CHAPTER THREE
Murdock sat on the sofa and buried his head in his hands trying to sort through the tangle of emotions. He'd been so close to losing control.too close for comfort. He'd wanted her, still did want her and that scared him and disgusted him all at once.
She was younger than him; her father had been his best friend. He'd known her since before she could walk, how could he even contemplate what had nearly happened?
Was it because he was crazy? Because she appeared to be feeling everything he was feeling or because he was genuinely attracted to her?
When he'd come back after pretending to be dead everything had changed then. The feelings he'd had before were not the same, he'd seen more and more how much she was growing up, and he'd buried his true feelings for her; tried to pretend they didn't exist.
Now though, now she appeared to feel the same for him as he did for her. But she'd just escaped an abusive boyfriend. It was natural that she wouldn't be thinking clearly, would try to find comfort whenever and wherever it came along. He'd just happened to be there.
The bedroom door opened and she stood there staring at him. He raised his head and looked back at her. In his mind's eye he saw again their fevered kiss. He got to his feet, walked towards her, shunning every sense that screamed that what he was doing was wrong. He no longer cared.
He grabbed her and kissed her harshly, he felt her press herself against him. She pulled off his cap running her fingers through his hair. His mind whirled; every sense was full of her. The way she felt, the smell and taste of her. His hands were in her hair, on her back and then he heard her gasp, not from pleasure this time but from pain. And he was dragged back to the present with a jolt, he remembered the bruises, remembered who she was.
Carefully, he removed her arms where they were laced around his neck; he looked at her for a long moment and then picked her up in his arms. He carried her into the bedroom and kicked the door shut in one fluid movement.
*** She was sleeping now, her face flushed, her hair plastered to her cheek. He knew he should wake her so that they could both get dressed; someone could come back at any time. Despite the fact that they could be caught he remained looking down at her for a while.
He'd been shocked by just how bad the bruises were, the ones that she'd kept carefully hidden. He didn't understand why she'd stayed with Jerome, how she could have ended up like this. She'd explained it to him carefully, how when she'd finally found out what he was like it had been too late. Terrified of what he might do she'd stayed feeling trapped, too afraid to ask for help. He knew it must have been bad for her to act like that; normally she could take pretty good care of herself. He'd always thought her strong enough to break out of something like this. But she'd told him that when you fear for your life what you thought before no longer had meaning.
To get out of his clutches she would have needed a way off the island, she would have needed a plane or a boat. Neither was possible, Jerome owned all the planes and all the boats; his men were the pilots and the sailors. None of them would have helped her escape.
He propped himself up on one elbow and looked down at her. He was starting to think that he loved her, not the kind of love he'd had before but real love.
Finally he tore himself away and got dressed, gathering up Katie's clothes he shook her gently. 'Kate.Katie.'
With a groan she opened her eyes and seeing who it was she smiled up at him. 'Hey.' She stretched languidly in the bed reminding him of a contented cat. He reached out and brushed her hair out of her eyes for her.
'Time to get dressed, they could be back at any moment.'
With a nod she sat up and pulled the bedcovers to her. 'Murdock.'
'Yeah?' He wondered why she was suddenly so shy about him seeing her.
'Things are gonna be ok between us right? It's not going to be awkward now is it?'
'No I don't think so, unless you feel awkward. You don't feel awkward do you?'
'No.but I don't want anyone to know.'
'Yeah.good idea, let's just keep this between ourselves.' The idea of telling the guys what he'd been doing not 15 minutes earlier was not something he would welcome.
He opened one of her bags and pulled out a nightgown. 'Here you go, put that on and get to sleep. You must be exhausted.'
'Now I am.' She gave a sly smile and he couldn't help but grin back. He leaned over and kissed her.
'We'll talk later.' He walked into the living room leaving her to watch him go longingly with a wistful smile on her face.
*** It wasn't long afterwards that Hannibal and Face came back from scouring the area. They'd been checking everything over, going over all possible exits and entrances and trying to spot if Jerome had found out where they were yet.
'We need to find out where he is and to do that we need to know some of the people he associates with.'
'Yeah but I don't know if Katie will know. I don't think he ever included her in that kind of thing.' Murdock was sure that Hannibal or Face would take one look at him and know what had happened. If they were suspicious they were hiding it pretty well.
'Well as soon as she's awake we need to talk to her.'
'Sure.' Murdock said trying to act normal. He knew Hannibal was right but he didn't want to put Katie through that right now. 'I think I'm gonna get some sleep too.' He stood up and walked into the spare bedroom.
Face watched him go. 'You think they had a fight?'
'More than likely.' Hannibal answered. 'She didn't seem too pleased to see us. I only hope she'll cooperate.'
Face looked at his colonel. 'You think she'll go running back to Jerome? After we went to all the trouble of getting her out?'
'I don't know but she could do and she's been awful keen to get rid of us. I keep getting the feeling that there's more to this.'
The conman nodded. 'Right. Let's just hope that Murdock can talk to her and get her to cooperate.'
*** It was a long while later when Katie woke. She felt better than she had in a long while. For the first time she'd slept without having to be afraid of the presence in the bed next to her, whether Jerome would decide that she'd offended him in some way, however small. That Jerome would be rough with her maybe even beat her. She felt safe.
The soft sound of breathing reached her ears and leaned over the side of the bed. On the floor Murdock was sleeping. A smile touched her lips. He looked peaceful; she remembered how gentle he'd been earlier. She'd been surprised; the whole thing had been a surprise. From the way he'd been kissing her she hadn't expected him to be so tender, so caring. She'd never dreamed that he would feel this way about her or even that she would return his feelings. But she did and for the first time she knew that it had been love and not just the act itself that had made it good.
Her hand still ached a little but that too seemed to have faded away. For the first time in weeks she felt as if she could make it through the next minute, the next hour maybe even the next day.
She rolled over onto her back again and closed her eyes drifting back to sleep. She jerked awake suddenly and found his face staring into hers. He pulled her into his arms.
'The guys want me to talk to you. They want to know what you know about Jerome, the people he associates with, what he does. Whatever you know.'
She nestled into his chest feeling protected. 'I told you, I really don't know that much. He kept me out of most of it. There were a couple of guys that came around, I'll tell you what I know but it isn't a lot.'
'Anything would be good right now.' He stroked her hair gently. 'Then I can make sure he doesn't get anywhere near you.'
She frowned. 'What's that smell? Smell's like food.' Her stomach growled hungrily.
With a grin he sat up. 'Smells like Mrs B's making dinner and sounds like you're hungry.'
'Starving.'
'Better get dressed then.' There was a teasing look in his eye and again she was surprised by just how comfortable she felt around him. She thought she'd feel awkward or embarrassed but it just felt normal, right.
'Too much hard work.'
He grinned wryly. 'I'm only good at the undressing bit; don't know about the rest of it.'
She hit his arm playfully glad for the teasing. 'Shut up.'
'How's your hand?'
'Sore still.'
He took it in his and examined it. 'Poor Katie, I'm sorry my jaw hurt your hand.'
'My hand says your jaw is forgiven.'
'Oh good.' He smiled as she reached up and stroked her fingers along the line of his jaw, caressing his cheek. He kissed the palm of her hand. 'Remind me never to make you mad again. Guess I should be thankful you didn't go for the same place as last time.' He remembered a rather painful injury she'd inflicted on his groin area but then she hadn't known it was him and he had dragged her into an alley. It was natural she'd try and fight back.
'If I had what happened a couple of hours ago wouldn't have done.'
'Yeah.well I did tell you to aim for a place that was less sensitive last time. At least I could still walk after this one.'
'You sound as if me beating you up is something that happens regularly.'
He chuckled and kissed the top of her head. 'Isn't it?'
'No thank you very much it is not. I was angry.'
'I rest my case.'
'Well if you weren't so stubborn.' She began but he cut her off with a kiss.
He pulled back. 'Sorry, you were saying?'
She still had her eyes closed. 'I can't remember.' Sitting up she looked around for her clothes.
'On the chair.' He said apparently reading her mind.
'How'd you know I wanted clothes?'
'Lucky guess.'
'Thanks for picking them all up anyway.'
'That's ok sweetheart.' He lay back lazily as she got up and started to get dressed. 'Need any help?'
She stopped struggling one-handed with her bra and turned to him blushing. 'Well.I.'
He sat up and did it for her. He kissed the back of her neck gently.
'Murdock.someone might come in.'
He pulled away. 'We should talk Katie.'
'I know, just not right now. It's all good right now; don't want anything to ruin it.'
'Ok.' He got up reluctantly. 'I'll go see what Mrs B's cooking up. Give me a shout if you need anymore help.'
'I think I can manage thanks anyway.'
He smiled at her and walked out of the room.
*** Katie gave Hannibal everything she knew, she was right it wasn't a lot but it was enough for Face to get a head start. He would have to work with what he had and hope that something came up.
The next day Mrs Baracus went to visit some relatives and BA went with her. Hannibal and Face went to find more on Jerome and get some weapons. That left Katie and Murdock alone in the apartment.
They stayed in separate rooms for all of ten minutes and then they were kissing again.
She pulled away gasping. 'Murdock.I've gotta get outta here!'
He kissed her neck. 'We have to stay here hon.'
'Please.'
'No, Jerome could be.'
'But.I want to.well you know.' Stupidly she was blushing.
He chuckled. 'I see, well everyone's gone but I suppose someone could come in. We're supposed to stay here.'
'Yeah.I know. Just starting to feel claustrophobic.'
'Ok, I know of a place.'
Katie nodded and nuzzled his neck. 'Good.'
'We need to talk anyway.'
She gave a groan. 'Do we have to?' She carried on kissing his neck, her fingers straying to the buttons on his shirt.
'Yes.' He kissed her briefly and then went to get his jacket.
Less than 15 minutes later he was checking them into a hotel and leading her to their room.
'I won't ask how you know this place but remind me to thank Face some day.' She said eying the elaborate wallpaper and the large bed in their room. She peeked into the bathroom and squealed. He came up behind her and wrapped his arms around her waist.
'What is it?'
'A Jacuzzi!' She beamed up at him and he laughed, kissing the top of her head lovingly.
'Want to try it out.'
She smiled. 'No not right now, maybe later.' She blushed feeling almost nervous now. Somehow this didn't seem as easy as it first had.
She lay down on the bed and he lay next to her. They both stared up at the ceiling; they were less driven now, the urgent need to make love had left them. Instead the first feeling of awkward shyness was taking over.
He reached over and took her hand. 'So.what now?' She asked softly.
'We don't have to Katie.' He was quiet, thoughtful, wondering if she was regretting it.
'No.no I want to.it just feels strange now. Now that I'm thinking about it.' She linked her fingers through his and remained staring up at the ceiling.
'You just want to talk for now?' He rubbed the back of her hand with his thumb absentmindedly.
'Sure, you said we should, I guess you're right.'
'Ok.well, how do you feel about this?' He didn't want to scare her off but he had to know. To know if she was sincere, if all this was just a roll in the hay for her or something more.
'What talking?'
'No, this in general, you and me.sleeping together.'
'Strange. I never thought it'd happen. Not really sure what to think to be honest. Except.it was never like that with anyone before.'
'No.' He squinted up at the ceiling trying to make shapes out of the patterns carved there. Sometimes he wondered how it was he could see shapes in the weirdest things but never in inkblots. It would make his life a lot easier if he didn't have to guess at the inkblot test. A smile crossed his face as he remembered yesterday afternoon. 'No, never like that before.' He looked over at her with a curious expression. 'Who was your first?'
The question surprised her and she wondered what he would think if he knew that she was wishing that it had been him. 'I was 16; he was 17. He was a good friend, his name was Maxwell.'
Murdock looked over at her. 'You slept with a guy called Maxwell? Maxwell?'
'Yes.' She pursed her lips. 'And we called him Max thanks very much.'
'Sounds like a spoilt rich kid.'
'He was not! He was very nice actually. Yes his family had money but he wasn't spoilt.'
'You loved him?'
She looked over at him starting to sense just a hint of jealously in his tone of voice. 'No, I didn't love him. It was just something that happened, we still had a good relationship afterwards but it was never about love.'
'And Jerome.that about love?' A hard note had come into Murdock's voice now as he said the name. The idea that someone could treat her so harshly actually caused him physical pain now. God he was starting to fall in love with this woman, Tony's daughter. But that thought no longer made him try to curb his desires. Again his thumb stroked the back of her hand, he wasn't even aware that he was doing it.
She was silent for a long time after he'd asked the question, wondering how to answer. 'No.I thought because it was good sexually that meant it was a good relationship and I convinced myself that I loved him. Obviously as soon he saw that and realised he had me where he wanted me he changed.'
'What did he want from you?' He was staring fixedly at the ceiling now. The patterns in the ceiling had vanished.
She laughed; a low husky laugh. 'What every man wants.'
He closed his eyes; she had no idea how much that answer had pained him. 'Not every man.' He whispered.
Now she looked over at him. 'Don't you? Isn't that what this is about?'
'Not for me, I don't know what you're thinking this is or even what you want it to be but for me it's more than just that.'
'Murdock.' Her voice was soft and gentle as she spoke his name. 'I love you.'
He felt as if he was being torn in two, he pulled her close to him now. 'Then why is this so damn hard?'
'I don't know.' She whispered. 'Because I'm so much younger, because my father was your best friend, because you've known me since I was a baby and maybe because you never knew that this is what you felt or would feel.'
His lips sought out hers hungrily.was this only passion, only his crazy vibes venting themselves? Was it just the fact that he couldn't remember the last time he'd had a relationship? Was it just because she was hurting? The questions were a whirlwind inside his brain. How could he love her like this? Why did it have to hurt so badly? He pushed the thoughts away and concentrated on her and only her. She was everything now; nothing else mattered.
*** Face entered the apartment and was struck by how quiet it was. There was no sound; all was peaceful and still. He could hear the rhythmic ticking of the clock, the buzz of cars in the street below, the steady hum of the refrigerator. He opened the bedroom door and peered in, the bed was empty no sign of Katie. He checked the master bedroom, no sign of Murdock. There was no indication of a struggle; indeed it seemed as if they had never been there at all but all Katie's bags said otherwise standing solitarily in the corner of the spare bedroom, that at least told him that she hadn't upped and left or if she had she'd gone without taking any of her things with her.
Maybe Katie had thought of something that might help and Murdock had gone with her, but surely he would have left a note. Face scoured the apartment; there was no note.
He tried to think of all the places his friend might go if he were in trouble or had to get away. But again he saw that nothing was out of place and there was no suggestion that anything bad had happened. Surely one of them would have put up a fight, there would be something to show that they were in trouble, Murdock would have made sure of that. But if he hadn't have had time.?
Face set off at a run out of the apartment to try and find his friend.
*** Katie buried her head in the pillow and gave a groan. 'Katie?' Murdock asked. 'You alright?'
She gave a mumbled groan again and then rolled over onto her back. 'Hon?' He was starting to get concerned. 'Did I do something wrong?'
There was a look of horror on her face at the suggestion, she shook her head still trying to speak and still unable to form words. 'I think my brain is turning to mush.' She finally managed to say.
He frowned. 'Yeah? That a good or a bad thing?' He wasn't sure what to think of her reaction.
'Good.all good, all very, very good!'
This time he grinned and started to laugh. He put his arms around her and she traced meaningless circles on his chest with her fingertips. He stroked her hair and kissed the top of her head, letting his lips linger there so that he could smell the scent of her hair. 'How did this happen?'
'You started kissing me.'
'You know what I mean.' His hand stroked her back absentmindedly.
'Right now I don't care.'
'How do you feel about it?'
'You asked me that before Murdock. I said I didn't feel awkward and before you ask me, I still don't. I know it's strange, unexpected but its right, I know its right.'
'But.'
'No buts!' She wouldn't let him finish. 'Or I'm sending you back to Richter and telling him to reconsider your therapy!'
He grinned. 'Yeah, he'd have a field day with this. I might just tell him to curb his boredom.'
'I'd hate to think what Jamison would say. That this is all an allusion to me not being able to maintain a relationship because of bereavement at a young age.'
'Probably.' He said wryly. 'On the other hand he could just say you were crazy. Hey there's an idea! You need to get crazy and then you come live with me at the VA.my bed is big enough for two.'
She grinned. 'Now you're starting to get crude Captain. Besides, I'm already crazy and they haven't packed me off anywhere yet.'
'You need to get arrested.that should do it. And I'm nowhere near crude.'
'You're bordering on it. You want me to get arrested, for what?'
'I don't know, get framed for stealing money from a bank in Hanoi; it worked for us.'
She laughed. 'You guys did that bank robbery Murdock.'
He shook his head. 'Uh uh, they did the bank robbery, I was just their pilot and 'sides we was all under orders.'
'And pigs might fly. You might have been under orders but you were far more than just their pilot, you've always been more than just a pilot.'
'Oh thank you. You know I really fancy a fly. It's weird I always fancy a fly after.' He stopped; he was very nearly blushing.
She grinned mischievously. 'Do you now.that'll be interesting to remember.'
'Forget I said that. Want to try out the Jacuzzi now?'
'Now you're avoiding the subject. Besides, you asked me about my first, what about your first? Who was she?'
'Why'd you want to know?'
She raised her head and looked at him, some of her blonde hair falling over her face. 'Why'd you want to know about mine?'
'Just wanted to know.'
'Well maybe I just want to know.' She was defiant now and he couldn't help a smirk.
'You're jealous.'
'So were you when I mentioned Max!'
'I love it when you get angry.'
'Hey, just remember I get physical when I get angry.'
He rolled her over onto her back and looked down at her. 'So I've noticed.' He kissed her.
'I didn't mean that.' He silenced her protests and then came the knock on the door. He froze midway through kissing her. Both their eyes turned towards the door. Instantly he was off the bed and fumbling for his clothes. He tossed Katie her clothes and pulled a small gun out of his jacket pocket.
'You carry a gun everywhere you go?' She asked in a low voice, Murdock responded by pushing her towards the bathroom.
'Stay in here, if you hear any trouble climb out the window and get away. Go back to the apartment, tell the guys what happened but whatever you do don't stay.'
She looked at him quizzically. 'Tell them everything that happened?'
He paused. 'Not unless you have to, make something up.' He gave her quick kiss and shut the door.
Running his fingers through his hair he called through the door. 'Who is it?'
'Room service.' Face's voice replied. Murdock's eyes nearly popped out of his skull. How had his friend found him here?
He opened the door a crack. 'What are you doing here?'
'What are you doing here?' Face retorted. 'You're supposed to be back at the apartment with Katie.
Murdock struggled for an answer that would sound at least halfway good. How could he tell his best friend what he'd spent the last hour doing. He didn't want to have to explain it, he didn't know if he even understood himself let alone trying to make someone else understand. But then, Face slept with all sorts of women; maybe this wouldn't seem so bad. No.he couldn't tell him, not now, not yet.
'How'd you find me?'
Face shrugged. 'Pure chance, I remembered that I took this gorgeous brunette here one day; remember? We met in the lobby by accident, you told Maria that she reminded you of your grandmother, insulted her and made her walk out? Well I just figured you could be here, sure enough your name was on the books.'
'I used a fake name!'
'Come on Murdock, I know all your fake names. I did notice you signed in with someone.who is she? Anyone I know? Does she have a sister by any chance?'
'Just get out of here Face.'
'Katie's gone missing.Hannibal is not going to be pleased.'
'She's what?' Murdock tried to sound surprised and worried. 'What happened? Was it Jerome or.what?' He hoped he sounded convincing.
'So she's not with you. I was hoping she was. No I don't think it was Jerome; there was no mess and no signs of a struggle. You know Katie, she wouldn't go without a fight.well not unless she wanted to go with him. So who is this mystery woman?'
Murdock licked his lips and thought quickly. 'Meet me downstairs in five minutes; I have an idea of a few places she could be.'
'I can't meet this woman?'
'No, I like her which means I might want to carry on dating her. I don't want you stealing her.'
'Murdock I'm hurt.'
'Face.just go will ya.' Face shrugged and turned away, Murdock shut the door and locked it. That had been close and it wasn't over yet, he'd still have a heck of a lot of explaining to do. What would be easier? Making up a lie or coming clean?
The bathroom door opened and Katie came out. 'Was that.?'
'Yes.' Murdock sat down on the bed and put his head in his hands. 'This was stupid.I should have known it was a bad idea.'
Her hand had been reaching out to his shoulder but now she stopped and took a step back. 'Oh.' Her voice was flat and lifeless; the remark had stung even though she was sure he hadn't meant it like it sounded. He realised his mistake and reached out a hand drawing her close. He pulled her down onto his lap and kissed her temple.
'Not that; never that. I just should have known that we'd be missed. I'll sort something out don't worry.'
She laid her head on his shoulder wondering if this was the end. They'd been nearly caught now.what if they were caught? Would that take the fire out of it all? Would the lack of excitement mean that he would no longer want her? There were so many questions and suddenly the whole thing was too confusing for her. 'You.you should get downstairs before Face starts to get worried.'
Murdock nodded. 'Ok, there's a fire escape down the hall. Jus' take her down to the ground and meet me back at the apartment, try not to be seen and stay safe.'
She nodded and made for the door. Halfway she turned. 'How'd you know about the fire escape? I didn't realise you were being that observant.'
He smiled and laughed. 'You think I'd bring you here and not know how to get you out if I had to?'
She didn't know how to answer that. 'Oh.' It was the only thing she could think of to say, she was touched but even that only confused her more. She would be glad to get out and be away from him so she could think. She opened the door and walked out into the hall heading for the fire escape.
In the room Murdock waited a moment wondering what on earth he was going to tell Face and Hannibal. He spared one last look towards the rumpled bed where he'd spent the last hour making love to Katie and allowed himself a smile. Whatever he told them, it wouldn't be that.not yet, not till he was sure, sure that she really did love him too.
Murdock sat on the sofa and buried his head in his hands trying to sort through the tangle of emotions. He'd been so close to losing control.too close for comfort. He'd wanted her, still did want her and that scared him and disgusted him all at once.
She was younger than him; her father had been his best friend. He'd known her since before she could walk, how could he even contemplate what had nearly happened?
Was it because he was crazy? Because she appeared to be feeling everything he was feeling or because he was genuinely attracted to her?
When he'd come back after pretending to be dead everything had changed then. The feelings he'd had before were not the same, he'd seen more and more how much she was growing up, and he'd buried his true feelings for her; tried to pretend they didn't exist.
Now though, now she appeared to feel the same for him as he did for her. But she'd just escaped an abusive boyfriend. It was natural that she wouldn't be thinking clearly, would try to find comfort whenever and wherever it came along. He'd just happened to be there.
The bedroom door opened and she stood there staring at him. He raised his head and looked back at her. In his mind's eye he saw again their fevered kiss. He got to his feet, walked towards her, shunning every sense that screamed that what he was doing was wrong. He no longer cared.
He grabbed her and kissed her harshly, he felt her press herself against him. She pulled off his cap running her fingers through his hair. His mind whirled; every sense was full of her. The way she felt, the smell and taste of her. His hands were in her hair, on her back and then he heard her gasp, not from pleasure this time but from pain. And he was dragged back to the present with a jolt, he remembered the bruises, remembered who she was.
Carefully, he removed her arms where they were laced around his neck; he looked at her for a long moment and then picked her up in his arms. He carried her into the bedroom and kicked the door shut in one fluid movement.
*** She was sleeping now, her face flushed, her hair plastered to her cheek. He knew he should wake her so that they could both get dressed; someone could come back at any time. Despite the fact that they could be caught he remained looking down at her for a while.
He'd been shocked by just how bad the bruises were, the ones that she'd kept carefully hidden. He didn't understand why she'd stayed with Jerome, how she could have ended up like this. She'd explained it to him carefully, how when she'd finally found out what he was like it had been too late. Terrified of what he might do she'd stayed feeling trapped, too afraid to ask for help. He knew it must have been bad for her to act like that; normally she could take pretty good care of herself. He'd always thought her strong enough to break out of something like this. But she'd told him that when you fear for your life what you thought before no longer had meaning.
To get out of his clutches she would have needed a way off the island, she would have needed a plane or a boat. Neither was possible, Jerome owned all the planes and all the boats; his men were the pilots and the sailors. None of them would have helped her escape.
He propped himself up on one elbow and looked down at her. He was starting to think that he loved her, not the kind of love he'd had before but real love.
Finally he tore himself away and got dressed, gathering up Katie's clothes he shook her gently. 'Kate.Katie.'
With a groan she opened her eyes and seeing who it was she smiled up at him. 'Hey.' She stretched languidly in the bed reminding him of a contented cat. He reached out and brushed her hair out of her eyes for her.
'Time to get dressed, they could be back at any moment.'
With a nod she sat up and pulled the bedcovers to her. 'Murdock.'
'Yeah?' He wondered why she was suddenly so shy about him seeing her.
'Things are gonna be ok between us right? It's not going to be awkward now is it?'
'No I don't think so, unless you feel awkward. You don't feel awkward do you?'
'No.but I don't want anyone to know.'
'Yeah.good idea, let's just keep this between ourselves.' The idea of telling the guys what he'd been doing not 15 minutes earlier was not something he would welcome.
He opened one of her bags and pulled out a nightgown. 'Here you go, put that on and get to sleep. You must be exhausted.'
'Now I am.' She gave a sly smile and he couldn't help but grin back. He leaned over and kissed her.
'We'll talk later.' He walked into the living room leaving her to watch him go longingly with a wistful smile on her face.
*** It wasn't long afterwards that Hannibal and Face came back from scouring the area. They'd been checking everything over, going over all possible exits and entrances and trying to spot if Jerome had found out where they were yet.
'We need to find out where he is and to do that we need to know some of the people he associates with.'
'Yeah but I don't know if Katie will know. I don't think he ever included her in that kind of thing.' Murdock was sure that Hannibal or Face would take one look at him and know what had happened. If they were suspicious they were hiding it pretty well.
'Well as soon as she's awake we need to talk to her.'
'Sure.' Murdock said trying to act normal. He knew Hannibal was right but he didn't want to put Katie through that right now. 'I think I'm gonna get some sleep too.' He stood up and walked into the spare bedroom.
Face watched him go. 'You think they had a fight?'
'More than likely.' Hannibal answered. 'She didn't seem too pleased to see us. I only hope she'll cooperate.'
Face looked at his colonel. 'You think she'll go running back to Jerome? After we went to all the trouble of getting her out?'
'I don't know but she could do and she's been awful keen to get rid of us. I keep getting the feeling that there's more to this.'
The conman nodded. 'Right. Let's just hope that Murdock can talk to her and get her to cooperate.'
*** It was a long while later when Katie woke. She felt better than she had in a long while. For the first time she'd slept without having to be afraid of the presence in the bed next to her, whether Jerome would decide that she'd offended him in some way, however small. That Jerome would be rough with her maybe even beat her. She felt safe.
The soft sound of breathing reached her ears and leaned over the side of the bed. On the floor Murdock was sleeping. A smile touched her lips. He looked peaceful; she remembered how gentle he'd been earlier. She'd been surprised; the whole thing had been a surprise. From the way he'd been kissing her she hadn't expected him to be so tender, so caring. She'd never dreamed that he would feel this way about her or even that she would return his feelings. But she did and for the first time she knew that it had been love and not just the act itself that had made it good.
Her hand still ached a little but that too seemed to have faded away. For the first time in weeks she felt as if she could make it through the next minute, the next hour maybe even the next day.
She rolled over onto her back again and closed her eyes drifting back to sleep. She jerked awake suddenly and found his face staring into hers. He pulled her into his arms.
'The guys want me to talk to you. They want to know what you know about Jerome, the people he associates with, what he does. Whatever you know.'
She nestled into his chest feeling protected. 'I told you, I really don't know that much. He kept me out of most of it. There were a couple of guys that came around, I'll tell you what I know but it isn't a lot.'
'Anything would be good right now.' He stroked her hair gently. 'Then I can make sure he doesn't get anywhere near you.'
She frowned. 'What's that smell? Smell's like food.' Her stomach growled hungrily.
With a grin he sat up. 'Smells like Mrs B's making dinner and sounds like you're hungry.'
'Starving.'
'Better get dressed then.' There was a teasing look in his eye and again she was surprised by just how comfortable she felt around him. She thought she'd feel awkward or embarrassed but it just felt normal, right.
'Too much hard work.'
He grinned wryly. 'I'm only good at the undressing bit; don't know about the rest of it.'
She hit his arm playfully glad for the teasing. 'Shut up.'
'How's your hand?'
'Sore still.'
He took it in his and examined it. 'Poor Katie, I'm sorry my jaw hurt your hand.'
'My hand says your jaw is forgiven.'
'Oh good.' He smiled as she reached up and stroked her fingers along the line of his jaw, caressing his cheek. He kissed the palm of her hand. 'Remind me never to make you mad again. Guess I should be thankful you didn't go for the same place as last time.' He remembered a rather painful injury she'd inflicted on his groin area but then she hadn't known it was him and he had dragged her into an alley. It was natural she'd try and fight back.
'If I had what happened a couple of hours ago wouldn't have done.'
'Yeah.well I did tell you to aim for a place that was less sensitive last time. At least I could still walk after this one.'
'You sound as if me beating you up is something that happens regularly.'
He chuckled and kissed the top of her head. 'Isn't it?'
'No thank you very much it is not. I was angry.'
'I rest my case.'
'Well if you weren't so stubborn.' She began but he cut her off with a kiss.
He pulled back. 'Sorry, you were saying?'
She still had her eyes closed. 'I can't remember.' Sitting up she looked around for her clothes.
'On the chair.' He said apparently reading her mind.
'How'd you know I wanted clothes?'
'Lucky guess.'
'Thanks for picking them all up anyway.'
'That's ok sweetheart.' He lay back lazily as she got up and started to get dressed. 'Need any help?'
She stopped struggling one-handed with her bra and turned to him blushing. 'Well.I.'
He sat up and did it for her. He kissed the back of her neck gently.
'Murdock.someone might come in.'
He pulled away. 'We should talk Katie.'
'I know, just not right now. It's all good right now; don't want anything to ruin it.'
'Ok.' He got up reluctantly. 'I'll go see what Mrs B's cooking up. Give me a shout if you need anymore help.'
'I think I can manage thanks anyway.'
He smiled at her and walked out of the room.
*** Katie gave Hannibal everything she knew, she was right it wasn't a lot but it was enough for Face to get a head start. He would have to work with what he had and hope that something came up.
The next day Mrs Baracus went to visit some relatives and BA went with her. Hannibal and Face went to find more on Jerome and get some weapons. That left Katie and Murdock alone in the apartment.
They stayed in separate rooms for all of ten minutes and then they were kissing again.
She pulled away gasping. 'Murdock.I've gotta get outta here!'
He kissed her neck. 'We have to stay here hon.'
'Please.'
'No, Jerome could be.'
'But.I want to.well you know.' Stupidly she was blushing.
He chuckled. 'I see, well everyone's gone but I suppose someone could come in. We're supposed to stay here.'
'Yeah.I know. Just starting to feel claustrophobic.'
'Ok, I know of a place.'
Katie nodded and nuzzled his neck. 'Good.'
'We need to talk anyway.'
She gave a groan. 'Do we have to?' She carried on kissing his neck, her fingers straying to the buttons on his shirt.
'Yes.' He kissed her briefly and then went to get his jacket.
Less than 15 minutes later he was checking them into a hotel and leading her to their room.
'I won't ask how you know this place but remind me to thank Face some day.' She said eying the elaborate wallpaper and the large bed in their room. She peeked into the bathroom and squealed. He came up behind her and wrapped his arms around her waist.
'What is it?'
'A Jacuzzi!' She beamed up at him and he laughed, kissing the top of her head lovingly.
'Want to try it out.'
She smiled. 'No not right now, maybe later.' She blushed feeling almost nervous now. Somehow this didn't seem as easy as it first had.
She lay down on the bed and he lay next to her. They both stared up at the ceiling; they were less driven now, the urgent need to make love had left them. Instead the first feeling of awkward shyness was taking over.
He reached over and took her hand. 'So.what now?' She asked softly.
'We don't have to Katie.' He was quiet, thoughtful, wondering if she was regretting it.
'No.no I want to.it just feels strange now. Now that I'm thinking about it.' She linked her fingers through his and remained staring up at the ceiling.
'You just want to talk for now?' He rubbed the back of her hand with his thumb absentmindedly.
'Sure, you said we should, I guess you're right.'
'Ok.well, how do you feel about this?' He didn't want to scare her off but he had to know. To know if she was sincere, if all this was just a roll in the hay for her or something more.
'What talking?'
'No, this in general, you and me.sleeping together.'
'Strange. I never thought it'd happen. Not really sure what to think to be honest. Except.it was never like that with anyone before.'
'No.' He squinted up at the ceiling trying to make shapes out of the patterns carved there. Sometimes he wondered how it was he could see shapes in the weirdest things but never in inkblots. It would make his life a lot easier if he didn't have to guess at the inkblot test. A smile crossed his face as he remembered yesterday afternoon. 'No, never like that before.' He looked over at her with a curious expression. 'Who was your first?'
The question surprised her and she wondered what he would think if he knew that she was wishing that it had been him. 'I was 16; he was 17. He was a good friend, his name was Maxwell.'
Murdock looked over at her. 'You slept with a guy called Maxwell? Maxwell?'
'Yes.' She pursed her lips. 'And we called him Max thanks very much.'
'Sounds like a spoilt rich kid.'
'He was not! He was very nice actually. Yes his family had money but he wasn't spoilt.'
'You loved him?'
She looked over at him starting to sense just a hint of jealously in his tone of voice. 'No, I didn't love him. It was just something that happened, we still had a good relationship afterwards but it was never about love.'
'And Jerome.that about love?' A hard note had come into Murdock's voice now as he said the name. The idea that someone could treat her so harshly actually caused him physical pain now. God he was starting to fall in love with this woman, Tony's daughter. But that thought no longer made him try to curb his desires. Again his thumb stroked the back of her hand, he wasn't even aware that he was doing it.
She was silent for a long time after he'd asked the question, wondering how to answer. 'No.I thought because it was good sexually that meant it was a good relationship and I convinced myself that I loved him. Obviously as soon he saw that and realised he had me where he wanted me he changed.'
'What did he want from you?' He was staring fixedly at the ceiling now. The patterns in the ceiling had vanished.
She laughed; a low husky laugh. 'What every man wants.'
He closed his eyes; she had no idea how much that answer had pained him. 'Not every man.' He whispered.
Now she looked over at him. 'Don't you? Isn't that what this is about?'
'Not for me, I don't know what you're thinking this is or even what you want it to be but for me it's more than just that.'
'Murdock.' Her voice was soft and gentle as she spoke his name. 'I love you.'
He felt as if he was being torn in two, he pulled her close to him now. 'Then why is this so damn hard?'
'I don't know.' She whispered. 'Because I'm so much younger, because my father was your best friend, because you've known me since I was a baby and maybe because you never knew that this is what you felt or would feel.'
His lips sought out hers hungrily.was this only passion, only his crazy vibes venting themselves? Was it just the fact that he couldn't remember the last time he'd had a relationship? Was it just because she was hurting? The questions were a whirlwind inside his brain. How could he love her like this? Why did it have to hurt so badly? He pushed the thoughts away and concentrated on her and only her. She was everything now; nothing else mattered.
*** Face entered the apartment and was struck by how quiet it was. There was no sound; all was peaceful and still. He could hear the rhythmic ticking of the clock, the buzz of cars in the street below, the steady hum of the refrigerator. He opened the bedroom door and peered in, the bed was empty no sign of Katie. He checked the master bedroom, no sign of Murdock. There was no indication of a struggle; indeed it seemed as if they had never been there at all but all Katie's bags said otherwise standing solitarily in the corner of the spare bedroom, that at least told him that she hadn't upped and left or if she had she'd gone without taking any of her things with her.
Maybe Katie had thought of something that might help and Murdock had gone with her, but surely he would have left a note. Face scoured the apartment; there was no note.
He tried to think of all the places his friend might go if he were in trouble or had to get away. But again he saw that nothing was out of place and there was no suggestion that anything bad had happened. Surely one of them would have put up a fight, there would be something to show that they were in trouble, Murdock would have made sure of that. But if he hadn't have had time.?
Face set off at a run out of the apartment to try and find his friend.
*** Katie buried her head in the pillow and gave a groan. 'Katie?' Murdock asked. 'You alright?'
She gave a mumbled groan again and then rolled over onto her back. 'Hon?' He was starting to get concerned. 'Did I do something wrong?'
There was a look of horror on her face at the suggestion, she shook her head still trying to speak and still unable to form words. 'I think my brain is turning to mush.' She finally managed to say.
He frowned. 'Yeah? That a good or a bad thing?' He wasn't sure what to think of her reaction.
'Good.all good, all very, very good!'
This time he grinned and started to laugh. He put his arms around her and she traced meaningless circles on his chest with her fingertips. He stroked her hair and kissed the top of her head, letting his lips linger there so that he could smell the scent of her hair. 'How did this happen?'
'You started kissing me.'
'You know what I mean.' His hand stroked her back absentmindedly.
'Right now I don't care.'
'How do you feel about it?'
'You asked me that before Murdock. I said I didn't feel awkward and before you ask me, I still don't. I know it's strange, unexpected but its right, I know its right.'
'But.'
'No buts!' She wouldn't let him finish. 'Or I'm sending you back to Richter and telling him to reconsider your therapy!'
He grinned. 'Yeah, he'd have a field day with this. I might just tell him to curb his boredom.'
'I'd hate to think what Jamison would say. That this is all an allusion to me not being able to maintain a relationship because of bereavement at a young age.'
'Probably.' He said wryly. 'On the other hand he could just say you were crazy. Hey there's an idea! You need to get crazy and then you come live with me at the VA.my bed is big enough for two.'
She grinned. 'Now you're starting to get crude Captain. Besides, I'm already crazy and they haven't packed me off anywhere yet.'
'You need to get arrested.that should do it. And I'm nowhere near crude.'
'You're bordering on it. You want me to get arrested, for what?'
'I don't know, get framed for stealing money from a bank in Hanoi; it worked for us.'
She laughed. 'You guys did that bank robbery Murdock.'
He shook his head. 'Uh uh, they did the bank robbery, I was just their pilot and 'sides we was all under orders.'
'And pigs might fly. You might have been under orders but you were far more than just their pilot, you've always been more than just a pilot.'
'Oh thank you. You know I really fancy a fly. It's weird I always fancy a fly after.' He stopped; he was very nearly blushing.
She grinned mischievously. 'Do you now.that'll be interesting to remember.'
'Forget I said that. Want to try out the Jacuzzi now?'
'Now you're avoiding the subject. Besides, you asked me about my first, what about your first? Who was she?'
'Why'd you want to know?'
She raised her head and looked at him, some of her blonde hair falling over her face. 'Why'd you want to know about mine?'
'Just wanted to know.'
'Well maybe I just want to know.' She was defiant now and he couldn't help a smirk.
'You're jealous.'
'So were you when I mentioned Max!'
'I love it when you get angry.'
'Hey, just remember I get physical when I get angry.'
He rolled her over onto her back and looked down at her. 'So I've noticed.' He kissed her.
'I didn't mean that.' He silenced her protests and then came the knock on the door. He froze midway through kissing her. Both their eyes turned towards the door. Instantly he was off the bed and fumbling for his clothes. He tossed Katie her clothes and pulled a small gun out of his jacket pocket.
'You carry a gun everywhere you go?' She asked in a low voice, Murdock responded by pushing her towards the bathroom.
'Stay in here, if you hear any trouble climb out the window and get away. Go back to the apartment, tell the guys what happened but whatever you do don't stay.'
She looked at him quizzically. 'Tell them everything that happened?'
He paused. 'Not unless you have to, make something up.' He gave her quick kiss and shut the door.
Running his fingers through his hair he called through the door. 'Who is it?'
'Room service.' Face's voice replied. Murdock's eyes nearly popped out of his skull. How had his friend found him here?
He opened the door a crack. 'What are you doing here?'
'What are you doing here?' Face retorted. 'You're supposed to be back at the apartment with Katie.
Murdock struggled for an answer that would sound at least halfway good. How could he tell his best friend what he'd spent the last hour doing. He didn't want to have to explain it, he didn't know if he even understood himself let alone trying to make someone else understand. But then, Face slept with all sorts of women; maybe this wouldn't seem so bad. No.he couldn't tell him, not now, not yet.
'How'd you find me?'
Face shrugged. 'Pure chance, I remembered that I took this gorgeous brunette here one day; remember? We met in the lobby by accident, you told Maria that she reminded you of your grandmother, insulted her and made her walk out? Well I just figured you could be here, sure enough your name was on the books.'
'I used a fake name!'
'Come on Murdock, I know all your fake names. I did notice you signed in with someone.who is she? Anyone I know? Does she have a sister by any chance?'
'Just get out of here Face.'
'Katie's gone missing.Hannibal is not going to be pleased.'
'She's what?' Murdock tried to sound surprised and worried. 'What happened? Was it Jerome or.what?' He hoped he sounded convincing.
'So she's not with you. I was hoping she was. No I don't think it was Jerome; there was no mess and no signs of a struggle. You know Katie, she wouldn't go without a fight.well not unless she wanted to go with him. So who is this mystery woman?'
Murdock licked his lips and thought quickly. 'Meet me downstairs in five minutes; I have an idea of a few places she could be.'
'I can't meet this woman?'
'No, I like her which means I might want to carry on dating her. I don't want you stealing her.'
'Murdock I'm hurt.'
'Face.just go will ya.' Face shrugged and turned away, Murdock shut the door and locked it. That had been close and it wasn't over yet, he'd still have a heck of a lot of explaining to do. What would be easier? Making up a lie or coming clean?
The bathroom door opened and Katie came out. 'Was that.?'
'Yes.' Murdock sat down on the bed and put his head in his hands. 'This was stupid.I should have known it was a bad idea.'
Her hand had been reaching out to his shoulder but now she stopped and took a step back. 'Oh.' Her voice was flat and lifeless; the remark had stung even though she was sure he hadn't meant it like it sounded. He realised his mistake and reached out a hand drawing her close. He pulled her down onto his lap and kissed her temple.
'Not that; never that. I just should have known that we'd be missed. I'll sort something out don't worry.'
She laid her head on his shoulder wondering if this was the end. They'd been nearly caught now.what if they were caught? Would that take the fire out of it all? Would the lack of excitement mean that he would no longer want her? There were so many questions and suddenly the whole thing was too confusing for her. 'You.you should get downstairs before Face starts to get worried.'
Murdock nodded. 'Ok, there's a fire escape down the hall. Jus' take her down to the ground and meet me back at the apartment, try not to be seen and stay safe.'
She nodded and made for the door. Halfway she turned. 'How'd you know about the fire escape? I didn't realise you were being that observant.'
He smiled and laughed. 'You think I'd bring you here and not know how to get you out if I had to?'
She didn't know how to answer that. 'Oh.' It was the only thing she could think of to say, she was touched but even that only confused her more. She would be glad to get out and be away from him so she could think. She opened the door and walked out into the hall heading for the fire escape.
In the room Murdock waited a moment wondering what on earth he was going to tell Face and Hannibal. He spared one last look towards the rumpled bed where he'd spent the last hour making love to Katie and allowed himself a smile. Whatever he told them, it wouldn't be that.not yet, not till he was sure, sure that she really did love him too.
