his hand and led him to a kitchen chair. Once he was seated she massaged his neck and shoulders.
"So Mr. Allen, when do you start work exactly. I haven't received any phone calls for teaching today so I plan to relax."
"Well if you keep this up I won't be going to work today. Poor Frankie will have to solve this case on his own."
"Why don't you jump in the shower and I'll check in with Frankie. Maybe he's found something on either case."
"Alright. See you in a few minutes."
Joe got up and went down the hall towards the bathroom. He closed the door behind him and ran the water. Westlake called Frankie, there was no news on either case. He was unfortunately no closer to finding David (a.k.a. Bradley) Johnson and hadn't received a response to his e-mail sent out. He was sending another so he told her to sit tight, he'd let her know when something came up.
"How did things go between you two last night Westlake" he asked.
"Joe was a perfect gentleman, he slept on the couch all night."
"You sound disappointed, are you?"
"Frankie, this is going to be more difficult than I thought. If playing husband and wife for two days was hard, what's this going to be like."
"You'll get through it. Maybe this is a blessing in disguise. How else do you think you two will ever admit your feelings for each other?"
"Frankie, I keep telling you, there's nothing between Joe and I. We're just partners, friends. Nothing more."
"Yeah, you keep telling yourself that. I have a sixth sense about these things. There's definitely more than meets the eye here."
"Frankie, I've got to go, I think Joe's calling me. I'll talk to you later."
"Bye Westlake."
They hung up and Westlake strained to hear down the hall, sure enough she heard her name being shouted over the running water. She went down the hall and knocked on the door.
"What do you want?" she yelled through the door
"I forgot to bring in a towel, could you please pass me one from the hall closet?"
'Great, he's in there naked and wants me to pass him a towel' she thought. "Just a minute" she called back. 'Just friends, partners Westlake. You can be professional about this.' She got the towel from the closet and opened the door enough for her to get her arm in the door. She felt the drops of water off Joe's hand as he took the towel from her.
"Thanks Cameron. What did Frankie have to say?" he said as the door closed.
"Nothing new, he said he'd phone me. Would you freak if I decided to go for a run in our friendly neighbourhood?"
"You're in protective custody, a safe house. Of course you can't go running, alone that is. I suppose if you were with someone you'd be okay. After all you are a cop."
"Yeah, maybe I'll go meet our nosey neighbour and see if she likes to run. She looks like the athletic type."
"Just be careful, and phone me when you get back."
Westlake turned towards the living room as the bathroom door opened behind her. She looked in the mirror in front of her as Joe made his way to the bedroom to get dressed. 'Just friends, just friends' she kept repeating to herself.
Twenty minutes later Joe left for work and Westlake went about cleaning and unpacking the few boxes that had been moved into the house the day before. Books, videos and personal ornaments were placed around the house to make it look more personal. She went into the bathroom, remembering to take a towel with her, and had a shower before getting dressed for her run. Once she was dressed she heard a knock on the front door. She looked out the peephole and saw her next-door neighbour standing on the other side.
"Hi, can I help you?" she asked as she opened the door.
"Hi, I'm Shelly. I just wanted to welcome you and your husband to the neighbourhood. Is he home?" she asked.
"No, sorry. He left for work an hour ago. Would you like to come in?"
"Sure. Thank you."
"I'm Cameron. You're the first person to see us."
"My husband Mike and I saw you two arrive yesterday. I baked these for you. I hope you like them?" Shelly said as she handed Westlake a plate of cookies.
"Thank you, that was very kind of you. Can I get you a glass of water or a cup of tea?"
"Water will be fine, thank you. So what does your husband do?"
"Joe works in construction."
"And you? Do you work?"
"I'm a substitute elementary teacher, so I work when I'm needed. I like it that way. I get to work with a bunch of different kids instead of one class. What do you and your husband do?"
"My husband Mike is a financial planner. I'm one of those stay at home wives you never see anymore, but I'm not June Cleaver that's for sure. So how long have you and Joe been married?"
"Nine years. It seems like forever. We were high school sweethearts, married in college. We've been inseparable since."
"Same with us. A lot of people didn't think we'd make it, but I guess we showed them. We'll be celebrating our tenth anniversary next month."
"Good for you. Do you have any kids?"
"We have a daughter, her name is Jennifer. She's 6, she says she's a big girl now because she goes to school all day now."
"I have a six year old cousin who's the same way. She's not a munch kin anymore, she's all grown up. If only that were true."
"Do you and your husband have any kids?"
"No, we've been trying for awhile, but none yet, one day. I was curious; you wouldn't know anyone in the neighbourhood looking for a running buddy? Joe doesn't like me to go out alone, he's kind of a worry wart about that?"
"Actually, I was looking for a buddy. I like to run, but I know I won't go alone. It helps to have someone to go with."
"Would you like to go sometime? I really need to get back into a routine?"
"Sure, you look ready to go now. I'll go next-door and change and we can go now. I'll show you the neighbourhood."
"Sounds good. Thanks Shelly." Westlake showed her out. Once Shelly had gone back to her house, Westlake cleaned up the glasses and got her running shoes on. She locked the front door and met Shelly on the sidewalk a few minutes later. They were gone for an hour, talking the whole time. When they got back to their homes Shelly asked Westlake a question.
"Mike and I are having a barbeque for some of his clients Friday night. Would you and Joe like to come, we'd love to have you over."
"That would be wonderful. Thank you."
"I will have Mike promise not to sell you a portfolio while you're there." She laughed.
"Thanks, I don't think we have any money to put into one right now."
Shelly started up the walk to her house and turned to face Westlake. "Cameron, can I ask you a silly question?"
"Sure."
"Why did Joe carry you over the threshold yesterday? I thought it was cute, but if you've been married all this time."
"This is the first house we've lived in since we were married, so I guess he thought it was appropriate. He's kind of funny that way."
"I sometimes wish that Mike were that way. It would be nice if he would do silly things like that once in a while. Oh well, we'll see you Friday night at six."
"Friday, six o'clock. Would you like us to bring anything?"
"Just yourselves. It was nice to meet you."
"You too."
Shelly got to her door and went in. Westlake went inside the house and checked her messages. There were two from Joe, both wanting to know where she was and if she was okay. She was going to get an earful about that, she should have taken the cell with her. She'd call him back later. She took a mix cd off the shelf, put it in the player and hit play. She started to sing along with the song.
Sometimes I have dreams I picture myself flying Above the clouds High in the sky Conquering the world with my magic piano Never being scared, but then I realize
I'm Supergirl And I'm here to save the world But I wanna know, who's going to save me I'm Supergirl And I'm here to save the world But I wanna know, why I feel so alone
Seems like a dream Nobody's here with me To share in all that I've been given I need someone that's strong enough for me
I'm Supergirl And I'm here to save the world But I wanna know, who's gonna save me I'm Supergirl And I'm here to save the world But I wanna know, why I feel so alone
I need someone I won't stop till I find the one Who will stop the longing in my life
I'm Supergirl And I'm here to save the world But I wanna know, who's gonna save me I'm Supergirl And I'm here to save the world But I wanna know, why I feel so alone
The next morning Joe arrived at the Complex at 8:00, he wasn't expecting to find Westlake there. She was sitting at the computer console looking over a fax that came in.
"What are you doing here so early? Did you spend the night here or something?" he asked.
"No, just decided to come in early. Coffee's made if you want a cup.. The fax from Interpol came in this morning. They got a match, an art thief named Jeff Dodson. Here's the photo they had of him."
"Good, so where would an art thief go to sell expensive art detective?"
"He'd probably hide it and lay low until the investigation was done and then move the art to another city to sell. Or he might try to sell it over the Internet, you can find a lot on e-bay you know."
"Very cute. So what's the plan? We've got to flush him out somehow before he leaves town."
Just then the elevator came down and Frankie stepped off, and the screen came to life cutting the conversation short.
"Good morning everyone. Any leads yet on this?" Catlett asked.
"Actually, the prints came back from Interpol early this morning. They belong to a Jeff Dodson. Joe and I are going to work on a plan to flush him out before he leaves town with the art." Westlake said.
"Good work, whatever you two come up with will be good I'm sure. Unfortunately I've got a family emergency out of town and have to leave immediately. I'll keep in touch to make sure you guys are okay. If you need me you can reach me on my cell. Please be careful."
"Thanks Sherman, we'll call if we need you." Joe said
"Westlake, can you come by my office in half an hour? There's something I want to run by you?"
"Sure Catlett, I'll head over now."
The screen went blank and Westlake stood up. Frankie was standing there with his mouth open.
"Did he just sound concerned? That's something I haven't seen from him in a long time." he said.
"It's probably nothing. I think he's more worried about his family emergency and wants to get moving, so I'd better not keep him waiting."
She got into the elevator and went up to her car. 20 minutes later she pulled into the parking garage at the Federal Building. She went upstairs and knocked on Catlett's door.
"Come in" she heard.
"You wanted to see me Catlett."
"I received a phone call from Chris Davis at Metropol last night and one from your brother this morning. For some reason, both thought you might be staying with me. Is there any reason for this?"
"None I can think of."
"Cameron, I'm speaking to you as a friend, I hope that we're friends?"
"Well I wouldn't say best friends, but yeah, I guess we're friends."
"Good, because your brother mentioned something about a background check and that I should keep an eye on you."
"He wanted me to check out my mother's latest boyfriend, something didn't sit right with him. Let's just say that he's got a very colourful background and he's not someone we want mom to date. Oh yeah, and apparently, he's obsessed with me. And he's not in Seattle right now either." Westlake started crying. Catlett could see that she was afraid.
"Have you spoken to Joe or Frankie about this yet?"
"No, I don't want them worrying about me. Frankie would never let me out of his sights."
"Where are you staying, not at home I hope?"
"I'm at the complex, figure I'll be safer there."
"Alright. Westlake, talk to Joe and Frankie will you. Let them know what's going on."
"I will." Catlett gave her a hug on his way out. Boy he really was concerned if he was giving her a hug. Just what had Jon and Chris said to him.
********
Westlake stepped out of the elevator at the Complex to find Joe sitting at the computer. She could tell he was playing a computer game by the look on his face.
"Well that's productive don't you think? What about our art gallery case?"
"Frankie's on top of it. He's sent out an e-mail on a black market ring. We're just waiting for a response"
"Where is Frankie by the way?"
"He went out to get some stuff. How did it go with Catlett?"
"Fine, he just wanted to go over something with me. Good news is he'll be out of town for a couple of days. That should give us enough time to solve this case."
"Good." Joe paused for a moment. How was he going to ask her gently without being invasive? "Cameron.."
"Yes?" she said as she poured herself a cup of coffee.
"Did your meeting with Catlett have anything to do with this?" in his hand he held a one-page summary of the background check. "I found your overnight bag hidden behind the couch and this was in it."
"First of all, what were you doing behind the couch, and second of all what were you doing going through my bags? That was none of your business."
Joe got up from his seat and started walking towards Westlake. She quickly walked the other way to avoid him. He could see that she was angry. "I dropped a pen behind the couch and your bag was open. This was on top. I wasn't snooping, but this is serious. Are you in trouble?"
"You want to know the truth?" she was yelling now, "FINE! The background check I did for Jon was on my mother's latest boyfriend. Apparently, Bradley Johnson has had numerous aliases and numerous counts of stalking, etc. Oh yeah, and he's also very interested in knowing all about me and he's not in Seattle right now. You know where he is, he's here in Metro. I met him last week at the grocery store, but of course he gave me a different name. Oh yeah, and this is the kicker, he doesn't like you, he was watching us Saturday night. I found a note in my mail box Sunday evening." By now Westlake was in tears and shaking uncontrollably. She let Joe walk right up to her now. He took her in his arms and held her.
"I'm assuming you got rid of the note, but listen, you can't stay here. It's too cold and quiet at night. You can stay with me, I won't let him anywhere near you."
"No Joe. I think that's what he wants. If he's as dangerous as his record shows, then he might come after you. I won't let you put yourself in danger."
"We'll go to a safe house in some family filled neighbourhood. I don't honestly think he'll try something with children around. Frankie can handle things here, if he needs us we're just a phone call away."
"Joe."
"Look I know that you're a strong, brave woman, but I'm not letting you do this alone. We're partners and we watch each other's backs. Frankie will say the same thing."
"What will I say?" Frankie asked as he stepped off the elevator.
"It's a long story X-man, we'll tell you later. Could you please arrange for a safe house for us, with everything we need?"
"Sure thing, but you'd better do some explaining."
Frankie made the arrangements while Westlake sat on the couch, her overnight bag now in the open for Frankie to see. Joe explained the situation to him. After much discussion, Frankie finally agreed to let them borrow his beloved 'cuda. After all, how many suburban couples do you know who drive around in a Viper?
********
Later that evening, Joe and Cameron Allen pulled into the driveway of their new home. It just so happened that there was a one level house for rent and the Allen's were lucky enough to scoop it up. Also, the place came fully furnished. Joe and Cameron had their back-stories if any of the neighbours asked. They were high school sweethearts who eventually married during college (Frankie's idea). Joe was a construction worker and Cameron was a substitute teacher (this would explain why she didn't necessarily go to work everyday). When they got out of the car, Cameron could see a couple sitting on their front porch watching them. She grabbed her bags and started towards the door saying hello on her way, she didn't want to seem snobbish right? Joe opened the front door and took her bags from her. He put them down just inside the door and scooped her up in his arms, taking her completely by surprise. She let out a little laugh as he carried her over the threshold of their new home. Once they were inside and he'd put her down, she shut the door.
"What was that for?" she said laughing
"For show. This is supposed to be the first home we've lived in since we were married, it's only right that I carry you over the threshold. Besides, I think the couple next door were being ever so slightly nosey, don't you?"
"Yeah, I suppose. Just don't make a habit out of that Mr. Allen. So let's check out our humble abode."
"Good size living room, oh and I like the fireplace, very classy."
"Yes, we've got a gas stove. I always wanted one of those." She said as she walked into the kitchen.
Joe wandered down the hall towards the bedrooms. The master bedroom was furnished, however the second one was not furnished in the way they had thought. Instead of a bed was a desk and computer hook up. "Looks like there's only one bedroom. The other is an office."
Westlake came down the hall and looked for herself. She then went into the master bedroom. "Well as long as you promise not to snore too loudly or kick, I suppose I'll share the bed with you." She looked at him with her head tilted to the side and smirk on her face.
"I do not snore, at least I've never been made aware that I do." He said with a grin on his face.
"You'll know after tonight." She laughed.
Joe started towards her and feeling very childish all of a sudden, tackled her onto the bed and whispered in her ear, "Maybe I'll finally get to see that tattoo you told me about."
"You never know do you." She replied.
They got up off the bed, both breathing hard. Keeping this strictly professional was going to be difficult if they kept doing things like that Westlake thought as she went to the kitchen. She went to the cupboard and put on the kettle for a cup of tea. Joe came up behind her.
"Cameron, what do you feel like for dinner tonight?"
"I don't know, let's see what Frankie got for us."
"I was thinking more along the lines of take out. You've had a long day and I don't want you doing anything tonight but relaxing."
"Alright, but only for tonight. I'm game for about anything."
"Do you like Greek food?"
"Yeah, Greek sounds good."
"Great, I know a great little restaurant. I'll order and pick it up. What would you like?"
"Chicken Souvlaki please."
"Alright, I think I'll have the same."
Joe went into the living room and called the restaurant while Westlake made the tea. When he left to pick up the food, even though he protested Westlake stuck a twenty in his coat pocket to pay for her food. Her phone rang just after he left.
"Hello"
"Cammy, it's Jon. You okay?"
"I'm fine Jon. I told you not to worry about me, I'm a big girl."
"Yeah well I can't help it. Where are you, are you at home or with a friend?"
"I'm staying with a friend. If you need to reach me you'll have to call my cell, we don't have a phone here."
"Alright, what's the news on your end with Bradley Johnson?"
"Nothing concrete yet, but we're hoping. We've also got another case on the go right now, so I'm keeping busy. I have to go, my friend is back with our supper. Give Julie and Cassie a kiss for me, and say hi to mom."
"Okay, call me if anything develops there."
"I will. Love you."
"Love you too."
They hung up as Joe walked in the door. Stapled to the bag was the twenty that she had slipped in his pocket.
"I told you I was paying and you go and slip me a twenty. Now I ask you, would a wife really give her husband money to split the bill?"
"If she really cared about him, she would help foot the bill once in a while."
She set the table and they sat down to dinner. After supper Joe did the dishes and they decided to sit outside on the patio. It was a warm night, summer was finally coming. They sat together on the swing and just listened to the sounds around them. After a while, Joe could hear Westlake's breathing slow to a deep rhythm and knew she had fallen asleep. He could definitely get used to this. He carefully scooped her up and carried her into the bedroom. He didn't dare try to undress her for bed, so he just laid her on the bed and went into the living room. He looked at the clock, it was 10:00 so he turned on the television, watched the news and closed his eyes. The next day, the real fun would start.
********
The next morning Joe woke up to the smell of coffee being made. He looked up from the couch where he was lying and saw Westlake standing in the kitchen in her shorts and tank top. She turned when she heard a moan come from his direction.
"Morning Joe"
"Morning, I would just like to say that I did not dress you last night."
"I know, I woke up around midnight and changed. Why didn't you sleep in the bedroom, surely it would have been more comfortable than the couch?"
"I didn't want to wake you. Besides, I rarely sleep in my own bed, never mind a strange bed."
"Well no wonder your shoulders and neck are always so stiff." She said as she walked over to him. She took his hand and led him to a kitchen chair. Once he was seated she massaged his neck and shoulders.
"So Mr. Allen, when do you start work exactly. I haven't received any phone calls for teaching today so I plan to relax."
"Well if you keep this up I won't be going to work today. Poor Frankie will have to solve this case on his own."
"Why don't you jump in the shower and I'll check in with Frankie. Maybe he's found something on either case."
"Alright. See you in a few minutes."
Joe got up and went down the hall towards the bathroom. He closed the door behind him and ran the water. Westlake called Frankie, there was no news on either case. He was unfortunately no closer to finding David (a.k.a. Bradley) Johnson and hadn't received a response to his e-mail sent out. He was sending another so he told her to sit tight, he'd let her know when something came up.
"How did things go between you two last night Westlake" he asked.
"Joe was a perfect gentleman, he slept on the couch all night."
"You sound disappointed, are you?"
"Frankie, this is going to be more difficult than I thought. If playing husband and wife for two days was hard, what's this going to be like."
"You'll get through it. Maybe this is a blessing in disguise. How else do you think you two will ever admit your feelings for each other?"
"Frankie, I keep telling you, there's nothing between Joe and I. We're just partners, friends. Nothing more."
"Yeah, you keep telling yourself that. I have a sixth sense about these things. There's definitely more than meets the eye here."
"Frankie, I've got to go, I think Joe's calling me. I'll talk to you later."
"Bye Westlake."
They hung up and Westlake strained to hear down the hall, sure enough she heard her name being shouted over the running water. She went down the hall and knocked on the door.
"What do you want?" she yelled through the door
"I forgot to bring in a towel, could you please pass me one from the hall closet?"
'Great, he's in there naked and wants me to pass him a towel' she thought. "Just a minute" she called back. 'Just friends, partners Westlake. You can be professional about this.' She got the towel from the closet and opened the door enough for her to get her arm in the door. She felt the drops of water off Joe's hand as he took the towel from her.
"Thanks Cameron. What did Frankie have to say?" he said as the door closed.
"Nothing new, he said he'd phone me. Would you freak if I decided to go for a run in our friendly neighbourhood?"
"You're in protective custody, a safe house. Of course you can't go running, alone that is. I suppose if you were with someone you'd be okay. After all you are a cop."
"Yeah, maybe I'll go meet our nosey neighbour and see if she likes to run. She looks like the athletic type."
"Just be careful, and phone me when you get back."
Westlake turned towards the living room as the bathroom door opened behind her. She looked in the mirror in front of her as Joe made his way to the bedroom to get dressed. 'Just friends, just friends' she kept repeating to herself.
Twenty minutes later Joe left for work and Westlake went about cleaning and unpacking the few boxes that had been moved into the house the day before. Books, videos and personal ornaments were placed around the house to make it look more personal. She went into the bathroom, remembering to take a towel with her, and had a shower before getting dressed for her run. Once she was dressed she heard a knock on the front door. She looked out the peephole and saw her next-door neighbour standing on the other side.
"Hi, can I help you?" she asked as she opened the door.
"Hi, I'm Shelly. I just wanted to welcome you and your husband to the neighbourhood. Is he home?" she asked.
"No, sorry. He left for work an hour ago. Would you like to come in?"
"Sure. Thank you."
"I'm Cameron. You're the first person to see us."
"My husband Mike and I saw you two arrive yesterday. I baked these for you. I hope you like them?" Shelly said as she handed Westlake a plate of cookies.
"Thank you, that was very kind of you. Can I get you a glass of water or a cup of tea?"
"Water will be fine, thank you. So what does your husband do?"
"Joe works in construction."
"And you? Do you work?"
"I'm a substitute elementary teacher, so I work when I'm needed. I like it that way. I get to work with a bunch of different kids instead of one class. What do you and your husband do?"
"My husband Mike is a financial planner. I'm one of those stay at home wives you never see anymore, but I'm not June Cleaver that's for sure. So how long have you and Joe been married?"
"Nine years. It seems like forever. We were high school sweethearts, married in college. We've been inseparable since."
"Same with us. A lot of people didn't think we'd make it, but I guess we showed them. We'll be celebrating our tenth anniversary next month."
"Good for you. Do you have any kids?"
"We have a daughter, her name is Jennifer. She's 6, she says she's a big girl now because she goes to school all day now."
"I have a six year old cousin who's the same way. She's not a munch kin anymore, she's all grown up. If only that were true."
"Do you and your husband have any kids?"
"No, we've been trying for awhile, but none yet, one day. I was curious; you wouldn't know anyone in the neighbourhood looking for a running buddy? Joe doesn't like me to go out alone, he's kind of a worry wart about that?"
"Actually, I was looking for a buddy. I like to run, but I know I won't go alone. It helps to have someone to go with."
"Would you like to go sometime? I really need to get back into a routine?"
"Sure, you look ready to go now. I'll go next-door and change and we can go now. I'll show you the neighbourhood."
"Sounds good. Thanks Shelly." Westlake showed her out. Once Shelly had gone back to her house, Westlake cleaned up the glasses and got her running shoes on. She locked the front door and met Shelly on the sidewalk a few minutes later. They were gone for an hour, talking the whole time. When they got back to their homes Shelly asked Westlake a question.
"Mike and I are having a barbeque for some of his clients Friday night. Would you and Joe like to come, we'd love to have you over."
"That would be wonderful. Thank you."
"I will have Mike promise not to sell you a portfolio while you're there." She laughed.
"Thanks, I don't think we have any money to put into one right now."
Shelly started up the walk to her house and turned to face Westlake. "Cameron, can I ask you a silly question?"
"Sure."
"Why did Joe carry you over the threshold yesterday? I thought it was cute, but if you've been married all this time."
"This is the first house we've lived in since we were married, so I guess he thought it was appropriate. He's kind of funny that way."
"I sometimes wish that Mike were that way. It would be nice if he would do silly things like that once in a while. Oh well, we'll see you Friday night at six."
"Friday, six o'clock. Would you like us to bring anything?"
"Just yourselves. It was nice to meet you."
"You too."
Shelly got to her door and went in. Westlake went inside the house and checked her messages. There were two from Joe, both wanting to know where she was and if she was okay. She was going to get an earful about that, she should have taken the cell with her. She'd call him back later. She took a mix cd off the shelf, put it in the player and hit play. She started to sing along with the song.
Sometimes I have dreams I picture myself flying Above the clouds High in the sky Conquering the world with my magic piano Never being scared, but then I realize
I'm Supergirl And I'm here to save the world But I wanna know, who's going to save me I'm Supergirl And I'm here to save the world But I wanna know, why I feel so alone
Seems like a dream Nobody's here with me To share in all that I've been given I need someone that's strong enough for me
I'm Supergirl And I'm here to save the world But I wanna know, who's gonna save me I'm Supergirl And I'm here to save the world But I wanna know, why I feel so alone
I need someone I won't stop till I find the one Who will stop the longing in my life
I'm Supergirl And I'm here to save the world But I wanna know, who's gonna save me I'm Supergirl And I'm here to save the world But I wanna know, why I feel so alone